Opelika Observer 10-14-2021 E-edition

Vol. 14, No. 1

Thursday, Oct. 14, 2021

pelika Observer O

Opelika, Alabama

“An award-winning publication for local people, by local people.”

EnjoyA Music-Filled Weekend The upcoming weekend promises to be a music-filled weekend throughout Lee County. Multiple venues have lined up artists from around the country to give music lovers plenty of opportunity to sit back, listen and enjoy.

OPELIKA In Opelika, the second Annual Songwriter’s Festival kicks off on Thursday with a party at John Emerald Distilling Company. The threeday music event will bring musicians from around the country to Opelika and is expected to draw large crowds.

WAVERLY The Standard Deluxe in Waverly is holding

its Fall Boogie, which is also a three-day event. The Boogie starts Friday, Oct. 15 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 17.

AUBURN The Auburn Community Orchestra (ACO) will perform its fall concert, “Orchestra on the Hill,” presented by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities (Pebble Hill) and the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC).

The event will be held on the lawn at Pebble Hill on Thursday, Oct. 14, beginning at 6 p.m., according to a press release from the city of Auburn.

Sierra Hull is scheduled to perform at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at

Auburn University on Thursday, Oct. 14.

SONGWRITER’S FESTIVAL SCHEDULE Thursday, Oct. 14 7 p.m. Kick-Off Party Abe Partridge | Katie Martin/Larry Mitchell at John Emerald Distilling Company No Ticket Required If You Have Purchased A Festival Pass Friday Oct. 15 5 p.m.

•Abe Partridge at the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 5:30 p.m.

• Mutt Cooper | Dave Potts at Twice Baked 6 p.m.

• Stephanie Jeck | Eduardo Leon at Heritage House • Brian Atkins | Coleman X at Irish Bred Pub 6:15 p.m.

Free Laughs on Tuesday PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Love coffee? Love comedy? Then join Auburn native Rivers Langley for a free comedy show at Coffee Cat on Tuesday, Oct. 19.

Langley, a comedian living in L.A., originally from Auburn, gathered a collection of comedians including Keith Carey, Nicole Becannon, David Perdue, Samm Severin and Tom Goss to come to Auburn for a show.

“I always try to put on a stand-up show somewhere in town when I come back home,” he said. “I didn’t have a chance to put on a show in 2020 for obvious reasons so I’m

Rivers Langley at the Unneccessary Evil Comedy Show so happy to be back doing my thing. On this particular occasion, I’m back in town hosting the Fall Boogie in Waverly on the weekend before the show. “… I grew up in Auburn and still have a lot of friends here so it’s always nice to see everybody and to be

able to showcase all of the insanely talented comedians I know who come to town for these things.”

Langley attended Auburn University and graduated in 2009 after spending his four years in school working for WEGL 91.1, the campus

See COMEDY, page A3

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER

• Katie Martin | Mark True at Resting Pulse 6:30 p.m.

• Webster’s Wheel | Scott Singer | Ted Mcvay at Eighth & Rail • Brett Mcdaniel

| Pierce Pettis |Bb Palmer at John Emerald Distillery •Grayson Capps at the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 7 p.m.

• Wyatt Edmondson

| Liz Longley at Twice Baked 7:30 p.m.

• Amy Lavere at Heritage House • Bradley Cole

See MUSIC, page A2

Standard Deluxe Celebrates 30th Anniversary with the Fall Boogie Oct. 15 to 17 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER It’s been 30 years since artist, printmaker and music presenter Scott Peek renovated a 1930s cotton warehouse in the tiny town of Waverly, Alabama, turning the space into a silkscreen print shop — the start of his business, Standard Deluxe. Over the past three decades, Standard Deluxe has established itself as a guidepost for creative arts in the Southeast, with the renowned design and print shop, the intimate

CONTENTS OPINION.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A4 OPINION

SPORTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

POLITICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B9

RELIGION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A13

CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B10

COMICS.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A16 COMICS

PUBLIC NOTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . B12

Little House music venue and a variety of outdoor events, including the Old 280 Boogie, featuring musicians, visual artists and chefs. Some of the most magical nights of music in the south happen amongst the tall Alabama pines on the gorgeous grounds of Standard Deluxe.

Coming up Oct. 15-17 is the Fall Boogie — a chance to join the 30th anniversary festivities and experience an exceptional lineup of musicians, an array of visual arts vendors and delicious food.

Just north of Auburn and Opelika and less than two hours from Birmingham and Atlanta, a visit to Standard Deluxe is an ideal daytrip or weekend getaway.

Peek has grown Standard Deluxe’s reputation within the music industry and has developed one of the most significant cultural hot spots in the south by designing and refurbishing buildings that make up the grounds of Standard Deluxe — beloved See BOOGIE, page A3

A2 Oct. 14, 2021

Auburn University Mental Health Professors Offer Tips For World Mental Health Day CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Sunday, Oct. 10, was World Mental Health Day, a day to help raise awareness for mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Maintaining one’s mental health during a global pandemic has never been more important, and that certainly rings true for members of the Auburn Family. Dustin Johnson, a licensed psychologist and assistant director for outreach at Auburn University’s Student Counseling & Psychological Services, or SPCS, and Joeleen Cooper-Bhatia, a licensed psychologist and associate director of SCPS, offer helpful tips for keeping mental health a priority, especially with the university at the midsemester mark.

IN RECOGNITION OF WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY WHAT ARE SOME THINGS MEMBERS OF THE AUBURN FAMILY SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHEN IT COMES TO MAINTAINING THEIR MENTAL HEALTH? Johnson: We all could benefit from proactive management of our mental health. Although 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 people are living with a diagnosable mental health condition, everyone in the Auburn Family

MUSIC

>>

FROM A1

Smith | Haraway Brothers at Irish Bred Pub 7:45 p.m.

• Dark Water at Resting Pulse 8 p.m.

• Jennifer Lynn Simpson | Evan Stegner | Janet Simpson at Eighth & Rail • Dan Navarro | Kim Richey | Chris Stills at John Emerald Distillery • Sarah Lee Guthrie at the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 8:30 p.m.

• Jeffrey Steele at Twice Baked 9 p.m.

• Leigh Nash at Heritage House •Charlie Mars at Irish Bred Pub 9:15 p.m.

• Steve Poltz at Resting Pulse

experiences a disruption to their mental health from time to time. As Benjamin Franklin wrote: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound in cure.” It is much easier to prevent a mental health disruption from overwhelming you than to recover from having been overwhelmed by one.

Healthy diet, exercise, social engagement, deep breathing, working through unhelpful thinking, taking breaks for selfcare activities and having meaningful conversations with people you trust are just a few things one can do daily to maintain good mental health, as well as good total health.

Cooper-Bhatia: It’s also important to realize that it’s OK to ask for help if you need to. This could involve seeking out support from loved ones, connecting with community groups or other resources and seeking out professional services if needed, such as at Student Counseling & Psychological Services, or SCPS. Auburn students are at the mid-semester mark right now, so stress levels could be high.

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR THEM TO BALANCE THEIR STUDIES WITH RELAXATION TIME, TIME WITH FRIENDS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY? Johnson: The reality at mid-semester is that

for nearly all students, stress levels are high, and acceptance of this temporary state can help mobilize people to develop a plan for balance. Healthy stress, or eustress, can lead to improved alertness, cognitive function and even academic performance.

The key to ensuring that stress remains adaptive and helpful is managing one’s perception of stress.

In other words, students need the perception of management over the stressful situation to prevent stress from overtaking them, regardless of whether they have actual control of the situation.

To manage perception, students should develop realistic appraisals of how much time is needed to meet their academic demands; anxiety can often lead to an overestimation of how much time is needed to prepare. If students are more objectively determining the best use of their study time, it is much easier for them to develop time for self-care activities that are necessary for meeting needs for cognitive rest and attention to other important domains of functioning, such as social life, physical health and proper sleep and nutrition.

Cooper-Bhatia: The importance of self-care, especially at this time in the semester, cannot be

stressed enough. When we feel stretched and overwhelmed by our demands, it can be easy to let things like sleep, proper nutrition, social time and relaxation fall by the wayside. In reality though, stressful times are when we need self-care the most.

Giving yourself permission to take time to rest and rejuvenate is critical during busy times in the semester.

I will often encourage people to set aside time for themselves, along with scheduling time for their other tasks. Planning breaks, fun activities and relaxation directly into your schedule, and making them a priority, can be extremely helpful.

This year, athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka have brought the subject of mental health to the forefront.

HOW DO YOU THINK THAT HAS HELPED NORMALIZE THE DISCUSSION ABOUT PERSONAL MENTAL HEALTH, AND DO YOU THINK THE PAST STIGMAS ASSOCIATED WITH MENTAL HEALTH ARE BEING REPLACED WITH MORE PRODUCTIVE AND BENEFICIAL DIALOGUE? Johnson: Prominent athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka certainly have an elevated media platform that spreads messaging effectively. I appreciate their communication of the importance of prioritizing

one’s mental health and the challenge in doing so among other obligations.

Although most of us in the Auburn Family are not performing in front of millions of people, watching them in-person or on television, all of us are performing every day. Disruptions to our mental health affect those performances, such as being able to fully pay attention in class, maintain alertness at work and be fully present during social conversation, among other things.

Think about how much we perform every day, and the mental and emotional strain that has on us. When constructive dialogue normalizes the prevalence of mental health disruptions and their impact on performances, it helps us relate to each other and breaks down the stigma of help-seeking. So, yes, the dialogue is productive and beneficial, and it will continue to be so, as long as conversations continue within households, on campus and at workplaces, as well as on the big media stages.

Cooper-Bhatia: One of my specialties at SCPS is providing group therapy.

Through working with students in group, I have seen how useful it can be to understand that you are not alone and

that everyone deals with mental health challenges from time to time. Seeing elite athletes speak out has brought more attention to the discussion of mental health and provides further evidence for those struggling that they are not alone. Additionally, these experiences help raise awareness about how essential it is to attend to one’s mental health.

WHAT ARE SOME RESOURCES MEMBERS OF THE AUBURN FAMILY CAN UTILIZE TO HELP MAINTAIN POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH? Johnson: I work for Auburn University SCPS. Enrolled undergraduate and graduate students can visit our website or call SCPS at 334-844-5123 for more information. We offer individual and group counseling, psychiatry, workshops and outreach events all at no charge.

We also maintain a 24/7 on-call phone service, and students can drop into either the Haley Center or Auburn University Medical Clinic locations during business hours and be seen immediately. I would also like to promote our creative approaches to stress management, including use of our therapy dogs, Drs. Moose and Nessie, our Zen Den and nap pod!

Cooper-Bhatia: At

9:30 p.m.

• Mindy Smith | Jeff Black at Eighth & Rail.

• John Paul White | Adam Hood at John Emerald Distillery Saturday Oct. 16 11 a.m. - Lunch Round • Charlie Mars | Sarah Lee Guthrie | Chris Stills at Twice Baked 11:30 a.m. — Student Showcase • Payton Kashdan | Posie Hooks at John Emerald Distillery 12 p.m. — Lunch Round • Jeff Black |Leigh Nash| Grayson Capps at Irish Bred Pub 12:30 p.m.

• Liz Longley | Kim Richey | Mindy Smith at John Emerald Distillery 2 p.m.

• Songwriters Workshop With Jeff

Black & Kim Richey at The Sound Wall 4 p.m.

•VIP Whiskey Tasting at John Emerald Distillery 5 p.m.

•Mutt Cooper | Scott Singer at the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 6 p.m.

• Bradley Cole Smith Heritage House • Webster’s Wheel at Irish Bred Pub •Stephanie Jeck | Brian Atkins at Eighth & Rail 6:15 p.m.

• Ted Mcvay | Eduardo Leon at Twice Baked • Brett Mcdaniel | Jennifer Lynn Simpson at Resting Pulse 6:30 p.m.

• Evan Stegner | Coleman.X at John Emerald Distillery • Dave Potts | Pierce Pettis | Mark True at

the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 7:30 p.m.

• Wyatt Edmondson at Heritage House 7:30 p.m.

• Adam Hood | Janet Simpson | Bb Palme at Irish Bred Pub • Grayson Capps | Sarah Lee Guthrie Eighth & Rail 7:45 p.m.

•Jeff Black | Kim Richey at Twice Baked •Chris Stills | Liz Longley at Resting Pulse 8 p.m.

• Leigh Nash | Martha’s Trouble at John Emerald Distillery • Amy Lavere at the Jailhouse at Rock N Roll Pinball 9 p.m.

• Mindy Smith | John Paul White at Irish Bred Pub • Dark Water at Eighth & Rail

9:15 p.m.

• Steve Poltz at Twice Baked.

• Jeffrey Steele at Resting Pulse 9:30 p.m.

• Shawn Mullins at John Emerald Distillery 10:30 p.m.

Katie Martin | Haraway Brothers at Eighth & Rail Sunday Oct. 17 10:30 a.m. VIP Brunch By Chef Chris Wilton + In The Round Concert With Shawn Mullins |Sarah Lee Guthrie | Dan Navarro at Resting Pulse • Nicole Chillemi Jazz Trio at Heritage House 12 p.m.

• Jeffrey Steele at John Emerald Distillery 2 p.m.

• Dark Water at John Emerald Distillery

4 p.m.

• The War And Treatyat John Emerald Distillery FALL BOOGIE SCHEDULE Friday, Oct. 15: Seth Walker at 6:15 p.m.

Joshua Ray Walker at 7:30 p.m.

Black Joe Lewis And The Honeybears at 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 16: Early James at noon Janet Simpson at 1:15 p.m.

Lee Bains III & Gloryfires at 2:45 p.m.

Blue Mountain (30th Anniversary Reunion) at 4:15 p.m.

Maggie Rose at 6:15 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 17: Lee Bains III (solo) at 11 a.m.

Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory at 12:30 p.m.

pelika Observer

O

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

Publisher: Michelle Key Sports Editor: Wil Crews Live Lee Editor: Hannah Lester Marketing: Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Sports Writers: Rick Lanier, D. Mark Mitchell

www.opelikaobserver.com 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved.

Opelika Observer is published weekly by Key Media LLC, 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801.

Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 223-A S. 8th St.,, Opelika, AL 36801

CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the editor at (334) 749-8003.

See MENTAL HEALTH, page A3

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A3 Oct. 14, 2021

Keep Opelika Beautiful to Host Recycle & Shred Day Keep Opelika Beautiful will host a free Recycle & Shred Day on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021.

The event will be from 8 to 11 a.m. at the 8th Avenue Recycle Center located at 600 8th Ave. This is the site of the former fire station and is one block from the Opelika Municipal Park.

All shredding for this event will be done onsite. Paper clips and staples do not have to be taken out, but paper will need to be removed from binders. There is a 10box limit. This event is only open to residents of Lee County. No documents from businesses will be accepted for shredding. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendees are asked to remain in their vehicle and allow volunteers to unload documents.

Other items accepted at the 8th Avenue Recycle Center include laptops, small com-

COMEDY >>

FROM A1

radio station.

“I was hosting the daily news show in addition to two long music shows on Sunday,” he said. “I would also just hang out at the radio station during the day and if someone didn’t show up for their show, I’d jump on air and fill time between classes.

It was, by far, the best thing I did in college.

“About a year after I graduated, I was working at Mellow Mushroom (English degrees, right?) with a guy named Ryan Oliver who had recently begun pursuing standup comedy. Ryan was driving back and forth to Birmingham and Atlanta regularly to go to open mics and shows and getting pretty good at it. In talking to Ryan I realized, ‘Oh, wow, you can just do that. If you’ve got gas money and a bit of ambition, you can just BE a comedian. You don’t have to ask.’”

Thus started Langley’s journey to being a comedian.

Believe it or not, the career started on South Gay Street at Gnu’s

puter screens, towers, cellphones, electrical cables, aluminum cans, cardboard, newspaper, plastic containers and steel cans. This recycling center is open from 8 a.m. on Friday until 8 a.m. on Tuesday. The Jeter Recycling Center at 675 Jeter Ave. is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, contact Keep Opelika Beautiful at (334) 7494970 or tipi@keepopelikabeautiful. com.

Room.

“We went to the show at the Gnu’s Room and I saw people my own age doing comedy and doing it pretty well, all things considered,” he said. “After the show, Mosman said, ‘I think we should try this. You know that Anthony guy, right? Ask him if we can do five minutes on his next show.’ I asked Anthony and he was nice enough to give me my first set ever the next month at Olde Auburn Ale House (which is now The Hound) in early 2011.”

Langley has a weekly stand-up show in L.A., in addition to shows he’s produced.

“I put my whole life in a Nissan hatchback and left Auburn on July 16, 2012,” he said. “I had a brief stop-over in the San Francisco Bay Area. (Had one really crazy night where I had to follow Robin Williams at an open mic at a bar called “Dirty Trix Saloon.”) before moving to L.A. on Labor Day 2012.”

Now, Langley does work in filmed sketch comedy (his group ‘Hush Money’ became popular enough to get noticed by Amazon and

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY KOB

CONTRIBUTED BY KEEP OPELIKA BEAUTIFUL

Comedy Central.) and hosts a weekly podcast called “The Goods from the Woods” (The podcast receives over 10,000 downloads a month.).

“We get around 10,000 downloads a month and just getting to hear feedback on Twitter from people who listen to our show has absolutely meant the world to me, especially during the pandemic,” Langley said. “In March of 2020, we basically transformed the podcast from a moreor-less evergreen show about comedy and pop culture into a side series called “The Corona Diaries” where we switched it up into talking about what we were doing to stave off boredom in quarantine while also covering the news and documenting the fall of western civilization three times a week.

“We ended up doing 150 episodes of The Corona Diaries and the podcast absolutely saved me from going crazy during the pandemic. I even did phone interviews with some of our listeners who are frontline workers on the show.

NAMI to Host Meeting CONTRIBUTED BY NAMI

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet at 7 p.m. on

Tuesday, Oct. 19.

The meeting will be held at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn.

NAMI supports

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

There will be a time for sharing and the public is invited.

That gave me such a sense of perspective.

Our listeners are so cool. We got so many messages during The Corona Diaries from people saying ‘Thanks for doing the show, it’s really helped me out to be able to laugh during all of this.’ It sounds cheesy but that absolutely meant the world to me.”

As for the future, the Auburn native said his main goal is to have fun and make others laugh.

“If I can make one person forget that they’re going through something tough or having a bad time and laugh at something dumb I said at a show or on a podcast, it was all worth it,” he said.

Langley encouraged Auburn natives to come out to Coffee Cat on Oct. 19 from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

“Well, when I lived [in Auburn], I always enjoyed it when something different was rolling through town,” he said. “This is definitely gonna be something different.

World-class comedians performing for free on a Tuesday night? Why wouldn’t you wanna see that?”

BOOGIE >>

FROM A1

by touring musicians and audience members alike. Alabama musician Lee Bains III, who has performed at Standard Deluxe many times and will be featured at the upcoming Fall Boogie, stated, “Scott has managed to cultivate in Standard Deluxe a strong aesthetic voice, one that is clearly rooted in his own sense of place and righteousness.”

MENTAL HEALTH >>

FROM A2

SCPS, we also have some excellent resources listed on our website, including several on-line workshops that any Auburn student can access at any time. I’d also like to highlight our group therapy program.

We have a number of different groups that students can be involved in, ranging from topicspecific groups to more general groups. Group therapy can be especially helpful in obtaining support and feedback from other students who might be dealing with similar concerns.

Johnson: Health Promotion & Wellness Services offers peerled wellness coaching, nutrition services, assistance for substance use and related concerns and Safe Harbor for survivors of sexual assault, interpersonal violence and stalking.

