pelika Observer O
Vol. 12, No. 09
Wednesday, Dec. 04, 2019
Opelika, Alabama
NEW YEARʼS EVE BASH Mottn, SSl, Old Schhl, VViety, Rock, Classic Rock & Moddn PP FEATURING
THE ANSWER BAND
“By local people, for local people.”
Iron Bowl win for Auburn
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Auburn players showing their excitment following their 48-45 win over Alabama Saturday. For a complete write-up on the game and for more photos, turn to B9.
Latest in skateboard accessories, Women’s Hope Medical Clinic provides free services in Lee Co. equipment can be found at Opelika’s Boneyard Skateshop
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer By Morgan Bryce Editor Those with a passion for skateboarding can find the newest accessories and equipment at Boneyard
Skateshop, located at 1300 McCoy St. in Opelika. The skateshop opened on Nov. 19, and is the brainchild of Firing Pin owner Charlie Edwards and
his longtime friend Chris Mezick. “I was infatuated with skateboarding as a kid. This is something that I have See Boneyard, page A3
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
Special to the Opelika Observer Women’s Hope Medical Clinic, located at 820 Stage Road in Auburn, is a nonprofit organization that has been serving the
COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B10 POLITICS...................................B13
Auburn-Opelika area and beyond for more than 36 years in the area of pregnancy care. It offers a variety of services to their clients and the community free of charge.
“Women’s Hope Medical Clinic has a long legacy of helping individuals in East Alabama with unexpected pregnancies. We walk alongside See Hope, page A3
pelika O Observer.com
What’s Up? www.doughornroofing.com • 334-744-5246
pelika O Observer
A2 Dec. 04, 2019
Happy Birthday Mom
I
would like to wish my mother, Mary, a great big Happy Birthday today. Those of you that know me, know that I am horrible at sending out cards of any sorts. Birthday, Congratulations, Get Well Soon and so on - it doesn’t matter, I stink at sending them. Often times I will have every intention of going to get a card for someone I care about, or better yet, craft a beautiful one using various rubber stamps, paper quilling or other crafty techniques. I have actually done this upon occasion and I do enjoy it immensely. But more times than not, I find myself empty handed on the day of the occasion with no card. Now, obviously I could have gone out and found the perfect card for my mother and put it in the mail. She probably would have been surprised. But I thought surprising her with a personal message in the form of a letter from the publisher of the Observer would be even a bigger surprise and I hope she is tickled by the sentiment. My mother raised me and my two siblings while working to help provide for our family. She helped teach me to cook, sharing recipes
from her mother and grandmother. She taught me how to sew and drove me a little crazy when she made me take out every crooked stitch - even the ones that I thought didn’t matter. But she taught me the importance of doing things right even when it takes extra time and effort. Perhaps I was the one that drove her a bit crazy! She supported my love of reading by keeping me in books throughout my childhood even when I read the entire Little House on the Prairie series in one weekend. She helped me learn about our ancestry and can just about recite the family history all the way to when the great, great, great, great, great (you get the point) grands who left Ireland and came to America. She drove me more miles than I can count to band practices, 4-H meetings, piano lessons, softball games, swim lessons and more. I don’t think she ever missed a football game where we (the band) were playing and she and father even went to New York City with us when we marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1983. She and my dad took
me on summer trips and I have visited almost every state in the continental U.S. After I got married, she continued to teach me life lessons. She held my hand as I lost our first baby to a miscarriage and many years later she listened to my tears when our youngest was born and we learned that he would face life-long challenges and difficulties. She also cheered him on during some of his Special Olympic events. She welcomed me and a fellow Navy wife when we arrived in the middle of the night with numerous pets in tow while evacuating from Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and she traveled back to Charleston with us to help us clean up the mess afterwards. She traveled halfway around the world to visit us when we lived in Italy - I think she really just wanted to see the grandkids though. She reads the Observer every week even though she doesn’t live here but she looks for things that I have written. So, Happy Birthday Mom! Love, Michelle Publisher Opelika Observer
Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller receives ‘Public Service Award’ from ADRS Special to the Opelika Observer
The achievements of employees with disabilities and businesses in Alabama were recognized at an awards reception Dec. 3 in the Gordon Persons Building Auditorium. The ceremony was conducted by the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, a program of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS). The honorees have earned top accolades in their respective categories, including large and small-business employer of the year, partnership, youth leadership, media, student, educator, professional, and large- and small-business employee of the year. In October, local committees from around the state recognized top individuals and businesses in their respective areas during “National Disability Employment Awareness Month” awards ceremonies. The state winners were chosen from these local winners in a dozen distinct categories following the local committee nominee submissions. This year’s award winners include: • David Hyche - Ad-
Fuller vocate of the Year Carpenters for Christ - Collaboration of the Year • William M. Roberts - Large Business Employee of the Year • Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex - Large Business Employer of the Year • Matt Freeman - Educator of the Year • Larry Lee - Media of the Year • Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, Stringfellow Health Fund, Exchange Bank of AlabamaGadsden and Beautiful Rainbow Café - Partnership of the Year • Metrology South Inc. - Small Business Employer of the Year • Logan Tice - Student of the Year • Michael White - Youth Leadership Award • Opelika Mayor Gary
Fuller - Public Service Award and • Renee Maradik Small Business Employee of the Year. The Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities was created in the late 1940s by Gov. Jim Folsom as a response to veterans with disabilities who returned home and found no work available. Since that time, many individuals with disabilities, both veterans and civilians, have received the benefit of activities of the Governor’s Committee. The committee coordinates a network of local volunteer groups throughout the state and works closely with ADRS staff to develop employment opportunities and raise awareness of the needs and rights of Alabamians with disabilities.
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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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CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.
pelika O Observer
A3 Dec. 04, 2019
Works of Smiths Station artist Sarah West to be featured at Alabama 200 festivities in Montgomery on Dec. 14 By Morgan Bryce Editor A collection of artwork called “The Civility Paintings” by Smiths Station artist Sarah West will be exhibited during the Alabama 200 Celebration on Dec. 14 in the Old Supreme Court Chambers at 600 Dexter Ave. in downtown Montgomery. West, an Observer columnist and the owner/curator of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art in downtown Smiths Station, said she is excited for the opportunity to showcase these pieces during one of the state’s most important celebrations. “It is an extraordinary honor, one for which I consider myself immensely fortunate. As an American narrative painter in my mid-thirties, I consider myself an emerging artist,” West said. “I’ve devoted my life to this calling and every day I am thankful for the opportunity to paint, address and record the narrative of life, in the American- South, as I live it.” West said this honor was made possible through her independent studio’s commitment to working with local and state government insure “art in education” for students at all
West Alabama schools and institutions. Following the devastation inflicted upon Smiths Station by the March 3 tornadoes, West and her mother Michele helped 900 students create artwork to reflect their emotions in the storm’s aftermath. Through their friendship with District 38 Rep. Debbie Wood, the artwork would be displayed and exhibited at the Alabama State Capitol. As a member of the Smiths Station Historic Preservation Commission, West was able to secure the opening of the Historic Jones Store Museum as an Alabama 200-designated event along with the debut of the Vesper Exhibition at the
Smiths Station Government Center. Preceding the exhibit’s opening will be a special reception hosted by State Sen. Randy Price. Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland and his wife Angela will be in attendance. Those interested in viewing the exhibit are encouraged to enter via the Union Street or Goat Hill entrances after 1 p.m. Central time. “Alabama will only celebrate a 200th birthday once, and we will be there, as a state together. When I think of those who have stood on the Capitol steps, and the many who overcame everything to walk in unity, for equality, compassion and freedom just decades ago, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of hope and determination to represent and celebrate the very best of who we are in the Alabama,” West said. For more information, like and follow the gallery’s social media pages or visit www. thesarahwestgalleryoffineart. com. The studio is located at 2750 Lee Road 430. To learn more about the Alabama 200 initiative, visit www.alabama200.org.
Local forestry consultant shares expertise with area landowners Special to the Opelika Observer
On Nov. 20, local consulting forester Dick Conway spoke to area landowners about using prescribed fire to enhance property income. Conway led guests on a tour of private forest land and shared his expertise about prescribed burning, managing timber, and using drones in forestry. Local landowners Joe Wehby, Cleve Clark and Gary Hinkle opened their properties to guests for the tour, and Clark gave a drone demonstration. After the tour, the group
Boneyard, from A1 considered doing for a while ... I wanted to see kids with skateboards under their feet, as opposed to electronic devices in their hands,” Edwards said. “Once I heard that the construction of the skatepark (at Indian Pines Golf Course) was confirmed, I decided to move forward with my plans, and bounced the idea off of him and we decided to go bigger than my original intentions, with him as a partner.” Elliott Degruiter
met back at Conway’s home for lunch and a question-and-answer session. Conway has more than 40 years of experience managing woodlands for recreation and profit, and owns land in Chambers County. He explained that a variety of factors, including humidity, barometric pressure and wind conditions affect decisions about managing forest land with fire. Patrick Rohling, district conservationist for Lee and Chambers counties with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, also spoke to landowners about
invasive plant species as well as monetary assistance available to landowners for forest management activities, especially invasive plant management and prescribed fire. This event was sponsored by www. forestersearch.com, a directory of consulting foresters in Alabama, organized by county, made possible by a grant from the Bradley/Murphy Forestry and Natural Resources Extension Trust. Landowners can visit ForesterSearch.com to find a consulting forester and to learn more about the value using a consulting forester.
serves as Boneyard’s store manager. After recently kindling a passion for firearms, Degruiter connected with Edwards at the Firing Pin, and the two discovered their commonalities extended beyond guns. “I went in the (Firing Pin) to check out a gun and see the shop. He introduced himself to me and noticed the skateboard shirt I was wearing, and started talking to me,” Degruiter said. “Within a couple of minutes, he asked me if I wanted to work in a skateshop. And from there, it’s been history.” The facility that houses Boneyard was once a hardware store. Now, the front portion
of the building has been converted into a retail space with counters full of skateboard accessories, equipment, protective gear and tools, display racks that showcase the wide array of skateboard decks for sale, as well as scooters and merchandise for Boneyard and other brands carried at the skateshop. “Literally, anything that parents want for their kids, whether it be merchandise like T-shirts, actual skateboards, hardware or protective gear for a first-time skater, can be found here at Boneyard. We’ve kind of got it all,” Degruiter said.” The larger back
Hope, from A1 our clients from the initial pregnancy test visit and through the birth and first fifteen months of the baby’s life. We support and serve to help bring about healthy, hopefilled families,” said executive director Daria Monroe. “Women’s Hope Medical Clinic does not receive government funds or payment for any of our services and resources. Individuals, churches, and businesses fully support these and many more services provided at Women’s Hope through their financial and volunteer gifts.” Through its free services, they are a place where individuals who may be pregnant can find comfort, and the resources they need to thrive. Its mission is to glorify God through portion of the building will eventually be converted into an indoor skate park, according to Edwards. While the project isn’t going to be open anytime soon, Edwards was able to share what some of its features will be. “We are going to build a halfpipe and a mini ramp, as well as other obstacles,” Edwards said. Boneyard’s hours of operation are noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The store will always be closed on Monday. For more information, like and follow its Facebook and Instagram pages.
