AUBURN —
The Chill Spot, a local food truck offer-
ing hot dogs, tacos, frozen treats and more, has found a home at Chewacla State Park in Auburn.
“We are the food vendor of Chewacla,”
said The Chill Spot owner and founder James Little. “I honestly have the dream job.”
Originally opening in 2019, the Chill Spot began by serving one
product: frozen lemonade. “I love lemonade … like the ones you would get at an Auburn football
See CHILL, page A2
BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM
AUBURN —
The city of Opelika’s annual State of the City event is set for March 29 at the Bottling Plant Event Center in downtown Opelika.
The event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. as Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller will deliver his comprehensive presentation updating citizens on the state of the city. Wear red and black cocktail attire — and your dancing shoes — as music and dancing will follow.
“We will have cocktail hour brought to you by John Emerald Distillery, and then we will go hear from Mayor Fuller, and he will share what’s happening,” said Opelika Chamber of Commerce CEO and President Ali Rauch to The Observer in a February interview. “When he is done, we are going to turn on the music and hopefully dance the night away.”
The price to attend is $50 for chamber members and $75 for non-chamber members. Chamber member VIP tickets are also available for $75, while general admission VIP tickets for non-chamber members are $100. There are a limited number of VIP tickets available. Those will include a private cocktail hour with special guests and elected officials. All ticketholders will receive a drink ticket and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
The deadline to register is Friday, March 24, at 5 p.m.
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA
OPELIKA —
The city of Opelika recently promoted Brian Weiss to Human Resources (HR) director.
Weiss has been with the city since December 2019. He started with the city as a Human Resource analyst and quickly moved to assistant director.
“We are excited to promote Brian to this position,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.
“He is an exceptional leader and has a strong background in person-
nel supervision, records management, and policy and procedures. In the few years he’s been with the city, he has shown that he is a great asset to the city.”
Weiss brings more than 30 years of Human Resource experience to the city. As HR director, Weiss will be responsible for supervising staff, safety/risk management, policy and procedures, human resources processes, budgets, evaluations and reporting. He said that Human Resources is about fostering a strong, vibrant, positive culture
that values employees because culture is the single greatest impact of a strong bottom line.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity Mayor Fuller and City Administrator Mr. Motley have given me,” Weiss said in a news release. “Service before self and serving the great employees and people of Opelika is an honor. As the city of Opelika grows, it’s about being positive, solution-seeking and being there for the people.
It’s about leadership, and leadership is an art.
I believe that people should follow the words
AUBURN —
Adventurers come in all shapes, sizes, colors and abilities.
Six-year-old Emmett Belcher is one young adventurer that could use a little help from the community to make his adventuring more accessible.
Emmett, a kindergartener at Cary Woods Elementary School in Auburn, was born with a rare, genetic brain malformation called hemimegalencephaly. At 7 months old, he had to undergo a hemispherectomy — a major brain surgery — to relieve him of 20-plus daily seizures.
“This surgery and the seizures had some pretty serious impacts: cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, apraxia, vision loss and autism-like traits,” explained Emmett’s mother, Annie Campbell. “But Emmett is a bright and beautiful little human and loves adventure.”
Both Emmett and his younger brother love camping, being in the water and playing at the inclusive playground. But one of the most fun experiences for the 6-year-old, his mother said, is simply being in motion — something his tricycle has allowed in
recent years. However, “there are no adaptations on Emmett’s current trike, which he is also rapidly outgrowing.”
Another mother whose child underwent the same surgery as Emmett alerted Campbell to a Circle of Friends giveaway for an ET2611 Tandem bicycle by Freedom Concepts, which would allow Emmett to ride with more safety and control.
“The Cable-Actuated Rear Steering system allows the driver to make precise maneuvers and turn sharply from the back,” the contest page reads. “The front rider, whether visually or physically challenged, can still enjoy all the benefits of cycling, including reciprocal movement of the legs and a fresh breeze in their face.”
The bike comes at a
steep cost for customers: over $5,000 for the ET2611 model.
There are separate giveaways for different bikes and trikes. The child with the most votes in each category will be guaranteed a free cycle, and any others who earn at least 50 votes will be entered into a random drawing to win a cycle as well. Luckily, Emmett has already surpassed the 50-votes mark — but as of March 21 he was ranked No. 6 in his category.
Besides its adaptations, another benefit of the tandem bike is that it will last far beyond Emmett’s current trike.
“It is fully adjustable from 7 years old onward,” Campbell said. “Emmett would be able to use this bike all the way into adulthood — his entire life!”
of Ralph Emerson: ‘Do not follow where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’”
Prior to joining the city of Opelika, Weiss spent most of his career in Human Resources for the United States Marine Corps. In this role, he coordinated matters of internal staff sections and external agencies, as well as formulated and supervised the execution of administrative policies, receiving and routing correspondence, handling and safeguard-
game,” Little said.
But then, powering through the business’s growing pains in the heat of the COVID-19 pandemic, Little secured a state contract — signed by Gov. Kay Ivey herself — that made The Chill Spot a mainstay at Chewacla.
“We can be there anytime, but typically there on the weekends,” Little said.
Since opening for the first time four years ago, before Little traded in his full-time general manager gig at Krispy Kreme for the food truck life, The Chill Spot has expanded its offerings to its customers. Now, The Chill Spot is known for its street tacos, hot dogs, cotton candy and, of course, frozen lemonade.
“We kind of got a little something for everybody,” Little said.
Aside from establishing its roots at Chewacla and providing tasty treats to through-hikers, Little said The Chill Spot has a strong relationship with the city of Auburn’s Parks and Recreation Department. Through this, the Chill Spot has become a mainstay at city of Auburn events in recent years.
“I sponsor some of [Auburn’s] stuff,” Little said. “I try and work with the cities [Auburn and Opelika] as much as possible. We also do a lot of private events.”
Anything from The Chill Spot’s menu can be ordered through Uber Eats and DoorDash on
PUBLISHER: Michelle Key
weekdays 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
The food truck is present at Chewacla on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to close.
“We are the only ones who do that,” Little said of the late-night offerings. “So, if you have a craving ….”
In addition to providing food to the community, Little said he is excited by The Chill Spot’s newest adventure: boat rentals. The food truck recently secured the permit necessary to offer canoe, kayak and eventually paddle boat rentals at Chewacla Lake.
“One thing I was fighting for for a long time was the boats,” Little said. “They had boats, but they [Chewacla] don’t want to do boats. I ended up having to speak with the director of the Alabama Parks Department. We finally got it worked out.”
According to Little, the plan is to have the boat rentals available daily (10:30 a.m. to the park’s close) from now through October. Boats can be rented on weekends for $20 per hour, $50 for
three hours or $100 for an all-day pass. As of now, The Chill Spot offers five canoes, one kayak and is working on securing paddle boats — but only after a boat dock is built. Boat rentals are still available on weekdays, however, Little said a rental appointment must be made for a minimum of three hours in order for him to deliver the boat to the park. Appointments and inquiries can be made by calling Little at 334703-6286.
“One of the reasons I was fighting for boats is because we are there anyways,” Little said. “[The boats] are something new to do in town. It’s an activity where we provide everything for you.”
A portion of all The Chill Spot’s proceeds is donated back to Chewacla State Park. Keep an eye out for it at the next Auburn or Opelika city event, or the next time you visit Chewacla. For more information, visit The Chill Spot on Facebook or www. alapark.com/parks/chewacla-state-park.
LIVE LEE EDITOR: Hannah Lester
MARKETING: Woody Ross
PHOTOJOURNALIST: Robert Noles
SPORTS EDITOR: Wil Crews
SPORTS WRITER: D. Mark Mitchell
STAFF REPORTER: Kendyl Hollingsworth
CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA DHR
MONTGOMERY —
The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) on March 14 announced plans to issue Summer Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits to an estimated 530,000 children who receive free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program.
Qualifying households will get $120 for
each participating student to buy SNAP-eligible food at stores that accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. The benefits are expected to start rolling out in mid-to-late summer.
“Inflation has transformed each grocery trip into a balancing act for low-income families struggling to afford food for their children on top of other costs like housing and transportation,” said Alabama DHR Commis -
sioner Nancy Buckner. “Every dollar of support from programs like P-EBT strengthens their spending power and weakens the prospect of hunger, while promoting nutritious meals for children.”
Summer P-EBT benefits are limited to students who receive free or reduced-price meals from the National School Lunch Program by application or through the Community Eligibility Provision, Provision 2 or Provi -
sion 3.
To become eligible for Summer P-EBT, families may apply for the National School Lunch Program by contacting their schools.
Applications for the lunch program must be approved by May 16 to qualify for Summer P-EBT benefits. Families should contact their schools with any questions about eligibility.
Households with eligible students who received P-EBT benefits previously will access
Summer P-EBT benefits on their existing EBT cards. Those who are new to the National School Lunch Program will get EBT cards in the mail. All recipients should keep their EBT cards in case additional benefits are added in the future.
Eligible families are encouraged to monitor dhr.alabama.gov for updates, including information about a timeframe for the arrival of benefits.
DHR oversees the
distribution of P-EBT benefits with assistance from the Alabama State Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service administers the program at the federal level.
Support specialists are available to answer questions about P-EBT by phone at 1-800-4105827 and online at dhr. alabama.gov/food-assistance/ from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Center (EAMC) is one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for cardiac surgery, according to new research released by Healthgrades, the leading marketplace connecting doctors and patients. The information from Healthgrades also indicates EAMC is the only hospital in Alabama to be among the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for cardiac surgery.
Additionally, EAMC was a recipient of the Healthgrades 2023 Cardiac Surgery Excellence Award, is a Five-Star Recipient for Coronary Bypass Surgery and a Five-Star Recipient for Carotid Procedures.
“To be ranked among the top 50 hospitals in the nation for cardiac surgery, as well as earning other heart and vascular awards, just shows the level of skill and dedication our cardiac team members have,” said Laura Grill, president and CEO of East Alabama Health, also referred to as EAMC. “It is an honor to be recognized as a leader in cardiac and vascular surgery. It’s a reminder of the commitment we have to our patients. We hope it offers them the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are in good hands while at EAMC. These awards are a reflection of our mission to provide ‘high-quality, compassionate health care.’”
Healthgrades evaluates hospital performance using a formula that takes the typical patient risks and outcomes from more than 45 million Medicare claims for nearly 4,500 hospitals nationwide, as well as patient survey data from
the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to predict the patient outcome for each hospital. Hospitals are then given a star rating based on their actual patient outcomes in comparison to the predicted outcome.
Healthgrades evaluated patient mortality and complication rates for 31 of the most common conditions and procedures at nearly 4,500 hospitals across the country to identify the top-performing hospitals for specialty care. This year’s analysis revealed significant variation in patient outcomes between America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery and hospitals that did not receive this distinction. From 2019 to 2021, patients treated at hospitals receiving the America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery Award have, on average, a 56% lower risk of dying than if they were treated in hospitals that did not receive the award. Additionally, patients treated at hospitals which did not receive the award are, on average, nearly 2.3 times more likely to die than if they were treated at hospitals that did receive the award.*
Cardiac surgeonspracticing at EAMC perform approximately 350 to 400 procedures each year.
Healthgrades is the second organization to recognize EAMC’s cardiac services. In February, EAMC earned designation by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama as a Blue Distinction Center+ for Cardiac Care. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated providers that have proven to deliver quality care with safe practices that lead to better health outcomes for patients.
“We commend East Alabama Medical Center for their ongoing commitment to providing high-quality care to patients undergoing cardiac and vascular procedures,” said Dr. Brad Bowman, chief medical officer and head of Data Science at Healthgrades. “Consumers can feel confident that America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery have demonstrated their ability to deliver consistently exceptional outcomes.”
Consumers can visit healthgrades.com to learn more about how Healthgrades measures hospital quality and access a
patient-friendly overview of the complete methodology at b2b.healthgrades. com/insights/blog/howhealthgrades-determinesthe-nations-top-performersin-specialty-care/.
*Statistics are based on Healthgrades analysis of MedPAR data for years 2019 through 2021 and represent three-year estimates for Medicare patients only. For appendectomy and bariatric surgery, Healthgrades used inpatient data from 16 states that provide allpayer data for years 2019 through 2021. View the complete 2023 Specialty Excellence Awards and Ratings Methodology at www.healthgrades. com/quality/ratingsawards/methodology/ specialty-excellenceawards-americas-besthospitals-for-specialty-careawards-methodology.
EAH
In health care, working collaboratively as a team is critical to providing patients with the best care possible. The understanding of that importance by a team of providers at EAMC has earned the hospital the Inspire Institute’s Care Team of Excellence Award.
The Inspire Care Team of Excellence Award is given to hospital programs that collaborate across the disciplines of sleep medicine and otorhinolaryngology — or the study of diseases of the ear, nose and throat — to deliver excellent patient outcomes in cases of treatment-resistant obstructive sleep apnea.
“The Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulator is a significant step forward in the treatment of obstructive
sleep apnea for properly selected patients,” said Dr. William Blythe, an otorhinolaryngologist with East Alabama Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT). “The surgeons and practitioners at East Alabama ENT have been honored to be a part of the multi-disciplinary team that provides this therapy to needful patients.”
Patients are cared for by an EAMC team that is made up of ear, nose and throat specialists; sleep medicine specialists; nurses; sleep technologists; and support staff. The team’s goal is to provide patients with a better quality of life by offering the Inspire Medical Systems’ novel implanted sleep apnea treatment device.
“Developing our Inspire program has been a gamechanger for our patients with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea who haven’t been able to tolerate CPAP or BiPAP therapy,” said Dr. Christopher Hope, medical director of the Sleep Disorders Center at EAMC. “It’s been really satisfying to see so many patients do well now who were struggling before. It’s also quite humbling for our team to be recognized as one of the best in the country.”
EAMC was one of the first four in the nation to receive this recognition and remains one of only seven centers in the nation — out of 950 clinical locations — to earn the designation.
Since 2019, EAMC has cared for 145 Inspire patients, guiding them from initial consultation to implant procedure through post-operative management. The team has seen notable improvement in key metrics that are used to measure
post-procedure impact on the severity of the patient’s disorder, as well as the patient’s quality of life.
Across the program, markers of disease severity — such as the apneahypopnea index — have improved from a preimplant average of 36.2 breathing events per hour to an average of just 7.9 events per hour. Likewise, participants’ average Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores dropped from an abnormal level of 12 before implantation to the normal range of 7 after treatment.
“The care team at EAMC is exceptional,” said Ashley Hester, territory manager for Inspire Medical Systems. “Every member of the team is highly involved and genuinely invested in the patient’s health."
East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier in Valley, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinic and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 314-bed regional referral hospital with a 26-bed Skilled Nursing Facility, while EAMCLanier provides inpatient services as well as a nursing home, an acute rehab unit, senior behavioral health and an ambulatory surgery center. East Alabama Health employs about 3,500 employees and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University. For more information, visit www. eastalabamahealth.org.
ing classified material, preparing responses to special correspondence, and establishing and maintaining the reports control and forms management programs.
Weiss handled and drafted casualty reporting, medical records, awards and decorations, performance evaluation reports, legal matters and postal functions. He also has a strong background in training,
preparing exercises, discussions and lectures to include all aspects of operations, maintenance, communication security, personnel supervision, records management and computer usage/ safeguarding material.
Weiss received several congratulatory comments on social media in regards to his promotion as HR director of the city of Opelika.
“Congratulations Brian!!” wrote Rory Hughes on the city of Opelika’s Facebook page. “I honestly
couldn’t think of a better leader to take on the role to lead and advise the great employees within the city as it is always great to work with you.”
“So proud for Brian and so happy that I got the chance to work with him and that I call him friend,” added Heather Middleton-High. “CONGRATS!!”
“Excellent,” said Lisa McLeod. “Congrats to Brian. He is a great employee and will be a wonderful HR Director.”
Throughout his career, Weiss was recognized
for outstanding volunteer service, serving countless hours with family advocacy centers as the victim advocate. He was also recognized and awarded for his service in OEF and OIF. Weiss is a retired Marine Corps commissioned officer. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Florida graduating summa cum laude. He and his wife, Barbara, have been in the Opelika-Auburn area since 2012.
Recreation Center will host the 10th annual Auburn-Opelika Empty Bowls this Saturday, March 25. The event will include soup and entertainment. Every ticket purchased is a direct donation to the Food Bank of East Alabama. Each ticketholder gets their choice of a handmade bowl created by local artists, along with soup and bread.
Each year, this event alternates between the city of Auburn and the city of Opelika.
Volunteers unload waste at a previous event.
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / DAVID D. DORTON
AUBURN —
Environmental Services will host its spring
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Environmental Services Complex.
The complex is located at 365-A N. Donahue Drive.
This free, biannual event invites Auburn residents to drop off environmentally hazardous materials that are illegal to dispose of during weekly garbage collection.
Acceptable items include household chemicals, pesticides, paints, batteries, automobile fluids and more. Computers and electronics will be accepted, and there will be a shredder on site to safely and securely get rid of old documents.
Participants should load the materials they wish to drop off in the trunk or rear of their vehicle for a quick, contactless drop-off.
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day is only open to Auburn residents. Proof of residency may be shown by bringing a recent water bill. Participants are asked to register ahead of time online at www.auburnalabama. org/environmental-services/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day/registration/.
For more information, including a full list of accepted items and a link to register, visit auburnalabama.org/hhw.
AUBURN —This year's Empty Bowls will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Kiesel Park (520 Chadwick Lane in Auburn). Tickets are $20 and can be purchased via the city of Auburn's MyRec website. A few walk-up tickets will be available for purchase.
Please email edombrowski@auburnalabama.org to get on the walk-up list.
