Opelika Observer 6-20-18 E-edition

pelika O Observer

Vol. 10, No. 37

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Opelika, Alabama

More VBS Photos on A11

“By local people, for local people.”

New entertainment Opelika’s Dallas Dorsey to release self-titled EP space, subdivision coming to downtown

Special to the Opelika Observer Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Opelika native Richard Patton discusses his plans to create a new entertainment space at 1st Avenue between 7th and 8th Street. Once completed, the development will feature a brewery, clothing supply store, vinyl records shop and more.

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Construction of two major developments is underway in downtown Opelika.

Richard Patton sat down with Observer staff to discuss the projects and how he believes their presence will benefit Opelika and its downtown for years to come.

“A part of downtown but with its own unique flair” The first project, a yet-to-be-named space located within the Cotton Warehouse District at 1st Avenue between the 7th and 8th street blocks, features three confirmed businesses: 10,000 Hz Records, Griff Goods and Resting Pulse Brewery.

Patton purchased most of the historical structures in that district from Penn Montgomery, between 2006 - 2007, with the intention of creating a viable entertainment hub for downtown Opelika.

“The idea has always been there, but it’s been hard finding the right people. We could have filled it with lots of things, but things we didn’t feel like were beneficial for downtown,” Patton said. “We wanted to make a space that

wasn’t just being used for storage or collecting but rather a spot that would add to the quality of life for people here in Opelika.”

Russell Baggett of 10,000 Hz Records said he and his wife, Hannah, started their business last spring, participating in pop-up events across the Opelika-Auburn area. He said that their main focus is providing the public with access to the most recent vinyl releases, which span the electronic, folk, funk, rock and soul genres.

“We have a little bit of everything in our selection. We don’t have every single release that comes out each week, but what we try to have are things that our customers like and want to listen to,” Baggett said.

Griff Goods owner Abby Griffin said she will design and produce men’s clothing at her shop, as well as provide unique gifts and accessories not found locally.

“The products I source are either from brands I've read about or have stumbled upon while traveling, things that leave a lasting impression on me. I intend on stocking really unique See Downtown, page A8

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Nearly four years after his stellar album debut “Come On,” Opelika native Dallas Dorsey has delivered yet again with another solid 5-track release, a self-titled EP, which is set to be released later

this month.

Through his descriptive storytelling style, Dorsey’s new studio effort describes to listeners the pain of a broken relationship, and through elements like time and place, how it can be repaired.

Much like “Come On,” which possessed

ballad. Slotted as the EP’s lead track, it lays the foundation for the beginning of the love journey and pays homage to Dorsey’s Opelika roots with a line in the B verse saying “you never liked this railroad town.”

Tracks like “Tires See EP, page A3

New mobile clinic announced Friday

By Savannah Vicker For the Opelika Observer

The City of Opelika, Mobile Studios, East Alabama Medical Center and Auburn University are partnering to provide a mobile wellness clinic for Opelika’s under-served citizens.

During a luncheon

Special to the Opelika Observer

Friday at Opelika Power Services, officials announced that the clinic will be fully equipped

with an interview/waiting room, exam room, lavatory area with a sink, bathroom/chang-

ing room and a secure records room.

According to officials, the main goal of the clinic is to provide access directly to healthcare straight to the neighborhood while providing preventative supportive services for citizens and parents.

Along the way, officials said they hope

See Clinic, page A2

DITEP program launches in Lee County

By Morgan Murphy For the Opelika Observer Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes has made it his mission to bring Drug Impairment Training for the Education Professional (DITEP) to the

school systems of Lee County.

DITEP has evolved from the Drug Recognition Expert Program (DRE) that began in the late 70’s. Law enforcement professionals were trained to go through a 12 step process to determine what drug or

Index OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION.................................A9

a wide array of musical influences, this release is no exception, seamlessly blending country with Southern rock for an ear-pleasing fusion of genres.

“Don’t Call Me,” with its heavy steel guitar and pounding drums, feels like a classic, timeless country

SPORTS.......................................B1 LEGALS.........................................B4 ENTERTAINMENT.......................B7 CALENDAR.............................B10

Hughes

combination of drugs may impair someone.

When Hughes was

campaigning for his seat as District Attorney, DITEP was a huge part of his platform.

“We have done a lot of work to get this program here. Now, the question is, what can we do with it, how robust can we go See DITEP, page A12

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A2 June 20, 2018

Summer Swing to continue through the summer at Municipal Park

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Route 66 performed June 12 at Municipal Park as a part of the weekly “Summer Swing” concert series. Check the Opelika Parks and Recreation wesbite and social media pages for updates and band lineups.

Clinic, from A1 the clinic helps to build relationships among the community and improve the family unit by decreasing the number of children entering foster care. All services provided by the clinic will be free of charge to the patient.

A local transportation company, First Transit, has donated a bus that

will be remodeled into the mobile clinic. According to estimates, the modifications of the mobile clinic are expected to cost $200,000.

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller called on citizens to help sponsor or donate to help get the clinic on the road as soon as possible.

“We think it’s very important that all of our citizens have an opportunity to participate and have an ownership of this clinic, whether they give $1 or $5 or $25,000. We want folks to participate

and be a part of it,” Fuller said. “The sooner we can raise money and get the clinic ready, get the bus prepared, then the sooner we will be out there serving people and helping folks.”

Once the mobile clinic is operative, patient care services will be provided

by EAMC medical staff.

For more information or to donate, visit www. eamcfoundation.org or contact City Administrator Joey Motley at 334705-5152.

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

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Phone: 334.749.8003 Fax: 334.749.8009 editor@opelikaobserver.com

Editor: Michelle Key Associate Editor: Morgan Bryce 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.

pelika O Observer EP, from A1 Roll On” and “Stranger” beckon the sounds of Southern rock patriarchs like the Allman Brothers, Blackfoot and Lynyrd Skynyrd, creating a familiar and relatable vibe for listeners.

The mending of the broken relationship is furthered in “Let It Loose.”

Dorsey’s conviction and earnestness shine through on this track, particularly in the chorus pleading

“tell the truth, always speak your mind, come on honey, let it loose.”

“Take Me Back Home” serves as an upbeat closer for the record. Similar to the Marshall Tucker Band hit “Can’t You See,” Dorsey’s voice peaks as he describes the thrill of being “on a southbound train heading on, back to Alabama, where I belong.”

In an era where most music can be described as cookie-cutter or stereotypical (particularly within the country genre), Dorsey’s skillful songwriting and smooth

voice make his music a pleasant listening experience and diversion from the norm.

If you’re looking for a new track or album to add to your summer playlist, look no further than this exceptional EP. You won’t be disappointed.

Check www.dallasdorsey.com for information on the album’s release and availability. An album release party and music video shoot will be held June 29 at 7:30 p.m. at Ruffin Farms, located at 3085 County Road 86 in Waverly.

A3 June 20, 2018

Lions Club hosts EAMC representatives Special to the Opelika Observer Representatives of the EAMC Foundation were guests at a recent Opelika Lions Club meeting. Sarah Strawn, center, Auxiliary Board President, and Victoria Beasley, right, Volunteer Coordinator, discussed the many duties performed by hospital volunteers, where they work and and how they benefit the hospital and themselves in their efforts. Introduction was made by Lion Doug Hicks, left.

OCC to host veterans job fair June 27 Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Career Center is partnering with Central Alabama Veterans Healthcare System (CAVHCS) and Veterans Justice Outreach & Healthcare for ReEntry Veterans Program to host the Justice Involved & Workforce Ready Veterans Job Fairw June 27 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at CAVHCS, located at 2400 Hospital Road, Building 90, in Tuskegee.

Veterans will receive priority of service from 9 – 10 a.m. The event

will open to the public at 10 a.m. Jobseekers should bring a current resume and dress professionally.

What: Justice Involved & Workforce Ready Veterans Job Fair When: Wednesday, June 27 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: CAVHCS,

2400 Hospital Road, Building 90, in Tuskegee For more information, contact Coretta Bozeman at 334-749-5065 or 334-546-0050. She can be emailed at Coretta.

Bozeman@alcc.alabama.gov or Opelika@ alcc.alabama.gov.

Men’s Cast June 29 @ 7 p.m.

June 30 @ 2 & 7 p.m.

Women’s Cast TBA

A4 June 20, 2018

pelika O Opinion

Hitchhikers Far from home C T

hitchhike. he other day Leada When I was at Marion MiliGore of al.com asked tary Institute, cadets weren’t “when was the last allowed cars, so on weekends, time you saw someone to get where I was going, I put thumbing a ride in Alabama”? on my uniform and stood by Not recently, she wrote – the road – thumb out. Looking answering her own question. like I was in the service of my Why ?

By Hardy Jackson country, rides came quickly, Her short blog-like comand if anyone asked what the mentary directed the reader MMI on my collar stood for I told them to an article in Vox.com which told of the “Marine Military Intelligence.” decline of the practice.

I guess they thought I was on some That today, hitchhiking is a “forgotten secret mission, because they never asked art,” the Vox piece points out, is not so anything else. much from the fear of crime, though that Hitchhiking, I got to see Alabama – is a factor, or the increased availability of along with bits of neighboring states. More mass transportation, which is something environmental activists and urban planners than once my ride was not going precisely where I wanted to go, so I ended up close, long for, but haven’t gotten. but not there. Trying to get home from No, to use the principle set down by the Medieval philosopher William of Ockham Birmingham, where I went to college after Marion, I ended up in Greenville, where (1287-1347), the simple answer is usually the right answer and in this case the simple another kind soul picked me up and took me as far as Monroeville, where a third answer to why not many folks hitchhike ride got me to my destination. any more is that more people own and Over the years I saw parts of our state drive cars. that I might not have otherwise seen – little Once again a Liberal Arts education towns that were thriving, others that were proves its worth. dying, mountains and valleys, sluggish Now being a historian, in addition to wondering why something isn’t anymore, I rivers and swift flowing streams – and met am inclined to get all tangled up in figuring some interesting folks.

Not once did I feel fear. out what it was before it wasn’t – diagram I wonder if my folks did? that sentence and you are an English major.

I wonder how they felt when they An old one, since you know how to diadropped me by the side of the road with gram a sentence. my suitcase, so I could ride my thumb back So I have to go back to why hitchhikto college. ing was once so prevalent, a trip down I know how I would feel today, if it memory lane, for you see, I was once a were my son. hitchhiker.

I wouldn’t do it. His Mama wouldn’t let But I am getting ahead of myself.

If you saw the movie “O’ Brother Where me if I would.

But times were different then.

Art Thou,” you got a sense of the scarcity Today, he has a car. of transportation during the Great DepresBesides, I would not knowingly help him sion. Outside of towns and cities there engage in something illegal. wasn’t much, so folks shared.

Yes, illegal.

This carried over into the war years, Alabama has a law that reads “no person where outside of every military base were shall stand in a roadway for the purpose of benches on which was written “Give a soliciting a ride.”

Soldier a Lift.” People did.

But remember, this is Alabama, and in After the war the practice, continued. I Alabama there is always a catch. recall my father picking up guys in uniAnd it all depends on what you mean by form on their way to and from somewhere “in.” we happened to be going too.

“In” as in standing on the blacktop?

In my case, hitchhiking began coincidenOr is the right-of-way part of the “roadtal with cow feeding. way?”

We had a small farm about 12 miles Or what difference does it make anyfrom town, where we kept a small herd of way? cows.

When was the last time someone was During the winter, when football season arrested in Alabama for hitchhiking? was over, I would ride the school bus out Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Prothere, walk back to the pasture, get hay and fessor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville corn out of the crib, feed ‘em, then walk State University. He can be reached at back to the highway and thumb home. hjackson@cableone.net.

When I got to college I continued to

leaves for his full-time olorado job, caring for folks who Springs—I found are in their late-eighties. a twenty-dollar His mother has demenbill on the sidewalk. And tia, his father is a few because I am a compesteps from hospice. Most tent, responsible adult, I days, he comes to work raced toward the money, tired, but he gets through shouting, “MINE!

By Sean Dietrich it somehow.

MINE!” at my wife.

Not long ago, he used to wait There they were, two Andrew tables, but the schedule became too Jacksons, crumpled. I made the much to handle. The life of a giftsame sound a five-year-old boy shop cashier is a much better fit. makes when he discovers the And even though he doesn’t say Tootsie Roll center to a Tootsie Roll it, I’ll bet he’s a wreck inside. CarTootsie Pop. ing for sick people will age a man.

