Opelika Observer 07-10-19 E-edition

pelika Observer O

Vol. 11, No. 40

Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Opelika, Alabama

The Velcro Pygmies in Opelika Aug. 2 Bottling Plant Event Center

“By local people, for local people.”

Tyesha Hart opens ‘Opelika’s Royal House of Klass Dance Studio’ in memory of daughter Mykala and her cousin Jonathan Bowen

By Morgan Bryce Editor Pink lettering and a silhouette of a young girl pirouetting adorn the dark blue painted walls of Opelika’s Royal House of Klass Dance Studio, which held open tryouts last weekend.

These colors and the “K” in the business name hold significant meaning for Studio Owner Tyesha Hart and her cousin Shamel, who each lost a child during the March 3 tornadoes.

“My 11-year-old daughter Mykala loved to dance and the color pink. Her cousin Jonathan loved royal blue … and when I was thinking about how to do this, I knew that I wanted to find some way to honor them, and the paint and

Better Bodies Massage Institute celebrates fifth year in business

By Michelle Key and Morgan Bryce

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

‘K’ in the studio name is a small way of doing that,” Tyesha said.

Tyesha added that the cousins were close. While Jonathan, nine, preferred

playing video games, he would attend Mykala’s See Dance, page A3

Located in the historic district of Opelika, the Better Bodies Massage Institute has been providing clinical massage therapy and instruction since 2014. BBMI graduates highly-skilled massage therapists, while also providing quality massage and bodywork to the community. The Better Bodies Massage Institute’s licensed educators and students both massage in the same educational clinic; which helps fulfill their mission of administering affordable therapeutic massage to the community

LA Clark while simultaneously graduating employable, professional therapists into a high-demand career.

Leigh Anne Clark LMT, founder of the Better Bodies Massage Institute, developed a nationally recognized program that offers people the flexibility and experience required to excel as massage therapists. The curriculum ensures the See BBMI, page A6

City of Smiths Station to hold ‘LoveULoveU Day’ grand opening of Historic returns to Opelika Jones Store Museum July 13 July 27

By Morgan Bryce Editor

By Morgan Bryce Editor

The city of Smiths Station will hold a grand opening of the Historic Jones Store Museum July 13.

Once purposed as a general store, the more than 100-yearold structure was gifted to the city in 2015. During the last four years, city officials have worked tirelessly to give the structure a facelift and create a space that would showcase the city’s deeply rooted history.

“This is a signature

The fourth annual “LoveULoveU Day” will return to Opelika’s Municipal Park July 27 from noon to 5 p.m.

Organized by the LoveULoveU foundation, there will be similar events held in Birmingham and Mobile that provides a chance for “people across (Alabama) to join together and focus on the love that binds us despite all our differences. We will simply gather in parks to unify in

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Editor addition to our city.

While it may not be the largest museum in the world, we believe it perfectly showcases our city’s past and is a way to preserve our

history for generations to come,” said Smiths Station Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland.

The museum has a blend of old and new See Museum, page A3

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A12 CALENDAR..................................A14

SPORTS..................................B1 LEGALS.......................................B4 POLITICS.......................................B7 ENTERTAINMENT........................B14

prayer that honors God, declares a unifying love, listen to music, eat, chat and dance.”

Admission to LoveULoveU is free. There will be giveaways of school supplies,

food, health screenings, live music and cash prize of $1,000 given to the group with the largest attendance.

“The premise of the event is loving See LoveU, page A2

pelika O Observer.com

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pelika O Observer

A2 July 10, 2019

Veteran-owned JDog Junk Removal & Hauling expands into Auburn-Opelika

By Morgan Bryce Editor JDog Junk Removal & Hauling recently expanded into the Auburn-Opelika area through Columbusbased franchisee Nick Bain and his business partner Ryan Struck.

Both are military veterans, with Bain serving from 2002 to 2016 in the Army as a medical laboratory technician. He has been in the Reserves the last three years while Struck is still on active duty.

While transitioning from full-time service, Bain said he and Struck discussed the possibility of pursuing a business venture

together. Since JDog was founded in 2011

by Army veteran Jerry Flanagan, Bain said the duo were drawn to the company’s military mindset and overall business approach. “(We) were looking for a way to serve the community to get that same feeling of contribution I had when I was in the military. When you read about the company, it’s sold specifically to veterans and veteran family members,” Bain said.

“They really drive the respect, integrity and trust concepts that the Army values are formed around, which was a no-brainer for

us in terms of the direction we wanted to go.”

In November 2017, the duo opened their first franchise based in Columbus, with a service region extending into Phenix City and Smiths Station, later expanding into the Auburn-Opelika area and LaGrange last fall.

Growth has been slow but steady through their emphasis on word-of-mouth advertising.

“We employ those company values into each job we do. Every person has a neighbor or a friend and hopefully we’ll become a go-to in their minds for our services,”

Bain said.

JDog’s list of services include commercial and residential junk removal, labor services like yard clean up and moving appliances or furniture in or out of a home and preparing homes for showings for local real estate agents.

Currently, four veterans are employed with JDog’s local franchises, creating a work environment that is both familiar and facilitates trust.

“It’s a rewarding experience knowing that we will be able to trust each other like we did in our military careers when our lives counted on it and extending that over

can donate to a local nonprofit, we will so somebody can get some use out of it.”

The cost of JDog’s services vary job to job, with junk removal normally being calculated by overall bulkage and labor jobs by the hour.

Their hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon by appointment on Saturday.

For more information, call 706-6164002, like and follow their Facebook page “JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Columbus” or visit www. jdogjunkremoval.com.

Their office is located at 700 5th Ave. in downtown Columbus.

to civilian life. We understand that everybody here is there for everybody else and that knowledge just makes us that more cohesive as a team,” Bain said.

Another important aspect of JDog’s services according to Bain is their environmental consciousness, which includes repurposing 60% to 80% of all items they collect.

“We understand that as soon as something goes into the landfill that it’s there to stay. With every project, we try to keep as much out of the landfill as possible with that understanding,” Bain said. “If there’s some lightly used furniture that we

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

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pelika Observer

Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell

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on one another, at least one day of the year. It doesn’t have to be your immediate family like we do on Christmas and Thanksgiving, but the people who live in your community,” said event organizer Raven Harvis in a 2017 interview with the Observer.

“I want people to come out and experience a sense of unity in our community.”

For more information, visit www. loveulove.org. The park is located at 700 5th Ave.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

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pelika O Observer Kroger presents USO with $1 Million donation during recent ‘Honoring Our Heroes’ campaign Special to the Opelika Observer

Kroger presented the USO with a $1 million donation as a part of the company’s Honoring Our Heroes campaign, an initiative that demonstrates Kroger’s commitment to veterans, service members and their families.

The check presentation was made at this year’s culinary event at Fort Stewart that brought together teams from Kroger, the USO and Chef Robert Irvine to entertain 1,500 troops and their families.

“Honoring Our Heroes is our way of saying thank you to our active duty service members and our nation's 23 million veterans,” said manager of corporate affairs for Kroger’s Atlanta Division Felix Turner.

The Atlanta Division includes Georgia, Eastern Alabama and South Carolina. “To date, Kroger, along with our customers and associates, have

raised $25 million in support of the USO.” Kroger is committed to a nationwide initiative to help veterans and transitioning service members and military spouses find meaningful employment opportunities.

Kroger has hired more than 45,000 veterans since 2009.

About Kroger The Kroger Co. is dedicated to their purpose: to Feed the Human SpiritTM. The company focuses its charitable efforts on hunger relief, K-12 education, women’s health initiatives and local organizations in the communities it serves. Kroger’s Atlanta Division is headquartered in Atlanta and is one of the Southeast’s largest retail grocery chains with more than 183 stores, covering Georgia, Eastern Alabama and South Carolina.

About The USO The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family,

home and country, throughout their service to the nation. At hundreds of locations worldwide, they are united in their commitment to connect service members and their families through countless acts of caring, comfort, and support. The USO is a private, nonprofit organization, not a government agency.

Their programs, services and entertainment tours are made possible by the American people, support of corporate partners and the dedication of volunteers and staff.

About The Robert Irvine Foundation The Robert Irvine Foundation is a not-for-profit, 501c3 organization that honors the men and women defending our country, first responders and the many other heroes in their lives.

The foundation’s mission is to support individuals and organizations committed to enriching the lives of American heroes and their families.

Hundreds of jobs available at Opelika Job Fair July 16 Career Center also launches new program to prepare individuals for the workforce Special to the Opelika Observer Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, Inc. (GoodwillSR) is hosting a multi-employer job fair in Opelika July 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The job fair will be held at the Goodwill Career Center located at 3740 Pepperell Pkwy in Opelika.

Hundreds of positions will be available from some of the region’s top employers.

Job seekers will also have an opportunity to learn more about Goodwill’s new

Museum, from A1 pieces from its past.

In the middle of the museum is a large glass display with multiple exhibits that will be rotated on a seasonal basis.

One of the museum’s major exhibits is dedicated to legendary country musician Conway Twitty.

Last year, two fliers bearing Twitty’s real name Harold Jenkins and a photo were donated to the museum, confirming his brief

VIP Program, which provides a variety of job-readiness classes and personalized coaching designed to equip individuals with the essential skills needed to obtain and retain employment. The job fair and skills classes are free and open to the public.

Fifteen top employers from a variety of industries will be in attendance, including: - Afni - Alabama Department of Corrections - Alliance HR - Better Bodies - CSL Plasma

- East Alabama Medical Center - Easterseals - Golden State Foods - Interim Healthcare - Lowe’s - Onin Staffing - Summer Village - The Hotel at Auburn University - Waffle House - West Fraser Attendees should come ready to interview with copies of their résumés in hand.

Individuals who are interested in more information should visit the Opelika Career Center or call 334275-4815.

residence in the city in the early 1950s.

“This has been one of my dreams since Smiths Station became a city in 2001. The railroad history of this town is something a lot of people either don’t know about or may have forgotten,” said Smiths Station Communications, Planning and Zoning Director Lisa Deason in a 2018 interview with the Observer.

“Through this, my eyes have really been opened as to how rich a past Smiths

Station has. It’s been exciting to get into that and work on it.”

Admission to the Alabama 200 certified event is free and guided tours will begin promptly at 10 a.m. EST. For more information, call 334-2978771, like and follow the city’s Facebook page or visit www. smithsstational. gov. The structure faces Lee Road 298 and is adjacent to the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430.

A3 July 10, 2019

Opelika to hold public meeting for Pepperell Branch Watershed Management Plan draft Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Opelika has partnered with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Auburn University, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Keep Opelika Beautiful, Alabama Water Watch and other stakeholders on a grant to develop a Pepperell Branch Watershed Management Plan.

The steering committee has developed a draft Pepperell Branch Watershed Management Plan that is online for review and comment.

The purpose of the plan is to characterize the watershed and to devise a local strategy to reduce the effects of pollution to the creeks. The plan opens opportunities to apply for funding to improve water quality in Opelika.

The next step will

Dance, from A1 dance practices and performances and “enjoyed cheering her on.”

The March 3 tornadoes not only claimed lives from the Hart family, but destroyed all of Tyesha’s earthly possessions.

Instead of focusing on her grief and loss, she said she focused on what her next step would be, which eventually led to opening her own dance studio.

Nearly two weeks ago, Tyesha said she learned that the space at 300 Columbus Parkway that once housed Elite Champagne Divas Dance Studio was

be submitting a grant proposal to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management this month to help implement water quality improvement projects in the plan.

This is a great opportunity for citizens to get involved in improving their local water resources.

Citizens are invited to a public meeting to learn about the draft Pepperell Branch Management Plan.

This meeting will be held July 16 at 5:30 p.m. in the Opelika City Council Chambers located at 204 South 7th St. For more information and to review sections of the plan visit www.aub.ie/pepperell and find future events on Facebook @cityofopelika.

The next Pepperell Branch Watershed Partnership meeting will be July 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Opelika Planning Comavailable. After a quick tour, she immediately gathered the necessary funding to close on a rental deal for the space.

With assistance from Shamel and family, the studio’s interior was quickly transformed into the space that Tyesha had envisioned.

Drawing some of the area’s best dance instructors together, one of the studio’s primary focuses will be its competitive dance team for children ages five to 19 known as the “Royal Diamonds of Klass.” There will be zumba and other fitness classes for children, plus dance programs for adults in the near future.

Previously a stay-at-

mission Chamber, Public Works Building which is located at 700 Fox Trail. The meetings are always open to the public.

During this meeting, the Steering Committee will vote to approve the Pepperell Branch Watershed Management Plan.

The plan will then be submitted to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management for review.

This project is funded by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management through a Clean Water Act Section 319(h) nonpoint source grant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Region 4.

For more information, contact City of Opelika Storm Water Coordinator John Harris at 334-7055450 or Nikki Dictson with Alabama Cooperative Extension System at 979575-4424. home mom, this marks Tyesha’s first small-business venture, but will be supported by Shamel and the building owner.

While the studio may acknowledge the memory of their late children, both Shamel and Tyesha said they want it to provide a positive outlet for local youth and be a source of hope in their lives.

“Honoring Jonathan the way she (Tyesha) has means a lot to me. I believe (the studio) is going to make a big difference and impact on the lives of children here,” Shamel said.

“We want this to be something for kids in our area. A lot of kids want to dance but have nowhere to go,” Tyesha added. “This is giving the parents an opportunity to get their kids involved and active.”

Summer class schedules will fluctuate but the studio will be open Monday through Friday in the fall from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. during non-competition weeks and will remain open an additional 30 minutes during competition weeks.

For more information, call Shamel at 334-4088647.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

pelika O Opinion

A4 July 10, 2019

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The Lost Bees

went on my first honeybee removal a few days ago.

For those of you that don’t know; a bee removal is the removal of a swarm of bees that have settled in a place where they are basically unwanted. It sounds rather depressing. If you are a lover of these little insects like I am, you are probably thinking, “Who wouldn’t want bees?” Well, it turns out that when a colony of bees decide to move into a column near the front door of someone’s home, it’s not the most ideal situation. I honestly think that’s a great place for them to be… if anything, it keeps away unsolicited visitors. But, most “normal” people, unlike me, would like for them to be elsewhere. Like, out in the country, miles away from their home in one of my bee boxes. That works for me!

My mentor and good friend, Keith, who happens to be an expert on bees, assisted me with the task of removing the

By Lucy Fuller

girls from the suburban home. Jody was there also, for moral support and picture taking. We were so thankful to be granted with the task of removing these bees.

Most people would pull out the bug spray or call an exterminator. Thankfully, they searched for a beekeeper to remove them safely rather than killing them.

Bees are so important to our livelihood, we need these little critters around.

We literally had to deconstruct the column and part of the rock base that supported it in order to retrieve the bees.

It wasn’t pretty, but it could have been worse. We removed about 6 good sized honeycombs (some had honey but mostly bee larvae). We at-

tached them to some frames and placed them inside of a bee box with hopes of attracting the rest of the bees inside. Well, some bees smelled the comb and followed but unfortunately, the rest of the bees were not so cooperative. We never saw the queen bee and were afraid that we may have mistakenly killed her when we were smoking out the bees from their makeshift home. Sometimes, the smoke can get a little too hot for their fragile wings and injure or kill them.

We always try to be careful, but we are human, and mistakes can easily happen.

We took what bees we could rescue and sealed them up carefully with their comb inside of a colorful bee box. Keith and I both share a love of the Lord and are Emmaus brother and sister. (If you haven’t been on a walk to Emmaus, it’s a life changing event that will alter your love See Hodge, page A5

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Atlanta

TLANTA—I don’t do big cities, but I don’t mind Atlanta.

If you were to force me to pick my favorite American city, I wouldn’t pick one because I don’t like being forced to do anything.

My mother used to force me to eat tapioca pudding as a kid, the texture reminded me of old-person snot and I refused to eat it because I couldn’t understand how the same advanced civilization that invented bacon, airplanes and the Thigh Master, came up with tapioca.

But like I was saying, if you asked me nicely to pick a favorite major American city, maybe I would pick Atlanta. Because I have history here.

Right now I am driving I-285, through Atlanta’s congested traffic. The long line of vehicles moves five feet per hour. It’s miserable.

I have plenty of time to remember all kinds of things in this gridlock. Things like, for instance, tapioca.

And I can recall

By Sean Dietrich

an era before smartphones, when newspapers were works of journalism, before they got swallowed by internet agencies who produce articles entitled: “TWENTYONE REASONS WHY BOTTLED WATER WILL KILL YOU.” And I remember when the Atlanta Journal Constitution was the highlight of my day.

We lived in Atlanta for a hot minute when I was a boy, and each morning I would be the first to retrieve the newspaper. My uncle thought this was hysterical.

“You’re fetching the paper?” he said.

“That’s a pretty good trick, Fido. How about next I teach you to shake, roll over, and tee-tee on command?”

But I already knew how to do those things.

So I would open

the paper to read my favorite columnist.

Then, I would cut out the column with scissors because it was the brightest spot of my day.

Later, when my uncle would shake open his newspaper, he would find a gaping hole where 600 words used to be.

You don’t forget things like that.

Also, the Atlanta Braves. I remember them. We went to games at the old stadium—where finding a parking place was like surviving the apocalypse.

