Opelika Observer

pelika O Observer

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Vol. 10, No. 29

Opelika, Alabama

“By local people, for local people.”

OPD, LCSO representatives make history at national competition

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Two representatives from the Opelika Police Department and Lee County Sheriff's Office turned in a top-notch performance at a recent marksmanship competition in Clearwater, Florida.

Hosted by Snipercraft Inc., the fourday event featured group seminars and challenges designed to test the mental and physical competencies of its participants, who are active police or military snipers.

“SniperWeek is a unique training event for police and military snipers.

It combines two days of comprehen-

Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library receives 2018 Silver Standard Award for excellence

sive classroom lectures and presentations with two days of intense, job-related range training and competition,” according to an event posting on the Snipercraft webpage. “(It) is recognized as the largest, and longest running police sniper training event of its kind in the world.”

The duo, both members of the Lee County SWAT team, edged out 44 other teams from 25 states to win Alabama’s first-ever title. They also made history by leading both days of the competition en route to finishing with the largest margin of victory in the 26-year history of the competition.

OPD Capt. Bobby Kilgore said these officers’ achievements reflect

the vast amount of work and energy put into the task of protecting Opelika and its citizens.

“We are tremendously proud of both of these officers for their accomplishment. It says that our officers are trained to an incredibly high standard ... that we value training, that we put a lot of emphasis and resources on training, and for us, that never stops,” Kilgore said. “It benefits our citizens in the way that if there’s ever a need to use this type of force, they can be confident that our officers are going to use it correctly and precisely.”

For privacy and security reasons, the officers involved asked to remain nameless in this article.

Opelika City Council, Mayor Gary Fuller recognize members of the Lady Bulldogs basketball team, WWII veteran ‘Boody’ Brown, longtime employees at recent meeting

Robert Noles/ Opelika Observer

By Lawton Vallely For the Opelika Observer

Shawn Kirkpatrick/Opelika Observer

By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer It’s a first for the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library and for its director, Rosanna McGinnis.

The library received the 2018 Silver Standard Award for Public Libraries. The Silver Award serves as a benchmark for other public libraries across the state.

Two years ago, when McGinnis became director of the library, she said it wasn’t up to standard to apply for any award.

“When I first got here I knew about the Silver Award, but I ran the numbers, and we didn’t even qualify for the Bronze Award. We worked really hard to get rid of the items that were dated, worn out materials and bring in new books, DVDs and audiobooks that people wanted to check out.”

Library directors from across the state submit a long list of services their libraries offer. Then, the facility is rated on planning, administration, the facility, collection, services, technology and several

The Opelika City Council held an extensive meeting Tuesday night.

Highlights of the hourlong meeting included the approval of two project agreements that will bring more than 30 new jobs to the Opelika area. In addition, the council approved

an LGBTQ- themed parade slated for June 1.

The council also recognized various outstanding members of the Opelika community. The Lady Bulldogs basketball team

was recognized for their participation in the Final Four as well as 15 city employees for their excellent performance and service.

See Council, page A11

‘Y.E.S., I Run Opelika Sue Bell Cobb talks platforms, issues in Leadership Class’ to run for governorship begin in August

Cobb

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice and current Democratic gubernatorial candidate Sue Bell Cobb visited with Opelika Observer staff last Wednesday to discuss her ideas and platforms to tackle

Equipping area youth to become future leaders is the goal of the “Y.E.S. (Young Empowered Students), I Run Opelika Leadership Class,” which is slated to begin in August.

Organized by Opelika native and 20-Under-40 member Andre Marcus, the nine-month course

statewide issues.

Following is a background on Cobb and an overview of her core beliefs and values that will guide her as Alabama’s governor if elected.

See Cobb, page A9

See Library, page A3

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

RELIGION.................................B3 LEGALS.......................................B9 ENTERTAINMENT.......................B14 CALENDAR.............................B16

Marcus

is open to Opelika City Schools students and will provide them with opportunities to learn and engage with their See YES, page A2

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A2 April 25, 2018

Courthouse Square receives a ‘bubble bath’ Sunday

Special to the Opelika Observer An unidentified person dumped a soap solution into the fountain at Courthouse Square Sunday morning. Pictured are the suds it produced.

YES, from A1

community.

“The ultimate goal of this program is to give these kids exposure to our city, exposure to the way our city runs and give them the empowerment and direction needed toward a career path,” Marcus said.

Similar in format to the Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s “20-Under-40” Program and “Leadership Lee County,” Marcus said course participants will be given bimonthly, on-site mentoring/training sessions through partnerships he has made with the City of Opelika, Opelika Police Department, Southern Union State Community College and more.

“For example, I have doctors and VCOM

(Auburn University’s Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine) students that are going to lead a two-hour discussion on health care. Also, I have Mallory Hagan (Democratic candidate for Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District) slated to speak one session about leadership and opportunities for youth,” Marcus said.

According to Marcus, another important aspect of the program is the instilling of civic pride, a way of preparing Opelika youth to be the city’s future leaders.

“I think it’s important to have the youth involved in the input of our city because our youth, our high schoolers, are the future of our city. I’ve lived here for 25 years, and I’ve learned so much about our city, things I didn’t even know, through being a member of 20-Under-40,” Marcus said. “And I think

that knowledge will be even more beneficial for 15,16 and 17-year-old kids. It’ll help them and the city grow.”

Part of a larger umbrella program called “I Run My City” which recently became a 501c3 nonprofit, Marcus said he plans to expand the program into Loachapoka and Auburn in spring 2019.

“At the end of the day, I hope that this program will enable kids to stay here in the area or come back one day and be able to give back and pave the way for future generations,” Marcus said.

For more information, visit www.irunopelika. com or their Facebook page. Because of strong community interest, Marcus said they have expanded the number of openings to 60. Applications will be available May 7 once the “Y.E.S., I Run Opelika” portion of the website goes live.

Summer Swing concert series to begin May 1

By Morgan Murphy For the Opelika Observer

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

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Ready to enjoy live music on a warm summer evening in Opelika? Look no further than Summer Swing at Municipal Park every Tuesday evening beginning May 1 at 7 p.m.

This musical tradition consists of a 13-week concert series that showcases a wide variety of genres including: gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, oldies, country, big band swing, folk and community band music.

The Opelika Band Boosters will be preparing hamburgers and hotdogs from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for a nominal fee, and Charter Bank will be providing complimentary lemonade during each concert.

There will also be free rides on the Rocky Brook Rocket.

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Phone: 334.749.8003 Fax: 334.749.8009 editor@opelikaobserver.com

Following is a full schedule for the 2018 Summer Swing series: May 1: OHS Symphonic, Concert and Jazz Bands May 8: Lee-Scott Academy Jazz Band May 15: East Alabama Community Band May 22: Kidd Blue May 29: Crossroads June 5: Bill J. Brooks - ELVIS Lives!

June 12: Route 66 June 19: Conner Loore, Neil Diamond and Friends Show June 26: Muse July 10: Martha’s Trouble July 17: Fedoras July 24: James Brown Trio July 31: Back to School Bash This event is free and open to the public. For more information call 334-7055560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.

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

w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or

Return to: Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th St. / Opelika, AL 36801

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quested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.

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A3 April 25, 2018

Gov. Kay Ivey signs ‘Sadie Grace Dinan Engineering Andrews’ act into law Friday relocating to Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed SB258, the Sadie Grace Andrews Act, into law yesterday. The legislation, sponsored

by Sen. Tom Whatley (R-Auburn), requires commercial food service establishments to secure the covers of grease traps in order to restrict unauthorized access.

In October 2017, 3-year-old Sadie Grace Andrews drowned in a 6-footdeep grease trap outside of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream on East University Drive in Auburn.

After the tragic, accidental death at the ice cream parlor, Sen. Whatley promised to work with Sadie’s family to find a way to prevent further accidents.

“It was a distinct honor to work with

Library, from A1

other categories.

“There is an extensive checklist that has to be filled out. It is a very lengthy process,” McGinnis said. “Then, we send that to the Public Libraries Division of the Alabama Library As-

the Andrews family on this legislation.

It’s always a tragedy when a life is lost due to an oversight. It’s even more tragic when that life is a child’s,” Whatley said. “I want to thank Governor Ivey and my colleagues in the House and Senate for working to ensure a tragedy like this never happens again.”

Sadie’s family was on hand as the Governor signed the act into law. During a Health and Human Services Committee meeting on the legislation, Sadie’s father, Tracy Andrews, said he was “unaware that something so dangerous even existed.”

“I hope this law will help bring awareness to this issue and that it will prevent something like this from ever happening again,” Andrews said.

In addition to the Sadie Grace Andrews sociation (ALLA), and a committee evaluates it and scores it.”

Mayor Gary Fuller said McGinnis and her team are doing exceptional work at the library.

“This award just proves that their efforts are making an impact on our community. I’m a frequent visitor of the Cooper Library, so I can honestly say the improve-

Act, two other pieces of legislation sponsored by Sen. Whatley were signed by Gov. Ivey on Thursday as well.

The first, SB125, provides an exemption to the trailing trucks in a “truck platoon” from laws prohibiting a vehicle from driving too close to another when the trailing vehicle has an electronic braking device attached. This will allow officials to gather data on safety and fuel economy.

The technology was pioneered by Auburn University and the National Center for Asphalt Technology.

The second, HB242, specifies that the sales tax exemption would apply to the sale of fruit or agricultural products by the person or corporation that planted or cultivated and harvested the products. Additionally, it incorporates the sales tax exemptions

into the use tax law.

“It was a productive session. We passed the largest tax cut for Alabamians in over ten years. Because of our fiscal prudence with the budgets in years past, we were able to afford another pay raise for teachers. On a personal level, it was gratifying to sponsor real reforms, including HB242 which will ensure farmers are able to keep more of their hard-earned money,” Whatley said.

In addition to the tax cut, Whatley was instrumental in passing the largest education budget in the state’s history at $6.6 billion dollars which included the pay raise for teachers, a bonus for retired teachers and the largest percentage increase ever for Auburn University more than 3 percent.

Auburn University is Senate District 27’s largest employer.

ments, activities, projects and level of professionalism are stellar.”

McGinnis acknowledged it was all possible because of the hard work of the Cooper Library staff, the support from the City of Opelika administration and because of the people of Opelika.

“This award is particularly special to me because it’s showing me

that what we’re doing is helping, we’re changing.

We love our long-time patrons. Our goal is to reach the people that aren’t currently using the library.”

McGinnis concluded with an invitation to everyone to come to the library.

“If you haven’t been in a while, come back and see us. And a plus,

Special to the Opelika Observer Dinan Engineering, a company known for performance hardware and software for BMW, Mercedes and MINI vehicles, announced last Wednesday that they are relocating to Opelika.

The move represents a consolidation of assets for Driven Performance Brands, which has several companies under its umbrella that specialize in various high-performance and racing products.

“We are excited about Dinan moving to Opelika, which will bring more good-paying jobs to our community. We’re always proud to announce growth in Opelika,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

Owned by DPB since 2013, Dinan was founded with a focus on products for BMW owners.

DPB also owns APR, which already has a 78,000-square-foot campus in Opelika. Moving

we are now ‘fine free.’ If you have any fines, those have been wiped out. We want to make sure we are a community hub, not just a warehouse of books.”

McGinnis said her next goal for the library is to receive the 2019 Gold Award. “Several factors play into that: how many books we circulate, how many people have library

Dinan from Morgan Hill, California, to the same location will allow the two companies to combine some resources while still maintaining separate specialties and marketing.

"Both APR and Dinan have a proud legacy of highly engineered products of the finest quality – and a legacy of unmatched performance that has been researched, developed and proven on the racetrack," said APR President and CEO Mitch Williams. "We welcome Dinan to their new home in Alabama."

According to information released by the companies, they anticipate developing relationships with the engineering program at Auburn University. A company statement said that the school "will become a top-tier talent provider for future Dinan engineering and development programs."

For more information on how to experience the “Dinan Difference,” visit www.dinancars.com.

cards, as our service grows, then we get more points. It’s a good recognition tool to show our citizens and city administration why what we do matters.”

For more information about the library or how to donate, contact McGinnis at the Cooper Library at 334-705-5385 or rmcginnis@opelika-al. gov.

Sediment: Alabama’s number-one pollutant

By Case O’Dell For the Opelika Observer Believe it or not, when it comes to Alabama’s freshwater resources, the main pollutant is sediment.

Sediment is natural, but when released in significant quantities it can have detrimental effects on water quality and lead to many other hazardous conditions.

Sediment that is suspended in water can limit the depth to which sunlight penetrates.

This decreases the presence of dissolved oxygen by lowering the functionality of photosynthetic algae and other aquatic plants that form the base of stream

and lake food chains.

Additionally, water temperature tends to rise when large amounts of sediment are introduced during storm events. This affects water chemistry and can lead to unfit conditions for many fish and other aquatic organisms. Excess sediment also clogs drains and outfalls, resulting in flooded roadways and impeded navigation. So, how does something natural get released in a way that leads to all these negative impacts?

Issues arise when construction sites and other areas under development fail to implement what are called “best management practices,” or BMPs. These

are practices and/or devices that are designed to protect stormwater through both erosion and sediment control.

Typically, this is accomplished in conjunction with phased construction, disturbance minimization and stabilization of exposed areas. BMPs range from simple seeding and mulching of bare areas to complicated water filtration systems. The combination of ineffective BMPs and poorly managed construction sites translates into problems. When rain falls on a disturbed site, the water flows through the project as stormwater. Along the way, this stormwater picks up fine soil particles

through the process of erosion. We have discussed previously the usual destination of stormwater: our creeks, streams and lakes.

