The Observer 10-12-2023 by OpelikaObserver

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Syrup Soppin' Photos — A7

Feed the Need Campaign — A9 IN THIS ISSUE

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 01 Opelika, Alabama Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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Women’s Hope Celebrates 40 Years

See HOPE, page A3

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Women’s Hope has been doing its work in Lee County for 40 years now, changing lives. Women’s Hope is a pregnancy and crisis center, dedicated to helping those in need consider their options and make life-affirming choices. Women’s Hope offers options, prenatal care, client advocates, a fatherhood program, a motherhood program, a Spanish ministry and more. On Tuesday, Oct. 3,

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Women's Hope held its 40th anniversary gala on Oct. 3 at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center.

United Way of Lee County Has New Community Impact Coordinator PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY AUDREY KENT FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Ashlyn Perry has joined the United Way of Lee County as the new community impact coordinator. She will serve as both the 2-1-1 call center specialist and donor support specialist. Originally from Newnan, Georgia, Perry is a 2020 graduate of the University of Georgia where she earned her Bachelor of Education in elementary education. After graduation, she worked for two years as a second grade teacher at Escambia County Schools in Pensacola, Florida. After moving to Auburn with her husband in June 2023, she began looking

EAH Announces Next Chief of Staff

ASHLYN PERRY for an opportunity to use her gifts and talents. “I wanted to have a job that allows me to make an impact in the community

and truly make a difference,” Perry said. “This sounded like the perfect opportunity to do that.” Perry will be the main call

specialist for 2-1-1 in Lee County. She is tasked with determining the needs of all callers and providing them with necessary information and resources. She will also act as the main point of contact for Lee County EMA in case of a local disaster. In addition to her role with 2-1-1, Perry will also assume the responsibility of donor support where she will be responsible for inputting all United Ways donation pledges and accurately maintaining all customer relationship management software. “I plan to get out into the community and spread the word out about what 2-1-1 is and what it can offer,” See PERRY, page A2

BRIDGES CONTRIBUTED BY EAH

OPELIKA — Every two years on Oct. 1, the chief of staff role at East Alabama Health (EAH) rotates to a new active staff physician following a vote conducted by medical staff members. J. Gary Bridges, D.O. has been selected to succeed Mary Ann Shannon, M.D., as the EAH chief of staff and will hold the position from Oct. 1, 2023, until Sept. 30, 2025. Bridges practices at Anesthesia Associates of East Alabama. As chief of staff, Bridges will serve as a liaison between the medical staff and the hospital board; work with the hospital CEO and administration to develop policies, coordinate care and

enforce the policies of the by-laws; head the medical executive committee; and serve on other committees of the medical staff. Bridges brings significant experience to the role, having previously served as chief of anesthesiology, chief of surgery and multiple committees more than 20 years with EAH. Now as chief of staff, he said he hopes to help keep the organization looking forward. “The number one goal is to help recruit medical staff to better serve the needs of our growing community,” Bridges said. “It’s important we have a unified medical staff working with administration See BRIDGES, page A2

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A2 Oct. 12, 2023

Walking for a Cure cause of dementia among older adults. Other forms of dementia include: Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal disorders or vascular dementia. It is even common for people to have mixed dementia, which is a combination of two or more types.” Since 1906, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia has meant death, and there was no slowing of the disease’s progression. Until now. Recently, two drugs, Lecanemab and Aducanumab, have given dementia patients a ray of hope. The drugs, which have been approved by the Food & Drug Administration, have been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s in patients who are in the early stage of the disease. These new drugs are the results of the Alzheimer’s Association’s tireless efforts to raise money for research which will one day, hopefully, find a cure. About a year ago, Cailyn Thompson became the walk manager for East Alabama, West Alabama and Mobile Bay. Thompson said she first

BY STACEY WALLACE FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — According to the National Institute on Aging, “on Nov. 2, 1906, Dr. Alois Alzheimer discovered changes in the brain tissue of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness. “The woman’s symptoms included: memory loss, language problems and unpredictable behavior. “Also, after she died, Alzheimer examined her brain and found many abnormal clumps [now called amyloid plaques] and tangled bundles of fibers [now called neurofibrillary, or tau, tangles].” Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that more than six million Americans, most of them age 65 or older, may have Alzheimer’s. “Alzheimer’s is currently ranked as the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and is the most common

began working for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s as a volunteer when she was a student at the University of Alabama. Thompson said that the East Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer’s started in Auburn back in 2014. This year, the East Alabama Walk will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Kiesel Park in Auburn. According to Thompson, registration for the walk will be from 2 to 3 p.m. People may register to walk right up to the day of the event by going to act.alz.org/auburn. As of this writing, Thompson said that there were 269 participants in

this year’s walk; by walk day, the number will probably be 300. “At 3 p.m., we will have the Promise Garden Ceremony," Thompson said. "Whoever attends the walk will get a pinwheel flower; every color represents a color related to the disease." For example, the color orange represents people who have no direct connection to Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia; these people just support a world without Alzheimer’s or dementia. Purple flowers are given to those who have lost someone to the disease. Yellow flowers will be

given to caregivers of dementia patients. Blue flowers are given to people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Then one person will hold a white flower, which represents the first person who survives Alzheimer’s. The flowers are then planted, and participants may take them home after the walk, which will begin immediately after this ceremony. “We use flowers because we believe that flowers are fighters and can still bring beauty in unexpected places, just like those living with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia are fighters and still bring beauty to our lives,” Thompson explained. Thompson said that the East Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer’s event will be family and pet friendly. There will also be costume contests for all ages, and prizes will be awarded. In addition, Auburn Mayor Ron Anders will speak, and D.J. Ozz will be at the walk to entertain the crowd. Also, Aubie will be in attendance from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. In addition, Lynn Mott, who is the chairman of the

BRIDGES >> from A1 to help move our organization forward.” Bridges earned his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from

PERRY >> from A1 Perry said. “I want people to be able to clarify any misunderstandings they might have about this service and see how the United Way of Lee County and 2-1-1 work hand in hand.” “We welcome Ashlyn with her passion for serving the community,” said Tipi Miller, executive director of the United

East Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer’s, will emcee the event. Mott is a team member of “The Motty Crew,” and will participate in the walk. Mott was the caregiver to her Grandmother Dorothea, who lived with her for six months. Dorothea, who had Alzheimer’s, passed away two months ago; she was almost 92 years old. Mott, who is a financial adviser at Merrill Lynch and who lives in Opelika said, “My Grandmother and Grandfather lived in Maryland, and I used to stay with them in the summer. "They called me their Ratzenfratzer when I was little. They were instrumental in my success and were the salt of the earth.” Mott said she treasured the time that she cared for her Grandmother Dorothea. “She still called me Ratzenfratzer, and we shag danced together. I let her be independent, and she felt safe and secure.” Mott worked at home a lot; when she was gone, she made sure that she stuck to her grandmother’s See WALK, page A6

the University of Georgia, his medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at UAB. While at UAB, he served as chief resident within

the Department of Anesthesiology. Outside of work, Bridges said he enjoys watching Georgia athletics, SEC football, working on his farm, hunting and traveling with his wife.

Way of Lee County. “Ashlyn’s work with children and families in the education sector has prepared her to work with our clients to meet their social service needs. We believe she will thrive in this role and be able to help so many in Lee County.” The United Way of Lee County is a nonprofit organization in Opelika, Alabama, whose mission is to increase the organized

capacity of people to care for one another by generating and applying the necessary resources to meet the needs of the community. It looks to improve and strengthen the community by focusing on and funding organizations and programs working in four key impact areas, areas it believes are the building blocks for a good life: education, health, crisis and families and communities.

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A3 Oct. 12, 2023

No More Shacks Campaign Sheds Light on Substandard Housing BY JEREMY WALDEN FOR THE OBSERVER AUBURN— In an effort to raise awareness about the dire state of housing for many Alabama residents, the Alabama Rural Ministry (ARM) is embarking on its 16th annual "No More Shacks" campaign. The campaign, set to take place Oct. 18-23, will see ARM members living in shacks to replicate the challenges faced by families in need of home repairs while living on severely limited and fixed incomes. The campaign's headquarters will be located at 131 S. Gay St., on the Auburn Wesley Foundation lawn, where ARM Director Lisa Pierce will spend a week living in a small shack mounted on a flatbed trailer. The makeshift dwelling, designed to mimic the substandard housing conditions endured by many, features leaky roofs, open

HOPE >> from A1 Women’s Hope held its annual fundraising gala to celebrate this milestone birthday. The event was held at the Auburn University Hotel and Dixon Conference Center. “We need your prayers, most of all,” said Daria Monroe, executive director at Women’s Hope Medical Clinic, at the event. “We need your support, and there’s so many ways you can support, it’s not just financially, but come in and volunteer, bring baby items.” Women’s Hope is not just reaching bornand-raised Alabamians, Monroe said, but the nations at large. “We are truly homeland missionaries right here in Lee County,” Monroe said. “We, back in 2017, I had the staff count how many different nations they knew had come to Women’s Hope and been served. At that time, there were over 25 nations.” Women’s Hope is a Christian-based ministry. “We see about 1,000

Both shacks, Pierce's on the right and guests on the left; On the right, local community leaders at the shack. windows and vulnerability to the elements. Local church pastors and community leaders will join Pierce at the shack, rallying together to support ARM in its mission to raise $200,000. These funds will be used to repair homes in desperate need, such as that of 90-yearold Ms. Walker. Walker's home tells a tale of hardship and resilience. Her roof had been severely damaged during a violent incident, causing it to leak profusely and creating

potential safety hazards. “One night, some people got into a fight and started shooting," she said. "They shot holes all into my roof and then the rain came.” Even makeshift tarps couldn't keep the rain out, leaving the ceiling tiles blackened and deeply stained. Walker's story, though unique, serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by many Alabamians living below the poverty line. With nearly one-third of the state's population grappling

with financial hardship, the impact of living on a fixed income is felt most acutely within the walls of their homes. But there is hope on the horizon, and community members can make a difference by supporting the No More Shacks campaign, helping prevent stories like Walker's from repeating. Together, the community can ensure that every Alabamian has access to a safe, warm and dry home. Here's how one can get

individuals every year, and about 3% of them are from the Middle East,” Monroe said. “And I have a heart for those nations there, that they never hear Christ in their own nation.” Monroe said that both women and men come into their clinic and hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Two women with testimonies from Women’s Hope shared their stories during the event and a live ultrasound was performed on screen, too. The gala had the goal of raising funding for projects and needs within the community

and facility. Those in attendance were given cards to fill out, sharing whether they would be willing to give monthly or one-time. Ultimately, Women’s Hope raised just over $340,400 during the gala. “Tonight, what I’m asking you to do is give,” said Pastor Jeff Meyers with First Baptist Opelika. “There’s a lot of different analogies that we can use to give. We talk about giving sacrificially, we talk about giving extravagantly, but I want you to think about these first. You saw the pictures of the

babies, you heard the testimonies. What’s the price for that? Can you really put one on it?” Anyone who finds themselves in an uncertain pregnancy situation can contact Women's Hope at 334502-7000. Women's Hope offers the following services: abortion information, adoption agency referrals, adoption information, maternity and infant supplies, medical referrals, parenting education, post-abortion support, pregnancy options information, pregnancy tests, support for men, ultrasound (onsite).

involved and be part of the solution: 1. Give: make a donation online, on-site at the shack or by mailing a check to ARM. Contributions made now through Nov. 1 will go toward the campaign's goals. 2. Set up a Wheelbarrow or Bucket of Change: Consider collecting spare change, building supply gift cards or checks in a wheelbarrow or bucket at a church or business. This is a great opportunity for children's and youth groups, small groups,

Sunday School classes and more to get involved. 3. Visit the Shack: Drop by the campaign site. The shack will be open to the public, allowing visitors to sit with Pierce and others, learning about the issue of substandard housing and how the community can contribute by volunteering for home repairs. 4. Serve: Information about upcoming volunteer home repair service days, known as Buildmore Service Days, will be available on-site at the shack. Those interested in helping can find out how to set up a team of volunteers. For more information and to support the No More Shacks campaign, visit www. arm-al.org/nomoreshacks. By joining ARM, citizens can make a difference and ensure that substandard housing becomes a thing of the past in Alabama, building a brighter future for those in need.

The Women’s Hope Gala was held in the Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. Participants enjoyed a meal, heard from the executive director, watched a live ultrasound and heard testimonials.

A4 Oct. 12, 2023

In The Mix ... In Auburn PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

2aUSA Named as Finalist in State Award

Located at 152 N. College Street in downtown Auburn, The Mix hosted a ribbon cutting to officially open its doors. The new boutique offers “a mix of styles, sizes and prices” as well as a personalized shopping experience for women of all ages in the Auburn/Opelika area.

CARE Humane Society Holds Ribbon Cutting PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTOS BY MATTHAN BROWN / FOR THE OBSERVER

The Lee County Humane Society has changed its name to the CARE Humane Society. In order to grow with the community it has added 10 new kennels capable of housing larger dogs. The CARE Humane Society stands for Compassion, Adoption, Rescue and Education and offers discounted spay and neutering services as well as a "Trap, Neuter, Release" program for strays. Director of Development, Jenny Warren, encourages anyone interested to look into volunteering at the shelter. For more information visit www.carehumane.org

Pictured on top, front row from left to right are Than Son Nguyen, plant manager Sri Gogineni and Sharon Reynolds. On the back row from left to right are HR manager Larry DiChiara, Yoro Coulibaly and Mike Hixo. 2aUSA was nominated to apply for the Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Awards award. A comprehensive application was completed and submitted. A panel of experts in the manufacturing industry convened to review and judge the applications. 2aUSA was notified that it was chosen as a finalist and invited to attend the awards ceremony in Montgomery, Alabama, on Oct. 6. "We did not win but are proud just the same," DiChiara said. The last time a manufacturer in Lee County won the overall award was 23 years ago in 2000 when Capital Vial was chosen.

A5 Oct. 12, 2023

Opelika, Smiths Station Hold NNO Events

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER PHOTOS BY ED SIKORA / FOR THE OBSERVER

The cities of Opelika and Smiths Station both held National Night Out events, Tuesday, Oct. 3. The events were held in order to promote quality interactions between law enforcement and the citizens of both cities.

A6 Oct. 12, 2023 PHOTO BY MIKE WALLACE / FOR THE OBSERVER

WALK >> from A2 routine, which is essential when caring for a dementia patient. Mott laid out her grandmother’s clothes, meals, etc., for the day. At the time, her grandmother could bathe herself, fix her hair, etc. Mott also installed cameras throughout her house so that she could watch out for her grandmother because she worried about her when she wasn’t home with her. Unfortunately, several months before her death, Grandmother Dorothea opened the front door of the house, let the dogs out, and then couldn’t get back inside. She wandered around the neighborhood, and, thankfully, a neighbor found her. Mott knew then that her grandmother needed 24/7 care;

Photo from last year's Walk to End Alzheimer's event in Auburn.

therefore, Mott’s mother found a nursing home for Grandmother Dorothea. Join the East Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer’s this year. Donations may be sent using the QR

code in this article or by donating online on the Alzheimer’s Associations website. In addition, donations will be collected in envelopes at the walk in Auburn on Oct. 29.

