The Observer 11-22-2023 by OpelikaObserver

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 07 Opelika, Alabama Wednsday, Nov. 22, 2023 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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AUBURN — Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, in the company of city officials, business owners, residents, AU fanatics and more, shared an update on the city and honored local change-makers during the annual State of the City Address. “It’s been another great year in Auburn,” he said. “We’ve celebrated the old and the new.” Anders highlighted new additions to the city, such as the opening of the new Wire Road Soccer Complex, new businesses such as the Target and more. “Without our business community, Auburn would not be what it is today,” he said. “We depend on the revenue generated from these companies doing business here. And I want to say thank you to our Auburn businesses for putting in the hard work to help make Auburn so special.” Anders looked ahead

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER | THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Auburn: State of the City

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders presented the State of the City Address last week at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center, keeping residents up to date on all that’s happening in Auburn.

to the future, detailing the plans the council has made using the biennial funds, including resurfacing city streets, changing lights and creating the Ann Pearson Park. “This park, expected to open by next fall, will be located on more than 40 acres on Shelton Mill Road,” Anders said. “It will include trails, a pavilion, restrooms and a play area. This park is happening because of the generosity of the late Ann Pearson, a beloved Auburn native who was a strong advocate for her city and its history.”

The Wire Road Soccer Complex expands recreation in the city, for football, soccer and volleyball. The space can also be used for events and voting, Anders said. Other upgrades to recreational facilities include air conditioning in Frank Brown and Boykin centers and the addition of the Lake Wilmore Community Center. “We began construction this year on the Lake Wilmore Community Center, located off See STATE OF CITY page A4

Operation Iron Ruck AU, UA student veterans march game ball across state for suicide awareness BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN UNIVERSITY — In the days preceding the Iron Bowl each year, student veterans from the University of Alabama’s Campus Veterans Association (CVA) and Auburn Student Veterans Association (ASVA) put the football rivalry aside

and together ruck the Iron Bowl game ball from the visiting team’s stadium to the home team’s stadium. Started in 2018, Operation Iron Ruck has evolved into a major community event with numerous sponsors and hundreds of participants and volunteers. The purpose of the 151-mile, three-day hike is to raise awareness and prevention of veteran suicide. The

state of Alabama has one of the nation’s highest veteran suicide rates, and Operation Iron Ruck seeks to increase the public’s knowledge on this issue while uniting veterans with the community, funding charities, championing suicide prevention and education and supporting local veteran organizations. “We started Iron Ruck See IRON RUCK, page A4

Lee County board votes to hire Howard as new superintendent of schools BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

DR. MIKE HOWARD

OPELIKA — At its regularly scheduled meeting on Nov. 14, the Lee County Schools Board of Education voted to hire Dr. Mike Howard of Jacksonville, Alabama, as superintendent, effective Jan. 1, 2024. The vote was unanimous, although Board President Ralph Henderson noted

both finalists “were very qualified.” Howard will replace current superintendent, Dr. James “Mac” McCoy, who will retire effective Dec. 31 after a decade in the position. Howard, who earned a doctorate in rural education from the University of West Alabama, currently serves as superintendent of Jacksonville City Schools in Calhoun County, a

position he has held since June 2022. Prior to that, he was superintendent of St. Clair County Schools for four years. He has extensive experience dating back to 2000 as teacher, assistant principal and principal. Also during the meeting, the board unanimously re-elected Henderson as president and Larry Patterson as vice president for its next term. Voting for school board officers takes

place each November. In other action, the board approved the 20242025 School Calendar, as well as approved two service contracts, one for preventative maintenance and repair of lunchroom equipment to TWC Service Inc. and the other for enhanced energy savings to Schneider Electric Building Americas Inc. The next meeting is set for Tuesday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m.

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A2 Nov. 22, 2023

Ribbon-cutting ceremonies held at local businesses PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Pythoge Construction focuses on residential custom builds, renovations and remodels in the Auburn, Opelika and surrounding areas. It aspires to create a quality property that seamlessly blends into the community while offering a unique, custom home. For more information, go to www.pythoge.com.

Coming up Dec. 12: 'Business Over Breakfast' CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber’s next quarterly Business Over Breakfast will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at Southern Union Community College’s Southern Room. The featured speaker will be Kara Halfaker, consultant for the past three years at the Alabama Small Business Development Center. A graduate of UAB with a master’s degree in accountancy, she is also an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Halfaker will discuss the transformative power of AI technologies to enhance and streamline business processes. This

presentation will shed light on the core of AI and the potential advantages available for business owners, including tools to assist with operating procedures, marketing and communications, financial decisions and strategic planning. Cost of the breakfast is $30 for chamber members or $40 for non-members. Deadline to register is Friday, Dec. 8. Seating is limited. No refunds after deadline. The Opelika Chamber's quarterly Business Over Breakfast is one of the longest-standing and most popular events among its 900-plus business community members. The Minority Business of the Quarter and the Small Business of the Quarter are awarded at this event.

AU receives grant to boost state's blueberry industry AUBURN — A nearly half-a-milliondollar grant will allow Auburn University professors and Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station researchers to help blueberry growers in states like Alabama where growing the fruit has its challenges. Funded by a $497,827 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, the project is titled “Expanding Southern highbush blueberries to underserved regions of the Southeastern U.S.” and is being conducted by Assistant Professor Sushan Ru and Professor Elina Coneva, both from the Department of Horticulture. The Southeastern

Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio celebrated its 30th anniversary with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Make Your Move is a dance studio offering classes for ages three and up, ranging from acro and hip hop to ballet and tap. To learn more, go to makeyourmovedance.com.

Opelika Community Theatre is a nonprofit organization that strives to empower, enlighten and involve the community to stimulate and develop their inner creative talents, offering classes and summer camps for both the young and the young at heart. To learn more, go to opelikacommunitytheatre.com.

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CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

U.S. contributes more than 23% of the total $1 billion worth of American blueberry production, and it produces the earliest blueberries in the U.S. However, most blueberries in the Southeast are produced in Georgia, Florida and North Carolina, while small- to midsized growers in other Southern states — like Alabama — only maintain marginal production due to a lack of locally adapted See BLUEBERRIES, page A4

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A3 Nov. 22, 2023

AU to kick off holiday season with tree, Menorah lightings BY AUDREY KENT FOR THE OBSERVER AUBURN — The community is invited to Auburn's annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony, which will take place on the Auburn University campus on Samford Lawn on Sunday, Nov. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. Guests can enjoy the lighting of the Christmas Tree and Menorah to celebrate the start of the holiday season. AU Student Involvement, the University Program Council and Hillel at Auburn are sponsoring this year’s ceremony, which will feature family activities from 4 to 5 p.m. and special guests, choral

performances and an on-stage program rom 5 to 6 p.m. Families and guests are welcome to stay afterward to take photos and enjoy the merry atmosphere and refreshments such as cookies, hot cocoa and latkes. “We have a lot of holiday happenings taking place,” said Cat Bobo, communications manager at Auburn Opelika Tourism. “This lighting event is a long-standing tradition in downtown Auburn and on Auburn’s campus. It is a great way to start the holiday season. Our area is blessed to have a plethora of new and old traditions taking place around the holiday season. This event gets

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Sunday community celebration will illuminate Samford Lawn

A Christmas tree and Menorah will illuminate Samford Lawn, celebrating the start of the holiday season.

people excited. There is the Christmas tree and the Menorah, so it’s inclusive. It’s a great way

to celebrate Auburn’s community and campus and to come together for a festive and authentic

community experience.” For more information on the Holiday Lighting Ceremony and other

local events, visit Auburn Opelika Tourism’s website at www.aotourism.com.

Follow up thankful Thursday with a generous 'Giving Tuesday' CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and their world. Giving Tuesday will kick off the generosity season this year by inspiring people to give back on Nov. 28 and throughout the year. The United Way of Lee County joined this year’s Giving Tuesday movement to raise awareness of the needs of our neighbors right here at home. Residents of Lee County have three ways to give back: give time or talent, give a donation or inspire others. Retired individuals in Lee County will have the chance to donate their time or talent not just on Giving Tuesday but year-round by joining the ReUnited volunteer group. There is no sign-up fee and no commitment when you join. Those who have not yet had the chance to donate to the United Way’s 2024 campaign can do so with a one-time donation to one of the following initiatives:

eradicate hunger, protect our children, impact the next generation or care for our neighbors. Donations can be made by check, cash or Venmo. Lastly, you can inspire others with your generosity by using #GivingTuesday and #GiveWhereYouLive. You can also share the United Way social media posts or host a Facebook fundraiser showing your commitment to United Way. “The entire premise behind Giving Tuesday is to encourage generosity, and I believe we live in one of the most generous counties in the state of Alabama,” said Kerissa Helms, marketing specialist for the United Way of Lee County. “Here at the United Way, we support organizations that are meeting the most necessary needs of our community. We have a front row seat to see the daily struggles of our neighbors. Our goal this

Giving Tuesday is to make a substantial and noticeable difference in people’s lives and to encourage a spirit of generosity all year long.” Those who are interested in joining the United Way’s Giving Tuesday initiative can visit www. unitedwayofleecounty.com/ giving-tuesday. For more details about the Giving Tuesday movement, visit the Giving Tuesday website at www.givingtuesday.org. COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF EAST ALABAMA The Community Foundation of East Alabama (CFEA) also announced its involvement with GivingTuesday 2024. This GivingTuesday, the CFEA has set a goal of $5,000 for its GivingTuesday efforts. The CFEA aims to strengthen the bonds and relationships with community members so that it can continue to make a lasting impact on

the lives of those in East Alabama. Any and all donations raised on or for GivingTuesday will be utilized to maintain and build the organization’s operation and general fund. This will allow the community foundation to continue developing relationships that for the foundation of the East Alabama Community. “GivingTuesday is a powerful opportunity for us to come together and create positive change for East Alabama,” said Barbara Patton, interim president of the Community Foundation of East Alabama. “Your support, no matter the size, contributes to building a stronger, more vibrant East Alabama for everyone. Join CFEA in making a difference on this special day of giving.” Those who are interested in joining CFEA's GivingTuesday initiative can visit www. cfeastalabama.org/giving-

tuesday. Follow along on CFEA Instagram (@cfeastalabama) or Facebook (www.facebook. com/CFEastAlabama) to receive updates about the progress on GivingTuesday. For more details

about the GivingTuesday movement, visit www.givingtuesday. org, Facebook page www.facebook.com/ GivingTuesday or follow @GivingTuesday and #GivingTuesday on Instagram.

A4 Nov. 22, 2023 PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER | THE OBSERVER

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders presented six Auburn business owners and residents with his Lamplighter Awards — recognizing the good they do for the city.

Memory screenings urged November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

NEW YORK — Memory screenings are an important part of a good health and wellness routine for all of us. As part of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month this November, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is reminding everyone to prioritize their brain health and get a memory screening. AFA offers online memory screenings every weekday through its National Memory Screening Program, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites, through secure videoconference technology. The program is free and open to everyone. There are no minimum age or insurance requirements. Individuals can learn more or request a

BLUEBERRIES >> from A2 cultivars. To sustain blueberry production in underserved regions of the Southeastern U.S., Ru’s small fruit breeding program is collaborating with four established breeding programs in the Southeast to develop climate-resilient southern highbush blueberries for small- and mid-sized growers in Alabama and nearby regions through collaborative cultivar evaluation. The group will also

screening appointment by going to www.alzfdn. org/memory-screening-2/ virtual-memoryscreenings/ or contacting AFA at 866-232-8484. “Annual screenings are important, including for our brains, which is why everyone should make getting a memory screening a priority during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and throughout the year,” said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., AFA’s president & CEO. “Just as we regularly check other facets of our health, we should all get

a checkup from the neck up, regardless of whether or not we are having memory problems,” Fuschillo said. “You are never too young or too old to get a memory screening and be more proactive about your brain health,” said Donna de Levante Raphael, director of AFA’s National Memory Screening Program. “Many people don’t think about their cognitive health when they get their regular medical checkups,”

identify genotype-byenvironment interactions for key traits to better allocate future cultivars to appropriate environments and enable high-throughput yield phenotyping for more efficient cultivar development. A total of 38 advanced selections and newly released cultivars from four established breeding programs will be evaluated for three years in central and south Alabama and testing sites in Florida, Mississippi and North Carolina. “Toward the end of

this project, we expect to release new cultivars for the general and specific environments of the Southeastern region, to benefit all growers and especially small- and mid-scale stakeholders,” Ru said. “We will train a field-based fruit breeder and develop a smartphone app to enable high-throughput yield phenotyping. Cultivars developed from this collaboration will set the foundation for a more sustainable and profitable blueberry industry in the Southeast for years to come.”

See MEMORY, page A5

STATE OF CITY >> from A1 Ogletree Road,” Anders said. “This exciting new complex will provide us with two full-sized basketball courts, activity and fitness rooms, an indoor walking track,12 covered and lighted pickle ball courts and two pools, a lap pool, as well as a covered and seasonally heated zero-entry pool.” Phase two of the project will include four synthetic turf fields and six more pickle ball courts. Other offerings in the city include the upcoming Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center expansion. “[This] will add 8,000 square feet of needed studio, classroom and gallery space, as well as the ceramic studio,” Anders said. This will also allow the Dean Road Recreation Center to meet other needs, like the therapeutic programs. “Just five days ago, we got to celebrate the reopening of the beloved Indian Pines Golf Course, renamed Pines Crossing,” Anders said. “The city of Auburn is proud to partner with the city of Opelika to offer this amenity to our communities.” These are just a few of the recently opened and upcoming additions to the city. “With so many projects underway, we have much to look forward to,” Anders said. He highlighted different departments within the city, sharing their accomplishments and statistics. The school district, too, received attention. “This year, Auburn High School had a 96% graduation rate, with 713 seniors graduating with more than $25 million in scholarship offers,” he

IRON RUCK >> from A1 to recognize and bring awareness to the epidemic that is veteran suicide,” said Drew Lufkin, student veteran and president of the ASVA. “A lot of veterans are having a hard time. They get out and they miss that comraderie, they miss the structure that the military gives them, they miss their friends. It’s hard for us to be able to relate to other people sometimes.” The 2023 Operation Iron Ruck will begin Nov. 22, departing from Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa and traveling through Duncanville, Centreville, Lawley, Maplesville, Clanton, Verbena, Deatsville,

said. The mayor asked for the city’s help in determining Auburn’s future. “Our [comprehensive] plan was last updated in 2018 and this year our planning staff has been collaborating with all of our city departments to review and update,” he said. “A process we go through every five years … As we talk about planning for the future, we will have several key initiatives underway over the next year and we need your help. “We recently kicked off a branding initiative with focus groups and stakeholder interviews. We need your input to be sure that our branding truly represents all. I encourage you to visit theauthenticauburn.com to learn more about this effort and participate in a community-wide survey that is currently available.” Lamplighter Awards: Every year during his state of the city address, Anders presents six individuals with Lamplighter awards. “It’s people who make Auburn great, plain and simple,” he said. “Each year we have the privilege of coming together for the state of the city … Now I would like to share with you some of the people that have gone above and beyond in making Auburn the very best town it can be.” The title — the Lamplighter Awards — is based on a story by Robert Lewis Stephenson. “As a child, his mother found him at night upstairs looking out the window and she could never get him to go to bed, to go to sleep,” Anders said. “So, one night she went up there and she spied on Robert to see what was going on and what he was so curious about

that he watched outside. She snuck up behind him and looked, and she saw the lamplighter going down their streets lighting the lamps in their neighborhood and their city. “She asked her son Robert, ‘Why are you so interested in this? It’s just the lamplighter lighting the lamp?’ And he said, ‘No mom. He’s punching holes in the darkness.’” Anders said he’s honoring Auburn residents who are “punching holes in the darkness.” Below is only a summary of each of this year’s Lamplighter Award winners. Read The Observer each week to find out more about how each of these winners has made a difference on The Plains. Charlie France is a difference-maker at Auburn City Schools as a current custodian and courier. We worked for five years at Yarbrough Elementary School before this and 25 years for the Opelika Housing Authority after serving in the U.S. Army. Tangela Frazier has served the Auburn Chamber of Commerce diligently as the director of finance. Toni Holt, a prominent business owner in Auburn, opened Ross House Coffee, a place for fellowship, ministry, coffee, good food and friendship. Cliff Knight handled the city’s collaborative effort with Opelika on the reopened Indian Pines Golf Course, now called Pines Crossing. Ashley McCrary is a fighter. She continues to fight against ocular cancer while still making a difference. David Smalley, a doctor of pediatrics in Auburn, also received a Lamplighter Award.

Wetumpka, Eclectic, Tallassee and Notasulga, arriving at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn on Nov. 25, where they will join players in the Tiger Walk before handing off the game ball to officials. This year’s ruck is set to be the largest and most impactful to date, with a fundraising goal of $25,000. Donations go toward the veteran suicide outreach effort as well as provide basic food and toiletry items for those currently in veteran healthcare facilities. Everyone is welcome to give, whether through a sponsorship, by making a monetary donation or by contributing care items that will be carried in backpacks by ruckers. Donors can conveniently purchase these items from Operation Iron Ruck’s Amazon wishlist. In addition, volunteers are needed to drive vans, to cater and serve meals along the ruck route and to assist participants at rest stops. To find out more and to get involved, go to the website operationironruck.com. Operation Iron Ruck t-shirts, printed locally by Victory Designs in Opelika, are on sale for $25 at https:// victorydesigns.com/product/ operation-iron-ruck-shortsleeve-t-shirt.