But besides construction there are other, more familiar activities that have the potential to pollute streams with sediment. Improvements in the yard, land grading and working a garden or farm can all have an impact on our waters if we do not control erosion.

Earth that is disturbed during these activities is no different from earth disturbed during construction.

It all has the potential to flow into stormwater systems, and ultimately our waters, if not con-

trolled.

A muddy lake, dirt tracked into the road and flooded streets may all be symptoms of poor erosion and sediment control. Being able to identify and report problems that relate to erosion and sediment control is a key step toward improving the quality of our water. However, it is important to note that some problems are to be expected. Sites that take the utmost care in protecting stormwater by implementing BMPs and managing construction activities may still have the occasional issue. We can’t control the weather, after all.

Ensuring that sediment remains on con-

struction sites, active developments and our own properties instead of stormwater inlets, drains and infrastructure is key in helping to alleviate the burden of pollutants on Opelika’s creeks, streams and lakes. Do your part to minimize the impacts of erosion on our waters.

When you see issues, report them to the city.

Also, when working around the house, be sure to keep in mind the potential for sediment to contaminate stormwater.

O’Dell is an engineering technician with the City of Opelika. He is a Mississippi State graduate and has been with the city since 2017.

A4 April 25, 2018

pelika O Opinion

Commemorating John Pelham

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anyone but himself, wrote the hile not wanting to young Alabamian after his go overboard on this heroics at Fredericksburg, “I “Confederate Hisrejoice, dear Pelham, at your tory” thing, I do have one more success.” comment to make.

Pelham was the cavalier, the And it’s really not about the Galahad, the stainless knight, Confederacy at all.

In years past the city of Jack- By Hardy Jackson blond, boyish and brave. He was what men and women on sonville has commemorated the both sides admired. life of one of Calhoun County’s For Pelham, the war ended on a Virginia own, John Pelham, who was born in Alspring day in 1863. At a minor engagement exandria in 1838 and died in Virginia on at Kelly’s Ford, as he called to his men to March 17, 1863. “press forward to glory and victory,” a shell Paying homage to anyone or anything burst nearby and he slumped in the saddle. associated with what happened in America A fragment had entered the back of his between 1860 and 1865 is tricky, for no head. He died the next day. matter how you go about it, there are those “The noble, the chivalric, the gallant Pelwho will accuse you of “political corham is no more,” wrote his commanding rectness.” Let us understand at the outset officer J.E.B. Stuart. “Let the tears of agony -- almost everything relating to that era is politically correct to someone, right down to we have shed, and the gloom of mourning the name, “Civil War” or “War Between the throughout my command bear witness.” In States,” each of which has its supporters and another report Stuart added that Pelham’s “record has been bright and spotless, his caits detractors. reer brilliant and successful.”

I am not going to get into that. It is an Mrs. Tucker told us this and how three argument between those who care, and I am (or was it six?) Virginia girls put on mournnot one. ing. Then she told us how they place the But I do care about John Pelham, not so fallen hero in a metal coffin with a window much for the fact that he was likely one through which they could see his beautiful of the most talented artillery officers in face, unblemished by death, and took him the conflict, but because at an early age he home to Jacksonville, where every spring became, for me, a symbol of all the young flowers still bloom from cuttings that came men who go off to war and don’t come south with the bier. back.

I am not sure how much of this Mrs. To the best of my memory, Pelham was Tucker got right, but the impression she left the second Confederate soldier I knew by has stayed with me to this day. name. The first was my great-grandfather.

Thinking about John Pelham, I am reMy 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Willie Tucker, minded that there were young men on both introduced me to the “Gallant Pelham.” sides of that conflict whose records were Mrs. Tucker taught Alabama history the “bright and spotless” and whose careers way she was sure God intended it to be taught. When school opened she began with were “brilliant and successful” until war put the Indians and stayed with the Indians until an end to them.

There is little to associate Pelham with the we took our Christmas break. Returning politics of secession or with all the controin January she began telling us about John versies about that war that bedevil modern Pelham.

Americans. And dying when he did, he I remember her account. was not there for Gettysburg and the slogHe was young and handsome – she ging horror of defeat after defeat along the showed us a picture just to confirm it. And steady retreat that ended at Appomattox he was dashing, brave, and gallant – she Courthouse. Some say he might have made knew he was gallant because no one less than Robert E. Lee said so (and I had a third a difference if he had lived, but in the end, probably not. God, it is said, favors the side name to add to my Confederate pantheon).

I learned later how significant Lee’s com- with the strongest battalions.

But for a short while John Pelham repment was. The Confederacy did not give resented what we should remember about medals. “They are all heroes,” Lee reportbrave men who lose their lives fighting in edly said. So, in lieu of decorations, Conwars they did not start, and at times die for federate officers prized a mention in their little more or less than to confirm that they commander’s official reports. Pelham got are brave and worthy. his, twice, once when Lee called him “galThat, I think, is worth commemorating. lant” and again when the General wrote how Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson III is Proit was “glorious to see such courage in one fessor Emeritus of history at Jacksonville so young.”

Even his enemies were impressed. George State University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone.net.

Armstrong Custer, who seldom praised

Detours and Roundabouts

I

wound up driving back s it just me, or was in the exact same direcOpelika’s road crew tion I just came from. working on MLK by “Hmmmm…. This is the old cemetery for a gonna be interesting.” hundred years or what??

Glad to say, I’ve The first time I saw mastered the roundthe orange cones and about. And I drive it blocked intersection, I every day and things was on my way to work. By Wendy Hodge move along just fine.

“They’re changing my But… road… that’s just kinda rude,” I That road makes me sad now. It thought as I took the detour and just doesn’t feel right. Remember assumed things would be back to normal soon. The next day, I forgot how, if the light was green, you about the construction. Drove right could crest the hill by the cemetery and catch a little air? I’ve spent up to it before I remembered. “Oh, many moments stopped at that yeah...,” I sighed. Now this part is light, staring at the graveyard, tryhard to admit: THREE MONTHS ing to imagine all those stories gone LATER, I was still making my morning drive and forgetting about silent. And now, I’ll never drive that exact road again. the blasted detour. Am I the only Change – it’s tough. I’m not a one who did this? I fear I may be.

But I know there are plenty of us fan.

If I step back and look at the last who, to some extent, drive on auto year of my life, it’s surrounded pilot from time to time. We arrive by orange cones, blinking lights, at home and honestly don’t recall and barricades. Detours I have having driven the last couple of never imagined popped up out of miles. That’s the thing about rounowhere and changed everything. tine. It dulls the senses.

One great big cosmic roundabout There’s a friend of mine who brought me back to the same house lives in the Blue Ridge mountains on the same street where I grew who was kind enough to invite me up. In fact, I found myself, for a for a visit a while back. The first time I stepped onto his back porch, while, in the very same room where I stopped dead in my tracks. A field I spent my teenage years planning my escape from Hall Avenue. of the most vibrant purple flowDon’t get me wrong – my childers started almost at my feet and hood was happy, and my family stopped in the distance at the base is the best – but the world is wide, of a mountain draped in mist. The wind bent the flowers like waves in and I couldn’t wait to find my way in it. a purple sea. The music of a creek And I did. But my story, and I’m flowing close by made it just about guessing yours too, doesn’t run in perfect. Breathtaking. a straight line. Detours and roundMy friend walked up behind me abouts – they’re everywhere. and saw me rooted to the spot.

When it was time, once again, “What?” he asked. to leave Hall Avenue and go down “This... All this...,” I answered, a new road, I was on my own. mesmerized by the misty purple Google is my best resource, so I vision. typed in my search – “Help I Need “Oh. Yeah.”

To Move And I Am A Single Then he shrugged. Shrugged! A Woman Who Doesn’t Know What masterpiece like that, right outside She Is Doing But Is Trying To Be his door, and he didn’t even see it.

Routine does that – makes the stun- Optimistic And Upbeat.”

My search yielded several suining ordinary. cide hotline sites and an ad for So… back to the road work – truck rentals at Home Depot. they finally did finish the project, Home Depot it is! and that morning I headed for After scheduling a truck rental work, crossed the tracks, and there it was – a roundabout. Opelika has online, I showed up at the Equipment Rental desk and said, “I’m a roundabout… how metropolitan here to pick up a Penske.” and fancy. “What a classy way to The college-aged guy working get from one side of the road to the that day looked at me and said, other,” I said to myself, as I blew through a yield sign, got flipped See Hodge, page B12 off by a Bama fan in a Bronco, and

Inside the Statehouse

A

mong the plethora of races on the ballot this year are the important seats on the Alabama Supreme Court. We have an unprecedented five out of nine seats up for election.

Our Alabama Supreme Court as well as our Courts of Criminal Appeals are extremely conservative, pro-business and all Republican.

This conservatism dates back to the 1980’s and 1990’s. During that two-decade run, the plaintiff lawyers controlled and dominated our State Supreme Court. We were known throughout the country as a Plaintiff’s paradise.

It was like a fairytale jackpot justice system.

It was not uncommon for ludicrous multimillion dollar verdicts to be upheld daily for all types of cases. We were called Tort Hell by “Time Magazine.”

Tort reform became the dominant issue in the

conservative.

Halls of the These five Legislature. open seats When will be held you have by conservaunbridled tive Republimonetary cans when the verdicts dust settles coming out

By Steve Flowers at the end of of Alabama the year and that gives a they begin their six-year plaintiff millions of dolterms. It is just a matlars for having a wreck ter of which Republican in a General Motors vepresides and decides the hicle, it affects the entire country. General Motors major cases that affect Alabamians. does business in all 50 Will Sellers, a very states.

Well the business com- well-respected Montgomery attorney, was apmunity throughout the pointed by Governor Kay country and in Alabama Ivey last year to Place 3 decided enough was on the high court. Justice enough. They decided Sellers is running without to close down tort hell. opposition and will have They put their money a full six-year term. where their mouth was Popular Justice Tomand replaced an all Democratic plaintiff trial my Bryan also has no opposition and will return lawyer Supreme Court for another six years on with an all Republican the high tribunal. pro-business court. The Justice Jim Main, who pendulum has swung has had a distinguished completely from left to right. If yesterday’s court career as a private lawyer, finance director and was extremely liberal, Supreme Court Justice, today’s Alabama Supreme Court is extremely cannot run for reelection

due to an antiquated law that disallows judges to run for reelection after they turn 70.

Main’s Place 2 is being sought by Jefferson County’s John Bahakel and Jay Mitchell, also of Birmingham.

Circuit Judge Debra Jones of Calhoun County has been a judge for a decade and has run a get acquainted race for the court. She will be formidable.

This place was held by Justice Glen Murdock, who is originally from the Wiregrass. Murdock retired a few months ago and Governor Kay Ivey did a good day’s work when she appointed another Wiregrass native, Brad Mendheim, to replace him. Mendheim has served a decade as a Circuit Judge in Dothan.

He is very well-respected in his hometown. He is seeking a full term.

Sarah Stewart of Mobile is also in the race and should benefit from being from the vote rich

Mobile-Baldwin area.

The battle royale will be for the Chief Justice post. The Chief Justice not only presides over the nine-member Supreme Court but also oversees the entire Court System.

Justice Lyn Stuart currently presides as Chief Justice. She is running for a full 6-year reign.

When the business community orchestrated the takeover of the Court, they brought in the vaunted Karl Rove to mastermind the plan. When he departed, victoriously, he left with this admonition, “The best candidate that you can put forward is a female Republican who has some experience as a Circuit Judge.”

Alabamians prefer females on the Bench. If you have a race for Judge in Alabama and you have two names on the ballot, one Sue Smith and one Sam Smith and neither spends any money on campaigns and neither is known, Sue Smith will win.

Lyn Stuart epitomizes this scenario perfectly.

She became a respected Circuit Judge in Baldwin County at a very young age. She was elected to the Supreme Court over a decade ago and is the longest serving member of the Court.

She will be pitted against another sitting member of the Court, Justice Tom Parker. He has excellent polling numbers. He was Roy Moore’s closest ally on the Court. Stuart is the sweetheart of the Business Council. Parker is the darling of the social conservatives.

The race for Chief Justice will be one of the premier contests this year.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

He served 16 years in the state legislature. She may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

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Around Lee County

A5 April 25, 2018

Smiths Station Government Center hosts art show by students from the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art

Photos submitted by members of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art recently held a student art show at Smiths Station's Government Center. Parents, teachers and students came to view the exhibition which was displayed throughout the building. Located in Smiths Station, the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art holds classes and seminars for aspiring artists of all ages. For more information, visit thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com or email sarahwestgallery@att.net.

Crossroads Pharmacy Coffee and Gifts holds grand opening Thursday

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Crossroads Pharmacy Coffee and Gifts in Smiths Station held a grand opening ceremony last week. Members of the public, as well as county and city officials, were in attendance. Smiths Station Mayor Bubba Copeland said he is excited for the city to have its own coffee shop and place for the community to come together. "It's going to be great for the community. People will

be able to come in and be able to get coffee, get their medications in a small town, small atmosphere," Copeland said. "We have several independent pharmacies, and this is one to add to the mix and show our city's growth."

For more information about Crossroads Pharmacy Coffee and Gifts, visit their Facebook page or call 334291-5328. The business is located at 867 Lee Road 248 in Smiths Station.

Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer

Local firefighters attend bill signing in Montgomery last week BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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

Special to the Opelika Observer Volunteer firefighters from Lee County witnessed Governor Kay Ivey sign House Bill 385, which will allow volunteer firefighters from across the state the opportunity to apply for tuition reimbursement for EMT training and certification. Each volunteer awarded the reimbursement will have to volunteer a minimum of three years and stay in good standing with their fire service organization. Pictured above is Chief John Konstant from Southwest Lee County Volunteer Fire Department, Assistant Chief Blake Simpkins from the Beulah Fire District, Chief Josh Datnoff from the Farmville Volunteer Fire Department and Lee County 4th District Commissioner Robert Ham.