Help the people of East Alabama find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Last year, the walk raised $52,219. Let’s do even better this year.

THIS IS WHY WE WALK.

2023 NATIONAL PRESENTING SPONSOR

2023 NATIONAL DIAMOND TEAMS

2023 NATIONAL PLATINUM TEAMS

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, we’re fighting for a different future. For families facing the disease today. For more time. For treatments. We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, we need you. Join us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. Register today at alz.org/walk.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – East Alabama Sunday, October 29 Location TBD Auburn, AL

For more information:

A7 Oct. 12, 2023

If It Ain't Sticky, It Ain't Soppin'

PHOTOS BY ED SIKORA / FOR THE OBSERVER

Loachapoka's Annual Syrup Soppin' event was held Saturday, Oct. 7, at Pioneer Park. The event draws people from all over Lee County and features demostrations of the sugar cane syrup making process, sweet potato biscuits, live music, vendors and more.

Meet David Hedges AUBURNBANK PRESIDENT & CEO Leadership succession in any business is essential to its sustainability, especially one that has been strong and viable for 116 years. Since our founding in 1907, AuburnBank has had eight presidents — and now David Hedges succeeds Bob Dumas as our ninth. Joining the bank in 2006, David has demonstrated his commitment to AuburnBank and its shareholders. He and his wife, Jill, are members of First Baptist Church of Opelika, and they enjoy raising their three children who attend Auburn City Schools. David is excited to lead AuburnBank into the future, while upholding a tradition of service to our customers and our communities. Member FDIC | AuburnBank.com

A8 Oct. 12, 2023

'Fair'ing Well: The Lee County Fair Returns PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Fair goers ejoyed rides, fair food, competitions,live music and more during the annual Lee County Fair last week.

EMPOWERING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS THROUGH THEATRE!

AUBURN AREA COMMUNITY THEATRE JUNIOR PERFORMERS PRESENT:

Winnie the Pooh

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Ages 8 to 25 LAUNCHING THE PENGUIN PROJECT

BY A . A . M I LN E A DA P TE D F OR TH E STAG E BY KATH RY N S C H U LT Z M I LLER

WHAT ? WHEN. ? WHERE ?

G R AC E U N I TE D M E TH O DI ST C H U R C H 9 15 E . G L E N N AV E , AU B U R N , A L TI C KE TS $ 10 /A DU LTS , $ 8 / C H I L DR E N , STU D E N TS , A N D SEN I O R S TI C KE T I N F OR M ATI ON L I N E : (3 3 4 ) 24 6 -1 0 84

P R O D U C E D BY S P E C I A L A R R A N G E M E N T W I T H A RT R E AC H C H I L D R E N ’ S T H E AT R E P L AYS - W W W. C H I L D R E N ST H E AT R E P L AYS . C O M

ORIENTATION MEETING SUNDAY - OCTOBER 15 at 3 p.m. OPELIKA COMMUNITY THEATRE USA Town Center 1220 FOX Run Parkeay, Suite 216

Participants and Volunteer Mentors needed for this amazing program. Visit opelikatheatrecompany.com or contact 334-400-9660 for more information.

E vents,Food & SocietyNews

Kathryn Blackburn Prepares Treasured Family Recipes At Blackburn Plantation PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY /FOR THE OBSERVER

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

ituated at the end of a long driveway, the classic southern home of Kathryn and Bryan Blackburn sits stately amidst a manicured lawn against a backdrop of deep forest. The Blackburns have a fondness for older homes but wanted to have the conveniences and comforts of a new house. Kathryn especially enjoys her large modern kitchen at Blackburn Plantation where she creates homemade jellies,

bakes sourdough bread and cooks delectable meals using treasured family recipes passed down for generations. Kathryn has deep roots in Auburn. Her parents, Tom and Bettye Mathison Lowe, both grew up in Auburn. Her dad’s father was a professor and head of the civic engineering department at API, now Auburn University. Her mother’s father, who had been a sharecropper in

south Alabama, came to Auburn University to be in charge of the dairy farm and taught the ROTC program. On her mother’s side, Kathryn is related to John Ed and George Mathison, two well-known ministers in the area. After Kathryn’s father graduated in engineering at Auburn, her parents married in 1950. They lived in Eugene, Oregon, and Jackson, Mississippi, before

Orchestra On the Hill Set for Oct. 19 CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

at Ray Baptist Church in Alexander City. Under his direction, the ACO will provide Auburn residents and visitors an expertly rehearsed and enthusiastically prepared concert. Come early and grab a free bag of popcorn from the Auburn Popcorn Company along with some fun giveaways. There will be plenty of space for guests to bring a blanket and/or chairs to spread out and enjoy the concert in person. Orchestra on the Hill is free, family-friendly and open to the public. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The orchestra performs on the lawn at Pebble Hill during a previous event.

settling in Atlanta, Georgia. Her father was the Fulton County Commissioner, and her mother served in the House of Representatives. While Kathryn grew up in

Atlanta in an old house, she spent a lot of time in Auburn visiting her grandparents during summer helping to shell peas and picking corn from their garden at the farm.

Later she visited for football weekends. Her grandmother was a wonderful southern cook.

See CIPPERLY, page A11

Trinity Christian School Launches “Feed The Need” Campaign BY JEREMY WALDEN FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — In an inspiring and heartfelt endeavor aimed at making a significant impact on the lives of Bangladeshi children living in dire poverty, Trinity Christian School (TCS) unveiled its “Feed the Need” campaign. This initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of child poverty but also serves as an opportunity for the school and its community to join forces and effect positive change. Principal Larry Cornelius, shared his perspective on the program via video. “We have a unique opportunity to help feed the need while also raising funds to enhance our school’s transportation,” he said. “The campaign will culminate on Oct. 27 as we pack over 10,000 meals to those in need and to share the gospel.” The Feed the Need campaign has a broader

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The Auburn Community Orchestra (ACO) will perform its fall concert, Orchestra on the Hill, on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 6 p.m. Presented by the Caroline Marshall Draughn Center for the Arts and Humanities (Pebble Hill) and the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, this event will be held on the lawn at Pebble Hill located at 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn. The program will include the following: "Light

Cavalry Overture," "Prelude to the 49th Parallel," "Peer Gynt Suite No. 1" and "Star Wars Epic: Part 1." The ACO is under the direction of music director and conductor Colin Cureton, a graduate teaching assistant for the Auburn University Band Program. Cureton was a part of the Troy University Marching Band where he served as the drumline head section leader. At Auburn, Cureton studies conducting with Dr. Corey Spurlin. In addition to his responsibilities at Auburn, Cureton serves as associate pastor and director of music

Kathryn and Bryan Blackburn enjoy living on land where the family can hunt in the forest and have fields for horses to roam. Kathryn enjoys cooking in her spacious kitchen at Blackburn Plantation where she entertains family and friends using recipes that have been passed down from her mother, grandmother and Bryan’s mother and grandmother. Kathryn is pictured in the library of their home that also has her cookbook collection.

Feed The Need, by Trinity Christian School, is helping meet the needs of refugee children and share the love of Jesus with them.

mission, aiming to raise awareness among the students about the challenging circumstances faced by Bangladeshi children, particularly those residing in the Rohingya Refugee Camp. This massive 600-acre camp is home to a staggering 1.2 million refugees who have been forcibly displaced from their homeland, Myanmar. Tragically, these refugees find themselves unwelcome both in Myanmar and Bangladesh, compelling them to seek refuge within the confines of this

camp. The meals prepared through this campaign transcend mere sustenance; They serve as a bridge to connect with the refugees, spread the good news of the Gospel and demonstrate Christ’s love through dedicated ministry partners on the ground. To participate in this cause and contribute to Trinity Christian School’s mission, donations by visiting the campaign website at www.p2p. onecause.com/tcsftn/ See NEED, page A10

Tickets for 2023–24 season performances are available now.

A10 Oct. 12, 2023

A Long Way to Mobile

SEAN DIETRICH This is not my story. But it was told to me by an old man who lived it. The year is 1987. Rural Alabama. Our main character is a young kid. He’s at a remote gas station. He tries to start his car, but it’s a no go. The car is deader than disco. So he’s sitting on the hood of his ‘73 Piece Of Junkola when an old guy at the next pump notices

there’s something odd about this kid. Namely, the kid is wearing a tux. The old guy is wearing a cowboy hat. There is a horse trailer attached to his Ford. There are horses in the trailer, on their way to a rodeo. The old guy is in a hurry. He has to be in Missouri by tomorrow, or else they’ll dock his pay. He knows he

should leave the gas station now, without asking questions. Because questions lead to “things,” and the old man doesn’t have time for extra “things.” But, as I say, the kid is in a tux. So the old guy asks a question. “Car trouble?” The kid tells him yes, and he says he knows it’s the alternator. He had planned on getting it fixed, but he didn’t have the money. So he has been driving his Crap Mobile around town. But tonight was, evidently, the night the car went to be with Jesus. “Why are you in a tux?” the old guy asks. “Because I’m the best man.” “Best at what?” “It’s a wedding. My brother’s getting married.” The kid looks like he is

about to cry. The sun is setting. The Alabama countryside never looked so green. In the air, the smell of horse turds. “Where’s the church?” the man asks. “Mobile.” “MOBILE?!” The man laughs. The kid buries his face in his hands. “Do you have anyone you can call? Anyone who will give you a ride that far?” The kid shakes his head. His family all lives in Mobile. He is only living in this one-horse town because of his job. He hasn’t lived here long enough to make friends. “My brother has Down syndrome,” the kid explains. “He has a lot of health problems. None of us were sure he’d ever even want to get married, after all he’s been through. But he

found a great girl, and now he’s walking down the aisle, and I’m going to miss it.” Silence. The man jingles the change in his pockets. “When’s the wedding?” the man asks. The kid looks at his watch. “Two hours.” They waste no time. Within seconds, the man has a tuxedo riding in his passenger seat. And he is heading south. Midway through the trip, the kid asks, “You haul horses for a living?” “Well, I USED to.” “What happened?” “You happened.” The sun begins to lower. Eventually, the world outside their windows turns to saltwater. They are soon crossing through the Bankhead Tunnel. The kid is now falling all over himself, saying, “I’ll never be able to

repay you.” “Don’t worry about it,” the old man says. “You don’t know what this means to me.” “And I don’t care.” When they arrive at the church, there are eighteen minutes to spare. The kid shakes the old man’s hand with both of his. He removes his wallet and offers to pay for gas. The old man removes his wallet instead. Inside the old man’s billfold is a photograph. A young man in the photo has severe Down syndrome. The air goes silent. The kid says, “Who is that?” “That’s my son,” the old man says. “Where is your son today?” The old man simply smiles and wipes his eye. “Just tell your brother I said congratulations.”

Gun Violence Survivor Receives Community Support CONTRIBUTED BY CFEA

See CFEA, page A11

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Community Foundation of East Alabama, in a partnership with the Caring For Dadeville Committee, is recently announced the purchase and donation of a handicap accessible van to support the Ware family of Camp Hill, Alabama, whose son is a survivor of the tragic shootings that occurred in Dadeville earlier this year. The van, equipped with the necessary modifications to

accommodate mobility needs, will greatly provide essential transportation support to the family. As part of the mobility modifications, a wheelchair has also been included with the purchase and presentation of the van. The Community Foundation of East Alabama and community leaders from in and around Dadeville joined together to create the Caring for Dadeville Committee to make this initiative happen. The Caring For Dadeville

Community Foundation of East Alabama and the Caring for Dadeville Committe presented a handicap-accessible van to the Ware family of Camp Hill, Alabama. The Ware's son is one of the survivors of the shooting that occurred in Dadeville, Alabama, April 15, 2023.

NEED >>

FROM A9

challenge. Community support will play a pivotal role in providing essential meals to those in need while also assisting the school in improving its transportation system. Every donation, regardless of its size, brings TCS one step closer to making a profound difference in the lives of Bangladeshi children and the students of Trinity Christian School. To learn

19th Annual Think Pink Saturday, October 14, 2023 Spencer Cancer Center 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. $15 per ticket | T-shirt for each participant

Visit www.eastalabamahealth.org/thinkpink for more information and the link to register.

more about the "Feed the Need" campaign and how to participate, please call 334-745-2464 or email Jonathan Davis, director of development, at jdavis@tcsopelika.org. TCS extends its heartfelt appreciation to East Alabama Health (EAMC) for its generous lead sponsorship contribution to this campaign. All gifts — whether from an individual or a corporation — has the power to transform lives and bring a ray of hope.

A11 Oct. 12, 2023

Music Fills the Weekend

CFEA >>

FROM A10 PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

Adam Hood, pictured top, and others performed during the 4th annual Opelika Songwriter's Festival in downtown last weekend.