I remember the smell of infield dirt, and popcorn, and the sound of a crowd. I remember sitting behind home plate once, close enough to see the forearm hair of Greg Maddux.

It was in Atlanta where my cousin and I saw real honky-tonk bands, and listened to the blues for the first time.

The first beer joint that ever served me was just outside Atlanta. There was a See Dietrich, page A5

The three E’s on being happy as you grow older

“Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional.” - Anonymous ld age is truly a gift to us!

How are you going to wrap up this gift to us who are older?

Wrapping up this stage of life with the three E’s of encouragement, endurance and embracing aging prepares us for the best yet to come in the journey of growing

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older. After spending many hours with my elderly friends who are 70 through 101, I’d like to share with the readers some of the advice they gave me.

1. Stay encouraged Old age is a time that we can enjoy being the “person” we have always desired to be. The things of the world that use to be important to us when we were younger such as material gains and jobs just don’t mean

By Beth Pinyerd

that much to us anymore. As we have aged, we have learned to pace ourselves so we don’t overexert ourselves. We are kinder to ourselves.

My friend who is 101 years old shared with me that he did not restrict himself from daily desserts like he used to when he was younger.

In observing and interacting with seniors in the community at senior socials, they know how to reminisce and have fun.

Putting songs on from the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s, you will see the older generation come alive with singing, whistling, finger snap-

ping and dancing. The greater generation’s enthusiasm for life is contagious to all. They take time to laugh because they know great freedom comes with aging.

2. Endurance When questioning my senior friends on enduring the daily life of growing old, the immediate response was “don’t get tired of doing what is good.”

Even though there may be health challenges, don’t get dis-

couraged and give up.

Endurance comes from keeping our thoughts on good memories and “hopeful” promises.

Being older and living through the trials and tests of life, cushion us as we approach “old age.”

3. Embrace growing older In working with the elderly population, I have several friends who have low vision, deafness or trouble See Pinyerd, page A5

I could be a millionaire today, if . . .

nce again, I missed my chance.

Back in the 1960s, when I was as full of myself as a young puppy, I had dinner at a Polynesian-themed restaurant in Fort Lauderdale. The food was not memorable – pineapple and coconut were the flavors of choice. I care for neither.

However, the waitresses, wearing lowslung sarongs and spilling out of skimpy bikini tops, more than made up for what the kitchen lacked.

That was my first experience with what are known today as “Breastaurants,” the fastest growing restaurant chains in an industry that has been pretty stagnant since the Great Recession.

Had I stopped ogling and started investing 50 years ago, I’d be a mil-

lionaire today.

I didn’t.

But some guys down in Clearwater, Florida did.

They started Hooters.

And for a while, the Owl logo with all the double (and triple) mammary entendre, cornered a customer base composed of a drooling demographic that is attracted to bar food and scantily clad women.

I saw the success of their marketing when, coming back from a fishing trip with my buddy Mark, we asked our teenage boys where they would like to eat.

You know where.

While we were being served, one of the Hooter Girls got wings sauce on her white tank-top.

“Oh darn,” she pouted, for a new one would come out of her wages.

By Hardy Jackson

Immediately my son, gentleman that he is, volunteered to buy her a replacement – with my money.

Moved by his generosity, she slipped back into the dressing room, changed, and gave my son the stained one, signed by the other Hooter Girls on that shift.

He framed it and hung it on his wall.

I explained it to his mama, who shook her head and muttered something about the nut not falling far from the tree.

Now, new Breastaurants are challenging Hooters for the burger

and booby trade.

Topping the list of competitors is “Twin Peaks,” whose logo features snow-capped mountains just in case you don’t get their double-entendre. The mostly male clientele attracted to this “ultimate sports lodge” is served by busty young women dressed like Daisy Duke might dress if she were a lumberjack. Just bubbling over with “signature ‘girl next door’ charisma and playful personalities” these employees (according to the website) “know what men love.”

In case you still haven’t gotten the message, “scenic views [are] guaranteed.”

Not far behind Twin Peaks is the Tilted Kilt, a “Celtic themed” sports bar where female employees wear “sexy plaid kilts and matching plaid bras.” Although

there is more of a hint of “sexy school girl” in the costume, the fabric looks a lot like the Royal Stewart tartan which is the personal plaid of Queen Elizabeth II. I don’t think Her Majesty would be pleased.

So what is my point – other than to celebrate how capitalism has once again offered an opportunity to the innovative, how marketing has once again won out over good taste, and how once again I missed my chance to make more money than I can spend?

The point is that for those of you who are looking to jump on the bandwagon before it leaves the loading dock, Breastaurants may be just for you.

Why? Because you won’t have to go far from home – if home is in

the South.

Yessir, the Bible Belt, the land of “traditional family values,” has more Breastaurants per capita than any other region.

In Dixieland, they don’t look away – or at least the men don’t.

Despite its Mountain West décor, Twin Peaks has no restaurants in half of the Rocky Mountain States and none in the Appalachians north of Tennessee.

Does this represent a significant shift in the moral underpinning that has held our region together, or is it simply a more open manifestation of what has been going on for a long time?

One assessment of the Breastaurants trend suggests that behind it is an appeal to lust and gluttony - two of See Jackson, page A5

pelika O Observer

A5 July 10, 2019

‘BabyPalooza - Baby and Maternity Expo’ to be held at Bottling Plant Event Center July 20

By Morgan Bryce Editor New or expecting parents will benefit from attending the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama’s Babypalooza Baby and Maternity Expo July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at downtown Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center.

According to a description on Babypalooza.com, these expos will afford individuals

the “opportunity to connect with local health systems about women’s health and pregnancy issues, with financial representatives about college savings plans, area support groups and lactation consultants (as well as) start, research and add products to their baby registry.”

East Alabama Medical Center is the local health sponsor, along with other co-sponsors including Alfa Insurance, CollegeCounts,

Mix 96.7 and Y102.

Individuals interested in attending can become Babypalooza members and receive a free ticket to the expo.

Local health organizations interested in having a booth at the event are encouraged to call 205-440-2229.

For more information, visit www. babypalooza.com or www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

The BigHouse Foundation plans to expand; looks for new, larger space Special to the Opelika Observer BigHouse is growing and they are excited to launch the next phase, The BigHouse Retreat. Join them as they fundraise to make

their next dream a reality.

The BigHouse Retreat will provide much needed additional resources for local families and offer space to build relationships for foster and

Dietrich,

from A4

blues band playing. I lied about my age.

The bartender was a sweet old woman with skin like boot leather. She knew I was a kid, but the joint was empty, so she gave me one half glass.

No refills.

It was a different world back then. That sweet woman would be doing hard time if she tried that today.

Now that I’m an adult, I mostly visit town on business. Sometimes I eat at Truett’s with my uncle, or I go antique shopping with my cousin. I’ve seen Willie Nelson play at Chastain Park, and I like to take in ball games at Suntrust Park. But for the most part, I don’t think about Atlanta much, nor about what it meant to me.

Until I get stuck in traffic.

The older you get, the more important the little pieces of your past become. You find yourself

adoptive families from across East Alabama.

They are currently seeking pledges and commitments for funding for this new space. Contact them for more info about what is to come.

wanting to remember the itty-bitty details. Things you didn’t even know you cared about. Because they are not just memories, they are part of you.

Things like the kudzu in Jonesboro on a June afternoon. The tiny church your friend Jaron and his granny used to go to. The old stadium where you would watch America’s team lose.

The way your cousin would say during a ballgame: “Hey, you know the difference between Michael Jackson and the Atlanta Braves?”

“No, what?”

“Nothing. They both wear one glove but never use it.”

You remember how your aunt brought your mother here when she was sick, and the doctors at Emory saved her life.

And how you drove your mother home a year later, listening to an audiobook on cassette while she slept.

You’ll never forget the lost kid you were. No matter how old you get.

Fatherless and awkward, a little chubby, listening

Fuller,

from A4 and understanding of the big JC (Jesus Christ). You won’t forget it and you won’t regret it. Look it up.) One of the symbols we use in Emmaus is the rainbow.

Keith has an entire apiary filled with every color bee box you could imagine. Its beautiful. Especially this time of year with the wildflowers and gardens in full bloom.

I am working on my rainbow, so far, I have two hives; one yellow and one ocean blue.

Now, I have a purple box of what’s left of our rescue bees.

Unfortunately, as with any rescue, it doesn’t always go as planned or as you hoped. We were unable to get all these little bees in the box and I only ended up with about 20 or so bees and their brood and what little honey they had produced. I divided up the combs and added them to my existing hives with

to blues in a beer joint on a Saturday night.

And the bartender, puffing her cigarette, who said, “You know what I like about the blues? It’s honest music, it don’t pretend that life’s a bed of roses.”

You remember jogging to the end of a driveway every morning, shaking open a damp newspaper to see what an old columnist friend had to say.

And wishing that one day, if Heaven smiled on you, maybe you’d write the same kinds of things to a lonely child who needed them.

No, you don’t forget places like Atlanta, and you never will.

But you will always hate tapioca.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.

hopes that my nurse bees would tend to the eggs and larvae. Hopefully, the “baby” bees will hatch and become a part of my existing hives. So far, my girls have covered the new frames and are all over the larvae. Feeding and caring for them without any question or hesitancy, in true motherly fashion.

As for the remaining 20 or so bees we tried so hard to save, they are still in the box with what honey we were able to save for them. Without a queen and other members of their little colony, they most likely won’t survive. But like I keep telling myself, at least we tried. Sometimes you do your best and that’s all you can do.

Keith and I are kind of like the shepherd with the lost sheep.

We don’t give up on saving the “herd” and will wait to make sure that last lamb or bee is saved. But unfortunately, in some cases, when the lamb has a mind of its own there is only so much you can do, and you must trust God to handle the

Pinyerd,

from A4

walking. They have accepted their infirmities with calmness, peace and resignation that this is a part of growing old. They are a joy to be around because they are so positive even though they might be in pain. Part of embracing old age is accepting help when needed.

Another reason to embrace getting older is that an elderly person is wiser and more

Jackson,

from A4 the seven deadly sins that have been especially popular below the Mason-Dixon Line.

We have always been big on gluttony, as our obesity rate reveals. One trip through the line at any after-preaching-dinner-on-the-grounds or family reunion will convince you of that. It is a short hop from that table spread under the trees to the table full of wings, burgers, and fries served by “playful

rest in His own timing.

If wonder if there is an apiary in heaven?

A place where all the lost bees go; with endless fields of sunflowers, clover, and any wildflower one could possibly imagine. If there is, I bet the hives are painted just like Keith’s, one in every color of the rainbow.

I’m sure we will find out one day, but until then, we have a lot more bees to herd. I really haven’t thought of us being bee herders… I guess our robe would be our bee suit and our staff would be our smokers. We roam the suburban areas in search of our lost bees. I could sit and daydream about bee heaven all day, but need to go check on my flock.

Lucy Fuller is a lover of nature, animals, gardening, and old houses. She is a full time mother and wife. She currently resides in Dadeville with her husband, two daughters, four dogs, and cat. She may be reached at fullalove2017@gmail. com.

confident. Because of life’s experiences, older people can make well-informed decisions and they know what is important and what is not. Embrace getting older by having less stress.

Take time to smell the roses, look at the blue sky and enjoy the pitter patter of rain falling. Less stress in our older years means more time to enjoy hobbies you have always wanted to do, family and friends.

I hope this article enlightens you to enjoy and live each day to the fullest! girls next door” – and the slope between the two can be slippery, especially if there is beer.

As for lust, even Jimmy Carter admitted having it in his heart from time to time.

Of course, Breastaurants are just bubbling over with sexism, objectification, maybe even exploitation.

But if you can get past those objections, as Southerners have for years, opportunity knocks.

Just letting you know.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone.net.

pelika O Opinion

A6 July 10, 2019

Extension office notes: information on digging animals, planting pumpkins and hydrangeas Special to the Opelika Observer

By Justin Miller and Katie Nichols Protect Your Yard From Digging Animals While working outside, some people may find they are not the only ones digging around.

Animals, such as squirrels, chipmunks, armadillos and moles are known culprits for digging in yards, gardens and flower beds. Controlling these digging animals is possible, but there are a few things to know.

Identify the pest Jim Armstrong, an Alabama Extension wildlife specialist, said the first step to control is identifying the animal.

"Once you know the animal that is causing the problem, it will be easier to come up with a solution," Armstrong said.

"There are several ways to get rid of pests, but not every method will work for every pest."

According to Armstrong, the armadillo is most often the culprit of complaints about yard damage. Armadillos search for earthworms and grubs, rooting up yards as they go.

Damage from an armadillo is fairly distinctive.

When on the hunt, the armadillo uses its long, sharp claws to break the surface of loose soil.

This leaves holes on average about three inches wide and five inches deep.

Another animal troubling to landscapes is the mole.

“Moles dig tunnels through yards in search of food,” Armstrong said. "Moles have an enormous appetite and may eat up to 100% of their body weight in a single day.”

These tunnels form

ridges in the soil, which can lead to a fairly unattractive yard. In fact, if it wasn’t for these tunnels, many might consider moles beneficial to homeowners.

"Contrary to popular belief, moles do not eat the roots and bulbs of flowers and vegetables,” Armstrong said. “In fact, they may benefit these plants by feeding on grubs and worms that can damage them.

However, the tunneling activities of moles may disfigure lawns and gardens."

Control There are several options homeowners can use to control digging animals. Installing a fence around your home is a cost effective way to control these pests.

“Mesh fencing is the best option for homeowners,” Armstrong said. “If the mesh does not work, adding chicken wire around the fence will provide more deterrence.”

Armstrong recommends if you are using a fence to exclude digging or burrowing animals, the fence should be buried at least 10 inches into the ground to discourage the animal from digging under the fence. This will make it near impossible for animals to get through.

Sometimes, using lethal traps and measures is needed to control some animals, such as armadillos and moles.

"Homeowners can trap armadillos using a cage and a barrier of boards to help guide them into the mouth of the trap," Armstrong said. "Once trapped, armadillos should be humanely euthanized.”

Armstrong warns that because armadillos are an invasive species, they

should not be relocated to another area.

When dealing with moles, the best solution for control is using lethal traps.

"There are several lethal traps that can be used to eliminate moles," he said. "You can find many of these traps online or at a local outdoors store."

There are additional products at gardening stores to purchase for control. They range from poisons to deterrents.

These options might prove to be beneficial solutions in small yards with no domestic animals. However, these options could be expensive to use on large yards.

More Information For more information on these and other garden pests, visit Alabama Extension online or contact your county extension office.

July Heat is Perfect For Planting Pumpkins While April showers bring May flowers, apparently July heat brings pumpkins. Temperatures in July are perfect for planting pumpkins. In order to have them ready for fall, growers have to plant at just the right time. An extension specialist offers the following tips on planting and managing pumpkins.

Planting Joe Kemble, an Alabama Extension vegetable specialist, said pumpkins should be planted by mid-July at the latest.

“Check the number of days to reach maturity, as some pumpkins may need to be planted a bit earlier,” Kemble said.

“However, because it gets so hot so quickly in Alabama, you can generally knock 10 days to two weeks off of the

days to maturity for most cultivars.”

According to Kemble, depending on the cultivar, planting from mid-June to mid-July is usually best.

“Plant too early and you will have pumpkins well before Halloween,” Kemble said.

Managing Kemble recommends completing a soil test in order to apply lime and fertilizer as recommended.

“Pumpkins are deep feeders,” he said. “Incorporate a lot of compost or other aged organic matter in to the soil.”

Kemble said pumpkins and other cucurbits love the heat. Pumpkin seed can germinate in soil temperatures up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit without any problems. Like other garden vegetables, they need about an inch of water per week. He suggests choosing cultivars with resistance to powdery mildew.

“It is much easier to manage this disease by using resistant cultivars, than needing to spray a fungicide to control this disease,” Kemble said.

More Information Professionals found bacterial wilt on squash plants in Chilton County in early June 2019. If you’ve already planted pumpkins and notice yellowed leaves and wilting, consult the Auburn University Plant Pathology lab for assistance identifying bacterial wilt.

Read more about bacterial wilt in a press release from June 2019.

The Vegetable Handbook is also an excellent resource for those growing pumpkins.

The handbook contains the information to help growers manage vegetable crops, including which varieties to plant,

BBMI,

from A1 massage school program reflects a national standard of excellence, with graduates who demonstrate a mastery of core knowledge and skills. Small class sizes allow the teachers to provide one-on-one education and practical training in various massage techniques.

In 2018, 100% of graduates successfully passed the MBLEx exam. Many of their alumni have chosen to work with successful local businesses like Spa 180 and Eleve'.

When asked about how her business has changed or evolved during the last five years, Clark spoke of the constant need to stay up-to-date with the industry methods.

"Every semester is a learning process for me and the school. As the massage industry needs change (and adult educational

planting dates, fertilizer recommendations, cover crop selection and conservation tillage options, pesticide selection, grafting, fertigation, plasticulture, postharvest handling, alternative pest management tools and suggestions and also many other topics.