As part of an ongoing effort to combat hunger in our area, the city of Auburn's Dean Road Ceramics Studio and the city of Opelika's Denson Drive
CONTRIBUTED BY 10TO1
PUBLIC RELATIONSOPELIKA —
Stone Martin Builders (SMB), one of the largest homebuilders across Alabama and the region, officially opened the model home for the Cannongate community in Opelika March 14. A ribbon cutting ceremony was recently held with the Opelika Chamber of Commerce for the model home to celebrate this milestone for the community.
The family-focused community that includes parks, playgrounds and a community pool is located just 1.5 miles from Opelika’s downtown at the tracks. Home buyers can design a home by choosing from various home plan designs that feature four to seven bedrooms, two to four bathrooms and various exterior options.
“Deciding where your family will begin the next chapter of their lives is the most important decision you can make,” said Frank Plan, CEO of Stone Martin Builders. “When you begin designing your home at Cannongate, you can trust our team’s unparalleled craftsmanship and dedicated customer service to make the process as easy as possible. We are excited to introduce more family housing options in Opelika that adapts to the unique lifestyles and needs for your home.”
All homes are designed with growing families in mind and are built for their convenience, functionality, affordability and entertainment. Homes range from 1,300 to 4,300 square feet.
Stone Martin Builders’ collection of homes includes one- and two-sto-
ry plans, spacious rooms, two-car garages, elegant flooring, granite countertops, energy-efficient appliances, smart home technology and hybrid spray foam insulation. Residents can customize their home’s exterior with a variety of options to choose from
for brick, paint, stone and doors.
“The Cannongate neighborhood offers families quality and accessibility with great schools, employers and recreational options in the community,” said Sarah Martin, vice president of sales. “The
Cannongate community is perfect for anyone who prioritizes serenity, beautiful scenery and convenient access to amenities.”
Cannongate offers the perfect balance of serenity, yet excitement. It is located just off Opelika’s famous historic
district, which is host to several parades and events. Downtown Opelika offers an abundance of local restaurants, a distillery, two breweries and local shops.
ABOUT STONE MARTIN BUILDERS
Based in the Auburn-Opelika area, Stone Martin Builders is dedicated to developing aspirational communities throughout Alabama and Georgia, including Huntsville, Athens, Prattville, Montgomery, Auburn/Opelika, Dothan and Columbus, Georgia. Since its establishment in 2006, the company has quickly grown and in 2022 was ranked as one of the 100 largest home builders in the U.S. by Builder Online. More info at www. stonemartinbuilders. com.
Even though Emmett’s parents modified his trike to accommodate the weakness in his left side, those modifications can only help so much.
“We have to use Velcro straps to connect his left foot to the pedal and his left hand to the handlebar,” his mother explained. “This condition also renders him unable to steer the bike himself.
… There are also no straps on the seat, so he is at risk of falling out. So in order to safely use
his current bike, we just slowly pull him up and down the street. … Not only will this bike be great for him, but it will help protect my and my husband's bodies from the strain that we experience trying to help him have great experiences.”
Emmett and his family have explored the great outdoors on several occasions — western North Carolina and Alabama state parks being some of the hotspots — but as Emmett has outgrown hiking packs and struggles to walk more than a quarter mile, the family has had to cut down on
hiking excursions.
As trails are becoming more accessible, though, the tandem bike would allow Emmett to once again enjoy any flat-ground trail on the family’s adventures.
“This bike would be an absolute game-changer for what we could do as a family,” Campbell remarked. “… We would be able to take this bike on the back of our van anywhere flat trails are available. We would be able to see so much more of this beautiful country. The possibilities are very exciting.”
In addition to bringing
joy and wonder into Emmett’s life, the tandem bike would come with a few health benefits as well.
“When he can be outdoors for a long period of time and receive vestibular stimulation that rapid motion enables, he is brighter, happier and sleeps better,” Campbell said.
Anyone can vote for Emmett, as well as donate toward the cost of a bike — though donations are not required. If half of the fundraising goal is not met by the March 31 contest deadline, Campbell said the funds will
still be put to good use.
“We are fortunate to have an amazing network and local friends and family not too far away,” she said. “We also receive a lot of support through the Medicaid waiver program; however, they do not cover these bikes. If we do not meet at least half the goal, everyone’s donations will go into the general funding pool for the Circle of Friends bike contest and will help some other child win a bike. We love that.
“Beyond the contest, we just ask that anybody reading this becomes
more aware of accessibility — or lack thereof — in our community and the needs of people with physical and intellectual disabilities. Anybody who has used a wheelchair or stroller knows that it is a whole different perspective to try to navigate the world in that way and there’s so much more that can be done. It begins with awareness followed by action.”
Although Emmett would be the main benefiter of the tandem bike, his mother said it would also mean a lot to show Emmett’s younger brother that people with disabilities can enjoy full, happy lives just as much as anyone else.
“His little brother will grow up seeing what a disabled person can do with the proper support and accommodation,” she said. “That is amazing.”
To vote for Emmett or donate toward the cost of a bike, visit www. greatbikegiveaway.com/ Abikeforemmett.
City on the telephone if a shipment was late, even though it wasn’t her fault), 3. attending Orr Street Baptist Church and serving in the WMU and various committees, 4. cleaning house and cooking (Daddy also helped) and 5. canning vegetables from Daddy’s garden in the summer.
It has always amazed me that my sweet Mama Barbara Patton (not the former mayor of Opelika) could get everything done and done so well: 1. taking care of a husband and three children, 2. working full time in the main office of Russell Mills in customer service (she had to handle angry customers from New York
I get tired just looking at the list, but then, I’m certainly not the woman Mama was. In fact, as I may have mentioned before in this column, the only day she didn’t cook was on Wednesday, when she went to get her hair washed, rolled and dried. Therefore, on Wednesday nights, Daddy would make his “Patton Especial,” or hot dogs.
Mama and Daddy loved hot dogs. When they retired and Mama didn’t cook as much (Daddy said he was
glad when his children came home to visit
because he ate better), they would buy
Sneaky Pete’s hot dogs
See WALLACE, page A9
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / ANN BERGMAN
AUBURN —
The 22nd Auburn CityFest will take place Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kiesel Park. All ages are invited to spend the day shopping from over
100 arts and crafts, food and nonprofit vendors. Enjoy live music and participate in a variety of interactive events and performances.
This year’s theme is “Jurassic Journey” with headlining entertainment from Jurassic Kingdom Lockdown, bringing
dinosaurs to Kiesel Park.
The Children’s Imagination Station will feature stilt walker Todd Key, the Bama Air Dogs, the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Auburn University's Southeastern Raptor
See CITYFEST, page A9
SEAN DIETRICH
A crowded plane. I had an aisle seat. The guy beside me was snorting. I say “snorting” because he was actually making swinelike sounds as he slept.
I am a frequent flyer; I’ve heard lots of snoring. But it had been a long time since I heard anyone snort. Not since I was in first grade and our class reenacted the Holy Nativity. Benny Hodges and I played the roles of pigs that were present at Christ’s birth. Our only line was “OINK!”
The poor flight attendants. They were the ones who had to wake this snorting guy and tell him he was disturbing passengers. The attendants also had to deal with the man’s horrible
attitude. He nearly bit their heads off.
“DON’T TELL ME NOT TO SNORE, DANGIT!” he shouted. “THERE’S NO LAW AGAINST SNORING, DANGIT!”
Only he didn’t say “dangit.” He waved his hands. He insulted them.
And the attendants took the abuse like champs.
Meanwhile, two women behind me were having a conversation in voices so loud that people in First Class were forced to interrupt their deep-tissue massages.
“You remember my friend Anne?” said the first woman.
“Yes,” said the other.
“What about her?”
“She has a new dog.”
“Really? What kind?”
“I don’t know, but he keeps peeing inside.”
“Really?”
“Yep. It’s an expensive dog, but he pees.”
“Dogs pee so much.”
“I know, what’s up with all that peeing?”
“Peeing is gross.”
“I hate pee.”
“Me too. I wish we didn’t have to pee.”
“I don’t know, peeing can be kinda relaxing sometimes.” Shoot me.
Once again, it was the flight attendants who had to tell these women to lower their voices. One of the loud-talking women was not happy about the rebuke. She tore the flight attendant a new one.
And then there was the beverage service.
Beverage service is the part of every flight that’s both exciting and dreadful.
Exciting, because for passengers this is the moment when you get Lotus Biscoff cookies. Dreadful, because many
passengers are so obsessive about their beverage orders that it’s hard not to puke. You can just tell these picky passengers are the same kinds of people who purchase those plastic toothpaste squeezers to save money.
“Miss,” said a passenger across the aisle. “I’d like a Pepsi, but I want limes in it. TWO limes.”
“I’m sorry, sir,” said the attendant, “but we only have Coke. And we don’t have limes.”
The man sighed so hard you could feel the cabin pressure change. “But I don’t WANT Coke. I want PEPSI with LIMES.”
The attendant just smiled and repeated herself sweetly.
The guy crossed his arms like a petulant teenager. He said, “Never mind. I don’t want ANYTHING.”
“No pretzels or almonds?”
The man pouted. The attendant, once again, smiled. But not with her heart.
And this is just some
of the abuse I saw these professional men and women endure on one flight. I haven’t even mentioned the passengers I’ve seen who often try to cram bags the size of mature Buicks into the overhead bins.
I haven’t mentioned the people who always try to sit in someone else’s seat, even though their tickets are for other seats.
I’m not mentioning the people who bring toddlers onto planes and let them watch movies on iPads at volumes loud enough to affect the climate.
I once had an aunt who was a flight attendant. She told me people in her field put up with incredible mistreatment.
“We are highly trained,” my aunt said. “We’re there to keep passengers safe. That’s our main job, but we suffer for it.”
My aunt was putting it mildly. And yet the airline attendants who are so maltreated are there to save your life, should you need it.
There have been scores of examples. There was 40-year-old Lee Yoon Hye, who carried injured passengers, one by one, on her back, out of a wrecked plane.
There was 33-year-old Karen Cornelius, who saved a man from a heart attack aboard her flight.
There was Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who was shot to death while shielding three children from a hijacker.
Flight attendants are expected to perform heroics all the time. They have undergone tons of training, they have learned how to fight the fire, how to conduct an ECG, how to handle medical emergencies and how to evacuate a plane.
They are not merely waitresses and waiters there to serve your coffee. They are nurses, police officers, firefighters, psychologists and bodyguards, all in one person. And they deserve a little respect.
Dangit.
The East Alabama Civic Chorale, sponsored by the East Alabama Arts Association, recently announced that its spring concert will take place Sunday afternoon, April 2, at 2:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Opelika.
"I believe this is a concert that everyone will find both enjoyable and inspiring," said Dale Peterson, musical director of the 55-voice chorale. "All of the music, in various styles, speak to the transforming power of music."
Some of the selections,
such as "The Sound of Music" will be very familiar, while others will be new to many listeners. Composers included on the program are Handel, Daniel Gawthrop, Joseph Martin, Craig Courtney, Dale Peterson and Greg Gilpin.
Liza Weisbrod is the pianist for the chorale,
and Brad White serves as assistant conductor.
The chorale is pleased to announce that its guest artist for the concert is cellist Ina Petkova-Apostolova.
A native of Bulgaria, Ina received her bachelor's and master's degrees from the Vienna Conservatory in Austria. She has
done additional study at the concervatoire, a rayonnement in Paris and at Haute Ecole de Musique in Switzerland. Petkova-Apostolova finished her studies at Columbus State University's Schwob School of Music. She has won several
prizes on the national and international levels. She has performed as a soloist with the Radio Symphony Orchestra in Vienna and has appeared on the stages in Bulgaria, Austria, Germany, Italy, Slovakia, Switzerland, France, Canada and the United States.
The public is cordially invited to attend. The concert is free to the public but those wishing to make a tax deductible contribution will have the opportunity to do so. Trinity Presbyterian Church is located at 1010 India Road in Opelika.
CONTRIBUTED BY BARBARA PATTON
OPELIKA —
Envision Opelika Foundation Inc. announced Tuesday that it is accepting applications from nonprofits serving Opelika for the fifth annual Opelika Giving Day, scheduled to begin May 10.
Opelika Giving Day is a 24-hour online fundraising challenge that aims to provide an easy and exciting way for people to support their local nonprofits serving Opelika.
Since its inception, Opelika Giving Day has helped raise nearly
$150,000 for more than 35 nonprofits serving Opelika from 1,140 donations.
“Envision Opelika Foundation is proud to be the host organization for Opelika Giving Day this year,” said Susan Brinson, president of the organization. “Opelika Giving Day is a way to support special projects within our community, giving everyone an opportunity to contribute to their favorite nonprofit project, or possibly multiple projects, that impact Opelika. Individuals, companies and organizations are all invited to participate
in this special day of giving.”
To fill out an application for Opelika Giving Day, visit www.opelikagivingday.org.
Applications are due April 10 and the selections will be made the following day. On average, 10 nonprofit organizations that service the Opelika area are selected based on the strength and scope of their applications. Each nonprofit must commit to designating a project contact person to lead their social media campaign, participate in training sessions and build engagement with their prospective do -
nors leading up to the day of Opelika Giving Day.
Nonprofits are encouraged to spotlight their projects this year and raise funds to make them a reality. This year, the 24-hour period will begin at noon on May 10 and run through noon on May 11.
ABOUT ENVISION OPELIKA FOUNDATION INC.
The Envision Opelika Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2003 that works towards improving the quality of life for all residents of the community through its citi -
zens, organizations and community partners.
at a local convenience store in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals). Boy, Mama and Daddy would sure have loved the hot dogs that Mike and I recently ate at Franky Junes Express.
Franky Junes Express is a food truck in our area. On the day we visited, it was parked at the Opelika Farmer’s Market on Pepperell Parkway. Lance and Maleta VanPevenage, who run the Express wagon, were so wonderful and helpful.
They told us that Rick and Karen Lanier own all three food trucks: Franky Junes Express, the Weeny Wagon and the Waffle Wagon. Franky Junes opened in 2021. On the business’s website, Rick, who was born in Opelika, explained the name of the business. According to Rick, the “Franky” part comes from the fact that hot dogs used to be called “frankfurters” or “franks.” June is in honor of Karen’s beloved
Center, KoreaFest and Southeastern Reptile Rescue. In between these fun appearances,
kids can enjoy crafts at the ArtFest tent sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation.
Auburn University's College of Nursing will provide their Sensory Inclusion Vehicle to
mother, Irene “June” Uzzell of Elizabeth, New Jersey, who passed away in 2002.
While Mike and I were deciding what to order at Franky Junes Express, a young woman told us that she had just eaten the cheesy porker. It was so good, she had to order another one. Mike ordered a slaw dog, which came with mustard, ketchup and homemade coleslaw.
I was torn between two: the Old Fashion and the Chi-town. I finally decided on the Old Fashion, which had mustard, homemade chili and onion. We both ordered potato chips.
Oh, my two times; our hot dogs were outstanding. Next time — and there will DEFINITELY be a next time — I will order the Chi-town, which is a Chicago-style hot dog. My friend Shelly introduced me to Chicago dogs in Panama City, Florida. The Chi-town has tomato wedges, a pickle spear, mustard, onions, Chicago-style
assist families if a child or adult becomes overstimulated. The College of Nursing will also provide their Tiger Babies Breastfeeding Support Tent to help provide mothers with a clean and private place to nurse their babies.
CityFest attendees will also have the pleasure of enjoying
relish, celery salt and sports pepper. I know that sounds unusual, but it is really amazing.
Mike and I saw the Franky Junes Weeny Wagon at Auburn’s Mardi Gras parade in February. We plan to try that food truck soon. Besides mouth-watering hot dogs, the Weeny Wagon also offers dog bowls, grilled sausages, 100% beef homemade corn dogs and fine tater tots, which I really love.
music from several artists throughout the day at the pavilion. The Rock Mob, a fivepiece band from Ozark, Alabama, will play everyone’s favorite songs from the '70s, '80s and more.
Local singersongwriter Joshua Aubrey Jackson will perform his original
In addition, Franky Junes Waffle Wagon serves up chicken & waffles and dessert waffle bowls. Just the online pictures will make you salivate.
Go to www.frankyjunes.com or call 334750-7832 to find where the Franky Junes food trucks will be on a particular day. Believe me, people of Lee County, you’ll want to jump on the Franky Junes wagons.
Franky Junes Express
songs under the moniker Make Sure. In addition, attendees will get to hear music from Auburn University’s Jazz Band.
The Auburn CityFest Committee said it is grateful to all sponsors for making this year’s event possible, including:
Community
Sponsors: Max Credit Union
Media Sponsor: Opelika-Auburn News
Official Sponsors: ADS Security, WSFA News, Dixie Electric, Auburn-Opelika
Tourism, Alabama Power Foundation, Jeffcoat Trant, Chickfil-a, Praise 88.7, ShirtWorks, Auburn
makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!
Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear every other week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retired langartsteacher2020@ gmail.com.
Arts Association, Kate 99.9 FM, iHeartRadio, Auburn Network, South Atlanta Helicopters at Auburn, Wings 94.3, On the Mark, Auburn University College of Nursing, Tailgate Guys, Grab-a-Cart, PRE Events, Starwalk Enterprises, JLD Enterprises and Home Eats.
The Auburn CityFest Committee also thanks Auburn’s Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) for sponsoring the official first aid tent.
Auburn CityFest is free to the public and is a rain or shine event. For more information, visit auburncityfest. com.
JAZZ >> from A7
Initiative last fall. It is paired with a Workshop on Saturday, March 25, led by the performers.
The band’s patriarch, guitarist Steve Masakowski, says he has been performing together professionally with his daughter, singer Sasha Masakowski, and his son, bassist Martin Masakowski, for nearly a decade. Additionally, New Orleans drummer Doug Belote will join the family for the Opelika shows and workshop.
