The Observer 01-11-2024

IN THIS ISSUE BUSINESS NEWS A2 | SOCIETY A7 | OBITUARIES A13 | COMICS A15 SPORTS B1 | POLITICS B9 | PUBLIC NOTICES B12 | PUZZLES B15

A4 — Economic Development News

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 14 Opelika, Alabama Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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Heavy metal halftime show wins big

Auburn Band is 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' PHOTO COURTESY OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY MARCHING BAND

One of the formations during the Auburn University Marching Band's performance for the Metallica Marching Band Competition "For Whom The Band Tolls."

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — More than 450 bands from high school and collegiate levels entered the Metallica Marching Band Competition "For Whom the Band Tolls" and the Auburn University Marching Band's (AUMB) was named the victor in its division. It's entry was nearly nine minutes of LED light formations set to Metallica songs performed by 330 AUMB members.

AUMB Director of Bands, Dr. Corey Spurlin, said he first learned of the competition when the heavy metal rock band Metallica sent out an interest email in Spring 2023.

Spurlin sat down with the band's student leaders to gauge interest in undertaking a project that would require extensive planning and effort.

"We met with our student leaders to talk to them about the potential involvement in that because if you're going to take on something of that scale — and we knew if we were going to be involved we were going to try to do something innovative as much as we could — we wanted to make sure that our students were completely invested in that venture," Spurlin said. "Our student leaders were really, really excited about that opportunity and they said, 'If there is a competition like that for college bands, we want to have our opportunity to be a participant in that.' So that kind of got the ball rolling."

Spurlin said the band had already previously utilized the light technology that was used to create the Metallica show, but not to the extent used this year.

"I had judged a band competition [in 2017] and saw a high school band use LED light

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effects on a really small level out in Texas and … it kind of interested me," Spurlin said.

"It had a lot of potential for a much grander scale."

After seeing the high school band show, Spurlin said he knew he wanted to bring this to Auburn. He contacted the university's engineering department and explained what he wanted to do. They agreed to help figure out how to individually program each student's hat, the drums and so on.

AUMB percussionist Ben Brisendine offered to take the lead on the project in 2017.

He created a prototype and then a master list of equipment and supplies that would be needed to be able to program LED lights for every member of the band on the field.

Once tallied up, Spurlin said the total needed exceeded the band's budget for supplies and equipment, so he reached out to the athletic

department for help.

"They were very supportive," he said.

"They told us there was the potential down the road to change the lights in the stadium so that they could be turned out, and if we had something the band could do with lighting effects, it would work really well once that was done in the stadium. So, it was like investing in potential for the future. They helped us out by buying a lot of the equipment.

"We were going out on a limb, trying to be innovative, to do something that had not been done [here and on that scale] and hoped it would work. We really appreciated their believing in us."

AUMB's first show using the new effects was a tribute to the people of Las Vegas following the shooting that had occurred on See BAND, page A5

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A2 Jan. 11, 2024

Auburn Opelika Tourism presents All Things Marketing Summit CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Area businesses can learn about the latest trends, tools and strategies in marketing at the Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s All Things Marketing Summit, scheduled for Friday, Jan. 19. Auburn Opelika Tourism is presenting sponsor of the conference, which will take place from 8 a.m. until 4:15 p.m. at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National.

The All Things Marketing Summit will feature speakers on branding, traditional marketing, social media, video production and more. From AI-driven analytics to immersive brand experiences, the curated lineup of speakers will share actionable insights that can be implemented immediately to propel a company’s marketing efforts into the future.

The morning keynote speaker is Steve Chandler, owner and brand strategist at Chandlerthinks in Nashville, Tennessee,

who will share how to extend Auburn/ Opelika community branding into your business to create and achieve a positive buzz.

The afternoon keynote speaker is Lina Trivedi, who earned the label “the woman who invented e-commerce” because of her involvement in the Beanie Babies craze of the 1990s. Working at Ty as a college student taught her so much about guerilla marketing tactics and creativity, and her story has been featured in the movies The Beanie Bubble and Beanie Mania. She will share lessons you can apply to your life in business and build an economy that thrives on connectedness and social responsibility.

Breakout sessions include brand message with Eloise Stewart, strategic video with Christina Kluttz, traditional marketing with Ali Rauch, email marketing with Aaron Blackmon, content creation with Olivia Bradford, digital advertising with Denise DuBois and a

bonus AI session with Tre Wright.

Cost to attend the summit is $175 per person. Registration is open now and will close on Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 5 p.m.

To learn more about the speakers, session information and to register, visit www.opelikachamber.com/allthingsmartetingsummit or call (334) 7454861.

Print media growing increasingly valuable in the marketing mix OPELIKA — As the world has become increasingly digital, print marketing has kept pace or exceeded performance of online offerings.

With fewer printed publications and fewer pages being printed, the value of information in newspapers has increased, due to a greater likelihood of being seen, as people are more easily able to read small, suburban community newspapers, cover-to-cover in a short amount of time. The digital versions of newspapers often have many more pages, as there is comparatively little cost to adding more and more content online.

As online publications are inundated with thousands of requests per day for inclusion of branded content, and the volume of site traffic remains relatively stable, the value of each individual placement in the online versions of newspapers is diminished and diluted by the influx of new information.

The visibility of the printed word as compared with the value of the same word in online versions, has always been far greater, by any measure, which is reflected in the cost of getting seen in newspapers and magazines in print versus the digital publication. As the gap widens, and digital

by popular demand. It’s easier to see a printed page in bright sunlight, instead of the glare or reflection on a screen.

2. Print engages more readily: Content that lives online doesn’t engage as well if it is in an abbreviated format, requiring readers to click through to another page to see the rest of the article. Many readers are impatient when reading online, feeling they don’t have time to stop and read a whole article or blog post, so they merely skim, scan and move on to the next. Print readers tend to slow down and actually read, not only the news, but also the ads, especially those that are native and relevant to the adjacent articles they read.

3. Brains react differently to paper than screens: The human brain processes in-formation differently depending on the presentation in print or on a screen. Readers of print have longer attention spans because screens have far more distractions. The act of deep reading, which occurs more naturally in print, creates deep thinking, which means readers can become fully engrossed in the content. When readers see relevant sponsored content next to the publisher generated content, they are more easily swayed to think about that as well.

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publications add more and more pages for sponsored content, advertorials and the like, the value of the printed word will increase.

For those targeting Boomers or seniors, who generally read more in print than online, the disparity is especially appreciated.

For those targeting Millennials, they will reach more if they cover print than if they don’t, both directly, as many read newspapers, starting with high school and college newspapers, and as a result of referred traffic from peers, co-workers, friends and family members. The printed versions of newspapers and magazines can easily be shared online as many are replicated as a pdf version on an affiliated digital site with social media channels. Some take a picture of articles to share.

All things considered, here are five good reasons to add print media to your marketing mix: 1. Printed newspapers and magazines trigger multiple senses: Many people seek time away from touching their mobile phones, computer keyboards and TV remote controls. It’s nice to get the feel of a printed newspaper or magazine, with glossy pages, the smell of the ink, and the sounds of the pages flipping, which have been simulated online in digital flip books,

BY DOROTHY YORK, NAPS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

4. Print Drives Online Engagement: To get people to take action and interact more with your brand, you can capture attention in printed media and drive your audience to your online assets.

5. Adding newspapers and magazines to the marketing mix increases ROI: For the message you worked so hard to craft and deliver online, you can get more mileage out of it, for very little extra cost, by covering

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print media, to reach more people in your target audience, and to achieve goal-oriented outcomes.

Dorothy York is president and CEO of North American Precis Syndicate (NAPS).

LIVE LEE EDITOR | Hannah Goldfinger PHONE: 334-749-8003 Editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

MARKETING | Woody Ross

PUBLISHER | Michelle Key

SPORTS WRITER | D. Mark Mitchell

MANAGING EDITOR | Anita Stiefel

VIDEOGRAPHER | Samantha Sweatman

PHOTOJOURNALIST | Robert Noles

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

A3 Jan. 11, 2024

Auburn Chamber hosts pair of ribbon-cuttings Village Urgent Care opens in Ogletree Village

Infinity Personal Training celebrates opening PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Auburn Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Village Urgent Care, located at 1747 Ogletree Road, Suite B, in Auburn. Village Urgent Care is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The clinic accepts walk-ins only.

The Auburn Chamber hosted a ribbon-cutting for Infinity Personal Training, located at 1850 Shug Jordan Parkway, Unit 203. Infinity’s expert trainers work with you in small, supportive groups. They consider your fitness level, goals and schedule to create a program that fits you like a glove.

Rotten to Nice

New Auburn business offers dog training, boarding PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY TRISHA WHITE FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Trusting another person with your dog is one of the most difficult areas in life to navigate as a dog-owner.

And yet, many dog owners don’t have the time, the energy or often even the basic knowledge necessary to hone that canine energy into the obedient and confident dog that they hope their dog can become.

In fact, many just hold their breath and cross their fingers that they don’t cause embarrassment and perhaps even feel guilty for the tendency to leave their dogs at home instead of taking them along due to insecurities regarding the ability to control certain behaviors in various situations.

But, Lee County is now home to Rotten to Nice (RTN) Dog Training and Boarding, which offers dog owners who need help the help they need.

RTN is located at 123 E. Veterans Blvd. in Auburn. Jenn and Troy Heilman, disabled veterans who have retired to Auburn in search of the more small-town feel that the area provides, said that it is a business born out of love and respect for dogs.

Jenn and Troy, who each grew up in small towns in northern California and North Dakota, respectively, met in Italy while serving in the United States Navy in 2000 and they were married in 2002.

Rotten to Nice, located on Veterans Blvd. in Auburn, offers dog obedience training from professionals with extensive experience.

The couple last lived in Virginia, where Troy continued serving on active duty until 2022.

The Heilmans' experience with dog training began when Jenn served as a dog-sitter for two Corgis belonging to a close friend during his military deployment.

Behavioral issues with the dogs reached danger points and professional dog training became the best option. Working with the dogs and quickly became a passion and it was the trainer who became Jenn’s first training mentor.

As is the case with many disabled veterans, dogs have also played a part in the couple’s own healing processes.

Jenn graduated from Animal Behavior College (ABC) and works in various training settings,

from drug interdiction and scent work to basic obedience. Her 12 years of experience are extensive and include volunteer work within Walter Reed National Military Medical Center’s veteran service dog program — where she met Sully, the Labrador Retriever who served former President George H. W. Bush during the last six months of his life.

A portion of the Auburn pull for the Heilmans, was an opportunity for Jenn to work within the Auburn University Canine Performance Sciences; however, Jenn said she felt that she’d be able to teach more dogs and be of more service if she reached out to dog owners living in the area that need help.

As Jenn points out, “a

well-behaved dog stays in the home.”

One simple Facebook post led led to an overwhelming influx of calls and inquiries. In true military fashion, Jenn and Troy regrouped and redefined the mission and RTN Dog Training and Boarding was born.

The family business also includes their daughter, Janiece, who serves in both office and training capacity and has completed her studies at the Animal Behavior College and will be receiving her graduation certification in the near future.

RTN began operating out of their house and then moved into the current facility last summer.

It is an 8,000 square-foot facility that includes office areas, a play yard, individual runs, two day-

care rooms, two boarding rooms, as well space for overnight stays.

The facility has been a work-in-progress and a work of love as the couple has completed the fencing, the cabinetry and all remodeling themselves. Staff include the three family members, as well as four college students and a high school student. The expansion will continue as the business grows, with plans for additional play yards, runs and boarding rooms. Although the facility is currently canine only, plans for cat boarding are included for the future.

Jenn, in addition to being an ABC graduate, serves as an Animal Behavior College mentor.

ABC students who have completed their training coursework may complete their required externships at RTN where they have required hours of hands-on training under Jenn’s supervision.

An externship also includes training planning and execution, as well as written case-presentations and evaluations.

Successful externship completion is necessary before final exams are available for the students to complete their certification.

The types of services and training packages available are variable as not every family is going to have the same needs nor the same amount of time or resources to dedicate to pet care. Services include boarding — short term and long term, basic obedience training, behavior modification,

AKC fitness training, trick dog training and day camp.

“Not every dog is going to learn the same,” the Heilmans said.

The business offers an obedience package that starts at $600, but they also have many custom training options available depending on the needs of the family. RTN offers payment plans that can be broken up over the course of the training — an option rarely available through other facilities.

Popular training options often include dropping a dog off for day training and the owner having follow-up time with the trainer when they pick him or her up to review progress and to learn how to reinforce and practice what has been learned.

RTN said it prides itself greatly on the personal and individualized service that each dog receives. RTN described its business model as one that is “based on a community first mentality”.

Although not intended to be a dog rescue, RTN currently has six dogs available for adoption, some rescued from a horrific hoarding incident in Virginia where dog training colleagues reached out nationwide and the Heilmans were quick to respond. RTN has also recently partnered with Pet Supplies Plus, a new local franchise located in Auburn at 1716 Opelika Road.

Trained staff from RTN are made available to facilitate ‘meet and greets’ for new adoptions.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

A4 Jan. 11, 2024

Opelika's Economic Development director to retire

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA. — Lori Huguley, CEcD, is retiring from the city of Opelika on Jan. 31. John Sweat-

man will take over as Economic Development director Feb. 1.

Huguley has served as the director of Economic Development since 2011.

Prior to that role, she

served as project manager for Economic Development for six years.

Huguley’s responsibilities were to recruit and retain industry and retail business within the city of

Opelika. Working alongside Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika Industrial Development Authority during her tenure on the industrial front, Huguley helped to recruit more

PHOT0S CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER Lori Huguley, left, will retire as director of Economic Development on Jan. 31. John Sweatman, right, will assume leadership on Feb. 1.

than $2.6 billion of capital investment and created 4,793 jobs. This investment and job creation represents new and expanding industries including Mando, Hanwha, Daewon, Pharmavite, Golden State Foods, Bonnie Plants Headquarters, Niagara Water, Hanwha Cimarron, West Fraser and the recently announced Miele project, which is one of the largest industrial capital investment and job creators within Lee County.

Notable retail development projects Huguley assisted with include the AMC Movie theater, continued buildout of Tiger Town and the surrounding area, including new hotels and Golf Suites. She also helped secure the future Publix development on Veteran’s Parkway. Huguley also assisted with residential recruitment and for the last five years, Opelika has continually broken records for new homes permitted within the city.

Huguley led the charge to establish the new Opelika Innovation and Technology Park for the Industrial Development Authority. The park provides a landing spot for future tech focused businesses in Opelika.

Huguley attained the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) in 2010. The designation of CEcD is achieved by rigorous study and the passage of the CEcD exam administered by IEDC (International Economic Development Council.)

Huguley has been active in many civic and professional organizations including the Economic Development Association of Alabama of which she served as president from 2015-2016. She is a member of the Southern Economic Development Council, the International Economic Development Council and serves on the Executive Committee of the Alabama Germany Partnership. Locally, she is a member of Kiwanis and serves on the boards

of the Chamber of Commerce, United Way and the Food Bank of East Alabama.

A notable career highlight for Huguley was being recognized for Economic Development by the Site Selector’s Guild in 2019.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve this community that I love,” Huguley said. “Economic development is best accomplished with a team that is all rowing in the same direction. Mayor Fuller, the Opelika City Council and the Opelika Industrial Development Authority were always strong supporters of our efforts. They understand how important it is to be aligned in our Economic Development strategy and present a united front when we are recruiting business.

“I will always be grateful for my time here in Opelika and I have every confidence that the future will be very bright with John Sweatman taking the helm.”

Mayor Fuller added, “We will surely miss Lori.

She has shaped the course of our economic landscape and been the architect of growth and prosperity in Opelika. Lori’s commitment as our Economic Development director has been the driving force behind transformative initiatives that have improved our community. I wish Lori nothing but the best in her future endeavors and look forward to what John will do to keep making Opelika the best place to live and work."

Sweatman has served as project manager for Economic Development since 2018 assisting the director with the recruitment and retention of industry and retail business within the city of Opelika.