I don’t often find money. It’s not one of my skills. I have a friend who Even so, he’s a happy man. And in twenty minutes, he’ll be off work. finds money everywhere. He once He’s excited, he tells me, because found a hundred big ones outside a convenience store. I happened to be tonight’s a big night. He’s going to with him when it happened. I never introduce his girlfriend to his parents. forgave him.

“I can’t wait,” he says. “I’m gonThus, with my newfound wealth, na cook us all steaks, and I just hope I walked into a giftshop to do some my mom has her mind tonight.” dutiful vacation-junk purchasing.

I ask about his folks.

Here in Colorado, I am a tourist, “My dad’s from Montgomery,” and a tourist can never have enough he went on. “My mom’s from a plastic junk to clutter up his home, little town called Opp, ever heard office, garage, guest bedroom, or of it?” storage unit. Then, I overheard his Heard of it? I’ve eaten boiled peavoice. nuts while watching a buck-dancing He was behind the cash register, contest at the annual Rattlesnake talking to a customer. His accent Rodeo. was pure Alabama. It had to be.

“Yeah,” he said. “I miss home, He drew out his vowels the same but it is pretty out here, my girlway Good Ole Boys have been dofriend and I love to hike, whenever I ing since the invention of the beer get free time.” koozie.

When his father developed canI waited in line with an armful of overpriced trash. I was buying more cer, he moved in with his mother than twenty-bucks’ worth—three T- and she started taking care of him.

Then, his mother started showing shirts, a snow globe, a coffee mug, early signs of dementia, and it’s and a few bumper stickers for my been a battle ever since. accordion case.

And I wish I could have gotten That’s right, I play accordion. My grandfather played, too. Grandaddy more of his story, but the line of customers behind me was growing. told me long ago that the accordion People were getting impatient. One was a great way to pick up chicks. woman even cleared her throat and He was grossly misinformed. rolled her eyes at me.

When it was my turn, I asked the So I paid my bill. gray-haired man at the cash register “Whoops,” he said, counting my where he was from. cash. “I think you accidentally gave “Montgomery,” he said. me an extra twenty.”

Bingo. Alabamians, you’ll note, No sir. It was no accident. I only don’t say “MONT-gomery” like wish it were more. Call me if you the rest of the free world. They say, ever want to go to the Rattlesnake “Muh-GUM-ree.”

Rodeo.

“How’d you get out here?” I Good luck at dinner tonight. asked.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and “Long story,” he said. “I came novelist, known for his commenhere for my parents. They’re old tary on life in the American South. and not doing so good. I’m real Mobile Press Register and he has homesick though.” authored seven books.

He works here part-time, then

Happy Father’s Day: a reflection on my best friend

I

was 10 years old and I got up early, 4 a.m., like I did everyday, during “silage season.”

Silage Season was a time in August when we would cut all the corn Dad and Uncle planted, around 600 acres, and grind it up, pack it, and store it in a pit for feeding to all the cows, for the coming year. You see my dad was a Dairy Farmer and silage season was hard, hot work, lasting 16-18 hours a day.

Silage season was a yearly event for me even at the age of 10. I was young and a baseball fan, I wasn’t any good at baseball, in three seasons, this being my last, even though at the time I did not know it, I compiled eight total hits, four in the last game I would ever play. I still remember my dad at the farm working after the game standing with one of the big push brooms, pushing the brewers grain we fed the cows, that had spilled over the sides of the truck during loading, back into the pit, congratulating me on the game. I can see his smile 35 years later and him saying to me, “You

and Seed had a good earlier in game today, 4 the summer hits!” and then and I had back to pushing gotten my the broom, straw hat. I whoosh, would take whoosh, on the it and go to concrete.

Whatley the kitchen But back to just like dad the story, it was 4 a.m., I was up, and it was and wet four or five paper towels and put them in silage season. My brother the hat to work at keeping Andrew and I collected my head cool. It didn’t baseball cards and I had a really work, but dad did Babe Ruth card, albeit a it so I did it to. So I put rather non-valuable card, on my hat with the wet but a card. It was of The paper towels, with water Babe standing hunched streaking down the back of over in 1947 wearing an neck in the back, and water overcoat and speaking to dripping off my nose in the a crowd, he was sick at front. the time and would not be As I opened the door to around much longer. But the house around 4:15 a.m. hey, no one else had any I could feel the heat slap type Babe Ruth card, so me in the face. Even with I was cool. I was getting paid this summer, 50 cents the sun still hiding I could feel the humidity and hat an hour, and I was going to save my money and get working together to ensure a real Babe Ruth card, one a hot muggy day ahead.

As I climbed into Dad’s from when he was a real player. So I put on my Lee truck, I would sit on the passenger side, careful to jeans, a shirt, and some avoid the springs coming shoes and went down the up out of the seat. Dad had stairs to go to the farm a plastic car seat that went with dad. over the coils on his worn Dad and I both had out side, We would drive straw hats, he had taken around the house on our me to Dorsey’s Feed

way out, Dad always said, “always go forward when you can, nothing really good comes from backing up.”

Out of the yard and down the hill we would go and to the field that held the tractor that cut the silage left where dad had finished the night before.

The tractor would be cool at 4:30 a.m. and on it we would climb with the smell of cut corn, diesel fuel, and sweat all around. Down on the seat dad would sit and fire up the Ford 8000 and on the cool wheel fender (which would get so hot by mid day it would burn you) I would sit. Like that we would ride until lunch when we would take a much needed break from the heat.

During the ride as we cut the corn silage we would talk over the tractor’s engine (later my nephew Henry would say “Big Tractor, Big Sound”). We would talk about anything; baseball, football, politics and farming (the last of which I really didn’t get). You see, you have to be really smart to be a successful

farmer and dad is smart.

In the afternoon after a lunch of fresh tomato slices, squash, corn and peas we would take a short nap and then back to field, the heat, and the tractor. Late in the afternoon after we had been on the tractor the better part of 10 hours my mom would show up in the field driving the station wagon out to the tractor. Dad would let me pull the kill switch and the big tractor with the big sound would come to stop and be silent. Mom would then get out of the car and give dad and myself a glass mayonnaise jar (this was before Tervis Tumblers and Yettis) full of ice water complete with the sweat of the cold water permeating through the jar so that it was cool and slick to the touch. Mom would hand each of us our jar and then the big tractor with the big sound would start back up and the black smoke would pour out of the smoke stack and away to cutting we would go each with our jar of water and our sweat soaked clothes. The day would be cooler by now and the sun

would be heading out of sight in a few hours and the day with dad would come to an end.

Thirty-Five years later I still enjoy a friendship with my dad. He is my best friend and starts his day saying these words to me, “What can I do to help you today?” There isn’t a thing in the world mom and dad wouldn’t gladly do for Andrew, Virginia, and myself.

There will come a day when I do a lot of last things; a last kiss, a last day in politics, a last time speaking to a friend, and I can’t tell you when the last tractor ride I took as a little boy with dad was.

I grew up, I got involved in 4-H, FFA, had friends, went to college, law school, joined the Army, and started my own life.

But I will always remember silage season and those days with my dad riding on the tractor. I will remember what great a friend I have and how lucky Virginia, Andrew, and I are to have two wonderful parents. For my dad, my best friend, I always enjoyed every ride

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Around Lee County

A5 June 20, 2018

Smiths Station to Averitt Express honors longtime employee create historic preservation board Special to the Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The creation of the city’s first-ever historic preservation commission was a focal point of discussion during Smith Station’s city council meeting last Tuesday.

Mayor Bubba Copeland outlined details of the planned nine-member commission, which will be responsible for discovering and recognizing structures or land of historical significance to the city. “(Their purpose will be) twofold: they’ll be responsible for preserving sites in Smiths Station (and) acknowledging sites in Smiths Station,” Copeland said.

Once formed, commission members will serve varying terms of one, two and three years in length.

The council also

tries.

The company is a founding SmartWay partner and specializes in deliverMembers of Opelika's Averitt ing customized transportation solutions Express facility recently honored that include cross-border, dedicated, associate James Edwards of LaFayexpedited ground/air, intermodal ette for 25 years of safety.

COFC/TOFC, international ocean/ Averitt has developed a culture air, local customization, less-thanof safety by measuring both vehicle truckload, PortSide®, retail solutions, and driver performance through a temperature-controlled, transportaEdwards series of indicators. It also strives tion management, truckload (dry van, to have the safest trucks on the road, flatbed, brokerage) and warehousing aiming for continual improvement through train- services. ing programs and awareness campaigns.

Averitt's technology offerings include a full Averitt’s Opelika facility is located at 701 suite of web-based shipping tools, electronic Westpoint Pkwy. data interchange (EDI), warehouse management About Averitt Express systems (WMS) and transportation and operaAveritt Express is a leading provider of freight tions management systems. transportation and supply chain management For more information, call 1-800-AVERITT with international reach to more than 100 coun(283-7488) or visit AverittExpress.com.

approved a resolution permitting Alabama’s annual “Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday” within city limits from 12:01 a.m. July 20 midnight July 22.

In other business, the council: - discussed the progress of the city’s planned veteran’s memorial - approved a zoning ordinance that allows the city to zone annexed split-parcel properties created by House Bill 373 earlier this year.

The Smiths Station City Council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with the regular session beginning at 5:30 p.m. and regular meeting at 6 p.m. E.S.T. For more information about items covered under the sales tax holiday, visit revenue.alabama. gov/sales-use/sales-taxholidays/.

SSTV searches for Alabama’s best fried chicken Special to the Opelika Observer Few menu items are more quintessentially Southern than chicken dredged in flour and fried to golden-brown perfection. With thousands of Alabama restaurants serving this Southern staple, it’s time one restaurant earned bragging rights as the

spot for Bama’s Best Fried Chicken.

“Simply Southern TV” is now taking nominations on its Facebook page for the Bama’s Best Fried Chicken Contest. To nominate a restaurant, simply comment on the Facebook post announcing the contest at Facebook.com/SimplySouthernTV. Comments must

include the restaurant name and city.

The eight restaurants with the most nominations by June 29 will make it to the Bama’s Best Fried Chicken Bracket. Different matchups will be announced on the Facebook page daily, July 10-19.

The restaurant with more votes will move on

to the next round.

The winning restaurant, announced July 20, will receive a $300 cash prize and a plaque, along with being featured in the fourth season of “Simply Southern TV.” Bama’s Best Fried Chicken contest is sponsored by the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association and the Alabama Poultry Producers.

Lee County Commission to reconsider open hours for dumpsters

By Fred Woods For the Opelika Observer At last week’s regular meeting, Lee County Commissioners heard a presentation of the preliminary report of the “Tornado Shelter Site Selection Mapping Project” prepared by two Auburn University Geosciences professors and presented

by Lee County Emergency Management Agency Director Kathy Carson.

While the project’s stated purpose was to identify potential sites for community tornado shelters in Lee County outside Auburn and Opelika city limits, several factors key to selection of tornado shelter sites were not considered in the project, including the frequency of tornados in the area and the likelihood that area residents will use the shelters.

Using the assumption that volunteer fire stations were the preferred shelter sites (plus the Smiths Station Sports Complex), 19 potential sites were identified and then, based on construction of a “social vulnerability map,” ranked in order of priority. The social vulnerability map covered a one-mile radius buffer zone around each of the 19 potential sites.

The social vulnerability map considered 20 demographic variables including poverty, mobile homes, elderly, AfricanAmerican, less than high school education and English as a second language (ESL).

Based on this calculation the top three priority shelter sites identified were the areas around (1) Beauregard VFD station #2, (2) the Smiths Station Sports Complex and (3) Beulah VFD station #3.

According to the National Weather Service, Lee County has, over the period 1996-2016, averaged roughly one reported tornado a year with 16 of the 21 total tornados occurring in just two years, 2009 and 2016. Based on a cursory examination of location maps, two or three of these may have occurred within the top-3 priority buffer zone areas over the 20-year period.

While shelter use estimates are very limited, an unscientific survey posted on the organization’s Facebook page found that 40 percent of pollers would not use a shelter or be willing to travel more than a mile to one.

Several commissioners expressed their reservations over the exclusion of these two factors.

District 3 Commissioner Gary Long specifically

asked, “Who will use … [the shelters] ?”

No action was taken by the commission.