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A6 April 25, 2018

OPD holds graduation ceremony for Local clubs welcome guest speakers ‘Citizen’s Police Academy’ members

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer A graduation ceremony for members of the 2018 Citizen’s Police Academy class was held last Thursday. Following is the list of graduates: David Alexander,Samantha Bullinger, Lauren Carpenter, Michael Carter, Robert (Matt) Dismukes, Michael Guy, Deborah Hickok, Christie Hill, Erica Love, Khari McPherson, Jonathan (Kyle) Norrell, Valestine Penn, Beverly Pettey, Robert (Bob) Pettey, Tiffany Pitts, Jonathan Savage, Ashley (Wade) Sharpe and Katherine (Kat) Warren.

Special to the Opelika Observer Rick Hagans, founder and director of Harvest Evangelism in Opelika, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club where he gave a brief program on the early beginnings of “His Place” for men in Opelika, and “Hosanna Home” for women in Lafayette, two projects originated by his ministry. He was introduced by Lion Elna Brown, right. More information on these facilities may be found at www.harvestevangelism.org.

Special to the Opelika Observer Anthony Bryant spoke to the Opelika Rotary club about the new Knee High Foundation. The Knee High Foundation (KHF) is a nonprofit organization/mentorship program geared toward youth ages 5-18. Activities at the KHF include fishing and camping trips, lessons on how to fish and horseback ride, field trips to museums, etc. They are also involved in community service projects. Bryant graduated from Opelika High School. He played football at, and graduated from, Mississippi State University. He is a combat veteran of the U.S. Army. Pictured (from left) are: Brandon Morgan, club member; Bryant; and Harry Cullinan, club president.

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U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • TASTE OF THE TOWN • A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE & MURDER • RELAY FOR LIFE • LOG A LOAD FOR KIDS • UNITY STAMPEDE • ART WORKSHOP

‘As you serve, you are blessed’

13th annual Mayor’s Ball held Friday

Southern Hospitality

Southern Union State Community College holds ‘Simply Spring’ fundraiser

event included a cocktail hour, a three-course meal, performances by two members of the Boys and Girls Club, a

at the Hotel at Auburn University in Auburn.

The annual event raises money for local branches of the Boys and Girls Club .

Activities during the

By Michelle Key Editor Mayors Gary Fuller and Bill Ham hosted the 13th Annual Mayors Ball last Thursday night

See Ball, page A9

Opelika to observe ‘Bubbles for Love Day’ today Special to the Opelika Observer

Photo by Ann Cipperly Staff and employees of Southern Union who donated baked goods for the auction at the Simply Spring event from left are, Nichole Bennett, Catherine Stringfellow, Cindy Calhoun, Rosario Thomas, Vernicia Menifee, Beverly Corley, Nancy Bramlett, Tyler Laye, Janie Prickett, Joy Branch, Lisa Turner, Sarah Cox and Jane Blankenship.

A

s sunlight streamed through the windows at the Southern Room, decorative table centerpieces were getting last minute touches for Simply Spring, the third annual Southern Union Fundraiser Luncheon and Fashion Show.

Alison Osborn, administrative assistant to the president of Southern Union, was chairman of the event, while Beverly Corley, an English teacher and department chair of language arts, was in charge of the table decorations.

“When Alison approached me about this idea,” says Beverly, “I thought it would be a great way to get our name into the community and get people interested in what we are doing here. A lot of our students, especially in health science, work in the community. Our tech students also stay in the community.

“Alison asked if I could be in charge of table decorations,” adds Beverly, “which does not mean that I decorate all the tables. It means that I recruit people to decorate the tables.”

Some people purchase and decorate tables themselves. While others buy tables for the event who are not inter-

ested in decorating, there are staff and employees at the college who enjoy decorating.

“We have people sign up to decorate the tables,” she says. “We have in-house decorating with the employees and staff.

It is a good-hearted contest, but it sets the tone to make it something special for those attending.”

They have judges who select the best tablescape for four themes. This was also the first year for a “people’s favorite.” Jars with the number of the table were placed in the back of the room.

Every dollar donated counted as a vote, which gave $450 to the scholarship fund.

“Even though we appreciate all donations,” says Beverly, “some people feel awkward only donating a few dollars.

This event that encouraged people to vote for their favorite table for $1 allowed many people to participate for a few dollars and raised a nice sum of money.”

Best Overall Table was decorated by Catherine Stringfellow; Most Elegant See Recipes, page B13

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller recently proclaimed April 22-28 as "Parental Alienation Prevention Week and today as “Bubbles For Love Day." At noon, members of the Alabama Family Rights Association and the Exchange Club of Shelby County request citizens across the state to take 10 minutes to blow bubbles in support of the cause to educate the public about this

form of child abuse.

“Parental alienation” is a term used to describe any number of behaviors and attitudes on the part of one parent, both parents or third party designed to interfere, damage or destroy the relationship a child has with their other parent. It is a form of abuse that can cause emotional trauma to children.

Parental alienation can arise from divorce, child custody situations and even with intact families. Evidence of

Fifth annual ‘Jail ‘N Bail’ to be part of Lee County Relay for Life event Friday

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Local celebrities and residents will go behind bars to raise money for cancer research during the 6th annual Relay for Life of Lee County’s event April 27 at Courthouse Square.

According to Logistics Coordina-

tor Randy Causey, “Jail ‘N Bail” is entering its fifth year as a component of the larger Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

This year’s version of “Jail ‘N Bail” will be the first to include “local celebrities,” a See Jail, page A10

this is seen by the alienating behaviors of a person, such as a parent or family members, or as a result of the judicial system restricting the relationship between a child and a loving parent. Alienation can severely damage or destroy a child’s relationship with a parent.

The most common symptom of children affected by parental alienation “is a child's rejection of a loving parent who has done See Day, page A10

Opelika native Iain Stewart to hold workshop May 2-4

By Morgan Murphy For the Opelika Observer Artist Iain Stewart will be returning to his hometown of Opelika for a three-day Watercolor Workshop beginning May 2.

The workshop will be held at The Bottling Plant Event Center on 614 N RailSee Stewart, page A10

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2018-2019 PERFORMANCE SERIES SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW. GET THE BEST SEATS FOR EVERY SHOW! All performances at Opelika Center for The Performing Arts To purchase tickets, call 334.749.8105 or visit eastalabamaarts.org

pelika O Observer Ball, from A1

live auction conducted by Opelika’s Randy Price and an inspirational message from keynote speaker, NFL Hall of Famer and former BGC member Andre Reed.

He began his speech with “the Lord said, ‘As you serve, you are blessed,’ and that’s what we are here for; to serve, to serve others.” Reed went on to share how his experience with his local Boys and Girls Club in Allentown, Pennsylvania, taught him values and helped him gain confidence and find his way in life.

“Every time I see a

Cobb, from A1

Background Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Cobb and her family relocated to Alabama’s Conecuh County when she was six months old.

Growing up in the rural community of Evergreen, Cobb said she enjoyed time with family, music, school and horses.

After graduating from high school, Cobb returned briefly to her home-state to attend Asbury College. She later transferred to the University of Alabama, where

Boys and Girls Club kid, I see myself. No matter what his color is, where he’s from that’s me,” Reed said.

Growing up in a troubled home with an often violent, alcoholic father was a struggle, according to Reed.

“Life in my house was pretty bad, but the Boys and Girls Club was my safe haven, my shield. I felt like Captain America when I walked in there,” Reed explained.

According to Reed, the volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club were responsible for saving his life. He stated that going through the events of his childhood, were all experiences that made him who he is today.

Reed said he went to the club daily while he was growing up. she majored in biology and minored in history.

It was during her time in Tuscaloosa that she discovered her calling and passion for law.

Early career Following her graduation from Alabama’s law school, Cobb’s introduction to a legal career began when she was nominated by then-Alabama Gov. Fob James Nov. 5, 1981, to fill the vacant district judge seat for Conecuh County. At 25 years old, Cobb became the youngest trial judge in Alabama’s history.

During her nearly 14 years in the position, Cobb said she used her position to focus on the safety of Alabama’s

“Going through those blue doors I was taught the word respect, the word perseverance, the word confidence. It’s about just one thing; about caring professionals, teaching life lessons in moments that matter,” Reed said.

The ball began in 2006 as a joint effort between the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County CEO Wanda Lewis, Ham and Fuller. The trio came together to plan an event to raise monies for the BGC. “It was an opportunity for Opelika and Auburn to do something together,” Fuller said. “I thought it was a great idea then, and I still think it is a great idea.

It’s a great way to raise money to fund the Boys and Girls Club. The kids today need the club more

children, public safety and sentencing reform, among other issues.

In 1994, Cobb ran for and was elected to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals, where she spent two terms as a criminal appellate judge.

Alabama Supreme Court Cobb made history in 2006 when she became the Alabama Supreme Court’s first-ever female Chief Justice.

For the next five years, Cobb said she worked ceaselessly to streamline legal processes and increase the number of active drug courts in the state. By the end of her tenure, 66 of Alabama’s 67 counties were operat-

A9 April 25, 2018

today than ever. It’s a joy to me to be involved in it.”

Ham explained that he sees the event as one dedicated to kids, and seeing the people that come out to the event to support the kids. “It’s about doing the right things for the right reason by helping these kids have a better foundation,” Ham said.

The theme for this year’s event was “Jeans and Jackets” and many, like Fuller, were sporting blue jeans with tuxedo jackets and bow ties.

Mayor Fuller explained that after the first few years, it was suggested that in an effort to attract more people, that they change the dress code from black tie to something “more relaxed” and the ideas of blue jeans and jackets was born.

ing their own drug courts.

Change in life path On June 30, 2011, Cobb announced her retirement from the position to spend more time with family and tend to her mother, Thera.

“After being a judge and accomplishing a lot of what I set out to do, my mother became very ill and I made the decision (to retire) to be with my mother,” Cobb said.

Despite her departure from everyday political affairs, Cobb said she maintained a vigilant eye on Alabama politics, and she said the things she witnessed prompted her to run for the governorship.

“I made the decision to run for governor because I’m truly concerned about some basic problems that have been plaguing us not for years, but for decades, and even centuries. I think the people of Alabama are prepared and ready for a governor who will tell them what they should hear and not just what they want to hear,” Cobb said. “Lee County helped elect Doug Jones, and I think people are understanding that party is not the end-all be-all, but instead a vehicle by which I can run for office.”

Platforms According to Cobb, the health and wellbeing of Alabama’s youth would be one of her top priorities if elected governor, and would start improving that by implement-

ing a statewide lottery system.

Deemed by Cobb as the “Life Long Learner Lottery,” she said her lottery plan would provide many intrinsic benefits to the state.

“Our citizens are going to Tennessee, Georgia and Florida, and we’re supporting the education of students in those states. I’m for a lottery because we’re already spending the money that way ... and the polling overall shows a 65-35 (percent) majority or better in some areas that are in favor of one,” Cobb said. “The money that would be in that, $300 million give or take, would be spent in three ways: one, to fully fund k-4 classes and childcare programs for children ages 0-3; secondly, fully fund career technical or vocational education and third, pay the gap for Pell Grants.”

Another cause near and dear to Cobb’s heart is the treatments of both drugs and users in the state.

Cobb said she strongly favors the legalization of medical marijuana and reduction of jail time for inmates arrested on non-violent, drug-related charges.

“A lot of Alabama’s drug laws are out of step with the nation, and we need more appropriate penalties for non-violent offenders and non-violent drug-addicted offenders,” Cobb said. “What I

want is a law passed that says that every single person arrested is drug tested ... and based on the results of that drug test, if they’re facing a non-violent offense, that they would be given the opportunity for long-term drug treatment.”

Following are some other issues that Cobb hopes to address if elected governor: - pass legislation to address the overall sanitation and cleanliness of Alabama’s water supply - construct toll roads in certain parts of the state to address Alabama’s declining roads, bridges and infrastructure - create evening reporting programs for troubled students to keep children active and away from destructive behaviors, habits or activities - boost the state’s overall economy through cutting-edge workforce training programs to incentivize global industries to invest in Alabama. “(For years) we’ve had failed leadership in Alabama. I want people to believe in us again, I want them to understand what government is and I want them to be able to connect the dots,” Cobb said. “And, I want them to understand that we are going to have a prosperous and safe community once we learn to invest and believe in ourselves.”

For more information, visit www.suebellcobb2018.com.

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pelika O Observer

A10 April 25, 2018

Todd Rauch secures endorsements from local military community Special to the Opelika Observer Todd Rauch, candidate for State Representative in District 38, was recently endorsed today by retired Col. Dave Moore.

“I strongly endorse Todd Rauch as the next State Representative in the 38th District. He fought for this country and sacrificed for our rights and freedoms. He is ready and willing to do the same for the state of Alabama and the people of his district. Todd, in his heart, is what we as a people want in our representatives. His motives are nothing more than to bring the best to this district and state. His sound character and strong reputation ensures that he will not compromise his beliefs, and he will remain true to a high standard of service,” Moore said in a statement.

In response to Col. Moore’s en-

Day, from A6

nothing to warrant that rejection, and it is at the behest of the other parent,” said

dorsement, Rauch said, “It is a great honor to have Col. Moore’s support for my campaign to be the next State Representative for District 38. It is truly touching that a man that served his country admirably for 27 years in the United States Army and now owns a Service Disabled Veteran Project Management Company in Auburn would take the time to be involved in our state and our local community’s future.

I will continue to work hard every day to ensure that I earn the support of the people of the district so that each person has a representative that is working for them day in and day out.”

