Opelika Observer 12-05-18 E-Edition

pelika O bserver O Vol. 11, No. 09

Wednesday, December 05, 2018

Opelika, Alabama

“By local people, for local people.”

‘George H.W. Bush Day of Mourning’ to be held across the nation today Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika’s Jan Gunter reflects on true story, meaning of Christmas

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Photo special to the Opelika Observer George H.W. Bush, 41st resident of the United States, passed away last Friday at the age of 94.

During the weekend, President Donald Trump designated today as a national day of mourning across the country to honor a man whom he said “inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service - to be, in his words, ‘a thousand points of light’ illuminating the greatness, hope and opportunity of America to the world.”

This is the first installment of a fourpart series of prominent Opelikans and their favorite Christmas memories or traditions. On behalf of the Opelika Observer staff, we hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season ahead.

For former City of Opelika Community Relations Officer Jan Gunter, the Christmas

season is a time to celebrate her faith and reflect on what she said was the greatest gift ever given.

“Without the gift that God gave to us and all the world, I’d still have to be offering sacrifices in the tabernacle for forgiveness. But, that (debt) has already been paid once and for all,” Jan said.

Originally born in McLeansboro, Illinois, See Gunter, page A2

Auburn-Opelika’s ‘Drive-By Tacos’ Opelika native Maggie Cooper aims to give back to the community discusses her first book ‘Bumper’

By Morgan Bryce Editor Creating a stronger community through food and service is the goal of Jason and Kellie Pope, owners and operators of the Auburn-Opelika area based food truck “DriveBy Tacos.”

Opened June 4, the couple’s business offers patrons a different spin on standard Tex-Mex fare with an infusion of Asian flavors and ingredients.

“This is true, made-toorder street food,” Jason said.

The couple, both native Alabamians and mental

health professionals, said the idea for Drive-By stemmed from their time spent living in Boone, North Carolina.

“Food trucks are especially big and popular up in North Carolina, and we visited this one in particular a lot - I probably went three or four times a week,” Jason said.

“We befriended the people, and they suggested that I take it over and start doing it.”

After purchasing the truck and rights to the

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Jason and Kellie Pope business, the couple moved back to Alabama See Tacos, page A2

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 SPORTS..............................B1

Showing readers that a person’s heart means more than their abilities or outward appearance are some of the core values of “Bumper,” a recently published rhyming story book written

by Opelika native and educator Maggie Cooper.

Published in midOctober by Legacy Book Publishing of Orlando, “Bumper” is a story about a frog and his friendship with a toad named Hazel set in a

CALENDAR................................B4 RELIGION......................................B5 LEGALS ....................................B11 ENTERTAINMENT......................B12

Cooper land known as ‘Big Swamp,’ an homage to Cooper’s roots.

Based on a Biblical passage from 1 Samuel 16:7, she said the story was inspired by her education background and observations of society’s prioritization of a person’s outward ap-

pearance.

“In a world where outer beauty, skin color and economic status rule, things that people tend to make fast judgments on with others, this book says to look past all that and look at the things people say and the things they do,” Cooper said.

Illustrations for the book were done

by Tyler Helms, a graphic designer at Opelika’s Victory Designs, which is owned and operated by Cooper’s father Rainer

See Cooper, page A2

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A2 December 05, 2018

Tacos,

from A1 earlier this year, with Jason quitting the mental health field to focus on the daily operations of the food truck.

Drive-By’s diverse menu and use of quality ingredients have enabled the business to quickly build a strong following according to Kellie.

“Everything is fresh, including the sauces that go

Cooper,

from A1 Meadows.

Bumper’s roots as a story are not as recent as they may seem.

In the 1940s, Cooper’s great aunt Hazel Prowell wrote several miniature stories with the goal of having them published, which she never saw in her lifetime.

Containing a frog character named Bumper, Cooper said she adapted her book and its lead character from her aunt’s work into a story designed as a tribute to her memory.

“I took Bumper from her story and combined that with the toad character ‘Hazel,’ my way of recognizing her,” Cooper said.

Since Bumper’s release, Cooper said she and Helms have read and presented the story to students at various area schools, receiving

into each taco,” Kellie said.

Regular items include Thai Chicken and Crab Cake tacos “on a bed of arugula with Asian slaw and lime sour cream.” Drive-By now offers breakfast tacos and chili, and the couple said new menu items will be introduced on a seasonal basis.

In addition to enhancing the area’s food culture and selection, the Popes said they plan to use Drive By as a platform and medium to give back to those in need both locally and globally. great reception of the story along the way.

“Students and people alike have really embraced the book’s message … it’s been great hearing the different perspectives from the different ages who have read or listened to the book,” Cooper said.

Copies of the book can be found at All Aboard at Southern Crossing, The Local Market at J&M Bookstore in Auburn, Victory Designs and Cooper’s Etsy page “BeautifulHeartsShop.”

Cooper added that she and her publisher are in the midst of discussions for a sequel and is exploring the possibility of writing other children’s books in the future.

For more information or to schedule book presentation from Cooper, email her at maggie.cooper@ opelikaschools.org. She also serves as the parent coordinator for Carver Primary and West Forest Elementary schools.

“In the future, we’d like to do more to address food insecurity in our community and get connected with folks who do that kind of thing.

Once we do, we’ll identify where those in need are and try to provide them with hot meals and food,” Kellie said.

“We also partner with ‘Wine to Water’ to provide clean water sources to countries in the world where that access is limited. It’s an extension of our career which is ultimately about giving back to people.”

Drive-By’s initial success

Gunter,

from A1 Jan and her brother Ned were adopted at a young age from unmarried parents by Dr. Robert and June Hubbard. Later, she and her family relocated to Wekanee, a town in the northern portion of the state well-known for its production of firetube boilers.

A fond memory Jan said she has from Christmases was going with her family to visit other churches and places of worship to observe how they celebrated the season.

“In Kewanee, there was both a large Jewish and Catholic population, so we’d go and visit and see Hanukkah and (Advent) services and enjoy learning what they did,” Jan said.

In fall 1977, a newly married Jan,

could be a springboard to a second food truck in the near future, according to Jason.

The business is already a member of the Auburn and Opelika chambers of commerce, and a frequent for concerts and events at the Standard Deluxe in Waverly.

For more information or to keep up with Drive-By’s availability and location week-to-week, call 334203-4178, like and follow their social media pages or visit www.drivebytacos. com.

along with her thenhusband and daughter Shannon, packed their bags and headed down to Lee County so he could pursue a master’s degree from Auburn University.

After he graduated, they divorced, leaving Jan and her daughter alone and nearly 800 miles from home.

With help from her parents, Jan qualified for grants to help fund her nursing school expenses and worked part-time as a receptionist at a local doctor’s office.

One evening, she received a visit from Rev. Bob Baggett of First Baptist Church Opelika, who invited her to join a professional singles class taught by her future husband, Guy. “I told him that I knew how the South felt about divorced women at the time and that I was adopted and that I believed his church would not accept me at all. He

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

told me, ‘I think it’s great that you were adopted because God had a plan for your life,’ … and with that he convinced me to come try it out,” Jan said.

Though it was not “love at first sight,” Jan said she quickly formed a tight bond with Guy and his family, who welcomed her without question.

“My father and mother in-law opened their arms and fell in love with me. They had four boys, and Ms. Gunter said she wanted a daughter but didn’t get one … but said she didn’t realize that God would give her four daughters, the future wives of her sons,” Jan said.

Christmases in the Gunter family were celebrated early so each branch could stay home and together on Christmas Day, but the get-togethers themselves featured meals, laughter and

mini piano recitals by some of the children present.

Nearing she and Guy’s 39th wedding anniversary, Jan said their main Christmas traditions now center around visits with their two children and grandchildren, reflect on past Christmases and enjoy the traditions that come with the season.

Following her mother’s passing last year, Jan said she sat down and compiled a list of events from that year - including the passing of her mother- which reminded her of the true spirit of Christmas.

“It wasn’t all pretty, but I saw God’s hand in everything that happened, and it was a time for me to come back and say, ‘thank you for loving me enough that you sent that baby to me for my salvation,’ and for the gifts He’s kept on giving me,” Jan said.

WE KNOW HOW TO GET YOU HOME BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

Let Tucker Simmons and the staff at Beauregard Drugs help you manage your seasonal allergies.

CAROL NOLAN 334.703.7515

Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Sports Writer: Rick Lanier

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

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A3 December 05, 2018

Victorian Front Porch Tour opens tomorrow night in Opelika’s historic district; runs Dec. 6-9

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Councilwoman Patsy Jones organizes meeting to assist uninsured Opelikans today at Ferguson Chapel Special to the Opelika Observer Opelikans without health insurance can receive free help to apply for affordable healthcare Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Ferguson Chapel CME Church.

Organized by Ward 1 Councilwoman Patsy Jones, the event will feature representatives Montomery’s Wellness Coalition, a group dedicated to “connecting the underinsured with medical services and teaches health and wellness.”

“It’s a service that I try to provide for our citizens, especially for AfricanAmerican families or individuals ... we find people in our community without health insurance and by doing this, we can help them avoid that,” Jones said.

To make the process as smooth as possible, representatives will need individuals to provide certain information to go

along with their application, including: • social security numbers • immigrant documentation • most recent tax income information • information about your employer • check stubs, wages and tips • net income if selfemployed • social security payments • alimony, retirement or pension income • investment income (including dividends or interest) • rental income • other taxable income • current healthcare information • similar information regarding other individuals in one’s household.

For more information, call the Wellness Coalition at 334-293-6502 or 800-309-4941 MondayFriday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The chapel is located at 310 S. 4th St.

DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE!

GET FREE HELP APPLYING FOR AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5 10AM–5PM FERGUSON CHAPEL CME CHURCH REV. ORLANDO SIMS, PASTOR 310 SOUTH 4TH ST. IN OPELIKA, AL 36801 Provided by Councilwoman Patsy Jones, President Pro Tem, of the Opelika City Council.

We can help you apply for health insurance through the Federal Marketplace. No appointment necessary!

You can also call (334) 293-6502 or (800) 309-4941 for assistance over the phone, Mon–Fri from 8am to 3pm.

YOU MAY NEED: To make the process as smooth as possible, we’ll need information on each person applying for coverage. Required information may include: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Social Security numbers Immigration documentation Most recent income tax information Information about your employer Check stubs, wages, tips Net income if self-employed Social Security payments Alimony, retirement, or pension income Investment income (like dividends or interest) Rental income Other taxable income Current healthcare information Similar information as above regarding other individuals in your household

Friends of Cooper Library Presents: Winter Book Sale

3 Levels to Choose From Plastic Bag $5.00 Canvas Bag $10.00 Deluxe Bag $50.00-comes with ½ price books year round Saturday, December 8, 2018 Cooper Friends Members only 9 a.m.-Noon * Everyone Noon-5 p.m.

• Not a Friends member?- Sign up at the door for as little as $1.00 LEWIS COOPER JR MEMORIAL LIBRARY 200 SOUTH 6 TH STREET OPELIKA, AL 36801 Questions? Email us at cooperlibraryfriends@gmail.com

A4 December 05, 2018

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T

H

ello friends, Linda here!

I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Linda. Opelika is my home. Born and raised.

The train runs through my veins, like it runs through Railroad Avenue. After years

of traveling the world, taking the bull by the horns, and carpe-ing all the diems, I’m what people consider a connoisseur in life experience.

In my 60 short years, I’ve seen it all, I’ve heard it all and I’ve lived to tell the tale. I think it’s why my hair

is so big, it’s full of advice ... so let me guide you Opelika. I’m here, judgement free, to give you the best advice a local newspaper affiliate can give. Linda is listening, all you have to do is ask.

Contact me at: listenlindaopelika@gmail. com.

Someone else’s backyard

O

So I stood at the fence ne of my first and watched the puppy memories is of playing. And on that day being outside, with began a decade-long yearnthe summer sun making ing – I flat out coveted that shimmering waves in the dog. During those hours air and the light filtering spent spying on my neighthrough the leaves on the bor’s yard, I spun tales willow tree in our backyard.

By Wendy Hodge of how I would leap over I must have been about five the fence in my Wonder years old because I can see Woman boots (Wonder Woman was my little girl sneakers. They were an even more constant theme than red and much loved – a gift from my horses) and rescue the dog, who I had grandmother on my fifth birthday. named Steven, from the horrible life I’ve been told I slept in them for the he must have been enduring living first night or two of my fifth year on earth, at which point my mother made with someone so clearly unfit to be a the executive decision that dirty shoes doggy daddy.

I never did see the monster with the were not meant for clean sheets no matter how perfect the shoes may be. beard and talons. Instead, the summer I turned ten, I finally met our neighThat summer day in my memory, bor, Dr. Barton. He had no beard, and my red shoes were already faded and his hands were perfectly normal – the worn. They’d carried me on many adventures by that point. On that day, neighborhood kids had some explaining to do! It turns out, Dr. Barton was I was lying in my spot under the willow tree in the center of our backyard. a professor at Auburn University. He worked at the vet school and was a It was the perfect spot to watch the dog trainer. He had rescued Steven, clouds and to speak aloud the stories whose real name was Bones, when I’d created in my head…. stories of someone abandoned him as a puppy. secret underwater civilizations and Bones could not have been in better courageous princess warriors and horses. Horses were a constant theme. hands with Dr. Barton who was softspoken and kind.