Additionally, he led the workforce development efforts for all major employers within the city and was instrumental in establishing Opelika as the nation’s first Citywide Career Skills Program in partnership with nearby Fort Moore (formerly Fort See SWEATMAN, page A5

A5 Jan. 11, 2024

Publix donates $25K to local Habitat for Humanity PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

from A1 Oct. 1, 2017. The band performed the show at half-time during the Iron Bowl and the SEC Championship game that year and in the Peach Bowl in January 2018.

Spurlin said the fans' response to the new light effects was positive.

Although great, the new tech did not come without some hiccups as the band realized the lights needed a lot of upkeep and near-constant repairs. A lights crew was created to maintain and repair the lights as needed. Spurlin said they spent a lot of hours doing that type of work so they knew this would not be something they would want to do every show or even every year.

Two years later, Brisendine, now a graduate student, undertook revamping the program as his graduate project. He worked to make the equipment more dependable and require less maintenance.

The next time the AUMB performed using the lights was a patriotic-themed show in 2019, complete with a lighted Statue of Liberty. However, one of the hardest things to plan was when to perform the show, because the band does not know more than just a couple of weeks ahead of time when it will have a night game, and it takes three to four months of planning for a light show.

In 2019, they did not get a night game, so they decided to use a drone and filmed the show on the field in the dark and then posted the video online.

"That video went viral, and we got a ton of press off of that show," Spurlin said. "Over the past two years, we tweaked them [the LED lights] some more, not knowing when we were going to use them, and then with the Metallica opportunity, we decided we were going to enter the contest."

Spurlin said once he knew the band was on board tackling the Metallica project, he knew it needed to be something big. What could they do that they hadn't done before?

He sat down with the music arranger and

SWEATMAN >> from A4 Benning).

During his time as project manager, Sweatman completed the Intensive Economic Development Training Course from Auburn University’s Government and Economic Development Institute (GEDI) in 2019 and went on to graduate from the Economic Development Institute at The University of Oklahoma (OU EDI) in 2021. OU EDI is an aggressive development certificate program that has been the primary training program for those in the business of economic development since its creation and is accredited by the IEDC (International Economic Development Council).

went over which songs to include in the show. He said he then got with Assistant Athletic Band Director Nikki Gross, and together they started charting the formations and working out elements to include that would highlight the band Metallica and its musical history.

With the title of the contest being "For Whom The Band Tolls," which is a take on one of the metal group’s most popular songs, Spurlin said he knew that was where he wanted to start. He said he knew Metallica had used a video board with bells swinging behind the band during one of its concerts in Brazil, so this became the inspiration for the band's opening formation.

"That is how they started their concert, so that is how we wanted to start our show; to recreate the concert they did in Brazil," Spurlin said. "We just tried to figure out how to make the bells look like they were swinging like church bells."

Other elements in the show included spelling out Metallica and Sandman and forming the iconic lightning bolts for which the band is known, the flame in between the lightning bolts and, of course, the guitar with its strings that were synchronized to the music the band was playing. But they also wanted to make it personal by including something native to Auburn.

"Nikki had the idea of doing the Tiger Eyes so that we could light up the eyes in the middle. That was a really neat effect."

He said that one of his favorite elements was the guitar and that he told Gross what he had pictured in his mind.

"The picture she created and then Ben's lighting effects with the strings just made it come to life like I had pictured,” he said. “I gave them a challenge with that one and they really came through with figuring it out."

All told, Spurlin said they spent at least five months planning this show, but the band members started learning the music and formations in mid-September. There were approximately 330 band members and about 50 alternates who prepared for the show.

Sweatman is also active in many civic and professional organizations including the Economic Development Association of Alabama of which he served as co-chair of the 2020 Winter and Summer Conferences and chair of the Winter Conference in 2021. He is a member of the Southern Economic Development Council, the International Economic Development Council, the Alabama Germany Partnership, and the Japan-America Society of Alabama. Locally he is past president and board member of the Opelika Rotary Club and has served on several United Way of Lee County committees, the Food Bank of East Alabama and as a Red Cross D.A.T. emergency response team

member.

Sweatman said he is committed to build on the outstanding achievements of his predecessor and work closely with Fuller, the Opelika City Council and the Opelika Industrial Development Authority to keep Opelika moving in the right direction.

“I am truly grateful for all that Ms. Huguley has done for our city and for preparing me to step into this new role,” Sweatman said. “I am honored by the confidence Mayor Fuller and the Opelika City Council has shown in me.

I look forward to working alongside them and other community leaders to continue helping new businesses and families decide to choose Opelika as a great place to live, work and play.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY MARCHING BAND

BAND >>

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity received a grant of $25,000 from Publix Super Markets to continue its mission of providing affordable housing for those in need. Publix first began supporting Habitat for Humanity in 1989 and has been a consistent supporter nationwide ever since.

Locally, Publix has partnered with Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity for seven years to build homes through their grant program, Publix Super Market Charities (PSMC).

PSMC supports nonprofit organizations throughout the Southeast that work toward bettering their communities.

Publix founder George Jenkins was a strong believer in giving back, and Publix continues his legacy of building hope for others. This past year, PSMC donated $10 million to 250 housing programs, including 125 Habitat affiliates across the nation. Pictured are representatives from Publix Super Market at Hamilton Place Store, Publix Super Market at The Shoppes at Cary Creek Store and Publix Super Market on Gay Street.

The opportunity for a nighttime show came when it was announced that the Ole Miss game on Oct. 21 would be played at night.

The band performed part of the show during half-time at the LSU game as a practice run in preparation for recording the show for the contest submission just a week later.

AUMB won first place in the D1 collegiate level competition and will receive $75,000 in equipment and instruments. It also was voted as the fan favorite, which comes with an added $10,000 prize.

Spurlin said he appreciates the experience the band had with this competition and that he is excited about winning.

"We obviously worked really hard on our show. It feels really good, not just to win, but I thought it was great that Metallica trusted in marching bands to bring their music to life in a different way, in a different medium, if you will.

"The most important thing is that our students had a great time; they enjoyed performing the show and they certainly enjoyed the great feedback we got from not only Auburn fans but from all over the country,” he said.

“It has been really good for them, and it has helped their experience in our band this year

and I know it feels good to them to win any sort of contest. I think the process of it all, the experience of it all, was probably the greatest reward but it was nice to be chosen as the winner."

Spurlin said that it would be impossible to thank everyone who supported them, but he wanted to tell everyone thank you.

"I appreciate everybody for supporting it, all those that voted, all the kind words expressed through social media, emails and all that,” he said. “We want to express our appreciation for the folks that support our program, and our students. We could not do it without all that support, and we enjoyed doing it.

Spurlin said he has no idea what that looks like yet but is looking forward to finding out more about the prize.

"We don't have the parameters of how the prizes will be awarded yet," he said. "It is wonderful that they [Metallica and the sponsors] put so much financial backing into it. It shows their commitment to the project."

Sponsors of the competition included Metallica, TAMA, KHS America, Zildjian, D'Addario Woodwinds, Evans Drumheads, ProMark and Gator, in partnership with Sweetwater, Conn Selmer and Hal Leonard.

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer and Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, Alabama 36801 334-745-5706

A6 Jan. 11, 2024

The Dream Day Foundation hosted inaugural fundraising gala PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS | FOR THE OBSERVER

The Dream Day Foundation kicked off its inaugural fundraising gala on Jan. 6 at the Life Center at Greater Peace Baptist Church in Opelika. The black-tie gala presented a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin L. King Jr. and raised funds that will be used for scholarships, to maintain and enhance existing programs that benefit youth in the community and to develop new initiatives to continue The Dream Day Foundation's commitment to fostering unity, justice and equality in our community.

According to Marion Sankey, founder and executive director of The Dream Day Foundation, the gala also provided a platform "to honor the tireless efforts of individuals who have been instrumental in making this celebration a beacon of hope and inspiration."

Want help spreading the word about your event?

We can help! editor@opelikaobserver.com (334) 749-8003 * Deadline is noon on Tuesdays

The Dream Day Foundation will host the 25th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration at 11 a.m. on Dr. King's birthday, Monday, Jan. 15, at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, located at Opelika High School, 1700 Lafayette Parkway. The event is free, but non-perishable donations are appreciated.

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WINTER ENTERTAINMENT PLAYS, CONCERTS, STAND-UP COMEDY, POETRY READINGS, MEET THE AUTHOR, WORKSHOPS AND MORE!

Making the Grade

On the road to Columbus, Georgia

OPINION —

A

s I have mentioned many times in this column, I dislike and distrust most technology. However, even I have to admit that some technology has made life much easier for me. For example, back when I was a high school and college student from 1978-85, I had only a typewriter for writing my papers.

Back in the day, footnotes were the method for giving credit to your sources, and if you misjudged how much space to leave for them at the bottom of your paper, you were just out of luck; you had to type the whole page again.

Generation Z-ers will never be able to understand our frustration level back then.

Also, from 19901996, when I was teaching English in LaGrange, Georgia, I was still using my old, trusty Electra XT electric typewriter to type tests, activities, etc. If I needed to add or remove (We didn’t say “delete” in the 20th century.) any items, you guessed it: I had to retype the whole paper.

Again, not fun.

However, in the 1996-97 school year, every teacher in the Troup County School System received a desk top computer. Many teachers were excited; I was not. I was unim-

At one point, Siri told Mike to turn left, so he did. Siri sent us down a one-way street in the dark in an unfamiliar area. I screamed like a wild woman because a car was coming straight for us. Thank the Good Lord that Mike is an excellent driver, and he avoided hitting the other vehicle in a head-on collision. I’m also grateful that the frightening epi-

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE / FOR THE OBSERVER

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

pressed, unexcited and fearful of that massive, mechanical monster.

(Remember, I love alliteration.)

On this contraption, you had to hit a button called “save,” or all your work would vanish into thin air; that scared me. After all, none of my words disappeared on my reliable typewriter.

However, I grudgingly grew to like the word processing part of my computer. Something called Microsoft Word allowed me to go in and change my test or activity, adding or deleting as needed. Hallelujah! I never had to retype the whole document again.

But I digress.

Siri, the so-called assistant on iPhone, can be a pain, as I have already mentioned in this column. Siri talks back to me, and she sometimes refuses to understand my Southern accent, even when I enunciate each word carefully. No wonder.

Siri is voiced by Susan Bennett, who is from Burlington, Vermont; even though her hometown is beautiful, the people sound nothing like Alabamians.

Well, Siri really crossed the line recently. In fact, she tried to kill my sweet husband Mike and me.

Recently, Mike and I were traveling to Columbus, Georgia, to celebrate our good friend Amelia’s belated birthday; Larry, Amelia’s husband, Leigh Ann, another good friend, and her friend Dennis made up the party. Since Mike and I rarely go to Columbus any more, Siri was giving us directions for our destination to uptown Columbus.

Trevioli Italian Kitchen in uptown Columbus serves traditional recipes, like chicken alfredo, and modern dishes like lobster mac.

sode didn’t give either of us a heart attack.

After our heart beats slowed to normal rates, Mike called Larry, Amelia’s husband, for directions. Mike followed Larry’s precise directions, and we finally arrived at Trevioli Italian Kitchen at the Rapids at 1329 Front Avenue Suite A in uptown Columbus.

Mike and I were really impressed by uptown Columbus; its renovations were attractive.

Also, the restaurant’s interior was lovely, and I enjoyed the quiet, soothing music.

I’m sorry that I failed to get our server’s name because he was very kind, helpful and patient. I will blame

our near-death experience for my lapse.

Mike ordered the chicken Alfredo while I chose the spaghetti Bolognese. Amelia, the birthday girl, who of course chose the restaurant, selected her personal favorite, the lobster mac; her husband Larry chose the Cajun mac. Leigh Ann ordered the fusilli pasta, and her friend Dennis selected the chicken parmesan.

Oh, my two times.

Everything was really delicious; Amelia chose well for her belated birthday dinner (supper). Run and do not walk to Trevioli Italian Kitchen; just don’t ask Siri for directions.

The restaurant offers

diners some very tempting appetizers, some of which include Italian salad, butternut squash bruschetta, roasted goat cheese marinara dip, smoked salmon crostini and lobster bisque.

Besides our delectable dishes, Trevioli Italian Kitchen also offers diners other great entrees such as: parmesan risotto, roasted garlic linguine and Tuscan.

When my A1C is much lower, I can order one of the restaurant’s luscious desserts — cannoli, mini chocolate peanut butter cake, mini red velvet cheesecake and chocolate cake. Lynn Hudson (my endocrinologist), please note that I didn’t order dessert.

Trevioli Italian

Kitchen at the Rapids is closed on Sunday.

The restaurant is open Monday-Thursday from 5-9:30 p.m. Eastern Time; on Friday-Saturday from 5-10:30 p.m.

Eastern Time.

Trevioli Italian Kitchen at the Rapids makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Poohsized” people lie aboneverut 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 every other week in The Observer.

Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail.com.

A8 Jan. 11, 2024

The Springer presents 'Murder on the Orient Express' CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

COLUMBUS, Ga. — The Springer kicks off the second half of its "killer" 2023-24 season on Jan. 18 with “Murder on the Orient Express.”

Set in 1934, this adaptation of Agatha Christie's tale of murder most foul is told from the perspective of the infamous detective Hercule Poirot. As he interrogates the suspects, the action (and the killer!) moves throughout various locations aboard the train.

The novel was adapted for film first in 1974 and most recently in 2017, the same year as the first stage performance.

In the Springer's production, as the killer seeks to cover up incriminating evidence, various elements of the set and potential clues remain visible to the audience. This meticulous attention to detail in the stage design sets the Springer's production apart. Textures, treatments and materials create a sense of "blurred lines" that redirect the audience's focus to character movement and plot action that occur simultaneously. This is significant because of what the suspects actually remember and the ambiguous details they provide to Poirot as they seek to appear innocent.

According to Production Director Matthew Swindell, who devised the design concept with the audience in mind, memory is often unreliable.

"With the scenic design for this show, I imagined and expanded on what impact entrapment might have on memory and recall," he said. "We have to be aware that the characters find themselves trapped on a train, so we've developed a set highlighting space that takes over the stage and doesn't allow escape."

"One of the biggest challenges for the Springer is constructing our sets from the ground up," said Artistic Director Keith McCoy, who directed the play. “For every production, we try to raise the bar a little more.

With the set for 'Murder on the Orient Express' we meet that bar. The audience sees several aspects of the action in different locations of the same train in real time.

As the plot unfolds, the set becomes a part of the plot twists that drive the action through hidden corners, hiding suspects and secrets."

"Murder on the Orient Express" runs Jan. 18 through Jan. 28 at the Springer Opera Theatre and promises a oneof-a-kind theatrical experience for audiences looking for an evening of mystery, suspense and intrigue.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 18-20 and Jan. 25-28, with Sunday matinees on Jan. 20 and 28 at 2:30 p.m. EST.

Tickets are on sale now by calling the box office at (706) 327-3688, visiting the website at www.springeroperahouse.org, or in person at 103 10th St. in Columbus.

Adult beverage connoisseur brings 'Thirsty!' tour to Opelika

Comedian and actor Zane Lamprey to perform at Red Clay Brewery on Feb. 13 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA— Zane Lamprey is known for being the guy who gets paid to travel around the world and drink, which has lead him to finding himself in many awkward and interesting situations.

Enjoy locally-made craft beer and listen to fantastic stories from his adventures and misadventures on Tuesday, Feb. 13, as he brings his 'Thirsty!' stand-up comedy tour to Red Clay Brewing Company.

According to his website, Lamprey is "constantly being told that he has the best job in the world."

The website says, "For over a decade, Zane has had the enviable job of hosting the shows Three Sheets, Drinking Made Easy, Chug and Four Sheets, where he traveled the globe, learning about different cultures by sampling

libations with the locals.

"As the most well-known personality in the ‘travel and drink space,’ Zane has built an empire around his brand, a legion of dedicated fans and the reputation as a personality that people trust. As a regular speaker, beverage judge and author of the book '6 Continents, 15 Countries, 190 drinks and 1 Mean Hangover,' published by Random House, Zane is an expert in all things booze."