Col. Moore owns a service disabled veteran project management consulting firm in Auburn. Col. He is the son of Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, central figure in the movie “We Were Soldiers” and a long-time Auburn resident.

Linda Kase-Gottlieb of the End Parental Alienation Association.

ALFRA and the Exchange Club of Shelby County are working to bring awareness to parental

A graduate of West Point, Col. Moore served 27 years before retiring in 2011. He served in the infantry and later managed Army major weapon systems procurements.

He served with the 82nd Airborne Division and deployed to multiple operations during his career, concluding with Operation Enduring Freedom in 2009.

Col. Moore’s awards include the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab and Parachutist Badge. Dave and his wife,Teresa, live with their two daughters in Auburn.

Todd has also received the support and endorsement of others in the military community, including Opelika native and Flags for Vets founder Jamie Popwell, as well as Backwater Barbeque’s Wayne Womack, of Salem, among others.

alienation, so that every child is free to love both parents. For more information, visit www.nationalassociationofparentalalienationspecialists.com.

Cordially invites The Public to our 65th home Dedication Ceremony for The Carr Family at 1509 Auburn Street, Opelika, AL April 28, 2018 Saturday at 11 a.m.

With grateful appreciation we recognize this home is sponsored by AU Panhellenic, AU Architecture, OakHill Foundation and AAHA, Auburn Bank, Publix Supermarket Charities, Lee County Association of Realtors, ACI Worldwide, Jonquil Garden Club, Wal*Mart, Auburn Rotary.

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity Opelika, AL 36801 334-745-2123 office mark.a.grantham310@gmail.com

Thank you to the Opelika Observer for your consistent support of our work to help others. Together we are building homes building community.

Alabama Farmers Federation Endorses Melanie Hill for State School Board Special to the Opelika Observer FarmPAC, the political action committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, has announced its endorsement of Melanie Hill for State School Board District 2, which covers all or parts of Barbour, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Coffee, Coosa, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lee, Randolph, Russell and Tallapoosa counties.

“Melanie Hill has a proven track record of leadership in business and in education, and we know she will continue that level of leadership on the State Board of Education,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell.

“She has a strong work ethic and will represent the school districts and the children they serve well.”

Hill holds two bachelor’s degrees

Jail, from A6

stacked lineup that will feature Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Coroner Bill Harris and more.

Causey explained that for $25, event participants can place a war-

from Samford University ­— one in Mass Communications and one in Biblical Studies.

She also earned a master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University.

Currently, Hill is a private healthcare consultant for companies seeking employee and leadership development.

She provides guidance and direction for companies throughout the country concerning operational management, customer service, employee engagement, leadership, development, generational management and motivational topics.

She has held various positions in the hospice industry for more than 22 years and was previously employed with Kindred Hospice for more than 16 years (formerly Gentiva Hospice).

Hill has served

rant on a person of their choice to be locked up for 30 minutes. During that time, those behind bars can ask for the necessary money to be bailed out, all the while raising money for a worthy cause.

“It’s great knowing that this money will go to the American Cancer Society and their research to (put an end to

on the Dothan City School Board and was program developer for a community school’s initiative in four Dothan City Schools.

“It is an honor to receive the Alabama Farmers Federation’s endorsement,” Hill said. “I look forward to working with them and all the many school systems in District 2 to ensure our children are getting the quality education they deserve.”

Hill and her husband, Walter, who is CEO of the Wiregrass United Way, are active members of First Baptist Church in Dothan.

The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 357,000 members.

It uses a true grassroots approach to select candidates, relying on FarmPAC recommendations from county Federation boards for local elections.

cancer). The American Cancer Society makes sure that some of the proceeds stay locally and benefit programs that help those with cancer or special needs,” Causey said.

Last year’s “Jail ‘N Bail” raised more than $1,800. For more information, visit www. relayforlife.org/leeal. It will begin at 6 p.m.

Stewart, from A6

road Ave. and will have a fee of $375 per person.

Stewart will guide the students through the medium of watercolor in a relaxing and creative way.

It will be an introduction to his water-color techniques where the class will work through the basics and then apply those to create a scene.

The class will begin with graphite sketches and work through the ideas of composition, value and critique to create a road map to improve the student’s skills before the steps to completing a watercolor painting are revealed.

“The main goal in this is to give any student a working base of knowledge that they can repeat on their own to begin to tackle any subject that they like” said Stewart.

There are two spots left for this event, but Stewart will be holding another workshop in the fall at Lake Martin.

For more information on this event and to keep up with Stewart, visit stewartwatercolors.com.

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A11 April 25, 2018

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Pictured top left, Mayor Gary Fuller reads a proclamation declaring April 17 as “‘Boody’ Brown Day” in Opelika; top right, Fuller commending members of the Opelika Lady Bulldogs basketball team and their coaches for the school’s first-ever trip to the Final Four; middle, Fuller presents Leight Krehling and Stephen Dawe with employee service awards; bottom left, Fuller reads a proclamation declaring today in Opelika as “Parental Alienation Awareness Day” and right, City Clerk Bob Shuman, Opelika High Senior Class President Jamie Lower, SGA President Sara Hollis Smith T and Miss OHS Savannah Karl lead the pledge of allegiance to begin the meeting.

Council, from A1

Project agreements City Council hopes to bring more employment opportunities after the approval of two project agreements at Tuesday night’s meeting.

The first approved project with a company,

S&E Holdings LLC, will allow for the development of an indoorshooting range that will be located at 2195 First Avenue. Expected to bring nearly 12 jobs, the project will require the city to contribute $91,500 to relocate a drain pipe on the property.

The second approved project is a bank, First South Farm Credit,

ACA, will allow for the development of an office building located at 1613 Fredrick Road. Expected to bring about 14 jobs, the project will require the city to contribute no more than $24,154 to install a private access road.

Parade City Council approved road closures for downtown on behalf of an LGBTQ-themed parade set for June 1. The parade is sponsored by a local nonprofit, Pride on the Plains, and will be their first parade in Lee County. The parade plans to feature 15 -20 participating groups and will start on Avenue A and continue toward Courthouse Square.

Recognition Opelika City Council recognized various members of the community for performance and

service at Tuesday night’s meeting.

The council started off by recognizing The Opelika Lady Dawgs basketball team, Coach Devin Booth and her staff for their participation in this season’s Final Four.

The council then presented three employee performances awards.

The recipients included Byron Prather, David Floyd and Jim Darden.

The council then finished by presenting 12 employee service awards.

The recipients included Leigh Krehling, Denise Rogers, Dorothy Daniels, Josh Lowhorn, Oak Gentry, Thad Jones, David Chapman, Chris Wilson, Stephanie Durbin, Michael Bass, Steven Doll and Craig Dupo.

In other business, the council:

My Travel at Midtown

...your travel professionals

-approved request by Prayer Force United for Walk May 19 -approved request

by Jean Dean RIF for Annual Run to Read October 27 -approved request by KOB for temporary road closure for Garden in the Park May 5 -approved special events alcohol retail license for AU Hotel & CC -awarded a bid to P&J Enterprises for access road improvements at $380,852.25 -awarded bid to Downtown Cleaners for police uniform cleaning -approved expense reports from various departments -authorized disposal of city personal property surplus -approved Occupation-

al Tax refund to Jonathan Teal at $1,138.89 -authorized purchase of Cisco equipment at $65,691.66 -authorized demolition of 207 Raintree St. -approved agreement with CDC Engineering -approved annual reports from P/W Sewer Treatment Plants -approved project agreements with First South Farm Credit and S&E Holdings LLC -approved a special appropriation of $500 to Boy Scouts of America -appointed Robert Elliott to Library Board -appointed David McCain to the LRCOG/ MPO Citizen Advisory Board -appointed Haley Wilder to the Historic Preservation Commission.

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

Turn to B2 for more photos from Opelika’s series win over Northside

Opelika High School’s Jared Bartlett, Jackson Reynolds ink collegiate scholarships April 13

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika baseball advances to second round of playoffs The Opelika High School baseball team (22-13) defeated Northridge in a best-of-three series last weekend to advance to the second round of the 6A AHSAA state baseball playoffs.

Opelika will host the Helena Huskies (2012) in a doubleheader Friday night at Bulldog Park. The two teams will play a best-of-three series. Two games will be played Friday night and the tiebreaker game (if necessary) is scheduled for 1 p.m.

Saturday.

Helena eliminated the Bulldogs a year ago in the second round of the playoffs while on their way to winning the 6A state championship. The Huskies graduated several players that continue to play in college.

Opelika split the doubleheader against Northridge last Friday night, winning 2-1 and losing 2-1.

Jackson Reynolds continues to dominate opposing teams on the mound. The Texas A&M commit pitched a complete game to earn a win. Reynolds allowed four hits, walked one, struck out 10 and allowed no earned runs.

TeKeal DeMunn and Andrew Parr singled, helping the Bulldogs score the two runs.

Game two was another pitching duel.

Micah Christian allowed two earned runs through six innings, struck out seven and gave up four hits to take the loss. Opelika had four hits: two from Jared Bartlett and one each from eighth grader Brooks Bryan and Kory McCoy. The Jaguars scored two in the first inning to win 2-1.

The two teams returned to Bulldog Park Saturday for the tie-breaking match-up and a chance to move on in the playoffs.

Opelika defeated Northridge 4-1 behind Parr's complete game on the mound. Parr allowed one earned run, five hits and struck out two over seven innings.

Christian led the Bulldogs at the plate with two hits, and T.J. Jones added a single. Bartlett scored two runs along with Jackson Craft and Latrel Gullate scoring one run each.

Helena swept Chilton County in two games last Friday night, 2-0 and 5-1, to advance.

OPELIKA BASEBALL ON RADIO Fans can listen to Opelika Baseball on the radio and internet.

The games will air on WZMG 910 AM,

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Pictured are Opelika High School seniors Jared Bartlett and Jackson Reynolds signing scholarships to play baseball April 13. Turn to B8 for more scholarship signing photos of other OHS athletes.

Eagle Scout Justin Rhoten gives back to the community with a “Little Free Library’

By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer He represents the best of our county, community and country. Justin Rhoten began his journey serving others as a Cub Scout at age 8. Now the 18-year-old earned his Eagle Scout Badge building and installing a “Little Free Library” at Municipal “Monkey” Park.

It all began a couple of months ago at Justin’s Troop 354 meeting See Scout, page B10 Shawn Kirkpatrick/Opelika Observer

Opelika softball falls to Wetumpka 9-1 last Tuesday

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

The Opelika High School softball team dropped a 9-1 contest to Wetumpka last Tuesday. The Lady Bulldogs avenged their loss with an 11-3 win against Russell County last Thursday.

See Sports, page B4

www.theorthoclinic.com

A division of

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B2 April 25, 2018

pelika O Observer

Opelika baseball sweeps best-ofthree v. Northside last weekend

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika

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Opelika

B3

Family & Religion

April 25, 2018

The Design of a Day I

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f you’re paying attention (and especially if you already have the idea in your mind), it’s hard not to come to the conclusion that what we refer to as a “day” was specially designed by God for man.

In the translation I’m using (NIV), we’re only 66 words into Genesis before we come across this word being used to describe the portion of the day when it is light outside. If we continue just a little further to the 84th word we find it again—this time being used in its normative sense to refer to the 24hour unit consisting of both darkness and light.

(In response to creation, the Hebrews recognized their day as beginning at sundown rather than midnight as we do). All told, “day” occurs 11 times in Genesis 1.

With this, we are

worry in introduced God’s to an creative overlooked work. It but intriguwas as ing truth. paced as it God chose to was powcreate the by Bruce Green erful—we universe in Teaching Minister at hear of six days.

10th Street Church of evenings He could Christ in Opelika and have acmornings complished and goodness as reguwhat He did over any larly as if they were amount of time or over water lapping up on no amount of time but the shoreline. There’s He quite purposely did it over six days. Though no anxious wringing of hands because there’s so our attention is usually much more that needs to drawn to all of the marvelous things God made be done. God was quite content with His work of (and rightfully so), we seldom consider that He each day. The day was also had in mind how He filled with creating and when it was done it was wanted to bring everydone. thing into being.

Why did God choose As we read Genesis to do things this way?

1, one of the things that Why did He create the stands out is the peaceentity we know as a ful, purposeful rhythm day? There are a couple of the narrative. You of texts that are helpdon’t get the sense that ful in answering this. there is any hurry or

Church Calendar

• Liberty Baptist Church invites everyone to “Music Only” services every fifth Sunday night.

Special groups and singers will be invited to participate and lead the worship. Liberty Baptist is located at 2701 West Point Parkway.

• Every fifth Sunday evening, Lake Pointe Baptist Church, located at 8352 Highway 50 in Dadeville, hosts a gospel singing at 6:30 p.m.

• The Auburn Music Club Singers practice on Tuesdays during the academic year from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the music ministry room at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on Church Drive off South Gay Street. New members are welcomed. For more information, contact director Phyllis Gauker at 334-887-7261 or at pgauker@ bellsouth.net.

• A community-wide program for people with memory loss will

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

Please submit your church announcements to editor@ opelikaobserver.com!

Content must be turned in by Friday at noon for Wednesday publication.

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

be held at Auburn United Methodist Church every Tuesday and Thursday, starting in May. Classes will last from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, contact program director Betsy Lethander by email at Betsy.Lethander@aumc. net, or by phone at 334-444-9632 for more information.

• Powell Chapel United Methodist Church will hold a praise and worship service/car show May 20 beginning at 11 a.m.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Randy B. Kelley at 256-393-1762 or 256- 390-1834.

The church is located at 100 Third Place N.E. across from Lafayette High School.