I don’t remember what tale I was Bones was in the right backyard all spinning that day, but I do remember along. being interrupted by the sound of a All these decades later, I have my dog barking. A dog! No one in our own sweet fur babies... Darryl and neighborhood had a dog that I knew Elvis. They were both rescues from of. And dogs were just as perfect as the humane society and have led a red sneakers. I jumped up and ran pampered and cushy life with me to the fence that separated our yard for almost four years. These days, from our neighbors’ yard, and there though, my life is transitional. I’ve it was… a wiener dog! A wiener lived in hotels where housing a dog PUPPY, actually. Is there anything is difficult at best, and I currently live cuter than a baby hot dog with ears with my parents who need daily care. and feet?

They are less than tolerant of pets in I absolutely HAD to hug that their house, so I used social media to puppy. My little girl heart would explode if I couldn’t get my hands on find a better place for Darryl and Elthat furry body. The problem was the vis to stay, at least for the time being.

A good friend of mine from our next door neighbor was a monster. I high school days put me in touch with was convinced of it. his mom, who was eager to have the He was at least 100 years old and company of my doggies. lived all alone in that creaky old Brooka Stokes – sweetest lady on house. The lights were never on, day this earth! She has opened her home or night, and on the few occasions and her heart to them and to me. Her any of the kids on our block had house is comfortable and pet-friendly, actually seen him, he was reported to and her back yard is canine heaven – have had a wiry gray beard down to a double lot, fenced in, with dogs in his feet and talons like a wicked old bird.

See Hodge, page A6

ROLL

it scalded the roof of my he University of mouth. It took one whole Alabama took the beer just to bring the field against the swelling down.

Georgia Bulldogs this The first two quarters afternoon for the SEC were hard to watch. GeorChampionship football gia was impressive. They game. Tensions were high pushed Alabama to the in our town.

By Sean Dietrich fence and held them there.

I ran into a man at the The last eleven minutes of gas station who wore the game were looking worse. Georgia a Bulldogs T-shirt. We pumped gas controlled the field. Alabama’s quarbeside each other. terback was hobbled. “‘Bama sucks,” he said, pointing at I was chewing a throw pillow and my Alabama shirt. reciting the 23rd Psalm. But at the final “Roll Tide,” I remarked. Then he trumpet call, Jalen Hurts leapt off the started laughing.

“Aw, I’m just kidding,” he went on. bench, replaced his injured teammate, and made the whole world proud.

“I know Alabama doesn’t suck, but I He passed one touchdown, then ran sure hope they do tonight.” another.

I told him I would pray for his eterThere was a lot of shouting in our nal salvation. house. My wife screamed, “ROLL During kickoff, I was still running TIDE!” I screamed, “ROLL TIDE!” errands. In fact, I was standing in a We jumped up and down. My dog hid long supermarket checkout line. I under a table and almost had a nervous counted eight shoppers in line who breakdown. were watching the game on their And when Alabama won, I began phones.

And when the Bulldogs scored their to cry. I didn’t mean to, it just sort of first touchdown, a Georgia fan shouted happened. When I watch football, I miss my late father more than usual. at his phone, “Yes! Take that, AlaI can’t help it. I was born during the bama!” third quarter of the Alabama-Illinois There was an old woman ahead of me. She wore teased white hair, pearls, Liberty Bowl. I drew my first breath only seconds before Jesse Bendross and an Alabama jersey. She turned ran an eight-yard touchdown against to me and whispered, “Do you mind the Fighting Illini. watching my cart while I go beat that They say my father kissed me on the man’s ass?”

So I bought supplies for the evening. forehead, then held me up to the glow of the television and traced my face Namely, beer, chips, boiled shrimp, and chicken wings. The older man be- with his finger.

Big games bring out the loneliness hind the cash register wore a University of Alabama lapel pin on his apron. in me. Because they aren’t just games.

And, in rural accent, he said, “Nervous They are the memory of who I come from. They are something that ties me about the game?” to my father. They are moments meant “If I was any more nervous,” I said. to be shared. And everyone deserves to “I’d have to call the incontinence share them with someone. hotline for support.”

After the game I told my wife I had “Me too,” he went on. “Just don’t to go to the supermarket. It was late, forget, there’re three kings in this and the store parking lot was mostly world. The Good Lord, Elvis, and empty. I walked through the store’s Nicholas Lou Saban Jr.” He scanned my groceries. And that’s sliding doors and saw my friend, the cashier. He was behind the customer when it dawned on me. This poor service counter. man was stuck at work during the big “You again?” he said. “You forget game. I asked him about it.

“Yeah,” he said. “It’s a bummer, but something on your list, buddy?”

“Sorta,” I said. nobody would work tonight. I wish I I picked up a magazine and went to were at home, having a beer with my the customer service counter. He rang son, we are huge fans. But since he’s been gone, I hardly even watch games me up.

“A National Geographic magazine?” anymore.” he said. “That’s what you came here “Where’s your son?” I asked. for?”

“He’s overseas. I miss him pretty “Well,” I said. “That, and this.” bad. Been three years since we I held out my hand. We shook. watched a game together.

“Roll Tide,” I said.

“I’ll root extra hard for you tonight.”

“Roll Tide,” he said.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, I got home in a rush. I sat on the sofa and novelist, known for his comand watched the boys play. My wife mentary on life in the American made cheese dip. The dip was so hot South.

Dirty Tricks

D

irty tricks have long been a staple of Alabama politics.

Most of the time they are pretty harmless, really.

They just bubble up in the excitement of the campaign, not out of meanness but just from the goodnatured devilishness that so often comes to the surface when Southerners find themselves with time on their hands and the inspiration to use it.

And often as not, the tricks backfire on the trickster.

Let me tell you about one that did.

The incident occurred where I grew up, a dry county surrounded by dry counties.

The closest beer

By Hardy Jackson

or whiskey was 60 miles away, or so I was told. I would not know about such thing, you know, first hand.

However, there were those in my county, my father among them, who felt this was at best an inconvenience and at worst a violation of a fundamental right. So he and some drinking buddies – WWII vets, a few courthouse hangers-on, and such – threw their support behind a petition drive to get a liquor

vote on the ballot.

Well, no sooner were their intentions known than a local minister organized “The Citizens for Moral Responsibility” and set out to defeat my Daddy and his friends.

The “wets” paid little attention to the preacher until the minister announced that he intended to make copies of the petitions and publish the names of those who signed in the local newspaper.

‘Course Daddy and the gang didn’t care who knew they took a drink, but there were those of weaker fiber who did not want to be exposed for what they were – imbibers. So they rushed See Jackson, page A6

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Around Lee County

A5 December 05, 2018

Mayor Bubba Copeland announces installation of ‘mini library’ at Smiths Station Government Center

By Morgan Bryce Editor City of Smiths Station Mayor Bubba Copeland announced that the Government Center will be receiving a new addition in the coming weeks during the work session of last Tuesday’s council meeting.

In the government center’s lobby area, Copeland said a “miniature library” will be created, which will be equipped with two desks and computers for citizens and students alike to have internet and printer access.

“The future of libraries is sadly going away from a place with books to a place where people print things and do collaborative work.

It’s going to look like a hotel lobby once we’ve finished

the project,” Copeland said.

“A student can write their term paper here or take care of an important piece of business. It’s just a way for us to give back to the community and have something of benefit that they can use.”

Copeland also updated the council on the latest news pertaining to the city’s youth baseball leagues, which is now under new leadership. With new Dixie Youth League Director Jason Stewart in place, Smiths Station will now offer access to competitive baseball leagues for 4-18 year-old residents.

“We’ve been losing a lot of kids to Phenix City and Russell County, and this now will be a way to help keep them from leaving here,” Copeland said.

In other business, the

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer council: - approved October’s business reports - heard an update from City Clerk Scott Johnston on the city administration’s first meeting with ESG Engineering - heard an announcement from Copeland regarding the postponement of the planning commission’s Dec. 4

meeting to Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.

E.S.T. and a new “Firemen of the Year” award which will be presented during the city’s employee Christmas gathering - heard an announcement from Copeland that the city is in the process of hiring a part-time parks and recreation director.

The Smiths Station City

Council meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with a work session beginning at 5:30 p.m.

E.S.T. and regular meeting at 6 p.m. Their meetings are held in the council chambers within the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, call 334-297-8771.

Perry Garden Club Valley resident Harry Moore qualifies for FLW tournament Jan. holds November 10-13, 2019 in Brookeland, Texas meeting at Azalea Place meeting room Special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer Director Jeff Kirby allowed the Perry Garden Club of Auburn to hold their November meeting in the Azalea Place meeting room.

Members of the Perry Garden Club and residents of the Summer Village attended the informative meeting Pictured left to right: Mayor Ron Anders, newly elected mayor of Auburn, Zona Beaty, Perry Garden Club Member and Board member on the Auburn Beautification Council, Susan Farish, President of The Perry Garden Club of Auburn, Jeff Kirby, Executive Director of Summer Village, Azalea Place, Camellia Place and Magnolia Place.

Fishing League Worldwide (FLW), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced Monday the complete professional angler roster for the upcoming 2019 FLW Tour season, the 24th season of the FLW Tour.

The field will be showcased along the 2019 FLW Tour, which features seven regular-season tournaments around the country with competition kicking off at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Jan. 10-13, 2019 in Brookeland, Texas and culminating with the world championship of bass fishing's FLW Cup at Lake Hamilton Aug. 9-11, 2019, in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Among the 170 professional anglers competing will be local

Photo special to the Opelika Observer angler Harry Moore of Valley, who will be competing in his seventh season on the tour. Moore has career earnings of more than $23,000 with FLW and will look to qualify for his first-ever FLW Cup. There was enormous demand to compete on the 2019 FLW Tour, with 210 anglers registering for a slot on the prestigious tournament circuit in its final year of priority registration before switching to a strict qualifying process and a 150-pro field in 2020.

The top award at each tour event is $125,000, with $300,000 going to the winner of the FLW Cup. Since the final field exceeds the published payout basis of 150 pros, FLW will survey all 170 participating pros to finalize the 2019 payout structure.

“With the demand we saw this year to join the FLW Tour, we couldn’t be more eager to kick off another season at Sam Rayburn Reservoir in JanuSee Fishing, page A6

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A6 December 05, 2018

Fishing,

from A5 ary,” said Bill Taylor, FLW’s Senior Director of Tournament Operations. “FLW has long been the home to some of the most decorated bass anglers in the sport, and with the expanded live coverage at all of our Tour events this year, we are more than ready to show off their skills at some of the best fisheries in the world.”

The 2019 FLW Tour roster is headlined by a stout contingent of bass-fishing heavy-

Jackson,

from A4 to get their signature off the list before the preacher made good his threat. More bemused than angry at this turn of events, Daddy and friends retired to his ‘Poutin’ House (an institution I will explain at a later date), where they sipped and sorrowed. Facing defeat, they did what you would expect members of the Greatest Generation to do.

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weights, including three-time Angler of the Year and 2003 FLW Cup champion David Dudley of Lynchburg, Virginia, 2015 AOY and 2011 FLW Cup champion Scott Martin of Clewiston, Florida and two-time Angler of the Year Bryan Thrift of Shelby, North Carolina. They will be joined by bass-fishing legends Jimmy Houston of Cookson, Oklahoma and Larry Nixon of Quitman, Arkansas, as well as three former FLW Cup champions – John Cox (2016), Brad Knight (2015) and Darrel Robertson (2002). The 2019 Tour

will also feature 34 rookies from around the country.

The complete FLW Tour roster for 2019 can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Last week, the FLW announced an expanded FLW Live schedule for the 2019 season as part of its commitment to growing the sport of tournament bass fishing and bringing more publicity to the anglers who fish its circuits.

The live on-the-water broadcast will air on days three and four of all FLW Tour regularseason events from the boats of the tournaments’ top pros.

Originally airing

from 8 a.m. - noon during FLW Tour events, the FLW Live on-the-water program has been extended two hours and will now broadcast from 8 a.m.

- 2 p.m. Every weighin will be broadcast on FLWFishing.com.

Fans can watch any FLW Live broadcast – either from on the water or weigh-in – by logging on to FLWFishing.com and clicking on the FLW Live page link. On-the-water broadcasts will be simulcast on FLWFishing.com, YouTube. com/FLWFishing and Facebook.com/FLWFishing. All FLW Live broadcasts are free to

watch.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the sport’s top anglers on the FLW Tour on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat.

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They decided to play a joke on Lamar.

Lamar lived in the next town up the road.

He had helped Daddy defeat the Germans and like Daddy he had come home to raise a family. And as was the case with so many of his experience and inclination, Lamar would take a drink.

So Daddy and friends composed a letter in which a preacher with a name similar to the local pastor asked Lamar to help him in his crusade against drinking. The imaginary minister said he was looking for “a

young man of good family and excellent background ... whose life was ruined by excessive indulgence in whiskey, gin, and rum, not to mention beer (and women of the worst kind).” He, the pretend preacher, figured Lamar would fit the bill.