These services are also for students, and this office works closely with SCPS. They can be reached at 334-844-1528 or through this website.

Auburn employees can contact the Employee Assistance Program,

The Alabama State Council on the Arts has awarded Peek the 2021 Design Fellowship, acknowledging his work as an Alabama artist and creative space maker over the past 30 years.

Visitors to Standard Deluxe’s Fall Boogie can expect an entertaining time in a one-of-akind space that fosters community and honors the homegrown, doit-yourself values of Alabama. Garden and Gun wrote: “… the

or EAP, which offers confidential assessment, counseling and referral services for regular employees and their eligible dependents.

They can visit the website or call Auburn’s EAP at 1-800-925-5EAP (5327). There are also community resources for mental health care that can be accessed using the university insurance.

The Auburn University Psychological Services Center, or AUPSC, serves both the campus and the community. The AUPSC currently offers therapy and assessment services, in person and via telehealth. For more information, AUPSC can be reached at 334-8444889 or accessed on the web.

The Marriage and Family Therapy Center at the Glanton House offers individual and couples counseling, serving both the campus and community at a low cost. That office can be reached at 334844-4478 or on the web. Lastly, A Sound Mind is a campus-wide initiative encompassing all programs, services and trainings promoting mental wellness. There are plenty of selfdirected resources on that website.

Boogie has built a strong track record, with previous performers including Jason Isbell and Alabama Shakes before they began selling out to far bigger venues.

The outdoor event has limited capacity, allowing for social distancing on the big, grassy lawn. Single day tickets and three-day passes are available.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www. standarddeluxe.com.

A4 Oct. 14, 2021

AFRAID

N

SEAN DIETRICH

ighttime. I’m driving a twolane highway. I like two-lanes. I like old fence posts. Old barns.

I like all sorts of things.

I like driving. It puts me at ease.

You have no reason to care about this, but I used to worry a lot. I still do, but I worried more back when I was a kid.

After my father passed, I

was afraid of everything.

Confession. As a boy, sometimes I’d lie in bed and feel so scared I couldn’t catch my breath. I don’t know what I was afraid of exactly. I suppose nobody tells you grief feels just like fear.

So I was afraid. Plain and simple. Afraid of almost everything.

Afraid my family would

die. Car accidents were another particular fear.

I was afraid of vacant houses, doctors, hurricanes, tsunamis, realtors, two-percent milk, etc.

Of course, it wasn’t like this before my father pulled his own plug. Once upon a time, I played baseball, ate ice cream, and fished in creeks, carefree.

Fear has a way of taking over. At night, I’d wonder if death was going to swallow me whole. Irrational, I know. But young boys aren’t rational.

But getting back to night driving. When I was fourteen, I’ll never forget when my friend and I snuck out of Saturday night prayer meeting. We were there with his grandmother.

She was a sweet, white-

LAW AND ORDER

WENDY HODGE

I

t is Tuesday night, and my mother and I are watching reruns of Law and Order.

I say we’re watching, but I’m the one watching. My mother is listening. She can’t see much anymore, making out mostly outlines and shapes. Lamps blaze from every corner, and the overhead light is beaming down on us, but she’ll declare this room is “just too dark to see.”

As has become our custom, after dinner on Tuesday we tune in to the Law and Order marathon. It turns out, there is always a Law and Order marathon playing at any given moment if you can only find the right channel.

This show has an impressive history on television, premiering in 1990 and running for 20 seasons, with multiple spin-offs and guest appearances by loads of big-name stars. But for me and my mother, it’s got a personal history.

This was my sister’s favorite show. Being a fan of good literature and classic mysteries, she appreciated Law and Order because it was clever and usually had a plot twist that even she didn’t see coming.

She only lived to enjoy a couple of seasons.

And for a while after she died, my mother and I avoided the show.

It felt unfair somehow that all things, including her favorite TV program, continued along without her.

We eased back into it, slowly, my mother and I, just like we did

everything else after my sister was gone.

Normalcy returned, although it would be forever altered. Though we lived in different houses, and even different states, my mother and I both tuned in on Thursday nights and watched Briscoe and Curtis catch a criminal and DA Jack McCoy put them behind bars.

Played by Jerry Orbach, Briscoe was my mother’s favorite.

His partners came and went, but Briscoe was a staple on the show for years. He usually had a sarcastically funny comment in the opening sequence, which my mother would find hysterical. His character was unsophisticated, down to earth, and flawed. And my mother had a crush.

Tonight we are watching an episode that doesn’t feature Briscoe as much as my mother would like.

As she listens to the characters speak, she has asked every time a scene changes, “Who said that? Was that Briscoe?”

“No,” I answer.

“That was a homeless man who might be the killer.”

“Well, where is Briscoe?”

“He’s back at the police station, I’m sure.

He’ll be on in a minute.”

The scene changes, and she asks again, “Who said that?

Briscoe?”

“No. That was a woman,” I answer. “A hooker, apparently.”

Finally, Briscoe shows up to put handcuffs on a suspect, and my mother says, “Now I know that’s Briscoe.

I can tell by the way he got the bad guy.”

“That’s him,” I’m relieved to tell her.

“What does he look like these days?” she asks.

“Well, these are reruns. So he looks exactly the same on the

TV.” “Oh. Well what does he look like in real life?

Has he aged a lot like me?”

Without thinking, I answer quickly. “He died several years ago.”

Immediately I realize my mistake. My mother’s face sags. She is grief-stricken, as if Jerry Orbach was a family member she has lost.

“No one told me,” she says quietly, crying.

I get up and sit next to her and take her hand. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have told you.”

“No, I’m glad you did. I need to know these things.”

We sit there together for a minute or two before she says, “Your dad died too.”

“Yes.” It’s hard to speak, suddenly. “He did.”

Then she looks at me direct and clear-eyed and says, “I know exactly what I’ve lost.”

And that just does me in. I leave the room, telling her I will get her a piece of pie and we’ll finish our show. But I retreat to a corner of the kitchen and let myself cry, deep and silent, for a minute or two. Then I do what we all do so many times in our life — I dry my eyes and straighten my shoulders and find my footing again.

We sit and eat our pie and watch the drama unfold as the story delivers its plot twist and the true bad guy (or bad woman, in this case) is revealed. For the record, it was not the homeless man OR the hooker. It was the rich ex-wife.

“I knew she did it,” my mother says.

“I know you knew,” I smile as I answer.

“How about another?”

“I’d love to. I’ve got nothing else on my schedule for tonight,” she chuckles. “Let’s find one with lots of See HODGE, page A5

haired woman who memorized Bible verses and smoked Winstons like a tugboat.

I remember when my pal leaned against his grandmother’s car and jingled her keys which he’d taken from her purse.

“Wanna go for a drive?” he said.

“Right now?” I said.

“Why not?”

“Um, it’s prayer meeting?”

His smile was a wild one.

I didn’t want to. I was—you can probably guess—too afraid. I was afraid we’d wreck.

Afraid we’d wake up in county lock-up with orange jumpsuits and a roommate named Bad Bart McThroatslicer.

But my friend wasn’t like me. He wasn’t

afraid. Something about this was refreshing. He begged me to get in the car. It was terrifying, but I did.

We rode his grandmother’s vehicle down gravel roads at slow speeds. We saw deer cross the highway.

We avoided kamikaze possums. We didn’t pass a single car, only empty farmland. And this experience did something to me. It calmed me somehow. Neither of us said much. We only took in the country miles.

Finally, he parked near a creek. He pitched me the keys.

“Your turn to drive,” he said.

“Me?” I said.

“Yes, you.”

“No way.”

“Suit yourself,” he said. “But I ain’t driving

us back. We’ll be in a heap of trouble if you don’t drive us home.”

Then he winked. “Quit being afraid.”

“I don’t know how.”

“You’re stronger than you think you are.”

He jumped out of the car and sat on the edge of the creek, legs dangling. And I cussed myself. Why couldn’t I be fearless? Why wasn’t I made that way?

My breathing got fast.

Sweat accumulated on my forehead. I took the keys and started the car.

He jumped in. And thus, I drove us home with both of my trembling hands on the wheel.

And while I know this wasn’t the world’s greatest story, that night I did actually feel something.

See DIETRICH, page A5

Win at Home: Homefield Advantage

WILLIE SPEARS

H

ow important is a home-field advantage?

Over a large sample size, it is documented that the home team wins the average NFL game by a score just below three points. What is even more telling is that home teams usually win between 55 and 60 percent of the time in the NFL. Do you have a home-field advantage?

We should have a significant advantage on our home turf.

However, we often take the people closest to us for granted.

When we do this, we are losing at home instead of winning. The truth is it is easy to win away from home.

We can put on a face of gratitude, respect and humility when running errands, working or at school.

At home, we do not put on a face. We are real and sometimes not so nice or pleasant.

When I was a football coach, I enjoyed playing on the road more than playing at home. When we played home games, there was too much time and space to fill before the game.

There was also a lot of work to prepare for the arrival of our

opponent.

For home games, we often had a pep rally. Pep rallies are fun, but they have nothing to do with the game and immature teams cannot handle the excitement and attention that comes with a pep rally. The rally is over at 3 p.m., but the game does not start until 7 p.m.

What are we supposed to do for four hours? Should we watch more film, put on a movie, let them relax, use the restroom, tape, warmup or review the scouting report? All these are good ideas; however, our players are in familiar surroundings, which can cause them to let their guard down and lose their focus.

I would have moms bringing food and Gatorade to their spoiled sons. I would have players trying to say goodbye to their girlfriend and get a hug before the game.

Some players would sneak off and walk around campus looking for something to get into.

I needed each player to focus on the game, not all the distractions.

The same is true in our residential homes. It is easy to lose focus and get distracted by our jobs, television, cell phones, social media and other forms of entertainment. Our focus should be on serving those in our household.

When was the last time you showed your appreciation to your spouse, children, parents and loved ones? Have you folded the clothes, washed the dishes,

swept, vacuumed or mopped the floor?

When was the last time you cleaned out the tub or changed the linen?

My player’s focus was the game; our focus should be to serve one another at home.

As a coach, I realized there was much more work to do when we played at home than on the road.

We would get on the bus at 3 p.m. and ride to the game when we played away. It was easy and convenient. The same is true when we are outside our home; we do not have to show much effort. When we are home, we have to work hard at not taking our family for granted.

If you are married, single, have children or live alone, I believe you can win at home by having a house of hope and joy. A dwelling place where people feel loved and appreciated. A place where visitors leave and feel the love your house provides.

THREE WAYS TO WIN AT HOME: 1. Be intentional about not taking those in your home for granted.

2. Create an environment of joy and love in your home.

3. Do not treat the people outside your home better than you treat the people inside your home.

Win At home is a series of opinion articles written by author and keynote speaker Willie Spears. Be sure to catch the Win At Home Podcast in January 2022 and order the Win at Home devotional for leaders now at www. williespears.com.

A5 Oct. 14, 2021

Auburn University Harbert College Of Business Study Shines Surprising Light on Alabama’s Iron, Steel Industry Alabama’s iron and steel industry has transformed itself into a greener, cleaner, high-tech producer that remains a robust economic influencer on the state’s economy and a major provider to America’s infrastructure, according to a new economic impact study produced by Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.

Among the report’s findings: • Higher-paying jobs with an industry-wide average annual salary in Alabama of almost $100,000, and a much wider spectrum of skilled and unskilled labor in such fields as new technology and supply chain management.

• A switch among producers to new engineering and production methods that have exhaust stacks emitting harmless steam and much less carbon dioxide.

• The greatly enhanced use of recycled materials to produce new iron and steel while bypassing landfills and helping the environment on the ground.

• The provision of vital materials to other industries, such as shipbuilders in Mobile and ductile iron pipes for various critical infrastructures.

“The initial project was an economic impact study on the iron and steel industry in Alabama, but what it turned into was a document for the current government and the public to realize the tremendous influence of iron and steel production in this state,”

PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION

BY TROY TURNER CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Harbert College of Business seniors in supply chain management Tyler Vassar, left, and Grant Stallworth pose with charts displaying key findings uncovered during their work on an economic impact study of Alabama’s iron and steel industry. Auburn faculty Erik Sjolseth and Glenn Richey supervised the project.

said Grant Stallworth, an Auburn senior in supply chain management who played a lead role in the study.

That influence includes almost 15,000 direct jobs and more than 76,000 indirect jobs, and many of those jobs pay well above average income.

“The average yearly wage of men and women working in Alabama’s iron and steel industry is $99,328, compared to a national average iron and steel manufacturing wage of $86,736,” the impact study reported.

The industry “supports Alabama families by paying $1.48 billion in direct wages and $4.68 billion in indirect wages that are directly traceable to the support of iron and steel manufacturing,” it said. Indirect jobs include

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a wide range, from suppliers and consultants to retail services, such as convenience stores and restaurants that move specifically into areas serving iron and steel workers.

A DIFFERENT PICTURE The direct jobs, meanwhile, aren’t like what people may have seen in pictures from previous decades of manufacturing work, Stallworth said.

“The jobs have shifted to a lot less of unskilled labor to skilled labor, with less heavy lifting and more educated work going on in these iron and steel mills than people realize," he said. "There’s not as much grunt work as people think.”

He attributes that to new technological advances in the production

DIETRICH >>

FROM A4

I wish I could tell you that I felt less afraid, but that wasn’t it. I felt strong. And I have learned that sometimes, feeling strong can make fear easier to bear.

Right now, I’m passing farmland.

The stars are putting on a great show. It all reminds me that the

process; and in the growing need for efficient managers, such as those in his field of supply chain management, to ensure raw materials, finished materials, labor, shipping and other factors all fall into place to cut costs and streamline distribution.

That’s another area where business schools such as Harbert at Auburn come into play, said Erik Sjolseth, Stallworth’s instructor who supervised the project.

Similar public- and private-sector partnerships involving Harbert include working with nonprofits in the design of warehouses and operational flow to improve food availability in Alabama, identifying solutions to textile manufacturers looking to reduce waste, identifying solutions to international fella writing you right now is stronger than he knows. And the same goes for you.

So I don’t know where you are tonight, or who you are, or what kind of private hell you’re going through. But some fella you’ve never even met is thinking about you.

And you’re stronger than you think you are.

couriers to reduce carbon emissions, among others, he said, “so they really span the spectrum.”

Sjolseth said he was impressed with the findings regarding Alabama’s iron and steel industry and the jobs it provides. Regarding its workers, “people seem to stay there forever, like 40 and 50 years,” he said.

“They build good lives for themselves.”

‘38 EIFFEL TOWERS’ Perhaps more surprising, the researchers said, was learning about the industry’s advancements in becoming cleaner and a major recycling proponent.

Steel, for example, uses new technology, such as an electric arc furnace.

“The EAF is great for recycling iron and steel,”

HODGE >>

FROM A4

Briscoe in it. He’s just so funny.”

Scrolling the news on my phone as I tried to sleep, I see exciting news — Law and Order is returning to television. The original show, with some of the original cast, will begin airing again.

My mother will be so excited to know that there will be new sto-

Stallworth said.

A high-temperature arc is created as a heat source to convert the iron scrap into molten steel.

“Between 95 and 100% of the metal used in the production of finished iron and steel products in Alabama comes from recycled scrap,” the study reported.

Another example of what that means, Sjolseth said, is to look at the Eiffel Tower in France, which is more than 100 stories tall and is composed of about 10,100 tons of iron.

“The iron and steel industry keeps huge amounts of waste out of landfills. In fact, it keeps more than 38 Eiffel Towers out of landfills per year.”

Additionally, for a safer environment, the process means cleaner air, the report noted.

“More and more Alabama foundries are integrating electric arc furnaces into their operations. Electric arc furnaces produce significantly less carbon dioxide than traditional melt sources,” it said.

‘WOULD CERTAINLY CONSIDER AU AGAIN’ The project began as a partnership between the trade association Manufacture Alabama and Harbert’s Center for Supply Chain Innovation.

Sjolseth said the school would like to see more such interaction between outside entities and the university’s many offerings of talented students eager for professional networking and experience.

One already-satisfied partner is Jonathan Barganier, chief operating officer for Manufacture See BUSINESS, page A6 ries. Of course, there won’t be a Briscoe.

My sister won’t see any of these new episodes. And my dad won’t be here either.

But my mother and I will be, the good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise. The two of us, with all we’ve lost and all we still have to hold on to, will carry it on for ourselves and for all of them. Because that’s what love looks like.

A6 Oct. 14, 2021

Fuller Labels October Alpha Delta Kappa Month

BUSINESS >>

FROM A5

Alabama.

“Manufacture Alabama provides staffing support to the Alabama Iron & Steel Council,” Barganier said. "The council, comprised of iron and steel companies with facilities in Alabama, met earlier in the year and deemed it necessary to undertake an updated economic impact study on behalf of the industry.

“From there, the AISC chairman, Maury Gaston (of AMERICAN Ductile Iron Pipe), and I partnered with Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business to take on this project. The goal of the project is to tell the story of the modern iron and steel industry and its vital role to the well-being of Alabama’s economy and the people who work in the various companies.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller met with members of Alabama Alpha Delta Kappa Beta Xi members to proclaim October as Alpha Delta Kappa Month.

Alpha Delta Kappa is an honorary organization if women educators who promote altruism, excellence in education, fraternal fellowship and world understanding.

Seated L-R Kay Spriggs, Beta Xi member and Alabama State President; Mayor Fuller; Pat May, Beta Xi Immediate Past President.

Standing L-R Claire Plott, Beta Xi Treasurer and Jerry Barber, Beta Xi President-Elect.

We ultimately wanted a brief document with compelling information that may be used to educate the general public, lawmakers and policy-makers and other stakeholders as well. We feel the report does just that and the story, backed up by factual information, is a compelling one.”

Barganier praised the work of the Auburn students and staff involved with the project, which included senior Tyler Vassar and Glenn Richey, Harbert Eminent Scholar and chair of the Department of Supply Chain Management.

“They were extremely professional and very responsive,” Barganier said. “Almost every week, we held Zoom calls to answer any questions they may have, provide context for them as they conducted the research and generally discuss the

status of the project.

“I would recommend more of these types of partnerships, as they are mutually beneficial to both parties,” he said.

“I’m even looking to conduct a similar study for another industry sector and would certainly consider AU again.”

Gaston agreed: “I did an earlier, separate project with Auburn’s Harbert College of Business supply chain department and was very pleased.

When the Alabama Iron and Steel Council needed this economic impact study, I thought Harbert would be a good resource, and it surely was.”

NO SURPRISE; THERE’S HISTORY The economic revelations shared in the iron and steel report shouldn’t come as too big a surprise, Alabama’s Secretary of Commerce Greg Canfield said,

pointing to the industry’s historic influence on the state.

“Alabama's iron foundries and steel mills acted as a catalyst in the industrialization of the state's economy going back more than a century, and the industry continues to be an important employer in communities across the state, supporting jobs that pay far above average wages,” Canfield said.

“Today, the iron and steel industry in Alabama remains committed to growth, thanks to new investments that will increase production through processes that are sustainable and more environmentally positive.”

Meanwhile, Barganier hopes the new report sends a clear message about the importance of ALL industry and manufacturing in Alabama.

“At Manufacture Alabama, we are blessed to wake up each day and represent a variety of industry sectors,” he said.

"I consider our member companies the backbone of Alabama’s economy.

“The hard-working employees take pride in manufacturing items right here in Alabama. Many people take our industry for granted. Rarely do people think about the pipes that transport clean water or sewage. Rarely do they think about the steel beams used to construct buildings or the materials used to manufacture automobiles.