Proceeds from Operation Iron Ruck support the following organizations: • Three Hots and a Cot, which serves those who have served by providing a place for homeless veterans to receive the assistance they need to transition back to civilian society; • Mission 22, which provides support to veterans and their families by promoting long-term wellness; • Bill Nichols State Veterans Home — a senior living community for eligible veterans; • Tuskeegee VA Home, which provides support for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to financial hardship, unemployment, addiction, depression or transition from jail; • The Houston Project, a non-profit organization created by a grieving family to help veterans and honor their fallen son by raising money for struggling veterans and raising awareness of veteran suicide, depression, PTSD, CTE from concussions and more; and • Vets Recover, an Alabama-based organization providing support to veterans and first responders dealing with traumatic stress.

A5 Nov. 22, 2023

Thanks, Samoset and Squanto, for stuffed turkeys (and tummies)

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@OPELIKAOBSERVER. COM OPINION — Most Americans have likely celebrated Thanksgiving all their lives, but aside from generally knowing about pilgrims eating with Indians, how well do people know the historical details of the annual tradition? Today, Thanksgiving has evolved into a national holiday focused on giving thanks for perceived blessings. But it originated as a harvest festival. From historical records, we know that on Sept. 6, 1620, a group of more than 100 Church of England separatists fleeing religious persecution set sail on a ship called the Mayflower, arriving in the New World after 65 days. The group of Puritans, or pilgrims, settled in a town called Plymouth in what is now Massachusetts. William Bradford, governor of the Plymouth Colony for three decades, kept a detailed journal that

MEMORY >> from A4 Raphael said. “If you are 65 years or older, a memory screening is a part of your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit. It is very important to make sure you keep your mind sharp, and there are many ways to do that in order to combat cognitive decline. I always remind people that the first step is to get a screening to see if there might be any memory issues. It is better to know early rather than later.” Alzheimer’s disease currently affects more than 6.2 million Americans, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that number will more than double by 2060.

would eventually become the prime historical record of that era, according to the U.S. National Archives. Bradford noted that the pilgrims' first winter in the New World was so harsh that less than half of the group survived the season. But in the spring, on March 16, 1621, an Abnaki Indian named Samoset entered the Plymouth settlement. He welcomed the pilgrims in English and the next day returned with another Native American named Squanto, who spoke English well. Squanto taught the settlers how to get sap out of the maple trees, how to avoid plants that were poisonous and how to plant corn and other crops. As a result, the harvest was very successful. The governor decided to throw a celebratory feast and invited the colony's native neighbors to take part. Bradford noted the natives brought food, as well, and the lavish celebration lasted for three days. According to the National Archives, on

Sept. 28, 1789, just before leaving for recess, the first federal Congress passed a resolution asking that the President of the United States recommend to the nation a day of thanksgiving. A few days later, President George Washington issued a proclamation naming Thursday, Nov. 26, 1789, as a "Day of Publick Thanksgivin" — the first time Thanksgiving was celebrated under the new Constitution. Subsequent presidents issued Thanksgiving Proclamations, but the dates and even months of the celebrations varied. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln's Proclamation made Thanksgiving a national holiday, to be commemorated on the last Thursday of November. In 1939, however, the last Thursday in November fell on the last day of the month. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was oncerned that the shortened Christmas shopping season might dampen economic

Memory screenings are an important first step toward early detection of memory issues. Screenings take just a few minutes and are noninvasive, consisting of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions. Results are not a diagnosis of any particular condition, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation. People experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline may be reluctant, embarrassed or in denial about seeking help, but early detection of memory issues is essential. If the memory issues are caused by Alzheimer’s disease, early detection affords greater opportunities to

begin medications sooner to slow the progression of disease symptoms, participate in a clinical trial, take advantage of therapeutic programming and have an active role in developing your care, health, legal and financial plans. Just as important, not all memory issues are caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea and depression are examples of conditions that can cause memory impairments — and all are treatable or curable — but you can’t address them if you aren’t aware they exist. ABOUT THE AFA The Alzheimer’s

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Plymouth Gov. Bradford left written details about the origins of today's Thanksgiving

recovery, so he issued a Proclamation moving Thanksgiving to the second to last Thursday of November. As a result of the proclamation, 32 states issued similar proclamations while 16 states refused to accept the change and proclaimed Thanksgiving to be the last Thursday in November. For two years, two days were celebrated as Thanksgiving — the President and part of the nation celebrated it on the second to last Thursday in November, while the rest of the country celebrated it the following week. To end the confusion, Congress decided to set a fixed date for the holiday. On Oct. 6, 1941, the House passed a joint Foundation of America is a nonprofit organization thats mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide and to fund research for better treatment and a cure. In addition to the National Memory Care Screening Program, its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline (866) 232-8484 staffed seven days a week by licensed social workers, educational conferences and materials and “AFA Partners in Care” dementia care training for healthcare professionals. For more information about AFA, visit www.alzfdn.org.

resolution declaring the last Thursday in November to be the legal Thanksgiving Day. The Senate, however, amended the resolution establishing the holiday as the fourth Thursday, which would take into account those years when November has five Thursdays. The House agreed to the amendment, and President Roosevelt signed the resolution on Dec. 26, 1941, thus establishing the fourth Thursday in November as the official federal Thanksgiving Day holiday. Today, Thanksgiving Day centers around being grateful for our blessings, and sharing time with loved ones, eating a heavy meal —most often

Youth for Christ hosts Comedy Cafe BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — Youth for Christ held its annual fundraiser last week, the Comedy Cafe, to raise money for its operations and to change the lives of young people. Youth for Christ East Alabama is a locally based program that teaches youth in the area, showing them Jesus’ love and helping them with resources. “YFC reaches young people everywhere, working together with the local church

Proudly serving our Auburn/Opelika family for over 20 years!

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consisting of turkey — and watching parades and football. But Thanksgiving is no longer a uniquelyAmerican holiday. It is also celebrated in Canada on the second Monday of October, also marked by a turkey dinner and Canadian football. Outside of North America, Erntedankfest, or “The Harvest Festival of Thanks,” is held in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. There is also a Thanksgiving-like celebration in a single city in the Netherlands. For more information about Thanksgiving and the origins of other national holidays, explore the National Archives website at www.archives. gov.

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and other like-minded partners to raise up lifelong followers of Jesus who lead by their godliness in lifestyle, devotion to the word of God and prayer, passion for sharing the love of Christ and commitment to social involvement,” its website states. The Comedy Cafe was a mixture of testimonies, videos, a speech by Director Tabitha Vasilas and the comedian of the evening, Brad Stine. Four students shared their personal stories. One of them, Will from See YFC, page A10

A6 Nov. 22, 2023

HOLIDAY CALENDAR BE A SANTA TO A SENIOR The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is teaming with Home Instead for the “Be a Santa to a Senior” program again this year. Through this program, Home Instead and their community partners deliver Christmas gifts to financially challenged seniors. Last year, more than two million gifts were delivered nationwide. Each of the ornaments on the tree in the Sheriff’s Office lobby represents the wish list for a local senior. “Be a Santa” participants may stop by and pick out a senior’s wish list, then drop off the unwrapped gifts and ornament by Friday, Dec. 8. Gifts will be delivered in time for Christmas. ICE SKATING The ice-skating rink at Auburn’s Hey Day Market greenspace is open daily from noon until 8:30 p.m. through Jan. 15, 2024. The cost, which includes skate rental and one hour of skate time, is $13 for children ages 12 & under, $20 for adults. DAILY “SNOWFALL” Enjoy a touch of winter wonder every evening at 5 p.m., with “snowfall” at Auburn’s Hey Day Market. BLUE FRIDAY In Auburn, it is not Black Friday, but BLUE FRIDAY! Downtown merchants will be open extended hours on the busiest shopping day of the year, Friday, Nov. 24, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. offering doorbusters and special sales. The event is suitable for all ages and is free to attend. COUNTRY CHRISTMAS @ ROCKY TOP FARM The Farm at Rocky Top will host Country Christmas each weekend from Nov. 24 through Dec. 17. The farm, located at 2910 Lee Road 145 in Salem, will feature Santa Claus Corner, a reindeer food-making station, a snow castle, Christmas tree picking, train rides and more. Admission is $12 for ages two and up and $7 for ages 65 and up. Dates and times are: Friday & Saturday, Nov. 24 & 25, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 26, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays, Dec. 1, 8 & 15, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 3, 10 & 17, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. HEY DAY MARKET CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING The tradition of the lighting of Auburn’s Hey Day Market tree continues this year. Watch the 24-foot-tall Christmas tree illuminate the night on Friday, Nov. 24, at 5 p.m. ICE CREAM WITH SANTA CLAUS Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit O Town Ice Cream in Opelika on Sunday, Nov. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. SNOPELIKA PARADE & TREE LIGHTING Snopelika is Opelika’s official kick-off event for the Christmas season. The annual community event will feature a parade along Railroad Avenue, artificial snowfall and a tree lighting ceremony at Courthouse Square on Friday, Dec. 1. The festivities, which begin at 5 p.m., are free.

thousands of Christmas cookies and treats while listening to musical talent and visiting with Santa. Enter for a chance to take home one of three beautiful handmade quilts. Cookie donations may be dropped off at Grace United Methodist Church on Friday, Dec. 2, from 2 to 7 p.m, and at the event before 9 a.m. For more information, email auburnopelikahabitat@gmail.com.

5k and 10k races at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $35 for the 10K, $25 for the 5K and $15 for the 1-mile fun run, which includes a t-shirt, if pre-registered by Nov. 19 through the website runsignup.com/Race/Info/AL/Auburn/ AuburnToysforTots10k5k1mileAORTA. Race Day registration fees are $55 for the 10k, $40 for the 5k and $25 for the one-mile race.

HOLIDAY ART MARKET @ OPELIKA ART HAUS The annual Holiday Art Market at the Opelika Art Haus is a one stop shop for local arts and crafts, as well as artisan foods, soaps, candles, pottery and many other beautiful items. The event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA & RUDOLPH The Oaks Farm will host Breakfast with Santa and Rudolph on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. There will be small crafts for the children to enjoy while they visit with Santa. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children and free for ages 2 and under. Price includes a breakfast buffet, beverages and a photo with Santa. Tickets will be available at the door and may be purchased by cash, check or credit card. RSVP at www.theoaksfarm.net/event-details/ breakfast-with-santa-2/form. The Oaks is located at 18221 Veterans Memorial Parkway in LaFayette.

HO-HO-HO HIKE & HOLIDAY CELEBRATION On Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Kreher Perserve & Nature Center in Auburn will transform into a winter wonderland filled with nature-themed crafts, performances, cookies, hot chocolate and a visit from Mrs. Claus. The Ho-Ho-Ho Hike is a fun "Santa Hunt" where guests hike the Preserve looking for the elusive visitor in red, meeting many of nature's creatures along the way. O.C.T. CHRISTMAS SHOWCASE The Opelika Community Theatre will present Christmas Showcase on Saturday, Dec. 2, featuring a festive performance, hot chocolate and cookies. Doors open at 6 p.m., showtime is 6:30 p.m. at 1220 Fox Run Ave., Suite 216. Tickets are $5 for children, $10 for adults and are available at www.opelikacommunitytheatre.com. MERRY MARKET GLYNN SMITH CHEVY GMC Glynn Smith Chevrolet GMC’s inaugural Merry Market, featuring more than 80 vendors, food trucks, a bouncy house, live music and visits with Santa, is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 600 Columbus Pkwy., Opelika. A MARTHA’S TROUBLE CHRISTMAS Martha's Trouble will perform Christmas tunes twice in December at The Sound Wall, located at 605 Avenue B in Opelika. Performances will be on Saturday, Dec. 2, and Friday, Dec. 8. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is $25. BYOB. AUBURN CHRISTMAS PARADE The city of Auburn’s annual Christmas parade will march through downtown on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m. CAROLING @ RANE CENTER Enjoy Christmas caroling prior to the Auburn Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 3, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center at Auburn University.

DOWNTOWN AUBURN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Downtown Auburn merchants will remain open for extended shopping hours and offer exclusive discounts and specials 5-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, with children’s activities, Santa, live music, cocktails to go and more.

GINGERBREAD VILLAGE @ RANE CENTER Following Auburn’s annual Christmas parade on Sunday, Dec. 3, the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center will unveil the Gingerbread Village at 3 p.m. The display, East Alabama’s largest, will remain up until New Year’s Day. Santa will be onsite at the Gingerbread Village from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on three Saturdays throughout the holiday season, ready to listen to wish lists and pose for photos. The dates are Dec. 9, Dec. 16 and Dec. 23.

DONUTS WITH DEPUTIES Don't miss a festive and fun holiday drop-in with the Lee County Deputies at the Donuts with Deputies event on Friday, Dec. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Twin City FOP Lodge #21 in Opelika. There will be sweet treats, coloring activities and more, including a special mailbox to send off letters to Santa.

HOLIDAY TEA @ 1856 – CULINARY RESIDENCE On three Sundays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, celebrate the holidays with a Holiday Tea at 1856 – A Culinary Residence from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will feature a mixture of assorted patisseries, a selection of specialty teas and wine and champagne selections, as well as a Teddy Bear Tea menu specially made for children. Reservations required.

JINGLE JOG 5K & SANTA STROLL FUN RUN Pull out your ugly Christmas sweaters and get ready for the Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run, set for Saturday, Dec. 2. The one-mile Santa Stroll Fun Run will begin at 6:30 a.m., and the Jingle Jog 5k will begin at 7 a.m., both at Toomer’s Corner in Auburn.

BIG BAND HOLIDAYS Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. With big band arrangements of songs both sacred and secular, Big Band Holidays is an uplifting tradition enjoyed by audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Special guest vocalist Ashley Pezzotti joins the band for imaginative new versions of classic holiday tunes. The performance is set for Thursday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. at the Gouge Performing Arts Center at Auburn University. Ticket prices range from $35 to $90 and are available at the website goguecenter.auburn.edu.

AUBURN DRIVE-THRU TOY DRIVE Help make the holidays bright for disadvantaged children in Auburn by bringing newly purchased, unwrapped toys to a drive-thru donation event at the Dean Road Recreation Center on Dec. 2, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ANNUAL CHRISTMAS MARKET For more than 50 years, the United Women of Faith at Auburn United Methodist Church have used all proceeds from its annual Christmas Market to support local area missions. Shop local arts, crafts, food, traditional baked goods and frozen soups and casseroles at this year’s Christmas Market at AUMC on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free to attend. SANTA ON THE CORNER Santa Claus will be at Toomer's Corner in Downtown Auburn from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, and from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3 ANNUAL COOKIE WALK The 28th Annual WeHelp Cookie Walk will be held Saturday, Dec. 2, from 8 a.m. to noon at True Deliverance Holiness Church, located at 936 N. Donahue Dr. in Auburn. The Cookie Walk is a fundraiser sponsored by the WeHelp Coalition of Churches, which proceeds benefitting the Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity. Choose from

CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN Christmas in a Railroad Town, set for Friday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. in Downtown Opelika, is a night full of activities for children and children at heart, including a mini train, pony rides, large and small animal petting zoos, wagon rides, trolley rides and late night shopping and dining. VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH CHRISTMAS TOUR Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tours will be held in Opelika’s Historic District along 8th & 9th streets Dec. 8-12. This Christmas tradition has been voted one of the southeast's top-rated tourism events and was featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living. Sixty Victorian and historic homes are transformed into colorful, nostalgic reminders from a simpler, slower-paced era. AUBURN TOYS FOR TOTS RACES Auburn Toys for Tots 10k, 5k and one-mile races will be held Saturday, Dec. 9, at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School. All participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be distributed to children in need. The one-mile race will start at 8 a.m., followed by the

BRUNCH WITH SANTA Enjoy brunch with Santa at the Auburn Marriott Opelika at Grand National on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature Christmas crafts, train rides on the North Pole Express and time with Santa and his elves. THE NUTCRACKER The classic holiday ballet The Nutcracker will be presented Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10, at Woltosz Theatre at the Gouge Performing Arts Center at Auburn University. Performances are set for Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available at the box office and online at gougecenter.evenue.net. SANTA CLAUS AT HEY DAY MARKET Santa will Join Hey Day Market in their holiday festivities with a visit from Santa Claus! Bring your cameras and Christmas cheer to meet the big man in red from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. Santa Claus will be back at the Hey Day Market from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 16 and again on Dec. 23. ROCKY BROOK ROCKET REINDEER EXPRESS The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department will host the Rocky Brook Reindeer Express Dec. 14 through 16 in Monkey Park. Train rides will be $2 per person, cash only, and will take you through stunning Christmas scenes with thousands of lights sure to put you in the Holiday mood. COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES Collinwood Luminaries is a neighborhood event off 10th Street in Opelika with live characters and animals and a live nativity. Drive through the neighborhood beginning on Friday, Dec. 15, from 5 to 9 p.m. nightly. SOUND WALL CHRISTMAS SUPPER CLUB The Sound Wall Christmas Supper Club is a reservationonly event featuring Chef Chris Wilton’s fan favorite Beef Wellington with an exquisite four-course chef’s menu. On Sunday, Dec. 10, and on Monday, Dec. 11, guests will gather around the table to watch and interact with the Chef as dishes are being created. Expect next-level, delicious food. This is a bring-your-own beverage event. Tickets are $75 and are available at theswmi.org. The venue is located at 605 Avenue B in Opelika. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and supper is at 7 p.m. each night. BYOB. FEAST OF THE SEVEN FISHES On Wednesday, Dec. 13, join The Hound and The Depot for their Sixth Annual Feast of the Seven Fishes, a traditional Italian celebration of Christmas Eve with fish and other seafood. A seven-course meal and five drink pairings will be planned and prepared by Chef Robbie Nicolaisen from The Hound and Chef Scott Simpson from The Depot. A limited number of tickets are available for $200, which includes tax and gratuity. The event will be held at 124 Mitcham Ave. in Auburn. Cocktail Hour will be held from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by dinner from 6 to 9 p.m. This event will be community seating. Please advise if there are friends coming with which you would like to be seated by leaving their name(s) in the comment box when purchasing your tickets at https://www.allaboardauburn.com. Due to the nature of the event, changes to the dishes to accommodate allergies and/or dietary restrictions are not available. MARRIAGE CHRISTMAS BALL Covenant Relationship Ministries will present the 11th annual Marriage Christmas Ball on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Southern Room at Southern Union Community College. This black-tie event was started and is hosted by marriage counselors Glenn and Anita Comer to provide an evening of fun for married couples and those who are seeking marriage relationships. Tickets are on sale for $50 per person, which includes a plated dinner and entertainment by a live band featuring Demetriace Jordan and other performers. This event is supported with donations from local businesses and three area churches: New Life Christian Center, Pastor Auzzie Comer; True Deliverance Holiness Church, Bishop Nolan Torbert; and Christ Temple, Bishop Kenneth Carter.