CIPPERLY >>

FOM A9

Kathryn said she remembers big Thanksgiving meals with all the family. It was always like a second home to her, she said, and her grandmother taught her a lot about cooking. Kathryn also learned how to cook from her mother, who enjoyed cooking and entertained often. While her mother would sometimes cook the entire meal for parties, later she had caterers assist with large groups. Her mother was well organized and adapted recipes. Kathryn learned from her mother how to adjust recipes and recreate dishes from restaurants. After high school, Kathryn attended Auburn University. She began dating Bryan, who was friends with her older brother. Bryan, who is from Newnan, Georgia, is a financial consultant with Morgan Stanley. His mother and grandmother were also good cooks. Kathryn and Bryan have two grown daughters, Katy and Elizabeth. Katy, who lives in Auburn, works for the Marsh and McLennan Agency, which was formerly J. Smith Lanier. She also has Make It Perfect Event Planning and is co-owner of the Auburn Food and Wine Festival. Elizabeth resides in Boston, Massachusetts, and is senior product manager for Intelycare. When the girls were growing up, Elizabeth

showed horses across the country, while Katy was a competitive cheerleader that kept Kathryn busy. The Blackburns said they enjoy their home, which is reminiscent of ones in Natchez, Mississippi, with elegant rooms throughout. One of Kathryn’s favorite rooms is the library, which also houses her cookbook collection. Kathryn uses her mother’s cookbook called “the bible of cooking” that is falling apart with so much use and notes. It is a 1946 edition of “Joy of Cooking.” Since it is falling apart, she has gotten a newer copy to use. The farm is located on many acres outside Auburn where the family hunts and does timber farming. They have two horses and abundant wild life. They host a dove shoot in the fall with friends coming from out-of-town for the weekend. Kathryn prepares a country breakfast before the shoot starts and Smothered Quail for dinner, using a recipe from Brian’s family. Kathryn said she enjoys making jelly in the fall and has been making it since she was a little girl. Kathryn has happy memories of picking blackberries and plums to make jellies with her grandmother, and her mother also made jellies. Kathryn is carrying on that tradition with making apple and scuppernong jellies. Kathryn picked Dolgo Crab Apples at Bryan’s mother’s house for making jelly. Now, they have Dolgo Crab Apples and scuppernongs for

making homemade jelly to give for gifts. One of Bryan’s grandmother’s recipes that Kathryn prepares often is her Seafood Casserole, and everyone asks for the recipe. She said she enjoys sharing her family recipes as they are so good, and would like for others to enjoy them too. Kathryn usually doubles the seafood recipe and makes it at Thanksgiving and Christmas. For crab, she will use canned lump crab that she drains. Syllabub is another of Bryan’s grandmother’s recipes. Bryan remembers when he was a child plunging the mixture to beat it until it was fluffy since they didn’t have a mixer. Kathryn has used sweet and dry sherry in the recipe, and they both work. Bryan’s grandmother would make the Apple Pie in a Cast Iron Skillet. Elizabeth enjoys cooking and adapted the recipe. It makes a delicious dessert. The Corn Souffle was Kathryn’s mother’s recipe that fluffs up while baking, but will sink down after it is removed from the oven. The yummy dish was always served at holidays too. One of Kathryn’s favorite dishes for entertaining, she said, is the marinated Grilled Bourbon Pork Tenderloin. The bourbon marinade flavors the pork, and the meat is very tender. When Kathryn tries a dish at a restaurant she likes, she will ask questions about the ingredients and recreate it at home, she said.. One of those is the Breakfast for Dinner that she tried at a

Nashville restaurant. While the brie melts nicely and goes well with the egg and sourdough bread, another cheese can be used. It is an easy recipe to have when you don’t have time to cook much. The Lobster Stew is another recipe she assembled after trying the dish in Maine. She orders lobster from Maine, but frozen lobster tails can be purchased locally. This dish is wonderful during the holidays. It is different from lobster bisque since the lobster meat is in chunks. The 12 Days of Christmas is her mother’s recipe, and she said she can remember her mother talking to Katie and Elizabeth telling them how to make it. “We always thought food brought us together,” said Kathryn. “I remember growing up when we would have my cousins, aunts and uncles come together for holidays and thank the Lord for our food. “To me, it is so wonderful to prepare food for someone who enjoys it, and it brings everyone together. That is what it did for me growing up and my mom. Now mine and Bryan’s parents have passed away. We are trying to instill that in the girls, and they want to come home and bring friends. “During the pandemic, Elizabeth brought six friends from MIT who were from other countries. They had always heard about southern hospitality, and they enjoyed being here. “Food has always brought us together, and home is heart loving and warm.”

Committee has played a pivotal role in raising awareness and rallying support in response to the tragic events that occurred in April of this year. This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of community when focused on uplifting individuals facing adversity. "We believe in the power of community and the strength that emerges when we come together to support our neighbors in need. This van represents our shared commitment to support the Dadeville community in their journey forward. We are honored to work alongside the Caring For Dadeville Committee in this endeavor", said Barbara Patton, Interim President of the Community Foundation. A representative of the Caring for Dadeville Committee, added, describing the community of Dadeville, “we are a community, but we are a family. We care for one another because that is who we are.” The handover of the handicap accessible van to the Ware family took place on September 14th at the First Baptist Church of Dadeville, where the caring for Dadeville committee has been

CIPPERLY RECIPES BRYAN’S GRANDMOTHER’S SEAFOOD CASSEROLE Ruth Cole Blackburn 1 cup small, cooked shrimp McCormick’s shrimp boil 1 cup crabmeat (can use canned, drained) 1 cup breadcrumbs softened with 1 cup light cream 1 cup mayonnaise ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper 5 hard-boiled eggs, sieved 2 Tbsp. chopped parsley ¼ tsp. red pepper 2 tsp. grated onion Extra breadcrumbs for topping Butter to dot top of breadcrumbs Cook shrimp in water seasoned with McCormick’s shrimp boil. Drain well. Mix all ingredients together and pour into a 2-quart casserole dish. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Works well to double recipe for a larger crowd. SHADOW OAK PLANTATION BRUNSWICK STEW This is a favorite we found at Shadow Oak in south Georgia when we went to hunt quail.

meeting regularly to carry out their tasks. The Caring For Dadeville Committee is a collection of passionate individuals, dedicated to improving the lives of Dadeville residents. The committee has worked, and continues to work, to distribute donated funds to those members of the Dadeville community who were affected by the violence that occurred in April of 2023. The Committee has delivered over $90,000 of support to those that were victims of the tragic shooting, supporting them during their journey of recovery. These funds have been used to address medical bills, travel costs associated with medical services, and other incurred expenses that were incurred following the shooting. The Committee is committed to continually addressing the needs of the victims and the community, striving to support the attainment of a brighter tomorrow. For more information about this initiative, the Caring For Dadeville Committee, or the Community Foundation of East Alabama, please visit www.cfeastalabama. org, or contact Barbara Patton at 334.705.5138 or via email at info@ cfeastalabama.org.

Recipe From the caretaker Tim Balch 3 cups diced onion 2 Tbsp. minced garlic ½ lb. salted butter 1 tsp. cayenne pepper 1 Tbsp. ground black pepper 1 Tbsp. salt ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce ½ cup Carolina barbecue sauce (vinegar) ½ cup sweet barbecue sauce ½ cup spicy barbecue sauce 2 cans chopped tomatoes 1 lb. pulled pork ½ lb. chicken ½ lb. wild turkey breast ½ lb. smoked beef brisket 1 qt. baby lima beans 1 qt. yellow corn 1 qt. chicken broth Sauté onion and garlic in salted butter in a large soup pan. Stir in peppers, salt and Worcestershire sauce. Add barbecue sauces and chopped tomatoes, heating gradually to a boil. Add meats and then lima beans, corn and chicken broth. Simmer for about 20 minutes and serve. GRILLED BOURBON PORK TENDERLOIN 2 1 lb. pork tenderloins Marinade: ¼ cup soy sauce ¼ cup bourbon ¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup honey ¼ cup brown sugar ½ cup chopped onion 1 head garlic, minced 3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp. each salt and pepper Combine marinade

See CIPPERLY RECIPES, page A12

A12 Oct. 12, 2023

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> FROM A11 ingredients into a 1 gallon freezer Ziplock bag. Add pork and marinate for at least 8 hours turning occasionally. Remove pork and reserve the marinade. Grill for about 15 minutes each side, basting with the reserved liquid, or until done. Do not overcook. Take of grill and let sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. CAST IRON SKILLET APPLE PIE Elizabeth Blackburn 1/2 cup butter 1 cup brown sugar 5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, quartered and thinly sliced 3 (9-inch) piecrusts (homemade or refrigerated pre-rolled) 1 cup white sugar, divided 2 tsp. ground cinnamon, divided 1/4 cup white sugar 1 Tbsp. butter, cut into small chunks Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place 1/2 cup butter into a heavy cast iron skillet and melt butter in the oven. Remove skillet and sprinkle with all of brown sugar; return to oven to heat while you prepare the apples. Remove skillet, and place 1 refrigerated piecrust on top of the brown sugar. Top piecrust with half the sliced apples. Sprinkle apples with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 tsp. of cinnamon; place a second pie crust over the apples; top the second crust with the remaining apples, and sprinkle with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tsp. cinnamon. Top with the third crust; sprinkle the top crust with 1/4 cup sugar, and dot with 1 Tbsp. of butter. Cut 4 slits into top crust for steam. Bake in the preheated oven until the apples are tender and crust is golden brown, about 45 minutes. Serve warm. BRYAN’S GRANDMOTHER’S SYLLABUB Ruth Cole Blackburn 1 ½ qt. heavy cream 1 qt. milk 1 ½ cups sherry, sweet or dry 1 ¾ cups sugar Mix and then let stand about 3 hours. Churn into a frothy drink, or use a mixer to whip it.

TOASTY BRIE AND EGG 1 Tbsp. butter 1 thick slice sourdough bread 1 egg Salt and ground black pepper to taste 1 thick slice brie (about 2 oz.) Sprig fresh thyme In a large skillet over medium-high, melt butter. Place bread in the skillet and toast until bottom is crisp and just turning golden, about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the bread to toast other side, pushing it to one side of the pan. Crack the egg into the other side of the pan. Season it with salt and pepper. About 1 minute before the egg is cooked to desired doneness, place brie on bread. Transfer the egg, sunny side up, onto brie. Cover skillet and cook for another minute. Serve immediately. BAYOU HOT CHICKEN DIP 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken 1/2 cup Louisianastyle hot sauce (we used Crystal Hot Sauce) 1 tsp. lime juice 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 1/4 cup Blue Plate® mayonnaise 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, finely shredded, divided 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, finely shredded 1 Tbsp. scallions, thinly sliced Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Butter an 8-inch cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Heat skillet over medium heat, add chicken and hot sauce and cook until the sauce has slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove skillet from heat. Add lime juice, Worcestershire, cream cheese, mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of the cheddar and pepper jack cheese and mix until well combined. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheddar over top. Bake, uncovered, until bubbling around the edges and cheese is melted. To brown the top, broil for 2 minutes. Remove from oven, garnish with scallions and serve with chips, toast points or sliced vegetables such as

carrots, celery or bell peppers. Makes 8 to 10 servings. KATHRYN’S MOM’S CORN SOUFFLE 3 eggs 3/8 cup (¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp.) sugar ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp. salt 1 ⅛ tsp. baking powder 3 cups heavy cream 2 cups fresh or frozen (thawed) yellow corn 1 Tbsp. melted butter Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 2 qt. baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In the bowl of a mixer beat eggs and sugar at medium speed for 3 minutes. Add flour, salt and baking powder and beat an additional 3 minutes. Stir in cream. Add corn and melted butter and stir to combine. Pour mixture into the prepared dish. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until lightly browned and puffed on top and set in the center. Cool on a wire rack for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. CREAMY WHITE CHICKEN CHILI 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, uncooked 1 1/2 tsp. chili powder 1 tsp. ground cumin 1/2 tsp. onion powder 1/2 tsp. garlic powder Dash of cayenne pepper 14.5 oz. can chicken broth 4.5 oz. can chopped green chiles 15 oz. can white corn, drained 2 15.5 oz. cans white beans, drained (Cannellini or Great Northern 3 Tbsp. butter 3 Tbsp. flour 1 cup milk 1 tsp. Better Than Bullion chicken base 1/4 tsp. white pepper 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt 1/2 cup sour cream Place chicken breasts on the bottom of a crockpot, and add chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, green chiles, corn and beans. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. About an hour before serving: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium high heat. Whisk in flour and allow to bubble and brown a bit. After a few minutes, gradually whisk in the milk and chicken base. Allow the sauce to

simmer for 4-5 minutes, whisking frequently until it is slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper. Pour sauce into crockpot and mix to combine. Add sour cream and mix. If chicken has not already shredded with stirring, take out large pieces, shred them with two forks, and return to crockpot. Let chicken chili cook on low 1 more hour, if you can. I did this in a large pot on stove instead. Brown chicken first and cut up or get a rotisserie chicken and cut off bone. If cooking on stove, add ingredients up to butter and cook for a while; then add butter and those ingredients. JULIA BLACKBURN’S OYSTER CASSEROLE 2 pints fresh jarred oysters 4 cups medium Ritz cracker crumbs 1 cup melted butter 1 ½ cups half & half ½ cup oyster liqueur(the liquid from the oyster jars) ½ tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper Preheat oven to 360 degrees. Drain oysters, reserving ½ cup oyster liqueur. In a large bowl, combine cracker crumbs and butter. Spread ⅓ of cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9”x13” casserole dish and top with ½ of oysters. Sprinkle with pepper. Repeat these steps once more. Combine half and half, oyster liqueur, Worcestershire sauce and salt. Pour liquid mixture over top of layers in casserole dish. Top with remaining crackers. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until top is golden and edges are bubbly. Let cool 15 minutes before serving. LOBSTER STEW 4 Tbsp. salted butter 1 large shallot, finely chopped 1 tsp. lobster base 1 tsp. salt 2 cups (about 1 lb.) cooked lobster meat 1 tsp. sherry 2 cups light cream 1 cup milk Melt butter in a pot. Add shallots and simmer until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add lobster

base and salt. Stir and add lobster meat and sherry. Stir for 5 minutes or more until lobster meat warms through. Add cream and milk and simmer 15 minutes until hot. Do not let it boil. It’s best when made a day ahead. Refrigerate and reheat. I usually double the recipe. 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS COOKIES From Gram Bettye Mathison Lowe 1 ¼ sticks real butter 6 heaping Tbsp. confectioners’ sugar 2 Tbsp. ice water 1 Tbsp. vanilla 1 cup chopped pecans Pinch of salt Flour for stiff dough about 2 cups + or - more or less Mix softened butter, vanilla, salt and water. Add flour. Blend well with hands. Add nuts for stiff dough. Divide in 3 balls. Put in refrigerator for 1 hour. Use 1 ball at a time. Shape into finger (your mother’s) size cookies. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 250 degrees for 1 hour or longer. Check doneness. When done they will be slightly brown and slightly crisp. Check by eating one now and then. Your Daddy can help with that part. Put confectioners’ sugar in brown bag. Dump cookies in and shake. The more you bake the better you get. BLACKBURNS’ SMOTHERED QUAIL 12 quail 12 Tbsp. butter 1 onion, finely chopped 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 2 ½ cups chicken broth Couple shakes of Worcestershire sauce ½ cup sherry Salt and pepper to taste Brown quail in a skillet with the butter. Remove quail to baking dish. Add the onion and cook until slightly brown. Add flour and stir well. Slowly add chicken broth, sherry, Worcestershire, salt and pepper. Blend well. You can add more flour and chicken broth if needed. Pour over quail. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Serve over rice or with steamed veggies. Adjust seasonings to your taste.

CAJUN SHRIMP PASTA Any of these amounts can be adjusted. I have used cooked gulf shrimp from the seafood department or even the frozen. Just remember to add the Cajun seasoning and just flash them in the skillet to coat with seasonings. You can keep the pasta separate from shrimp sauce until you plate it. That makes it easier to store leftovers. 1 medium shallot or ¼ medium onion 4 cloves garlic ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (don’t use dried) ¼ cup Parmesan cheese plus more for garnishing 6-7 oz. andouille sausage 1 lb. raw jumbo gulf shrimp peeled and deveined 1 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning 2 Tbsp. canola oil 1 ½ cups heavy cream Salt Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Meanwhile, finely chop onion and garlic cloves and set in small bowl. Finely chop leaves of parsley bunch until you have ½ cup. Cut andouille sausage into ⅓ inch thick rounds. Pat peeled shrimp dry and place in a bowl. Add Cajun seasoning and toss to evenly coat. You can add more. Add pasta to boiling water, cook until al dente about 8 to 12 minutes. Reserve about 1 cup of the liquid. Drain pasta. While pasta is cooking, heat 1 Tbsp. of oil over mediumhigh heat in a large skillet with high sides. Add sausage and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. With a slotted spoon, move sausage to a large bowl. Reduce heat to medium and add the shrimp. Cooked until pink and cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer shrimp to bowl with sausage. Add rest of\oil and add onions and garlic to skillet. Cook until onions are translucent and garlic golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add Parmesan, heavy cream, ½ cup pasta water and half of parsley. Stir to combine and simmer. Return shrimp and sausage and any accumulated juices to skillet and stir. Add pasta to skillet and toss until coated and sauce has thickened. If sauce is too thick add a little more pasta water. Taste, and you can add some more Cajun seasoning if you want a little more spice. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley on top.