This event is strictly for ages 21+.

Red Clay Brewing Company is located 704 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika.

Doors will open for VIP ticket holders at 7 p.m., with general admission at 7:30 p.m. and showtime at 8 p.m.

For tickets, go to zanelamprey.com.

As a pre-game, watch Lamprey's Amazon Prime stand-up special "Tender Looks."

Drive up hours: Mon - Fri. 6:30 - 9:30 a.m.

Subscribe to The Observer today! editor@opelikaobserver.com

A9 Jan. 11, 2024

A10 Jan. 11, 2024

Sean of the South

SEAN DIETRICH OPINION —

I

t’s a rainy night in Columbus, Georgia. I have an interview on the local evening news. This is a monumental occasion.

My mother called to make sure I was wearing clean underwear.

The last time I was in Columbus, I was in college. I was wearing clean underwear then, too. I was an adult student, traveling with a bunch of 18-yearold music students on a school trip. That weekend, I saw some of the world’s most accomplished pianists perform in concert. And it was great.

I was a different person

back then. Back then, I had this ridiculous idea that I was going to be a pianist one day.

I wish someone would’ve told me life doesn’t happen how you plan, no matter what kind of underpants you wear.

Anyway, being on the news is a big deal. I have only been on the news twice before.

The first time, I was helping judge a barbecue competition. Me and my friend Buck were interviewed on a local channel. There were cameras with blinking lights, teleprompters, cameramen giving hand signals, and a makeup lady kept powdering my face and saying, “I’ve never seen so much oil on one godforsaken forehead.” And the interview basically went like this: “So, tell us about the upcoming event, Sean.”

“Uhhhh…”

“Sean, what can people expect at this event?”

“I uhhhh…”

“Back to you, Terry.”

Uhhhh...

The other time I was on the news was when my cousin accidentally stole a luxury sedan. His elderly father-in-law had forgotten that he’d agreed to let us borrow his Buick for a road trip.

He reported the car as stolen.

We got pulled over in Tennessee. After much confusion with local law enforcement officials, we all had a good laugh about it. And I can say one thing about the upstanding penal system in Tennessee, they serve delicious hamburger steaks.

But getting back to Columbus. Tonight’s news interview is about the one-man show I’m about to do. Which only proves how desperate modern media is for material.

The reporter, Mya, and I are in my dressing room, standing before a camera. Mya goes to great pains to get me positioned. She is constantly telling me to “step forward,” “slide

to the left,” “slide to the right,” “Cha-Cha real smooth.”

Then, Mya touches her earpiece and says, “We’re on in five…”

Four.

Three.

Two. Suddenly. A bright light from the camera.

It blinds me. We are not talking about a tiny pinlight. We’re talking about a combat aircraft landing signal aimed at my face.

Mya says, “We’re here with Sean Dietrich.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, Sean.”

And I choke. I clear my throat. I blink at the light. This is what is known in the entertainment industry as dead air.

"Uhhhh…” I remark.

And while I stammer, Mya just smiles at the camera until the muscles in her neck are poking out and a single bead of sweat rolls down her temple.

“Uhhhh…” I add.

After the interview,

I get my picture taken with Mya. We pose for a selfie. Mya informs me that I am not a good selfie-picture-taker.

To take a proper selfie you have to hold your cellphone camera at a high angle. If you hold the camera too low, everyone in the photograph comes out looking like overweight members of the Lollipop Guild.

After selfies, someone knocks on the door and says, “It’s showtime.”

Mya tells me to break a leg. I suspect she truly means it.

For several years I have been doing my one-man show with only a guitar. Usually, I play a song, tell a story, play another song, etc.

That’s pretty much it.

Then, I say goodnight, whereupon audience members go to the ticket booth and demand a refund.

But tonight, here at the amphitheater, I found a grand piano backstage before the show. On

a whim, I asked the sound guy if he’d let me play the thing for the performance. He said sure. He rolled it center stage and locked the wheels in place.

For the show I end up playing several songs which I have not played in many years. And I tell the story of how once upon a time I took a bus to Columbus, Georgia, to watch concert pianists play. And I am sort of taken by the irony of this moment. I almost feel foolish about it.

When I finish the show, my hands are hurting because they are out of shape. We go back to our hotel room, I collapse on the bed. I turn on the television.

The news is on.

There I am. A big dork on TV. My hair is in need of cutting. My beard needs a trim. I look like a starvation victim on diuretics in the harsh glow of the camera lights. My wife and I See DEITRICH, page A11

Lee County LITERACY COALITION

LITERACY

Wonderland

Saturday, January 27, 2024 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

FREE Tablet plus monthly internet (1 per household) via Affordable Connectivity Program Scan the code for the application.

505 W. Thomason Circle Opelika, AL

Door prizes

Starter Libraries Delicious Refreshments Games, family fun and more!

This event is FREE and open to the public.

Visit www.leecountyliteracy.org or call 334-705-0001 for more information.

A11 Jan. 11, 2024

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The Third Thursday Poetry Series will be hosted at Pebble Hill at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18. The readings will be by Jim Peterson.

Peterson was born in Augusta, Georgia. His poetry collections include The Man Who Grew Silent, An Afternoon With K, The Owning Stone, The Bob and Weave and Original Face. His newest collection, Speech Minus Applause, was released

by Press 53 in 2019. His novel, Paper Crown, is now available on Audible.

His poems have won the Benjamin Saltman Award from Red Hen Press, an Academy of American Poets Award, and a Fellowship in Poetry from the Virginia Arts Commission. A number of his plays have been produced in regional theaters.

His poems have appeared widely in journals including Poetry, Georgia Review, Shenandoah, Poetry Northwest, Prairie Schooner and many others. His stories have appeared in the Los Angeles Review, South Dakota Review, and The Laurel Review. A collection of

stories, Many Small Fires, is forthcoming from Red Hen Press.

Until his retirement in 2013, he was Coordinator of Creative Writing at Randolph College and was the Pearl S. Buck Writer-in-Residence there in the Fall of 2017. Many years ago, he was founder and editor of the poetry journal Kudzu and later was editor of The Devil’s Millhopper poetry magazine and press.

He is now on the faculty of the University of Nebraska-Omaha Low-Res MFA Program in Creative Writing and is professor emeritus at Randolph College in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he lives with his charismatic corgi, Mama Kilya.

Pebble Hill is located at 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn.

The Third Thursday Poetry Series is sponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities, the Department of English, and Southern Humanities Review in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University and the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

Sundilla to present bluegrass on Jan. 19 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Sundilla will kick off its fourth decade of bringing music from around the country and the world to Auburn with a concert from a firsttime visitor, bluegrass trio Thunder & Rain, who will take the stage on Friday, Jan. 19, at 7:30 p.m. at AUUF, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn.

Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies and online at www.sundillamusic. com. Admission at the door will be $25. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is invited to bring their own favorite food or beverage.

ABOUT THUNDER & RAIN:

Describing Thunder & Rain as “bluegrass” is selling them a bit short. When she was growing up in California, Erin Peet Lukes didn’t know anything about bluegrass or country music. She wrote her first song at age 13, and began to perform her original songs in cities like

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Pebble Hill will host poetry reading Jan. 18

Bluegrass trio Thunder & Rain will perform as part of the Sundilla Music Series on Friday, Jan. 19, at AUUF in Auburn.

Seattle and New York City, and eventually landed in Colorado.

It was there that she formed the band, and for eight years they toured the U.S., Canada, Ireland and the UK, releasing three albums along the way.

Then 2020 happened, and the touring and recording ground to a halt. At the end of the year Lukes moved to Nashville and met Laura Ray and Amelia Ransom. Soon they re-formed the band, with Ray on banjo, Ransom on fiddle, and

Lutes leading the way with her clear, angelic voice. With expert bluegrass-style picking, skilled dynamics and rich three-part harmony, their show takes the listener on a journey through the band’s story-telling lyrics and singable, get-stuck-in-your-head choruses.

(If the name Amelia Ransom seems familiar, it’s because she HAS appeared at Sundilla before; it was in 2019, with her band The Ransom Notes.)

Thunder and Rain

has shared the stage with Billy Strings, Krueger Brothers, Peter Rowan, A.J. Lee and Blue Summit and Brothers Comatose.

Their song “Run With You” was selected for the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Songwriter Showcase 2023.

The Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (AUUF) graciously donates the use of their historic Fellowship Hall to Sundilla and other local organizations.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ICE SKATING Located on the Hey Day Market greenspace, the ice-skating rink is open daily from noon until 8:30 p.m. through Jan. 15. Cost, which includes skate rental and one hour of skate time, is $13 for children ages 12 & under and $20 for adults.

LOCAL AUTHOR @ LIBRARY Auburn Public Library presents Taylor Belich as part of its Local Authors in the Library program. Belich, a local children’s book author who lives in Auburn, will be featured on Saturday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m. at Movers & Shakers Story Time, reading from her debut book, “Calming My Body is as Easy as ABC.” 2ND SATURDAY @ PIONEER PARK On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the Lee County Historical Society Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts.

At the next Second Saturday, set for Jan. 13 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., come see blacksmiths working at the forge, spinners and weavers in the textile room and gardeners in the gardens. There will be crafts and seasonal activities, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. The Whistle Stop Pickers dulcimer group meets at the Museum at 1 p.m.

MLK CELEBRATION The Dream Day Foundation will present the 25th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday, Jan. 15, which would have been Dr. King's 94th birthday. The event will begin at 11 a.m. at Opelika High School and is free to the public.

MISS SOUTHERN UNION PAGEANT A new Miss Southern Union will be crowned on Thursday, Jan. 18, at 7 p.m. in the Renaissance Theater on Southern Union’s Wadley Campus. This is an official preliminary to the Miss Alabama/Miss America Pageant. Admission is $5 at the door. For more information about the pageant or to book an appearance by Miss Southern Union, contact Shondae Brown, pageant director, at 256-395-2211.

POETRY SERIES @ PEBBLE HILL The Third Thursday Poetry Series will be hosted at Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn on Thursday, Jan. 18, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The readings will be by poet Jim Peterson of Lynchburg, Virginia.

ALL THINGS MARKETING SUMMIT Learn about the latest trends, tools and strategies in marketing at the Opelika Chamber’s All Things Marketing Summit,

set for Friday, Jan. 19, 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National. Cost is $175 per person. Registration will close on Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 5 p.m. To learn more about speakers, session info and to register, visit www.opelikachamber.com/ allthingsmartetingsummit or call (334) 7454861.

Dinnerstein’s performance of The Eye Is the First Circle on Jan. 26, at 7 p.m. at Woltosz Theatre in the Jay and Susie Gouge Performing Arts Center, located at 910 S. College St. in Auburn. The performance is part of the Gouge Center’s orchestra and chamber music series. Ticket prices range from $30-65 and are available at the website goguecenter.evenue.net.

SUNDILLA: THUNDER & RAIN Sundilla begins its fourth decade of bringing music from around the world to Auburn with a performance by bluegrass trio Thunder & Rain on Friday, Jan. 19, at 7:30 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food and beverage. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 with student ID and free for children under age 12. Tickets are on sale at www.sundillamusic.com.

LITERACY WONDERLAND The Lee County Literacy Coalition will present Literacy Wonderland on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 505 W. Thomason Circile in Opelika. The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature games, prizes, refreshments and more.

12TH ANNUAL POLAR PLUNGE The 12th Annual Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special Olymmpics will be held on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 9 a.m. This year’s theme is 2023 Trends, so dress in your favorite trend of 2023 and come ready to plunge into the frigid water for a good cause. The event will be held at Samford Pool, located at 328 E. Samford Ave. in Auburn. Registration is required at auburnal.myrec.com. Log in or create a MyRec account to sign up. All donations should be brought the day of the event in cash or by check payable to Lee County Special Olympics.

PUZZLE TOURNAMENT On Saturday, Jan. 20, the Opelika Public Library will host the Third Annual OPL Puzzle Tournament. Teams of four will compete for prizes in adult, family and teen categories. Registration is required. Sign up at bit.ly/OPLPuzzle24.

OPELIKA THEATRE: MEAN GIRLS Opelika Community Theatre will present Mean Girls Jan. 25 through Feb. 4. The show is recommended for ages 12 and up. Admission is $17, with tickets on sale at www.opelikacommunitytheatre.com/ ticketsshows.

CANADIAN BRASS ENSEMBLE The Canadian Brass Ensemble will be in concert on Thursday, Jan. 25, at 7:30 p.m. at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available at www. eastalabamaarts.org/tickets.

PIANIST PERFORMANCE @ GOUGE Don’t miss world-renowned pianist Simone

TWO CROWS FOR COMFORT @ SOUND WALL Two Crows for Comfort, a folk-roots duo, will perform at the Sound Wall, located at 605 Ave. B in downtown Opelika, on Saturday, Jan. 27. Ages 21 and up. Doors open for a BYOB cocktail reception at 7 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 AUBURN CHAMBER ANNUAL MEETING The Auburn Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting will be held on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 4 p.m. at Jay and Susie Gouge Performing Arts Center.

POETRY @ PEBBLE HILL A poetry reading will be hosted at Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn, on Thursday, Feb. 1, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Readings will be by poet Molly McCully Brown.

ANYA HINKLE @ THE SOUND WALL Singer-songwriter Anya Hinkle will perform with Andrew Finn Magill at the Sound Wall, located at 605 Ave. B in downtown Opelika, on Thursday, Feb. 1. Ages 21 and up. Doors open for a BYOB cocktail reception at 7 p.m.,

DIETRICH >> from A10 count how many times I say “Uhhhh….”

Nineteen times.

I turn off the television. I stare out my hotel room at the lights of Columbus.

And I think about how much life has changed me. It’s softened me in

followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 SUNDILLA CONCERT SERIES The Sundilla Concert Series will feature a performance by House of Hamill on Friday, Feb. 2, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food and beverage. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 with student ID and free for children under age 12. Tickets are on sale at www.sundillamusic.com.

HIROYA TSUKAMOTO @ THE SOUND WALL Innovative Japanese guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto will perform at the Sound Wall, located at 605 Ave. B in downtown Opelika, on Saturday, Feb. 3. Ages 21 and up. Doors open for a BYOB cocktail reception at 7 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

MY FAIR LADY @ GOUGE The classic play My Fair Lady will be presented on Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 6 and 7, at 7 p.m. at the Jay and Susie Gouge Performing Arts Center, located at 910 S. College St. in Auburn. Ticket prices range from $45 to $105 and are available at the website goguecenter.evenue.net.

SUNDILLA CONCERT SERIES The Sundilla Concert Series will feature a performance by Joe Crookston on Friday, Feb. 9, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food and beverage. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 with student ID and free for children under age 12. Tickets are on sale at www.sundillamusic.com.

some places, toughened me in others. I have spent three quarters of my life being lost and confused.

The other quarter was spent horsing around.

I look horrible on television. And I am not a great pianist.

But, by God, I am wearing clean underwear.

And that has to count for something..

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South.

His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast and he makes appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

A12 Jan. 11, 2024

Pulling back the curtain, Part two

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

L

OPINION — ast week we saw an angel telling Daniel about how he was delayed three weeks by “the prince of the Persian kingdom (10:13). He also spoke of “the prince of Greece” (v. 20) and had more to say about

Michael—“one of the chief princes” (v. 13).

What is going on?

Let’s begin with what we know: Michael is an archangel (Jude 1:9). He is identified here as “one of the chief princes” (v. 3) and a “great prince” in 12:1. I think this gives us grounds for understanding the prince of Persia and the prince of Greece to be evil spiritual entities — possibly angels as well. Paul speaks in Ephesians 6:12 about our struggle being against, “the rulers . . . the authorities . . . the powers of this dark world . . . the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly

realms.” In 2 Kings 6, when the Arameans had surrounded the city where Elisha and his servant are, Elisha assured his servant, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them” (v.

17). Look at the context and it’s clear he wasn’t speaking about any human army.