It’s an easy group of companies to represent because what they do enhances the quality of life for every resident of our state.”

Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its

commitment to worldclass scholarship, interdisciplinary research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, lifechanging outreach with Carnegie’s Community Engagement designation and an undergraduate education experience second to none. Auburn is home to more than 30,000 students, and its faculty and research partners collaborate to develop and deliver meaningful scholarship, science and technologybased advancements that meet pressing regional, national and global needs.

Auburn’s commitment to active student engagement, professional success and public/private partnership drives a growing reputation for outreach and extension that delivers broad economic, health and societal impact.

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Opelika E vents, Society & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS Oct. 14 & 15: Pine Hill Cemetery Lantern Tour Oct. 15 & 16: 9th annual Haunted Auburn Walking Tour Oct. 22: Halloween Enchanted Forest at Kreher Nature Preserve

Pepperell Baptist Church Celebrates 95th Anniversary With Special Service, Lunch PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

O

n Sunday, Oct. 3, Pepperell Baptist Church celebrated its 95th anniversary with a homecoming service and lunch with 103 members and friends attending. Rev. Mike Newman is the current pastor, and the guest speaker for the occasion was Dr. Bill King.

Music was under the direction of Rev. Bryan Hawkins. His wife, Amy, and their church pianist, Kelley Turner, were the accompanists for the special music.

Following the service, a covered dish lunch was served in the fellowship hall. The church has many good cooks who prepared their favorite dishes.

Mary Barnes decorated the tables, covered in yellow cloths, with festive autumn arrangements.

Over the years, the church has published two cookbooks, volumes one and two of The Pepperell Family Favorites. Proceeds from the first volume went toward “retiring the debt of our church building.” The cookbook committee included Kay Cook, Janet Meredith, Sue Peppers, Dot Pugh, Susan Skinner, Brenda Webster and Lynda Wood.

The second volume went toward future mission trip projects.

No dates were given in the cookbooks when they were published, and copies are no longer available. A variety of recipes from both these cookbooks are included with the recipes. Some of those members have passed away, but their recipes are still being prepared and enjoyed as they are remembered.

Mary Barnes Newman assembled the following history of Pepperell Baptist Church.

When cotton was king and textiles were flourishing, Pepperell Manufacturing Company came to Opelika in 1926 and built its mill on First Avenue. Not only was a mill established, but housing for mill employees and administrators was put in

Rev. Mike Newman is the current pastor at Pepperell Baptist Church and has served for seven years. His wife, Mary Barnes Newman, compiled the history of the church, which celebrated its 95th anniversary Oct. 3 with a homecoming service and covered dish lunch afterwards.

See CIPPERLY, page A10

Pioneer Day at Loachapoka Oct. 23 For half a century, the tiny historical town of Loachapoka has been a venue for an exciting fall festival, welcoming thousands of visitors each October. The fair continues its’ run with regular museum exhibits — blacksmith forge, cotton gin office, the old calaboose, museum of farm implements, Native American artifacts, spinning and weaving and the state’s second oldest log cabin — for Pioneer Day on Saturday, Oct. 23.

These will be joined by once-a-year demonstrators showing off their craft: pine needle basket weaving, loom weavers and spinners, local artisans and potters will all display their wares for sale. Mules will be at the antique cane mill squeezing juice for syrup making.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY LEE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCEITY

Children will be able to harvest peanuts, sweet potatoes, cotton and sugar cane. Many other old time crafts will be available.

On stage at the pavilion will be the incomparable Plantation Heirs, featuring Miss Ernestine Robinson. Entertainment will continue throughout the day with wellknown local artists.

Plenty of food will be available includ-

ing our famous sweet potato biscuits and fritters. Camp stew, beans and greens will be cooking over the fire. Food vendors will be there with a variety of festival foods.

Gate opens at 7:00 a.m and close at 3 p.m. Bring the whole family — admission is free. The town of Loachapoka and Lee County Historical Society hope to see everybody there.

A8 Oct. 14, 2021

Making the Grade: Poplar Dawg’s Eatery

L

ake Martin has over 750 miles of wooded shoreline and was at one time, the largest manmade lake in the world.

I was blessed to grow up only 10 minutes from Lake Martin and consider it to be the most beautiful lake in the great state of Alabama.

Whenever I get to visit the lake, I really enjoy riding in a boat. To me, nothing relieves stress like sitting in the front of the boat, enjoying the wind in my face and watching the sun make the water sparkle. Any cares seem to melt away for the time being.

However, several decades ago, Lake Martin was the scene of some of the most embarrassing moments in my life. And there have been many of them. For instance, many years ago, my parents and I visited my much older brother Jim, his wife Rita, my niece Lindsay and my nephew Ryan at Tony’s lake cabin;

air above the water. Then I dropped like a rock into the water; the last thing I saw was my brother Jim bent over laughing hysterically in the boat. He and his family had pulled up just in time to see my big splash. My timing has always been perfect.

Again, after those two incidents, I stuck to boating and swimming.

If you are going to Lake Martin, or even if you’re not, be sure to stop in and eat at the Poplar Dawg’s Eatery at

10277 County Road 34 in Dadeville. The restaurant first opened on Aug. 16, 1996. Then Jeremy Berry bought it on Jan. 1, 2018. I really love the casual atmosphere, and Berry and his staff are very welcoming and helpful.

Awhile back, Mike, Mama and I went to lunch at the Poplar Dawg’s. The restaurant serves a large variety of delicious sandwiches, which come with chips. Mike chose the Grilled Cheese, which

PHOTO BY MIKE WALLACE

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

Tony is Rita’s brother.

During that particular lake trip, Jim tried to teach me to water ski. I still remember his instructions: “Keep your knees together; hold your skis up straight; let the boat pull you up.” I tried to do as Jim advised, but I never stood up, not even once. Instead, on that afternoon, I drank about half of Lake Martin as the boat dragged me through the water. After that, I decided to stick to boating and swimming.

To make matters worse, my niece Lindsay and nephew Ryan could water ski by age 5 and even learned to slalom.

Therefore, my complete failure was pretty humiliating. However, it wasn’t the last such moment.

On another trip to the lake, I observed people grabbing a long rope hanging from a tree, taking a running start and swinging over the water, their momentum carrying them back to the bank.

This activity looked like fun, so I decided to give it a try, even though I was fully clothed and not wearing a swimsuit.

Apparently, it takes a really fast running start to cause enough momentum to be able to swing you back to the bank. I wish I had figured that part out because when I swung over the lake, I lacked that momentum. Instead of swinging back to the bank, for a split second, I hung suspended in the

had cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. He said it was really good. Mama ordered the Club, which had Black Forest ham, smoked turkey bacon, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise on sourdough. She really enjoyed it; in fact, it was so good that she got a to-go box, something she almost never does. Mama doesn’t eat much, but she

wanted the rest of that sandwich.

I chose the Mabel, which had honey mustard, cheddar cheese, lettuce and tomato on French bread. Oh, my two times.

Needless to say, I didn’t need a to-go box.

Besides a large variety of sandwiches, the Poplar Dawg’s Eatery also offers delicious salads and blue plate lunch specials on Monday through Saturday.

The Poplar Dawg’s Thursday night specials include ribs and prime rib. Fridays and Saturdays are charcoal-grilled steak nights; in addition, the restaurant serves boneless center-cut pork chops and lobster tails on those nights. Believe me, the steaks and pork chops are NOT to be missed.

The Poplar Dawg’s Eatery is closed on Sunday.

The restaurant is open on Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.

The Poplar Dawg’s Eatery makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher.

Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in the Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com

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A9 Oct. 14, 2021

OCTOBER 15-17, 2021

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN OPELIKA

THE WAR AND TREATY

SHAWN MULLINS DARK WATER SARAH LEE GUTHRIE JOHN PAUL WHITE DAN NAVARRO JEFFREY STEELE MINDY SMITH JEFF BLACK KIM RICHEY GRAYSON CAPPS AMY LAVERE CHARLIE MARS LEIGH NASH CHRIS STILLS STEVE POLTZ MARTHA'S TROUBLE ADAM HOOD ABE PARTRIDGE LIZ LONGLEY PIERCE PETTIS JANET SIMPSON WYATT EDMONDSON KATIE MARTIN BRADLEY COLE SMITH JENNIFER LYNN SIMPSON HARAWAY BROTHERS BB PALMER MARK TRUE EVAN STEGNER BRET MCDANIEL STEPHANIE JECK MAKE SURE WEBSTER’S WHEEL MUTT COOPER DAVE POTTS SCOTT SINGER EDUARDO LEON TED MCVAY BRIAN ATKINS COLEMAN.X

PRODUCED BY

OPELIKASONGWRITERSFESTIVAL.COM

A10 Oct. 14, 2021

CIPPERLY

>>

FROM A7

place, which is now known as Pepperell Mill Village.

The owners and managers of Pepperell Manufacturing Company knew that the success of this venture would require a strong spiritual base provided by corporate worship and fellowship through a local congregation of Christians. With such planning and foresight, Pepperell Baptist Church was founded the same year the mill came into existence.

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> A.D. CHICKEN Mary Barnes Newman This is one of our favorites.

Chicken tenders for breasts 1 pkg. dry onion soup mix 1 bell pepper, chopped Sliced tomatoes Small bottle zesty Italian dressing (use about three-fourths of bottle) Place uncooked chicken in a 9 x 13 Pyrex or other baking dish. Sprinkle dry soup mix over chicken. Then, sprinkle chopped bell pepper over soup mix and cover with sliced tomatoes.

Pour zesty Italian dressing over top. Cover and cook 1 hour and 30 minutes at 325 degrees.

GRANDMOTHER’S CARROT CAKE Beth Pinyerd My grandmother, Lily Mae Jones, was known to be such a good cook.

She cooked cakes for the entire community.

Her carrot cake was an autumn favorite.

Carrot Cake: 2 cups sugar 1 1/2 cups corn oil 4 eggs 2 cups plain flour (all-purpose) 2 tsp. soda 1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. cinnamon 3 cups raw carrots 1/2 cup chopped pecans Cream sugar and oil; add eggs and cream well.

Sift dry ingredients and add to mixture. Fold in carrots and nuts.

Place batter in three greased cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or cake tests done by inserting a toothpick near the center.

Icing: 1 lb. box confectioners’ sugar 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese 1/2 stick oleo (margarine or butter) 2 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. sweet milk, if needed Beat until smooth. Spread icing between layers and over cake.

MACARONI AND CHEESE Beth Pinyerd My grandmother taught all her granddaughters how to make this recipe.

Cook macaroni as directed on package and drain.

Grate about 2 cups cheese.

Grease a 2 quart baking dish with butter. Put a

The church had very humble beginnings after the mill began operations in March 1926.

Services were held in vacant houses being led by available pastors.

As interest grew, the congregates realized the need for a more formal building in which to worship.

To meet the need, Pepperell Manufacturing Company built a “Union Church” in the center of the village.

On Sunday, Oct. 10, 1926, Pepperell Baptist Church was organized with 13 charter members. Rev. Joe Collum

was called to serve as the first pastor.

From October 1926 to February 1945, the Baptists and Methodists shared use of the Union Church for their services each Sunday by alternating weeks. In February 1945, Pepperell Baptist church vacated joint use of the building and began meeting in the Pepperell School building.

A building fund was established to construct a new church edifice, which was completed in October in 1949 with the first service being held on the 20th of the

month.

Since that time, Pepperell Baptist Church has experienced steady growth in numbers as well as an expansion of its campus. The Gilmer Annex, which served as an educational building, was constructed between 1951 and 1956 solely by members.

The Annex was expanded in 1961, and today it provides space for educational needs, as well as space for social gatherings. A new auditorium was approved for construction in April 1981 and completed in November

1982. What started with 13 charter members is now full service Christian fellowship with adequate space for anyone desiring to attend.

One of the most effective ministries initiated by Pepperell Baptist Church is Master Builders, which was founded by the late Chyron Wood 35 years ago. Master Builders is known for its helping hands by taking summer mission trips to renovate churches around the southeast, participating in Disaster Relief efforts, helping local families with disabili-

layer of macaroni, layer of cheese, dot with butter and add salt and pepper.

Repeat layers until dish is full. Last layer should be macaroni.

Beat 3 eggs. Add 2 cups milk. pour over macaroni and cheese.

Dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbles.

2 to 3 dressed catfish (per person) ¼ cup white corn meal ¼ cup plain flour ¼ cup Lawry’s seasoned salt 1 cup buttermilk 2 Tbsp. cayenne pepper 1 qt. peanut oil Combine salt, pepper and buttermilk in mixing bowl. In second bowl, combine corn meal and flour. Dredge fish in milk mix, then dust in dry mix to make batter.

Heat peanut oil to frying temperature in skillet. Pan-fry each fish until well done and tender. Serve with potatoes and greens.

Caramel Filling: 1 cup white sugar 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup water or milk Combine ingredients in a saucepan. Cook until syrupy. Mix some nuts, raisins or coconut in filling, if desired.

Spread in layers and on top.

¼ tsp. sage 1 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. pepper Cut pocket in chops along the bone. Pour milk over breadcrumbs.

Stir in apples, raisins, salt, the sage and melted butter. Stuff each chop with about ¼ cup of filling.

Brown chops in shortening or oil. Pour oil off when browned and season with pepper and salt. Cover tightly and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour.

Serves 6.

SWEET AND SOUR MEATBALL APPETIZERS Cindy Keith Meatballs: 2 lb. ground chuck 2 slices bread 1 1/2 pkg. Lipton dry onion soup mix Sauce: 1 cup ketchup 8 Tbsp. vinegar 1 cup apricot nectar 8 Tbsp. brown sugar 4 tsp. mustard 4 tsp. horseradish 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce Meatballs: Combine ingredients and make small balls. Brown in butter. Set aside.

Sauce: Combine ingredients well over low heat until all mixed together. Do not boil.

Put into electric skillet or fondue pot: add meatballs. Serve with toothpicks.

CORNBREAD PIE Lynda Wood 1 lb. ground beef 1 large onion, chopped ¼ cup green pepper, chopped ½ stick margarine 1 can tomato soup 2 cups water 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper 1 Tbsp. chili powder 1 cup corn (fresh or canned) Sauté onion and green pepper in butter.

Remove from pan and brown ground beef.

Add onion and green pepper to browned beef; add soup, water, corn and seasonings.

Mix well and simmer for 20 minutes. Pour into buttered oblong casserole dish, 3/4 full, and cover with topping.

Bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees.

Topping: 3/4 cup corn meal 1 Tbsp. flour ½ tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. sugar 1 ½ tsp. baking powder 1 egg, beaten ½ cup milk 1 Tbsp. butter Sift dry ingredients together. Add egg, milk and butter. Pour over meat mixture.

CATFISH A LA SHARON Sharon Duffie

SQUASH CROQUETTES Wendi Foster Childs 3 cups cooked squash Salt to taste 2 Tbsp. chopped onion 3 Tbsp. melted margarine 2 cups cornbread crumbs 3 eggs (2 might be enough) Bread or cracker crumbs Drain and mash squash; add cornbread crumbs, onion, melted margarine and eggs. Stir well. Shape this mixture in croquettes and roll each in bread or cracker crumbs.

Fry in heavy frying pan. Best when fried in deep fat. Cook until brown on all sides; drain on paper towels.

JAM CAKE Bertha Thomaston 2 cups sugar 1 cup butter or margarine, room temperature 5 eggs, 1 beaten separately 3 ½ cups self-rising flour 1 tsp. soda 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. cloves 1 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. allspice 1 cup buttermilk 2 cups raisins, rolled in a little of the flour 2 cups blackberry jam (seedless) 1 cup nuts (pecans, more if desired) 1 cup coconut Combine butter and sugar; add eggs and beat. Add soda and spices to flour. Add a little flour to the raisins.

Add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk to sugar mixture. Mix well. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into greased layer pans.

Bake at 325 to 350 degrees about 25 minutes or until tests done by inserting a toothpick near the center.

BUTTERMILK CUSTARD PIE Judy Clark 1 ½ cups sugar 3 Tbsp. flour 2 eggs ½ cup melted butter 1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. lemon juice 1 cup buttermilk Mix all and pour into unbaked pastry shells.

Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes, then 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

CRUMB-TOPPED BAKED FRENCH TOAST Mission Team Cooks 2 eggs, well beaten ½ cup milk ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. vanilla 6 slices “Texas Toast” or other thicksliced bread 1 cup corn flake crumbs ¼ cup butter, melted Cinnamon Syrup: 1 1/3 cups sugar 1/3 cup water 2/3 cup white corn syrup 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 (5 oz.) can evaporated milk 1 Tbsp. butter ½ tsp. each almond and burnt sugar flavoring Combine eggs, milk, salt and vanilla; mix well. Dip bread slices into eggs mixture; coat both sides with crumbs.

Place on well-greased cookie sheet. Drizzle melted butter over crumb coated bread.

Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes.

Syrup: Combine sugar, water, corn syrup and cinnamon in saucepan. Bring to boil; cook 2 minutes.

Remove from heat; add milk, flavorings and butter. Serve warm with toast. Makes 4 servings.

Serve with Canadian bacon, bacon or sausage as desired.

APPLE-RAISIN STUFFED CHOPS Linda Gunter 6 thick pork chops 1/4 cup milk 1 cup soft breadcrumbs 1 cup finely chopped peeled apple ¼ cup raisins 1 Tbsp. melted butter 2 Tbsp. shortening or oil 1/8 tsp. salt

HUNGARIAN SHORT RIBS Margaret Waldrop 4 lb. beef short ribs 2 Tbsp. cooking oil 2 medium onions, sliced 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce 1 cup water ¼ cup vinegar 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. mustard 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 6 oz. noodles 1 cup water In Dutch oven brown meat in hot oil. Add onions; blend together tomato sauce, 1 cup water, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, mustard and Worcestershire sauce and pour over meat.

Cover and simmer for 2 ½ hours. Skim off fat.

Stir in noodles and other cup of water.

Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes.

Stir often. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

MEAT-ZA PIE Lynda Wood 1 lb. ground beef 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs ¼ tsp. garlic salt 1 small can evaporated milk 1/3 cup ketchup 1 small can mushrooms, sliced 2 to 3 slices cheese 1 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp. ground oregano Mix beef, crumbs, garlic salt and milk in an 8-inch or 9-inch pie plate. Shape into a crust with a fork. Put ketchup into the center area of meat crust. Layer mushrooms or 1/3 cup chopped green pepper if you prefer on the ketchup. Break cheese into strips and crisscross over the mushrooms.

Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and oregano.

Bake in 400 degree oven for 20 minutes.

Serve with a salad and a green vegetable. Quick and delicious supper.

SWEET POTATO HONEY BALLS

ties.

King Cotton is no more, and the textile mills are gone, but the seed that was planted by these entities, and during the era, has brought a great harvest through the years and continues to reproduce itself. The doors that God opens no man can shut.

The first pastor was Rev. Joe Collum. The present pastor is Rev. Mike Newman. In between there have been over 26 men used mightily by God. To God be the glory! Great things He has done!

Susan Skinner 2 ½ cups cooked sweet, mashed potatoes ¾ tsp. salt 5 Tbsp. margarine, melted and divided ½ cup miniature marshmallows 1/2 cup honey 1 cup chopped nuts Combine potatoes, salt and 2 tablespoons margarine. Stir in marshmallows. Chill. Shape potato mixture into balls using ¼ cup for each. Combine 2 tablespoons melted margarine and honey in a heavy skillet. Add balls, one at a time, quickly coating each with glaze.

Roll balls in pecans and place in greased shallow casserole. Drizzle with remaining margarine. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes.