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E vents,Food & SocietyNews

PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY | FOR THE OBSERVER

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

lthough cookies are simply made with sugar, flour, eggs and sweet additions, they can help build houses for families when purchased at the 28th annual Cookie Walk on Saturday, Dec. 2. This year’s event will be held from 8 a.m. until noon at a new location: True Deliverance Holiness Church at 936 Donahue Drive in Auburn. Sponsored by the WeHelp Coalition Churches, all proceeds from the event will go to the Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity. Over the years, the Cookie Walk has assisted in building 77 homes in the community. With 30,000 cookies, the event is a dream come true for foodies and cookie lovers of all ages. Along with homemade treats, the event will feature photos with Santa, a raffle, entertainment and other activities for the entire family. Lisa Kriese-Anderson is chairman of this year’s event, and Martha Henk is

co-chair. Kriese-Anderson has been involved in the Cookie Walk for 10 years. “We want the public to know we are up and running again with the Cookie Walk,” Kriese-Anderson said. “It is very special to see those rows of tables loaded with cookies. People donate the tablecloths and decorations. It is wonderful seeing the families choosing the cookies together. They can walk up and down the rows to pick their cookies. The price has remained the same at $6 a pound.” Santa will be there for photos from 8 a.m. until noon. Every 15 minutes, a musical group will perform. Santa will play a guitar and sing as part of the entertainment. This year’s raffle includes three homemade quilts, including a queen size made by Cindy Reinke, a heart pattern lap-sized quilt by the Cotton Boll Quilters and a forest designed large quilt by Mindy and Mike Smith. Raffle tickets are $2 each or three

for $5. “When the original six churches started WeHelp in the late 1980s, their cookie and blueberry sales fundraisers earned enough to build a house every other year,” Kriese-Anderson said. “Now the price of a home has probably increased two and a half times. We are blessed that now we work hand in hand with Habitat, and our raised funds go seamlessly to help build the next house. Everyone who bakes cookies is doing this out of love.” Each church provides 250 dozen cookies in order to provide 30,000 for the fundraiser. Local bakeries and restaurants also donate cookies. The 12 churches in the WeHelp Coalition include Auburn AME Zion Church, Auburn First Baptist Church, Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Auburn First Presbyterian, Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, Green Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Grace United Methodist

The 28th annual Cookie Walk will be held Dec. 2 from 8 a.m. until noon at a new location this year, True Deliverance Holiness Church’s new gymnasium at 936 N Donahue Dr. in Auburn. Along with 30,000 cookies, the event features photos with Santa, a raffle with three quilts, entertainment and other activities for the entire family. Pictured are, from left, front row, Athera Yancy, Lisa Kriese-Anderson, Barbara White and Sylvia Carlisle; back row, Dr. Nolan T. Torbert Sr., Mark Grantham, Lee McInnis and Joe White.

Church, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Trinity Lutheran Church, True Deliverance Holiness Church, St. Michael’s Catholic Church and White Street Missionary Baptist Church. The Cookie Walk event began when Dr. Bob Norton, a member of WeHelp, suggested the idea for the fundraiser. He had participated in a similar event when he lived in Springfield, Ill. Norton would bake at least 60 dozen cookies for the event. After he passed away, others stepped in to meet the goal. Other confections have been added over the years. “We are thankful for the Coalition of Churches that have built 77 homes with us,” said Mark Grantham, executive director of Habitat. “The Cookie Walk fundraiser this year will

help us build a home. We could not do what we do without them. We are thankful for everyone who is a part of the WeHelp churches. “They raise an average of $8,000 to $15,000 on this one fundraiser. It takes a lot of support of the churches and the community to bake and come out and buy the cookies. “That money helps a qualified family realize the dream and responsibility of a home in our community. Our partner families work very hard to contribute 500 volunteer hours, attend training on responsible financial management and home ownership, save a down payment and pay a nonprofit, no-interest mortgage. It is such a blessing to be able to help a family realize home ownership

for the first time. We have families excited and waiting right now, so we want to help them. “In this past year we have completed Habitat home number 72, which was sponsored and built by the Stone Martin Builders (SMB) team, and home number 73, sponsored by the Jones family in partnership with AU Building Science and Architecture. Both homes were built in the Westview Subdivision in Auburn and in a long standing partnership with the city of Auburn. “We are currently building Habitat homes number 74, 75 and 76 on Cherry Avenue in Opelika, in partnership with the city of Opelika, West Fraser Lumber and Stone Martin Builders. The SMB team

See CIPPERLY, page A11

Auburn UMC Women in Faith to host Christmas Market Dec. 2 BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

The United Women in Faith at Auburn United Methodist Church present the annual Christmas Market on Dec. 2. Proceeds will benefit local charities. Pictured are, from left, Debra Rollins, Mary Richburg, chair-man of the market, and Ginger Worley.

AUBURN — For more than 50 years, the United Women in Faith (formerly UMW) at Auburn United Methodist Church have been baking and cooking for the annual Christmas Market, with all proceeds going to local missions. This year’s Christmas Market will be held Saturday, Dec. 2, from 8:30

a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Epworth Center in back of the church, located at 137 S. Gay St. in Auburn. Admission Is free. Parking is available in the church lots on Magnolia Ave. and Gay Street. Along with baked goods, frozen casseroles and other food items, more than 40 area artists, crafters and others will be selling handmade art and craft items.

Market chair Mary Richburg said she believes the event has a longer history, but “no one thought to keep track.” Debbie Rollins, coordinator for the bake sale, noted that because each year they have sold every food item, she encourages shoppers to come early. Baked goods include layer and pound cakes, cookies, savory snacks and nuts. The cakes are freshly baked

and can be frozen. They also take orders for cakes. Frozen meat and vegetable casseroles and soups will also be available. Assorted cakes and frozen chicken casseroles have been the most popular items at past events. During the busy Christmas season, a casserole or soup in the freezer is great to have on hand on a hectic day to simply place in the

See MARKET, page A10

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A8 Nov. 22, 2023

Homes for the Holidays BUILT FROM THE HEART OF OPELIKA

This year marked Stone Martin’s second year of partnering with Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity. Together, we united our skills and passion to make homeownership a reality for families in need. But our partnership with Habitat isn’t new; it’s an ongoing journey. The ultimate goal of Habitat for Humanity is to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the face of the earth by constructing and building adequate and basic housing. Stone Martin Builders is honored and humbled to build not only one house, but homes for three families in need this holiday season. Every brick laid, every nail hammered in, is a step closer to realizing our shared vision. We’re not merely constructing buildings; we’re crafting sanctuaries of

DREAMS, HOPE, AND MEMORIES. We extend our deepest thanks to the City of Opelika and our numerous trade partners for making this accomplishment possible. We look forward to inviting three families home in December! Stay tuned for information on our dedication ceremony.

@auburnopelikahabitatforhumanity

A9 Nov. 22, 2023

Three Homes. Three Families. One Effort.

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A10 Nov. 22, 2023

Sean of the South

SEAN DIETRICH

EAR SEAN: I’m not sure what to do. My teenage son died in an accident three years ago. ... A few months ago one of his good friends started hanging out at our house… We’ve become really close. He doesn’t have a very present mother. And I find myself wanting to love this boy in pretty much the same way we loved our son.

MARKET >> from A7 oven and reheat. Cakes and baked goods are also wonderful to have tucked away in the freezer. Dozens of vendors will be selling items such as handmade jewelry, birdhouses, wreaths, paintings, pottery, quilts, homemade soups and

From the files of 'Dear Sean'

But every time I let myself feel love for this boy, I feel so guilty and stupid for feeling like that. He’s got a mother and family already. And he is not MY son, and he will never be MY son. I guess I just needed to vent. I don’t know. My question to you is this: Should I invite him over for Thanksgiving this year? Or is that too much? Thanks, HOPELESS-IN-SANANTONIO DEAR SANANTONIO: I was five years old. Standing in my aunt’s bathroom. My aunt had one of those toilet-seat covers made of carpet. I wonder who decided those were a good invention. My aunt’s bathroom was a nondescript, old-lady bathroom that

smelled like bath powder. And on the wall was a framed, embroidered piece of artwork that stands out in my memory. My aunt had a lot of embroidery in the house. Most of this embroidery was framed, featuring religious phrases such as, “The wages of sin is death.” And, “All liars shall have their part in the Lake of Fire.” And the one in my uncle’s room: “If you don’t love Jesus, and you don’t root for ‘Bama, you’ll Au-Burn.” But the particular piece of embroidery I’m talking about said: “The meaning of life is found in friendship.” And I’ve always loved this phrase. I don’t know what it’s like to lose a child. But I know that after you lose someone, something

inside your brain shifts. You’re not even remotely the person you were before the trauma. Everything is different. Tastes are different. Colors are different. You are the New You. And things never go back to normal. Never. You’re forced to learn how to live in a new body. New life. New routine. To do this, you start looking for friends. Maybe you’ll even go so far as trying to piece together your old life. I did. In my case, I tried to piece my father back together using other people. I’d find older men — all around his age — and attach myself to them, leech-like. We’d become good friends. And they helped me through a lot of hard times. Some of these guys even look like my dad.

other items that make great Christmas gifts. “The market is an event showcasing visual arts, baked goodies, ceramics, woodwork, prints, sewing and multimedia crafts,” said Mary Richburg. The annual Christmas Market is the only fundraiser of the year for Auburn’s United Women in Faith. All proceeds

from the event are used to support local area missions. Among those are: • Alabama REACH, an organization that supports foster children and orphans with a supportive environment as they transition from foster care; • One Voice Shelter Coalition, which provides housing for homeless women who cannot

get assistance from any other agency because they work; • Alabama Rural Ministry, which provides repair services to individuals in need; • Esperanza House, a provider of programs that meet the needs of low-income Hispanic families; • Redeeming Grace Ministries, the residen-

Home for the holidays For nearly 50 years, Annie and Henry lived in a mobile home on their property, with the intention to build their dream home there once they retired. With an unwavering commitment to their goal and a little help from AuburnBank, they moved into their new home this year. It was an honor for AuburnBank to assist Annie and Henry in fulfilling their dream. Mortgage lender, Celeste Smith Norris stated, “They reminded me why I love this job.” We’d love to talk with you about your plans for purchasing a home. Call us at 334-887-4608 to make an appointment.

Member FDIC | AuburnBank.com

w/Celeste at our new

home

But here’s the thing. Most of these male friends had families of their own. Children of their own. Lives of their own. And sometimes, I’d be hanging around when one of their adult children would enter the scene. And I’d catch myself feeling like a complete dipstick. Because this guy was THEIR dad. Not mine. We all knew that. Whereupon, I would feel everyone’s pity. In which case, I’d excuse myself and have a good cry because I was deeply embarrassed. But looking back, I wish I wouldn’t have felt shame. Namely, because there is nothing to be ashamed about when it comes to friendship. Friendship is not embarrassing. Neither is love. Neither is grief.

tial program in East Alabama for women transitioning out of a correctional facility or rehabilitation program; • Domestic Violence Intervention Center; and • The Auburn Wesley Foundation, a Christian community for college students which provides opportunities for fellowship and community service.

These are sacred things. So you asked what I thought, and here it is: Invite the kid over for Thanksgiving. Have the time of your life. Honor the memory of your son by being the mother you were made to be. Because, if you ask me, the embroidery on my aunt’s wall was half wrong. The meaning of your life is not just friendship. The meaning of your life is to help others find theirs. Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast and he makes appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

YFC >> from A5 Chambers Academy, said that Campus Life with YFC has taught him to be bold in his faith and step up as a leader. Brooklyn, a ninth grader at Auburn, said that Campus Life teaches her how to take what she knows from the Bible and apply it to her life. Brianna, an 18-yearold, said that Vasilas and the Juvenile Justice Ministry through YFC saved her life. “Youth like me need help,” she said. “We just want to be heard, we want to be wanted and we want to be loved.” She said that her entire trajectory has changed from death or prison to a future she said she never could have imagined. “This is why Youth for Christ has to exist,” Vasilas said. “To go into places, into schools and facilities where maybe nobody else is going, to bring the light and the hope of Jesus to young people that are struggling, young people that are desperate, young people that are hurting.” Vasilas said 20% of students participating in the program have shared they have no one at home who cares about them. Another 10% shared they have contemplated suicide. She said she wanted to appeal to the audience through their hearts, not only through logic. “The question is, are you filled with and are you moved with, by, compassion?” she asked. Vasilas referenced the Biblical story of The Good Samaritan. “Kids are lying on the side of the road, figuratively, sometimes literally,” she said. “Being beaten, bruised and battered, left for dead, on their way to eternity separated from God if we don’t bring them the good news. And that’s what we get to do with Youth for Christ.”

A11 Nov. 22, 2023

CIPPERLY >> from A7 and an amazing group of trade partners will have all three homes completed before Christmas 2023.” Habitat home number 77 in Auburn is now being built in partnership with AU Building Science, AU Panhellenic and WeHelp Coalition Churches. If you have a desire to help local families have their own homes, plan to bake cookies to donate. Let children help measure ingredients to feel like they are a part. While many of us can’t work on the houses, we can help build them by baking for the Cookie Walk. If you would like to donate baked goods this year, drop off cookies at the church on Friday, Dec. 1, from 3 to 7 p.m. Plan to attend the Cookie Walk and fill your freezer with homemade cookies to have on hand for the Christmas season, while helping a family have their own warm home for celebrating the holiday season. Those purchasing cookies receive a box and plastic gloves. After they have selected their cookies, they pay six dollars per pound, which is a bargain at today’s prices for the ingredients. The recipes below are a sampling of cookies served at the event over the years. For further information on the Cookie Walk, visit the website at www. auburnopelikahabitat.org. For additional information on Habitat for Humanity contact Grantham at (334) 745-2123 or e-mail mark.a.grantham310@ gmail.com.

WHITE CHOCOLATE & CRANBERRY COOKIES LISA KRIESE-ANDERSON 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature 1 cup light brown sugar, gently packed ½ cup sugar 2 large eggs at room temperature 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries Place the flour, baking soda and salt in a large mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Place the butter, brown sugar and sugar in a separate mixing bowl and beat at medium speed with a paddle attachment until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Incorporate eggs one at a time, add the vanilla and beat to incorporate. With the mixer running at low speed, add the flour mixture and beat until a smooth dough forms. Add the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries and fold in by hand until evenly distributed. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. Preheat oven to 350F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop Tbsp. of the dough onto the baking

sheets. Bake cookies, one sheet at a time for about 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. If desired, melt white chocolate and dip ½ of cookie into mixture. Place on waxed paper or wire racks. Place in airtight container after cookies cool completely. Can be frozen. Makes 4 dozen.