What we have in Daniel 10 then is a glimpse of warfare in the spiritual realm.

There was an evil entity who was working in support of the Persian kingdom and the angel who appeared to Daniel (perhaps Gabriel), was “resisted” and “retained” by it for 21 days (v. 21) until

Bible verse of the week:

Opelika 334-745-4608

ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166,

CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 The Opelika Church 2660 Cunninghan Dr., Opelika Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 CHURCH OF GOD

being “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (1:14)?

Doesn’t John tell us “The One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world (1 John 4:4)? Don’t you find all this greatly encouraging? We are not alone in the battles we face.

I’ve said in this piece that there is more going on than meets the eye.

More to Daniel’s point, God is control of it all! That’s all the more reason to live for Him and give Him praise.

Find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-withbruce-green.com.

Pastor Carolyn Morton and the Samford Commnity Outreach Group extend an invitation to the community to attend the 9th Annual Dream On: The Celebration, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday.

The event will be held on Monday Jan. 15, at 2 p.m. at Christian Care Ministries, 1000 Samford Court in Opelika.

CHURCH DIRECTORY

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

all very interesting and intriguing.

When we think about the emphasis in the book of Daniel about how “the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes” (4:32), this gives a peek at some of what is involved in that. Remember, the miracle in 2 Kings 6 was not that there was a spiritual army protecting Elisha and his servant—the miracle was that his servant could see it (Alexander McClaren)! Didn’t Jesus speak of little ones and “their angels” (Matthew 18:10).

Doesn’t the Hebrew writer talk about angels

Samford Community Outreach to present 9th annual MLK program

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. — James 3:16

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road Valley 334-710-2117

Michael came to his aid (v. 13). Whether the purpose of this resistance/retaining was so Daniel couldn’t receive his message or that was just a byproduct, it's not entirely clear — but the latter seems more probable.

We do know this entity was working against God and His purposes.

We also know that after the angel gave Daniel his message, he returned to fight against this entity and would also engage the prince of Greece. In 11:1 we have another challenging text that tells us our angel took a stand "to support and protect" with Darius or Michael. Hmm ... it's

Lakeside Church of God 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432 EPISCOPAL- AME Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika 334-749-1690 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 Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552 Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika Southern Plains Cowboy Church

13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014 PENTECOSTAL Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697 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

REACH OUT BY ADDING YOUR CHURCH Add your church to the directory above for only $75 a year, or consider a display ad like the ones at left for only $20 per week.

Email michelle@opelikaobserver.com or call (334) 749-8003.

A13 Jan. 11, 2024

Altar Call

WALTER ALBRITTON

J

OPINION — ohn was dying. The end was near. He had suffered for months with terminal cancer. His doctor had said, “There is nothing more we can do. You can take him home and call Hospice.”

I was visiting John in his home. It was Tuesday of Holy Week. Easter Sunday was coming. John and I were

good friends. He had been a key leader in our church, the kind of man God uses to grow a church.

John knew he had only a few days to live but his mind was as sharp as ever. He talked about going to heaven.

He looked forward to seeing Jesus. He reminded me that Jesus had made a place for him in the Father’s House.

I took that as a cue to read aloud to him and his wife the 14th chapter of the Gospel of John.

I said, “John, this Sunday is Easter. You are a beloved leader of our church. Is there a message you would like for me to give the congregation from you?”

Jesus is everything

His eyes brimming with tears, John smiled and said, “Tell them that Jesus is everything!”

I promised him I would, and I did. I built that Easter sermon around John’s words, words that summed up for him and for me the true essence of life.

Many years have passed since that Easter. But those three words have remained etched in my memory bank -— Jesus is everything!

That says it all. Those three words are the ultimate sine qua non of the Christian faith. That Latin phrase may be translated as “Without which (there is) nothing.” So, without Jesus, Christian faith

is nothing!

When it comes to the Bible, Jesus is everything.

The Bible is essentially the story of Jesus. The Old Testament says “Someone is coming!” The New Testament says, “That Someone is Jesus!”

Christians are fond of saying, “Jesus is all I need.”

That is an absolute truth.

Since Jesus is everything, when you have him, you have everything you need.

You live in darkness until you discover this truth about Jesus. That is why Timothy Keller could say, “You don’t realize Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have.”

When Jesus is everything

to you, then you can praise him with the words of King David in Psalm 16:5, “You, Lord, are all I have, and you give me all I need; my future is in your hands.”

If all you have is “religion,” without Jesus, then your life is one constant struggle to “measure up” and please God by trying to “be good.” When Jesus becomes everything to you, then you realize why he said, “I am the vine, and you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, and I in him, will bear much fruit: for you can do nothing without me” (John 15:5).

Saint Paul acknowledged that he served Jesus “by

using the mighty strength which Christ supplies and which is at work in me” (Colossians 1:29). Nothing was more important to Paul than knowing Jesus and being united with him; everything else was “garbage” to him.

Unless Jesus is everything, life unravels and makes no sense. When Jesus is everything, you are in sync with the One who created all things, the only One who can enrich your life with joy and victory.

Is Jesus everything to you?

If he is, then you are ready to live victoriously in this broken world, for life will work in only one way — and that is the way of Jesus.

bargain shopping for clothes, attending the Poundstone Sunday school class at the First Baptist Church of Montgomery, Alabama and being in the woods. He was always at his happiest when he was among his beloved trees.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a tree be planted in his honor.

His brother, Ken Sims, will be officiating.

Tom was born on April 11, 1942, to Robert and Mary Sims in Chambers County, where he was raised. Tom was a simple man who loved his family and his country.

He was an avid supporter of the military, especially the brave men and women who served our country. It meant a great deal to him that respect was given to veterans who made in-credible sacrifices to protect the things he loved.

Tom was a proud veteran of the Air Force himself, as well as a member of American Legion and Free Masonry.

In 1972, Tom became the first college graduate of his family, finishing Auburn University with a B.A. in agricultural education.

Tom is preceded in death by his father and his loving

OBITUARIES Upcoming Services James Emory Morton Saturday, Jan. 13 Service at 1 p.m., Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, Opelika Tom Sims Saturday, Jan. 13 Visitation at 9 a.m., Funeral at 10 a.m.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, Opelika Peter Reese Doyle Saturday, Jan. 13, Service at 12 noon Trinity Presbyterian Church, Opelika Dennis Wayne Lollar 2 p.m., Jan. 13 Restoration Church, Auburn Samuel Franklin “Frank” Cain II Saturday, Jan. 20, Service at 10 a.m.

First Baptist Church, LaFayette

JAMES EMORY MORTON James Emory Morton, a resident of Opelika and longtime resident of Wetumpka, passed away Saturday, Dec. 22, 2023, at the age of 85.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Saturday, Jan. 13. A visitation with the family will follow.

Mr. Morton was born March 19,1938, in Midway, Alabama, to Lawrence and Lilly Mae Morton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Annie “Afton” Morton; brother, Robert Morton; three children, Jim Morton, Alicia Johnson and Kathy Norton; grandchildren, Ashley Barrow, A.J. Johnson, Genny Fain, Abby Garrett, T.J. Morton, Maggie Morton, Taylor Mitchell,

Chandler Montgomery and Rylee Scott; seven great grandchildren and several special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Tommy, Larry, John Richard and Phillip Morton.

James was a true “timber man.” He graduated from Auburn University in 1961 with a forestry degree. While in school, he was a pitcher on the Tiger’s baseball team.

After college, James began to learn the timber business as a professional forester for Buchanan Lumber Company in Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama where he spent more than 20 years before starting his own company. Besides his family and friends, his greatest loves were spending time with his grandchildren, Braves Baseball, Auburn Football, playing golf,

TOM SIMS Tom Sims, 81, of LaFayette passed away on Jan. 5, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be held in the parlor at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Saturday, Jan.13, beginning at 9 a.m.

CST, followed by a service in the chapel at 10 a.m. CST. Burial will follow in the LaFayette City Cemetery at noon. Military Honors will be presented at the graveside along with Masonic rights.

Pre-Need Services Available Call 334-749-8700 for an appointment Your Full-Service Funeral Home

See OBITUARIES, page A14

A14 Jan. 11, 2024

OBITUARIES >>

FOM A13

wife of 64 years, Diane Sims; a brother, Bobby Sims; a sister, Charlotte Sims Pouncey; sons, Tommy (Tammy) Sims and Tim (Lisa) Sims; grandchildren Stacy (Josh) Eidson, Trey (Klancy Harmon) Sims and Savannah Sims; one greatgrandchild, Lilly Welcher; his mother, Mary Sims; brother, Ken Sims; sister-inlaw, Cynthia (David) Hearn; and brother-in-law, Tom Ford.

PETER REESE DOYLE Peter Reese Doyle went to be in heaven with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Jan. 2, 2024.

His memorial service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Opelika on Saturday, Jan. 13, at 12 noon, with FrederickDean Funeral Home handling arrangements.

Peter was born in Pensacola, Florida, on May 13, 1930. His father was a naval aviator, and the family moved often between Annapolis, Norfolk, Washington D.C., Coronado, California and Pensacola.

Peter graduated from Washington and Lee University in 1954 and felt God’s calling to ministry in the Episcopal Church.

He met his wife-to-be, Sally Ann Jackson, in Williamsburg, Virginia, in professional theater: she was a dancer and he an actor.

They were married in 1955.

In 1957, Peter graduated from Seabury Western Theological Seminary, and he and Sally Ann then served as missionaries in Liberia, West Africa for several years. After doctoral studies in theology in Basel, Switzerland, where their son Jonathan was born, they returned to the United States and served in pastoral ministry in Leesburg, Virginia, where their daughter Su-san was born.

After teaching briefly in a seminary in Lexington, Kentucky, Peter returned to pastoral minis-try in South Carolina. In 1972, he joined the Presbyterian church and became involved in the group that founded the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) at Briarwood in Birmingham, Alabama.

He served PCA churches in Birmingham, Auburn, Nashville and Opelika. At

his daughter’s insistence, he wrote two series of adventure stories and historical novels for young readers. These are available at www. doyleadventures.com. Peter became deeply involved in campus ministries at Auburn University and continued this work after his retirement.

His friendly and cheerful personality encouraged his many friends and congregants.

Peter is survived by his son, Jonathan and wife Kristin; his daughter, Susan and husband, Kevin Purvis; grandchildren, Frances Chan (Joe), Constance Bleeker (Maxim) and with their son Oleg; Edward Doyle, Alexandra Purvis–Smith (Josh) and Ransom Purvis.

Peter was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Sally Ann, and by his great-granddaughter, Lucy Bleeker.

SAMUEL FRANKLIN CAIN Samuel Franklin “Frank” Cain II, 76, of LaFayette transitioned to his new life with the Lord on Dec. 24, 2023.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20, at the First Baptist Church in LaFayette.

His family will spread his ashes later, returning his body back to the nature he loved so much.

Frank was born in Albany, Georgia, to Gene and Pearl Cain on April 15, 1947. He grew up in Lake Wales, Florida, and was a standout football player who went on to play at the University of Florida. He moved to LaFayette in 1973 and began raising cattle, crops and four children. He served as a board member and was once the president of the Chambers County Farmer’s Federation. He volunteered through the years at Chambers Academy and was known for his ability to counsel people who were facing tough challenges. He was someone who never met a stranger and will be remembered for his quick wit and easy smile.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents and beloved uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. He is now reunited with them in a joyful celebration.

Frank is survived by his four children and eight grandchildren: Christy (Ryan) (Stella Grace and Caroline), Jason (Deeanne)

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika.

Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision.

Contact Shiquita Fulton, M.ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

The Lions Club of Opelika meets every Monday at noon at Western Sizzlin' in Opelika.

Email gm.markley@charter.net.

Got news?

Send it to editor@opelikaobserver.com

(Colton and Riley), Thad (Mandy) (Wyatt and Abby), and Sam (Nicole) (Lily and Daniel). He is also survived by his sister Loucretia (David) and his nieces and nephew (Melissa, Melanie and Matthew) and many others who he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Piedmont Log a Load for Kids or Child Protect of Montgomery. These charities represent Frank’s belief that children are our greatest resource as shown through his devotion to his family and to the many other young people whose lives he touched. The family of Frank Cain wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of East Alabama Medical Center, Arbor Springs Health and Rehabilitation and Valley Park Manor who all worked so diligently to help Frank in the last few months of his life.

COL. DAVID C. PARKER SR. Col. David Cameron Parker Sr. (Ret.), passed away on Jan. 2, 2024, at the age of 89. He was born in Mount Vernon, N.Y., on May 19, 1934. Col. Parker dedicated his life to serving his country in the United States Air Force and had a distinguished military career.

Col. Parker served over 30 years and was commissioned on March 28, 1957, and dis-charged on March 31, 1987. He served hundreds of missions during two Vietnam tours and received multiple Distinguished Flying Crosses, which is the highest flight award given for heroism and extraordinary achievement. He was in the Mach Busters Club for exceeding the sound barrier.

He ended his career at Maxwell Air Force Base as a professor, teaching at the Air War College.

Known as Papa, his pride, love and loyalty to his family and friends and his faith in God was unsurpassed. He was a devoted husband, adoring his wife of 33 years, and en-joyed supporting and teaching his children and grandchildren. He was committed to ensuring that his family felt safe, heard, seen and valued that they were challenged to explore their passions.

Col. Parker, Papa, will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who

had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his wife, Sue Parker; his children, Kirsten Kays (Steve), Dave Parker, Jr. (Chris), Stacia Godbold (Joe) and Chris Bray (Shelli); his grandchildren, Cameron Kays (Neil Inman), Holden Kays, Logan Parker, James Parker, Benjamin Godbold, Matthew Godbold, Kennedy Peterson (Wesley), Nia Kate Bray, Andrew Bray, Mackenzi Williams Sanders (Avery); and his great grandchild, Alexandria Ann Sanders.

The memorial service was held Jan. 6, 2024, at the chapel of Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

ERLENE MOORE LINGLE Erlene Moore Lingle passed away peacefully on Jan. 2, 2024, at the age of 96 at Bethany House in Auburn.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Robert Moore and Lucinda Belle Moore of Ellisville, Mississippi, and husband, William B. Lingle of Auburn. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Lingle Steindorff (Gilbert) of Montgomery; grandson, Gilbert Steindorff IV (Amy); three greatgranddaughters, Margaret Darby, Elizabeth Ann and Mary Benedict Steindorff, all of Birmingham; sister-in-law, Jimmie Lingle; numerous nieces and nephews and her long-time companion and friend, Catha Lillie.

“Nana” was a long-time resident of Auburn, where she was active in Auburn United Methodist Church, a founder of Lifelong Learning (which later became Olli), Women’s Club, Book Club and strong supporter of all Auburn University athletics.

She was an avid golfer and loved to travel.

A graveside service was Jan. 7 at Auburn Memorial Park, with Dr. Corey Smith and Rev. Charles Cummings officiating and Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directing.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to Bethany House, 1171 Gatewood Dr., Bldg. 100, Auburn, AL 36830 or to the Pastor's Discretionary Fund at Auburn Unit-ed Methodist Church, 137 S Gay St., Auburn, AL 36830 or to one’s favorite charity.

ANGELA HURST OSBORNE Angela "Angie" Hurst

Osborne, 58, of Lafayette died Jan. 1, 2024, at East Alabama Medical Center.

Mrs. Osborne was born in Chambers County on April 25, 1965, to the late Edward Thomas Hurst and the late Marie Ozley Hurst.

She was a homemaker for many years while taking care of her grandchildren.

She loved those grandbabies tremendously who affectionately called her Nannie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Charles Hurst, and a sister. Lisa Hurst.

She is survived by husband Roland "Randy" Osborne of Lafayette; daughter Magan (Phil) King of Cusseta; son Robert "Robbie" Osborne of Lafayette; four grandchildren, Kirsten, Emmanuel and Louella Osborne, all of Lafayette, and Kendal King of Cusseta; brother Tony (Dana) Hurst of Cusseta; sisters-in-law, Val Hurst of Five Points, Alabama, and Anecia (Steve) of Freeport, Florida; brothers-in-law Steve (Barbara) Osborne of Wilburn, Alaska, and Paul (Kimi) Osborne of Lafayette; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service was held Jan. 5 at Community Baptist Church. Burial followed in the Lafayette City Cemetery, with Bro. Claude Bennett officiating.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home of Opelika assisted the family with arrangements.