Commissioners also heard from Michael Griffith and two of his neighbors from the Motts community southeast of Bleeker concerning new open times for the Motts dumpster. Because of illegal dumping of (primarily) industrial waste, this dumpster, beginning June 1, has been open for use from 6:30 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. (CDT) with a locked gate the rest of the time. Prior to June 1, the facility was open 24 hours, but dumping by persons from outside Lee County, and even out-of-state, had become a serious problem and limiting its open hours was seen as one possibility of addressing the problem.

Griffith and friends

agreed with the problem but reminded commissioners that they and many others in southeastern Lee County work in the Columbus, Georgia. area and have traditionally scheduled their activities based on the Eastern Time Zone times and the dumpster hours have created problems for their schedules. They asked that open hours be changed to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern time) and that consideration be given to installing a smaller, walk-through gate, open at all hours, to facilitate the dumping of household waste. County solid waste officials agreed to make some adjustment of open hours and take the gate request under advisement.

In other business, the commission: - Heard a request to reduce the speed limit from 45 to 35 mph on a

portion of Lee Road 246 near LR 935 due to dangerous curves and several hidden driveways (the County Highway Department will do a traffic study to see if this action is warranted), - Approved a contract with D&J Enterprises to do a minimum of 4.8 miles of Full Depth Reclamation, Resurfacing and Traffic Stripe on various county roads, - Granted preliminary plat approval to Magnolia Ridge Subdivision Phase II, a 51-acre development near the intersection of Lee Road 40l and AL Hwy. 169, - Approved a federal aid agreement for widening and resurfacing Lee Road 011 near Sanford Middle School in Beauregard and - Appointed Commissioner Johnny Lawrence to the 2018-19 ACCA Legislative Committee.

Alabama State Parks receive TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Honors Special to the Opelika Observer

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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

Seven Alabama State Parks earned nine Hall of Fame honors from TripAdvisor and 12 parks in the 22-park system earned Certificates of Excellence from the world’s largest travel website. Overall, the parks received 16 Certificates of Excellence for 2018.

To earn Hall of Fame recognition, a park, attraction or business must have received a Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years. The certificates are awarded based on users’ reviews and opinions on TripAdvisor. com.

The Hall of Fame winning parks are Cathedral Caverns State Park, Chewacla State Park, DeSoto State Park, Gulf State Park, Joe Wheeler State Park, Monte Sano State Park and Oak Mountain State Park.

“The most rewarding facet of this recognition is that it comes from visitors’ opinions and rankings,” said Greg Lein, Alabama State Parks Director. “For seven parks to receive Certificates of Excellence for five straight years is remarkable. We are so proud of our staff and volunteers for the hard work they do that is reflected by the high regard our visitors hold in the parks.”

According to TripAdvisor, to qualify for a Certificate of Excellence, a business must “maintain an overall TripAdvisor rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.”

The awards are announced annually in May. The Hall of Fame recognition for the Alabama State Parks system toSee Parks, page A8

pelika O Observer

A6 June 20, 2018

Kirkland’s to hold meet-and-greet with local artist June 30 Special to the Opelika Observer Kirkland's, a leading retailer of home decor accents and gifts, will host a painting session and meet-and-greet with local artist Pam Coxwell at its Opelika location June 30 from 1-3 p.m.

Attendees will have the chance to meet Coxwell, who has lived in Opelika since high school, and watch as she creates a one-ofa-kind piece. At the end of the session, a drawing will be held and one lucky guest will get to take home the painting.

The event highlights Kirkland’s American Artist Collection, which features the work of local and regional artists, including Coxwell’s. Each

piece is printed on canvas and features handtexturing to enhance its details. The collection is now available online and in stores for purchase.

About Pam Coxwell Pam Coxwell grew up in South Alabama watching the women in her family create beautiful things from fabric, flowers and food. In high school, she moved to Opelika where she met her husband, Terry, and they've lived there ever since. Coxwell's joyous love of colors has led her through different careers and many artistic outlets, all of which she's shared with her own two daughters. For Coxwell, her art is a record of her spiritual and personal journey, with sketches often coming

during church, Bible study or the middle of the night. She began sharing her artwork as a tool to encourage others. These days, she works in many mediums, but whether in watercolor, acrylics or mixed media, a tender joy and light ties her work together. Her most recent works have been a remembrance and thanksgiving for her childhood visits to her grandfather's farm where his love and godly example brought amazement, joy and laughter.

About Kirkland’s Based in Brentwood, Tennessee, and founded in 1966 by Carl Kirkland, Kirkland’s is a leading retailer of home decor accents and gifts, with more than 400 stores in 38 states. With a wide

Special to the Opelika Observer Pam Coxwell, pictured above, is an Opelika resident who is acclaimed for her works in watercolor, acrylics and mixed media. She will participate in a meet-and-greet event at Kirkland’s June 30. selection of unique indoor and outdoor furniture, rugs, mirrors, lighting, wall art, home and garden accessories, seasonal items and gifts, Kirkland’s allows

customers to create inspiring living spaces at affordable prices. More information is available at www.kirklands. com and on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

@kirklands. For ideas and inspiration, go to Pinterest @kirklandshome.

The Opelika store is located at 2630 Enterprise Drive.

Alison Yarbrough named new administrator of EAMC-Lanier Nursing Home Special to the Opelika Observer Alison Yarbrough was recently named as the new administrator of the EAMC-Lanier Nursing Home in Valley.

The Lanett native has been employed with EAMC-Lanier for 14 years. Yarbrough graduated from Southern Union State Com-

munity College with an associate’s degree in nursing in 2004 and obtained a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Troy University in 2008. She received her master’s in nursing informatics in 2010.

"It is such an honor to get to serve my home community both as a nurse and a leader,” Yarbrough said.

Yarbrough began her nursing career on the Medical/Surgical floor, transferred to the Education Department and then to PACU before working per diem when she served as lead school nurse for the Chambers County School System. She was named quality manager for EAMCLanier in 2010.

In August 2017, Yar-

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brough began her nursing home administrator training in and completed 1,000 preceptor hours in EAMC’s long-term care units as a prerequisite for being seated for the exam.

“Alison is very energetic and passionate about our residents.

She’s an expert in process improvement, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for Alison and our nursing home," said Eve Milner, vice president of Clinical Services at EAMC-Lanier.

East Alabama Medical Center is a 340-bed regional referral hospital located in Opelika, and the organization also includes EAMCLanier hospital (88 beds) in Valley.

Between the two hospitals and their collective service lines, there are 3,300 employees, making

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Among the services provided are openheart surgery, comprehensive cancer treatment, and complete orthopedic care.

EAMC also operates non-mainstream services, including RehabWorks, HealthPlus Fitness Center, the Diabetes & Nutrition

Center, the Wound Treatment Center and the Auburn University Medical Clinic.

EAMC-Lanier has a nursing home (103 beds), an inpatient acute rehabilitation unit (17 beds), a detox unit (10 beds) and offers occupational medicine.

For more information, visit www.eamc. org.

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Opelika E vents, Society, & Food Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

Former professional baker shares yummy cake, cookie recipes

Photo by Ann Cipperly While Lisa Turner did not care much for cooking, she discovered she had a love for baking and decorating cakes. For years she created unique, beautiful cakes. Since going to work full time at Southern Union, she now only bakes for family and friends. She is sharing several of her best recipes. Lisa’s Key Lime Cupcakes and Strawberry Cupcakes are perfect for summer parties.

W

hile Lisa Turner once had a booming business of creating unique, gorgeous birthday and wedding cakes, these days she is only baking for family and friends. When Lisa was offered a full time teaching position at Southern Union, she hung up her apron. She is sharing recipes for some of her popular cakes and cookies, including her greatgrandmother Nannie’s Strawberry Cake.

The love of cooking and baking goes back to both of Lisa’s grandmothers, a grandfather and her mother. Her grandfather owned a cafe in Columbus, Ga., called Henry’s Café.

Her family also owned Henry’s Hotdogs, The scrambled dog is a famous hot dog dish in Columbus. “My family claims they invented it,” Lisa says.

“When the restaurant closed, other people started selling the same thing and ended up getting credit for the invention.”

Lisa spent many weekends and summers visiting her grandparents. “I would watch my grandmother make biscuits,” she says, “as I wanted so badly to learn how to make them, but she didn’t measure anything. She just poured the buttermilk over the flour until it looked right.”

While Lisa was attending Auburn, she

met her husband, Randy. After they married, they moved to Atlanta for 10 years. While she did not enjoy cooking, she discovered she adored baking “I learned cooking and baking are two different things,” she said.

Her mother--in-law gave her a Kitchen Aid mixer and a certificate for cake decorating classes for a Christmas gift. “I went to the cake decorating class,” says Lisa, “and fell in love with it. I then went back to the advanced class.”

After her oldest daughter Katie was born, she created a birthday cake with three-dimensional clowns. As Katie got older and friends came to her parties, people began asking her to bake birthday cakes for their children.

Lisa began baking birthday and wedding cakes for family and friends, and then more people called her. She had a call from someone asking her to make an Elvis Presley cake.

She had figured how to make her own stencils using wax paper.

She made the cake and designed sunglasses on Elvis, so she didn’t have to make the eyes.

The cake turned out to be one of her favorites.

“Once I figured how to make my own pattern it was easy,” she says.

She used coloring books to trace designs on wax paper. She cut out the design and then

took a toothpick to make dots around the edges. Once the wax paper was removed, she could see the dots for lining with buttercream frosting.

Lisa suggests if anyone is interested in decorating cakes to practice making cakes for family and friends.

“Sometimes the ugliest cakes can taste the best,” she says. “Find the cake and frosting you like the best.”

For baking perfect cakes and cooking, Lisa suggests preheating the oven, following the recipe exactly and not over baking.

While you can change and adjust recipes in cooking, it is not the same for baking.

When baking cookies, she uses parchment paper or Baker’s Joy nonstick spray.

She finds that while some cookie recipes say to drop dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, she finds it is better to lightly coat the sheet with nonstick spray. When cookies are removed from the oven, she lets them sit for a minute or two before placing on a rack.

For cakes, she uses stainless steel pans and coats them with Baker’s Joy. To keep the layers even, she sometimes uses Wilton bake-even strips that look like duct tape. She soaks the strip, squeezes the water out and then wraps the strip See Cipperly, page B12

U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • SUMMER SWING • FARMER’S MARKETS • WARD 2 FAMILY FUN DAY • COXWELL MEET & GREET • ORDINARY ELEPHANT • PIG PICKIN’

Beulah native Donald Carr leads by faith, service Special to the Opelika Observer

Through military deployment abroad or leading a church, Beulah native Donald Carr has lived a life dedicated to serving his community and country.

An Army veteran and longtime pastor, Carr’s wife Yvonne describes Donald as a wonderful father, husband, leader and person.

“I can say he has made a huge impact on me and my family, as well as those he served because of his work ethics, great husband and father - such an awesome man of God,” Yvonne said.

From 1980 - 2004, Donald served in the U.S. Army, with experience in special operations, counseling fellow soldiers, working as a unit chaplain, among others.

A notable moment from Donald’s military career came from his deployment

Donald and Yvonne Carr

to Honduras Dec. 3-14, 1997, where he received the Army Achievement Medal with the HHC 31st Area Support Group for “outstanding performance of duty” as a food service sergeant, which resulted in an accident-free operation, never accomplished before in this command.

On Jan. 14, 2000, Donald received a Certificate of Recognition from then-Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman for his work in helping the state prepare for Y2K. Certified to become a Baptist minister by Bethel No. 1 Missionary Baptist Church in Opelika in 1987, Donald later became the

pastor of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, where he served 10 years as pastor.

During this time in the late 1980s, Donald also ran for the Lee County Board of Education District 4 seat, coming up short against opponent Mark L. Clark.

After leaving the church in 2000 and receiving an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army in 2004, Donald stayed active through volunteering at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Tuskegee and working with local Boy Scouts groups.

In 2015, he briefly owned and operated “Catherine and Lola’s Country Kitchen” in Beauregard.

Donald and Yvonne have been married for 42 years, and together have three children: Dexter, Donna and April. They also have six grandchildren and currently reside in Auburn.

Pepperell United Methodist to hold final service Sunday

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Opelika’s Pepperell United Methodist Church, located in the heart of the Pepperell Mill Village, will hold its final service this Sunday.