HOLIDAY SHORTBREAD COOKIES SUSI GRANTHAM 3/4 cup butter or stick margarine, softened* 1/4 cup sugar 2 cups all-purpose flour (do not use self-rising) Heat oven to 350°. Mix butter and sugar in large bowl. Stir in flour. (If dough is crumbly, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons butter or stick margarine, softened.) Roll dough 1/2 inch thick on lightly floured surface. Cut into small shapes by hand or use cookie cutters. Place 1/2 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake about 20 minutes or until set. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Makes about two dozen cookies. *Do not use vegetable oil spreads. TRIPLE GINGER SNAPS MINDY MCCAIN SMITH 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 12 Tbsp. unsalted butter 2 Tbsp. ground ginger ½ tsp. ground cinnamon 1¼ cups dark brown sugar ¼ cup molasses 2 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger 1 large egg plus 1 large egg yolk 1/3 cup finely chopped crystalized ginger Granulated sugar for rolling In a small bowl mix together flour, baking soda and salt; set aside. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir frequently until butter is just beginning to turn a golden brown (2 – 4 minutes). Transfer butter into a mixing bowl; add ground ginger and cinnamon. Let mixture cool for about 2 minutes. Using a mixer, add brown sugar, molasses and fresh ginger; mix thoroughly. Add egg and yolk, incorporating completely into mixture. Add flour mixture and mix until just incorporated. Finally, mix in crystalized ginger. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 – 2 hours. Place oven racks in upper middle and lower middle positions of oven. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Place sugar for rolling in a shallow bowl. Scoop dough into heaping tsp. portions. Roll each portion into a ball

and roll in sugar. Place on baking sheets 2 inches apart. Bake for 15 minutes; rotate baking sheets and bake another 9 – 12 minutes, or until the cookies begin to lightly brown around the edges. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough. Store cookies in airtight container. Cookies will keep at room temperature for up to two weeks (if they last that long), or they may be frozen. If desired, you may freeze dough balls and bake later. If baking from frozen, add two minutes to baking time.

COCONUT MACAROONS CAROL DUNCAN Position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Preheat the oven to 325. Cover cookie sheets with parchment paper. Stir together until well combined: 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk 1 large egg white 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/8 tsp. salt Stir in until well blended: 3 1/2 cups flaked or shredded sweetened coconut Drop dough by scant measuring Tbsp. onto sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Bake 1 sheet at a time until the cookies are nicely browned, about 20-25 minutes. Remove the sheet to a rack and let stand until the cookies are completely cool. Carefully peel the cookies from the parchment. Store in airtight container. DATE BALL COOKIES KAY RIDDELL 1 stick melted butter 1 cup white sugar 8 oz. pkg. chopped dates 3/4 cup chopped pecans 1 beaten egg Mix together and boil (low), stirring constantly for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in: 1 tsp. vanilla 3 cup Rice Krispies Shape into walnut-size balls and roll in coconut. CHOCOLATE CRINKLE COOKIES LISA KRIESE-ANDERSON ½ cup vegetable oil 1⅓ cups unsweetened cocoa powder 2 ½ cups granulated sugar 4 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. kosher salt ½ cup confectioners’ sugar Mix vegetable oil, cocoa powder and sugar in a mixing bowl and stir to combine. Add eggs, one at a time, stirring well. Add vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a separate bowl and stir to combine. Add the dry ingredients to wet mixture and work the dough with your hands until a soft dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours. Preheat oven to 350. Line baking sheets

with parchment paper. Place confectionary sugar in shallow dish. Using a tablespoon cookie scoop, form cookie balls. Roll cookie balls in the confectionary sugar until coated and place on baking sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are firm. Remove cookies from oven and let cookies cool for one minute on baking sheets before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Store in airtight containers. Will freeze well. Makes 6 dozen.

HINT O' MINT COOKIES LISA KRIESE-ANDERSON ½ cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 egg ½ tsp. vanilla extract ¼ tsp. peppermint extract 2 cups flour ½ tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. cream of tartar ½ cup buttermilk Frosting: 3 Tbsp. butter, softened 2 cups confectioners’ sugar ⅓ cup baking unsweetened cocoa ⅛ tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 to 4 Tbsp. milk In large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and extracts. Combine flour, baking soda and cream of tartar in a separate bowl. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk to creamed

ingredients, beating well after each addition. Cover dough and refrigerate for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350. Drop by heaping teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten dough with a glass dipped in sugar. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool. In a small bowl, beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, salt, vanilla and enough milk to achieve spreading consistency. Frost cookies. Cookies look special if using a star tip to frost. Makes 4 dozen.

CHRISTMAS HOLLY GOODIES ATHERA PERRY 6 Tbsp. butter 1 tsp. vanilla 32 large marshmallows Green food coloring 4 cups corn flakes cereal Red Hots candy Melt butter on stove. Add marshmallows and stir until melted. Stir in vanilla and enough green food coloring to make mixture dark green (color of holly leaves). Stir in cereal until well coated. Drop by tablespoon onto wax paper; top with 3 or 4 red hots in center. Let cool on wax paper and enjoy! PEANUT BUTTER BLOSSOMS LISA KRIESE-ANDERSON

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt ½ cup sugar ½ cup brown sugar, packed ½ cup shortening ½ cup peanut butter 2 Tbsp. milk 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla extract Unwrapped milk chocolate kisses White or colored sugar (red and green) Preheat oven to 375. Combine flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Cream sugar, brown sugar, shortening and peanut butter together until smooth. Add egg and beat well. Add milk and vanilla. Slowly add flour mixture. Mix well after each addition. Make cookie balls using one teaspoon. dough. Roll cookie balls in white sugar or to be more festive, red or green sugar. Place cookie balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until surface cracks. Immediately place chocolate kiss in the middle of each cookie Cool for 5 minutes before removing cookies from baking sheet to wire racks. Cool cookies completely and let chocolate kiss become firm. Store in airtight container. Can be frozen.

See RECIPES, page A12

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A12 Nov. 22, 2023

United Way Visits Kiwanis Club

What's Happening in Lee County

PHTOO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

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

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP The Kiwanis speaker this week was Tipi Miller with United Way of Lee County.

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> from A11 SUGAR PLUM SHORTBREAD MINDY MCCAIN SMITH 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. freshly grated nutmeg ¼ cup finely chopped toasted pecans 6 Tbsp. granulated sugar 1 ½ Tbsp. freshly grated orange zest 1 cup butter Plum jam Large crystal sugar Place oven rack in the lower third of oven; preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or baking mats. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the following: flour, spices, pecans, sugar and orange zest. Using a pastry blender or electric mixer, cut in butter until mixture resembles crumbs and begins to stick together. Hand knead the dough until it forms a ball. Then flatten the ball into a disk. Working on a lightly floured surface, roll the disk to ½ inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using 1 ½ to 3-inch cookie cutters. Place cutouts on prepared baking sheets 2 inches apart. Depending on the size of the cutouts, bake for 18 – 22 minutes or until bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned and the centers are set. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before removing them to cooling racks. When completely cool, the cookies can be finished by spreading with plum jam and sprinkling large crystal sugar.

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.

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS ANNOUNCE 2023-24 MEETING DATES Auburn/Opelika MOPS (Moth- Jan. 18 ers of Preschoolers) and MOMS- Feb. 1, 15 Next meet at Pepperell Baptist - March 7, 21 Church located at 2702 2nd Ave. in - April 4, 18 Opelika. - May 2 The next meetings scheduled are: Contact Rachel Elrod at 706- Nov. 16 244-5620 or Kaela Sexton at 719- Dec. 7 351-8093 for further information.

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NAMI MEETING

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

A13 Nov. 22, 2023

Altar Call

WALT ALBRITTON

OPINION — ene Moore, my dear friend from Auburn days, lives with his wife Jan in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Like me, Gene is a nonagenarian, both of us having lived beyond our octogenarian years. (“Nona” comes from the Latin word meaning “the ninth.”) For many years we have communicated often with letters and by telephone. Gene and I worked together on staff of The Auburn Plainsman in the early 1950s. So, it’s not surprising that Gene’s letters usually include

newspaper clippings of stories not likely printed in local papers. His clippings typically are about the Amish people. The Pennsylvania Amish community in Lancaster County, where Gene and Jan live, is the largest community in America (more than 30,000 people). For the Amish, God is not some distant God or an oblong blur, He is a personal God who cares about detail of their lives. So, their faith calls for them to wear plain clothes, live in simple ways and always stand ready to help neighbors in need. This has earned them the nickname, “the Plain people.” The Amish are not Mennonites but do share the same religious heritage; both groups trace their

Imagination's value

roots to the Anabaptist Movement that began in 1525 in Europe following the Protestant Reformation. Amish and Mennonites separated in 1693. Both came to America to escape persecution in Europe. They are seriously conservative Christians. Gene’s latest clipping is a remarkable story about an unusual bank designed to meet the needs of the Amish community. This uniquely named “Bank of Bird-in-Hand” has a main office, but its success has come from operating four mobile branches, each a converted RV. Only 10 years old, the bank “has accumulated $1.2 billion in total assets, seen its stock price more than triple and expanded to six brick-andmortar branches.” The RV banks are called “gelt

buses,” or money buses. Chief lending officer Bill O’Brien credits the bank’s success to simplicity. Since the Amish resist many types of modern technology, they welcome the bank’s offer of “simple loans, simple lines of credit and a simple checking account.” Old Order Amish protect their faith values by restricting the use of electricity, telephones, television, telephones and automobiles. They continue to farm with horses instead of tractors and travel with a horse and buggy. The sacred value of the family is maintained by keeping all work, play, worship, commerce and friendship within the Amish connection. One of O’Brien’s observations about bankers

caught my attention. He said bankers sometimes lack imagination. If it doesn’t fit, they’re not making an adjustment. That describes some Church leaders I have known, those who resist change because we like the way we have always done it. Imagination can be an important tool of the church. While the message of salvation through faith in Jesus remains the same, the methods of faith sharing may need to change with each new generation. A creative imagination can help church leaders see new ways to communicate the unchanging good news of God’s love and His invitation to come to Jesus. Imagine, for example, what we might learn by contemplating the

simplicity practices of the Amish. Any list of “Holy Disciplines” for Christians will include the discipline of simplicity. Has not our embrace of technology short-circuited our devotional life? Do not some of us spend so much time on our cell phones that we have little time left for serious prayer and communion with God? Has this eroded the value of simplicity in our lives? Perhaps we need a “Church of Bird-in-Hand” that can meet the unique needs of Christians caught up in the madness of a culture that is squeezing us into its own mold. It could inspire us to let Jesus anoint our imagination. Under His influence, we might discover and embrace some changes more valuable than simple banking.

the Uniroyal Tire Company for 33 years before she retired. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Donald Ray Hornsby, grandson, Price Hornsby, and daughterin-law, Kristin Watson Hornsby. Mrs. Hornsby is survived by her sons, Ray and Jason Hornsby, her grandchildren, Austin, Price, Emerson Ray and Ella Ann Hornsby, and her siblings, Susan Carlisle and Betty Ann Sloan. A graveside service was held Nov. 18, at Elam Baptist Church Cemetery in Tallassee, with JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home of Opelika assisting. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that charitable donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Chambers County, where they farmed and raised three children. Mevalyn worked at Playtex and then several years at Chambers Academy as the principal secretary. When she wasn't taxiing kids from school and ballfield, she enjoyed gardening, canning, volunteering at Oak Bowery church and hosting fine dinners. Mevalyn was an excellent cook. After Ben's untimely death, Mevalyn decided to fulfill a lifelong dream and returned to Southern Union to become a nurse. She graduated at the top her class and went to work in the I.C.U. at East Alabama Medical Center. Mevalyn married Wayne White, a long-time family friend, in 1984. They lived in Ridge Grove, where she became a vital part of that community, serving at Center Baptist Church and the Ridge Grove Volunteer Fire Department. Wayne and Mevalyn enjoyed traveling. In her later years, she continued volunteering with Chattahoochee Valley Hospice, where she helped stitch several quilts and was the top fundraiser. She also found special blessings in helping the ladies at Harvest Evangelism's Hosanna Home. A proud moment in Mevalyn's life was when she was the first woman elected to the Lee-Chambers Farm Service Agency County Committee, on which she

OBITUARIES EMOGENE DEAN GRAY Emogene Dean Gray of Auburn was born to the late Raymond and Bessie Dean on March 20, 1927, and passed away at Bethany House on Nov. 12, 2023. She was 96 years old. Emogene was born and grew up in Bessemer, with two brothers, June and Thurman, and a sister, Carolyn. A talent for cooking and a near obsession with cleanliness led her to work for the Home Economics Department at Auburn University before embarking on a career with the U.S. Postal Service, from which she retired in 1987 as the postmaster for Lafayette. Along the way, she met and married Kendrick Gray (also a postmaster). They retired together and toured the U.S. and Canada in their travel trailer. Emogene loved her family dearly and was a permanent fixture at her grandchildren’s and greatgrandchildren’s special events and activities. She was a long-time member of Auburn United Methodist Church, and served many years as an auxiliary volunteer at EAMC. She is survived by her two daughters, Carol (Hilton) Jones and Denise (John) Valentine; grandchildren, E.H. Rusty (Erica) Jones II and Jacqueline (John) Higdon; great grandchildren Hilton, Elizabeth and Emory Jones and Everly Higdon; and her nephew, John Dean.

A graveside service was held Sunday, Nov. 19, at Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery, with Pastor John Fox officiating and Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handling arrangements. The family would especially like to thank all of the wonderful people at Auburn Assisted Living and Bethany House. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Bethany House in Auburn. EDWARD R. GRAF Edward R. Graf, 92, of Auburn passed away on Nov. 10, 2023. He was born on Sept. 26, 1931, in Cullman and was a loving father, brother, friend and co-worker. Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Beatrix G. “Trixi” Graf, his father, Raymond Graf, his mother, Dorothea Rambo Graf, and his sister Margaret Dooley. He is survived by his son, Martin Graf (Christine) and his brother, Ralph Graf. He also leaves behind numerous co-workers and friends. After high school, Ed joined the United States Air Force. Following his service, Ed attended Auburn University, where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering. Being adventurous, he then traveled to Germany and earned his Ph.D. in electrical engineering at Stuttgart University. Much later in

life, he earned his Executive Juris Doctor (law) from Kaplan University. While in Germany, he met and married the love of his life, Trixi, and their son, Martin, was born. He returned to Auburn and had a tremendous career as an electrical engineering professor. Following retirement in 1987, he began working full-time at a company that he helped form, EPOS Corp. That was followed by time at Official Payments Corporation, Heartland Payments Systems, Global Payments and finally at Fullsteam. Ed worked up until his passing as the director of compliance and contracts. Outside of work, Ed loved spending time in his flower garden with his dog, Fritzi. And he loved traveling with his wife and son. Also, he loved his dinners at Venditori’s, where they took special care of him. Ed will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him. A graveside service was held Nov. 14, at Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery, with Frederick-Dean Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

and ran the race God had set before her with endurance and grace. She was a beautiful example of how to hallow the Lord in the midst of suffering. A woman of conviction and humility, strength and tenderness, she cared deeply for her family and friends, and trusted the Lord to answer her prayers for them. Kerry insisted she was a wimp, but all who knew her saw the strength of the Lord in her. Born in Mobile, she was preceded in death by her father, Carlton Nell Sr. Kerry is survived by her husband of 32 years, her mother, Bette Kay Nell; her sister, Kathy Watts (Tommy); her brothers Corky Nell (Brenda) and Richie Nell (Lisa); Dottie Li Toscano (Michael); her nieces and nephews, Elliot Nell, Aaron Nell, Oliver Nell, Juliet Nell, Louisa Nell, Brady Watts, Mary Ellen Watts, Sawyer Nell (Melinda), Scout Nell, Josie Jemison (Michael), Jake Nell and Shane Toscano. A memorial service was held Nov. 18 at Trinity Presbyterian Church, with Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home of Opelika assisting.