Hydrangea Pruning Times Depend on Variety With every rule, there is an exception—such is the case with pruning hydrangea bushes, according to Bethany O’Rear, a regional home grounds agent with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

“Typically, for blooming plants a gardener follows the ‘May Rule,’” O’Rear said. “This rule dictates pruning time based on when a particular plant sets its flower buds.”

Old Wood and New Wood Some plants flower on “old wood,” meaning blooms are set on stems produced from last year’s buds. These plants are usually the ones blooming during early spring. Since these plants bloom before May 1, prune immediately after blooms fade or finish.

Other plants set buds on this year’s growth, also called “new wood.” If flowering occurs after May 1, prune plants during the dormant season, in late winter or early spring.

“Following this general rule with hydrangeas would lead to a bloomless plant and an unhappy gardener,” O’Rear said.

Hydrangea Pruning The correct timing for pruning hydrangeas depends on the particular species of hydrangea.

O’Rear says you must first identify the type of hydrangea growing in

your garden.

Mophea “One of the most common garden varieties is the mophead or French hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla),” O’Rear said. “This is the type with either blue or pink flowers—depending on the soil pH.” Mophead hydrangeas typically bloom earlyto mid-summer. If gardeners followed the May Rule according to timing, these hydrangeas would fall into the dormant season pruning category. However, that is not the case. Mophead hydrangeas bloom on old wood and should be pruned soon after flowering.

Oakleaf “Another type of hydrangea that blooms on old wood is one of our native species, the Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia),” she said. “Pruning should take place just after the blooms have faded. In other words, these two types of hydrangeas are probably due for pruning right about now.”

Take care to put away the pruners by the beginning of August when next year’s buds begin to form.

Peegee The Peegee or panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata) blooms on new wood. This species can be cut six to 12 in. above the ground—or at half its height—every year in late winter or early spring.

“When it comes to pruning, correct timing is key,” O’Rear said.

More Information Find more information about pruning, as well as site selection, bloom color, watering, fertility and cultivars in ANR1276, Hydrangeas.

methods evolve) so do we," Clark said.

The Better Bodies Massage Institute is certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), licensed by the Alabama Board of Massage Therapy and recognized by the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP) and is a recognized Alabama nonprofit organization.

Clark decided to operate her business as a nonprofit in order to better serve the community. "(I wanted) both students and the community to benefit from the wellness and comfort that massage brings both giving and receiving. It seemed like a good match... students get a career and people who might never receive massage have an opportunity to feel better. I wanted to do more," Clark said. "I've learned to keep teaching from my heart and never to

give up on the students or myself. I've also learned that Lee County has one of the most supportive, diverse communities in the southeast and our school has had the honor of working with more good causes than I ever anticipated."

The BBMI student clinic is open to the public most Friday and Saturdays; and certain weekdays depending upon the semester and number of students. They offer a one-hour student massage for only $40 Those interested should call 334-7371400 or visit www. betterbodiesal.com to learn more about the upcoming fall class registration and exact student and professional clinic times.

According to Clark, Better Bodies Massage Institute is proud to be a trusted resource for massage therapy services and training in the greater Lee County area.

The business is located at 1010 Renfro Ave.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • July 12-13 - Auburn Knights Annual Reunion at Grand National • July 13 - Heart of Waverly BBQ in downtown Waverly • July 13 - Vocals for Locals at The Railyard in downtown Opelika •July 20 - Sean of the South at George’s Farmer’s Market

Farmers bring produce, baked goods, assorted items to Tuesday market Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

P

lump, red tomatoes, just-picked corn and juicy peaches along with homemade bakery goodies, honey, jellies, meats and other items can be found on Tuesday afternoons at the OGrows Open-Air Farmers Market on Glenn Street across from the Southside Center for the Arts in Opelika.

The market is a foodie’s delight and will be open Tuesday afternoons from 3 to 6 p.m. through August.

OGrows is an organization that engages students and

citizens in gardening to address community service and food security. OGrows is building capacity as a hub of local food systems by employing students, selling produce and donating produce to the Food Bank of East Alabama.

Under the umbrella of Envision Opelika, OGrows began in 2012. Susan Forbes is the manager of the farmers market. Her husband, Sean, the founder of OGrows, is a professor in education psychology at Auburn University.

He was inspired to

start the program when his son was attending kindergarten at Southview School.

When he asked his son about his day, Sean realized he was only outdoors for a small portion of the day. He developed the idea to get children out of a traditional classroom and create an outdoor learning space.

A hydroponics system in the greenhouse grows vegetables and ornamental plants, including perennials and annuals.

Locally grown vegetables and fruits

Photo by Ann Cipperly A variety of fresh produce, baked goods, honey, jellies and other items can be found each Tuesday afternoon from 3 to 6 p.m. at the OGrows Open-Air Farmers Market on Glenn Street in Opelika across from the Southside Center for the Arts (formerly known as the Brown School). Pictured at the market are, from left, Anna Freeman of Serenity Farms and Bakery, Susan Forbes, manager of the market, and Stephen Baine of Baine Farms from Slocomb.

offer more nutrients and fresher taste than those shipped from other parts of the country. Buying from local farms is also beneficial to the community, as it supports our local farmers.

Along with a variety of produce, Serenity Farms and Bakery offers a variety of breads and home-

made confections.

Judy Freeman and her daughters Anna and Liana, offer freshly baked sourdough bread, French bread, whole wheat banana bread, cinnamon rolls, assorted cookies, peach pies and many other homemade desserts. They accept debit and credit cards.

The girls grind

wheat berries to make whole-wheat flour for baking breads. While the girls bake specialty breads and cookies, Judy prepares brownies and assembles whoopie pies for the girls to sell.

Judy and the girls also work in the garden gathering fresh vegetables for See Cipperly, page A8

Opelika Theatre Company to The Alabama Baptist organizes ‘Beauregard Strong Benefit Night’ stage ‘A plot for murder’ Aug. 16 Aug. 2 at Providence Baptist Church

By Mary Burger Society Reporter

By Morgan Bryce Editor Aiding Beauregard families and residents impacted by the March 3 tornadoes is the purpose of the “Beauregard Strong Benefit Night” Aug. 2 at Providence Baptist Church.

Organized by The Alabama Baptist, a weekly newspaper based in Birmingham, the free event will feature an evening

full of comedy, entertainment and magic provided by Christian acts. Admission is free but donations and gift cards will be accepted throughout the evening.

Following is a full event lineup, subject to change until the day of the event: - Mickey Bell (comedian) - David Garrard (magician) - New Ground (gos-

pel trio) - Frank Jones (musician) and - Aaron Wilburn (comedian).

Doors open at 5:15 p.m. that evening and the show will begin at 6 p.m.

For more information, call TAB staff at 1-800-803-5201, ext. 100 or Providence Baptist Church at 334745-4608. The church is located at 2807 Lee Road 166.

Mary Burger here, and I'm ALL SHOOK UP over this juicy scoop!

I have it under good authority, the Opelika Theatre Company Murder Mystery players are at it again!

So, I threw on my blue suede shoes and hit the pavement to be the first to get all the details just for you.

Just in time for Elvis week, these SUSPICIOUS MINDS will be at The Southside Center For The Arts on Aug. 16

at 7 p.m. to solve another mystery and invite YOU to help catch the DEVIL IN DISGUISE, while enjoying a mouth-watering meal catered by Back Water BBQ. Tickets will be available for purchase online at Opelikatheatrecompany. com.

You are going to want to save your seat for this one. I hear the detective on the case has a mean hip swivel.

DON'T BE CRUEL and wait to purchase your tickets, they won't be available at the door, the caterer is a bit of a

HOUND DOG, and insists on a head count, but I CAN'T HELP FALLING IN LOVE with him.

You do not want to miss this hilarious production! I myself have been working on my lip curl and am on the hunt for the perfect scarf to complete my rhinestone pant suit.

(As usual, doing it MY WAY) Audience participation is encouraged.

Don't forget - mark your calendars today to see “A PLOT FOR MURDER” Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Southside Center for the Arts, located at 1103 Glenn St.

Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM

pelika O Observer Summertime at Pioneer Park A8

July 10, 2019

Special to the Opelika Observer

When one was living on a 19th century, Lee County family farm, July meant slowing down, laying-by the crops of corn, cotton, peanuts and sugarcane, and trying to keep cool. Mama would have been shelling peas and butterbeans on the front porch or under the shade of the pecan tree and while papa was visiting with neighbors to discuss the upcoming cotton

ing taught in the Trade Center. Tom Westmoreland will lead an advanced class (those who feel comfortable with crocheting) and Mary Delaney will lead those who are beginners. This is a very useful home craft using strips of old fabric to make place mats, bag purses, rugs, etc. Fabric strips will be available for participants or each participant may bring their own. Also each person should bring a large crochet hook.

picking season.

Enjoy summertime at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka on July 13 where the goal is to keep cool and celebrate the nation’s Independence just like in the old days. Before the weather gets too hot, join a local farmer in a garden ‘walk ‘n talk’ at 9 a.m.

Discover what grows in Alabama’s summer heat and how these crops influenced our culture. At 9:30 a.m. there will be a class in ‘rag rug’ crochet-

Every second Saturday this summer will feature a “jamming” session from 10 a.m. to noon in the Band Stand Pavilion. The music will include primarily folk tunes but will be open to the participant’s choice.

A group of enthusiastic basket weavers meet at 9 a.m. on “Second Saturday” to make pine needle baskets and other woven crafts. They refer to themselves as the “basket cases” and welcome new partici-

pants.

In spite of the heat, the village blacksmiths are usually working at the forge, spinners and weavers are upstairs in the Trade Center and someone is always cooking up a period meal in the Cook House. July’s lunch is sure to include fresh corn from the garden and watermelon from the patch for a hardy, summer meal.

The Whistle Stop Pickers gather to practice at 1 p.m. What a great opportunity for

LCHS members and visitors to explore the museums and enjoy a period meal from the Cook House at noon.

Pioneer Park is a project of the Lee County Historical Society, a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the history of Lee County and East Alabama.Visit the website: www. leecountyhistoricalsociety.org/ or find them on their Facebook page.

Opelika’s Parks and Rec Department offering two free movie showings for families during July

By Morgan Bryce Editor Opelika’s Parks and Recreation Department is offering families and their children inexpensive or free opportunities to spend a night at the movies during the month of July.

Admission is $5 per child to attend a 5:30

exist. Banned from his village because of his mythical-sounding story, he embarks on a magical journey to help prove his discovery and be allowed to come back home.

The movie features an all-star cast of voice actors, including James Corden, Patricia Heaton, LeBron James and Channing Tatum.

p.m. drive-in showing of the 2018 Disney movie “Small Foot” July 19 at the Opelika Sportsplex. Children will be able to construct their own cardboard vehicle where they can sit and watch the movie.

Rated PG, Small Foot’s protagonist is a Yeti named Migo who discovers that humans

The following Friday will mark the conclusion of the Summer Movie Series at Municipal Park. Attendance is free and there will be games and entertainment for children from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. when the showing of “Hook” begins.

Also rated PG, Hook chronicles Peter Pan’s return to Neverland

Buying or Selling?

to save his children from the grasp of old archenemy Captain Hook. During his absence, Tinkerbell and the Lost Boys have pledged their allegiance to a new leader in Rufio. Will Pan receive help in his quest to save his children or have to go through the journey alone?

Dustin Hoffman, Ju-

BurgerFi to celebrate National French Fry Day with $1 special on Saturday Special to the Opelika Observer

Call:

Salt, dip, bite and enjoy! In honor of National French Fry Day on July 13, Opelika BurgerFi is offering guests $1 regular hand-cut fries all day long from open to

Lisa Thrift (334) 444-8099

lia Roberts and the beloved Robin Williams lend their talents to this live-action movie which was directed by decorated movie director Steven Spielberg.

For more information, call 334-7055560. The Sportsplex is located at 1001 Andrews Road and Monkey Park at 700 5th Ave.

close on this day only.

Guests must mention offer at counter in order to redeem. Offer valid on 7/13/19 only.

Valid in-store only at participating locations.

Not valid with online, phone, in-app or delivery orders.

“I can get you where you want to be...Home” lthrift1984@gmail.com

www.thedensongroup.com

Opelika Charitable Giving Facts As the economy improves and confidence grows, charitable giving is making a comeback. Now could be a good time to evaluate giving and consider new ways to support the causes that you care about.

REASONS FOR GIVING A desire to be philanthropic, to create a legacy, sense of moral duty Tax minimization, asset management, estate planning Serving Retirees • families • small business Owners • Nonprofits • Individuals

Financial planning for today, for tomorrow, for life.

208 South 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 www.investopelika.com Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Railroad Investment group is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Inc., member FDIC/SIPC.

Owners, RIG Financial Advisors, RJFS BLAKE HENRY LAUREL CALLAWAY Office - 334-748-9999 Fax - 334-748-9998

Call us today to discuss your charitable giving strategy Raymond James financial advisors do not render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professionals.

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

pelika O Observer Cipperly,

from A7

the markets. She will also assist the girls in baking, loading the cars and going to the markets.

Several years ago the barn was converted into an apartment with a spacious kitchen, which is mainly used for baking for the farmers’ markets and special orders. Since Grilled Corn with Cilantro ½ - ¾ cup butter, softened ¼ cup cilantro, coarsely chopped 1 lime, zested and juiced 1 tsp. sea salt ¼ tsp. freshly cracked pepper 10 ears corn, husked Cotija cheese, grated (optional) Preheat the grill to medium heat.

In a small bowl mix the butter, cilantro, 1 Tbsp. lime juice, 1 tsp. lime zest, salt and pepper.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes or until ready to use.

Grill the husked corn over medium heat, turning occasionally on all sides, until speckled with char spots and tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Remove the corn from the grill and serve with cilantro butter and grated cheese, if desired.

Enjoy! Serves 8 to 10. *To store any leftover cilantro butter, scoop the butter onto plastic wrap, roll it up and cinch each side of the wrap, twisting until the butter looks like a log for easy slicing. Store up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Green Beans with Lemon Breadcrumbs Green Beans: 2 lbs. green beans, rinsed and trimmed Breadcrumbs: 2 cups coarse fresh breadcrumbs 2 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Meyer lemons, zested 1/4 tsp. sea salt 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped Dressing Wash green beans and trim the ends. In a large pot fitted with a steamer basket, steam green beans over 1-inch of boiling water, stirring once. Steam to your desired degree of tenderness, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large sauté pan over medium heat, cook breadcrumbs in 2 Tbsp. olive oil for 5 minutes. Stir in zest, fresh thyme and 1/8 tsp. sea salt and pepper.

Cook and stir until golden brown, about 2 to 4 minutes. Pour into a bowl and set aside.

Combine 2 Tbsp. olive oil with lemon

Alabama now has a Cottage Law, the girls are allowed to sell a certain amount of baked goods throughout the year.

With Judy and the girls baking for the Farmers’ Market, it has been a special time of togetherness.

“I love doing this with my daughters,” Judy said. “When we started going to the market, I thought that was a great opportunity for them to learn business skills

and how to meet the public.”

Mary Finley of Camp Hill is new to the market this year with her baked cakes.

She has an assortment of cakes available by the slice.

Along with fresh produce and baked items, look for local honey, homemade jellies, farm fresh meats and stone ground grits, among other items. Stock up on a variety of food items for creating delectable

meals.

Farmers at the market last week included: - Baine Farms - Bryce Farm - Carson Farms - Five Points Farms - Honey - Gold Hill Cattle - beef, stone ground grits and cornmeal - Hale Farms of Chilton County - Harman Family Farm - Jimmy Dykes of Beulah “Corn Man” - Leslie Griffin (The

juice and sea salt and pepper to taste. Drain green beans, toss with dressing, and transfer to a serving plate.

Top with bread crumb mixture and serve immediately. Serves 6 to 8.

medium heat until a thermometer reads 165 degrees, 6 to 8 minutes on each side.

Remove and keep warm.

In the same skillet, combine the preserves, vinegar, blueberries and mustard, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened. Serve with chicken.

Sprinkle with basil if desired. Serves 4.

minutes.

Stir in fresh corn kernels, salt, pepper, and drained beans, and cook, stirring often, until corn is tender and bright yellow, 5 to 6 minutes.

Add butter, and cook, stirring constantly, until butter is melted, about 1 minute. Remove from heat.

Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and sliced basil; sprinkle with crumbled bacon and serve immediately.

Eggplant Bruschetta 2 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 eggplant, chopped (approximately 4 cups) 3 garlic cloves, peeled 10 sprigs of basil 2 heirloom tomatoes salt & pepper to taste pinch of sugar 1 loaf French bread 1/2 lb. fresh mozzarella, cut or torn into 1/2-inch pieces (optional) Heat the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and eggplant and cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until the eggplant is tender, stirring frequently.

Add in the olive oil, garlic and basil leaves halfway through cooking. Meanwhile, chop the heirloom tomatoes, reserving the liquid Add the tomatoes and the tomato liquid to the eggplant. Season with salt, pepper and a pinch of sugar.

Warm up a loaf of bread in the oven for a few minutes, then slice.

If using cheese, add the mozzarella into the pan and stir until it melts. Spoon the bruschetta onto the bread and top with grated Parmesan and remaining basil leaves.