Established in 1926, the 92-year-

old church is closing because of dwindling membership and insufficient funding, according to Rev. J.T. Mercer.

“The way the United Methodist system works, those kind of decisions are made by (the church’s local superintendent).

But I know that making that this decision was very hard,” Mercer said. “A lot of the people that attend this church grew up in the mill village ... and this I know this Sunday is going to be very tough, because there’s a lot of good memories there.”

pelika O Observer

A8 June 20, 2018

Downtown,

from A1

brands that I hope you've never seen before,” Griffin said. “I'm pretty serious about sustainability, especially when talking about the fashion industry. Everything I produce will be ethically sourced and carefully constructed, so you know you're getting the best product.”

Next-door neighbor Sarah Gill, owner of Mama Mocha’s Coffee Emporium, said the space will enhance the art scene and overall culture of downtown Opelika.

“As one of the business owners on the block, I am so grateful for these

Parks,

from A5 taled nine as Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores was recognized in three areas: Beaches/State Parks/Nature & Parks/

changes on 1st (Avenue) that will flood Opelika with art, music, artisan craft and good people investing in community.

As a community member and resident, hallelujah for revitalization and complimenting growth for historic downtown,” Gill said.

Other businesses and features will be announced in coming months. Baggett’s shop is projected to be the first shop in the development, with a tenative opening date set for mid-July.

“Living in downtown” The second project, “Southside Opelika,” will include the construction of a new subdivision in the historic Southside neighborhood, which was established in 1854.

Seven homes will be constructed along South 8th Street and Avenue D as a part of the development’s first phase, replacing the existing structures Patton and city officials alike deem as “too far beyond repair.”

“We’ve got a lot of great things going on in downtown Opelika, but I think we need to add a lot more residential walkability. That’s the main focus or selling point of this project: living in downtown,” Patton said.

“People ask me who we’re marketing this to, and I tell them, ‘it’s not an age graphic, it’s a demographic of people who want to be able to walk downtown, eat out, shop or get a drink.’ We want to market to downtown

people, so it doesn’t matter if you’re 20 or 90; if you’re a person that likes walkability and getting out and your backyard is the downtown, that’s who this product is for.”

According to Patton, the homes will be built in an architectural style that mirrors other houses in the neighborhood. He added that salvageable materials from the old structures will be incorporated into the design of the new homes, and that trees will not be cut down on any of the lots unless it is a necessity.

The project’s two other phases will consist of four townhomes and 21 condominiums. The condominiums will be constructed a block over at the dead end of Avenue

Outdoor Activities; State Parks/Piers & Boardwalks, Nature Parks, Sights and Landmarks, Outdoor Activities; and the Gulf State Park Campground for Specialty Lodging.

The other Hall of Fame designees are Cathedral Caverns State

Park in Woodville (Caverns & Caves/Nature & Parks); Chewacla State Park in Auburn (State Parks/Nature & Parks); DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne (State Parks/Nature & Parks); Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville (State Parks/Na-

ture & Parks); Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville (State Parks/ Nature & Parks); and Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham (State Parks/Nature & Parks/ Biking Trails/Outdoor Activities).

Four parks – or parks attractions – were back-to-back winners, picking up Certificates of Excellence in 2017 and 2018. Those are Cheaha State Park in Delta (State Parks/Nature & Parks); DeSoto Falls (Mountains/Nature & Wildlife Areas/State Parks/Waterfalls/Nature & Parks); Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry

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Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Richard Patton, pictured above, stands in front of one of the lots that will be a part of his “Southside Opelika” subdivision. Seven homes will be constructed as part of the project’s first phase, which will begin this week.

D between 9th and 10th streets.

Patton, along with fellow co-developers Andy and Hunter Anderson, Jacob Hill and Mark McKenzie, said final price points and addition-

al information about the homes will be released later this week.

For more information or updates on the two projects, email Patton at richpatton23@gmail. com.

Trail at Gulf State Park (Hiking Trails/ Nature & Parks/Outdoor Activities); Lake Guntersville State Park (State Parks/Nature &Parks); and Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City (State Parks/Nature & Parks).

Two parks were awarded Certificates of Excellence for the first time: Meaher State Park in Spanish Fort (State Parks/Nature &Parks); and Rickwood Caverns State Park in Warrior (State Parks/Nature & Parks).

About Alabama’s State Parks System

The Alabama State Parks is a division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The division maintains 22 parks encompassing approximately 48,000 acres of land and water. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations.

Download the State Parks app at pocketranger.com.

For more information about Alabama State Parks, go online to www.alapark.com.

Opelika

A9

Family & Religion

June 20, 2018

Falling in love with the future

I

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read somewhere that the reason many people fail to embrace positive, constructive change in their lives is because they love the past more than the future. While this can affect anyone, I would guess it is especially true for those of us who are fifty and over—simply because there is more past for us than there is future. Therefore, it’s easier for many of us to be more nostalgic than forward thinking.

But I’m convinced this is a major mistake.

While it might be true that the years we’ve lived on this planet are greater than the ones we have left, if we belong to Jesus we have a glorious future ahead of us. If it’s been a while since you’ve read them, spend some time with

Another texts like factor often Romans influencing 8:18ff, people my Philippians age against 1:21ff, and change is 2 Corinthithat we ans 5:1-5

By Bruce Green have quite to remind Teaching Minister at a bit to yourself 10th Street Church of rememthat “What Christ in Opelika ber and no eye has celebrate seen, what from our past. That’s as no ear has heard, and it should be and there’s what no human mind every reason to do just has conceived . . . God that. has prepared for those However, there is who love Him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). While this a critical difference between celebrating the last verse is specifically past and living in it. One referring to the glory of is healthy and the other God’s reconciling work is not. We’ve all met in Christ, it also applies people who, if the 60s or in principle to what 70s ever return, they will awaits us when our life on earth is over. Wheth- be more than ready!

One of the troubles er you are 17 or 70, we we encounter when we should have enthusiasm live in the past is that for the future and the healthy changes that are we develop the tendency to see things as we a part of it.

Church calendar

Following is a list of area Vacation Bible Schools:

• Lakeview Baptist: June 18-22 from 8 a.m. - noon each day • First United Methodist Church: June 18-21 from 8:45 a.m. - noon each day • Bethesda Baptist Church: June 19-23 • University Church of Christ: July 16 - 19 from 9:30 11:30 a.m. each day

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

• Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church will hold a “mortgage burning” service June 24 at 1 p.m. The Rev. W.L. Muse and the Ebenezer Congregation will be the church’s guests. For more information, call Paul Pollard at 334-7491232. The church is located at the 2000 S. Uniroyal Road.

a valuable resource is their wealth of experience. Decades in the school of life has given them perspective and wisdom that cannot be attained anywhere else.

But what can potentially negate them sharing their experience with others is to be trapped in the past and unable to relate to the world around them.

Whoever said getting old wasn’t for sissies knew what they were talking about but no one is better equipped to deal with change than those who have been doing it all of their lives.

Fall in love with the future because the best is yet to be and you have much to contribute.

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

Verse of the Week Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

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

are rather than as they are. We give directions to turn “where the farmer’s market used to be” or to “head down the old highway.” Strictly speaking, while there may be nothing untrue about these statements, they’re probably not very helpful. (After all, if you need directions it means you probably haven’t lived in the area long enough to understand such referents). In the same way, positive change can be viewed through the lens of the challenge it represents to adopt a new normal rather than the benefits it will bring.

If this comes across as unduly hard on people my age, that’s not the intent. In fact, I’ve said all of the above because what this group has that makes them such

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

1 Peter 5:6-8 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922

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

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pelika Observer O

A10 June 20, 2018

OBITUARIES Wendell Boyd Randolph Wendell Boyd Randolph of Opelika, Alabama was born on December 28, 1940 and passed away at his home surrounded by family on June 13, 2018. He was 77 years old.

Mr. Randolph served as a Deacon at Pepperell Baptist Church, and he was also a part of the Master Builders of Pepperell Baptist Church.

He was very much a Steven (Steve) Vance Abbett Mr. Steven (Steve) Vance Abbett, 47, of Opelika, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, June 13, 2018. Steven is survived by his fiance, Penny Barreto, dauthers, Britany Dawn Abbett and Elizabeth Ann Abbett, step-son Jackson SchwantesBarreto; niece Izabell Jean Abbett; Nephew Dominic Michael Hall, sister-in-law Sandra Abbett; father and step mother, Vance N. (Nick) Grace Abbett; Frank Preston Lawler, Sr. “Pops�

Mr. Frank, age 72, of Opelika passed away on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born to BF and Susie Lawler on February 14, 1946 of Little Texas, AL. He was known as Pops to family and friends. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and papaw. Frank enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing, and hunting.

He was always lending

family man and loved to travel any chance he could. He was an avid domino player and loved anything involving Alabama athletics.

He retired from Uniroyal after working for 30 plus years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Lucille Hayes Randolph; his first wife, Kay Hinkle Randolph; daughters, Wendy Randolph High, and Staci Randolph Byrd; son, Thomas Brazell.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Randolph; daughter, Darleen Freeman; son, Brian Randolph (Katja); grandchildren, Kelley Mangum (Marc), Heather High, Carey High (Heather), Steven Randolph (Chelsea), Joey Randolph, Jade Randolph, Matthew Randolph, Brandon Byrd, Tyler Freeman, and Emmi Randolph; great grandchildren, Kayden, Kali, Ethan, Georgie, Hunter, Addyson, and Rosie.

Memorial service was held Monday, June 18, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary at Pepperell Baptist Church with Pastor, Mike Newman officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donations to be made to Pepperell Baptist Church (2702 2nd Ave. Opelika, Alabama 36801) or Charity of your choice.

mother and step father, Rita Holley (Harvey) Fox, and multiple aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mr. Steven Abbett was a life-long resident of Lee County. He was a self-employed plumber and worked some construction.

Steven's passions in life were enjoying life to the fullest and making memories. He enjoyed fishing, swimming, playing games and fireworks; He enjoyed TV for action impact, romance, and comedy for a good laugh.

Most importantly, he

was a devoted father and loved his daughters with all of his heart. He loved other children and always insured they had a good time. He respected his father and always took his advice serious, he loved his Mother for she helped mold him into a respectful man to others. He loved family, good friends and large gatherings. He was an honest, supportive, hard-working and a very loyal partner.

He was preceeded in death by his brother Anthony (Andy) Lewis Abbett (March 29,

2017); grandparents Clessie Cook and Vance Abbett; and Emory Lewis Holley and Lousie Butler Holley.

Visitation was held Friday, June 15, 2018 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home beginning at 2:00 p.m. A funeral service was held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 15, 2018 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with Brother David Floyd of Marvyn Parkway Baptist Church officiating.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

a helping hand to anyone in need. He was a member of Union Grove Baptist Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents BF and Susie Lawler; sister, Essie Cardwell; brother, Arnold Lawler; his beloved hunting dog Jake.

Mr. Lawler is survived by his wife, Brenda of forty-three years; sons: Glenn (Dena), Frank (Jackie), and John (Melissa); and two that he called his own Daryl Kegley and Jennifer Cross; grandchildren:

Justin, Jason, Jeremy, Chase, Seleste, Selene, Haylee Allen (Danny), Austin, Dalton, Jessica, Haley, Ethan, Michael, and Chris; eight greatgrandchildren; brothers: Bob and Timmy Lawler of Little Texas; Ted Lawler of Opelika; his motorcycle riding buddy, Tony Lankford; several nieces and nephews; and devoted pet CoCo. Visitation services were held Thursday, June 14, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant

Funeral Home. Funeral services were held on Friday, June 15, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside service followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Brother Russel DeLee and Chaplain James Smith officiated.

His family is grateful for Dr. Patel and his staff, and Compassus Hospice Care. Pops, you will be in our hearts forever.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directing.

Brenda Gail Bailey Moss Brenda Gail Bailey Moss of Opelika died Thursday, June 14th at Arbor Springs at the age of 67. Brenda was born in Covington County, AL on January 4th, 1951 to Mixon and Lucille Bailey, the baby sister of Linda Worthington, Nix Bailey, Harry Bailey, Peggy Saunders, Carolyn Scofield and Clarence Bailey. Brenda married Danny Moss, of Opelika, AL on June 7th, 1975. She graduated from Kinston High School in 1969, received a BS from Auburn University in 1973. Brenda retired as Lieutenant in Detectives at the Opelika Police Department after 27 years of service. She was also a Forensic Interviewer at the Child Advocacy for several years after her retirement from OPD. In her spare time Brenda enjoyed reading and spending time with her family.