‘Wartime’ the sharing of the Gospel of Christ while empowering individuals to make healthy, godly decisions for life. The staff of nurses can offer pregnancy tests and limited obstetric ultrasounds. “Here at Women’s Hope, we can provide prenatal care to women in the community who might not otherwise be able to get the care they need during their pregnancy. We are also able to provide a safe place for women and children during an often difficult time in their lives,” said nurse manager Rebecca Parvin. Women’s Hope is not only able to provide medical education and aid to mothers, but it is also able to educate them by offering free classes known as “Earn-While-YouLearn.” Participating in these classes allows for the individual to earn maternity and infant
supplies. “Women’s Hope provides the educational, spiritual, and relational support that young couples need to walk through pregnancy and start their families with confidence. We offer a variety of individual and group classes such as childbirth, parenting, fatherhood, and Bible studies,” said communication director Jeremy Walden. “Through partnerships with other local organizations, we offer help for breastfeeding moms and single moms. We’ve seen so many families gain hope through a time in their lives that is both stressful and beautiful.” For more information, to donate or volunteer, visit www. womenshope.org to learn how to volunteer and financially support its young, local families.
pelika O Opinion
A4 Dec. 04, 2019
Putting up the tree
M
y wife is putting up our Christmas tree. It’s a pencilthin artificial tree we bought when we first got married 16 years ago. It is filled with memories of yuletide warmth, love, joy and possibly the devil. I say this because I am trying to fix the thing so it will at least stand upright. But it won’t. This tree is an outdated antique that can’t stand upright without its medication. Every time I get it in place, the red-and-green Christmas-tree stand—the worst invention of the 20th century—malfunctions and the tree falls over. Also, since we’re talking about trees, my wife needs more lights. If there are any young married men reading this, wondering what marriage is like, I can help. Do you remember that famous scene from “Jaws?” Right after the shark has shown its awesome and frightening head, Roy Scheider takes a step backward and tells the captain, “We’re gonna need a bigger boat.” It’s sort of like that. Only in this particular case, you
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asn’t even Thanksgiving, and Christmas lights were up. In general, I’m against this. I come from a tradition where Christmas decorations don’t appear until the turkey has become hash, and they disappear before the big bowl games ring in the New Year. In general. Which is sort of a mealy-mouthed, fuzzyreasoned, exception-laced way of saying that though I wouldn’t be caught dead doing it, there are some circumstances where it is okay, and I’m gonna tell you one. I have spent most of my
By Sean Dietrich
are Roy Scheider, and your wife is the man-eating shark. Or at least, she will be if her Christmas tree sucks this year. “We’re gonna need more lights,” you say, taking a step backward toward the door. This is basically what it means to be in a committed relationship with a woman. The main issue with these strands of lights is that they are junk and have a lifespan of forty minutes before burning out. Even worse, news reports are constantly telling us how these lights are unsafe, and how every year they cause electrical house fires. Many families have experienced great losses because of these crummy lights and are left devastated, out in the cold, with no possessions, having no choice but to send Dad back to the store to buy
more white lights. Which is what my wife is asking me to do right now. And believe me, I fully intend to buy more lights. Just as soon as I can get this stupid, godforsaken, Satanic tree to stand upright. 12:11 P.M.—The store is packed because it is a few days before Thanksgiving, and this is Florida. Everyone in the U.S. comes to Florida for Thanksgiving. It’s the natural order of the world. When Florida was admitted as a state in 1845, President John Tyler deemed the state as: “A place where everyone’s grandkids shall visit for Thanksgiving without being required to use turn signals.” The store is a complete nuthouse. There are outof-towners everywhere clogging the aisles, pushing buggies that contain enough food to feed unincorporated townships. In one shopping cart I count nine turkeys. Nine. When I get to the Christmas decor aisle things are out of control. I discover that the store has run out of See Dietrich, page A6
An American in Cuba |Part 3
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ne of the first things I learned about Cuba is that there is normal time and then there is “Cuba Time.” These folks get in no hurry nor do they always stick to a precise plan. On the flip side of this idea, is that they are all cool about this. No fussing or mumbling. No eye rolling or losing their marbles. They just go with it. An “all is well and all will be well” mindset. I loved this from the beginning. Everyone just gets along. It’s the neatest thing. When our airplane landed in Havana, it took nearly 20 minutes to get some steps located to bring up to our door so we could exit the plane. When asked of the issue, the pilot announced, “They weren’t quite ready for us to be here.” I died laughing inside. How could they not know? No one was upset
By Bradley Robertson
though, or uptight about it. Not one single Cuban. When we finally made our exit, a small bus took us into immigration. Once again, no immediate need to get through. “Let’s just all chill a hot minute and we’ll get to ya.” It was pretty comical, lucky for me, our entire trip was like this. The gentlemen who stared us up and down in immigration with a blank face was also in no rush. In between each passenger he would smile and make a quick side comment to his co-workers. Then, put his stern face back on and continue with the next person in line.
That first Christmas tree
life in college towns. And in a college town there are college students, many of them living out on their own for the first time. Now, as a father who has already raised two children through this and who has one still there, I can speak to the uneasiness a parent feels at the prospect of a child being out in the cold world without parental supervision. College students arrive in the fall, amid all the hoopla of football, fraternities and sororities, clubs and (yes) classes, to set up house in what sociologists call “a high context culture” – one you have to live in to understand. Students live in it and under-
stand it. Parents don’t. To parents it all seems so, well, independent. Dorm rooms, apartments, houses are “decorated” in new ways, accessorized according to tastes picked up God-knows-where. Clothes and books and papers are perilously spread in piles according to some calculus neither Mama nor Daddy can grasp. Near empty refrigerators contain evidence of past meals of little nutritional value and remains of past parties the details of which are vaguely remembered, if recalled at all. Not that parents see any of this, for unless there is a surprise visit (not recommended), when Mama and
By Hardy Jackson
Daddy arrive the décor will be sanitized, the books and papers arranged to suggest something resembling study, the clean clothes put away, the dirty ones bagged to send home for washing, and all evidence of unwise eating and drinking will have gone out with the garbage. But even in its more “acceptable” state, any parent recognizes the imprint of
independence that marks the break with home and family that is so hard for Mother and Father to accept. Such as a Christmas tree. Not every student puts one up. But riding around a college town, into the enclaves and ghettos where students live, you see in windows tiny lights on tiny trees. They represent one more broken chord, one more student statement of how now, I am on my own, I have my own place, my own friends, my own routine, my own responsibilities, my own traditions, my own tree. But there is something
I loved it. This guy had been in his job for quite some time and I could tell he enjoyed it. I was mistaken with his Spanish words when he told me I could go on through. I just kept staring at him, having no clue what he said. He too kept staring back at me. No words. Finally, Isaac said, “Honey, I think you’re good to go.” Our staring match ended and onto Havana we went. We were greeted in the airport lobby by my beautiful new Cuban friend Margarita. She was waiting on us and had a special sign with our names on it. She greeted us both with a hug. It felt safe and exciting! “I’m going to love this Cuba” I told myself. I just knew it. Margarita escorted us outside to a van driven by an attractive young man named Gustavo. See Robertson, page A6
else to this. Despite parental fears and misgivings, most students have no desire to break free from home and hearth just yet. College is limbo, that region between childhood and adulthood. It can be liberating for it frees students for the future, but at the same time frightening for it takes them out of the warm womb of family, to which as the years pass, they will return as relatives, relations, visitors. Back home, back in their previous life, Mama, Daddy, siblings are getting ready for Christmas. Their tree is going up. Their See Jackson, page A6
Wonderland | the mountains that connect us
I
t was a cold night in the mountains. Like many nights, I turned the car and headed south along the Tuskaseegee River. The last of evening light paled in shades of soft blue. The air was thin and balmy, and laced with chimney smoke from nearby cabins. Near the river basin in Soco Gap, I looked up and saw what appeared to be another wildfire. I was driving, and so I asked Michele to call it in to the Park Service Patrol. The call was recorded and then transferred to the appropriate response office. It was a very dry year. During the autumn season, I watched carefully for news postings for road closures and hazardous conditions before making my usual northward treks each weekend. On a weekend following, I drove from Sylva along the Blue Ridge Parkway, passed Water Rock Knob and back down along the rim of the Soco Gap overlook. There I saw remnants of the
fire, which I spotted from the valley below. From Morganton, to Lake Lure and then on to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, my heart ached for my mountains each time images were posted. Online, I watched blue ridges enraged in fire, smoke, then left in ash and dust. Earlier that summer I pondered how I might best render a painting that I had envisioned. I’d spent much of the year planning new paintings, and among them, I felt particularly compelled towards a scene addressing modern communications and the current narrative of civility. Later as the mountains burned, I felt unnerved. The painting I’d envisioned back in July was a scene of two figures, seated distanced apart amid a wildfire ravaged wasteland. “Do I paint it or set the thought upon a shelf,” I questioned. I feared the subject too close to home, and then speculated, “would it appear insensi-
tive?” Even still, I felt my convictions towards nature conservation and the desire for restoration of civility commanded me to paint it. Time passed, I worked, pondered and meditated. It was an election year filled with anticipation and dread. I observed, there was plenty to entertain some and provide others with distraction. On Nov. 23, I grew alarmed as I read of the fires that continued to grow on the Tennessee side of the GSMNP. It was then that I learned of the Chimney Tops Fire (one of the most popular trails in the park.) Thanksgiving week, I retired one evening. After concluding that there was nothing worth watching on television. Instead, I retrieved my phone and succumbed to aimlessly scrolling through my newsfeed. Having heard little mention of the fires on mainstream news, I searched keywords on twitter
#GSMNPFire, #TNWildfires, etc... I could feel the fire against my face. With hands griping the glowing screen, I watched with horror videos live stream. The first video I saw was taken inside the ParkVista atrium. I heard the panic and watched the flames burn nearer the tower’s window panes. On many occasion, I’ve stayed there. I always requested a room facing Mt. LeConte. The hotel atop the hill provided ideal locale for convenient access to Roaring Forks Motor Nature Trail, and historic sites like Ogle place and more… I feared for the people of Gatlinburg and listened intensely as reports infiltrated social media. I checked the major cable news channels and found little addressing the imminent crisis. I felt helpless, and enraged. I wanted to scream. I wanted to cry. I questioned, “why aren’t any major news sources reporting on this, as it is happening?” How could
a significant source of southeastern regional tourism and part of our country’s most visited national park, in addition to homes, livelihoods be burning uncontrollably with seemingly so little attention or concern? I thought of the people with limited routes for escape. I questioned, “what would I do, if I were in their situation?” I thought of the thousands of businesses, the mom and pop family owned establishments that I’ve visited. I thought of the homes of year ‘round residence, and the cabins that have fostered the making of holiday memories. #WileyOakly drive, I read was impassable. Then later I heard reports that everything was gone. I watched the video of a man, and another who drove down the Chalet Village road while trees fell all around the car, and fires poured down the mountain like lava. I prayed that this wouldn’t be his final post, and also prayed that major me-
dia would awaken and share real-time news of this living hell. In came reports of #RoaringForks. I thought of Ely’s Mill and the cabin perched Above it All where we watched the fireworks fill the clouds, one 4 th of July. I prayed and wondered. The Haunted Mansion, the downtown Ski-Lift were gone, along with parts of Arrowmont. Through the night, through my glowing screen I kept watch. Michele turned to me and said, “Sarah, this is your painting…it’s time that you get to work.” I returned to sketches, previously begun. In the days that followed, I found comfort in Dolly Parton’s telethon and Robin Mead’s dedication to the story’s coverage. I returned to the area as soon as I could with desire to support the businesses, and park service. And then I visited Ogle Place on Roaring Forks on New Year’s Day. Along the edge of the GS-
pelika O Observer
A5 Dec. 04, 2019
Santa Claus returns to O Town for ice cream, storytime with local children Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer O Town Ice Cream hosted a “Sweet Treats with Santa” event on Dec. 1. Activities that took place that evening included specials on various menu items, photo opportunities with Santa and more. Like and follow the shop’s social media pages for a list of their other Christmas events during the month of December.
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
A6 Dec. 04, 2019
SNOW TONIGHT (WED., DEC. 4TH)
Courthouse Square * 5 – 8 p.m. Climb up and slide down the 30-foot tall
Snozilla
Snow Globe Enter your dog in the Reindog Parade Visit with EAMC physicians at the Hot Choc with a Doc station School choir performances Church choir competition * Food vendors SNOW machines * Play games and win prizes in the EAMC fun zone called Take a family photo in the 15-foot tall
“Peppermint Parkway!”