A New Orleans native and acclaimed Blue Note recording artist, Steve has shared the stage with many of the city's most well-known musicians, as well as Grammy Awardwinning artists. In 2022, he retired after 33 years from the position of Coca-Cola Endowed Chair of Jazz
Studies at the University of New Orleans.
“Sasha and Martin have been carving their own creative paths,” Steve said.
With accolades from Vanity Fair, Downbeat and other media sources, Sasha has headlined at venues including the Blue Note in New York City, Cotton Club Tokyo and the Detroit Jazz Festival.
Based in Brooklyn with influences from jazz, electronic music, rock and improvised music, she leads the bands Art Market and Tra$h Magnolia.
“She’s doing all kinds of stuff,” Steve said about his daughter.
Additionally, Steve said his son is now one of the most in-demand bass players in New Orleans.
After studying music in New Orleans and Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Martin toured over 20 countries with the Balcony Players, an
Eastern European folk band. In addition to playing bass, he is a graphic designer, photographer and is developing skills in Tuvan throat singing. The Tuvans are an ethnic group in Asia.
“It’s always a treat for me to be playing with my kids,” remarked Steve, who said he had some classroom time teaching them while they were music students at the University of New Orleans.
Now that they have professional careers of their own, Steve said he has learned a lot from them.
“Now the tables have sort of turned,” he said. “They’re telling me what to do.”
The south Louisiana native Belote studied with The Drummers Collective in New York City. He has toured internationally and has appeared on over 100 albums with artists
such as George Porter Jr., Allen Toussaint, Delfeayo Marsalis and Willie Nelson. He currently tours with 12-time Grammy winner Jerry Douglas.
Tickets to Friday’s first show are $40 and will include a small-plate reception provided by chef Chris Wilton. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. The menu will include a selection of dishes inspired by New Orleans cuisine.
Tickets to Friday’s second show are $25 and will not include dinner. Attendees are encouraged and allowed to bring their own drinks — alcoholic or otherwise — into the shows.
For the Saturday workshop, tickets are $10, or $5 for students. It starts at 10:30 a.m., doors opening at 10 a.m., with coffee provided by Boonie Hat Coffee Co.
Tickets for all events
are sold through The Sound Wall’s website at thesoundwallopelika.com or by phone at 334-5753477.
As stated on its website, “The Sound Wall Music Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating the art of music in the Auburn/ Opelika community.” Its mission includes enhancing the community through “music education, artist development and funding support for local musicians and schools.”
The Sound Wall Jazz Series is an effort of the nonprofit which allows donors and sponsors to fund local engagement with national and international artists such as the Masakowski Family Band and others. Part of this series is an educational component that includes artist visits to local schools and the Saturday
workshop.
Members of the group will lead the workshop. They will touch on fundamentals of improvisation in jazz and American popular music and examine ensemble dynamics and technical development.
The workshop is open to all ages and levels. Ideal participants are teenage and adult musicians with at least one year of experience performing with their instrument or voice. Singers and those with instruments will be invited to explore melodies together with leaders and participants. Younger musicians and nonmusicians are welcome to audit the workshop.
Those seeking more information should contact The Sound Wall Music Initiative at 334-575-3477 or info@ soundwallmusicinitiative. com
OPELIKA —
Alan Griffith, retired pastor of 34 years and recent author, addressed the March gathering of The Compassionate Friends.
The monthly meeting, held at the white house of the First Presbyterian Church on the corner of 3rd and 10th streets in Opelika, is open to anyone seeking grief support after the death of a child, no matter the age of the child. Griffith spoke to attendees about his own grief journey after the death of his wife and the sudden death of his son a year later. His book, “What Not to Say to a Grieving Heart,” was written expressly for those
who may be seeking to comfort those bereaved individuals suffering from the sadness of the loss of a loved one. The book chronicles the lessons Griffith learned through his personal grief experience. His book was written to help those comforting the bereaved know what to do and what not to say in order to be of genuine comfort.
According to Griffith, it has been his experience that most people are uncomfortable with the topic of death and the grief of those left in the aftermath of death. His experience led him to write “What Not to Say to a Grieving Heart.” He said most people, even with well-meaning words, often fall short of their good intentions.
GRIFFITH“There is nothing you can say that can be helpful,” Griffith writes in his book. “People often say things that are true but not helpful,
some say words not true at all and others repeat clichés that should never be said at all.” Griffith suggests instead to “just be
there.” Look for supportive actions you can take which may be needed to support the grieving survivor. Set up a support group within your church or other organization to visit the bereaved. Simple tasks that the grieving party may not feel up to doing for themselves like cleaning the house, cooking meals, cutting the grass or running errands can be a helpful way to show your care and concern. Better still, be willing to sit with the bereaved and listen while they talk, Griffith advised. It is not necessary to have answers for their questions, and one shouldn’t feel the need to try and make sense of the loss. It is enough to just listen so those
suffering the loss can feel free to cry and express their feelings. Never say to a grieving heart “Call if you need anything,” as most people suffering a deep loss will most likely never call.
Griffiths’ purpose for writing the book, he said, was to help those seeking to be comforters of the bereaved to gain more insight into what to do, and more importantly, what not to say. Griffiths’ book can be purchased from Amazon.
The next meeting of The Compassionate Friends will be held Thursday, April 6. Anyone needing more information should contact Lynne and Jerry Schwarzauer at 334663-4345.
OPELIKA —
The community is invited to come together at Baptist Hill Cemetery Saturday, March 25, to take part in spring cleanup efforts.
The cleanup will begin at 9 a.m. with a welcome message, followed by a brief moment of silence. After that, instructions will be given before the workday officially begins at about 9:15 a.m.
Baptist Hill is a community cemetery and the first historic Black cemetery in Auburn, according to Robert Bubb, an Auburn University professor and coordinator for Research to Preserve African American Stories and Traditions (rPAAST).
Baptist Hill is one such cemetery that relies on volunteers to provide regular maintenance and cleanup, and there is a job to do for
just about anyone.
“We will clean headstones, clear more of the cemetery borders and pick up fallen branches, rake leaves, trim bushes and sweep off ledgers,” Bubb said, as well as pick up any trash on the premises.
While there will be some tools available, Bubb said he encourages all volunteers to bring work gloves, as well as any extra pruners, softbristle brooms, plastic rakes, tarps or sturdy blankets they may have. The more tools available, the faster the work can go.
Several groups are already set to be represented at the March 25 cleanup, including the Auburn Junior High School Friends of Baptist Hill Club, Milton W. Howze Lodge #408 and Auburn University's Big Event.
Baptist Hill Cemetery is located at the intersection of South Dean Road and Thach Avenue in Auburn. Volunteers should park either
at Auburn Public Library or along McKinley Avenue, Maple Street or Old Mill Road and walk to the lot at the corner of McKinley Avenue and South Dean Road.
“We are trying to limit vehicle traffic in the cemetery, so we will stage at that corner lot [800 McKinley Ave.],” Bubb said. Bubb has dedicated himself to cemetery research and preservation across the county and has, in recent years, spearheaded efforts to protect and maintain the George and Addie Giddens Cemetery on Frederick Road in Opelika, along with the Lee County Cemetery Preservation Commission. He also helped the Giddens Cemetery secure historic designation in 2022 from the Alabama Historical Commission.
Much of rPAAST’s efforts began with Baptist Hill Cemetery. As one of the most well-known “community
cemeteries” in the area, Bubb determined it would be a good place to start in his research and preservation efforts in Lee County.
“The cemetery contains the lost stories of early African Americans in Auburn,” the rPAAST website reads.
“Many of the plots at the southern end and along Dean Road — both marked and unmarked — hold formerly enslaved persons and early members of Ebenezer Baptist Church. The northern end of the cemetery generally holds more recent burials. Those interred represent the
business owners, religious leaders, educators, skilled crafters, military veterans, service laborers and everyday persons who shaped the early black community in Auburn while living in the segregated South.”
Bubb said he hopes the community will take care to respect historical cemeteries and remember the people and history behind them, whether in marked or unmarked graves.
“Lee County has an amazing and rich African American history that is rarely talked about and
discussed,” he told The Observer last May. “Yet, it is a fundamental part of how Auburn, Opelika and surrounding communities were built. It is in these historic African American cemeteries where the foundation of our community was laid. … [Those interred] should be remembered and respected, even if many lie in unmarked, unknown graves.” For more information about Baptist Hill Cemetery, including some of the people interred there, visit rpaast. weebly.com/baptist-hillcemetery.html.
RELIGION —
The book of Deuteronomy is (among other things), a record of Moses preparing Israel for life in the promised land. Chapter 28 is part of the concluding section of Moses’ address given to the nation shortly before his death (34:18). Not long after his passing, Israel entered Canaan under Joshua’s leadership.
We reach a crescendo in
the book as Moses starkly outlines Israel’s options: They could follow God and be blessed (28:1-14), or not follow God and be cursed (v. 15-68) — there was no middle ground! Moreover, following God did not mean following their own inner voice or mystical impulses as the Canaanites and Egyptians did (see Leviticus 18) — it meant obeying the objective laws of the covenant God had given through Moses. These laws could be read, learned and obeyed, and offered true spiritual guidance (read Psalm 119 and think about Jesus’ joyful compliance to the Law of Moses).
Everything came down to whether they would make the decision to submit at the heart level to God. Although He wanted everyone to be obey and be blessed, He refused to make that choice for them.
He honored the decisionmaking capacity He had created them with by leaving the choice to follow Him up to them. God puts His faith in us to make the right decision (Ponder the richness of that!).
For Israel under the covenant given by Moses, and for us today under the covenant given through Jesus, this means that our destiny isn’t about chance — it’s about choice. In connection with this year’s Super Bowl, an estimated 50 million people bet over $16 billion on the game. That’s a lot of people foolishly taking a chance on chance. After all, who could really say what would happen? We can’t even predict the weather for tomorrow! Thankfully, God arranged things so that our eternal destiny is not a result of chance but choice.
Some view choice as
something that is about them and no one else (abortion is a classic case of this).
Others understand that life doesn’t work that way — we are all connected so that our choices can’t be made in a vacuum, as they affect everyone to some degree. But the healthiest perspective is to see choice as containing one more element; it is an opportunity for us to personally respond to God. Did someone say or do something hurtful toward us? We have a choice to hold a grudge or forgive them. If we think of our choice as a personal response to God, we are more likely to do the right thing and forgive them.
Our goal as disciples should be to make faithful choices. No one is going to make perfect choices, so we don’t need to get paralysis for analysis and act as if the fate
of the universe hangs with our every decision. It doesn’t. But we should strive to make choices that are faithful — consistent with the faith we have in God and the way He desires us to live.
Choices are important because in the end, we become what we choose. If we consistently choose to love only those who love us, then we’ll be mediocre people living a mediocre life. If we choose to embrace all people as Jesus did, we’ll experience life at its most challenging and rewarding.
The choice is ours
Green has written a book on the model prayer called “Praying in the Reign.” It is available through 21st Century Christian.
Find more of his writings at his website: www.a-tasteof-grace-with-bruce-green. com.
ANGLICAN
The Good Shepherd Anglican Church
3015 Opelika Road, Opelika
APOSTOLIC HOLINESS
God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church
301 Highland Ave., Opelika
334-749-9672
BAPTIST
Beulah Baptist Church
5500 Lee Road 270, Valley
334-705-0538
AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn
334-887-8506
Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117
Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church
650 Jeter Ave., Opelika
334-749-9487
Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184
Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108
Providence Baptist Church
2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika
334-745-4608
Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461
CHURCH OF CHRIST 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 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432
EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church
800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054
METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800
Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Church At Opelika
1901 Waverly Pkwy.,
Opelika 334-524-9148
Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949
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
To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. — Proverbs 8:13
WALTER ALBRITTON
RELIGION —
Weeping for others is a common experience. When Jeremiah wept for his people, his cry for help was not unlike the anguish we all feel when confronted with the suffering of loved ones: “My grief is beyond healing; my heart is broken. Listen to the weeping of my people; it can be heard all across the land. … I weep for the hurt of my people. I am stunned and silent, mute with grief” (Jeremiah 8).
Jesus has such compassion for the sick that he healed many of
Martha Ellis Stephens, 78, of Auburn, passed away on March 19, 2023.
Born and raised in Auburn, Martha graduated from Auburn High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Troy University. While at Troy, Martha met the love of her life, William; upon graduating, they moved to Auburn where they raised their three children.
Martha was a sweet, kind, loving mother and grandmother who cherished spending time with her family and friends.
She enjoyed reading, playing bridge, volunteering in the Auburn community and cheering for Auburn University and the Atlanta Braves. Martha also loved vacationing at the beach with her family and friends.
She is survived by her children, Randy (Lisa)
them. On one occasion he showed remarkable kindness to a deaf man who could not speak: “A deaf man with a speech impediment was brought to him, and the people begged Jesus to lay his hands on the man to heal him. Jesus led him to a private place away from the crowd. He put his fingers into the man's ears. Then, spitting onto his own fingers, he touched the man's tongue with the spittle. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and commanded, ‘Be opened!’ Instantly the man could hear perfectly and speak plainly!” (Mark 7:31-37).
Not wanting to embarrass the man, Jesus took him aside. What beautiful compassion!
He did not want the poor man to feel humiliated in the presence of curious onlookers, in the same way doctors help the sick in privacy. But some of them do not get well; they suffer and die. Caregivers suffer too
Stephens and Jennifer Stephens; daughter-inlaw Penny Stephens; grandchildren Patrick (Sara) Stephens, Emma Star Stephens, Cole Stephens, Corinne (Katy) Jacobs-Hayes, and Seth Jacobs. Martha is preceded in death by her husband William Stephens and her son Brett Stephens.
A visitation will be held Thursday, March 23, 2023, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home located at 1500 Fredrick Road in Opelika.
TIM JENNINGS
Tim Jennings was born on Nov. 16, 1966, in Opelika and died on March 19, 2023.
Tim graduated from Opelika High School and then entered the fire and EMS service in 1986 and retired from Lanett Fire Department in 2009. He was dedicated to helping others learn how to be
because it hurts to see others suffer.
What are we to do with the feelings that overwhelm us when our family and friends are suffering? One option is to stifle your compassion. Become stoic and refuse to get emotionally involved. You can grit your teeth and refuse to love so you won’t be hurt.
Thankfully, there is a better option. You can seize the moment and care deeply for hurting people and help them make the most of every day until life is over. You can make a difference because you have something to offer that is more important than medicine. Solomon expressed it well: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). A cheerful spirit is a great gift to the sick and dying.
Since we cannot prevent suffering or death, we must not slack
from doing what we can. We can offer compassion and leave the rest to God. He is in charge of life and death. It is not within our power to keep people alive indefinitely. Death is a natural part of life, and there are mysteries too complex for our finite minds. As we care for others, there are valuable lessons to be learned.
Suffering is a great teacher. It teaches us to value every waking moment. I was brash and carefree until our son David was diagnosed with leukemia. Then my real education began. I realized what pain doctors and nurses endure in serving others. Dr. T. Fort Bridges and his staff were gracious, caring people; they hurt with us during David’s nine-month battle with leukemia.
Our crash course in suffering culminated the morning Dr. Nels Ferre took us in his arms and said, “God hurts like you hurt.” Then, that good
the best they could be in the fire and EMS service. He was able to continue doing this working with Alabama Fire College to bring classes to Lee and surrounding counties so that more people could have access to proper training and certification at the local level.
He is survived by his parents, Thomas and Glenda Jennings of Opelika; his uncle Warner Jennings (Frances) of Richland, Mississippi; cousins Scott Jennings (Susan) of Birmingham; Brent Fletcher (Helen) of Houston, Texas; Vara Brown (Bryan) of Houston, and Dangie Fletcher of Houston.
Services for Mr. Tim Jennings were held Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with visitation prior to the service.
Cindy Robinson Ware, 63, of Opelika, passed away peacefully with her family around her March 17, 2023, at her residence. Mrs. Ware is survived by her husband Mickey Ware; children: Shaun Maples (Maribel) and Chris Ware (Karyn); grandchildren: Alana Maples, Charlie Ware, Emma Ware and Evy Ware; siblings: Jimmy Robinson and Christy Robinson; and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her brother, Scott Robinson. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 21, at First Baptist Church of Opelika Chapel with visitation prior to the service. Burial followed in Garden Hills Cemetery.
With great sorrow the LaZenby family would like to announce the passing of Mack Roland
man lifted the dead body of our son off the bed and asked the Lord to receive his soul. In that holy moment, we knew God was with us.
Years later, my wife almost died from a lung disease. Suddenly she was better. The doctor had no explanation. My wife complained that it was hot and stuffy in her hospital room. Then a cool breeze came into the room. She said, “I felt a presence. I looked around but could see no one. But I felt someone was in the room. Then, all of a sudden, I felt well.”
The doctor confirmed her wellness the next morning and dismissed her. As you care for others, sometimes Christ will seem so present that you can feel his hand on your shoulder.
Gentleness and kindness are invaluable when you are suffering. When I almost died because of a blood clot, I remembered Paul’s words: “The time of my
LaZenby, 80, of Auburn. Mack peacefully passed away on March 16, 2023. He was born on May 25, 1942, on the eastern shore of Virginia.
Before retiring to spend more time with his grandchildren, Mack had a distinguished career as a professional engineer, as well as an accredited airport executive. He served as the Public Works director for the city of Sanford, Florida, before becoming the airport director of the Orlando Sanford International Airport. Mack then transitioned to become the executive director of the TitusvilleCocoa Airport Authority, where he managed the operations and growth of three airports on Florida’s Space Coast. His career ended with him going back to his engineering roots by working for two engineering firms helping airports across the Southeast grow and develop.
departure is at hand.” I thought my time was up. But doctors and nurses gave me hope by treating me with kindness.