Brenda attended First Baptist Church of Opelika.

Brenda was preceded in death by her husband Danny Moss, grandson Logan Moss, her parents Mixon and Lucille Bailey, and her brother Clarence Bailey. She is survived by her daughter Danae

Brown (Kasey), son Daniel Moss (Karen), four grandaughters Bailey, Mattie and Kaylee Brown, and Ellie Moss (due July 9th), sister in law Myra Spencer, siblings Linda Worthington (Tony), Peggy Saunders, Carolyn Scofield, Harry Bailey (Angela), Nix Bailey (Brenda) and many, many nieces and nephews including Amanda Andrews, Amy Whitley (Chris), Jay Worthington (Frances), Leigh Bedsole (Sonny), Jamie Spencer and Jeff Spencer.

Funeral services were held Monday, June 18th at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Opelika, Alabama. The family received family and friends in the parlor at First Baptist Church Opelika from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m. Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Brenda was a woman of great spiritual and emotional strength. She was a devout wife, loving mother and committed gran. She was greatly loved and will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to a charity of your choice in her memory.

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

pelika O Observer

A11 June 20, 2018

Highlights from 10th Street Church of Christ’s Vacation Bible School

Photos by David and Emily Woodason

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pelika Observer O

A12 June 20, 2018

Church,

from A7 Tommy Waldrop, a PUMC member since 1958, said he has had a difficult time processing the news since it was announced last month.

“I’ve really been dwelling on it, and I’m just not sure how I will react. But I’m sure there’s going to be some tears flowing, not only from me, but most of the people there,” Waldrop said.

“It’s been wonderful, though, to be a part of this church. They’re

just great people, wonderful friends ... we’re more like a family than we are a congregation.”

This Sunday will feature an all-singing service led by former church members and the remaining “Pepperell Kids.”

“There’s a group of people who call themselves the ‘Pepperell Kids’ that will be here this Sunday. We’ll be doing a lot of singing, which is what they wanted to do to go out,” Mercer said.

“They’ll be singing songs that they sung growing up when they were kids. It will be a good celebration of

the time that Pepperell has had.”

The church’s fate rests in the hands of the superintendent, according to Mercer. He added that Alabama Rural Ministries, which currently operates out of the church’s basement, will soon move its offices to the church’s fellowship hall and remain there until a decision has been made.

This Sunday’s service is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. PUMC is located at 200 N. 26th St.

When my business burned down, my employees depended on me.

Auto-Owners and my independent agent got us up and running... fast.

– Steve Schroder, Business Owner

‘Ordinary Elephant’ to make Sundilla debut June 28 Special to the Opelika Observer The award-winning folk duo “Ordinary Elephant” will make their Sundilla debut June 28.

"Ordinary Elephant wasn't ‘award-winning’ when we booked them.

But nobody was surprised to see them named a finalist for the Folk Alliance International Artist of the Year award,” said Sundilla organizer Bailey Jones.

“The competition was stiff - another act that people around here might have heard of, ‘The War and Treaty,’ was another finalist - but ‘Ordinary Elephant’ won. And when that happened, new doors opened and new opportunities were presented.

One of those was in conflict with the original Sundilla date, and

DITEP,

from A1 it?” stated Hughes.

“Rather than letting it be just an enforcement tool, I saw it as an opportunity to really make an impact on communities because obviously, we would rather impact stu-

For whatever lies ahead, we’re always there.

ELLIOTT & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE OPELIKA • 334.745.0888 elliottinsuranceagents.com

rather than postpone the concert we decided to make it happen sooner rather than later or never at all."

“Ordinary Elephant” captivates listeners with their well-honed combination of insightful writing, effortless harmonies and intertwined claw-hammer banjo and guitar. The collaboration of the husband-and-wife team of Pete and Crystal Damore fuse their connections and influences (Gillian Welch, Guy Clark and Darrell Scott) all meet on stage.

Before being named “Artist of the Year” at the 2018 International Folk Music Awards, “Ordinary Elephant” was both a Kerrville New Folk Finalist and Falcon Ridge Emerging Artist in 2017, and their release “Before I Go” was No. 7 on the Folk

DJ Chart for a year.

The couple have been performing together since 2011, when they called Texas home. The two became nomads in 2014 and continue to live on the road fulltime with their dogs while creating and sharing the conversation of their music.

Advance tickets cost $12 and are available at Spicer's Music, Blooming Colors, World Cup Coffee and online at sundillamusic.com.

Admission at the door will be $15. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and attendees are invited to bring whatever food or beverage they prefer.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, which is located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn.

dents and young people before we have to deal with them in the criminal justice system...We are not looking to lock people up, charge them with crimes or put them in jail, this is an opportunity to identify these kids and get them help.”

DITEP is a two-day course that is paid for by the District Attorney’s

office.

“We talk to them - the education professionals-about how to recognize what to do, how to test for it, how to have that conversation with the student and how to have the conversation with the parent. It is a very immersive training for sure.”

The previous DITEP showed great promise for the future of this program.

“Every school district in Lee County was represented, we had teachers there, nurses there, we had administrators and principals there, which I thought was critical because they need to have the buy-in in order to implement this into their school system. We also had school resource officers from Opelika Police Department and Auburn Police Department, which I thought was great.” shared Hughes.

Hughes plans on holding another DITEP next summer for any school professional willing to participate.

For more information or interest in attending, contact the Lee County District Attorney Office at 334-737-3446.

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Opelika Schools & Sports

TURN TO B6 FOR MORE FAMILY FUN DAY PHOTOS

Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

S

ince the printing of the first Opelika Observer, I have written a weekly column about Opelika Athletics and Opelika sports.

Two weeks ago, OCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors informed me that I would no longer be allowed to broadcast Opelika Athletics on the radio.

Although not employed

by OCS, the school system can decide to change the announcers or stop the rights of the broadcast.

Two days prior to this news, I resigned as president of the Opelika All-Sports Booster Club.

Because of these occurrences and the school system’s choice to distance themselves from me, I am going

letic program. I appreciate EACH of YOU that reached out. It’s humbling to know how many people care.

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.

to take a few weeks to evaluate these actions before making a decision concerning the future.

I will not be writing “On the Mark” during this time.

All of you know my LOVE for the city of Opelika and our school system. The majority of my life, I promoted the positive side of Opelika and our ath-

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Lee County to send 20 athletes, coaches to National Special Olympics Games in Seattle July 1-7

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Twenty athletes and coaches from Lee County will travel with Team Alabama to participate in the 2018 National Special Olympics Games in Seattle this summer.

Team Alabama, a contingent of 102 athletes and 33 coaches, will compete in events ranging from bowling and flag football to powerlifting and tennis.

Alison Hall, a member of the City of Auburn’s Parks and Recreation Department, said the trip to Seattle is a dream come true for many of the athletes.

“The athletes are full of heart and compas-

sion, and they share their enthusiasm and laughter with everyone they meet. They are talented, dedicated athletes who love to compete and love all the opportunities Special Olympics programs and sports provide,” Hall said. “All of these athletes learn about teamwork, they set goals and work on improving themselves.

Involvement in Special Olympics is a way to improve their social skills and it’s a great form of exercise. As the athletes improve their skills, and work their way up through local competitions, regionals, state games and more, it provides them with an opportunity to travel, and

for some, it may be their first time to travel out of their hometown or even the state.”

Following is a breakdown of the Lee County team by event: - Four athletes in track and field - One athlete in bowling - Nine athletes in Unified Volleyball - One coach in aquatics - Two coaches in stand-up paddle boarding -Three coaches in Unified Volleyball.

Hall added that Lee County’s Special Olympics program is supported by local individuals, businesses and groups and receives funding from annual events like

“Cops on Top” and “The Polar Plunge.”

“Because of all the efforts locally and funds raised across the state of Alabama, athletes and coaches do not have to pay anything to attend the National Games.

All expenses, including travel, lodging, food and clothing, are covered by the generosity of so many in our community,” Hall said.

The National Games will be held from July 1-7 and televised by ESPN. For more information, visit www.specialolympicsusagames.org/, specialolympicsalabama. com/ and www.facebook.com/specialolympicsalleeco.

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Pictured are members of Lee County’s Special Olympics Unified Volleyball practicing in preparation for the National Special Olympics Games July 1-7 in Seattle. Turn to B8 for more photos.

Opelika Parks and Recreation Track and Field teams excel at recent state meet Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Track and Field competed against 37 teams in the Alabama State Games at Milton Frank Stadium in Huntsville June 9.

Opelika’s Ava Thomas placed first in the 8U division in the 200m, 400m and 800m races, joining

teammates Kaylee McIntyre, Kamari Jones and Kahliya Cloud to take first in the 4x100m relay.

McIntyre, Jones and Caroline Corey placed individually in the 9 and 10-year-old division, while Carlie Moates and Hayley Sanders placed in their age groups as well.

Opelika Boys per-

formed well, placing first in the 4x100m relay in both the 8U and 9 and 10-year-old divisions. Brothers Jarrell and Jaylen Stinson had matching records for their divisions placing first in the 100m and 200m races and long jump competitions. Luke Moates placed first in the 1500m race, and Braeden Dowdell

took first in long jump and third in the 400m race.

The Alabama State Games, not to be confused with the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) State Meet, are part of a nationwide network of state games overseen by the National ConSee Track, page B2

pelika O Observer

B2 June 20, 2018

‘2nd Annual Golf for Great Futures Tournament’ slated for July 10

By Savannah Vicker For the Opelika Observer The greens of the Auburn University Club are set to hold the "2nd Annual Golf for Great Futures Tournament" July 10.

Benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County, the tournament will host up to 25 teams consisting of four team members. The tournament is open for anyone that enjoys golf and wants to give back to their community in a fun way, according to BGCGLC

Resource Development Director Betty Burns.

“Even if you don’t have a team of four but still want to participate, and you still want to play in the tournament, just let us know, and we’ll make sure that you get into a team," Burns said.

Proceeds and donations raised from the event will be used to benefit the club's summer programs and activities.

“Expenses skyrocket during the summer, so hosting the golf tournament really helps and allows us to continue

to provide for the youth of Lee County,” Burns said.

The tournament will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a shotgun start. Sponsors and vendors will be promoting along the fairways and interacting with the golfers. Drinks are sponsored by CocaCola, and lunch will be provided by Moe’s BBQ. For more information on teams and/or sponsorship, contact Burns at 334-663-0426 or 334-502-1311, or visit www.bgcleeco.org/donate-now.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Track, from B1

gress of State Games (NGSG). The goal of this national organization is to educate and inspire young athletes about the possibility to pursue participation in the Olympic Games.

All of the individuals named above qualify to compete in the 2019 State Games of America that will take place July 31 through August 4, 2019 in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The following is a complete list of Ope-

lika individual and group statistics.

Girls 8U Ava Thomas 1st200M, 400M, 800M 9/10 Kamari Jones 2nd-100M, 3rd-200M 9/10 Kaylee McIntyre 2nd-200M,

1st-400M 9/10 Caroline Corey 2nd-800M, 3rd-Long Jump 9/10 Ava Thomas 1st- 4x100M Relay Kamari Jones Kaylee McIntyre Kahliya Cloud.

pelika O Observer

OLLI at Auburn Hosts ‘Brown Bag Lecture Series’ Guest U.S. Army Engineer Michael R. Mason Special to the Opelika Observer The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) will host its Summer Brown Bag Lecture Series June 26 from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities Pebble Hill, which is located at 101 Debardeleben St. OLLI members, guests, and the public are all invited to enjoy this lecture series and to learn more about OLLI at Auburn course offerings, social engagements and initiatives.

Featured lecture guest will be U.S. Army Engineer Officer Michael R. Mason’s presentation titled “Alabama Geology - The BIG Wreck! - The Violence and Extinctions in Alabama’s Very Disturbed Geologic History.”

Mason is a retired U. S. Army Engineer Officer. He holds a Master of Science degree in Geophysics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Old Dominion University. As an enlisted man, he was a formally trained

meteorological observer. As a retired Registered Professional Geologist (Alabama and Tennessee) and Certified Environmental Specialist, he gets to ponder and pontificate on all things natural.