Dietrich, from A4 lights. Which, truthfully, makes me relieved. I’m thinking, “Phew! At least this means I don’t have to stand in those long lines.” So I am on my way out the door, whistling, twirling my keys on my finger, when I get a text message from my wife. Her verbatim message reads: “Please get celery, garlic, dog food, and one extension cord. LOL.” LOL 1:32 P.M.—I am standing in a long single-file line stretching clear back to Alaska and I can see the Chukchi Sea over the horizon. I am cold. The line is not moving. Because in this entire store there are only two cashiers on duty, both compete to see who can move slowest. Whenever one cashier begins moving slower than the other, the other reacts by using her blinking checkout-lane light. This is international code for “price check.” Price checks can only be
Jackson, from A4 decorations are coming out. Their halls are being decked. Without their college student to help. And the student can’t go back to be part of it – not just because of term papers due and finals to take, but because getting ready for Christmas is an incremental thing, done in stages that are enjoyed in stages: getting the tree, trimming the tree, hanging the greenery, putting out the yard decorations. Those involved savor every stage,
West, from A4 MNP demolition equipment could be heard. Over a month had passed since the horrific night when 14 lives were lost. On the first day of the new year, it was evident that the people of this little Tennessee town are Mountain Strong, a title which has united and empowered the fire-torn spirits of residents one and all. The fire rushed down the mountain side, and
done by qualified store employees who shuffle instead of walk, and suffer from moderate to severe depression. But hey, price checking is evidently a very hard job because these checks can sometimes take about as long as the Protestant Reformation. Maybe this is why the other 11,927 Walmart shoppers are using the self-checkout lanes. I hate self-checkouts. Mankind was doing great until we invented self-service banking and self-checkout lanes in the supermarket. As a result, society is a mess. Which only leads me to ask what’s next. Am I to be expected to cook my own T-bone steak at Waffle House? Should I do my own root canals, cut my own hair, and physically walk to the refrigerator to get my own beer? 2:29 P.M.—I decided to abandon the cashier line and use the self-checkout lane. I scan one item and there is a problem with the computer. I hear a loud government-style beeping and a computerized female voice says in a German accent,
“Stop! Assistance needed, assistance needed...” I’m looking around for assistance, but there is none. Most of the store employees are out back having knife fights over who has to do the next price check. So I end up standing around like a stump for (this is an actual number) 182 minutes. 4:53 P.M.—A teenage employee arrives to offer assistance. The kid discovers that there is no barcode on my celery. “Price check on celery,” he says. 5:10 P.M.—Finally the employee returns, wiping lobster bisque from his chin with a napkin, holding the correct celery. I pay my bill. I take my receipt. I let out a sigh of relief because it is over. I am home free. My phone vibrates. Another text message from my wife. It reads: “B4 U leave the store, plz buy a new Christmas tree. Ours just fell down. Thx. LOL.” We’re gonna need more lights. Sean Dietrich is a columnist and novelist known for his commentary on life in the American South.
every step of the way. You can’t just drop in and get the full effect. So students try, as only students can, to replicate those stages where they are. A little tree, likely artificial. Lights. A few ornaments which will be saved and in years to come will be taken out to hang again and remember. Perhaps a wreath for the door. And Christmas cards, sent to their new address, evidence that the United States Postal Service considers this their home now, proudly displayed on a table along with the plastic Santa or
snowman from Walmart or Dollar General or Big Lots. And they will keep Christmas in their homes and hearts until finals are over and they journey to where they once lived to visit, to find out how the family is doing without them. Then, a few weeks later, they will return to their new home. And take down their tree. Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.
overtook parts of the spur. It swarmed around the upper ridges and closed in on the town below. At the Ogle cabin, I took a walk and read the trail warning posts. I photographed remnants and observed the path bathed by fire that kissed the toes of history, but nearer didn’t touch. I stand astonished each time I return. Like patterns waves cast upon a shoreline, fire also leaves as much. Hues like sulphur, copper and gold cling to soil, bark and mosses where ferns and fungi grew. The laurel
turned to umbre. I’ve rarely seen it that color. The sight of fire-burned laurel rivals words. The mist was lavender o’er ridges of blue. At Ogle Place the painting called “Wonderland” began beneath a sun which looked more like the moon. Two figures sit distanced and we question, “what should we do?” By Sarah West - she is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, a center for cultural arts in Smiths Station. This is a previously written column from 2017.
Robertson, from A4 He did not speak English, but man I wanted him too. He was kind and elegant. I could tell he was a hard worker and probably had a family. Margarita spoke lovely English and come to find out she studied language in college here in Cuba. She was bright, sophisticated and a very pretty young woman. She was full of knowledge and I was glad to have a new friend. The next thing I noticed was that everyone drives, walks, bikes, etc. however they want and like to. In and out, back and forth. Across, among and in between. “You just do you” is their transit motto. There was a good amount of honking and stopping abruptly by everyone on the road, but it was with kind of in joy and unison. With each honk or swerve, they were speaking a common language. Everyone just got it. Each Cuban just fell into place, right where they needed to be. Like Tetris. No car accidents, nor people getting hit by cars. It looked confusing, but everyone just fell perfectly into place. I live on the edge of my seat, so this was just plain, good fun. Learning how Cubans transit from place to place was just as fascinating as a staring contest with an immigration officer. The next stop we made was the Methodist Center in downtown Havana. Now, Havana is a big city, not as big as New York City, but the feeling of crowds and excitement was the same. Cabs, double decker buses, old cars, taxis and mopeds. All among us shuffling from here to there. We were greeted with the nicest of staff at the Methodist Center. I soon realized they had anticipated our arrival. We sat in their gated courtyard in the fresh, warm air and were served cold, clean water and smiles. No one else spoke English,
except Margarita. But it didn’t bother any of them. They were happy, accepting and ready to serve. The language didn’t matter. We were their guests and they were delighted we were here. Next, we had to walk across the street with our luggage to meet our host family that we would be staying the night with. I was gitty. I was going to get to stay in an authentic Cuban home of a real Cuban family. This spoke to my soul. I knew I would love. And I did. They met us outside at the bottom and a gentleman who appeared to be younger than my father, greeted me with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. He picked up my large rolling suitcase and up to the top floor of his apartment building we went. Walking up steps, made of sleek and beautiful white colored marble. The building looked straight out of NYC in the 60’s. The elevator was no longer working and had been cleared of its lift with a hole in the center. It had been adorned with plants to make it lovely again. Attractive metal gates covered all doors and windows. Showing the age of the building but also the history of hard times that made them a necessity. Javier was our host. He gently showed us into our room with his little wife and made sure we had all we needed. He gave us a key and did a quick explanation of the doors with my husband. Javier too spoke English. He was a gem and liked to smile. He soon sat us at his small kitchen counter. “You need rest. How about some coffee?” Umm, did he just say coffee? It was not yet evening and the word “coffee” spoke love straight to my heart. My good husband smiled his little charm at me in gratitude that not only did we make a safe trip to a foreign unknown land, but we now rested safely and were offered coffee. We both said yes and Javier’s wife used her 1970’s model Italian
espresso maker to make the tastiest espresso I have had in my life. I saw the joy in her work in serving us as complete strangers. Her smile and the way she constantly looked up at us to see if we were okay. Her hands working, to brew what she had with precision and care. It took a few minutes, but Javier didn’t mind, because Javier liked to talk, and we too were eager to listen. Finally, into tiny silver espresso cups, the coffee was poured. It was beautiful. I knew God had brought us to this place. I knew these people were good. We were so different, all of us. Yet they invited us in and served us as king and queen. You see, you only need one common ground with someone to begin to learn of each other. It was coffee. This was their greeting and their serving. It’s like the coffee said, “Welcome to our home. We have no idea who you are, but we are here for you. Let’s share and enjoy and we’ll go from there.” We weren’t that different at all. The coffee brought us together and all was well with our souls. What I learned here in Javier’s kitchen and witnessed the entire rest of our trip, is that Cubans show love face to face. They are about togetherness. They are about community and each other. They are about intention, enjoying time and going with the flow of life. No need to hurry, let’s sit down for coffee and get to know each other. We busy Americans can learn something small and valuable from our Cuban friends. What if we stopped and put our value back into stillness? What if we sat face to face with each other and shared coffee? Bradley 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.
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
• Dec. 4 - Sno*pelika • Dec. 5 - The Sound Wall presents David Olney and Noel McKay • Dec. 7 - Opelika Christmas Parade • Dec. 7 - Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity’s Cookie Walk • Dec. 7 - Art Haus Director’s Art Show and Sale
Corleys celebrate Christmas at new country home Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
N
estled against a wooded backdrop in Waverly, the lovely country home of Beverly and Ricky Corley provides cozy fireside seating indoors, as well under a covered porch for dining and relaxing with a stone fireplace. The Corleys moved into their new home in June and are looking forward to celebrating their first Christmas with family at their secluded haven. This fall, they have enjoyed dining by the outdoor fireplace on the covered porch with a wicker dining area on the other side. A heater lamp provides warmth on chilly evenings.
structed from Sylacauga white marble provide genPhoto by Ann Cipperly erous workspace. On one Beverly Corley has a love for cooking and is sharing recipes for Christmas brunch and dinner. The dinwall, glass front cabinets ner menu is also great for entertaining during the Christmas season. Beverly is pictured with Bell at display china. the Corleys’ new country home in Waverly. Gleaming floors are repurposed wood from family came to their house and have two daughters, Opelika High School and Langdale Mills and add for Christmas. Anne Katherine, 10, and Auburn University. She character to their new Her grandmother baked Mary Charles, 9. Rusty and began teaching when their home. Old brick around the coconut cakes for friends Krissy, who is from Auyoungest child was in the hearth of the fireplace in and neighbors during the burn, reside in Birmingham the living room came from first grade. She taught at holidays. and have two daughters, the former Pepperell Manu- Drake Middle School in Beverly watched her Taylor Grace, 8, and Coco, Auburn, Samford Middle facturing Company. grandmother cook and 5, while Seth and his wife School and Beulah High Beverly and Ricky are Jennie live in Nashville and learned a great deal about School before going to both native Opelikans. baking cakes. She rememhave a baby, Helen. Ricky, who built the house, Southern Union where she bers her grandmother When Beverly was is the owner of R.L. Corley has taught for 17 years. would grate fresh coconut growing up, her grandThe Corleys have three Construction, while Bevand use the milk in the mother lived with her sons who grew up in erly teaches at Southern Coconut Cake. One of family and did most of the Opelika. Jonathan and Union. cooking. Nearly everyone wife Casey, both local Beverly graduated from in the large, closely knit attorneys, live in Auburn See Cipperly, page A11
Another porch in the front of the home provides seating for savoring the outdoor scenery while sipping morning cups of coffee. The outdoor fireplace was built from stones found on the property. After nine truckloads of stones to construct the fireplace wasn’t enough, a neighbor invited them to collect stones from their grounds to finish the tall fireplace. Beverly has a love for cooking, and her kitchen reflects the love of spending time in the kitchen baking and preparing meals for her family. A huge island and kitchen counters con-
First Avenue will be the site of the inaugural ‘Longest Table’ event on Dec. 8 By Morgan Bryce Editor Sarah and Taylor Gill of Mama Mocha’s Coffee are looking to bring a version of “The Longest Table” event to downtown Opelika on Dec. 8 from 3 to 5 p.m. to help spark small conversations and generate a sense of community togetherness. After viewing a video of the same event held in Tallahassee, Florida, shared with her by Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany GibsonPitts and Auburn resident Carmilla
Auburn Area Community Theatre to host auditions Dec. 9 and 10 for ‘Disney’s High School Musical Jr.’ Special to the Opelika Observer
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
Tindal, Sarah said she was moved to create one like it in Opelika. The portion of 1st Avenue between 7th and 8th Streets will
be blocked off for this free event. The Gills will prepare a large, New Orleans-style vat of
Auburn Area Community Theatre invites youth ages 13 to 18 to audition on Dec. 9 and 10 for the smash hit movie musical that will come to life on stage: Disney’s High School Musical Jr. Troy, Gabriella and See AACT, page A9
See Table, page A9
Book your Holiday Party with us! We offer full service off site catering, delivery or pick up options for events, and private dining events at our Opelika location.
Visit our website niffersplace.com/catering for private dining room requests and event menus, or contact cater@niffersplace.com.
Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM
pelika O Observer
A8 Dec. 04, 2019
Auditions for OTC’s production of ‘The Addams Family: A New Musical on Dec. 14
Local authors to hold book discussion at Pebble Hill in Auburn on Dec. 10 Special to the Opelika Observer
Special to the Opelika Observer Opelika Theatre Company will be holding auditions for their spring production of “The Addams Family: A new musical” on Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon and also from 4 to 6 p.m. Interested parties should call the theatre company at 334-663-2593 or 334-663-4480 to reserve a time slot. Information needed will be age, email address, name and telephone number. Auditions will be held at the Southside Center for the Arts which is located at
1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. Participants should prepare a one minute or less monologue and a 30second song (preferrably a Broadway show tune.) Wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to learn a short dance routine. Play rehearsals will start in late January and are expected to be held on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The show dates are tenatively set for May 8, 9, 15 and 16. About OTC The Opelika Theatre Company, a 503C nonprofit organization was established in August
2015. The idea was conceived by three friends, as they were casually talking about Opelika needing a community theatre to support the amazing talent in this area. An email was sent out to many area residents to attend a start-up meeting and voila! A core group of people made a commitment to give birth to this remarkable program. The artistic director of OTC is very proud of and thankful for her wonderful staff and The Community Foundation of East Alabama for making this dream possible.
Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info
Enjoy a book talk by Delos Hughes, Ralph Draughon Jr., Emily Sparrow and Ann Pearson on Tuesday, Dec. 10 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Pebble Hill. The authors will be discussing their new book “No Place Like Home: An Architectural Study of Auburn, Alabama.” Auburn is wellknown as a college town and as a historic Southern village in central Alabama. The architecture that presently constitutes Auburn's built envi-
ronment deserves the same level of recognition. In No Place Like Home: An Architectural Study of Auburn, Alabama, the coauthors highlight the buildings of Auburn that are distinguished by age, celebrated residents, distinctive design and historical importance. The architectural character of Old Auburn lives on in the enduring structures found throughout the city. The event is free, open to the public and will be followed by refreshments. Copies of the book
will be available for purchase and signing. For more information, visit cla.auburn. edu. The venue is located at 101 S. Debardeleben St. About Pebble Hill: Pebble Hill, also known as the ScottYarbrough House, is an 1847 antebellum cottage in Auburn listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It currently serves as the home of the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
pelika O Observer
A9 Dec. 04, 2019
Reimagining holiday leftovers into creative meals By Wendi Williams Special to the Opelika Observer Itt’s the week after Thanksgiving and you have a refrigerator full of leftovers. Practicing Food Safety “Refrigerated leftovers can be used for three to four days if it was handled properly,” said Andrea Morris, an Alabama Extension health and nutrition specialist. Follow these practical food safety tips when cooking leftover food. Wash hands with soap and warm water 20 seconds before and after handling food.
AACT, from A7 the students of East High must deal with issues of love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. The show’s infectious, danceable songs are sure to engage performers and audiences alike. Auditions will take place each day from 4 to 7 p.m. Please come prepared to present a one-minute (or less) monologue and sing 30 seconds of an acapella song. A number from a Broadway Musical is preferred. There will also be a dance and movement portion of the audition. Casting will be flexible and diverse, not identical to the movie, so don’t be afraid to bring us your original ideas for your character. You may sign up for an audition time slot online at www.auburnact. org, or simply show up at auditions and get the next available opening. Online sign-up is highly recommend-
Cook foods to safe internal temperatures. Poultry should be cooked to 165°F. Do not leave food out for more than two hours after serving meals. Place leftovers in air-tight containers and refrigerate immediately. Reheat leftovers to 165°F. Gravies, sauces or soups should reach a rolling boil while reheating. “Remember, food safety is important before, during and after preparing food,” Morris said. Prepare Leftovers with Creativity Leftover turkey can be chopped and used ed. High school graduates will not be accepted.. Callbacks, by invitation only, will be held Dec. 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. Rehearsals will be Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 16 and Jan. 6 to Feb. 19 and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon from Jan. 4 to Feb. 22. Technical and dress rehearsals will be Feb. 24 to 27h from 4 to 9 p.m. Performances will be Feb. 28 and 29 and March 2, 5 and 7 at 6:30 p.m. and Feb. 29 and March 7 at 2 p.m. You can access audition tips, rehearsal attendance policy, audition slot sign-up and more information at www.auburnact.org. We look forward to showcasing this energetic and infectious show. Disney’s High School Musical Jr. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). This show will be directed by Bailey Murphy, who can be contacted by email at bfm0005@ tigermail.auburn.
in casseroles, soups or even quesadillas. Use leftover cranberry sauce to jazz up pancakes or waffles by adding ½ cup to your batter. Cranberry sauce can also be used as a topping. Make savory waffles. Spray a waffle maker with non-stick spray. Fill the waffle maker with stuffing and lower the lid. Serve with cranberry sauce, or use the bread for a turkey sandwich. Leftover vegetables can be combined to make a nice soup. Make a vegetable frittata or quiche by adding eggs and cheese. Sweet or mashed potatoes can be
edu. About the AACT: Auburn Area Community Theatre is a nonprofit organization that exists to serve the Auburn-Opelika area. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for education and participation in the world of theatre and present a quality, entertaining, and thought-provoking theatre experience. The AACT is actively soliciting new members who have an interest in helping the growth of community theatre. AACT members and the communityat-large are encouraged to participate. For more information, visit www. auburnact.org.
Located in Historic Downtown Opelika
334-745-4618
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer reimagined into crispy potato cakes. It is also easy to add a cup of mashed sweet potatoes to a favorite cake or cookie recipe for additional moisture and flavor.
Table, from A7 red beans with Creole seasonings, garlic, peppers, onion and celery. Jasmine rice will be prepared to accompany the red beans. Tindal will bring cookies and Mama Mocha’s will provide lemonade and tea. Seeing today’s culture filled with “hate and crime and misunderstanding, espcially being spread across the news and social media,” Sarah said the objective of the event is to help people set aside their biases and have honest, open conversations and find commonalities. “(We want) to feed people for free and help people meet each
“Whether it’s mashed or sweet potatoes, Thanksgiving leftovers are ideal to use in numerous recipes,” said Terence Martin, Urban EFNEP coordinator. “Try a other that wouldn’t ordinarily. We don’t run in the same circles, we work and live differently, we come from different cultures and backgrounds,” Sarah said. “This is an opportunity to bridge that gap and start having actual, face to face conversations and hear the perspectives of other people. I’d love for everyone to come and sit with people they’ve never met and introduce themselves.” Those who would like to bring additional cookies or condiments for the red beans and rice are welcome to do so, but Sarah said people are welcome to come and enjoy the af-
simple quiche recipe to get you started.” Publisher’s Note: Any leftovers that you still have from Thanksgiving should be thrown away at this point. ternoon at an event that “will feel like a family reunion.” “It would be so amazing to start a whole culture of unity in Opelika that doesn’t depend on income level, sexual orientation, gender, education, race or religion- it’s a common ground of us all being here and wanting things to be better, to grow,” Sarah said. “I want everyone to have a space to be able to use their voice and be heard.” Another Longest Table event is being planned for next spring. For more information or updates, follow the event’s Facebook page.
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pelika Observer O
A10 Dec. 04, 2019
Annual ‘Farm City Banquet’ held Nov. 25 at Lazenby Farms in Beauregard
Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location
Photos and report by Robert Noles Opelika Observer The Lee County Farm
Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers
City Committee’s annual banquet was held Nov. 25 at Lazenby Farms in Beauregard. Serving as a celebra-
tion of the group’s work during the calendar year, it included a recognition of the Beauregard Volunteer Fire Department for their efforts following the March 3 tornadoes and a presentation of the group’s volunteer and service awards to Bob Harris and Vicky Yarbrough, respectively. There were door prizes given away and a keynote speech from Kim Mullenix, who is an associate professor in the university’s Animal Sciences Department. For more information, like and follow the group’s Facebook page.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 Beverly’s aunts, Gladys Hillyer, was known for her caramel cakes. “I love cooking for my family,” says Beverly. While she bakes a few Grandmother’s Coconut Cakes, she mostly bakes pound cakes for friends. “Since I bake anywhere between 10-20 cakes and deliver them,” says Beverly, “I tend to be organized with my planning and baking. Sometimes I make sugar cookies with
Recipes Christmas Brunch Menu • Scrambled Egg Casserole • Grits Casserole • Vicky’s Fruit • Monkey Bread Scrambled Egg Casserole Adapted from Dora James’ recipe 1 ½ lbs. mild sausage (Capps is best), browned 1 dozen eggs, beaten ¼ cup chopped onion Cheese Sauce (recipe follows) ¼ cup melted butter ½ cup soft breadcrumbs ¼ tsp. paprika Prepare cheese sauce. Brown sausage and onion. Fold in eggs and cook until set. When eggs are set, stir in cheese sauce. Spoon into greased 13x9 baking dish. Combine the melted butter and breadcrumbs and spread evenly over casserole. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Cheese sauce: 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine 2 ½ Tbsp. flour 2 cups milk ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melt butter; blend in flour and milk. Cook until thickened. Add salt, pepper and cheese. Grits Casserole 1 cup grits 1 tsp. salt 4 cups chicken broth Garlic powder (optional) ½ cup butter 1 jar Old English cheese spread ½ cup cream 2 eggs, beaten Grated cheddar cheese Cook grits in chicken broth. Add butter and Old English to grits and stir until melted. Stir in cream and eggs; mix well. Pour into greased 3 qt. casserole. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Top with grated cheese and cook additional 5 minutes. Monkey Bread 1 bag frozen yeast dinner rolls 3 oz. pkg. butterscotch pudding ½ cup melted butter Red and green Maraschino cherries 1 cup chopped pecans ½ cup packed brown sugar 1 ½ tsp. cinnamon Generously grease a Bundt pan. Place a few red and green cherries in the pan, and then
A11 Dec. 04, 2019
the granddaughters, but I usually enlist their help baking cakes. I like to cook, so I am a happy girl in the kitchen for several days!” Until last year when her mother passed away, Beverly and her sisters would go to the church service at First Baptist Church and then to their mother’s for dinner on Christmas Eve. It was an adjustment to change the tradition. This year Seth and his family will be there Christmas Eve. Jonathan and Rusty and their families will come over on Christmas Day.
Her brunch menu includes a Scrambled Egg Casserole that was Dora James’ recipe in a column years ago. Beverly clipped the recipe and made it a brunch tradition for her family. She substitutes the ham in Dora’s recipe for Capps sausage. She serves it with Grits Casserole, Vicky’s Fruit and Monkey Bread. She plans to make both the Christmas brunch and dinner recipes ahead of time. She will make both breakfast casseroles a couple of days before, along with the Strawberry Pretzel Salad, Ms. Caro-
lyn’s Gourmet Potatoes and Brownie Trifle. Vicky’s Fruit and Monkey Bread are prepared the night before, and she puts the green beans in the slow cooker Christmas morning. She prepares the Refrigerator Rolls ahead or rolls them out Christmas morning. The dinner menu features dishes Beverly and her friend Libba Herring prepared for a Christmas dinner party every year for about 20 years. While Libba made a four layer chocolate dessert, Beverly prepared her grand-
mother’s Coconut Cake. The only difference was, instead of turkey tenderloins, they served grilled chicken breasts. If you are entertaining during the Christmas season, try this tried and tested menu. Beverly has decorated her dining room table with a Williamsburg apple tree with boxwood tucked among the apples. Silver reindeer flank the centerpiece. While she had a flocked tree with shiny ornaments at her former home, Beverly is drying fruit and making citrus clove
pomanders for decorations at her country home. Beverly is looking forward to having her children and grandchildren in their new home. On Christmas Day, the family will play games, and sometimes the children will entertain with a show. After gifts are opened, they enjoy a wonderful dinner with the homemade dishes Beverly has prepared, as she carries on the traditions from childhood in celebrating Christmas surrounded by loved ones. Ann Cipperly can be reached by emailed recipes@cipperly.com.
sprinkle chopped pecans in bottom of pan. Place frozen rolls around and on top of each other over nuts and cherries. Sprinkle dry pudding mix over rolls. In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar and cinnamon over medium heat until combined. Drizzle mixture over rolls. To prevent the dough from forming a hard crust while rising, cover with a lightly damp tea towel over top, or place a piece of plastic wrap very loosely over the top and allow to hang at sides (do not make the wrap tight as the rolls will rise to double). Allow to rise overnight at room temperature. Bake 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees.
Either build a charcoal fire in half the grill or turn all gas burners on high for 10 minutes. Lubricate the grate with an oil-soaked rag using tongs. Place beef on hot rack and close lid; grill until well seared. Turn meat and close lid, grill until wellseared on second side. Move meat to the charcoal grill’s cool side or turn off burner directly underneath the meat and turn remaining one or two burners (depending on grill) to medium. Cook until a meat thermometer inserted in thickest section registers 130 degrees for rosy pink, 45 to 60 minutes, depending on tenderloin size and grill. Let meat rest 10 minutes before carving.
13x9 baking dish; pour sauce over tenderloins. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 165 degrees. Transfer tenderloins to a cutting board, reserving gravy in baking dish. Cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Cut into 1/2 -inch-thick medallions and serve with gravy. (From Lee Brothers Cookbook)
cheese. Whip potatoes until they are smooth and fluffy. Stir in chives, salt, and pepper. Pour potato mixture into a greased 13x9 dish. Top with bacon and cheese. Pour whipping cream over cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes. (This dish can be made ahead of time. Be sure to remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add 8 to 10 minutes to baking time.)