CHOCOLATE ECLAIR CAKE Kim Peppers Hill 1 box graham crackers 2 (3 oz.) boxes French vanilla instant pudding 1 large container Cool Whip 3 cup milk 1 can ready-made chocolate frosting Mix pudding and milk. Add Cool Whip and mix. Layer graham cracker in bottom of 13 x 9-inch pan. Add layer of pudding mixture on top of graham crackers.

Alternate thin layers of graham crackers and pudding mixture, ending with layer of graham crackers.

Ice top layer with chocolate frosting. Refrigerate for 24 hours before serving. Cut into squares.

LORD BALTIMORE CAKE AND FILLING Ethel Freeman Filling: 2 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup milk 2 tsp. butter 1 lb. seedless raisins 1 lb. English walnuts (do not cook nuts) 1 lb. pecans Layers: 2 cups sugar 1 cup butter, room temperature 4 cups flour 1 cup milk 4 eggs Filling: Add sugar, milk and butter. Cook until thick, then take from heat. When cool stir in nuts Layers: Mix sugar and butter together. Combine milk and eggs, and mix in alternately with flour, beginning and ending with flour. Pour into three greased 9-inch cake pans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and tests done by inserting a toothpick near the center.

Fill cooled cake with filling and spread on top.

See CIPPERLY RECIPES, page A11

A11 Oct. 14, 2021

Begin Deer Season with Food Safety in Mind Deer season opens Oct. 15. Mark Smith, a wildlife scientist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, said hunters need a game plan to get venison from the field to the table safely.

“Hunters need a plan for managing heat, moisture and bacterial contamination," Smith said. “Those are the big three factors that can cause meat to spoil.”

He said while there is no “right” way to field dress a deer, the bottom line is to choose a quick and efficient method that minimizes the exposure of meat to bacteria.

“Potential contamination sources include the animal’s rumen or other stomach material, feces, urine and foreign debris such as dirt,” Smith said.

“Remember bacteria naturally occurs just about everywhere.”

BEST PRACTICES Smith offers specific tips for ensuring harvested meat is safe for the dinner table.

Cool the carcass quickly and keep it cool. Meat must be kept cool from the time that the animal dies until it is cut, packaged and placed in the freezer, or until it is consumed. Cooling game to less than 40 degrees farenheit as quickly as possible will slow the growth of

bacteria and keep the meat from spoiling.

Remove the hide to ensure proper cooling if the carcass will hang outside to cool. A general rule of thumb for deer-sized animals is to remove the hide if temperatures exceed 40 degrees farenheit.

Avoid the use of plastic bags or tarps for transporting the carcass or parts such as hind quarters or backstraps. Plastics seal in moisture and heat. Use breathable cotton game bags or heavy-duty cheesecloth bags made specifically for game meat.

Keep the knife as clean as possible during field dressing and butchering. Use anti-bacterial hand

wipes to clean the blade and hands when needed.

If the hunting weather is warm, consider purchasing an insulted cooler bag to help keep the carcass cool. These full-sized insulated bags will hold an entire carcass along with ice to keep temperatures safe.

A slurry of ice, water and salt can be used to cool meat quickly. Add coarse salt and water to a cooler full of ice and stir.

As soon as possible, hoist the carcass to allow better air circulation and speed the cooling process.

Never tie a deer carcass on over the hood of a vehicle.

Engine heat can ruin

STOCK PHOTO

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES / WRITTEN BY MAGGIE LAWRENCE

meat in a hurry.

If the cavity needs rinsing due to leakage of intestinal fluids, feces or urine, do so sparingly. Then, wipe dry immediately using paper towels. Moisture causes bacteria to multiply — potentially causing meat spoilage.

MORE INFORMATION Smith said having plans on how to handle a harvested animal

before leaving for a hunt will help ensure hunters bring home healthy and safe meat for their families to enjoy. For more information, visit the Alabama Extension website.

Alabama Extension’s video series on deer processing may be of particular interest to deer hunters.

Want to Have a Fall Vegetable Garden? Time is Running Out For those hoping to have a fall vegetable garden this year, it's time to get on it. It will soon be too late to plant. If you are running a little behind, there is no need to worry. An Alabama Cooperative Extension System agent is here to help.

GETTING STARTED First things first. Get the garden plots ready for the fall crops. Brian Brown, an Alabama Extension home grounds, gardens and home pests regional agent, said gardeners can plant their fall crops in the same place they had their summer garden.

However, there are a few cleaning steps they will need to take.

“To clean up your garden plot from its summer crops, pull up any spent plants, as well as any weeds,” Brown said. “Then, till the garden to a depth of approximately 6 to 8 inches. You can also

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> OLD FASHIONED EGG CUSTARD Elzona Mezick ¾ cup butter or margarine 2 eggs 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 3/4 cup evaporated milk ¼ cup water 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract 1 unbaked pie shell 2/3 cup sugar Cream butter. Gradually add sugar to butter mixture, beating well.

Add flour; stir in milk, water and vanilla. Pour into pie shell. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until done.

MISSISSIPP1 MUD CAKE Janice Berardi 2 cups sugar 1/3 cup cocoa 3 sticks margarine, room temperature

incorporate a complete fertilizer into the soil when you till.”

PLANTING FALL VEGETABLES Ideally, gardeners would need to start fall crops in August or September. However, planting can be done up until mid-October, depending on the area of the state. Brown said gardeners in south Alabama can plant a few weeks later than those in north Alabama can.

“To determine when to plant, find your location’s average first freeze date, then count back the time to harvest for the particular crop you are planting,” Brown said.

While some may think fall is a scarce growing season, there are actually many vegetable crops that can be grown. Some of the more popular crops include cabbage, lettuce, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts, mustard greens, spinach, radishes and turnip greens.

According to Brown,

4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 1 ½ cups flour 1 cup coconut ½ cup chopped nuts 1 (7 oz.) jar marshmallow creme Frosting: 1 box powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/3 cup cocoa 1 stick margarine, room temperature ½ cup canned milk (can use regular milk) Cream sugar, cocoa and margarine. Add eggs and vanilla and mix well. Add flour, coconut and nuts.

Bake in a 9 greased 9 x 13-inch pan for about 40 minutes at 350 degrees or until tests done.

When done, immediately spread marshmallow creme over hot cake, gently.

Combine frosting ingredients and spread over cooled cake.

POP-UP PIZZA

STOCK PHOTO

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES / WRITTEN BY JUSTIN MILLER

while people can plant transplants, most fall gardening is done through direct seeding.

“It is important to remember that directseeded crops will need to be kept moist until they have emerged,” he said.

“Once they emerge, you should water deeply with approximately 1 inch of water per week.”

The October section of the Alabama Gardener’s Calendar provides a list of items that gardeners can do during the month.

Ann Newton 1 ½ lb. ground beef 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped green pepper 1 clove garlic, chopped 14 tsp. oregano ½ cup water 15 oz. tomato sauce 8 oz. mozzarella cheese Pop-Up Batter: 1 cup milk 1 Tbsp. oil 2 eggs 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ tsp. salt ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese In large skillet, brown ground beef; drain. Add onion, pepper, tomato sauce, garlic, oregano and water; simmer 10 minutes.

Pour beef mixture into 9 x 13-inch pan. Cover completely with mozzarella cheese.

Batter: Mix all ingredients.

Pour over cheese.

Bake at 375 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.

For those wishing to plant vegetable seeds, the following list breaks down items by three geographical areas of the state: South – October is the last fall month to plant the winter garden. Plant carrots, collards, kale, mustard, onion seeds, radishes, spinach and turnips. Plant Swiss chard in early October.

Central and South – Continue planting winter-hardy crops

such as beets, carrots, collards, kale, parsley and spinach.

North – Plant onion seeds and radishes in early October.

For gardeners that are going to plant winter-hardy vegetable transplants, they can continue to do this throughout the month of October.

EXTENDING THE GROWING SEASON Many of the fall vegetable crops are hardy

enough to withstand a frost. Also, if the winter temperatures are mild enough, there are some vegetables that can grow and produce on into the spring. Brown said there are a few measures that gardeners can take to potentially protect their crops from frost.

“Alabama has relatively mild winters, so giving your plants a little bit of frost protection can help extend the growing season,” Brown said.

“You can use something like a cold frame, row covers or something as simple as a milk jug to protect your crops from frost.”

MORE INFORMATION Time is limited, so grab the tiller and get started. More information on fall gardening is available in the Alabama Extension publication Basics of Fall Vegetable Gardening. Other gardening resources are available at www.aces. edu. Individuals can also contact their local Extension office for help.

Hi, I’m your new good neighbor.

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A12 Oct. 14, 2021

Seniors Just Want To Have Fun PHOTO BY MIKE WALLACE

CONTRIBUTED BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

DOWNTOWN EVENTS • Oct.14 at 7:30 p.m. — Trivia with Caroline in The Jailhouse, “Stephen King” at Rock 'N Roll Pinball • Oct. 14: — Live Music by Cameron Dubois at Resting Pulse Brewing Company • Oct. 15 through 17 — Opelika Songwriters Festival (multiple venues)

Life begins at 55.

At least it does at the Senior Adult Ministry (SAM) at Central Baptist Church of Opelika.

Back in 2012, Central Baptist had a new minister named Ross Kilpatrick. He called three ladies of the church together to discuss having something special for senior adults.

Kilpatrick suggested having a monthly game day for the group.

Two of those ladies, Fay Parker and Sue Fitzgerald, are part of SAM’s current seven-member team. According to Parker, each member of the team has a particular job to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

"I'm the spokesperson for SAM," Parker said.

"Also, Sue and I buy the prizes for the games."

Team members Bonnie Funderburk, Jean Rice and Angie Trammell plan SAM’s luncheon meals and cook them. Parker said that Virgil Funderburk and Reggie Trammell, the team’s two male members, provide moral support, put up/take down the tables, ice down drinks, help serve the food and provide any physical back up needed.

Fitzgerald said that the main purpose of SAM is to minis-

ter to senior adults, giving them a chance to socialize and have something fun to do.

"They have a really good time" Fitzgerald said. "They go away happy; it gives them a purpose."

In the early days of SAM, the group played bingo, dominoes, checkers, etc. However, bingo was by far the most popular game, so SAM had bingo and snacks each month.

People donated prizes and also brought finger foods.

After that, the church began to allocate money for SAM and provided the entrée, and the seniors brought covered side dishes, a natural thing for Baptists.

However, Fitzgerald said, “Then people decided that they would rather bring $5 for lunch so that they wouldn’t have to cook.”

After all, senior adults are retired, so who wants to cook?

Also, Parker said that before the pandemic, SAM traveled to Fort Benning to see the Infantry Museum. They were planning a trip to the Pharmavite Plant in Opelika, but they couldn’t go because of COVID. Unfortunately, COVID shut down SAM after March 11, 2020.

However, 16 months

later, Central Baptist senior adults were excited when July 14 arrived because SAM was back in business. Recently, Pat, who moved from Mississippi to Opelika to be near two of her children, came to a SAM meeting.

Pat said that she learned of Central Baptist Church and SAM because Parker had posted a picture on Facebook.

"I didn’t want to go to a big church, and Central Baptist wasn’t too big or too small," Pat said. "Also, Sue and Jerry Fitzgerald were extremely welcoming and friendly.”

Pat said she really enjoyed SAM. Although she said she had never won anything, she won twice at bingo.

In addition, Fitzgerald said that each SAM meeting has a theme.

For example, October’s theme is, “Fall is in the air.” Bingo prizes will be fall-related gifts such as: a bucket of mums, candy, apple pie wafers, pumpkin cookie mix, fall decorations and Halloween toilet paper, which plays scary music when it is unrolled. Also, SAM team members collected baby pictures from everyone. At the meeting, the pictures will be displayed on a board. Then everyone will try to guess who is who and will write their

answers on paper. The one who has the most correct answers will win a prize.

The SAM team members have all been blessed through serving senior adults. Parker said, “We laugh a lot; laughter is good for the soul. We have proven that old folks can have fun.”

Fitzgerald enjoys making the senior adults’ lives brighter.

She recently chatted on the phone with Miss Irene, a 98-year-old, who had been hospitalized, and wanted to know when SAM was meeting. When Fitzgerald asked her how she was feeling, Miss Irene said, “I’m feeling so good, but I need some bingo.”

Funderburk said, “I didn’t realize how much I had missed SAM. I just get joy out of serving seniors. The fellowship is inspirational and uplifting.”

Trammell also enjoys serving people and watching them have a good time.

“Getting to be together makes us more like a family,” she said. Rice agreed and said, “I just enjoy being with them.

We have a good time.”

SAM meets on the second Wednesday of the month at Central Baptist Church of Opelika at 1611 2nd Avenue. The gang will be ready to have fun.

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A13 Oct. 14, 2021

Remembering Who We Are

BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

W

e were getting ready to take our oldest daughter to Bible camp.

Another young lady, who would be riding with us, was being dropped off by her parents. She was their oldest child as well.

But her parents didn’t engage in a long, drawnout farewell (as I might have done). Nor was there any list of things

to do or not to do. They gave her a hug and a kiss, then her father looked her in the eye and said, “Remember who you are.”

Four simple words, but he said a lot, didn’t he? And of course, his point was if you remember who you are, everything will be fine.

We’ve taught you and shown you the right way. You know that and have lived in such a way. Just remember that and all will be well.

Yet as I write these words, I realize this makes it sound much easier than it actually is. The truth is, people often forget who they are for many reasons.

There is peer pressure, bad judgment, discouragement, loneliness and a host of other things

that can come into play.

All of these would be present in 5th century BC Persia for a young Jewish woman turned queen whose name was Esther. Forgetting who she was would be easy because she had concealed the fact that she was Jewish from everyone (2:10). It would be easy because as the wife of Xerxes, we watch as Esther grows in her influence and power. In fact, she’s queen for seven years before Mordecai asks her to go before the king and intervene on behalf of her people (compare 2:13 with 3:7). Her response in 4:11 makes it clear that she had become enculturated to the Persian way of doing things.

Has she forgotten

who she is?

Though it takes a bit of prompting from Mordecai, she has not. Risking her life, she initially goes before Xerxes in 5:1ff and again in 8:3.

She pleads for the king to do something to reverse Haman’s edict that will put to death all the Jewish people in Persia. In v. 6 she says: For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?

There’s something profoundly joyful in this — even though at this point we don’t know how everything else will work out, we know they have at least worked out for Esther.

She has not forgotten who she is. She has not forgotten where

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN she came from. She has not forgotten her people and is willing to put her life on the line for them. Seven years of pampered, palatial living have not overwritten her identity or diminished her devotion. Even as the world was telling her who she should be, she was remembering who she really was. In a world full of chameleons, Esther’s colors remained constant.

I like to think that God looked down on all this and said to one of the archangels, “The world needs to hear this story!”

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-ofgrace-with-bruce-green. com

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

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BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. — Psalm 34:12-13

CHURCH NEWS

DIRECTORY APOSTOLIC HOLINESS Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Inc. 28 Sanford Ave., Opelika 334-745-0210 God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528 Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Good Sheperd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151 Place your ad here!

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

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

Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

A14 Oct. 14, 2021

When You Are Wandering in the Wilderness

P

WALTER ALBRITTON

articipate in nursing home worship a few times and you will soon discover that residents who no longer talk will begin singing, from memory, some of the great old gospel songs.

Singing unlocks memories still preserved in aging minds. Seeing and hearing that happen is a beautiful experience.

In my advanced years I still remember the words of many hymns that I have sung hundreds of times in worship. So, to frighten loneliness away, I often entertain myself by singing songs that reaffirm lessons God has taught me. “Trust and Obey” is one such song, and as I sing these words I am refurbishing my faith: When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way!

While we do His good

will He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Those two words — trust and obey — are the gates to victorious living for Christ followers. Trust the Lord.

Why? Because of Who He is. He is the Creator of all things, of the world, of myself and of all those who are dear to me. He forgave my sins when He died on the cross. I can trust Him because He loves me. He is my Shepherd who is ready to guide, correct, comfort and use me.

Obey the Lord. Why? Because obedience is the pathway to blessing. He rewards my obedience with His blessings which are greater than the blessings offered by the world. Obedience is the gate to life.

Disobedience is the gate to defeat and death. If I break the Lord’s commandments, I really break my life. To refuse to obey the Lord is like sliding down the banisters of life with the splinters all pointed in my direction.

No one ever defined “trust and obey” better than Solomon: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your

own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). A man is never wiser than on the day when he admits that he is not smarter than God. Study the Psalms and you discover these songs include the “commands” of the Lord, the most frequent of which is “Praise the Lord.” Psalm 100, for example, includes several commands such as “Make a joyful noise to the Lord” and “Serve the Lord with gladness.”

Psalm 100 was evidently composed to be sung during the annual celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles, known also as the Sukkot. When God established this feast, through Moses (Leviticus 23), He used this words: “Take branches from luxuriant trees — from palms, willows and other leafy trees — and rejoice before the Lord your God for seven days.” There is a command: “Rejoice before the Lord your God.” The Israelites were instructed to live for seven days in temporary shelters, or “flimsy booths,” to remind them of their disobedience while wandering in the wilderness and living in temporary

shelters.

How did they disobey God? They complained about their problems instead of praising God for their deliverance. So why does God command them to “rejoice in the Lord their God? Because praise — rejoicing — is the pathway out of the wilderness. We see this clearly in the New Testament when Saint Paul, more than once, tells his suffering Christian friends to rejoice always, giving thanks in all circumstances.

I have learned that rejoicing is the pathway out of my wilderness days.

Complaining only makes my plight worse. What helps is to embrace the truth that God’s commands are not suggestions. His instructions are commands. So when I am in the wilderness of self-pity, or depression, or loneliness, or discouragement, or suffering, or prolonged grief, I try to remember that God commands me to get outside, look up at the stars and the clouds, and rejoice in the Lord, no matter how dire my circumstances.

And what better way to rejoice than to sing! I can sing the Psalms! I can sing the songs stored in my memory bank, like this one: “Rejoice in the Lord

always, and again I say Rejoice!” When I am in tears, when sorrow has me by the throat, I can refuse to complain and rejoice in the Lord — and walk right out of the wilderness.

When you find yourself in the wilderness, remember: There is a way out.

You don’t have to stay there. You can sing your way out.

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again i say rejoice!

Praise him, praise him, all ye little children, God is love.

Praise him, praise him, Jesus our blessed redeemer, sing o earth, his wonderful love proclaim.

Rejoice, the Lord is king, your Lord and king adore!

Lift up your heart, lift up your voice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice, ye pure in heart, rejoice, give thanks and sing; your festal banner wave on high, the cross of christ your king; rejoice, rejoice, rejoice, give thanks and sing.

I’ve got the joy, joy down deep in my heart I'm learning to lean, learning to lean, learning to lean on Jesus, finding more power than I'd ever dreamed, I'm learning to lean on Jesus.

One day in milton, florida, I was visting a woman dying with cancer.

She was skin and bones. I asked if she would like to be baptized and confess Jesus as her savior so she could receive the gift of eternal life. She said yes and fell on her knees as her coffee table. I baptized her and asked Ralph Freeman to sing. He sang this: Praise God from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below; praise him above, ye heavenly host; praise father, son and holy ghost.

Today, no matter what hard times you are facing, you shall be wise to obey God’s command to rejoice in the Lord your God. You could do that by singing psalm 100: Lord, today I come before you and by faith I choose to make a joyful shout to you. With your grace I will serve you with gladness, come into your presence with songs in my heart; I will affirm you as the God who made me; you are my shepherd, I am one of your sheep; as long as I have breath, I will come before you with praise, for you are good and your mercy is everlasting and your truth will never die. Hallelujah!