We see this idea reinforced when we move forward to Jesus’ statement that “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:2). It’s not just a principle of rest that is under consideration, but a 24-hour period of rest. That is what God made for man—just as He made the other six days for man to work.

From these two passages it is clear that a day is not something that arbitrarily pops up in the creation account—it was purposed by God with man in mind.

This has all kinds of implications as we think about how we should approach life (Matthew 6:11, 34 and other texts).

Bruce has written a book on the model prayer called Praying in the Reign. It is available through 21st Century Christian.

Verse of the Week “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,”

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

One is Exodus 20:8-11 where Israel is told to “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”

The passage goes on to say that just as God worked for six days in creating everything and then “rested” on the seventh (i.e., ceased from creating), the Israelites should work for six days and rest on the seventh day. While initially this looks like more of a reason for resting (and working), I think there’s more to it than that. It’s suggesting that in doing His creative work and “resting,” God was modeling how man was to image Him. And the fact that He chose to do it in units of time He created called days tells us that He made days with man in mind. He not only provided the model for our work but the basic measurement for our lives as well.

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

Psalm 34:17-18 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922

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

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pelika O Observer

B4 April 25, 2018

OBITUARIES Reverend Carlton Monroe Messe Reverend Carlton Monroe Messer was born on June 7, 1941 to Charlie Levi Messer and Thelma Rebecca Lee from Greenville, Alabama. Rev. Messer

John W. Trant John W. Trant age 66, of Opp, AL passed away on April 21, 2018 at Southeast Alabama Medical Center in Dothan.

John was a lifelong resident of Opp, where he attended and graduated from Opp High School.

John worked at the Opp Mill until his retirement.

Following his retirement John bought Hook’s BBQ, and operated the business for a number of years. John sold Hook’s BBQ and retired again to play golf the game he loved on a regular basis.

John is preceded in death by his mother Nancy Evelyn Harrison Trant; father, Warren Trant; grandparents, Gussie and Coley Harrison.

passed away on April 19, 2018.

Reverend Messer was a resident of Opelika, Alabama and served as pastor of Living Waters Ministries Center located at 3005 Lafayette Highway in Opelika, AL

for over 20 years.

He is predeceased by his parents Charlie Levi Messer, Thelma Rebecca Lee; brothers: Charles Messer, and Curtis Messer; sister, Margeret Messer.

He is survived by his wife Ruth Messer,

John is survived by his son, David Trant of Dothan; daughter, April Trant Hodge (Chris) of Jack, AL; grandchildren: Katie and Ben Trant, and Kaylee Hodge; brother, Bill Trant of Opelika, AL; sister, Nancy Buckelew (Larry) of Wicksburg, AL; aunt, Pauline Boutwell (Carlos) of Fairhope, AL, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services were Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 2:00pm at Wyatt Funeral Home Chapel, with burial following in Peaceful Acres Memorial Gardens.

Visitation was Monday, April 23, 2018 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Wyatt Funeral Home.

Wyatt Funeral Home in Opp, Alabama directed.

Reverend Carlton Monroe Messe Reverend Carlton Monroe Messer was born on June 7, 1941 to Charlie Levi Messer and Thelma Rebecca Lee from Greenville, Alabama. Rev. Messer passed away on April 19, 2018.

Reverend Messer was a resident of Opelika, Alabama and served as pastor of Living Waters Ministries Center located at 3005 Lafayette Highway in Opelika, AL for over 20 years.

He is predeceased by his parents Charlie Levi Messer, Thelma Rebecca Lee; brothers: Charles Messer, and Curtis Messer; sister, Margeret Messer.

He is survived by his wife Ruth

UNITY! “Making every effort to keep the UNITY of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 4:3

67TH NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER Thursday, May 3, 2018 12 noon Lee County Courthouse Square Rain site- 1st Baptist Church- 8th St. Opelika Broadcast live on Halleluiah 910 am

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sister Mary Messer Holder, two brothers: Clyde Messer and Cecil Messer.

He has five stepsons Paul W. Nichols and Gregory Nichols, Albert Wilson, Jr., Joseph Wilson, and Scotty Wilson, and

Messer, sister Mary Messer Holder, two brothers: Clyde Messer and Cecil Messer. He has five step-sons Paul W. Nichols and Gregory Nichols, Albert Wilson, Jr., Joseph Wilson, and Scotty Wilson, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Sunday April 22nd, 2:00 PM at Living Waters Ministries Center located at 3005 Lafayette Pkwy in Opelika, AL. A public viewing memorial was held 6 -8 p.m. Saturday, April 21, 2018 at the Jeffcoat-Trant funeral home located at 1500 Frederick Road in Opelika.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

Sports, from B1 online at Hallelujah 910am.com/ListenLive or search "WZMG 910" on the iHeart Radio App. Jeff Sasser will provide color and I will handle the play-by-play duties. Listen to Friday's game beginning at 4:50 p.m. and if necessary, Saturday at 12:50 p.m.

OPELIKA TENNIS SEASON ENDS The OHS girls and boys tennis teams came up short and did not qualify for the state tournament. Three Opelika girls placed runner-up: #1 Sara Hollis Smith T, #3 Martlynn Grouby and #4 Raeden Gagliano.

Eight seniors are graduating from the OHS tennis program: Conner Pruitt, Wilson Hudson, Grayson Crowley, Austin Crowley, Sara Hollis Smith T, Mary Bentley Barfield, Martlynn Grouby and Blake Bell.

Coach Adam Massey talked about the seniors and what their departure means to them.

"These eight studentathletes will be missed.

I will miss seeing each perform and enjoyed watching them grow up and compete with class for Opelika and their families. I wish each the best," Massey said.

SOCCER PLAYOFFS BEGIN The OHS girls and boys soccer teams finished up the regular season with a trip to Smiths

numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Sunday April 22nd, 2:00 PM at Living Waters Ministries Center located at 3005 Lafayette Pkwy in Opelika.

A public viewing/ memorial was held 6:00pm-8:00pm Saturday, April 21, 2018 at the Jeffcoat-Trant funeral home located at 1500 Frederick Road in Opelika.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

To place an obituary in the Opelika Observer, please email editor@opelikaobserver.com For pricing call 749-8003

Station. The girls lost 6-2 and the boys won 2-1.

The Smiths Station girls scored four goals in the second half to break open what was a close game. Amiya Brown netted both goals for the Lady Bulldogs.

The varsity boys beat Smiths Station 2-1. With three minutes remaining in the game, the Panthers led 1-0. The Bulldogs scored two goals in the final three minutes to win. Marshall Meyers netted a beautiful upper 90-foot shot to tie the game. Tykell Jones scored the winning goal on an assist from Jefhet Marion.

SOCCER PLAYOFFS The OHS Lady Bulldog soccer team, 9-6-1, will host Northridge this Thursday at the W. James Samford Soccer Complex, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. The girls won the area for the third-straight season to earn a home match. The winner advances to the second round while the loser goes home.

The OHS boys will travel to Tuscaloosa Friday for a match with Northridge. The Bulldogs finished second behind Benjamin Russell High School, forcing them to travel in the first round.

MIKE SPAIN INVITATIONAL Opelika school and city leaders gathered Saturday morning for the official opening of the newly renovated track on the OHS Campus.

The track was completed last spring, but repairs to

its timing system took longer than expected because of glitches in the software. Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors, Mayor Gary Fuller, school board and city council members and other community leaders gathered for the ribbon cutting prior to the Mike Spain Invitational.

There were no results at press time.

Ken Burton, OCS assistant superintendent, said he was proud to see the track in use.

"It thrills me to see our kids perform on our track. We owe it to our student athletes to have the best ... that's Opelika," Burton said.

The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department, along with Opelika Middle School, also uses the track.

SPRING FOOTBALL COMING OHS Coach Erik Speakman's first spring practice as head coach will be May 7. Speakman and staff will practice for nine days before playing a spring game in Troy May 19 against Niceville High School of Florida. Be sure to check next week's column for more information on the start of the Bulldogs' spring practice.

D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys state director and vice-president of the A-O Sports Council. He can be followed on Twitter at VOICEOFTHEDAWGS.

pelika O Observer

B6 April 25, 2018

The 340B Program- A lifeline for vulnerable Alabama patients Special to the Opelika Observer East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) is an invaluable source of health care for some of the neediest members of our community. We are a Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) – a federal designation reflecting EAMC’s treatment of a large percentage of indigent patients, many of whom are uninsured or underinsured. In fact, more than 60 percent of the patients we see each day either are dependent on public health assistance or have no health insurance at all.

When these patients come to the hospital, EAMC treats them regardless of whether they can pay. So, how can we do this? A very important federal law called the 340B drug pricing program helps EAMC provide for the neediest residents of East Central Alabama.

The 340B drug pricing program was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1992. In exchange for being allowed to

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participate in government health programs, pharmaceutical companies agree to sell their drugs to certain qualified entities, like DSH hospitals, at discounted rates for outpatient use.

Hospitals and other qualified health care providers use these discounts to offer free or discounted medications to people who can’t otherwise afford them, and they pay for services hospitals otherwise could not provide to the communities they serve.

These include many expensive services, such as specialized care for patients living with cancer, HIV and hepatitis C. At EAMC, we also have used these discounts to fund clinical pharmacy programs for patients in the emergency room and in the inpatient setting. Clinical pharmacists work directly at the bedside with physicians, nurses and social workers to provide vital drug information during ER visits. They also work in the inpatient setting with counseling dis-

charging patients.

This counseling better ensures that patients take their medications correctly, reducing the chances that those patients will need to come back to the hospital.

ER visits and hospital readmissions often are related to drug therapy problems, and facilities are penalized if patients need to return to the hospital for the same condition within 30 days. So these vital, outcomes- focused clinical pharmacy programs not only keep patients healthier but also save money for the entire health care system.

The discounts from the 340B drug pricing program also allow EAMC and others to offset significant losses stemming from uncompensated care – that is, services provided to people who are uninsured or whose health coverage pays less than what it costs to treat them.

Because EAMC treats all patients the same and does not turn people away if they lack insurance or the

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afford for the good of vulnerable patients.

Still, the drug manufacturers are spending millions of dollars lobbying Congress to severely limit the 340B drug discount program.

They claim that the program has run amok and that hospitals are using the funds in inappropriate ways. The situation here on the ground clearly shows that is just not true.

Here at EAMC and at hospitals like ours, this program is the difference between life and death for the most vulnerable patients in the community. The vast majority of Alabamians receive their health care from a hospital that participates in the 340B program. Most, if not all, of these hospitals would be forced to make major cuts in services if this program is drastically changed just to pad drug company profits. Some hospitals might even be forced to close their doors.

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ability to pay, we provided nearly $50 million in uncompensated care last year related to treating the indigent, uninsured and underinsured population. Without 340B, this would not be possible. EAMC is not unique in this regard; 340B DSH hospitals provide 60 percent of all uncompensated and unreimbursed care despite making up less than 40 percent of all acute care hospitals in the country.

It is important to note that this program is able to do so much good while not receiving any funding from the government or your tax dollars.

The discounts are provided by the very profitable pharmaceutical industry. U.S. drug makers made a whopping $456 billion in sales last year, but the 340B program discounts totaled only about $6 billion – that’s only 1.3 percent of total sales. For companies that are routinely reporting profit margins in the 15-20 percent range, that is hardly a burden that they cannot

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the state of Alabama at large. I encourage you to call your congressional representative today and ask them to oppose legislation that would weaken the 340B program and, instead, cosponsor a bipartisan bill, H.R. 4392, that would roll back damaging federal payment cuts to safetynet hospitals that went into effect January 1.

Please remind them that we sent them to Washington to help people in need, just as we at EAMC do every day right here in Lee County.

Chuck Beams, RPh, is the director of pharmacy services at East Alabama Medical Center. He oversees inpatient and outpatient pharmacy services for the center, a safety-net health care system with hospitals in Opelika and Valley, serving the people of Lee County and the surrounding areas. He has been at EAMC for 11 years and has been very active in policymaking discussions in Washington about the 340B drug pricing program.

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pelika O Observer

B7 April 25, 2018

Highlights from Southern Union’s ‘Simply Spring’ fashion show

Photos by Ann Cipperly Pictured top left, ‘People’s Favorite’ table sponsored by Debbie Wood and decorated by Alison Osborn; top middle, ‘Most Elegant’ sponsored by Fincher-Coffin Real Estate and was decorated by Dean Steve Spratlin; top right, ‘Best Academic Educational Decoration’ table sponsored by Huntingdon College and decorated

by Southern Union Honors Committee; above left, ‘Best Themed’ table sponsored by East Alabama Medical Center and decorated by members of the SUSCC Health Sciences Division and above right ‘Best Overall’ by Catherine Stringfellow, a SUSCC Registrar. Left: Those involved in the Simply Spring luncheon and fashion show benefiting the Southern Union Foundation scholarships are, from left, Beverly Corley, Mindy Reynolds, Alison Osborn, Sarah Cox, Darlene Andrews and Will Crenshaw, who provided audio and visual support for the event. Below: Models from SUSCC show off designs from Fringe, Fringe Kids, Belk and Therapy Boutique.

pelika O Observer

B8 April 25, 2018

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Pictured top left, Alexis Browning signs a basketball scholarship with Lawson State; top right, Jared Bartlett signs a baseball scholarship with Enterprise State; middle left, Jackson Reynolds signs a baseball scholarship with Texas A&M; Savannah Karl signs a track scholarship with Auburn University at Montgomery and Shakerra Forbes signed a track scholarship with Lawson State.