DIANE FORD SIMS Diane Ford Sims, 80, of Lafayette passed away on Jan. 03, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Diane was born on Oct. 1, 1943, to Thomas and Clara Ford in Chambers County. She was a lady who enjoyed the simple things in life, her family, her grandchildren and Auburn. Diane worked for over 37 years for Tallapoosa River Electric before retiring.

When she wasn’t working, she was at home doing what she loved, taking care of her household and family.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her husband of 64 years, Tom Sims; sons Tommy (Tammy) Sims and Tim (Lisa) Sims; grandchildren Stacy (Josh) Eidson, Trey (Klancy Harmon) Sims and Savannah Sims; one great-grandchild,

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404 VFW Post 5404, 131 E. Veterans Blvd., Auburn, next to Ray's Collision off of South College Street, will be open on Wednesdays, 8 to 11 a.m. with coffee, donuts, cake and conversation about service and benefits for all veterans and spouses to stop by.

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS ANNOUNCE 2024 MEETINGS Auburn/Opelika MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and MOMSNext meet at Pepperell Baptist Church located at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika.

The next meetings scheduled are: - Jan. 18 - Feb. 1, 15 - March 7, 21 - April 4, 18 - May 2 Contact Rachel Elrod at 706-244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner or Pastor Josh Elliott at 334-745-3108 for further information.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will not meet in December. The next meeting will be Jan. 16, 2024 at 6 p.m.

NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. Meetings are held at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn.

Lilly Welcher; sister, Cynthia (David) Hearn; brother Tom Ford; and brother-in-law Ken Sims.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Jan. 7. Buri-al followed in the LaFayette City Cemetery with Diane’s brother-in-law, Ken Sims, officiating. Pall bearers were Lee Daniel, Bill Anthony, Steven Bowen, Trey Sims, Stanley Tucker and Byron Ford.

A15 Jan. 11, 2024

A16 Jan. 11, 2024

Schools & Sports

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING JAN. 23 AT 4:30 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING FEB. 6 AT 6 P.M. • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING FEB. 6 AT 6 P.M.

Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024

LCS welcomes new superintendent

On the Mark

Weekly recap of local high school hoops, wrestling

BY D. MARK MITCHELL OPINION —

OPELIKA WRESTLING Opelika's varsity wrestling team traveled to Smiths Station to take part in the AHSAA Region 2 Duals Championship.

The format changed after Opelika arrived at SSHS Saturday morning due to some changes made because a team had some injuries that kept some of their grapplers from participating in the meet. Opelika finished in a tie for first place after all three teams went 1-1. The tiebreaker system used put Opelika in third place, behind SSHS and Enterprise.

The following is a summary from OHS (33 points) vs Smiths Station High School (SSHS) (39 points): See ON THE MARK, page B2

Opelika Schools Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore, right, welcomes Lee County Schools Superintendent Dr. Mike Howard to the area.

more efficient, but it’s easier for me to plug and play rather than everybody trying to

plug and play to me,” he said. “I’m trying to not flip the apple cart, as they say.

His first week was spent meeting with staff and planning for the See HOWARD, page B2

OHS' new football coach ready to 'get the life back in this program'

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — Opelika High School hosted a meet-and-greet for new head football coach Bryan Moore on Jan. 4 at the school’s indoor practice facility.

Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore introduced Moore to a large group of well-wishers who turned out to meet the new coach, including school board members, former and current student-athletes and their families, athletic boosters, fellow faculty and staff, journalists and others from the community.

“It's been a blessing

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA BASKETBALL Opelika's girls and boys basketball teams opened region play against Smiths Station, last Friday night in the Main Street Gym at Opelika High School.

The Lady Bulldogs (R 0-1) lost a close game 44-40 in front of the home crowd. Opelika was at a slight disadvantage, playing without three players due to injuries. Opelika coach Blake Smalley rotated seven players throughout the game, but was unable to get the win.

Naomi Whack led OHS with 11-points and grabbed nine rebounds, Jordyn Cobb scored 10 points with seven rebounds and K.K. Dowell added 10 points and had four assists.

Opelika's varsity boys team beat Smiths Station 65-63 to open region play with a 1-0 record. The following players led OHS on offense: D.J. Harris scored a game high 16 points, Caurdae Wright added 13 points and J.T. Holloway and Brady McNally scored eight points apiece.

Opelika girls and boys basketball teams travel to

Auburn Friday night for a region game against the Tigers.

Fans wanting to attend the game can buy tickets online at www.gofan.co.

Or, fans can listen to the varsity games on FOX Sports the Game 910-1310 starting at 5:45 p.m. Fans can also listen to the game on 910-1310 AM, www. foxsportsthegame.com or on the free iheartradio app on smart phones or TVs.

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Board of Education hosted a welcome reception for its new superintendent, Dr. Mike Howard, who began on Jan. 1.

“I’m excited,” Howard told The Observer.

“It’s a blessing to be here, to be honest.”

Howard has hit the ground running, familiarizing himself with people and procedures.

He said he wants to learn the routines already in place, rather than coming in and changing everything to try to fit his own routine.

“I’ll tweak some things along the way, you know, that make us

PHOTO BY ANITA STIEFEL | THE OBSERVER

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Bryan Moore is the new head coach of the Opelika Bulldogs football team.

and an honor to be back here,” Moore told the crowd. “We’re excited, and thank you guys so

much for being here.

“Look, we’ve got to get the life back in this program, and that starts

with some of the guys that are here,” he said, pointing to football team See MOORE, page B3

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

B2 Jan. 11, 2024 PHOTOS BY ANITA STIEFEL | THE OBSERVER

The Lee County Board of Education hosted a brunch in honor of its new superintendent of schools, Dr. Mike Howard. Community leaders, school personnel and other interested citizens were on hand to meet with Howard and wish him well as he takes the helm.

HOWARD >>

FROM B1

future.

“I met with the [administrative] staff

yesterday, just to get our ducks in a row,” he said. “I wanted to wait until the teachers were back to visit the individual schools, and I want to have time to

ON THE MARK >>

FOM B1

126 Derrick Hoyett (Opelika) over Richard Munguia (SSHS) 0-3 132 Brayden Wilson (Opelika) over Gabe Tyner (Smiths Station) (Fall 1:28) 0-6 138 Timothy Luttrell (SSHS) over Denarvious Anderson (Opelika) (Fall 3:36) 6-0 144 Tyrese Pitts (Opelika) over Tristan Cliatt (Smiths Station) 0-3 150 Trace Gaither (Opelika) over Kenneth Doster (SSHS) (Fall 5:29) 0-6 157 Brady Campbell (Opelika) over Travis Barnes (SSHS) (Fall 0:32) 0-6 LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY GIRLS The LSA girls basketball team (13-6) split games last week, beating Fort Dale 43-31 and losing to Springwood 62-53.

The Lady Warriors defeated Ft. Dale 41-33 last week at LSA. Offensively, LSA was led by Madison Davis with 13 ponts. Mary Kathryn Harris scored 10 points and Elie KeeSee scored six points.

Springwood beat LSA girls 62-53 in front of a good crowd on the LSA campus.

Madison Davis scored a game

meet everybody.”

Howard comes to Lee County from Jacksonville, Alabama, where he was superintendent for the past two years.

high 29 points to lead the Lady Warriors. Elie Keesee added 10 points, while Mary Katheryn Harris scored eight points.

LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY BOYS Lee-Scott's varsity boys basketball team is off to a 17-1 start, including two victories last week against Ft. Dale (6350) and Springwood (77-56).

LSA had no trouble beating Springwood. Parker Wright had a huge game, scoring 22 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. Haiden Harper scored a game high 27 points, William Liles added nine points and Ben Aldridge grabbed seven rebounds and had four assists.

The Warriors beat Ft. Dale (63-50) last week at home.

Three players scored double digits: Haiden Harper scored 26 points. Ben Aldridge scored 16 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and had three assists and four steals. Parker Wright added 13 points.

The Warriors host rival Glenwood on Thursday for four games. JV girls start at 3:30 p.m., followed by JV boys, varsity girls and varsity boys.

AUBURN HIGH SCHOOL The Auburn High School

varsity girls basketball team lost a close region game to Central 49-42 last week.

Brooke Hallman scored a game high 17 points with five rebounds, two steals and two assists, despite losing the game.

Auburn High varsity boys (18-3) beat Central 83-80 in double overtime at AHS. Tabari Allen scored a game high 24 points to help the Tigers win their opening region game.

Auburn High will host Opelika on Friday in three games: JV boys, varsity girls and varsity boys.

Fans can listen to both varsity games — presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic — on FOX Sports the Game 910-13, on the free iheartradio app and online at www.kickerfm.com.

Van Riggs will start the broadcast around 5:30 p.m.

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1319, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

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B3 Jan. 11, 2024 PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

MOORE >>

FOM B1

members in attendance, who responded with enthusiastic yells.

“I want to thank Dr. Seymore and our board of

education… for allowing me and helping me come back here and for supporting me. They want this thing to be great, because it’s bigger than football, it’s for our city.

This matters and becomes the face of who we are as

a city, and I understand and carry that weight of what this is and what this means for Opelika.

“So, let’s support our kids, let’s get behind them, let’s get this thing back on the right track and ‘Go Dawgs!’”

AHS girls cross country team wins state championship PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Beulah Bobcats host golf tourney BEULAH — The Beulah Bobcats Golf Team will host an all-day golf fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 24, at Point University Golf Club and Event Center in Lanett.

The event is a 4-Man Scramble, $50 per player.

Proceeds will support Beulah athletics and golf team.

Participants must book a tee time (no shotgun start).

The Club House will open at 7:45 a.m. EST. The first tee time is at 8 a.m. ET and the last tee time is at 3 p.m. ET.

Reserve a tee time by contacting Coach Davis Lamb at lamb.davis@lee.k12.al.us or by visiting the Point University Golf Club, 2001 Country Club Rd. in Lanett.

All entries must be submitted by Feb. 21.

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The Auburn High School girls cross-country team won the 2023 7A State Championship. With a margin of 60 points ahead of the competition, the Tigers secured their sixth state title in seven years (2017-2021 and 2023) at the 68th AHSAA Cross-Country Championships in Oakville Indian Mounds Park in November. Auburn High took three of the top four individual spots in Class 7A, with Sarah Tole clocking 17:54.94 to win an individual state title.

The Auburn City Schools Board of Education congratulated Head Coach Olivia Bowen, the runners, their families and fans for cultivating a powerhouse program with a championship mindset.

B4 Jan. 11, 2024

High school basketball is back on the courts

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

The Opelika high school varisty boys basketball team took on Smiths Station last week, beating them 65-63.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

The varsity girls basketball team from Lee-Scott outscored Springwood 62-53 in its game last week.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

Lee-Scott varsity boys basketball also won its game against Springwood 77-56.

B5 Jan. 11, 2024

Alum returns to motivate students at Drake Middle School

Air Force Academy baseballer advises, 'You are who you surround yourself with'

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Auburn High School Class of 2023 alum Patrick Davidson recently shared his advice for success with all students at J.F. Drake Middle School. A two-sport student-athlete at Auburn High School, Davidson is now in his freshman year and playing baseball for the Air Force Academy in El Paso County, Colorado. With more than 700 middle-schoolers in attendance, his overarching message was, “You are who you surround yourself with.” Davidson talked about how he still uses the skills he acquired as a sixth grader at Drake Middle School and how that year was a turning point in his life for identifying and embracing the people who wanted to see him succeed, which included his parents, peers, teachers and coaches. Following the completion of basic training and his first semester, Davidson has now set his sights on being a fighter pilot upon graduation.

Champions academy accepting participants in grades 7-9 PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Past participants in the Champions Academy learned useful information, such as how to change a tire and how to tie a necktie.

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B6 Jan. 11, 2024

Two new official licensed AU bobbleheads released CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —.Two new officially licensed Auburn Tigers Bobbleheads were released last week in conjunction with National Bobblehead Day, which is celebrated annually on Jan. 7. The special, limited edition bobbleheads were produced by the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.

Available in blue and white jerseys, the bobbleheads feature Aubie the Tiger, Auburn’s costumed mascot, wearing his No. 01 Auburn jersey while standing on a base that

reads “Tigers” across the front with a backing featuring the Auburn logo.

"We’re excited to be releasing these new Auburn Tigers Bobbleheads in conjunction with National Bobblehead Day,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “We know how passionate Auburn fans are about their school, so we expect these bobbleheads to be extremely popular.”

Each bobblehead is individually numbered to only 2,023. They cost $35 each plus an $8 flatrate shipping charge per

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Collectibles feature school's beloved mascot, Aubie, in white or blue jersey order and are available online at: store.bobbleheadhall.com/products/ aubiethetiger.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL BOBBLEHEAD HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM:

The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, which is located at 170 S. 1st. St. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, opened to the public on Feb. 1, 2019. The HOF and Museum also produces high quality, customized bobbleheads for retail sale as well as organizations, individuals and teams across the country.

Auburn mens basketball carries win streak into SEC Play

SATURDAY, JAN. 6: AUBURN 83 – ARKANSAS 53 Arkansas fans stormed the court after beating No. 1 Auburn the last time the Tigers visited Fayetteville.

This time, Auburn came out on top, and the 32-point win was the biggest deficit the Hogs had ever lost by inside Bud Walton Arena, which dates back to 1993.

“That history does matter,” Pearl said.

“Doing it at a place like this, or if you could do it at (Kentucky) or if you could do it at Tennessee, it does mean more because those are

some of the toughest places in the SEC to play.”

Both offenses got off to a slow start before Chad Baker-Mazara scored seven points in the final four minutes of the first half to give Auburn a 37-30 lead going to halftime.

The Tigers took over from there. Auburn outscored Arkansas, 46-21, in the second half as Auburn rode Baker-Mazara’s second straight 16-point effort off the bench to the win. Johni Broome (14), Jaylin Williams (11) and Tre Donaldson (11) all joined Baker-Mazara in double figures in scoring as it shot 48.6% as a team while holding Arkansas to 31%.

With a dominant win over Arkansas (9-5), Auburn continued to

Pictured above is Auburn's Jaylin Williams (2) during the game between the No. 16 Auburn Tigers and the Texas A&M Aggies at Neville Arena in Auburn on Tuesday, Jan. 9. Williams led the team with 22 points and eight rebounds. Pictured below is Auburn's K.D. Johnson (0) who helped with 19 turnovers.

PHOTOS BY ZACH BLAND | AUBURN TIGERS

PHOTO BY JAMIE HOLT | AUBURN TIGERS

AUBURN — The start of SEC play didn’t slow down Auburn University men’s basketball one bit.

No. 16 Auburn (13-2, 2-0) knocked down two giants in its first two SEC games to extend its win streak to eight games. Six of those wins have come by 20 points or more, and each of them have come by double digits.

The Tigers notched a historic win at Arkansas and ended its threegame losing streak against Buzz Williams’ Texas A&M Aggies, as Auburn celebrated Bruce Pearl’s 10-year anniversary as head coach at Auburn.

"This has been one of the hardest working

teams that I've had," Pearl said. "We've put ourselves in position.

We've got work to do."

Here are some highlights from each game.

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND | AUBURN TIGERS

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

build an impressive resume that only consist of two losses by a combined six points.

Pictured above is Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazara (10) during the game between the #25 Auburn Tigers and the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on Saturday, Jan. 6. Pictured below is Auburn's Tre Donaldson (3) also in that game.

TUESDAY, JAN. 9: AUBURN 66 – TEXAS A&M 55 It was Auburn’s hardest-fought win this season, but Williams’ late 3-pointer led Auburn to its first win over Texas A&M (9-6) in two years.

After four lead changes, Auburn took the lead for the final time with just under nine minutes to go. It remained a one-score affair until Williams dropped the dagger with 52 seconds remaining in the game.