Amen!

she thought of as a son-his wife Haley; great niece, Taytum and great nephew, Lawson; her devoted sister and brotherin-law, Mike and Malissa Adams and many other friends and family members.

Tina and the family would like to thank the Messer, Stewart, and Smith families.

The congregation of Marvyn Parkway Baptist Church for all of their prayers and support throughout her life and during this battle with cancer.

A private ceremony was held honoring her request.

grandchildren and friends. She had such a talent and loved blessing people with her beautifully made quilts.

Pastine is survived by her husband, Lester Rushing; children: Stephanie Wamick (Steve), Robyn Good (Bill), Shanon Cornell (Doug) and Jennifer Rushing; grandchildren: David Foti, Drew Johnson, Colton Wamick, Ashton Johnson, Rachel Good, Jon Good, Lawson Cornell and Laurel Cornell; many great grandchildren; sister, Ann McCarley and brother, Billy Johnson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willis and Dolly Johnson and her sister, Sally Crosson.

Family and friends are invited to join the family for a final goodbye to Pastine with a memorial service held at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home on Frederick Road, Opelika on Thursday, Oct. 14, 2021 at 1 pm. In lieu of the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choosing in Pastine Rushing’s name.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home is directing.

OBITUARIES TIFFANY ROBINSON Mrs. Tiffany Robinson, 40, of Opelika passed away Oct. 4, 2021 at her residence.

Mrs. Robinson was born Aug. 28, 1981 in Opelika, Alabama to parents James and Sherri Harris.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph D. Robinson; her parents; sons: Brad (Holly Lane), Austin, Corey and Tate Robinson; sister, Kristi Ray (Jamie); brother, Richard Harris (Belinda); nieces: Kayla Ray and Alexis Harris; nephews: Dylan Ray and Jarred Harris; great nephews: Keaton and Cooper; She is also survived by many great friends: Annette Taylor, Kevin Fryer, Robert Smith and his family, Billy Henderson and his family, Calvin Wallace and his family, Albert Freeman and his family, Paula Belcher and her family and her 5 Star Bail Bond family.

Funeral services for Mrs. Tiffany Robinson were held Monday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home.

A visitation was held an hour and a half prior to the service from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Reverend Terry Pitts and Reverend Thad

Endicott officiated and burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

––––––– KAY WALKER Mrs. Kay Walker, 66, of Opelika passed away Monday, Oct. 4, 2021 at her daughter’s home in Opelika.

Mrs. Walker was born Dec. 7, 1954 to parents Benjamin and Harriet Jones in Chatham County, Georgia. She worked as an associate of Walmart in Prattville, Alabama and Auburn.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Jamie Walker.

Mrs. Walker is survived by her daughter, Susie Gamble (Jeff) of Opelika and grandchildren: Nick Carter- Hough (Travis) of Atlanta, Georgia, Davis Gamble (Candice) of Austin, Texas, Mason Gamble and Tristan Gamble of Opelika and her brother, Walker Jones (Judy) of Savannah, Georgia.

A visitation for Mrs. Kay Walker was held Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021 from 6 to 8 p.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

with Pastor John Fox and Pastor Steve MacInnis officiating.

–––––––

–––––––

MARY SUE MCDOUGALD WATSON

TINA LOUISE

Mary Sue McDougald Watson of Opelika was born to the late E.C. and Lillian Holmes McDougald on Jan. 26, 1948 and passed away on Oct. 10, 2021. She was 73 years old.

She was an educator for over 40 years and a Member of Society Hill Methodist Church.

She is survived by her children, Art Watson (Somer) and Mac Watson (Kate); grandchildren, Trey Watson, Cooper Watson, Eli Watson, Colton Watson and Nathan Watson; brother, John Larry “Bo” McDougald (Angie); the father of their children, Terry Watson, as well as nieces, nephews and other family members.

The family received friends Tuesday, Oct. 12, in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m.

A Celebration of Life was held in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021 at 2 p.m.

Tina Louise was laid to rest on Oct. 8, 2021, she passed away on Oct. 5, 2021 at the age of 53 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Before her journey began she was a dedicated cosmetologist for almost 25 years.

She cherished all the cards, texts, and encouraging words from her clients during this journey.

She loved fishing and going to the beach.

Most importantly she was a faithful servant for the Kingdom of God, giving her time in the local communities through food distribution, making prayer cloths for those who were in need of healing.

She continued her ministry by praying for as many people as she could, believing that God IS a healer.

She left behind a testament that will NOT soon be forgotten.

She went home to be with Jesus, and is survived by her precious daughters, Samantha Escobar, and Kristian Cottle; granddaughter, Eleni; nephew, Nathan Adams, who

––––––– PASTINE RUSHING The world lost a beloved wife, mother, sister and friend, Pastine Rushing, on Sunday, Oct. 10. Pastine lost the battle to Covid, but is now dancing with Jesus. Pastine died surrounded by her husband, Lester; children: Stephanie, Robyn, Shanon and Jennifer.

Pastine was born in Glenwood, Alabama on Aug. 3, 1942.

She was the most loving, kind and witty person anyone could have the privilege of knowing.

Pastine’s passion was making quilts for her children,

A15 Oct. 14, 2021

05 OCT 2021

14 NOV 2021

07

25

DEC 2021

JAN 2022

PiloboluS: The biG five-oh!

The Simon & G a r f u n k e l S T o ry

million Dollar QuarTeT: ChriSTmaS

The kniGhTS wiTh aaron Diehl

Pilobolus at 50 is still wowing audiences with its irresistible mix of wit, sensuality, and stunning physical acumen, bringing its greatest-hits mix of dances, plus the dynamically reimagined and never-beforeseen, using new projection technology and hand-held cameras operated by the dancers themselves.

The timeless music of folk-rock legends, Simon and Garfunkel, comes alive in a staged tribute to the record-breaking reunion concert in Central Park, September 19, 1981.

Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis are all back in Memphis, reunited in Sam Phillip’s legendary Sun Records studio for a jam session of their favorite Holiday songs.

The Knights, New York City’s eclectic and internationally sought-after orchestral collective, returns to Opelika with an electrifying program including Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite” and George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody In Blue”, featuring acclaimed jazz pianist, Aaron Diehl.

30

27

Scan each QR code with the camera app on a smart phone or tablet to watch a preview!

07 FEB 2022

28 FEB 2022

MAR 2022

APR 2022

a TribuTe To areTha franklin: The Queen of Soul

S y n C o PaT e D laDieS

mnoZil braSS

an ameriCan i n Pa r i S

Damien Sneed’s new multimedia production celebrates the life and career of the most successful female recording artist in history, featuring fourtime Grammy Award-winning gospel legend, Karen Clark Sheard

Take Chloe Arnold’s cross section of today’s most popular music, mix in the swing of syncopation, the thrill of improvisation, and the energy of tap, and you have a recipe for the empowerment of young women ready to take on the world.

Mnozil Brass, the Austrian band known as the Monty Python of the music world, seamlessly combines slapstick comedy with extraordinary musical ability for an over-the-top fun, virtuosic, and laugh-out-loud experience.

With gravity-defying dance, this four Tony Award-winning Broadway production, based on the Academy Award-winning film, soars with youthful optimism and the power of love. Featuring the songs of musical geniuses George and Ira Gershwin - I Got Rhythm, Liza, ‘S Wonderful, But Not for Me, and Stairway to Paradise - who could ask for anything more!

for TiCkeT informaTion Call 334-749-8105 or viSiT www.eaSTalabamaarTS.orG

A16 Oct. 14, 2021

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

S

S

Opelika Celebrates Senior Night, Beats Lee 21-20 In OT

O

caught an 18-yard pass from Glagliano with 10:02 remaining in the first quarter for the first touchdown and Kaden Cooper ran in a 1-yard touchdown with 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter.

This week, the Dogs host Valley (3-4 / 1-4) for homecoming on Friday night at Bulldog Stadium.

The Rams (3-4, R 1-4) opened the season with two wins, 18-7 over Beauregard and 14-8 over Lanett. VHS then lost four in a row — Carver 29-14, Russell County 35-20, Sidney Lanier 28-6 and Eufaula 33-0. The Rams broke the losing streak last Thursday night, beating Park Crossing 12-7 at Ram Stadium.

Opelika and Valley have played each other 48 times, each winning 23 games with two ties. The first VHS versus OHS football game was in 1936 and the last game was 2015. OHS won by forfeit last year due to Valley having COVID issues. Opelika has won six in a row: 2020, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 1997. The Rams last win over OHS was in 1996.

A win over Valley gives Opelika the Region 2 championship and a first round playoff game.

See SPORTS, page B4

Auburn: Nov. 9 at 6 p.m.

There were moments of good and plenty of positives to take away from Friday night’s game, but Beauregard failed to play well enough on either side of the ball as the hometown Sylacauga Aggies (5-2 / 3-1) defeated the Hornets 42-14.

The loss, Beauregard’s fifth in a row, dropped the Hornets to 2-6 overall and fifth in Alabama’s 5A Region 4 standings at 1-4.

As a side note, Sylacauga’s win was the first win against the Hornets for the new Aggies head coach — and former Beauregard coach (2014-20) — Rob Carter.

As far the game goes, unfortunately, it was more

of the same for a Hornet offense that has struggled to find consistency all season. Penalties and turnovers nullified scoring plays and threw the Hornet’s offensive game plan off schedule.

Even so, the Hornets managed to manufacture some chances and executed well on a couple of drives in the second and third quarter. Junior running back Qua Barnes took a screen pass deep into the the Aggie redzone to set up a 2 yard QB keeper for touchdown by junior quarterback Trent Moulton in the second quarter, tying the score at 7-7. Sylacauga responded with two more scores before the half and the Hornets trailed 21-7 at the break.

Beauregard head coach Justin Jones

Box Score Beauregard Sylacauga

1st 0 7

In the third quarter, Beauregard came out strong as Moulton used his legs to engineer another scoring drive, finding pay dirt on a QB keeper

2nd 7 14

3rd 7 14

4th 0 7

from 5 yards out as time expired in the quarter.

The rest of the game was a muddled affair, See HORNETS, page B4

Auburn Looks to Find Positives, Fix Problems Following Georgia Loss

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM In a ruckus 24 hours of college football Saturday, the only feathers Auburn ruffled were its own.

The Tigers flashed moments of proficiency in the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry, but an excess of miscues on both sides of the ball led to a 34-10 defeat at the hands of the visiting No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs.

“I told the players at the end of the game, ‘It’s a long season,’” said Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin, in his postgame press conference. “There’s still a lot of football to be played. There’s a lot of things that we know we’re not there yet that we are going to keep working

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

pelika High held senior night last Friday prior to the RE Lee football game.

Seniors in the band, cheerleading and on the football team were honored on the field prior to the game.

After the completion of honoring seniors, fans watched the varsity Opelika Bulldogs (5-3 / 5-0) win 21-20 in an overtime thriller. The game was tight until the end — tied 7-7 at halftime and 14-14 at the end of regulation.

Opelika's Tony Powell caught a 4-yard pass from QB Roman Gagliano on the first possession in OT; Charles Gagliano made the PAT to put the Bulldogs up 21-14.

On its overtime possession, Lee answered. The Generals scored a TD on a 1-yard third down run but received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after the score. The 15-yard penalty was accessed on the extra-point, moving the line of scrimmage to the 18-yard line. This resulted in Lee attempting a twopoint conversion instead of kicking the PAT. Ole Miss commit Jarell Stinson knocked the football out of a Lee player's hand to preserve the one-point victory.

Offensively, Opelika scored 14 points in regulation. Jayvontay Conner

Opelika: Oct. 26 at 4:30 p.m.

INSIDE • OPELIKA/AUBURN SCHOOLS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • COMMUNITY SPORTS

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

D. MARK MITCHELL

Lee County: Oct. 19 at 6 p.m.

Carter Beats Former Team Hornets Lose 42-14

BY RICK LANIER FOR THE OBSERVER

ON THE MARK

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

hard at.”

Things started well for the Tigers against their cross-state rivals, as an opening 17-play drive ended in a 24-yard Anders Carlson field goal — putting the Bulldogs behind

in a game for the first time this season.

The hope that Georgia would crumble in the face of its first adversity of the season quickly subsided, however. Miscues began to plague Auburn as

the offense failed to score on its next six drives (which resulted in an interception, four punts and a turnover on downs) and in turn saw the Bulldogs stretch their lead to See TIGERS, page B7

Excellence. Innovation. Compassion.

East Alabama's "Go-To" Center For Orthopaedic Care Auburn 1800 Lakeside Circle, Auburn Opelika 18 Medical Arts Center 121 North 20th Street, Opelika

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B2 Oct. 14, 2021

Glenwood School

PLAYERS OF Lee-Scott Defense Shines in Shutout Win

THE ENTIRE GLENWOOD DEFENSE Only allowed 6 points

of the

Week Congratulations from

Lee Co. Revenue Commissioner Oline Price Opelika 215 S. 9th St. Opelika 334-737-3655

Smiths Station 2366 LR 430 Ste. 140 Smiths Station 334-664-0296

Auburn 1266 Mall Pkwy Auburn 334-737-7298

PLAYER OF THE WEEK The City of Opelika is proud to sponsor the Opelika High School Player of the Week.

We applaud you for your HARD WORK and DEDICATION on and off the football field.

SOPHOMORE QB ROMAN GAGLIANO 2 TD passes

HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

When the LeeScott Academy Warriors traveled to Mongtomery, Alabama, on Friday night to take on the Knights of Valiant Cross Academy, the navy and scarlet sought to build upon a three-game winning streak in which Buster Daniel’s defense had shined. The Warrior defense proved ready for the challenge again in Lee-Scott’s 16-0 defeat of VCA. After receiving the ball to open the contest and being forced into a punt on the Warriors’ first possession, junior linebacker Landry Cochran gave his offense another opportunity to post points on the board by intercepting an errant pass off the arm of senior VCA quarterback Antavious Jackson.

Following the turnover, Daniel’s offense drove the length of the field before sputtering inside the 10 yard line and was forced to attempt a field goal which was ultimately blocked, seemingly shifting momentum back in favor of the Knights. The Warrior defense had other plans; the stifling front seven forced the white and gold into a game-altering safety.

“Any time you can get a safety from a defensive standpoint it helps out,” said Lee-Scott head coach Buster Daniel “That was a big turning point for us. We were struggling to get anything going offensively so our defense pulled us out right there.“ It was at this point at which the scarlet and navy special teams had

its opportunity to prove its worth. Senior wide receiver Patrick Futch took the safety-induced free kick all the way back for a 68-yard house call, a feat that his head coach claims to have effectively energized the LSA sideline. “[I told him] great job,” Daniel said of Futch’s return. “That’s exactly how you run a kickoff back, you know, there is no dancing around or tip-toeing, it’s just find a seam, hit it and run it full speed.

So, excited to see him do that."

When the VCA offense returned to the field, the Knights found themselves in a 9-0 hole and seemingly began to flail for any form of promising production; once again, Daniel’s defensive unit had other plans.

The Warriors forced the Knights into a punting situation at midfield where the unit brought the house and recovered a poor snap, leaving quarterbacks Tate Mckelvey and Ryan Dearling with sufficient field position to drive down the field yet again, finding sophomore wide receiver Andrew Hahn for a 17-yard touchdown through the air.

Lee-Scott headed to the locker room at halftime leading its opponent 16-0.

Happy with the first-half shutout, but wanting more from his offense, Daniel told his team in the locker room “to go back to the

basics and doing the things we were used to doing.”

Consistent with the majority of the Warriors’ previous contests thus far in 2021, the final 24 minutes of game time was a defensive showcase.

Despite the Warriors’ inability to establish any form of offensive consistency, there was seemingly no way for the hometown Knights to push themselves on the scoreboard.

The Warriors posted an additional pair of interceptions from junior DB Pete Lanier and sophomore linebacker Jonathan Meyers before the clock struck double zeros, leaving Daniel’s squad on the winning end of a 16-0 contest.

Despite the win, Daniel said there are things his team needs to improve on.

“We had a lot of trouble picking up there defensive fronts and moving the ball,” he said.

“We got to cut down on silly penalties, which are before the snap penalties — we had a lot of those.”

Lanier, Daniel and the rest of the Warriors will look to capture their fifth consecutive win as the squad plays host to 2-5 region foe Hooper Academy on Friday, Oct. 15. Kickoff between the two squads is set for 7 p.m. CST. “We are going to do what we do,” Daniel said. “This is a week to take care of LeeScott and get Lee-Scott better.”

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

GO DAWGS!

FRESHMAN RUNNING BACK JACORI TARVER 11 carries for 54 yards and 1 TD

#myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer

B3 Oct. 14, 2021

THE WEEK Panthers Mauled

by Wildcats, Fall to 1-6 HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

In the wake of a failed comeback against Jefferson Davis in week six, the Panthers of Smiths Station entered Friday with one goal in mind: willing themselves back into the win column.

Head coach Mike Glisson’s squad found themselves sitting at 1-5 overall with slim odds to make a playoff push. After falling to Enterprise 49-35 at T.C. Britton Field, the Panthers’ playoff hopes have all but diminished.

In a contest that did not lack in the offensive category, the Panthers came out swinging when sophomore punter and wide receiver Aubrey Wimberly returned the opening kickoff 85-yards for a Smiths Station touchdown, running just 15 seconds off the game clock.

“I thought it was really big,” Glisson said.

“But then here comes Enterprise rolling back and we made some mistakes.”

Despite having the momentum on its side early on, Glisson’s defense

was unsuccessful in preventing its opponent from effectively moving the ball and allowed the Wildcats to find paydirt on their first drive of the game. Smiths Station was unable to manufacture any form of positive play from that point until nearly halftime, allowing Enterprise to record an additional four touchdowns on its four ensuing drives.

Junior quarterback Jackson Greer faced a compilation of challenges. The Panther run game had little identity, receivers struggled to create separation and the Wildcat front seemed to be in the backfield immediately after the ball was snapped.

It was not until the black and silver’s defense forced the Wildcats into a fumble in their own territory that Glisson’s squad was able to get anything going on offense. With just north of 15 seconds remaining in the first half of play, Greer connected with sophomore running back Iverson Jones on a 14-yard touchdown pass.

“We got some momentum right before half,” Glisson said. “They had

a bad snap and we were in good position and make a big throw and catch.”

Trailing the Wildcats 35-13 when heading to the locker room at halftime, Glisson’s squad returned to the field as a seemingly different team in the final 24 minutes of play. The Panther defense held their opponents off on back-to-back possessions, leaving Greer and company with the opportunity to chip away at the Enterprise lead.

“We went into half time and said ‘hey guys, let’s fix this and come back out in the second half,” Glisson said. “We knew some things that they were having trouble covering so we said ‘hey, let’s run them until they cover them.’”

Just over eight minutes into the third period of play, the sophomore Panther quarterback connected with senior wideout Cianan Williams for a 60-yard touchdown strike only for the Wildcats to strike back in less than a minute of game time.

From there on, it was Greer’s turn to take over.

Beauregard High School SOPHOMORE QUARTERBACK TRENT MOULTON 2 TD runs

of the

Week Congratulations From the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Download the app today

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

See PANTHERS, page B4

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

SMITHS STATION PANTHERS

Serving Lee County since 2006

Smiths Station quarterback Jackson Greer throws a pass in the Panther's home game against Enterprise last Friday.

JUNIOR QUARTERBACK JACKSON GREER 175+ pass yards, 3 passing TD, 1 rushing TD

Serving Lee County since 2006

THE ENTIRE LEE-SCOTT DEFENSE Registered 4 INT's and allowed 0 points

B4 Oct. 14, 2021

Auburn Looks to ‘Woo’p the Hogs

It’s been one step forward, two steps backward for the Auburn Tigers this season.