All that was required was of Lamar was to sit on the stage “drooling at the mouth and staring at the audience through bloodshot eyes.” As he did the preacher could point to him as an “example of what drink could do.”

The letter arrived at a time when Lamar was engaged in the very thing for which the made-up preacher wanted his services. He read the letter, failed to catch the joke, got on the telephone, called the real minister, and put what we like to call a “royal cussing” on him.

The preacher, convinced that he was the victim a pro-liquor plot to discredit him and his movement, took out a full-page the local newspaper in which he denounced the “slanderous and insulting letter” that he believed was being mailed “to some people whose names are on the liquor peti-

tion.”

By now, a sheepfaced Lamar realized he was the victim of a practical joke, so he put the same cussing on his friends, who were laying low in hopes the whole thing would blow over.

A short time later the wet/dry referendum was held, the county voted to stay dry.

Over the years, I have collected examples of dirty tricks in Alabama campaigns.

I have heard it told that some candidates hired actors to call into “call-in-shows” and sing their praises.

In other cases people were reportedly hired to go to a candidate’s rally where they chal-

lenge the speaker and generally disrupting things.

Now I don’t know if these rumors are true, but one or both could be. Alabama politics has always been rough and tumble. That is part of its charm. However, recalling what happened to my father and his friends, I am moved to remind folks who are inspired to get down and dirty that.

You reap what you sow.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University.

He can be reached at hjackson@cableone. net.

Hodge,

from A4 the neighbors’ yard. I visit them often and even recently stayed in the house with them a couple of nights while Ms. Brooka was out of town.

On a cold Wednesday morning during my stay there, after two nights of sleeping with Darryl and Elvis curled up next to me just like the good ole days, I was dressed and ready for work…. watching them run in the back yard, diving in piles of leaves and wrestling with each other…. and finding it next to impossible to make myself walk out the door and leave them. I miss their tail-wagging, face-licking, old-man-snoring little bodies all the time. Every day. I want my babies back.

But they are, at least for now, in the right backyard.

And isn’t that the hardest lesson to learn? That no matter how much we love someone, no matter how much we want them with us, no matter how empty we may feel without them, they may in fact be in the right backyard without us.

Friends move away. Children grow up. Parents pass on. And people we love don’t always love us in return.

The best we can hope for is the strength to let them go, whether for a season or forever, and the gift of watching them grow and flourish in someone else’s backyard.

Wendy Hodge is an Opelika native, an empty nester and lover of all things Opelika. She previously had a column titled A Word or Ten, which was featured in the Tennessee Star Journal and is currently awaiting release of her first novel with Harper Collins Publishing Company.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • Comedy Competition Finale • Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour • Movie at The Plex • Collinwood Luminaries • Christmas in Camelot • Reindeer Express

Tiffany Gibson-Pitts prepares to enjoy the Christmas season with family Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

A

fter cooking Thanksgiving dinner for her family, Tiffany GibsonPitts looks forward to the Christmas season.

Christmas has always been about family for her since she was growing up in Opelika.

Tiffany is a city council member serving Ward 2.

Tiffany’s mother and grandmother enjoyed cooking traditional holiday meals, including turkey, ham and mac and cheese. Since her parents were divorced, Tiffany and her two

sisters spent Christmas morning with their father and stepmother, who made a big breakfast for them.

Afterwards, they went back to their mother’s home for Christmas dinner. Her mother, Catherine Newkirk, was a teacher at Dadeville High School. She is now retired but still enjoys cooking holiday meals.

After graduating from Opelika High School, Tiffany received her undergraduate degree in criminal justice with a concentration in juve-

nile delinquent studies and a minor in English at Jacksonville State University.

After graduating, she went to work at the Lee County Youth Development Center in Opelika where she enjoyed working with the children. “After being there for some time,” Tiffany said. “I felt I could be more beneficial being in a school setting. I felt I could put some preventives in place to help kids before they started living a life of crime.”

She pursued a master’s degree in school

City adds WiFi to downtown areas Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Opelika has recently installed WiFi in downtown as a way to better serve residents, businesses and visitors.

The wireless network offers immediate access in the downtown railroad area between 10th Street and 7th Street on both the North and South sides.

“This free access will provide data and information to keep visitors downtown, as well as encourage foot traffic around our restaurants and businesses. It encourages tourism and growth

and we are excited to now offer this,” said Stephen Dawe, chief technology officer for the City of Opelika.

There are plans to expand the free access to Courthouse Square and along 8th street and 9th Street in the coming months. The city already provides free WiFi service at Municipal and Bandy parks.

Dawe added that the process to access the service is simple.

People can connect to “CityofOpelikaGuest.”

This will then connect a user to a legal page where he/she must agree to terms

and conditions by clicking on Continue to Internet. This will automatically open the user’s browser to the city’s website (www.opelika-al. gov).

It is important for residents and visitors to know that this is an unsupported network and the city will not provide tech support or change any web filters. This system is public, free and unsecured. If your email is not encrypted, be aware of the type information you transmit when on the free WiFi service.

For more information, call Dawe at 334-705-5140.

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

Photo by Ann Cipperly Tiffany Gibson-Pitts, councilwoman for Ward 2 in Opelika, enjoys spending time with her family during the Christmas season. Tiffany is sharing many of her favorite recipes for Christmas.

counseling from Auburn University. She went back and received a specialist degree in counseling supervision. After graduating, Tiffany worked for four years as a counselor at Valley High School and then worked at Auburn High School for 12 years.

She is currently a counselor at the Hope Academy, an alternative school in Troup County, Georgia.

“I enjoy working with

those students and trying to make a difference in their lives.”

Tiffany has enjoyed working with children and being involved in the community over the years. “One summer I worked with girls living in Opelika Housing Authority properties, and going in and out of homes, listening to parents’ and their needs,” Tiffany said.

“I was born and raised here, and I really love

Opelika. I had some concerns about some things that were happening in the community.”

“I thought if I wanted to see some changes then I needed to be the change.

I decided in 2016 to throw my hat in the ring and run for city council and was successful,” she added.

She is involved in the Ward 2 Academy, which is housed at the Opelika Learning See Recipes, page A10

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park to host open house, hayride Dec. 8 Special to the Opelika Observer Horseshoe Bend National Military Park invites the public to an open house and hayride Dec. 8 from 5-7:30 p.m.

C.S.T. Refreshments will be served in the park Visitor Center and the tour road will be lit with luminaries.

“We hope the community will come out and kick off the holiday season by enjoying their national park at night,”

said acting Park Superintendent Doug Murphy.

This is a rare opportunity for people to see the park at nighttime and enjoy the beautiful evening sky in rural Alabama.

Visitors can appreciate beautiful luminaries along the pathways and battlefield, snuggle up with loved ones on a hayride around the tour road and warm up inside the park’s visitor center with hot cider and sweets.

Due to limited space, sign-up for the hayride is

required. Call 256-2347111 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily to sign up for this free event. Reservations will be accepted until all spots are filled.

Guests are asked to dress appropriately.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the park website at www. nps.gov/hobe, or like and follow them on social media. The park is located 12 miles north of Dadeville on Alabama Highway 49.

pelika O Observer O Town Ice Cream and Scoops Real Italian Ice host Santa, show off new shop on 2nd Avenue A8

December 05, 2018

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Variations Dance Studio to perform ‘Nutcracker’ Dec. 7-8

By Tess Massey For the Opelika Observer

Variations Dance Studio will kick off the holiday season with their 7th Annual Nutcracker performance series Dec. 7-8 at The Opelika Performing Arts Center.

“We feel that the tradition of The Nutcracker ballet serves a wonderful arts education initiative for our community,” said Variations Artistic Director Stacy Young.

Variations has been in operation for 12 years, and The Nutcracker became part of their inhouse repertoire in 2012.

“It is a wonderful tradition to expose our students to, regard-

less of their age during participation,” Young said. “The experience of listening to the Tchaikovsky score while watching the storytelling and beautiful dancing provides a wonderful arts-infused experience for audience members of all ages.”

According to Young, there are 150 Variations Company dancers and more than 375 costumes in this year’s performance of The Nutcracker. She added that there are many roles and exciting scenes that are continually adjusted to best showcase Variations Company members and community cast members.

“We are thrilled with

the changes we have made to the production choreography to keep the show new and exciting for our audience,” she said. “We also have many additions to our Nutcracker costume collection, which pair nicely with the new choreography throughout the performances.”

Variations prides itself on providing a Nutcracker performance that involves younger dancers, and encourages them to be interactive throughout the entire story of the ballet. Young said that this year’s dancers range from seven to 18 years old. Additionally, lead roles are performed by young area students.

“We do our best

to have our dancers perform the roles throughout the show, and bring in guest artists to accompany them in the partnering sections,” Young said.

Young added that although this production is the largest scale in the area, with 150 cast members, Variations is able to accurately accomplish the classic storyline of the ballet.

“For our dancers, the dancing enables them to directly experience being fully immersed with this terrific score while being engaged in a wonderful history of the ballet art form,” she said. “Of course, the performance provides a timeless arts experience for our

audience members alike, and serves as a perfect family outing to help kick off the Christmas season.”

This year’s production is directed by the Variations team, including Gretchen Patchell, Anslee Palmer, Laura Villalobos and Young, who have collaborated to ensure The Nutcracker performances come together. Young said her team is detail-oriented, and allows Variations students to fully immerse themselves in their work.

“It is really special to watch the dancers first learn their choreography and observe the progress they make as they continually improve not only in their technique, but also in their understanding of their assigned roles and characterization required in this classic holiday story,” Young said.

Young reflected on her own journey as a dancer under West Chapman, an acclaimed ballet instructor and former American Ballet Theater Principal Dancer at the Alabama Ballet. As a dancer for the Alabama Ballet, Young was instrumental in performing for the Balanchine Trust Board to acquire the Balanchine Choreography license for The Nutcracker.

“Performing for the Balanchine Trust Board was a wonderful learning experience when I was dancing, and performing Balanchine infused choreography was a fun challenge, as that style is not as common in this area,” she said.

Earlier this fall, Chapman assisted Variations by working directly with the Sugar Plum Fairies and the Sugar Plum Cavalier.

“It was a full circle moment to work alongside my former mentor as he coached some of my students to fine tune the classic Sugar Plum Pas de Deux,” she said.

Performances of The Nutcracker will be Dec. 7 at 6:30 p.m. and Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m.; performances are 95 minutes long with a 15-minute intermission included.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.

TutuTix.com/VariationsStudio. Tickets will also be available at the theater lobby at 5:45 p.m. before both performances.

Each ticket purchase will automatically serve as an entry into Variations Sugar Plum Sweepstakes, a holiday giveaway with a value of $1,950 featuring prizes from several local business sponsors.

For more information about The Nutcracker and Variations Dance Studio, visit www.variationsauburn.com.

pelika O Observer

A9 December 05, 2018

I really want a camera for Christmas. I love you Snata. I love singing in chorus about you. I also want my own nail polish kit. I hate sharing with my sisster Shea.

Santa they most thing I want for Christmas is to spend time with my family. This year I want to see my great grandmall, and Ant Gail.

From Aubrey

cos and to meet Barry Sanders one of the best running backs of all time and He played for the Detroit Lions.

From Colt

Dear Santa, Christmas is my Favorite Holiday. What I want for Christmas is - P.C., r.c Dear Santa, a laptop, and gift beds, a kitchen, Santa, would plane, gift cards, I want a iphone cards and to go some clothers, you mind if shoes, pants, for Christmas. I to disniieland and a suitcase. you saved me 1 socks, gloves, also want some with 5 blacelests That is all I want cookie also your pocket knive, cloths. This year to get food and from Christmas. present will be and mousepad.

I don’t really go on rides.

Sincerely, by the cookies.

BTW, I saw your want that much From Alexander Kyandra Just know that Dear Santa, movie Christmas stuff but if you you will possibly I want a new Chronicles, and give me a lot hear footsteps it was awesome.

Dear Santa, Dear Santa of stuff I will cause some times xbox game. Its Finally I want to Merry Christmas I want everything I stomp for some called NFL. I be fine with it. allso want a new go to WashingThanks for all I got one my I also want to reason. Okay. drumsticks and ton State for a the toys you give list. I want a cat. Bye Santa!!!! go to Califordrumset. The one week.

From Maliya me. But what I From Senijahia nia to meet this XOXOXOXO!! thing I want the Sincerely, Paxton YouTube family really came here PS. Here’s a pic most is a new for is to tell you named Cole & nintendo swith. of you and me.

Dear Santa, what I want for Sar with there Dear Santa, From Korbin A dog for opikid Everliegh & x-mas I want a All I want for 4 wheeler, some mist, moichrarbaby P. It is not Christmas this Dear Santa, loadr, tablet lol suprize, and that much this Dear Santa, year is a new What I want year that is what the really thing I Koby For Christmas bike. My old one for Christmas I want for Christ- want is four my I whould like is falling apart, is a Barbie set mas. Thanks any- grandad to come to get a laptop, and the kickstand that includes Dear Santa, home plz! and ways, for what and I whould doesn’t work.

2 baby Barbie thats all. Thanks. I want new you do Santa.