As you care for a suffering friend or relative, offer every ounce of kindness you possess and trust Jesus to refill the reservoir within you. The more compassion you give away, the more He will restore your supply. When you shed tears, remember that Jesus was acquainted with grief. Offer your tears to him, for he can turn your tears into the wine of joy. Remember you are made in the image of the God who hurts like you hurt. Pain is part of his plan for shaping you into a compassionate servant.
James reminds us that life is but a shadow, like a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes. While you have life, and weep for others, offer them compassion with a cheerful spirit and leave the rest to God.
He also enjoyed serving others and giving back to the community where he lived. He served for decades as a dedicated Rotarian, including serving as president of the Titusville Sunrise Rotary Club. He also was active in the chambers of commerce where he worked. He last served as a faithful member of the city of Auburn’s Planning Commission.
His service to the Lord ranked first on his list of service to others. He touched countless lives by serving in church leadership roles and many years of faithfully teaching God’s word as a Sunday School teacher. He strove to set a Godly example for others to follow.
Mack is survived by his loving wife of 55 years and traveling partner, Susan, as well as their four daughters, Kathy LaZenby, Holly Hutto (Bill), Melody Murgo (Robert) and
See OBITUARIES, page A15
NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet April 17, 2023, at 7 p.m. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. Meetings are held at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn.
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.
The Standing Rock, Alabama Fish Fry & Bake Sale is set for March 25, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. CST at the old Standing Rock Community Center on Chambers County Road 278 in downtown Standing Rock, Alabama. Tickets are $15 and plates consist of fried catfish fillets, French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, lemons, pickles and onions. Plates are available for dine in or carry out, rain or shine. For tickets call 706-333-8559 or 706-586-0252. Proceeds benefit the Standing Rock, Alabama Community Center Building Project.
servant’s heart. Her most cherished title was that of “Grandmama.”
and her brothers: J.W., Buddy, Ezra Burrell, Guy and Arthur Smith.
The Lee County Chapter Alabama State University Alumni Association will sponsor a meet and greet reception March 25, from 3 to 5 p.m. CST at the Family Enrichment Center located at 1 Day Lily St. in Loachapoka.
The reception will include messages from Alabama State University president, the office of admissions and recruitment and various departments. Current students of Hornet Nation will be in attendance to share their experiences at ASU.
The event is free to the public. We especially invite high school students to come out and meet members of the Lee County Chapter Alabama State University Alumni Association hornet nest. Students and parents will have an opportunity to gain valuable information about scholarships and Alabama State University.
Dwight E. Howard, President Lee County Chapter Alabama State University Alumni Association
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.
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon outside the Southside Center for the Arts, located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. Activities include planting, story time, crafts or art projects for children and hanging out with the goats.
Marsha Mead (Chris).
Mack leaves behind many beloved grandchildren, Matt Hutto (Cynthia), Savannah Hutto, Margaret Hutto (Josh), Morgan Mead, Anderson Mead, Juliana Murgo, Nathan Mead, Isabella Murgo, Jadon Hutto and Mackie Mead, as well as one greatgrandchild, Isaac Hutto.
Mack loved the Lord and his family more than anything. Alongside his wife, Susan, Mack was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren and greatgrandchild. Mack always told his family that he looked forward to the day that he would get to “go home” to be with his Heavenly Father. We are immensely grieved over his sudden death but are rejoicing that he is home. Our family appreciates your love and prayers in this time.
“The King is coming
I just heard the trumpets sounding
And now His face I see O the King is coming
Praise God, He’s coming for me.”
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to support North American missions to his granddaughter at www. missionaries.namb.net/ full/savannah-hutto.
MARTHA “JO” SMITH DUDLEY
Martha Jo Smith Dudley went to be with her Lord on March 20, 2023, at the age of 90.
Throughout her life, her focus was on her family and the well-being of others. Jo had a true
Jo was born in the Salem community on October 19, 1932, to Boykin and Mattie Lou Smith. She was a sibling to seven brothers and one sister.
Jo graduated from Beauregard High School, where she was a member of the Beta Club. She worked for a short period of time at the Opelika Mill.
On Dec. 24, 1951, Jo married the love of her life, John Robert Dudley. Together they raised four children and shared 67 years of happiness.
Mrs. Dudley loved the Lord and was firm in her faith. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Opelika, where she taught third-graders and was a member of the Sarah Sunday School Class. She later attended First Freewill Baptist Church. Jo was active in the Civinette Club, Pepperell Garden Club and was a Pink Lady with the EAMC auxiliary.
Jo was a caretaker by nature, taking care of everyone who crossed her path, especially John, until his death. She was a wonderful cook and known for her sweet potato biscuits and homemade jellies. Her home was a welcoming one, holding a place for every visitor at her table. In addition to being remembered as a gracious host, Jo will always be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother. The family will greatly miss her, but we celebrate her arrival into her heavenly home.
Jo was preceded in death by her husband, John Robert Dudley; her parents, William Boykin Smith and Mattie Lou Butler Smith;
She is survived by her four children: Linda Dudley Epperson (Virgil), Ellen Dudley Gaberlavage (Tommy), Vicki Dudley Massingill (Joey) and John Robert Dudley Jr. (Rhonda); her nine grandchildren: Paul Gaberlavage (Ginny), Hayley Gaberlavage, Blake Epperson (Lybbi), Courtney Massingill Wood (John), Lindsey Epperson Buttrey (Jonathan), Robert Dudley (Anna), Lawler Dudley Taylor (Jake), Laurel Dudley and Tillman Dudley; and her 12 great-grandchildren: Libby, John Thomas and Emily Gaberlavage; Walton Epperson; Ellie Gray; Norah Cate and Savannah Buttrey; Leah and Mary Drew Wood; Martha Brynn Dudley; and Mack and Wes Taylor.
She is survived by her brothers, Dallas Smith (Joyce) and Hal Smith; her sister, Sarah Sasser Hughes; sister-in-law, Carolyn Dudley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express our gratitude to her loving and tireless caregivers: Myrtle Wallace, Jean McBride, Kim Young, Cindy Darby, Nina Darby and Tammy Smith.
Funeral services were held at the chapel at Frederick Dean Funeral Home on March 22, 2023, at 11 a.m. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all arrangements. arrangements.
115 years ago AuburnBank was founded on the principles of sound money management and putting the customer first. As we’ve opened our new home in downtown Auburn, those principles still drive everything we do. Come by and help us celebrate our most recent success, and let’s talk about helping you achieve yours.
Once again, all the spring sports at Opelika High School were active this past week. The following breakdown from D. Mark Mitchell recaps all the action across five sports from OHS.
The Bulldog varsity baseball team dropped three out of four games last week to fall one game below .500 with an 8-9 record.
Bryce Speakman was bad news for opposing pitchers on Wednesday, driving in five runs on three hits to lead Opelika past Prattville, 12-9, last Wednesday.
Jackson Killcreas earned the win, pitching five innings, allowing six runs on four hits and striking out four. Parker Killcreas and Russell Copous entered the game out of the bullpen to close out the game in relief. Copous recorded the last two outs to earn the save for OHS.
The Dogs tallied 13 hits, including multiple hits from Davis Ford (three hits), Speakman (three hits) and Brodie Jones (two hits). Opelika’s defense didn't commit a single error, with Jake Smith making a game-high 10 outs.
Opelika fell behind early and couldn't come back in a 5-2 loss to
Prattville in the second game of a doubleheader.
Taylor “Tommy”
Fields started on the mound, allowing two runs on four hits and striking out three batters. Slade Clayton and Jones threw two innings apiece in relief. Trent Henderson and Fields racked up two hits apiece. Parker Killcreas and Jones added singles.
OHS lost to Marbury 9-5 last Saturday at Bulldog Park on Senior Day.
Marbury got things moving in the second inning when an error scored one run for Marbury.
Colby Rathel started on the mound, pitching one inning and allowing two hits and five runs.
Christopher Floyd and Caleb Chisum entered the game as relief, throwing five-and-two-thirds innings and one-third of an inning, respectively.
Opelika collected 10 hits in the game, including multiple hits from Parker Killcreas, Henderson and Jones. Fields, Smith, Floyd and Ford added hits.
Opelika struggled to contain the high-powered offense of Ariton, losing 9-1 last Saturday at Bulldog Park.
Ford led things off on the mound, allowing seven hits and six runs over four innings, striking
See SPORTS, page B7
CONTRIBUTED BY AHSAA
MONTGOMERY —
Four high schools — Class 7A Opelika vs. defending Class 7A state champion Thompson, and Class 5A Selma vs. 5A Beauregard — will be battling in the two games to be showcased at the 2023 AHSAA Kickoff Classic hosted by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors
& Coaches Association (AHSADCA).
Selma and Beauregard will officially open the 2023 high school football season in the 18th annual Kickoff Classic on Thursday night, Aug. 24, at Montgomery’s Cramton Bowl at 7 p.m. Opelika (5-5) and Thompson (13-1) will play Friday night, Aug. 25, in the second game of the annual classic. Both games will be at 7 p.m.
and will be televised over the AHSAA TV Network and livestreamed over the NFHS Network. AHSAA TV partner WOTM TV of Sylacauga will produce the game for the NFHS Network/AHSAA TV Network. The AHSAA Radio Network will also broadcast both contests over its statewide radio network.
“We are ecstatic to kick off the 2023 season with these two matchups
involving four great programs steeped in tradition,” said Brandon Dean, director of the AHSADCA. “We appreciate the administration and coaches of each school for allowing us to showcase their programs here in Montgomery. As always, we thank Mayor Steven Reed and the city of Montgomery for their continued support of this
See KICKOFF, page B4
Nearly $3 million award creates program to train school counselors
CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY
AUBURN — Auburn professors in the College of Education and College of Nursing are launching a new collaborative initiative designed to increase mental health services in rural Alabama schools.
A first-year grant award of over $350,000 from the U.S. Department of Education and nearly $3 million in expected total funding over five years will allow faculty to create the School
Counseling Integrated Program (SCIP).
This program will bring together the distinct skills of school counselors, school nurses and English to speakers of other languages (ESOL) teachers to address the growing mental health needs of K-12 students.
“SCIP is an integrated and cutting-edge approach to further increase mental health services in school systems — primarily those serving rural and medically underserved children, families
and communities in Eastern Alabama and surrounding counties,” said Malti Tuttle, College of Education associate professor, School Counseling program coordinator and SCIP project director. By working with school counseling graduate students preparing to enter the field, Tuttle and her team are approaching K-12 student mental health in a new and innovative way.
“It’s the collaboration approach in preparing future school counselors to enter
OPELIKA —
The Opelika boys soccer team has enjoyed one of the best starts in the program’s recent history this season. The Bulldogs are 8-2 and have been looking like a title contender early.
Head coach Derek Hovell gave his thoughts on the team’s performance so far this season.
“I’m excited for the guys,” Hovell said. “They are playing tough and battling in close games, continuing to find ways to win. They are off to one of the best starts in the last decade.”
Having key players step up and lead the team is one of the biggest things a coach can attribute to their team’s success, and Hovell is no different. He talked about the players who have had the biggest impact on the Bulldogs’ success so far this season.
“Eduardo Moran has been solid in goal,” Hovell said. “He has made some impressive saves and kept us in the close games so
far. Nathan Faison has been dominant in the midfield. He’s positioned in more of a defensive midfield role but has shown great vision and awareness attacking. He has scored 5 goals and has 10 assists so far.”
Opelika has gotten its season started off strong, however, there have been some challenges that the team has had to overcome and some that are ongoing. Hovell highlighted what some of these challenges have been.
“We had a couple guys go down with injuries earlier in the season,”
Hovell said. “They have been out for the last few weeks. Several players have stepped up into those roles during that time and have done well but we are looking forward to them getting back into action.”
No matter how good a team is playing, there is always room for improvement. The Bulldogs are no exception. But in a region as tough as theirs, they will have to constantly be looking for areas to improve. Hovell highlighted some of the
See BOYS SOCCER, page B3
—
OPELIKA
The Opelika High School girls soccer team started its season in early February, and it's been an up-and-down year so far. The Bulldogs have put together a 5-4 record, but Bulldogs head coach Jacklyn Button said she has seen good progress from the team so far.
“I think our team’s performance has progressed a lot since the first few games,” Button said.“We have learned how to work better together and what formations and positions work best to bring out our strengths.”
According to Button, the Bulldogs have seen some players really step up so far this season. She mentioned some who have been particularly integral to the team's growth to this point.
“Some younger players have really stepped up this year and been an asset,” Button said. "Maelee Story, an eighth grader, has played numerous different positions, and has made an impact on bothdefense and offense, scoring some key goals to win our game against Russell County. Amiya Brown has played both
offense and defense as well, she has held it down with her leadership on our back line.
“Bailey Ward is a freshman who has played lots of minutes as a wing defender, and has shown a lot of promise. Bailey along with Karla Guerra, senior, who is our other outside defender has found great ways to combo with midfielders and make an impact. Karly Phatsadavong, freshman, has controlled our midfield and made some great assists.”
Despite the quality in the squad, unfortunate circumstnces have been all too common for the Bulldogs so far this season. Injuries and fatigue have seemed to hover over the team since the season began.
“The biggest challenge for our team thus far has been injuries,” Button said. “Two starters from last year are out with torn ACLs, and two more key players have sustained knee injuries from the first few games. Finding depth within our small roster has been tough, and has pushed a lot of players to play a lot of minutes, if not a full game.”
Opelika plays in a tough 7A area, and an
important aspect of staying competitive within it will be onstantly looking for opportunities to improve. According to Button, she would like to see her team keep improving, particularly when in possession of the ball.
"Now that we have some games under our belt, I would like to see more improvement in player possession and fluidity,” Button said. “Our players have learned how to communicate and read one another on the field, and I think if we can learn to flow seamlessly through positions and formations it would be beneficial for us over, and allow us to be a much more dynamic team that is tough to defend.”
With more area games on the horizon, Opelika will continue to push for edge over the competition, Button said.
“We’re looking forward to staying competitive in area play,” Button said. “After beating Smiths Station and Central we hope to continue to trend upwards as we progress towards the end of the season.”
The Bulldogs will be back in action on the road against Saint James School on March 30.
LEE COUNTY —
The Alabama Sports Writers Association this week announced its selections for the AHSAA and AISA All-State basketball rosters. Several area high school students and coaches earned honors. In total, two coaches brought home Coach of the Year honors in their respective divisions, and 22 student-athletes were named at least Honorable Mentions.
AHSAA
7A Girls
First team: Syriah Daniels – Auburn, Jr., G; Jabria Lindsey – CentralPhenix City, Fr., G
Honorable mention: Brooke Hallman – Auburn, So., G
7A Boys
First team: Jacoby
Hill – Central-Phenix City, So., G
Honorable mention: Ja Carr – Auburn, Sr., G
5A Boys
First team: Cam-Ron Dooley – Valley, Jr., F
Second team: Brandon Thomas – Valley, Jr., C
Honorable mention: Jamarious Martin – Valley, Sr., G
Coach of the Year: Marshon Harper – Valley
3A Girls
Third team: Brandy
Phillips – Beulah, Sr., G
2A Girls
Third team: Nakeriona Heard – Lanett, Fr., G
2A Boys
Second team: Elijah Whitfield – Lanett, Sr., G
Honorable mention: Tamarion Harrington –LaFayette, Sr., F
1A Girls
Second Team: Taylah Murph – Loachapoka, Sr., G
Honorable mention: Jasmyn Thomas –Loachapoka, Jr., G
1A Boys
Second team: Jasaveion Moore –Loachapoka, Sr., G
AISA
Girls
First team: Takayla Davis – Glenwood, Jr., F
Second team: Madison Davis – Lee-Scott, Jr., G
Honorable mention: Anna Grace Giggs –Glenwood, Jr., F
Boys
First team: Lukas Holman – Glenwood, Sr., G; Joseph Horne – LeeScott, Sr., F
Third team: Haiden Harper – Lee-Scott, Fr., G; Brandon McCraine –Glenwood, Jr., F
Coach of the Year: Dusty Perdue – Glenwood.
BY DANIEL LOCKE FOR THE OBSERVERAUBURN — Baseball season has been underway for a few weeks now, and the Auburn High School Tigers varsity baseball team has 14 games under their belt now, holding a 8 -6 record.
The Tigers were crowned state champions in 2021 and made the Final Four last year. Head coach Matt Cimo said he is confident that this team can make a run as well, despite its early struggles.
“I think our immaturity on the mound right now [is a team weakness],” Cimo pointed out. “Our team is trying to find its identity right now. We’ve got four weeks to find everyone’s role and what
they are going to do.”
Despite the early struggles, Auburn has some players who are already having big seasons. Junior Michael Daniel is batting above .400; junior Braden Fox is batting around .385; senior Cade Belyeu is batting near .350; and junior Henry Allen is batting above .300 and leads the team in home runs with four. Senior Connor Cosby is batting above .300 and leads the team in stolen bases with seven. Senior Brenden Bryant leads the team in strikeouts with 10.
While the senior leadership of Auburn baseball circa 2023 is already bearing fruit, Cimo mentioned some areas in which the team could improve.
“Offensively we are not
very consistent,” Cimo said. “We haven’t played very good defense, and we haven’t been doing very well on offense. I need to get them motivated and going in the right direction.”
Furthermore, Cimo also expanded on some things that his team is doing well — like coming back from early deficits — which will help them get back to the standard set by previous teams.
“They’re very resilient,” Cimo said. “We’ve been coming back and having walk-off hits. The team believes in themselves. We’ve got to get clicking on all cylinders.”