1 tsp. salt ¾ cup shortening 1 ½ cups coconut milk plus whole milk 5 tsp. baking powder 3 egg yolks and 1 whole egg 1 tsp. vanilla Frosting: 3 egg whites 1/3 cup white corn syrup ¾ cup sugar Dash salt ¼ tsp. cream of tartar 1/3 cup coconut milk or water 1 tsp. vanilla Poke holes in both ends of the coconut and drain the milk from the coconut. Reserve 1/3 cup for frosting and remainder for cake (if you don’t get enough coconut milk, you can substitute whole milk/ water; see above). Grate the coconut. Sift together flour, sugar, and salt. Add shortening and 1 cup milk; beat for 2 minutes. Stir in baking powder; then add eggs, ½ cup milk, and vanilla. Pour into greased cake pans and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until done. Cool on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove from pans and cool completely. Frosting: Combine all ingredients in a double boiler. Beat in a double boiler for seven minutes or until thick. Remove from heat and let cool. Frost each cake layer and top with grated coconut. Place remaining grated coconut on top and sides.
Vicky’s Fruit 1 can peach pie filling 1 large can Mandarin oranges, drained 1 large can chunk pineapple, drained 16 oz. container frozen strawberries, thawed 3 bananas Drain pineapple and oranges and mix all together.
Christmas Dinner Menu • Beef Tenderloin or Turkey Tenderloins with Madeira Gravy • Ms. Carolyn’s Gourmet Potatoes • Slow Cooker Green Beans •Strawberry Pretzel Salad • Refrigerator Rolls • Brownie Trifle or Grandmother’s Coconut Cake Beef Tenderloin 1 (5 lb.) whole beef tenderloin 6 Tbsp. olive oil 6 large garlic cloves, minced 2 Tbsp. minced fresh rosemary 1 Tbsp. dried thyme leaves 2 Tbsp. coarsely ground black pepper 1 Tbsp. kosher salt Trim off excess fat; fold thin tip end under to approximate the thickness of the rest of roast. Tie with butcher’s twine, then keep tying the roast with twine every 1 ½-2 inches (to help the roast keep its shape). Mix oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, pepper and salt; rub over roast.
Turkey Tenderloins with Madeira Gravy 3 cups dry Madeira or Fino sherry ¾ cup red wine vinegar 12 garlic cloves, crushed 3 tsp. kosher salt, divided 4 lbs. turkey tenderloins 2 Tbsp. cooking oil, divided 1 tsp. freshly ground pepper 3 Tbsp. butter 3 large shallots, finely chopped 2 tsp. sifted all-purpose flour Stir together first 4 ingredients and 2 tsp. salt until salt dissolves. Reserve 1 ¼ cups. Pour remaining mixture into a zip-top bag. Add tenderloins; press out air, seal, and chill 2 to 4 hours, turning every 30 minutes. Remove tenderloins from marinade, discarding marinade. Pat tenderloins dry. Brush with 1 Tbsp. oil, and sprinkle with pepper and remaining 1 tsp. salt. Cook tenderloins, in batches, in remaining 1 Tbsp. hot oil in large cast-iron skillet over high heat 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned. Transfer to a plate; discard oil. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and shallots to skillet, and cook, stirring constantly until butter melts. Stir in flour. Cook, stirring often, 3 minutes or until shallots are tender. Whisk in reserved 1 ¼ cups sherry mixture and bring to a simmer. Simmer 2 to 3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place tenderloins in a
Strawberry Pretzel Salad ¾ cup butter 2 Tbsp. sugar 2 cups crushed pretzels 1 large container Cool Whip 8 oz pkg. cream cheese ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar 6 oz. pkg. strawberry Jell-O 2 cups boiling water 1 cup mini marshmallows Two 10 oz. pkg. frozen strawberries Melt butter and add 2 Tbsp. sugar. Mix with the pretzels and press into the bottom of a greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Bake at 400 degrees for 5-7 minutes; cool. Combine cream cheese, Cool Whip, confectioners’ sugar and marshmallows. Spread over cooled pretzel crust. Combine Jell-O, water and strawberries, mixing well. Cool for about 30 minutes in refrigerator; pour cooled Jell-O mixture over the cream cheese mixture. Chill until firm. Cut and serve with a dollop of Cool Whip or whipped cream. Ms. Carolyn’s Gourmet Potatoes 5 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes 6 Tbsp. butter 8 oz. sour cream 8 oz. cream cheese, softened at room temperature ¼ cup butter, melted ¼ cup chopped chives 1 cup cheddar cheese 1 cup crumbled bacon ½ pint whipping cream ½ tsp. each salt and pepper or to taste Peel potatoes and slice them. Place them in a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash gently with a potato masher. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Add melted butter, sour cream, and cream
Slow Cooker Green Beans 8 slices bacon 2 lbs. fresh green beans or 4 cans green beans, drained 1 ½ cups chicken broth, or enough to cover green beans Cut bacon into small pieces and brown them. Place green beans in the slow cooker and pour the bacon grease over them. Cover with the chicken broth and bacon. Cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours. Brownie Trifle 1 family size brownie mix Eggs and oil for brownies 1 large box instant chocolate pudding 3 cups milk 1 large container Cool Whip 1 pkg. Heath bar pieces Prepare brownies according to package directions and bake. Cool completely. Combine pudding mix with 3 cups of milk and prepare according to package directions. Crumble half of brownies in the bottom of a trifle dish (or any bowl). Spoon half of pudding over brownies in the bowl; top with half package of Heath bar pieces. Add a layer of Cool Whip. Repeat with remaining brownies, pudding, and a layer of Cook whip. Sprinkle remaining Heath bar pieces on the Cool Whip. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Grandmother’s Coconut Cake (I use fresh coconut, but frozen coconut, dairy milk and coconut flavoring can be substituted.) 1 fresh coconut 3 cups flour 2 cups sugar
Judy Gullage’s Lillian’s Refrigerator Rolls 1 quart milk or water 1 cup Crisco 1 cup sugar 1 pkg. yeast ¼ cup warm water 8 cups flour 1 Tbsp. salt 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. soda Scald milk; add Crisco and sugar. Cool to lukewarm. In a cup, mix yeast and ¼ cup warm water. Add yeast mixture to milk mixture and work in 8 cups flour. Let rise until double in bulk. Punch down and add salt, baking powder and soda. Kneed 10-15 minutes, then put in a covered container. You may store dough in refrigerator for several days. If you plan to use immediately, let rise again until double in bulk; then punch down and make into desired shape. (I dip each roll in melted butter and fold over to make Parker House rolls.) Let rise 1 to 1 ½ hours in a warm place. Cook at 350 degrees until lightly browned, about 12 minutes. May be frozen after they are slightly brown. Makes 1012 dozen.
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Pat Sullivan, Auburn icon, Heisman Trophy winner passes away Saturday night By Phillip Marshall Special to the Opelika Observer Pat Sullivan, beloved former Auburn Heisman Trophy winner and college football icon, passed away in his sleep on Saturday night. He was 69. Sullivan arrived at Auburn from John Carroll High School in Birmingham in 1968 and won the Heisman Trophy in 1971. He later served as an assistant coach for Pat Dye, helping Auburn win three consecutive championships. He went on to be the head coach at TCU, offensive coordinator at UAB and head coach at Samford before retiring after the 2014 season. He is a member of the College
Football Hall of Fame and Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. Throughout the years, Sullivan was a loyal Auburn supporter and served on the search committee that hired head coach Gus Malzahn. Sullivan’s courageous battle with mouth cancer in 2003, when he was offensive coordinator at UAB, was a lesson in refusing to give in even in the hardest of times. After 2011, Sullivan took his nourishment through a feeding tube. He later needed oxygen to help him breathe. Both were the result of the radiation treatments that killed the cancer but left him scarred and of damage from a later surgical procedure. In 2014, he coached
his final game against Auburn at Jordan-Hare Stadium, where he became an icon. He was honored in an emotional ceremony before the game. Sullivan remained optimistic and supported Auburn and Samford causes. Sullivan will be remembered for so many great moments as an Auburn football player – the epic 35-20 victory in the battle of the unbeatens at Georgia in 1971, a comeback from 17 points behind against Alabama in 1970, so many big plays at big times. He and wide receiver Terry Beasley had few equals. “Sullivan to Beasley” became forever a part of college football history.
After playing in the NFL, Sullivan started his own business. He didn’t get into coaching because he wanted to spend time with his children. Finally, in 1986, he joined Dye’s Auburn staff. He tutored Jeff Burger, Reggie Slack and Stan White. In 1992, he left to be the head coach at TCU, where he won a Southwest Conference championship in 1994. There are no regrets as Sullivan looks out his window and sees Samford players working out on their own. He believes Samford’s 2016 football team, coached by Chris Hatcher, has a chance to be special, and he will be there to offer his support. “I was blessed,” Sullivan said in an interview in
2016. “I was at the right place at the right time. When I was at John Carroll, we had 23 on our team playing in the top classification. We were fortunate. We had (future Auburn teammates) Dick Schmalz and David Shelby. Our offensive line probably averaged 160 pounds. We threw the ball. “When I got to Auburn, I had Terry and the different ones. We went from Coach (Shug) Jordan being three yards and a cloud of dust to kind of being open.” Even as he played in the NFL and was later successful in business, Sullivan believed his calling in life was to coach. He did analysis on Auburn radio broadcasts and coached his son, Patrick, in youth
sports. His wife, Jean, was one of Birmingham’s more successful real estate agents. It was she who told her husband it was time for him to follow his heart. “It was the summer of 1985, right before the season,” Sullivan said. “She said ‘You don’t want to wake up when you are 50 and not be doing what you want to do.’” “I’ve said it many, many times, and I believe it: What you get out of athletics is the relationships that last for a lifetime,” Sullivan added. Sullivan is survived by his wife of 50 years, three children and eight grandchildren. This report was originally published on www.247sports.com.
OBITUARIES Barbara Ellen Strozier Barbara Ellen Strozier, age 79, met her Lord and Savior face to face on Nov.24, 2019. She was born on Sept. 1, 1940 at her parent’s home in Russell County. She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, John; three children Susan (David) Voss, a special daughter Cheryl Denise, and Johnny (Tracy) Strozier. She was loved dearly by her six grandchildren, Jenny (Dean) Martin, Christy (Danny) Herald, Joey (Angela) Santigati, William Voss, Matt Strozier, and Shelby Strozier. She was blessed with eight great-grandchildren as well. She also leaves behind an older brother, Fred (Brenda) Woods, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman Woods and Eva Vinson. She worked for the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department for 36 years and enjoyed all the James “Jimmy” Brady Henderson Mr. James “Jimmy” Brady Henderson, 62, of Opelika passed away Nov. 27 at EAMC. Mr. Henderson’s services was at 1 p.m. CST, Dec. 2 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bubba Copeland
Margaret Hudson Till Margaret Hudson Till, age 91 of Opelika, Alabama passed away peacefully on Nov. 23, 2019 at Bethany House. Born in Greenville, Alabama where she lived until she married, Margaret raised her family in Fort Deposit and
people that she interacted with on a daily basis. She truly loved people. She was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church, Opelika and taught second grade Sunday school there for more than 25 years. She thoroughly enjoyed singing in the senior choir and attending Martha Tabor’s bible study class. She had a beautiful smile and lived her life well. She was a fabulous cook and Matt loved her delicious potato salad immensely. She enjoyed planting flowers and watching birds on her back patio. Visitation was held at First Baptist Church, Opelika last Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m., with a celebration of life service following. Dr. Jeff Meyers officiated. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to Storybook Farm, The Way2Serve, or the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed. officiating, burial followed in Rocky Mt. Baptist Church Cemetery. Visitation was held from 5 to 8 p.m. CST, on Dec. 1 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. A full obituary will follow at a later date. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed the funeral service.
