Opelika Observer 11-04-21 E-edition

Vol. 14, No. 4

Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021

Opelika, Alabama

pelika Observer O

'An award-winning publication created 'For local people, by local people.'

Buc-ee’s Hosts Groundbreaking

Auburn is ready for beaver nuggets, the famous brisket and all the amenities of a local Buc-ee’s.

The gas station, which is more of an experience than a convenience store, will not open until Fall 2022, but last week Buc-ee’s and the city of Auburn broke ground on the site.

Buc-ee’s will be located off Exit 50 on Interstate 85.

The Small Business of the Quarter Award was presented to Anytime Fitness in Opelika. Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones gave Anytime Fitness the award at the Opelika Chamber’s Business Over Breakfast event held at Saugahatchee Country Club. This award is proudly sponsored by Metro City Bank.

Award winner, Anytime Fitness, is veteran owned and received a Veteran Award from their franchisor allowing them to be a prime fitness spot in Opelika since April of 2017. They offer training, health and fitness opportunities to anyone above the age of 18. They also continue to raise money to care for their sick and senior members. Owned by chamber members Shay and Julie Thorn, the business has a powerful story and continues to make a positive impact on the Opelika community.

Anytime Fitness is located at 2701 Frederick Road in Opelika. Call 334-7596464 to learn more about their story as a small business.

See BUC-EE'S page A2

City of Opelika Implements New Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program

CFEA Accepting Mini-Grant Applications PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

The city of Opelika announced a new partnership with Cardiac Solutions. The city recently installed 114 new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) around the city, as well as in all patrol cars. The new city-wide public access AED program will also include device training and education for police officers and city employees.

“I am excited about this life-saving program that we have implemented,” said Opelika Fire Chief Shane Boyd. “I’d like to thank Mayor Gary Fuller, the city council, City Administrator Joey Motley, our Human Resources Department, as well as OPD Chief Shane Healey for their support. This is a great asset for our community.”

The new system places AEDs in open areas

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Anytime Fitness Named Small Business of the Quarter

that are accessible to everyone at all times. It ensures that AEDs are always in place and that all parts are up to date and working properly.

The benefits of this new partnership include: Putting life-saving AEDs in accessible locations across the city Giving first respond-

ers the life-saving technology they need on the scene Creating awareness for the community and city employees “The city of Opelika has taken a huge step today in creating one of the safest cities in the state of Alabama with their recent AED deployment,” said Jon Seale, CEO of Cardiac Solutions. “AEDs will now be readily accessible in all highly populated areas throughout the city, along with all patrol cars. We are very See AED, page A2

CONTRIBUTED BY CFEA

The Community Foundation of East Alabama is accepting mini-grant applications from non-profits in East Alabama.

The Community Foundation will be awarding three minigrants for $500 each, which will be designated for general operating support to help assist and maintain an organization’s pursuit in its mission. Todd Rauch, the vice president of the Community Foundation of East Alabama said, “this type of grant is designed to be flexible and gives the grantee’s the ability to use the funds where they best see fit.”

Mini-grant applications can be filled out on the website, where

organizations can also find the mini-grant guidelines of what to include in their application.

Last year, the Community Foundation received another record number of applications from non-profits across the East Alabama region after increasing the grant amount from $250 to $500.

“We wanted to make a bigger impact in the organizations that were selected,” Rauch said.

“The need was obviously there because we had to get approval from our board to include a three mini-grant due to the number of applications we received.”

The three non-profits that were selected in 2021 were: Twin Cedars Child Advocacy Center of Opelika,

Redeeming Grace Ministries and the Exodus Ranch.

The goal of the Community Foundation is to encourage generous donors within East Alabama to establish donor-advised funds to help create a grant review process that distributes grants several times a year.

“I want to build the program to create a seamless process between establishing a fund for any need you want to support in the community, and connecting those donors to non-profits that help support or service that need,” Rauch said.

The deadline to apply for a Mini-Grant through the Community Foundation of East Alabama is midnight on See CFEA, page A2

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

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

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

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

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

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

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

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

VETERANS DAY GARBAGE, TRASH AND RECYCLING SCHEDULE

08

MONDAY ROUTE

TUES

09

TUESDAY ROUTE

WED

10

WEDNESDAY ROUTE

THURS

11

Veterans Day City Offices Closed

FRI

12

THURSDAY ROUTE

If your garbage, trash or recycling is usually picked up on Thursday, it will be picked up on Friday in observance of Veterans Day. We would like to thank our Opelika veterans and their families for the sacrifices they made to protect our freedom!

A2 Nov. 4, 2021

BEDZZZ EXPRESS UNVEILS NEW HAND-PAINTED MURAL AT AUBURN LOCATION Bedzzz Express is proud to unveil a new mural at the Auburn location. Bedzzz Express teamed up with Mammoth Mural Company located in Birmingham to create the mural that showcases everything that makes Auburn great — from local football heroes to The Lathe all in shades of bright orange, blue and complementary colors.

“We wanted to create something that the community could enjoy while celebrating the local history of Auburn and looking forward to the future,” said Austin Bond, owner of Bedzzz

>>

FROM A1

Interstate 85.

“What a fantastic and exciting day it is in Auburn, Alabama,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “What a beautiful day it is and our community is thrilled to have this tent here and to be celebrating the groundbreaking of Buc-ee’s.”

The benefits of Buc-ee’s will affect the whole city, Anders said, from the 175 new positions that will open, to the $50,000 Bucee’s is donating to local nonprofits.

“It will now become a major gateway into Auburn as people go down Cox Road for game day here in just 72 hours and to go back and forth on their daily travels,” he said. “We

AED

>>

FROM A1

excited to have been chosen as their AED provider and Program Management partner.”

About Cardiac Solutions: The mission of Cardiac Solutions, a world leader in public access defibrillator programs, is to advance the deployment of lifesaving defibrillation therapy

Express Auburn. “It’s the perfect addition to our store, and we invite the community to come see it for themselves.”

Mammoth Mural estimate $2.6 million will come to the city of Auburn, Auburn City Schools, Lee County, Lee County Schools, East Alabama Health and the Lee County Youth Development Center.”

Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, owner of Buc-ee’s, said that the chain’s first out-of-state (Texas) location was in Alabama, and that he likes having locations in Alabama.

“I knew right away that y’all would be a great community to work with and that’s proven to be the case,” he said. “And, I got to tell you, life’s too short to try to do projects in communities that don’t want to work with you.

So thank y’all for being so pro-business.”

The location will take a year to complete, following the groundfor the treatment of sudden cardiac arrest in non‐traditional areas of care. Cardiac Solutions offers a comprehensive portfolio of AED program solutions that include planning, design, implementation, administration, medical oversight, training and management through a single point of contact. To learn more, visit www.cardiac-solutions.net.

pelika Observer

O

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

Company is located in Birmingham, Alabama, and has completed projects all over the country.

Specializing in paint-

ing signs and murals, the team at Mammoth has created renown masterpieces, such as a Ghirardelli Chocolate Company hand-paint-

ed Mural in Disney Springs, Florida.

“Mammoth was the perfect partner for this project,” Bond said.

“They took our vision

breaking Wednesday.

“We’ll work hard, and we’ll work with the city and my promise to you guys is that we’re going to build a great project, and we’ll be great neighbors and great members of the community and we’re going to provide great wages to 175, and I suspect it will be more than that by the time it all clears out,” Aplin said.

Auburn Council Members, Chamber of Commerce Members, elected officials and more were all in attendance for the groundbreaking, along with a special guest, Buc-ee the Beaver.

“This business is the culture that we want in our community,” Anders said. “When we grow, we want things to be a great fit. Buc-ee’s will be a great fit for Auburn.”

CFEA

>>

FROM A1

Dec. 31, 2021. Awarded funding will be available to the selected non-profits by Jan. 30, 2022, and the funds must be used by Oct. 3, 2022. To apply visit www.cfeastalabama. org, or email at info@ cfeastalabama.org.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF EAST ALABAMA:

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.

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BUC-EES

and brought it to life in a way we didn’t think possible. The attention to detail combined with bright and eccentric colors definitely make it a must-see piece.”

Bedzzz Express Auburn is located at 1415 Opelika Road and is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is closed on Sunday. Bedzzz Express carries popular mattress brands such as Sealy, Simmons, Tempur-Pedic and popular “bed in a box” brands such as Nectar and Dreamcloud. Find them online at Bedzzzexpress.com.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY BEDZZZ EXPRESS

APLIN The Community Foundation of East Alabama was incorporated in 2007 as a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization. As a local center for philanthropy, the Community Foundation works with individuals, families, corporations, private foundations and nonprofit organizations to help them carry out their charitable objectives and address

emerging community issues. Donors to the Community Foundation also benefit from the Foundation’s combined assets which greatly reduce investment and administrative fees. Our five-county region includes Lee, Chambers, Macon, Russell and Tallapoosa Counties.

Our Community Foundation is administered by a governing body of

East Alabama citizens committed to building a vibrant community foundation. Through the generosity of people in East Alabama, our community foundation will continue to grow. Through grant making, we look forward to a brighter future by giving back to the place we call home. Visit www. cfeastalabama.org for additional information.

Subscribe to the Opelika Observer today!

Name: Address: City:

State:

ZIP:

Phone number: Email address: Payment Type (circle one): Check / Credit Card Visa or Master Card # Exp. Date:

/

Security Code:

Amount Paid:

• $34 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $45 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) •

Return to:

Opelika Observer 223-A S. 8th St./ Opelika, AL 36801

Please do not send cash through the mail.

A3 Nov. 4, 2021

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OPELIKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its annual community Christmas events including Snopelika on Nov. 30 and a Christmas parade on Dev. 4 in downtown Opelika.

Snopelika will be a winter wonderland festival from 4:30 to 7 p.m. including a tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m as artificial snow falls throughout courthouse square.

The Opelika Chamber is accepting vendors to participate during the event. Business owners and organizations can apply by

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Snopelika, Other Christmas Events Return to Opelika completing an application here. The event will conclude with the Opelika High School marching band leading the community from Courthouse Square to the Opelika Christmas Tree at 6:30 p.m. Mayor Gary Fuller and the City Council will share a See EVENTS, page A5

Sundilla Concert Series to Present Teen Country-Americana Artist EmiSunshine CONTRIBUTED BY FRED ANDERSON MEDIA She has been on American Idol, NBC’s Today, Little Big Shots, the Grand Ole Opry and elsewhere. Now, teenage country and Americana singing sensation EmiSunshine is coming to Auburn, Alabama.

The 17-year-old singer/ songwriter and her family band, The Rain, will perform as part of the Sundilla Concert Series on Thursday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m.

“I can’t wait to perform

in Auburn,” Emi said. “The Sundilla Concert Series has a great reputation. It’s such an honor to be invited.”

The East Tennessee musical artist been writing songs since she was and 5 has attracted national attention since the age of nine. Rolling Stone once named her among “10 new country artists you need to know.”

Her 2019 album, “Family Wars,” received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking songs about abusive relationships, mass violence, political

corruption and freedom in America. In a review, American Songwriter described EmiSunshine as “wise beyond her years.” No Depression said the album proves EmiSunshine is “bold and talented enough to tackle today’s issues while honoring yesterday’s folk traditions.” Country Standard Time called the album “superb.”

“The album is about working through different types of conflicts,” Emi said. “I’m just voicing my opinion about what I see going on in the world,

looking at problems and trying to make something beautiful out of them.”

(See EmiSunshine & The Rain perform “There’s Got To Be More” here: www.youtu.be/ n16NFQLgIS4) Known for her powerful voice, insightful lyrics and masterful ukuleleplaying, EmiSunshine has been compared by some critics to a young Dolly Parton, but her musical influences span a wide range of genres, including bluegrass, country, blues, rock and gospel. In 2020, Emi even collaborated

with funk music legend Bootsy Collins on a song titled “Stars,” to benefit the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund.

More recently, Emi released “After You’re Gone,” which she describes as a humorous breakup song. The song will be on her next album, Judgement Day, which is scheduled to be released next February.

(See EmiSunshine perform “After You’re Gone” here: www.youtu. be/u9NhL5kYzZI) EmiSunshine will perform as part of the

Sundilla Concert Series at Perry Hill, 101 S Debardeleben St. in Auburn on Thursday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. The performance will take place outdoors, weather permitting, so bring a lawn chair. In case of inclement weather, the performance will move indoors. Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee and online at sundillamusic.com; admission at the door will be $25. More information is available at www. sundillamusic.com.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

FALL FESTIVAL FUN PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Opelika's Fall Festival and Children's Carnival was held Tuesday Oct. 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Opelika SportsPlex Soccer Fields. Parents and children 12 and younger were admitted to this event which featured carnival games, inflatables, candy, prizes, food vendors and entertainment.

A4 Nov. 4, 2021

A Kid’s Game

G

SEAN DIETRICH

ame Three of the World Series is on television. I’m sitting outside on my porch with a cat in my lap.

It’s chilly outside.

I’m watching a portable TV, rooting for the Atlanta Braves.

And while I know I have been writing a lot about baseball lately,

like most hapless Braves fans my age, I’ve been waiting over twenty years for this game.

Earlier, I set up the television on the porch with an extension cord so I could watch the game while grilling burgers. Old school.

Because this is what the men from my

childhood did.

They’d watch a teninch screen, outdoors, sip from longneck bottles, and grill fatty beef over charcoal briquettes.

To this day I don’t know why those men watched ballgames so intently. Baseball is essentially a kid’s game played by very rich twenty-year-olds and has no real bearing on the immediate future. But there you are.

Those old men sat on the porch to watch games and scream at the TV as though their health depended on it.

Therefore, so must I. No matter how old I get, why is it that I always feel like I’m imitating my parents? I once heard it said that

God Help America

WENDY HODGE

T

here is a bend in the Tallapoosa River that leaves the image of a horseshoe on my map of east-central Alabama. In that river bend is a national military park memorializing the battle that took place there more than 200 years ago. It was a battle between not only white settlers and native Americans but also amongst separate tribes of Creek and Cherokee who could not find a way to stand united against the tide of expansion that ultimately meant the end of a way of life for all native Americans.

It’s a personal spot for me. I’ve been coming to this riverbank for as long as I can remember. My family’s roots

are here, and there is a peace here for me that I have not found anywhere else on this earth.

The trees have a sound that is barely a whisper.

The river runs still and slow, like a sigh. Sitting here with pen and paper is as natural to me as breathing. It’s been a while — I’ve missed it.

It was the news this morning that made it impossible not to come here today. More video footage of armies of people flocking into America at our southern border, faces covered and eyes averted, marching in as if there were no border at all.

And maybe there’s not.

Not anymore.

Crossing into America illegally is not a new problem. Groups of desperate men and women, sometimes with children, have crossed the desert and hidden among the trees waiting for a chance to slip across unnoticed under a moonless sky day after day for years.

But that doesn’t happen anymore. Now they come into our United States, these illegal immigrants, in large and loud groups, under

the bright sun, as if they are on a noonday hike, unconcerned about repercussions that come from breaking our law … because there are no repercussions anymore.

If you watch the news at all, notice this: Many of these illegal trespassers carry the flag of their country. They speak no English. They know nothing of our history, or our culture or our laws. And they don’t care to learn.

They are here to get what they want with no regard for the citizens who call America home.

And our political “leadership” is rewarding them for it. In fact, there is now talk of giving each of these illegal trespassers a hefty monetary reward, funded by all of us law-abiding, tax-paying citizens.

Meanwhile, nurses and first responders, last year’s heroes during the pandemic, are being forced out of jobs they’ve held for years.

It’s hard to watch, so I turned off the television and drove myself away from all that See HODGE, page A5

we are all just thirteen years old, just trying to make our dad proud. I believe that.

Anyway, tonight I can hear the ballgame playing from the house next door, blaring through the thin mobile-home windows.

My neighbor is an old woman who has two small dogs that resemble cotton balls with eyes.

These animals are currently yapping at a pitch that’s shrill enough to affect the migratory patterns of birds. This incessant yapping drowns out the televised game and adds a special touch to tonight’s World Series.

A game which, in case I didn’t mention it, I have waited upwards of twenty years for.

ANNOUNCER: There’s the wind up…

NEIGHBOR’S DOG: Yap! Yap! ANNOUNCER: Aannnnd the pitch…

DOG: Yap! Yap! Yap! ANNOUNCER: Riley hits an infield — DOG: YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP YAP! There are also other sounds happening in my neighborhood.

Such as the sounds of children. It’s a little late for kids to be playing outside, but it’s a weekend and I’ve never known a kid who didn’t push his or her bedtime limits.

The sounds of their laughter carry across our street, interspersed with the sounds of their heated arguments.

Eventually, I hear someone’s mother yell their names, followed by: “Get in this house, right now, or so help me…!”

Ah, October.

Sometimes I truly feel as though I am stuck in a perpetual October of my own childhood. Those formative years leave such an impact on you, you cannot forget them. There are some days when I feel like I never really grew up at all, almost as though adulthood is a dream.

My brain still feels the same as it did when I was thirteen years old, playing outside, pushing the boundaries of my bedtime to dangerous limits.

See DIETRICH, page A5

MOONWALK

BRADLEY ROBERTSON

H

ave you ever taken a moonwalk? I highly recommend it. As much as I love a sunrise or sunset, I adore the romance and hush of a moon coming up into night.

On the evening of Oct. 20, I decided to take a country walk, which happened to be a full moon. The boys were not home and Sissy was occupied with homework, so I poured a crisp glass of white wine and my body and soul were pulled out my front screen door into the low light of dusk.

The sky lay still, a silk navy blue in color. The birds were silent, the wind calm and cool. Acres of

pasture rolled into the horizon and the deep orange moon began to lift into the sky. I walked the path of our dirt road and was awakened to the dawn of a new season.

It was so quiet and calm, almost unreal. As I walked upon my rusty colored earth, I was able to see the season move, second by second.

Stillness in moonlight.

Leaves of color rustling in the distance. Trees far and wide, standing strong as elephants. I saw the moon lifting up and with it, the weight of the world.

I gazed at the sight of that moon. I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. And as I walked into one particular spot, I could hear the sound of water. It caught me quickly for the closest stream was nowhere in sight. I stood very still, staring in the direction of our creek over the hill, and sure enough, I could hear its babbling sounds just as if I were standing over it. It was remarkable.

I began to think of how intentional God is in this changing of season, summer to fall, fast into slow. I would have never heard the sound of that

brook had I not stood still to observe the beauty before me.

Our summer has been quite busy and heated with all the conflict in our world. And now, our long days are getting shorter and our temperatures are coming down a few notches. Colors are changing all around us from vibrant greens to the warm and pleasant of orange and red and brown.

Leaves are crunching under our feet and the tall grass in Alabama fields are tinged in gold.