2016 Opelika graduate signs basketball scholarship with Dalton College since 1977 aL certification #97200

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Photo by Becky Brown OHS Graduate Kingston Frazier signed a basketball scholarship with Dalton State College on April 20. Upon graduation from Opelika High School in 2016, Kingston Frazier signed a basketball scholarship with Enterprise State Community College. Frazier was a two-year starter at point guard and finished the 2017-18 season with an average of 14 points per game, 4 rebounds per game, and 5 assists per game. He had a seasonhigh 28 points against Southern Union State Community College. He also had his first career triple double against Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Frazier tied for fourth in the state with a 5.0 assist per game average. Frazier was named 1st Team All-South and 2nd Team All-Region for 2017-2018. Dalton State is one of the top NAIA basketball programs in the nation, winning the national championship in 2015.

Pictured (l-r) Front Row: Terrence Frazier-father, Kingston Frazier, Taneisha Frazier-mother. Back row: Erik Speakman-OHS Athletic Director, Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Vera Frazier-grandmother, Mia Frazier-sister, John Reese-grandfather, Coach John Wadsworth and Coach Wesley Button.

pelika O Observer

B9 April 25, 2018

Opelika High School holds Opelika High School art opening ceremony for new student receives local, state and national recognition track last Saturday before Mike Spain Invitational

By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer

Her portraits are so well sketched and life like, they seem like a photograph.

But they’re not. They are painstakingly drawn

by Opelika High School (OHS) Senior Tiffany Boutdy. The 18-year-old received 2nd Place in the 2018 State Superintendents Visual Arts Exhibit (Grades 11-12) and 2nd Place in the Opelika City Superintendent’s Visual Arts Exhibit. Just last

she had a passion for art in elementary school.

“The teachers thought I stood out and performed a little better than the other students. I wasn’t really good on my own (without a teacher’s help), it was decent, and then in 10th grade, I took Art 1 with Mr. Conway, and that’s when my drawing got better,” Boutdy said.

She said she started submitting her portraits last year after becoming a junior and taking Art 2.

“There was more

lot of perseverance. That’s why she has garnered success.”

Boutdy said she doesn’t participate in sports or show choir, but identifies with art. “I like drawing. I like using a pencil because you have more control,” she explained. “It’s more detailed and precise. I really like drawing people.

It’s peaceful to work on my sketches.”

This artist added she also loves the medical field. Boutdy is in Health Occupation Students of

freedom (in Art 2), I could choose my assignments, and I worked on those in class and at home. Then, I would give them to Mr. Conway, and he would submit them to competitions.”

OHS Visual Arts Teacher Jeff Conway said each year he gets a diamond in the rough, and Boutdy was one of those.

“She is very articulate and detail oriented, and she’s gained confidence over time. She pushes the things she knows she can do,” Conway said. “She doesn’t give up. She has a

America (HOSA) at OHS. She is also an OHS Ambassador for her school.

Boutdy is heading to the University of Alabama in Birmingham to study medicine, but she said she isn’t giving up art. “I plan on drawing in college, and I hope as an adult, I still find time to draw.”

You can see Boutdy’s award winning portrait “Blake,” in the latest OHS “Perspectives” magazine.

It goes on sale May 22 at the high school for $10.

You can preorder a copy right now for $7 through OHS.

Photo by Becky Brown / Special to the Opelika Observer

Left to Right: Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Coach Erik Speakman-OHS Athletic Director, Tiffany Gibson-Pitts-Opelika City Council, D. Mark Mitchell, Patsy Parker-OCS Board of Education Chair, Mayor Gary Fuller, Dr. Mark Neighbors-OCS Superintendent, Chuck Beams-OCS Board of Education member, David Canon-Opelika City Council, Kenneth Burton-OCS Assistant Superintendent and Coach Jimmy Johnson-OHS Head Track Coach.

week, she received 2nd placed in the 3rd District Congressional Art Competition.

Boutdy first found out

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pelika O Observer

B10 April 25, 2018

Scout, from B1

in Opelika, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“Opelika Parks and Recreation officials contacted The Boy Scouts of America about wanting someone to build a book lending box. My local leaders knew I was looking for a project, and they told me about

it,” Justin said.

He was sent a sample picture of a design that would follow in the train theme of the park, and went to work. Mark Beesley, a friend’s dad, helped Justin draw a rough design, generate a list of materials and helped with the construction. Lowe’s donated some of the material and gave Justin a discount on the rest. “I started building it at my friend’s house because his dad

(Beesley) is a carpenter, and then we took it to my house where we did the sanding and painting and added lawnmower wheels,” Justin said. “Fellow scouts and friends also helped.”

Beesley and Justin’s dad, Darrell, helped him install the “Little Free Library” at the park. After that, it was time to fill it with books. “I got the books from people in my church and in my neighborhood who

donated them. We also put the request for books on the church Facebook page,” Justin said. “There are books for all ages. Anyone can come and borrow a book, and when they’re done they can bring it back or keep it. Anyone can donate a book - a take one, leave one idea.”

Justin isn’t just an Eagle Scout, he’s also interested in the medical field. He has earned a spot as a student medical intern at

East Alabama Medical Center next year. Justin is also a member of the National, Spanish and Math Honor Societies and is on the wrestling team at Auburn High School.

For fun, Justin said he plays the piano.

“Justin is a wellrounded young man,” said Troop 354 Scoutmaster Troy Brady.

“He has a calm demeanor. He draws respect from the other boys,” Brady said.

“They look up to him.

Part of that comes from his maturity level. He’s easy going and easy to get along with. It’s easy for the other kids to like him.”

The “Little Free Library” is a permanent fixture in the park.

Justin said he hopes the books make an impact on kids at the park for a long time.

For more information, take a book or leave a book at the “Little Free Library” or visit LittleFreeLibrary.org.

Opelika Parks and Recreation track and field teams turn in solid showing at recent meet in Lincoln

Photos special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Parks and Recreation’s track and field team competed at a meet in Lincoln April 14. Both girls and boys teams finished in first place.

Julianna Foreman won a first place award for her finishes in the 50 and 100 meters.

Free SHRED SATURDAY April 28th 9am-1pm

COMMUNITY

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B11 April 25, 2018

LEGALS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA - CASE NO.: DR2018-900031.00 IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF MICHAEL GEORGE LANCE, PlantiffW, vs. JANINE K. LANCE, Defendant NOITCE OF DIVORCE ACTION Janine Lance, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Michael George Lance’s Petition for Divorce and other relief by the 3rd

day of June, 2018, or thereafter judgment by default may be rendered against her in Case No. DR-201890031.00, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Done this the 3rd day of April, 2018.

CIRCUIT CLERK, LEE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT LAST DAY TO ANSWER JUNE 3RD, 2018 Legal Run 4/11, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2/2018

NOTICE OF ABADONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, May 28, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. 1GKCS13W5X2519013 - 1999 GMC JIMMYLegal Run 4/25/2018 & 5/2//2018

CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, AL FAMILY COURT DIVISION: JUVENILE IN THE MATTER OF: C.L.G. A minor child JU-2016-483.02 NOTICE TO: The Unknown father of C.L.G. born 08/29/2008 to M.E.G. at Piedmont Newnan Hospital in Newnan, GA. Custody of the minor child was vested with the Lee County DHR on

10/27/2016. The unknown father must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights filed in the Family Court of Lee County, AL by Lee County DHR, within fourteen (14) days from the last date of publication of this notice, or a final judgment may be rendered in Juvenile Case Number JU-2016-483.02 in the Family Court of Lee County, AL terminating all parental rights to the minor child.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Lee County Justice Center 2311 Gateway Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR P.O. Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 4/11, 4/18, 4/25 & 5/2/2018

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2016- 900450 MARY LEE CALLAWAY, Plaintiff, v. 36 ACRES OF LAND being all of the NW 3/4 of the NW 1/4 except four acres across the East side of said 1/4, of section 11, township 18 and range 24. Said four acres belonging to Lizzie Borders. The intention being to convey to grantees herein that certain tract of land conveyed to grantor herein by the Bank of Tuskegee as liquidating agent for the Merchants & Farmers Bank on March 31, 1932, as referred to in said conveyance as being the land formerly mortgaged by Ida Joiner to the Merchants & Farmers Bank and being designated in said conveyance as parcels Numbers one and two, whether correctly described in this conveyance or not.

As recorded in the Official Records of Lee County, Alabama in Book 246 Page 201; CYNTHIA CALLAWAY, JONATHAN L. CALLAWAY; MARY LOIS HARDNETT; MELVIN CALLAWAY; ELIZABETH CALLAWAY; JOHN OTTIS CALLAWAY; VIOLET CALLAWAY; IKE CALLAWAY; YOLANDA CALLAWAY; ZANNIE KIRT; JOSIE LEE BROOKINS; ETHEL MAE POPE; LEGINIA CHANDLER; AMETRICE CLARK; TYWANNA WAGNOR; SADIE SWANSON; GWENDOLYN WAGNOR; CYNTHIA CALLAWAY; WILLIAM CALLAWAY; TENISHA CALLAWAY; LASHARLA CALLAWAY; CLARENCE CALLAWAY; PRISCILLA STRICKLAND; THEODUS CALLAWAY; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS OR ASSIGNS OF: MACK CALLAWAY; WILLIE MAE CALLAWAY; WILLIE MACK CALLAWAY;

OTTIS CALLAWAY; ARTIS CALLAWAY; ROSELEE WAGNOR; HENRY CALLAWAY; MELVIN CALLAWAY; ELIZABETH CALLAWAY; AND/OR JOHN OTTIS CALLAWAY; and, ANY UNKNOWN PERSONS OR ENTITIES CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN THE LAND AS DESCRIBED ABOVE; Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION TO: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence.

You are hereby notified that on the 1st day of March, 2018, an Amended Complaint was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: MARY LEE CALLAWAY, plaintiff, and as defendants, CYNTHIA CALLAWAY, JONATHAN L. CALLAWAY; MARY LOIS HARDNETT; MELVIN CALLAWAY; ELIZABETH CALLAWAY; JOHN OTTIS CALLAWAY; VIOLET CALLAWAY; IKE CALLAWAY; YOLANDA CALLAWAY; ZANNIE KIRT; JOSIE LEE BROOKINS; ETHEL MAE POPE; LEGINIA CHANDLER; AMETRICE CLARK; TYWANNA WAGNOR; SADIE SWANSON; GWENDOLYN WAGNOR; CYNTHIA CALLAWAY; WILLIAM CALLAWAY; TENISHA CALLAWAY; LASHARLA CALLAWAY; CLARENCE CALLAWAY; PRISCILLA STRICKLAND; THEODUS CALLAWAY; MACK CALLAWAY; WILLIE MAE CALLAWAY; WILLIE MACK CALLAWAY; OTTIS CALLAWAY; ARTIS CALLAWAY; ROSELEE WAGNOR; HENRY CALLAWAY; MELVIN CALLAWAY; ELIZABETH CALLAWAY; AND, JOHN OTTIS CALLAWAY and their

heirs or devisees, if deceased, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and who may have claim of some right, title, or interest in and to the property described as follows: 36 acres of land being all of the NW 3/4 of the NW 1/4 except four acres across the East side of said 1/4, of section 11, township 18 and range 24. Said four acres belonging to Lizzie Borders. The intention being to convey to grantees herein that certain tract of land conveyed to grantor herein by the Bank of Tuskegee as liquidating agent for the Merchants & Farmers Bank on March 31, 1932, as referred to in said conveyance as being the land formerly mortgaged by Ida Joiner to the Merchants & Farmers Bank and being designated in said conveyance as parcels Numbers one and two, whether correctly described in this conveyance or not.

As recorded in the Official Records of Lee County, Alabama in Book 246 Page 201.

All person having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of thirty (30) days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint DONE this the _________ day of ___________, 2018.

Mary B. Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Prepared by: BRETT A. SMITH, ESQ. HUFF SMITH LAW, LLC 369 South College Street Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 329-5596 Attorney for Plaintiff Legal Run 4/11, 4/18, 4/25 & 5/2/2018

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Opelika Bid No. 18028 Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, May 21, 2018 until 2:00 p.m., Local Time and then publicly opened and read at Opelika City Hall, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

An inspection of the site is Mandatory.

Please contact Stephen Dawe at 334-705- 5140 to schedule a time for the site inspection No bid will be accepted from a bidder without a site inspection. The contractor will be furnishing all labor and materials and performing all work for the construction of: Data Center and UPS Building Power - Electrical System within the City of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the following the upgrades and replaces portions of the City Hall’s old 20KVA UPS electri-

cal redundancy system with an improved and redundant UPS system.

All bidders on construction projects in excess of $10,000.00 shall file with his bid either a certified check payable to the City of Opelika for an amount not less than five (5) percent of the estimated cost or of the contractor’s bid but in no event more than $10,000.00; or a bid bond payable to the City of Opelika in an amount of not less than five (5) percent of the estimated cost or of the contractor’s bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00.

All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the City official; the Bidder shall show

such evidence by clearly displaying the\ license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered.

Bidder must possess a State of Alabama General Contractor License and a State of Alabama Electrical License. A copy of the license must be included in the bid.

No bidder may withdraw their bid within 90 days after the opening thereof.

All bids must be submitted in an envelope bearing on the outside the name of the Bidder, Bidder’s license number, and name of the project.

Envelopes containing bids must be addressed as follows, and delivered to: Ms. Lillie Finley, Purchasing Dept., City of Opelika, 204 S. 7 th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or P. O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803: “Data Center and UPS Building Power” Legal Run 4/18, 4/25 & 5/2/2018

NOTICE OF ABADONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. 2HGEH2461RH505189 - 1994 HONDA CIVIC 4T1SK13E7PU212053 1993 TOYOTA CAMRY Legal Run 4/25/2018 & 5/2//2018

Email us at Editor@opelikaobserver.com or Call 334•749•8003 to submit legal notices.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: CV 2018-900145 MERRIE SHERIDAN, Plaintiff, v.