Chicken with Blueberry Dijon Mustard 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (6 oz. each) 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1 Tbsp. butter 1/2 cup blueberry preserves 1/3 cup raspberry vinegar 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard Minced fresh basil or tarragon, optional Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, cook chicken in butter over

Zucchini with Italian Seasoning 2 lbs. sliced zucchini 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup olive oil 1 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning 1/4 tsp. pepper In a large skillet, sauté the zucchini and garlic in oil until zucchini is crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.

Sprinkle with seasonings. Serve immediately.

Succotash 10 oz. fresh or frozen baby lima beans (2 cups) 4 center-cut bacon slices 1 cup chopped sweet onion (from 1 small onion) 4 oz. fresh okra, cut into 1 12-inch-thick slices (1 cup) 1 garlic clove, finely chopped (1 tsp.)

3 cups fresh corn kernels (4 ears) 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 tsp. black pepper 3 Tbsp. butter 5 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup and 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil Place lima beans in a medium saucepan and add water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high.

Reduce to mediumlow, and simmer until beans are just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside. While beans simmer, place bacon slices in a large cast-iron skillet over medium. Cook until crisp, about 8 minutes, turning once after 5 minutes.

Transfer bacon to paper towels, crumble and set aside. Reserve drippings in skillet.

Add chopped onion, fresh okra, and garlic to skillet over medium, and cook, stirring often, until onion is just tender, about 6

Ratatouille 2 (15-oz.) cans unsalted diced tomatoes, divided 2 (15-oz.) cans unsalted chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 1/2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 Tbsp. minced garlic1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 cup chopped red onion 1 cup chopped red bell pepper 1 large zucchini, cut into 1-in. pieces (about 8 oz.)

1 large yellow squash, cut into 1-in. pieces (about 8 oz.)

1 small eggplant, peeled and cut into 1-in. pieces (about 5 oz.)

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika 1/2 tsp. black pepper 2 Tbsp. fresh basil leaves (optional) Drain 1 can tomatoes in a colander over a bowl, reserving 1/2 cup liquid.

Drain remaining 1 can tomatoes; discard liquid. Combine tomatoes, reserved 1/2 cup liquid, and chickpeas in a bowl.

Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add garlic, 1/2 tsp. salt, and next 5 ingredients (through eggplant) sauté 7 to 8 minutes or until slightly tender.

Stir in tomato mixture and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt; cover and cook 5 minutes.

Uncover pan; stir in vinegar, paprika, and black pepper. Cook 5 minutes or until vegetables mixture is slightly thickened.

Divide the vegetable mixture among 4 shallow bowls; drizzle servings evenly with remaining 1 1/2 tsp. oil.

Sprinkle with basil leaves, if desired.

A9 July 10, 2019 Hat Lady) Box Top Hat Co. - Leo’s Produce - Mary Finley Cakes - Mack Wilson of Wilson Farms - Nature’s Love Products (soaps, balms, candles, bath bombs) - Randall and Laura McClellan of Circle M Farms in Fredonia - Serenity Farms and Bakery - Walter Pulliam of Pulliam’s Produce The market offers the opportunity

Serves 4.

Kale Salad 1 bunch kale, stalks removed and discarded, leaves thinly sliced 1 lemon, juiced 1/4 cup extravirgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling Kosher salt 2 tsp. honey Freshly ground black pepper 1 cup peaches diced small Small handful toasted pumpkin seeds (about 2 rounded tablespoons) Sautéed Watermelon Steak 1/2 large seedless watermelon 1 Tbsp. oil 3 Tbsp. balsamic reduction* 2 Tbsp. honey 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Cut watermelon in half lengthwise.

Place flat side down and cut 1.5 inch wide slice. Cut the largest rectangle possible from each of these slices.

You should be able to get about 6 good steaks from 1/2 of a watermelon.

Dry: Pat each of the steaks dry with paper towels, then place in refrigerator, uncovered, for 1 to 2 hours to dry out excess moisture.

Give them a final pat right before cooking.

Sauté: Heat oil in a large sauté pan over low/medium.

Gently slide each steak in, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side. Increase heat to mediumhigh and continue to cook each side for one minute, or until lightly browned.

Serve: Drizzle honey and balsamic reduction over steaks.

Top each with mint, crumbled feta and edible flowers.

Sautéed Kale (Bobby Flay) 1 1/2 lbs. young kale, stems and leaves coarsely chopped 3 Tbsp. olive oil 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced 1/2 cup vegetable stock or water Salt and pepper

to feed your family fresh, nutritious produce, homemade breads and other items from farms while supporting our local farmers.

OGrows OpenAir Farmers Market provides plenty of parking, and there are volunteers assisting in finding parking spaces. Look for the white tents on Glenn Street.

Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com

2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until soft, but not colored.

Raise heat to high, add the stock and kale and toss to combine.

Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Remove cover and continue to cook, stirring until all the liquid has evaporated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and add vinegar.

Food Ratings Chipotle 346 W. Magnolia Ave. Auburn Score: 100 Rockin’ Robin Bar and Grill 2102 Alabama Highway 169 Opelika Score: 99 Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q 1920 S. College St. Auburn Score: 99 Little Caesar’s 1621 S. College St. Auburn Score: 99 Hungry Howie’s 1409 S. College St. Auburn Score: 99 Waffle House 1738 Opelika Road Auburn Score: 97 Stinky’s Fish Camp 610 Shug Jordan Pkwy Auburn Score: 96 Da Grub Spot 823 Crawford Road Opelika Score: 95

pelika Observer O ‘The Fedora’s’ perform at Summer Swing A10

July 10, 2019

Annual summer music event delights all ages of music-lovers

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

pelika O Observer Helping the elderly to cope with low vision A11

July 10, 2019

By Beth Pinyerd For the Opelika Observer One common agerelated disability that we see among our elderly population is low vision. Low vision is a reduced level of vision that cannot be corrected by regular, conventional glasses, which is different from being blind. A person who does have low vision does have some useful sight. Symptoms of low vision may include difficulty in differentiating colors; having a hard time seeing objects at a distance; difficulty in seeing items up close to your eyes such as reading, sewing or cooking. Not all of these symptoms may indicate that you have low vision.

An eye doctor can explain to you what is normal in aging or other eye health problems.

Following are the

causes of the loss of vision: 1. Age-related macular degeneration gradually destroys the macula, which is the part of the eye that provides sharp, detailed, central vision needed for seeing objects clearly.

There are two forms of age-related macular degeneration: dry and wet macular degeneration Neither wet or dry macular degeneration involves pain. Early signs of age-related macular degeneration are blurred vision and yellow deposits under the retina which are seen by an eye professional. My mother had wet macular degeneration and she had to go to a retina specialist to have Lucentis shots which seemed to really help her vision.

2. Cataracts cause a clouding of the eye’s lens which causes a loss of eyesight or vision. It grows larger over time and can

make it difficult to see.

Cataracts can appear in one or both eyes. Many of the elderly residents I work with have had cataracts and it is solved by surgery with your eye professional.

3. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that causes damage of the optic nerve in one or both eyes.

If glaucoma is left untreated, vision loss or blindness can happen.

4. Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye problems that people with diabetes face because of the complications of the disease.

Blurred or blocked vision occurs with this disease.

In helping our elderly citizens dealing with low vision, there are many free resources available.

There are support groups throughout the community that meet and go over helpful tips that help those

who have low vision.

The one I attend and help is called “The Eyes have It.” We have had some outstanding programs! Pam Revels and Amanda Young from the Lee County Sheriff’s Department came and taught the members about “The Yellow Dot” and “Are You Okay?” programs.

Marilyn Howard from East Alabama Medical Center’s Nutrition Department educated the members on foods which can contribute to good eye health.

Here are some tips I’d like to share. The first thing to do though is to learn as much as you can about what is the cause of your low vision. Alabama Rehabilitative Services, a free service, can help you with coping with low vision.

Tips: 1. Lighting and glare control are such important factors in coping with low vision. Guide-

lighting directly onto tasks such as reading, playing games or doing hobbies with a small gooseneck lamp or clip on lamp. Reduce glare by covering reflective surfaces when it is possible. People with low vision do not need to be seated facing the window.

2. Magnification is a necessary aid for those with low vision.

I love seeing that our local libraries have shelves of large-print books. There are large print check books, calendars, calculators, clocks and watches. At restaurants, they have large-print menus. You just have to ask to see a large-print menu.

3. Tactile systems help those with low vision. Examples that I have seen with the elderly that I help are rubber bands placed around objects to distinguish them from other things. This helps to group objects.

Felt, raised plastic dots or even sandpaper cutouts can be used by the person with low vision to rub or mark things.

4. Visual systems use any remaining vision the elderly person might have in organizing things.

Colorful labels, bold pens used to write large print, bright stickers and ribbons can label items such as clothes and canned goods.

Most people with low vision can benefit from combined tactile and visual systems.

Our next “The Eyes Have It” low vision group meeting will be July 23 in the East Alabama Medical Resource Center from 2 to 3 p.m. You can contact Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services Vision Rehabilitation Therapist Shiquita Fulton at 334705-2024 or Pinyerd at 251-895-3228.

Sound Wall to host monthly Supper Club July 19; Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher in concert July 31 Special to the Opelika Observer The Sound Wall's monthly Supper Club returns July 19 will feature culinary masterpieces from Wilton's Catering Executive Chef Chris Wilton and live jazz music performed by local saxophonist Patrick McCurry.

With only 32 seats available, those interested in attending are encouraged to go ahead and purchase their tickets. They cost $55 each and are available through www.eventbrite.com.

Guests are invited to bring their own beer and enjoy the fellowship, food and music. For more information, call 334-575-3477 or visit www.thesoundwallope-

lika.com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B. Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher performance July 31 The Sound Wall will host Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher in concert July 31, beginning at 7 p.m.

About Barksdale Barksdale has been called a “musical phenomenon” (Buddy Magazine), a “Texas force" (Paper City Magazine), “a singersongwriter well beyond his years” (Baton Rouge Advocate), an "old soul” (Fort Worth Weekly) and “amazing to watch” (DFW.com).

He is a 12-year-old singer/songwriter from Texas.

Inspired by folk, rock and blues legends, Barksdale started per-

Danaher

forming original music at the age of nine and has already shared the stage with Ray Wylie Hubbard, Bruce Robison, Will Kimbrough, and Hayes Carll. In June 2019, he released a live album recorded at famed Niles City Sound in Fort Worth, Texas.

Last September, Jack released his debut EP, Revival.

Barksdale tours nationally and wows audiences with lyrics wise beyond his years.

Jack plays guitar, slide guitar, harmonica, mandolin, piano and ukulele, but identifies first and foremost as a songwriter. His musical influences include Lead Belly, Howlin’ Wolf, Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Johnny Cash,

The Carter Family and Willie Nelson.

About Danaher Drawing on the influence of legendary troubadours like Guy Clark, Rodney Crowell and Townes Van Zandt, Danaher first made a name for himself as a songwriter in Texas before relocating to Nashville. Along the way, he shared bills with Ray Wylie Hubbard, Jack Ingram, Angaleena Presley, Rhett Miller, Travis Meadows and Amanda Shires, in addition to co-writing songs for Ryan Beaver, Bonnie Bishop, Rob Baird and Justin Halpin among others.

For his own songs, Danaher collaborated with some of Nashville fastest-rising stars, including Maren Morris,

McCurry

Wilton on material that blended classic country tradition with modern rock and roll sensibilities.

Tickets cost $20 and can also be purchased through www.eventbrite.com.

Barksdale

Opelika

A12

Family & Religion

July 10, 2019

G Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706

The Power of the Table

regg Popovich is the coach of the San Antonio Spurs, an NBA basketball team. To say that he is successful would be an understatement.

Consider the following: He has coached the team since 1996 - that’s longer than any other current coach in professional basketball, football or hockey.

He has more wins with the Spurs than any other coach with a single team in NBA history.

He coached for part of the year in 1996; since then his team has made the playoffs each year.

His team has a winning record against every team in the NBA. His team has won the NBA championship five times.

What makes his

success so remarkable is that San Antonio is a small market team.

They can’t compete with teams from Los Angeles, New York and other large markets when it comes to signing great players who have become free agents. Nonetheless, Popovich’s teams have had a winning record in every complete season he has coached. What is the secret to the winning culture he has created?

I’m sure there are many answers, but the one that stands out to me has to do with the team meals that the Spurs participate in.

All organizations have team meals, but none of them have the kind of meals the Spurs do, and no coach understands the power of the table more than Popovich

By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

does. It is his practice to host (and pay for!) elaborate, multi-course meals lasting two to three hours on a regular basis throughout the season. He chooses one of the best restaurants in whatever city they are playing in and after the game, everyone associated with the team gathers there. The leisurely meal helps everyone unwind, refuel and refocus. It also builds camaraderie.

Church calendar • Pepperell Baptist’s youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study, and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones if you need more information at 334-745-3108.

• First United Methodist Church in downtown Opelika will be hosting a fine arts camp July 18 to 21, which includes workshops in acting, dance, guitar, keyboard, songwriting and voice.

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

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

Registration for the camp can be done online at www.fumcopelika.org and costs $65.

• July 10-12 - St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will hold an “African Safari” themed VBS this week from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

E.S.T. Dinner will be served nightly. The church is located at 45 Lee Road 567 in Smiths Station.

Call 334-291-0750 for more information.

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

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

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

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

One player said, “Dinners help us to have a better understanding of each individual person, which brings us closer to each other—and, on the court, understand each other better.”

Another said, “To take time to slow down and truly dine with someone in this day and age . . . you naturally connect on a different level than just on the court or in the locker room.”

None of this should come as a surprise to students of the gospels.

Over and over (especially in Luke’s gospel), we see Jesus use the table to welcome sinners, teach Pharisees, reach out to the lost, nurture His disciples and much, much more. We see this continued by the early

church (Acts 2:46, 11:3; Galatians 2:11-13; 2 Peter 2:13; Jude 12). At these tables, Jesus is at the center, everyone is welcome, and everyone is nurtured.

Healthy churches have healthy tables.

Healthy disciples have healthy tables. Of course, all of this goes against the grain of our hurry, scurry and eatfood-fast culture, but that's one reason it is so appealing and effective.

Life slows down, people are made to feel valued and lasting relationships are built. If you are seeking to enrich your life as well as that of others—the table is a good place to start.

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

Verse of the Week “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings, you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

Psalm 91:4 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922

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

pelika O Observer Gospel quartet ‘The Dixie Echos’ to perform at Trinity United Methodist Church July 20 A13

July 10, 2019

Special to the Opelika Observer The Pensacola, Florida-based gospel quartet “The Dixie Echos” will perform July 20 at Trinity United Methodist

Church, with showtime set for 6 p.m.

According to a biography on the group’s website, “The Dixie Echoes got their start in 1960 when the Ole Gospel Man himself, JG

Whitfield, was stricken with what more than one man has endured diesel fuel in the blood.

(For those unfamiliar with that incurable condition, it is the unquenchable desire to

be on the road, singing Southern Gospel Music.) Whitfield, only just a couple of years earlier, had yielded his bass-singing role of the Florida Boys to spend more time at home. But

as the country entered the first year of the 60s, the desire to sing lured Whitfield to form another quartet that he named The Messengers.

In 1962, Whitfield renamed the group to The

Dixie Echoes Quartet.”

A love offering will be accepted during the performance.

For more information, call 334-745-2632. The church is located at 800 2nd Ave.

Purpose Baptist Church to host ‘Back to School Bash’ July 13 Special to the Opelika Observer Opelika’s Purpose Baptist Church will be hosting a “Back to School Bash” July 13 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Organized by Lauren Hartzog and Rebecca Walls, the event is free and open to the public.

There will be games, inflatables, free school supplies, door-prize giveaways

and lunch provided.

“Get ready to kick this school year off with tons of fun!!!” organizers wrote in a Facebook event post.

For more information updates, call 334-750-5338 or visit the “Back to School Bash” Facebook event page.

The church is located at 3211 Waverly Parkway.

OBITUARIES Opal Thomas Smith Opal Thomas Smith of Opelika was born to the late Chuck and Anna Belle Herring Thomas in Butler County, Alabama on June 12, 1924 and passed away at Arbor Springs on July 3, 2019. She was 95 years old.

She was preceded in death by her 8 siblings.

She is survived by her children, Wilton Smith, Shirley Smith Gunn (Randy), Ronnie Smith, and Donnie Smith; grandchildren, Stephanie

Pouncey (Roger), Nicole Cotton, Blake Norton, Shauna Smith, and 8 great grandchildren.

Visitation was held Saturday, July 6, 2019 from 10 to 10:50 a.m. in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home.

Funeral service was held Saturday, July 6, 2019 at 11 a.m. in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home with Chaplain Paul Geiger officiating.

Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Necia Mitchell Funeral service for Necia Mitchell, 50, of Opelika, AL, was held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, July 5, 2019, at Harris Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Zion At The Hill A.M.E. Zion Church, Reverend Jerry Dowdell officiated.

Ms. Mitchell, who passed away Friday, June 28, 2019 at the home of her daughter, was born January 18, 1969 in Macon County, Alabama.