KERRY NELL DUMAS Kerry Dumas, 60, died on Nov. 14, 2023, after 42 years of paralysis and a long fight with breast cancer. Kerry never made excuses based on her physical challenges, but worked hard

MICKEY DELANE HORNSBY Mickey Delane Hornsby, 70, of Auburn passed away Nov. 13, 2023. Mrs. Hornsby was born July 17, 1953, in Tallassee to Rupert and Audrey Meadows. She worked with

MEVALYN (WOOD) ANDREWS WHITE Mevalyn (Wood) Andrews White, 90, formerly of LaFayette passed away on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. She was born on New Years Eve of 1932 in Mellow Valley, Alabama, to Joseph and Bertha Wood. The last of six children, Mevalyn was the adored baby of the family and community. She graduated from Mellow Valley School and received her associate degree from Southern Union in Wadley. She married Ben H. Andrews Jr. and moved to

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

See OBITUARIES, page A14

A14 Nov. 22, 2023

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

OPINION — The story of David and his desire to build a temple for God is recorded in 2 Samuel 7. By this point in David’s life, a lot of water has passed under his bridge. He’s been: • in the pastures as a boy, shepherding his father’s sheep,

• in the courts of King Saul, soothing him with the music of the harp, • on the battlefield, facing the Philistine giant, Goliath, • in the wilderness, on the run when Saul and his men sought his life, • in the palace, as king of Israel, shepherding God’s people. At rest from his enemies, he has an overwhelming desire to do something for God. He is acutely aware of the fact that the ark of the covenant sat in a tent, while he sat in a palace (v. 2). There’s something to be said for David’s sensitivity here. He decides to build a house (temple) for God. It wasn’t to be of course (God had other plans), but the point

Thanksliving

here is the desire in David’s heart to do something more than simply say “thank you” to God. It’s good to be thankful. It’s good to count our blessings, offer our praises and say our prayers. It’s even better to live a thankful life. It’s good to serve food to people in need on Thanksgiving and Christmas; it’s even better to help with their needs on a year-round basis. It was their anniversary. His wife shocked him by requesting that instead of taking her out, he should go out with another woman. “What are you talking about?” he wanted to know. “Your mother,” she said. And of course, she was

right. His mother had been a widow for 19 years, and somewhere in the midst of pursuing a career and raising a family, she’d received the short end of his attention stick. So, he took her out. The plan was dinner and a movie, but they enjoyed dinner and talked so much they never made it to the movie. It was just a few weeks later that his mother died of a heart attack. In the mail, just a day or two later, came a receipt from the restaurant where he had taken her. It seems his mother had paid for him to take his wife there. There was an accompanying note that said, “You will never know what that night meant

to me. I love you son.” Thankfulness is a lifestyle, not a seasonal celebration. We treat it that way when we have a sense of priority and urgency about how we treat the people and the opportunities around us, whether it’s serving food to the hungry or spending time with a loved one. “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God,” (Ephesians 5:1-2). Find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-with-brucegreen.com.

Bible verse of the week: In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. — Romans 8:37

CHURCH DIRECTORY

3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432

ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

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

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

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

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

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 E. 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

Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST 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 CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God

OBITUARIES >>

organization or the charity of your choice.

served three terms. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Wayne White; children, Ben H. (Lisa Drake) Andrews III, Barry W. Andrews and Betty Lynn (Alan) Walker; step-children, David (Diane) White, Lisa (David) Siggers and Rick White; grandchildren, Ashley (Corey) Blair, Mollie Cole, Elizabeth Andrews, Joseph Muszynski, Anna Muszynski and Cash Andrews; greatgrandchildren, Caden Blair and Rowan Muszynski; and many beloved nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life service was held Nov. 15 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home chapel in Opelika. A graveside service followed at Lafayette City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mevalyn's memory to any Alabama Hospice

WARREN FULLER Warren Fuller of Opelika was born in Elba, Alabama to the late Porter and Fannie Fuller on April 28, 1933, and died on Nov. 16, 2023 at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Betty Fuller, his parents and many siblings. He is survived by his brother, Sandford (Mary Ann) Fuller; children, Cathy (Joey) Bryant and Jeff (Jennifer) Fuller; grandchildren, Whitney (Matt) Lawler, Tyler (Emily) Bryant, Travis (Kelsey) Bryant, Davis (Candice) Gamble, Tristan Gamble and John Fuller; great-grandchildren, Fuller Lawler, Eli Meadows and Georgia Gamble. In lieu of flowers please donate to www.amvets.org A visitation was held Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, from noon to 1 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Home in

FOM A13

ADD YOUR CHURCH Add your church to the directory for only $75 a year. Email editor@opelikaobserver. com or call (334) 749-8003.

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552 Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika

the parlor. A private, family-only, graveside service followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. "If anyone wonders why I'm missing, just tell them I've gone fishing." Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all arrangements. WILLIAM STEPHENS JR. William “Wee Wee” Stephens, Jr. gained his heavenly wings on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. He was born to Sonny and Frances Stephens on April 6, 1959, in Macon County, Alabama. He is Preceded in death by his parents, Sonny and Frances Stephens; godfather Ronnie Martin; brother Yancey Stephens, and son William “Scooter” Stephens. He is survived by his wife Sheri Stephens; daughter Betty (Dusty) Stephens Morrison; brother Hubert (Angel) Stephens; sister Kathy (Terry) Martin, brother Tommy Chadwick, godmother Betty Martin,

334-707-3949 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika Southern Plains Cowboy Church 13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014 PENTECOSTAL Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

and numerous nieces, nephews and kinfolk. William was raised in Beauregard and grew up working in the shop with his dad. He had a passion for driving trucks and was known to many as the gas man. He loved hunting, fishing and spending his days with his family. A memorial service was held at 6 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023, in the Chapel at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. A visitation was held one hour prior, beginning at 5 p.m. STEPHEN E. HOWARD Stephen E. Howard (Steve), age 66, of Opelika, passed away Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. A member of Providence Baptist Church of Opelika, Steve was a man of faith. He loved his family unconditionally. He had ultimate joy in seeing his grandchildren thrive. He was married to Julie Ann Howard for 36 years. They were blessed with three

children: Stephen Howard, Clayton Howard (Regina), Lacey Kizziah and four grandchildren; Wake, Molly, Harper and Hudson. Steve was an avid lover of the beach. If he could find himself on a coast of white sand with his family around, that is where he was most happy. Steve is preceded in death by his father and mother: Jackie and Molly Howard, and his son, Stephen Howard. Steve is survived by his loving wife, two children, and grandchildren, a brother Randy Howard (Donna) and a sister Sharon Raiford (Billy). Steve is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends who were like family. A visitation was held Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, at Providence Baptist Church West campus from 1 to 2 p.m. The funeral service followed, officiated by the Rev. Rusty Sowell.

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

A15 Nov. 22, 2023

A16 Nov. 22, 2023

How To Untangle Advertising Chaos

Baker Street uses a clear-cut 8 step process to simplify the complexity of crafting advertising campaigns. It’s worked since 1998. 1. Brand Persona. What makes your offering unique? 2. Customer Persona. Why does a new or existing customer need you? 3. The Design. It all starts with research. Find the roadblocks between you and your prospective customers. 4. The Campaign. Which outlet can best fit your needs to find the customer? 5. Imagery. What message can you craft to persuade customers to choose you? 6. Launch. This is where you send your message out to the universe. 7. Analytics. Study whats working and why. 8. Optimize. Once you know whats working, duplicate it.

Steps 1 & 2 are questions you ask internally to your team. Steps 3 through 6 are available, sometimes free online...think Canva and ChatGPT, and are based on matching your persona to your customer’s persona. Step 7 is readily available through any analytics dashboard. At this step cut the under-performers and shift budget to the high achievers. Step 8 is continuing to monitor performance. Over and over and over.

We hope this process helps you understand, and demystify, the process of creating high performing ad campaings. And, although frustrating at times, practice makes perfect.

Located in the loveliest town, Opelika

opelika made.™ Any use of “opelika made™” without prior written consent from Baker Street Digital, LLC is strictly prohibited. © This ad copyright protected. Created by Baker Street Digital, LLC to Opelika Observer Q4 2024. Ad Chaos.

Schools & Sports

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 5 AT 4:30 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 12 AT 6 P.M. • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 12 AT 4 P.M. Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023

Lee-Scott wins again! PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

On the Mark

OHS winter sports take center stage

OPINION — ootball season is officially over in Lee County and winter sports move into spotlight.

OHS BASKETBALL Opelika varsity girls team (1-1) lost to Park Crossing 61-42 last week. Mya Pearson led the Lady Dogs with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Blake Smalley is head coach. Team members include Saniya Bulger, London Burnett, Mya

FOOTBALL COACHING SEARCH There has been no official word from Opelika City Schools about the search for a new head football coach, but Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore posted the position this past week on the Department of Education site. The post reads: "Head Football Coach and 9-month teacher." It specifies that qualifications include bachelor's degree from accredited educational institution, valid teaching certificate, etc. “Coordinator experience required,

Lee-Scott players hold up the AISA 3A State Championship trophy following their win over rival Glenwood on Nov. 16, 2023. BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Lee-Scott Academy football is riding off into the sunset with backto-back state championship

wins over rival Glenwood in its last two years in the AISA. After Glenwood stole the regular-season matchup over Lee-Scott, the Warriors avenged the loss in the AISA

3A State Championship with a 24-14 win over the Gators on Thursday, Nov. 16, at the Crampton Bowl in Montgomery. “These guys have worked their tails off all year to get

back here,” said Lee-Scott head coach Buster Daniel. “We lost to a good football team the first time around, and we learned from it and See LEE-SCOTT, page B4

Chambers Academy brings home AISA 2A state title PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

BOWLING Opelika High Athletics Department added the sport of bowling for the 202324 school year. Both the girls and boys teams lost to Benjamin Russell last week. The girls lost 703-616 while the boys lost to 732 to 939. The head bowling coach is Sam Tramutolo. The boys bowling team consists of Jacob Wood, Zyon Henderson, Lawson Ledbetter, Jerome Martin Jr., Duviel Pinto, Tristan Tatum and Brayden Vasquez. The girls bowling team is made up of Morgan Gay, Eve Gholston, Hayden Gilbert, Brooklyn Lagoy, Nina Mendoza, Sadie Pinto and Jane Stephens.

Chillous, Jordyn Cobb, I'nayja Dowell, Zion Fears, Makayla Jones, Shirmetha Pearson, Tyra Pitts, Monica Whack, Naomi Whack and Kennedi Williams. The varsity boys basketball team lost to Columbia 71-41 in their opener. Wesley Button is head coach. The boys basketball team includes Antonio Fields, Jaxson Freeman, De’andre Harris, Justin Holloway, Kori Key, Jakii Lightfoot, Trindon Manior, Langston Martin, Brady Mcnally and Johnathon Mcnally.

See ON THE MARK, page B4

Iron Bowl Preview B7 Chambers Academy beat Banks Academy, 41-14, winning the AISA 2A State Championship title.

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B2 Nov. 22, 2023

Auburn bid for state title ends in Phenix City PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN | FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn high school's football season ended with a 49-21 loss to the Central Red Devils Friday, Nov. 17.

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B3 Nov. 22, 2023

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Smiths Station senior athletes commit to colleges

Smiths Station High School’s senior athletes recently signed letters of commitment, including, from left, Brodie Dixon, baseball, Chattahoochee Valley Community College; Brandon McCraine, baseball, Auburn University; Houston Whale, baseball, Central Alabama Community College; Kelsey Lesterm, softball, Emmanuel University; Terryn Smith, softball, Stillman College; Regan Bailey, cross country, Southern Union Community College; and Kyleigh Gibson, golf, Snead State Community College.

Beauregard's Hillsman named BHS Teacher of the Year

Hornet students sign agreements with colleges PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Three student-athletes from Beauregard High School recently signed scholarship agreements. From left, Cooper Watson signed an agreement to play softball at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus, Georgia. Berkley Wilson signed with Central Alabama Community College in Alexander City, also to play softball. Lexi Edwards signed an agreement to wrestle for Huntingdon College in Montgomery, becoming the first female wrestler to sign from Beauregard High School.

Beauregard High School announced that band director, John Hillsman, III, was selected as the 2023-24 BHS Teacher of the Year. Hillsman has been band director for nine years.

OHS basketball season gets underway PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES/THE OBSERVER

The Opelika varsity girls basketball team (1-1) lost to Park Crossing 61-42 on Nov. 14, and the ninth grade boys team played Benjamin Russell. The score of the boys game was not available.

B4 Nov. 22, 2023

ALBBAA launches 12th year of Big Buck Photo Contest

ON THE MARK >>

FROM B1

successful head football coaching experience preferred,” the post specifies. The job description is very detailed and is too long to list. Salary for 9-month teacher is $45,000 to $91,000 with 187day contract. There was no football supplement given. Based on the way the description is worded, it is obvious Dr.Seymore is seeking a proven head football coach. Yes, the description mentions candidates must have coordinator experience, but head coaching experience is preferred. There are many coordinators qualified to be a head coach, but Opelika plays in 7A, the top class in the AHSAA. It is hard to learn how to be a head coach while coaching a 7A football team. It is obvious Dr. Seymore is thinking a proven coach is the goal but is leaving his options open. I am confident a successful coach will be hired. Stay tuned to "On the Mark" in The Observer and airing on FOX Sports the Game 910-1310 AM, weekdays from 6 to 9 a.m. You can listen online at foxsportsthegame.com or on the iHeartRadio app on your smart phone. LEE-SCOTT Congratulations to LeeScott Academy’s football team for winning its second straight AISA 3A State

ABOUT ABBAA:

The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association is committed to promoting and enhancing outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities in the Black Belt in a manner that provides economic and ecological benefits to the region and its citizens.

Championship. LSA head coach Buster Daniel, a longtime assistant at Opelika, led the Warriors to a 24-14 win over rival Glenwood last Thursday at the Cramton Bowl. . PLAYOFF ROUND-UP Auburn The Central Red Devils ended Auburn high school's season with a 49-21 dominating win at Wayne Trawick Field in Phenix City. CHS Daylyn Upshaw caught 9 passes for 139-yards and 2-TD's and Cam Coleman caught 10-passes for 208 yards. Auburn's highlights were from kicker Towns McGough. The senior made a 56-yard FG and a 50-yard FG to add to his state record 11-field goals over 50-yards. Central will host Mary G Montgomery next Friday in Phenix City. Loachapoka Loachapoka dream season ended in Brantley with a 14-12 loss tro the Bulldogs. Coach Reco Newton's Indians missed a 2-point conversion that what have forced overtime. LHS season ends with a 10-1 record. 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.

LEE-SCOTT >>

FROM B1

got back here. I’m extremely proud of these guys.” Lee-Scott ends the season at 11-1, while Glenwood falls to 10-2. The rivals finish as the top two teams in their classification for the second year in a row. Senior AISA All-Stars, Jake White and Jonathan Meyers, capped an impressive end to their high school careers, combining for all three of Lee-Scott’s touchdowns in the game. After a crucial pair of interceptions in a loss to Glenwood earlier in the season, the Warriors didn’t commit any turnovers in the championship game and nabbed a big interception on defense. Opposingly, Glenwood, who’s also headed to AHSAA 3A along with the Warriors next season, suffered their third state championship loss in the last four years. It was the result of a 10-0 start fizzling out into a 1-2 stretch to end the season. According to Glenwood head coach Ryan Nelson, the team wasn’t the same after some key injuries in a loss in the regular-season finale to AISA 2A state champion, Chambers Academy. “We had a very successful season, and we started out really hot. We lost the last game of the year, and it’s been an uphill battle for us since that loss to Chambers,”

Last year’s Big Buck Photo Contest was won by 8-year-old Grayson Milner of Mobile with this shot of a 9-pointer.

Lee Co. student attends Alfa youth leadership conference PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA) will again showcase the bountiful whitetail deer hunting available in the Black Belt’s 23-county footprint with the 12th year of its Big Buck Photo Contest. The ALBBAA Big Buck Photo Contest, which takes place online, will run through Feb. 16, 2024, and is sponsored by the Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative in Selma. Photos of bucks harvested during archery and firearms season are eligible. “It’s clear that Alabama’s Black Belt is considered one of America’s best places to bag a trophy buck and, more importantly, provide a sustainable food source for your family or for donation to the ALDCNR ‘Hunters Feeding the Hunger’ program,” said ALBBAA Director Pam Swanner. “Our Big Buck Photo Contest helps acknowledge the bountiful deer hunting opportunities throughout the Black Belt while also celebrating the fact that hunters of all ages experience unforgettable outdoor adventures throughout deer season.” Here are rules and guidelines for this year’s contest: To enter the contest, hunters must upload, through the ALBBAA website, a photo of a buck harvested from within the 23-county Black Belt region. The buck must be harvested during 2023-2024 whitetail deer season. The winner of the contest is selected exclusively through online voting. Voting will also be conducted on the same page where entries are submitted — www.alabamablackbeltadventures. org/news-more/shoot-the-black-belt/ big-buck-photo-contest. Visitors to the contest webpage may vote once per day, per entry, per IP address. In the case of any dispute, the decision of ALBBAA is final. Photo contest winners from the previous two years are not eligible for entry. ALBBAA reserves the right to approve or disapprove of the photo submitted. Cause for disqualification of photo can include, but is not limited to, the following: • The photo content presents the

subject in an unethical or disrespectful composition. • The photo content is perceived to cast a negative perception of hunters and their contribution to the management of wildlife. • Commission of a voting violation which imposes an unfair advantage to others. The contestant who receives the most online votes before voting ends in February will receive two game cameras valued at approximately $350, courtesy of Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative. Deer season ends Feb. 10, 2024, but voting will continue through midnight on Feb. 16 to allow additional voting time for photos submitted after the final weekend of hunting season. ALBBAA reminds all sportsmen and sportswomen to purchase a hunting license online (www. outdooralabama.com/licenseinformation) through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources before heading afield. Additionally, successful hunters are also reminded to report their harvested deer at www. outdooralabama.com/hunting/ game-check-and-harvest-recordinformation. “It’s always incredibly gratifying that so many photos we receive every year showcase families hunting together,” Swanner said. “These cherished family memories last a lifetime, and those photos definitely celebrate hunting season. That’s a goal we set every year for the Big Buck Photo Contest.” The Black Belt includes the following 23 counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Lee County student Philip Belcher, right, attended the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference Nov. 13-14 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. The twoday conference teaches ninth and 10th grade students how to advocate for agriculture, identify their potential and step into leadership roles. Belcher attends Chambers Academy. He is pictured with Matthew Durdin of the Alabama Farmers Federation.