Following Saturday’s 34-10 loss to No. 2 Georgia, head coach Bryan Harsin has another chance to ingratiate himself with the Auburn faithful as a hog molly of a matchup against the No. 17 Arkansas Razorbacks (5-2) awaits this weekend.

Ohh, the joys of an SEC schedule.

The road game against the red pigs presents a unique opportunity for the Tigers — a chance to build some momentum before the bye week as they head toward the home stretch of the season.

So, what do the -3.5-point underdog Tigers need to do to emerge victorious from Little Rock?

Number one is bring the physicality. I’m talking Bruce Pearl in the student section with his shirt off flexing physicality. Auburn was pushed around by

Georgia on Saturday — both on the offensive line and the defensive line (mostly in the second half). And the first thing Harsin said about Arkansas in his weekly press conference Monday was that the Hogs have some hogs up front. The Razorback’s identity is the ground game. If Auburn wants any shot at an upset, the defensive front needs to look more like they did in the first half of the Georgia game, and the offensive line needs to play angry.

Secondly, and this one piggybacks off the first, Auburn needs to establish the run. Tank Bigsby has looked a shell of himself this season. There is potential for a breakout game this week, however, as the Arkansas defense has allowed 181.5 rushing yards per game to its opponents this season.

Nevertheless, to have an effective run game, it’s going to take a complete team effort — offensive line, tight ends, receivers and the other talented running backs.

Everyone has to be focused. Harsin reiterated

at his press conference that Auburn has been trying to establish the run early in every game this season. Well, you wouldn’t know by the looks of it. Things need to improve in that area quickly.

Thirdly, the Auburn pass rush and linebackers have to contain Arkansas quarterback K.J. Jefferson.

The 6-foot-3-inch, 245-pound Jefferson is playing some of his best football right now and is a handful to bring down when he gets on the move. That said, the Tigers should dare him to beat their defense through the air in a similar fashion to how they treated LSU’s Max Johnson. It’s a somewhat risky proposition given the problems the Tigers have had with giving up explosive pass plays, but the emergence of Northwestern transfer Eku Leota and the uptick in Derrick Hall’s play should give defensive coordinator Derrick Mason the confidence to execute this game plan.

The return of linebacker Owen Pappoe would also aide that cause.

The fourth key to the game for Auburn doesn’t need much explaining. The offensive skill players have to help Nix by not dropping passes. Drops are typically a minor thing to nitpick, but the issue has become too apparent for the Tigers this season.

Guys on the outside need to step up.

Lastly, and perhaps the biggest key for Auburn against the Razorbacks, is scoring red zone touchdowns.

This issue has been much maligned in the recent weeks, and despite the trope of Auburn’s ever-reliable kicking game, it’s clear the Tigers need Anders Carlson kicking fewer field goals and more extra points. Arkansas puts up points — often in explosive fashion.

Auburn’s offense has mostly been the antithesis of explosive this season, therefore finishing those long drives with touchdowns is imperative. To do so, the Tigers must put themselves in a position to be successful with better play calling and eliminating penalties and negative plays in

the red the end zone.

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

NIX

JEFFERSON

SPORTS >> FROM B1 OHS FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM UNDEFEATED AFTER FOUR GAMES The OHS flag football team (5-0) defeated Loachapoka, Eufaula and Central at Bulldog Stadium last week. Due to the large amount of rain, OHS opened up the home schedule inside Bulldog Stadium, using the turf instead of the grass field inside Sam Mason Track.

Opelika outscored Loachapoka 43-6 in the first game of the night, scoring early and often.

QB Morgan Watts ran 13 yards for TD and threw a pass to Ashanti Thomas for two point conversion on the opening possession, giving the Bulldogs an 8-0 lead.

Other players scoring TD'S included: Z Fanning, who scored on a pick-six; Watts, who scored her second TD on a 10-yard run; and Nyi Walton, who sprinted 5 yards for a score. Reserve QB Jamiah Williams scored the final touch down on an 11-yard run.

OHS started game two

HORNETS >> FROM B1 and the only score of the fourth quarter came via Sylacauga as the Aggies abolished the visiting Hornets.

Defensively, the Hornets struggled to contain the Aggie run game, in particular running back Maleek Pope, who gashed Beauregard left, right and up the middle for over 300 total yards on the night.

As was the case with the offense, the defense made some good plays, but the

against Eufaula in the same fashion as the first game, establishing its dominance early. The Bulldogs scored 26 points on offense while the defense earned a shutout. Thomas caught a 25-yard pass from Watts for the first TD and Z. Smith scored on her second picksix of the night. Ashley Hilyer scored two touchdowns, reaching the end zone on a 20-yard run and a 5-yard reception.

On Oct. 7, the Bulldogs came out strong against Central, beating them 38-0.

Opelika's first defensive possession resulted in a pick-six by Zaria Peters.

The extra point was good on a pass from Watts to Sanders. Opelika's second defensive possession also resulted in a interception, this time by Sanders, who ran it in for a touchdown. The first time the Bulldogs were on offense, Watts found Thomas in the endzone for another touchdown.

The following time on defense, Fatima Santamaria had a pick-six; The long extra point was good on an 18-yard pass from Watts to Thomas. The defense held strong throughout the game, Aggies big-play ability overpowered the Hornets and effectively put the game out of reach early.

A silver lining: Beauregard’s special teams continued its good play on the season, recovering two Aggie fumbled punts to set the Hornets up with great field position, and booming kicks compliments of senior kicker Zander Baird which resulted in the Aggie’s kick return team being held at bay all night.

“They’re a good football team, but we gave

as Fanning intercepted another pass the next time on defense. Watts then found her favorite target Sanders who ran it in the end zone for another touchdown.

In the second half, Watts passed to Hilyer who ran it in for a touchdown.

OHS head coach Jaclyn Button continues to put the girls in position to be successful, despite this being the inaugural season.

OHS CROSS COUNTRY OHS Cross Country teams participated in the Smiths Station Panther Invitational last weekend.

The girls finished fourth with 98 points and the boys placed sixth with 154 points.

Top performers: Girls — Paola Torres, 17th; Margaret Bice, 18th; Mary Evans Cooper, 20th; Violett Alcorn, 21; Joanne Smith, T-22nd; Susan Gaston, 27th; Jasmine Jordan, 36th; Kiley Brooks, 49th; Kaitlyn Brown, 57th; Shirley Pugh, 62nd; and Ellie Kendrick, 62nd.

Boys — Michael Hart, 22nd; Sam Kemp, 32; Zane Sexton, 34th; Peyton Weston, 36th; Trey White, 39th; Mitch McCullough, 41st; Zaken Shaw, 54th; up way too many big plays,” said Beauregard head coach Justin Jones after the game. “We’re not there yet, but we are working our tails off to get there.”

The Hornets celebrate Homecoming 2021 this Friday, Oct. 15, as they hope to bounce back from the loss, taking on the Panthers of Elmore County (0-7 / 0-4) in a regional matchup beginning at 7 p.m. CST. Beauregard High School is located at 7343 Alabama Highway 51 in Opelika.

Mason McCullough, 71st; Alexander Burgess, 73rd; Patrick Seymore, 76th; and Benjamin Owens, 77th.

AUBURN UNVEIL STATUES OF THREE FORMER COACHES INCLUDING PAT DYE Auburn University honored former head football coaches Cliff Hare, Ralph "Shug" Jordan and Pat Dye last Friday outside JordanHare Stadium. Hundreds gathered, on a beautiful sunny day on the plains to watch several people speak about each coach prior to unveiling statues.

I had the honor of being invited to the meet and greet prior to the 3 p.m. ceremony. Inside the Harbert Recruiting Lounge, guests such as former Auburn football players, University President Dr. Jay Gougue, Board of Trustee member/ booster Jimmy Rane, former Athletic Director David Housel, family members and other special guest mingled.

One guest drew the most attention, former Alabama football coach Gene Stallings. The fact an Alabama coach was behind "enemy lines" draws attention, but knowing he flew

PANTHERS >> FROM B3 The junior tossed two more touchdowns and hurled himself across the goal line to account for 21 additional Panther points.

The Panthers’ head coach accredits his team’s resilience to its ability to block out criticism. “(Greer) had a great night tonight,” Glisson said. “I challenged the kids all week. I said ‘when things are bad it’s easy to listen to people and shut it down. What I challenge

from Texas to pay respect to an Auburn football coach made him a special guest.

One by one guests walked to where coach Stallings sat, introducing themselves and saying “thank you“ for being here.

I am blessed that Stallings appears on my morning radio show, "On the Mark", every Thursday at 7 a.m.

Prior to Dye’s passing, he was on Monday's at 7 a.m..

Having the two on each week allowed me to get to know both in a unique way, after coaching.

I know the two love each other; Both were assistants under Paul "Bear" Bryant at Alabama. Dye took Stallings spot on Bryant's staff at Bama when he left to take a head coaching position. The two would go on to meet four times as opposing head coaches. Stallings won all four, but would never mention that out of respect to coach Dye. Both served on Jimmy Rane's Board at Great Southern Wood and enjoyed visiting with each other.

After Dye passed away, Stallings called me to find out if Auburn University was going to

hold a memorial service. I called him back, explaining the university did not wont a large gathering due to COVID concerns but would eventually honor Dye. Stallings informed me he wanted to pay respect to Dye and to keep him updated.

Last Friday, Stallings flew from Parish Texas to Auburn-Opelika Airport and was driven to the Harbert Recruiting Center in Jordan-Hare Stadium, paying respect to his friend, Dye. I met Stallings in the Harbert Recruiting Center 90 minutes prior to the ceremony. I enjoyed every minute and am glad Stallings was on the Plains.

I am proud of the way Auburn treated him. It was not game day, it was a day to pay respect to the legacies of Dye and two other legendary coaches. RIP Coach Dye. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of "On the Mark" Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

you to do is come out here every day and have a good time. Let’s practice football and get better and on Friday night’s let’s play our guts out and have fun.’”

Although the silver and black was able to block out the critical noise, the high-powered offense and significant lead possessed

by Enterprise proved too much to overcome. The Wildcats marched down the field to find the endzone one more time late in the game, leaving Smiths Station with just over two minutes to score 14 points.

Ultimately, the Greerlead offense was unable to challenge their opponents in the final moments.

“I can’t be mad at them,” Glisson said.

“They went out and played their guts out.”

Glisson, Greer and the rest of the Panthers will have the opportunity to play host to Auburn — one of the premier programs in Alabama — on Friday, Oct. 8 at T.C. Britton Field. Toe will meet leather at 7 p.m.

CST this Friday.

B5 Oct. 14, 2021

Firing On All Cylinders

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Opelika High School flag football team is off to a undefeated, 5-0 start. The team next plays on Oct. 19 at home against Dothan and Russell County.

Opelika Bare'Lee' Wins OT Thriller

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

It came down to the final play of overtime, but Opelika defensive back Jarell Stinson swatted away a pass to deny the RE Lee Generals of Montgomery what would have been a game-winning two-point conversion. With the 21-20 victory, the Bulldogs remain undefeated in region play and can clinch a first-round playoff bye with a win this Friday.

B6 Oct. 14, 2021

Panther's Late Push Falls Short PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER The Smiths Station varsity football team fell to 1-6 on the season last Friday after a fourth quarter comeback attempt failed and the Panthers lost to Enterprise, 49-35. At half time, Smiths Station honored long time band director Dr. Rusty Corson (top right). Smiths Station recently renamed the school band room in honor of Corson and his years of service.

Opelika, Beauregard Announce Homecoming Courts PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Congratulations to the 2021 Beauregard High School Homecoming Court. One of the seniors pictured will be crowned Homecoming Queen 2021 at Beauregard's home football game this Friday. PicturedBack; ( Left to right) Lucy Vann (9th), Destiny Marshall (9th), Anslie Stowes (10th), Mary-Claire Brown (11th), Erica-Lee Harman (11th), and Hannah Helms-Childers (10th) Pictured Front; (left to right) - Abbie Cook (12th), Lana Rudd (12th), and Gracie Sosebee (12th)

Congratulations to the 2021 Opelika High School Homecoming Court. Pictured (l-r): Kailey Bice-Freshman, Kennedy Brewer-Sophomore, Aimee Alcantara-Sophomore, Alexandria Torbert-Junior, Lindsie Klepper-Senior, Quandraniya Walton-Senior, Nicole Lowery-Senior, Loyalty Kindred-Junior, Hannah Hudson-Sophomore and Kamyra JacksonFreshman. The 2021 OHS Homecoming Queen will be announced during halftime of the OHS vs. Valley football game on Oct.15.

Diminished by the 'Dawgs

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Auburn will look to bounce back from its 34-10 defeat to Georgia this week as the Tigers go on the road to face No. 17 Arkansas.

B7 Oct. 14, 2021

SU Theater to Present Fall Production

Auburn Introduces Dual Enrollment Program

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

Through Auburn First, high school students can earn up to 24 hours of college credit before graduating from high school, helping them experience college-level work before arriving on campus.

BY NEIL REID CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Auburn University is expanding access and affordability for high school students who want to attend the landgrant institution through its Auburn First dual-enrollment program.

Reimagined in 2018, the program offers dual-enrollment opportunities for high school students beginning in 10th grade, with eligible students allowed to complete up to 24 hours of Auburn credit before graduating from high school. Carrying the slogan “Get started, get accepted, get ahead,” the program provides online coursework for students with an unweighted cumulative grade point average of 3.0, or better, at their respective high schools.

By providing an accessible and affordable pathway for students, the program offers students interested in attending Auburn or any other higher education institution the opportunity to gain experience by completing college-level coursework before stepping on campus. Designed as a springboard for those looking to get a jump on their collegiate academic courses, Auburn First helps students decrease the time needed to complete a degree, giving them valuable experience and confidence in handling college-level classes while earning high school credit.

“We know that discussions about students’ college plans often begin before they are even in high school,” said Auburn Provost Bill Hardgrave. “Our goal

with Auburn First is to give students an affordable option that allows them to access college-level coursework before they graduate from high school. The confidence they gain from these courses is critical to helping them realize their potential for success in college and, in many cases, allows them to gain early acceptance into Auburn.”

Students who earn at least six credit hours of approved Auburn coursework and maintain a 3.0 GPA in those college classes by Aug. 15 of their senior year qualify for automatic admission to the university. Designed to be affordable, courses cost about a third of the on-campus rate and tuition waivers also are available for students with demonstrated financial need, as program organizers are committed to keeping costs at a minimum for participants.

“Dual enrollment is a proven approach to increase access to higher education,” said Vice President for Enrollment Joffery Gaymon. “We know that if students take dual enrollment, they are more likely to finish high school and continue college.

Auburn First has proven to be a successful model in ensuring an Auburn education remains affordable and accessible to the best and brightest students.

“As we continue to advance and fulfill the university's land-grant mission, we are eager to see this program's positive impact on students for years to come.”

Created with high school students in mind, the program’s online

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courses are taught by trained Auburn faculty.

In addition, the program provides students with access to several academic resources, including tutoring services, University Writing, Adobe Creative Cloud and Office 365. High school students receive “chords of distinction” to wear with their graduation regalia if they complete 12 credit hours of Auburn First courses

by Aug. 15 of their senior year and maintain a 3.4 Auburn GPA. “We understand there may be a learning curve when high school students enroll in college courses, so we place great emphasis on providing meaningful, high-touch support,” said Alli Bracewell, student success coordinator for Auburn First. “Our team actively engages with students and families to ensure they have a positive experience and their needs are met.

We want our students to be successful and believe we have appropriate measures in place to give our dual-enrollment students the best opportunity to succeed.”

During the 2020-21 academic year, 89% of the students who completed the admission requirements received automatic admission to Auburn. All totaled, 57 students joined the program this fall, and more than 200 students are currently enrolled in Auburn First.

“I loved Auburn First,” said Alex’Ah Boone, a freshman chemical engineering major at Auburn who completed 11 Auburn First hours while attending Jefferson See ENROLLMENT, page B8

The Southern Union State Community College Theater Department will present its fall production on Oct. 20 and 21 in Brazeal Auditorium on the Wadley campus, and will present a special presentation on the Opelika campus on Oct. 28.

A series of short comic selections will be presented.

Some are absurd, such as the rhythmic “Philip Glass”, while others tend toward the slightly decidedly dark, such as the humorous “Choices”.

According to Director of

TIGERS >> FROM B1 17-3 with a pair of touchdowns and a field goal.

The vaunted Georgia refused to relent for much of the first half, however the Tigers found themselves with another scoring opportunity at the Bulldog’s 7-yard line with less than a minute before the break.

The ensuing play calling was at best questionable as three straight passing plays were dialed up to no avail.

It appeared Auburn would attempt to cut into the lead with a field goal, however, when Georgia jumped offsides on fourth down, a forward-thinking Harsin sent his offense back onto the field to attempt a fourth-and-goal from the 3-yard line.

The play resulted in yet another incomplete pass from Nix and Georgia escaped to the locker room up 14 in a half where its defense looked penetrable and offense was relatively inhibited.

Following the game, Harsin pointed out his offense’s struggles to end drives with touchdowns and explained his decision to forgo the field goal just before the half.

“I think you have to be aggressive,” he said.

“You’ve got to let guys go out there and have a chance to make plays.

Whether it goes our way in that [fourth down] play, that’s what we have to fight for.”

Having held the Georgia offense to just 36 rushing yards in the first half (the Bulldogs were averaging 194.6 rushing yards per

Theater Michael Williams, Jr., the variety of selections presented will offer something for everyone’s taste.

“Perhaps one of the best things about this evening is that if someone does not like something they only have to wait about five to 10 minutes for something else,” Williams said.

Selections presented will be: “DMV Tyrant”

by Christopher Durang, “Choices” by James McLindon, “Funeral Parlor”

by Chistopher Durang, “Rosa's Eulogy” by Richard Strand and “Philip Glass Buys a Loaf of Bread” by

David Ives.

And, for the first time, the theater department will “take the show on the road” and present a show on the Opelika Campus.

The performance will be Thursday, Oct. 28, at 5 p.m. in the Health Sciences Building Room 104. The Opelika performance is free of charge.

General admission for the Wadley evening performances (Oct. 20 and 21) will be $5 with all SU students/faculty/staff admitted free with current ID. Tickets are available at the door.

contest prior to Auburn), the game plan for the Tigers was clearly to make Georgia quarterback Stetson Bennett beat them in what was only his ninth career start.

In typical, uncooperative ‘Dawg fashion, Bennet was near flawless on the day, finishing 14for-21 for 231 yards and two TD’s while also rushing for a career high 41 yards.

“Georgia was able to make it happen with some explosive throws,” Harsin said. “We don’t want to give those up and we certainly want to create them.

We need to find more ways to do that because it does create the momentum that we need.”

Bennet’s efficacy of exposing the orange-andblue secondary and an Auburn team that visibly grew wearier with every collision of pads proved an inauspicious combination for the Tigers.

After missing a field goal on the opening drive of the second half, the Bulldogs flexed their prowess by putting up 17 more points with their next three drives. A silver-lined Tank Bigsby touchdown was mixed in there for the Tigers, but a stop-and-start performance from the offense failed to ever induce much worry along the Georgia sideline.

Despite the loss, the Tigers can take some positives from the game.

Northwestern transfer defensive end Eku Leota registered his team-high fourth sack of the season; Zion Puckett and Bydarrius Knighten both

reached career high tackle marks with 10 and nine, respectively; and Nix performed admirably in the face of the nation’s defense, leading the Tigers in both passing in rushing.