Public viewing was Thursday, July 4, 2019, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m Survivors include: two daughters, Cannasta D. Mitchell and

Shalya L. Mitchell both of Opelika, AL; mother, Barbara Jean Mitchell of Opelika, AL; three sisters, Martha Neal Jones, Kathleen Mitchell and Pamela Denise Mitchell (Eddie Bandy) all of Opelika, AL; five grandchildren, Amauri Lockhart, Amayai Mitchell, Markevious Mitchell, Markiyah Rush and A’mir Mitchell all of Opelika, AL; two aunts, Sarah Mitchell Jones of Opelika, AL and Mozell Carlisle of Beauregard, AL; two uncles, J.B. Mitchell of Beauregard, AL and John Mitchell of Opelika, AL; special friend, Richard Perry; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jerry M. Carter, Sr. Jerry M. Carter, Sr. of Opelika, was born to the late Nettie Bell and Herman Floyd Carter on March 30, 1938 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on July 7, 2019. He was 81 years old.

He attended Lakeside Church of God. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Janice Carter; children, J. Michael Carter, Jr.; Anna

Marie Connally, Donna Carter Macaulay, and Julie Hoff, Angelique Coker-Lupo; stepchildren, Scott Stewart (Connie), Sean Stewart; 8 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held Wednesday, July 10, 2019 in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. with brother, Doug Click officiating.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is directing.

Please send your loved one’s obituary for publication to editor@opelikaobserver.com

pelika Observer O

A14 July 10, 2019

Community Calendar: Events around town

• July 10 - 78th Annual Meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• July 11 - Storybook Farm Ground Breaking of New Barn at 3:30 p.m.

• July 18 - Connections - Networking Leads Breakfast at 8 a.m.

Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641.

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: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th Street, Opelika • 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 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 334528-4197 or deborahowen@ eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 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 to 7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika.

For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each

month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest.

Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November.

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

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

Upcoming Events • July 10 - The Lee County Master Gardeners meeting will be held July 10 at the Harris Senior Center in Auburn (across from the post office), The meeting starts at 12:30 p.m. and the public is invited. The speaker this month is Patrick Thomas, arboretum specialist at the Auburn University Donald E. Davis Arboretum. His program this month in entitled ‘Diversity on Display.’ Visit LeeMG.org.

• July 12 and 13 - Auburn Knights’ annual reunion at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand

National.

• July 13 - “Vocals for Locals,” a fundraiser for the Community Foundation of East Alabama’s Tornado Relief Fund, will be held at The Railyard in downtown Opelika from 8 to 11 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through www.eventbrite.com.

• July 13 - Kids Drive-In Movie at the Opelika Sportsplex.

• July 13 - Second Saturday at Pioneer Park.

• July 16 - NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness

(NAMI), will meet at 7 p.m. on July 16 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce located at 714 East Glenn Ave. in Auburn.

NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy.

Kelly Emerson, executive director of NAMI Alabama, will be present to discuss issues related to the state organization.

There will also be a time for sharing. The public is invited.

• Aug. 5 - Lee County Voter’s League monthly meeting.

from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320.

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

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

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 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 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport.

The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace

education, cadet programs and emergency services.

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

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

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

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

• Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m.

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

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes.

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants.

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

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third

Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends.

Call 334-528-1076 for more information.

•After School Art Classes for Children & Youth Weekly Studio Classes featuring Drawing, Painting & More.. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 •Afternoon Art Classes for Adults featuring Studio Drawing, Painting & More.. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided Thursdays at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Evening Art Classes for Adults Fundamental Drawing Studio - Every Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Portrait Drawing Studio - portrait drawing classes for beginners, Every Wednesday 2 p.m. EST *all fine art supplies are provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Senior Studio Art Classes Every Wednesday 11 a.m.

EST *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Lee County Historical Society to host summer meeting July 14 Special to the Opelika Observer The summer meeting of the Lee County Historical Society will be on July 14 at 2:30 p.m. at the Museum in Loachapoka. Guest speaker will be Dr. James P. Pate, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of West Alabama, who has recently completed work on the “Annotated Pickett’s History of Alabama.” Dr. Pate, a scholar in the field of Alabama history, has devoted nearly two decades to a painstaking annotation of the popular, two-volume Alabama history book published before the Civil war that is commonly referred to as “Pickett’s History.”

Pate verified Pickett’s sources; elaborated on the persons, events, and places described; and enriched the work with historical detail unknown when Pickett was writing. The work was then fully indexed for the first time. The

Special to the Opelika Observer The old Trade Center Museum in Loachapoka (circa 1845) is the oldest, commercial building in Lee County and is home to the Lee County Historical Society. The historic building will host a Bicentennial lecture on July 14 by Dr. James Pate on Pickett’s History of Alabama.

result pays homage to a book that was described when it appeared nine years before the Civil War as “one of the prettiest specimens of book making ever done in America.” Pate has served as professor, department chair, dean and vice president of academic affairs during a period of 30 years.

He will bring to the Lee County Historical Society a new look on the rich and diverse

early history of Alabama in its bicentennial year. All LCHS meetings and programs are open to the public. The Lee County Historical Society is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the history of Lee County and East Alabama. Check out the website www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org/ or find them on their Facebook page.

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A15 July 10, 2019

An ‘Alabama Bucket List’: Biscuits Baseball

W

hen I set out to choose our festivities for the 4th of July, the usual came to mind. We could go to the lake, perhaps a cookout or maybe meet our family at the beach. However, this year I yearned for something different, something totally all American to set this holiday apart form the rest. I wanted a moment in time to stop our clocks and share something great and nostalgic with my family. The answer, baseball.

I wanted to walk into the stadium hand in hand with my kids to experience it for their first time. I wanted hotdogs and popcorn and “Take me out to the ballgame…”. My husband wanted an ice-cold beer on tap and that was enough to make me smile.

We are fortunate to find this perfect set up close to home in Riverwalk Stadium, host of the Montgomery Biscuits, playing in their 15th season as a Southern minor league baseball team.

When I first told my kids, “Momma got us tickets to the Biscuits!” they were completely confused. “Is this a place we go to dinner?” my littlest son asked.

This kid loves a biscuit, I’m certain he didn’t care where we were going, as long as a biscuit was included.

My older children immediately asked if daddy was going. This is a vital piece to our family puzzle. If dad isn’t present, it’s just not as much fun as being solo with mom.

I gave them visions of a fun, new experience and they jumped on my baseball train, headed for Montgomery.

We booked a room at the Renaissance hotel to add some extra fun to our family adventure. The Renaissance is a block away from Riverwalk Stadium, making it the perfect fit for out of town guests.

We dressed in any red,

white and blue attire we could find, to capture that great family photo in honor of our night together.

We walked our one block to our destination and together, all five of us, hand in hand, under the hot sunlight, entered an American dream.

My kids each held up their own tickets to be scanned by the nice old lady under an old brick concourse. She greeted them with a gentle smile and so began our night in history.

To my youngest son’s surprise, the first thing he saw was a food stand full of a biscuits. Sausage biscuits, bacon biscuits and the southern fried chicken biscuit. He hit the jack pot his first steps in. He gobbled up two chicken biscuits and we set off to find our seats.

We hit the jack pot again, or better yet “we hit a homerun” when we found our seats just 12 rows behind homeplate. The players were on field practicing and fans were seen across the stadium, food and drinks in hand, preparing for the evening ahead.

One thing I noticed from the beginning was all the different makes and models of people.

Elderly folks with canes and wheelchairs, babies, wiggly toddlers, teenage girls in tank tops, young boys with their own gloves, hoping to catch a fly ball. Parents and grandparents galore.

One thing that struck

Bradley Robertson me was everyone I saw was happy and no one was in a hurry. It was as if walking in that stadium, time actually began to stand still. The busy of life disappeared.

The time came for our National Anthem, presented with the color guard. My husband and I grinned and led our children in saluting our country, along with hundreds of other Americans. It was beautiful and overwhelming.

Proof that we are not always a country torn by politics and opinions, but that we can put all that aside and enjoy something together. I began to wonder, isn’t this why baseball is here today?

Didn’t a bunch of men begin to play the game to find joy and solace in a perhaps an unsteady world?

When baseball became popular, it was adored by fans of all ages for its excitement and yet relaxing atmosphere. This is where my family stood, the excitement of what’s ahead and rest from the rush of the world outside.

We ate all food imaginable, Dippin-Dots, barbecue, hotdogs, popcorn, nachos and CocaCola. My husband and I were lucky enough to be seated right next to the Alabama brewery cart. We were greeted by the most generous human with a big smile offering tastings from Alabama breweries. He offered us a raspberry beer by TrimTab in Birmingham. It was our own slugger of the night and we joyfully indulged.

There is nothing that compares to cold beer on tap in a baseball stadium on a hot summer night.

I loved every minute of what was around us.

The eagerness of the players and coaches.

My oldest son asking questions, so enthralled he didn’t get out of his seat the whole game.

I loved seeing my daughter climb into her

fathers lap to be close to him, gazing together at the action on the field. I loved how my little son was so attracted to the young bat boy. “Who’s that little kid? Is he my age?”

I was taken back when the crowd began to sing “Take me out to the ballgame,” gazing at my children and smiling with my husband, amazed at this great moment in time we had found.

Our evening was capped off with a Biscuits win and a fireworks celebration.

We sat back in our seats in the dark night and watched the sky light up with colors of red and blue and splashes of gold. This baseball, this American game, is magical, every piece of

it, from the people that attend to the players tossing the ball around on the field and the gentlemen serving beer in vintage aprons. It is a game every family from the young to the old can be a part of.

It was baseball legend Lou Gehrig who said, “today I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

My family and I agreed, being part of that baseball game made us feel like the luckiest family on the face of the earth.

Bradley Robertson is a local mother, wife and creative. She’s an Auburn University graduate, loves good food and getting outside with her family. Bradley enjoys feature writing, as well as southern culture and lifestyle writing.

Photo by Bradley Robertson/Opelika Observer

Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers

AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,

Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT

certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services.

We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch.

ICK RD.

FREDER

Tiger Town

Lowe’s

R.

D AY TEW GA

Kroger

Our New Location

Visit us here: www.auburnbank.com MEMBER FDIC

I-85

1851 Frederick Road Opelika

Equal Housing Lender

334-275-9600

Opelika fireworks light up the sky at ‘freedom celebration’

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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

See this week’s latest crossword and sudoku puzzles on B14.

Opelika High School swimmer Bradi Jones verbally commits to Arkansas

By Morgan Bryce Editor

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Youth baseball season in full swing, high school football around the corner

T

he month of July has numerous meanings for different people - Independence Day, high temperatures and humidity, all-star baseball and football season’s return around the corner.

Opelika Dixie Youth’s Pee Wee (7 to 8 year olds) AllStar team played in the State Tournament last weekend in Taylorville. At the time of writing this column, Opelika was 2-0. The ODY Minor All-Star team (9 to 10 year olds) will play in the state tournament on July 13 in Priceville. The all-stars beat Smiths Station 10-3, Auburn Orange 11-1, Auburn Blue 15-6 and Auburn Orange 11-6 in the championship.

Opelika lost one game to Auburn Orange 1-0 in game three. The game went 10 innings thanks to strong pitching by both teams.

Opelika’s Junior Dixie Boys (13U) head to Dothan for the State Tournament this weekend.

Opening Ceremonies begin July 12 at the West Gate Miracle Complex. Opelika

will open against Troy at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. The winner of the tournament advances to the World Series Aug. 2 to 7 in Aiken, South Carolina.

The AHSAA will hold All-Star week and summer conference July 14 to 20.

This is considered “dead week” for all Alabama High School Athletic Association member schools. The only activities allowed are team’s conditioning and weight lifting. The AHSAA will have all-star games made up of high school studentathletes throughout the week. The week closes with awards banquets Friday and Saturday at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center.

HIGH SCHOOL MEDIA DAYS The second annual iHeartRadio “High School Media Days” presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic will take place July 23-24 in the Southern Room on Southern Union’s See Sports, page B5

Rising Opelika High School senior swimmer Bradi Jones verbally committed last Monday to the University of Arkansas in a Facebook post.

In her post, Jones credited her faith and the solid cast of people in her life for helping “turn her dream into a reality.”

“I am so blessed to announce my verbal commitment to further my swimming

and academic career at the University of Arkansas. I can’t thank Jesus enough for blessing me with this sport and countless opportunities to do what I love … super excited to be a part of the Razorback family! WOO PIG SOOIE!!”

At Opelika, Jones has made a name for herself in and out of the pool, turning in one of the state’s best 100-meter breaststrokes in the See Jones, page B2

Jones

Opelika Sportsplex 8th annual ‘Tri for Kids’ scheduled for Aug. 3 Special to the Opelika Observer The eighth annual Opelika Sportsplex “Tri for Kids” is a kids triathlon benefitting the American Cancer Society and will be held on Aug. 3 at 7:30 a.m.

Participants will compete based on their age as of Dec. 31, 2018. Five-yearolds may participate in the Kids Tri or the Small Fry Tri. In order for a five-year-old to compete in the Kid’s Triathlon, they will need to do a paper registration, which ends July 20.

About The Sportsplex Tri For Kids: It began as a dream of Nicole Carter, Sarah Herren and Kimberly Myers.

The local American Cancer Society

originally held a Small Fry Tri in the summer of 2012 for children ages two to six to help raise money for cancer research. Building on the success of the first Small Fry Tri, Nicole, Sarah and Kimberly began planning an even bigger event for the following year.

In the summer 2013 the Sportsplex Kids Triathlon was held alongside the Small Fry Tri for children ages six to 15. That year, 200 kids participated in the Sportsplex Kids Tri and 100 kids participated in the Small Fry Tri. As a result of an outstanding turnout, the Sportsplex Tri for Kids was able to donate $10,000 to the American Cancer Society.

The 2013 Sportsplex Kids Triathlon was awarded the Innovative

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Program and Special Event of the Year award by the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association for this outstanding feat. This year, the Sportsplex Tri for Kids hopes to continue their efforts to benefit a great cause and to keep children active.

The 2014 Sportsplex Kids Triathlon grew even more with 225 racers ages six to 14, and the Small Fry Tri maxed out with 100 participants.

For more information, call 334-7055560. The Sportsplex is located at 1001 Andrews Road.

B2 July 10, 2019

pelika Observer O

Jackson Stoker constructing outdoor learning center at Beulah Elementary School for Eagle Scout project

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Troop #218 Member Jackson Stoker is nearing completion of his Eagle Scout project, the construction of an outdoor learning center at Beulah Elementary School. Pictured above are snippets from his group’s workday last Saturday.

Stoker said the project was made possible with support from the Auburn-Opelika Elk’s Lodge #1834, an $800 grant from Lee County Public Schools and volunteer assistance.

The City of Auburn to host ‘Back-to-School Bash’ at Samford pool on Aug. 3

Free admission for guests with donation of school supplies Special to the Opelika Observer The city of Auburn is sponsoring a Back-toSchool Bash at Samford Pool on Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The event will feature a full day of games, fund and music at the pool. Admission is $2 per person or free with school supply donations.

Individuals must donate one of the school supply items listed below in order to receive free admission.

These items will be donated to the United Way’s Stuff the Bus Campaign: - (one) book bag

Jones, from B1

334-528-6191

www.eamcfoundation.org

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

Photo special to the Opelika Observer - (one) bottle of glue (one) box of Kleenex (one) box of 24-count crayons or pencils (one) bottle of hand sanitizer (one) pack of highlighters (one) pair of socks (two) pocket folders

(two) spiral notebooks.

The pool is located behind East Samford School at 328 Samford Ave. For more information, call 334-501-2957 or visit www.auburnalabama.org/pools.

2017 AHSAA State Swimming and Diving Championships and was chosen to be part of the USA Scholastic All-American Team last fall based on her 3.8 overall GPA. Several major Division I programs offered Jones, but she said she knew Arkansas was the right choice shortly after stepping onto its campus.

“I knew (right away) that I could call Fayetteville home for the next four years.

I’m very thankful for my coaches, family, friends and mentors who have helped me through this process,” Jones said.

Led by Sean Schimmel, the Lady Razorbacks’ swimming program is a consistent force in SEC and NCAA meets.

Junior Anna Hopkins was chosen to be

one of 25 swimmers representing Great Britain at the 2019 FINA World Aquatic Championships in Gwangju, South Korea later this month.

During her time at Arkansas, Jones said she looks forward to competing against some of the world’s best swimmers and proving her worth.

“My goal for the collegiate level is just to plain and simple get better and be the best swimmer that God put me on this earth to be, while making fun and exciting memories doing it. I have always believed in setting the highest standards for myself and nothing less is okay and I will definitely do so when getting this opportunity to do so against some of the best athletes in the world,” Jones said.

pelika O Observer

B3 July 10, 2019

Vesper | ALABAMA 200 Exhibition | Honoring local history

A

fter the storm, the winds quieted and the light turned to sunset hues of melon and lavender. The fresh scent of twisted pine, snapped, torn and bent, permeated the air. Pink insulation spun round like cotton candy clinging to fence posts and barbed wire, and shredded leaves plastered homes like Times Square confetti remnants after a rainy new year’s eve. Homes built by generations past were wiped clean.

Towering trees dragged through rooftops. Soil turned over by nature’s unrelenting bulldozer.

Some of us emerged visually untouched.