And I look upon the moon which God pulled so gently into view and I wonder if maybe he’s calling us to slow down and pay attention. Maybe it’s time for us to notice the details of God himself.

Who is this God? Who is this bold, large one that our minds cannot even begin to understand?

Who is this Lord of Lords that has brought me into life?

Who is this great “I am” gentle and calm and yet makes the oceans crash at shore?

How can God pull a See ROBERTSON, page A5

Builders FirstSource provides quality building materials including lumber, mill-work, doors and windows. We also have an estimate and design team for our engineered wood products. We recognize the importance of offering product lines that meet your high standards, so stop in at our showroom on East Glenn Ave. and let us help you find solutions for your upcoming builds.

Builders FirstSource

Builders FirstSource - Auburn Millwork

Phone: 334-502-3991

Phone: 334-246-4475

1865 E. Glenn Ave. Auburn, AL. 36830

380 Industry Drive Auburn, AL. 36830

Open Monday- Friday 7am-5pm CST

Open Monday-Friday 7am-5pm CST

Open not only to general contractors, but also to the general public.

A5 Nov. 4, 2021

EVENTS >>

FROM A3

CONTRIBUTED BY HOME INSTEAD SERIOR CARE OPELIKA Home Instead Senior Care in Opelika, Alabama, has been adopting out seniors in need in the East Alabama community since 2004.

Be A Santa To A Senior was trademarked by our national franchise and has now delivered over 2 million gifts to 75,000 seniors.

Traditionally our program places wish lists from seniors in need on trees in various East Alabama businesses.

The wish lists are then selected by generous individuals in our community who purchase

ROBERTSON >>

FROM A4

giant moon into sky and still cover little me in his feathers?

And if the kiss of a husband can be so sweet, then why too do we feel the destruction of heart?

In my complete belief, I still wrestle.

But when I step outside, a lone person in a great big world, and I see the moon standing still, it’s as if God is looking back at me as he says, “I see you too”.

and return the gifts.

The wish lists are modest. Often the request is for bedding, linens, toiletries, food, books, puzzles, pet supplies or cleaning supplies. The seniors are limited to three requests.

We feel seniors are in need of Christmas cheer this year more than ever. So many of our seniors feel isolated and lonely due to the ongoing pandemic.

Some seniors do not have family regularly checking in on them or perhaps their families live somewhere other than East Alabama.

Therefore, we need the help of businesses and the community or-

God does see us. God sees every detail of our hearts and home. And he cares greatly. And when we least expect it, he shows himself to us in a moon, a child’s smile, a written word or perhaps a bird perched oddly upon our kitchen counter.

I think the greatest detail of God is that he is here, walking with us, listening to us, holding us and loving us. He is the details of every day. He is the changing of season.

We just have to stop and

ganizations throughout East Alabama.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?  Adopt out seniors within your organization to Home Instead Senior Care  Have a collection drive for the most commonly requested items: Toiletries Blankets Heated Blankets Socks (Men & Women) Non-Perishable Food items.

Please let us know if you would be interested in working with us to make Christmas happen for our most precious resource, our seniors: 334-321-1050.

notice him.

God pulls on our soul just as he pulls up that lovely fall moon.

I encourage you to take a walk this week, or sit still somewhere, maybe your porch or patio. Take notice that the goodness of God is all around us.

For he sees us clearly, and I believe we all long to see God too.

God bless you all as we enter into a new season of rest.

HODGE >>

FROM A4

insanity.

Driving up 280, my thoughts were of my Dad’s great grandparents who came here from Europe. They must have had an abundance of legitimate reasons to flee their country, but they came to America the right way. They followed the steps our country requires to become an American, and they did it happily and gratefully.

They were better people for it, and our country was a better place for

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS If you began working in a Textile Mill, Tire Plant, Paper Mill, Steel Mill or any other industrial setting before 1980: You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.

Call now for your free evaluation.

1-(888)432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law ARPC 7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

Christmas story before the official tree lighting. The event is brought to you by the presenting sponsor: Railroad Investment Group.

The Annual Opelika Christmas Parade will begin at 10 a.m. This year’s parade event theme will be “St. Nick’s on the Tracks”.

Floats, bands, trucks, and more will be led throughout downtown Opelika starting at 9th Street by the Courthouse.

Those that would like to participate

DIETRICH >>

FROM A4

I can still hear the sounds of my mother shouting, “Get inside this house, right now, or so help me…!”

Followed by a few expletives uttered under her breath.

We played outside when we were kids, rarely indoors. Not even during the rain did we stay inside.

There were no video games in our era, no cellphones, no internet, no helicopter parenting, no glutenfree products.

No, our universe consisted solely of bicycles, basketballs and mud. We knew every climbable oak in the woods. We stayed outside until our little-kid sweat soured and made us smell like theJV football team laundry

having them here. This country was built on brave people like my dad’s family, millions of them.

Now that I’m here by the bend in the river, I can think only of the other side of my family.

My mother’s grandparents and great-grandparents and generations before them were all native Americans. They were Creeks and they were Cherokees. Some of them lived and fought and died right here where I am sitting on the shore of the Tallapoosa.

What must they have felt when they looked

may complete an application here. The rain date is Dec. 5, at 3 p.m. The parade is brought to you by the presenting sponsor: Prewett Pest Control.

To learn more about Snopelika and the St. Nick’s on the Tracks parade, contact our head of events Mackenzie Poole.

ABOUT THE OPELIKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Founded in 1941, the Opelika Chamber has been serving the Opelika business community for almost 80 years. The Opelika Chamber strives to be the recognized leader and advocate of the

business community, acting as a catalyst for a thriving economic and entrepreneurial environment, collaborative community initiatives, and a better quality of life for its business owners and citizens alike. Under the leadership of Ali Rauch, president and CEO, the team works diligently to fulfill the mission to build economic and member vitality through partnerships, programming, education and community involvement.

bag.

And on evenings when we played neighborhood games of baseball, beneath a sherbet sunset, we played until dark so that none of us could see the ball careening toward our tender baby faces.

And this is how Lee Anniston lost his front two incisors. Also, that’s how I once got hit by a fastball in an anatomical region I will not name.

I’ll never forget the night I was hit by that fastpitch in that unnamed area. It was actually a pretty serious injury. After the frightening black bruises appeared, my mother took me to the doctor.

The doctor was an ancient man who wore a tweed suit and a pocketwatch fob. He looked at my bruised

area and said, “Cheer up son, you can always adopt.”

Different times.

Tonight, those olden times seem about six million miles behind me.

Truthfully, I’m not sure when it all happened — when did I grow up? When did I start talking about my youth and making it sound more magical and carefree than it really was?

But then, storytelling is a rite of passage among those who age. A privilege.

All aging humans do this. Therefore, so must I. There’s no cure for aging, but if you ask me, baseball comes pretty close. Because every time I watch a ballgame, I’m still thirteen years old, just trying to make my dad proud.

beyond their village and saw a parade of people bearing another country’s flag, speaking a strange-sounding language and bringing a lifetime of prejudice and ill will? How wounded and heartsick must they have been as disease and treachery and murder spread quicker with every stranger who entered? How desperate were they when they realized these strangers had every intention of taking the land these natives had lived on for centuries? How helpless must they have been when they realized their

own leadership was faltering and weak?

I think I’m getting a glimpse of what that must have been like. I think we all are.

It is a sorrowful irony that repeats itself over time.

If this river could speak, imagine the stories it could tell. Think of the human drama it has witnessed down the ages. If I close my eyes, I can sometimes hear it.

What will the river have to say to my children and grandchildren? What will our country look like after I’m long gone?

God help America.

A6 Nov. 4, 2021

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month CONTRIBUTED BY BETH PINYERD

“It’s About How You Live” is this year’s theme for November’s National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.

Our community has been so supportive of this season of life and its needs by providing services. Hospice of Lee County began in the late 1980s. The community supported the opening of the Bethany House in October 2000. Even employees at EAMC donated from their

paychecks to this cause.

Bethany House is part of the Compassus family.

What is Palliative Care? Palliative Care helps people feel better by addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual problems that may arise with a serious illness. It can also reduce or eliminate the side effects from medical treatments. Palliative care is not time limited.

It is available to patients of all ages, at any stage of a serious illness.

Referrals most common for palliative care are

cancer, heart disease, COPD, and other lung diseases, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Families and friends are included in the palliative support team. Services include symptom management and coaching for patient and family caregivers.

Doctors refer and meet for palliative care consultation with patients and their families. Palliative care with Compassus is served by a nurse practitioner under the medical director in a

home, hospice facility, skilled nursing facility, long term care facility, assisted living facility and hospital. Just like other hospital or medical services, most insurance covers all or part of palliative care.

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice offers peace and comfort to patients and their families by reducing the stress, pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. Contrary to what many believe, hospice is about living, not dying. Hospice definitely does not mean

we are giving up. Patty Baggett, area executive of operations for Compassus and Bethany House, and Chris Starr, director of clinical services, Compassus and Bethany House, state that the “Holistic approach for hospice is we, as an interdisciplinary medical, professional team add life to your days by developing trust.” Hospice is not a place, but high quality care that enables patients and families to focus on living life as fully as possible. The hospice team includes

a hospice physician, nurses, hospice aides, chaplain, social workers, trained volunteers and bereavement coordinators. The support team includes the family, friends or who the patient identifies as family.

Palliative and Hospice care is a service to support and care for the person and their families. To have this kind of professional support for the patient, family and friends during times of need, develop feelings of comfort, peace and relief.

United Way Hosts ‘Lead the Way Wednesday’ CONTRIBUTED BY UNITED WAY

The United Way of Lee County is introducing a new community giving day called Lead the Way Wednesday, where donations made from the community on Wednesday, Nov. 10, will be matched up to $11,500 by local businesses.

Lead the Way Wednesday is a big push by the United Way to reach its annual goal in the closing months of this year’s fundraising campaign. This year’s campaign goal is $925,000. The United Way hopes to raise $23,000 through this new initiative to help people of Lee County.

“Some people may feel like since they

can only give a small amount, it won’t make a difference, and so they don’t give. I’m here to tell you that it all makes a difference — $5, $10, whatever you have to give,” said Leigh Krehling, this year’s campaign chair for United Way. “It takes thousands of people coming together and giving what they can to help their neighbors and their community, and Lead the Way Wednesday is a great time to do that.”

Money raised goes to support the work of 25 nonprofits in Lee County that help people in the area who are in any number of situations where they need a little extra help. Local businesses have stepped up to support the communi-

ty giving day, pledging their own donations to United Way should the Lead the Way Wednesday goal be met.

Involved in this event so far are Annie Williams of Berkshire Hathaway, Sign Essentials, Auburn Therapy and Learning Center, Kathy Powell State Farm, AuburnBank, Eye Center South, Here Molly Girl, Kelly Wilson with Edward Jones, Rabren General Contractors, Franklin Tire Auto, University ACE Hardware and the United Way of Lee County Board of Directors.

Businesses interested in getting involved can reach out to campaign manager Kimberly Myers at kimberly@unitedwayofleecounty.com.

“We are so grateful for the support of our local business community. Without them we couldn’t introduce this exciting new way for individuals to get involved in what we do,” Myers said. “Fundraising has been tough during the pandemic, and the needs of children and families in our community have only increased during the past year. We hope Lead the Way Wednesday will give us the boost we need to meet our goal and further the good work of our local agencies.”

Donations can be made to United Way through Venmo @UnitedWayofLeeCountyAL or by visiting unitedwayofleecounty.com and clicking “Donate.”

Madison County Native, AU Grad Joins Alabama Farmers Federation GAP Department

THAXTON CONTRIBUTED AND WRITEEN

BY MARLEE MOORE / ALFA

Blake Thaxton joined the Alabama Farmers Federation as a commodity director Nov.

1, bringing nearly a decade of horticulture industry expertise to his new role.

Thaxton said he looks forward to growing his relationships with specialty crop farmers as director of the Federation’s Bee & Honey and Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod divisions. He’s also executive director of the Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA).

“Alabama agriculture is greatly accomplished, and I am thrilled to join this team in supporting Federation members,” Thaxton said. “I have been eager to work with my home state’s agriculture

industry and am excited to see Alabama lead the way in horticulture and beekeeping.”

In the Federation’s Governmental and Agricultural Programs (GAP) Department, Thaxton will help advocate, monitor policy and coordinate educational activities for his commodity divisions, in addition to organizing the annual AFVGA Conference and Trade Show.

Thaxton was most recently a Southeast sales representative for Johnny’s Selected Seeds. Previously, he was a horticultural manager for Produce R&D and commercial horticulture Extension agent in Florida.

On-the-Job Training Program trains workers for YOUR business

FIND READY TO WORK EMPLOYEES

Vehicle Title Problem?

We have a Solution!

Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles, Mobile Homes & Surety Bonds

JSE:Alabama's Vehicle Title Recovery Service!

We can help with most Titled Vehicles in Alabama, including Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s & Trailers. Stop in, by phone or online!

Fre e Phone C onsultation Call 1-205-267-5735 www.JSEAL.com

On-the-Job Training helps employers hire now!

Up to 75% wage reimbursement!

ALABAMAWORKS.ALABAMA.GOV

Funding provided by the USDOL, ETA, Federal WIOA. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.

Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

The Madison County native has two degrees from Auburn University, a bachelor’s in ornamental horticulture and a Master of Science, earned in 2009 and 2011.

Federation GAP Department Director Brian Hardin said Thaxton’s experience working with Alabama farmers — many of whom are Federation members and leaders — is a boon for the organization.

“Blake brings to the

Federation an in-depth understanding of the issues farmers face each day,” Hardin said. “We’re excited to see how his experience and expertise benefit Alabama farmers, our organization and our team.”

Thaxton and his wife, Katherine, have been married 12 years. They have three children, Caroline, Sullivan and Amelia, and live in Auburn. They attend Grace Auburn Church.

Opelika E vents, Society & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS Nov. 7: Alzheimer's Association – Walk to End Alzheimer's Nov. 12: Fall Bash at Red Clay Brewing Co. Nov. 14: The Simon & Garfunkel Story at Opelika Center for Performing Arts

Auburn Campus Club Celebrates 75 Years PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

O

n Nov. 10, long-time members and new members of the Auburn Campus Club will meet at the Saugahatchee Country Club to celebrate the club’s 75th anniversary. History, pictures and memories from 1946 to 2021 will be shared in an informative and interactive program. Among its service programs, the club published a cookbook on the 65th anniversary with proceeds going to the First Ladies Endowed Scholarship program, which honors each of Auburn’s First Ladies.

Founded in 1946, the Campus Club began as the Newcomers’ Club to acquaint new faculty wives with the community. In 1948, First Lady Caroline Marshall Draughon, wife of A.P.I. President Ralph B. Draughon, expanded the organization to include all faculty wives,

identifying the group as “Auburn Campus Club.”

Dues were one dollar a year. The Newcomers’ group continued under the umbrella of the newly formed organization and then became part of Campus Club.

On the 50th anniversary of the organization in 1996, membership was extended not only to all Auburn University employees and spouses but also to any women in the community as friends of the university.

A variety of events and programs are offered from September through May. While a kick-off event is held each September for registration, membership is open throughout the other months.

In 1996, Campus Club honored its founder by establishing the Caroline M. Draughon Scholarship. The commitment to scholarships led to the 2005 creation of the First Ladies Endowed

Scholarship program to honor each of the First Ladies of Auburn University.

From 2001 to 2011, plant sales provided the funds that grew the endowment and increased number of scholarships.

The annual scholarships named for individual First Ladies are awarded to horticultural students or those in related careers.

In addition to expanding membership and scholarships, community service projects became integral to the organizations.

In 2011 in celebrating the 65th anniversary, Kathey Davidson, who was president, realized the Campus Club needed a special project in recognition of its milestone anniversary.

The cookbook was chosen when the plant sales ended.

After Kathey received approval from the board, she contacted Cathey

Auburn Campus Club will celebrate its 75th anniversary Nov. 10 at the Saugahatchee Country Club. An interactive program will share history, pictures and memories. The 75th celebration committee are, from left, Susan Stanley, Kathey Davidson, Susan Housel, Carole Rogers, Sue Hooper, Shirley Bartels and Michelle Reed.

Donald, who was chairman of the Culinary Cohort interest group, to serve as editor and committee chairman.

The president selected the name “Course Offerings.” Proceeds from the sale of the cookbooks were used to increase funds for the First Ladies Endowment.

Since 1996, the number of scholarships increased from one award to 16 in 2011. The number continued to increase, and 20 scholarships were awarded for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Along with the anniversary cookbook project, support for the scholarship fund has come from plant sales and individual donations. The cookbooks

are no longer available.

Additional service projects are part of Campus Club’s activities. The Campus Club Book Club’s December project of collecting new children’s books for donation expanded to include the entire organization. Children’s books have been given to Lee County and Macon County schools, Our House, a pediatric clinic, the Lee County Youth Development Center and schools recovering from tornado and hurricane damage.

Campus Club events have included campus facility tours, botanical garden trips, theatre productions and spring teas at the AU President’s Home. Previous interest groups have included

making a “quillow,” pine needle crafting, exercising, swimming and birding. Current interest groups include bridge, daytrippin’ and ladies to lunch.

Over 75 years, Campus Club members have experienced and enjoyed the purposes of Campus Club which are to: promote fellowship among members, furnish opportunities for beneficial association, welcome newcomers to the campus community and to further the interests of Auburn University.

Current officers are Sue Hooper, president; Susan Stanley, immediate past president; Barbi Townsend, vice president of programs; Karen See CIPPERLY, page A10

OTC, AACT to Perform in Global Theatrical Event CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER Both Auburn and Opelika residents will have a chance to view Musical Theatre International’s “All Together Now!: A Global Event Celebrating Local Theatre.” For The Broadway Musical Revue Fundraiser in November.

AUBURN: Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) can’t wait for to you see all the local talent that will take the stage for the Broadway Musical Revue Fundraiser.

Lights go up on this show on Nov. 12 through 15 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 E. Drake Ave., Auburn, Alabama.

Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world's leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting the-aters around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and be-yond.

Because COVID-19 has affected so many

theaters, MTI decided to provide an opportunity for schools and theaters worldwide to locally produce and perform an exclusive musical revue featuring 15 songs from MTI's beloved shows as a way to fundraise.

To date, there are more than 3,800 theaters participating in 36 countries and territories, including other regional theaters as well. Each theater gets to pick the songs they would like from a selection provided by MTI and each theater gets to choose how to produce the show, so no two theaters will have the same show.

AACT can’t wait for you to see what they’ve chosen; selections include numbers from “Mama Mia!”, “Godspell”, “High School Musical”, “Frozen, “Rent” and more.