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A13 Oct. 12, 2023

A Woman From Zambia, Sent By God

WALT ALBRITTON

OPINION — uring my first visit to the beautiful African country known as Zambia, my host Alfred Kalembo introduced me to his sister Catherine. Since her understanding of languages was limited to her native tongue, Tonga, we communicated mostly with smiles. Her brother and his wife, Muumbe,

served as our translators. Catherine and her beautiful young daughter, Linda, lived with Alfred and Muumbe, as well as a couple of orphaned children who had been welcomed into the Kalembo home. Alfred told me Zambia’s population of 11 million included one million orphans under age 15, the result of the HIV/

AIDS epidemic. Many of the orphans lived on the streets in urban areas. One day, Alfred took us to a vacant lot nearby and while standing on the lot, he said, “We want to build Catherine a home on this lot.” I thought, “That’s a nice idea.” My wife looked at me and said, “We need to build Catherine a home here.” We returned home and I forgot about building a home for Catherine. Dean did not forget. Soon she had persuaded her friends in the Frazer Sunday School Class to build a home for her friend Catherine. The next year, some 16 months later, we stood in that home and visited with Catherine

and the two orphans she had welcomed into her home. She was sleeping on a mat on the floor; we bought her a bed. She had water but no hot water; we bought her a hot water heater. The loving bond between Catherine and Dean grew stronger as the years passed. Dean was always excited when a letter arrived from Catherine, a letter dictated by Catherine and translated into English by Muumbe. Dean wanted Catherine to come to Alabama but it could not be arranged until almost three years after Dean’s death. Seventeen years after the two women met, last Saturday night, Catherine finally slept in our home, along with Alfred and

Muumbe. Dean would have been so happy; and I am believing she was. Karen, our son Tim’s wife, had redecorated a small bedroom; she even repainted the wall to make is special for Catherine. Sunday morning, with Muumbe translating her Tonga words into English, Catherine spoke for 20 minutes to the members of the Frazer Class, thanking them for her home and for supporting her gardening work, a ministry for the poor, for the past 17 years. She shared her gratitude for those who helped her daughter Linda finish school and recently became a college graduate. She shared her faith in Jesus

and her love for Dean. I wiped away my own tears as I viewed the moist eyes of many class member friends. Later my son Tim said to me, “Dad, I would not take anything for the joy of hearing Catherine speak about the way she loved my mother. God brought her all the way from Africa to do that.” Smiling, and hoping he would not notice the moisture in my eyes, I replied, “It touched me deeply too, son.” Silently, I began thanking Jesus, once again, for the ways He keeps on blessing me. This time He sent a woman from Zambia to bless me and many others — and she did! Glory!

Alabama 36801. Contributions will honor James's memory and support the church's important work. For more information, please contact Pepperell Baptist Church at 334-745-3108. James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy as a hardworking entrepreneur, father and devoted friend will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Frederick-Dean funeral home and crematory directed.

JOSEPH WILLIAM LEONARD oseph William Leonard, passed away on Oct. 4, 2023, in Auburn, at the age of 87. He was born on Oct. 31, 1935, in Opelika, to his late parents, Emmet and Thelma Leonard. Joseph is now reunited with his beloved wife, Ella Mae Leonard, who preceded him in death. Joseph will be missed by his surviving children Rita Dauber (Bob), Ronald Leonard and Sandy Leonard

OBITUARIES MARION ANDREW POTTS SR. arion was preceded in death by daughter Sandie Michelle Potts, son William Anderson Potts, and sister-in-law June Lucas Brown. Survivors include his wife Delorise Potts, spouse of 59 years; son Marion Potts Jr. (Leigh Anne); granddaughters Taylor and Macy Potts; grandsons Will (Taryn) and Cainan Potts; greatgranddaughter Gwen Potts; sister-in-law Debra Lucas Weldon; brothers Mose Potts and James Nichols (Gloria); niece April Nichols Tatusko (Chris); and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and friends. Born in Elmore County, Marion graduated from Tallassee High School. After 24 years, he retired from the Navy as CPO. He then continued his work at Ampex Corporation and retired after 35 years. Marion loved his Lord and Savior and served as a deacon at Providence Baptist Church. He was actively involved with Carpenters for Christ, Disaster Relief, and the Lions Club. In his spare time, Marion enjoyed making quilts, working on lawn mowers, and helping anyone in need.

He authored two booklets about his thoughts on everyday life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests you make a donation in Marion’s memory to Carpenters for Christ (Lakeview Baptist Church, 600 E Glenn Ave, Auburn, AL 36830) or Providence Baptist Church Building Fund (2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika, AL 36804). JAMES VAN DUKE ames Van Duke, 91, passed away peacefully on Oct. 4, 2023, in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Born on July 7, 1932, in Pepperell Village, James was a hardworking individual who dedicated his life to his passions and people. He loved to have fun. James was a man of many talents and interests. He worked at Fredericks Funeral Home to support his education at Auburn University, where he excelled. His true passion, however, lay in building and construction. In his twenties, he built his first small commercial strip mall, which still stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship. James was also a writer, boater, traveler, fisherman and

he loved to sing. He enjoyed camping and cherished the time he spent supporting his beloved Auburn football team, proudly shouting "War Eagle!" James is survived by his daughters Toni Branyon Smucker, Elizabeth Lynn Hardison and Joanie Graham (Allen); his three grandchildren Brittany Anne Branyon (Richard Bradshaw), Eryn Cuniff (Joel) and Amber Skufa (Donnie); six great-grandchildren Jude Barrett Cole, Magnolia Ruth Bradshaw, Charlotte Skufa, Graham Skufa, James Cuniff and Jack Cuniff; nieces Pamela Hudman, Cynthia Landry (Michael), Sonya Green (Terry); mephews Andy Hudman (Karen), Joe McAdory (Kathy), Cameron Tarrh (Eryn) and Chandler Tarrh. James was preceded in death by his parents Pearlie Mae Duke and William Owen Duke; son-in-law Phillip John Smucker; sisters Nella Mae Acton, Elizabeth Boddie and Betty Jo McAdory; brother Jack Gross; nieces Billie Hudman and Jackie Tarrh. A graveside service was be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 6, 2023,

at Rose Hill Cemetery in Tallassee, Alabama. Friends and family are invited to attend and pay their final respects to James. For the past 15 years he has called Town Village Assisted Living in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, home. They have been family and will hold a celebration of life at an upcoming date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pepperell Baptist Church, located at 2702 Second Ave. Opelika,

See OBITUARIES, page A14

NAMI of East Alabama Will Host an 8-Week Educational Program: “Family-To-Family” Mondays From 0ct. 9 To Nov. 27 6 to 8:30 p.m. Auburn United Methodist Church — Room A-107 This is a peer-led group for family members or friends of adults with a mental illness. To Register, Or For More Information, Contact Emilyn: Emilynng@Yahoo.com or 334-444-4032 Dan: Dlkeidel@Me.com — 678-296-6976 There is no cost for the program.

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

A14 Oct. 12, 2023

Sincerely But No Longer Yours

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

RELIGION — n Daniel 2, we have the first of the five visions found in the book. God initially gave the vision to Nebuchadnezzar in a dream and enables Daniel (in contrast to the king’s spiritual advisors), to tell the king what that

dream is and explain its significance. The vision/dream is explained by Daniel in simple terms. What Nebuchadnezzar saw was a statue of a human figure with four different parts (head of gold, chest and arms of silver, stomach and thighs of bronze, legs and feet of iron and clay). Each part represented a kingdom that will rule the world. The statue begins in Daniel’s time, so the head is the Babylonian kingdom (v. 37-38). The kingdom that succeeded the Babylonians was the Medo-Persian kingdom, so it is the chest and arms. They were followed by the kingdom of Greece, represented by the

stomach and thighs, and Rome came after that, so it is the legs and feet. In interpretive terms, this isn’t rocket science, just basic history. There are, of course, other views, but this is by far the simplest and most straightforward and without the difficulties of the others. This part of the vision, in keeping with the book’s overall thrust, shows that it is Yahweh, not Nebuchadnezzar, who oversees both the present and the future. The sleepless king knows nothing of the future and is dependent upon Yahweh to explain the dreams he has in his bedroom. As for the future, the dream lays out roughly the next six

hundred years of history. Know anyone who can do that? We don’t even know if it’s going to rain or not tomorrow. Only God can do this as Daniel tells the king now. The other element of the vision/dream concerns a rock that is cut, but not by human hands. This rock smashes the feet of the statue (presumably toppling it over), so that it is destroyed, and the wind blows away its debris. The rock, however, is transformed into a huge mountain that fills the earth. Daniel identifies this as God’s kingdom. It will never be destroyed, left to another people, it will crush the previous kingdoms, and endure forever (v. 44).

This part of the vision is dripping with significance. Once again, God’s sovereignty is clearly on display. Kingdoms which rule the world are no match for the kingdom He will create. He not only knows the future, He’s in charge of it. Furthermore, from the vantage point of time, this vision lets us know that God’s kingdom will be set up in the days of Rome. This dovetails with what we find in the gospels (Mark 1:14-15). Finally, we are told this kingdom will endure forever (v. 44). Rome was known as the “eternal kingdom,” but it wasn’t the real deal — that would be See GREEN, page A15

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. — 1 Chronicles 16:10

CHURCH DIRECTORY ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road Valley 334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487

OBITUARIES >>

FOM A13

(Shellie); his grandson Brian Dauber (Rachel) and his great-grandsons Brayden Dauber and Caleb Dauber. He is also survived by his siblings Jack, Jerry and Margie He was predeceased by his siblings James, John and Margaret. Joseph served in the Army from 1954 to 1956. Following his military service, Joseph worked at West Point Pepperell, where he dedicated 47 years of his life. Joseph was a member

CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552

Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108

EPISCOPAL- AME Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika 334-749-1690

Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148

Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608

EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054

Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949

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

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800

Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika

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

of Farmville Baptist Church. A private family interment will take place at Farmville Baptist Cemetery, where Joseph will be laid to rest. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family during this difficult time. Joseph William Leonard will be remembered for his love for his family, his dedication to his country and his commitment to his work. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Place Your Ad or Announcement Here — $20

Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755

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

If you are searching for a friendly, loving and Spirit lled church, Father’s House Christian Fellowship is the church for you. Serving this community since 1999 Father’s House Christian Fellowship is located at 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika. Sunday 10:30 a.m. and Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

The Lions Club of Opelika meets every Monday at noon at Western Sizzlin' in Opelika. Email gm.markley@ charter.net.

A15 Oct. 12, 2023

Trunk or Treat With LCSO Oct. 23 CONTRIBUTED BY LCSO

LEE COUNTY — Join the Lee County Sheriff's Office for a festive and fun Trunk-or-Treat event on Oct. 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Trunk-or-Treat with the deputies, members of the

Lee County District Attorney’s Office and other community partners, and get up close to your favorite law enforcement vehicles while showing off your Halloween costumes. This event is free and is open to the public.

LEE COUNTY — Mount of Transfiguration Bishop Norman E. Hardman Sr. has become a new agency partner with the Food Bank of East Alabama, giving out food and toiletries to the Lee County community. This organization is taking off in a new direction with outreach, under the leadership of Minister Alicia Ogletree of OCM Ministries who has been working in the community for 12 years

helping needy and low income families. This nonprofit organization

is giving out items on a monthly basis. The next scheduled day

FROM A14

the kingdom that God established through Jesus (Mark 9:1). Disciples are part of a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).

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 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

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. is on Oct. 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. First come, first served of 30 households. The food pantry is always open to help those individuals/families that need that extra gift in life. These authentic food pantry shirts say it all; SHARE the LOVE. Please call in advance if you are in need of food on an offscheduled day. 334737-5100 or 334-7505958.

GREEN >>

FARMER'S MARKETS OGrows Fall Market, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

Food Giveaway Planned for Oct. 14 CONTRIBUTED BY OCM

What's Happening in Lee County

Let’s make sure we live like it. The world may fret and moan because of the latest headline, the last disappointment or their lessening ability. If you belong to Jesus, you are part of a kingdom that cannot be shaken. We can

send anxiety and worry a text telling them that. At the end we can put: Sincerely, but no longer yours. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-gracewith-bruce-green.com.

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS ANNOUNCE 2023-24 MEETING DATES Auburn/Opelika MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and MOMSNext meet at Pepperell Baptist Church located at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika.

- Dec. 7 - Jan. 18 - Feb. 1, 15 - March 7, 21 - April 4, 18 - May 2 The next meetings scheduled are: Contact Rachel Elrod at 706- Oct. 19 244-5620 or Kaela Sexton at 719- Nov. 2, 16 351-8093 for further information.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet Oct. 18, 2023, at 7 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.

A16 Oct. 12, 2023

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

Schools & Sports ON THE MARK Final Seconds Changes the Game OPINION — AHS BEAT OHS 31-30 ON LATE TD Auburn High (5-1, R 4-1) beat Opelika (3-4, R 3-2) 31-30 in front of a standing room only crowd inside Bulldog Stadium last Friday night. Facing fourth and goal from the Bulldog 5-yard line, Auburn QB Henry Allen rolled to his right and threw back across the field to a wide open (tight end) Griffen McLean for the game tying touchdown. Towns McGough made the game winning PAT moments after the TD. The Bulldogs played well and led the Tigers most of the game. They held a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter but could not hold on for the win. The game marked AHS’s fourth straight victory against rival Opelika, including three in a row for coach Keith Etheredge, while Opelika coach Erik Speakman drops to 1-4 against his top rival. The Bulldogs gained 439 total offensive yards, including 190 rushing and 249 passing yards. Auburn gained 401 total

yards, including 171 passing yards and 230 rushing yards. Quarterback Roman Gagliano was 16 of 32 for 190-yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Jamari Williams rushed eight times for 110 yards and one touchdown, and wide receiver Jalen Tolbert caught four passes for 121 yards. Auburn running back Omar Mabson rushed for 143 yards on 21 carries. Opelika travels to play at Smiths Station (0-6) Friday at 7 p.m. central time. OHS has won 22 of the 24 games played in the series. SSHS won 24-10 in 1994 and 3-0 in 2013. The Panthers are winless in six games under first year head coach Bryant Garrison, losing to Pleasant Grove 54-14, Central 51-0, Prattville 43-9, Enterprise 54-7, Dothan 0-66 and Benjamin Russell 34-23. Opelika, which won 31-14 last year at Bulldog Stadium, must beat the Panthers to stay in the playoff hunt. Central leads the region See ON THE MARK, page B5

Lee-Scott Photos B5

• OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING OCT. 24 AT 4:30 P.M. • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING NOV. 14 AT 6 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING NOV. 14 AT 6 P.M.