"That's one of the biggest shots of my career, for sure," Williams said. "I practice that shot all the time. I had

confidence in that one.

Texas A&M beat me up pretty well the past few years."

That shot was the only bucket either team scored in the last eight minutes of the game, and it gave Williams his fourth 20-point scoring performance of the season as he led the team with 22 points and eight rebounds in the game.

K.D. Johnson and company forced 19 turnovers from the Aggies, and the defense held Texas A&M to 29% shooting from the floor. Despite the Aggies’ commanding advantage in rebounding, particularly on the offensive side (19-8), Auburn gave few open looks to the Aggies.

With 19 assists, Auburn worked to create open

looks against a stingy Texas A&M defense.

In a 39.2% shooting effort, Auburn found a way to limit Texas A&M’s stars without its strongest offensive showing. After Aden Holloway splashed a pair of 3-pointers to open the game, Auburn finished just 5-for-22.

Broome, Auburn’s top scorer, went scoreless in the first half and finished with just 10 points.

Nonetheless, Auburn limited Wade Taylor IV, the Aggies’ leading scorer, to eight points as Auburn held on to keep its win streak alive and stay unbeaten in conference play.

The Tigers remain hot as they prepare to host LSU (10-5) on Saturday at 5 p.m. CST.

B7 Jan. 11, 2024

Classroom Observer Seeing and appreciating winter all around

BY BETH PINYERD CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

I

OPINION — can reflect on this special warm memory like it was yesterday. My mother, the late Marie V. Jones who lived in Opelika all her married life, had moved down to Spanish Fort, Alabama, to be close to me, my husband and grandchild in her elderly years. I cherish those special years with her. As I went into her apartment at the retirement village, she was squinting and looking out the window in the forest that adjoined the retirement village. She was looking

very intensely to see the forest. I asked her, “Mama, what are you looking at?” I didn’t see any animals or anything unusual. She told this daughter, “Beth I just don’t see Fall or Winter in South Alabama like I was used to seeing in Central Alabama with the changing of leaves in the Fall and frost on the ground in the Winter.”

After living in South Alabama for so long I had not really thought about seeing the change of seasons as much. My mama was so right, we are so blessed in our area of Lee County where we do have beautiful Fall and beautiful frosty Winter mornings. Too,

we just might see a snow drift or two in our area.

In our area, the seasons are more pronounced and beautiful in their displays. This is where we can open God’s world in teaching children.

I would like to review some suggestions for winter field trips for children. As I was reading some wonderful winter books this week at the Trinity Methodist Pre-school, I was reminded that it is important to put on sweaters, coats, caps, and mittens before taking a winter field trip.

So, let’s go.

Be sure to record what you observe.

1. Listen — hear the birds chirping, squirrels scurrying, leaves rustling under the feet, wind blowing through the trees, ice breaking, rain falling, sleet falling and snow falling.

2. See — Observe the color of the sky, shapes of the clouds, colors of nature, the angles of the sun shining, frost on the ground, trees that do not have leaves and trees that have retained leaves and seeds and buds that have not opened up.

Children love to see

their breath as vapor in very cold weather.

Also, seeing frost on windows on cold days provide opportunities to draw pictures on the frosty windows.

Throwing bread or seeds to the birds as well as setting up a bird feeder close to a window for your child to watch, provide wonderful winter observations of birds and other animals.

Bird feeders can be inexpensively bought or made out of a pine cone, scooping peanut butter into the sides of the cone, then sprinkling birdseed onto the peanut butter. Hang the pine cone with a piece of yarn or string on a hook or limb of a bush or tree.

In making this kind of bird feeder you have to be safe with the pine cone with your child and the stickers on the pine cones.

3. Feel — Touch the ice, frost, snow, moss on trees or rocks and cold smooth stones; feeling the cold of tree bark, the warmth of sun shining on your face, and the wind blowing on your face.

4. Smell — Sniff and smell fire burning in fireplaces, pine trees,

cedar trees or wood, mulch and more.

Tuesday, Jan. 9, was National Static Electricity Day. Walking across a rug or carpet and touching the cold doorknob as you go outside. Ouch! That hurts with a little electric shock to our fingers and hands. On cold winter days when coming in from recess and playing outside, preschoolers laugh in glee when they take off their hats and their hair is standing up from their heads. This is where a lesson can be taught about what static electric is according to the age level of each child. There are many age-appropriate lessons online for parents to look at on atoms with the middle called a nucleus, the nucleus contains particles called protons and neutrons, then electrons orbit around the electrons.

Protons have what we call a positive charge, electrons have a negative charge, and neutrons have a neutral charge. Static electricity is described as the imbalance of positive and negative charges.

Thursday, Jan. 11, is National Milk Day

to recognize the first time that milk was delivered to homes.

I can remember the milkman would deliver milk in bottles to our door. It seemed magical to open up the door and see bottles of fresh milk delivered for families to drink and enjoy. I can remember the change from milk being put in cartons, which were delivered at doors, too.

Friday is recognized in the Teacher’s Corner as “Work Harder Day.” This day provides an opportunity for us to encourage our children not to give up when something may be hard for them to do. As parents and teachers, we can remember those challenges in learning that required us to put forth a little more of an effort. Share those times with your children. Time spent with a child and praise truly encourages children to keep on trying.

Have a good week and stay warm!

Beth Pinyerd has taught in the early childhood classroom for many years. She holds a master’s in early childhood education.

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B8 Jan. 11, 2024

Auburn Public Library to host Auburn graduate wins top prize at WEWA’s Peggy Walls book signing CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The library will also host Adults Create, a hands-on workshop and recipe swap.

Create personalized, hand-painted tea towels on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. All materials will be provided.

Bring a batch of treats and the recipe to share.

Registration required.

Call (334) 501-3296 or email libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org.

Alabama Wildlife Fine Arts Competition

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The Auburn Public Library will host an author talk and book signing featuring Peggy Jackson Walls on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 2 p.m. in the Program Room.

Walls is an author and retired educator who enjoys interviewing people, researching and writing about state and local historical topics like her best-selling book, “Ala-

bama Gold: a History of the South's Last Mother Lode” (2016). Her latest book, “Lost Towns of Central Alabama” (2021), shares stories about Central Alabama's abandoned towns and the people who populated them. This event is free and open to the public. Please contact us if you need adaptive assistance to make this program more accessible.

For more information, call (334) 501-3296.

Education briefs AUBURN — The Auburn Junior High School Wind Symphony, directed by Joshua Wine, has been selected to perform for the College Band Directors National Association/National Band Association’s Southern Division conference to be held at the University of Memphis Feb. 9 through March 2.

DAHLONEGA, GA — Ansley Watson of Smiths Station made the fall 2023 Dean's List at the University of North Georgia for achieving at least a 3.5 gradepoint average, carrying 12 or more credit hours in one semester and having no grade lower than B. AMERICUS, GA — Two area residents were among 465 students who earned an undergraduate or graduate degree from Georgia Southwestern State University during the Fall 2023 Commencement Ceremony held Dec. 14. Suzanne McAlpin of Opelika earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and Shelby Watkins of Phenix City earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication and emerging media, magna cum laude.

Simone Gillispie of Salem and Shelby Watkins of Phenix City made the Fall 2023 Dean's List at Georgia Southwestern State University. To be eligible for the Dean's List, a student must earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credit hours.

ROME, GA — Hannah Snook of Opelika and Mark Toland of Auburn made the Fall 2023 Dean's List at Berry College. The Dean’s List honors students who posted an academic average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale while carrying a class load of at least 12 hours during the semester.

EMORY, VA — Emory & Henry College has named Charles Parr of Opelika to the fall 2023 Dean's List. For inclusion on the Dean's List, a student must be enrolled full-time and earn at least a 3.6 GPA for the semester.

MANCHESTER, NH — Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has named several area students to the Fall 2023 President's List, an honor reserved for full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 for the reporting term. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring and summer. Students on the President’s List include: Roger Hicks of Opelika; Nash Ellis and Scott Miller of Phenix City; Garrett Huckaby of Salem; and Cleophus Hayes, Jasmine Spino, Ebony Vines, Michael Rife, Glenn Jones, and Blake Rigdon, all of Auburn.

SNHU’s Fall 2023 Dean's List honors full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term. Included on the Dean’s List are Perry Whatley of Opelika (36804) and Davan McVay of Phenix City.

AUBURN — The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has hired Ayanava Majumdar as assistant director for grant and program development, effective Jan. 1. Since 2008, he has served as an Alabama Extension professor and entomologist. Through his educational programs, Majumdar has extensive experience with grant writing, planning and execution. Alabama Extension Associate Director Paul Brown said in this new and expanded position, Majumdar will support campus and field faculty in program evaluation, program development and grant proposal development.

“Bobcat and Bobwhite,” a painting by Atlanta-based artist and Auburn graduate Jared Knox, won Best of Show at the inaugural “Alabama Wildlife Fine Arts Competition” during the second annual Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Atlanta-based artist Jared Knox fondly recalls his first trip to Alabama’s Black Belt during a family hunting trip to Lowndes County when he was a teenager.

“I think about it (now), and it created this love for hunting and an admiration of all wildlife,” he said.

Perhaps Knox channeled his personal Black Belt history while working on a “Bobcat and Bobwhite,” a 36-by-24-inch acrylic painting on canvas that won Best of Show at the inaugural “Alabama Wildlife Fine Arts Competition” that was part of the second annual Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival (WEWA) in November 2023.

Knox, a 2021 graduate of Auburn University, created the artwork specifically for the competition in Wetumpka. He had been encouraged to enter by Cindy Harris, wife of Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA) founder Thomas Harris, who had seen his work at a North Carolina gallery.

An avid hunter, Knox said

he drew inspiration from his enjoyment of upland hunting and quail conservation while creating “Bobcat and Bobwhite.” He also drew from his personal experience of seeing bobcats in the wild during deer hunting trips to north Georgia.

“There was one field that had a bobcat in it, and once or twice I got to see that bobcat hunt,” Knox said. “It was at sunset. That image stuck with me. It was a big bobcat.

I love that image, and I also love in general the story of different animals going out and catching their food.”

That’s precisely what “Bobcat and Bobwhite” showcases. “How cool would it be if I ever saw this, a bobcat holding a quail?” Knox added. “It looks like he’s just recently gotten it. It’s a fresh kill.”

Knox grew up in Marietta, Ga., and studied mechanical engineering at Auburn. Art remained a hobby during his college years, he said, and he even did some commission work. Then, he was unexpectedly invited to show some of his artwork at a gallery in suburban Atlanta during his final semester at

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He said the encouragement from a gallery owner provided a “light bulb moment” and spurred him to make art, not engineering, into a full-time job. He set up his studio after graduation and has been a full-time artist ever since.

Being a part of the “Alabama Wildlife Fine Arts Competition” and winning Best of Show validated his decision.

“It was really cool to be a part of it, because some of the artists I look up to most were there, like Dirk Walker and Sue Key,” he said, mentioning two artists who also won merit prizes at the show. “I’ve been a fan of theirs forever. To be a part of it and win and talk with them, it was really great. It was awesome.”

ALBBAA helped promote the second annual Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival, which was created through a partnership involving the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery, known to locals as “The Kelly,” the City of Wetumpka and the Smoot Harris Family.

“The goal of the festival series is manifold and includes a desire to benefit the Wetumpka area by helping to increase tourism, impact economic development, expose The Kelly to a wider audience, and hopefully, create an ongoing event for this charming community as it continues to grow into a mecca for the arts,” said Thomas Harris, whose family has deep roots in the Wetumpka area.

ABOUT THE ALBBAA The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association is committed to promoting and enhancing outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities in the Black Belt in a manner that provides economic and ecological benefits to the region and its citizens. For information, go to www. alabamablackbeltadventures. org.

L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

B9

Jan. 11, 2024

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024

Inside the State House More observations from 2023

STEVE FLOWERS OPINION —

M

y notebook of observations from 2023 was so full that I will continue this week.

Our new United States Senator, Katie Boyd Britt, has proven to all of us that she is indeed the superstar we predicted she would be. She is sensational.

She has certainly not disappointed. She is on course to be one of Alabama’s greatest senators in history if she does not become President first.

During 2023, I had the opportunity to speak to a leadership group from the University of South Alabama during their visit to the Capitol.

I visit with them every year. They have an outstanding governmental affairs director, Nick Lawkis. Included in the group, was a young lady from Enterprise named Camille Bonura, who was SGA president at the University of South Alabama in 2022. She is currently in graduate school at USA and serving as a graduate assistant for USA President Jo Bonner.

Camille reminds me so much of another young lady I met from Enterprise 20 years ago named Katie Boyd.

In fact, she is almost a Katie Boyd clone.

Both are brilliant and from Enterprise. Their families are close. Katie

Boyd Britt even babysat Camille and was one of her dance instructors.

Speaking of young promising people, 26-year-old Hoover/ Vestavia lawyer Derek Chen is the most politically connected person I have ever encountered at such a young age. He is friends with almost every legislator and lobbyist in the state.

One of the most brilliant and promising young leaders in the state is Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s assistant, Emory Cox. Young Mr. Cox is a 28-year-old native of Pell City. He is a graduate of Washington & Lee University. Emory is Tuberville’s senior economic advisor. Before his current role with Tuberville, he was an associate director of the White House National Economic Council under Larry Kudlow at the Trump White House for three years.

Gov. Ivey did a good day’s work when she garnered veteran Tuscaloosa legislative leader Bill Poole to be finance director.

Poole wrote the state education budget for a decade as chairman of the House Ways and Means Education Budget Committee. He quietly sits back in a large private office in the Capitol suite adjoining the governor’s office and writes the state’s budget. Although he was in public office for decades, he seeks anonymity and does not like the spotlight or fanfare. He is still young.

You may not have heard the last of him politically.

The brightest star in the University president’s category is by far Jacksonville State University President Dr. Don Killingsworth. Jax

State longtime board leaders are so proud to have Dr. Killingsworth they could burst a button. You should hear Chairman Randy Jones and JSU lawyer and state political veteran Charlie Waldrep brag about Don Killingsworth. Don was Jax State’s lobbyist for over a decade. He became acting president in October of 2019 and full president in 2020.

Under his leadership they have over $200 million in infrastructure improvements on campus in the works. Jacksonville also has a very good and nationally acclaimed football coach in Rich Rodriquez. They are having fantastic run under his tutelage.

Calhoun County has a very promising and personable county commissioner named Lee Patterson. He represents the Jacksonville area of Calhoun County. He and his wife Susan are Calhoun County natives and live two miles north of Jacksonville on a family farm. Lee is president-elect of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama. He will take over as president of ACCA in August of 2024. He will be following Jefferson County Commissioner Joe Knight.

The next probate judge of Lee County will be an outstanding young man named Jere Colley Jr., a practicing attorney in Opelika. Lee County is a Republican bailiwick.

Young Jere Colley won the Republican nomination unopposed.

This is a testament of the respect and popularity for Jere and his family.

He will be following the popular 18-year veteran

Lee County Commission discusses quarry again

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM LEE COUNTY —The new year is starting with a bang for Lee County with potential Beulah Quarry back on the agenda for the commission.

Tara Brumfield and Mary Kilgore approached the Lee County Commission Monday night to discuss “rumors of a settlement” for the Beulah quarry, according to Brumfield.

“I’m here tonight to seek answers, [the] status and/or progress of the quarry hearing,” Brumfield said. “This commission has not been very forthcoming with information since the zoning was approved almost three years ago.”

Over three years ago, in 2020, concerns in Beulah were raised over a potential quarry by

Creekwood Resources LLC. The quarry would be located in Beat 13. A long series of fights and events took place which led to zoning in Beat 13 that presented some restrictions on companies such as Creekwood.

Now, residents are concerned that the quarry may still come to fruition.

“The master plan of Lee County stated that land of current use would be grandfathered in, and zoning enforcement would move forward as issues arose,” Brumfield said. “Intent does not establish use. … The quarry has never had to go before the committee that I am aware nor have anything approved to rezone.”