It always falls games and I want dolls and 1 baby also like the You are the best. Love Zion game gta5., and down when I’m doctor Barbie. to go to miss Thank you!!! i whould like the riding. But, I do I also want a Brown’s house Love, Lauryn like my basket.

Barbie mermaid new adias and Dear Santa for a week and I whould like I like to put my with curly orwhat I want for she takes me to some more jorphone in it to Dear Santa, Christmas is for school and we go ange hair, a teal play music. So tieara, and a teal dan’s., I’d also My name is it to snow and to the mall and like some more if you have an Jeremiah. You a i phone 8 for we go shopping. and purple tail. clothes. I’d also extra bike I will I also want the should know me my to visit my From Trevion like a iphone 8+ take it.

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Love, Abbagail book collections. and I’d like to every body in Bye from Heavgo to a alabama (please!)

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Dear Santa you know kids world toy a new ted by students From Jalen For Christmas can give your ark the game from Northside presents! Well I and thats it so if I really want Intermediate Dear Santa wanna give one you can pick that a hover board, Dear Santa, School.

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Dear Santa,

pelika O Observer

A10 December 05, 2018

Recipes,

from A7

Center, an alternative school for Opelika City Schools, on Jeter Avenue. Two years ago, Dr. Mark Neighbors, the superintendent for Opelika City Schools, gave her a wing at the center to provide programs aimed at educating and providing mentorship opportunities for families primarily in the Jeter community, an area with the most needs.

“We never say if you don’t live in Ward 2, you can’t attend the programs,” Tiffany said.

“It is the primary purpose that we focus on that area, but anyone can come to the events we have.

“We have several mentorship programs for kids as well as moms,” Tiffany added. “It is called My Sister’s Keeper, and we meet monthly to provide support for women in the area.”

A variety of programs are offered, including a full summer program.

A Christmas event is planned for the families of students in the after school program.

For Christmas at home, Tiffany’s family still goes to her mother’s house. “My father and his wife always join us at my mother’s house for Christmas dinner,” Tiffany said. “They have a unique relationship as they all enjoy being around their grandchildren.”

Each sister and their family wear their own special set of pajamas.

Beef Roll-Up 2 cups biscuit dough 2 cups ground beef 1 egg, beaten 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper ½ tsp. garlic salt 1 can cream mushroom soup Roll out dough on floured board into 1/2 –inch thick rectangle.

Mix beef with eggs and seasonings; spread over dough. Roll as for jelly roll; cut into slices. Place slices, cut side down, in greased pan. Bake in preheated 250 degree oven for 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Spoon soup over each serving.

Chicken and Sausage Wreath 2 tubes (8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent rolls ½ lb. bulk pork sausage 1 carton (8 oz.) spreadable chive and onion cream cheese 1 can (8 oz.) sliced water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese 1 1/4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese 1 1/4 cups cubed cooked chicken 3 green onions, chopped

They spend the day and savor her mother’s cooking. Tiffany has two children, Austin, who is a freshman at the University of Alabama; and Ashleigh is an 8th grader at Opelika Middle School.

“We always read the Bible story about Christmas, say the blessing and then have dinner.”

The menu at her mother’s house changes every year.

Christmas will be different this year since her younger sister is getting married soon.

They will attend the wedding over the weekend and then go home for Christmas.

Among the recipes, Aunt Rosa’s Finger Cookies is her favorite recipe. Her aunt has been making them for her every year since Tiffany was a child.

During the Christmas season, Tiffany and her children will adopt a family. They shop together for the gifts, wrap them and deliver them to the family on Christmas day.

“I never purchased a lot of gifts for my children,” she said. “I want them to know the reason and purpose of Christmas.

“Christmas is about the birth of Jesus,” she added. “It is also about family coming together at the end of the year.

It is time for us to relax and enjoy each other’s company. That is what I love about Christmas.”

Cipperly can be reached by email at recipes@cipperly.com.

2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper 3 Tbsp. coleslaw salad dressing 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. hot pepper sauce 1/4 tsp. pepper Preheat oven to 375. Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. On an ungreased 12-in. pizza pan, arrange triangles in a ring with points toward the outside, wide ends overlapping and leaving a 3-in. circle open in center.

Press overlapping edges of dough to seal.

In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat 4-6 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking into crumbles; drain and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Spoon mixture across wide end of triangles. Fold pointed end of triangles over filling, tucking points under to form a ring (filling will be visible).

Bake 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Let stand 15 minutes before slicing.

Christmas Ham 1 cup brown sugar 1 can sliced pineapples 2 tsp. mustard In a large bowl, mix brown sugar, mustard and juice from pineapples.

Spread mixture over ham. Use toothpicks to place pineapples on ham.

Cover loosely with foil. Bake at 300 degrees (20 minutes per pound).

Once cooled, slice ham and pour juices from pan over ham slices.

Aunt Rosa’s Finger Cookies 1 cup butter 5 Tbsp. powdered sugar 2 cups flour 1 cup chopped pecans 1 tsp. vanilla Powdered sugar Cream butter and sugar; work in flour, nuts and vanilla. Roll into fingers. Place on cookie sheet.

Bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes.

Allow cookies to cool before rolling them in powdered sugar.

Champagne Party Punch 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 2 cups unsweetened apple juice 2 cups unsweetened pineapple juice 1/2 cup lemon juice 1/3 cup thawed orange juice concentrate 1/4 cup lime juice 2 cups ice cubes 1 quart ginger ale, chilled 1 bottle (750 ml.) champagne, chilled In a large pitcher, combine sugar and water; stir until sugar is dissolved. Add the apple juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice, orange juice concentrate and lime juice. Refrigerate until serving.

Just before serving, pour into a punch bowl and add ice cubes.

Slowly add ginger ale and champagne.

Bacon Roll-ups 1 pkg. hotdog wieners 1 cup brown sugar 1 pkg. bacon 1 box toothpicks Cut each wiener into 3 parts.

Cut uncooked bacon in half. Place bacon on cooking board and spread desired amount of brown sugar on the bacon.

Place the wiener on one end of the bacon and roll it up. Push a toothpick into the wrap to keep it together.

Add brown sugar to outside.

Cook in a pan for 25-30 minutes at 325 degrees.

Oven Roasted Asparagus 2 lbs. fresh asparagus, ends trimmed 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 to 4 green onions,

chopped 1/2 tsp. salt Preheat oven to 425.

Place asparagus in a 15x10x1-inch pan.

Toss with melted butter and green onions; spread evenly. Sprinkle salt over top.

Roast until crisp-tender, 10-15 minutes.

Eggnog Pudding 2 cups cold milk 1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) instant vanilla pudding mix 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp. rum extract Additional ground nutmeg, optional In a bowl, combine the first four ingredients. Beat for 2 minutes. Spoon into individual dishes.

Sprinkle with nutmeg, if desired.

Pesto Pinwheels 1 tube (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent rolls 1/3 cup prepared pesto sauce 1/4 cup roasted sweet red peppers, drained and chopped 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup pizza sauce, warmed Unroll crescent dough into two long rectangles; seal seams and perforations.

Spread each with pesto; sprinkle with red peppers and cheese.

Roll each up jellyroll style, starting with a short side. With a sharp knife, cut each roll into 10 slices. Place cut side down 2 inches apart on two ungreased baking sheets.

Bake at 400 for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with pizza sauce.

Apricot-Glazed Bacon Spiral 1 Tbsp. butter 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 3 Tbsp. apricot preserves 1 tube (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent rolls 1 pkg. (2.1 oz.) ready-to-serve fully cooked bacon Preheat oven to 375.

In a small skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add onion; cook and stir 3-5 minutes or until tender. Reduce heat to low; add preserves. Cook and stir until melted.

Unroll crescent dough into one long rectangle. Roll into a 15x9-inch rectangle, sealing seams and perforations. Cut crosswise into fifteen 1-inch strips; top each with one piece of bacon.

Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a short side; pinch seam to seal.

Place on an ungreased baking sheet, cut side down.

Spoon apricot mixture over each spiral.

Bake 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Refrigerate leftovers.

Cheese Balls or Rolls

½ lb. sharp cheese ½ lb. mild cheese ½ lb. cream cheese 1 tsp. grated onion juice 1 tsp. red pepper 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. lemon juice Dash of salt Paprika Blend ingredients together. (If too soft, refrigerate for a short time.) Form into a log or balls and roll in paprika. Stick whole clove in ball to look like small orange, if desired.

Store in covered container in the refrigerator. Separate layers with wax paper.

All-Occasion Punch 8 cups cold water 1 can (12 oz.) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed plus 3/4 cup thawed lemonade concentrate 2 liters ginger ale, chilled 1 liter cherry lemonlime soda, chilled Ice ring, optional In a large punch bowl, combine water and lemonade concentrates. Stir in ginger ale and lemon-lime soda.

Top with an ice ring, if desired.

Serve immediately.

Five Cup Salad 1 cup coconut 1 cup miniature marshmallows 1 can mandarin oranges, drained 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained 8 oz. sour cream Mix ingredients in order listed. After mixing, place in serving dish and refrigerate.

Garnish with additional coconut or chopped pecans.

Red Velvet Cake 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 bottle (1 oz.) red food coloring 1 Tbsp. white vinegar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 1/4 cups cake flour 2 Tbsp. baking cocoa 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 cup buttermilk Frosting 1 Tbsp. cornstarch 1/2 cup cold water 2 cups butter, softened 2 tsp. vanilla extract 3 1/2 cups confectioners sugar Preheat oven to 350. Cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in food coloring, vinegar and vanilla.

In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition.

Pour into two greased and floured 9-inch round baking pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted in

the center comes out clean, 20-25 minutes.

Cool layers 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

For frosting, combine water and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until thickened and opaque, 2-3 minutes. Cool to room temperature.

Beat butter and vanilla until light and fluffy.

Beat in cornstarch mixture. Gradually add confectioners sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Spread between layers and over top and sides of cake.

Party Chicken Salad 1 pkg. unflavored gelatin ½ cup water 2 cups chicken, cooked and chopped 1 cup almonds, toasted ½ cup chopped celery 1 cup green grapes 2 cups Cool Whip 1 cup mayonnaise Soften gelatin in ¼ cup cold water. Add ¼ cup boiling water to this and set aside to cool.

Combine chicken, almonds, celery and grapes and set aside.

Combine Cool Whip, mayonnaise and gelatin mixture. Fold chicken mixture into Cool Whip mixture. Place in a two-quart gelatin mold and chill.

Wish Bone Pork Chops 7-8 center cut pork chops 8 oz. Italian Wish Bone salad dressing 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. garlic salt 1 Tbsp. Accent Trim any extra fat from chops. Place chops in a baking dish and pour salad dressing mixture over them.

Marinate 8-24 hours.

Drain and sprinkle Accent on chops. Broil in oven or outside on the grill, 10 minutes on each side or until cooked. Serve hot.

Suitable for freezing.

Strawberry Pie 1 cup water ¾ cup sugar 2 Tbsp. cornstarch ½ small box strawberry Jell-O 1 pt. fresh whole strawberries ½ large pkg. cream cheese, softened ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 graham cracker crust 1 cup whipped cream Stir together water, sugar and cornstarch.

Cook until thick. Add Jell-O, stir until dissolved; cool slightly.

Gently blend in strawberries.

Combine cream cheese, confectioners’, and sugar. And lemon juice and spread on pie crust. Add strawberry mixture. Let cool thoroughly in refrigerator. Top with whipped cream.

pelika O Observer

AMEA, City of Opelika present V3 Media Group with $5,000 grant

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Municipal Electric Authority, along with the City of Opelika, presented V3 Media Group with a $5,000 grant from the AMEA Special Projects Economic Development Fund.

V3 received the grant based on the company’s investment in a new facility and the jobs they created in Opelika.

The group bought a historic building in

downtown Opelika and did a complete renovation.

This is another example of revitalization and economic growth in downtown Opelika. The AMEA Special Projects Fund is a program designed to assist its member communities with community and economic development projects.

"Our entire team is incredibly humbled to be awarded the AMEA grant from AMEA and the City of Opelika. We

are proud to invest ourselves and our business into Opelika and look forward to growing our community together,” said V3 Owner Dale Vaughn.

AMEA is the wholesale provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, which serves nearly 350,000 customers in the cities of Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Foley, LaFayette, Lanett, LuVerne, Opelika, Piedmont, Sylacauga and Tuskegee.

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A11 December 05, 2018

Dr. Michael Ibe speaks on subject of heart health at recent Kiwanis meeting

Special to the Opelika Observer Cardiologist Michael Ibe spoke to the Kiwanis Club of Opelika about the importance of heart health. Ibe is a non-invasive general cardiologist which means he mainly diagnoses heart problems before referring patients to a specialist. As he normally sees patients who are already experiencing symptoms, he is a strong believer in prevention. The biggest risk factor that we cannot control for heart disease is a family history of the disease. A person with heart disease in their family or someone who smokes should get their heart checked before age 40. Ibe mentioned that diet can play a huge role in heart disease. Both the Mediterranean diet and SDA (vegetarian) diets have been directly related to lowering the risk of heart disease. Pictured are Dr. Ibe, Joanne Camp and Bob Harris.