Performances for “All Together Now!” will be on Nov. 12, 13 and 15 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 14 at 2 p.m. Performances on the 13, 14 and 15 will be also be live-streamed with tickets available for purchase to watch those performances

online.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors and $10 for livestream. Call 334-246-1084 or visit www.auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. For more information or to purchase tick-ets, please visit www.auburnact. org.

AACT is thrilled to be bringing so many great shows to our area this season with many opportunities to get involved. AACT’s next opportunity is the 2nd Annual Holiday Walk in the Woods. AACT is a volunteer organization that depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community.

There’s something for everyone. Please visit www.auburnact. org to find our volunteer interest form or email info@auburnact. org to get involved.

Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up with us at www.

AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets and more.

Come be a part of the

magic of theater, we can’t wait to meet you.

OPELIKA: Opelika Theatre Company (OTC) announced that it will be joining thousands of theatrical organizations around the globe by producing its own local production of Music Theatre International’s All Together Now!:

A Global Event Celebrating Local Theatre. Theatrical licensor Music Theatre International (MTI) created this revue for theaters across the globe to use as a local fundraising event performed over the same weekend of Nov. 12.

All Together Now! features songs from

MTI’s beloved catalog of musicals including Annie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Come From Away, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof, Godspell, Guys and See MUSICAL, page A9

A8 Nov. 4, 2021

Making the Grade: The Mason Jar

R

ecently, Mike and I met our friends Jack, William and Thomas for supper at the Mason Jar at 1036 S. College St. in Auburn. Before I report about what we ate for supper, let me say that I love the restaurant’s name because it makes me nostalgic. The older I get, the more thinking back to the past makes me happy, especially after the last nearly 21 pandemic-filled months.

In my youth, I remember the older generation talking about “the good old days” and about how much better they were than the present. However, I refuse to be “old,” so I am instead being “nostalgic” when I talk about back in the day.

That said, the Mason Jar makes me think back to when my Mama, grandmothers and aunts used to can vegetables in, you guessed it, Mason jars. As I’ve probably mentioned before, Daddy had a wonderful

PHOTO BY MIKE WALLACE

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

garden in which he grew string beans (or pole beans), tomatoes (the ripest, reddest, most delicious ones I’ve ever eaten), zucchini, yellow squash, green onions and peppers. (I stayed away from those dark, lethal green peppers.

They were so hot, eating them could cause your face to melt.) Again, I’m a wimp when it comes to hot and spicy foods.

When I’m in pain, I’m not enjoying the food, so what’s the point?

Anyway, after Daddy picked the wonderful, fresh vegetables, the female members of the family would start the canning process. Mama mostly canned string beans and tomatoes, which my family happily devoured throughout the fall and winter months. As Mama said, those string beans were so good that they almost had a sweet taste. Also, those canned tomatoes were delectable in Mama’s unmatchable vegetable soup, spaghetti and chili.

I remember sometimes watching Mama can those vegetables.

The process took a long time and looked like hard work. Therefore, I didn’t have any desire to learn to do this time-honored, Southern tradition. I’m afraid that it will end with Mama’s generation.

The last part of the canning process could be a little unnerving. As

a youth, I thought that staying up late over the summer until 2 or 3 a.m. to watch old movies was really cool. No, it was really stupid. Also, occasionally those Mason jars of vegetables would seal, making a weird, popping sound. That can make you jump at 2 or 3 a.m. Now that I’m older, I get sleepy at 10:30 p.m., and I couldn’t move if I tried sleeping until noon. But again, I’m “nostalgic” and not “old.”

But back to supper at the Mason Jar. I really love the restaurant’s rustic décor. Also, Katie, our waitress, was very sweet, kind and helpful.

We’re blessed in Lee County to have so many service staff members who fit that description.

Mike chose steak tips with sweet potato fries and a side salad.

I ordered steak tips

Call me for all your real estate needs!

1810 E. Glenn Ave. Suite 130 Auburn, AL 36830 Cell 334.444.8041 duffystewartrealtor@gmail.com www.BHHSPreferredAuburn.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affliates, LLC

with fried okra, mac ‘n cheese and a side salad.

Jack chose the tossed chicken tenders with collards and mac ‘n cheese. Thomas ordered the chopped steak with green beans and sweet potato fries. Last, William selected the southern nutty salad with raspberry vinaigrette dressing. Everything was really delicious.

Besides our terrific entrees, the Mason Jar also offers diners a wide selection of choices, some of which include: ribeye steak, the fried pork chop dinner, chicken and dumplings, shrimp and grits, Southern fried catfish and jumbo fried shrimp.

The restaurant also has wonderful sandwiches, salads, wraps and wings to enjoy.

And desserts? Oh, my two times. Homemade pies, cakes and

cobblers are baked daily.

Also, their Extreme Milkshakes have to be seen to be believed. I’m proud to say that as a diabetic, I managed to resist them this time, but it wasn’t easy. Also, according to Katie, our terrific waitress, the Extreme Milkshakes are so popular that there’s an hour wait for them.

Therefore, you might want to call ahead and order yours before you leave the house.

Also, you’d better invite a friend or two to help you finish this milkshake because it will be garnished with amazing toppings such as: candy bars, fruit, cupcakes, popsicles, cheesecake, cotton candy, donuts, pop tarts and a lot more.

It’s entertaining just watching waitresses deliver the Extreme Milkshakes to tables

with children, although, adults get excited, too.

The Mason Jar has recently started serving breakfast on Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Also, the restaurant is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; on Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The Mason Jar 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

COPING WITH THE HOLIDAYS You’re Invited to attend a FREE event concentrated on coping with grief over the holidays. Lunch will be provided followed by a balloon release.

Thursday, 4th of November 1001 Sportsplex Pkwy, Opelika, Al 36801 11:30 A.M Guest speaker will be discussing various ways to cope with grief during the upcoming holidays Balloon release memorial will follow.

Please bring only one guest Presented by Compassus Hospice Sponsored by Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home

Artisan Coffee Beverages made to order.

Beginning Monday Sept.13, we will open each weekday at 7 a.m.

116 S. 8th Street, Opelika

334-363-0390

www.booniehatcoffee.com

A9 Nov. 4, 2021

I Love Juice Bar Launches New And Improved Rewards Program CONTRIBUTED BY SHERIDAN PR A new rewards program is heading to I Love Juice Bar and customers will appreciate the fresh perks.

Beginning Nov. 1, guests will receive one star per $6 spent at the store upon signing up for the program. Once reaching a certain number of stars, customers will have the choice between a variety of discounts, add-ons and more.

For members of the previous rewards program, all collected points will carry over into this new system to ensure brand loyalty.

Michelle Gil, director of franchise operations, said that the stores are excited to launch this new rewards program and compared it to those found at Starbucks, Chick-Fil-A and other national brands.

“We felt customers were having to wait too long

for rewards with our last program," she said. "With this new and improved system, customers could reap the benefits after just one visit to Juice Bar.” The sign-up process for this program is simple and will set guests up to gain stars as quickly as possible.

Upon ordering a smoothie or any other I Love Juice Bar product, the check-out screen will instruct guests to input their email address or phone number. They will then receive a message to sign up through the rewards app and will begin receiving a star for every future visit.

Here’s what guests can expect as they gain stars: • 2 Stars = Free add-on (bee pollen, chia seeds, CBD powder) • 5 stars = $3.50 off snack (pumpkin pie cheesecake, green juice muffin, grab the gold) • 10 stars = Half-off

Grab and Go juice (early riser, sweet greens, sunny g) • 15 stars = $5 off ANY item • 25 stars = Free smoothie bowl (healthy blast bowl, athlete bowl, pineapple cake bowl).

This new and improved rewards program will be available to customers across the nation, and stars can be redeemed at any I Love Juice Bar location.

ABOUT I LOVE JUICE BAR I Love Juice Bar is a brand that was founded to make nutrition and nourishment accessible to anyone, anywhere. Its smoothies, juices, shots and acai bowls are crafted with approachable flavor profiles made from only wholesome ingredients without added sugars, dairy, ice, syrups or artificial ingredients like ice.

I Love Juice Bar has 32 locations across the country, spanning

Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina,

Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia. To learn more

about I Love Juice Bar, go to www.ilovejuicebar.com.

Tour De Fright Delivers Ride-by Scares

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Bicyclers beware! Hosted by Opelika Parks & Rec, Tour De Fright invited parents and children of all ages and surrounding communities to bring their bikes and take a ride on a haunted walking trail. The event took place on Friday, Oct. 30 at the Opelika SportsPlex from 6 to 8 p.m. and was free to the public.

MUSICAL >>

FROM A7

Dolls, Hair-spray, Into the Woods, Les Misérables, Little Shop of Horrors, Mamma

Mia!, Matilda, My Fair Lady, Once on This Island, Rent, Waitress and many more.

“MTI’s All Together Now! is about bringing people back to the

theatre, whether as audience members or cast, crew and musicians,” said MTI’s President and CEO, Drew Cohen. “The re-vue features songs

from the world’s most iconic musicals, so there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy.

Our goal with this worldwide event is for organizations to provide

hope, in-spiration and excitement to their communities through the transformative power of musical the-atre.”

Performances to take place Nov. 12 and 13 at

7 p.m. and Nov. 14 at 2 p.m.

For tickets visit www. opelikatheatrecompany. com and click “purchase tickets.”

A10 Nov. 4, 2021

CIPPERLY

>>

FROM A7

Wright, vice president of membership; Michelle Reed, vice president of interest groups and special events; Carole Ann Fowler, secretary; and Susan Lee, treasurer.

Advisors are Susan Stanley, Susan Housel

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> SLOW COOKER TUSCAN GARLIC CHICKEN WITH SUNDRIED TOMATOES

Sue Hooper, president of Campus Club This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, and then you let your slow cooker do the rest of the work. Enjoy this recipe as-is, or serve over rice or pasta for a satisfying meal!

6 to 8 skinless, bonein chicken thighs 1 Tbsp. olive oil or butter 6 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup heavy cream 1/3 cup chicken broth 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning 1 tsp. crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional Sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) 2 cup spinach (chopped, packed) To prepare your chicken recipe: heat oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Add garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant.

Add the cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then set heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. The sauce should thicken.

Meanwhile, place chicken thighs at bottom of slow cooker.

Season chicken thighs lightly with Italian seasoning, crushed red chili pepper flakes, sea salt and black pepper. Top chicken thighs with sun-dried tomatoes.

When the cream sauce is ready, lower heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese, little by little until smooth.

Adjust seasoning for cream sauce if needed.

Pour cream sauce over chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Get as much sauce as possible on top of chicken thighs.

Cook for 3 to 4 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low. When cooking time is over, gently remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set aside.

Turn the slow cooker on high if it isn’t already. Add chopped spinach to slow cooker and stir for a few minutes until spinach wilts.

Return chicken to the slow cooker and spoon

and Sharon Sartain.

“Campus Club, from its beginning, has welcomed people to the Auburn community, providing experiences that entertain, inform and encourage members, while offering opportunities to develop friendships, support scholarships and impact lives,” Housel

said. “Now, in 2021, as we honor the past and anticipate the future, we appreciate and celebrate 75 years of Auburn Campus Club.”

Members have also enjoyed sharing good food together at kickoffs and interest group meetings over the years.

“I did not grow up

in Auburn or attend Auburn University,” said current President Sue Hooper. “I married into it. When we moved here from Tallahassee, Florida, in 2013, I immediately fell in love with Auburn. Shortly after arriving, I joined the Auburn Campus Club. It is such a wonderful and welcoming

organization. I have met so many wonderful people that have become close friends.

I have learned so much about Auburn University and the surrounding communities through the special events and interest groups Campus Club offers. I quickly learned why Auburn is really the ‘Loveliest

liquid, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes on top, or just pour them over Tuscan chicken when serving. Serve as-is or over noodles.

flavored Doritos Grated cheese to taste Scallions to taste Mix soups, Rotel, chili powder, green pepper, onion and chicken broth. Stir in chopped chicken.

Break up Doritos and stir gently into chicken mixture.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Top with cheese and scallions.

Wine suggestion: Dry white, such as California Chablis or Sangria

4 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 tsp. finely chopped Italian parsley 2 tsp. finely chopped fresh thyme 2 Tbsp. thinly sliced chives 2 tsp. grated lemon peel Salt and pepper ½ cup finely chopped Kalamata olives 2 Tbsp. capers, chopped Blend goat cheese and cream cheese in food processor until smooth. Add parsley, thyme and lemon peel; pulse to blend.

Season with salt and pepper. Form into a log and sprinkle with a bit of the chopped capers, olives and lemon peel. Cover and refrigerate.

Let stand at room temperature 1 hour when ready to serve.

Serve on toast points that have been brushed with olive oil and baked until golden and crisp.

Note: A must serve at Campus Club kickoffs.

Pour over chicken.

Top with remaining crumbs. Bake in 350 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Makes 12 servings.

Wine suggestion: Chardonnay

GRILLED BRINED CHICKEN BREAST Kathey Davidson president in 2011 and 2012 and cookbook cochairman 2 large whole or 4 half chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, 6-8 oz. each ¼ cup coarse salt ¼ cup firmly packed brown sugar 15-20 whole peppercorns 2 bay leaves 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced 1 cup hot water 3 cups cold water 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed 1 lemon, thinly sliced Olive or vegetable oil to coat chicken Trim sinew and fat from breasts. Rinse in cold water and blot dry. Place in large, non-reactive container. Place salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, bay leaves and chili peppers in large glass bowl. Add hot water and whisk until salt and sugar are dissolved. Stir in the cold water and cool to room temperature.

Pour brine over breasts and stir in lemon, onion and garlic. Cover container and leave in refrigerator for 2 hours, turning breasts once or twice.

Remove from brine mixture and coat with oil. Grill over charcoal or gas until cooked, approximately 4 to 6 minutes per side.

Note: Chicken breasts will remain extremely moist.

Wine suggestion: Riesling or California Chablis SHEILA’S MEXICAN CHICKEN Susan Housel President in 2008, 2009 and 2010 3 to 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can Rotel tomatoes and peppers ½ tsp. chili powder ½ green pepper, chopped ½ onion, chopped ½ cup chicken broth 3 cups nacho

APPLE CARROT ZUCCHINI MUFFINS Cathey Donald Cookbook сochairman 2 cups unbleached or regular all-purpose flour 1 ¼ cups sugar 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans 1 cup grated carrots 1 cup grated zucchini 1 apple, cored and chopped ¾ cup shredded unsweetened coconut ¾ cup golden raisins 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon 2 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 3 lg. eggs 1 cup vegetable or canola oil 1 tsp. vanilla extract Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease two 12 cup muffin pans. In a large mixing bowl combine flour, sugar, pecans, carrots, zucchini, apple, coconut, raisins, cinnamon, baking soda and salt.

Mix well and make a well in the center.

In a second bowl, beat together eggs, oil and vanilla. Pour into well in the dry ingredients. Mix just enough to combine.

The batter will be lumpy. Spoon batter into prepared muffin pans.

Bake muffins about 25 minutes, until a tester inserted in the center of one of the muffins comes out clean. On wire racks, cool muffins in the pans for 10 minutes.

Turn muffins out of the pan. Serve warm or cool.

Makes 24 muffins.

MARY LOU’S GOAT CHEESE SPREAD Mary Lou Matthews President in 1993 and 1995 and former scholarship and plant sales chairman 8 oz. soft goat cheese

QUICK AND EASY VENISON CHILI Shirley Bartels president in 1998 1 lb. ground venison 2 can tomatoes 2 cans kidney beans 1 can beer 2 cup water 1 pkg. Chili-O chili mix Brown venison.

Place in crock-pot.

Add additional ingredients. Simmer 4 to 6 hours. Garnish with grated cheese, chopped onion, tomatoes, sour cream, etc.

Serves 4-5.

Wine suggestion: Syrah or Malbec LAST-MINUTE COMPANY CHICKEN Carolyn Neal president in 2005 4 cups chicken, cooked and diced 2 cans cream of chicken soup ½ cup melted margarine 2 cups cracker crumbs 2 cups sour cream ½ cup broth Salt and pepper to taste Combine margarine and cracker crumbs in bowl; blend well.

Spoon half of the crumbs into shallow 9x13-inch casserole dish. Cover with chicken. Combine sour cream, soup, broth, salt and pepper in bowl; blend well.

BLUE CHEESE SLAW Joanne Schrantz president in 2014 4 cups shredded green cabbage 2 cups shredded purple cabbage ¼ cup chopped onion 2 tsp. chopped chives ½ cup crumbled blue cheese ¼ cup crumbled crisp cooked bacon ¼ chopped green bell pepper Toss cabbage, onion and chives in large bowl. Add the dressing and mix until coated. Stir in cheese, bacon and bell pepper. Cover. Chill for 3 to 4 hours.

Dressing: ½ cup mayonnaise ½ cup crumbled blue cheese ¼ cup buttermilk 2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. pepper 1/16 tsp. sugar Combine all ingredients in food processor and process to desired consistency.

HERBED MONKEY BREAD Sharon Sartain President in 2015 and 2016 ½ cup butter or margarine 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tsp. dried parsley flakes 1 tsp. dried chives ½ tsp. dried basil ½ tsp. dried oregano 2 pkg. refrigerated buttermilk biscuits (12 oz. each) Melt butter or margarine. In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, parsley flakes, chives, basil and oregano. Dip biscuits in the butter mixture; arrange in a greased 10 in. fluted tube pan.

Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack. Serve warm.

CHEESY CHICKEN ENCHILADA SOUP Ronda Hardgrave president in 2017 2 grilled, precooked chicken breasts 2 cans (10 ¾ oz. each) cream of

Village of the Plains.’

War Eagle.”

Following is a sampling of recipes from a few of the hundreds of members who support the university and the community with their time, talent and resources.

Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com.

chicken soup 1 can (10 oz.) Old El Paso enchilada sauce, mild or medium 2 cups fat free milk 1 red bell pepper 1 cup shredded, reduced fat Mexican cheese ¼ tsp. onion powder ¼ tsp. garlic powder ¼ tsp. chili powder ¼ tsp. cumin Tri-colored tortilla strips Dice 2 chicken breasts in ¼ inch cubes.

In blender, puree chicken soup, red bell pepper, and skim milk.

In 3 qt. saucepan over low heat, add puree from blender, enchilada sauce, diced chicken, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin and cheese. Stir occasionally until hot.

Serve with tricolored tortilla strips.

EGGPLANT CASSEROLE II Trudy Baker president in 2000 and former scholarship and plant sales chairman 1 eggplant, peeled and cut into cubes 2 Tbsp. butter or 1 Tbsp. each butter and olive oil ¼ cup milk 4 saltines, crumbled 2 eggs, separated 1 cup grated cheese (sharp cheddar recommended) In saucepan cook eggplant in small amount of water until tender. Add onion when eggplant is almost cooked. Drain.