A PARCEL OF PROPERTY IDENTIFIED AS TAX PARCEL 43-18-02-04-0000-577.000 LOCATED IN LEE COUNTY, AL., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LOT 55 MORGAN HILLS S/D PHASE 2 PLAT BOOK 26 PAGE 78 SECTION 4 T18N R26E; and A PARCEL OF PROPERTY IDENTIFIED AS TAX PARCEL 43-18-02-04-0000-578.000 LOCATED IN LEE COUNTY, AL., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LOT 56 MORGAN HILLS S/D PHASE 2 PLAT BOOK 26 PAGE 78 SECTION 4 T18N R26E; AND INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO MORGAN HILLS, LLC, BDP VENTURES, LLC, A,B,C,D,E,F,G, PERSONS, INDIVIDUALS, FIRMS, ASSOCIATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, CORPORATIONS OR OTHER ENTITIES WHOSE NAMES ARE OTHERWISE UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF, BUT WHO ARE THE PERSONS, INDIVIDUALS, FIRMS, ASSOCIATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, CORPORATIONS, OR OTHER ENTITIES CLAIMING ANY PRESENT INTEREST IN AND TO THE ABOVE

CAPTIONED PARCEL OF LAND, AND INCLUDING ANY PERSONS CLAIMING ANY FUTURE, CONTINGENT, REVERSIONARY, REMAINDER OR OTHER INTEREST THEREIN WHO MAY CLAIM ANY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY AND WHOSE wCORRECT NAMES AND LEGAL IDENTITIES WILL BE ADDED BY AMENDMENT WHEN ASCERTAINED, Defendants.

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION BDP Ventures, LLC, and including, but not limited to, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, persons, individuals, firms, associations, partnerships, corporations or other entities whose names are otherwise unknown to the plaintiff, but who are the persons, individuals, firms, associations, partnerships, corporations, or other entities claiming any present interest in and to the above captioned parcel of land, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in the real property described as, A PARCEL OF PROPERTY IDENTIFIED AS TAX PARCEL 43-18-0204-0-000- 577.000 LOCATED IN LEE COUNTY, AL., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOL-

LOWS: LOT 55 MORGAN HILLS S/D PHASE 2 PLAT BOOK 26 PAGE 78 SECTION 4 T18N R26E; and A PARCEL OF PROPERTY IDENTIFIED AS TAX PARCEL 43-18-02-04-0000- 578.000 LOCATED IN LEE COUNTY, AL., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LOT 56 MORGAN HILLS S/D PHASE 2 PLAT BOOK 26 PAGE 78 SECTION 4 T18N R26E, and whose correct names and legal identities will be added by amendment when ascertained (Defendants), must answer the Verified Complaint, for quiet title of property, filed

by Merrie Sheridan (Plaintiff) within thirty (30) days from the last date of publication of this notice, or a Judgment of Default may be rendered against them in Case No. CV2018-900145, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

This Notice is ordered by Lee County Circuit Judge Christopher J. Hughes on the 22nd day of March, 2018.

Done this 5th day of April, 2018.

MARY B. ROBERSON Clerk of the Circuit Court Lee County, Alabama Jason A. Forbus Adams White Oliver Short & Forbus LLP P. O. Box 2069 Opelika, AL 36803-2069 Attorney for the Plaintif Legal 4/11, 4/18, 4/25 & 5/2/2018

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Opelika Bid No. 18026 Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, May 21, 2018 and then publicly opened and read aloud at Opelika City Hall, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

A Mandatory Prebid meeting will be held May 2, 2018 @ 10:00 A.M. at 1001 Andrews Rd, Opelika, AL 36801.

The contractor will be furnishing all labor and materials and performing all work for the construction of: Pickleball Courts at the Opelika Sportsplex Facility within the City of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the following the construction of 12 pickleball courts. The overall asphalt area: 128’ X 203’

(2,887 sq. yds.)

All bidders on construction projects in excess of $10,000.00 shall file with his bid either a certified check payable to the City of Opelika for an amount not less than five (5) percent of the estimated cost or of the contractor’s bid but in no event more than $10,000.00; or a bid bond payable to the City of Opelika in an amount of not less than five (5) percent of the estimated cost or of the contractor’s bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00.

All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will

not be received or considered by the City official; the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered.

No bidder may withdraw their bid within 90 days after the opening thereof.

All bids must be submitted in an envelope bearing on the outside the name of the Bidder, Bidder’s license number, and name of the project.

Envelopes containing bids must be addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing Dept., City of Opelika, 204 S. 7 th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or P. O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803: “Pickleball Courts Facility” Legal Run 4/18, 4/25 & 5/2/2018

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF Arne N. Moi, Jr., DECEASED Notice of Appointment to be Published by CoExecutrix Letters Testamen-

tary of the Estate of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of March, 2018, by the Honorable 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.

Debra Jean Moi Obert and Christine Ann Moi Duke, as Co-Executrix of the Estate of Arne N. Moi, Jr., Deceased.

Legal Run 4/18, 4/25, 5/2 & 5/9/2018.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED VACATION OF LEE ROAD 670 Pursuant to the provisions of Code of Alabama, §§ 234- 2; 23-4- 5; 23-4- 20; and 35-2- 54 of (1975), and other applicable law, all as last amended, notice is hereby given that: 1. On March 19, 2018, William T. Collier, individually, and Dorothy C. Kolander, Keith Kolander, Mary D. Collier, and William T. Collier, as the previous owners of the entity, GWC Properties, Ltd., which was dissolved on December 19, 2017 (collectively the “Owners”) executed and filed a written Petition for Approval of and Assent to Vacation of, and to Vacate, Lee Road 670 (the “Petition”) requesting that the Lee County Commission approve of and assent to the vacation of, and vacate, Lee Road 670, which is situated and lying and being within Lee County,

Alabama but outside the corporate limits of any municipality. Lee Road 670 is more particularly described as: LEE ROAD 670 A tract or parcel land know as Lee Road 670 located in Section 8, Township 18 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, being more particularly described as follows: Commence at the southwest corner of said Section 8; thence N63°45’08”E 995.53 feet to the north right-of- way limit of Lee Road 137 (aka Wire Road); thence along said right-of- way limit N72°10’38”E 449.65 feet; thence continue along said right-of- way limit N72°10’38”E 141.56 feet to the point of beginning; thence leaving said right-ofway limit N01°05’36”W 154.48 feet; thence N01°05’36”W 127.23 feet; thence N01°05’36”W 449.25 feet; thence N88°54’24”E 60.00 feet;

thence S01°05’36”E 712.93 to the north right-of- way limit of said Lee Road 137; thence along said right-ofway limit S72°10’38”W 62.65 feet to the point of beginning.

2. The date, time, and location of the meeting of the Lee County Commission at which time said proposed vacation is scheduled to be addressed is: May 14, 2018 at 5:00 p.m.

C.S.T Lee County Courthouse Commission Chambers 215 South 9 th Street Opelika, Alabama 36801 3. Any citizen alleging to be affected by the proposed vacation may submit a written objection to the Lee County Commission or may attend and request an opportunity to be heard at said public hearing.

Legal Run 4/4/18, 4/11/18, 4/18/18, & 4/25/2018

pelika O Observer

B12 April 25, 2018

StandUp​campaign hits the Tichenor and Mell concourses to raise awareness Special to the Opelika Observer The developers of StandUp, a student-led campaign working to bring awareness to as well as an end to gender or sexual discrimination, will be hosting informational events on the Tichenor and Mell Concourses April 19 and 26.

The events will allow passersby to interact and learn more about the campaign’s mission while having the opportunity to sign a pledge to stand up for others. In addition, there will be give-away items at the events.

The StandUp campaign has been developed and implemented by students in a public relations campaigns class during the spring 2018 semester.

The students are working in conjunction with EdVenture Partners and the Anti-Defamation League as a part of the Innovate Against Hate program.

The campaign was launched in March 2018 to bring awareness to gender discrimination experienced by women, men and members of the

LGBTQ+ community.

The goal of the campaign is to encourage students to stand up for each other when, and if, they witness acts of discrimination.

As outlined in the StandUp pledge, the campaign developers hope to encourage students, faculty and community members to sign the promise stating that they will “stand up for her, stand up for him, and stand up for them,” in order to end gender and sexual discrimination.

Members of the StandUp campaign will be outside Tichenor and Mell at Auburn University from 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. on April 26.

Everyone is encouraged to visit with StandUp campaign leaders to learn more about their campaign and to sign the pledge to “Stand Up” against gender and sexual discrimination.

To find out more about the campaign, please visit www. standupauburn.org or follow social media (@ standupauburn).

Bottling Plant Event Center to hold ‘Battle for O-Town Comedy Competition’ finale May 3

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The question of who will become Opelika’s funniest stand-up comic will be answered during the “Battle for O-Town Comedy Competition” finale May 3 at the Bottling Plant Event Center.

Hosted by Opelika native and rising comedic star Michael Statham, the event will feature the 20 remaining contestants from the 10-weeklong competition. They will duke it out for the title in front of an all-star studded judging panel, which includes local deejays Mason Black and Brooke Myers and Darren Knight, a Facebook sensation who holds the title of “the fastest rising comedian in American history.” “(Since Darren was confirmed), I’ve been having people come up to me and say, ‘wow, you have somebody big coming over there.’ That’s the sort of feedback I’m hearing from the community about this finale,” said BPEC Owner Lisa Ditchkoff.

Following is a current list of the remaining competitors, subject to change until the day of the event: Gabe Davis is from Columbus, Georgia, and is making a name for himself in the Atlanta comedic scene.

Ari Kobler is from Huntsville, where she started performing three years ago. She has been featured on Epic Comedy Hour and the Star Bar. James Etchison is from Smiths Station. He has been described by the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer as "The Master of the OneLiner."

R.J. Marchand is the host of the longest-running comedy show in Tuscaloosa at the Druid City Brewing Company. In his short comedy career, he has already performed at comedy venues in Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia.

Lamar Pullom is from Tuscaloosa. He has performed at venues like the Stardome Comedy Club for the last three years.

Eugene Henry Jr. is from Birmingham. He has performed all over the Southeast from Atlanta to New Orleans.

Austen Hickerson is from Birmingham. He has been a regular performer at the Stardome Comedy Club since winning their comedy competition.

Zach Travis is from Tuscaloosa. He is a member of Tuscaloosa Comedy and hosts the web series “What's Happening Alabama.”

Beth Bloomfield is from Hoover. She has a non-Southerner's fresh take on moving to the South.

Detroit Reid, originally from

Detroit, is now living in Birmingham. He has opened up for Mike Epps, Michael Blackston and Lavell Crawford.

Matt Leach lives in Opelika.

He has prior comedic experience while living in Atlanta.

James Kimbrough is from Auburn. James competed with Statham last January at the Comedy Competition Finale at the Stardome Comedy Club.

Brandon Kennedy is from Montgomery. He has been performing at the Capital City Comedy Scene for the last three years.

Nicole Sanders from Auburn.

Nick Morgan Moore from Montgomery.

D'Anthony Turner from Montgomery.

Kurt Keller from Montgomery.

Comedian Hollywood from Birmingham.

Gant Moore from Huntsville.

Lavell Galloway, Ernie Kennemar and J. Smiles will be unable to perform at the finale.

Alternate names will be drawn after tonight’s show.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m., and food will be served until the show begins at 7 p.m.

For more information or other ticketing options, visit www. bottlingplanteventcenter.com.

The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

FOOD RATINGS Susie K’s 1801 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 99

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www.niffersplace.com dine in only, Mon-Fri 11-2

Hodge, from A4 “Wow.” I blinked at him and said, “Excuse me?”

“You just don’t look like

the Penske type.”

“Thank you?” I asked.

“Yeah. You look like a mom/grandma.” (He actually said the word ‘slash.’)

Great.

I signed papers stating I was basically taking my life in my own hands by agreeing to drive such a complicated and expensive

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IHOP 1463 Opelika Road Auburn Score: 98 Pizza D’Action 2368 Lee Road 430, Smiths Station Score: 97 O Town Ice Cream 815 S. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 97 Cheeburger Cheeburger 160 N. College St.

hunk of metal.

Then I was taken to the parking lot. There it sat – huge, yellow, and as foreign to me as roundabouts once were.

“You should probably go real slow and don’t turn much. She makes wide turns,” college guy advised.

Perfect.

I hoisted myself into the driver’s seat, took a deep breath, and started her up.

Sure, I went slow at first, and I held my breath during that first right turn, but by the end of the day I was a Penske pro. Visions of becoming a long-haul truck driver and burning up the miles started swirling in my head. Then I heard my own voice laughing at me.

“Remember the roundabout, girl? This is YOU you’re talking about.”

Right. My single Penske day was enough trucking for me.

Now that boxes are unpacked, and I’m back to driving a Toyota, my life looks different. Is it what I expected? No. Not

Auburn Score: 97 Country’s Barbecue 1021 Opelika Road, Auburn Score: 96 Big Blue Bagel 120 N. College St. Auburn Score: 96 Cancun’s Mexican Grill 820 Opelika Road Auburn Score: 95 El Patron Mexican Grill 2212 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 95

in a million years. But it’s MINE. And it’s lovely.

I’ve continued to truly see things (though clearly not always while I’m driving). I pause to marvel at the miraculous gift that is the big blue sky… and clouds!... don’t get me started on clouds.

A friend once said, “If a cloud passed over O Town, Wendy took a picture of it.” And I probably did.

Look and see: Opelika itself is a lovely blanket spread out on the Alabama ground. Hear the music of the voices and laughter as you walk the downtown sidewalks…. Feel the spray of the water from the fountain, dyed blue or pink or green…. Watch the flag snapping in the wind above city hall…. And that ever present train whistle which is the soundtrack to our town.