Auburn finally returns home for a double-header with Hartselle on Friday, March 24.
BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER
AUBURN —
The Auburn High School boys soccer team had a daunting stretch of four straight losses and a tie to stiff non-region competition, but things turned in its favor in a 5-0 win at Opelika on Thursday, March 16. The losses came to Columbus (1-0), Montgomery (6-1), Hillgrove of Powder Springs, Georgia (30), St. Pius X Catholic of Atlanta (2-0), and then Auburn tied with LaGrange, Georgia (2-2), before getting back in the win column.
“We came into this season, and we wanted to load up our schedule with some of the best competition we can,” said head coach Bill Ferguson.
Improving to 5-52 and 2-0 in region play following last Thursday’s game, the Tigers controlled possession of the ball nearly the entire game, which was a continuation of the dominance they have displayed in region play. They have yet to allow a goal to a region opponent, and that is their third shutout of the season. With eight games — four of them region
matchups — remaining on the schedule, Auburn has plenty of chances to boost its winning percentage, but Ferguson said he believes the tough competition his team fought through early in the season will help shape his team as the playoffs loom.
“We’re learning,” Ferguson said. “We still have a lot of new players, especially on the guys’ side. We replaced the back six, so we’re still getting comfortable together and getting in rhythm. It’s been great, man. We’re only going to keep getting better.”
It helps to have senior midfielder Cade Edwards
back in the lineup after temporarily foregoing school ball to play with MLS’s “Next” program in Hoover, Alabama,
during his junior year.
After the shutout ofthe rival Bulldogs, Ferguson bragged on No. 17, who’s started
on varsity since he was in eighth grade.
“On both sides of
said head coach Bill Ferguson after the win at Opelika. “They’re such a joy to coach because they come willing to listen, willing to work and they enjoy being around each other, which makes the energy so positive.”
That is the team’s second consecutive shutout after it left Lagrange, Georgia, with a 6-0 win, completing a scoreless week last week. It is yet to give up more than three goals in a game yet this season (3-1 loss to Oak Mountain), and it has only given up multiple goals in two contests (2-1 loss to Vestavia Hills).
BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER AUBURN —
FROM B1
the workforce in Alabama that makes this program so unique,” Tuttle said. “In creating this program, we recognized the importance of forming an expectation among our school counseling students that they can most effectively help their K-12 population by collaborating with others in their schools.”
Through SCIP, faculty from three departments in Auburn’s College of Education and the College of Nursing will work with school counseling graduate students, equipping them to meet growing mental health needs in high-need, rural Alabama schools.
“It is an honor to be part of the SCIP program,” said Morgan Yordy, College of Nursing assistant professor and SCIP project co-director.
“School nurses encounter situations when students present physical symptoms of a mental health challenge. School nurses are often the first point of contact to address student mental health.
“As a faculty member in the College of Nursing, I can train student counselors
FROM B2
specific improvements that he would like to see.
“First, We need to get back healthy,” Hovell said.
The Auburn High girls soccer team is 7-4 and has pitched six shutouts already this season — the
to work in tandem with the school nurse to meet the needs of the student. Such training can help provide appropriate support, and with school nurses qualified to recognize symptoms, the two can then develop a plan to aid students and their families.”
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted student mental health challenges in K-12 schools, which have been exacerbated by nationwide school counselor shortages and heavy workloads. Schools in underserved areas and underrepresented populations — often found in rural areas — have even greater need.
“Mental health is as important as physical health,” said Chih-Hsuan Wang, College of Education professor and SCIP project evaluator. “I hope this project can provide an opportunity for those who want to be school counselors with a way to make their dream come true, help our K-12 schoolteachers and students, as well as bring awareness of the importance of mental health.”
SCIP also will have a significant impact on the multilingual student population in Alabama with the inclusion of ESOL teachers.
“With Spring Break this week, that should give our guys some time to rest and heal up. Secondly, I’d like for us to control the tempo of the game a bit better. We have been in several close games and found a way to
latest a 10-0 mercy rule defeat of Opelika last Thursday.
“They’ve been great,”
“Often, ESOL teachers, school counselors and school nurses are individually advocating for multilingual students in their respective roles,” said Jamie Harrison, College of Education associate professor and SCIP project co-director. “This program will bring these three unique school roles together to better understand the needs of multilingual students from multiple perspectives and thus extend their individual advocacy efforts.”
Auburn’s land-grant mission inspires the College of Education to seek funding for this type of collaboration, research and outreach, according to Rodney Greer, College of Education assistant dean for research.
“We know we are better together,” he said. “We’re better problem-solvers, researchers, academicians and more effective at meeting the needs in our community when we approach the challenges of our day as a team. SCIP is a perfect example of dedicated faculty, from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds, working together to make a difference in our region and state.”
win most of them. So I’d like for us to start controlling the pace of play.”
The Bulldogs will be back in action on the road against Saint James on March 30.
But the offense went cold versus — and was shut out in a 1-0 loss
to — Montgomery Academy, giving the Tigers their third loss of the season.
Despite only scoring two goals in its three losses, Auburn is outscoring opponents 46-7 throughout the season. With 10-0 wins over Central Phenix City and Opelika, it is 2-0 in region play.
“Their energy is now starting to reflect on some of the results they’re getting,” Ferguson raved. “They played some really good soccer tonight [against Opelika]. They started showing early and just kept the foot on the pedal and finished the game early. That was nice to see.”
While Ferguson said
the team’s ultimate goal is simply to be the best team they can be at the end of the season regardless of how far they go, the girls are chasing their first state championship in program history. And their clean sheets are nothing new.
After pitching 11 shutouts last season before getting shut out in a round-of-eight loss to Fairhope, Auburn has displayed that same dominance on defense this season. Under the leadership of a veteran-filled team, including three senior defenders, the offense will need to catch up to the production of the defense if it is to make a deeper playoff push this season.
The Auburn Tigers men’s basketball team shot 19-of-36 (52.8%) on free throws and crashed out of the second round of the NCAA Tournament with an 81-64 loss to No.1-seeded Houston last weekend.
The loss comes after Auburn had defeated No. 9-seed Iowa, 83-75, in the first round, and held a 41-31 lead over Houston at halftime of the second-round matchup.
Outscored 40-23 in the second half, the Tigers shot just 4-of-24 on field goals and went more than 10-and-a-half minutes without making a basket in the final period. As mentioned before, however, the Tigers’ ultimate downfall came at the charity stripe — the free throw line.
… Anyone who has ever played basketball has heard someone say, “They call them free for a reason,” when referring to free throws. And Auburn, which left 17 possible points at the stripe against Houston, will be remembering that age-old adage for the days, weeks and months to come.
FROM B1
event.”
OPELIKA VS. THOMPSON
Opelika head coach
Erik Speakman said he knows his Bulldogs face a strong challenge. However, he sees the chance to face the fourtime defending state champion Thompson Warriors as an opportunity for his program.
“We are excited about the opportunity to compete against Thompson in the Kickoff Classic,” Speakman said. “We have always taken pride in playing a tough schedule, and this game with the four-time defending 7A state champions proves that. Coach Mark Freeman and his staff have done an incredible job of building the Thompson program into a national power, and we look forward to competing against them in the season opener.”
Freeman said the Kickoff Classic has played an important role in helping him build Thompson’s program into one of the elites in the nation.
“We are excited to be returning to the AHSAA Kickoff Classic event in Montgomery,” he said.
“We enjoyed a great experience in 2018 against James Clemens when the Classic was called the ‘Champions Challenge,’ and we look forward to a great experience in August versus Opelika.
Coach Speakman does a tremendous job, and Opelika has a great program. We appreciate the AHSAA for extending
It is all the more painful because at halftime of Saturday’s game against Houston, the Tigers looked primed to pull off the upset. Things swung even more in the favor of the orange-and-blue when Houston’s two best players, First Team All-American Marcus Sasser and junior point guard Jamal Shead, were sidelined for much of the second half due to foul trouble. But it was during this time that the Cougars managed to flip the script entirely.
Junior Houston guard Tramon Mark stepped up in the minutes without Sasser and Shead to the tune of a career-high 26 points. Most of those points came in the final 20 minutes — the same time that junior Auburn center Johni Broome missed a plethora of his free throw attempts (Broome went 6-16 from the charity stripe in total). Broome and senior forward Jaylin Williams still finished tied to Auburn’s team lead in points with 14 apiece, however.
In the second half, if the Cougars weren’t hacking the Auburn bigs — which resulted in more bad than good for Auburn considering its struggles from
an invitation, and we are blessed to have an opportunity to compete against a great Opelika program within the state of Alabama.”
Thompson has been the most dominant team in Class 7A for the last four seasons. Last season, however, the Warriors faced a rugged schedule opening with powerful Buford (Ga.) and Lipscomb Academy (Tenn.), losing both games. After seven straight wins, Hoover then beat Thompson 9-0 — snapping a scoring streak of 73 games.
The Warriors didn’t lose again, however — avenging the loss to Hoover in the semifinals with a 4010 win, and then downing Auburn 49-24 in the Super 7 state finals.
Freeman (247-55) has compiled an 83-18 record in eight seasons since taking over the program in 2015. In the last six seasons, the Warriors have compiled a 73-8 record, and in the four straight championship seasons were 51-5 with a 16-0 playoff record and 25-3 playoff record.
Thompson returns a host of players, including 2022 all-state selections running back A.J. Green and defensive back Anquon Fegans. Also returning is quarterback Trent Seaborn, who earned MVP honors in the 2022 state championship game despite being an eighth-grader. He shared time with Zachary Sims, who will be a senior next season. Seaborn was near perfect in the Super 7 finals, completing 12-of14 passes for 207 yards
the free throw line — they were deterring every other shot with their 12 blocks for the game. Ultimately, the Cougars scored the game’s final nine points as Auburn limped out of postseason play.
In the big-picture view of the game, the Tigers wrapped up an inconsistent season in an appropriate manner. Similar to trends from game-to-game — and even within games — this season, the Tigers failed to play a complete contest and went from unabashed to sheepish all within 40 minutes.
Still, the season for Auburn cannot be considered a failure. Programs cannot take for granted what it means just to clinch a berth in the NCAA Tournament, much less win a game. It’s something Auburn fans should know all too well, having made just 12 ever appearances in “The Big Dance,” and missing out on the tournament altogether for a recent stretch between 2004-2017.
Nonetheless, the manner in which the Tigers exited this year’s tournament will leave a nasty taste in the mouths of all who covet Auburn’s success. Eyes are already turning to next season — and what
and five touchdowns. He was 104-of-147 for 1,185 yards and 15 TDs with just three interceptions on the season. Green rushed for 1,238 yards and 17 TDs on 201 carries in 2022, and Fegans had nine interceptions with 208 return yards and the three TDs as a sophomore in ’22.
Opelika’s Speakman is beginning his sixth season as the Bulldogs’ head coach. He has compiled a 41-19 record, with his first four teams all advancing to the Class 6A state payoffs. Last year, Opelika moved to Class 7A — opening the season with a 29-28 win over Callaway (Ga.), winning the 600th game of the school’s storied history in week three over Lee-Montgomery, and shocking then-topranked Central Phenix City 17-14 in an overtime win in week four to improve to 3-0 in 7A, Region 2. An overtime loss to Prattville the next week was followed by close losses to Prattville and Auburn. Opelika finished 5-5 overall and 4-4 in region play, tied for the fourth playoff spot, but lost out in the tie breaker.
Roman Gagliano, a strong 6-foot-3, 210-pound senior-to-be, played well at quarterback last season for the Bulldogs, completing 129-of-228 passes for 1,488 yards and 16 touchdowns in 10 games. He also rushed for three scores. Thompson will be making its second appearance in the Kickoff Classic.
The Warriors beat James Clemens in 2018, 38-7. Opelika is making its third appearance in the
the 2023-24 iteration of Auburn basketball will look like is a looming mystery. So, let’s take a look. The singular contributing player from this season’s Auburn basketball team that is guaranteed to be gone from next year’s roster is senior Zep Jasper. The 25-year-old has been a mainstay in the Auburn starting lineup the past two seasons, despite providing little in terms of offensive production. His spot is the first area that can be addressed to add quality to the Tigers in 2023-24. To fill Jasper’s minutes, the Tigers might only have to look within. K.D. Johnson — who started for Auburn in 2021-22 before being moved to a sixth man role in 2022-23 — could provide the energy and
Kickoff Classic. The Bulldogs beat Greenville 34-6 in 2010 and defeated Carver-Montgomery, 2016, in 2014.
SELMA VS. BEAUREGARD
Selma head coach Willie Gandy led the Saints to a 7-4 record in 2022 and a runner-up finish in Class 5A, Region 3. Beginning his fifth season next fall, Gandy is 25-20 in the first four seasons with four straight playoff berths. Justin Jones, head coach of Beauregard (10-2), is beginning his third season with the Hornets. Last year’s team won 10 games and was Class 5A, Area 4 runner-up to Central of Clay County. Jones also has been head coach at Florala, New Brockton and Cordova with an overall head-coaching record of 61-48. Among the players returning next fall for the Saints are 6-foot, 218-pound quarterback Marcus Walton, who rushed for 883 yards and 13 TDs as a sophomore last season; linebacker Kristian Moore (6-foot-2, 220 pounds), who had 100 tackles, including 15 for losses as a freshman in 2022; and return specialist Marquarius Reese, who averaged 22.8 yards per punt return last season with one TD.
Back for his senior year for Beauregard is powerful running back Jacori Tarver. The 232-pound runner totaled 1,309 rushing yards and 13 TDs on 152 carries in 2022. Receiver Javonn Holman had 35 catches for 784 yards and 12 TDs as a junior.
Beauregard is making its second appearance in
PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND AUBURN TIGERSdefensive presence that is lost with the departure of Jasper, and in turn provide an offensive boost (albeit an inconsistent one) to the Tigers next season.
Freshman guard Chance Westry — who was limited nearly all of this season due to injury — could, in an ideal world, fill that spot as well.
Then there is the question of who returns at other positions. Both Williams and forward Allen Flanigan are seniors but could return with their extra COVID eligibility year stashed in their back pockets. Bruce Pearl and his staff would surely welcome both of these student-athletes back with Flanigan’s father maintaining a role on Pearl’s bench and Williams being a key
the Classic. The Hornets lost 25-13 to Central of Clay County in 2012.
Selma is making its first appearance.
Helena downed Chelsea 28-6 and Auburn downed Hoover 17-14 in last year’s Kickoff Classic games. A total of 61 different high schools have participated in the Kickoff Classic since its inception in 2006. That list includes one outof-state school (North Gwinnett, Georgia) in 2007. One Kickoff Classic (2008) was canceled due to inclement weather.
AHSAA KICKOFF CLASSIC
HISTORY
2022
Helena 28, Chelsea 6
Auburn 17, Hoover 14
2021
Handley 55, Guntersville 21
Dothan 42, Bob Jones 32
2020
Pike Road 63, Montgomery Catholic 34
Prattville 40, Wetumpka 10
2019
Hoover 17, CentralPhenix City 14
Carver-Montgomery 18, Jeff Davis 13
2018
Clarke County 20, Sweet Water 14
Thompson 38, James Clemens 7
2017
Hewitt-Trussville 49, Pell City 10
Maplesville 20, Fyffe 7
2016
Andalusia 34, Brooks 13
Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa 42, Demopolis 7
Hoover 23, CentralPhenix City 7
2015
Bob Jones 37,
leader for the Tigers the past two seasons. However, Auburn does have to imagine a world without these two — both of whom have contributed greatly to the success of the program the past four years.
Other key upperclassmen contributors who could return next year include Broome (rising senior, center), Wendell Green Jr. (rising senior, point guard), Dylan Cardwell (rising senior, center) and Chris Moore (rising senior, forward). If they do come back, Broome and Green would presumably maintain their starting status, and Cardwell and Moore would likely remain key, backup rotational pieces. Senior center Babatunde “Stretch” Akingbola is another scholarship player who played little to no role in this season’s campaign that is on questionable to return.
However, this may cause problems — especially in the case of Green — when it comes to the playtime (or lack thereof) for underclassman Tre Donaldson (rising sophomore, guard) and incoming freshman Aiden Holloway (a fourstar point guard, top-25
See MADNESS, page B8
Carver-Montgomery 30
Gordo 28, Glencoe 21
Madison Academy 19, Leeds 14
2014
Spanish Fort 42, Stanhope Elmore 14
Opelika 20, CarverMontgomery 16
Dadeville 14, Piedmont 8
2013
Benjamin Russell 28, Walker 14
Straughn 35, Walter Wellborn 26
Bob Jones 23, Enterprise 20
2012
Spanish Fort 33, Muscle Shoals 22
Central of Clay County 25, Beauregard 13
McGill-Toolen 27, Northridge 0
2011
Hueytown 36, Thomasville 27
Hamilton 38, Sweet Water 35
Daphne 24, ClayChalkville 21
2010
Opelika 34, Greenville 6
Auburn 30, Spain Park 3
Jackson 30, Trinity 8
2009
Prattville 37, CarverMontgomery 0
T.R. Miller 27, Leeds 7 Hoover 32, Oxford 27
2008
Prattville vs. Oxford, canceled due to inclement weather
2007
Prattville 36, North Gwinnett, Ga. 3
2006
Hoover 38, UMSWright 0
Clay-County 41, Addison 6
CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
LEE COUNTY —
Southern Christian Athletics, under the direction of athletic director and coach Jason Scott, has added a varsity baseball team to its repertoire.
Last year, the team competed as a junior varsity-only squad and compiled a 14-7 record. In 2023, Southern Christian
Athletics (SCA) fields both junior varsity and varsity teams.