Andalusia, Alabama. In 1998 she moved to Opelika, Alabama spending the next 13 years as a dedicated volunteer for East Alabama Medical Center Auxiliary. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, William McFerrin Till; parents, Mabel Felts Hudson and Walter
Mattie Lou Zachry Akin Longtime Opelika resident Mattie Lou Zachry Akin died Nov. 27, 2019 at Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama. Mattie Lou was born in Coaling, Alabama, on April 1, 1931, as the third of three children to James and Lucy Abernethy Zachry. Growing up in Notasulga, Alabama, she graduated from Macon County High School in 1949 and later attended Auburn University. She married Earl Akin of Opelika in 1953 and lived there for years. Married for 50 years, Mattie Lou and Earl raised three children and were active members of the First Baptist Church Eugene “Bo” Brown Mr. Eugene “Bo” Brown, 77, of Opelika passed away Nov. 28 at his residence. Mr. Brown was born Dec. 6, 1941 in Opelika and was raised in Beulah. He was preceded in death by his wife Danny Brown; mother and father Louise Crane and Edward J. Brown; brother: A.J. Brown; sister: Mary Alice Rudd. He retired after
Allen Hudson; sister, Caroline Seale Baber. She is survived by her children, Allen Till (Donna) of Raleigh, North Carolina, Tamar Lisenby (Mike) of Opelika, Bill Till (Amy) of Andalusia, and Eva Robertson (Jim) of Birmingham; grandchildren, Lara Townsend,
of Opelika where she volunteered for many years as a nursery worker, attendance records keeper, offering counter, and regularly provided meals for the bereavement committee. She made her career in banking at AmSouth Bank and had risen to the level of Assistant Vice President by the time of her retirement in 1996. Many of her dearest friendships were forged at the bank. Known for her tireless energy, Mattie Lou always had a project going but was never too busy to stop and lend a hand to anyone who had a need. She spent her life serving and caring for others. Mattie Lou was an accomplished seamstress,
sewing both for her family and friends, and she was known for hemming countless pairs of pants, free of charge. She enjoyed cooking and was a gracious host. Her home was a welcoming one and had a place for every visitor at her table. She enjoyed family and friends and was a loving grandmother to three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was never one to complain, and was delighted by the simplest things. Mattie Lou will be missed by many for her selflessness, her cheerfulness, her can-do attitude, her service, and her loving kindness. Her life was lived as an example of her faith in Jesus
Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband Earl and her brothers James and Graham Zachry. She is survived by her daughter and son-inlaw LuAnne and Jerry Taff; daughter and son-in-law Cindy and Cliff Roberts; son Jim Akin; granddaughter and grandson-in-law Lindsey and Chad Fullerton; granddaughters Jessica Taff and Shelby Taff; great grandchildren Olivia Fullerton and Jackson Fullerton; and loving nieces and nephews. Visitation was held on Dec. 1, from 1 to 3 p.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home in Opelika, followed by the funeral at 3 p.m. in the chapel. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.
30 years with the Opelika Fire Department as Assistant Fire Chief, and also, after 21 years from the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department, where he worked at Floral Park and Spring Villa. He loved sports of all kinds and especially those Auburn Tigers. Bo is survived by his son: Richard Eugene Brown (Tori); step-children: Mike Nichols (Mir-
iam), Doug Nichols (Rita) Phil Nichols (Rheba), Susan Lee (Bobby); 11 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and sister: Sarah Freeman. The family wishes to give a special thanks to all their friends who helped in the care of Bo, especially Betty Jordan, Kenneth Jimmerson, Ronnie and Mary Foster. A graveside service was held at 2
p.m Dec.1 at Rest Haven Cemetery, in Chambers County with Reverend Ralph Cotton officiating. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 30 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial gifts be made to The Fathers House, 214 Morris Avenue, Opelika, AL 36801 or the charity of your choice. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.
Julie Tecklenberg (Ethan), Jennifer Bass (Eron), Melanie Smyly (Bill), Michael Till, Anna Till, Matthew Till, Joshua Till (Anna), Keri Massey (Ross), Brad Robertson (Robin), Stefanie Landes (Michael), Jared Robertson, as well as 12 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service was held at First United Methodist Church of Opelika on Nov. 29, 2019 at 11 a.m. with Reverends Robin Wilson and Tim Thompson officiating. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service. Graveside service was at the Hayneville
Cemetery, located in Hayneville, Alabama at 2:30 p.m. Margaret loved and was loved by her faith community at First United Methodist Church. Honorarium can be made to the FUMC Church Building Fund. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003
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he Tipping Point was Malcolm Gladwell’s debut book in 2000 and the first of five bestsellers. It probed the forces behind societal change and proposed to explain how “little things can make a big difference” (the book’s sub-title). For example, Gladwell popularized the brokenwindow theory. This theory says that when a window in a building is broken, if it is not repaired in a timely manner, soon there will be more broken windows because the message left by the unrepaired window is that no one is paying attention or cares. However, if the window is repaired, the opposite message is conveyed. Thus, a small thing like a broken window can be a tipping
Opelika
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Growing your vision of God point. Gladwell went on to apply this to other things like graffiti, toll-jumping on the subway and other misdemeanors. It wasn’t all theoretical either, New York City implemented this principle in the 1990’s through a law enforcement strategy known as CompStat. The increased attention to misdemeanors and promotion of order was accompanied by a decrease in crime across the board. Like everything, the broken window theory has its share of critics and even Gladwell has backed off of it to a degree. That’s all as it should be because good, healthy debate surrounding the identity of any potential tipping point underscores just how important the concept of a tipping point is to begin
• 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 334-745-3108. • Dec. 6 - First Baptist Church Opelika will be holding a “Parent’s Evening Out” for parents of children with disabilities. To register or for more information, call 334745-5715. The church
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
Dec. 04, 2019
eligion
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
with. In Gladwell’s words it is “the moment of critical mass, the threshold, the boiling point.” It is what is responsible for changing something from good to bad or bad to good. It’s not difficult to see this at the spiritual level. After Cain’s sacrifice was rejected by God, the Lord appeared to him and said, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be
Church calendar
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #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
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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
with the seven churches of Asia (Revelation 4-5) and it enables them to triumph “by the blood of the lamb, by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death” (12:11). As we begin to see and experience the glory of God, it becomes difficult not to love what He loves. As we see Him more clearly, experience the cross more deeply, things that were formerly “got to” become “get to.” This is the work of God taking place in our lives—transforming us into His image (2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 2:12-13). Let’s allow God to grow a greater vision in our lives. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.
Verse of the Week
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 Christmas-themed 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.
accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it” (Genesis 4:6-7). God was telling Cain that how he dealt with his sacrifice being rejected would be a tipping point in his life. Cain didn’t heed God’s words and tipped in the direction of evil and the rest is sad history. An important tipping point that helps us across the board is when we grow in our vision of God to the degree that His glory begins to transcend our desires. Isaiah shares his vision of God in Isaiah 6 and if you read the entire chapter you will see how it steels him for the difficult work he was given to do. In much the same way, John shares a vision of God
“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.” 1 Thessalonians 5:15
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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pelika Observer O
A14 Dec. 04, 2019
Community Calendar: Events around town
• Dec. 5 - 10 a.m. Ribbon Cutting at Rich’s Car Wash • Dec. 7 - 10 a.m. Opelika’s Christmas Parade
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 • Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Kids eat for 99 cents at Niffer’s • Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. - Brains and Brews Trivia at Red Clay Brewing •Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. - Burger Night with half-pounder burgers and a side for $6.99 at Niffer’s • Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Wine Down Wednesday at The Bottling Plant Event Center • Dec. 4: Build your own burger and side starting at $5 at La Cantina • Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. - Trivia Night at Niffer’s • Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. - Sugar Plum Story
Time at O Town Ice Cream • Dec. 10 at 5 p.m. - Kids eat for 99 cents at Niffer’s • Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. - Brains and Brews Trivia at Red Clay Brewing •Dec. 10 at 5 p.m. - Burger Night with half-pounder burgers and a side for $6.99 at Niffer’s • Dec. 10 at 5 p.m. Wine Down Wednesday at The Bottling Plant Event Center • Dec. 11: Build your own burger and side starting at $5 at La Cantina • Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. - Trivia Night at Niffer’s
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
dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap. org or find the organization on Facebook. • East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 8261899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every
Wednesday at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@ yahoo.com or find them on Facebook. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@ gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information. Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
Lee County Low Vision Support Group met Nov. 19, discussed safe mobility within the home By Beth Pinyerd For the Opelika Observer The Lee County Low Vision Support Group met on Nov. 19 at East Alabama Medical Center’s Education Resource Center. The meeting topic was “Moving Safely Inside The Home,” which was presented by Taina Garcia, who is a certified orientation and mobility specialist. She presented and had the support group to interact with the following: 1. Visualizationthe ability to create accurate mental pictures of people, places and everyday objects. 2. Protecting the
upper body, lower body and trailing. 3. Walking with a guide was demonstrated. 4. Sighted Guide Techniques were presented to the support group on how to walk through narrow passageways, reversing directions, transferring sides, doorways and seating. 5. Discussion on using different kind of canes was shown and demonstrated. 6. Modification tips for safe travel inside the home were also presented. 7. Large print calendars were provided by Shiquita Fulton, Vision Rehabilitation Therapist for the Alabama Department
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The picture shows Taina Garcia with a member going over walking with a guide. The group’s next meeting is on Dec. 10 at East Alabama Medical Center from 2 to 3 p.m. of Rehabilitation Services. For more information about the program, contact Shiquita Fulton at 334-705-2024 (of-
fice) or 334-8033750 (cell). The group’s next scheduled meeting is Dec. 10 at East Alabama Medical Center from 2 to 3 p.m.
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Food Ratings O Town Scoops 700 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 100
Sneak and Dawdle 717 1st Ave. Opelika Score: 100
Dixie Wings 10630 Lee Road 240 Phenix City Score: 100
Pannie George’s Kitchen 2328 S. College St. Auburn Score: 100
Cluck-It Bucket 2505 Lee Road 430 Smiths Station Score: 100
Mamee’s Kitchen Authentic Jamaica 16583 U.S. Hwy 280 Smiths Station Score: 99
Honey Baked Ham 1451 Gateway Drive Opelika Score: 100
MK’s Asian Kitchen 2490 Enterprise Dr. Opelika Score: 100
BurgerFi 2145 Interstate Dr. Opelika Score: 99
Chick-fil-A 2052 TigerTown Pkwy. Opelika Score: 99
A15 Dec. 04, 2019 Auburn Score: 99
The Boathouse 50 Lee Road 344 Salem AFC Sushi at Kroger Score: 98 2450 Enterprise Dr. Popeye’s Opelika 1999 Opelika Road Score: 99 Auburn Score: 98 Get It To-Go 404 W.E. Morton Umami Ave. 2319 Bent Creek Rd. Opelika Auburn Score: 99 Score: 97 Block and Barrel Deli 323 Airport Road Which Wich Suite H. Superior Sand-
wiches 2105 Interstate Drive Opelika Score: 97 Philly Connection 2328 S. College St. Auburn Score: 97 Bleeker Junction 280 13408 U.S. Hwy 280 Salem Score: 95 Logan’s Roadhouse 2400 Gateway Drive Opelika Score: 91
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Wednesday, December 4th 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Opelika Courthouse Square
Sno*pelika Begins
5:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm
Inflatable Slide and Inflatable Snowglobe Open, Artificial Snow begins to fall, Food Vendors Open, EAMC's Peppermint Parkway Opens, and Registration for Reindog Parade Begins
Reindog Parade Begins Reindog Parade Begins at the Gazebo at Courthourse Square and ends in Front of Judges where Most Festive, Best Dressed Owner & Pet Combo, and Most Creative are named.
Choir Performances Begin Enjoy Christmas performances from Opelika City Schools, First United Methodist Church, First Baptist Church, and more.
Community March to Opelika Christmas Tree
7:30 pm 8:00 pm
The Opelika High School Band will lead a community march from Courthouse Square to the Opelika Christmas Tree where the City's Official Tree Lighting will take place.
Sno*pelika Ends The event concludes with the lighting of the tree! The Christmas season in Opelika has officially begun!
Throughout the event, the Lee County Sheriff's Office will be collecting toys for children ages 2 to 10 as a part of their annual Christmas Toy Drive. All donations will be put in the Giving Back Sleigh.
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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
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
For Opelika game photos turn to B2 For Iron Bowl photos turn to B9 Lee County School Board Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.
IN CLASSIC IRON BOWL FASHION, AUBURN WINS!!
Opelika ends run to championship game with loss to Spanish Fort Toros
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Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
panish Fort defeated Opelika 27-24 last Friday in the semifinals of the class 6A State Football Playoffs. The Toros took an early 14-0 lead after two first-quarter touchdowns. Johnny Moore ran 16 yards for a TD and Kris AbramsDraine ran 17-yards for the second score. Opelika scored their first TD on a five-yard run by Eric Watts with eight minutes left in the first half. Brody Davis tied the game with 3:52 left in the second
half, scoring OHS second touchdown on a six-yard run. Senior placekicker Marshall Meyers nailed a 39yard field goal with two seconds left in the second quarter, giving the Bulldogs their first lead, 17-14. Watts opened the second half on a 13-yard scoring run. Spanish Fort answered seconds later, with Abrams-Draine sprinting 60 yards for a touchdown. The PAT failed, leaving OHS up 24-20 headed into the fourth quarSee Sports, page B6
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer For more photos and a recap of Auburn’s 48-45 Iron Bowl victory last Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium, turn to page B9.
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B2 Dec. 04, 2019
Opelika drops 27-24 heartbreaker to Spanish Fort on the road Friday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Area students recognized at Nov. 20 ‘CIA’ ceremony
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 offensive lineman James Dawson was selected as the Opelika Player of the Week. In Friday’s 27-24 road loss to Spanish Fort and throughout the season, he was a key contributor and leader of the Bulldog offense.
IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.
GO DAWGS! #myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer
Photo and report provided by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Family Court of Lee County held an awards ceremony for members of its Characters in Action program on Nov. 20. This program recognizes children from Lee County who, by their own actions, make a positive contribution that is above and beyond normal expectations to their home, school, or community. Following is a list of recognized students: Emma Collins (Cary Woods Elementary), who was nominated by Instructional Coach Sherri Shiver; Jaquavion Moody (Yarbrough Elementary), who was nominated by Cafeteria Manager Vicki McLure; Preet Patel (West Forest), who was nominated by Donna Etheredge and Vanessa Bell (Opelika Middle School), who was nominated by Claire Hoffman. Bell was previously nominated in October but was unable to attend the ceremony. Pictured from left to right: Bell, Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows, Moody, Collins and Patel.
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B3 Dec. 04, 2019
Quietly accepted, unconditionally loved
Beth Pinyerd
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love how our community decorates with light and warmth everywhere for the coming holiday season. As I squint and look at Christmas lights everywhere, love and seasonal delight is in the air! I reflect back to this year of being back in my hometown after living in south Alabama for 30 years. The quiet acceptance of being greeted and
hugged is such an encouragement of unconditional love. I am so very grateful. During this season of family togetherness and holiday season is such a good time to express unconditional love to our young children. I’d like to share some recipe tips of unconditional love that your child will put to heart and remember through the ages. Be thankful for
how God made your child with different personalities, traits, weaknesses, special needs and strengths. Take time to look at your child and assess what these needs are. Spending time with your child spells L-O-V-E. The true happiness and highlight of their days is for we parents, grandparents,and caregivers to take time and talk to your child, really listen to them in an unhurried manner. Make an effort to really focus on this child and that you just “plain old enjoy” being with them. We all make mistakes. No one is perfect. Allow your child to make mistakes. For example, if children spill a drink, food or break something, don’t corner them and fuss at them in front of others. Turn the situation into a positive as they
help you clean up or mend what is broken. This action builds your child up rather than tearing them down. Modeling forgiveness when your children do something wrong is an action that God does for us. Ephesians 4:32 says, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you” - a truth that young children understand early in life. During this busy holiday season, try to lay down and establish a schedule. Even in school, children love routine and “what do we do next” because it makes them feel “safe.” This kind of planning allows we parents, family, and friends to integrate that special one on one celebration time with our children. Each day is a gift from God! Model
this joy and happiness in front of your children. Even though there may be problems and negative circumstances going on in our lives, try not to complain in front of your children. Children do not understand and are very sensitive to dissension, stress and drama that are displayed before them. They internalize the stress that result from unpleasant situations and sometimes they blame themselves. Love and protect your child each and every day. Having them see and know that you are there to keep them safe, provide for them, and actually verbalizing to them how much you love and care for them builds their confidence and security. Children’s fears are real. We as parents can’t ignore them but it is so important for us to
comfort them, and Last but not least, believing in our children is the greatest gift of life that we can give them. Just knowing that someone is there to believe and encourage us no matter what, is a heartfelt gift of unconditional love that is quietly accepted for life. With this said, the lights of heartfelt love keep shining. 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 designed to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing Pinyerd at donnapinyerd@charter. net.
Are you neglecting your class paper or essay? Here’s a little help
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n a college American History class, two students wrote papers on Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father. They noted he was born at 17 Milk St. in Boston, Massachusetts. I asked why they used the Milk Street reference—was Franklin lactose intolerant? Introducing elements like the full address where a man was born 300-plus years ago adds unneeded details. Inserting trivia without saying why leaves readers waiting for a second shoe to drop. (No points were deducted, though.) Many students, including those at Auburn University and Southern Union, find writing papers daunting and so they procrastinate. This makes it unsettling when they finally start typing “the Monster” (as some call it). I present approaches you can take to make academic writing more pleasurable than torturous. Just forget the
cynical quote from Ernest Hemingway, the novelist: “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” Writing a paper is like everything else we do in that cutting the work down into bite sizes gains us confidence. It saves us from running around in circles. Making an outline with dates for finishing specific actions, such as when research begins and ends, works wonders. A 5-10 bullet outline is fine for a paper of fewer than 10 pages. List topics chronologically but go with the flow and cut or reorder the outline based on what direction evolves organically as you write. I never issued minimum and maximum word counts; no one should. Why? Because students tend to look at word counts on their computer screens and quit abruptly when they reach the minimum. For example, they may stop when they reach
By Greg Markley
the 500-word target writing about Harry S Truman. They left Truman’s presidency before events like the Marshall Plan and Korean War occurred. The reverse: when a student gets near the minimum and is short on research. What does he or she do? --“padding.” For instance, he needs 50 words, or two paragraphs more. On Page 1, he wrote “Dr. Martin Luther King was the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner, at age 35.” Merely to fill space, he repeats the same fact, later, figuring the teacher will not notice. But, we most certainly do. In selecting a topic, students may choose one
that is too short a canvass in history classes. For a five page paper, “Opelika, Alabama in August 1930” might be better if you focus on a three-month period— July to September 1930. You can explore in a modest way the months prior to August 1930 and after that. Adding short insights of two more months into the mix means perhaps 40 to 50% more work. But your chances of getting an “A” will increase a lot. As Arthur C. Nielsen, the U.S.-born market research analyst, said: “Employ every economy consistent with thoroughness, accuracy and reliability.” In political science, a good topic is “Election flaws in Palm Beach County, Florida in the 2000 general election.” That’s better than the serpentine “Mistakes Florida-wide in the 2000 general election.” Why drag the entire Sunshine State into your short essay
when one county alone will suffice? Why burden yourself? I recall more than one student who thought “The U.S. since 1865” would be a good topic, in just five pages. I then point out that there was a whole course in the next room—dedicating 16 weeks to that very topic! A less wieldy topic would be “The natural environment in Auburn since 1970—after Earth Day.” In most 40 or 50 year periods, enough happens to provide material for both shorter (play-by play) papers and analytical (longitudinal) essays. A title that is too long for a typical undergraduate three to five page paper is “Rural areas of Alabama—their status in 2019.” Better and less time-consuming is “The two Bs: How are Beauregard and Beulah doing now.” That makes for a short but informative essay in political science. As students advance into
juniors and seniors, they will get to another level or writing—perhaps longer papers requiring more secondary research and original writing. In the comedy, Back to School (1986), Rodney Dangerfield plays a wealthy businessman who joins his son in pursuit of a college degree. The son says: “You have a major paper coming up on Kurt Vonnegut and you have not read any of his books.” A knock on the door; in comes Vonnegut himself, ready to help with the father’s paper. Ah, even in movies the rich are not like us. Yes, but by using these tips, writing your next paper should be pleasanter than expected. Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An award-winning journalist, he has master’s degrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.
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B4 Dec. 04, 2019
AMEA, city of Lanett to dedicate solar research project on Dec. 10 Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), in partnership with the city of Lanett, will dedicate a new 50-KW solar research project in the City of Lanett on Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. E.S.T. In case of inclement weather, the dedication will
be held Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. E.S.T. The AMEA-City of Lanett Solar Research Project, located at 119 S. Gilmer Ave., was completed in November. “We are proud of the new solar research project in Lanett as part of our effort to enhance renewable energy in our portfolio,” said AMEA President
and CEO Fred Clark. “We want to thank the city of Lanett and the Chambers County Development Authority (CCDA) for its leadership and partnership in this endeavor.” AMEA partnered with the city of Lanett and CCDA on the purchase of the 27-acre Lanett mill site. The city and CCDA have worked to develop the
site as a commercial or light industry zone. The solar project and the new Tractor Supply Company are located on the site. The AMEA Board of Directors approved a $1 million investment to construct one solar research project in each Member city for a total of 11 projects, Clark added. AMEA has
dedicated similar-size solar research projects in Alexander City, Dothan, Foley, LaFayette, Luverne, Opelika, Sylacauga and Tuskegee. The Greater Valley Area Chamber of Commerce will also conduct a ribbon cutting as part of the day’s activities. AMEA, located in Montgomery, is
the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, which serve some 350,000 customers in Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Foley (Riviera Utilities), LaFayette, Lanett, Luverne, Opelika, Piedmont, Sylacauga and Tuskegee. For more information, visit www.amea. com.
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B5 Dec. 04, 2019
Opelika students discuss legacies of city’s trailblazers at recent event
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Students from Chambers and Wilcox counties, Loachapoka and Opelika conducted presentations on individual that significantly impacted their communities within the last 200 years. Students from the Ward 2 Academy chose to highlight the contributions of Rev. George C. Bandy, Sr., Henry Stern, Nancy Parker Boyd, Jane Walker, Gladys Armstead and Dr. J.W. Darden. Pictured from left to right, Dr. Stacey Nickson, Ashleigh Pitts, Nakia Stinson, Sacaria Frazier, Gabby Canady, Qu'Nique Harry, Caleb Clark and Dr. Venus Hewing.
pelika Observer O Opelika native, Flags for Vets founder Jamie Popwell recognized as ‘Game Day Hero’ during last Saturday’s Iron Bowl
B6 Dec. 04, 2019
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Sports from B1 ter. Spanish Fort took the lead for good in the fourth quarter. Talented athlete Abrams-Draine went 66 yards for the game winner. Span-
ish Fort did not make the PAT, leaving the score 27-24. Opelika season ends with an 11-2 record in the semifinal round of the state playoffs. Congratulations on a good year! BASKETBALL The OHS Lady Bulldogs basket-
ball team (6-3) beat Kendrick 67-44 last week in Columbus. The Lady Bulldogs saw four players contribute on offense, with Ananda Hughley scoring a game-high 19 points, LaDajah Hughley and Kaitlyn Bryant scoring 13 points apiece while
We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes and racks around Lee County
• Better Bodies Massage Institute • Interim HomeCare • Opelika Theatre Company • Three Keys Properties, LLC To have your company’s logo placed on a box email us at editor@opelikaobserver.com
Claire Worth added 11 points. The Opelika basketball team travelled to Vestavia Hills for the “Sneaky Pete Invitational” basketball tournament. Homewood beat the Bulldogs, 65-44 in the opening game. Ja Carr and Grady Bynum scored 13 and 12 points, respectively. The two teams played at Smiths Station Tuesday, but results were not available at press time. THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE The OHS basketball teams host Lafayette Thursday night in the Mainstreet Gym. The junior varsity boys start at 4:30 p.m., with the varsity boys and girls squads to follow. OHS travels to Phenix City to play Central on Dec. 10. The OHS Wrestling team hosted Lee, Sidney Lanier, R.E. Lee and Stanhope Elmore last night. No results were available at press time.
The Bulldogs will travel to Smiths Station on Thursday for a tri-match with Central and Smiths Station. AHSAA SUPER 7 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS DEC. 4 TO 6 The Alabama High School Athletic Association Super 7 football Championships will be held at Jordan-Hare Stadium Dec. 4 to 6. The 14 teams are set and the action begins with the “Unified Game” at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 4. The Special Olympic flag football game pits Vestavia Hills against Baldwin County. The 7A game, Thompson vs Central, is set for a 7 p.m. kickoff. (Dec. 4) This a rematch of last year’s game, which Central won 52-7. The 1A game features defending champion Mars Hill Bible (14-0) and Lanett (14-0) at 3 p.m. on Dec. 5.
Defending Champion Fyffe (14-0) will play Reeltown (13-1) in the 2A game at 3 p.m. on Friday. 3A Mobile Christian (9-4) will battle Piedmont (13-1) at 11 a.m. on Thursday. Class 4A defending champion UMS Wright (13-0) battles Jacksonville (12-2) at 11 a.m. Friday. Defending 5A Champion Central-Clay County will play Pleasant Grove in the 7 p.m. game Thursday. The final game features 6A Oxford and Spanish Fort at 7 p.m. Friday night. All Super 7 games will be aired on IHeartRadio’s Fox Sports the Game, on 910 and 1310 AM. Fans can purchase tickets online at gofan.co for $12 or at the gate for $15. 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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B7 Dec. 04, 2019
the jay and susie gogue performing arts center at auburn university
GOGUE CENTER Auburn, Alabama
Wednesday, April 22 6 p.m.
DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING INAUGURAL SEASON PERFORMANCES Montrose Trio Tuesday, December 3 • 7:30 p.m.
Dorrance Dance Friday, January 31 • 7:30 p.m.