Add butter. Cool. Add milk, saltines and egg yolks. Set aside.

In small bowl, beat egg whites until firm. Combine all ingredients in greased casserole dish. Sprinkle more cheese and cracker crumbs on top.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until firm.

ANN GARNER’S ALMOND PEAR BREAD Libba Stinson 2 cups sugar ¾ cup vegetable oil 3 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg 2 cups fresh grated peeled pears 1 cup chopped almonds ½ tsp. vanilla ¼ tsp. almond flavoring Cream sugar and oil. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Sift in flour, See CIPPERLY RECIPES, page A11

A11 Nov. 4, 2021

Reach Out and Read Alabama Takes on Iron Bowl CONTRIBUTED BY REACH OUT AND READ ALABAMA

With the Iron Bowl just around the corner, the Lee County District Attorney’s Office and the Tuscaloosa County District Attorney’s office are teaming up with Reach Out and Read-Alabama (ROR-AL) with a friendly competition to not only beat each other in the state’s biggest rivalry, but to beat illiteracy one book at a time.

Each office is hosting an online book drive Nov. 1 through Nov. 26 to benefit the ROR-AL program sites located in their respective counties.

Over 26,000 children each year are served by the two program sites in Lee County — Pediatric Associates of

CIPPERLY RECIPES >>

FROM A10

Auburn and Pediatric Clinic, LLC. — and the five program sites in Tuscaloosa County — Alabama Multi Specialty Clinic, Bama Pediatrics, Crimson Pediatrics, The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences and West Alabama Pediatrics. Donations made through the book drive will purchase books to be prescribed by a pediatrician to support families in understanding their children’s developmental milestones. Research has shown that when parents read books with their young children, they foster healthy brain development and create strong parent-child bonds that last a lifetime.

“Fighting illiteracy and fighting crime go hand in

hand. Many individuals we see in the criminal justice system struggle with basic reading and writing skills,” said Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere.

“Promoting a love of reading with parental interaction at an early age sets kids on the right path, and we’re excited to work with Reach Out and Read-Alabama to support our children in

Cathy Dillon 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts 3 Tbsp. butter ¼ cup sugar 1 tsp. coarsely ground pepper ¼ tsp. salt 12 cups torn mixed salad greens (combination romaine and green leaf lettuce recommended) ¾ cup dried cranberries 4 oz. crumbled feta or blue cheese In a skillet, cook and stir walnuts in butter until toasted, about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat; stir in sugar, pepper and salt. In a salad bowl, toss the greens, cranberries, cheese and walnuts. Set

aside.

Dressing: ¼ cup red wine vinegar or cider vinegar ¼ cup vegetable oil ½ cup loosely packed fresh parsley sprigs ¼ cup chopped red onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 Tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. dried oregano 1/8 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. pepper Place the dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth. Drizzle dressing over salad to taste. Toss to coat.

Serve immediately.

Refrigerate any remaining dressing.

Serves 12.

this way.”

“Reach Out and Read-Alabama believes that all families should have access to books and the meaningful moments that are created by shared reading with children,” said Amy Crosby, RORAL statewide coordinator. “By integrating reading into pediatric practices, advising families about the importance of reading aloud and giv-

ing books at well-child visits, we foster enduring family bonds between caregivers and their children that promote healthy childhood development.”

“We know that reading aloud together, telling stories and sharing books help forge a lasting, meaningful connection between caregiver and child — they create moments that matter,” said Sara Smith T, MD, FAAP, ROR-AL medical coordinator at Pediatric Clinic, LLC. “We have always encouraged families to make reading aloud a part of their routine, and we have always celebrated the importance of spending time snuggled up close together. More and more, the evidence is clear that we’ve had it right all

along: This time is not just special and joyous, it’s life-changing.”

To support the Lee County District Attorney’s office’s book drive, visit https://bit.ly/3Boj4O4. To stay up-to-date about the book drive, follow the Lee County District Attorney’s office on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/LeeCountyDA, as well as Reach Out and Read-Alabama at https://www.facebook. com/RORAlabama.

Currently, 57 of Alabama’s pediatric practices and clinics serve as Reach Out and Read-Alabama program sites in 32 counties, impacting 40 percent of the state’s children under the age of five.

THIS CHRISTMAS, INVITE THE

Party Party Guest

baking powder, soda, salt and spices.

Add grated pears and beat on medium speed in an electric mixer until well mixed. Add vanilla, almonds and almond flavoring. Stir well.

Bake in two greased and floured 9x3-inch loaf pans at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until done to the touch.

Makes 2 loaves

FESTIVE TOSSED SALAD

WHO REMEMBERS EVERYTHING...

Auburn United Methodist Church

2021 Christmas Market Saturday, December 4, 2021 8:30 am – 1:00 pm 137 South Gay Street, Auburn, AL 36830

Free admission, community-wide Christmas Market

SNAPSTANDPHOTOBOOTH.COM

United Methodist Women

BOOKING NOW FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES!

Shop for Arts, Crafts, Foods, Decorations & More For more information contact Mary Richburg email aumcwomenchristmas@outlook.com

Proceeds from Christmas Market will support local missions through the Auburn United Methodist Women

WWW.SNAPSTANDPHOTOBOOTH.COM

A12 Nov. 4, 2021

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER The Opelika Library Friends are hosting the inaugural Opelika Very Merry Stroll from Dec. 3 to Dec. 31.

The organization is currently seeking individuals and businesses to purchase a tree. One may purchase a tree at www.bit.ly/3aIR4d3 or www.opelikalibraryfriends. com/tickets or scan the QR code at the end of the article.

Trees start at $250 for a 6- to- 7 foot tree and 10-foot trees are $400.

Participants will be given an opportunity to pick out their trees on Nov. 29 and must have it decorated by noon on Dec. 2. A tree lighting ceremony will be

held on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.

This is a fundraising event for the organization and it hopes to display a total of 60 trees.

DECORATING TIPS AND GUIDELINES Groups may be as creative as desired. If one has a plan for a very large installation, please let the organization know at the time of purchase in the notes/comments section so we can build the trail accordingly.

Businesses may sponsor a tree for a non-profit group. Please leave a note in the comment or note section on who the partners are and which group will be coming for tree picking day.

One must bring their own outdoor-rated extension cord and LED

lights. Please bring on treepicking day. Volunteers will get your cord ready for your lights before decorating day.

Make sure all decorations are rain and wind safe. Trees will be standing outside in the elements for more than 30 days.

Secure ornaments to trees using zip ties, pipe cleaners, string, wire or other ties. Ornament hooks will fall off in the wind.

Do not use water-soluble glue on ornaments.

Spray any fabrics with Scotch Guard to prevent mildew.

Anyone planning to spray paint (colorful paint, glitter, flocking, etc.) the tree, please bring a drop cloth to protect the grass. Be mindful of the

neighboring trees and displays the wind when spraying.

White or colored light are allowed, but all lights must be LED. There should be NO decorations on the pathway or blocking the sign with the name of the sponsor.

A library volunteer will check trees daily and send notice of any lights or decorations that need to be maintained.

Each sponsor is responsible for watering their tree.

Turn Your Clocks Back, Test Your Smoke Dectectors Home fires claim seven lives every day in U.S.

CONTRIBUTED BY THE REDCROSS As people turn their clocks back this weekend for the end of daylight saving time, the American Red Cross asks everyone to also test their smoke alarms.

Home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster and tragically take seven lives every day in this country.

“It’s critical to take action now to be as safe as possible as the threat of home fires increases with the holidays and cooler weather,” said Damon Summers, regional disaster officer. “The good news is that you can take a few simple steps this weekend to help protect your loved ones.”

During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. As the clocks “fall back” when daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 7, it’s also the perfect time to test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.

In addition to testing your smoke alarms this weekend, follow these three steps get your home ready: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.

Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older.

Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.

Practice your twominute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — that’s the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late.

Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES 1,000+ LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire

Campaign with community partners has saved at least 1,048 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing more than 2.2 million free smoke alarms in high-risk homes across the country.

For more information, including safety tips and free resources, visit redcross.org/homefires or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in app stores.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN RED CROSS: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org,

DOWNTOWN EVENTS Nov. 4 at 11:30 a.m. — All Roads Lead to Opelika with Stephanie Stuckey at The Bottling Plant Event Center Nov. 4 — Live Music by Cameron Dubois at Resting Pulse Brewing Company Nov. 5 — Live Music by Kasey Kaschak at Resting Pulse Brewing Company Nov.6 — Live music by Cameron Dubois at Resting Pulse Brewing Company

or visit us on Twitter at @ RedCross.

A13 Nov. 4, 2021

Good Things Come in Small Packages weights?

But there’s more to Ruth than meets the eye. On the surface, it’s a sweet vignette about Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. Naomi returns to her home (Bethlehem), Ruth meets Boaz and they get married and start a family.

BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th And honestly, after all the warfare and brutality of Street Church of Christ Joshua and Judges — we're in Opelika ready for a story of home and hearth.

But Ruth is much more he book of Ruth than that and its original reminds us of this audience would have had truth. It is a quick no trouble grasping the read, checking in at just story’s deeper connections. four chapters/85 verses.

For those of us who are Furthermore, it is tucked over 3,000 years away from in between more expanthe story — it's a different sive books like Joshua, matter. We’re confused by Judges and 1 and 2 SamNaomi wanting to send her uel. It almost seems like daughters-in-law away, the an after thought — what is such a tiny book doing concept of a guardian-redeemer, and the scenes at among these heavythe threshing floor and at the

T

city gate.

To appreciate Ruth at a deeper level, we must understand that in many ways, it is more the story of Naomi than it is of Ruth. Note how the women of Bethlehem proclaim at the story’s conclusion, “Naomi has a son!” (4:17) — even though it is Ruth’s son. The book of Ruth is the story of how Naomi’s loss (her family and her land), are restored

by God through Ruth and Boaz. Ruth is at the center of all of this of course, so it’s not wrong that the book is named after her, but to reduce it to being only about her is to miss the larger story the writer wants us to see.

Naomi’s loss of family and land is emblematic of Israel; she is a microcosm of the nation. After all, God established the nation

by blessing Abraham with descendants and giving them a land. Indeed, God’s people and land have gone together since the very beginning.

God created Adam and Eve and placed them in a garden.

When they rebelled, they were cast out of it. Cain killed Abel and was forced to wander the earth — he had no land. And of course, God had the promised land for Israel. When they rebelled, they went into exile for a time until He restored them to the land.

All of this tells us that land is more than land — it is a symbol of the nation’s status with God. Here is Ruth living in a muddled time known as “when the judges ruled” (1:1). Israel is in Canaan, but they are nowhere near a nation. At best, they are a loose con-

federation of tribes. There is no king to unite them, so everyone “did as they saw fit” (Judges 21:25). Surely God had more in mind than this in His promises. Yet given the reality of things, how can the nation hope for more?

The book of Ruth answers this question. It shows how God can take a woman (Naomi) who has lost her family and her land and not only restore both to her, but in doing so, provide a glimpse into the glorious future He will bring about with through a king and later the King of Kings (see 4:18-22).

Good things come in small packages!

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

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

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

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." — Psalm 91:2 DIRECTORY

St. Luke AME Church to Host UA African American Choir

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The University of Alabama Afro American Gospel Choir will be visiting St. Luke AME Church on Auburn Street in Opelika for the congregation’s special service this Sunday, Nov. 7 at 11 a.m.

According to its website, “the choir is a special interest organization on the campus of the University of Alabama. Our members all share a common enjoyment for ministry and serving God through song and dance. Our organization is known worldwide for its creative ministry and for the past four years we have participated in and won first place in the large choir division at the National Baptist Student Union Retreat. We travel throughout the southeast representing The University of Alabama as a recruitment resource and also representing our diverse communities as a form of outreach.”

The Afro American Gospel Choir’s advisor, Cynthia Moore, is a native of Opelika. “[She] approached me about them coming and wondering if we would

be interested in hosting them,” Elaine Burton, who is helping organize the event said. “And of course, we just jumped on it and are trying to get the word out.”

The University of Alabama African American Choir has performed in Opelika several times in the past, but the last time was in 2019.

“Over the years it has been changed,” Burton said.

The event started out as a “team up for Jesus” concert, Burton said, with collaboration between Auburn University’s Gospel Choir and the Alabama Afro-American Gospel Choir.

“We started that in like 2002,” Burton said.

“They have even in the past combined the choirs to do a really big thing.”

If you can’t make the service Sunday morning, the choir will be performing in Auburn for its annual Unity Concert with the Auburn University Gospel Choir at True Deliverance Holiness Church (936 N. Donahue Dr.) Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m.

“We would like for the community to come out and share in this special worship service with us,” Burton said.

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

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF OPELIKA ON DEC. 19 AT 7 P.M.

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 Nov. 4, 2021

The Power to Keep Moving Forward When Life is Difficult

A

WALTER ALBRITTON

lthough a brilliant man, E. Stanley Jones used simple word pictures to explain the Christian life. In his popular devotional book,

Victorious Living, he described three kinds of Christians: the rowboat type, the sailboat type and the steamboat type.

As I reviewed his descriptions, it occurred to me that in my Christian journey I have been each one of the three types. Early on, I was a rowboat disciple, struggling to imitate Christ in my own strength. Jones describes the rowboat Christian as “humanistic, self-dependent, trying to get along with one’s own resources.” Because their

resources are limited, rowboat disciples struggle to grow in grace. That is an apt description of my life as a young Christian.

Sailboat disciples are dependent on others and on their circumstances, or as Jones says, they depend on “the winds.”

They make progress only when the winds are with them; if people are constantly affirming them and encouraging them, they move forward. But if people stop patting them on the back, they are dead in the water. Yes, I must

admit, there were days like that for me.

The need, of course, is to become a steamboat Christian, a disciple with inner power to live a holy life that pleases God. With power on the inside, one can move forward with or without the winds. Though a helping wind is always welcome, and the affirmation of others makes a difference, the steamboat disciple’s primary source of power is the indwelling Christ.

For me this discovery was like moving from

imitation to incarnation. I moved from struggling to peace when I stopped trying with clenched fists to imitate Christ and invited Christ to make His home in my heart. Embracing the truth of “Christ in me” changed everything.

I began finding the power to move on even in the most difficult times. So my own experience confirms Jones’ observation: “This power to go on when life is dead against us is the deepest necessity of our lives.” Yes, it is indeed. Without that

power we can never make headway when the seas are rough.

If life seems dead against you these days, it may be time to sell your rowboat, walk on past the sailboats and climb on board the steamboat powered by Christ. Give Him permission to become the power source of your life as a Christian. Christ alone makes victorious living possible when the storms are raging. Only He can give us the power to keep going forward when life is difficult.

parking ministry.

In addition to his wife, the former Myra Mask, and daughter, Carri of Savannah, Georgia., Bob is also survived by five sisters: Diana (Kenneth) Pearson of Little Rock, Arkansas, Amy (Bob) Yerkey of Lafayette, Terry (John) Anglin of Charlottesville, Jo (Scott) Crawford of Jacksonville, Florida, and Gina (Alan) Lee of Opelika; sister-inlaw, Patsy Coan of Opelika; aunts, Elea Peppers of Montgomery and Patsy Johnson of Auburn; uncle, Billy Johnson of St. Mary’s, Georgia and 13 nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home and Crematory in Opelika. There was a Celebration of Life service Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church of Opelika.

For those who would like to make financial contributions, the family suggests the gift of a beehive for Heifer International 1 World Ave. Little Rock, AR 72202 or www.heifer.org/giftcatalog/animals/gift-ofhoneybees.html.

and William “Bill” Williams of Opelika, grandson Hunter Bell and granddaughter Lucy Bell of Opelika, Great Granddaughter Collier Bell of Opelika, nephews Chris Linkenhoker and Wayne Vielhauer of Montgomery, Alabama, niece Heidi Hewitt of Opelika, AL; as well as nieces and nephews in Virginia, West Virginia, Nevada, Colorado, California and Texas.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021 at 2 p.m. with funeral service following at 3 p.m. at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home with graveside service immediately following at Garden Hills Cemetery.

OBITUARIES JOE FRANK HUGHES Joe Frank Hughes of Opelika, Alabama, was born to the late Colvin and Jettie Hughes in Elmore County, Alabama, March 16, 1939, and passed away Oct. 27, 2021 with his wife and son by his side. He was 82 years old.

He was a caring and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

A graduate of Cliff High, 1957, he received an invite for a basketball scholarship to Southern Cal, instead played semi-pro basketball for a year before moving back to Opelika and starting a job at Southern Natural Gas. Later when the family returned from living briefly in Birmingham, he worked at Uniroyal-Goodrich before starting a landscaping business, which he did until he retired. An avid sportsman, he played many years of softball, was awarded MVP numerous times, but most memorable was being inducted into the Alabama Softball Slow Pitch Heartland Hall of Fame in 2010.

Joe was a faithful member of Providence Baptist Church and the Encouragers Sunday School Class.

Joe Frank was a man who loved people and treated everyone like a dear friend. His personality was larger than life and he never met a stranger.

He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and playing host. He will be forever missed and his memory cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ralph Forbus, and first wife of 57 years and mother of Tim, Reba Fields Hughes.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Sasser Hughes; son, Tim (Jennifer) Hughes; step-children, Todd (Donna) Sasser, Chris (Sharron) Sasser; Brother, Tom (Eudene) Hughes; Grandchildren, Nathan (Morgan) Hughes, Alison (Marc) Woodall; step-grandchildren, Taylor (Joe) Janning, John Sasser, Kate Sasser, Logan Sasser, Will (Savannah) Sasser, Zac (Diana) Zito; Great-grandchildren, Bayleigh and Grayson Hughes, Keegan and Keely Woodall; step great-grandchildren, Claire and Mason Sasser and

Luca Zito; In-laws, Betty Prescott, Sue Fields, Hal Smith, Martha Jo Dudley, Dallas Smith. Also many beloved relatives.

We will miss his sense of humor and his protective and caring ways.

Visitation was on Oct. 31 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home and the funeral service was at 3 p.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Donations may be made to Providence Baptist Church Building Fund.

members.

Visitation was held in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home Oct. 29, with the funeral service at 1 p.m. with Rev. Thad Endicott officiating.

Interment followed at Town Creek Cemetery.

Kirk was a very loving, fun and generous man to all who knew him. He loved our Lord Jesus and will be greatly missed by his friends and family.

–––––––

“Bob” Johnson, 66, of Opelika died on Friday, Oct. 29, 2021 at East Alabama Medical Center, two weeks after suffering a massive cardiac arrest. He was surrounded by family and friends as he went to meet his Lord and Savior face-to-face.

Born in Opelika on March 30, 1955, Bob grew up in Miami, Florida and New Orleans, Louisiana.