On March 11, the Patriots traveled to Columbus, Georgia, to take on perennial powerhouse Calvary Christian and wound up on the losing end of both junior varisty and varsity games, 2-12 and 3-15, respectively.
Last week, SCA hosted Trinity of Montgomery.
The junior varsity team lost, 3-7, while the
varsity prevailed in a mercy-rule-shortened contest, 12-0.
Jayden McKee and Noah Sawhill connected for two hits apiece in the offensive barrage, while pitchers Sawhill and Eli Pickard held Trinity to three hits.
Jagger Scott leads the team in hitting with a .500 average, while Jaxon Frazier comes in second with a .455 average.
ABOUT SOUTHERN
CHRISTIAN ATHLETICS
Southern Christian Athletics is a group of home-schooled students and private-schoolers who participate in eight-man football, girls volleyball, basketball (boys and girls teams), girls softball, and tennis (both boys and girls teams). If interested in participating, please call SCA at 334-750-2794.
CONTRIBUTED BY AU
ATHLETICS
AUBURN — Auburn's annual spring football game, A-Day, presented by Golden Flake, will kick off at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 8, at Jordan-Hare Stadium to anchor a full weekend of events on The Plains.
The Auburn baseball team will also be in action beginning Thursday, April 6, hosting Texas A&M at Plainsman Park, with
SPORTS >> FROM B1
out six and walking one. Copous threw three innings out of the bullpen. The Dogs outhit Ariton but could not score runs. Leading the offense were Smith, Speakman, Jones, Henderson, Jackson Killcreas, Parker Killcreas and Logan Elkins. Each collected one hit for the Bulldogs.
The Bulldog baseball team took off for a few days during spring break but travelled to Huntsville for a three-game series at Toyota Field in Madison.
TENNIS
I want to thank head coach Adam Massey for sending me the results of their matches, no matter the outcome.
The girls and boys tennis teams swept Dothan last week, girls 9-0 and boys 7-2 . Girls winners included Mamie Nicholson, Joanne Smith T, Mary Cara Montel, Addison Kemp, Emma Brown and Martha Pugh. Double winners were Montel/Kemp, Brown/ Addison Bryan and Nicholson/Smith T. Boys winners included Connor Mullins, Paxton Blackburn, Drue
the final game of the three-game series beginning at 3:30 p.m. on A-Day.
Additionally, Auburn will honor National Baseball Hall of Famer Frank Thomas with a statue unveiling ceremony at the exterior entrance of Plainsman Park on Saturday at 10 a.m.
The full weekend will also feature the Auburn men’s tennis team hosting Arkansas on Friday at 3 p.m. at the Yarbrough Tennis
Gagliano, Anderson Melnick and Myles Tatum. Double winners were Gagliano/Blackburn and Jacob Wood/Tatum.
Enterprise girls and boys tennis teams swept OHS, 3-7 for the girls and 2-7 for the boys. Brown and Bryan won single matches, and Nicholson/ Smith T won double matches.
The boys won two single matches: Devam Patel and Melnick.
TRACK AND FIELD
Opelika's Track and Field teams ran in the River Region Invitational in Wetumpka last Saturday.
OHS GIRLS’ TOP-FIVE FINISHERS:
Center. Tickets to attend A-Day in JordanHare Stadium are on sale now through the Auburn Ticket Office for $10 to the general public and free for current AU students.
All $10 seats are general admission. Tigers Unlimited premium seat holders will receive information via email this week regarding tickets for their respective club spaces. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance
to avoid waiting in line on April 8.
A-Day tickets can be purchased on AubTix. com or in person at the Auburn Ticket Office, located at Neville Arena, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
While tickets for the Friday and Saturday baseball games versus Texas A&M at Plainsman Park are already sold out, a limited number of $10 Tiger Terrace tickets remain for game one of the
three-game series on Thursday, April 6, at 7 p.m. Tickets for Friday and Saturday may be purchased through our official secondary market partner, StubHub.
FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
• Thursday, April 6: Baseball versus Texas A&M at 7 p.m. at Plainsman Park;
• Friday, April 7: Men’s Tennis versus Arkansas at 3 p.m. at Yarbrough Tennis Center; baseball versus Texas A&M at 6 p.m. at
Phenix City last week, 2-13 and 1-12.
Opelika lost the area opener 2-13 to defending area champ Central Phenix City at West Ridge Park last week. The Lady Red Devils scored 13 runs on 11 hits while allowing four hits. Opelika's Nylen Thomas led with two hits, followed by hits from KD Lee and Jasmine Smith.
Central Phenix City won game No. 2, 12-1, to sweep the two-game series. The Lady Dogs managed one run on four hits while yielding 14 hits and 12 runs.
The two losses drop OHS to 9-10 overall and 0-2 in area play. Opelika travels to Brewbaker Tech March 28 for a 6 p.m. game.
SOCCER
Auburn High swept the two soccer games over Opelika at Bulldog Stadium last week. The AHS girls won 10-0 while the boys won 5-0 to earn area wins over rival OHS.
KICKOFF CLASSIC OFFICIAL
The AHSAA announced Opelika and Thompson will play in the Kickoff Classic in Montgomery's Crampton Bowl, presented by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association.
Plainsman Park; • Saturday, April 8: Frank Thomas statue unveiling at 10 a.m. at Plainsman Park; A-Day Spring Football Game, presented by Golden Flake at 1 p.m. at Jordan-Hare Stadium; baseball versus Texas A&M at 3:30 p.m. at Plainsman Park.
All times listed are in Central Daylight Time.
Additional details and game day information will be released as it gets closer to A-Day.
The OHS/THS game will be played Friday, Aug. 25, one day after 5A Beauregard plays Selma in the Thursday night Kickoff Classic.
This is the first time two local teams have played in the Kickoff Classic in Montgomery.
The Opelika Dixie Boys Baseball league is holding registration for anyone wanting to play baseball between the ages of 13 and 15 years old. Registration is held in person at the Opelika Sportsplex or online at opelikasportsplex. com/youthsportsregistration. The cost is $45 for those living in the city of Opelika and $50 for those outside the city limits. Every player will be on a team, and the cost of registration covers jersey and cap. If you have questions, please email D. Mark Mitchell at foxonthemark@yahoo.com.
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.
As the season of spring bursts forth with green “peek-a-boos,” I think of the special relationships young children have with grandparents and senior adults. We might be a biological grandparent, a foster grandparent to a child, a surrogate grandparent, or a person in the community who reaches out to children as a grandparent would.
Under the direction of Jolene Clark, the Opelika First Class Pre-K Academy provided a wonderful fellowship event, “Grits for Grandparents,” on Friday, March 17. I was invited to be a surrogate grandmother to one of my precious little girls whom I have taught in Sunday School at Pepperell Baptist Church. The young children came
FROM B3
the ball, [Edwards] was really dominant,” Ferguson said. “Just a joy to see him on the field for us. He’s a great kid. Proud of the way he played tonight.”
Edwards explained after the game that the team tried a new formation against the Bulldogs that worked to perfection. The team has done that quite a bit this season, as Ferguson said in an interview in February that the
world and the demand to make a living, raise a family and to carry on with all our daily responsibilities can be overwhelming. This is where grandparents can help so much in spending time with their grandchildren and giving them a sense of security. Young children feel such true love from their grandparents. This relationship emerges into a friendship. Children feel more confident and secure when grandparents spend time with them.
and met us in the library before leading us to their classroom. This Classroom Observer noticed the wide smiles as grandchildren and grandparents hugged.
My “grandchild” showed me the art, home living, counting, reading and listening stations, as well as the sand table, math center, language experience stories and more. She was so proud to show this grandmother her classroom and what she did each day! All the grandparents truly enjoyed eating a delicious bowl of grits served by cafeteria staff, teachers and assistants. All of us grandparents with our grandchildren were made to feel so special at this wonderful outreach function.
To serve in the grandparent role in any capacity is such a blessing. Our
team also ran a new formation in the season-opening loss to Dothan.
After the Tigers lost in the quarterfinals last year to Davidson, they will look to catch fire late in the season and keep their confidence as they search for the game plan that allows them to execute most efficiently.
“One of the biggest things is patience,” Ferguson explained.
“Like, we knew that the way we built our schedules is not so we worry about how many games we could
When I am in the classroom, I love to see children’s eyes light up when grandparents arrive to pick them up. When distance in miles separates grandchildren from grandparents, or if grandparents have passed away, there are older people in our community or churches who might just love to help a young family in this way, but these families need to ask for this help. I asked my neighbors to help me with my own son, and they did this until Gus graduated from high school. They attended school programs and special award programs, and more than anything, they gifted him with their time and love.
With our modern social technology, young children can FaceTime
win, it was to make sure we’re the best team we could be at the end of the year. I think our kids are really buying into that. I think they’re learning to trust each other and to learn from mistakes, but also celebrate each other.”
with their grandparents. They can also share in fun activities together over FaceTime.
Children can prepare and mail special surprise packages to their grandparents of pictures they have colored, crafts they have completed and photos of daily activities they have done at school or at home. These gifts are given to grandparents from the hearts and hands of children. This demonstration of love and care can touch the hearts of grandparents, who love to be included in the lives of their grandchildren.
Grandparents can share so much history and wisdom with a grandchild. Because of life’s experiences — its ups and downs — grandparents can provide a strong foundation.
Time spent with grandchildren spells LOVE! Grandparents: It is so
FROM B4
player in the class in the class of 2023 and the gem of Pearl’s next recruiting class).
The Green fatigue is real as the 6-foot playmaker has struggled in crunch time scenarios where the game is on the line. Donaldson, who broke out in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Iowa, and Holloway, the program’s fifth highest-rated recruit of all time, will enter 2023-24 expecting to play a large role in the campaign. Tigers fans and
important to let young children know just how special they are to us.
There are many activities you can do together, such as reading a favorite book, drawing pictures, putting a puzzle together, playing “pretend” or developing hobbies such as building model cars or planes. As a teacher, I have invited grandparents to help with field trips, class parties, reading books to the class or engaging in special holiday crafts with their grandchildren.
In springtime, we love to be outside with our children. This season provides so many opportunities for intergenerational projects; fo example, planting flowers and tending to gardens provide hours of educational fun for both children and grandparents.
Taking nature walks together to observe different trees, insects
Pearl alike may be looking for a change when it comes to which playmakers are on the floor and have the ball in the key moments of contests.
Additionally, currently rostered players like Yohan Traore (2023 five-star recruit and the program’s third highest recruit ever) and Lior Berman (a senior with his COVID eligibility year still available) could return and expect a similar, if not increased role next season. Senior center Babatunde “Stretch” Akingbola, another player who takes up a scholarship position, is questionable to return in 2023-24 and played little to no role in this season’s campaign.
The seemingly unlocked potential of this year’s three highly rated freshmen recruits — Troare, Westry and Donaldson — will be a
and animals, identify different plants or simply listen to different birds chirping and singing make for wonderful intergenerational activities. The parks in our county and community provide wonderful places for picnics with grandchildren and grandparents. Also, much fun can be experienced on the playgrounds during these beautiful spring days!
Another wonderful, intergenerational project is for grandparents and grandchildren to participate in spring weather-watching. You can look up at the beautiful blue skies, identifying different types of clouds — such as cirrus, cumulus, stratus or nimbus — listen to the wind and rain, or simply enjoy the beautiful spring sunshine on a clear day. Our local libraries are set up for wonderful intergenerational time as well. The children’s rooms are a wonderful place to share good books.
I hope these few suggestions enrich grandparents’ time with their grandchildren! The wonderful truth about being a grandparent is that we truly love our role! Grandchildren can bring pure happiness and joy into our lives.
Beth Pinyerd Classroom Observer
key aspect to unravelling what Auburn will look like next year. Pearl and his staff have a difficult task in front of them when it comes to who to prioritize — the stalwart upperclassmen or the beaming-with-potential young guys. Not to mention, the Tigers may yet secure commitments for next season from other late-committing freshmen or through the transfer portal (how Broome, Johnson, Green and Jasper arrived on The Plains).
The Tigers this year were elite at defense but at times unwatchable on offense. Pearl’s biggest priority heading into next season should be to add wing scoring and athleticism. Regardless of who is on the squad next year, however, it’s clear the Tigers will focus on at least one thing this offseason: free throws.
Thursday, March 23, 2023
year — even before he was inaugurated in January 2019. I have never seen anyone in recent years as dedicated and focused on grabbing the brass ring of Alabama politics as young Ainsworth. He is almost as dedicated as George Wallace.
OPINION —
Alabama’s original 1901 Constitution had a law whereby the governor could only serve one four-year term and not succeed themselves. In 1968 the law was changed, and since then the governor and all other constitutional offices in the state can now serve two consecutive terms.
This “one term and you are done” law made for a very interesting, anticipated and competitive governor’s race every four years. They could begin four years in advance in earnest, and they would begin.
Since Kay Ivey will be serving her second elected term, she cannot run four years from now. Therefore, we have setting up an old-timey, open governor’s race in 2026, and it has already begun.
Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth has already been running for four years and has ramped up a reelection game plan for his next four years as lieutenant governor. He will be tough to beat.
Ainsworth was elected lieutenant governor in 2018 at the ripe old age of 36. He began running for governor the day after he won the GOP primary that
Cullman that morning and then brought him to the rally.
Wallace’s whole world and every part of his being was dedicated to being elected governor of Alabama. He campaigned seven days a week, 12 hours a day and hardly saw or cared for his family for four years. He campaigned relentlessly. His devotion paid off with a victory in 1962 and subsequent conquests later.
Young Ainsworth does not have this total devotion, nor should he or anyone else.
Ainsworth is a devoted family man. His family and church come first. Being governor is not his god. He is the ultimate father to his twin sons, Hunter and Hays, and his daughter, Abbie. He and his wife Kendall are committed to loving and caring for their children. They go to all ballgames and church- and school-related events with them in Guntersville. At the State of the State Address four years ago, he had his two sons with him. They have impeccable manners. They looked me right in the eye with a smile and firm handshake and said, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Flowers.” Ainsworth had one of his sons with him when he spoke at the Trump rally in the summer of 2021. He had been to his son’s ballgame in
When Ainsworth spoke at the MidAlabama Republican Club in Vestavia last July, his daughter was with him. Ainsworth is campaigning all over the state. He is at ribbon cuttings and chambers of commerce events from Dothan to Huntsville.
He hails from Sand Mountain in vote-rich North Alabama. His father has done well financially, however, his mama has instilled in Ainsworth the desire to serve in politics. She is very astute, active politically and more gregarious than Ainsworth’s father.
There are others lining up to run who do not fear Ainsworth nor his family’s money. Interestingly, the two major potential threats to Ainsworth in the four-years-away governor’s race are from North Alabama.
Attorney General Steve Marshall and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle would make a strong threat to Ainsworth’s perceived frontrunner status.
Ironically, Marshall and Ainsworth are both from Marshall County. If the attorney general makes the move, he would be a viable candidate. He won his second term in this year’s GOP primary, impressively. He has to move up or sideways or out. An intra-county race would be interesting. Marshall bears watching.
Battle, the mayor of Huntsville, would
See FLOWERS, page B11
BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMAUBURN —
The main item of concern at Auburn’s City Council meeting Tuesday night was brought up during citizens’ communication — a debate on children’s reading material at the Auburn Public Library.
“The library is no longer a safe place for children,” said community member Martha Shemp. “The books have flooded the shelves of the children’s wing; it’s all about sex, sex and more sex.”
Following this statement, Ward 6 Council Member Bob Parsons interrupted with a point of order.
“The person before us here is describing the library in an inappropriate way, it’s not a factual way that you’re describing the
content of this library at all,” he said.
Shemp said she had reviewed the books herself.
“I have checked out more than 100 books in the last two months and they are about gender, sexuality, bi-sexuality, trans-sex, this, that and the other,” she said. “No, not every book in the children’s wing.”
Shemp said that the librarians were grooming children.
“That’s an inflammatory statement,” Parsons said.
One resident, Sue Ann Balch, said that the books have pornography and she reported them to the Auburn Police Division to be investigated.
Marsha Boosinger, chair of the Auburn Public Library Advisory Board, said that the library over the past several months has received numerous letters of support, with concern
from residents over those who want to remove the LGBTQIA+ books.
Karen Herring, a board member for the library, spoke before the criticism began and expressed why she joined the library board and how the experience has been.
“We learned that residents wanted additional branch locations, meeting and study spaces, expanded collections and increased program offerings relevant and appealing to a diverse population, to quote,” she said. “Survey respondents most frequently called for additions to the collection, more materials, varied formats and greater diversity in both content and audience appeal.”
City Attorney Paul Clark spoke to the situation following the closing of citizen comments.
See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B11
OPELIKA —
The Opelika City Council and Mayor Gary Fuller issued two proclamations during Tuesday night’s city council meeting. The first proclamation was to recognize Odalys Silvera for her work as founder of Esperanza House. Silvera founded
Esperanza House in 2015 to serve the Hispanic children and families in the Auburn-Opelika area.
The Esperanza House serves those families by tutoring students, educating families, providing childcare and connecting them to resources in the community.
The second proclamation declares the week of April 3 through April 7, 2023, as “Character
Week in Opelika,” and calls upon all citizens of Opelika to extend the hand of fellowship to their neighbors and unite in service to the community.
The Character Council of Opelika, which was formed nearly 20 years ago, has been organized for promoting, developing and reinforcing a strong character environment in all aspects that touch
See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B11
or dog is permitted.”
In advertising, most pigs are depicted as friendly and not hazards — for instance, the mascot for the supermarket chain Piggly Wiggly, or Madame Oink, once a star at Chuck E. Cheese’s Pizza Time Theatre. The latter spoke in a strong French accent and sang traditional French songs; Oink was a star from the late 1970s to the early 1980s. But a feral pig — a domestic pig that has escaped or been released into the wild — is dangerous. If you are near one, don’t try to take a selfie with it.
strives for in contests.