OLLI at Auburn offers academic not-forcredit programs for adults aged 50 years or older through program sites at Auburn University, AUM in Montgomery, Alabama, and the Chambers County Public Library in Valley, Alabama.

OLLI at Auburn is a program of the Office of the Vice President for University Outreach at Auburn University. OLLI administrative offices and select classes are located at the historic Sunny Slope property, 1031 South College St. in Auburn.

For more information regarding this event, contact Ileeia A. Cobb, Ph.D., OLLI Director, at 334-8443105, olli@auburn. edu, or visit the website at www.olliatauburn.org.

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pelika O Observer

B4 June 20, 2018

LEGALS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MELBA TURNER BRYANT, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 30th day of May, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all

persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

TERRIA BRYANT Administrator Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 6/6, 6/13 & 6/20/18

NOTICE OF ADOPTION PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2018-B-040 TO: UNKNOWN FATHER Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Ronald David Tielking and Alicia Nichole Tielking, on June 5, 2018, for the Adoption of Z.B.T., born on October 25, 2016 to Michala Nichole Owen. A hearing has been set for the 15th day of August, 2018 at 11:00 o'clock a.m. central time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days of the date of the last publication herein, with the Clerk of said Probate Court at 215 S. 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 or appear on the date of the hearing a set above to contest said Petition.

Done this 14th day of June, 2018.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 6/20, 6/27, 7/4, 7/11

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA. CASE NO 2018-A-233 IN RE: The Estate of Edwin Joseph Bengston, Sr., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Linda McPheeters, as Executrix of the Estate of Edwin Joseph Bengston, Sr., deceased, on the 30th day of May, 2018 by the Honorable Bill English.

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

LINDA MCPHEETERS, Executrix of the Estate of Edwin Joseph Bengson, Sr., deceased Legal Run 6/6/18, 6/13/18, & 6/20/18

INVITATION TO BID: BID# 18035 Sealed bids for the construction of the 2018 City Wide Resurfacing Continuation shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

No bid will be accepted from anyone except a qualified Contractor licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. Phone number: 334705-5450 Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must

STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARIANNE WALLER WALKER, DECEASED PROBATE COURT NO. 2018-A-042 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 31st day of May, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are required to present the same within the time allowed or the same will be barred. /s Malinda W. Holden Administratrix of the Estate of Marianne Waller Walker, Deceased Law Offices of James R. Bowles 2 South Dubois Avenue P.O. Box 780397 Tallassee, Alabama 36078 (334) 283-6548 Legal Run 6/6/18, 6/13/18 & 6/20/18

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CORDELIA PARKER KLINNER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 8 th

day of June, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In Re: The Estate of Ethel Mildred Jackson, Deceased TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to: Clarence Thomas, as Executor of the Estate of Ethel Mildred Jackson, Deceased, on the 4th day of June 2018, by the Honorable Judge Bill English.

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 of the same will be barred.

Clarence Thomas Executor of the Estate of Ethel Mildred Jackson deceased.

John F. Hitchcock Attorney at Law P.O. Box 729 Smiths Station, AL 36877 (334) 214-4600 Legal Run 6/13, 6/20 & 6/27

be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika.

All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: 2018 City Wide Resurfacing Continuation LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER- CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 6/13 & 6/20

JOHN B. KLINNER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 368032345 (334) 745-3504 LEGAL RUN 6/13, 6/20 & 6/27

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, July 9, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

1FMZU63K53UB27220 - 2003 FORD EXPLORER LEGAL RUN 6/20 & 6/27

STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Notice is hereby given that default having been made in the payment of that certain indebtedness of Michael Hugley and Aretha Hugley, individually, and as husband and wife, the payment of which is secured by that certain mortgage executed by the said Michael Hugley and Aretha Hugley in favor of United Bank, which mortgage is dated August 16, 2010, and recorded in Mortgage Book 3752 at Page 29, in the Office of the Judge

of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, and said default continuing, and the entire balance of the indebtedness secured by the above mortgage being due and payable with interest thereon, the undersigned, United Bank, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the Courthouse door of Lee County, Alabama, in the City of Opelika, Alabama, between the legal hours of sale on the 6 th day of July, 2018, the following described real property, to-

wit: All that tract or parcel of land lying and being in Section 31, Township 18 North, Range 27 East, of Lee County, Alabama, being Lot 7, of Western Hills Subdivision, as per plat recorded in Plat Book 25, Page 188, Lee County, Alabama Records, to which plat reference is made for a more detailed description. Subject to easements, restrictions, and reservations appearing of record.

Said sale and conveyance will also be made subject to the legal rights of existing Federal Tax Liens, and/or Special Assessments, if any,

which might adversely affect title to subject property.

Such sale will be made as provided in said mortgage for the purpose of paying the debt secured by said mortgage with interest thereon, any amounts required to be paid for taxes, insurance or other charges provided in said mortgage, and the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fee.

Said property will be sold on “as is, where is” basis subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions contained in said mortgage and that contained

in the records of the Office of the Judge of Probate where the above-described property is situated. Said property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to title, use and/or enjoyment, and will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled hereto.

The proceeds of said sale will be applied according to the terms and provisions of said mortgage.

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under

certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

UNITED BANK Robert H. Pettey SAMFORD & DENSON, LLP Attorneys at Law Post Office Box 2345 Opelika, Alabama 368032345 Telephone: (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 6/6/18, 6/13/18, & 6/20/18

CASE NO. NO: CV 17900517, NOTICE OF CIVIL ACTION In the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama K.B., A MINOR, by and through her natural mother and next friend, MAKIA ALISE BLEDSOE; MAKIA ALISE BLEDSOE, Individually; EDWARD BLEDSOE, II;

Plaintiffs, vs.

LIER ZHANG; ET AL., Defendants.

BY ORDER OF THE COURT, Notice of Action is hereby given to Lier Zhang, Individually and b/t his father and next friend, Jian Zhang, who have avoided service of process. K.B., a minor, by and through her natural

mother and next friend, Makia Alise Bledsoe; Makia Alise Bledsoe, Individually; and Edward Bledsoe, II have filed a civil action for the recovery of damages for injuries suffered by K.B. and Makia Alise Bledsoe.

The defendant is Lier Zhang for his willful, negligent and wanton misconduct in the operation of a vehicle and

other tortious conduct, which directly and proximately caused the injuries suffered

by K.B. and Makia Alise Bledsoe on April26,2017.

Lier Zhang is hereby required to file an answer with the clerk of this court within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication of this Notice. This notice shall run at least once a week for four

(4) successive weeks. Service shall be complete at the date of the last publication. If the Defendant fails to answer within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication of this Notice, a default judgment may be entered.

Dated this the 21st day of May, 2018.

MARY B. ROBERSON CIRCUIT COURT CLERK

Attorney for Plaintiffs Douglas J. Fees FEE001 The Cochran Firm - Huntsville 401 Madison Street Post Office Box 508 Huntsville, Alabama 35804 (256) 536-1199 Legal Run 6/6/18, 6/13/18, 6/20/18 & 6/27/18

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL JULY 17, 2018 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Opelika City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika,

Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate the portion of Priester Road lying between Lots 2 and 3 of Dixie Baker Subdivision, according to plat of said subdivision of record in Plat Book 40 at Page 33 in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views.

Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City

CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7 th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika by deleting the language of current Section 8.13, “TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS”, and substituting a new Section 8.13, “TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS”. The proposed new Section 8.13 will provide standards for townhouse developments within the City of Opelika. These standards address many of the qualitative considerations in the development of

Clerk prior to the time of the hearing.

The portion of Priester Road proposed to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: Commence and begin at the northwest corner of Lot 3 located on the Eastern right-of-way of Priester Road of a parcel of land more fully described as follows: From this point of beginning thence South 02°35’35” East, a distance of 139.03 feet; thence South 86°09’45” West, a distance of 60.02 feet; thence North

townhouse projects, including, but not limited to density, yard area, parking, separation requirements, fire lane requirements and design criteria.

A development plan, satisfying all the requirements of Section 8.13 must be submitted to, reviewed by and approved by the Planning Commission.

A copy of the proposed amendment to the text of the Zoning Ordinance is available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk and the Planning Department during normal business hours.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on June 20, 2018 in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Section 11- 5278 Code of Alabama (1975).

The City Council reserves the right to amend or alter any of the proposed amendments to

02°35’35” West, a distance of 146.61 feet; thence South 86°37’17” East, a distance of 60.33 feet to the point of beginning of a parcel of land, said parcel containing 8,569.6 square feet or 0.20 acres, more or less.

A copy of the Petition to Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 2 nd Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Please contact Lisa McLeod, the City’s

the Zoning Ordinance.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at City Hall, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and public hearing.

Please contact Lisa McLeod, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334705-5131 at least two (3) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 20 th day of June, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 6/20/2018

ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5131 at least two(2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

DATED this the 13th day of June, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman ROBERT G. SHUMAN, CITY CLERK Legal Run 6/13, 6/20, 6/27 and 7/4/18.

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, July 16, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

4F2CZ02ZX8KM22596 - 2008 MAZDA TRIBUTE 3FAHP07128R206581 - 2008 FORD FUSION LEGAL RUN 6/20 & 6/27

To have a legal notice published in the Opelika Observer Email us at Editor@opelikaobserver.com or call us at 334-749-8003

Opelika, Lee County & A labama Politics RUN-OFF ELECTION WILL BE JULY 17

Gray, Jones vie for House 83 seat

Gray

Flowers

Inside the Statehouse

T

his is not just a gubernatorial year in the Heart of Dixie.

We have every constitutional office up for election which includes Lt. Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, State Auditor and Agriculture Commissioner.

We also have a good many of the State Judicial races on the ballot.

We have nine seats on our State Supreme Court. We have five judges on the Court of Criminal Appeals, as well as five seats on the Court of Civil Appeals. All of these judicial posts are held by Republicans.

Therefore, it is more than likely safe to assume that the winner of the Republican primary will be elected to a six-year term and can be fitted for their robe, at least by July 17. In fact, Democrats usually do not even field candidates in state judicial races.

Over the past two decades, a prevailing theme has been that women have become favored in state judicial races. In fact, it was safe to say that if you put two candidates on the ballot for a state judicial position, one named John Doe and the other Jane Doe, and neither campaigned or spent any money, Jane Doe would defeat John Doe. However, for some inexplicable reason, this prevalence reversed itself on June 5 in the Republican primary. In the much-anticipated race for the extremely important Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, position two of the sitting members of the Supreme Court were pitted against each other.

Justice Lyn Stuart, who is the longest serving member on the State Supreme Court, had moved into the Chief Justice role after the departure of Judge Roy Moore. She was running for Chief Justice for the full six-year term. Justice Tom Parker was Roy Moore’s closest ally and is now the most socially conservative activist on the court.

Parker and Moore dip from the same well.

Parker chose to challenge Stuart for Chief Justice. The Lyn Stuart v. Tom Parker contest was billed as one of the Titanic battles of the Primary season. Stuart was the darling of the business community.

Parker openly was carrying the banner of the social conservatives.

Parker bested Stuart 52 percent to 48 percent.

Most of Parker’s financial backing came from plaintiff trial lawyers. Parker does have Democratic opposition from Birmingham attorney Robert Vance Jr. However, he should win election in November.

Judge Brad Mendheim was fac-

ing two prominent female Circuit judges, Debra Jones of Anniston and Sarah Hicks Stewart of Mobile, for Place 1 on the State Supreme Court.

Mendheim has been a longtime popular Circuit Judge in Dothan.

He was appointed to this Supreme Court seat by Governor Kay Ivey earlier this year. Mendheim decisively outdistanced his female opponents by garnering 43 percent of the vote. He is expected to win election to a full six-year term on the high tribunal on July 17.

Another example of the male uprising in the court contests occurred in the race for a seat on the Court of Civil Appeals. Judge Terri Willingham Thomas, who has been on this court since 2006 and has served with distinction, was shockingly defeated by her unknown male opponent, Chad Hanson.

Pickens County Prosecutor Chris McCool forged to the front in the race for a seat on the Court of Criminal Appeals. He led 43 to 35 over Rich Anderson from the Montgomery/River Region.

In the other court races, the candidate who raised the most money and was able to buy some TV time prevailed.

In the State Supreme Court race in Place 4, two Birmingham attorneys, John Bahakel and Jay Mitchell, were pitted against each other.

Mitchell significantly outspent Bahaked and won 73 to 27.