OPELIKA V. AUBURN GAME PHOTOS— B3 Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023

Friday Night Lights Recap: Week 7

BY D. MARK MITCHELL THE OBSERVER

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS

LEE COUNTY — High school football is nearing the end of its regular play followed by regional games that are still being fought for on the gridiron. Here is a recap of some of last week's games from the area. LEE-SCOTT 41 | BESSEMER 11 Lee-Scott Academy defeated Bessemer Academy 41-11 on senior night at Jud Scott Field. Prior to the game, seven Warrior football players and senior cheerleaders, band members and other studentathletes participating with the team. Warrior head coach

See WEEK 7, page B4

Auburn scores the winning TD with just seconds left in the game, beating Opelika 31-30 Oct. 6.

100% About Community BY ELI HUDSPETH FOR THE OBSERVER BEULAH — The Future Farmers of America organization has always been community oriented. Clint Cobb of Beulah High School is making sure he prolongs that. A grant of $6,500 was awarded to the high school this past September. “The name of the project is learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve,” Cobb said. “With this equipment grant, my kids are going to be learning. They’re going to be learning to saw and how to use this equipment. They’re also going to be doing it to learn. They’re learning how to do it, how to do

it better, and they’re earning to live and living to serve. Like I said, the equipment will also be used as a community wood bank. It’s 100% about the community.” With the new equip-

ment from the grant, the community will have the chance to benefit from this as well. “The equipment that we’re getting is a sawmill for our forestry and agriculture program.

This will be used to mill wood for anyone in the community who needs it. Along with the mill, we got a log splitter and a trailer to haul the equipment on. With the log splitter, we’ll have that open for the community to bring down wood and get split. If they want to donate wood, we can split it and have wood on hand at the school; If someone needs wood for heating, they can drop by and pick it up. The kids are getting experience and learning to run the mill and splitter, while also giving the community service as well.” Cobb has been teaching at Beulah for 19 years now. Prior to that,

See FFA, page B6

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

www.theorthoclinic.com

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

B2 Oct. 12, 2023

Loachapoka Indians Remain on Top PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

Loachapoka remains undefeated as it finished week seven of regular season play, beating Calhoun 39-0.

PLAYER of the

WEEK PLAYER OF THE GAME The City of Opelika is proud to sponsor the Opelika High School Player of the Week. We applaud you for your HARD WORK and DEDICATION on and off the football field.

JORDAN TOLBERT 4 CATCHES FOR 121-YARDS AND 1 TD

BEULAH HIGH SCHOOL Wes Grant 116 passing yards and 1 TD First time as QB

Lee County Sheriff’s Office is proud to support our local athletes! STAY INFORMED SUBMIT A REPORT, & SO MUCH MORE

#myOpelika • www.opelika-al.gov

SCAN THE QR CODE AND DOWNLOAD THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE APP

Lee County Sheriff’s Office

1900 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36803 334-749-5651 | LeeCountySheriff.org

@LeeCoSheriffAL

B3 Oct. 12, 2023

When Seconds Count: Auburn Beats Opelika

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Opelika High School lost its game against Auburn High Oct. 6 when AHS scored a TD and a successful extra point with just seconds left in the game. Read D. Mark Mitchell's recap on B1.

LEE-SCOTT

AUBURN

MATTHEW ROLADER

OMAR MABSON

2-Field Goals, 44-yards and 43-yards, 4 for 4 on Extra Points/ all kickoffs were touchbacks

21-Rushes, 143-yards and 2-TD's

B4 Oct. 12, 2023

Beulah Falls to Dadeville BY CAITLYN GRIFFIN FOR THE OBSERVER

However, the Beulah offense was having to deal with a handicap in the game. Starting quarterback Demarion Foreman suffered an ankle injury in the Bobcats’ previous game against Prattville and was unable to play, forcing backup Wes Grant to take control of the offense. Grant did throw a touchdown but was struggling to get going for most of the game, partially due to a lack of time in the pocket. Overall, the night was another disappointing performance for the Bobcats, who fell to 2-4 on the season and 1-2 in region play. Beulah will look to bounce back this week as it travel to Childersburg High for another region matchup. As for Dadeville, the Tigers improved to 3-2 on the year and 3-1 in region play. Dadeville will look to continue building momentum through the rest of the season and has a bye next week before welcoming Childersburg to town on Oct. 20.

October Athletes of the Month Nominations Open

Thank you to all our sponsors: Mr.Gatti's Pizza, State Rep. Debbie Wood, Kelley Legacy Law, Chick-fil-A Tiger Town, Christie Hill State Farm, Irish Bred Pub, Johnstone Supply, O Town and USA Cajun Station. www.opelikaobserver.com/make-your-nominations-for-the-october-athletes-of-the-month/

PHOTO BY JOHN HILLSMAN / FOR THE OBSERVER

SMITHS STATION — The Beulah Bobcats welcomed the Dadeville Tigers to town this past Friday for a matchup in region play under the Friday Night Lights. Despite Beulah’s efforts to protect its home turf, Dadeville was able to emerge with a 41-10 victory. Dadeville’s biggest asset in the game was the rushing attack, led by the three-headed monster of Brandez Eason, Tajavion Burns and Corde Jefferson. The trio combined for more than 300 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns and appeared to be unstoppable for most of the game. As for Beulah, the Bobcats’ first points of the game came courtesy of kicker Reed Maloof on a 21-yard field goal late in the second quarter. The Bobcats would also score its lone touchdown in the game in the second quarter. Quarterback Wes Grant delivered a three-yard touchdown

pass to receiver L.J. Fitzpatrick with twelve seconds left in the half to bring the Bobcats within ten, making the halftime score 20-10 in favor of Dadeville. In the second half, though, Beulah would find no such success. The Bobcats’ first drive of the second half ended with an interception that was returned to their 47yard line and would lead to a Dadeville touchdown drive. From then on, Beulah’s remaining drives would result in a punt, a fumble leading to a turnover on downs, a dropped interception resulting in a turnover on downs and a short drive to run out the last minute and sixteen seconds left in the game. Dadeville’s defense absolutely suffocated the Bobcats, and it started in the trenches. Linebacker Tajavion Burns led the way for the Tigers, recording double-digit tackles and making physical hits in the run game that appeared to wear down the Beulah rushing attack.

Beauregard Presents 2023 Homecoming Court

Beauregard High School's 2023 Homecoming Court was recently announced. Pictured on the first row from left to right are senior Hannah Helms-Childers, senior Ainslie Stowes, senior Molly Conway; second row from left to right are junior Destiny Marshall, junior Lucy Vann; and on the third row from left to right are freshman Kya Chandler, freshman Ellie Grace Burroughs, sophomore Raegan Brooks and sophomore Anna Claire Jenkins. The 2023 homecoming queen will be crowned Oct. 13.

WEEK 7 >>

FROM B1

Buster Daniel leaned on his seniors to earn the win. LSA was led offensively by Seniors JJ Meyers and Jake White. The duo combined to gain over 270 offensive yards and four TD'S. Meyers rushed for 44-yards and gained 76 receiving yards, Jake White caught 11 passes for 165-yards and QB Pelzer Reeves was 13 of 17 for 287 yards. Matt Rolader made kicks from 40 and 33 yards and connected on all PAT. The Warriors play in Valient Cross at "John-Mark Stallings Field" at Faulkner University Friday at 7 p.m. LANETT 7 | REELTOWN 50 The Reeltown Rebels (6-0) beat Lanett 50-7 last Fridat at Morgan Washburn Stadium. The Rebels scored early and often last week. Baylor Clayton forced four fumbles, two sacks and recovered two fumbles. RHS has outscored their opponents 290-56 after six games. The Rebels continue to improve and can maske a legitiment run to play in the Super 7 Football Championship at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. LOCAL SCORES Central remained undefeated with a 48-14 win over previously unbeated region foe , Dothan. Beauregard slipped by Sylacauga 39-38, Central Clay blewout Valley 470, Elmore County beat Tallassee 34-20, UPCOMING GAMES Opelika at Smiths Station, Beauregard hosts Elmore Co, Valley at Tallassee, Beulah at Childersburg, Lanett at LaFayette, Loachapoka at Calhoun, Notasulga at Central Haneyville, Glennwood hosts Macon East.

WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTOR Plumbing & Heating Supplies Pipes - Valves - Fittings 334.625.3384 800.625.3384 1975 MALL BLVD. STE. 106, AUBURN, ALABAMA

B5 Oct. 12, 2023

Senior Night Brings Another Win for LSA PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / THE OBSERVER

Lee-Scott Academy beat Bessemer Academy last week 41-11. LSA is 6-1 for the season with its only loss coming from Glenwood. Read the week seven recap on B1 by D. Mark Mitchell for more details on the game.

ON THE MARK >>

FROM B1

with a 5-0 record, AHS is 4-1, Enterprise is 3-1, while Dothan and Opelika are 3-2. OHS can make the playoffs by winning the remaining four region games. Fans can purchase tickets to the Smiths Station/OHS football game online at www. gofan.co or you can pay cash at the gate. You can listen to the game on WKKE 97.7 Kicker FM and online at kickerfm. com or live streaming on www.nfhsnetwork.com. OPELIKA CROSS COUNTRY

Members of the Opelika girls and boys cross country teams participated in the Jesse Owens Classic at Oakville Indian Mounds Park, where Brantley Turnham finished 53rd in the gold division, the top division at the meet. Following is a list of OHS runners and results of the Invitational meet. GIRLS 19:55.51 - Caroline Couey,18th Girls Silver 22:25.68 Violett Alcorn 146th, Girls Silver 23:41.07 - Frida Cruz Valdez, 204th Girls Silver 24:57.15 - Heidi Peralta Fernandez, 237th Girls Silver 27:19.75 - Ellie

Kendrick, 251st Girls Silver BOYS 16:04.38 - Brantley Turnham, 53rd Boys Gold 18:04.96 - Amari Bynum, 115th Boys Silver 18:56.10 - Burch Harris, 173rd Boys Silver 19:02.36 - Aiden Stephens, 176th Boys Silver 19:07.51 - Drew Schoonoven, 178th Boys Silver 19:12.35 - Ben Bell, 181st Boys Silver 19:23.72 - Caleb Thornton, 195th Boys Silver 19:54.13 - Seth Huling, 176th Boys Red

19:58.67 - Zane Sexton, 221st Boys Silver 21:00.32 - Alexander Burgess, 245th Boys Red 21:26.46 - Tripp Campbell, 269th Boys Red 24:31.36 - Kaden Hua, 355 Boys Red AHSAA NEWS The Alabama High School Athletic Association has been busy the last few weeks because several member schools have violated rules. AHSAA Executive Director Alvin Briggs has been forced to sanction several high schools for forfeiting games, violence/unsportsmanlike actions, transfer rule and

clarification of "gift cards" and amateurism. Vigor forfeits the win over UMS-Wright on Sept. 22 for violating the transfer rule, leaving the Wolves at 3-2 in the region. Pell City forfeits its only win of the season, Sept. 15 against Centerpoint, for violating the transfer rule. Coosa Christian forfeits four games for violation of the transfer rule. The AHSAA appears to be cracking down on teams with ineligible players, if reported. Briggs always says that the AHSAA is in the business of making student-athletes

eligible, not ineligible. I believe more high schools could face penalties in the coming weeks. Nothing official, but someone close to the AHSAA informed me under the condition of anonymity, several schools are being investigated by the AHSAA. Stay tuned for info as it becomes available. 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.

B6 Oct. 12, 2023

James Owens Foundation Community Service Award AUBURN Since 2017, the James Owens Foundation has sought out members of the Auburn-Opelika community who had dedicated their lives to serving others – particularly young people. James Owens was Auburn University’s first Black football player who joined the Tigers in 1969 and eventually as an assistant coach in 1982. Owens passed in 2016, but his wife Gloria made it her mission to set up JOF because her husband had wanted to see young minorities succeed. “James was passionate about helping his community to ensure that minority students and other low-income students had an opportunity and a pathway to success,” Owens said. Each year, JOF presents its Community Service Award to someone in the community who has done extraordinary work simply

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY TUCKER MASSEY FOR THE OBSERVER

Marion Sanke, founder and executive director of The Dream Day Foundation, was recently awarded the James Owens Foundation Community Service Award.

to help others. This year, Marion Sankey of Opelika was awarded that honor. “[Marion] is someone who has been walking that path for years,” Owens said. Sankey worked as an educator for 40 years. While teaching, Sankey taught the Owens’ youngest daughter. Today, Sankey is the

executive director of The Dream Day Foundation, a nonprofit that guides young people and gives them opportunities to give back to their communities. Sankey found TDDF in 2009 with the hope that it would inspire younger generations. “I was shocked at first,” Sankey said of learning

she had been awarded the Community Service Award. “There were so many others who had come before me and had been right along with me that give so much back to the community. I was taken aback but very honored and humbled to have been selected.” Sankey said she did not

Preserving Alabama’s Rosenwald Schools with Exhibit CONTRIBUTED BY THE ALABAMA DEPT. OF ARCHIVES AND HISTORY ALABAMA — The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH) has opened a new temporary exhibit, History Lives On: Preserving Alabama’s Rosenwald Schools, at the Museum of Alabama. This exhibit was created by Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design and Construction in partnership with the ADAH. It will be on view through May 2024. In the early twentieth century, Julius Rosenwald, president of Sears Roebuck & Co., used his extensive financial resources to transform the landscape of public education in the rural, segregated South. Inspired by Tuskegee Institute — now Tuskegee University. President Booker T. Washington’s efforts to expand Black education, Rosenwald collaborated with Washington to pilot a community-matched grant program to fund the construction of six schools in central Alabama. The success of the program led Rosenwald to establish the Rosenwald Fund. Between 1917 and 1932, nearly 5,000 new schools were built in 15 southern states, including more than 400 in Alabama. Forty percent of Black children in the South attended a Rosenwald school at the height of the program. The success of the program is in large part due to Black communities and white supporters who advocated for educational opportunities, raised funds and maintained the schools for decades. By the time of widespread school integration in the 1960s, many of Rosenwald Schools were deemed too small or otherwise

unsuitable for continued use. While some of these schools today have found new life as community centers, museums, and church facilities, most have disappeared from the landscape or are under threat of deterioration and destruction. The exhibit is the culmination of a research project entitled Realizing Rosenwald. This multiphase project began in 2020 as an interdisciplinary collaboration with Auburn University Professors Junshan Liu (Building Science), David Smith (Graphic Design), and Gorham Bird (Architecture). The research focuses on the identification and documentation of extant Rosenwald Schools in Alabama using the latest technology to digitally measure and survey the existing places. The project has continued to expand to include efforts to assist with the physical preservation of some of Alabama’s remaining schools. This work has been funded by the Auburn University Creative Work and Social Impact Scholarship (CWSIS); seed grants from the College of Architecture, Design and Construction; McWhorter Fund for Excellence grants; and Auburn University Tiger Giving Day. In addition to the team at Auburn, Dr. Kwesi Daniels, architecture professor at Tuskegee University, served as a key collaborator for the exhibit design, building on a twenty-year partnership between Auburn and Tuskegee to preserve Alabama’s remaining Rosenwald Schools. Many of the artifacts featured in the exhibit are on loan from the Mt. Sinai Community Center, housed in the only remaining Rosenwald

School in Autauga County. Visitors to the exhibit will learn not only about the individuals who started the Rosenwald Schools and the buildings themselves, but also about local communities across Alabama who worked to raise funds and to build and sustain these schools over generations. The exhibit will also explore today’s efforts by community members and alumni to preserve Alabama’s remaining historic Rosenwald buildings and the rich legacies they represent. “We hope the public will gain a better understanding of the resilience and self-determination of the communities that worked to build and maintain these schools to educate generations of children,” said Bird, assistant professor of architecture and lead exhibit designer. “It’s been a privilege to meet and learn about the experience of alumni, to see their ongoing commitment to preserving the history of Alabama’s Rosenwald schools, and to share their stories through our research and this exhibit.” “The Archives is grateful for this opportunity to work with Auburn University in amplifying the stories of Alabamians who collaborated in the early twentieth century to expand educational opportunities for African Americans, and of those who are striving today to keep alive the legacies of these vital community institutions,” said ADAH director Steve Murray. The ADAH will host an opening event on Tuesday, Oct. 17. A reception will begin at 5 p.m. followed by a panel discussion about Rosenwald Schools and the Realizing Rosenwald research project at 6 p.m.