Tuberville was born and raised in Camden, Arkansas. He graduated from Southern Arkansas University, where he was a safety for the Muleriders. He also played for two years on the golf team.
In 2008, Tuberville was inducted into the Southern Arkansas University Sports Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame.
In the first farm bill hearing on Feb. 2, Tuberville brought up two other issues that may present trouble for people in agriculture.
is that cogon grass, an invasive perennial weed, covers more than 200,000 acres. Some 75% is infested land in Alabama’s forests. The weed damages crops and cuts into forest productivity.
enza viruses,” said Vienna Brown, a USDA staff biologist with the agency’s National Feral Swine Damage Management Program. “And when those get into swine,” she said, they could “create a novel influenza virus.”
OPINION —
At a recent meeting of the U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee, Sen. Tommy Tuberville said he was surprised that “in the more than an hour we have been here, none of my colleagues has mentioned feral hogs. When I meet with farmers in Alabama, that often comes up first as a problem for us to handle.”
Given how there are millions of feral hogs rampaging through farms in 35 states, it is indeed
a surprise that it has not had a greater focus in the Agriculture Committee. With a large rural presence, Alabama citizens understand the destructive power of feral hogs.
“In nearly every county in Alabama, it is possible to catch wild pigs and feral swine, also known as feral hogs,” reports our state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website. “It is legal for hunters to kill as many animals as they want. Hunting feral pigs with a firearm, bow, spear
“A certain group of wild boars is called razorbacks because of their high, hair-covered backbone and ill-mannered temper,” explains the Encyclopedia of Arkansas. “The razorback hog was considered ruthless and dangerous when backed into a corner. Domestic swine arrived in Arkansas with the first settlers. Today, feral hogs are present in more than 50 of the 75 Arkansas counties.”
University of Arkansas’s football team is called the Razorbacks for the ferocity the team
“Our nurseries face the emerging threat of the box tree moth, a serious pest of boxwoods that have begun to spread into the U.S. from Canada,” the senator said. “Boxwoods are the No. 1 evergreen shrub crop growth in the U.S. and very important to our state.”
But there is good news: The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has started to have movement control to contain the pest where it is and then eradicate it. Another problem for Alabama
Yet it remains, the feral hogs are worth eradicating because of the estimated $2.5 billion in damages they do to U.S. in crops, pastures, livestock and forests each year. In Florida, for instance, feral swine may be connected to the decline of the Florida panther, which preys on the pigs and can catch an often fatal disease called pseudorabies.
In the National Geographic article “Hogs are running wild in the U.S. — and spreading disease,”
Jason Bittel writes that “swine can carry a litany of pathogens that could potentially spread to people such as leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, brucellosis, swine influenza, salmonella, hepatitis and pathogenic E. coli.”
“Swine, in general, are considered a mixing vessel species, because they’re susceptible to human viruses, like influ-
So, the Agriculture Committee must secure sufficient funds and the will to take the feral hogs issue as seriously as Tuberville does. Or, at least as seriously as the farmers who keep Alabama afloat. Attempts will probably be made to move these feral hogs to a safer place for them. But in the end, some may end up killed, but at least they will go to hog heaven.
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 award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to The Observer since 2011. He writes on politics, education and books. gm.markley@charter.net.
OPINION —
Recent polling indicates that Americans' top priorities are shifting. For months, inflation and the economy have topped voters’ minds, but with recent news about Chinese spy balloons and President Joe Biden's visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, national security is back on the minds of voters in Lee County and across Alabama. Now more than ever, we need a robust military, particularly a strong Air Force, to deter growing international threats. The Air Force is not adequately equipped to defend against peer threats like China, according to a recent study by The Mitchell Institute. The Air Force needs more advanced aircraft in greater numbers. The bottom line: It needs more aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II fighters.
The F-35 joined the Air Force fleet years ago and is a
FROM
be the most formidable candidate that Ainsworth could face. However, I do not think Battle is interested in running. Being the mayor of Huntsville is probably a better job than being governor of Alabama.
FROM B9
“As this council is aware, when the city council created the Auburn Public Library, it vested the library board with the authority to manage the collection of the library,” he said. “That has been accomplished through not only the library board themselves but through employees of the city, including the Library Director Tyler Whitten, who is with us tonight.
“If any citizen of the city of Auburn, who has a library card, believes that there is any inappropriate material within the library, there is an established policy and procedure by which that person can request review of the material within the collection. That is a process that has been in place for many, many years."
Parsons later expressed that if his comments were hasty, he apologized but said, “I found the [comments of Shemp] to be outrageous and inappropriate and unnecessarily demonizing members of our community.”
devastatingly effective weapon. Its low observable stealth, advanced sensors and allied interoperability are unparalleled.
Fifteen allied nations are flying the F-35, much to the annoyance of our adversaries, but the F-35 does not stop at air supremacy. It strengthens our economy as much as our military, with an annual economic impact of $72 billion. It keeps hundreds of thousands of people employed in good-paying, highly skilled jobs nationwide.
With more than 20 direct F-35 suppliers in Alabama, creating hundreds of jobs and generating tens of millions of dollars in revenue every year, the F-35 program significantly impacts our communities in Lee County, Maxwell Air Force base and the Alabama Air National Guard.
Last year, Biden proposed cutting the F-35 program by over 30%. Thanks to leadership on both sides of the aisle, Congress
However, the biggest obstacle in Ainsworth’s run for governor may be someone you have never heard of. There are probably some rich folks sitting back privately contemplating a run for governor. That unknown rich person may be the one to watch. We will see.
Four years seems a long way off, but the
Ward 8 Council Member Tommy Dawson said he wants more information given that some people were expressing sexually explicit material was available to children and others were saying it wasn’t.
“If sexually explicit material is over there or a kid can just walk up to it and take it, I don’t care if it’s
rejected the president’s proposal and secured funding to keep building our most advanced fifth-generation fighter jet. If the United States hopes to maintain its dominance of the skies, Congress must do more. The global security environment is only getting worse, but the F-35 can strengthen our ability to defend ourselves while bolstering our economy and ensuring our role of advancing democracy around the world does not diminish.
I encourage our congressional delegation to fight for our men and women in uniform like never before by fully supporting the F-35 program. We need our representatives and senators to lead in Congress because a fully funded F-35 program is key to ensuring that the United States remains safe and secure with a strong and vibrant economy.
Joe Lovvorn is a state representative representing Lee County, Alabama.
2026 governor’s race has begun.
See you next week.
Flowers is Alabama’s leadin political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Flowers may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
LGBTQ or whatever, that’s not right,” he said. Dawson also defended the right of residents to speak their minds on the issue, whether he or anyone else agrees with it or not.
Ward 1 Council Member Connie Fitch-Taylor said that there may need to be changes to state law in regards to what counts as
the lives of Opelika’s citizens.
IN OTHER BUSINESS
• The council approved a request from the Auburn-Opelika Elks Lodge No.1834 doing business as AuburnOpelika BPO Elks No. 1834 for a private club liquor license.
• The council approved a request from La Perla Escondida Restaurant LLC doing business as La Perla Escondida, for a restaurant retail liquor and retail beer on premise alcohol license.
• The council approved a request for a temporary street closure from Opelika Main Street for a Community Vintage Pop Up Market on May 6.
• The council approved a request for a temporary street closure for the Lee County Master Gardeners for Tour to be held on May 13.
• The council approved a request from Opelika Main Street for Touch-A-Truck and Burger Wars to be held on June 3.
• The council held a public hearing regarding the demolition of property located at 414 Ave. A. Following the hearing, the council approved the demolition of said property.
• The council held a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to rezone nearly 210 acres of land located in the 3200 block of Columbus Parkway to a planned unit development (PUD). The council later introduced the ordinance for its first reading. The PUD proposed would contain 600 housing
child pornography. Clark said that a few books have been moved over the last 60 days to a higher classification.
OTHER BUSINESS:
- The council approved a restaurant retail liquor ABC license for LYB LLC, doing business as Don Julio’s Mexican Grill.
- The council approved
units.
• The council also introduced an ordinance to approve the annexation petition by Rodney and Laurie Jones to annex nearly 210 acres of land off Columbus Parkway into the city limits for its first reading.
• The council approved the purchase of Holophane lighting for Opelika Power Services.
• The council approved the purchase of two 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 trucks from Glynn Smith Chevrolet for the Opelika Fire Department for the amount of nearly $89,500.
• The council approved the purchase of 19 Siemens single-phase voltage regulators with SEL Control Panels for Opelika Power Services in the amount of nearly $95,000.
• The council approved the purchase of a circuit breaker for Substation 10 for Opelika Power Services for an amount just over $136,000.
• The council approved the purchase of a Datacenter Nutanix Hyperconverged-Cluster Server System for the IT Department for nearly $256,000.
• The council approved expense reports from various city departments.
• The council approved a contract with Moores Construction for crawlspace incapsulation and ventilation installation for the Southside Center of the Arts for the amount of $118,000.
• The council approved the purchase of additional Rubrik hardware and software to expand current system for the IT Department for an additional three-year period for just under $246,000.
• The council approved certain tax abatements and exemptions for Hanwha Advanced
a contract with CDG Inc. for coring and pavement evaluation services for the FY23 Streets Resurfacing Project for over $32,400.
- The council authorized a grant agreement with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for over $45,100.
- The council authorized traffic calming devices for
Materials America LLC.
Hanwha is located at 4400 North Park Drive and its addition is expected to include a capital investment of approximately $20,275,000 and is expected to create 50 new jobs.
• The council voted to table a proposed ordinance that would restate and revise cemetery rules and regulations.
• The council voted to remove the request for the legislature of the state of Alabama to adopt a local bill from the agenda.
• The council approved a special appropriation from Ward 2 discretionary funds to provide food and drinks at a public event.
• The council voted to approve an employment contract for Patrick McCulloch as the training coordinator for the Opelika Police Department.
• The council voted to approve amending of Sections 14-326 and 327 of the City Code of Ordinances: Business License Code.
• The council introduced an ordinance to amend Sections 5.711,12,13 & 5.7-17 of the City Code of Ordinances: Prescribing Charges and Fees for Cemetery Lots and Services for its first reading.
• The council approved the appointment of Aaron Kovak to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term that will expire Aug. 19, 2025.
• The council approved the reappointment of Patsy Boyd Parker to the Board of Education for a term that will expire April 1, 2028.
• The council approved the reappointment of Virginia Graham to the East Alabama Mental Health Board for a term that will expire April 1, 2029.
Fairway Drive.
- The council approved a conditional use approval request for a performance residential development at 152 Bragg Ave.
- The council approved a conditional use approval request for institutional and office use at 945 N. Donahue Drive.
METRO PROPERTIES, an Alabama General Partnership
Plaintiff,
V. A Parcel of Land Lying in Lee County Alabama, to wit:
Commencing at the northeast corner of Section 12, Township 19 North, Range 26 East, of Lee County Alabama; thence S00°28’00”E a distance of 477.40 feet more or less to a point in the southerly right-of-way of Renfro Avenue; thence following said right-of-way S88°41’00”E a distance of 5.40 feet to a found 5/8-inch rebar at the intersection of the southerly right-of-way of Renfro Avenue and the Westerly right-of-way of North Long Street; thence along said westerly right-of-way the following two (2) calls: (1) S01°08'43"W a distance of 425.14 feet more or less, to a point; (2)
S03°55'00"E a distance of 17.80 feet more or less, to a point in the southerly right-of-way of Bud Court; thence along said right-of-way the following two (2) calls:
(1) S87°32'19"W a distance of 138.68 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe; (2) S88°47'47"W a distance of 60.00 feet more or less, to the Point of
Beginning: thence from said Point of Beginning S01°12'13"E a distance of 110.00 feet more or less, to a point; thence N88°47'35"E a distance of 60.00 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe;
thence S87°29'21"E a distance of 28.93 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe; thence S00°24'54"E a distance of 7.79 feet more or less, to a point; thence S03°20'24"W a distance of 100.00 feet more or less, to a point; thence N89°24'36"W a distance of 144.00 feet more or less, to a found 1/2-inch pipe; thence N01°42'52"W a distance of 214.85 feet more or less, to a point; thence N88°47'47"E a distance of 65.00 feet more or less, to the Point of Beginning, and containing therein 0.528 acres (23,004 Square feet).; an Unknown persons who may claim an interest in said property whose identities are unknown and who cannot by reasonable diligence be ascertained, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence.
You are hereby notified that on the 10th day of February 2023, a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County Alabama, regarding the following described real property:
Commencing at the northeast corner of Section 12, Township 19 North, Range 26 East, of Lee County Alabama; thence S00°28’00”E a distance of 477.40 feet more or less to a point in the southerly right-of-way of Renfro Avenue; thence following said right-of-way S88°41’00”E a distance of 5.40 feet to a found 5/8-inch rebar at the intersection of the southerly right-of-way of Renfro Avenue and the Westerly right-of-way of North Long Street; thence along said westerly right-of-way the following two (2) calls: (1) S01°08'43"W a distance of 425.14 feet more or less, to a point; (2) S03°55'00"E a distance of 17.80 feet more or less, to a point in the southerly right-of-way of Bud Court; thence along said right-of-way the following two
(2) calls: (1) S87°32'19"W a distance of 138.68 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe; (2) S88°47'47"W a distance of 60.00 feet more or less, to the Point of Beginning, thence from said Point of Beginning S01°12'13"E a distance of 110.00 feet more or less, to a point; thence N88°47'35"E a distance of 60.00 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe; thence S87°29'21"E a distance of 28.93 feet more or less, to a found 1-inch pinch pipe; thence S00°24'54"E a distance of 7.79 feet more or less, to a point; thence S03°20'24"W a distance of 100.00 feet more or less, to a point; thence N89°24'36"W a distance of 144.00 feet more or less, to a found 1/2-inch pipe; thence N01°42'52"W a distance of 214.85 feet more or less, to a point; thence N88°47'47"E a distance of 65.00 feet more or less, to the Point of Beginning, and containing therein 0.528 acres (23,004 Square feet).
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 23rd day of February, 2023.
Mary Roberson Circuit Court
Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801
Telephone Number: 334-749-6999 Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com Legal Run 03/02/2023, 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, & 03/23/2023
NOTICE OF CIVIL ACTION
Joseph Michael Nagy, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer AubumBank's complaint for Breach of Contract, Unjust Enrichment, Open Account-Nate, Account Stated, and Money Lent by March 30, 2023, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in case number 43-SM-2022-900013.00, Circuit Court of Lee County. Done the 20th day of February, 2023.
Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee Count Blake L. Oliver SAMFORD & DENSON, LLP
P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345
Telephone (334) 745-3504 Facsimile (334) 745-3506 Email: olivcr@samfordlaw.com Attorney for AubumBank Legal Run 03/02/2023, 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, & 03/23/2023
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
LEGAL NOTICE
In Accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that BRAWCO, INC., Contractor, has completed the contract for Renovation of: AU Project
Name: Greene Hall – Rm 130
(Mechanical), Concrete Beam Repairs, AU Project No.: 21-310
At Auburn University, Alabama
For the State of Alabama and the county, city of Auburn, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify LBYD Engineers, 1100 South College Street, Suite 201, Auburn, AL 36832 BRAWCO, INC 4040 FARR ROAD
BESSEMER, AL 35022
NOTE; This notice must run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000. For projects of $50,000 or less, run one time only. A copy of the publisher’s affidavit of publication (including a copy of the advertisement) shall be submitted by the Contractor to the Design Professional for inclusion with DCM Form B-13: Final Payment Checklist for state agencies, PSCA-funded and other bond-funded projects. Legal Run 03/02/2023, 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, & 03/23/2023
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
43-CV-2022-900376.00
BENJAMIN H. PARR, AS THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LOUIS LEON DURR, JR., LATASHA DURR and FELICIA DURR THOMAS
Plaintiff, V. Parcels of Land Lying in Lee County Alabama, MONICA NELMS, and Unknown persons who may claim an interest in said property whose identities are unknown and who cannot by reasonable diligence be ascertained, Defendants.
NOTICE OF ACTION
To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 26th day of October 2022, a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County Alabama, regarding the following described real property: LOTS 1, 2 AND 3 OF DURRNELMS SUBDIVISION, ACCORDING TO AND AS SHOWN BY THAT CERTAIN MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 21 AT PAGE 155, IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA. (Also known as Lee County tax parcels 43-09-03-06-4-000002.000, 43-09-03-06-4-000003.000, 43-09-03-06-4-000-
SECTION 6, TOWNSHIP 19 NORTH, RANGE 26 EAST IN LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, RUN THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 56 MINUTES EAST FOR 1,161.1 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE RUN SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES WEST FOR 415.9 FEET TO AN IRON PIN ON THE SOUTHERNLY MARGIN OF LEE COUNTY HIGHWAY NO. 54; THENCE RUN NORTH 81 DEGREES 05 MINUTES WEST, ALONG THE MARGIN OF SAID HIHGWAY, FOR 100.00 FEET TO THE IRON PIN AT THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE PROPERTY TO BE HEREIN DESCRIBED. FROM THIS POINT OF BEGINNING RUN THENCE NORTH 77 DEGREES 55 MINUTES WEST FOR 85.9 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 07 DEGREES 43 MINUTES WEST FOR 203.8 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES WEST FOR 65.2 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 56 MINUTE EAST FOR 210 FEET; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 04 MINUTES EAST FOR 34.0 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 05 MINUTES WEST FOR 100.0 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; NORTH 00 DEGREES 04 MINUTES EAST FOR 200.00 FEET TO THE IRON POINT AT THE POINT OF THE BEGINNING. (Also known as Lee County Tax Parcel Number 43-09-03-06-4-000-014.000).