So where did it all go wrong for Auburn? Was it the drops by the receivers?

The absence of starting linebacker Owen Pappoe and ejection of defensive leader Smoke Monday?

The offensive and defensive lines lacking the talent or stamina to keep up with Georgia’s acclaimed fronts?

It’s probably a mix of all those things, however it’s hard to point fingers at anyone in particular.

Georgia are simply the better team.

But, that does not mean the Tigers should be satisfied with how they played.

Fans inside of Jordan-Hare Stadium surely expected better.

At the halfway point in the season and looking toward Arkansas this weekend, Harsin expects better, too.

“We’ll find a way to play better,” he said. “That’s the challenge this week.

It’s just like, ‘We’ve got to go back to work and everybody knows it.’ When you’ve got a team that’s like that, then you have the mentality in your program.

It doesn’t guarantee you a win but it sure as hell is a lot more enjoyable when you’ve got guys that want to succeed and show up every day to do that, and then you can put a good plan together — that’s our job — and allow those guys to go out there and execute it.”

B8 Oct. 14, 2021

Let’s Celebrate Squirrel Awareness Month

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

M

y little dog Cookie and I were enjoying our morning fall walk. All of a sudden I noticed my little 'furever friends' was rolling acorns with her nose then pushing them in her mouth, clenching her mouth very tight shut.

After she reluctantly opened her mouth to let the acorns roll out, I gently reminded her that she is a dog and not a squirrel. The month of October is “Squirrel Awareness Month.”

The history of Squirrel Awareness month is credited to the late Greg Bassett who noticed a squirrel standing close and motioning to him at the Grand Canyon in Arizona. This squirrel

literally won his heart and he excitedly went back home to his home in Chicago and started the Squirrel Lovers Club.

This was the beginning of October being Squirrel Awareness month.

Young children love to observe activities of these furry little animals when playing outside.

As a teacher, my early childhood class would love to linger and look at their furry bushy tail friends gather acorns.

Science professional and experts have guessed and estimated that squirrels gather three years of food during the warm seasonal months so that during the winter months they have something to snack on while they sleep and stay warm in their

cozy dens. Keep in mind that squirrels do not hibernate. Take out those phone cameras and video the busy lives of squirrels. What wonderful lessons in having your young children observe the different foods that squirrels gather in their paws and chubby little cheeks. We had a large old oak tree in our yard in South Alabama. The neighborhood children loved to come and observe the "squirrels reunion” in the fall.

Squirrels seem to be able to adapt to any environment anywhere.

There are more than 300 different species of squirrel all over the earth. God gives the squirrel their tails to talk and communicate with other squirrels and animals, their tails keep them warm, too keep them warm, provide balance as they scurry up trees, jump from limbs and telephone lines and help prevent falls. and helps in preventing falls.

Have you ever noticed just how hard it is to sneak up on a squirrel.

Their side to side vision called peripheral vision as well as having good focused vision makes them aware that we humans are around. One fact that is noteworthy is that their pale-yellow vision acts like built in sunglasses which cuts down on glare so they can see well as they scamper.

My family learned first

hand one Christmas that squirrels are an invasive species when we were out of town to be with family one Christmas.

Our neighbor squirrels from the oak tree in our yard invited themselves into our home to enjoy Christmas in the Pinyerds’ home while we were away. We think they slid down the chimney to come into our home. We came home to find nuts all over the house, our Christmas tree had been lived in and played in by our squirrel friends, and Christmas decorations had been knocked off the mantle as well. When my husband and son found our little squirrel intruders in our attic and in my son’s room, we opened the front door to get our little squirrel friends down the steps.

One of our little squirrel friends who was lingering behind decided to slide down our banister and out the front door.

Readers it was such a comical memory sight to see that squirrel truly “sled out” our front door, as a family we realized that this truly was a family memory.

What are ways that you and your child can celebrate October as Squirrel Month. You can throw out acorns, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, etc. Too, squirrels do like vegetables such as squash, carrots, broccoli, and fruits such as apples, berries, melons, etc.

Just like we prepare for winter with sweaters, coats, our animal friends prepare for the cold winter months too. When the leaves begin to change and the days get shorter animals instinctively get ready to survive the winter. Take time to look up and see birds traveling in a V-formation as they fly, migrate to warmer regions. Many fish migrate to warmer waters. Some insects migrate. Take for example the Monarch Butterfly migrates to Mexico and spend their winters in the central Mexican mountains. They find shelter and refuge in the sacred fir forests and it is truly a beautiful sight to behold. Check in with our local libraries to find resources of the flights of the Monarch Butterfly.

Some moths also migrate but there are insects that remain dormant during the winter or in a state of "dispause” which does resemble hibernation.

The honeybees also store food for the winter. The worker bees shake their muscles by generating heat inside the hive.

Children understand this lesson of going from cold by standing still then transition to warm by moving around. Some animals may find lodging in holes in trees, logs, under a mossy rock, leaves or even under the ground. Some animals, like bears, hibernate.

Hibernation is a special very deep sleep. These

animals do survive on their stored body fat until spring wakes them up.

As some animals stock up, migrate and hibernate for winter, some animals decide to be fashionable and change their looks for the winter. With some animals their fur grows thicker to keep them warm. The artic fox and snowshoe rabbit actually have their hair color change so they can blend in with winter white. For the deer family, fall signals the time to find a mate. This specifically refers to the moose.

The male moose goes courting from September to mid-October.

As Classroom Observer focuses on fall, I am so grateful for the lessons that young children can learn from nature’s classroom that God created. As I reflect from a teacher’s heart on how trees display vibrant breath taking colors,and animals instinctively know in the fall how to prepare for winter, I take it all in. I learn, and become a student myself, in God's beautiful world of beautiful changes. We should find JOY in the little things of life, which is a life lesson our young children can put to heart.

Hey let’s all take time to enjoy the activities of our scampering squirrel as we all celebrate that October is Squirrel Awareness Month.

Classroom Observer, Beth Pinyerd

Auburn’s Warrior Research Center Offers Collaboration Between Researchers, Military When it comes to ensuring that military and tactical athletes are prepared mentally and physically, Auburn University’s Warrior Research Center is at the forefront of working to improve performance, resiliency and health and wellness.

The center serves as a collaboration between researchers, the military, government, industry and tactical athletes to further develop and implement new knowledge in human factors. In late October, the center’s efforts will be on display at its Tactical Athlete Summit, where military professionals and athletes will come from across the country to see the latest research projects designed to help maximize their performance.

“Preparation of our soldiers and tactical

ENROLLMENT >> FROM B7 County International Baccalaureate School in Birmingham. “It was an opportunity that I’ll

athletes is at the heart of what we do every day,” said JoEllen Sefton, director of the Warrior Research Center. “We provide leadership through research, education, training and implementation to better serve our warriors, veterans, tactical athletes, families and the community.”

Housed in the College of Education’s School of Kinesiology, the Warrior Research Center is a central contact point for networking and collaboration among the military, public safety divisions, industry and academia to achieve research-driven results.

The center has six studies currently in the works: treatment of concussion symptoms, treatment of stress fractures, improving quality of life for lower-limb prosthetics users, two firefighter and EMT studies and several whole-body vibration studies. A heat

study, which follows up on a past study that investigated how to help firefighters better recover after battling a blaze, is currently on a COVID-19 hold.

The previous study examined how a firefighter’s exposure to heat, combined with exercise, could affect balance and lead to increased risk of lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries, such as ankle sprains and ACL tears.

In October, the center once again will bring together top military professionals and tactical athletes for its annual Tactical Athlete Summit that showcases research in the field and new projects related to soldier training, injury prevention, medical treatment/rehabilitation, equipment/vehicle impact and more. Set for Oct. 27-28, the conference is the intersection of health, technology and innovation for our U.S. Armed Forces.

Industry, academia and government share novel ideas and report key findings to optimize tactical athlete performance.

The conference — which will be held at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center — builds on the Warrior Research Center’s commitment to fostering partnerships between researchers, the military and tactical athletes.

Keynote speakers at the conference will be: Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, 19th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps; Lt. Gen. Ronald P. Clark, commander, U.S. Army Central Command; Col. Kevin A. Bigelman, director for the Holistic Health and Fitness System at the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s Center for Initial Military Training, Joint Base LangleyEustis, Virginia; and

Capt. Michele A. Kane, Captain, Nurse Corps, United States Navy.

Researchers and industry leaders from across the country will present posters, hold panel discussions and share study findings that are applicable to tactical athletes.

More information on the Warrior Research Center is available online, here: www. education.auburn.edu/ warrior-research-center

never regret, and it prepared me for college by exposing me to the way assignments work at a university, both timewise and content-wise.

I really do have an

advantage over my peers who did not attend Auburn First because I already knew what to expect my freshman fall semester.

“Not only does it

prepare you for the rigor of college courses, but also if Auburn is your dream school, it gives you the opportunity to get a head start on your academic career at the

university. I highly recommend Auburn First.”

The program has displayed considerable success in recent years, aligning with nearly 160 high schools throughout

Alabama to provide dual-enrollment options. Most recently, the program expanded to include Fulton County, Georgia, students beginning fall 2022.

PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION

BY MIRANDA NOBLES CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Soldiers run through water during a study conducted by Auburn's Warrior Research Center, which is housed in the College of Education’s School of Kinesiology.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

Oct. 14, 2021

Thursday, October 14, 2021

Inside the Statehouse Seniority vs. Senility

O

STEVE FLOWERS

ur senior senator, Richard Shelby, will be remembered as Alabama’s most prominent senator when he retires next December. Folks, that’s saying a lot because we have had a host of prominent men serve Alabama in the United States Senate, such as giants like Lister Hill, John Sparkman and John Bankhead.

However, history will record that none of these above senators brought the federal dollars back home to Alabama that Shelby has procured.

Seniority is omnipotent in Washington.

It is everything, and Shelby has it. He is in his 35th year in the U.S. Senate. He has already broken Sparkman’s 32-year record of longevity in Alabama history and at the end of his term next year he will have served a record 36 years in the senate. In addition, Shelby was the U.S. Congressman for the old 7th Congressional district for eight years.

Shelby has not only been the most prolific funneler of federal dollars to Alabama in our state’s history, but he could also be considered one of the most profound movers and shakers of federal funds to their state in American history. His only rival was the late Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia. Byrd, who was in his ninth term as a senator when he died at 92, funneled an estimated $10 billion to his constituents during his 51 years in the Senate.

The obvious question asked by observers of Washington politics is, “Are some of our most powerful senators too old to function cognitively?” I can attest to you that I know Richard Shelby personally and he is the most cognitively alert and healthy 87-year-old man I have ever seen. He works out daily and has the memory of an elephant. In fact, his mental and cognitive abilities are similar to someone 30 years his junior. He very well could run and serve another six-year term. However, he will be 88 at the end of his term.

Shelby is one of five octogenarians serving in the Senate. California’s Dianne Feinstein is the oldest sitting senator at 88.

She is followed by Iowa’s Charles “Chuck” Grassley who turns 88 next month.

Shelby is the third at 87. James Inhofe of Oklahoma and Senator Pat Leahy of

Vermont are 81. By the way, Grassley and Leahy are Shelby’s closest allies in the Senate.

The question becomes, “How old is too old to be a U.S. senator?” According to the Congressional Research Service, the average age of senators at the beginning of this year is 64 years. At some point voters have to weigh, “Is my senator too old to perform the duties of the office or does the weight and power of their seniority and the benefit of their influence to the state outweigh their energy and cognizance?” Voters tend to go with experience and seniority over youth.

Feinstein has been the most widely discussed current senator for decline in health. Liberals believe she was too conciliatory during Supreme Court nominee Amy Comey Barrett’s confirmation hearing. There is a pervasive whispering campaign about Feinstein’s alleged cognitive decline and the Democratic senior leadership has indeed quietly removed her as the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

It was common knowledge and apparent that Shelby’s predecessor as chairman of appropriations, Sen. Thad Cochran of Mississippi, was not very cognitive in his last years in the Senate although he was younger, chronically. The most notable example of possibly staying too long is probably the story of legendary Sen. Strom Thurman of South Carolina. In 2003 Thurman retired at the age of 100 after 48 years in the Senate. It was no secret that his staff did everything for him during his last six-year term.

Our founding fathers created a minimum age for serving in the U.S. House or Senate but did not address a maximum.

The owner of Grub’s Pharmacy used by many on Capitol Hill in Washington raised eyebrows in 2017 when he revealed he routinely sent Alzheimer’s medication to Capitol Hill. There are continuing attempts to pass a Constitutional Amendment to limit terms of Congressmen and Senators.

Republicans run on the issue of term limits. It was part of their contract with America Agenda in 1994.

Alabamians need to consider being for term limits in 2022, because it comes down to the old adage of whose ox is being gourd. We in Alabama are going to be up the proverbial creek without a paddle after Shelby. He is our power in Washington.

We need to all jump on the term limit bandwagon beginning next year.

See you next week.

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

He served 16 years in the state legislature.

Steve may be reached at: www.steveflowers.us.

Alabama Forestry Association Endorses Randy Price for State Senate CONTRIBUTED BY THE AFA The Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) announces its endorsement of Randy Price who is seeking reelection for State Senate District 13, which covers all or parts of Chambers, Cleburne, Clay, Randolph and Lee counties.

Price, a resident of Opelika, is a graduate of Southern Union State Community College and owns a homebuilding and commercial trucking business, as well as his own cattle farming operation.

He and his wife Oline are timberland owners and longtime members of AFA. Oline currently serves

as Lee County Revenue Commissioner.

“I have known Randy and Oline personally for many years and as a businessman, farmer and timberland owner, he has a deep understanding of the importance the forest products industry has to our state,” said AFA President and CEO Chris Isaacson. “He is dedicated to ensuring the growth of Alabama’s forests and forest industry by supporting legislation that improves the working environment for landowners and forest business owners. We are happy to support him in his bid for a second term.”

Since being elected to

his first term in 2018, Price has worked to strengthen the protections of Second Amendment rights, advocated for infrastructure improvements and fought to maintain a jobs-friendly business environment. Price is a member of the Senate Agriculture and Forestry Committee; he also serves as vice chairman of the Senate Tourism Committee.

“It is an honor to be endorsed by the Alabama Forestry Association," Price said. "We owe the men and women in this industry a tremendous ‘thank you’ for the many hours of hard work See PRICE, page B13

County Sets Public Hearing For Noise Ordinance

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The Lee County Commission set a public hearing to discuss a noise ordinance in Lee County Tuesday night following multiple complaints from citizens over the last several weeks.

Lee County resident, Marie Maples, had asked to be placed on the agenda for the last commission meeting but ended up postponing to Tuesday night.

Maples has spoken to the commission before, at the Sept. 13 meeting, and expressed frustrations over noise that continues to be a problem in her area.

In her stead, Carl Gagliano spoke Tuesday night. Gagliano has also spoken before the commission in the past.

NOW OPEN

“I advocate that you pass this ordinance, which I understand may come before you this evening,” he said. “And I’d like for it to have enough teeth in it to where penalties are such that people will give more consideration to other people.”

The commission voted to approve a public hearing on Nov. 29 for the noise ordinance.

Former District 2 Commissioner Sarah Brown had asked to address the noise ordinance at the last commission meeting as well. (Brown recently moved out of District 2 and is no longer eligible to serve.

Gov. Kay Ivey will appoint a new commissioner for District 2.)

“We have sat it on it for a while — and it looks from the public’s perspective that we haven’t done anything about

it,” Brown said in an email to commissioners.

“Albeit, it may not have huge teeth but I do think [a noise ordinance] is a tool that can be used for future violation enforcement.”

For more information on the noise problem in the county: www.opelikaobserver.com/noise-complaints-in-beauregard/ www.opelikaobserver.com/lee-county-commission-considers-noise-ordinance/ SOLID WASTE: The commission also heard an update on the solid waste plan.

Following outcry from citizens at the last commission meeting, County Engineer Justin Hardee said that the county has asked for specific information from the local, private companies See COMMISSION, page B13

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Oct. 14, 2021

Mental Health Crisis Centers Remind Me of My Sister’s Schizophrenia

GREG MARKLEY

A

warning I heard at home from my parents was, “Don’t volunteer for anything.” Like that would stop me! I was in college studying political science in the late 1970s. I wanted to volunteer to serve on a committee of relatives of people seeking to improve their loved one’s lives at the Rhode Island State Mental Hospital where my sister Ann lived.

Then in her late 20s, Ann had a life-long course of schizophrenia, a serious mental disorder.

I told my mother of my plans to help my sister as an advocate. She was horrified. A very private person, she was afraid our neighbors would see me on TV at an event

related to patient welfare. She always told our neighbors and friends that my sister was in a fancy private facility for people with mental disorders. If people saw me at a rally, her secret would be revealed. So I did not volunteer. (It wouldn’t surprise me if other mothers told the same “white” lie.)

Here in Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey and Commissioner Kimberly Boswell of the Alabama Department of Mental Health recently announced the awardee of a fourth crisis center, an essential addition to the Alabama Crisis System of Care. The center will serve individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders.

“The Ivey Administration is fully committed to addressing the very real challenges in the area of mental health care,” the governor said. “This is critical and should not be overlooked, which is why it remains of high importance in my agenda. These centers will go a long way in improving mental health care in Alabama.”

(Montgomery Area

Mental Health Authority serves several counties, including Lee. The Crisis Center phone number is (334) 279-7830.)

The Alabama Crisis System of Care does such things as expands access to care; reduces the number of arrests; includes someone to talk to, someone to come to assist you and someplace to go; assists individuals in crisis to achieve stability; and provides connections and referrals to agencies and organizations.

My sister was diagnosed in the late 1960s after her grades went down and she missed three chances at passing the sixth grade. In earlier grammar school classes, her grades were very good. She was eventually diagnosed with schizophrenia, in which people interpret reality abnormally. People with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions and extremely disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning, and can be

disabling.” This began for Ann when she was in sixth grade, and it affected us all. It was difficult for me when I was ages 11 through 14 because of my sister’s outbursts.

I didn’t complain much, though.

At age 19, Ann moved to what would become a series of mental health facilities. A nurse when my sister moved in told my mother: “She probably stayed with your family too long; if this continued, you too might need mental health treatment.”

Ann moved thru the system for 50 years, staying with us on holidays and spending weekend days with me after I got my driver’s license. Medicaid helped Ann’s situation tremendously.

Today, the Crisis Centers sprouting up in Alabama are designated places for community members, law enforcement and first responders to take someone who is in a mental health crisis.

With a short-term admission, the individuals can receive medication management and case management. They offer walk-in access and the ability to transfer

individuals from the Center.

In the early 1970s, my sister Ann settled into a good life under government care. She welcomed the exit of the old buildings with white walls and nurses in white uniforms.

But she had to tolerate people like an elderly man who told everyone he hoped to die as he was born: “Toothless, naked and bald.” Ann enjoyed breakthroughs such as cozy group homes and attendants in colorful garb.

My sister, though, had two challenging medical crises. In 2005, she was diagnosed with leukemia and initially did not want to undergo chemotherapy.

Even people under government mental health monitoring have “agency”; so Ann had to be persuaded the treatment was preferable to death.

My Aunt Helen gradually convinced her to fight the good fight. Ann’s cancer went into remission.

But, 14 years after Ann’s “self-agency” approved the chemo, came another serious problem: She suddenly refused to eat. As she was under Medicaid, she stayed in

her group home even into the end-of-life stage. I visited three times from Alabama for a week each time, but she decided this time, to give up. When I offered her some local Del’s Lemonade she used to love, she still refused to eat. It was then that I knew she was determined to leave us.