Our clothes were still clean. We exited our homes through the front doors. Others climbed through the rubble of their closets and roof tops in search of loved ones.

I mourned the loss of the deep forest long before the storm. Each day I watched as trucks loaded with timber set out for the mill, leaving vast swaths of acreage barren. Lumpy hills of turned soil, with only

By Sarah West the greening sprigs of saplings, remained.

I watched seasons change as I mourned the loss of another forest, I meditated and painted unaware of the future calamity that would befall our region. With fury, mother nature took more than wooded acres. In the aftermath, losses were assessed, most of which can never be replaced. One life lost was one too many; then came the final count, 23. In prayer, we count our blessings, but blessings sometimes cause us to question.

In faith, we accept that a higher power must know the reason for each name written on crosses. Communities far and near, organiza-

tions and countless individuals came to the aid of those in need.

Recovery continues for so many; and in this regard, an event that scarred our lives and landscape is a living record stitching together present and past history. In this way, today marks tomorrow’s history.

The city of Smiths Station will be hosting two ALABAMA 200 endorsed occasions later this summer, events dedicated to “commemorating the stories of our people, places and path to statehood.”

Events include the opening of the Historic Jones Store Museum on July 13, hosted by the Smiths Station Historical Commission; and in collaboration with the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, the Smiths Station City Hall Exhibit Galleries present Vesper, a debut exhibition, featuring the narrative painting which serves as a somber reflection of Lee County, as well as the ongoing conservation and recovery work of the Alabama

Forestry Commission.

This debut exhibition respectively provides acknowledgement to the traditions and pastimes that define our shared heritage, while hosting initial preview to works that will be part of the Civility paintings, Alabama State Capitol Exhibition, as part of the ALABAMA 200 bicentennial finale, in Montgomery this December. *The exhibit and Historic Jones Store Museum opening events are free, familyfriendly and are open to the public.

As part of the county-wide continued storm recovery effort, a signed limited edition print of Vesper will be

part of the upcoming MEND auction Aug. 13 at the Jule Collins Smith Museum located in Auburn.

Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose. She is a preservation, and conservation advocate, activist, and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on Regional Narrative Painting. She is founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, Smiths Station, Alabama’s premier fine arts destination. She is the appointed Official Artist to the City of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndicated columnist, the director of

her art center’s Cultural Arts Outreach Initiative which partners with local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the City of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smith Station Historic Commission. She is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Board- Cary Center, Auburn University College of Human Science.

She is an elected member of the Society of Illustrators- NYC. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station, Alabama. To learn more about her work and activism visit, www. thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com.

YOUR DESTINATION for CONTINUED FINE ARTS EDUCATION STUDIO CLASSES | DRAWING, PAINTING & MORE for ALL AGES www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com

Recognizing your child’s gifts and talents

Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer

S

ummer is a time as a parent or family that we can truly observe and get to know our children better. We are not on the treadmill of school and activities schedules. It provides a more laid-back time for parents and grandparents to observe our children and grandchildren.

Spending time with your children is such a blessing that they will

always remember and keep in their hearts.

While teaching children this summer, I love sitting back and getting to know the uniqueness of each of my classroom children as we enjoy summer activities, crafts, stories and movies.

As a teacher, I am called not only to teach the "school smart" of teaching daily lessons so children do well on paper and pencil tasks,

but I am also called to teach the whole child in recognizing and helping a child use their talents and gifts. As parents and teachers, we must realize that children have natural gifts in one or more areas and it's our teacher and parental jobs to help our children discover and develop these talents and gifts.

What a challenge, but a rewarding experience each teacher and parent has in helping a little life develop to its fullest potential.

As parents, you can begin to recognize your children's natural talents and gifts at a young age. We never quit learning how to teach children how to learn. I deeply appreciate over the many years I have taught, the mentoring I still receive from seasoned educators and child special-

ists who understand the importance of teaching the whole child.

I would like to share ways to look at your child and encourage them in their growth and development.

1. Language - Children love to express themselves with words and storytelling. I encourage all my students to express themselves through creative writing stories or poems with pictures. With younger students, don't get hung up on the correct spelling or grammar because you want them to have the freedom to creatively express themselves. Correct spelling and grammar rules can be picked up later for young children. At a young age, the main focus is to encourage your young child to express themselves. Children love to express themselves

through puppets or role playing.

2. Math - Some children have the natural inclination toward reasoning, counting, quick math computation and quick logical reasoning of math problems and systems. Of course, a teacher realizes that "practice makes perfect" but some children are more prone to analyze things.

3. Music - I love to hear my little students hum as they do their work. Children who are attracted to and fascinated by sounds and musical instruments usually have a natural tendency to perform music in singing or playing instruments.

4. Physical - At recess as a teacher, I love to see my students and children run and play freely. As I've said in previous columns, play is a child's work. Some

1 OUT OF 10 ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING: Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

HELP STOP THE ABUSE

IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

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

CALL THIS NEWSPAPER’S AD DEPARTMENT TO PLACE YOUR AD

334-749-8003 Or call 1-800-264-7043

children seem to be prone to participate and truly enjoy organized sports.

5. Artistic - There are children in my classroom that are attuned to visual detail in everything they see and are able to draw what they see on paper.

Many times these "little artists" are very good at illustrating stories they read. These children are attracted to quick activities including painting, drawing on paper mural or making Kleenex sculptures. As a parent and teacher, be sure to highly praise these children who have put so much effort in their masterpieces.

When you are positive and praise your children it encourages them to shoot for the stars! What a privilege we have in sharing with our children the joy of learning.

pelika Observer O Even in an era of disposables, some books deserve to be kept B4

July 10, 2019

By Greg Markley For the Opelika Observer Thomas Jefferson said, “I cannot live without books.” But most students today trade in their books for cash as soon as the semester ends. Students at public schools like Auburn University and Southern Union often need the money they can get from selling back textbooks to campus bookstores or students. Still, keeping one or two books every so often is a good idea. This article will present several reasons why.

Digital reading devices such as Kindle present a technology-

driven bonanza. Saving a book opens up plenty of space on your home bookcase, yet you have easy access to books you love. You can have those e-books and can retrieve them later to read at will. Sony’s Reader promises “A Library of Books at Your Fingertips.” The issue is not meanskeeping books the old-fashioned method or the high-tech way— but rather that some are indeed kept.

Many people these days wonder why others keep so many books. In fact, many say, “Oh, I just throw it out.” Many people treat books like bonbons: Delicious but ephemeral. That is

further evidence of our throwaway culture: Amid a situation in 2018 when just threefourths of Americans read just one book a year (Pew Research notes that does not include digital versions.)

A person need not be a hoarder to find good reason to keep cherished books at home.

What if it is transformational? Wouldn’t it be special to keep Dian Fosse’s “Gorillas in the Mist,” if it led you to become a pro-animals activist, Woodward and Bernstein’s “The President’s Men” if it turned you on to journalism, or “Beloved” by Toni Morrison if it fascinates you by its aspects of family

relationships and the human toll of slavery?

It doesn’t have to be authored by William Shakespeare or even J.K. Rowling to be worth saving.

Do stark but effective phrases from Ernest Hemingway make his books a keeper? Do you want the descriptive chapters in Stephen King or John LeCarre novels nearby to scare you or inspire you? Having easy access to key passages is not a waste of shelf space. A famous cartoon shows a couple touring a house that is for sale, and the woman, in front of a floor–to-ceiling bookcase, says “What kind of people lived here?”

The answer: people who realized keeping books is not a waste of space, or a pretentious display. It was with pride that certain books, not all, were worth keeping for them. People who love books enough to keep most after reading may take this idea too far.

If guests cannot navigate their way across your living room floor because boxes of books impede, there is a problem. Maybe you should take books, even those by Jack Kerouac and go “On the Road.”

Few doubt that a child with access to books at home gets added stimulation that makes their grades and

horizons rise. Reading can build selfconfidence and fosters creativity and inspiration. A 2010 study by professors at the University of NevadaReno, for example, found books in the home helped children succeed whether the parents were college graduates or barely literate. For adults, turning to a dog- eared copy of a book is akin to hugging an old friend.

Greg Markley is a longtime Lee County journalist and a former member of the Executive Board of the county’s Literacy Coalition. He has been an avid reader since since he was eight years old.

for a sports bar in the Tiger Square shopping center, 2701 Frederick Road.

12. A public hearing on a request by Foresite Group, Inc., authorized representative for Exit 64 LLC, property owner, for conditional use approval for a gas station and convenience store at the northeast corner of West Point Parkway & Anderson Road.

13. (a) A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on the request by Southside Church of Christ, property owner, to rezone a 28,300 square foot lot at 1600 Toomer Street from a R-3 zoning district to a I-1 (Institutional) zoning district. (b) The following agenda item is included for review at the July 23rd Planning Commission meeting concerning an amendment to the Future Land Use Map at 1600 Toomer Street, 28,300 square foot lot, from medium density residential to Institutional.

14. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a rezoning request by Jason A. Forbus, authorized representative for Broad Metro, LLC, property owner, Will Kadish, manager, to rezone 32.45 acres accessed at 2899 Gateway Drive from a C-2, GC-P zone to a PUD zoning district.

All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings.

The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordina-

tor, at 334-705-5132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run Juy 10, 2019

LEGALS NOTICE OF ABANDONED VEHICLE SALE SALE DATE/TIME: August 2nd at 9 AM PLACE: Autosport Bodyworks, 3601 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika, AL - Notice is hereby given to Owner, Secured Party or Lienholder on the following vehicle: 2004 Dodge Neon VIN# 1B3ES26CX4D584761 - Notice is hereby given to Owner, Secured Party or Lienholder on the following vehicle: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee VIN# 1C4RJFCG6EC247027 - Notice is hereby given to Owner, Secured Party or Lienholder on the following vehicle: 2014 GMC Acadia VIN# 1GKKRTKDXEJ188886 Legal Run 07/03/19 & 07/10/19

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP C. KELLEY, JR., deceased ESTATE NO. 2019-B-047 NOTICE OF HEARING

BY PUBLICATION TO: Any unknown heirs of Phillip C. Kelley, Jr., deceased Angela Kelley, address unknown (adult daughter of Phillip C. Kelley, Jr, deceased) Phyllis Kelley, address unknown (adult daughter of Phillip C. Kelley, Jr. deceased) Please take notice that a Petition to Probate the Will of Phillip C. Kelley, Jr., in the above styled matter has been filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Petitioner Sherry Tharpe D. Tharpe Oliver and that on the 27th day of August, 2019, at 1:00 P.M. (Central time) has been set for a hearing on the same in said Court located at 215 South 9TH Street, Opelika, Alabama. Please be advised that if you intend to contest this Petition to Probate the Will of Phillip C. Kelley, Jr., that you must file a written response within thirty (30) days hereof with the clerk of said Probate Court and with counsel for said Petitioner, and/or you must appear the hearing scheduled in this manner Done this the 17th day of June 2019.

Hon. Bill English Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama

Legal Run 6/19, 6/26, 7/3, 7/10

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF SHEILA R. MEREDITH, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY - CASE NO. 2019-A-228 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Tammy M. Blackerby on the 14th day of June, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Tammy M. Blackerby Tammy M. Blackerby Legal Run 06/26/19, 07/03/19 & 07/10/19

THE STATE OF ALABAMA, COUNTY OF LEE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA THE ESTATE OF MARGARET B. WRIGHT, Deceased NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Crawford Melton, Administrator of the Estate of MARGARET WRIGHT, deceased, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers, and statements for a FINAL SETTLEMENT of the Administration of the Estate of MARGARET WRIGHT, A hearing has been set for the 24th day of July 2019, at 10 o’clock a.m. in the courtroom of the Lee County Courthouse located at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801.

Done the 18th day of July, 2019.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 06/26/19, 07/03/19 & 07/10/19

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KAREN LANE ADCOX, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned

on the 27th day of June, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

SHANNON J. HILL Administrator Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 07/03/19, 07/10/19 & 07/17/19

CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers in the Public Works Administrative Building located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session begins at 2:20 PM. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: 1. A public hearing on a request by Auburn Timberlands, Inc. and Hennon King Jr., property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Ivy Oaks subdivision consisting of 2 lots accessed at the 6000 block Highway 29 North.

2. A public hearing on a request by James D. Miller, authorized representative of Loren C. and Elouise C. Sutton, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Sutton on Renfro First Addition subdivision consisting of 3 lots at 1011 Renfro Avenue.

3. A public hearing on a request by Brian Lee, authorized representative of Plainsman Towing, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Whippoorwill Lakes, First Revision subdivision consisting of 6 lots at 6202 Hwy 431 North (Lafayette Parkway).

4. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, authorized representative

of Charles Knause and Melanie Wilson, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Hudson Subdivision Knause Redivision, Redivision of Lot 59 subdivision consisting of 2 lots at 17 and 11 Freeman Avenue.

5. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, authorized representative of Auburn 57, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Interstate Park, Redivision of Lot 1 subdivision consisting of 2 lots accessed at the 2500 block Interstate Drive.

6. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, authorized representative of Daniel & Angela Draper, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Diana, Foxchase Phase 3 subdivision consisting of 2 lots at 604 Ski Spray Point.

7. A public hearing on a request by Race Cannon, authorized representative of Race Cannon Development, Inc., property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Cannon Gate, Redivision of Parcel B subdivision consisting of 25 lots accessed from Cannon Gate Drive.

8. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative of Weyerhaeuser Company & Weyerhaeuser NR Company, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Weyerhaeuser Phelps Creek, First Revision subdivision consisting of 4 lots accessed from Lee Road 151 & Lee Road 148.

9. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative of Aileen Samford Walpole, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Block 54 Grant Lands Survey, First Revision subdivision consisting of 3 lots accessed from 801 & 811 4 th Avenue & 310 North 8 th Street Lee Road.

10. A request by Edgar Hughston, authorized representative for Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc., property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Creekstone SD, Phase 4 subdivision consisting of 57 lots accessed from Creekstone Drive.

11. A public hearing on a request by Nancy Fort, authorized representative for Madison Real Property, property owner, for conditional use approval

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr.,Deceased Case Number:2019-B-052 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Sara G. Buechner as Administrator of the Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr. deceased, on the 2nd day of July, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

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

Csara G. Buechner Personal Representative of the Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr. Legal Run 7/10/19, 7/17/19 & 7/24/19

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF TOMMY LEE NOLIN, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Charlotte Croom Nolin on the 17th day of June, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Charlotte Croom Nolin Legal Run 07/10/19, 07/17/19 & 07/2419

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pelika O Observer

Arthur Atsma to present an educational magic show at Opelika’s Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library today

The Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library will host a captivating and educational magic show with Arthur Atsma that is out of this world on July 10 from 2 - 3 p.m. The event will begin promptly at 2 p.m. Please arrive early for best seating and easiest parking.

The library is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, and activities for individuals with disabilities.

To request disability accommodation contact the library at least 72 hours in advance at:

Sports,

By Michelle Key Publisher Cornerstone Family Chiropractic in Auburn will host the 9th Annual ‘Back 2 School Bash’ Aug. 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is a change from previous years when the event was held in the evening.

The annual event is a fundraising event for The BigHouse Foundation which offers support to foster and adoptive parents in Lee County

and other parts of the state.

Last year’s event raised more than $10,500 for BigHouse.

About Cornerstone CFC provides specific care and attention to children and adults through stateof-the-art technology, premier office amenities and attentive and involved staff members. Dr. Rusty Herring and everyone at Cornerstone truly have a heart to serve others by helping people get back to

from B1 Opelika campus.

The two-day media blitz will feature 18 area high school football teams from East Alabama and will air live on FOX SPORTS the Game 910-1310 AM as well as www.foxsportsthegame.com .

The school’s head coach and two players will be on hand to discuss the coming 2019 season and answer questions from the media. High schools from the AHSAA and AISA will be on hand, including Opelika, Beauregard, Beulah, Smiths Station and Lee-Scott Academy.

334-705-5385, 334705-5381 (FAX), or email library@opelikaal.gov.

About Arthur Atsma Weaving cutting edge, fast paced, astonishing sleight of hand magic tricks, and mentalism, comedy magician Arthur Atsma has been providing the feature entertainment for corporate events, festivals, trade shows, holiday parties, hospitality suites, and private events across the nation for the last twenty years.

Atsma’s use of humor throughout every show is clean, quick, sophisticated, engaging, and non-offensive.

OHS SOFTBALL Opelika High School softball Coach Randy Belyue, appearing “On the Mark” radio show, talked about the program’s future. He mentioned upgrades to the West Ridge Softball Park, home of the Lady Bulldogs.

One of the two softball fields will have new infield dirt and a new grass outfield.

Both fields will have new scoreboards prior to the 2020 season. Belyue believes the youth must get involved in softball and plans to support summer programs. He inherits a program with a good foundation left

by Tina Deese.

The team has many players ranging from 7th-12th grad-

July 10, 2019

9th Annual ‘Back 2 School Bash’ slated for Aug. 17 at Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

Atsma Special to the Opelika Observer

B5

ers. Opelika Middle School Coach Angela Mills continues to provide a good feeder program. Belyue is committed and wants to continue to build the program and who knows … win a state title.