Christy Edwards of Montgomery and Michelle Thomason of Baldwin County are headed for a runoff for a seat on the Court of Civil Appeals.

Richard Minor defeated Riggs Walker overwhelmingly 66 to 34 for a seat on the Court of Criminal Appeals. In the seat for Place 3 on the Court of Criminal Appeals there was yet another display of male dominance in the court races. Bill Cole bested Donna Beaulieu 60 to 40.

On Saturday before the Primary, legendary Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court, Clement Clay “Bo” Torbert, passed away at 88 in his beloved City of Opelika.

His funeral was on Election Day. Judge Torbert served as Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court for 12 years, 1976 to 1988. He had previously served two terms in the State Senate prior to his election as Chief Justice.

See you next week.

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

By Morgan Bryce and Savannah Vicker For the Opelika Observer Following the June 5 primaries, Jeremy Gray and Patsy Jones will go head-to-head in a special run-off election July 17 to determine who will become the Democratic nominee for Alabama House of Representatives District 83.

Both candidates spoke with Observer staff and shared their platforms and ideas they would hope to implement if elected.

1. What is the most important topic that you hope to focus on in the upcoming elections?

Gray: Making positive changes “It has been made clear that our local and state government of-

Jones ficials have not done enough to engage the people they have been called to serve. It is also clear, for some, politics has become a career choice with evidence that their decisions are guided by their will and not the expressed will of the people. People are tired and frustrated with the lack of change on the state and local level. We have seen one politician after another focused on personal gain. We have watched as politicians cherry pick their support of this business or that town or this person but not that other person. I am focused on being the representative that people deserve, the voice that represents individuals from every socioeconomic status and in every corner of District 83. I want to give public service a new purpose, a new level of integ-

rity, and a new focus on equal representation of cities and townships, businesses and people.

So, for this runoff, I will continue to focus on people, which is how you run a clean race and ensure that you remain the true representative of your district.”

Jones: Improve education to stimulate both local job growth and economy “The most important topic in the upcoming election is the same as it has been in the Democratic primary - good paying jobs and education combined as one topic. Education drives good jobs coming to the city, county and state because the workforce has to be educated and prepared to operate the jobs. Recently, a major company closed, and See House 83, page B6

Dowdell, LaGrand vie for LCC’s District 5

Dowdell

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Following the June 5 primaries, Bishop A.L. Dowdell Sr. and Richard LaGrand Sr. will go head-to-head in a special run-off election July 17 to determine who will become the Democratic nominee and defacto winner of the Lee County Commission District 5 seat.

Both candidates spoke with Observer staff and shared their platforms and ideas they would hope to implement if elected.

1. What is the most important topic that you hope to focus on in the upcoming runoff?

Dowdell: Qualifications for office “Who is the best

LaGrand qualified candidate for district 5, and who knows how to get the job done.”

LaGrand: Handling constituents’ most pressing issues “I do not believe one topic is necessarily more important than any other, as all the topics we will focus on do have impact on the citizens of District 5.

However, I do believe some issues require a more urgent response depending on the nature of the topic. Due to the recent closure of Masterbrand and the impact this will have on area families and businesses, I believe it is the time to help those who are now unemployed with finding assistance in securing new opportunities in Lee County.”

2. If you were to win, what is the first thing that you hope to accomplish?

Dowdell: Improve Lee County’s infrastructure “I would like to get all unpaved streets paved in District 5 along with other streets, and making sure we have the right funding to do so.”

LaGrand: Provide jobs, safety for Lee County citizens “Assuming that those from Masterbrand, in need assistance, have found the resources necessary to help them on their new journey to prosperity, I will move on to the next topic of urgency which is the need for storm shelters in the rural areas of Lee See LCC, page B6

pelika O Observer 1st annual ‘Family Fun Day’ held Saturday at Opelika High School

B6 June 20, 2018

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

District 83,

from B5

it is important that the residents find jobs. I have been in discussion with the Mayor (Gary Fuller) on our position as a city, and I will be working with the administration to try to educate and aid people as they prepare for this transition. Continuing conversations are being held on career tech, workforce readiness and college careers. To get people started in the right direction it starts as early as pre-K-grade level, which I am an advocate for having in all public schools. These students’ lives are touched and molded by teachers and

LCC,

from B5 County. With tornado and hurricane season upon us, this is a timely issue that will benefit from a concerted effort to identify a solution that provides safety to our citizens when catastrophe strikes our area.

3. Are your campaign tactics expected

support staff and can be better prepared for the future.”

2. If you were to win, what is the first thing that you hope to accomplish?

Gray: Meet the needs of constituents “To carry out the will of the people, you must know the people. I will tour each area of the district to hold town hall meetings that will form the bases of a bipartisan committee composed of public officials, business owners, educators, health professionals, media professionals and people of various socioeconomic status. These committees will advise and recommend initiatives quarterly that will then be submitted to the community for polling. The results will

be posted in both traditional and contemporary media outlets. Opportunity needs to come to every area of District 83, and the opportunity must be the change that area wants and deserves.

Once elected to office, I have spoken with schools from each area within the district that I will provide with opportunity grants to assist in accomplishing those things that the administration has determined are immediate needs.”

Jones: Implement steps toward better education “The first thing I want to accomplish is establish a good working relationship with the local delegation and other colleagues to pass the Education Trust Fund and General Fund Budgets that

directly impact people especially of District 83 and the state. The State Budgets must provide those funds that fully fund public education in all aspects, employees with good jobs/ benefits and retirement. It is important to know what is on the table and help advance and/or offer alternatives.

I want to help improve and not hinder progress in moving our district and state forward. I believe in teamwork and unity.”

3. What is one thing that you want the voters to know about you?

Gray: A member of the community who wants to give back “I am nothing like a politician. I am your neighbor, the business owner on the corner, the guy in the EYG t-shirt,

the silver sneakers trainer with a big smile, the one who held the door open, the dude in the gym, the organizer of your child's sports camp, the person next in line at cash register who had an extra quarter, the guy at the park feeding the kids, the last one at the barbershop, the first one up working the community garden, I am the son that left but came back, I am the college graduate looking for an opportunity and a reason to stay, I am the one reading the paper, I am the one watching the patches of growth, and I am the one seeing talent move away because of the lack of equal opportunity. I'm like you. I realize that I have the opportunity to be the change that I want to see. I am

ready for Alabama to be open to all for business.

I want to see the change that happens when the will of people become bigger than the will of a select few.”

Jones: Proven track record of success “The most important thing for voters to know is experience matters in handling the job in Montgomery. I am qualified to do the job in Montgomery because of my proven record for 23 years of bringing changes to Opelika City Council with Basic and Advanced Certification in Municipal Government, 37 years as an educator and 13 years of lobbying the Legislature on behalf of educators, education support staff and retirees of Alabama.”

to change now that there are less people running?

Dowdell: Focusing on what matters “Yes, it is. I want to focus on the issues at hand, and not anyone else. This race is very important, and the people of district 5 must look at the two candidates and weigh them with experience, the know-how and integrity.”

LaGrand: Work

smarter and harder “My campaign tactics will not change but improve. I am going to work harder and smarter, be more on the go and in the know. I will continue to cultivate relationships with more people that are interested in improving the quality of life for our community. When I started this race I knew that, for me, there was no other choice but to be true to who I am and

run as a candidate who citizens can elect and be confident that they have chosen a representative that believes in integrity and has their best interests at heart.”

4. What is one thing that you want the voters to know about you?

Dowdell: An outspoken, experienced leader “Most of the voters, if not all, already know Bishop A. L. Dowdell Sr. I have marched with Rev. George Bandy

in the late ‘80s and ‘90s, who fight against separate break rooms in Opelika, we also fought against Stories grocery store when a young lady was slapped by the owner, I also have served in the city of Auburn as a councilman for almost 20 years, and if you would Google my name, you would find I’m the most outspoken leader in Lee County of all times.”

LaGrand: Loyal,

hardworking and committed “I would like people to know that I am a man of dedication in every aspect of my life...I have been married for 30 years, I have worked and been affiliated with WZMG for 30 years, and this will be my 30th year of employment with the Auburn Hotel and Conference Center. I promise this same level of dedication to the citizens of District 5.”

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June 20, 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 parents whose children have autism 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 2975581 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 334-5284197 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. 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 -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 information.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call 770845-2277 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 334-528-1076 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.

• Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext Summer Play Dates • June 21: Meet us at the next Opelika Fire Station for a Tour!

• July 19: Meet us for a fun craft at Monkey Park in Opelika.

• August 30: Meet us at George’s Farmers Market for a fun day on the farm.

The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art in Smiths Station is now offering summer studio art classes. The weekly classes are open to all skill levels, and cost of registration covers the cost of art supplies. For more information, call 334-480-2008.

• July 2 - Lee County Voters League will meet on July 2 at 6 p.m. Meeting will address primary run-off endorsements and recommendations (no forums as we’ve already heard from candidates before the primary) then complete overdue League business. Input from those who participated in our June 5th ‘Get Out The Vote’ campaign will also be welcomed to help improve future efforts.

Good growing pains have shepherded League meetings to Bethesda Baptist Church [Rev. Anthony Pogue is Pastor] at 201 South 4th Street, Opelika,.

• The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art holds evening and after-school studio art classes year-round. Open to all skill levels, art supplies are included with the cost of registration. For more information, call 334-480-2008.

The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art in Smiths Station, along with Wacoochee West Smiths Station Elementary schools, will present a debut exhibition for after-school art students at Smiths Station’s City Hall, which will open in June. For more information, call 334-480-2008.

Early enrollment for after-school art classes taught

by Michele and Sarah West of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art are now open for the 2018-19 school year.

The course is available and open to all skill levels, and art supplies are provided.

For more information, call 334-480-2008.

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

DARE Camp participants interact with SWAT team

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer DARE Camp participants had an opportunity to act with members of the Opelika Police Department’s SWAT team last month.

B8 June 20, 2018

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Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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B9 June 20, 2018

Lee County School Board receives reports on summer programs

By Anna Riley For the Opelika Observer The Lee County Board of Education held a school board meeting June 12, where Dr. Brad Hunter and Nancy Blanco provided updates on summer programs: STEM Academy, partnership with EAMH, Summer Feeding and Counseling Academy.

This summer, Project Lead the Way and STEM academies have been implemented in nine schools. Project Lead the Way is a nonprofit organization that develops STEM criteria for use by elementary, middle and high schools. STEM education helps students more effectively de-

velop learning pathways in technology-driven careers.

They decided to replace the traditional summer school with STEM academies according to Hunter because, “originally we would start with 75 kids at the start of the summer and then end up with about 20.”

This program is in high demand. At one point, Hunter added that school officials thought they would have to start a lottery, and they currently have waiting lists for children wanting to join.

“We started out with 660 applications, so that really spoke to us that parents wanted something different for their children in the summertime,” Hunter said.

They have trained about 70 teachers in the last few months, a fun but difficult process according to Hunter.

“We really look at this as, ‘how do we prepare our students for the careers of tomorrow. And what skills they need to be successful in different fields?’” Blanco said .

Through the program, children will have the opportunity to receive a free breakfast and lunch through the East Alabama Food Bank.

The Counseling Academy, which is their partnership with East Alabama Mental Health, also provides the school system with therapists to help with social and emotional skills and has been providing help to 15 students this summer.

Beauregard Basketball Summer Camps

th

K-4

Grade

Thursday & Friday, June 21-22 8am-12pm at Beauregard High School Gym 5th-8th Grade Monday & Tuesday, June 25–26 8am-12pm at Beauregard High School Gym Basketball Camp Day Sign-ups will be held on opening day of camp *Camp Fee is $25.00 Please bring your own ball with name on it if possible!

Concessions will be sold during camp if you do not want your child buying concessions send a snack with their name on it.