Bless the detours and roudabouts. Bless the relentless change. Look at all the familiar wonders they’ve taught me to truly see.

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Recipes, from A7 Table, decorated by Steve Spratlin (sponsored by Fincher-Coffin Real Estate); Best Education/Academic Theme winner was decorated by the Honors Committee (sponsored by Huntingdon College); Best Theme was provided by Health Sciences Division (sponsored

by EAMC); and the People’s Favorite with the most votes/money raised was decorated

by Alison Osborn and sponsored by Debbie Wood.

“I was a student at Southern Union,” says Beverly, “so I think about my efforts in something like this can enable someone else who otherwise would not have a chance to attend.”

Others involved in the event are Mindy Reynolds, MC for the fashion show; Sarah Cox, food service coordinator; Darlene Andrews, coordinated models; and Will Crenshaw, technical consultant, who provided audio and visual support for the event.

The luncheon and fashion show sponsors were Chicken Salad Chick, donating the lunch, and East Alabama Medical Center.

Runway sponsors were Fincher-Coffin Real Estate and Glynn Smith Chevrolet-Buick.

Huntingdon College was the presenting sponsor for the market place held outside the Southern Room prior to the luncheon. “We have a representative from Huntingdon on campus,” says Alison, “and they offer night classes at Southern Union.”

Table sponsors were Alabama Power Co. and Debbie Woods. Marco’s Pizza was a Gold Sponsor.

Models for the fashion show are students, faculty and staff. Belk, Fringe and Therapy Boutique provided the

fashions.

“All of the funds raised from the event go to the Southern Union Scholarship Program,” says Alison. “The money goes to students who might fall outside the conventional scholarships. They might not qualify for conventional financial aid. The funds raised go to local students.”

“We are trying to fill a gap,” adds Dr. Kelli Hodge, member of the Southern Union Foundation. “There are families who are in the middle range. They make too much for a scholarship but not enough to afford the expenses for an education.

“I want every person who is committed to getting an education can get an education.

“In 2013, we provide three students with just over $10,000 in scholarship money,” says Kelli.

“In 2017 we provided 18 students with over $70,000 in scholarship money.

“Because you are here, a student will get to continue their education in the future.”

The foundation hosts other fundraisers throughout the year, including a golf tournament at Moores Mill, the Great Gatsby Gala and a Stampede 5K walk or run at the Sportsplex.

The event provided a lovely luncheon and fun fashion show in a gorgeous setting, while raising funds to enable students to receive an education and reach their goals in life.

“We want to grow this event for people to look forward to it every year,” says Alison.

In the middle of the fashion show, desserts baked by staff members and employees were auctioned. Following are the recipes for the scrumptious desserts sold at the auction. The Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake was purchased at the auction for $150 by Oline and Randy Price.

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

Recipes Sweet Potato Pound Cake Vernecia Menifee, Maintenance 1 cup butter, softened 2 cups sugar 4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg 2 cups cold mashed sweet potatoes Glaze

1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 tsp. grated orange peel 3 to 5 tsp. orange juice In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla.

Combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and nutmeg; add to creamed mixture alternately with sweet potatoes. Beat just until combined (batter will be stiff).

Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake Joy Branch, History, Ethics, and Sociology Instructor 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. salt ¾ cup sugar ½ cup butter, softened 1 egg ½ cup milk 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries Streusel Topping ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup cold butter

½ tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk flour, baking powder and salt.

In another bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy.

Add egg and milk.

Stir in dry ingredients. Fold in blueberries and spread into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.

For topping, combine sugar and flour, then cut in butter until crumbly.

Add vanilla. Sprinkle over batter. Bake 35-40 minutes.

Red Velvet Cupcakes Tyler Laye, Assistant to the Dean of Academics 1 cup vegetable shortening 1 1/4 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. cocoa 2 oz. red food coloring 1 tsp. baking soda 1 Tbsp. vinegar 1 cup buttermilk Cream shortening and sugar. Add well-beaten eggs and vanilla. Sift flour, salt and cocoa 3 times.

Add dry ingredients

alternately with buttermilk. Blend in food coloring. Dissolve soda in vinegar. Fold into batter.

Pour batter into cupcake holders in a muffin pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Do not overbake.

Frosting 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese 1 stick salted butter 1/2 tsp. vanilla (clear) 1 box confectioners' sugar Soften butter and cream cheese at room temperature. Cream well. Add confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until creamy.

Buttermilk Pie Mindy Reynolds, History and Sociology Instructor 3 eggs 1 ½ cups sugar 1 Tbsp. flour (self-rising) ¼ cup whole buttermilk 2 Tbsp. melted butter 1 tsp. lemon juice

1 tsp. vanilla flavoring 1 refrigerated piecrust Place crust in a pie plate sprayed with cooking spray. Prick with a fork in several places.

Mix all ingredients with a whisk.

Pour into the piecrust. Bake at 325 degrees for 40-45 minutes, until set and a little browned.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake Nichole Bennett, Student Services Cake 1 box Kroger Butter Recipe Cake Mix 3 eggs 2/3 cup evaporated milk 1 1/2 sticks butter or margarine, melted or 12 tablespoons 3.5 oz. box vanilla instant pudding and pie filling 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup water 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 cup pecan pieces In a mixing bowl combine cake mix, pudding mix and eggs. Mix well with mixer. Add milk and melted margarine, cream cheese and

water and continue mixing. Batter will be thick. Fold in blueberries and walnut pieces. Spray cake pan well. Cook in preheated 350 degrees oven for 55 to 60 minutes until center is cooked.

Let stand for 15 to 20 minutes before removing from pan.

Glaze 1/2 cup lemon juice 2 tsp. vanilla 3 cups (more or less) confectioners’ sugar Mix ingredients in a small pan over low heat on the stove, stirring with a whisk until melts and desired consistency. Punch holes in cake with toothpick and pour glaze over cake.

Use any remaining glaze to pour over individual pieces.

B13 April 25, 2018 Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Nancy Bramlett, Distance Education Coordinator This cake is worth the wait! It is easier to make the cheesecake and cake layers one day, freeze both for several hours or overnight, and then assemble the cake the next day while layers are still frozen.

Cheesecake (middle layer of cake) Two (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature 1/3 cup sour cream 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream 2/3 cup white sugar 1/8 tsp. salt 2 large eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract Red Velvet Cake 1 ½ cups white sugar 1 ½ cups cake flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. cocoa 2 large eggs 1 cup vegetable oil 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 oz. bottle red food coloring Cream Cheese Frosting 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temperature 1 stick butter, room temperature 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 box powdered sugar 1 or 2 Tbsp. milk 1 cup nuts, chopped (optional) Shaved white chocolate bar for garnish (optional) Cheesecake layer: Preheat oven to 325. Place a large, deep roasting pan on the lower third rack of the oven. Place a large bowl of water in microwave to boil.

Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by wrapping two or three layers of foil around the outside bottom and up the sides of the pan.

This will seal the pan so that when you cook the cheesecake, the pan will remain waterproof. Spray the inside of the pan with nonstick spray and place a round piece of parchment paper in the bottom.

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend softened cream cheese until smooth and no lumps remain. Mix in sugar and salt and mix for 2 minutes, scraping down sides of the bowl as needed.

Add eggs, one at a time, blending well after each

Chocolate Chip Cookies Janie Prickett, Secretary to the Dean of Technical Education and Workforce Development 1 stick Crisco baking stick butter flavored all-vegetable shortening 1 ¼ cups packed brown sugar 2 Tbsp. milk 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract 1 egg 1 ¾ cups all purpose flour 1 tsp. salt ¾ tsp. baking soda 12 oz. pkg. chocolate chips Preheat oven to 375.

Beat shortening, brown sugar, milk and vanilla in a large bowl on medium speed with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Beat in egg. Combine flour, salt and baking soda.

Mix slowly into creamed mixture until blended. Stir in chocolate chips.

Chill mixture. Drop by rounded Tbsp. of dough three inches apart on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake until lightly brown, about 8 to 12 minutes.

Cool 2 minutes. Remove to wire rack to cool completely.

addition. Finally, mix in whipping cream, sour cream, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.

Pour batter into prepared spring-form pan. Set the spring-form pan into roasting pan in pre-heated oven.

Pour the hot water you heated in microwave into the roasting pan until the water is about 1 inch deep around the outside of the pan (be careful not to pour water into cheesecake).

Bake cheesecake for 45 minutes until set to touch.

(When you shake the pan slightly, the cheesecake should be firm.) Remove spring-form pan from water and let cheesecake cool on a wire rack for about an hour. When it has cooled, place pan into freezer and let cheesecake freeze. This can be done overnight to save time.

Red velvet cake layer: Preheat oven to 350. Grease and lightly flour two round 9- inch cake pans. Mix all dry ingredients together.

Add remaining ingredients in order as listed, mixing well. Pour half of the batter into each prepared cake pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, just until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean.

Do not overcook. Cool cake layers on wire rack for about an hour and wrap in wax or parchment paper and place in freezer. Allow to freeze overnight.

Prepare frosting: With blender, mix cream cheese and butter together until well blended. Add powdered sugar in thirds, mixing well after each addition.

Add vanilla and mix well.

Add one or two Tbsp. milk to improve spreadability. If desired, add chopped nuts and mix well.

Putting the cake together: This is the easy part! Cake should be put together while layers are still frozen.

Place one red velvet layer on cake plate; place the frozen cheesecake layer on top of the red velvet layer; add the second red velvet layer.

Spread prepared cream cheese frosting on top and sides of the cake. Garnish top with shaved white chocolate or piped icing, if desired.

Allow to finish thawing (about an hour) before serving. Store leftovers (if there are any) in the refrigerator.

Brownie Trifle Beverly Corley, English Instructor and Language Arts Department Chair 13 x 9-inch pan of brownies, prepared 1 large pkg. instant chocolate pudding prepared according to pkg. directions 1 container Cool Whip 1 pkg. Heath toffee pieces Layer half the brownies; top with half the chocolate pudding, half the package of Heath pieces, half the Cool Whip.

Repeat with remaining brownies, chocolate pudding, Cool Whip, and end with toffee pieces.

Pour into a greased and floured 10-in fluted tube pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

For glaze, in a small bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, orange peel and enough juice to achieve desired consistency. Drizzle over cake.

B14 April 25, 2018

pelika O E ntertainment

Last week’s answers:

4-18 SCRAMBLER ANSWERS: 1), Furnish 2), Couple 3), Retain 4), Spear Solution: Fiancee’s

pelika O Observer

B15 April 25, 2018

COMICS

There is a thin line that separates laughter and pain, comedy and tragedy, humor and hurt.

-Erma Bombeck

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B16 April 25, 2018

Community Calendar: Events around town

Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 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 autism parents will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the EAMC

Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. This is a monthly event on the first Monday of each month for parents to connect with each other.

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

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m.

For more information, call 297-5581 or visit www. nonukesforiran.org.

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

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

of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc.org.

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

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

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

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates,

nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops, and many more.

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

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

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

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

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin about 6:30-6:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public.

Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6–8 p.m.

8685 AL Highway 51.

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

Girl Scout Cookies Sold at Discount to First Responders, Military Special to the Opelika Observer The Girls Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) is providing a special offer to first responders and military to stock up on their favorite Girl Scout cookies such as thin mints, peanut butter patties, and shortbread, plus new additions like the S’mores cookie.

GSSA will provide Girl Scout Cookies for $25 a case, a discount of $23 off the regular price. Individual packages of cookies will be sold for the regular price of $4.

Cookies are available for purchase at GSSA’s Montgomery Service Center located on Coliseum Blvd or the Mobile Service Center located on Spring Hill Avenue.

“One hundred percent of the net revenue raised through the Girl Scout Cookie Program stays in southern Alabama,” said GSSA Chief Executive Officer Karlyn Edmonds. “That means not only are customers getting a delicious treat-they’re also making an important investment in their community.”

To find cookie varieties, location hours, or to learn more about the Girl Scout Cookie Program, visit www. girlscoutssa.org.

For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap. org or find the organization on Facebook.

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.

• Auburn-Opelika Chapter of Citizen’s Climate Lobby (CCL) meets every fourth Wednesday. CCL is a non-profit, non-partisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. We consider a national carbon fee which would be distributed as a dividend to all U.S. households as the most important solution to climate change.

Meetings are held at the Hubert and Grace Harris Center Meeting Room (425 Perry St., Auburn, AL 36830 --- directly across from the Auburn, AL U.S. Post Office), 7:00-8:30 p.m. To learn more about CCL go to our website: citizensclimatelobby.org.

• 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: • 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 informa-

tion.

• 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 770-845-2277 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 334-5281076 for more information.

• 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.

• May 5 - A “Rock the Block” event to promote local and statewide candidates will be held May 5 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Powell Chapel United Methodist Church in Lafayette. Hosted by the Chambers County Alabama Democratic Conference, the event will include inflatables, food, games, music and a meet-and-greet with candidates. For more information, contact Chambers County ADC Chairman Dr. Randy B. Kelley at 256390-1834 for more information. The church is located at 100 3rd Place N.E. in Lafayette across from Lafayette High School.

• June 9 - The “Greater Valley Juneteenth Community Festival” will be held June 9 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

EST. Hosted by Goodsell United Methodist Church, the event will include a health fair, voter registration booth, moonwalks for children, games, car show, live entertainment, food vendors and more. Those interested in vending can learn or download application forms online at www.juneteenth. com. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Carmen McCoy at 706-5019069 or Dr. Randy B. Kelley at 256-390-1834. The church is located at 1007 N. 6th Ave. in Lanett.

To add your community events to the community calendar, email us at editor@opelikaobserver.com.