The presentation is part of the ADAH’s ongoing History/Now series. The opening event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects and the Alabama Humanities Alliance. For more information, please call (334) 353-4689 or email alex.colvin@ archives.alabama.gov. The College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) at Auburn University houses programs in architecture, interior architecture, landscape architecture, environmental design, graphic design, industrial design and construction management. Today, more than 1,500 students are enrolled in CADC’s highly regarded graduate and undergraduate programs, led by more than 40 faculty. Reflecting the land-grant mission of the university, CADC puts design thinking and building skills to work on today’s challenges, addressing sustainable and equitable solutions in all areas of the built environment. The Alabama Department of Archives and History is the state’s government-records repository, a specialcollections library and research facility and home to the Museum of Alabama, the state history museum. It is located in downtown Montgomery, directly across Washington Avenue from the State Capitol. The Museum of Alabama is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The EBSCO Research Room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, visit www.archives. alabama.gov or call (334) 242-4364.

think she had done anything differently from what she has done for much of her life to receive the award. She said she was never looking to be noticed or given anything in return for her work. She simply wanted to give back to her community. “I don’t look for awards. I just do what I do,” Sankey said. “I’ve been doing it for so long, and I don’t think about what I’m going to get because that’s not my purpose. I just try to follow my purpose and passion, and that is to move our young people to the next level to be a change-maker.” Over the years, Sankey and TDDF has worked to better the lives of those in Lee County through service projects and acts of kindness like giving out $50 Kroger gift cards to families with young children. Throughout the year, Sankey and TDDF also host events like the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration – an event that they will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of in 2024

– and the Teen Summit, formerly known as the Black Male Summit. Sankey did not take credit for all the work TDDF had done that was recognized by JOF. She said she was grateful for the many people who had supported her and TDDF over the years, specifically the group’s board members. “I am very thankful for the board members who have all been very supportive of keeping The Dream Day Foundation out front and supporting all that we do in the community,” Sankey said. Recently, JOF and TDDF entered a partnership to create a mentorship program through golfing. Sankey said the purpose of the golfing mentorship goes far beyond simply playing a game. “The main purpose is not to just teach the fundamentals of golf, but also to find out the needs of these young people and to mentor them and to See OWENS, page B8

Brain Imaging Research Study Seeking Participants CONTRIBUTED BY JOE MCADORY / AUBURN UNIVERSITY AUBURN — If you are at least 50 years old, you may be eligible to participate in a brain imaging research study of the effect of trauma and PTSD on the brains of older adults. Individuals with and without trauma or PTSD may be eligible to participate. Participants will be asked to complete online questionnaires about their mental health and stressful life events. Some participants will be invited for a second part of the study during which they will undergo an MRI scan of the brain. Total time commitment for the study is approximately 1 hour for the online questionnaires and 2.5 hours for the MRI session. Total time in the MRI scanner is approximately 75 minutes. The MRI scan will take place at

FFA >>

FROM B1

he was at Beauregard. This is Cobb's second year with the FFA program at Beulah. Additionally, he served in the military and was deployed to Iraq three times before retiring. More updates are

the AU MRI Research Center. Participants who complete the online questionnaires will be entered into a drawing for one of four $25 Amazon electronic gift cards. Participants will be compensated up to $100 for the MRI scan. Exclusions for this study include: - Any metal in the head (not including most dental work), pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillators, deep brain stimulation devices or any other non-removable devices that are electrically, magnetically or mechanically controlled or activated - Claustrophobia - Neurological disorders (e.g., TBI, tumor, stroke) If you are interested in participating, please visit aub.ie/ PTSDaging for more information and to complete the online questionnaires. Questions? Please email AUMRLAB@ gmail.com.

available on the “Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve” community service project here: www.facebook.com/ people/Beulah-Ffa/ pfbid0yV6fzXTYqCY2us6cGUNWxU9ngxQdWvfXqYEdHf2945eZbbXvDxKrfe5AKHj8CNKNl/.

B7 Oct. 12, 2023

Fall Public Relations Speaker Series Empowers Students AUBURN — The Auburn University Public Relations Advisory Council invited Auburn students from all majors to the Harold D. Melton Student Center to network with industry professionals and gain valuable guidance through the Fall Public Relations Speaker Series. The event included a panel discussion with public relations alumni and a networking session, allowing students to connect with and learn from a wide range of public relations practitioners as they

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OAKS AGENCY / WRITTEN BY DARBY ROSE

Auburn University students heard from public relations alumni and industry professionals to learn more in their fields through the Fall Public Relations Speaker Series on campus.

prepare to enter the professional world. This year’s panelists included: • Alyssa Turner '22, public relations

alumna, creative content manager, Office of the Governor for the state of Alabama • Sarah Benton '21, public relations

alumna, senior account executive, BRAVE Public Relations • Matheson Carroll '21, public relations alumna, creative

project manager, Delta Window-Seat • Carter Brown ‘18, public relations alumnus, director of digital marketing, PLAE

• Julie Anne Jacobs '17, public relations alumna, communications project manager, Country Music See SERIES, page B8

Extreme Powersports Opelika Bike Night at Red Clay Brewing Company BY TUCKER MASSEY FOR THE OBSERVER OPELIKA — On Oct. 19 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Extreme Powersports Opelika will be teaming up with Red Clay Brewing Company for the second year in a row to host the Extreme Opelika Bike Night. While a motorcycle meet-up hosted by a company called

“Extreme” may be alarming to some, General Manager of Extreme Powersports Opelika Josh Dyal and Marketing and Branding Manager for Extreme Powersports Rob Carter said that this event went far beyond motorcycles — this event was about forming and encouraging community. “What we do with [Extreme] Bike Night is we bring the bikes out,

Dyal said. “We get the community involved and people get to really see what we have to offer.” Carter said that while the entire community is involved, the original purpose of the night is to provide a place for riders to gather and connect. In fact, Carter said that riders in the AuburnOpelika community had been “starved for a bike night for motorcycle riders.”

“There’s not a lot of events that go on for these guys and ladies,” Carter said. “When [Extreme Powersports] purchased East Alabama Powersports and turned into Extreme Powersports Opelika, one of the biggest things we wanted to do right off the bat was … make sure we were part of this community.” Part of establishing themselves within the

community started with finding a local outlet that was willing to partner with them to help host the night. Carter said that Red Clay Brewing Company was an obvious choice to reach out to. “We thought we needed to team up with someone because our facility is not big enough for the crowd we bring,” he said. “That’s when we reached out to Red

Clay Brewing Company and decided, ‘Hey, we’ll do it here,’ because who has a better pulse on the community than the local watering hole?” Riders and families who don’t ride often come out to the event just to hang out. Food trucks and music will be part of the night, but the main focus is letting the community really form a See BIKES, page B8

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B8 Oct. 12, 2023

ANF Offers New Scholarships for Fall 2023 CONTRIBUTED BY ANF

Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established in 1984 for the purpose of serving the nursing profession in the state through educational support, research grants and benevolent assistance to nurses in crisis. Over the years, the ANF has provided scholarships related to nursing education and community grants for qualifying projects initiated by nurses. In 2015 the “Nurses Save Lives” specialty auto license tags were approved by the Alabama Legislature, and the popularity of the tags has grown every year in significant proportions. Consequently, the ANF has been able to increase scholarship awards and will be adding new programs for research grants and benevolence assistance to nurses.

Cars tags that support Alabama nurses can be purchased from the DMV.

SERIES >>

FROM B7

Association Panelists discussed industry trends and offered advice on how to stand out when applying to internships and post-graduate jobs. All proud Auburn graduates, panelists encouraged students to use their Auburn network as they start their career now and in the future. “Never underestimate the power of the Auburn

FROM B7

tight-knit bond among one another and to let Extreme Powersports Opelika show off their arsenal of motorcycles, ATVs and more. “We always encourage more people to come out and see it because it’s nothing like you would ever assume it would be. When you get out here and kind of get a look at it, it’s – first of all – shocking that so many people show up,” Dyal said.

At the first bike night that was assisted by Red Clay, Dyal and Carter were expecting nothing compared to the group they had come out. Also during the first Extreme Bike Night, Dyal and Carter understood that the event reached far beyond bikers and riders from throughout Alabama – it reached the entirety of community they had settled in. “It’s grown from an event for people who own motorcycles or autocycles to everyone

and experienced panel of professionals,” said Kate Essig, senior public relations student. “Expanding my netwirk with successful alumni who were once in my shoes is an important step in ensuring I am prepared for my post-graduate career.” To keep up with Auburn public relations and find more information on the Fall PR Speaker Seried, follow @ auburnpublicrelations on Instagram.

around here who shows up to chill and hang out with us,” Carter said. Over time, Dyal and Carter hope that Extreme Powersports Opelika can become a staple in the community, and until then, they will continue to do outreach and let the community know that Extreme Powersports Opelika is here for them. “We are trying to grow this business within the community,” Carter said. “We want to be a big part of this community.”

Circles Opelika recognized four individuals at Circle Leaders 2023 graduation, held Oct. 5 at Southern Union State Community College. Graduates included Mary Uzzle, Antoinette Swanson, Jasmine Meyers and Tovelle Benson. Circles Opelika is a community-driven program that works to increase upward mobility for individuals and families in poverty in Opelika. Participants, called circle leaders, partner with community volunteers, called allies, to receive training on finances, employment, health, goal setting and communication skills. Pictured in the top photo from left to right are Regina Meadows, Tovelle Benson, Mary Uzzle and Nathaniel Dunlap Jr. Bottom photo, Uzzle's young daughter gives her mom a hug. Swanson and Meyers were not in attendance the night of the graduation.

OWENS >>

FROM B6

help them with their life skills,” Sankey said. “We are really happy about that.” Throughout her life, Sankey has served her community through educating her young students, assisting in

hands-on work that helped people in need and creating programs that help give guidance to young people who may not have it otherwise. The JOF said these attributes are what made her the perfect candidate to receive the Community Service Award. “We look for those

who are faithful and diligent and working to help make a difference in the quality of life especially in our young people,” Owens said. “[Marion’] program, The Dream Day Foundation, it leads — I would say — in the nation of helping young people approach success by making baby steps into adulthood.”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BIKES >>

Family,” said Eleanor Hawkins, panel discussion host. “The Auburn Family is tight, expansive and always willing to help.” As the public relations field continues to grow and evolve, opportunities like the Fall Speaker Series become ever more important in equipping students with the skills needed to succeed as professionals. “I am thankful for the opportunity to learn from such a diverse

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ALABAMA — The Alabama Nurses Foundation (ANF) announced the availability of its Fall 2023 scholarships, providing financial support and educational opportunities for aspiring nurses across the state. As the leaves turn and a new academic season begins, the Alabama Nurses Foundation reaffirms its commitment to fostering excellence in nursing. The foundation recognizes nurses' critical role in healthcare and strives to support individuals passionate about making a difference in this field. SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR FALL 2023 - $3,000 Licensed Professional Nurse or Associates Degree Scholarship - $3,000 Baccalaureate Program Scholarship - $3,000 Doctoral or Graduate-level Scholarship (note that multiple recipients in each category are likely) Interested applicants can find detailed informa-

tion about each scholarship and access application forms on the Alabama Nurses Foundation website. The application deadline for Fall 2023 scholarships is Nov. 15, 2023. ANF encourages all eligible nursing students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to further their nursing education. ANF invites everyone to share this exciting news with friends, family and colleagues. By spreading the word about these scholarships, you can help aspiring nurses in Alabama achieve their educational goals and contribute to the future of healthcare in the state. For more information about the Alabama Nurses Foundation and its scholarship programs, visit www. alabamanursesfoundation. org/. ABOUT THE ALABAMA NURSES FOUNDATION The Alabama Nurses

Circles of Opelika Holds Graduation Ceremony

Red Clay Brewing Company and Extreme PowerSports Opelika will be hosting the second Extreme Bike Night on Oct. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will take place at Red Clay in downtown Opelika.

L ee County & A labama Politics

Oct. 12, 2023

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023

Inside the Statehouse

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION — he year 1963 was an historic and turbulent year for Alabama. The race issue was the prevalent and commanding issue in southern politics. White southerners were determined to hold onto segregation and Jim Crow laws, as was the entire South. Black southerners were prohibited from voting by these laws and practices. Therefore, every governor’s race in the Deep South was won by whichever candidate could be the most pro-segregationist, and yes, most rhetorical and vociferous toward blacks and integration. The king of the racist anti-integration governors became our own George C. Wallace, although Georgia’s Lester Maddox and Mississippi’s Ross Barrett ran him a close second. Wallace was obsessed with being the governor of Alabama. He thought he would be elected in his first bid in 1958. He lost that race to John Patterson primarily because Patterson was perceived as being the

most pronounced racist and segregationist. Wallace took the defeat hard. He actually went into a depression mode for about a week. He hardly got out of his bed in a Montgomery hotel room. His closest friends and allies consoled him and finally coaxed him out of bed and assured him that he had just run his “Get Acquainted Race,” an historic pattern whereby the man who ran second would run for governor again in four years later and win because the sitting governor could not run again. The Alabama Constitution prohibited reelection, so one four year term and you were out. After a week, Wallace got out of bed, shaved, showered, called his comrades together and declared, “Boys, I am going to be elected governor in 1962, come hell or high water. I got out-segged and I ain’t going to be out-segged again.” He grabbed hold of the race issue, and he did not let go. He worked 18 hours a day, seven days a week for four years, and he rode the race issue like a rented mule and won the 1962 governor’s race. He became governor in January 1963 and made his famous inaugural speech spouting, “Segregation today, segregation tomorrow and segregation forever.” He and every legislator passed laws and resolutions espousing segregation.