If you have any questions please Text or Call Coach Carson Grier (256)404-8184

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Opelika Housing Authority Job Description: The Property Manager manages the day-to-day operations of an assigned property including managing the team members, daily activities, and resources of the property to achieve established budgeted financial and operational goals, and ensures that the operation of the property complies with Company policies and procedures, Fair Housing, Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and other laws and regulations governing multi-family housing operations.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in management, business administration, social science area or closely related field plus 3 years of progressively responsible experience in HUD housing programs, or an equivalent combination of education and experience and employment history that demonstrates the application of property management, sales, marketing, and customer service background sufficient to manage the day-to-day operation of an apartment community, resolve customer complaints and issues, complete financial records, documents, and reports, increase sales revenues, and

Opelika Housing Authority Job Description: The Assistant Property Manager supports and assists the Property Manager in overseeing and managing the financial and operational facets of the community by completing accounting and bookkeeping tasks, preparing monthly close-out and financial reports, processing invoices for payment, collecting rent, fees, and other payments, completing bank deposits, dispositions, and account reconciliations, and using the

property management software to record, track, and report on all financial workings of the community Education: Associate degree in business or social services field, plus 2 years of related experience, or related combination of experience and training will be considered.

Qualifications: Must have all licenses and/or certifications as required by State and Local jurisdictions.

• Must have valid driver’s license to drive a golf cart on property.

coordinate the word of a team.

Qualifications: • Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate effectively to comprehend and complete legal documents, sell and explain apartment features, and answer questions about the property’s operation.

• Demonstrated proficiency in Internet, word processing, spreadsheet, and database management programs in order to complete required reports and employment documents.

• Strong proficiency in using property management software (preferably Yardi and/or One Site).

• Demonstrated mathemati-

• Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate effectively to comprehend and complete legal documents, sell and explain apartment features, and answer questions about the community’s operation.

• Demonstrated proficiency in Internet, word processing, spreadsheet, and database management programs in order to complete required reports and employment documents. Strong proficiency in using property management software (preferably Yardi

cal skills necessary to add, subtract, multiply, and divide numbers, decimals, and fractions, and calculate percentages in order to complete financial records, budgets, and other fiscal reporting information.

• Demonstrated management and supervisory skills sufficient to hire, lead, direct, evaluate, and manage subordinate and team members, including maintenance specialists.

To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street – Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application on-line at http://www.opelikaha.org/ Default.asp?ID=123&pg=Empl oyment+Opportunities

and/or One Site).

• Demonstrated mathematical skills necessary to add, subtract, multiply, and divide numbers, decimals, and fractions, and calculate percent’s in order to complete financial records, budgets, and other fiscal reporting information.

• Demonstrated understanding of community operations and, in particular, lease terms and lease enforcement, including collections.

• Employment history that demonstrates the application of community management,

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sales, marketing, and customer service background sufficient to assist in managing the day-to-day operation of an apartment community, resolve customer complaints and issues, complete financial records, documents, and reports, increase sales revenues, and coordinate the work of a team.

To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street – Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application online at http://www.opelikaha. org/Default.asp?ID=123&pg= Employment+Opportunities

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B10 June 20, 2018

pelika O Observer

Last week’s answers:

6-13 SCRAMBLER ANSWERS: 1), React 2), Malaise 3), Sprite 4), Groan Solution: Increase

pelika O Observer

B11 June 20, 2018

COMICS

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

-Erma Bombeck

pelika O Observer

B12 June 20, 2018

Cipperly,

from A7

strip around the outside of the pan and pins it. “That makes the cake layers perfectly level,” she says. When she made wedding cakes, it took three days, and sometimes she froze the cake layers.

Once she created 50 pale peach-colored roses on a wedding cake for her cousin. Her younger daughter, Kallie, took a paint brush and painted the inside of each rose a deep orange color. Being artistic like her mother, Kallie, who works at the Columbus Museum, also decorated sugar cookies like a Van Gogh “Starry Night” painting.

Her other daughter, Katie, moved to Manhattan after getting a PhD in neuroscience.

While her daughters watched their mother bake, they haven’t started baking yet. Lisa is working on assembling a cookbook with pictures of her cakes for her daughters.

While Lisa doesn’t cook as much as baking, she enjoys preparing hamburgers with special cheeses, especially goat cheese. Her husband, Randy, who is the manager at ABC Supply in Columbus, Georgia will sometimes cook on the grill.

Lisa has been at Southern Union for 22 years, with 20 being part-time. A couple of years ago, she thought about starting her bak-

ing business again but was hired full time. Lisa teaches business management and supervision classes, as well as medical office management.

She uses her experiences from her cake business in teaching business management.

She teaches year round and has online classes.

Lisa grew up in West Point, Georgia. After graduating from high school, she graduated from Auburn University and later received Master degrees from Troy University and the University of Phoenix.

“Sometimes we miss an opportunity,” says Lisa. “The key for my baking was my motherin-law giving me the mixer and classes. I didn’t know I would love it until I took the class.”

For a recent friend’s wedding, Lisa baked Key Lime Cupcakes and Strawberry Cupcakes. Either one of these or a combination of both would be perfect for a summer party.

Lisa finally learned how to make her grandmother’s biscuits.

“When she passed away, I inherited her wooden mixing bowl.

I tried making biscuits again, and it worked. I think there was something special about her bowl.

“Cakes and cookies are still my favorites to bake,” Lisa adds. “Pies are getting popular, so maybe I will try them next.”

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

Recipes Sugar Cookies 1 ½ cup powdered sugar 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. cream of tartar Sugars or sprinkles for decorations Mix sugar and butter until creamy (2-3 minutes).

In a separate bowl, sift flour baking soda and cream of tartar.

Add flour mixture to sugar/butter by thirds until blended. Add egg until mixed thoroughly.

Add vanilla.

Cover and refrigerate about 2 hours or until firm. Preheat oven to 375.

Roll dough ¼ at a time to be 1/8 inch thick on a lightly floured surface.

Cut into desired shapes.

Place on cookie sheet lined with parchment.

Sprinkle with granulated sugar or sprinkles (or you can wait until the cookies are done).

Bake until slightly gold on the edges, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from cookie sheet and place on rack. Makes about 5 dozen cookies depending on size and shape.

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Confetti Cookies 4 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 3 cups sugar 2 large eggs ½ tsp. vanilla extract (or almond) 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 2-3 tbsp. buttermilk 2 cups multi-color puffed rice cereal (like fruity pe bbles or you could use chocolate puffs) Sift together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt into small bowl.

Cream butter and sugar until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes).

Add eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract.

Add dry ingredients on low by fourths, mixing each until well incorporated.

Add buttermilk as needed to help blend the dough.

Add cereal and mix by hand or with mixer on low (do not overmix or break the cereal too much).

Divide the dough in half (or 4ths if it’s easier to work with) and roll into logs about 2 ½ inches in diameter.

Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm (2 hours or so).

When ready to bake: Preheat oven to 375.

Slice logs into discs ½ inch thick. Place on cookie sheet about 3 inches apart (they will get larger).

Bake 12-15 minutes (depending on your oven).

Remove when slightly brown around the edges or earlier if you prefer chewy cookies. Let cool on a baking rack.

This recipe makes about 4 dozen buttery cookies.

Nannie’s Strawberry Cake or Cupcakes 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature 1¾ cups granulated sugar 4 eggs, room temperature 1 tsp. vanilla ¼ cup vegetable oil 1 ½ cups frozen strawberries, pureed or in very tiny chunks and thawed (reserve 2 tbsp. for the icing) For a deeper color, add food coloring to your liking.

Preheat oven to 350.

Prepare baking pans (three 8 x 2-inch or equivalent) with oil/flour or Baker’s Joy. Sift together flour, baking power and salt; set aside.

Cream butter and sugar until fluffy (2-3 minutes).

Add flour mixture to butter/sugar in fourths until incorporated.

Add eggs one at a time.

Add vanilla and vegetable oil; mix well.

Add strawberries ¼ cup at a time, checking for consistency after each.

Note: strawberries may contain a lot of juice or

Chocolate Cake Although this cake includes coffee, it has very little, if any, coffee flavor.

Cake: 1¾ cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar ¾ cup cocoa powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 cup buttermilk ½ cup vegetable oil 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ cup brewed coffee Preheat over to 350.

Butter/flour cake pans or use Baker’s Joy spray or parchment paper.

Sift flour, cocoa, baking powder, salt and sugar in bowl.

In separate bowl, combine (fold) buttermilk, oil, eggs and vanilla.

Add wet ingredients to the dry and mix well.

Add the coffee just enough to combine (do

even water if frozen. If batter is getting too runny, you may need to leave some out.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes, or until done. Use toothpick or cake tester to be sure that it comes out cleanly. (For cupcakes, bake 20 to 22 minutes or until tests done.)

Let cool on racks, and ice only after completely cool.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 2 cups powdered sugar ½ cup finely chopped fresh or frozen strawberries This can easily be doubled, if necessary.

Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy for 2-3 minutes. Add sugar slowly in thirds, mixing in alternatively with strawberries.

Note: strawberries can be really juice so this amount may vary. Check for the consistency you want.

Cream cheese iced cakes should be stored in the refrigerator.

Key Lime Cupcakes Batter: 2 sticks unsalted butter 2 cups sugar 6 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 2 tbsp. key lime zest (see note) ½ cup buttermilk 1 tbsp. key lime juice Note: Key limes are not exactly the same as regular limes. They are small (about the size of a walnut) and more yellowish-green. They have a milder taste and should be used instead of regular limes if possible.

If you want a green color, add a drop of food coloring to batter and/or frosting.

Preheat oven to 325.

Line cupcake or muffin pans with liners or spray cake pans with Baker’s Joy or oil/ flour method.

Sift flour, baking powder, salt and set aside in small bowl.

Cream butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until creamy.

not over mix).

Pour batter into pans and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Let cool on baking racks before icing.

Frosting: 6 oz. semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces ¾ stick unsalted butter, softened to room temperature 2 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted 1 Tbsp. light corn syrup ½ cup sour cream 1 tsp. vanilla extract Melt chocolate and butter in microwave or in double boiler; be sure not to burn or seize the chocolate. if this happens, throw it away and start over.

Once chocolate is cooled, add corn syrup, mix, then add sour cream and vanilla.

Lastly add powdered sugar.

Be sure the cake has cooled before frosting.

Chewy Chocolate Drop Cookies 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature 4 ounces unsweet chocolate pieces, chopped 4 ounces semisweet chocolate pieces, chopped 1 cup packed light brown sugar 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 4 large eggs 2 tbsp. buttermilk ½ cup cocoa powder 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 bag (11 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chunks or chips 1 cup dried fruit such as cherries, cranberries or raisins, optional Preheat oven to 325.

Place butter, unsweet and semisweet chocolate in microwave and heat until melted, stirring every 2 minutes. Be sure not to burn or

Add eggs one at a time.

Add dry ingredients ¼ at a time, adding milk in-between.

Fill the cupcake liners or cake pan ¾ full.

Bake 20-22 minutes until baked through; use a fork or toothpick to test.

Let cool completely before frosting.

Frosting: 8 oz. cream cheese (softened to room temperature) 2 sticks unsalted butter (softened to room temperature) 2 tbsp. key lime zest 2 tbsp. key lime juice 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted Cream butter and cream cheese until well mixed.

Add powdered sugar until creamy.

Add lime zest and be sure to scrap it off the paddles, it will clump there.

Add lime juice as needed to get the consistency desired.

Optional Lime Curd Filling: For a new kick on the cupcakes, add a lime curd filling: 3 eggs

scorch it. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt it.

In a mixing bowl, add light brown sugar, gran lated sugar, melted chocolate mixture, and vanilla until mixed.

Add eggs one at a time.

Add buttermilk and mix until thick and glossy.

In another bowl, shift flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon and salt.

Add those dry ingredients to wet ingredients by 4ths until just mixed.

Stir in chocolate chunks or chips.

Add dried fruit, if desired.

Using a cookie scoop, place by Tbsp. onto baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

Bake until soft and fudge-like on inside, 12-15 minutes. For a chewy, gooey consistency, do not over bake.

Cool on a baking rack.

¾ cup sugar ¼ cup key lime juice 1 tbsp. key lime zest 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, cold Whisk eggs, sugar and key lime juice in a steel bowl, set aside.

Using a double boiler, put the steel bowl on top and mix with a spatula until creamy like sour cream (6-8 minutes).

Remove from heat; remove any excess egg particles.

In a new, cold, steel bowl put egg mixture, add zest and cold butter.

Mix with electric mixer until well incorporated and place in the refrigerator to thicken slightly about 10-15 minutes.

Hollow out a cone or tornado shape in the cupcake and put the curd inside using a pastry bag.

Place the cut-out cake piece back on top, or just cover it with icing and leave the cutout part off.

Note: If making a cake, not cupcakes, the curd can be placed between the layers of the cake.