One of the issues Brumfield presented was information from Alabama Power.

“In Oct. 19 of 2022, Alabama Power issued

a notification of a power outage for line upgrades,” Brumfield said. “Alabama Power listed a number to call.

I called to get further explanation and the gentleman listed to call stated that Alabama Power was needing to upgrade the lines in preparation to supply three phase power to the quarry.”

This occurred again on Dec. 5, 2023. Brumfield said that Alabama Power did not return her call on this occasion.

“With all this being said, nothing has been shared publicly with the people of Beat 13,” she said. “The lack of communication and/or notifications has created a lot of confusion and wonder. Many questions are always asked. Some of them being, why has zoning not been used against this quarry? Or See COMMISSION, page B16

See FLOWERS, page B10

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2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Jan. 11, 2024

By Greg Markley

Sen. Tuberville, a Benedictine monk and the saga of abortion

GREG MARKLEY OPINION —

I

t has been 51 years since the Supreme Court ruled in Roe V. Wade that the Constitution allows women to have abortions.

It was a dreadful decision for my friend Stephen’s mother. Yet with four young children at home, she served as president of a state’s largest antiabortion group. Stephen edited our college newspaper and was rabidly against abortion.

When a well-known abortion provider visited our campus, Stephen buried the story to stop pro-choice publicity.

In the 2022 Dodd v.

Jackson decision, Roe was overturned. Now pro-choicers are pursuing means for abortions to be allowed, in individual states. Jonathan Bernstein noted in a June

22 commentary, that U.S. Senators who insert holds “undermine their power.”

“Once a justifiable way for senators to bring attention to a problem or issue germane to their state, senators are increasingly using the hold as a publicity stunt on matters of national policy, “Bernstein wrote in Bloomberg Opinion.

“Republican Tommy Tuberville of Alabama; upset about what he sees as the military’s support for abortion, is blocking many military promotions.”

Tuberville’s “hold” issue has recently been resolved, with the promotions of highlevel officers being advanced after months of delay. Tuberville was opposed to a DoD policy to reimburse travel expenses for military personnel who would leave their states for abortions or other reproductive care. In conservative Alabama, a large percentage of its citizens are strongly against abortion.

When I was assigned in the U.S. Army to Fort

McClellan in 1989, I met a major in the Alabama Army National Guard who noticed my surname and said, “I defended a priest with your last name, in Birmingham.

He destroyed $8,000 worth of equipment and did several other illegal things. His name was Edward Markley, he is a Benedictine monk.”

Occasionally, I come across people with the same last name as mine. Country singer Lee Greenwood had a press agent whose last name was Markley.

Anyway, Edward’s case is interesting here as an example of someone whose resistance to abortion got out of hand.

On May 12, 1984, Edward Markley and another man sledgehammered equipment at an abortion clinic in Birmingham.

An estimated $8,000 in equipment was lost. Also in that year, he sprayed red paint at a health center in Huntsville. On June 16, 1986, he was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison, after violating probation terms to stay 500 feet

away from any abortion clinics.

The witty priest reported that he did not find jail too bad and was pleased to gain firsthand knowledge, having taught criminology courses himself. He was released from prison in 1987, after serving almost a year of his five-year sentence. He had been identified as a model prisoner, which helped him get out early.

"If we are convinced that abortion is the taking of innocent life according to God’s revealed word, he is not acting unjustly according to God’s law in defending the innocent unborn one,” said Bishop Joseph Vath, Markley’s supervisor. “The right to life certainly supersedes the right to property or privacy."

Dan Turberville, the priest’s attorney, said he (Markley) “is witnessing to the fact that God’s creatures are being killed. God went to a lot of trouble to protect and cushion the unborn,” he said. The Benedictine monk died in 2019 in Cullman at age 79.

Did Sen. Tuberville

make a mistake proceeding with his “hold” on promotions for so long? Or did it bolster his religious bona fide — already high — because of his preventing abortions among military women? As a first-term senator could Tuberville get a strong primary challenge?

It’s a different game now with intra-party contests, based on the past three or four cycles with wealthy “outsiders.”

We saw Lynda Blanchard and Tim James run for governor. But after they entered the fray the vulnerabilities, Gov. Ivey was said to have (because of COVID-19 decisions and a reported decline in her closeness with President Trump) melted away and their chances of winning, too. Ivey won the general election versus a Democrat, by 67 percent.

In 2023, columnist Steve Flowers wrote, “When Tuberville ran and won two years ago, most of us thought it was a whim, something he wanted to do in his later years. He knows the golden rule of politics,

“Your word is your bond, and you dance with those who brought you.”

I believe the hold has not seriously tarnished Tuberville; he ably carried the flag of the anti-abortion group. The Benedictine monk who destroyed property at an abortion clinic died respected at a monastery.

Plus, the author of this column now knows he shares a surname with that of a once-wayward priest.

Today I am reading-“Keeping at It: The Quest for Sound Money and Good Government,”

by Paul Volcker; also, WSJ Weekend Edition, Op/Ed section.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996.

He has a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from Auburn University.

He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Ala-bama. An awardwinning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer since 2011.

He writes on politics, education, and books. gm.markley@charter.net.

Exceptional Foundation treated to hands-on event by Auburn Fire Dept.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Auburn Public Safety discussed fire safety and prevention with The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama’s Be Blessed program members during a Q&A and fire truck display.

BEING JOBLESS IS DIFFICULT ENOUGH. Getting help to bridge the gap shouldn’t be.

Go to Labor.Alabama.gov to locate a center near you and bridge the gap of unemployment.

Funding provided by USDOL. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

FLOWERS >>

FROM B9

Republican Probate Judge Bill English. I have known young Jere Colley all of his life. His mama and daddy, Dr. Jere and Judy Colley, are my lifetime friends. We grew up together in Troy.

My good friend, Jere Sr., is a revered, retired veterinarian in Opelika.

Veteran Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle will coast to reelection for his fourth, 4-year term as Mayor of Alabama’s most prosperous and largest city this year. Tommy

Battle has overseen and been the major integral ingredient of the amazing story of Huntsville, Alabama.

Yes, 2024 will be a fun political year.

Our presidential party primaries are right around the corner – March 5 to be exact.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature.

He may be reached at: www.steveflowers.us.

B11 Jan. 11, 2024

Letter to the editor OPINION —

D

elighted to read [Observer 12/28/23 p.B6] about AU Graduation at ALDoC’s Staton facility which included APAEP (Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project) students I taught years ago. Blessed to have many students from tutoring, high school, thousands of undergraduates to international officers at the Air War College during 30+ years teaching.

Among the most rewarding; teaching these attentive, hard-working prison students who genuinely appreciated the effort.

Long time Opelika Observer readers may recall Fred Woods reprinting past Alabama Gazette columns which addressed APAEP and applauded former State Senator Cam Ward’s efforts to address the prison crisis in our State. APAEP can be an integral part of attenuating this mess. Ward clearly understands the long-run benefit/return from programs of this sort via reduced recidivism and DoC expenditures.

I’m merely a lowly instructor dedicated to teach appreciative students wherever I can. The true ‘heavy-lifting’ was exerted by outstanding AU administrators like Kyes Stevens, my elected Dept.

Chair (Prof. Michael Stern) and up to then President Gogue. From my vantage point this noble teaching

endeavour would’ve disappeared from AU years ago without Gogue’s support. Of course DoC Commissioner Jefferson Dunn proved to be a visionary in this regard and also understood APAEP could be an integral part of responding to our prison crisis. I’ll never forget how accommodating Commissioner Dunn and other officers were to allow me ‘office hours’ with my students before class -- during lunch/class breaks in some of the hottest temps I’ve ever taught. No doubt some accused me of being foolish… guilty as charged.

For those who may not know, Kyes Stevens is Founder and Director of APAEP at Auburn, a program serving 10 Alabama prisons providing (pre)college classes. The first Alabama prison B.S. degree program was launched in 2016.

Stevens received awards as an influential woman in Alabama; invited to participate in numerous White House discussions about Higher-Ed in criminal justice reform. Unusual to observe Alabama ahead of the curve on the prison issue, providing consultation and input to other States seeking solutions. Sadly those who’d be in school and getting education are not being served by the ETF, putting more pressure on the general fund as a holding place for some prisoners who do not belong

behind bars and could be talented productive participants in our State’s economy.

In closing, thanks again for publishing this wonderful piece… aiding enumeration of many blessings this holiday season and pleasant realization of ending one’s career. The recent Wall St. Journal report placing AU in the top 4 among public universities makes clear I’m not an input toward being the number one they’re trying to achieve.

Furthermore, I tried to volunteer/substitute teach at my local High School, but it seems they’re unable to vet someone like me who’s been cleared to teach in the prisons. Looking forward to retiring from my other volunteer duties this year to spend more time with my beautiful bride who’s been my biggest advocate and support these decades.

John P. Sophocleus Instructor of Economics (Retired) Auburn University Sophocleus is an economist who worked ten years at Ford Motor Company then completely retired after thirty years teaching; he’s currently an Alabama Gazette monthly columnist since 2009 in print and online.

Zoning Adjustment Board applications available til Jan. 29 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER AUBURN — The City Council is accepting applications to fill an unexpired supernumerary position on the Board of Zoning Adjustment. The term will begin upon appointment and end Jan. 20, 2026.

The Board of Zoning Adjustment hears and decides on cases that are exceptions to the city of Auburn's current zoning regulations.

The board consists of five members and two supernumerary positions who each serve three-year terms. Members must be residents of the city of Auburn and must be qualified electors of Auburn. The board meets the first Wednesday of every month at 4:30 p.m.

Those interested in serving are invited to apply online using the link at auburnalabama.org/boards. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Jan. 29. The City Council will make appointments at its Feb. 6 meeting.

CAVHCS implements comprehensive body-worn and in-car camera policy

Implementation of body-worn and in-car cameras reflects the commitment of the VA to uphold equitable, transparent, accountable, Constitutional and effective law enforcement practices.

CONTRIBUTED BY CAVHCS TUSKEGEE — In a groundbreaking move to enhance transparency, accountability and overall safety, the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) has introduced an extensive body-worn and incar camera policy for all VA police officers to abide by. Aligned with President Biden's Executive Order 14074 and the Cleland-Dole Act of 2022, this initiative is slated to be fully operational by the close of December 2023.

Under this newly implemented policy, cameras automatically record video and audio when officers draw their issued firearms or activate emergency lights in their police vehicles. Additionally, officers will manually activate the cameras during investigations and enforcement encounters, such as traffic stops and when transporting individuals in custody.

Privacy considerations have been given paramount importance throughout the implementation

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process. Comprehensive training programs have been initiated for VA police officers and privacy officers to address and mitigate potential privacy concerns. The overarching objective is to ensure that these cameras do not compromise the privacy of the individuals served by the VA or its dedicated employees.

To safeguard privacy, camera footage will only be utilized for specific purposes, such as police investigations or court proceedings, or as permitted under federal law. No video will be recorded in areas where a reasonable expectation of personal privacy exists unless there is a clear and compelling need.

VA Secretary Dennis McDonough strongly supports the initiative, emphasizing that "using dashcams and bodycams will make our facilities even safer – building trust in our great police force while increasing transparency and promoting deescalation."

Troy Brown, Veterans Health Administration Senior Security Officer, highlighted the significance of

outfitting every VA police officer with a body-worn camera, stating, "By outfitting every VA police officer with a bodyworn camera, we're enhancing transparency and ensuring safety and accountability in policing."

CAVHCS proactively adheres to the requirements outlined in President Biden's Executive Order and the Cleland-Dole Act. The implementation of body-worn and in-car cameras reflects the commitment of the VA police to uphold equitable, transparent, accountable, Constitutional and effective law enforcement practices.

This initiative represents a significant leap toward modernizing law enforcement practices within the VA system, fostering public trust, and supporting the safety of Veterans, their families, caregivers, survivors, visitors, and VA employees on VA grounds. For more information on this policy, interested individuals are encouraged to review the frequently asked questions on the VA website.

B12 Jan. 11, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is considering making applications to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management for a Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) Program Loan and a Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Program Loan for improvements at Chewacla State Park.

A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 5:30pm at the Lower Pavilion at Chewacla State Park, located at 124 Shell Toomer Parkway, Auburn, AL 36830 (in the event of inclimate weather, the meeting will be held in Cabin Number 4). This meeting will be to inform the citizens of the State of Alabama of the components of the applications. An Environmental Information Document will be available for public review at the meeting. Citizens will be informed at the meeting of the nature and extent of proposed activities, amount of funding available and time frames for the program.

Further, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will be accepting comments on the applications for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management’s CWSRF and DWSRF Loan Funds for the purpose of the Water System Improvements and Waste Water System Improvements.

Every citizen in attendance will be afforded the opportunity to express their views of the program and needs of the community. Citizens, who wish, may submit their comments in writing to: Dennis Grooms Construction Manager Alabama State Parks 64 North Union Street,

Room 483 Montgomery, AL 36104 All comments must be submitted prior to Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Any interested party that may require special assistance in attending the hearing, or the need for an interpreter, may contact The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources at (334) 353-7996.

Legal Run 12/21/2023, 12/28/2023, 01/04/2024 & 01/11/2024 -------------INVITATION FOR BIDS Sealed bids will be received by the Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners of the City of Mobile, Alabama (“Board”), at the Wesley A. James Operations Center, 4725 Moffett Road, Suite A, Mobile, AL 36618-0249 until 12:00 p.m., Local Time, February 5, 2024, and then publicly opened and read aloud at 1:00 p.m., for furnishing all labor, materials, and performing all work for the following project: Contract No.: D3424000, Project Name: NORTONS LANE SWAT AND LIFT STATION. The project is funded by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program. The selected bidder shall comply with all conditions and requirements of the program as they pertain to this Project.

Plans and Specifications may be inspected at the Board’s offices at 4725 Moffett Road, Suite A, Mobile, AL, or at the offices of Jacobs, Consulting Engineers, 25 W. Cedar Street, Suite 350, Pensacola FL. 32502 (by appointment)., Telephone: (850) 396-4938.

A complete set of electronic contract documents including Drawings, Specifications, referenced documents and

a model bid package may be obtained from Kara St. Myer of Jacobs via e-mail from Kara St. Myer at Kara.

StMyer@jacobs.com. No Contract Documents will be issued later than twenty- four (24) hours prior to bid submission time.

Questions regarding the Contract Documents must be submitted in writing or electronically to Jacobs no later than January 29, 2024 in order for responses to be provided via addendum prior to the bid date.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Wesley A. James Operations Center, 4725 Moffett Road, Board Room, Mobile, AL 36618-0249 on January 17, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., Local Time, to discuss bidding and project requirements. Prospective bidders and subcontractors are encouraged to attend.

Bids must be submitted on the standard forms included with the Contract Documents in the tabbed and color-coded format as indicated.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed and delivered to the Director, Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners of the City of Mobile, Alabama, 4725A Moffett Road, Mobile, Alabama 36618-0249: “Bid for constructing Project # D3424000 - NORTONS LANE SWAT AND LIFT STATION, to be opened at 1:00 p.m., Local Time, February 5, 2024”. The Bidder's Alabama State Contractor's License Number and discipline shall be on the envelope. Hand-delivered bid packages shall be delivered to the receptionist at the main entrance of the MAWSS office complex, 4725A Moffett Road, Mobile AL 36618.

Bid guarantee in the form of certified check, bid bond, or Irrevocable Letter of Credit acceptable to the Board will

Become an

be required for at least 5 percent of the bid amount, not to exceed $10,000.

The Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received.

THIS INVITATION FOR BIDS IS CONDENSED FOR ADVERTISING PURPOSES. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ REQUIREMENTS FOR BIDDERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE CONTRACT DOCUMENTS. THE BOARD OF WATER AND SEWER COMMISSIONERS OF THE CITY OF MOBILE, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 01/04/2024 & 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN RE: THE MATIER OF MASON LEE ROGERS CASE NO. 2021-675 NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Final Settlement and Affidavit of Final Accounting of the Conservatorship of Mason Lee Rogers, was filed by Conservator, Samantha Johnson requesting approval of a final accounting. A hearing has been set for the 29th day of February 2024 at 10:00 a.m. central time, electronically via "ZOOM".