Wallace was sincere in his racist rhetoric. He believed in segregation, but deep down he was more of a progressive than a racist. Wallace was born and raised from humble roots in rural Barbour County. He saw what FDR’s New Deal Democratic Progressive Plan had done for Alabama. Wallace had put together enough money to journey to Tuscaloosa with a cardboard suitcase and get into the University of Alabama as a boy. At that time, even the most promising students could not afford to go to college. Wallace was determined to provide an opportunity for Alabama students to be able to stay home and get a college education. In the midst of all the racist discord in 1963, Wallace and the legislature created the Alabama Junior College and Trade School System. It is his greatest legacy. The system was created 60 years ago in 1963. This is the systems “Diamond Jubilee.” The system has long transitioned from the junior college system for providing an easier way to get the first two years of college before transferring to a four year college. Today, 60 years later, the Alabama Community College System is the most important and significant segment of higher education in Alabama. The Community College See FLOWERS, page B10

PUBLIC NOTICES - B12

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINER / THE OBSERVER

Alabama Community College System Marks 60 Years

Smiths Station Allocates Funds To Drury Fields

Smiths Station City Council held its regular meeting Tuesday, Oct.10, at city hall. BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SMITHS STATION —

The Smiths Station City Council voted to approve funds for Drury Fields, the girls’ softball field, during Tuesday

night’s council meeting. The funding approval comes one month after parents and residents See CITY COUNCIL, page B14

EAMC Seeks to Build FreeStanding Mental Health Facility BY HANNAH LESTER AND MICHELLE KEY EDITOR@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM LEE COUNTY — The commission dicussed the possibility of drafting a formal resolution for a funding request from EAMC Monday night but did not vote on the issue during the meeting. However, agreed to have more discussion at a later date. EAMC has proposed building a free-standing mental health facility to accommodate a larger amount of patients than the current department can hold. Laura Grill, president and CEO of EAMC, approached the commission on Sept. 25, 2023. “East Alabama is

proposing to expand its psychiatric facilities to meet the growing needs for mental health in our community,” she said to the commission on that day. … We are proposing to build a free-standing psychiatric hospital to provide greater in-patient access. As our community has grown, our needs for mental health have grown tremendously as well. We currently have a 28-bed licensed mental health facility as part of the main hospital campus.” This new project, of a free-standing mental health facility, will add another 12 beds to the county. All beds will now be housed in this building. This is a $23 million project, Grill said, plus $5.5 million for site work.

“So, we are here tonight to ask for funding assistance through the ARPA funds over a two-year period, a total of $4 million toward that facility,” Grill said. Currently, the hospital serves adult mental health needs, adolescent mental health needs, short-term mental health and a long-term adolescent mental health facility, which includes nine beds. Because it is a longterm facility, the hospital must have a Sachsaccredited school, Grill said. The new project will not include more beds for long-term stays, but short-term stays. “From calendar year 2021 to now, we have had to deny close to 500 See COMMISSION, page B14

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2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Oct. 12, 2023

Coolidge Became President in 1923. Libertarians Say He’s No. 1 POTUS

GREG MARKLEY

OPINION — alvin Coolidge served from 1923 to 1929 as the 30th U.S. president. He was a man of high principles, fiscal conservatism and few words. Two men bet they could get at least three words from the quiet Vermonter. They failed. Dorothy Parker, a New York writer, said she would win simply by being honest. She told the president, “I have a bet I can get three words from you.” Silent Cal said, “You lose.” Just two and a half years into his term, President Warren Harding died from a heart attack. Vice

President Coolidge did not know about the tragedy until a messenger told him. (He had neither electricity nor a telephone.) His father, a justice of the peace, administered the oath of office at home using a kerosene lamp at 2:47 a.m. It has been a century and two months since Coolidge became president. Here we will assess how he kept his principles in a tough job and why he is so liked by libertarians and conservatives. “What's not to like about Calvin Coolidge, ‘Silent Cal,’ the antipolitician?” asked Mark Thornton, a senior fellow at the Mises Institute in Auburn. “He cut

taxes, cut government spending on wasteful programs, reduced the national debt and didn't get us into wars or 'entangling alliances.' Most politicians from both parties hate him and the elites hate him and or ignore him. What more can you ask for in a politician.” Thornton continued: “One thing that libertarians would note is that he said and supported the idea that ‘ultimately, property rights and personal rights are the same thing.’" That is something Americans once understood and agreed with. He believed in hard work and I'm sure he would have loved the Auburn Creed, especially the parts that even Alabama alumni and fans would agree with.” The Libertarian Republic published a piece that asked, “Who Were the Top 10 Most Libertarian Presidents?” Calvin Coolidge was the first for moves such as cutting taxes significantly, reducing by 25% at state and national governments, and vetoing farm subsidies. Rounding out the top five were John Tyler (5), Thomas Jefferson (4), James Madison, (3), and Grover Cleveland (2).

Holding the numbers 10-6 were Ronald Reagan (10), Zachary Taylor (9), Rutherford B. Hayes (8), George Washington (7), and Martin Van Buren (6). “Not a chance,” that is Thornton’s crisp answer when asked how Coolidge would fare in an emergency like a pandemic or terrorist act. “He would not shut down the economy and he would not destroy the jobs, businesses and the inalienable rights of Americans with stray notions of small groups of terrorists on the other side of the world. He would only cut out such already existing nonsense and clear the path for good jobs and private profits." Thornton added: “Warren Harding, too, was a smart guardian of the people’s money. When the Depression of 1920 hit (right after WWI) Harding had the government budget cut, spending programs cut and interest rates raised. As a result, the Depression of 1920 was extremely short.” President Reagan knew he would be called a “big spender” if he made large increases in military spending. But he knew the Soviet Union was in

dire economic straights yet could possibly last 5 to 7 years, into the 1990s. I was a soldierhistorian then and saw how bad the East was. Anti-regime people were gathering — 2,000 one or two nights — at a church in Leipzig, Germany. After the Cold War, I lived in Berlin and saw how bad things had been — and to a lesser degree were still — in the former Czechoslovakia, in Poland and in the former East Berlin. Perhaps Libertarians would address the communist threat differently. They revealed the flaws and wasted money of the War on Drugs; that is why Reagan is not ranked higher in the Top 10 Libertarian presidents list. Calvin Coolidge was the only president sworn in by his father, a Justice of the Peace. But the swearingin of the only Vice President from Alabama was also unique. A former governor of Massachusetts, later William King was a U.S. senator representing Alabama. On the Democratic ticket with Franklin Pierce, King had big health problems

even during the 1852 campaign. When they were elected, King was in Cuba trying to regain his health. By a special Act of Congress passed on March 2, he was allowed to take the oath outside the United States and was sworn in on March 24, 1853, by the US consul to Cuba. King is the first and only of the 49 vice presidents of the United States to take the oath of office on foreign soil. He died of tuberculosis five days after he took the oath of office in Cuba. Born in North Carolina, King was the only U.S. vice president claimed by Alabama. He is like Coolidge in deserving an asterisk after his name, for not taking the oath of office in the traditional way. Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has a master’s in education from AUM and a masters in history from Auburn University. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. 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

Beauregard's Roney-Rivera Named Veteran of the Month “Although she’s just 25 years old, Specialist Rachel Roney-Rivera’s BEUAREGARD — life has been all about U.S. Sen. Tommy breaking barriers. A Tuberville (R-AL) native of Beauregard, released a video Rachel enlisted in the honoring Specialist U.S. Army on her 18th Rachel Roney-Rivera birthday, using her of Beauregard as the interests to become October “Veteran of the a paralegal for the Month.” Excerpts from National Guard.” Tuberville’s remarks “She graduated top can be found below, of her class at the poand his full remarks lice academy before can be found at www. joining the Chambers facebook.com/watch/? County Sheriff’s v=3202035199942325 Office. Rachel has &ref=sharing. proven to be a vital part

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OFFICE OF SEN. TOMMY TUBERVILLE

RACHEL RONEY-RIVERA

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of the force, including becoming the first woman to be selected for the SWAT team.” “She also serves as a self-defense instructor, where she helps empower women in East Alabama with confidence and defense training techniques.” “Her story inspires Alabamians young and old about what can be accomplished with hard work and determination.” Tuberville recognizes a different Alabama

veteran each month for their service and contribution to their community. Constituents can nominate an Alabama veteran and submit their information to Tuberville’s office for consideration by emailing press_office@ tuberville.senate.gov. Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs and HELP Committees.

FLOWERS >>

and 72% of these students stay in Alabama after completing their studies. These students and alumni add an amazing $6.6 billion to Alabama economy each year. Nearly 100,000 jobs in Alabama are generated or supported by Alabama’s Community Colleges, their students and alumni. This accounts for one of every 27 jobs in our state. Wallace could never have dreamed of what he was doing for Alabama’s future 60 years ago. See you next week.

FROM B9

System is made up of Alabama students and they are prepared to take Alabama’s highest paying and most needed jobs. The Alabama Community College System is the new capstone of higher education in Alabama. The Alabama Community College System is made up of 24 colleges at more than 130 locations. They are the primary vehicle for providing workers and managers for Alabama businesses large and small. There are 155,000 students attending Alabama Community Colleges. Enrollment has been up almost 10% in the last two years. Ninety-six percent of the systems' students live in Alabama

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

B11 Oct. 12, 2023

Local Organization Meets With Opelika Mayor

Opelika Kiwanis Hears From BigHouse PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER Last week the Opelika Kiwanis Club speaker was Micah Melnick with BigHouse, which is one of the nonprofits the club is partnering with for the Chili on the Tracks contest that will be held Nov. 18. Melnick spoke on the impact BigHouse has in the community.

CONTRIBUTED BY OPD

OPELIKA – The Opelika Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 28-year-old Reggie Cornelius Stokes. Stokes was last seen by family on Sept. 22, and he last posted a photo on his social media on Sept. 23. Stokes is a black male, approximately 5-foot-11, with short dreadlocks. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Stokes, please contact the Opelika Police Department Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 745-8665. Tips can be submitted through the Opelika Police Mobile App. You may wish to remain anonymous. Tips can also be forwarded through Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at (334) 215STOP(7867), toll-free at 1-833-AL1-STOP,or via its Facebook page: www.Facebook. com/215stop or its website: www.215STOP.com.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

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Scott Parker, center, was inducted as the new president of the Opelika Kiwansis Club during its meeting last week. Carlton Hunley, right, is the outgoing president.

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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY OPD

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER The Beta Xi Chapter of Alabama Alpha Delta Kappa (A Δ K), recently celebrated its 51st year, with Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller signing a proclamation declaring October as Alpha Delta Kappa Month. A Δ K International has just celebrated its 75th Anniversary. A Δ K's mission is to empower women educators to advance inclusion, educational excellence, altruism and world understanding. International altruism projects are St. Jude Research Hospital and the Alzheimer's Association. Alabama A Δ K's altruistic project is the Sunshine School at Children's of Alabama. Beta Xi supports altruistic projects throughout the community such as The Big House, United Way and scholarships for area students. Pictured left to right are Claire Plott, Pat May, Fuller, Kay Spriggs, Susan Hagan and Ann Radavsky.

OPD Seeks Community Assistance Locating Missing Person

B12 Oct. 12, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CV: 2023-900264.00 RIVER RIDGE CONSULTANTS, LLC, Plaintiff, V. WELLS FARGO REAL ESTATE TAX SERVICES, LLC, WELLS FARGO BANK, NA, COLEY LEE JACOBS, A PARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, AL (2698 at 333), AP ARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, AL (2698 at 335), Unknown persons who may claim an interest in said property whose identities are unknown and who cannot by reasonable diligence be ascertained, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise ofreasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 13th day of JULY 2023 a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama; regarding the following described real property: Part of Lots 67 and 68 and all of Lots 69 and 70, Smithville Subdivision, lying in Section 27, Township 18 North, Range 29 East, Lee County, Alabama. as shown upon a plat of survey prepared by Michael J. Pattillo, R.L.S. Ala. Reg. No. 16684 and being more particularly described as follows: Commence at an iron pin located on the southwest corner of the intersection of Lee Road 438 (Bishop Lane) and a sixty foot road not opened and unnamed which marks the Point of Beginning and run thence South 04 degrees 03 minutes West a distance of 108.24 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 85 degrees 48 minutes 50 seco.nds West a distance of200.78 feet to an iron pin found; thence run South 09 degrees 39 minutes 15 seconds East a distance of 41.97 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 85 degrees 58 minutes 48 seconds West a distance of 113.03 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 85 degrees 58 minutes 48 seconds West a distance of 59.16 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 04 degrees 16 minutes East a distance of 204.03 feet to an iron pin located on the southernmost right of way of a sixty foot road (not opened and unnamed);

thence run South 64 degrees SS minutes East a djstance of 52.50 feet to an iron pin set; thence run along a curve having a radius of 529.0 feet to a chord distance of 56.54 feet to an iron pin found; thence continue along said cunre having a radius of 539.0 fect a chord distance of 84.96 feet to an iron pin found; thence continue along said curve having a radius of529.0 feet a chord distance of 52.37 feet to an iron pin set; thence run South 85 degrees 44 minutes 22 seconds East a distance of 37.71 feet to an iron pin found; thence run South 85 degrees 44 minutes 22 seconds East a distance of 99.89 feet to an iron pin found which marks the Point of Beginning. Together with a 1986 Nobility Mobile Home, Serial No. N4 2321 AB, which is permanently affixed to the land described above with all the intention that it remain a part of said land. AND AU that lot, tract and parcel of land lying and being in the County of Lee and State of AJabama, and being known as all of Lot Number FOUR (4), Block "A", Philadelphia Estates Subdivision, as said lot appears upon a map or plat of same of record in Town Plat Book 5, Page 5, in the Office of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereo are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service agairu,i all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 14th day of September, 2023. Mary Roberson, Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika; Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334-749-6999 Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@Benparrlaw.com Legal Run 09/21/23, 09/28/23, 10/05/23, 10/12/23 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION were granted to Roger Dale Johnson on the Estate of Genny Lynn Johnson, deceased, on the 15th day of September, 2023 by Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2023 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of CHARLES WARREN AMOS. Deceased Case No. 2023-486 NOTICE OF_HEARING TO: Charles Ray Brown Address Unknown, Matthew Amos -Address Unknown, William Thomas Amos Address Unknown and Vanessa Ruth Amos - Address Unknown AND ANY OTHER KNOWN OR UNKNOWN heirs of CHARLES WARREN AMOS,, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition to Probate the Last Will and Testament of the Estate of CHARLES WARREN AMOS, deceased has been filed in the Lee County Probate Office. A hearing has been set for the 14th day of November, 2023 at l 0:00 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 to Probate the Last Will and Testament of the Estate of CHARLES WARREN AMOS, deceased. BILL ENGLISH, JUDGE OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of Carolyn Gafford – Case No. 2022-449 Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Partial Accounting was filed by the