Escape to Margaritaville Wednesday, December 4 and Thursday, December 5 • 7:30 p.m.
Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group Wednesday, February 5 • 7:30 p.m.
VOCES8 (Holiday Program) Tuesday, December 17 • 7:30 p.m.
RENT 20th Anniversary Tour Tuesday, February 18 and Wednesday, February 19 • 7:30 p.m.
Dino-Light by Lightwire Theater Friday, January 17 • 7:30 p.m.
Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience Friday, February 21 • 7:30 p.m.
Tickets available now! 334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU
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B9 Dec. 04, 2019
BOOM! Auburn ends Alabama’s playoff hopes
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer On the sixth anniversary of Chris Davis’ Iron Bowl winning kick return, No. 16 Auburn returned two interceptions for touchdowns, Anders Carlson kicked four long field goals and Shaun Shivers scored the game-winning touchdown in a back-and-forth 48-45 victory over No. 5 Alabama last Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium. “Our seniors, we talked about leaving a legacy for those guys,” said Auburn’s Coach Gus Malzhan. “They left a great memory for them, something they can hold onto for the rest of their lives with the Auburn family.” With the win, Auburn improves to 9-3 overall, and finishes with a 5-3 mark in SEC play. Their bowl matchup will be determined this weekend after all conference championship games have been played. (Report provided by Jeff Shearer/AuburnTigers.com)
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B10 Dec. 04, 2019
PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES W. TURNER, JR., DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 20 th day of November, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JANE T. POE and JOAN T. WILLIAMS Co-Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Legal Run 11/27, 12/4 & 12/11
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
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 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
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF VICKI J. BRASWELL, Deceased LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Remy Whatley on the 14th 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 time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Remy Whatley Legal Run 11/27, 12/04 & 12/11/2019
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF KYLE VAUGHAN JONES, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been to Frank V. Jones on the 14th 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 time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Frank V. Jones Legal Run 11/27, 12/04 & 12/11/2019
NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Friday, Dec. 27, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. 1FTKR1ED8BPB16492 2011 FORD RANGER Legal Run 11/27 & 12/04/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE CASE NO. 2017-C-071 IN RE:The Matter of JIMMIE LOU BAKER NOTICE OF PARTIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that a Petition to Approve Partial Settlement of the Conservatorship Estate of JIMMIE LOU BAKER has been filed by the Conservator, Belinda Pink. A hearing has been set for the 6th day of January 202 at 1:00 o.m. Cental Time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this partial settlement, you must appear on the date of the hearing as set above. Bill English Judge of Probate Legal Run 12/04, 12/11 & 12/18/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF DONNA S. TANKERSLEY COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th 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 27th day of November, 2019. DAVID PATRICK TANKERSLEY Legal Run 12/04, 12/11 & 12/18/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF FRANCIS DRAKE HARPER COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th 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 27th day of November, 2019. TYRA HARPER WOODS Legal Run 12/04, 12/11 & 12/18/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY,
ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of John William McFarland, Sr., Deceased Case No. 2019-C-075 NOTICE TO CREDITOR TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to John William McFarland Jr., as Executor of the The Estate of John William McFarland, Sr., Deceased on the 20th day of November, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JOHN WILLIAM McFARLAND, JR., Executor of the The Estate of John William McFarland, Sr., Deceased Legal Run 12/04, 12/11 & 12/18/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF J. MILES THOMAS, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA TO: JOSEPH MILES THOMAS, JR. OR THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOSEPH MILES THOMAS, JR., IF DECEASED NOTICE: On the 26th day of November, 2019, a certain writing, purporting to be the Will of J. MILES THOMAS was filed in my office for Probate by KENNETH J. THOMAS and the 6th day of January, 2020, at 11:00 o’clock a.m. was appointed a day for hearing thereof at which time you can appear and contest thesame, if you see proper. Given under my hand, the 26 th day of November, 2019. Bill English JUDGE OF PROBATE Legal Run 12/04, 12/11 & 12/18/2019
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Opelika High School’s Poinsettia Sale opens on Dec. 4
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer It's time for the Annual FFA Poinsettia Sale at Opelika High School. The sale opens Dec. 4th at 10 a.m. at the greenhouses behind the school. The sale will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each weekday until all of the poinsettias are sold. All poinsettias are $6. Cash or check is accepted.
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B12 Dec. 04, 2019
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, Dec. 04, 2019
Inside the Statehouse Opelika’s Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany The race is on for the U.S. Senate Gibson-Pitts joins National League of Cities’ Board of Directors, becomes a member of W Women in Municipal Government organization e are fewer than three months away from the election for our number two U.S. Senate Seat. The winner of the Republican Primary on March 3, 2020 will be our next U.S. Senator. Winning the GOP Primary for any statewide office in a presidential year is tantamount to election in the Heart of Dixie. Jeff Sessions is the prohibitive favorite to win back his seat he held for 20 years. He probably regretted from day one leaving a safe U.S. Senate Seat with 20 years of seniority and fouryears left on his term, to take a temporary attorney general appointment for at best a four-year tenure. It amazed me when he did it. Sessions and Trump were at odds from the beginning over Sessions’ recusal from the Russian collusion probe by the Democrats. Trumps’ disenchantment with Sessions was quite obvious and outspoken. Sessions was right, legally. However, Trump is very popular in Alabama among Republican voters. Therefore, Trump won the public relations battle over Sessions in Alabama. Trump’s tweets were harsh, bitter and vitriolic. When Sessions was in this seat three years ago at this time he was considered the most popular political figure in the state. He was damaged by the two years of constant bombardment and ridicule from the president. However, Sessions has a reservoir of support from having been a very popular senator for two decades that will allow him to win back his seat.
By Steve Flowers Sessions will lead the field in the March 3 Primary. However, it is doubtful that he can win without a runoff. His late entry into the race allowed several elite, high-profile candidates to begin a race for the senate seat. Most have been running vigorously for over a year. One of the early frontrunners, Secretary of State John Merrill, who probably has the best grassroots organization in the state, has opted out due to Sessions’ entry. At age 54, Merrill can wait. It is now-or-never for Roy Moore, Tommy Tuberville and Bradley Byrne. Like Sessions, they are not spring chickens. Current polling has Sessions at 30%. Former Auburn Coach Tommy Tuberville at 21%. First District Congressman Bradley Bryne at 14% and former Chief Justice Roy Moore at 12%. However, a better barometer of the challengers is the amount of money they have raised and have on hand. Sessions has $2.5 million left over from his war chest when he was in this senate seat. The candidate who is in the catbird’s seat to move up in the polls is Congressman Bradley Byrne who is sitting on $2.5 million. Coach Tuberville
is showing $1.4 million. However, $1 million is his money he has loaned to his campaign. Judge Moore has $33,000. Money is the “mother’s milk” of politics. Money talks and everything else walks. It buys name identification and image building. Jeff Sessions can raise another $1 million or more in Washington. Bryne can add another $300,000 from Washington. Tuberville may have tapped out all of the Auburn football fan donations that he has already done well with. Moore will not raise much money. He really does not need to. He is going to get 12-15% come hell or high water. They are with him no matter if he decides to get out and campaign or stay home and ride his horse Sassy. My guess or you can call it a prognostication with three months out. Sessions spends $3 million and uses a message that he is still pro Donald Trump and was the first sitting Senator to endorse him and is prepared to diffuse any negative attacks reminding GOP Trump voters of the vitriolic tweets about him sent by the President. He leads the primary with about 39%. Moore gets his 13%. I’m afraid the judge may be running his last race and finishes a respectable fourth. Nearly 3% go to the also-ran candidates. That leaves 45% of the vote for Tuberville and Byrne to fight over and hope to get into a runoff with Sessions. The next month will be down time with very little mention of politics See Flowers, page B14
By Morgan Bryce Editor Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts made history last month, becoming the first-ever Opelika City Council member to be a part of the National League of Cities' Board of Directors and Women in Municipal Government organization, which falls under the NLC's umbrella. Gibson-Pitts completed applications for both
Gibson-Pitts positions earlier this fall, but had to go for a sitdown interview with 14 individuals from across the country comprising
the NLC's nominating committee. "(Candidates) were given three minutes to tell them about ourselves and to disclose how our specialties would be an asset to the board. Once the slate was created, voting delegates from each municipality cast their vote at the business meeting," Gibson-Pitts said. "I received an endorsement from the executive See Pitts, page B14
Smiths Station City Council approves revised business license ordinance By Morgan Bryce Editor Smiths Station City Council members passed an updated version of the city’s business ordinance during their meeting last Tuesday. Revised by City Clerk Scott Johnston and Executive Assistant Brenda Dockery, the document contains some muchneeded simplifications, according to Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland. “This document is not only much easier to understand, but it also contains language that parallels
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
what the majority of cities in Alabama use,” Copeland said. Later in the meeting, Copeland read a proclamation alongside William Epps Jr. of Phenix City’s Disabled Veterans Chapter #66 honoring the lives of those lost
at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Before dismissing, Copeland issued a reminder to council members, citizens and the general public that the city’s “9th Annual Christmas See Smiths, page B14
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B14 Dec. 04, 2019
Lee County forms affiliate chapter of the Libertarian Party Special to the Opelika Observer The Libertarian Party of Alabama (LPA) has approved the creation of an affiliate chapter in Lee County, Alabama under the name Lee County Libertarian Party (LCLP). The LCLP formative meeting was held at a local pub in Opelika. LPA State Secretary Paul Frankel and LPA Executive Committee At-Large Representative Frank Dillman were in attendance and available for guidance to the fresh group. Dillman, a resident of neighboring Macon County, has been key in the formation of the group. LCLP was formed in order to promote liberty in Lee County. Peter Loyola, newly
Pitts, from B13 board of the Alabama League of Municipalities." As a part of the NLC's Board of Directors and
elected chair of the LCLP, said that the group is looking forward to tapping into the libertarian sentiment in the community and rekindling the message of liberty. The meeting consisted of approval of by-laws and electing leadership for the group. Along with Loyola as chair, Keller Williams was elected vice chair, Danielle Shamp elected treasurer, and Kaleb Corcoran elected secretary for the LCLP. The Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in the United States, founded in 1971. Libertarians strongly oppose any government interference into their personal, family, and business decisions. They believe all Americans should
the only representing Alabamian, Gibson-Pitts will have direct influence on the "determination and modification of national municipal policies, or adoption of resolutions on national legislation affecting cities."
Smiths, from B13 Tree-Lighting Ceremony” will be held Dec. 12 at the Smiths Station Government Center, beginning at 6 p.m. E.S.T. In other business, the council: - approved October’s general fund budget report - approved a rezoning of land from R-1 to R-5 for a planned apartment complex on Chicken Farm Road - heard updates from Copeland on a tornado shelter that
is slated to be constructed behind the Smiths Station Government Center. The Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month with a work session starting at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T. followed by the regular meeting at 6 p.m. Their meetings are held within the council chambers of the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, call 334-2978771 or visit www. smithsstational.gov.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
be free to live their lives and pursue their interests as they see fit as long as they do no harm to another.
For more information, send inquiries to Frank Dillman at frank@frankdillman. com.
“I’m proud of Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts for becoming the first elected Opelika official to serve on the National League of Cities Board of Directors,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “In fact, we’re all proud of
her.” Through her membership on the WIMG, Gibson-Pitts will be able to network and connect with fellow female civic leaders across the country. The organization's primary initiatives are to raise awareness
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Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
on issues of importance to women and encourage them to pursue leadership opportunities in their respective cities and communities, a cause that GibsonPitts plans to further in Opelika. "I strive to set a good example for my daughter. I always keep her in the back of my mind whenever I face challenges because I can't expect her to step out of her comfort zone if I'm afraid to do so," GibsonPitts said. "Because of this, I do think that many girls are watch-
Flowers, from B13 due to the holidays. The campaigns will kick into high gear by midJanuary with the final week being the key to victory. Again, who has the money to spend in the final 10 days is critical. The bottom line is whichever Republican – Sessions, Tuberville or Byrne –wins the GOP nomination, any one of them beat the Democrat
This week’s puzzle answers:
ing me. If I can be that beacon of hope for any girl, I'm happy to carry that torch." "After being elected as the leader for Ward 2, I asked God to always keep me humbled and grounded. I was pleased to see my name on both lists and look forward to working with others from across the US to address common issues." Gibson-Pitts added that she will serve two two-year terms with both groups, respectively. For more information, visit www.nlc.org.
Doug Jones. It does not matter how much left-wing money Jones raises from California, it is all for naught. Alabama is a conservative Republican state. Jones really should run for the Senate from California. 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.