BEAUREGARD NEWS Beauregard High School has two key positions to fill prior to of the school year in August.

Longtime Beauregard Principal Richard “Dickie” Brown announced his retirement the last day of school in May. His last official day is July 31.

Head baseball coach and assistant football coach Evan Braughn left for another job. Lee County Superinten-

dent Dr. Mac McCoy is expected to nominate his choice as principal during last night’s Board of Education meeting.

It appears that Beauregard will hire Randy Nolan as head baseball coach.

Braughn resigned after guiding the Hornet baseball team to multiple state playoff appearances to take an assistant coaching job with Saraland.

Beauregard Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Rob Carter is waiting on board approval during last night’s board of education meeting.

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

the things they enjoy most in life. our mission They strive to provide chiropractic care that is affordable for the whole family.

At Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, they are there to help individuals and their families achieve better health and to equip the community with better health strategies.

About the BigHouse Foundation The BigHouse Foundation was founded in 2009 as the dream of two college students

to impact the world of foster care in a positive way. After being personally exposed to the needs these children and families have, they knew they could no longer sit back and do nothing. BigHouse now focuses on serving families in two ways, by providing resources and building relationships.

Cornerstone Family Chiropractic is located at 323 Airport Road in Auburn.

For more information, call 334-2462252.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Inside the Statehouse Opelika City Council approves lease 2020 races around the corner of old depot with Envision Opelika

F

olks, don’t look now, but the 2020 presidential election is upon us. Indeed, as many as 21 Democratic aspirants are already announced and campaigning.

They are quite a liberal group as you might expect.

Leading the pack of Democrats trying to take Donald Trump out of the White House is an avowed, true socialist, Bernie Sanders. Behind Sanders are a host of ultra-liberal U.S. Senators who are socialists wannabes.

They hail from either the left coasts of California or New England. Included in the pack of CNN/ MSNBC/Stephen Colbert watchers are Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

She makes Teddy Kennedy look like a conservative. You also have Kamala Harris of California, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and losing Texas Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke in the race.

Our own anomaly Democratic Sen. Doug Jones really should run for president next year. He would have a much better chance of winning the Democratic nomination for President than winning a seat in the U.S. Senate from the Heart of Dixie.

He has been a liberal Democrat in Alabama his entire adult political life.

He has been the soul of the liberal

By Steve Flowers Alabama Democratic Party for decades.

He has campaigned and voted for George McGovern, Walter Mondale, Teddy Kennedy, Jesse Jackson, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton.

Since he has been in Washington for the past year, he has organized with and voted with Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi. Therefore, he is just as liberal with a much lengthier liberal pedigree than all of the aforementioned liberal Democratic Senators in the race; plus he has a proven Civil Rights record.

The scenario that occurred in last year’s special election to fill Jeff Sessions’s seat was a perfect storm that will never occur again. First of all, it was the only show in the country and the first opportunity for liberals all over the country to show their distaste for Donald Trump and the Republican Party. Having Judge Roy Moore as an additional lightning rod just added fuel to the fire. It attracted more than $20 million of liberal, left-

wing money to Doug Jones. He was able to out spend Moore 21 to 3. That is almost impossible to overcome, plus, with it being a Special Election it became a referendum on Doug Jones versus Roy Moore and the Republican v. Democratic delineation became obscured.

During this race, Doug Jones built a national liberal fund-raising base from left-wing America, much like Beto O’Rourke did in Texas. They both have become national stars as Democrats in Red States.

Although O’Rourke probably has an edge on Jones in looks and youth. However, recently, Jones appeared on the left leaning Democratic Stephen Colbert Show. Jones may very well be eyeing national politics.

Doug Jones, as a lifelong stalwart Democrat, has worked diligently for the State and National Democratic party for most of his adult life. In recent months, he has tried to wrestle some control away from longtime Democratic dictator Joe Reed. It is practically impossible to understand what is going on in the State Democratic Party. Eventually, there may be a new vote on the party chairmanship. The National Democratic Party has mandated a new election due to See Flowers, page B8

By Michelle Key Pubisher The Opelika City Council approved a three-year lease agreement with Envision Opelika Foundation, Incorporated for the Railroad Depot with an annual lease payment of $1 per year.

Envision Opelika plans to use the property as classrooms, playground and administration offices for two PreKindergarten classes beginning in August.

The name of the program is Opelika First Class Pre-K

Academy and is accepting registration applications for the 2019-20 school year.

Enrollment is open to children that will be four on or before Sept. 1, 2019 and are Opelika residents.

Interested parties can contact the Program Director Cindy Conway at 334-3190056 or email cindywilmarthconway@ gmail.com.

In other business, the council: • approved a request

by Opelika Main Street for a temporary street closure on Sept. 7 for the Opelika Bicycle Advisory

Committee’s Johnny Ray Century Ride.

The road is expected to be closed from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m.

• approved the low bid from Gresco Utility Supply to provide LED streetlights for the Information Technology Department • approved expense reports from various departments.

• approved a resolution to designate city personal property surplus and authorize disposal • approved the purchase of (624) Toter 96-gallon EVR II uniSee Council, page B8

Lee County Commission enters into agreement for review, recommendation of county’s classification and pay plan

By Michelle Key Publisher The Lee County Commission met Monday night for their regularly scheduled meeting. During the meeting, the commission approved a request from County Administrator Roger Rendleman to enter into an agreement with Evergreen Solutions, LLC out of Tallahassee, Florida to review and recommend changes to the county’s Job Classification and Pay Plan. The pay plan currently in use was last reviewed and updated in 2007.

According to Rendleman, the county has consistently increased the pay scale inline with the Southern Urban Cost of Living Index during the last 12 years but the job classifications and descriptions need to be brought up-to-date. The proposal from Evergreen includes requests for the following professional services: - provide a comprehensive review of the current Classification and Pay Plan, as well as to recommend changes to the current pay structure that will account for internal and external equity in pay with considerations for the value of benefits currently provided to employees - provide a review and update job descriptions for every position in the County Commission’s classified system

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer - provide recommendations for position reassignment within the updated classification plan, which may include additions and/or deletions of classes - provide recommendation for a maintenance program to address the creation of new job descriptions updating current job descriptions and making classification assignment recommendations. Evergreen’s proposal was for $48,000.

In other business, the commission: • approved the minutes of commission meeting held on June 24, 2019 • approved a motion to ratify and approve claims and procurement card transactions from June • made an announcement of three openings on the Lee County Department of Human Resources Board - The commission received citizen interest forms from Vicki Hudson, Gina Ivey and Bill White for these positions • approved George Dyar, Lee Roy Kelley

and Barbara Patton to positions on the Lee County Communications District (E911) Board • approved a request from Rendleman to reject the single bid received for the Salem Hill Communications Tower Replacement and to negotiate fees for the work - Section 39-2-6 of the Code of Alabama, 1975 allows the county to reject a bid and to enter into negotiations for the work when only one responsible and responsive bid (or no bids) have been received.

Any negotiations for the work must be for a price lower than the single bid received, however • approved a request from the City of Opelika to waive the fee for use of the Bennie Adkins Meeting Center on July 27 from 10 a.m. to noon for a Crime and Violence public forum.

The next Lee County Commission meeting will be held on July 22 at 5 p.m. at the courthouse, which is located at 215 S. 9th St. in Opelika.

pelika O Observer

B8 July 10, 2019

Letter to the Editor: New energy present economic opportunities Editor: The following quote is from a news release issued June 26 in Osaka, Japan by The Investor Agenda in conjunction with the beginning of the G-20 meeting of lead-

ing governments and central banks.

“Investors from around the globe are urging world government leaders to step up ambition on climate change and enact strong policies by 2020 to achieve

the goals of the Paris Agreement [on climate change], including phasing out thermal coal power and [phasing in] pricing carbon. 477 investors with $34 trillion (USD) in assets, a record number of signa-

tories, are behind the urgent call-to-action to limit average global temperature rise to no more than 1.5-degrees Celsius [2.7-degrees Fahrenheit].”

We must hope policy makers in Washington, DC and

Montgomery, Alabama are listening and will act accordingly.

The good news is that switching from fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) to renewable energy (solar, wind, geothermal, etc.) presents huge

economic opportunities. Time is short; we must get on with the job without more delay. Contact the policy makers who represent you, and urge them to act.

David Newton Auburn, Alabama

Secretary Merrill states support for President Trump’s request for U.S. citizenship question on U.S. Census Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Sec. of State John H. Merrill has submitted a letter outlining his support for the Executive Order or other legal remedies requested by President Trump to require the inclusion of a U.S. citizenship question on the 2020

Council,

from B7

versal/nestable carts for Opelika Environmental Services • approved a resolution to renew the three-year contract for the mailing system with Pitney Bowes • approved the purchase of mosquito control insecticide

United States Census form.

Secretary Merrill’s letter submitted to the administration on July 4, expressed his support of President Trump’s inclusion of a citizenship question on the 2020 U.S. Census. The question of citizenship ensures the U.S. Census Bureau gathers accurate infor-

mation for use in determining the number of congressional seats and Electoral College votes delegated to the State of Alabama in the upcoming redistricting.

“It is devastating news. Alabama could lose a seat in Congress if non-U.S. citizens are calculated in the 2020 Census and in other parts of the nation,”

said Merrill. “Alabama has a great deal at stake with the data produced by the 2020 Census if non-U.S. citizens are counted.”

“We don’t need to be giving benefits to people who are noncitizens over people who are citizens, period. There are two districts in Los Angeles County, California

that currently have less than 40% United States citizenship in population. That means there are two congressional districts in California that shouldn’t even exist.

When you start counting citizens, then you will have citizens represented in Congress. When you start counting everybody,

even those people that may not be citizens, you’re giving advantage to people that allow illegals to come into their community.

That is not a positive thing for anybody,” Merrill added.

Secretary Merrill supports the President in any other related actions he directs the U.S. Attorney General.

• approved a change order request for additional emergency repairs of the engine in truck #764 used by Opelika Power Services • held public hearings and subsequently approved weed abatement assessments for the following properties: - 105 Vaughan Ave - 108 Plum Ave - 207 Raintree St. - 512 ML King Blvd

- 610 ML King Blvd - 709 India Rd. - 1112 West St. - 3307 Arnold Ave. • approved a refund of occupational license feesby River Bank & Trust • approved a request

by T-Mobile for a special use permit at 2605 Tower St. • approved an agreement with the City of Auburn for professional services by the Opelika Fire

Department for major sporting events and/or other special events • approved a special appropriation in the amount of $1,500 to Opelika Parks and Recreation to support Dixie Boys Baseball Team.

• approved a request to send a rezoning application regarding 32.45 acres at Gateway Dr. back to the Planning Commission for further study.

• approved an ordinance to amend the zoning Ordinance & Map to rezone two acres located at 2400 Block Dunlop Drive • approved an ordinance for the convey-

ance of the West Side of Dunlop Drive to John A. Stewart in the amount of $190,000 • approved an ordinance to amend city code, Chapter 5.5 Article III named “Wireless Telecommunications Facilities Siting” • voted to suspend the rules requiring two readings and voted to approve an additional holiday for city employees on July 5.

Citizens are welcome at both the council work sessions meetings and the council meetings.

They are invited to voice their opinions

or concerns at each council meeting. The only rules are that one must give their name and address and are limited to five minutes or fewer.

The next council meeting will be held on July 16. Work session starts times vary from 6 to 6:45 p.m. and the council meetings start promptly at 7 p.m.

Meetings are held in the council chamber at city hall located at 204 S. 7th St. in downtown Opelika.

Copies of the agendas can be found on the city’s website www.opelika-al. gov/406/City-Council.

in control of the Alabama Democratic Party. You can bet your bottom dollar that he calls all the shots. My guess is that he has his horse picked out of the 21 Democratic presidential candidates.

He asked California Sen. Kamala Har-

ris to be the keynote speaker at his Alabama Democratic Conference June annual event. Therefore, Senator Harris might be a good horse to bet on to win next year’s March third Alabama Democratic Presidential Primary.

The Democratic Party in Alabama continues to be a big mess. The bottom line is that on the state level the Party is essentially irrelevant. The odds of a Democratic candidate for President carrying Alabama or a Democratic nominee winning any statewide race in the Heart of Dixie is slim to none.

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.

Flowers,

from B7

the clandestine way that Nancy Worley was elected. The state hierarchy has ignored the National Party.

There is no doubt that Joe Reed is still

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pelika O Observer Former Auburn University Coach Tommy Tuberville sits down with the Observer B9

July 10, 2019

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Longtime college football coach and current candidate for Alabama’s U.S. Senate seat Tommy Tuberville visited with Opelika Observer staff on Monday to discuss his ideas and platforms to tackle statewide issues.

The seat, presently held

by Democrat Doug Jones, became vacant after Jeff Sessions accepted an Attorney General position in President Donald Trump’s administration. In a specially called election in December 2017, Jones narrowly defeated longtime Alabama Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore to fill the open position.

Presently, Tuberville’s focus is on the March 3 primary election, where voters will have to cast votes for him or three other candidates: Bradley Byrne, Moore and current Secretary of State John Merrill.

Following is a background on Tuberville and an overview of his platform and goals in office if elected.

Background A Camden, Arkansas native, Tuberville is one of three children. His father, Charles, was a highly decorated WWII veteran and Purple Heart

recipient.

In high school, Tuberville showcased his football talents at Harmony Grove High School. He went on to attend Southern Arkansas University where he played safety for the Muleriders as well as play for two years on the school’s golf team.

Following college, Tuberville accepted a coaching position with Hermitage High School, spending two years as an assistant and two years as head coach. His success helped him land an assistant coaching position at Arkansas State University from 1980 to 1984.

Tuberville’s career took off at the University of Miami, where he served as a graduate assistant and later as defensive coordinator, coaching some of the greatest athletes in college football history like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Ray Lewis and Warren Sapp. After a season in Texas A&M, he left to become the head coach of Ole Miss’s program.

After three successful seasons and being named the AP’s SEC Coach of the Year in 1997, Tuberville accepted the coaching position at Auburn University, arguably his most notable stint in his coaching career. During

Tuberville his 10 seasons as the head of the Tigers, he compiled an 85-40 overall record, including coaching the 2004 team to a 13-0 record and a 16-13 Sugar Bowl victory over Virginia Tech.

Texas Tech and Cincinnati were Tuberville’s next coaching stops before he departed the college football world. Overall, he finished with 159-99 record in his career and 7-6 mark in bowl games.

Tuberville and his wife Suzanne have been married since 1991, have two children named Tucker and Troy and are active members of the Church of Christ.

Platforms Self-identifying as a “Christian conservative” and staunch Trump supporter, Tuberville said his message has been well received by prospective

Lee County students participate Alabama Governor’s Youth Leadership Forum

Special to the Opelika Observer Lee County residents Jacob Furmanek and Renaudica Moore recently participated in the 21st annual Alabama Governor’s Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) on the campus of Troy University.

The five-day event – sponsored by the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services – seeks to equip high school students with disabilities with valuable leadership skills through sessions on self-esteem, career explo-ration, technology, independent living

and etiquette.

As part of the camp, the participants travel to Montgomery to meet state leaders.

That trip also includes a tour of the Capitol and a mentor luncheon, where delegates interact with and receive advice from successful adults with disabilities.

YLF delegates are chosen through a statewide search for students displaying leadership potential. Those selected represent the state’s demographics in terms of geography, gender, ethnicity and type of disability. To be eligible, an individual must be a high

school junior or senior with a disability who is between 17 and 21 years old.

Other sponsors of this year’s YLF included the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Troy University.

The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is the state agency whose mission is to enable Alabama’s children and adults with disabilities to achieve their maximum potential.

voters during the early portion of his campaign.

“Everybody is wanting to know why I’m doing this. They say, ‘you don’t need the money’ or ‘you don’t need the hassle’ or ‘it’s a thankless job’ ... but I’m doing it for the people, not myself,” Tuberville said.

Improving Alabama’s education and overall infrastructure as well as defending the state’s freedoms and liberties are Tuberville’s top priorities.

A “strong opponent” of Common Core, Tuberville said he blames Democrats and liberals for declines in education quality and wants to work for a common-sense way to help it improve.

“One of the main if not the most important issue brought up to me by people on the campaign trail is education. It’s something I’ve done for 40 years and I’m very concerned by what I’m seeing,” Tuberville said. “The secret to freedom is education.

If people receive a true education, they learn civics and learn what this country is about - how and why we started and how we got to this point.”

Both Alabama’s and the nation’s decaying transportation systems are of concern to Tuberville, and something he hopes to ad-

dress by helping allocate funding from social into infrastructure programs.

“We’ve kicked the can down the road for far too long. I read the other day that nearly 50,000 bridges are on the brink of (being unusable) ... and Alabama’s roads and bridges are terrible,” Tuberville said. “Nearly 75% of our tax money is spent on social programs and we don’t put it back into the system. It’s like a business, if you don’t put money back into it, it’ll fall apart on you.”

Another issue near and dear to Tuberville’s heart is the overall quality of life for Alabama’s veterans. If elected, he wants to trim the red-tape bureaucracy surrounding the state’s VA system for access to affordable healthcare “for our heroes.”