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 27th day of February, 2023.
Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801
Telephone Number: 334-749-6999
Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com
Legal Run 03/02/23, 03/09/23, 03/16/23 & 03/23/23
NOTICE OF DIVORCE
ACTION
TRACY KYLES, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer CHERYL KYLES’ petition for divorce and other relief by May 1, 2023 or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No. DR-2023900007.00, in the Circuit Court of Lee County Alabama. Thanks for your help!
Melissa L. Chicha Samford & Denson, LLP 709 Avenue A Opelika, Alabama 36801
Phone: 334-745-3504
Fax: 334-745-3506
Mailing address: P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345
Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023 & 03/30/2023
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ARDELL LITTLE, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NUMBER 2023 -094
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Marilyn
B. Fisher, on the 2nd day of March 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
Marilyn B. Fisher, Executrix of the Estate of Ardell Little, Deceased Legal 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023 & 03/23/2023
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTOPHER STEPHEN ADAMS, Deceased Case No.: 2022-701
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Christopher Stephen Adams, Personal Representative on the 1st day of March, 2023.by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the
same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Robert G. Poole Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023
INVITATION FOR BIDS
23020
Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, March 27, 2023, and then publicly opened and read at Opelika City Hall Conference Room 2nd floor at 204 S. 7th St, Opelika, Alabama for furnishing all labor and materials and equipment necessary to provide: Right-of-Way Vegetation Management within the city limits of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the follow¬ing items:
The bidder is required to attend the Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting to be held at 10:00 AM on March 14, 2023, at the Opelika Power Services Building on 600 Fox Run Pkwy. No bids will be accepted by a company or vendor that does not attend the meeting. All Contracts are to be signed and returned to the City of Opelika Purchasing Department within 10 days of the contract being awarded by City Council. A Contractor's ability to perform all of the work within the required time shall be a primary consideration in the awarding of the bid. Plans, Specifications, addenda, and other related documents may be obtained from the City of Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th St., Opelika, Alabama, Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. until 4:00 P.M., or downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx. Technical questions regarding the bid may be directed to Brent Poteet, Power Services Director, City of Opelika, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama 36803. Phone: (334) 705-5591.
Guarantee will be required with each bid as follows: At least five (5) percent of the amount of bid in the form of a certified check or Bid Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama. A Con¬tract Bond and Labor and Material Bond shall be required when the Contract is awarded. A copy of the State of Alabama General Contractor license for ADM: NEW ADMINISTRATIVE, HS: HIGHWAYS AND STREETS, MU: MUNICIPAL AND UTILITY is required.
The right is reserved, as the interest of the Owner may require, to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received.
Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: City of Opelika, Purchasing Department, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803. Attn.: Right-of-Way Vegetation Management The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. All bidders must submit with their bid, their contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license must be documented on the outside of the envelope of the sealed bid.
LILLIE FINLEY PURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023 & 03/23/2023
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF ALMA R. YOUNG, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY
Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of March, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
Witness our hands, and dated this the 2nd day of March, 2023.
OLEANEY Y. RUDD MARY A. CARROL Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023 & 03/23/2023
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2023-064
IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CLAUDIA STEWART,
AKA CLAUDIA P. STEWART, AKA CLAUDIA PACHECO STEWARD, AKA CLAUDIA A. STEWART, DECEASED
NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS
Letters of Administration on the Estate of Claudia Stewart, AKA
Claudia P. Stewart, AKA Claudia Pacheco Steward, AKA Claudia A. Stewart, Deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of February, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Probate Judge, Lee County Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law, or the same will be barred.
Leigh S. Prickett, Personal Representative Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, & 03/23/2023
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF BOBBY LEE JONES, DECEASED PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY, AL CASE NO.: 2022-440
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Christine Taylor on the 23rd day of February, 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. Christine Taylor Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023 & 03/23/2023
NOTICE OF COURT ACTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY ALABAMA CHURMELL MITCHELL V. KRISTEN MORADI 43-DR-2016-900204.03
A court action was entered in the above case on 01/31/2023 5:15:45 PM
ORDER: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY ALABAMA MITCHELL, CHURMELL, PLAINTIFF v. MORADI, KRISTEN, DEFENDANT CASE NO:. 43-DR-2016-900204.03
ORDER The MOTION FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION filed by PLAINTIFF is hereby GRANTED. Done this the 31 day of January, 2023.
/s/ RUSSELL K. BUSH CIRCUIT JUDGE Legal Run 03/09/2023, 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023 & 03/30/2023
IN RE THE ESTATE OF RAMONA MILLER LUMPKIN, Deceased IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
CASE NO. 2023-114
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LEITERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of March, 2023, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
ROBERT FRED LUMPKIN SR. Executor Legal Run 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023 & 03/30/2023
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HAROLD EVANS WATTS, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
CASE NO. 2023-113
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
TAKE NOTICE that Letters
Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Lisa Watts Jackson, on the 13th day of March 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
Lisa Watts Jackson, Alternate Executrix Legal Run 3/16/2023, 3/23/2023 & 3/30/2023
INVITATION TO BID 23022
Sealed bids for the construction of the Veterans Parkway & Academy Drive Roundabout shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on April 10, 2023, and then
publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.
Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.
Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.
All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.
Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.
A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Veterans Parkway & Academy Drive Roundabout LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (368030390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023 & 03/30/2023
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROLYN C. CALLAHAN, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2023-109
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Take Notice that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Luann C, McQueen on the 13th day of March,2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given to 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. J. TUTT BARRETT P.O.BOX 231 Opelika, AL 36803-0231 Legal Run 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023 & 03/30/2023
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF REBECCA WYNETTE MARBUT, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NUMBER 2023 - 112
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Sharon Lynette Craft, on the 13th day of March 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
Sharon Lynette Craft, Executrix Legal Run 3/16/2023, 3/23/2023 & 3/30/2023
IN THE MATTER OF THE See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B14
During the Opelika City Council meeting, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller announced that Hanwha Advanced Materials America LLC is once again expanding its Opelika facility in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park. The company will be investing nearly $20.3 million in new manufacturing equipment for their expanding EV
business. They will also be adding 50 new jobs over the next three years. This new capital investment represents the latest of multiple expansions since Hanwha first located to Opelika and will increase the company’s total investment to nearly $157 million.
According to Fuller, Hanwha has continually invested in new equipment and building improvements. They have far exceeded their initial commitment of 150 jobs.
The addition of the new 50 jobs will bring Hanwha’s employment level close to 500. Fuller said, “When existing industries continue to invest in our community, it brings me a great sense of pride. It says a lot when businesses do this. We are happy to have allies like Hanwha in Opelika and wish them continued success.”
Opelika Economic Development Director Lori Huguley added, “Hanwha continues to be a valued partner in Opelika. They
have continually grown their operations with additional investment and facilities since their initial announcement to come to Opelika in 2005. We are honored to have them in our community.”
Hanwha Plant Manager Chris Hickman noted,
“We feel both fortunate and proud to be part of such a wonderful community. Our success would not be possible without the support from this great city and the progrowth environment it fosters. Also, our team members, we have the
greatest team members in the world. Were it not for their hard work and dedication, success and growth would not be possible.”
For information about Hanwha Advanced Materials America, visit www. hanwhaus.com/.
The Opelika Exchange Club is proud to recognize the service that our local law enforcement provides to our community and citizens. It is a dangerous job, and our men and women do not hesitate to put themselves in harm’s way to protect and assist our citizens.
On March 16, the Opelika Exchange Club held its annual Officer of the Year Dinner and Awards program at the Lee County Fairgrounds. The Auburn Police Department (APD), Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) and ALEA Opelika Post submitted nominations.Jason Bryan of APD, John Corbett of LCSO and Cpl. Michael Conway of Alabama State Patrol were each awarded plaques for their dedication and outstanding performance in their respective departments and to their communities.
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ESTATE OF JULIA MAE
FANNING
A hearing will held on April 12, 2023 at 9 a.m. at the Lee County
Justice Center, located at 2311
Gateway Drive, in Opelika, Alabama involving said estate.
To all heirs and those noticed below that you may attend said hearing but are not required to do so.
Mae Ella Presley
Marcus Calloway
Belinda Ligon
Dorothy Stringer
Hattie Parker
Bernice Gunn
Robert Carlton
Gloria Marbury
James Hughley
Henrietta Wright
Nathanel Gibson
Rosa Ann Menafee
Wayne Gibson
Henry Gibson
Larry Gibson
Carolyn Finley
Eugene Gibson
Alma McKenzie
Brenda Gibson Dumas
Wanda Faye McCowan
Hattie Mae Torbert
Jessie Mae Hixon
Marshall Thomas
Willie Thomas
Patricia Jones
Melvin Kirk
Calvin Kirk
Richard K. Kirk
Kelly Summer
Beretha Flakes
Vera Townsel
Catherine Kirk
Bemice Hall
Janice Jemison
Sharon Jones
Karen Simmons
Brenda Armand
Jean Kirk
Tryone Wells
Delores K. Turner
Virginia Wells Albert
Legal Run 003/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
Case No.: CV-2023-900076.00
CLAUNCH WAYNE, CLAUNCH MELISSA, Plaintiffs, V. A PARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO MAY CLAIM AN INTEREST, Defendants.
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 28th day of February 2023 a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property:
Commencing at the Southwest comer of Section 21, Township 19 North, Range 27 East, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; thence North 89°12' East, a distance of 1320 feet; thence North 00°42' West, a distance of 1969.6 feet to a found 5/8" capped rebar, said point being the Point of Beginning of said parcel described herein: from this POINT OF BEGINNING, thence South 01°19'18" West, a distance of 68.65 feet to a found 1/211 solid iron pin; thence North 79°52'3611 West, a distance of 157.54 feet to a found 1/2" open top pipe; thence North 02°35'23" East, a distance of248.23 feet to a set 1/2" rebar by Precision Surveying (CA788) located in the Southern right of way of Old Columbus Road and the beginning of a curve; thence following the right of way for Old Columbus Road along said curve concave to the Southwest having a radius of 1764.39 feet and a chord which bears South 79°19'3511 East 149.90 feet, for an arc distance of 149.94 feet to a found 5/8" capped rebar located in the Southern right of way for Old
Said Parcel contains 0.87 acres, more or less, and is located in the Southwest corner of Section 21, Township 19 North, Range 27 East, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.
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 14th day of March, 2023.
Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801
Telephone Number: 334-749-6999
Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.corn
Legal Run 03/16/2023, 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023.
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANNETTE H. HARDY, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
Case No: 2023-124
Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of March, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
ANNETTE HOFFMAN HARDY and ELIZABETH HARDY SCHMITT
Personal Representatives
Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE
The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows:
From a R-1 District (Low-Density
Residential District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Commence at an iron pin at the southwest corner of Section 28, T-20-N, R-27-E, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; thence run N 1°18'08" W 1367.99' to an iron pin and the POINT OF BEGINNING of the property herein to be described; from said POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run N 1°16'08" W 1663.34' to an iron pin on the southerly margin of CSX Railroad; thence run a chord of N 51°20'53" E 1418.13' along the curve of said margin to an iron pin, said curve being to the right with a radius of 1975.47’; thence run N 68°17'45" E 980.83' along said margin to an iron pin; thence leaving said margin, run S 15°48'57" E 302.00' to an iron pin; thence run N 64°40'08" E 413.00' to an
Anderson Road (Lee Road 162); thence run a chord of S 36°57'03" E 95.52' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at PC station 108+95.5, said curve being to the left with a radius of 5769.58'; thence run S 38°43'17" E 1374.88' along said margin to a concrete monument at P.T. station 95+20.5; thence run a chord of S 43°16'03' E 676.26' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at the intersection of the southerly margin of Anderson Road (Lee Road 162) and the westerly margin of Andrews Road (Lee Road 48), said curve being to the left with a radius of 3859.70'; thence run S 4°58'37' W 59.76' along said westerly margin of Andrews Road (Lee Road 48) to a concrete monument; thence run a chord S 39°30'01'' W 545.17' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 111+95.4, said curve being to the left with a radius of 858.51'; thence run S 20°42'04" W 13.29' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 111+80.9; thence run a chord of S 35°29'35' W 556.37' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 105+96.9, said curve being to the right with a radius of 1145.91'; thence run S 49°46'54" W 69.32' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 105+27.4; thence run a chord of S 35°39'06" W 586.49' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 99+54.1, said curve being to the left with a radius of 1185.90'; thence run S 22°09'53" W 57.08' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 98+96.4; thence run a chord of S 26°35'03" W 578.89' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 93+08.8, said curve being to the right with a radius of 3274.04'; thence run S 31°37'23" W 533.97' along said margin to an iron pin; thence leaving said margin, run S 89°12'36" W 833.39' to an iron pin; thence run N 1°15'00" W 1367.93' to an iron pin; thence run S 89°07'52" W 1320.50' to an iron pin and the original POINT OF BEGINNING.
The above-described property is located in Section 28, T-20-N, R-27-E, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; contains 229.2 acres, more or less, and is subject to all easements of record.
The above-described property, containing approximately 229.2 acres, is located at 3500 Anderson Road and is located adjacent to Anderson Road and Andrews Road.
The Development Plan (Master Plan) provides for a mixed residential development consisting of approximately 606 single-family home lots, 216 townhomes and 98 cottage homes. The development plan shows planned amenity areas, including a 5.4 acre “central park” with a swimming pool, clubhouse, large open lawn and mail kiosk. The development plan also shows 5.19 acres of small pocket parks. The development plan shows five (5) entry points into the development from Anderson Road and Andrews Road. The proposed density is 4.01 units per acre. Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on March 16, 2023, in The Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Sections 11-52-77 and 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975). The City Council reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.
At the public hearing, all persons who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the proposed ordinance. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.
Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s Interim ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special
accommodations due to any disability.
THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 23rd day of March, 2023.
/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA
Legal Run 03/23/2023
Opelika Self Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property belonging to those individuals listed below at the location and time indicated:
710 Columbus Parkway, Opelika AL, 36801
Friday, April 7, 2023 at 1:00pm
Central.
Alvis, Montina Unit 1346
711 Orchard Ave
Opelika, AL 36801
Gordon, Gabrielle Unit 1414
4555 Washington Rd Apt 23E
Atlanta, GA 30349
Hanley, Gena Unit 1016
The Breezeway ,LLC 112 Pine Hills Ave
Auburn, AL 36830
Mccoy, Joshua Unit 1419
6740 Hillandale Rd
Davenport, Iowa 52806
Shannon, Karen Units 1254 & 1256 1061 Burrow Cir Opelika, AL 36801
Williams, Laprincess Unit 1252
2015 County Rd 94 Auburn, AL 36879
The auction will be listed and advertised on www.lockerfox. com. Purchases must be made with credit card only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Opelika Self Storage may refuse any bid and rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
Legal Run 03/23/2023
STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below Belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, April 6, at 10:00 am Unit 202
The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
Legal Run 03/23/2023
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SAUNDRA EVELYN ALDRIDGE, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2023-125
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
TAKE NOTICE that Letters
Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Adrienne Sonora Aldridge, on the 15th day of March, 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
Adrienne Sonora Aldridge, Personal Representative Legal Run 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
NOTICE OF FUNDING AND PUBLIC HEARING/ COMMENT
The City of Opelika is currently accepting applications for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for PY 2023 (October 1, 2023-September 20, 2024). Activities considered for funding include housing and public services that benefit
low-to moderate income residents. Applications are available at the Community Development office or by contacting Lisa Thrift, Community Development Administrator. Applications must be completed and returned no later than Friday, May 5, 2023, at 4:00 p.m.
The City of Opelika invites public comment on actions to be taken with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funding. Your ideas and suggestions for projects are essential in the planning process. This meeting is an opportunity for staff, citizens, and non-profit organizations to express community needs prior to setting the PY2023 budget. A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 @ 4:00 p.m. in the Municipal Meeting Room, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard. Public comment and questions are invited either in writing or in person and will be accepted until Friday, May 12, 2023.
Comments may be sent to:
Lisa Thrift CDBG Administrator P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 (334)705-5155 or lthrift@opelika-al.gov. If special accommodations are needed to participate at the hearing by persons with disabilities please call the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-2083 at least forty-eight hours in advance.
Legal Run 03/23/2023
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID LEE TYNER, deceased, Case No.: 2023-122
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr, Personal Representative on the 14th day of March, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barre_d.
Benjamin H. Parr Legal Run 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
INVITATION TO BID
23026
Sealed bids for the construction of the Access Accommodations to Floral Park Fields 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 April 10, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.
Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”.
All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.
All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.
Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the
City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.
The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.
A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing/Revenue & Codes Compliance Director, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Access Accommodations to Floral Park Fields LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES COMPLIANCE
DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (368030390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURTLEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2023-026
RE: ESTATE OF SANDRA F. OLIVER, DECEASED:
NOTICE OF PUBLICATION
Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 16th day of March, 2023, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
/s/ Kristy O. Evans Kristy O. Evans, Executor Claud E. (Skip) McCoy, Jr., Esq. Attorney for Executor Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 (334) 644-1171 Legal Run 03/23/2023, 03/30/2023 & 04/062023
NOTICE OF HEARING IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of W. T.
TABLE, Deceased CASE No. 2023-138
NOTICE OF HEARING
TO: Willie James Foster -
Address Unknown AND ANY OTHER UNKNOWN heirs of W. T. TABLE, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition To Probate the Last Will and Testament of the Estate of W. T. TABLE, deceased has been filed in the Lee County Probate Office. A hearing has been set for the 11th day of May, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-7373670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition to Probate the Last Will and Testament of the Estate of W. T. TABLE, deceased. Bill English Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 03/23/23, 3/30/23 & 04/06/23