108 S. 8th Street

Taylor made designs will have the TMD Express train photo booth on site. come by and get photos

Magic Reindeer Food

Be sure to stop by and grab your feed, for on Christmas night it’s what reindeer need!

Come see us during the Christmas in a Railroad Town event in Downtown Opelika on 12/7 beginning at 6 p.m.

917 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika

Join us for “Sʼmores & Storytime”

Visit Railroad Junktion and explore all the great holiday items

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

OPELIKA BASKETBALL SCHEDULE (Boys and Girls) Dec. 6 - Opelika at Prattville Dec. 12 - Carver High School (H) Dec. 14 - Lafayette (H) (Boys only) Dec. 11 - Opelika at Smiths Station

Opelika swimmers turn in strong showings during state meet

to improve. Opelika Swim coach Tyler McGill will build a swim program if kids participate. I encourage all parents to sign up for On the Mark the “Swim lessons/ team,” held at the

By D. Mark Mitchell Opelika Sportsplex.

McGill will work with each person he AHSAA State and put together a suitable Swim Meet was workout based on the skill held last weekend level. at the Martin Aquatics WRESTLING Center at Auburn UniverOpelika wrestlers began sity. their season last week, parFour Opelika swimticipating in a dual match mers, Bradi Jones, Railey and tournament. The Jones, Julia Bush and Bulldog grapplers opened Sarah Bush, qualified to the season in the Maincompete in the meet. street gym with a 49-18 Junior Bradi Jones loss to Benjamin Russell. finished third in the The following Bulldog breaststroke with a time of wrestlers won their weight 1:05:44, an improvement class: from last year’s fourth132 pounds - Tre’mir place finish. Jones finished Rodgers 8th in the 200 IM. The 170 pounds - Cole Lazfour teamed up to finish zari sixth in the 200-meter 220 pounds- Bevin free-style relay.

Williams.

These four studentJunior Varsity wrestlers, athletes deserve recogniLogan Sheridan, Landon tion for the many hours Wills and Que Edwards spent in the pool working won matches.

T

OHS swimmers turn in strong showing at AHSAA state meet

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Oberver For more photos from the swim meet turn to B2.

Opelika participated in a 17-team duals tournament in Phenix City last Saturday. The Bulldogs opened the day with a 54-23 win over Northside, then lost three straight, 39-42 Jordan, 36-42 Central and 54-24 to Enterprise before finishing with a 43-42 win over Chattahoochee County.

The following wrestlers were mentioned by Coach Jim Davis for earning points: 160 pounds - Zeak Jones (5-0, 30 points, 3 pins), Heavyweight James Dawson (5-0, 30 points, 3 pins), 195 pounds - Ben Daughtry (5-0, 29 points, 3 pins), 182 pounds - Timmy Tolbert (5-0, 27 points, 3 pins), 220 pounds - Bevin Williams (3-0, 16 points, 2 pins), 170 pounds - Cole Lazzari (3- 0, 15 points, 2 pins), 220 pounds - Trint Vaughns (2-0, 12 points, 2-pins)

170 pounds - Eli Schwenk (2-0, 12 points, 2 pins).

Other wrestlers scoring points for the Bulldogs, Jordan Clark, Jackson Shoemaker, Te’mir Rodgers, T’harra Brunson and Ari Brogdon.

BASKETBALL The Opelika girls basketball team (7-2) split a pair of games last week, beating Smiths Station 70-12 and losing 69-65 at Carver. The Lady Bulldogs blew out the Panthers 70-12 in the Mainstreet gym. Ananda Hughley poured in 18 points while Claire Worth added 15 points and Quala Walton scored 10 points. Last Friday, Carver slipped by Opelika 69-65 in Montgomery. The two teams were tied 19-19 after the first quarter.

Opelika led after the next two quarters, 42-37 at half, 53-50 after the third quarter but could not hold the lead down the stretch.

The Opelika boys basketball team (4-2) defeated Smiths Station 63-47 at home. Trey Boone

scored a game- high 18 points, Jared Willis scored 15-points and Brandon Howard scored 11 points.

The Bulldogs lost a close game at Carver, 8074. Boone led the scoring for the second straight game with 19 points while teammate Taye Fields added 14 points.

The junior varsity boys beat Smiths Station, 52-40.

Anarion Tolbert scored 15 points, Cam Marshall scored 12 points and JaKyle Willis added 10 points. The JV team lost at Carver 53-19. Tori Roberts scored seven points. The Freshman Bulldogs beat Benjamin Russell 31-29 last week. Rashaad Frye scored 11 points and Fartavious Hardnett added nine points. The freshman team improved to 5-1 overall.

VOLLEYBALL SIGNEE Congratulations Mattrice Harris! The Opelika senior signed a Volleyball scholarship with Wallace State Community College on Monday.

LEE-SCOTT’s ROBERT MADDOX

RETIRES Lee-Scott Academy Football coach Robert Maddox retired last week, after 13 years as the Warriors’ head coach and 44 years overall.

I met Coach Maddox in 1991 when he coached the Valley Rams. His path took him to Troy University and Gardener-Webb University with a stint at Auburn High before going to Lee-Scott Academy.

There are many words and things you can say about him - he loves God, family, wife Macy and all five of his daughters and their extended families and he is a gentlemen and a winner!

He is one of the classiest people I have ever met.

Congratulations Coach Maddox. Best of luck to you in the future. Thank you for touching many lives including mine! Luv ya my friend.

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

OMS’s Tricia Skelton Tommie Agee to join ASHOF in 2019 receives major award Special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer

The Board of Directors of the State of Alabama Sports Hall of Fame have announced the Class of 2019 to be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame on April 27, 2019.

The class was selected by ballot through a statewide selection committee; votes were tabulated by the firm of Pricewaterhouse Coopers.

Following a nomination and application process based on criteria of inspiring teaching, Opelika Middle School teacher Patricia Skelton has been selected as the Alabama recipient of the National University System’s “Sanford Teacher Award.”

Nominated by fellow OMS teacher Erin Beaver, Skelton is being recognized for her commitment to creating an inspirational and harmo-

Agee Former Opelika resident and Super Bowl champion Tommie Agee is one of next year's eight class inductees.

Following is a brief background on Agee: Born Feb. 22, 1964 in Maplesville, Agee played football at See Agee, page B8

Skelton nious classroom that supports student development and achievement.

“When I saw the criteria for the award, Tricia was the first person I thought of. Her energy See Skelton, page B10

pelika O Observer

B2 December 05, 2018

Super 7 begins tonight at Jordan-Hare Stadium

By D. Mark Mitchell For the Opelika Observer The Alabama High School Athletic Association will hold the Super 7 football Championships this week at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn. The three-day event starts at noon Wednesday with a “Welcome Luncheon” for corporate partners, Auburn athletics, sponsors, and Opelika and Auburn City officials.

The Special Olympics partnered with the AHSAA to play a Unified game between Vestavia Hills and Baldwin County.

The following is the Super 7 schedule with a summary of each team.

• Dec. 5: 7 p.m. 7A Championship-Central v.

Thompson Thompson-11-1: Coach

Mark Freeman- scored 444 points (37 points-per-game average) allowing 211 points (17.6 points-pergame average). Quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa has thrown for 3,684 yards, 35 touchdowns and five interceptions. UAB commit -Will Conner LB, Alabama commit OL Amari Knight.

Central-13-0:Coach Jamey Dubose-scored 526 points (40.5 points-pergame average) allowed 101 points (7.8 points per game). Three Power 5 commits-QB Peter Parrish (LSU), running back Amontae Spivey (Arkansas) and safety Ray Thornton (Clemson) will play.

Dec. 6: 11 a.m. 3A Championship Coach Steve Smith Peidmont-12-2: scored 462 points (33 points-pergame average, allowed 233 points (16.6 points-

per-game average). This is their third title game in the last four seasons, winning all three. Flomaton 11-3: scored 411 points (29.4 points-per-game average) while allowing 247 points (17.6 points-per-game average). This is the first appearance in Super 7.

1A Championship -3 p.m.

Linden 13-0: scored 546 points (42 points-per-game average) while allowing 136 points for 10.5 (pointsper-game average). This marks 12 straight playoff appearances for the program, finished runner-up in 2011 and played all four playoff games at home.

Mars Hill 13-1: scored 678 points for (48.4 points-per-game average) allowing 152 points (10.9 points-per-game average).

They have never won a playoff game prior to 2018.

Special to the Opelika Observer Front row, from left: Flomaton Coach Doug Vickery; Fyffe Coach Paul Benefield; Mars Hill Bible Coach Darrell Higgins; Baldwin County Unified Coach Mike Conner; AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese; Associate Executive Director Alvin Briggs; Linden Coach Demetrius Jackson; Luverne Coach Scott Rials; Piedmont Coach Steve Smith. Back row, from left: Deshler Coach Bo Culver; Central-Clay County Coach Danny Horn; Pinson Valley Coach Patrick Nix; Thompson Coach Mark Freeman; Central-Phenix City Coach Jamey DuBose; Saraland Coach Jeff Kelly; Vigor Coach Deric Scott; and UMS-Wright Coach Terry Curtis. Not pictured in Vestavia Hills Unified Coach Terry Tingle. (AHSAA Photo)

5A Championship 7 p.m.

Vigor 13-1: scored 468 points, allowed 92 (6.6 points-per-game average).

Vigor’s only loss was to Opelika. This is their first championship game appearance since 2008.

Central Clay County 11-3 Coach Danny Horn Scored 449 points (32.1 points-per-game average) allowing 168 (12 pointsper-game average.) Horn

has won six state titles, one shy of the record held

by Josh Niblett. (Danny’s Sister is Dinah Motley) Dec. 7 4A Championship UMS Wright 13-0 Coach Terry Curtis.

Scored 428 points (32.9 points-per-game average) allowed 58 points (4.5 points-per-game average).

Terry Curtis has Six state championships as a head coach. He earned his 300th

win this year. The school is going for its seventh state title in 11 years.

Deshler 9-5. Scored 429 points (30.6 points-pergame average) Allowed 256 points (18.3 pointsper-game average). One loss by a forfeit and one loss was in double overtime. The Tigers have won three state titles and finished runner-up seven See Super 7, page B10

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Oberver Four swimmers from Opelika High School competed in the AHSAA State Swim Meet last weekend at Auburn University. Right, Bradi Jones, Railey Jones, Julia Bush and Sarah Bush participate in the “Dawg Walk,” a celebration at the high school before heading over to the competition Friday.

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Robert Maddox retires as Lee-Scott Academy’s football coach after 13 seasons Special to the Opelika Observer Longtime Lee-Scott Academy head football coach Robert Maddox announced his retirement today. Under his tenure at LSA for the past 13 years, Maddox has been recognized as a leader on the football field. His 2010 LSA team played cross state rival Tuscaloosa Academy for the title. In 2015, the Warriors made it to the second round of the state championship playoffs and he was recognized as the 2015 3A Coach of the Year by AISA. He has been instrumental in the success of the athletic program at LSA, and a friend and mentor to coaches in Lee County and across the state.

Maddox “We are thankful for Coach Maddox’s legacy and service to Lee-Scott Academy, and for his influence on our young men to not just win games but to become men of character, integrity, and honor," Head of School Dr. Stan Cox stated. “We wish he and his wife, Macy, all the best and many years of joy spending time with their children and grandchildren.”

“The Old Testament

book of Ecclesiastes says, ‘there is a time for every event under heaven’ and it is ‘time’ for that tenure to come to an end,” Maddox said. “I will forever be grateful to Dr. Don Roberts and the board for the opportunity to serve as the head football coach.

LSA has been very good to my family and I hope we have been good for this school. God Bless and Go Warriors.”

LSA thanks Coach Maddox, for his commitment and service to Lee-Scott Academy and the student-athletes.

An opportunity for former players, parents, and the LSA community will be planned to celebrate Coach Maddox and his family on his retirement at a future date.

pelika O Observer

B3 December 05, 2018

Catching kids in the act of doing good Character Word of the Month Special to the Opelika Observer The Family Court of Lee County is preparing for its monthly “Character in Action” program.

Following is a brief synopsis of the program and its mission: • Character in Action is a program sponsored by the Family Court of Lee County which recognizes youth (under 18 years of age) who reside in Lee County, and whose own actions and behavior are above and beyond the ordinary expectations set forth in their school, community, or home.

• Nomination Forms are provided through Family Court.

The Court receives nominations from adults who witness the display of ‘character in action’.

Nominations can be submitted from a Teacher, School Counselor, Administrator, or other

adult who has knowledge of the outstanding behavior of the student being nominated.

• Each nominee receives a Certificate in recognition of their positive choices; and the student’s school is provided with a file copy Certificate as well.

• Family Court carefully judges each nomination and selects one student each month, not as a “winner,” but rather a representative of all the students receiving this recognition.

This student is invited to a ‘Character in Action’ ceremony.

For more information, or to nominate a student, please refer to the following forms, available through Lee County Family Court: • CIA Full Program Information 2018 • CIA Guidelines • CIA Nomination Form.