Nelson said. “We don’t want to make excuses because we pride ourselves on depth, but we were down five starters tonight and six last week… It’s just tough to overcome all that kind of stuff, but credit to our kids – they kept fighting. “That’s one thing I’m extremely proud of our program. We continue to fight no matter what.” Glenwood was shut out in the first half for the first time all season, and the Gators didn’t score until the fourth quarter – after its top two offensive producers had left the game. Glenwood senior AISA All-Star, Camden White, was ejected following a personal foul in the second quarter. Officials told Nelson that he kicked a Lee-Scott player. “I’m not making excuses, and I never will, but that was a tough blow for us,” Nelson said. “Our number three (Camden White) was a way for us to neutralize their number eight (Jake White), so when he’s out of the ballgame, the whole game changes. “I’ve never heard of him getting a personal foul for us all year. He’s not a dirty player, he’s a hard player. It’s just hard for me to believe, but again, I’m not going to question the officiating and it’s not my job.” Glenwood also lost threeyear starting quarterback, Dallas Crow, to an ankle injury at the end of the third quarter. Nelson called Crow a “warrior” after playing

through an ankle sprain and separated shoulder in the final three games of the season. In addition to key injuries, penalties destroyed any chance either offense had of putting up big numbers this time around. After a first quarter consisting of four back-andforth punts, a Lee-Scott run down to the goal line set the Warriors up to get in the end zone first. Instead, a combined three personal fouls in the next four plays resulted in them punting. A targeting penalty brought the ball from the 1-yard line back to the Gators’ 35-yard line, then a Glenwood personal foul advanced them to the 20, then another LeeScott penalty backed them up to the 30 before punting into the end zone. But the Lee-Scott defense immediately nullified all that. Junior Hutchins Blomeyer returned an interception down to Glenwood’s 5-yard line on the ensuing play. White punched it in from there on a direct-snap draw from the wildcat to put LeeScott ahead 10-0 going to halftime. On the first drive of the second half, White’s second score came from nine yards out made it 17-0. Already in desperation mode, Glenwood then took another hit, losing Crow at the end of the third quarter. Responding quickly, Meyers expanded Glenwood’s deficit to 24 by scampering

into the end zone from four yards out. In the fourth quarter, Pinder replaced Crow and started a comeback bid with his arm. He hit Thet Morris and then Mason McCraine on 30-plus yard touchdown passes to make it 24-14 with 1:06 remaining in the game. After Glenwood failed on its second two-point conversion attempt, Lee-Scott fell on Glenwood’s onside kick. From there, Warrior QB Pelzer Reeves lined up twice in victory formation to take a knee to officially make the Warriors back-to-back state champions for the first time in school history. “It’s an indescribable feeling,” White said. “Just hard work paying off and, you know, God’s put our team on a serious journey this season.” Looking ahead, both teams will start their time in the AHSAA after losing a lot of talent to graduation before next season. Glenwood had eight senior AISA All-Stars this season, and Lee-Scott had five. However, the Lee-Scott players are confident that the winning standard they’ve set will continue on future teams. “I think it’s a winner’s mentality that (Lee-Scott underclassmen) already have in their mind,” White said. “If you keep winning, it becomes contagious. I think they’re going to catch onto that, and it’s going to continue because the Warriors are a winning football program.”

B5 Nov. 22, 2023

Lee-Scott rises above the Gators for title win PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

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B6 Nov. 22, 2023

Smiths Station basketball season starts off hot PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN | FOR THE OBSERVER

Both the girls and boys basketball teams saw big wins against Bullock county on Nov. 14, 2023. The girls won their game 62-17 and the score of the boys game was 62-35

B7 Nov. 22, 2023

PHTOOS BY ROBERT NOLES | FOR THE OBSERVER

Buckle up, the Iron Bowl is set to thrill

Photos from 2021 Iron Bowl, Nov. 27, 2021. The last time Auburn met Alabama at Jordan Hare, the Tide beat the Tigers 24-22. Pictured right is University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban.

BY BRANDON HUGHES FOR THE OBSERVER OPINION — As the sun descends in the fiery embrace of the western horizon, this Saturday afternoon in the heart of the Deep South will emerge as the epicenter of the college football universe, a theater of impending drama. A crucible of emotions, the grandest stage where the fate of legacies is forged forever. In a clash that transcends mere competition, the burnt orange and navy of the Auburn Tigers hosts the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 88th edition of the greatest rivalry game in all of sports — the Iron Bowl. At the center of this gridiron spectacle stands a modern-day Colosseum — Jordan-Hare Stadium — where the echoes of triumphs, heartbreaks and miracles of Iron Bowls past will reverberate through the electric air. A rivalry can be defined as a game between two teams where the fear and angst of losing outweigh the joy of victory. In the lead-up to the 1993 Iron Bowl, legendary Auburn radio announcer Jim Fyffe described it like this: “If your team wins, seashells and balloons. But losing means a whole year of pure agony.” That is the Iron Bowl, in a nutshell, for so many fans on both sides of the state. Leading the Tigers is first-year head coach Hugh Freeze, who will try and do something no coach in this series has done since Auburn’s Terry Bowden in 1993: win his inaugural Iron Bowl as head coach. The Crimson Tide is led by Nick Saban, who is in his 17th year at the helm. Saban is 11-5 in this rivalry and 4-4 in JordanHare. As the regular season inches towards its conclusion, the stakes for the two teams could not be more different. For Auburn, a victory would be a salve for the recent past. It would turn a good season into a great season. It would mean playing spoiler for its biggest rival and serve as a springboard for this coaching staff and team. For Alabama, a spot in the College Football Playoff hangs in the balance. Win, and it lives to fight another day, just one win away from a chance to play for college football’s mountain top. Or lose, have your biggest rival dash your championship hopes and the season is a failure. The two teams have taken divergent paths to this moment, but both teams are undoubtedly playing their best football going into the final game of the regular season, which is as it should be in a game of this magnitude. The host Tigers began its

season with a new coach, a new starting quarterback, and a lot of question marks. It opened the season with a commanding victory against out-matched UMass. It followed that victory with a trip to the West Coast against the Cal Bears. In a game that featured the program’s latest kickoff, the Tigers eked out a 14-10 victory. Next, the Tigers handled FCS foe Samford as it readied itself for the four-game gauntlet that would show everyone just how good (or bad) the Auburn Tigers were. Auburn would lose successive games to Texas A&M, Georgia, LSU and Ole Miss before Freeze revamped the Auburn offense, made Payton Thorne the full time quarterback and ripped off a four-game winning streak heading into the Iron Bowl. Like Auburn, Alabama came into the season with question marks of its own. Starting a new quarterback and breaking in new offensive and defensive coordinators, the Crimson Tide began the season with a rout of Middle Tennessee State. Then, in its first big test of the season, lost to the Texas Longhorns at home. Following that game, Alabama benched starting QB Jaylen Milroe and narrowly escaped a road clash with South Florida. Just as experts appeared prepared to write this season off for the Tide, Milroe was put back in charge of the offense, and Alabama has not lost since, coming into the Iron Bowl riding a ninegame winning streak. In spite of the difference in win/loss records, Auburn and Alabama are two evenly matched teams. OFFENSE Neither team has been great offensively over the course of the entire season — Alabama ranks ninth in total offense in

the SEC, and Auburn is right behind them at tenth. Auburn is the SEC’s third-best rushing offense, averaging 207.2 yards per game. The offense has rushed for 200-plus yards in a game five times, with a season-high 354 yards against Arkansas. Its lowest rushing mark was 136 yards against Cal. Auburn also ranks sixth nationally, gaining 3+ yards per carry before contact on 37.3% of designed run plays. Alabama, on the other hand, ranks sixth in the conference, averaging 162.4 yards per game, having eclipsed the 200-yard mark three times. The best rushing performance of the season was when it gained 288 yards against LSU while only gaining 23 yards against Texas A&M in its worst rushing game this season. Auburn is averaging a full yard more per carry than Alabama (5.05 vs. 4.06), but Alabama has 23 rushing touchdowns on the season versus Auburn’s 19. The passing sees an even greater disparity between the two offenses. While the Tide isn’t exactly blowing the doors off anyone in this category, ranking ninth in the conference at 226 yards per game, it has been far more successful than the Tigers through the air, who rank dead last in the SEC at 164.4 yards per game. Interestingly, Alabama has just one more receiving touchdown (16) than Auburn (15). The starting quarterbacks have not been without their challenges this season, but both have hit their stride and are playing with a ton of confidence right now. As the offensive numbers reflect, they are getting it done in their own way. Alabama’s Milroe makes hay through the air, deep downfield, and only runs when necessary.

Thorne, on the other hand, has emerged as a vital cog in the running game, executing the RPO to near perfection in the Tigers’ last three games. DEFENSE This is where the Tigers and the Tide are more evenly matched. Alabama is third in the conference in total defense while the Tigers rank sixth; however, that reflects only a 27.6 yards per game difference. Alabama has accumulated 37 sacks this season against Auburn’s 23. Auburn has the edge in turnovers forced, leading the SEC with 17 takeaways (11 interceptions, six fumbles), while Alabama sits at seventh with 13 takeaways (9 interceptions, four fumbles). Auburn also carries a streak of 19 games with a forced turnover into the New Mexico State game. Auburn also has the better third-down defense, ranking third in the conference and 12th nationally, surrendering a conversion 29% of the time. Alabama is 33rd nationally and fifth in the SEC, allowing opposing offenses to convert 34.5% of its third downs into first downs. As for redzone defense, the Tigers and the Tide are the two best in the conference. Auburn leads the way, giving up points on 74.2% of red zone opportunities, with Alabama on its heels at number two with a 79.3% surrender rate. SPECIAL TEAMS Both teams have strong field goal kickers and punting games. One Achilles heel for Auburn, though, has been its kickoff coverage. Auburn is 103rd in the country in average kickoff return yards given up. When Auburn kicker Alex McPherson has been unable to get the kickoff into the end zone, it has gotten

Auburn into trouble more than once this season. Auburn and Alabama rank third and fourth in the conference, respectively, in kickoff returns, so if either team chooses to return a kickoff, look out. Alabama’s kicking game in the Iron Bowl, though, has caused Alabama fits through the years, particularly in Jordan-Hare, where it has missed or otherwise botched field goal attempts in its last two visits to the Plains. FINAL THOUGHTS Alabama comes into this Iron Bowl with a threegame winning streak in the series, and Auburn has only won three times in the last 10 years, but each of those victories has been at Jordan-Hare. In Saban’s career, including his time at LSU, he has never beaten an Auburn team that finished the season with nine wins or more, though he has beaten an eight-win Auburn team six times. Auburn can get to nine wins with a victory over Alabama and a win in a bowl game. The Crimson Tide has more talent at almost every position, and they know how to win. But since Freeze tweaked Auburn’s offense, it has complimented one of the SEC’s best defenses extremely well, and Auburn’s running game has put up solid numbers against even the best defenses it has faced. This season, through 10 games, Auburn scores, on average, .79 fewer points per game than its opponents give up while holding teams to 9.9 fewer points per game than its opponents score. Since the change in offense, though, the offensive numbers improved to scoring 5.3 points more than its opponent gives up. Alabama, on the other hand, scores 6.84 more points, on

average, than its opponents allow on defense while allowing 13.7 fewer points than its opponents average on offense. If Auburn’s numbers hold true, Alabama wins 24-23. If Alabama’s numbers hold true, the Tide wins 27-16. The average Iron Bowl score in games played in JordanHare is Alabama 25 Auburn 24. I like the final score to fall within these ranges, with both teams scoring in the twenties. WHO WINS? Expect this to be a hardfought, highly contested game into the fourth quarter. Which defense can force field goals, and which team can convert rezone opportunities into touchdowns? Which team can get off the field on third downs, and which team can maintain possession and keep the other team’s offense at bay? Which team gets the critical sack or forces the momentum-changing turnover? Jordan-Hare Stadium has proven to be a house of horrors for the Crimson Tide in years past. Will Alabama's championship pedigree prove insurmountable as they march toward yet another postseason berth? Or will Auburn, fueled by the spirit of the underdog and an unmatched atmosphere, conjure the magic that has defined so many of its triumphs in this rivalry series? As the sun sets on the Plains Saturday night and the tension ratchets up, can the Auburn faithful be the difference in an Iron Bowl so evenly matched? When toe meets leather Saturday afternoon in JordanHare, the answers to these questions will unfold over the course of 60 minutes — although, sometimes, those answers come in just one second. Buckle up!

B8 Nov. 22, 2023

Classroom Observer

Lights of holiday love between children and the elderly

BETH PINYERD OPINION —

his week, we as families gather together to celebrate a year of gratitude for all generations. It might have been a tough year in health, financially or with loss of loved ones, but hope may have entered with the birth of a new family member, adoption of a child, a marriage, a new job, moving to a new home, aging well and most of all living each day, because each day is a

gift from God. Opelika, Auburn and Lee County have always been such a light to so many of us as we celebrate the holidays, whether we are living through tough or good times. After Thanksgiving, young and old love to look at the decorations and participate in the events all over our community. Holidays are busier than usual routine days. We have different age children with different personalities. Holiday

celebrations with cheerfulness, singing, bright lights, games and delicious seasonal foods are so much fun. As parents, we have to balance all this in order not to push them into sensory overload and anxiety. We want our families to enjoy the holidays, as well as each other. Being a Senior, I wanted to share with readers the ideas of intergenerational outreach as we ring in the bells of the holidays. The Observer will be listing all we have to look forward to as we celebrate Christmas and the holidays. What a wonderful, sharing time of year between children and the elderly. The National Council on Aging defines intergenerational programs as activities that increase cooperation and exchange between two generations. A rich, valuable relationship

between the young and seniors enlightens both generations. During the holidays, our community retirement villages welcome children from schools, churches and community groups to provide programs of songs and Christmas cheer. It is necessary to call the directors at local facilities first to be sure they are allowing community groups to come in, because they must protect against seasonal flus and sickness. School classes and families can also send in child-made cards to encourage the elderly. Where I served as an activity assistant in South Alabama, we invited children to wave to many of our residents from outside. School classes made simple paper plate wreaths and decorations and caroled up and down the halls, with the residents waving and singing with them as they went by. It is the simple

actions of kindness that mean so much to children and the elderly. In planning ahead during the holidays, keep things simple around home activities. Quiet activities such as looking at family pictures, reflecting on the present and the past, reading Christmas books and poems, watching holiday movies and television programs, engaging in simple crafts, simple baking, painting and coloring provide educational opportunities for the younger and older generations as they share and exchange wisdom, love and joy with each other. Also, it provides wonderful creative opportunities. Providing simple jigsaw puzzles, word games, board games, crossword puzzles, word searches, etc. offer opportunities for cognitive development and social interaction, as well as builds team work

and cooperation skills for both the young and elderly. Children and the elderly enjoy doing light exercises and movement. Joining hands and taking a walk to enjoy outside fun and observing nature provides a holiday field trip. Light exercises such as waving hands, marching in place, dancing, swinging and pretend play are things they can do together. Riding around our community and looking at the beautiful lights together as families is a wonderful intergenerational activity. Children provide such a spark of energy and enthusiasm to older adults. Children are truly blind to age differences. Beth Pinyerd has taught in the Early Childhood Classroom for many years and has served the elderly in activities. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education.

AU campus dining offers innovations in food service PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY NEWS Glenn Loughridge, shown here at The Edge at Central Dining hall on campus, is now in his 11th year as the director of Campus Dining and Concessions.