My sister died in 2019.

She would have been 71 last Sunday (Oct. 10).

She would be delighted to hear of the growth of mental health crisis continuum of care centers.

Even my publicity-shy mother would applaud the work of Ivey, Boswell, House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter and many others. But Mom would still suggest that we avoid the spotlight, even when her youngest son is a journalist.

Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has Masters’ in education and history.

He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer for 12 years. gm.markley@charter. net

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B11 Oct. 14, 2021

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B12 Oct. 14, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-453 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF LAURIE LEIGH SOUTHERS WILLIAMS, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of the Estate of Laurie Leigh Southers Williams, deceased having been granted to W. Warner Williams, Jr. this 20th day of September 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

W. Warner Williams, Jr., Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer 334-745-2564 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 Legal Run 09/30/21, 10/7/21 & 10/14/21 ------------STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-540 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF PAUL RANDY MOON, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of the Estate of Paul Randy Moon, deceased having been granted to Jacquelynn Hays Moon this 23rd day of September 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Jacquelynn Hays Moon, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer 334-745-2564 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 Legal Run 09/30/21, 10/7/21 & 10/14/21 ------------STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-533 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF WILLIAM FREDERICK WOODS, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said William Frederick Woods, deceased, having been granted to Lisa Ellen Greenway 23rd day of September, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Lisa Ellen Greenway, Personal Representative Legal Run 09/30/21, 10/7/21 & 10/14/21 ------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JAMES LAMAR CROWDER Deceased PROBATE COURT LEECOUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Shara Cumins on the 21st dav of September, 2021, 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.

Shara Cumins Legal Run 10/07/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA ANNE GODFREY HARRIGER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE

COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-527 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of October, 2021, 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.

JIMMY A. LAFOY Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal 10/7/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 ------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JOHN DAVID ROBINSON Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021-128 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of JOHN DAVID ROBINSON are hereby granted to David Nicholas Robinson on the 16th day of March, 2021, 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.

DAVID NICHOLAS ROBINSON Legal Run 10/07/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 ------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of ANGELA LYNN DAUGHTRY, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office

by Michewlle Lynn Kinslow on October 6, 2021, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 10/14/2021 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES R. KELLEY, JR., DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-549 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 6th day of October, 2021, 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.

DEANNA DELORIS MILLER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 10/14/21, 10/21/21 & 10/28/21 _______ 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, October 26, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: A. Approval of Minutes B. Update on Previous PC Cases C. Plat (Preliminary and Final) – Public Hearing 1. A public hearing on a request by Bert Boykin and Martin Evans, authorized representatives for RS Hospitality LLC, Manav Hospitality, LLC, and Pina Investments LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of RaceTrac Opelika subdivision to combine five lots into one lot accessed at 1109 Columbus Parkway.

D. Master Plan Revisions and Preliminary Plat – Public Hearing 2. A public hearing on a request by Brian Lee, authorized representative for SP Opelika Ventures, LLC, property owner, for minor revisions to the Villages at Opelika PUD (Planning Unit Development) Master Plan accessed at 3001 Hi-Pack Drive and Hammonds Drive. Plan revisions: decrease open space and amenity space, change dwelling types from bungalow to twin homes, decrease single family homes; no change to overall density.

3. A public hearing on a request by Brian Lee, authorized representative for SP Opelika Ventures, LLC Builders, property owner, for preliminary plat approval of the Villages at Opelika subdivision plat consisting of 126 lots accessed from 3001 Hi-Pack Drive and Hammonds Drive.

This item tabled at the September 28th Planning Commission meeting.

E. Final Plat 4. A request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for Gary L. Hunt, property owner, for final plat approval of the Oak Bowery Pines Phase 2 subdivision consisting of 12 lots accessed from 1301 Oak Bowery Road.

This item tabled at the September 28th Planning Commission meeting.

5. A request by Daniel Holland, authorized representative for Holland Homes, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Foxrun Phase 1C subdivision consisting of 42 lots accessed from Village Drive & Burrow Circle. This item tabled at the September 28th Planning Commission meeting.

6. A request by David Slocum, authorized representative for Dibenedetto Enterprises, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Windsor Village subdivision consisting of 33 lots accessed from Northeast corner of Waverly Parkway & Veterans Parkway.

F. Conditional Use – Public Hearing 7. A public hearing on a request by Vic Patel and Arthur Nettles, authorized representative for AU Hospitality, LLC, property owner, for conditional use approval for a miniature golf course in the C-3, GC-P zoning district accessed at Parker Way. This item tabled at the September 28th Planning Commission meeting.

8. A public hearing on a request by Micah J. Patrick, authorized representative for Madison Real Properties, LLC, property owner, for

conditional use approval for a Hookah lounge (non-alcoholic) in the C-2, GC-P zoning district at 2701 Frederick Road, Suite 309-310.

9. A public hearing on a request by TaJarus Vines, authorized representative for Beck-Bradham, Inc., property owner, for conditional use approval for an auto sales lot in the C-3, GC-S zoning district at 1701 Pepperell Parkway.

10. A public hearing on a request by Kirby Nunn, authorized representative for Prime Corner Property, LLC, property owner, for conditional use approval for a retail store with outside storage in the C-3, GC-P zoning district at 300 Columbus Parkway, Unit 1.

G. Amendment to 2030 Comprehensive Plan and Rezoning – Public Hearing 11. An agenda item related to a rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 3.3 acres accessed at the 1200 block South Fox Run Parkway from a light commercial to a general commercial land use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the 3.3 acres and Council approves the rezoning, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved.

12. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request

by Michael Johnson, authorized representative for Linda Ellis Blanton, Michael E. Gavin, and John A. Gavin, property owners, to rezone 3.3 acres accessed at the 1200 block South Fox Run Parkway from C-2, GC-P to C-3, GC-P zoning district.

H. Master Plan Revisions – Public Hearing 13. A public hearing on a request by David Slocum, authorized representative for CPP Investments, LLC, property owner, for major revisions to the Wyndham PUD (Planned Unit Development) master plan, accessed at the corner of Gateway Drive & Wyndham Industrial Drive. City Council approval required; Amendments from office/commercial to private storage of fuel for a construction/ environmental service business and retail sales of fuel.

I. Other Business 14. Approve dates for November and December Planning Commission meetings.

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 the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 10/14/2021

-------------

SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County,

Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows: From a C-2, GC-P District (Office/Retail, Gateway CorridorPrimary Overlay District) to a C-3, GC-P District (General Commercial, Gateway CorridorPrimary Overlay District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Parcel 1-C of HarleyDavidson Subdivision according to and as shown by map or plat of said subdivision of record in Plat Book 29 at Page 6 in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

The above-described property contains 3.2 acres and is located near in the 1200 block of South Fox Run Parkway, Opelika, Alabama.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on October 7, 2021, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Section 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975).

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

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s Interim ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5234 two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 14th day of October, 2021 /s/Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Notice 10/14/2021 ------------CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS (NEW SIGN REGULATIONS) The City Council of the City of Opelika (the “City Council”) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991.

The proposed Ordinance will amend, modify and supplement the text of the Zoning Ordinance in the following respects: 1.Section 2.2 of the Zoning Ordinance is amended and supplemented by adding to Section 2.2 the definitions of “City”, “City Council”, “Code of Ordinances”, “Fence”, “Parking Lot”, “Person”, “Planning Commission”, “Planning Director” and “Right-of-Way”.

Section 2.2 is further amended by amending the definition of “Parcel”.

Section 2.2 is further amended by deleting the definition of “Subdivision Identification Marker”.

2.The Zoning Ordinance is amended by deleting subsection 6.4E. 3.Section 7.3 of the Zoning Ordinance is revised so that the use category “Outdoor Advertising” is deleted and removed from the use category matrix in Section 7.3. Also, the footnote relating to Outdoor Advertising at the end of the matrix table in Section 7.3 is deleted.

4.Subsection 7.6B(7)

(c)(2) of the Zoning Ordinance is amended to remove references to drivein features as they relate to signage.

5.Subsection 7.8H of the Zoning Ordinance is deleted.

6.Subsection 8.14(5) of the Zoning Ordinance is amended to remove signage standards specific to a home occupation.

7.Subsection 8.18.1B of the Zoning Ordinance is amended to remove signage standards specific to a planned residential development.

8.Subsection 8.18.1N is amended to remove standards for entrance signs to a planned residential development.

9. Subsection 8.24D(5) of the Zoning Ordinance is deleted.

10. Subsection 8.26 of the Zoning Ordinance is deleted.

11. Subsection 8.27B(4) of the Zoning Ordinance is deleted.

12. Current Section IX “Sign Regulations” of the Zoning Ordinance is deleted in its entirety and replaced with new Section IX “Sign Regulations” consisting of subsections 9.1 through 9.15.

The proposed new Section IX, “Sign Regulations”, of the Zoning Ordinance will provide for a purpose, intent and scope; provide for definitions; provide for applicability; provide for prohibited signs; provide general provisions for signs (such as measurement of sign area, measurement of sign height, façade or building unit measurements, signs in overlay districts, sign illumination for temporary and permanent signs, use of neon, electronic message signs, viewpoint and speaker neutrality, consent of legal owner of property, signs on public property, signs must maintain clearance, signs declared a nuisance and repair, signs presenting immediate peril to public health or safety, unsafe signs, street address signs, driveway signs, flag poles and flags, flag brackets, flag stanchions and flags, freestanding signs, subdivision or development entrance signs, wall signs, drivethrough signs, umbrella signs, awning signs, canopy signs, changeable copy signs, projecting signs, window signs and door signs); provide for temporary and permanent signs allowed in zoning districts; provide for temporary signs allowed in zoning districts; provide for permanent signs allowed in zoning districts; provide for building permits; provide for sign permits; provide for nonconforming signs; provide for miscellaneous sign provisions; provide for violations and penalties; provide for removal of unlawful and dangerous signs; provide for severability; provide for repeal of conflicting ordinances or parts thereof, provide an effective date, provide for publication and provide for codification in Zoning Ordinance.

Public notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on October 7, 2021, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to §§11-5277 and 11-52-78, Code of Alabama, 1975.

At said public hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the ordinance. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at City Hall, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and public hearing.

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s Interim ADA Coordinator, at 334705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 14th day of October, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 10/14/21

B13 Oct. 14, 2021

Attorney Gen. Steve Marshall Addresses Growing Concern Over Vaccination Mandates CONTRIBUTED BY THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL STEVE MARSHALL

In response to public inquiries, Attorney General Steve Marshall today addressed vaccine mandates and the State of Alabama’s response.

On Sept. 9, the Biden administration announced plans to mandate the COVID-19 vaccination for certain segments of the workforce. The first mandate applies to federal employees and contractors, as well as to healthcare facilities that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding.

The second mandate applies to private employers with 100 or more employees.

The federal-employee mandate

COMMISSION >> FROM B9 regarding their services.

A month ago, the Lee County Commission voted to enter into an exclusive contract with Arrow Disposal now that the county has transitioned to curbside pickup.

Originally, the county expressed that curbside collection would not change private companies’ ability to continue collecting trash.

However, the commission voted to enter into an exclusive contract with Arrow, meaning

PRICE >> FROM B9 they put in each day to make available the necessary products we use in our daily lives.

As a landowner myself, I will

of Dec. 8 for federal contractors to comply.

The attorney general is presently examining legal options for challenging this order.

The Biden administration will attempt to implement the private-employer

has been proposed (or “noticed”), nor has the administration given any indication of when it will be, other than to vaguely suggest that there will be “more detail ... in the coming weeks.”

The attorney general is preparing to

dictates that no government, school or business in Alabama may demand that a constituent, student or customer be vaccinated for COVID-19 or show proof of his or her vaccination for COVID-19. You can read more about this

recommends the Alabama Legislature consider two updates to state law as soon as practicable: Act 2021-493 should include an enforcement provision and a private right of action to better deter violations of the law.

Private employers seeking to mandate the COVID-19 vaccination for employees should be required to provide exceptions for religious or medical reasons, including natural immunity.

The attorney general remarked, “Vaccine mandates are having an undeniably negative impact on the freedom of individuals, on Alabama’s workforce and on our free-market system. The people of Alabama need to know that their government is not ignoring their calls for help. Rest assured, my office is working tirelessly to deal with these heavy-handed mandates and to ensure that our state is well-positioned to succeed in this fight.”

local vendors can no longer provide curbside services, despite having already obtained clients.

The companies, and private citizens, attended the last commission meeting to ask the commission to reconsider. District 5 Commissioner Richard LaGrand proposed revisiting the topic but did not receive a second to his motion.

Tuesday night, however, Hardee placed it back on the agenda.

“Based on the concerns represented by

citizens as well as local vendors, the environmental services department has reached out to the three local vendors the commission had approved to provide transport services under our current system, asking that they present some information to the department, the environmental services department, so that we can get some information to the county commission so that y’all can make an informed decision based on facts and information provided from them about

their concerns and the consideration they are asking for,” he said.

The county has asked business owners to provide that information back by end of business Friday, Oct. 15.

OTHER BUSINESS: - The commission approved an appointment to the Mid-South RC&D Council.

- The commission approved a Beulah Utilities District Request.

- The commission provided an update that the appeal to ADEM on the water permit for

Creekwood Resources, LLC, was denied.

- The commission heard an update on the county administrator position.

- The county heard the outside contract agencies Fiscal Year 2022 information to be approved later.

- The commission heard the subdivision regulation amendments to be approved at a later date.

- The commission approved the Watoola crossing subdivision.

- The commission approved the ACCA

Workers’ Compensation Self-Insurers Fund.

- The commission approved the Investment Policy for Other PostEmployment Benefits Trust.

- The commission approved an educational reimbursement request.

- The commission approved the Business Alabama Advertisement.

- The commission heard a report from Probate Judge Bill English on redistricting in the county, which will have a public hearing in November.

continue to support the principles that are important to this industry.”

Price will seek the Republican nomination for Senate District 13 in the primary election on May 24,

2022.

The Alabama Forestry Association is one of the largest state forestry associations in the country with membership that includes forest products manufacturers,

landowners, loggers, wood dealers, foresters, consultants, and others involved in forestry. AFA is dedicated to protecting and improving the business, regulatory and legal environment for landowners

and forest business owners to ensure the sustainable growth of Alabama’s forests and forest industry.

Forests cover more than two-thirds of the state and provide the raw material for

Alabama’s second largest manufacturing industry.

Forestry provides a $27.7 billion total economic output to the state’s economy. To learn more, visit:www.alaforestry.org/

purportedly went into effect, via executive order, on Sept. 9. In late September, the Biden administration announced a deadline

mandate via an emergency rule from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. At this time, no such rule

challenge this regulation as soon as it is published.

At the state level, Act 2021-493, enacted in May of this year,

law here.

Given the recent escalation of COVID-19 vaccination mandates, the attorney general

“Vaccine mandates are having an undeniably negative impact on the freedom of individuals, on Alabama’s workforce and on our free-market system.”

B14 Oct. 14, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES FORM OF ADVERTISMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given, that WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION LLC, has completed the contract for Improvement of AU 20-539 AU Jordan Hare Stadium Miscellaneous Structural Repairs 2020-2021 at Auburn University Jordan Hare Football Stadium for Lee County, Auburn, State of Alabama. Owner(s) and have made request for final settlement of said Contract.

All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify: LBYD, Inc. 880 Montclair Road, Suite 600, Birmingham, AL 35213 WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION, LLC / CONTRACTOR P.O. BOX 137, OPELIKA, AL 36802 NOTE: This notice must run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000.00.

For projects of $50,000.00 or less, run one time only. A copy of the publisher's affidavit of publication (including a copy of the advertisement) shall be submitted by the Contractor to the Design Professional for inclusion with DCM Form B-13: Final Payment Checklist for state agencies, PSCAfunded and other bond-funded projects.

Legal Run 09/23/21, 09/30/21, 10/07/21 & 10/14/21 ------------NOTICE OF LEGAL ACTION IN RE: C.N., D.O.B. 10/25/2009: CASE NO.: 12JU2021000057.01 Candice Napier, whose whereabouts are unknown, and/or any woman claiming to be the mother of or to have any paternal rights to a

child bearing the initials C.N., born 10/25/2009, must answer Michael Napier’s Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and other relief by no later than fourteen (14) days after the last publication of this notice or thereafter a judgment may be rendered terminating her parental rights to C.N. in case number 12-JU-2021000057.01, filed in the Juvenile Court of Chambers County, Alabama. If you are the Respondent, you are to file your answer to said Petition with the Circuit Clerk of Chambers County, Chambers County Courthouse, 2 South LaFayette Street, LaFayette, Alabama 36862 with a copy of such answer to be served on the Attorney for the Petitioner, Allen C. Jones, at 1323 Broad Street, Phenix City, Alabama 36867.

Legal Run 09/23/21, 09/30/21, 10/07/21 & 10/14/21 _______ IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATIER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF NEIKA DEMETRIC WILLIS and SHENETT A KATRAY WILLIS CASE NO.: 2021489 PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: Unknown Father, address unknown Please take notice that a petition for adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by NEIKA DEMETRIC WILLIS AND SHENETTA KATRAY WILLIS on July 14, 2021, for the adoption of K. L. H. born on January 19, 2021, in Opelika, Alabama to Rosetta Harris.

A hearing has been set for the 16th day

of November, 2021 at 10 o'clock am Central time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, AL 36801. Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Samantha Copelan, 310 Samford Village Court, Suite 200, Auburn, Alabama 36830 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published or appear on the date of the hearing as set above to contest said Petition.

Dated on this the 15th day of September, 2021.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEECOUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 09/23/21, 09/30/21. 10/07/21 & 10/14/21 _______ IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTAE OF THOMAS LEW SCHWIENING CASE NO.: 1998A-231 NOTICE OF FILING OF FINAL SETTLEMENT YOU WILL TAKE NOTICE that Sharon C. Brawell, as Conservator of the Estate of THOMAS LEW SCHWIENING, filed her account and vouchers for a Final Settlement of said Estate on the 5th day of October, 2021 and that the 10th day of November, 2021 at 9 o'clock a.m. has been appointed by the Court to hear said settlement.

Done this the 5th day of October, 2021.

Bill English Judge of Probate Legal Run 10/14/21, 10/21/21 & 10/28/21 _______

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JAMES LAMAR CROWDER Deceased PROBATE COURT LEECOUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Shara Cumins on the 21st dav of September, 2021, 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.

Shara Cumins Legal Run 10/07/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA ANNE GODFREY HARRIGER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-527 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of October, 2021, 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.

JIMMY A. LAFOY Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 368032345 (334) 745-3504 Legal 10/7/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 -------------

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JOHN DAVID ROBINSON Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021128 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of JOHN DAVID ROBINSON are hereby granted to David Nicholas Robinson on the 16th day of March, 2021, 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.

DAVID NICHOLAS ROBINSON Legal Run 10/07/21, 10/14/21 & 10/21/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY F. STOUGH, DECEASED Case No.: 2021-485 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of Shirley F. Stough, deceased, having been granted to TANYA ALONGI on August 26, 2021, 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.

TANYA ALONGI Legal Run 09/30/21,

10/7/21 & 10/14/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THEODORE ARMOUR, Deceased Case No.: 2021-454 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Ardella Williams, Personal Representative on the 21st day of September, 2021,

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

Ardella Williams Legal Run 09/30/21, 10/7/21 & 10/14/21 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES SOMERS DEAN, III Deceased IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-396 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 22nd day of September, 2021, 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.

NANCY BARRETT DEAN Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 368032345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 09/30/21, 10/7/21 & 10/14/21

B15 Oct. 14, 2021

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B16 Oct. 14, 2021

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