Following are Tuberville’s other main issues and platforms: - advocating for Trump’s proposed measures for border security and immigration policies - expanding trade school opportunities for Alabama students - improving rural Alabamian’s access to broadband internet services - lowering taxes and trimming the national deficit - maintaining statewide

gun rights protecting Alabama’s ban on abortions - repealing and replacing Obamacare and return to a free-market system to incentivize competition, lower health care costs and obtaining a higher level of care.

Outlook Despite it being his first run for political office, Tuberville’s message is resonating with a large core of Republican voters, with recent CYGNA polls showing him leading the GOP field at 29% percent.

With his conservative platform and statewide name recognition from being a successful college football coach at Auburn, Tuberville said he expects a challenging road ahead but is optimistic that he will be able to recapture the seat for the Republican Party.

“It’ll be hard both in the primary and general election, whoever has to face off against (Doug) Jones.

But, at the end of the day, the people of Alabama are going to elect somebody that has capitalistic views, believes in this country, are patriotic and believe in Trump,” Tuberville said.

For more information or updates about his campaign, follow his Facebook page or visit www. tommyforsenate.com.

Trump administration’s industry-recognized apprenticeships will keep America working Special to the Opelika Observer Our surging economy has brought with it abundant job opportunities. Tax cuts and deregulation have boosted job creation.

Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2017, 5.4 million jobs have been created and more people are working in America than ever before.

The unemployment rate has dropped to 3.6%, the lowest rate since 1969, and last year we saw the highest share of people entering our labor force from the sidelines since we started tracking in the early 1990s. Through the White House’s pledge to America’s workers, job creators around the nation have committed to nearly 10 million training, upskilling or reskilling opportunities for American students and workers.

Our thriving job market brings with it new challenges,

however. Our economy has 7.4 million open jobs, and for 14 months in a row it has had more job openings than job seekers.

As businesses look to fill these jobs, we have an obligation to look for new paths to empower America’s workforce with the in-demand skills that employers need.

The apprenticeship model of skills education works well in America and throughout Europe.

Apprenticeships are an earn-and-learn opportunity where individuals receive salaries and acquire the skills relevant to their chosen career, without the burdens of student loans and tuition-related debt.

Since January 2017, more than 500,000 people have entered apprenticeship programs registered with the Department of Labor or its state counterparts. The average starting salary for individuals who have completed appren-

ticeships is more than $70,000. Apprenticeships offer a pathway to a family-sustaining wages and fulfilling careers.

Historically, only a few industries have embraced the registered apprenticeship model in the United States. The building trades and the military, as it prepares members of the service to enter civilian life, accounted for approximately 77% of federally-registered apprenticeships last year. In Europe, the picture is quite different. There, apprenticeship programs are embraced broadly by a wide range of industries.

Our nation needs a pathway to empower more industries and professions to embrace apprenticeship opportunities. That is why today the Trump administration is proposing a second apprenticeship model: the Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship.

See Trump, page B12

B10 July 10, 2019

pelika O Observer

Opelika High School hosts 67th annual ‘Freedom Celebration’ last Wednesday

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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B12 July 10, 2019

Freedom takes teamwork: four things our founders knew that communities need to heed in 2019

By Quint Studer Special to the Opelika Observer I spend my days traveling from one American community to another. Some of them are bustling larger cities. Others are quiet small towns. What they all have in common is the burning desire to revitalize themselves: to become more vibrant, prosperous, livable and loveable than they are right now.

And as I work with these diverse groups of Americans, I see a theme that we might all heed as Independence Day approaches: Those communities that work together, win together.

In communities where people come together, put their self-interest on the back burner and work as a team, things get done. In communities that don't, nothing gets done. It's really that simple.

While America is often proclaimed the land of rugged individualism, this is more myth than historical truth. After all, our ancestors settled down in small communities where they worked

together, shared what they had, and leaned on each other when times were tough (which, let's face it, was basically every day in a land of bear attacks, droughts, hurricanes, forest fires, and life-threatening epidemics).

And on the larger stage, our nation's founders had to work together in a similar fashion when they decided to bring America into being.

They were working toward independence as a new nation, but they had to rely on interdependence to get there. And as leaders of communities of all shapes and sizes and demographics and political persuasions, we can all learn a lot from them.

Here are four big lessons we should all heed as we seek to move our communities toward vibrancy: HISTORY LESSON #1: Our founders set aside their self-interests and created something that worked for everyone. Lots of different professions, industries, and interests were present at the birth of America. Cabinet

makers weren't fixated only on the wood industry, nor silver smiths on the silver trade. Everyone was fired up to contribute to something bigger than themselves. They bought into the overarching mission, and weren't bogged down by endless debate over the short-term costs of their plan of action.

TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY: Don't be overly concerned with your own wellbeing.

Setting aside your own short-term best interests may accomplish far more for everyone in the long run. Because a rising tide lifts all boats, this includes you.

HISTORY LESSON #2: They didn't let ideological differences stop them from achieving something tangible. Despite bitter disputes and differences of opinion, a group of people with little in common other than their shared determination that change was needed were able to get mobilized and get something done.

While there was much to be decided about the way things would function in the new nation, they all recognized that

there wouldn't even be a new nation if they didn't set aside their disagreements and move the ball down the court.

TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY: Know what matters. Don't get bogged down by petty disputes about how things should get done and let it sabotage the greater task at hand.

HISTORY LESSON #3: They weren't constantly trying to steal the spotlight from each other.

Instead, they agreed to let someone else be "the one in charge."

No one complained that John Hancock's signature was bigger than theirs, or that so-and-so got to sign the Declaration before they did. (Okay, it's possible, but we can see by the document that resides in the National Archives that it got done anyway!)

The founders kept their focus on the ambitious mission/vision of standing up to one of the most powerful authorities in the world: the King of England.

TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY: Don't always try to make it about yourself, or worry that your teammates are

getting the spotlight.

Keep the greater goal in mind and stay focused on that.

HISTORY LESSON #4: The founders didn't wait on the government to "fix it." Instead, they joined together and took bold action at the local level.

The changes desired

by American colonists weren't coming from Great Britain. And so, in the summer of 1776 delegates from each of the Thirteen Colonies took it upon themselves to challenge British authorities and make change happen—their way.

TAKEAWAY FOR TODAY: Remember that citizen-powered change is the most powerful change. If it's to be, it's up to you and me, not government agencies. (Local governments tend not to have the budget to drive fundamental change, and due to election cycles, officials come and go. Many won't be around to see long term projects through.)

Yes, early communities needed each other and that drove a lot of their interactions. We went through a period of time where we started to believe we

didn't need each other and that clearly isn't true. We now realize that working together is the only way we can make our cities and towns thrive.

No one is saying America's founders were perfect. They were far from it, as we are. But one thing they got right was the knowledge that they needed to work together for a common cause.

Teamwork is a powerful force. We couldn't have built a nation without it, and we can't build a better community without it either.

About the Author: Quint Studer is author of Building a Vibrant Community and founder of Pensacola's Studer Community Institute, a nonprofit organization focused on improving the community's quality of life and moving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties forward. He is a businessman, a visionary, an entrepreneur and a mentor to many.

He currently serves as the Entrepreneur-inResidence at the University of West Florida.

For more information, visit www.vibrantcommunityblueprint.com and www.studeri.org.

A Republic, if we can keep it: the cost of counting illegal aliens in the U.S. Census People of Alabama, Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, liberal or conservative, you have a right to have your voice heard in the halls of Congress. The 4.8 million Americans who live in Alabama have the same right to representation as 4.8 million Americans living in Southern California or the Texas Panhandle. But that right—the right to equal representation—is quietly under attack.

You see, following the 2020 census, Alabama is likely going to lose one of our seven seats in Congress. That is because Alabama has a relatively low number of illegal aliens resid-

Trump,

from B9 The Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship pathway would stand alongside the Registered Apprenticeships pathway, which has found success in the building trades.

This program would enable industries to come together

ing here. Today, as you may be aware, it is estimated that there are at least 12 million individuals currently living in America illegally—a figure almost certainly far lower than the real number, given that it is based on selfreporting—yet it is believed that half of those individuals live in just three states.

When the census forms are mailed out to homes across the country, many of those 12 million people will be counted for the purposes of determining the number of congressional districts and electoral votes that each state will be given. This means that states like California and Texas, with large illegal populations, will be

given additional seats in Congress and additional votes in the Electoral College.

Whatever your political leanings, ponder for a moment what this means.

There is absolutely no credible argument to be made that the Constitution allows illegal aliens to vote in U.S. elections. At an even more basic level, now as a resident of Montgomery County, I can no longer vote in a local election in Marshall County, despite my frequent visits there with friends and family. Why is that so? Because our country was founded as a representative democracy. “We the people,” who control our government, control it by way of

through associations, consortia, nonprofits and other mechanisms to offer skills education to American students and workers.

Imagine if an employer joined forces with other employers in its industry to develop a cashierto-store-manager program that would empower employees to have not only a

job, but a career path, and that allowed employees to collect a paycheck and earn a salary while at the same time learning the skills that allowed them to climb the career ladder.

By the end of June, the Department of Labor will award $183 million to consortia of businesses and educational institutions

elections. When you vote in an election, you must prove that you are who you say you are, and that you live where you say you live—that is appropriate because you are choosing who will represent you and your neighbors in Washington or in Montgomery.

If we accept that individuals who are in our country illegally do not enjoy the right to vote in our elections—and there is no sound legal argument that they do—then it must follow that these individuals cannot possibly be entitled to the same level of representation in government as American citizens.

Otherwise, citizens of states that have more illegal aliens

to support IndustryRecognized Apprenticeship programs in sectors where apprenticeships are not widespread, such as technology, health care and advanced manufacturing.

The department will also continue to fund the apprenticeship course Congress has specifically appropriated for the program.

We live in an age

residing there at the time of the census are given disproportionate representation in Congress and in the Electoral College—an irrational proposition. In a state in which a large share of the population cannot vote, those who can vote count more than those who live in states where a larger share of the population is made up of American citizens. Counting large illegal-alien populations in the census unfairly takes voting power—the weight of one vote—away from American citizens based on the presence of citizens of other nations.

This cannot be reconciled with the principle of equal representation en-

of acceleration, and the skills required by today’s jobs are changing more rapidly with each passing year. America needs to adapt its approach to skills education as well and be more nimble and responsive to the pace of change across all industries.

We need pathways to empower individuals to work and

shrined in the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution.

Last year, my office filed suit against several federal agencies—including the U.S. Census Bureau—in an effort to guard against our looming loss of representation due to our low illegal-alien population. Recently, we succeeded against an attempt by the federal government to have the suit dismissed. Still, we have many more battles ahead. And we will fight them all, up to the hilt, because our cause is just.

We will defend the right of the people of Alabama to equal representation.

- Alabama Attorney Gen. Steve Marshall

learn simultaneously so that students and workers of all ages and backgrounds can earn a living — and at the same time acquire the skills that will enable them to thrive in their current and future careers.

Ivanka Trump is adviser to President Donald Trump.

Alexander Acosta is United States Secretary of Labor.

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B13 July 10, 2019

Lee County, Alabama expand program for trained dogs to assist crime victims during testimonies in court, or to investigators Special to the Opelika Observer At a press conference in Montgomery last Tuesday, the Alabama District Attorney's Association and the Office of Prosecution Services announced the expansion of the program in which specially trained dogs assist victims of crime when they testify in court or to investigators.

The program means Alabama is the first state in the U.S. to have a statewide facility dog program, and Lee County was the second among Alabama's 67 counties to implement this new strategy, according to District Attorney Brandon Hughes.

"I pursued getting a dog because I saw the value in what a dog could provide victims and witnesses in our cases. I can’t speak to dogs in the courtroom because we have not utilized ours that way and I’m not real sure we would be able to in a jury trial. That said, I have seen the benefits numerous times when children have come into the office and been put at ease by having Chunk (our dog) in the room. Being reticent to speak to us, to describe what they saw or what happened to them, but when introduced to (our court dog) Chunk, they become more comfortable, more confident, and more willing to

speak about what happened. Just the other day, a child sex assault case was reported. We showed up at the Child Advocacy Center with Chunk and it made a huge impact with the victim in the middle of a horrible situation.

The bottom line is that having an emotional support dog can be critical to lowering stress levels of crime victims, especially children and enabling them to ultimately be comfortable testifying in Grand Jury or during trial or simply during an interview," Hughes said in a statement to the Observer.

For more information, visit www.alabamadistrictattorney.org.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

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B14 July 10, 2019

pelika Observer O

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

Last week’s answers:

07-03-19 Scramblers Answers: 1. Fierce, 2. Height, 3. Trivial, 4. Leash Solution: Fight

This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Grasp, 2. Utmost 3. Simper 4. Chaste Solution: Greatest

pelika O Observer

B15 July 10, 2019

COMICS

A good laugh heals a lot of hurts. — Madeleine L’Engle

pelika Observer O

B16 July 10, 2019

Sens. Doug Jones, Susan Collings collaborate on two legislative acts Special to the Opelika Observer Last week, U.S. Sens. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) introduced the American Broadband Buildout Act of 2019 (ABBA), a bipartisan bill to ensure that rural Americans have access to broadband services at speeds they need to fully participate in modern society and economy by directing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide up to $5 billion in matching grants to help states improve broadband infrastructure. The legislation is part of Jones’ continued efforts to get broadband services into rural and underserved areas.

“In too many parts of

Alabama – and across the country – reliable, high-speed internet is still too hard to come by. It’s no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity for modern life,” Jones said. “This bill will help public-private partnerships fund broadband development in the area that need it most.”

The American Broadband Buildout Act of 2019 would: - require that projects that receive funding must be located in “unserved” areas, where broadband is unavailable at speeds that meet the FCC’s standard. Narrowing the focus to these areas will ensure that the money goes where it is needed most, and will also protect against “over-building” where broadband infrastruc-

ture is already in place; - require that this federal funding be matched through public-private partnerships between the broadband service provider and the state in which the infrastructure project will be built.

This means that state, private sector partners, and the federal government will have a shared commitment, ensuring that projects will be well thought-out and designed to be sustainable; - require that projects be designed to be “future proof,” meaning that the infrastructure installed must be capable of delivering higher-speeds as broadband accelerates in the future. This will ensure that federal tax dollars are used to help

build a network that serves rural Americans now and in the future, without having to rebuild it every time technology advances; - direct the FCC to prioritize the funding of projects in states that have traditionally lagged behind the national average in terms of broadband subscribers and are at risk of falling further behind as broadband speeds increase; and - provide grants to states and state-designated entities for digital literacy and public awareness campaigns highlighting the benefits and possibilities of broadband service.

Taxpayer Identity Protection Act Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Sens. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and Susan

Collins (R-Maine) to thwart identity theft tax refund fraud and prevent American taxpayers and seniors from falling victim has been signed into law

by President Donald Trump. Senators Jones and Collins’ legislation was included as a provision in the Taxpayer First Act. The Taxpayer Identity Protection Act will require the IRS to expand its Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) pilot program nationwide during the next five years. An IP PIN is a six-digit number assigned to eligible taxpayers that allows their tax returns and refunds to be processed without delay and helps prevent the misuse of their SSNs on fraudulent income tax returns.

Under this act, taxpayers will be allowed to opt-in to the IP PIN pilot program if they desire an extra layer of identity protection.

“This new law will save over a billion dollars in taxpayer money and help protect against identity theft,” Jones said. “I’m glad the President has signed our bipartisan legislation and that these additional protections will be available to all taxpayers.”

In addition to the Taxpayer Identity Protection Act, the Taxpayer First Act contains a number of other provisions designed to modernize the IRS in areas such as customer service, taxpayer rights during the enforcement process, information technology and electronic systems.

USCIS expands digital Freedom of Information Act Immigration Records System recently Special to the Opelika Observer USCIS is announcing the expansion of its digital Freedom of Information Act

(FOIA) Immigration Records System (FIRST). FIRST is the only system in the U.S. government that allows users to submit and track FOIA requests

and receive documents digitally. This process will save time, improve efficiency and reduce potential errors that can occur with manually handling paper.

Starting last week, FOIA requestors with a USCIS online account can submit requests online for their own records. Soon, they will be able to submit

This week’s puzzle answers:

NOW OPEN

online requests for non-A-File material (policies, communications, etc.). Later this year, USCIS online account holders will be able to make requests on behalf of another person.

“As USCIS continues to move the nation’s legal immigration system away from paper-based services to an electronic future, I am excited to implement the first fully digital FOIA system, and the benefits it will bring for FOIA requestors who take advantage of this service,” said acting director of USCIS Kenneth Cuccinelli. “FIRST brings the antiquated FOIA process into the 21st century and makes it a more efficient and easy process.”

In May 2018, USCIS announced the initial rollout of FIRST, which allowed requestors to create a USCIS online account to receive requested documents digitally. This enabled requestors to login to their account, track requests and download documents.

Since the initial rollout of FIRST’s capabilities, users have created more than 77,000 USCIS online accounts to manage and receive FOIA responses.

To establish a USCIS online account to take advantage of FIRST, visit first.uscis.gov.

For more information on USCIS and their programs, please visit uscis.gov or follow us on Twitter (@uscis), Instagram (/uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and Facebook(/uscis).

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