Conservator-Bertram Norman Gafford, III requesting approval of a partial accounting. A hearing has been set for the 2nd day of November 2023 at 11:00 a.m. central time. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in said hearing. Bill English, Judge of Probate Lee County, Alabama Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Petitioner Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARTHA DEAN HEDDEN a/k/a MARTHA D. HEDDEN, DECEASED further and also known as MARTHA DEAN HEDDEN a/k/a MARTHA D. HEDDEN LETTERS TESTAMENTARY for the estate of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned Personal Representative JOHN ARNOLD, on September 14, 2023, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH, Judge of the Probate Com1 of Lee County, Alabama notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be ba1Ted. Isl JOHN ARNOLD Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2023 -------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Corene McCoy, also known as Corene M. McCoy and Corene Moore McCoy, (Deceased) PROBATE NO: 2023-477 ESTATE OF CORENE McCOY, ALSO KNOWN AS CORENE M. McCOY AND CORENE MOORE McCOY, DECEASED Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 18th day of September, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge

of Probate of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Janice McCoy Scott Executrix Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: DONALD MAX LIVINGSTON, Deceased. Case No.: 2023NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Stephen Eston Livingston, Personal Representative on the 26th day of September, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Stephen Eston Livingston Legal Run 09/28/2023, 10/05/2023 & 10/12/2032 --------------------INVITATION TO BID 23045 Sealed bids for the Opelika Police Department Landscaping Project shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Monday, October 16, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. The successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et. seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license

number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. The other requirements include: 1. State of Alabama Ornamental and Turf Pest Control Supervisor License 2.State of Alabama Plant Setting and Maintenance License 3.State of Alabama General Contractor License Specifications may be obtained from the Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5120. Bid documents may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www. opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposalmust be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A certified check or Bid Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany the bidder's sealed proposal - refer also to Instructions to Bidders. Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder at the signing of the Contract. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing/Revenue & Codes Director, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 368030390. Attn: Opelika Police Department Landscaping Project LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5121 Legal Run 10/5/2023, 10/12/2023 ---------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

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B13 Oct. 12, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES >>

FROM B12

INVITATION TO BID 24001

Sealed bids for the construction of the South 10th Street and Avenue C Infrastructure Improvement Project shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et. seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids

and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: South 10th Street and Avenue C Infrastructure Improvement Project LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASINGREVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 10/05/23, 10/12/23 & 10/19/23 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:The estate of Homer E. Speir, Jr. Deceased. Case No.2023-418 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Ryan E. Speir as Administrator of the Estate of Homer E. Speir, Jr., deceased, on the 25th day of September, 2023. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred Ryan E. Speir, Administrator of the Estate of Homer E. Speir, Jr., Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 10/05/2023, 10/12/2023 & 10/19/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BOBBIE RUTH MILLER, Deceased Case No.: 2023-495 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Adam L. Pierce, Personal Representative on the 28th day of September, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Adam L. Pierce Legal Run 10/5/2023, 10/12/2023 & 10/19/2023 --------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1242 N Dean Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 10:00AM

Unit 308 Unit 508 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. Run Date 10-12-23 --------------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, October 19th at 10:00AM Unit B193 Unit B207 Unit C276 Unit C350 Unit C363 Unit D421 Unit D459 Unit D467 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. Run Date 10/12/2023 --------------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 Dr. Auburn Al. 36830 ) Thursday, (10-19-2023) at 10:00AM Unit 406 Unit 702 Unit 116 Unit 194 Unit 239 Unit 233 Unit 535 Unit672 Unit 808 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. Run Date: 10-12-2023 --------------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: 3951 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika AL 36801 Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023 at 10:00AM Unit B57 Unit C53 Unit C72 Unit C75 Unit D60 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. Run Date October 12, 2023 --------------INVITATION TO BID 24002 Sealed bids for the construction of the Intersection Improvements to Cunningham Drive and

Frederick Road shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m. local time on October 31, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §348-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the office of CDG, Inc., 197 East University Drive, Suite #1, Auburn, AL 36832, (334) 466-9431 at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Contractor will be required to provide two (2) Owner’s Protective Liability Policies. Named Insured shall be as follows: 1. City of Opelika 2. CDG, Inc. See Section 00700 General Conditions for full details Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, PurchasingRevenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Intersection Improvements to Cunningham Drive and Frederick Road LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 10/12/2023 --------------CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING

COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: I. Some items at the meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted below). Individuals are limited to 5-minute comment period per public hearing. II. Approval of Minutes III. Update on Previous PC Cases IV. New Business A. Plat (Preliminary and Final) – Public Hearing 1. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, Precision Surveying, authorized representative for Campfield Lands LLC, property owner, for preliminary and final approval of Creekside Village Phase 2 subdivision consisting of 13 lots accessed from Lee Road 270 and 266. B Final Plat 2.A request by Nick Howell, authorized representative for 2H Properties, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Springhill Heights Block G Resubdivision of Lots 53-58 subdivision consisting of 3 lots accessed from Spring and Arnold Street. 3. A request by Doug Ransom, authorized representative for DRB Group Alabama, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Wyndham Gates Pod 3, Phase 4 subdivision consisting of 9 lots accessed from Alana Court and Raiden Circle. C. Conditional Use and Preliminary Plat – Public Hearing 4. A public hearing on a request by Moore Bass Consulting, Inc., authorized representative for Thrash Investments, Inc., property owner, for conditional use approval for 29 townhome lots in a R-4 zoning district accessed from the 220 block of Samford Avenue. 5. A public hearing on a request by Moore Bass Consulting, Inc., authorized representative for Thrash Investments, Inc., property owner, for preliminary approval of Warwick Retreat subdivision consisting of 94 lots (55 single family lots & 29 townhome lots) accessed from 220 block of Samford Avenue. D. Conditional Use – Public Hearing 6. A public hearing on a request by Lee Tharp, PE, authorized representative for Hogan Investment Properties, LLC, property owners, for a conditional use approval for a 7,125 square foot addition to an existing 10,250 square foot ABC distribution warehouse (Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board) in a C-2 zoning district at 2220 Enterprise Drive. E. Rezoning and Conditional Use - Public Hearing 7a. An agenda item for a rezoning request includes an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 16.3 acres accessed from 600 block Veterans Parkway or 3500 block Waverly Parkway from a mixed use land use category to a light commercial land use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the

City Council to rezone the 16.3 acres and Council approves the rezoning, then the amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved. 7b. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Robert Cash, property owner, to rezone 16.3 acres accessed from 600 block Veterans Parkway or 3500 block Waverly Parkway from R-5 to C-2, GC-P. 8. A public hearing on a request by Ledge Nettles, authorized representative for Robert Cash, property owner, for conditional use approval for an indoor fitness facility in a C-2, GC-P zoning district accessed from 3500 block Waverly Parkway (Conditional use approval is subject to rezoning property to C-2, GC-P). F. Annexation 9. An agenda item to consider an annexation recommendation to the City Council on a request by Deidre W. and Jason F. Jones, property owners, to annex 30,116 square feet into the City limits at 6551 U.S. Highway 431 North. A R-1 zoning district is requested. G. Old Business 10. A public hearing on a request by Foresite Group, LLC and QuikTrip Corporation, authorized representative for Food Services of Tallahassee, Inc., property owners, for conditional use approval for a QuikTrip gas station and convenience store in a C-3, GC-P zoning district at 920 Columbus Parkway. (This item was tabled by the applicant at the Sept 26th PC meeting.) H. Other Business 11. Approve dates for November and December PC meetings. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/ public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 10/12/2023 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CLINTON OMEGA ADAMS SR A.K.A. CLINTON OMEGA ADAMS, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2023-209 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of CLINTON OMEGA ADAMS SR. a.k.a CLINTON OMEGA ADAMS deceased having been granted to DEBORA ANITA NICHOLS on the 20th day of June, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. DEBORA ANITA NICHOLS Legal Run 10/12/2023, 10/19/2023 & 10/26/2023

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B16

B14 Oct. 12, 2023

CITY COUNCIL >>

FROM B9

complained about the state of the field. “I’m here to ask for equal treatment, funds and management for Drury Fields in Girl’s Softball,” said Lauren Davis, one resident of Smiths Station at that meeting. To read more about the parents complaints’, which included the roof caving in one of the structures, problems in the bathroom, etc., and their requests, see our article here: www. opelikaobserver.com/ smiths-hears-complaintson-girls-softball-field/ Tuesday nights resolution includes the allocation of funds — just under $31,000 — for fencing replacement and repairs. Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland said he spoke with the superintendent of maintenance for Drury Fields for the Lee County Board of Education. Copeland said that he expressed hesitation at spending funds on the field as it is not city owned but that the county assured him they do not plan to take it back for county use or school use. “There was a candid conversation, he said ‘don’t worry about that,’” Copeland said. The council discussed,

however, not making this a regular expenditure. “I will say this, I do believe that the Drury Fields has been neglected,” Copeland said. “I do believe that. At this point in time in history, I think it’s where it needs to be. I don’t think that, from this point forward, we need to continue to adhere to every demand that the softball league has, or the soccer league or the football league. Mr. Jackson, I agree with you totally, we don’t need to start a tradition of this. “Did we have a dangerous situation? Yes we did. Have we corrected the dangerous situation? Yes we have. Case closed. “And if [we have] another dangerous situation that could pertain to potential litigation, we need to address it at that point in time in history. But, I physically went out there and saw the roof falling in, I physically went out there and saw the fences where a kid could get her arm cut … So, those things are corrected now.” OTHER BUSINESS - The council approved a resolution to dedicate a portion of Panther Parkway as a memorial for Fallen Deputy James W. Anderson on the area of the road from the Public Works Department to Smiths Station High School. The council reiterated that the road is not being

renamed, but a portion being dedicated. - The council approved a resolution to appoint Cyndi Farmer as city clerk-secretary-treasurer for the city, removing the interim from her title. - The council approved an event request for The Pavilion on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023, from11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a birthday party. - The council declared the city’s official observance of Halloween Trick or Treating for Oct. 31, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. - Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland also called for a city audit to be completed by the end of the fiscal year.

COMMISSION > FROM B9 individuals psychiatric admission — find them admission in other locations throughout the state — because we did not have the capacity to handle those,” Grill said. Grill said that EAMC also is applying to have a Psychiatry Residency Program. “This community is very underserved in psychiatry,” she said. EAMC has applied for its necessary ‘certificate of need’ and should that be approved, it plans to begin construction in Spring 2024 and it is an

18-month completion project. OTHER BUSINESS: - The commission heard the first reading for an opening on the Lee County Planning Commission, District 1. - The commission tabled a line item pertaining to the amending of a resolution with Avenu Insights & Analytics LLC for the collection and administration of sales and use, rental and seller use taxes levied by Lee County. It also tabled the renewal agreements with the same company. The current agreements expire Nov. 1, 2023. - The commission heard an update on the Loachapoka Community Park Project. Hudmon Construction's bid had been approved on Aug. 28, 2023. The commission voted to authorize Hudmon's request to withdraw its bid due to an error resulting in the company being unable to execute the contract. Hudmon also forfeits its bid bond. Parks Manager Ryan Norris requested that the commission approve a motion to allow the county highway department to perform certain tasks in order to reduce the overall cost of the project. This motion

was approved by the commission. McKee and Associates will rescope the project to include the remaining items in the bid documents including construction of the pavilion, a septic system, sanitary and water system, domestic fire and water, ALDOT required work and all concrete, striping, signage and fencing. - The commission heard a request for support from the Lee County Board of Education. - The commission approved a salary increase request for the commander of Uniform Patrol Division. - The commission approved an ABC Application for Happy Hour Cigar Wine Spirits in District 3. - The commission approved the final plat approval for the Division of Tract B1 Daughtery Subdivision. - The commission approved the final plat approval for the Williams Frazier Subdivision. - The commission approved a speed limit reduction for Lee Road 65 from the current 35 miles per hour (mph) down to 20 mph. - The commission approved a Business Alabama Advertisement.

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www.VivaHealth.com/Medicare Viva Medicare is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the Alabama Medicaid Agency. Enrollment in Viva Medicare depends on contract renewal. Viva Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888830-8482 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務.請致電 1-888-830-8482 (TTY: 711). H0154_ mcdoc3841A_M_08/06/2023

B15 Oct. 12, 2023

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B16 Oct. 12, 2023

Lee County Sheriff's Office Assists Food Bank

PUBLIC NOTICES >>

FROM B13

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Lee County Sheriff’s Office employees helped to sort and box 7,320 pounds of food at Food Bank of East Alabama recently, as part of United Way of Lee County’s Day of Giving. It had two shifts of people helping, one from 7 to 9 a.m. and one 9 a.m. to noon. Pictured above are people from the second group.

Legal Notice – Notice of Service By Publication: Publish the following notice for four (4) consecutive weeks in The Observer and return the proof of publication to Joshua K. Chesser, attorney for the Plaintiff, at the address shown below upon the final publication of the notice. IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF ALABAMA EASTERN DIVISION United States Fire Insurance Company, Plaintiff, vs. Provision Contracting Services, LLC and Nicholas D. Dowdell, Defendants Civil Action No.: 3:23‐ cv‐00133‐ECM‐CWB NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: PROVISION CONTRACTING SERVICES, LLC c/o Nicholas Dowdell, Registered Agent and NICHOLAS D. DOWDELL, whose whereabouts are unknown, are being sued civilly by UNITED STATES FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY for breach of indemnity agreement-indemnity; common law/equitable indemnity, reimbursement and exoneration; specific performance of obligations of indemnitors; and collateralization/ quia timet. The complaint requests injunctive relief, compensatory

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damages and other relief against Defendants, jointly and severally. The publication shall be circulated on a weekly basis for four (4) successive weeks in accordance with Rule 4.3 of the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure. Defendants are required by law to answer this complaint within thirty (30) days of the last publication of this notice. Service shall be deemed complete at the date of last publication. Defendants answers should be filed with the Clerk of Court at The United States District Court For The Middle District Of Alabama Eastern Division, Frank M. Johnson Jr. U.S. Courthouse Complex, One Church Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 and a copy should be mailed to Plaintiff's attorney, Joshua K. Chesser at Krebs Farley, PLLC, 2204 Whitesburg Drive, Suite 302, Huntsville, AL 35801. Done this the 9th day of October, 2023. Joshua K. Chesser KREBS FARLEY, PLLC 2204 Whitesburg Drive, Suite 302 Huntsville, Alabama 35801 The Observer, Dates of Publication: 10/12/23, 10/19/23 10/26/23 and 11/02/23 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF PARA LEE TRIMBLE, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY, CASE NO. 2022-354 NOTICE TO

CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of PARA LEE TRIMBLE are hereby granted to Carissa Williams on the 21st day of June, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Carissa Williams Legal Run 10/12/2023, 10/19/2023 & 10/26/2023 --------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of WILLIAM MICHAEL LINDSEY, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by CALLIE LEIGHANN LINDS EY on October 10th, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 10/12/2023