As a teenage boy, he spent his summers living in Auburn with his aunt and uncle, Ashley and Patsy Johnson, and working at J&M Bookstore in Auburn, where his whole family worked at some point. It was during those summers that he fell in love with the Opelika-Auburn community.

Bob enrolled in Auburn in 1973, graduated with a degree in agricultural education in 1980 and remained a huge Auburn football fan his whole life. Early in his career, he was a firefighter with the Lafayette (Alabama) Fire Department, the Auburn Fire Department and was still a volunteer firefighter with the Ridge Grove Community Fire Department, where he served a term as chief. In 1984, he left firefighting to join the human resources and safety department at Diversified Products.

After DP closed, Bob joined Skilstaf in Alex City, followed by a long tenure with Panasonic in Columbus, Georgia. He retired from Panasonic in May 2021 and in August, reunited with many of his DP buddies, taking a part time position with CoachComm in Auburn.

Bob was also the owner of Triple J Farms, where he raised black angus cattle for more than 25 years.

C. KIRK KAYE C. Kirk Kaye of Lilburn, Georgia, was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on Sept. 12, 1960 and passed away at Piedmont East in Snellville, Georgia, on Oct. 25, 2021. He was 61 years old.

He was of the Baptist Faith. He graduated from Tyner High School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Class of 1978. After his graduation he worked for 1st American Rental in Atlanta, Georgia, as vice president of operations. He opened his own business in Daytona Beach, Florida, called Gator Rents. They moved back to Atlanta where he was a franchise consultant for Buddy’s Home Furnishings. He really enjoyed being a spotter for Daytona International Speedway, and loved the Atlanta Braves. Kirk was an avid Tennessee Vols Fan and loved to play golf. He was the commissioner of the Greater Daytona Beach Fantasy Football League and coached softball and basketball for his children.

Kirk was preceded in death by his parents, Aurelia Kirk Kaye and Claude Virgil Kaye, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Cecilia Houston Kaye; daughter, Morgan Elizabeth Gouge; son, William Kirk Kaye; sister, Beth Kaye Whitfield (Phil); sister-in-law, Brenda Benda (Tom); brotherin-law, Tony Houston (Allen Baggs); mother and father-in-law, Cecil and Betty Houston; nephews, Richard Baird, Gregg Baird (Pryor), Cory Benda (Britney), Thomas Benda, Jr., and Ted Benda, several cousins, and other family

––––––– ROBERT C. JOHNSON

He was the ultimate family man, devoting himself to all things involving his wife of 39 years, Myra, and their only daughter, Carri. Bob and Myra built their home as a place for Carri and her friends to gather and enjoy time together and they treated every child like their own. He (and Myra) loved hosting end-of-year/ season parties, cookouts, girlfriend spend-the-nights and pretty much any and all opportunities for Carri and her friends to hang out at their home. He was a proud Opelika High School cheer dad and was a vital part of the Ovations Show Choir, driving the equipment trailer to competitions all across the southeast. Even after Carri graduated, Bob stayed involved at OHS, serving as the spotter for the stadium announcer at Bulldog football games for the past 10 years.

Bob had a fun, loveable personality and was rarely seen without a big smile.

He made everyone he greeted feel like they were his favorite person. He truly enjoyed life, got the most out of his and gave his all to everything he did, including the hobbies he immersed himself in.

He was a master deviled egg maker and collected egg plates (35 in all) to serve his fare. He passed his love of history to Carri and together, they visited every presidential home in Virginia. An avid beekeeper, Bob managed 12 hives that produced the honey that won first place in 2018 at the Alabama Beekeeper Conference.

His honey has also been a favorite at the annual Pumpkin Patch at The Farm at Rocky Top in Salem. He loved kayak fishing in the low country of Savannah, Georgia, and the James River in Charlottesville, Virginia, and was a proud member of the #YakLife community.

Also, while visiting Carri in Savannah, Bob loved metal detector treasure hunting along the beach. Myra, Bob and Carri traveled the world together, often with other family and friends.

He served on the Southern Union Community College Business Advisory Board and was a member of the Saugahatchee Beekeepers and First Baptist Church of Opelika, where he was a part of the Helping Hands

––––––– VIRGINIA “GINNY” LEE WILLIAMS, Virginia “Ginny” Lee Williams, Age 81, passed away on Oct. 31, 2021, at home with friends and family at her bedside in Opelika. She was born in Charleston, West Virginia, she grew up in Parkersburg, West Virginia and Largo, Florida.

Born to William H. And Virginia Watts, Ginny was the youngest of two children, both girls. She was married 48 years to Otho “Bob” Williams and resided in many beautiful homes in Virginia, Florida and Alabama. She was involved in many activities; she loved and cherished her friends at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church and Garden Lovers Garden Club.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Otho “Bob” Williams, Son, Mark Williams of Opelika, both parents, Sister, Barbara W. Veasy.

She was survived by her children Traci Williams

––––––– STANLEY A. MULLINS Funeral services for Stanley A. Mullins of Opelika were held on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with burial following in Garden Hills Cemetery, Rev. Tim Thompson officiated.

Visitation was held prior to the services.

Mr. Mullins who died Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, at Piedmont Columbus Hospital, was born Aug. 27, 1930, in Tallassee, Alabama. He was a retired veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served in Vietnam. He was a former business owner in Opelika.

A loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, he was proud of all his family.

He enjoyed watching all kind of sports from the comfort of his den.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Mullins; children: Kaye (Dr. Pierre) Clothiaux, Ginger Mullins, Patricia O’Quinn, Russell (Jamie) Mullins, Stewart Mullins; grandchildren: Claire (Wood) Neely, Phillip Clothiaux, Caroline Clothiaux, Reese Mullins, Sam Mullins, Maggie Mullins, Karlyn Mullins, Katie (Lynn) Neal, Jack O’Quinn; great-grandchild: Irene Neely and sister, Jeannine Griffith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Austin Mullins and Margaret Mullins; brother-in-law: Jessie Griffith, brother and sister-in-law: Charles and Peggy Mullins.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

A15 Nov. 4, 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 Nov. 4, 2021

COMICS

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

S

S

D. MARK MITCHELL

F

of the best moves during his 13-year tenure at the helm of the AHSAA. Former Assistant Executive Director Alvin Briggs was named executive director in early summer. Briggs held his first playoff meeting last Saturday in Montgomery, with the next three being virtual. The AHSAA continues to be one of the best high school athletic association in the United States.

The Opelika Bulldog varsity football team (7-3) host Northridge (7-3) in the first round of the AHSAA 6A State Football Playoffs, at Bulldog Stadium on Friday. Opelika did not play last week, choosing to play 10 games in a row with a bye at the end of the season in an effort to prepare for the playoffs.

The Jaguars from Northridge finished fourth in Region 4, behind Hueytown, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa and McAdory. NHS lost three region games, Hillcrest (49-14), Hueytown (7555) and McAdory (11-27).

The seven wins were over Sisey Valley (286), Central-Tuscaloosa See SPORTS, page B6

LEE COUNTY: NOV. 9 AT 6 P.M. OPELIKA: NOV. 30 AT 4:30 P.M.

A four-interception display by the LeeScott defense helped the Warriors close out their regular season with a road 31-17 victory over the Morgan Academy Senators on Friday.

While the contest was not officially put to bed until a fourth quarter rushing touchdown from sophomore running back Jonathan Meyers, the Warriors got on the board first and never trailed thanks to the momentum-stunting performance by the Warrior defense.

The game started slowly as, Lee-Scott was only able to inch

to a 14-0 lead with 2:41 remaining in the second quarter. The Warriors offense was able to capitalize on good field position thanks to backto-back interceptions by a defensive unit that looked to put its stamp

on the game early.

Meyers and senior quarterback, Tate McKelvey, were responsible for the touchdowns — a short rush on second and goal and a 37-yard QB keeper, respectively.

On the ensuing

Morgan Academy drive, the Senators responded just before the half with a 40-yard passing TD and Lee-Scott went into the break with a 14-7 lead.

Coming out of the halftime team talk, the

See SENATORS, page B4

Building Momentum

AU Defense, Run Game Step Up in Ole Miss Victory

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The Auburn defense held No. 10 Ole Miss to just three second half points and Tank Bigsby had his best performance of 2021 in the Tiger’s 31-20 win over the Rebels last Saturday.

The victory was Auburn’s first win over a top-10 opponent since 2019 (defeated No. 5 Alabama, 4845), and proved what the Tigers are capable of when they put together a complete team performance.

Coming into the game, the experts (and myself, humble brag) predicted that the Auburn defense would need to employ a benddon’t-break mentality and, given the Rebel’s subpar defense, that the Tiger’s success offensively should be driven through time of possession and the tree-trunksized legs of Bigsby.

Surprisingly enough, that’s exactly what happened.

The Tiger’s offense held the

ball for 33.5 minutes of the game compared to the Rebel’s 26.5, and Bigsby finished with 141 yards and one touchdown on 23 carries.

Furthermore, while the bangedup Ole Miss offense was able to move the ball with some consistency — posting a respectable 457 total yards — the Auburn defense indicated early and often that touchdowns would be hard to come by, thwarting the Rebels from points in the red zone on four of their eight trips.

In contrast, Auburn went five-for-five on its red zone’s trips — the true difference in the game. The efficiency on the business end of the field began on the Tiger’s first drive, which resulted in a touchdown for the sixth time this season. Credit goes to offensive coordinator Mike Bobo See AUBURN TIGERS, page B6

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

www.theorthoclinic.com

334-749-8303 1-800-327-6519

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

riday night, 64 teams in classes 1A through 6A will compete in the first round of the state playoffs this week. Thirty-two 7A teams will play in the first round Friday night.

The AHSAA Super 7 is in Birmingham's Protective Stadium, Dec. 1 through 3. This is the first time Super 7 is being played in Birmingham since 2004, when the cities of Auburn-Opelika and Tucaloosa joined together and formed a partnership in an effort to lure the games to Jordan-Hare Stadium and Tuscaloosa.

The AHSAA, with pressure from the city of Birmingham, worked a 12-year contract between AuburnOpelika, Tuscaloosa and Birmingham. The three stadiums will host four Super 7 championships in the next 12 years. The move received glowing reviews from high school coaches and administrators throughout Alabama.

Former AHSAA Executive Director, Steve Savarese, took the lead and made the new partnership come to life.

It’s a move that will go down in history as one

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

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

THE ROAD TO SUPER 7 IN BIRMINGHAM

AUBURN: NOV. 9 AT 6 P.M.

Lee-Scott Defense Silences the Senators

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

ON THE MARK

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

B2 Nov.4, 2021

Glenwood School

PLAYERS OF Panthers Drop Season Finale

SENIOR RON BEAUCHAMP Had 4 punt returns for an average of 31 yards

HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

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.

OPELIKA WAS ON A BYE

For the last time in 2021, the Friday night lights shined brightly at T.C. Britton Field in Smiths Station, Alabama, last week when the hometown Panthers fell 31-25 in a heartbreaking loss to the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs.

The silver and black had a plethora of opportunities to win what proved to be a back-andforth contest for all 48 minutes but eventually fell short on the potentially game-winning drive when the Mustangs intercepted a pass in the end zone, effectively ending the game.

Following the conclusion of his team’s 2021 campaign, head coach Mike Glisson did not focus on the miscues which ultimately cost his team the game. He did not harp on the failed game-winning drive.

The leader of the Panthers did not mention the in-game results at all; he was simply thankful to have been able to coach his guys this year.

“I’m very proud of them,” Glisson said.

“I’m going to miss this group of seniors. These kids battle. They don’t give up, they don’t give in. They just continue to battle and they continue to get better.”

The head coach con-

tinued to praise his squad for not quitting on themselves and for maintaining what he claims to be a continually positive outlook on a weekly basis.

“They work, they get better, they continue to have great attitudes,” Glisson said. “That’s a tribute to them, their parents, the community, the whole nine yards.”

Regardless of the outcome week-in and weekout, Glisson is pleased with how his team handled itself over the course of the season.

“You just gotta say you’re proud of them for what they do and how they carry themselves,” Glisson said. “We wish we would have won a few more football games, heck yeah, but the thing about that is we had chances to win a few of them and — for whatever reason — it just didn’t happen.”

With the 2021 chapter now behind the silver and black, all focus turns to reloading and preparing for 2022.

“We aren’t going to hang our heads,” Glisson said. “We’re going to go back to work and try to get better.”

Player development begins after Glisson gives his seniors the farewell they have earned through their time put in for the program. For those who wish to continue

their football career post-graduation, he has his attention turned in helping them do so.

“We’ll celebrate these seniors,” Glisson said.

“Try to help them try to find somewhere to go play if they want to do so, that’s what my next few weeks will be: sending out tapes.”

With the senior class no longer part of the plans for the future, the Panthers will attempt to fill key roles — namely those left behind by wide receivers Amari Peabody and Cianan Williams — and turn to an experienced group of underclassmen going forward.

“We’ve got to fill in some holes and we’ve got to get better,” Glisson said. “We’re missing some big key parts but we’ve got a lot back. We played a lot of young kids, played a lot of sophomores, especially on defense.”

Glisson is encouraged by the experience of his young core.

“When you’ve got sophomores playing, you’ve got a chance,” Glisson said. “We’re going to get better and the team is going to get better.”

When the clock hit double zeros in Smiths Station on Friday night, the Panthers’ season officially reached its See SMITHS, page B3

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

GO DAWGS!

SOPHOMORE RB JACORI TARVER Rushed 22 times for 80 yards

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

B3 Nov. 4, 2021

THE WEEK

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SMITHS STATION PANTHERS

Southern Christian Closes Book on 2021

Serving Lee County since 2006

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

The Southern Christian Patriots dropped their season finale to the Lafayette Christian Warriors, 34-36, in LaGrange, Georgia, on Friday night.

The cold, wet evening did little to slow the two offenses, which were virtually inseparable for most of the entertaining-football-filled night. In the end, both teams exceeded their season point total averages and the Patriots offensive line paved the way for a dominant 400-yard rushing performance.

Crucially, however, two back-to-back controversial calls negated consecutive Southern Christian interceptions by senior safety Daniel Adams that could have sealed the game.

Instead, the inadvertent whistles which annulled each play gave the Warriors three attempts to convert a game-changing fourth down. The Warriors did convert, and ultimately the ensuSMITHS >> FROM B2 conclusion.

The seniors will not

ing Warrior touchdown proved to be the difference in the game.

Despite the negative result, the Patriots had numerous players perform well on both sides of the ball in an effort to play their best in the final game of the season.

Offensively, Adams led the way, rushing 18 times for 148 yards and three touchdowns.

Sophomore Josiah Frick completed the one-two rushing punch as he carried the ball 14 times for 158 yards and a touchdown. Frick also added two crucial twopoint attempts on the ground which kept the Patriots on pace with the Warriors. Rounding out the rushing game was, Levi Marchio, who added 91 yards and a touchdown on seven carries.

With the offensive line establishing such dominance through the ground game — shout out to Brady Streetman, Gabe Frazier and Daniel Freeman — the Patriot’s passing attack was barely needed; however, Adams found

Frick to boost his total another 31 yards.

Defensively, Marchio had a day to remember, leading the patriots with 13 tackles. Frick, who like most Patriots impact the game on both sides of the ball, added 11 tackles. And eighth grader Elijah Bailey had an additional eight of his own.

Adams and his fellow senior Camden Chism, along with sophomore Joshua Adams each had seven. Senior Landon Hampton, sophomores Elliot French and River Nelson, freshmen Noah Freeman and Trip Vaughn and eighth grader Lawton Curran each had two.

The loss puts an unfortunate bow on Southern Christian’s second season as a program. According to maxpreps.com, the 2021 team finishes 1-7, the lone win coming on Oct. 15 against Trinity Christian. The Patriots averaged 19.25 points per game and allowed an average of 29.8, but saw many improvements from their inaugural season.

strap up for the black and silver again next year and new faces will take over the team in 2022. The future of

Smiths Station football is a story not yet written; according to Glisson, the next chapter is one to look forward to.

SENIOR WR CIANAN WILLIAMS 7 receptions for 186 yards and 1 TD

Serving Lee County since 2006

Beauregard High School THE HORNET'S DEFENSE WHICH SHUT OUT HOLT, 35-0

of the

SOPHOMORE RB/LB JONATHAN MEYERS who had two rushing touchdowns and one INT

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

B4 Nov.4, 2021

OHS Cheer Showcases its Skills PHOTOS BY ROBET NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Smiths Station Youth 'Kick' Out Breast Cancer

PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN PHTOOGRAPHY

The Smiths Station United Soccer Association held its annual "Pink Out" for its youth soccer teams on Oct. 30. All players were ecnouraged to wear pink socks, sweat bands, headbands and anything else to create a sea of pink in support of breast cancer awareness. Proceeds from a raffle on the day were donated the Joy to Life Foundation and socks were available for purchase for $5.

SENATORS >> FROM B1 third quarter was an even affair, with both teams registering one touchdown apiece.

Morgan Academy struck on its first drive with a 60-yard pass that fell into the Senator receiver’s hands after the Lee-Scott defense collided with the ref, allowing the pass catcher to waltz into the end zone untouched.

With the game tied 14-14, Lee-Scott hit back with its own big play as sophomore receiver Andrew Hahn took a tipped McKelvey screen pass 52 yards down the sideline, beat the final defender with a juke move and left all Senator defenders in his rear view vision as he scampered into the end zone with 6:13 in left in the third quarter.

On the ensuing Morgan drive, the LeeScott defense would

force a turnover on downs and Warriors defense began to imposed their physicality on the Senators.

As the game moved into the fourth quarter, after moving the ball past half field, the Lee-Scott offense was halted in field goal range before Matthew Rolader drilled a 37-yard kick to give the Warriors a 24-14 lead with just over 10 minutes remaining in the game.

Morgan Academy swiftly answered with a

field goal of its own to bring the deficit back to one score with 7:11 left in the game.

Next, the Lee-Scott offense limped off the field with a short drive, giving the Senators the ball again with a chance to tie the game. Meyers had other plans, however, as the linebacker picked off the Morgan Academy quarterback for the fourth Lee-Scott interception of the night.

Meyers then put the metaphorical cherry on

top when he found pay dirt on a 1-yard touchdown, securing the win for the Warriors with his second TD of the game.

Offensively, McKelvey led the way for Lee-Scott with 154 rush yards, 15 reception yards and 52 passing yards with two total touchdowns.

Meyers finished with 88 rushing yard and two touchdowns; Hahn led the pass catchers with 52 yards and added 44 rushing.

Defensively, Dalan

Bush recorded a teamhigh eight tackles; Ryan Dearing had six, Meyers had five and Pete Lanier had four. Landry Cochran, Lanier Meyers and Dearing each had an interception.