Compassion

• n. sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it

Opelika varsity basketball smash Smiths Station last week; boys win 63-47 and girls win 70-12

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Oberver

Date Nov. 8 Nov. 9-10 Nov. 12 Nov. 15 Nov. 17 Nov. 19 Nov. 19 Nov. 27 Nov. 30 Dec. 4 Dec. 6 Dec. 11 Dec. 12 Dec. 14 Dec. 17-19 Dec 20-22 Dec. 21 Dec. 28-29 Jan. 4 Jan. 5 Jan. 8 Jan. 11 Jan. 15 Jan. 17 Jan. 22 Jan. 25 Jan. 29 Jan. 31 Feb. 1 Feb. 4, 6 or 8 Feb. 5 ,7,or 9

Varsity Schedule Opponent Site Prattville High School Home Hazel Green Tournament Away Northview High School Away Loachapoka High School Lagrange High School Columbus High School Troup County High School Smiths Station High School Carver High School(Montgomery) Central High School - PC Prattville High School Smiths Station High School Carver High School(Montgomery) Lafayette High School Handley Tournament Spain Park Christmas Tournament Eufaula High School Ball N Prep High School Auburn High School Northview High School **Russell County High School **Ben Russell High School Spencer High School Lafayette High School **Ben Russell High School **Russell County High School Pelham High School Auburn High School Loachapoka High School Area Tournament Area Tournament

Home Columbus High School Columbus High School Home Home Away Away Away Away Home Home Away Away Thompson HS Away Home Home Home Home Away Away Away Home Home Away TBA TBA

JVB 5:30

4:00 4:30 4:30 4:00 5:30 4:00 4:30 4:30

VG TBA 3:00 6:00 4:00 3:30 6:00 6:00 5:30 5:00 6:00 6:00 TBA

4:30 3:00 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:00 4:30

TBA 6:00 4:00 6:00 6:00 5:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00 6:00

VB 6:30 4:30 7:30

5:00 7:30 7:30 7:00 6:30 6:30 7:30 7:30 TBA TBA 7:30 5:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 5:00 7:30 7:30

pelika O Observer

B4 December 05, 2018

December 05, 2018

Community Calendar: Events around town

Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour Date: Dec. 5 - 9 Website: http://www. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com Event Description: The homes are decorated with life size Santas, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures Dilworth Design Gallery Ribbon Cutting Date: Dec. 6 Time: 4 - 4:30 PM CST Event Description: Ribbon Cutting Christmas In 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 334209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

• The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256-307-1449.

Mondays: • “Gimme A Break” Support Group for parents whose children have autism will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the EAMC

Railroad Town Date: Dec. 7 Time: 6 - 9 PM CST Website: http://opelikamainstreet.org Event Description: Kids Festival Rides and Games North Railroad Ave .

Holiday Movie at the Plex Date: Dec. 8 Time: 6 - 8 PM CST Website: http://www. opelikaparks.com Marriott at Grand National Ribbon Cutting & Business After Hours Date: Dec. 10 Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. This is a monthly event on the first Monday of each month for parents to connect with each other.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room.

Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m. For more information, call 297-5581 or visit www.nonukesforiran.org.

• The Lee County Voters League meets the first Monday of every month at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1335 Auburn St. in Opelika.

• The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah

Circle the dates for Christmas The School and Library Corner • TCS’s 5th graders history curriculum is culminating their studies with a “medieval style” feast instead of their “modern” lunch. It is a highlight of 5th grade.

• On Dec. 14, a school wide hymn is being held for TCS students.

• Lee Scott Academy, located at 1601 Academy Drive in Auburn, is having a winter band concert Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. at the academy. The event is free.

Other Upcoming Events in the Opelika City Schools are: • Dec. 11-Morris Avenue 4th grade performs at the PTO program at 6 p.m.

• Dec. 11-The Opelika Middle School and Opelika High School bands are having their Christmas concert at 7 p.m. in the Opelika Performing Arts Center.

• Dec. 13-Jeter Primary Second grade is performing at the PTO program at 6 p.m.

• Dec. 13- West Forest third graders are performing for the PTO program at 6 p.m.

Time: 5 - 7 PM CST Event Description: Join us for the Grand opening of the Spa at the Auburn Opelika Marriott at Grand National!

Direct Auto & Life Insurance Ribbon Cutting Date: Dec. 11 Time: 10 - 10:30 AM CST Event Description: Ribbon Cutting Reindeer Express Date: Dec. 13 -15 Website: http://www. opelikaparks.com Event Description: Reindeer Express Train Ride Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Teamorganizes 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 start-

ing in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops, and many more.

To view the full schedule, please visit www.aces. edu/anr/beginningfarms/ webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn. edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@ auburn.edu.

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320.

• A monthly educational program on topics for autism parents, caregivers and teachers will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Ave., Opelika from 6-7:30 p.m. Childcare is provided, but reservations need to be made by contacting Maria Gutierrez at mariag@leecountyautism.com to make sure there are enough volunteers.

• The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required.

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by nonvoting work sessions that typically begin about 6:306:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session

is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6–8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School.

For more information contact Bill Parker at 4590214 or 706-518-9122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a non-profit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services.

For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.

• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meet the 4th Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika.

Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday night at 6 p.m.

• Every Wednesday is

Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 - 8 p.m.

Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika.

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• TNT – Teens N Transition is a monthly program for teens and young adults ages 14 and up. The group uses this time to learn social skills as well as connect with others on the autism spectrum.

They have enjoyed cooking, bowling, laser tag, movies and game nights.

This event is held the third Thursday of each month.

Visit leecountyautism.com for more information.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants.

Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@gmail. com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• The Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group meets at the Health Resource Center at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each month.

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends.

Call 334-528-1076 for more information.

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

SUSCC employees honored at annual Chancellor’s Awards Special to the Opelika Observer Employees from Southern Union State Community College were honored as winners of the annual Alabama Community College System’s Chancellor’s Awards during the opening of the Alabama Community College Association Conference in Montgomery Nov. 18.

The Alabama Community College System honors employees from each of the two-year colleges in Alabama at the annual awards ceremony.

The Chancellor’s Awards are designed to recognize excellence among employ-

ees in order to reward and encourage outstanding performance, creativity, and dedicated service.

The Chancellor’s Awards program is a system wide means for recognizing those individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.

Honored from Southern Union in the Class of 2018 Chancellor’s Awards were: Robin Brown, Associate Dean of Institutional Advancement, Outstanding Administrator; Sandra Johnson, Lab Assistant, Outstanding Staff Member; Steve Manos, Engineering Graphics and Design Instructor,

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Left to right: Paula Sanders, Sandra Johnson, Southern Union President Todd Shackett, Steve Manos and Robin Brown.

Outstanding Technical Faculty Member; and Paula Sanders, Science

Instructor, Outstanding Academic Faculty Member.

Opelika

B5

Family & Religion

December 05, 2018

Thinking about our feelings

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he discussion in a recent marriage class was about learning how to make our emotions work for us rather than against us. Dealing with our feelings as individuals is challenging enough, but when you are working as a couple toward oneness, things can really become complicated. Here are some principles to build from.

1. Feeling are like coffee grounds—they bring flavor to life when filtered properly. Nobody wants a cup of coffee with yucky grounds in them, but a cup of fresh brewed coffee (with no grounds) is a different story. In the same way, our emotions are powerful forces that have the potential of being absolutely delightful or terribly damaging— depending on how we handle them.

2. Our feelings are real. This is a dominant truth in our world today.

The prophets of popular culture (entertainers, talk show hosts, and

boy or girl. social media Not knowin general) ing how have all proto detergrammed us mine such along these a matter, lines. But it they took is not unique

By Bruce Green a vote and to this generTeaching Minister at decided it ation. I grew 10th Street Church of was a boy. up in a time Christ in Opelika From that when we point on, were taught they “felt” like the to say, “I feel” rather puppy was male. When than “I believe” or “I think” because that was our feelings flow from erroneous information, something that was indisputable. While that’s incorrect attitudes or other false factors— certainly true (as is the they are not reliable. idea that our feelings This is why “My feelare real), it’s also true ings are real” functionthat over-reliance upon ing as a dominant truth this and over-emphasis in our culture (or any on our feelings as the culture) isn’t healthy. basis for approaching life can get us in a lot of Look at Nike’s latest ad campaign: “Believe trouble. How so?

3. Our feelings are not in something, even if it costs you everything.” always rooted in realThis is emotional ity. My emotions (and not just those of others) marketing at its worst.

Think about it—doesn’t are not always reliable. this describe perfectly I heard a story about a the feelings of a terrorgroup of young chilist who straps explodren who came across sives to his body and a small puppy. They then detonates them? were delighted by its Rather than “believe in playfulness but wonsomething,” we should dered whether it was a

Church calendar

• Pepperell Baptist is offering a Wednesday evening ministry program from 5:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. for preschool and elementary Children called “Wow-Worship on Wednesday.” The evening program of music, Bible messages for children, crafts, fun activities, and snack begins on Sept. 5. Registration forms are filled out on the first evening. Contact Ryno Jones Childrens, Youth Minister, or Beth Pinyerd at 334-7453108.

• Trinity Christian School would like to invite the public to their school band Christ-

Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika

mas concert at Lakeview Baptist, 1600 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn at 6 p.m. Dec. 6.

The Christmas band includes 5th-12th grade students. The event is free.

• Christian comedian Tim Hawkins will perform at First Baptist Church of Opelika Feb. 7. Besides comedy, Hawkins is known for his songwriting and singing abilities. For more information or ticketing options, visit www. timhawkins.brushfire.com.

Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com.

314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, Opelika, ALAL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun12pm 12pm-6pm Sun - 6pm

CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive #745-6377 CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460

be interested in believing in what is true, right and good. You can be assured that the people at Nike know better than to just “believe in something.” They did their market analysis and knew their slogan would sell shoes with the demographic they had targeted. They weren’t relying on their feelings. Our feelings are real, but they are not always reality and we must understand the difference.

4. It is easier to act our way into feeling better than to feel our way into acting better. When we wait until we feel like doing something, it often goes undone. When we go ahead and do what is right, feeling “good” about it will follow— maybe not immediately, but it will come. Doing something despite not feeling like it is not hypocrisy, it is maturity.

Where would the world be if no one got out of bed until “they felt like it?” We get out of bed

and the feeling follows.

5. Our goal in life shouldn’t be to feel good about everything. The reality of our world is that sin has entered into it and as long as it is present, we won’t be able to feel good about everything.

Jesus didn’t and neither does God. That’s a false goal that shouldn’t be pursued. Moreover, feeling bad about something can be a strong impetus for correcting a wrong circumstance or an unhealthy situation.

Deciding to “feel good” about it (rather than doing something about it) is a form of escapism that no one benefits from.

In conclusion, emotions are wonderful servants but lousy lords.

When they are filtered through God’s word, common sense as well as the feelings of others, they enrich and bring flavor to our lives.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

Verse of the Week “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

1 Thessalonians 5:8 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922

Family Life Christian Center 601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770

pelika Observer O

B6 December 05, 2018

OBITUARIES Floyd Jackson “Jackie” Thompson, Jr. Floyd Jackson "Jackie" Thompson, Jr. was born to the late Floyd and Alice Thompson on April 22, 1953 and passed away at his home on November 29, 2018. He was 65 years old.

He retired from Uniroyal in 2000 after 30 years of faithful service.

He was preceded in death by his dog, Chip.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda Thompson; sons, Shane Thompson (Beverly), Rick Pouncey, and his daughter, Twyla Thompson; grandsons, Taylor Pouncey (Jessie), Michael Pouncey; granddaughter, Jessica Core; sisters, Shirley Kelley (Lee Roy), Wanda McCary (Richard), and BeWylene Herring Bush Mrs. Wylene Herring Bush, of Beauregard, Alabama, passed away on November 26, 2018.

Wylene was born to Altha Lee and Kembrough Walters Herring on July 7, 1930 in the Herring Community in Beauregard.

Wylene was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Lloyd Bush, son-inlaw Stanley Richards,

linda Brown; niece, Karen Ingram; nephews, Gerald Kelley, Josh McCary, JP McCary, and their families.

Some fine young men that grew up with his kids that were just like family, Josh Turner, Ricky Dreyer, Bryan Johnson and many others.

Visitation was held on Sunday, December 2, 2018 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Monday, December 3, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. with Elder, Phillip Saylor from Fountain Gate Church officiating.

Interment followed at Hephzibah Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is directed.

great-granddaughter Mary Katherine Wood, and all her siblings: Lester Herring, Helen Hinson, Mavis Chafin, Annie Ruth Cherry, Betty Jean Wright, Ray E. Herring, and Gloria Thompson.

She is survived by daughter Susan Patrick and her husband Michael, daughter Cathy Richards, grandchildren Amy Patrick Wood and her husband John, Jim

Louise Samford (Mickey) Groom Ms. Louise Samford (Mickey) Groom of Opelika passed away at UAB University Hospital November 26, 2018.

Funeral services for Ms. Groom were Friday, November 30, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Opelika. Interment followed at Rosemere Cemetery.

Reverends George Mathison and Robin Wilson officiated. Visitation was Friday, November 30, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 pm. at First United Methodist Church Sanctuary.