BY ALICE MANNING TOUCHETTE AUBURN UNIVERSITY NEWS AUBURN — What if your next pizza was made by a robot? Or if the closest vending machine was filled with fresh prepared sandwiches or salads instead of nonperishable snacks? It’s all possible and all coming to Auburn University thanks to Glenn Loughridge. The alumnus at the helm of Campus Dining and Concessions has an infectious entrepreneurial spirit with a goal to take the typical university dining experience from blah to ahh. “Food is a part of our culture,” Loughridge said. “I had a big opportunity to come in with fresh eyes and a mission to enhance the student experience. “We want to make sure the dining hall plays a role in helping students connect with one another and expose them to a variety of foods.” FARM TO DINING HALL Between graduating

from Auburn in 1994 and returning in 2012 as the director of Campus Dining and Concessions, Loughridge held various roles in the food industry from supply chain management to business development. He leans on his entrepreneurial spirit to drive improvements to the campus food system. “Auburn is a place of ideas, and I get to try new things every day to help make things a little bit better,” he said. “My mission is to constantly find ways to create the best possible experience for students every year.” Loughridge has been instrumental in expanding the fresh food offerings for Auburn University students, faculty and staff — starting with a partnership with the College of Agriculture. In 2015, Loughridge partnered with Horticulture Associate Professor Daniel Wells to build the Auburn Aquaponics Project. The integrated plant-fish greenhouse uses hydroponics and aquaculture technologies to provide a

system in which nutrient-laden wastewater from fish production — currently tilapia — is used as a food source for plant growth. “We really wanted to imagine and implement a better food system for our campus and beyond,” Loughridge explained. “Aquaponics prioritizes water as a resource, maximizing its use for fisheries by growing fish, a lean protein, and then using it again to grow really healthy vegetables.” The project provides tilapia, cucumber, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, peppers and more in the dining hall. Campus Dining also invested in two container based vertical farms located in the College of Agriculture’s Transformation Garden, which uses less space to grow healthy vegetables. The vertical farms consist of two converted shipping containers outfitted with a complete climate control system and an elaborate LED lighting system that allows plants to grow in ideal conditions year-

round. “The College of Agriculture gives students hands-on learning experience in how to best produce vegetables in the vertical gardens, and dining gets this incredible produce that is grown on campus and delivered the same day,” Loughridge said. “Each week the team grows about 100 pounds of spring mixed lettuce in our vertical farms and delivers them to campus dining.” Perhaps the most sustainable aspect — all the food is delivered via golf cart the same day it’s harvested. “It’s perhaps the most hyper local example of farm to table. We’re getting the freshest possible product, and it tastes better because it doesn’t have time to lose nutrients in transit,” Loughridge said. “The undergraduate and graduate students are growing these products in the vertical farm, and the students in the dining hall are getting a great dining experience because of it.” THE ROBOTS ARE COMING New to campus this fall is a pilot project called AutoEats — essentially a large refrigerator offering salads, sandwiches and other quick meals made fresh by Campus Dining each day. The first five were scheduled to be installed around campus in late October. “We’re trying to provide fresh food to students in spaces where we previously haven’t been able to,” Loughridge said. AutoEats has two refrigerator doors with a

tablet in the middle. Inside are fresh, nutritious meals that are healthier than nonperishable items typically found in vending machines. Students will be able to swipe their Tiger Cards, use dining dollars and pull fresh food out the refrigerator. “The first five AutoEats in the pilot will help us understand how they work and hone our system for what goes in them,” Loughridge said. “They are rolling out to pair with the Costa Coffee Machines on campus to reach students who are not in the core campus where they have a lot of options.” Sometime in the next year, keep your eye out in Cafe 25 for the new Pizza Bot. “It's basically a robot arm that makes a pizza fresh through an assembly line,” Loughridge explained. “From dough to sauces, cheese, toppings and slices, the arm makes the pizza and then puts it on a conveyor for the pizza oven.” A Fry Bot is also in the works, fully automating the hot, heavy work of food service. It even shakes and salts the fries fresh out of the fryer.

“Robotics is very young in food service, but we think it's something that's going to become more and more prevalent,” Loughrige said. “The fully automated systems are very cool and have a lot of potential to help serve students quickly and efficiently while helping to fire their imaginations.” Contactless service is already in place at Auburn Concessions. At football games, you may have seen Mashgin, where you set your drinks and hotdogs on a platform and it scans them and gives you a total. “Current transaction time is 19 seconds,” Loughridge said. “That’s our goal, to get fans through the line as quickly as they can with grab-and-go options. We are really investing in the fan experience.” Keeping the food options on campus fresh, fast and exciting continues to be Loughridge’s passion and promise. Check out his handiwork in the dining hall, concessions, the new AutoEats and — one day — a robot pizza chef.

L ee County & A labama Politics

Nov. 22, 2023

Nov. 24, 2021

Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023

Inside the State House

60th anniversary of JFK assassination

STEVE FLOWERS OPINION—

he assassination of President John F. Kennedy happened 60 years ago this week. It occurred to me that a good many of you may be too young to remember that horribly sad day of Nov. 22, 1963. Anyone living on that day can tell you exactly where they were when Kennedy was shot and killed by an assassin in Dallas, Texas. It was a perfect fall day in the Lone Star State. Lyndon Johnson was vice president, and he and Kennedy disliked each other immensely — it was totally a political marriage. The Kennedys had put Johnson on the ticket in 1960 to assure that the Democrats carried Texas in the general election, not because they liked him. They not only did not like Johnson, they did not trust him. It was a Friday afternoon. The last high school games of the year were to be played that night. High school football was big in Alabama. By the way, it was also big in Texas, thus the movie “Friday Night Lights.” I was in the seventh grade. It was just after lunch. My homeroom teacher at Troy Junior High School was Mrs. Elaine Dodson. All of a sudden, the music teacher for our schools, Jerry Spann, came into our room and announced that the president had been shot. Everyone was traumatized. The president died about

an hour later at a Dallas hospital. For the next three days, all of America watched on television the funeral preparations and the Monday funeral. It was an unbelievably sad event. The scene of the riderless white horse brought tears to your eyes. If that did not, the scene where little John John Kennedy, a precious precocious twoyear-old boy gave a salute to his father was one of the most heart wrenching, tear jerking moments I have ever witnessed in my life. It still brings tears to my eyes 60 years later as I write this column. John John grew to be a very handsome young man like his father. He, like his father, died an early untimely death in an airplane crash. Even though he did not have political aspirations, I believe that John Kennedy Jr. would have been president. I am not a conspiracy theorist, but allow me to illuminate some facts. Johnson was the most ruthless, morally bankrupt and crudest man to ever sit in the White House. Johnson was the ultimate political animal. He lived by the rule that whatever it took to win and grab control of power is what you did. If you doubt that, read Robert Caro’s books on LBJ, or better yet ask any historian about his years as U.S. Senate Majority Leader. In recent years, the Secret Service has released files that reveal the following facts. First, Johnson insisted that Kennedy go to Dallas, Texas, and campaign. The Secret Service asked Kennedy not to go because the civil rights issue was boiling in Texas. At Johnson’s urging, Kennedy agreed to go. Second, the Secret Service came to Kennedy

and said, “Mr. President, if you go you cannot use the main artery boulevard in your entourage. We cannot protect you.” Kennedy agreed. When Johnson heard of this, he told Kennedy he had to go down that boulevard because, “It is a Texas tradition.” Kennedy agreed at Johnson’s insistence. Finally, the Secret Service, in exasperation, told President Kennedy, “Mr. President we asked you not to go to Dallas. We also asked you not to go down that boulevard because we cannot protect you from all the high building windows. To a sharpshooter you will be a sitting duck. If you go to Dallas and go down that thoroughfare, we must insist you let us put up a protective bubble to protect you.” Kennedy agreed. Johnson heard of the bubble and insisted to Kennedy that he could not do that because he would appear distant, detached, aloof and arrogant to Texans. The president, once again, acquiesced to Johnson’s pleas. The rest is history. The horrific, tragic scenes of Jackie Kennedy’s blood stained pink dress, a little two year old boy’s goodbye salute to his father and the riderless white horse are indelibly planted in my memory 60 years later. The 1960s were a very tumultuous and memorable time to come of age in America, and Nov. 22, 1963, is etched in a lot of our generation’s minds. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at: www. steveflowers.us.

Auburn residents asked to weigh in on city branding CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The city of Auburn is embarking on a research-driven, community-wide branding initiative, and input from residents is needed. While this is a branding project for the city as a municipal government, the city’s brand must also reflect Auburn’s

identity as a community. The branding initiative is currently in the research phase, and community input is vital as the city aims to discover Auburn’s authentic and ownable brand identity. A public survey of Auburn residents is the next phase of that research, which kicked off in October with a number of focus

groups, individual interviews and a public workshop. The survey is available online at theauthenticauburn.com. Printed copies are available at Auburn City Hall, Auburn Public Library, Boykin Community Center and the Harris Center. Residents may also call (334) 501-7266 to request a copy.

Attorney general reinforces opioid settlement terms and transparency for local officials CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER MONTGOMERY — Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall sent a letter to local leaders statewide addressing the millions of dollars local jurisdictions will receive from opioid settlements for the specific purpose of abating the opioid crisis. The local cities and counties will receive approximately $300 million from the settlements that will be paid out over several years. Responding to questions and concerns from local officials, the attorney general’s letter emphasizes the importance of implementing longterm strategies to address the crisis, as well as reinforcing the settlement terms. Any funds spent on nonapproved purposes could cost the state future payments from the

opioid defendants and delay efforts to combat the opioid crisis. “We owe it to the people of Alabama to get this right,” Marshall said. “Our strategy to adjudicate this matter separate and apart from nationwide settlements positioned Alabama to receive a larger allocation to address the opioid crisis here. We must now take a hard look at how the combined $600 million of state and local settlement funds can best be allocated, in compliance with the settlement terms, to maximize relief for our communities.” The letter was sent to city and county officials, identifying approved settlement fund uses for abatement through education, prevention and treatment. As the letter states, “The approved uses are designed to serve as guardrails to channel spending towards appropriate

abatement strategies but are also meant to be wide-ranging enough to give you the flexibility to best address the needs of your community.” To ensure transparency and compliance with settlement terms, the attorney general’s office will be keeping track of expenditures and has asked for local officials to submit this information via OpioidFunds@ AlabamaAG.gov. “I am of the strong conviction that local governments know best how to combat the opioid epidemic in their communities,” Marshall said. Funds will be allocated to state and local leaders to implement, with the advice of the Alabama Opioid Overdose and Addiction Council, and comprehensive plans to address the needs of Alabamians facing addiction and loss.

Letter to the editor — B10 Public Notices — B12

Republican Women of East Alabama host veteran's luncheon PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER The Republican Women of East Alabama (RWEA) saluted veterans at a luncheon on Nov. 7. RWEA treated veteran guests to a delicious meal, and each of them was presented a special lapel pin. RWEA honored Harry Lazenby (Army) as their Veteran of the Year. Also recognized was the oldest Veteran of the Year, Mel Cooper (Navy), who is 96 and still going strong. Four veterans received a patriotic Quilt of Valor (QOV) as a “thank you” for their service to our country, including Gordon Bugg (Army), Kendall Parks (Army), Paul West (Army) and Harold Wilson (Air Force). Guest speakers included Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State Wes Allen. The program concluded with the reading of “A Veterans Prayer” and singing of “God Bless America,” led by RWEA chaplain Debbie Parks. RWEA thanks Berkshire Hathaway for sponsoring the event.

B10 Nov. 22, 2023

In just five minutes, Britt gives cabinet member a lecture on the border

GREG MARKLEY OPINION —

magine a new U.S. Border Patrol agent getting his duty assignment and telling a friend: “Well, I guess I will have to go to supply and pick up snowshoes.” His friend says, “What?” Reply: “Yes, I am going to one of the places where illegal border crossings are increasing — our northern border.” “Most discussion about our border has to do with the southern border,” said U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in a recent hearing of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “But in fact, what we’re seeing

is increasing encounters across our northern border, up 500 percent. In particular, the Border Patrol section which covers five counties in New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.” According to U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), there have been almost 8 million illegal crossings at the southern border since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021. In excess of 6 million were encountered by the U.S. Border Patrol and law enforcement and released, while about 1.5 million are “got-aways.” Those are cases where law enforcement never even talked to them and

so has no idea who they are and where they are going. “When an individual is encountered at the southern border and claims asylum, due to the backlog it takes about 10 years to process their claim and render a final judgment on whether or not they can stay in the country,” notes a Britt press release. “Immigration and Customs Enforcement only has 6,000 officers that can perform these duties — each officer would need to deport 167 people in a year.” In previous testimony, Britt reminded Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, that nine months previous he reported there were 6,610 encounters at the southern border. By Nov. 6, that number was 8,500. The cabinet member was hesitant to call the border situation a “crisis,” although he agrees it is a challenging state of affairs. “Senator, let me make this point,” Mayorkas said. “It is very, very important because I've been asked to describe it as a disaster. Would

I describe it as a crisis? I do not diminish the significance and the complexity ... I do not diminish...” Britt jumped in and said “Well, I only have five minutes and I only have three left. So, is it a crisis, yes or no?” Mayorkas could not tag it as one. "We don't need to manage the border," Britt continued. "We actually need to secure it. So, in doing that, this administration has kind of had different positions, and I want to clarify it. Do you believe that a border wall is part of the answer, yes or no?" “No,” Mayorkas said. Mayorkas is a native of Havana, Cuba. After the Fidel Castro Revolution in 1959, his family fled to Florida when he was one year old. He is the first Latino and first immigrant in charge of the massive domestic security agency that not only enforces U.S. immigration laws, but combats terrorism, safeguards ports and borders, and pursues other missions. A history major at the University of CaliforniaBerkeley, Mayorkas must

be aware of the fate that befalls countries with insecure borders — they have major disasters on their hands. He must have wide sympathy for immigrants because of his family’s remarkable journey to our nation. So why does he not call the illegal immigration a crisis? He could be concerned about legality, as he is an attorney. Or perhaps he has little flexibility in his leadership of the department — he cannot even use certain works without checking with the White House. It’s a conundrum that must be solved. Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), in his weekly radio talk, said the Biden Administration continues to “roll out the welcome mat at the southern border” for illegal immigrants. He added that October was another monthly high for illegal border crossings. Tuberville supports a new piece of legislation to put up another wall. “Thirteen people were caught on the terrorist watch list,” Tuberville noted. “A report this

week estimated the open border is costing American taxpayers as much as $450 billion every year.” (The FBI says anyone they say were “involved in terrorist activities” could be on the watch list. A DHS official cautioned that “one should not immediately conclude” why someone is on the watch list.) And what about that Border Patrol agent who was headed to the northern border? He may learn in New Hampshire that an intrusive type of rock is being installed at their border, after a 500 percent increase in illegal immigrants. After all, New Hampshire is known as the Granite State. Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from Auburn University. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and 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.

US Sen. Katie Britt Calls for senate passage of SHIP Act CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) is urging the United States Senate to take up and pass the bipartisan Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum (SHIP) Act. This legislation would sanction illicit purchases of Iranian oil and hold the regime’s enablers accountable, and comes as Iranian oil sales to China’s genocidal regime continue to fund the Ayatollah’s ability to repress Iranian protesters and finance its terrorist proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah. Britt recently joined

SEN.KATIE BRITT Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and 27 of their Senate

colleagues in introducing the senate version of the

SHIP Act, and the U.S. House of Representatives passed the companion version of the bill in an overwhelming 342-69 vote earlier this month. “It is simply common sense to hold accountable the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism for financing barbaric atrocities that kill Americans and our allies,” Britt said. “However, the Biden Administration continues its dangerous strategy of appeasement to the grave detriment of our national security both here at home and abroad. Since President Biden took office, Iran has profited nearly $80 billion from

oil sales alone, enhancing the ability of the regime in Tehran to fund more terrorism against innocent children, women and men. The only pathway to peace is through unwavering American strength. I’m glad to see the U.S. House pass this important legislation in a bipartisan manner, and I urge Sen. Schumer to bring the Senate version to the floor for consideration with all due haste.” Joining Britt and Rubio in cosponsoring the SHIP Act are Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Hoeven (R-N.Dak.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), John

Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), John Thune (R-S.Dak.), Deb Fischer (R-Nebr.), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.Dak.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebr.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Tedd Budd (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.).

Letter to the editor

Call me for all your real estate needs! 1810 E. Glenn Ave. Suite 130 Auburn, AL 36830 Cell 334.444.8041 duffystewartrealtor@gmail.com www.BHHSPreferredAuburn.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affliates, LLC

A Lutzie 43 reminder: Don't drive impaired Over 10 years ago, Philip Lutzenkirchen became a household name for both Auburn and Alabama fans. After he scored the game-winning touchdown in the 2010 Iron Bowl, Philip ran to the endzone and did a little dance that later became known as “The Lutzie.” Regardless of whether fans were happy or sad when Philip made that catch, everyone can agree that in 2014 when he lost his life as a passenger in a distracted, impaired and unsafe driving crash, he was taken from this world too soon. Since 2014, the Lutzie 43 Foundation, led by Philip's father, Mike Lutzenkirchen, has been on a mission to reduce the number of lives lost due to distracted, impaired and unsafe driving through the foundation's 43 Key Seconds safe driving initiative. (Learn more at www.lutzie43.org.) On Nov. 25, Auburn and Alabama fans will get in their cars to drive to the stadium or a friend's house to watch the Iron Bowl. All fans — whether they say War Eagle or Roll Tide — should stop and prioritize their safety behind the wheel, because crashes don't discriminate, and we are all at risk when driving distracted, impaired and unsafe. Katie Stotts Lutzie 43 Foundation

B11 Nov. 22, 2023

APD investigates attempted murder, LCSO makes arrests

HOLIFIELD CONTRIBUTED BY THE APD

APD investigate attempted murder incident AUBURN — On Nov. 5, 2023, Auburn Police arrested Vincen Lamar Holifield Jr., age 20, of Auburn, on warrants charging him with attempted murder, two counts of discharging firearm into occupied dwelling, CONTRIBUTED BY THE LCSO

Arrest: Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12 OPELIKA — On Nov. 16, 2023, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received a report regarding sexual abuse of a female child less than 12 years of age. Michael Deangelo Jones, age 51, from Opelika was named as a suspect. Investigators were able to obtain enough evidence to generate an arrest warrant for Jones and on Nov. 17, he was arrested and transported to the Lee County jail. Jones was charged with one count of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 and is being held in the Lee County Jail on a $50,000 bond. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at (334) 749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime stoppers at (334) 215-STOP (7867)

Illegal Dumping of Trash BEULAH — For the past several months, Lee County Sheriff’s Deputies have noticed illegal dumping sights down multiple dirt roads in the Beulah Community of Lee County. Deputies placed detection

JONES

HALL

WEBB

attempting to elude a police officer and receiving stolen property second degree. The arrest stems from Auburn Police responding to a shots fired call located in the 300 block of Webster Road on Nov. 5. A victim reported that an acquaintance, identified as Vincen Lamar Holifield Jr., came to the victim’s residence and fired multiple gunshots through the door of the residence, attempting to shoot the victim.