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the said hearing.

Bill English Judge of Probate County, AL Legal Run 01/11/2024, 01/18/2024 & 01/25/2024 -------------CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION

ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF

ADULT HUMAN RESOURCES 1-800-458-7214 FOSTER dhr.alabama.gov/AFC CARE Provider

This ad is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,686,987 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

“Love Never Ages”

MEETING AND PUBLIC invited to attend the meeting/ HEARINGS public hearings and be heard.

TO: RESIDENTS AND Written comments concernPROPERTY OWNERS OF ing the above matters may THE CITY OF OPELIKA be mailed to the Planning AND ALL OTHER Director at 700 Fox Trail, INTERESTED CITIZENS Opelika, Alabama 36801 at NOTICE IS HEREBY any time prior to the meetGIVEN that the Planning ing/public hearings and may Commission of the City of be further submitted to the Opelika, Alabama will hold Planning Commission at the a regular meeting and will meeting/public hearings. be conducting public hearThe Planning Commission ings on Tuesday, January reserves the right to modify 23, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in the or alter any of the proposed Meeting Chamber at Opelika amendments to the Zoning Municipal Court located Ordinance and to make its at 300 MLK Boulevard, recommendations accordingOpelika, Alabama. A ly to the City Council.

Planning Commission Please contact the Planning work session will be held at department at 334-705-5156 2:45 pm before the regular at least two (2) working days meeting. The purpose of the prior to the meeting if you public hearings is to receive require special accommodapublic comment on the tions due to a disability. following: PLANNING DIRECTOR I. Some items at the meeting Legal Run 01/11/2024 will have a designated pub------------lic hearing (noted below).

Individuals are limited to STORAGE TREASURES 5-minute comment period AUCTION per public hearing.

Extra Space Storage (Life II.Approval of Minutes Storage) will hold a public III.Update on Previous PC auction to sell personal propCases erty described below beIV. New Business longing to those individuals A .Rezoning - Public Hearing listed below at the location 1a. An agenda item for a indicated: rezoning request includes 3951 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika an amendment to the Future AL 36801 Thursday, January Land Use Map for 1.24 acres 18th, 2024 at 10:00AM. at 414 N 10th Street from a Unit B84 medium density residential Unit C33 land use category to an inUnit D34 stitutional land use category.

The auction will be listed and If the Planning Commission advertised on www.storagvotes to send a positive etreasures.com. Purchases recommendation to the must be made with cash City Council to rezone the only and paid at the above 1.24 acres and the Council referenced facility in order approves the rezoning, then to complete the transac-tion. the amendments to the Extra Space Storage may Future Land Use map will be refuse any bid and may reapproved. scind any purchase up until 1b. A public hearing to the win-ning bidder takes consider a recommendation possession of the personal to the City Council on a property. request by Mary Allison Legal Run 01/11/2024 Wilmarth Kovak, authorized -------------representative for Thomas J. Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile, STORAGE TREASURES a Corporation sole, property AUCTION owner, to rezone 1.24 acres at Extra Space Storage will 414 N 10th Street from R-2 to hold a public auction to sell an I-1 (Institutional) zoning personal property described district. below belonging to those B. Other Business individuals listed below at the 2. A request by Fred Boozer, location indicated: Jr., property owner, concern1242 N Dean Rd, Auburn, ing an amendment to the AL 36830 Thursday, January exterior building material 18, 2024 at 10:00AM requirements for a 200,000 Unit 269 square foot two-story climate The auction will be listed and control self-storage building advertised on www.storagat 3000 Old Opelika Road. etreasures.com. Purchases The self-storage building was must be made with cash rezoned by the City Council only and paid at the above at the June 2022 Council referenced facility in order meeting. The Planning to complete the transaction.

Commission rezoning reExtra Space Storage may view at the April 2022 PC refuse any bid and may remeeting included conditions scind any purchase up until for approval that included the winning bidder takes the exterior materials must possession of the personal meet the Gateway Corridor property. requirements for exterior Legal Run 01/11/2024 materials.

All interested persons are See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B8

B13 Jan. 11, 2024

Third-grader, teen are 'Sheriff for the Day' PHOTO BY ELISE MCKINLEY | FOR THE OBSERVER

PHOTO BY NOAH GRIFFITH | FOR THE OBSERVER Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones welcomed two local students chosen as Sheriff for the Day, an annual community outreach program that gives young people in two age categories an educational experience with law enforcement. This year's participants were third grader Lane Gooden of Beauregard and 15-year-old Braden Adams of Smiths Station. Pictured in the left photo above, "Sheriff" Lane Gooden and his 4-year-old best buddy Collins Taylor receive badges and take over Jones' desk. Pictured in the right photo above with Jones is "Sheriff" Braden Adams.

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER LEE COUNTY — Beauregard third grader Lane Gooden arrived at the LCSO Thursday morning with a sheriff’s badge hung around his neck and his best buddy, 4-year-old Collins Taylor, by his side.

Gooden is a big supporter of fighting crime, and the 8-year-old got to see just how it gets done in the second annual “Sheriff for the Day” program. He joined Sheriff Jay Jones for day two of the program after Smith Station 15-year-old Braden Adams was the participant on Wednesday.

“As an agency, we feel like anything we can do to involve our young people as far as education in regard to the mission of the sheriff’s office, law enforcement’s purpose in general, certainly about the importance of citizenship and service to the community — in our case, public safety,” Jones said.

Gooden, accompanied by his father and his friend, got to roam the building, see each de-

partment and talk to the sheriffs. Gooden said his favorite activities were looking at the police vehicles and, of course, eating lunch.

His father said it was a great opportunity to learn the diverse responsibilities of law enforcement and for the kids to see some of the different tactics and tools the officers use.

“And the other thing I liked today is to fight with (Jones),” Lane, a big fan of Batman, added.

What is now an annual program came to life back in 2022. As LCSO was searching for ways to engage with younger generations, media relations director Jessica Henderson suggested the idea of bringing in a “sheriff for the day” for both a younger and older age category.

The program accepts applications from two age groups of Lee County students throughout the fall.

At the end of the year, they select one student from ages 7 to 12 and another from 13 to 17. Adams, the older candidate, received more opportunity for hands-on decision-making

activities, such as using a VR tool designed to have the user respond to real-life scenarios.

In addition to being Sheriff for the Day, LCSO holds an annual Junior Deputy Academy in an attempt to further pique the interest and build character in the community’s younger generation. The academy is a week-long summer program that displays the “inner workings” of life as a deputy officer and serving a growing community in Alabama.

“In our case, [we’re teaching about] public safety, but we want to shape it in a way where we can provide information to our youth to enhance their knowledge of who we are, what we do and what our mission and goals are,” Jones said. “Along with that comes the importance of service as a citizen of the state of Alabama — a citizen of the United States.”

For more information and to apply for these programs, visit leecountysheriff.org and click on the “community involvement” tab.

BY ELESE MCKINLEY FOR THE OBSERVER LEE COUNTY— Braden Adams, 15, of Smiths Station was designated as the “Sheriff for the Day” by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday, Jan. 3.

He spent the day alongside Sheriff Jay Jones, gaining firsthand experience of a sheriff’s daily responsibilities. Currently a student at Smiths Station High School, Braden frequently articulates his aspiration to pursue a career as a police officer. For this special occasion, Braden opted to invite his brother, 16-yearold Alex Dickerson, to accompany him.

The day began by Braden getting sworn in as an honorary sheriff, receiving a certificate of oath and a replica of the Sheriff Star Badge. He was informed of the agency motto and mission values. Braden was taken on a tour of the

Auburn Police arrest man for theft of property and fraudulent use of a debit/credit card CONTRI BUTED BY AUBURN POLICE DEPARTMENT AUBURN — On Jan. 2, Auburn Police arrested Brian James Kelley, age 59, of Auburn on felony warrants charging him with theft of property third degree and fraudulent use of a debit/credit card.

Auburn Police received a report of a fraudulent debit card purchase on Sept. 13, 2023. A victim reported discovering their card was stolen near the 1100 block of East Glenn Avenue after receiving notification of an unauthorized charge made online.

Brian James Kelley was developed as a suspect, and after further investigation, arrest warrants were obtained. Officers arrested Kelley in obedience to the warrants on Jan. 2. Kelley was transported to the Lee County Jail and held on a $3,000 bond.

All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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different divisions within the sheriff’s office while learning about the different job functions and responsibilities of division commanders and personnel. He engaged in a short training session to gain insight into the training a deputy sheriff receives.

“We first went through handcuff training and using the tasers on target dummies,” Braden said.

“My favorite part of today was shooting the SIM gun at targets. It imitates a real firearm.

I got to see that being a sheriff is a hard role to have in our community.”

Both Braden and his brother Alex have developed a newfound respect for law enforcement officers.

They voiced their gratitude for the local sheriffs and acknowledged the dedication they exhibit in safeguarding the community.

Following this, the appointed sheriff for

the day partook in a meal prepared in the jail operations kitchen.

Sheriff Jay Jones conveyed the significance of youth engagement with law enforcement officers.

“Our goal is that our youth will have a better understanding of public safety, law enforcement operations, and the importance of rule of law,” he said.

In 2022, Jessica Henderson, the community relations specialist for LCSO, conceived the "Sheriff for the Day" initiative.

Now in its second year, this program offers youth firsthand exposure to law enforcement activities.

There are two separate age groups for these events — ages 13 to 17, and ages 7 to 12.

In hopes to continue educating the youth on public safety the Lee County Sheriffs Office plans to continue to have “Sheriff for the Day” events for many years to come.

B14 Jan. 11, 2024

Kiwanis Club of Auburn learns Vansvoc, Durrett are guest about keeping football statistics speakers at Opelika Kiwanis

PUBLIC NOTICES >>

FROM B12

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, January 18th ,2023 @ 10:00 AM Unit K135 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 01/11/2024 -------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 2020 S. College St. Auburn, AL 36832 Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 10:00AM Unit B169 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 01/11/2024 -------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage (Life Storage) will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: (1231 Gatewood Drive Auburn Al. 36830 ) Thursday, (1-18-2024) at 10:00AM Unit 145 Unit 304 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE MATTER

OF ROSA MAE PARKER CASE NO. 2022-062 NOTICE OF HEARING TO: Any unknown heirs of Rosa Mae Parker filed on February 1 I, 2022.

A hearing has been set for the 4th day of April 2022 at 1 I :00 a.m. central time, electronically via "ZOOM".

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Letters of Administration for the Estate of Rosa Mae Parker.

Bill English Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 01/11/2024, 01/18/2024 & 01/25/2024 -------------NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CITY OF OPELIKA HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION Historic Design Guidelines Update The City of Opelika Historic Preservation Commission will be holding a Public KickOff meeting to introduce consultants, The Walker Collaborative, and discuss updates to the Historic Design Guidelines.

The meeting will be held: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatic Center 1001 Sportsplex Pkwy Opelika, AL 36801 5:00 pm-6:00 pm Additional meetings will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the Municipal Meeting Room, 300 MLK Blvd, Opelika, with specific target groups as follows: • 9:00 am-10 am Stakeholders including District property owners and residents.

• 10:15 -11:15 Stakeholders including developers, builders, and design professionals.

• 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm HPC Members and other preservationists.

The City of Opelika recognizes the need to revise the Historic Design Guidelines to be user-friendly and clear with sufficient details.

Your participation in these public involvement meetings is important and your input is valued. The City of Opelika, along with the consultants, will be available to answer questions.

For more information, please contact: Lisa Thrift, Community Development Administrator, (334)7055155 or lthrift@opelika-al. gov .

The City of Opelika complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to meetings. If you need special assistance, please call the City’s ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334)705-5130.

Legal Run 01/11/2024 --------------

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Whatley Construction, LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of Opelika Fire Station #5 at 4000 Gateway Drive, Opelika, AL for the City of Opelika, Alabama, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify JRW Architects, 900 Janet Drive, Auburn, AL 36830, Architect and Whatley Construction, LLC, Contractor, 710 Fox Run Parkway, Opelika, AL 36803.

Legal Run 12/21/2023, 12/28/2023, 01/04/2024 & 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SANDRA JEAN OLAVESON, A/K/A SANDRA JEAN HOOKS DECEASED. Case No. 2023-615 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Patricia O. Weatherston, as Executrix of the Estate of Sandra Jean Olaveson, a/k/ Sandra Jean Hooks, deceased, on the 14th day of December, 2023, 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.

Patricia O. Weatherstone, Executrix Of the Estate of Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 12/28/2023, 01/04/2024, 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:THE ESTATE OF WENDELL ROGER DILL, DECEASED. Case No.: 2023-548 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Doris Kowalczyk Dill, as Executrix of the Estate of Wendell Roger Dill, deceased, on the 14th day of December, 2023, 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.

Doris Kowalczyk Dill, Executrix Of the Estate

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Pictured left to right are Speaker and Auburn Kiwanis member Gene Dulaney and Kiwanis Club of Auburn President Mike Martin. Dulaney spoke to the club members on his experience working as the spotter and keeping statistics for the Auburn Sports Network at football games.

The Opelika Kiwanis Club welcomed two speakers, Nick Vansyoc, who spoke on the new Floral Park renovations, and Jeffery Durrett, who spoke on the new Aquatics facilities going up at Covington and the Sportsplex. The Jan. 18 speaker will be Hans Ver Der Reijden, CEO of Ithaca Hospitality Partners, which is the company that runs The Laurel.

of Wendell Roger Dill, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 12/28/2023, 01/04/2024 & 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY CLYDE BROACH, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2023-625 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 19th day of December, 2023, 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.

JAMES FREDERICK BROACH, Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 12/28/2023, 01/04/2024, 01/11/2024 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GERALDINE ANN WOODHOUSE, Deceased CASE NO.: 2023-631 NOTICE TO CREDITOR TAKE NOTICE that

Letters Testamentary having been granted to JULIAN GEORGE WOODHOUSE, JR., as Personal Representative of the Estate of GERALDINE ANN WOODHOUSE, deceased, on the 19th day of December, 2023, by Bill English, Lee County Probate Judge.

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.

JULIAN GEORGE WOODHOUSE, JR. Personal Representative of the Estate of GERALDINE ANN WOODHOUSE Legal Run 1/4/2024, 1/11/2024 & 1/18/2024

B15 Jan. 11, 2024

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B16 Jan. 11, 2024

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FROM B9

has it? Where does everything stand? Is there going to be a quarry or not?”

Brumfield said that if a quarry happens regardless of zoning, she would like the zoning reversed.

Following Brumfield’s and Kilgore’s presentation, County Attorney Stan Martin addressed the commission.

He let everyone, including Brumfield and Kilgore, know that the situation could not be discussed due to pending litigation.

Brumfield did, despite concerns, thank the commission for all it’s done to prevent the quarry.

“Just because I haven’t been present, does not mean I have forgotten about the quarry, zoning or most importantly, the people who live in Beat 13,” she said. “I do want to take a moment to thank you for everything done thus far regarding the quarry situation. Your efforts are appreciated.”

OTHER BUSINESS: - The commission heard the second reading for the second position on the Smiths Station

Fire Protection District Board.

- The commission discussed ways in which

r a e ew Y

to notify voters about polling locations.

- The commission approved a contract with Government Services Alabama LLC to audit personal property accounts.

- The commission approved a transfer of a retail beer & retail table wine license for The Corner Store (in District 4) for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

- The commission heard the Rebuild Alabama Fund Annual Report from County Engineer Justin Hardee.

- The commission approved an update for

the FEMA flood damage prevention resolution.

- The commission approved a promotion consideration for the assistant Highway department superintendent.

- The commission approved a promotion consideration for the chief building official.

- The commission amended a resolution clarifying the extending county benefits for appointed Board of Registrars.

- The commission approved a resolution authorizing Avenu Insights and Analytics to administer and collect taxes.

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