Ms. Groom was born November 24, 1933 in Atlanta, Georgia to parents, Dr. Millard and

Patrick and his wife Toni, Justin Richards and his wife Juliet, Ashley Richards, and Adam Richards, and great-grandchildren Caroline, Thomas, and Abigail Wood, Jemma and Braxton Richards.

Wylene loved her Lord and her church, Providence Baptist, where she taught first grade Sunday school for many years and was a longtime member of the church

City of Opelika suspends rules on cemetery decorations through Jan. 6 Special to the Opelika Observer Mayor Gary Fuller has conferred with Public Works Director Mike Hilyer and has issued an order to “suspend” the rules at Opelika cemeteries starting last Saturday and through Jan. 6, 2019 governing the placement of floral arrangements, wreaths and trinkets on graves, allowing loved ones to place extra holiday wreaths, flower

arrangements (in a separate container) and trinkets on the graves.

The city rules require that there can only be one flower arrangement per grave lot, unless the monument provides its own flower receptacle. Flower receptacles of any kind (glass, wood, plastic, tin, cement) are prohibited and no flowerpots are (normally) allowed to remain on the lawn area beside gravesites.

The only excep-

tion to this rule is the flowers placed on gravesites from funerals which have occurred within the past week. Also, two trinkets or whatnots per lot are permitted if placed on the base of the monument.

The rules will go back into effect and be enforced once again on Jan. 7, 2019. Any wreaths or separate floral arrangements or extra trinkets left out at that time will be removed from the gravesites on Jan. 7.

Tomb N' Groom Crew, LLC ✓ We repair and maintain cemeteries ✓ We manage cemetery restoration projects ✓ We safely clean markers & monuments Located in Opelika, AL

Gwendolyn Samford.

She owned and operated Oak Bowery Farms in Opelika, AL and was a retired teacher from the Opelika School District.

In 1985, she won the Ladies Amateur World Grand Championship on her horse, Powerful Threat. She recently received the Walking Horse Lady Rider of the Year award.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Millard and Gwendolyn Samford; and brothers, John Samford and Millard Samford.

Ms. Groom is survived by her daughters: Gwen Ingram of Opelika, Louise Cardoza (Michael) of Auburn and Sam Taylor (Jimmy) of Opelika; brother, Wes Samford (Joy) of Birmingham;

grandchildren: Lindsey Owens (Matt) of Auburn, Emily Prescott (Lamar) of Opelika, Andrew Cardoza of Mainland, China, Jacob Taylor (Logan) of Opelika, Clayton Taylor of Opelika, Sydney Cardoza of Ridgewood, New Jersey, Samuel Cardoza of Madrid, Spain and Will Ingram of Opelika; and six great-grandchildren.

The family requests donations be made in memory of Ms. Louise S. Groom to UAB Gift Records, 1720 2nd Avenue S Birmingham, AL 35294-0112, Phone # 205-934-7242. Flowers can be sent to JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

choir. She and her husband, Lloyd, owned and operated Bush’s Grocery on Highway 51 when their children were young. Later, she received training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant and cared for many mothers and their newborn infants at East Alabama Medical Center.

Wylene was known for her cooking and could always be found in the kitchen. She found

great joy in cooking for friends and family.

Her family will greatly miss their sweet, godly mother and grandmother, even as they celebrate her arrival in her heavenly home.

Visitation for family and friends was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 4, 2018.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at 12:00 noon at Provi-

dence Baptist Church East Campus with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Interment followed at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in memory of Wylene H. Bush, to Providence Baptist Church Music Ministry, 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika, Alabama 36804.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Norma Jackson

Alabama, was born May 19, 1964 in Macon County, Alabama.

Public viewing was Monday, December 3, 2018, from 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Ms. Jackson lain in repose at the church one hour prior to the service.

Survivors include: two children, Brianna Carlisle and JaDarrion Jackson both of Opelika, AL; mother, Mozell Carlisle of Opelika, AL; four grandchildren, Kahlia Brown, Kayden Carlisle, Kayon Menifield and Aayden Williams;

three sisters, Dorothy Reese, Ruth Strickland and Shirley Inez Meadows all of Opelika, AL; five brothers, Willie James Carlisle, Jr., John Carlisle, Eugene Carlisle, Lester Carlisle and Chester (Linda) Carlisle all of Opelika, AL; one aunt, Sarah Mitchell of Opelika, AL; two uncles, J.B. Mitchell and John Albert Mitchell; four special friends, Julie Vidal, Anita Calhoun, Patricia Pinkard and Donna Hughley; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Alabama.

A memorial video tribute was on Friday, November 30, 2018, during the hours of 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Mr. Crowder lain in state at the church one hour prior to the service.

There was no public viewing.

Survivors include: seven children, Felicia (Chester) Knight, Marcus Preston, April Preston of Opelika, AL, Tawasha Crowder of Phenix City, AL, Corey Preston of Opelika, AL, Marquita (Cemal) Parnell of Warner Robins, GA

and LaKeria Crowder of Opelika, AL; two brothers, James Lamar Crowder of Auburn, AL and Kenneth Crowder, Sr. (Robin) of Opelika, AL; two sisters, Loretta Crowder (Lester) and Joyce Crowder both of Opelika, AL; five grandchildren, RaQuavious Crowder, Miketavious Crowder, Ambrea Jones, Collen Anderson and Tyquan Nelms; uncle, Andrew Dowell (Willie Ruth) of Opelika, AL; aunt, Lorraine Dowell of Warren, OH; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral service for Norma Jackson, 54, of Opelika, AL, was held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at Bethel No. 2 Missionary Baptist Church, 1785 Lee Road 29, Opelika, with interment in Zion At The Hill A.M.E. Zion Church Cemetery, Reverend Eddie Story, Pastor, Reverend Leon Marshall, eulogist.

Ms. Jackson, who passed away Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at her home in Opelika, Larry Crowder Funeral service for Larry Crowder, 62, of Opelika, AL, was held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 1, 2018, at Thompson Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, 187 Columbus Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801 with interment in Evergreen Cemetery, Reverend Charles Adams, Pastor, Bishop Nolan T. Torbert, Eulogist.

Mr. Crowder, who passed away Monday, November 26, 2018 at his home in Opelika, AL, was born February 28, 1956 in Lee County,

Serving east Alabama & west Georgia 334-744-9809 www.tombgroomcrew.com

To place an obituary in the Opelika Observer, please email

editor@opelikaobserver.com

For pricing call 749-8003

pelika O Observer

B7 December 05, 2018

Opelika christmas puts a gleam in children’s eyes

Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer

I

t is Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas in Opelika!

Lights and decorations everywhere reflect the excitement and joy this season brings to our families. A seasonal Railroad Town welcome of the Christmas season cannot be found anywhere else.

Children raised in this area are so fortunate to have parades, Victorian Front Porch Christmas tours, holiday movie showings, Christmas band concerts, parks decorated in the Christmas spirit, neighborhoods coming together to spread Christmas cheer, churches, schools, libraries having special events, etc.

The Opelika community is so fortunate that our town and surrounding areas still thrill children with our Christmas traditions. We are a com-

munity that believes in sharing and helping others.

Creating Christmas memories for your children is often found in doing simple things for others. Young children find great joy and pleasure in making and creating their own gifts to give. Our community preschools and schools are so good to include Christmas crafts and gift making in their plans and schedules.

Our post offices are friendly to children and families. As you begin to embark on mailing out Christmas cards to family and friends over the next few weeks of the holiday season, include your child in showing them the pictures on the cards, letting them mark or sign their names and putting on the stamps.

Have your preschool and elementary age

children mail a card to themselves.

As you begin decorating your home for the holiday season, include your child’s decorations to put throughout the house. These build memories for your child. However, be childproof safety conscious as you embark on decorating your homes.

In preparing for Christmas, choosing children’s Christmas toys can be a joy, but a challenge too. Toys provide valuable learning experiences for different children at different ages, as families remember that quantity is not quality for young children. Since extended family may give a child so much, why not rotate these gifts and let them play with a few at a time. This way, young children are provided with new toys and learning experiences throughout the year.

Infants and toddlers learn much through seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling and tasting. Choose toys that an infant or toddler can hold, squeeze, touch, poke, toss or twist; they’ll keep a child entertained for a long time.

Toddlers love to open and close items; purchase toys where they can push buttons and

open doors. Because infants and toddlers like to taste, make sure you are alert to what your young child is putting in their mouths; buy toys that are safe.

Think “big” when you buy toys for children this age. For safety, purchase big toys without a lot of small parts.

Twos. threes, fours and fives learn by hand.

They love to draw with crayons, markers and paint. Washable markers, crayons and water colors are items to purchase for this age and they are inexpensive.

Building blocks, whether wooden or plastic are a favorite.

Also, young children love to roll Play-Doh. This age level enjoys riding tricycles as well as bikes with training wheels. Simple musi-

cal instruments can be bought at inexpensive prices.

Dolls, tea sets, dressup clothes, simple home living items such as play stoves, play refrigerators and plastic food sets are valuable learning tools to add to the Christmas list.

Simple puzzles with large pieces as well as simple board games are enjoyed by children this age. Children love to look at books as well.

Six, seven and eightyear-old children seem to focus more on hobbies. With older children they feel more like “little adults” or more grown-up. They have their favorite songs, jewelry, T-shirts, car and airplane models, age-appropriate video games and computer games. This age

groups likes to collect items like stamps, cards or coins. They also have a keen interest in sports, playing ball, skating, swimming, etc.

At eight through 12 years of age, children generally get into hobbies, sports, music, arts and crafts. They like to choose the clothes they wear. This age group will usually tell the parents what they like and don’t so this makes shopping easier.

Of course computer, games, and videos are favorites for all the family!

The School and Library Corner Trinity Methodist Children’s Day Out Preschool Group has invited local author Maggie Meadows Cooper to share the sweet heartfelt story of “Bumper.” This event will take place on Dec. 10.

The annual “Fa La La Festival” will take place at Opelika’s Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library at 200 S. 6th St. in Opelika, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. 2 p.m. This free event will feature fun, crafts, Christmas activities for the family to spend time together and shake off the stress of school. It is perfect for all ages but is focused on preschoolers - fifth graders.

B8 December 05, 2018

pelika O Observer

Opelika wrestling takes on Benjamin Russell

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Oberver

Agee,

from B1

Auburn University, where he was a four-year starter at fullback as lead blocker for Bo Jackson.

He finished his college career with 356 carries, 1,733 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the 5th Round of the 1987 NFL Draft.

He played one year for the Seahawks, one year for the Kansas City Chiefs and five years for

the Dallas Cowboys.

While he was with the Cowboys, they won two consecutive Super Bowl Championships (Super Bowl XXVII and XXVIII). After his football career, he returned to the area and worked as the assistant director for the Opelika Parks and

Recreation Department.

In July, he left Opelika and joined the City of Andalusia as the Director of Leisure Services and special assistant to Mayor Earl Johnson.

Bill Burgess, Willie Davenport, Luis Gonzalez, Bud Moore, Antonio Langham, Steve Savarese and Catherine Reddick Whitehill are the class's other inductees.

Starting with the first class in 1969, this will be

the 51st Class inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. The eight newly elected inductees will bring the total number of inductees to 361.

The 51st Induction Banquet and Ceremony will be held in the Birmingham Ballroom, at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. For more information, call the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Museum at 205323-6665.

& Flea Mall

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Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, December 05, 2018

Inside the Statehouse

N

ow that the dust has settled on this year’s elections, let’s look back at who are the big winners and losers of the year.

The obvious winner in the Heart of Dixie is the Republican Party.

The GOP retained the reins of the state’s highest office and every other statewide Constitutional position. Kay Ivey was elected governor, overwhelmingly, as was Will Ainsworth as Lt. Governor, John Merrill as Secretary of State, John McMillan as State Treasurer, Rick Pate as Agriculture Commissioner, Jim Ziegler as State Auditor, Jeremy Oden and Chip Beeker as PSC members. Our entire judiciary is Republican, all members of the Supreme Court, and Courts of Criminal and Civil Appeals.

There are 29 state-

By Steve Flowers

wide office holders and all 29 are Republican. However, more importantly the Legislature is overwhelmingly Republican.

More than two-thirds of both the House and the Senate are Republicans. That’s what you call a super majority. Our Republican legislature can pass anything they want without a Democratic vote or letting Democrats speak.

Our Congressional delegation is made up of six Republicans and one lone Democrat.

Folks, that makes us a pretty red state.

Several years ago, I had the honor of being a keynote speaker at the Boys State 75th Anniversary.

I had attended Boys State 45 years earlier as a high school leader and aspiring young politico. I shared with these future political leaders this advice,

By Steve Flowers

“If you plan to run for statewide office in Alabama even if you believe you are a Democrat, you will need to run as a Republican.” This year’s election reaffirmed and confirmed that truth.

Winning the GOP Primary in Alabama is tantamount to election.

Therefore, to pick the biggest individual winner of the year, you have to look back to the GOP Primary.

Young Will Ainsworth, a 37-year old Sand Mountain Legislator/businessman emerges as the Gold Star award winner of the year in Alabama politics. His victory as Lt. Governor has propelled him onto the

state political scene as the most prominent rising star. He was the top vote getter in the state on Nov. 6. He is a clean-cut, successful, family man who has been vetted by a high profile, statewide race.