Lee-Scott will now prepare for its next game, a home playoff contest against Bessemer Academy on Friday at 7 p.m. CST. For a more in depth look at the matchup, visit https:// opelikaobserver.com/ area-football-roundup/.

B5 Nov. 4, 2021

Opelika Closes Book on 1st Flag Football Season

PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER The Opelika girls flag football team ended its postseason play last week with a loss to Smiths Station in the playoff qualifier semi-finals. Both Smiths and Auburn High advanced to the state playoff. The Bulldogs still have senior night home games today at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. against Northside and Booker T. Washington and will play two games on Nov. 9 in Georgia before finishing with a tournament at Central on Nov. 13.

Tigers Tame the Rebels PHOTOS BY ROBET NOLES / THE OBSERVER

B6 Nov.4, 2021

Auburns New Tradition Highlights What’s Best About College Football CONTRIBUTED BY PERRY O. HOOPER JR.

A

uburn has a new tradition under first-year coach Bryan Harsin.

One that I really love.

Players from Auburn will run onto the field with the school’s flag as well as the American flag. This sends a chill down your spine.

According to Jeffrey Lee of Auburn Live, the player selected to

and women who lost their lives during the airport attack in Kabul.

The university left 13 seats empty at JordanHare Stadium during the game. These seats were decorated with a military cap and photos of each military personnel killed. Auburn took the focus off its 2021 team for a moment and instead highlighted a sacrifice that goes way beyond sports.

carry the American flag will be a player who represents the university’s highest standards and ideals. The player who carries the Auburn flag, or “Battle Cry flag,” will represent all that it means to be an Auburn Tiger.

Along with carrying the American flag onto the football field in their opening game against Akron, the Tigers honored the 13 military servicemen

This salute to the flag should be done by every college football team in America.

The flag and what it stands for is the reason we have freedom in America. Freedom to play and to attend a uniquely American sport; College Football.

I applaud the Auburn coaching staff for teaching these young men about the Flag and the importance of always being mindful of

the men and women in the military who have fought and died for us!

Carrying the Flag is a great reminder.

I hope this serves as an example for all teams that play college football to carry the American flag onto the field. It would be great also for every school band to play the National Anthem, God Bless America and God Bless the USA. ABOUT PETTY

HOOPER JR. Perry Hooper Jr. is the Founder of Let the People Speak, Former Alabama State Representative, on the Alabama State Republican Executive Committee, the Alabama Trump Victory Chairman 2016, the Alabama Trump Elector 2016 and the Alabama Trump Team Leader in 2020

Infiltrating Aggieland – How the Tigers Take Down Texas A&M Jordan-Hare Stadium was an absolute party last Saturday night when the hometown Tigers took down the No. 10 Ole Miss Rebels. The LED light show pumped the fans up, the efficiency of the Auburn offense got them on their feet, Derek Mason’s defense kept them engaged and the post-game swag-surfing brought the whole feat together.

For Tiger fans, there were plenty of reasons to celebrate. After all, their team knocked off a top-10 opponent, improved to 6-2 on the season and proved that it was capable of playing with anyone.

All of these components are vital in the building of a culture and a successful program; none of which are as important as what Bryan Harsin’s squad achieved by taking down the Rebels in 2021.

Auburn controls its own destiny. The path to the SEC championship is simple for the

SPORTS >> FROM B1 (35-16), Paul Bryant (28-7), Bessemer City (42-20), Brookwood (3518), Gordo (24-21) and Tuscaloosa County (376) last week.

The Dogs have a good opportunity to beat Northridge and advance to the second round of the playoffs. OHS would probably host Spanish Fort at Bulldog Stadium.

If so, it would be the first time in four all-time meeting that the Toros would visit Bulldog Stadium. The prior three playoff games were played in Spanish Fort.

The top four teams in the 6A South Bracket are: Saarland, Spanish Fort, Hueytown and Opelika.

Fans attending the game should purchase tickets online at gofan. co, for $11.50 after surcharges are added. (This is the only way to purchase tickets to AHSAA Playoff games.)

Tigers: win out. The team does not need any outside help, nobody has to lose and there will be no need for fans to hope for a miracle.

All their squad needs to do is take care of its remaining four opponents, beginning with No. 13 Texas A&M on Saturday.

Here’s how the Tigers escape Aggieland with their championship dreams alive: 1. FEED TANK BIGSBY. For the first time this season, Tank Bigsby looked like himself for the entirety of a contest against Ole Miss.

Granted, the Rebel run defense is shaky at best; nonetheless, the standout sophomore posted 140 yards on 23 carries and posted a touchdown on the ground. It felt like he was back to where most expected him to be as a threat in the ground game. For Mike Bobo’s offense — who will likely try to develop the run game before opening up the pass game — giving Bigsby touches will be crucial. Let the young tailback build upon a

OHS CROSS COUNTRY The OHS Cross Country team's participated in the AHSAA 6A Sectional meet at Auburn's Kielsel Park, last Saturday.

Opelika's girls team won the "Sectional Meet", qualifying for the State Cross Country Meet. Lady Bulldog Breckin Gould, as predicted, won the meet with a time of 20:25.34.

OHS ninth grader Mary Evans Cooper was second (22:38.03), Violett Alcorn placed third (22:53.90), Morgan Bice finished fifth (22:57.47), Joanne Smith T earned sixth (23:08.29), Susan Gaston was seventh (23:18.21), Paola Torres finished eighth (23:24.94), Jasmine Jordan rounded out the top-10 (24:33.82) and Carlie Moates and Kiley Brooks finished 12th and 15th, respectively.

The OHS boys finished second, behind Wetumpka. The top

PHOTOS BY ROBET NOLES / THE OBSERVER

HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

confidence-boosting effort in week nine.

2.PLAY LIKE THE AUBURN SECOND-HALF DEFENSE FOR 60 MINUTES. To this point in 2021, the Auburn defense has developed a tendency to perform significantly better in the second half of contests than it has in the first 30 minutes. This was spotlighted in the week nine victory over Ole Miss, the Tigers allowed just three points in the latter portion of the contest. For fans of the orange and blue, this is both a blessing and a curse going into week 10. The upside?

Auburn will likely

Bulldog, Michael Hart, finished fourth (18:14.52), Conner Mullins placed sixth (18:30.2), Brantley Turnham placed seventh (18:49.71), Sam Kemp was ninth (19:10.32), Peyton Weston finished 10th (19:13.47), Zalen Shaw earned 16th, Trey White 17th, Zane Sexton 18th, Mitch McCollough 19th and Ben Bell 20th.

The two teams qualified for the AHSAA 6A State Championship Meet on Saturday, Nov. 6 at Oakhill Indian Mounds Park in Moulton.

Good luck to the OHS cross country teams!

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 9101310, co-chairof the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

have the opportunity to secure a win even if it enters halftime trailing by a reasonable margin. The downside? A comeback will be extremely difficult against the No. 28 defense in the country.

The best-case scenario for the Tigers is to play 60 minutes of stif ling defense.

3.CHEW CLOCK. CONTROL TIME OF POSSESSION. Auburn did an outstanding job of keeping the ball away from its opponents in last week’s contest with Ole Miss, maintaining possession for 33 minutes via a slew of long, unhurried drives.

Granted, the Rebel defense is nowhere near the same caliber as that of Texas A&M; the Tigers should still aim to replicate the results.

The longer Auburn’s offense is able to hold on to the ball, the more exhausted the Aggie defense becomes and the shorter the time Jimbo Fisher’s offense has to operate.

4.SET UP FOR HIGHPERCENTAGE PLAY CALLS. Texas A&M has developed one of the premier defenses in the SEC. The unit has allowed only 15 touchdowns on the season and just north of 329 yards per contest. If

AUBURN TIGERS>>

position battle by averaging 56 yards per punt.

All told, however, Auburn’s offense looked better than that of the Rebels Saturday — something that had rarely if ever been said this season.

The defense, which held Ole Miss to onefor-four on fourth down and just three second half points, was clearly better — but that was less of a surprise.

Individually, Zakoby McClain led the defense with 14 tackles and a career high two sacks. Jaylin Simpson’s stepped up in a big way with a fourth quarter, game-sealing interception — the first of his career. And the return of middle linebacker Owen Pappoe and edge rusher T.D. Moultry made a notable difference as well.

Offensively, Kobe Hudson had a career

FROM B1 for crafting first-possession scripts which build confidence within the players and feed Auburn’s momentum from the onset.

As the game went along, more attention was put on stopping Bigsby, and things began to open up for Bo Nix. The junior continued to build on his recent performances and finished with 238 passing yards (passing Brandon Cox for third all-time at Auburn) and one touchdown on 22-of-30 passing. He also added 46 yards on the ground and rushed for two touchdowns on misdirection QB-keepers near the goal line — his specialty.

When things did begin to lull for the Tigers in the second half, punter Oscar Champan helped Auburn win the field

Auburn wants to seize the opportunity to take down the No. 13 team in the land, it will need to be in position to execute high-percentage plays. The Tigers have struggled with plays downfield and will likely need to steer clear from challenging the Aggie secondary as much as possible.

Developing steady drives and third-andshort situations will play out in their favor.

5. FOCUS ON THE TASK AT HAND. There will certainly be added pressure with the possibility to win out and play for an SEC championship — and vengeance against UGA — in December; the Tigers have at least 240 minutes of football to play before that opportunity shows itself.

It is remarkably easy to forget that you have a job to do before you find yourself in the big dance. Harsin’s coaching staff should be employing its squad to block the future out of their minds and enter college station focusing only on taking down the Aggies. high in receptions (6) and yards (79), but gave away what could have been a costly fumble in the fourth quarter. One of only four players to catch a ball, Demetris Robertson, also muffed a punt to turn the ball over to the Rebels. Against better teams (i.e. Alabama), mistakes like that will be punished.

For now, it’s on to a road test versus No. 13 Texas A&M. Bryan Harsin’s Tigers have moved up to No. 12 in the AP Poll still control their own destiny in terms of winning the SEC. It’s clear the performances are getting better and more consistent. If the defense continues to improve, Bigsby gets unleashed and Nix keeps having fun, Auburn has a dart-throw chance at the college football playoff.

B7 Nov. 4, 2021

Auburn University Makes $5.63 Billion Impact on State of Alabama CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Auburn University and its alumni make a $5.63 billion economic contribution to the state of Alabama, including creating more than 27,000 jobs in addition to university employment, according to a new study.

“Even during this challenging pandemic, Auburn has been a critical economic engine for Alabama,” said Auburn President Jay Gogue.

“With nationally recognized academic programs, along with our capacity to build partnerships and foster innovation through our renowned research and outreach efforts, Auburn benefits individuals, organizations and

communities all across our state.”

The study notes Auburn’s instruction, research and outreach resources, active faculty and student engagement and extension presence across the state as major assets for Alabama communities.

Researchers based the study on recent statistical and financial data from Auburn’s main campus, Auburn University at Montgomery, the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, which has offices in all 67 counties. The study was conducted

by Economic Research Services in Montgomery and Auburn’s Division of University

Outreach, which has coordinated the ongoing impact studies for Auburn since 1996.

The major components of Auburn’s $5.63 billion impact are: A direct economic impact of $2.2 billion, representing Auburn’s in-state expenditures, such as payroll and purchases, student spending on local housing and food, construction and spending by visitors to university events.

An increase in human capital from Auburn’s high-quality educational programs, representing a value of more than $3.42 billion in earning power of Auburn graduates residing in Alabama.

Auburn’s impact is also responsible for creating 27,312 jobs in Alabama

in addition to university employment.

Auburn provides the primary academic support for a number of major state industries, businesses and occupations through its wide range of degree programs, professional education and training.

Auburn supports innovation, industry collaboration and entrepreneurship that promote the economy of the state, as well as the economic and security interests of the nation as a whole.

Auburn’s $5.63 billion economic contribution marks a 1% increase from the previous study, demonstrating that even during the economic downturn associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the university’s robust

institutional capacity still produced an increase in its overall economic contribution to the state.

“This study confirms again that the university greatly contributes to the quality of life in Alabama, especially during difficult times such as we’ve all faced with COVID-19,” said Royrickers Cook, vice president for University Outreach. “The university is a significant component of the state’s economy and human capital, while providing access to educational resources and services into the community for the well-being of all our citizens.”

Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its commitment to world-class scholarship, interdisciplinary

Trick or Treat Yo' self

research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, life-changing 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 technology-based 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.

PHOTOS BY GAME CHANGER PHOTOGRAPHY FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn's downtown was a treat for all ages on Halloween night.

B8 Nov.4, 2021

Thankfulness is a Family Affair

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

N

ovember is recognized for many celebrations such as Peanut Butter Lovers’ Month, National Family Caregivers' Month, National Model Railroad Month and more. But this week, Classroom Observer wants to start out November by stressing thankfulness for our children and families.

Let’s start out this month being thankful.

Right after Halloween and harvest festivals, it seems like Christmas just bursts into the commercial world. Wait!

Where is Thanksgiving?

As parents and teachers, how can we preserve

Thanksgiving in the hearts of our children for now and in the future?

Reflections upon the year and having hope for the future establish gratitude and thankfulness for families in order to provide a valuable Thanksgiving lesson for our children to learn.

We have a whole month to take teachable moments as Thanksgiving approaches.

“Lest you Forget” is a way to connect our Thanksgiving celebration to the first harvest feast and celebration that brought the Pilgrims and Native Americans together. This special

time of looking back at history can be enhanced by reading books to your children. Too, there are valuable resources with pictures that you can share with your children about the first Thanksgiving. This is a good time to share your own family history and traditions. Children love to hear stories of when their parents and grandparents were children having Thanksgiving.

How can we teach children to learn and care for others? Here are a few tips that I would like to share with you. Keep in mind that in the first five years, values and moral development begin. This continues all our lives but we as parents and teachers can take these early years as an open door to teach children morals and values. We have to look at age and child development as we assess what children can actually understand.

In working over the years with infants, toddlers who are 8 to 20 months old realize that they can make another child happy by being gentle and helpful. Praise the child when they do this positive action. Too, they understand they can hurt another child by hitting, pushing or grabbing.

Immediate correction is needed when this happens

by saying “no” or letting them know by verbal or facial expression that we don’t hurt others.

When a child is in their early twos and threes, they can understand and empathize the feelings, frustrations and hurts of others. When I see a child this age gently reaching out to another child by sharing a toy, blanket or hug, it melts this teacher’s heart to witness kindness from one so young.

When children are in their late three’s and four’s, they definitely understand the importance of being kind and sharing with others.

Children 5 years old and older develop values like honesty, respect and kindness, and are able to understand moral judgments.

As parents and teachers, what can we do to teach values? Spend time and simply talk with children about different circumstances and situations they have had with other children. Role play different situations with your children. For example, if a child’s friend bumped into something or fell down and got hurt, discuss with your children on how they think the other child may have felt with these accidents. In addressing your children, ask them how they helped their friend. With older

children, ask for their ideas on how they can outreach and help.

Children love to write and draw things they are thankful for. Give your child simple Post-it notes to write or draw what they are thankful for.

These can be posted on the refrigerator, doors, walls or mirrors to remind families how blessed they are. Children love to do hand turkeys with fingers as the feathers. On each feather, the children can write and draw what they are thankful for.

We don’t have to look very far to give and share with a person in need. I have a next door neighbor, mother of two young boys who looks for ways to help others. When I drive up with groceries or heavy book bags, these two boys help me unload my trunk to take heavy bags into my home. This truly encourages me and warms my heart.

Opening a door for an older person or helping a person who is disabled by rolling a grocery cart for them when they enter a store are simple acts of kindness that mean so much. These are simple acts of kindness that are easy for a child to learn and feel the happiness and joy of helping someone else. These are life lessons of teaching compassion and gratitude.

As parents, caregivers and teachers of young children it is so important to begin to teach manners. When serving snacks to 3 year olds, I love to hear them say “thank you.” Too, when asking for something, teaching a young child to say “please” as well as saying “I’m sorry” when doing something wrong is instilling good manners into the life of a child.

Manners help so much in interactions with others.

As parents and teachers, we are the best models a child has in understanding gratitude. Being thankful for the little and big things in life by verbally expressing this is a simple act that will bring joy and happiness for your child to model and understand. Being conscious to thank your child for the little things they do for you encourages them to want to help more.

With November being “Giving Thanks Month”, as we embark as schools, families and community, we can stress gratitude as we truly care for others.

As parents, teachers and community helpers, we can be models of showing what thankfulness really means to a future generation.

Beth Pinyerd, Classroom Observer

Dear Editor: Recess Is Important

I

’m writing to you on behalf of my son, his peers and the teachers in Opelika City Schools. I see harm and neglect happening in our community.

Our children are being denied their recess time.

I know recess may seem frivolous, especially with all the funding tied to testing and the recent difficulties in our schools. But the reality is that recess helps children grow academically and socially when paired with a traditional school day.

Taking it away causes harm and neglects our children’s development.

I taught preschool in a nationally accredited childcare center for two years.

Prior to that, I received a quality education from Auburn University. I was well prepared to become a preschool teacher. But nothing can fully prepare you to be a teacher except being a

teacher. That first year was one of the hardest of my life.

It’s an experience I am truly grateful for. It helped me become a better and stronger person. During that testing time, I promised myself that I would stand up for children when I saw harm of any kind being done to them. I would be their voice because I know better. And when you know better, you do better.

I contacted the main office at OCS and was told that recess isn’t necessary at this time. They told me that Physical Education is providing students the movement requirements they need. While it is true that our kids are moving during PE, it doesn’t provide the same benefits as recess.

Modern PE is a structured class. Children’s brains are thinking and recalling information they are being taught. PE is wonderful and also necessary for building

'1/a.ssle hee Va.cat:on..Whj Not Ca.II Us. www.mytravelatmidtown.com

334 749 0877 3051 Frederick Road, Suite 7, Opelika -

-

� Circle of Excellence 2008-2011

MilhonA1r 2010 & 2011 & 2012 --------(between Sam:� Club and Tiger Town)

physical literacy and the confidence for physical activity.

But recess is different. It’s not a class. Recess is time where children are free to move their bodies how they want, talk to who they want and choose their own words.

They aren’t being told to sit down or to be quiet. Recess is the only time during the school day that our kids have this. Except that our children don’t. Dr. Neighbors chose to throw it out.

Research as far back as the 1980’s shows that when a child has a break during the day they perform better academically and behaviorally. It allows them time to process all the things going on in their brain and sort it out to the appropriate areas.

Recess lets them take their thoughts and execute them, and when a child can follow through with their ideas, or even just talk them out, their behavior drastically

improves. As a result, recess leads to less meltdowns and crying, less frustration and confusion. After recess they work more and fidget less.

Children of all ages need recess to grow and develop, and its benefits are strengthened when paired with PE, not replaced by it.