Officers located multiple bullet holes in the victim’s residence and located another residence nearby that had also been struck by gunfire. Police obtained information describing the suspect and the vehicle the suspect used to flee the scene. Responding officers located the suspect vehicle a short time after the crime occurred. Police attempted to stop the vehicle, and the suspect fled. Officers pur-

sued the suspect vehicle near the area of Richland Road and Lundy Chase Drive. The pursuit continued in the area of Alabama Highway 14 until the suspect vehicle crashed in Loachapoka. The suspect fled on foot before being apprehended. Holifield was transported to the Lee County Jail to be held pending judicial review. All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

devices in an area on Lee Rd. 252 that appeared to be where multiple persons were dumping garbage and were able to obtain information of vehicles and persons responsible for the crimes. During the investigation, on Nov. 17, 2023, evidence was gathered from the dump sight which led deputies to a residence in the 100 block of Lee Rd. 292. Upon arrival at the residence, deputies contacted Leonard Dwayne Hall, age 50, from Opelika and identified him as the person dumping the trash as well as identifying the truck he used in the crime. He was arrested on scene and charged with the misde-

meanor crime of criminal littering). During that same time frame, deputies received an alert from the cameras that showed another vehicle dumping garbage in the same area. Deputies responded quickly and were able to apprehend two individuals before they were able to leave the scene. William Webb, age 60, from Phenix City was arrested on scene and charged with one count of criminal littering, one count of possession of a controlled substance and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia. Both subjects were transported to the Lee County jail where they have since made bond and were released.

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

Taste the food, remember the name Madison's Place

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B12 Nov. 22, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICES INVITATION TO BID 24004 Sealed bids for the construction of Traffic Signal Installation at SR 51 at Gateway Drive 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 November 28, 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 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. 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/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, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Traffic Signal

Installation at SR 51 at Gateway Drive 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 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 ---------------INVITATION TO BID 24006 Sealed bids for the construction of Floral Park Renovations 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, Tuesday, December 5, 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. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at the same location as bids are to be opened at 2:00 p.m., CST on Monday, November 27, 2023, for the purpose of reviewing the project and

answering Bidder’s questions. Attendance at the Pre-Bid Conference is not mandatory, but highly recommended for all General Contractor Bidders intending to submit a Proposal and is recommended for all Subcontractors. 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 obtained from the office of Seay, Seay & Litchfield, P.C., 570 Devall Drive, Suite #304, Auburn, AL 36832, (334) 781-6029 ext. 301, at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment. Bidders may email Nick Vansyoc at nvansyoc@sslarch.com for drawings and RFIs. Additionally, bid documents are available on the City of Opelika’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/ bids.aspx. 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, PurchasingRevenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Floral Park Renovations 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 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ESTHER HARRIS FENN, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2022-529 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to

the undersigned on the 12th day of September, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. SUE FENN JOSSERAND Personal Representative D. Carter Weeks Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023, 11/22/2023 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF RONALD RUSSELL RAGON, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO: 2023-496 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Margaret Lynn Fletcher on the 31st day of October, 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 said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Margaret Lynn Fletcher Legal Run 11/9/23, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 ---------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

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B13 Nov. 22, 2023

PUBLIC >> NOTICES

FROM B12

ORDINANCE NO. 031-23 ORDINANCE ANNEXING CERTAIN PROPERTY INTO THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (Property located at 6551 U.S. Highway 431) WHEREAS, Deidre W. Jones and Jason F. Jones (hereinafter referred to as the “Petitioners”) being the owners of the property hereinafter described, heretofore filed a Petition for Annexation (the “Petition”) with the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, requesting the annexation of certain property owned by the Petitioners as more particularly described below; and WHEREAS, the Petitioners are the owners of all of the lands described in their Petition; and WHEREAS, the territory to be annexed is contiguous to the existing corporate limits of the City of Opelika (substantially surrounded by the City limits) and does not embrace any territory within the corporate limits of another municipality, and when annexed into the City of Opelika will form a homogenous part of the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Opelika did find and determine that it is in the best interest of the public that said property be annexed into the City of Opelika and it did further determine that all legal requirements for annexing said real property have been met pursuant to Sections 11-42-20 through 11-42-24, Code of Alabama (1975). NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama as follows:

Section 1. The City Council of the City of Opelika, finds and declares, as the legislative body of the City of Opelika, that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Opelika, to bring the territory described in Section 2 of this Ordinance into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika. Section 2. The following described property be, and the same is hereby annexed into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama, and the boundary lines and corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama shall be extended, altered and rearranged to include within the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, in addition to the territory now included therein, all the following territory, to wit: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Southeast quarter of Section 13, Township 20 North, Range 16 East, thence run North 5 degrees 15 minutes West, 4159.2 feet; thence run North 2 degrees 6 minutes Vast, 308.4 feet; thence run North 89 degrees 37 minutes East, 1070.6 feet to a point along the Northeasterly margin of the Opelika Lafayette Highway (U.S. Highway No. 431); thence run North 89 degrees 37 minutes East, 409.4 feet to the point of beginning of the real estate here to be described and conveyed; from said point of beginning thence continue North 89 degrees 37 minutes East, 131.1 feet; thence run South 44 degrees 21 minutes West, 340.5 feet to a point along the Northeasterly margin of Ope1ika-Lafayette Highway (No: 431); thence run North 51 degrees 35 minutes West, along the said Northeasterly margin of Opelika-Lafayette Highway, 112.0 feet; thence run North 48 degrees 21 minutes East, 260.5 feet to the said point of beginning;

containing .75 acres, more or less, all according to and as shown by map or plat of survey dated Harch 1, 1968 made by T. Richard Fuller, Registered Surveyor No. 7384, together with all improvements thereon and appurtenances thereunto appertaining. The above-described property contains .75 acres, more or less, and is located at 6551 U.S. Highway 431. Section 3. A map or plat of a survey describing the territory annexed and showing its relation to the corporate limits of the City of Opelika shall be attached to this ordinance, marked Exhibit “B” and made a part hereof. Section 4. The Clerk of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed to file with the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, a certified copy of this ordinance, together with a certified copy of the petition of the property owners and the Clerk is further directed to take all necessary and proper steps to perfect the annexation of said territory herein described. Section 5. This ordinance shall be published as provided by law in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama. Section 6. The territory described in this ordinance shall become a part of the corporate limits of the City of Opelika upon publication of this ordinance as set forth in Section 5 above. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 14th day of November, 2023. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 15th day of November, 2023. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 15th day of November, 2023. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/22/2023 -------------LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA NOTICE is hereby given that the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama, (the “City”) will meet in public session at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, for the purpose of

considering the transaction of business that may properly come before the Council, such business to include, but not be limited to, the authorization by the Council, pursuant to Amendment No. 772 to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended, of a resolution (the “Resolution”) approving the execution and delivery of a Project Agreement (the “Agreement”) by and among the City, Opelika Industrial Development Authority (“OIDA”) and Miele Manufacturing, Inc., a Delaware corporation, (the “Company”) to be dated the date of delivery with respect to a proposed project to be located in the City (the “Project”). Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company will agree to lease certain warehouse and office spaces on Orr Avenue in the City of Opelika and to construct and operate an appliance manufacturing facility in the Northeast Industrial Park (the “New Facility”) in the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, requiring an initial estimated capital investment of $100,000,000 in developing, constructing and equipping the project with additional capital investments in the future. The Project consists collectively of the leasing of the warehouse and office space and the acquisition, construction and equipping of the New Facility. The Company estimates that it will initially employ at least 170 fulltime employees in the City of Opelika with additional job creation in the future. In consideration for the obligations of the Company under the Agreement, the City will agree, among other things, to provide financial incentives to the Company described more particularly in the Agreement, including, without limitation, cash incentives, job performance incentives, tax abatements and infrastructure improvements, certain of which are described more particularly in this paragraph. The City will agree to design and construct a deceleration lane on Andrews Road to improve roadway traffic into the New Facility. In addition, the City will agree to design and construct a new street to be named “Miele Drive” at the New Facility site. The City will agree to waive all planning, construction and building permit fees related to the Project. Also, the City will agree to reimburse the Company up to $100,000 for water and wastewater (sewer) access and connection fees associated with the New Facility. The City seeks to achieve, by undertaking its obligations pursuant to the Agreement and the Resolution, to promote the local economic and

industrial development of the City by facilitating the acquisition and construction of the Project for the benefit of the general public and to increase employment in the City and to increase the tax and revenue base of the City. The business entity to whom or for whose benefit the City proposes to lend its credit or grant of public funds or thing of value is Miele Manufacturing, Inc. All interested persons may examine and review the Agreement and Resolution and all relevant documents and make copies thereof at personal expense at the offices of the City Clerk and City Council during normal business hours, before and after the meeting referenced herein. During the public meeting referenced above, the Council will conduct a public hearing with respect to the Agreement and the matters therein contained. Interested persons will be given reasonable opportunity to express their opinions, arguments and their views, either orally or in writing, or both, at the meeting. Persons unable to attend the meeting may submit their opinions, arguments and their views to the office of the City Clerk, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801. Further information concerning the information in this Notice can be obtained from the office of the City Clerk at City Hall during normal business hours. Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Contact Person, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability. DATED this the 22nd day of November, 2023. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/22/2023 --------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA MICAYLA HEARD, et al., Plaintiffs, V. KENY FELIPE SALES, et al., Defendants. Case No. CV-2022-900404 LEGAL NOTICE In this cause it is made to appear to the Court, by the affidavit of the Plaintiff, that Keny Felipe Sales and Cleyver Yovany Felipe Sales defendant(s) are either nonresidents of the State of Alabama, whose residence is unknown and cannot be ascertained after reasonable effort, or if being residents, either their residence is unknown and cannot be ascertained after reasonable effort or they have been absent from the

State more than thirty days since the filing of the comp1aint in this clause, or they have concealed themselves so that process cannot be served upon them, and further, that defendant(s) are over the age of nineteen years. It is therefore, ordered by the Court that publication be made in a newspaper published in Lee County in the State of Alabama, for four consecutive weeks, and the said defendant(s) are hereby notified of the issuance of said summons and complaint, and to be and appear if they think proper to defend this suit at the present term of this Court, and within thirty days after this notice by publication is completed. Done this the 31st day of October, 2023 Clerk of the Circuit Court| Lee County, Alabama 2311 Gateway Drive, Room 104 Opelika, AL 36801 Legal Run 11/9/23, 11/16/23, 11/22/23 & 11/30/23 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CONSTANCE KENNEDY JEMIAN, DECEASED. TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Robert A. Jemian, as Executor of the Estate of Constance Kennedy Jemian, deceased, on the 3rd day of July, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Robert A. Jemian, Executor Of the Estate of Constance Kennedy Jemian, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 --------------NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED VEHICLE 2018 BLACK FORD FOCUS HATCHBACK VIN1FADP3M26JL291653 Tag Number YJD094 AUCTION WILL BE HELD JANUARY 29,2024 8 A.M. JHCC Holdings LLC Doing Business As Joe Hudson's Collision Center 700 Columbus Pkwy Opelika, AL 36801 {334)387-5822 Legal Run 11/16/2023 & 11/23/2023 ---------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B16

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B14 Nov. 22, 2023

opelika, Alabama

SEASON of Comfort & Joy Christmas Decorations Nov. 26 – Jan. 4. Tag us with #MyOpelikaChristmas

OHS/OMS Christmas Band Concert December 12 • 6:30 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts

Christmas Movie Series Thursdays in December • 6 p.m. Opelika Public Library

Where’s Theodore Elf Hunt December 11-15 Opelika Parks & Recreation

Opelika Holiday Open House November 12 • Noon – 5 p.m. Opelika Main Street

Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express December 14-16 • 5 – 8 p.m. Opelika Parks & Recreation

Bring Opie Home for Christmas Month of December City of Opelika Community Relations Office

Collinwood Luminaries December 15 • 5 – 9 p.m. Collinwood Neighborhood

Sno*pelika Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting December 1 • Parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Rain Date: December 3 Opelika Chamber of Commerce

Winter Wonder Workshop December 16 • 10 a.m. Opelika Public Library

OHS/OMS Holiday Choral Concert December 6 • 6 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts Christmas in a Railroad Town December 8 • 6 – 9 p.m. Opelika Main Street

Family Movie & Crafternoon December 19 • 2 p.m. Opelika Public Library Christmas Movie Marathon December 22 • Begins at 10 a.m. Opelika Public Library

9Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour 3oth Anniversary December 8-12 Bike Tour: December 9 • 10 a.m. Walking Tour: December 9 • 6 – 8 p.m. Driving Tour: December 8, 10, 11, 12 OpelikaChristmas.com • #MYOPELIKACHRISTMAS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: City of Opelika • Opelika Parks & Recreation • Opelika Public Library • Opelika Chamber of Commerce • Opelika Main Street • Victorian Front Porch Tour • Auburn-Opelika Tourism • Opelika City Schools

B15 Nov. 22, 2023

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B16 Nov. 22, 2023

PUBLIC >> NOTICES

FROM B13

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Opelika Industrial Development Authority will hold a public hearing on November 29, 2023, at 8:00 a.m. (CDT) in the second-floor conference room at City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of a Resolution authorizing the Chairman of the

Opelika Industrial Development Authority and other appropriate Opelika Industrial Development Authority officials to enter into a Project Agreement with Miele Manufacturing, Inc., a Delaware corporation, with respect to a proposed manufacturing facility to be located in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park, a Ground Lease for approximately 75 acres of land located in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park and a Right of First Refusal for an additional 70 acres located contiguous to the 75 acres. The proposed Project Agreement, proposed Ground Lease and proposed Right of First Refusal will provide for certain development commitments on the part of the Opelika Industrial Development Authority for the benefit of Miele Manufacturing,

Inc., a Delaware corporation, to locate and construct a manufacturing facility within the City of Opelika and to encourage Miele Manufacturing, Inc., a Delaware corporation, to operate that Facility such that new jobs and tax revenues will be created. Copies of the proposed Resolution, the proposed Project Agreement, the proposed Ground Lease and the proposed Right of First Refusal are available for inspection at the Office of the Opelika Industrial Development Authority during normal business hours. The business entity to whom or for whose benefit the City proposes to lend its credit or grant of public funds or thing of value is Miele Manufacturing, Inc. This Notice is given in accordance with Amendment 772 to

the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended. DATED this the 22nd day of November, 2023. /s/Lori Huguley Lori Huguley, Secretary Opelika Industrial Development Authority Legal Run 11/22/2023 --------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of the Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of PHILIP SAMUEL BARONE, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in

the Lee County Probate Office by MARIA ELAINA COBB on November 17th, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-3-690, 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 the said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 11/22/2023 -------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA T.S. PROPERTIES, LLC, Plaintiff, v. ANNIE MAE MCGHEE, and Her heirs or devisees, if

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deceased, A certain tract or parcel of Real Property located in Lee County, Alabama, AND any Party Claiming an Interest to a certain tract or parcel of Real Property located in Lee County, Alabama, Defendants. CV-2023-900154 NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 3rd day of May 2023 a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: A tract or parcel of land, with all buildings and improvements thereon, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, formerly known as 51 Clanton Street (now known as 1408 Clanton Street) and otherwise described as follows: Said lot being located at the Northwesterly corner of intersection of Cherry Street, (sometimes formerly known as Hardaway Street) and Clanton Street and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of the rectangle formed by the intersection of said Cherry Street (formerly known as Hardaway Street) and Clanton Street; thence westerly along the Northerly margin of Cherry Street 200 feet; thence at right angles in a Northerly direction for a distance of 100 feet; thence at right angles in an Easterly direction parallel with said Cherry Street to the Westerly margin of Clanton Street, the distance being 197-1/2 feet, more or less, and thence Southerly along said margin of Clanton Street, to the point of beginning, being the same property conveyed to C.G. Littleton and W.L. Littleton by G.N. Hodge, et al, by deed dated March 27, 1923, and of record in the Office of the Probate Judge of said County in Records of Deeds, Volume 135 at Page 367 and being the same property conveyed to Cliff Collum and Nora Collum by C.H. Littleton, et al, by deed dated March 24, 1953, and of record in the office of Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, in Records of Deeds, Volume 392, at Page 421. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, 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 against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 26th day of October, 2023. Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Jarret A. Layson 830 Avenue A, Suite B Opelika, Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334-745-3333 Fax: 334-460-2287 iarrel iklawoffice.com Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 & 11/22/23