The second biggest winner of the year was the loser of the GOP Primary for Lt. Gov. Twinkle Cavanaugh.

In all my years of following Alabama politics, I have never seen a more graceful and gracious second place finisher. She only lost by an eyelash. She genuinely smiled on election night and said she had not gotten the most votes, even though she could have contested such a closely defined outcome. She had entered the race as the favorite having been elected three times statewide.

During October, she held a fundraiser for Will Ainsworth in her

Montgomery home.

She will never be seriously challenged in her post as president of the PSC. Speaking of rising stars, the third runner up is a young 18-year old fellow from Geneva County.

Weston Spivey became the youngest elected official in the state by winning a County Commission seat in his home county. He won the GOP Primary before he was graduated from high school at Ridgecrest Christian School in Dothan. Young Spivey is also a volunteer firefighter with the Slocomb Fire Department. You should keep your eye on young Weston Spivey. He may become governor of Alabama before he is 30.

Besides Will Ainsworth, there were two other Republicans who were top vote getters.

Governor Kay Ivey and Secretary of State, John Merrill.

The biggest loser has to be the Democratic Party and our current anomaly, junior Democratic U.S. Sen. Doug Jones. Jones won this seat until 2020.

Because he was on the other side of the ballot than Roy Moore in the 2017 special election.

Every left wing, ultraliberal group and individual in the country gave to Jones to beat Moore.

Jones has never hidden the fact that he is a liberal, national Democrat. He showed his true colors when he voted against President Trump’s Supreme Court appointee Brett Kavanaugh. Jones voted against this highly qualified jurist to appease his contributors in San Francisco and his like-minded Democratic budSee Flowers, page B11

Letter in support of H.R. 2957, Rogers: ready to be Homeland the ‘Save Rural Hospitals’ Act Security’s conservative champion Dear Members of Congress: On behalf of Rolonda Burks, Christina Witt, and members of Rural Medical Programs at The University of Alabama, we strongly urge the Alabama Congressional Delegation to support H.R. 2957, the Save Rural Hospital Act. This critically important bill will stop the flood of rural hospital closures that is occurring nationwide and ensure needed access to

care for rural Alabama and other rural Americans.

Eighty-three rural hospitals have closed and counting, including five hospitals within the state of Alabama alone. An additional 674 facilities are vulnerable to closure—this represents more than onethird of rural hospitals in the United States. In fact, the rate of closures has steadily increased since sequester and high debt began to hit rural

hospitals, resulting in a closure rate five times higher in 2016 as compared to 2010.

Continued cuts in hospital reimbursements have taken their toll, forcing far too many closures. Medical deserts are appearing across rural America, leaving many of our nation’s most vulnerable populations without timely access to care and causing the economies of rural See Letters, page B14

Special to the Opelika Observer Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement last week after being chosen to serve as Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security in the 116th Congress.

“I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to serve as Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security. Having served on the Committee since its incep-

tion in 2005, I have the experience and expertise needed to lead conservative homeland security efforts in the House. Most importantly, I stand ready to fight for President Trump’s national security priorities including building the wall. I am proud to be the voice for Republicans’ principals on critical security issues facing our nation, and I’ll bring that to the Committee on the first day of the 116th Congress,” Rogers said.

Congressman Kevin

McCarthy, (R-CA) who will serve as Minority Leader in the 116th Congress added, “I am looking forward to having Mike Rogers as the leading Republican on the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Protecting America and the American people has been a top priority for every Republican in Congress and Mike has been a championing voice. I know Mike will keep that See Rogers, page B14

pelika O Observer

B10 December 05, 2018

Skelton,

from B1

and innovation in her classroom is not unnoticed by her peers. I enjoy getting the chance to sit in her classroom and get ideas and inspiration to use with my own students,” Beaver said.

Upon being notified of the award via an email on Monday, Skelton said that it was a total surprise and she was still in shock.

“To be recognized as the Alabama recipient is overwhelming because there is phenomenal teaching going on in Alabama—espe-

cially in the Opelika City Schools.I truly appreciate the support of my principal, Mr. Keith York, for allowing me to be creative and step out of the box,” Skelton said.

Opelika City Schools would like to congratulate Skelton on receiving this prestigious award.

Super 7,

from B2

times.

2A Championship 3 p.m.

Piedmont 12-2 : scored 462 points (33 points-per-game average) allowed 233 points (16.6 points-per-game average). Third title game appearance in four years, which they won

in 15-16.

Flomaton 11-3 scored 411 points for 29.4 avg, allowed 247 points for 17.6 avg. Never advanced to semifinals prior to this year.

6A Championship -7 p.m.

Pinson Valley 12-1 scored 495 points for 38.1 avg. allowed 167 points for 12.8 points. Coach Patrick Nix returns to JordanHare where he played

quarterback for Auburn.

Bo Nix, an Auburn commit, is responsible for more than 12,000 yards in his high school career.

Saraland 13-1, scored 444 points (31.7 pointsper-game average) while allowing 145 points (10.4 points-pergame average). Coach Jeff Kelly is making his third appearance and second with Saraland.

Fans are urged to

purchase tickets online at super7al.com, $12 per ticket plus a $1.50 surcharge.

Tickets are $15 at the gate.

Fans can listen to all seven games on iheart radio presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic. 11 a.m. games on 1520 AM WTLM, 3 p.m. games on 910 AM WZMG and 7 p.m. games on Kicker FM 97.7.

OH WHAT FUN IT IS...

Your Christmas Destination

OPELIKA, ALABAMA The City has upgraded its downtown holiday decorations this year. Be on the lookout for photo opportunities. We invite you and your family to share your favorite memories on social media and use #MyOpelikaChristmas. Enjoy the twinkling lights, new Christmas tree decorations, gigantic ornament settabouts and more. Ho, Ho, Ho! We are already feeling the Christmas spirit. Are you?

CHRISTMAS IN CAMELOT

Month of December • 4:30 - 10 p.m.

Off of Rocky Brook Road VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH DRIVING TOUR December 5-9 • 5 - 10 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com CRAFTER-HOURS BOOK ARTS BOOK PAGE TREES December 6 • 6 - 7pm Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library

OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT December 11 • 7 p.m.

Opelika Center for Performing Arts REINDEER EXPRESS December 13 - 15 5 -8 p.m. • Monkey Park $1 train rides Children 2nd grade and younger

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH BIKE TOUR December 6 • 6 p.m.

COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES December 14 • 5 - 9 p.m.

51th Anniversary Off of 10th Street

CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN December 7 • 6 - 9 p.m. opelikamainstreet.org

FA-LA-LA FESTIVAL December 21 • 10 a.m. - Noon Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH WALKING TOUR December 8 • 6 - 9:30 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com HOLIDAY MOVIE AT THE PLEX: THE GRINCH December 8 6 -8 p.m. • Free Opelika SportsPlex

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: • City of Opelika • Opelika Parks & Rec • Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library • Opelika Chamber of Commerce • Opelika Main Street • Victorian Front Porch Tour • AO Tourism • Opelika City Schools

#MYOPELIKACHRISTMAS

pelika O Observer

B11 December 05, 2018

Flowers,

LEGALS IN THE MATTER OF THE CONSERVATORSHIP OF EARL DIXON, (a non compos mentis, ) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA (SHARON DIXON, Conservator) NOTICE OF CONSERVATOR’S SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that SHARON DIXON, the Conservator of EARL DIXON, a non compos mentis, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, the detailed accounts, vouchers and statements for final settlement of her conservatorship of EARL DIXON, covering the period from September 22, 2017 through October 8, 2018 and that the 19th day of December, 2018 at

1:00 o’clock p.m. has been appointed as the day for making said final settlement in this Court and that any person interested therein may appear and contest the same if he sees fit to do so.

This the 19th day of November, 2018.

BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 368032345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 11/21, 11/28 & 12/05/2018 Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location

indicated: Extra Space Storage 1412 Opelika Road Auburn AL, 36830 on 12/19/2018 2:00 PM. Monisha Smith Unit# D68 217 Camellia Ave Opelika AL 36 Opelika, AL, 36801 One bedroom suite, TV, 5 boxes, wine rack Marilyn Smith Unit# 205 536 Shelton Mill Rd. Auburn, Al, 36830 Toys, Fabric, Thread Sandra Fuentes Unit# 207 3526 Lee Rd 137 Lot 30 Auburn, AL, 36832 Household furniture, boxes, etc.

Marc Burns Unit# 259 683 Anders Ct Auburn, AL, 36830 Household furniture and boxes Jekivion Silmon Unit# S333

626 MLK Dr Lafayette, AL, 36862 Dresser, bed/frame Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 11/28/18 & 12/05/18 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES PHILLIP WILLETTS, (DECEASED) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary

having been granted to Ceretha Haywood Willetts, as Executrix of the Estate of James Phillip Willetts, deceased, on the 16th day of November, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

PREPARED BY: Blake L. Oliver Adams White & Oliver, LLP 205 S. 9th Street, P. O. Box 2069 Opelika, AL 368032069 (334) 745-6466 Legal Run 11/28/18, 12/05/18 and 12/12/2018

from B9

dies, Chuck Schumer, Elizabeth Warren, and Diane Feinstein. We essentially have only one U.S. Senator. We have ceded our second seat to California.

Jones believes in the old adage, “You dance with the one who brung ya.” Hope he is renting in Washington because Alabamians are the ones that vote in 2020.

By the way, if you have Richard Shelby as your Senior Senator, you really don’t need a second senator.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in more than 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Looking for Work English tutor, proofreader, editor for writings available now. Qualified for high school, college, business and translation work. Email embak@me.com

Help Wanted CyberZone is currently hiring for a variety of positions: Saturday and night

availability is required. Interviews start next week.

Immediate openings for: • Supervisor, experience required, avg 25-35 hours per week • Key Holder, experience required, avg 15-25 hours per week • Attractions Rotation, avg. 5-15 hours per week • Event Coordinator,

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paced, high energy environment, selfmotivation, initiative, and a drive for excellence.

For Rent 809 2nd Avenue 7000 sq. ft. commercial building for rent or sale.

Contact The Brown Agency at 334-7453584 or visit thebrownagency.com/ rentals/listing/127

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ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214 GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHERS AUNTS UNCLES EMPLOYERS NEIGHBORS COUSINS NEPHEWS FIRST RESPONDERS DOCTORS HELP STOP THE ABUSE PARENTS FRIENDS FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS TEACHERS IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT SONS DAUGHTERS NURSES GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHER HPV 4 out of 5 vaccine can people will prevent get HPV in at least 6 their lives.

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alabamapublichealth.gov/imm

COURAGEFORALL.COM

a message of the Alabama Department of Mental Health

ELDER ABUSE

“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

B12 December 05, 2018

pelika Observer O

Last week’s answers:

11-28 Scramblers Answers: 1. Margin, 2. Fixate, 3. Kindle, 4. Docile Solution: Inflation

pelika Observer O

B13 December 05, 2018

COMICS

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

B14 December 05, 2018

Letter,

from B9

communities to erode.

H.R. 2957 will stabilize rural hospitals by providing commonsense regulatory relief and stemming cuts in Medicare that are causing rural hospitals to close. Additionally, the resolution will create an innovative delivery model that will ensure emergency access to care for rural patients across the nation.

Keeping rural hospitals open makes

fiscal sense. Critical access hospitals make up nearly 25 percent of acute care hospitals but receive less than 5 percent of total Medicare payments to hospitals.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services actually spends 2.5 percent fewer on rural beneficiaries than it does on urban beneficiaries. Additionally, rural health care can represent as much as 20 percent of a local economy, and rural hospitals are often one of the two largest employers in a rural county.

The average critical

pelika O Observer access hospital alone creates 170 jobs and generates $7.1 million in wages, salaries, and benefits annually.

Rural hospitals are critical to 62 million rural Americans. Rural Medicare beneficiaries already face a number of challenges when trying to access health care services close to home. Seventy-seven percent of rural counties in the United States are Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas, while 9 percent have no physicians at all. Rural seniors are forced to travel signifi-

cant distances for care, especially specialty care. Additionally, rural populations as a whole are more likely to be underinsured or uninsured, poorer than their urban counterparts, and experience more chronic diseases.

Rural America cannot afford these closures.

Please save rural hospitals by supporting H.R. 2957.

Sincerely, Rolonda Burks and Christina Witt Rural Community Health Scholars - The University of Alabama

Rogers,

from B9

steadfast leadership as he approaches this new role.�

Background Congressman Rogers will be Alabama’s only House member to serve as a Ranking Member in the 116th Congress. He has served on the Committee on Homeland Security since 2005 and has served as a subcommittee chairman or ranking member on three separate occasions. Moving into the next Congress, Congressman Rogers will continue

to focus on defending our borders, visa security and protecting our transportation systems across the nation. Further, as the threat environment of tomorrow changes, Congressman Rogers will spend considerable time discussing , including the security of cloud computing, artificial intelligence and hardening our critical infrastructure. Each of these issues presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for the Committee and Congressman Rogers will be steadfast in examining them and their impacts on national security.