The research is very clear, and teachers know it too.

Our teachers didn’t choose their profession for money or prestige. They chose this path because they love children and want to help them.

I know what it’s like to go to work and feel like I’m doing more harm than good. Is that really what we want for our schools? To make our teachers choose between their profession and doing what is right for our kids?

There is no way out of this for Dr. Neighbors and the school board. Nothing they say can change it. Do we want better student

behavior? Data tells us recess. Do we want better test scores? Data says recess.

How about improved focus and memory? Children with higher emotional intelligence, better leadership skills and conflict resolution?

You guessed it: recess.

I have a petition with 335 signatures so far and have spoken directly with Dr. Neighbors. In this discussion he shared all the difficulties administrators and teachers are facing and his plans to overcome them. When the discussion moved toward recess he consistently defended his decision to increase instructional time to combat these problems rather than using current scientific understanding to make that instructional time more efficient. The up-todate sources I have cited on my petition will show you that recess is the answer.

I think it’s time we ask

ourselves why Alabama is always last in public education. Why aren’t we looking to others that are getting it right and following their lead? Why aren’t we allowing ourselves to learn new concepts and ideas to do better for our children? In fact — many of these concepts and ideas aren’t even new. Is it all of us making these inadequate decisions, or a select few?

I have made it my personal goal to educate every parent in this city about the basic right of recess. I will not stop until a change has been made. Current research suggests that children get the most benefit from 60 minutes of recess throughout their school day. I see no reason why our children deserve less. What will you do to help?

Lauren Bailey Opelika

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

Nov. 4, 2021

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Inside the Statehouse

Jim Preuitt

J

STEVE FLOWERS

BY MICHELLE KEY AND HANNAH LESTER

We would usually dine at the politically famous Elite Restaurant.

Jim smoked a pipe. I love the smell of quality tobacco pipe smoke. He would smoke it all day at his desk, then also at the Elite. He was a quiet, dignified, gentleman, who chose his words carefully. He exuded quality and class. Even though he had humble roots, he had the demeanor of someone born into royalty.

Jim Preuitt was born in July 1935 near Moulton in Lawrence County. He was the oldest of seven sons. His father was a sharecropper. Jim was determined to have a better life. Like Bear Bryant, the son of a sharecropper in Moro Bottom Fordyce, Arkansas, would say when asked why he worked so hard to succeed, “I did not want to spend my life plowing someone else’s land behind an old mule.”

As a teenager, Jim met the love of his life, Rona Jane Millsap, on a school bus. They were married soon thereafter. She was truly his love and his best friend. Jim and Rona had been married 66 years when he passed away in September.

He was successful as a businessman and politician. However, his greatest and most satisfying aspect of his life was as a family man. He had two beautiful daughters, Lynne Stanford and Leigh Leak. Jim adored his grandchildren.

In 1968, at the age of 33, Jim acquired his first car dealership. The dealership was in Talladega. Jim packed up Rona and his two young daughters and moved to Talladega where he lived the rest of his 50 years on earth. He was one of the most successful businessmen in Talladega County.

If we were in Session in October, I would look over at Jim and kiddingly say to him, “Well, the Special Education Fund is okay now, you have paid your Income and Property taxes.”

Jim served only that one term in the House (1982-1986). He was then elected to the State Senate in 1986 and quickly became a leader in the upper chamber. After eight years in the Senate, he left to run successfully for Probate Judge in 1992. He served his entire 6-year term in this mundane, mostly administrative post then returned to the Senate in 1998, where he became an even more powerful See FLOWERS, page B11

Following former Council Member Robert Lofton’s announcement last week, and acceptance of resignation Tuesday night, Opelika City Council Ward 3 is vacant.

Lofton decided to step down from his seat due to his diagnosis and fight against ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

“One year ago I ran for the office as Ward 3 City Council member on the basis of hard work, honesty and integrity,” Lofton said in a statement last week. "As I have been diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, I am no longer able to perform the duties that I feel responsible for and that the citizens of Opelika deserve.

“I want to thank my fellow council

members, Mayor Gary Fuller, all city employees and the administration for their hard work. It has been a joy to work with them all. I ask for your prayers as I navigate this new journey in life.”

The Opelika City Council voted Tuesday night to adopt Jan. 11 as the date for a special municipal election.

Residents of Ward 3 will vote at the Opelika Community Center or can file an absentee ballot at the City Clerk’s Office.

Candidates can file for election beginning Nov. 9 and no later than Nov. 23.

PET SALES: The Opelika City Council approved an ordinance Tuesday night that will restrict the sale of dogs and cats received from puppy and kitty mills.

Local pet shops and pet supply stores will be

required to only sell pets received from animal shelters, animal rescue organizations or agencies or licensed veterinarians.

“Some pet shops acquire their dogs and cats from inhumane commercial breeding facilities often called ‘puppy mills’ or ‘kitten mills,’” said Opelika’s epacket. “…

Pet stores are a preferred sales outlet for puppy mills because they allow the cruelty of the mills to remain hidden from customers.”

Other local cities have enacted similar ordinances, the city’s packet said, including the city of Huntsville, the city of Tuscaloosa, the city of Guntersville and the city of Athens. “[A] significant numbers of animals are euthanized in Lee County, Alabama, and restricting See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B11

APD Gains New Member Thanks to Charter Communications CONTRIBUTED BY CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS

The Auburn Police Department and Charter Communications, Inc. today introduced the newest member of the APD, K-9 Spectrum.

K-9 Spectrum, an

18-month-old Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd cross, was acquired by the APD through a donation by Charter Communications.

Assistant Police Chief Mike Harris expressed the department’s gratitude for

Charter’s $10,000 donation in support of the department.

“Our K-9 program is integral to the work of APD,” Harris said. “Thanks to the support of Charter Communications, See APD, page B10 PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

im Preuitt, a legendary House member, State Senator and Probate Judge of Talladega County passed away in September at age 86. Jim was one of my best legislative buddies. We came to the legislature together in 1982 and became fast friends. We became seat mates in the House, and we were inseparable during our entire first four-year term (1982 -1986).

Our friendship was forged by our relationship with Gov. George Wallace. The legendary governor was in his last term. Wallace let it be known that Jim and I were his favorite first-year legislators.

Jim was a successful car dealer in Talladega and had been a big supporter of Wallace in all of his previous campaigns for governor.

I first met Wallace when I was a young teenage Page in the legislature. Ironically, 20 years later, I was Wallace’s representative because I had his home county of Barbour in my district, which placed me in a select category with Wallace, similar to Jim. Wallace let it be known that Jim Preuitt and I were going to receive deferential treatment. The governor controlled the legislature and even chose the speaker, as well as deciding who served on which committees. Prior to the 1983 organizational session, rumors swirled around Capitol Hill that Wallace had two favorite freshmen legislators. When the committee assignments were released, the rumors were founded. Jim and I were the only freshmen assigned to the powerful Rules Committee. When the House seating arrangements were revealed, we were seated beside each other in prime spots on the f loor. We bonded.

Jim and I became allies of Alabama Farmers Federation (Alfa). We would go to supper every night with Milton Parsons, the veteran chief lobbyist for Alfa.

Opelika Ward 3 Election Set

Handler Tom Siter; K-9 Spectrum; SVP Corporate Physical Security Charter Communications Jane Rhodes; Mayor Ron Anders, Jr.; Asst. Police Chief Mike Harris

NOW OPEN

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Nov.4, 2021

CONTRIBUTED BY PERRY O. HOOPER JR.

T

he self-inflicted crisis on the border may be Biden’s biggest disaster which is saying a lot for an administration in total turmoil. The out-of-control U.S. Mexico border disaster has sparked stinging criticism for the Biden administration from both Democrats and Republicans, which is a difficult political feat. When asked why he has not been to the border, Biden said he has been too busy with, among other things, foreign travel. He has made one single trip.

He also stated he has spent time at disaster areas. What does he think the border is?

Biden has spent all or part of 108 of his first 276 days in office at one of his two Delaware

APD >> FROM B9 the addition of K-9 Spectrum will help APD to better serve the Auburn community.”

The new four-legged officer and his handler recently graduated from 12 weeks of intense training and received their certifications. The team will help combat illegal drug activity, track suspects and locate the missing.

“Giving back to the communities we serve is a tradition in our company,” said Jane Rhodes, senior vice president of Corporate Physical Security at Charter, which operates the Spectrum brand of broadband, video, mobile and voice services.

“We are proud to have provided the funding for K-9 Spectrum.

These four legged heroes, together with their handlers, are devoted to keeping citizens safe.”

“Not only is Charter Communications providing services locally

Border Disorder

homes or relaxing at Camp David. Yet he is too busy for the threehour flight to the border on Air Force One. The truth is he does not want to draw attention to this disaster that a trip would create. As Salena Zito stated in the Washington Examiner “Life along the border collapses as Biden fiddles.”

Biden appointed Kamala Harris as his “point person” on the border. After 94 days in this very important position, she stopped by for a photo op on her way to California at a processing center in El Paso. She stayed an hour and was on her way. This was in June.

She has not been back.

On day one of his administration, Biden stopped construction of President Trump’s border wall that would protect everyday citizens across the country

to help the community stay connected, they’re dedicated to being a part of our community,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “Auburn is fortunate to have companies that understand that doing business isn’t just about providing service, it’s about serving people.”

K-9 Spectrum and his handler, Officer Tom Siter, are assigned to the Special Operations Unit of APD, which brings the total number of K-9 teams to seven.

Police K-9 officers usually serve with APD until they are about 10 years old, at which time they retire and are placed in a loving home for the remainder of their lives.

About Spectrum Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than

from gang members, illegal drugs and human trafficking that flows across the border daily.

One hundred million dollars worth of fencing lies in rusting piles near the border never to be erected by this administration. At the same time, he stopped border wall construction, Biden began planning to build a wall around his beach house. Of course, this wall will be paid for by the same everyday citizens whose safety he abandoned.

As reported by the U.S Border Patrol, over the last 12 months there were an all-time high of 1,731,767 illegal border crossings. Even worst, they increased almost every month after Biden took office.

Projecting the last four months out to a full year, it projects to an astronomical 2,500,000.

This is three times the population of Delaware,

Biden’s home state.

Historically these border crossings were Mexicans looking for work. Last year these illegal immigrants came from 150 countries, the majority seeking asylum. Under President Trump, these asylum seekers were told to remain in Mexico until their asylum claim could be heard. Under Biden, they are issued a ticket and told they can roam about the country as they please, just register for a court date. Some are even flown at taxpayer expense to all parts of the country on so called “Night Flights.” These flights occur in the dark of night so as not to draw attention. The Biden administration is obsessed with vaccines but only for American citizens. These illegals are allowed to roam freely unvaccinated.

If granted asylum, according to the Department of Health and Human Services, they can access federal mainstream benefits. These include, but are not limited to, cash assistance through Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and health insurance through Medicaid.

There is a new caravan in Mexico, and it is on the way to our border. It contains tens of thousands of illegals according to numerous media sources. Many are carrying signs with President Biden’s name while chanting Biden we are coming.

When interviewed by Fox News and asked the question why are they coming now?

They have one simple

answer; Joe Biden invited us.

As President Trump stated “The United States will soon be considered a Third World Nation. There has never been anything like what is happening at our border. Millions of people have already poured in, but many more than that are coming!”

Biden and his minions refuse to call this a crisis. Their actions indicate they do not even think this is a problem. Why? Open borders is their goal pure and simple. This is absolute madness.

Biden took an oath to support the laws of the United States and he is flagrantly not enforcing these laws at the border.

As Tucker Carson has stated, his actions or, more precisely, his inactions at the border are impeachable offenses and should be treated as such immediately.

Center K-9 Spectrum; SVP Corporate Physical Security Charter Communications Jane Rhodes, Mayor Ron Anders, Jr., and Handler Tom Siter.

31 million customers in 41 states. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of stateof-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and

government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes

award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

B11 Nov. 4, 2021

Auburn Plans to Add Greenway and Bike Lanes

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The Auburn City Council approved a contract Tuesday night with Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc. for a changes to the new subdivision The Landings at Academy Drive.

The city of Auburn has decided that while construction is taking place for The Landings at Academy Drive, a single-family subdivision, streets and sidewalks could be expanded.

“Staff in reviewing the plans recognized the strategic opportunity to invest in the extension of greenway and bikeway infrastructure, while the development is being constructed,” said the city’s e-packet. “… This work was not anticipated with the development of the 2021-2022 Capital

FLOWERS>> FROM B9 Senator.

Jim was a force in the Senate. He chaired the Senate Rules Committee. If Jim gave you his word, you could take it to the bank. His word was his bond. Jim

Improvement Plan; however, if approved, funding to support this cost is available and the cost for this work will be added to the Capital Improvement Plan as an amendment at the appropriate time.”

The sidewalks would be expanded from four feet to 8 feet wide.

Additionally, the city requested the developer widen the strengths to accommodate bike lines.

The city will pay Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc. $52,000 for the sidewalk infrastructure work.

Additionally, the city will pay over $140,000 for the work required to add bike lanes, which includes drain pipe, paving and striping work.

This will add 900 feet of greenway and 1200 feet of bike lanes.

OTHER BUSINESS: - The council approved an alcohol

beverage license for Sunny Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a Good Karma.

- The council approved tax abatements for SCA, Inc. and CSP Technologies, Inc. all for Auburn Technology Park North.

- The council approved a contract with REV Construction, Inc. for the Highway 14 Force Main Replacement Project for just over $912,000.

- The council approved a contract with WOW! Fiber Internet Services for Fire Station 6 for over $65,800.

- The council approve easements and rightsof-way for Dorothy Ann Royal for $12,000 for the Auburn Soccer Complex Roundabout Project.

- The council approved school speed limit assemblies for Auburn Montessori School, East Samford School and Lee Scott Academy.

served 30 years in the legislature.

As I am writing this in my office, I am looking at a picture of Jim and me standing together, arms embraced in the halls of the legislature taken a few years ago. It is front and center on a wall of pictures of past and present Alabama

political legends. I will miss my old friend.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

OPELIKA COUNCIL >> FROM B9

the retail sale of puppies and kittens to only those that are sourced from animal shelter facilities and rescue organizations will likely reduce pet populations and thus the burden on the city of Opelika, including financial costs on local taxpayers,” the packet said.

Shelters and shops will also not be allowed to sell animals younger than eight weeks.

OTHER BUSINESS: • The council introduced for first reading an ordinance to amend the zoning ordinance and map for 166 acres on Highway 431 and Cusseta Road to become a planned unit development “PUD” called “Blackberry Reserve”.

• Mayor Gary Fuller proclaimed November as Epilepsy Awareness Month.

• The council approved an alcohol license for wine and beer off-premise for Opelika Food Mart LLC, d/b/a Opelika Food Mart.

• The council conducted a public hearing for and approved the demolition of a building at 315 S. 4th St. However, the council agreed to delay the demolition for a period of six months, allowing the owner a chance to complete some of the necessary reparis.

• The council conducted public hearings for and approved weed abatement assessments for 0 Frederick Road and 2902 Watson St.

• The council conducted a public hearing for and introduced for first reading an amendment to the zoning ordinance and map to rezone 3.2 acres at 1200 block South Fox Run Parkway.

• The council conducted a public hearing and introduced for first reading an amendment to the zoning ordinance in Sections 2.2, 6.4, 7.3, 7.6, 7.8, 8.14, 8.18.1, 8.24, 8.26, 8.27 and Section IX and for new sign regulations.

• The council approved a request for a street closure for an epilepsy awareness event on Nov. 7.

• The council approved expense reports for three employees.

• The council approved the purchase of a 2021 Ford Crew Cab. • The council approved the purchase of a 2021 Ford F250 Super Cab X2A. • The council approved the purchase of an EPAC3108 NEMA Controller.

• The council approved the purchase of three substation control houses.

• The council approved an amendment to the CDBG PY2019 and PY 2020 Action Plans and Reprogram Funds by reallocating over $154,000 to the Family Resource center and Opelika Main Street.

• The council approved a funding proposal from PRF Teaching Ministry for its ‘Help Individuals Rise Above Poverty’ program.

• The council approved a service agreement with Gartner, Inc. for an I.T. Leaders Individual Access Advisor.

• The council approved an engagement letter with Huguley & Boles, LLC for annual auditing services.

• The council approved the annual appropriation contract for FY 2022 for the Employers’ Child Care Alliance.

• The council approved the annual appropriation contract for FY 2022 for the Lee County Rabies Officer.

• The council approved an engineering services agreement for a new roundabout at Veterans Parkway and Academy Drive.

• The council approved an engineering services agreement for a traffic study for I-85 at Exit 62.

• The council approved an engineering services agreement to make improvements to Pepperrell Parkway from Lowndes Street to city limits.

• The council approved an engineering services agreement for railroad crossing improvements for the Veterans Parkway Extension Project at Airport Road.

• The council approved a renewal of the Roadway Improvement Contract with Robinson Paving Company.

• The council approved one city council planning commission appointment.

'Eye'ing Down The Candy

PHOTOS BY GAME CHANGER PHOTOGRAPHY FOR THE OBSERVER

First Baptist Church of Opelika held a fall festival at Courthouse Square on Halloween. Participants of all ages enjoyed candy, food trucks, a bike show and fireworks.

B12 Nov.4, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO: 2021-160 In the Matter of the Estate of Ethel Lee Finley, Deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS Letters of Administration on the Estate of Ethel Lee Finley, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned Roosevelt Finley, on the 23rd day of March, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of said County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate, are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

Roosevelt Finley, Jr. Administrator, Estate of Ethel Lee Finley, deceased. Legal Run 10/21/21, 10/28/21 & 11/4/21 ------------IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JAMES WADE EDWARDS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Teleeda Page Edwards, as Administratrix of the Estate of James Wade Edwards, deceased, on the 7th day of October2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons

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

Taleeda Page Edwards Administratix of the Estate of James Wade Edwards, deceased Legal Run 10/21/21, 10/28/21 & 11/4/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF EDDIE N. HERBERT, DECEASED.

TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Gina Herbert Ivey and Sabrina Herbert Long, as Co-Executrices of the Estate of Eddie N. Herbert, deceased, on the 20th day of October, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English.

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

Gina Herbert Ivey, CoExecutrix Of the Estate of Eddie N. Herbert, Deceased Sabrina Herbert Long, Co-Executrix Of the Estate of Eddie N. Herbert, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 10/28/21,

ALASCAN CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by Region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week!

Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available.

Call: 833-449-1307.

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780 LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534 EDUCATION ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-4751014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable

of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds.

FREE information kit.

Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices!

50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828.

FOR SALE Directv Satellite Service starting at $59.99/month!

1 Year Price Lock!

155+ Channels available. Call Now to get the Most Sports on TV! 888-404-2087.

NEED NEW Flooring?

Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

ELIMINATE ROACHES GUARANTEED! Buy Harris Roach Tablets.

Odorless, Long Lasting.

Available: Publix, Hardware Stores, Home Centers.

AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24 hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

11/04/21 & 11/11/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MILDRED SMITHS BEALS, Deceased CASE NO. 2021-575 NOTICE OF DAY SET FOR HEARING PROBATE OF WILL TO:Scottie Clifford Smith Floy Dorinda Smith Braswell Rebecca S. Gregory Fletcher David Smith Donna Jean Vinson Earl Smith Linda Smith Ashurst James E. Smith, Jr. Michele R. Smith Michael B. Smith Mark W. Smith Joyce Cooper Taylor Janet Story Carol Virginia Smith Hon. Jere Colley And ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MILDRED SMITH BEALS You are hereby notified that on the 25th day of October 2021, a certain writing, purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of MILDRED SMITH BEALS was filed in the Lee County Probate Office for Probate by Michele R. Smith. The 15th day of December 2021 at 2:00 PM CST has been set and appointed as the date and time for the hearing of said petition.

Said hearing will be held in the Lee County Probate Office, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama, at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper.

Given under my hand, the 25th day of October 2021.

Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 10/28/21, 11/4/21, & 11/11/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The estate of Nancy C. Bynum, Deceased.

Case No. 2021-594 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Brandy D. Bynum as Administratrix of the Estate of Nancy C. Bynum, deceased, on the 21ST day of October, 2021.

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

Brandy D. Bynum, Administratrix of the Estate of Nancy C. Bynum, Deceased Legal Run 10/28/21, 11/4/21 & 11/11/21 ------------JULIUNOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF ALICE BELLE THOMPSON, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021-484 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of ALICE BELLE THOMPSON are

hereby granted to Shirley T. Kelly and Wanda T. McCary as Co-Personal Representatives on the 2nd day of September, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Com1 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.

Shirley T. Kelly Wanda T. McCary Legal Run 10/21/21, 10/28/21 & 11/4/21 ------------In The Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama In Re: The Estate Of: Pearla Ann Gibson (A/K/A Pearle Ann Gibson), Deceased Notice To Creditors Take Notice that Letters of Administration having been granted to Rebecca G. Wray as Administrator of the Estate of Pearla Ann Gibson (A/K/A Pearle Ann Gibson) deceased, on the 20th day of October, 2021 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

Notice Is Hereby Given that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be banned.

Rebecca G. Wray Administrator Legal Run 10/28/21, 11/4/21 & 11/11/21 ------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA JUVENILE DIVISION T.P. a. minor child (DOB: 08/08/2011), Case No. JU 2020-220.02 K.P. a minor child (DOB: 08/16/2012), Case No. JU 2020-221.02 NOTICE OF PETITION & SERVICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: De’Rebia Pugh and any unknown father of T.P. a minor child, born at Baptist Medical Center East in Montgomery, Montgomery County, Alabama on 08//08/2011 to De’Rebia Pugh and K.P. a minor child, born at the East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama on 08/16/2012 to De’Rebia Pugh. The legal Cm,1ody of T.P. and K. P. was. vested in the Lee County Department of Human Resources on September 9, 2020.

De’Rebia Pugh and any unknown father must answer the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and the Amended Petition for Termination of Parental Rights of De’Rebia Pugh and any unknown father filed in each of these cases in the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama within fourteen (14) days from the last date of Publication of this notice with the Clerk of Court located at the Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, AL 36801, or thereafter, a final judgment may be entered in Case JU 2020-220.02 and JU 2020221.02 terminating their respective parental rights and placing the children for

ANGEL'S ANTIQUE

& Flea Mall

Even Flamingos Hang Out at Angel's

334-745-3221 • www.angelsmall.info 900 Columbus Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801

adoption.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Hon. Harold S. Patrick Attorney for Lee County DHR 2108-D Gateway Drive Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 741-0809 Legal Run 11/4/21, 11/11/21, 11/18/21 & 11/24/21

Opelika will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.

If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334) 705-2083. " Legal Run 11/04/2021

-------------

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, on November 30, 2021, and then publicly opened and read aloud at Opelika City Hall, 2nd floor conference room, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

The contractor will be furnishing all labor and materials and performing all work for the construction of: Pickleball Courts Facility II within the City of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the follow¬ing the construction of 12 pickleball courts. The overall asphalt area:138’ X 223’. Turnkey pricing on delivery and installation meeting all specifications on base, asphalt, fencing, nets, posts, resurfacer, colored play surfacing, and lines.

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

All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the City official; the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the bid is delivered. Also, the contractor shall also be a Certified Tennis Court Builder as designated by the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA). The Certified Tennis Court Builder shall be an employee of the Tennis Court Contractor and shall oversee all phases of the new court construction process.

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

All bids must be submitted in an envelope bearing on the outside the name of the Bidder, Bidder’s license number, and name of the project. Envelopes containing bids must be addressed as follows, and delivered to Lillie Finley, Purchasing Dept., City of Opelika, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or P. O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803: “Pickleball Courts Facility II” Legal Run 11/4/21, 11/11/21, 11/18/21 & 11/24/21

IN RE THE ESTATE OF: CECIL CLYDE HENDERSON, Deceased.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021604 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of October, 2021, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Kenneth Henderson, Executor Legal Run 11/4/21, 11/11/21 & 11/18/21 ------------NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED MOBILE HOME PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that Eric Gooden, owner of A & E Properties, LLC, and landowner, pursuant to Alabama Code Section 35-12A-1 (et. seq.), does hereby give notice that the mobile home located at 188 Lee Road 43, Lot No. 8, Opelika Alabama, 36804, is abandoned. That the last known names and addresses of the tenants/ owners was Dawn Marable Clay, 108 West Oak Street, Tuskegee, Alabama, 36083.

That the mobile home is a 2000 Schult,16x80 model (4680) with a VIN # H0GA18I05130. This notice is to inform Dawn Marable Clay, has until 11 a.m. on December 1, 2021 to take possession of said mobile home and remove said mobile home from the property located at 188 Lee Road 42, Lot No. 8, Opelika, Alabama 36804, or at that time Eric Gooden will take possession of said mobile home.

The contact name and number of the person to call to make arrangements is Eric Gooden, 334-7033520.

Legal Run 11/4/2021 & 11/11/2021 ------------CITY OF OPELIKA ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING AGENDA 300 Martin Luther King Blvd.November 9, 2021 TIME: 9:00 AM 1. VARIANCE l. RaceTrac Petroleum, Inc., 1107 Columbus Parkway, Requesting a 40 foot height variance from the maximum 60 foot sign height requirement for an Interstate sign.

"In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, the City of

-------------

B13 Nov. 4, 2021

Auburn Chamber Welcomes New Businesses

Covenant Care Hospice — Providing hospice services to any age group, pediatric through adulthood. The team strives to provide the very best care to all of their patients to ensure they are truly improving the quality of every life they touch. Learn more by calling 1-855-CARE-365 or visiting www.mywish.org.

Southeastern Benefits Group — A local, full-service employee benefits company that assists businesses in creating a customized package that attracts and retains employees. Call 256-786-1523 to explore how to help your employees protect their families, finances and futures. Located at 2436 E. University Dr., Suite 2205, in Auburn.

Colvers — The Wisconsin-based restaurant is known for its made-to-order ButterBurgers (veggie burgers, too), fresh frozen custard and Wisconsin cheese curds — but that's not all — Culver's also offers malts, floats, seafood dinners, soups, salads and more. Located at 2080 E. University Dr. on the west side of the Auburn Mall.

Lily Jane Boutique — From trendy earrings and home decor to fun sorority items and great gifts for the guys - you will be sure to find several gems at Lily Jane Boutique. Visit their new location at 1310 Opelika Road in Midtown. Online shopping is also available at www.lilyjaneboutique.com.

PLEASE JOIN US 2021 VETERANS PROGRAM NOVEMBER 11, 2021

OPELIKA PUBLIC LIBRARY • 1100 GLENN STREET 9 A.M. – BREAKFAST (Free to all veterans and their families)

10 A.M. - PROGRAM (Public invited)

Reception to follow at the Museum of East Alabama • 121 S. 9th Street, Opelika

B14 Nov.4, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B12

ORDINANCE NO. 023-21 BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama as follows: Section 1. That the office of Councilmember Place Number 3 is hereby declared vacant for the term expiring on November 3, 2025.

Section 2. In pursuance of the authority granted by §11-44D-4(8) (b) of the Code of Alabama (1975, as amended) a special municipal election shall be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, for the purpose of electing a Councilmember for City Council Place Number 3.

Section 3. That all registered and qualified electors of the state who reside within the boundaries of District No. 3 and have resided therein for thirty (30) days or more immediately preceding the date of such election, and who are qualified to vote in the county precinct which embraces and covers that part of the corporate limits of the City of Opelika in which the elector resides, shall be authorized to participate in said election.

Section 4. That the polls shall be opened on the day of said election from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the places of voting in the City of Opelika, Alabama, designated as follows, to wit: Ward Number Location of Voting Place 3 Opelika Community Center 1102 Denson Drive Absentee Ballot Box City Clerk’s Office Municipal Building 204 South 7th Street Section 5. That the Mayor is hereby authorized, directed and empowered to give notice of the time and purpose of such municipal election by publication one (1) time on November 9, 2021, in a newspaper of general circulation in the City.

Section 6. That candidates may begin qualifying for office on Tuesday, November 9, 2021. The last day on which a candidate may qualify by filing a statement of candidacy with the City Clerk shall be Tuesday, November 23, 2021.

Section 7. That the Absentee Election Manager shall accept applications by qualified electors for absentee ballots from Tuesday, November 30, 2021, until Thursday, January 6, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.

Section 8. That the Council shall meet in the Courtroom of the Municipal Court Building at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, for the purpose of canvassing the results and declaring the results of the election. The record of the results of the election shall be recorded in the minutes and proceedings of the Council and when so recorded shall be conclusive evidence of the matters stated and the validity of the election unless contested as required by law.

Section 9. That a runoff election, if required, shall be held on Tuesday, February 8, 2022.

Section10. If a runoff election is required, the Council shall meet in the Courtroom of the Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, for the purpose of canvassing the results and declaring the results of the runoff election. The record of the results

of the runoff election, if required, shall be recorded in the minutes and proceedings of the Council and when so recorded shall be conclusive evidence of the matters therein stated and the validity of the runoff election, unless contested as required by law.

Section 11. Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, said special municipal election and runoff, if required, shall be conducted, the votes canvassed, and the results declared in the same manner as provided by Chapter 46, Title 11, Code of Alabama (1975, as amended).

Section 12. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by law and shall be implemented pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 46, Title 11, Code of Alabama (1975, as amended).

Section 13. The City Clerk is hereby authorized, directed and empowered to cause this ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper published in and of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 2nd day of November, 2021. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 3rd day of November, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 3rd day of November, 2021. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/04/2021 ------------ORDINANCE NO. 022-21 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 4 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA,

BY PROVIDING REGULATIONS RESTRICTING THE SALE OF DOGS AND CATS AT PET SHOPS AND PET SUPPLY STORES WHEREAS, some pet shops acquire their dogs and cats from inhumane commercial breeding facilities often called “puppy mills” or “kitten mills”; and WHEREAS, pet stores are a preferred sales outlet for puppy mills because they allow the cruelty of the mills to remain hidden from customers; and WHEREAS, many responsible pet stores that used to sell puppy mill puppies have changed their business model and are now partnering with shelters and rescues to hold adoption events; and WHEREAS, the inhumane conditions in puppy and kitten mill facilities can lead to health and behavioral issues in animals bred in those facilities, and these health and behavioral issues, which may not present themselves until sometime after the purchase of the animals, can impose exorbitant financial and emotional costs on consumers; and WHEREAS, current federal, state and city regulations do not properly address the sale of puppy and kitten mill dogs and cats in pet shops; and WHEREAS, some local governments, such as the City of Huntsville, the City of Tuscaloosa, the City of Guntersville, the City of Athens and others, have considered or adopted ordinances (such as this one); and WHEREAS, restricting the retail

sale of puppies and kittens to only those that are sourced from animal shelter facilities or rescue organizations is likely to decrease the demand for puppies and kittens bred in puppy and kitten mills, and is likely to increase demand for animals from animal shelter facilities and rescue organizations; and WHEREAS, significant numbers of animals are euthanized in Lee County, Alabama, and restricting the retail sale of puppies and kittens to only those that are sourced from animal shelter facilities and rescue organizations will likely reduce pet populations and thus the burden on the City of Opelika, including financial costs on local taxpayers; and WHEREAS, this Ordinance will not affect a consumer’s ability to obtain a dog or cat of his or her choice directly from a breed-specific rescue organization or a shelter, or from a hobby breeder, where the customer can see directly the conditions in which the dogs or cats are bred or can confer directly with the hobby-breeder concerning those conditions; and WHEREAS, the City Council believes it is in the best interest of the City to adopt reasonable regulations to reduce cost to the City and its residents, protect the citizens of the City who may purchase cats and dogs from a pet shop or other business establishment, help prevent inhumane breeding conditions, promote community awareness of animal welfare and foster a more humane environment in the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council is empowered to adopt this Ordinance pursuant to §§11-45-1 and 11-47-110 of the Code of Alabama as well as other legal authority; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this Ordinance is a proper exercise of the police power of the City, and that it is designed to provide for the safety, preserve the health, promote the prosperity and improve the morals, order, comfort and convenience of the City’s inhabitants.

NOW, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Section 4-2 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika is hereby amended by adding to Section 4-2 the definitions of “animal rescue organization or agency”, “animal shelter”, “pet shop” and “pet supply store” as follows: Sec. 4.2--Definitions (a) “Animal rescue organization or agency” means a not-for-profit organization or agency with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code, with the mission or practice, in whole or in significant part, of rescuing and placing animals in permanent homes, and which does not obtain animals from a breeder or broker for profit or compensation. (b) “Animal shelter” means the Lee County Humane Society facility or other director-approved facility which houses or cares for homeless, stray, impounded, surrendered or abandoned animals. (c) “Pet shop” means a retail establishment, business or store where live animals are sold, exchanged, bartered or offered for sale as pets to the general public. Such definition shall not include an animal shelter or animal rescue organization as defined in this section. (d) “Pet supply store” means a retail establishment, business or store which sells pet food, animal supplies and pet

When you need to choose a Medicare plan, Humana can help Find a plan that fits your goals and your life

It’s time to choose a 2022 Medicare plan, and I’m here to help you understand your options. A Humana Medicare Advantage plan gives you everything you get with Original Medicare, and may include additional benefits and services to meet your needs. Humana offers plans with the coverage you might want at a cost that may work for your budget.

Call a licensed Humana sales agent Joyce Johnson 334-707-5958 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. jjohnson270@humana.com

A more human way to healthcare™ Y0040_GHHHXDDEN_22_AD_M

accessories to the general public and which may also sell, exchange, barter or offer for sale live animals as pets to the general public.

All definitions not amended or added above shall remain unchanged.

Section 2. Chapter 4 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika is hereby amended by adding a new section to be numbered 4-50, which said section shall read as follows: Sec. 4-50 Restrictions on the Sale of Dogs and Cats. (a)A pet shop or pet supply store may offer for sale only those dogs, cats, puppies and kittens obtained from and in cooperation with an animal shelter, an animal rescue organization or agency, or a licensed veterinarian as those terms are defined in section 4-2. (b)Every pet shop or pet supply store offering for sale any dog, cat, puppy or kitten shall display a label stating the name and address of the organization supplying said animal on the animal’s cage. (c) A pet shop or pet supply store shall not offer for sale any dog, cat, puppy or kitten that is younger than eight weeks old. (d)Every pet shop or pet supply store offering for sale any dog, cat, puppy or kitten shall maintain records for each animal offered for sale. The records shall be maintained for a minimum of twelve (12) months after the date of the transaction and shall be available for inspection by any ACO or law enforcement officer. The records shall include the following information for each transaction: (1) A description and photograph of the animal; (2) The monetary value of any cash, services or goods exchanged for the animal; (3) The name, address and phone number of the organization (animal shelter or animal rescue organization or agency) from which said pet store or pet supply store acquired said animal; and (4) The name, address and phone number of the new owner of the animal.

Section 3. All former ordinances or parts thereof inconsistent or in conflict herewith, are to the extent of such inconsistency or conflict, hereby repealed.

Section 4. If any provision of this Ordinance, or the application thereof to any person, thing or circumstances, is held to be invalid by any Court of any com-

petent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the provisions or application of this Ordinance that can be given effect without the invalid provisions or application, and to this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are declared to be severable.

Section 5. No other provisions of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika are amended by this Ordinance, unless specifically stated and referenced herein.

Section 6. The provisions of this Ordinance shall be included and incorporated in the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika as an addition or amendment thereto and shall be appropriately renumbered as necessary to conform with the uniform numbering system of the Code.

Section 7. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect upon adoption and publication as required by law.

Section 8. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed to cause a copy of this Ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 2nd day of November, 2021. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 3rd day of November, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 3rd day of November, 2021. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/04/2021 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MALDOLIN ELMER BUTLER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-600 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 25th day of October, 2021, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Al-

abama, 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.

DOLLY BAKER BUTLER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 11/04/21, 11/11/21 & 11/18/21 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JONEE ELAINE MOREMAN, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-601 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 25th 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.

WHITNEY LAMBERT NELSON HAYWOOD DAVIS LAMBERT Co-Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Legal Run 11/04/21, 11/11/21 & 11/18/21 ------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF ANNIE RUTH CAMMON, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 29th day of October, 2021, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby granted 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.

Witness my hand and seal this the 29th day of October, 2021.

DEBORAH C. WALTON Legal Run 11/4/21, 11/11/21 & 11/18/21

Katie Britt is an unwavering champion of farmers, cattlemen, and forestry.

That’s why Alabama farmers are endorsing her for the U.S. Senate.

KATIE BRITT U S SE NATE

Paid for by Alabama Christian Conservatives and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. AlabamaChristians.com

B15 Nov. 4, 2021

Like Crossword Puzzles? Sudoku?

Play Online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

B16 Nov.4, 2021

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer and Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, Alabama 36801 334-745-5706

WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTOR Plumbing & Heating Supplies Pipes - Valves - Fittings 334.625.3384 800.625.3384 1975 MALL BLVD. STE. 106, AUBURN, ALABAMA

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

WE DELIVER!

• Drive Thru Only • Regular Operating Hours • Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait

Piedmont Fertilizer Co. Inc. 201 2nd Ave. • Opelika, AL SINCE 1910

Nothing better for your lawn exists

334-364-9993 | 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Suite A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com Mon-Fri 8am–6pm | Sat 9am–12pm | Sunday Closed

THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE ANSWERS: