The Observer | April 25, 2024

Hay Days at The Farm at Rocky Top — A11

Located in Berlin, collaboration will foster economic development

" I am thrilled to announce our partnership with TBIC, marking a significant step forward in our city's global outreach,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “Together, we will build bridges across continents, fostering prosperity and progress for Opelika and our European counterparts." Through TBIC's support, Opelika gains access to an extensive European business network and

multilingual representation, enhancing communication and fostering connections. Additionally, Opelika joins TBIC's European

See BERLIN, page A3

New era of hospitality breaks ground in downtown Auburn

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Last week, the AC Hotel by Marriott Auburn had its groundbreaking ceremony at the site of its future home, right off North Gay Street in downtown Auburn. The event marked a significant milestone in the development of this upscale hotel, set to redefine hospitality in the heart of the city.

AC Hotel by Marriott Auburn, an upcoming luxury hotel project, is positioned to establish new benchmarks of hospitality excellence in downtown Auburn. With its prime location on North Gay

Street, the hotel combines sophisticated amenities with a commitment to exceptional service, ensuring a memorable experience for guests from the moment they arrive.

"This groundbreaking ceremony is a momentous occasion for us," said Rinkesh Patel, CEO of RAM Hotels. "We have planned and kept our eyes on having an AC here in Auburn for a long time, and we did just that. We visited this spot back in February of 2020, right before everything shut down. We knew moving forward we couldn't let this project pass us, and here we are."

Youth Development Center hosts Pinwheels for Prevention

Event raises awareness, aims to 'stomp out child abuse'

in the wind at the Lee County Youth Development Center and Respite House on April 17, as Opelika City Council President Eddie Smith and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders joined LCYDC Executive Director Laura Cooper along with children, staff and community stakeholders at a march to “stomp out child abuse.”

After receiving pinwheel lapel pins, Anders and Smith signed a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in the cities of Opelika and Auburn.

The pinwheels represented the carefree childhoods that all children are entitled to and everyone's role in keeping children safe. There were also blue ribbons scattered about the campus and on shirts and lapels, serving as a reminder of the millions of children and adults who have been subjected to or impacted by abuse. Also at the event, Auburn Police Chief Cedric Anderson, Capt. Tammy Booth of the Lee County Sheriff's Office and Capt. John Hester of the Opelika Police Department received "LCYDC Partners in Hopeful Futures" awards, and then balloons were released in honor of the children who died as victims of child abuse in Alabama last year. In 2023, the Lee County Department of Human Resources investigated more than 600 cases of suspected abuse impacting more than 1,000 Lee County children.

"The scourge of child abuse may not be eliminated in my lifetime, but I am certain that this agency along with our local governments, law enforcement offices and agencies do our level best to stem the cases of abuse and bring hope and healing to those who have been abused,” Cooper said.

For more about LCYDC, visit www.lcydc.org

Pictured above are young people from the Lee County Youth Development Center, who participated in an event to raise awarensss of child abuse in our community. In the photos below, Auburn Police Chief Cedric Anderson (left), Capt. Tammy Booth of the Lee County Sheriff's Office (center) and Capt. John Hester of the Opelika Police Department (right) received "LCYDC Partners in Hopeful Futures" awards

Mayor Ron Anders (seated right) and Opelika City Council President Eddie Smith (seated left) are pictured with Lee County Youth Development Center Executive Director Laura Cooper (standing center) at the signing of a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Awareness Month in the cities of Opelika and Auburn.

Stinson Breads offers authentic sourdough

BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — After offering their scrumptious homemade breads at drop off sites and providing breads to upscale restaurants for several years,

Anna Claire and Matthew Stinson recently opened Stinson Breads in downtown Opelika. Having their own bakery is a dream come true for the Opelika couple, who will serve authentic European style sourdough breads along with cookies and assorted pastries.

The Stinsons will have their grand opening on Saturday, April 27, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone wishing to attend can RSVP on their website at stinsonbreads.com.

The aroma of freshly baked bread drifts throughout the quaint bakery. Along with their signature house sourdough, they offer other rotating sourdough breads, including challah and rye.

“People who have moved here from the west coast say our bread takes them home,” said Matthew. “But there are others who have never had sourdough bread like this before. It takes 72 hours from start to finish for one loaf of bread.”

The bakery also offers chocolate chip cookies, gluten free cookies made with almond flour, pastries, scones and various desserts. They have a wide variety on Saturdays for customers to get baked items hot from the oven.

“We wanted to start small and grow from there,” said Anna Claire. “We want every item we sell to be the best of that kind of pastry. We are interested in knowing what people would like for the bakery to offer.”

The Stinsons began experimenting with breadmaking after their wedding trip to Germany and France in 2018. It was the first time they had tried an authentic baguette and dense sourdough bread. Anna Claire, who has dreamed of having a bakery almost her entire life, said she wanted to learn more about baking and techniques.

“I have been baking since I

was holding a spoon,” she said. “My mom, grandmother and siblings taught me everything they knew about baking.”

To expand her baking skills, Anna Claire enrolled in online classes, which included making bread and a sourdough starter.

Matthew was interested in helping with the baking and starter.

“My master’s degree is in plant pathology, which is like a medical degree for plants,” he said. “I worked with yeast, so making the sourdough starter was not too far away from what I was doing in graduate school. We made a sourdough starter together for our first loaf of bread and began making bread every week as a hobby.”

They used their sourdough starter until 2019 when Nelson Marsh, who had a wine shop, gave them wine that had yeast at the bottom of the bottle.

“He said the yeast was indigenous to Piedmont, Italy, and the way they make this wine with natural yeast on the grapes is the same way they make their sourdough starters,” Matthew said.

“We tried it and did a sideby-side comparison. It made our bread even better,” he said. “If people are looking for a European bread, we are making it from the same starter they are making bread. We think it makes delicious bread.”

The Stinsons were living in Auburn at the time and began selling bread under the state cottage law. As their business grew, they began popping up at local businesses and markets for bread sales on the weekends.

“We were a young married couple and started spending time in Opelika and fell in love with it,” Matthew added. “We knew when we moved into our house in Opelika that we wanted to have the bakery here.”

The couple started baking their bread in a commissary kitchen at Whistle Stop Bottle and Brew.

“The owners are wonderful, and said they had space in the back that is not being utilized that we could use,” said Anna Claire. “We wanted to get out

from under the cottage law and start selling directly to restaurants. That was a big turning point for us.”

When the Stinsons learned they were going to have a baby, they hired someone to help them with the bread making. Then they hired more staff, and now have a team of seven bakers and delivery drivers.

“It has grown, and we want this to be a good job for them,” Matthew said. “We are still working full time jobs, but we are passionate about this business and would love to see it expand further.

“It is a big dream for us to be able to own a bakery,” he added. “We have seized all the opportunities that have come along that are good for our employees, our wholesale partners and the community as a whole.”

While they don’t currently have indoor seating space at the bakery, they plan to add café tables outside. They are a retail shop for the community to pick up, and they sell wholesale to restaurants and food shops. Currently, restaurants that serve their breads include Acre, The Hound, Lucy’s, Vintage 2298 and Vintage 2298 Butcher Shop and occasionally The Depot and 1856.

The Stinsons have conducted classes, some being online. Now that they have space, they are offering bread making classes to groups. They feel it is a fun way to engage with the community.

The Stinsons are both from small towns in Baldwin County. They met in high school, and both graduated from Auburn University. They were married after Anna Claire graduated with her master’s degree. She works at AU, while Matthew works at a software company.

“We are excited to have a brick and mortar bakery for both the community and businesses,” Matthew said. “If we can help someone do something better, that is great, whether it is providing bread for dinner at home or a business using our breads. I think it would be cool to be part of their stories.”

through baking.”

“Learning about High Cotton being a beloved shop was exciting,” said Matthew. “We want a nice atmosphere of retail interaction when people come in. We want people to feel they are being taken care of and can get their bread and pastries.”

“We fell in love with Opelika,” he said. “It is really an exciting adventure, not just to be in downtown with so much history, but in a building with history. It is also a way to show care and hospitality to everyone

Stinson Breads is located at the former site of Farmers Insurance and the popular High Cotton gift shop.

Neighborhood job fair planned for April 30

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Workforce Council, the Industrial Development Board of the city of Auburn and Greater Peace Baptist Church are partnering to host a Neighborhood Job Fair on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Greater Peace Baptist Church located at 650 Jeter Ave. in Opelika. The event will be from 2 to 6 p.m.

“We are excited about this ongoing community effort to reach potential applicants for the many great careers that are available in our area,” said John Sweatman, Opelika director of economic development.

“Our business was built on popping up at different places, so we are excited to truly lay down roots in Opelika,” said Anna Claire. “We want to expand our reach and interact with the community even more and provide them with delicious bread.”

Stinson Breads is located at 714 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until they are sold out. Follow them on social media to receive updates and announcements.

BERLIN >>

This is the third of several joint efforts between the Cities of Auburn and Opelika, along with faith-based organizations to get connected with those not currently engaged in the workforce in neighborhoods throughout both cities. Right now, the Auburn-Opelika MSA has a workforce participation rate of approximately 57%. This event will be geared toward reaching out to the other 43% of eligible workers.

will be on site, presenting job opportunities to applicants, including: 2aUSA Inc., ADS – TEC, Afni Inc., Aletheia House, AUBix LLC, Auburn City Schools, Auburn Marriott Opelika

“As one of the fast[est] growing MSAs in Alabama, we are partnering with our neighboring community and the faith-based community to reach additional talent looking for great opportunities,” said Amy Brabham, workforce development director for the city of Auburn.

More than 30 companies

Resort & Spa at Grand National, Auburn University, Auburn University Facilities Management, Auburn University Hotel, Briggs and Stratton, city of Auburn, East Alabama Health, East Alabama Mental Health, Golden State Foods, Hanwha Advanced Materials

America, HL Mando, ID Plastics, LP, Lee County Commission, Miele Manufacturing Inc., Nashville Wire Products, Pharmavite, Publix, Right at Home and Webster Fulfillment.

There will also be sev-

eral community resource partners on site to help attendees needing assistance with common employment barriers such as available childcare, transportation and additional training. Those partners include the Greater Peace Community Development Corporation & Child Development Center, Lee Russell Council of Governments, Opelika Career Center, Southern Union State Community College and United Way of Lee County. No pre-registration is required to attend this event. Resumes are encouraged, but not required. For more information, please contact Griffin O’Connor at goconnor@ opelika-al.gov.

Sister-City Program, facilitating partnerships with European counterparts to open doors to endless opportunities for collaboration, investment and cultural exchange.

“Establishing our European office in Berlin symbolizes Opelika's dedication to diversifying our investment portfolio and fostering international partnerships,” said Opelika Economic Development Director John Sweatman. “Through TBIC's extensive network and support, we are poised to attract new opportunities and drive economic growth.

Matthias Beier, president and CEO of TBIC said the company looks forward to supporting Opelika in their European expansion.

“This partnership strengthens ties between Opelika and European investors seeking opportunities in the U.S.,” Beier said.

ABOUT TBIC:

The Transatlantic Business and Investment Council is a premier membership organization representing local and regional U.S. economic development organizations (EDOs), providing a platform for them to effectively market themselves to potential investors from Europe through an extensive membership network and curated events aimed at facilitating valuable partnerships. With a focus on fostering transatlantic partnerships and investment opportunities, TBIC serves as a vital bridge between European investors and U.S. EDOs, driving economic growth and collaboration on both sides of the Atlantic. For more information, visit www.tbic-fdi. com.

Anna Claire and Matthew Stinson recently opened their own bakery, Stinson Breads, in downtown Opelika. The couple is pictured with their son, Wells, in front of the shop, located at 714 N. Railroad Ave.

News from the Chambers of Commerce

Auburn 9-1-1 team named PSAP of the Year

day

who are not residents of Auburn a reason to come to Auburn."

Organized by RAM Hotels, a Columbus, Georgia, based hotel development and management company, the groundbreaking ceremony was attended by a lineup of industry leaders and community representatives. Key figures included Rinkesh Patel, CEO of RAM Hotels, Matt Patel, COO of RAM Hotels; Noah Silverman, Marriott International's Global Development Officer for the US and Canada; Ashley Parrott, representing The Satur-

new rooftop bar and dining experience, "Olivine"; Hudson Terrell, the esteemed restauranteur curating the menu for Olivine; Brooke Kastner, vice president of Auburn Opelika Tourism; David Hedges, president & CEO of Auburn Bank; Anders, mayor of Auburn; and Kane Morris, general manager of the AC Hotel in Columbus, who will be the general manager for the upcoming AC Hotel in Auburn.

The event unfolded in a dynamic Q&A style format, featuring two panel sessions with the aforementioned leaders. Discussions

centered around the vision behind the AC Hotel brand, the transformative impact of the new hotel on the Auburn community and the exciting prospects for the future.

Members of the panel ceremoniously broke ground with shovels, amidst the backdrop of spectacular fireworks, symbolizing the beginning of a new era for hospitality in Auburn.

With the groundbreaking ceremony now complete, the AC Hotel by Marriott Auburn said it looks forward to bringing its vision of luxury and hospitality excellence to life. It is scheduled to open its doors in the

fourth quarter of 2025.

ABOUT RAM HOTELS: Based in Columbus, Georgia, RAM Hotels is an award-winning management and development company.

RAM Hotels has developed 19 hotels from the ground up with a total investment of more than $450 million. The company currently owns and operates 27 hotels in Georgia and Alabama, composed of 13 brands, including Marriott, Hilton and IHG. An additional 14 hotels are in active development at a total project development cost of over $220 million.

ABOUT AC HOTELS: AC Hotels includes over

225 hotels in 33 countries and territories. At AC Hotels, every moment has been designed, refined, crafted and considered to create a seamless guest experience.

Each AC Hotel features purposefully designed signature spaces that strike the perfect balance of form and function.

Most notably, the AC Lounge invites guests and locals alike to collaborate during the day, or to enjoy signature cocktails and tapas in the evening. The AC Kitchen offers a European-inspired breakfast each morning. All AC guest rooms, and public spaces evoke a particular sophistication, featuring sleek furnishings, curated artwork and intuitive technology. The brand is dedicated to the details that matter most to guests during their travels with a mission to deliver The Perfectly Precise Hotel experience. For more information, visit www. ac-hotels.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. AC Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Crowd, the branding company behind the hotel's

Senior living community gets million-dollar facelift Holiday Monarch Estates adapts to suit

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Monarch Estates, a Holiday by Atria independent living community located at 1551 E. University Drive, has kicked off a new renovation project for capital upgrades in design and amenities.

The upgrades are designed to transform the community’s appearance and function, all geared toward fostering the social connections that help older adults live life to the fullest. The upgrades are expected to be completed this summer.

When originally built, the layout for Holiday Monarch Estates focused on community spaces to offer residents an enriching and engaging social life. With the improvements, residents will have even more reasons to gather and enjoy the many benefits of a social community to their physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing.

One of the focuses of the renovation is to create an expanded fitness room to meet the needs of seniors working to maintain a more active lifestyle as they age. The game lounge, living

room with library, atrium and dining room will also receive extensive renovations. Other improvements include added A/V capabilities in all common areas, exterior enhancements and energy-efficient lighting.

“For us, this will feel like an ‘extreme makeover’ to create new and enhanced ways for our residents to stay active, build new friendships and enjoy what inspires them,” said Mandie Noles, general manager at Monarch Estates. “We know that living in a vibrant, social community like ours can translate to greater well-being in older adults.”

Older adults living at senior living communities are shown to be less vulnerable to declining health outcomes, as found in a recent study from NORC at the University of Chicago. The study highlights how social engagement, nutrition, access to fitness and other amenities are important factors for health outcomes of seniors.

Holiday by Atria communities like Monarch Estates are guided by established quality enhancement standards, which

Letter to the Editor

include high benchmarks for community operations, including culinary and maintenance.

“We are serious about investing in the quality of services we provide our residents,” said Sean Purser, Atria’s chief quality officer. “We developed our quality program years ago and use it to make sure we do everything the right way.”

“Our renovations at Holiday by Atria communities

Reader says author Harper Lee deserves commemorative stamp

BY JAMES PATTERSON OPINION —

Alabama’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Harper Lee, whose birthday is April 26, received many honors during her long life. Lee’s 1960 book “To Kill a Mockingbird,” set in Depression-era South Alabama, became a national bestseller and an Academy Award winning 1962 film.

In 2010, President Barack Obama awarded Lee the National Medal of Arts. In 2007, President George W. Bush awarded Lee the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a timeless story about racial injustice and a young girl’s loss of innocence. Atticus Finch, a white, smalltown lawyer, defends a Black man accused of raping a white woman. One historian described Finch as “the most enduring fictional image of racial heroism.”

A critically acclaimed Broadway version of “To Kill a Mockingbird” had a successful run. Its run was interrupted by the COVID-19 lockdown and national protests over the tragic murder of George Floyd in 2020. A national touring company continues to perform.

The Floyd tragedy put a critical light on racism in America. While “To Kill a Mockingbird,” once widely

read in schools, the book has increasingly been challenged, dropped, and banned from curriculums.

As a Virginian who was raised and educated in Alabama, I know that racial relations between Whites and Blacks are complicated by the opinions and personal histories of the ancestors of Civil War veterans, segregationists, integrationists and the ancestors of enslaved Alabamians.

When we think we have made racial progress, a tragedy like the Floyd murder reminds us that racism remains a problem in our society.

Today’s educators may not want to risk igniting classroom violence over Lee’s book. In the 1960s, the same was true in my Alabama public schools.

Some teachers considered the book too controversial for the classroom. According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, the state had over 30,000 KKK members in the 1960s.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” was published at the height of the Civil Rights movement when Alabama’s politicians were ardent segregationists.

Lee demonstrated courage by writing the book. It would have been a tragedy if fear had prevented her from writing it.

She was a fearless woman.

In 1962, George C. Wallace was first elected governor of Alabama. His

platform was solid segregation. Wallace likely missed Lee’s important message in “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

In 2024, I am concerned that Harper Lee, a brave Alabama voice in literature, may soon be canceled by educators who fear classroom violence from students and administrators who, like George C. Wallace, miss the message of Lee’s book. That would be another tragedy.

To keep Harper Lee and “To Kill a Mockingbird” in contemporary thought, I recently wrote to the U.S. Post Office requesting a commemorative Forever Stamp in honor of the author. “[T]he topic is under consideration as a possible future postage stamp,” wrote Shawn P. Quinn, Manager, Stamp Development, U.S. Postal Service.

Lee died in 2016. Nearly ten years later, it is time for the Postal Service to honor her with a commemorative Forever stamp. It is the right thing for our government to do.

To express your opinion about a Harper Lee Forever Stamp, write to the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee, 475 L’Enfant Plaza, SW, Washington, DC 20260.

James Patterson is a life member of Auburn University Alumni Association. He resides in the Washington, D.C. area.

nationwide are designed to meet the demands of America’s aging population, as well as provide working environments to attract and retain talented employees,” said Michael Mejia, chief operating officer. “The renovation of Holiday Monarch Estates is part of our ongoing commitment to put our residents in position to live their best lives, now."

For more information, visit www.HolidayMonarchEstates.com or

email media@holidayseniorliving.com. ABOUT

Atria Senior Living, Atria Park and Atria Retirement Canada.

For more information, visit HolidaySeniorLiving. com or follow them on Facebook or LinkedIn. For career opportunities, visit AtriaCareers.com.

Cheese Curd Update

Bryson freezes out competition, advances to top five

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY — In this week’s Episode 6 of MasterChef Junior, entitled “Pancakes & Ice Cream,” the six remaining contestants were faced with two sweet treat challenges. First up was a pancake race.

The young cooks were divided into three teams of two. They were challenged to make beautifully plated stacks of three fluffy pancakes with a fresh fruit, drizzled with coulis (pureed fruit garnish) and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. The team that could produce the most restaurant quality plates in 15 minutes would win this week’s prize — the opportunity to blast a judge with gooey fruit compote and, of course, immunity from being eliminated during this round.

The blue team had blueberry toppings and the red team had raspberries. Bryson McGlynn of Opelika, who was 11 years old during the filming, was paired with 8-yearold Asher of Yakima, Washington, on the yellow team, assigned bananas.

“I’m so excited,” Asher said. “I love pancakes. I make so many pancakes at my house. I’m the pancake master. I’ve been making pancakes as long as I can remember, which is, like, four years!”

When time ran out, the yellow team and the red team each presented 14 plates to be judged. The blue team produced 17, giving the other teams cause for worry.

“You made 17 plates of pancake stacks, but it’s not just about the quantity, we said it’s all about the quality,” the show’s host, world renowned Chef Gordon Ramsay, told the blue team. “And so, seven

of those pancake stacks made our standards.”

Ramsay told Bryson and Asher, “You created 14 stacks of pancakes, and nine of them passed the test. Well done.”

The two cooks on the red team won the challenge with 10 perfect plates, so they got to blast Ramsay and another judge with sticky fruit and were exempt from the second challenge.

To say the second half of the show was intense is an understatement, not because the next challenge was overly difficult, but because the four young competitors knew one of them would be sent home.

The challenge was to make an ice cream dessert from scratch.

Remy, 10, from Hollywood, Florida, decided to prepare what she called “chocolate peanut butter cookie palooza” — peanut butter chocolate ice cream on a skillet cookie containing potato chips and pretzels for crunch and salt, topped with whipped cream and peanut butter ganache.

Alfred, an 11-yearold from Binford, North Dakota, chose to make pecan ice cream, which he crusted with corn flakes and served with spicy honey sauce, bruleed bananas and whipped cream.

Asher decided to make toasted marshmallow ice cream in a s’mores-inspired dessert with chocolate cake, roasted strawberries, chocolate ganache and graham cracker crumbles.

Bryson decided to make candied pecan ice cream, which he served on a skillet of cornbread with a peach compote and caramelized pecans on top.

The contestants had 75 minutes to complete the challenge. The judges looked on as the youngsters worked, using liquid

nitrogen to expedite freezing of the ice cream.

“Have you ever done this before?” Remy was asked.

“No, but I saw it done on Tik Tok,” the 10-yearold replied nonchalantly.

One of the judges asked Bryson where the Cheese Curd has been lately.

“Oh, he’s still around — you’re talking to him right now,” he said, grinning.

The amused judges moved on to critique the other cooks as they prepared their desserts.

No episode of MasterChef Junior would be complete without a crisis of some sort, and once again it was Bryson who hit a snag.

“Oh no!” he called out. “Oh goodness. Oh no, this is not good. My pecans are burnt, and this cannot happen. I need to put those in the ice cream, and I do not have time to make them again. If I don’t get this right, then I could go home.”

Dramatic music played as he picked through the charred pecans.

“I’m freaking out right now,” Bryson explained. “My pecans are burnt, and you do not want burnt taste in your ice cream, so I tried to find the good ones to put in the ice cream, and I’m hoping

that the pecans do not bring the dish down.”

In the end, he did have enough time to remake the glazed pecan topping before time expired.

“That — that was stressful! Whew!” Bryson declared. “I’m not completely sure if there are burnt pecans in the ice cream, so I’m hoping my ice cream won’t be bitter.”

The judges were obviously intrigued with his creation.

“So why cornbread, though?” Ramsay asked.

“In the South, you gotta have cornbread,” the Cheese Curd replied. The judges dug into the dish.

“Bryson, who taught you to cook?” Ramsay asked.

“My dad,” Bryson answered.

“I’ve got to be honest with you, right?” Ramsay said. “I’ve seen you cook so well on the grill, but I’m disappointed with this.”

You could hear a collective gasp from the other contestants, and tension filled the air as the show paused for a commercial break.

After three minutes of advertising (torture?), the show resumed, with the camera flashing back and forth between Ramsay’s

serious expression and Bryson’s flushed, wideeyed face of panic.

“I’m disappointed in this,” Ramsay said. “I’m disappointed that dad can’t taste it, 'cause it’s fricking delicious!”

“You had me going there for a second,” Bryson said, relieved.

“The peaches are in abundance — it’s like a cobbler gone mad,” Ramsay told him. “The cornbread and all that syrup on the peaches and the ice cream and the pecans — I like it. Seriously, really good job.”

“Bryson, this is a celebration of the South,” said Chef Aaron Sanchez. “And I love how much caramelization you got on those peaches. You transformed them into something completely different. Unbelievable!”

“Um, I got a little burnt pecan in mine, a little charred, but we’re calling it smoked and I kindof like it like that. Well done,” said judge Daphne Oz.

The judges retired to another room to discuss what they just tasted. They agreed that Remy’s dessert was good overall, but she used too much peanut butter ganache, and her skillet cookie was slightly overbaked, rendering it a

bit dry.

“I have to say, Bryson’s, I just fell in love with,” said Ramsay. “Oh, my lord!”

“The cornbread was a sponge, and he took the time to puncture it to make sure all that good juice got in there,” added Sanchez.

Asher’s dessert was praised as being “upscale” and “artful,” and in the end, he and Bryson were judged as preparing the best ice cream desserts. They move forward in the competition.

Alfred’s dessert was judged as having too many unnecessary ingredients, which resulted in a disjointed dish of competing flavors. With tears in their eyes, the judges decided he would not continue in the competition, but they sent him home with words of encouragement and accolades for having made it into the top six of 12 original contestants.

The show will continue next week with the five remaining aspiring chefs. To find out what happens, tune in to FOX network at 7 p.m. CT on Monday.

The Observer will provide continuing coverage, and fans can keep up with Bryson on his Cookin’ with Cheese Curd page on Facebook.

Bryson McGlynn, AKA Cheese Curd, enjoyed a watch party of Episode 6 with his friends and family at O'Town ice cream shop in Opelika.

Friends, family and fans gathered at O Town for a watch party of Episode Six of MasterChef Junior, where they enjoyed representative sampling Bryson's creation, prepared by culinary students from Opelika High School.

F News vents, E

S Food ociety & News

BY ANN CIPPERLY

OPINION —

When Hillary Bazemore White became passionate about healthy eating, she assembled quick and easy recipes in an e-cookbook to help other moms prepare nutritious meals for their children. Hillary and her husband, Dr. Evan White, who shares an interest in healthy eating and is the owner of Compass Chiropractic in downtown Opelika, have four young children and have created a plan for eating healthy and staying active with their family.

Hillary’s e-cookbook, “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love,” contains 10 healthy meals that her children like that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Since it is an e-book, moms can have the recipes in their phones when they are grocery shopping for ingredients.

Hillary and Evan both grew up in Opelika. While Hillary’s mother didn’t enjoy cooking much, her grandmother, Annie Merle Bazemore, had a love of cooking and influenced her.

“She was a traditional southern cook who made everything from scratch,” Hillary said. “I would watch her cook and make biscuits. She would add a little of this and that. The way she used cooking to care for her family inspired me. I was drawn to it.

“When my grandfather Bazemore had Parkinsons and dementia, I would go to their house and help my grandmother care for him,” she added. “The Lord placed in me a heart for that, and it was one of the reasons I decided to go into nursing.”

When Hillary was 16 years

Southern Hospitality

Hillary White authors e-cookbook on healthy meals

old, she watched the Food Network to learn kitchen skills and different methods of cooking. By the time she was 17, she was cooking dinner for her family most nights. Her mother, Joy Bazemore, worked full time as preschool minister at at First Baptist Church in Opelika for years.

Joy has also written books, including “Living Your Joy Out Loud,” a Bible study book, and “It is Easier than Cheese-Its,” a book about amusing sayings from south Texas where her mother lived. Joy used the sayings in spiritual lessons.

Hillary attended Auburn University and then transferred to nursing school at Southern Union. After graduating, she worked for two years at East Alabama Medical Center and four years at a hospital system in Georgia.

The Whites moved to Georgia in order for Evan to attended chiropractic school. When he graduated, they moved to Boulder, Colorado, where he opened his chiropractic office. Hillary worked at his office and began writing a food blog. When her father, Dr. David Bazemore, became ill with dementia, they moved back to Opelika to help her mom. “Our life is rich here,” said Hillary. “Opelika is the sweetest community. Our kids get to know my mother and Evan’s parents, Dorenda and Bill White, and love them.”

Their four children are Wells, 10; Emmy, 8; Sadie, 4; and Landry, 6 months. At their charming home, Hillary enjoys having a garden with plenty of fresh vegetables for cooking. She was inspired to garden by her Grandmother Bazemore, who enjoyed growing flowers.

One of the reasons Hillary is passionate about food is that in her early 20s she was sick, and doctors could not figure why.

“We wondered if it was something I was eating that made me sick,” she said. “I discovered that I had an

intolerance to wheat. That started us on a journey of finding out what food can do to make you healthy or unhealthy.

“We used food to heal my body,” she added. “We slowly removed foods and replaced them with more nutrient dense foods. We made sure we had plenty of protein, vegetables and fruits. The Lord used food as medicine for me. I had an autoimmune condition that I didn’t struggle with anymore and did not have any more stomach aches.”

When people want to start eating healthier, Hillary tells them instead of taking away things they love, add foods that are nutritious.

“Maybe add an apple,” she said. “I know it sounds silly to eat an apple every day for a snack, but then after a while, you may want to eat the apple instead of a bag of chips.

“Instead of trying to revamp your meals, just add a vegetable to your meals. I tell people to focus on additions in the beginning. Then you are adding nutrients without feeling you are being deprived.”

Hillary said she feels that

often when someone tries to change their diet, they will revamp everything they eat, which is just not sustainable.

“It is too hard,” she said. “If you slowly add something nutritious every week, you will find a month later that you are eating healthier.

“As you are adding other things and making better choices, two things happen. One, you find you don’t want the other as much, and two, you feel more motivated to start eliminating some things. Be gracious with yourself if you mess up and don’t give up.”

When her children come home from school, Hillary gives them healthy snacks. She has a small refrigerator stocked with apples, oranges and applesauce for the children. Hillary will also have healthy bars that have less sugar and low sodium Chomp’s beef and turkey jerky that is made with a quality meat. Other healthy snacks include raw nuts, raisins and grass-fed cheese sticks.

Hillary started their children eating vegetables at an early age. She introduced vegetables in their diet first for a while,

and then added fruits. She believes it trains their palate to have less sugar. She begins with steamed and pureed vegetables. Later, the children get fruits and applesauce that are sweeter. Her children were older before being introduced to wheat or almond butter and sunflower butter.

She suggests Googling to find which vegetables and fruits have more pesticides that are bad for our bodies. Look for the top dirty dozen with the most pesticides and for the clean dozen. If you can’t find a certain fruit in organic, then pick another fruit.

Hillary makes smoothies every morning for her family, which is a good way for children to eat vegetables and fruits. She starts her children on smoothies when they are about 10 months old. For those who say they don’t like to eat breakfast, a smoothie is ideal, as they can drink nutrients.

The Whites believe in sitting around the table for as many dinners as possible and talking to their children about their day.

“You will be surprised what they start talking about,” said Hillary. “It is our time together

with our kids, and we know this time is going to happen every day.”

On Sundays, Hillary makes menus for the week, and on Mondays she grocery shops. Sometimes she prepares enough dinner to have for lunch the next day. She suggests if moms don’t enjoy cooking, to double recipes to have enough for two nights. It is also good to double a recipe if children have afterschool activities the next day. That way a meal is waiting to be heated instead of starting from scratch.

Hillary often hears from moms that they want to cook healthy for their children, but they don’t like cooking. For quick meals, she suggests sheet pan and one pot meals. Crockpot meals are also good for busy mothers.

While Hillary uses chickpea pastas, she will also roast chickpeas to serve on salads. She simply rinses the chickpeas and dries them. She tosses the chickpeas in olive oil with spices and then roasts them in the oven at 400 degrees for 10 to 20 minutes.

Hillary Bazemore White has a love of healthy cooking and has written an e-cookbook, "10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love." Hillary and her husband, Dr. Evan White, are pictured with their four children: Wells, 10; Emmy, 8; Sadie, 4; and Landry, 6 months.

BY SEAN DIETRICH

didn’t believe him.

II thought he was pulling my leg or similar appendage. I was at the airport bar. He told me April 18 was National Columnists’ Day.

“Surely you’re joking,” I said. “Nope,” he said. “And don’t call me Shirley.”

The bartender pulled us a couple to celebrate. Except, of course, the bartender wasn’t an actual person.

Artificial intelligence now pours beer in some airport bars. These robotic bartenders are designed to reduce

Sean of the South

foam, spillage, flavor, and overall class.

Like the rest of America, everything in airports is going AI. Last week, I saw a robot cleaning up trash in Chicago. Recently, in Cincinnati, I saw a robotic waiter roving terminals, delivering hot meals.

In one airport, I saw a robot selling hotdogs to some ladies from the UK who had never tasted hotdogs before. They placed their orders. The robot dispensed the fare. The ladies looked at their buns with confused faces.

“I say,” the lady asked her friend, “which part of the dog did you get?”

So our beers came. They were artificially perfect. We toasted our plastic glasses. We drank to AI, which experts predict will put the American columnist out of business before the end of

Columnists' Day

this paragraph.

And they have a point.

Last month, an English teacher from Texas sent me a collection of essays turned in by her students, all written by chatbots. It was eerie. The grammar was slightly imperfect, like REAL high-schoolers wrote it. And there were REAL dirty pictures drawn in the margins.

The scary part was, the essays were actually pretty good.

I have another friend who edits a respected newspaper. He discovered his employees have been using ChatGPT to write news reports.

“They let ChatGPT write the rough draft, then clean it up. The whole process takes maybe three minutes.”

My friend Lindsey is a former marketing writer whose job was replaced by

a chatbot this year. “I am a professional dog walker now,” Lindsey told me. “I deal with less crap this way.”

So for Columnists’ Day, I decided I would pop over to ChatGPT and ask my future replacement how things were going.

My first question was: “Who is Sean Dietrich?” “Sean Dietrich, better known as “Sean of the South,” is from the small town of L.A. (Lower Alabama) in the Southern United States. He's a writer, storyteller, and columnist who often shares heartwarming tales and reflections on Southern life and culture through his works.”

Okay. That was easy. So I asked: “Can you replace Sean of the South?” ChatGPT answered: “While I can't fully replicate Sean Dietrich's unique

style, I can certainly replicate his simple columns in a similar voice. If you have a specific topic or theme, feel free to let me know and I'll do my best to write a column for you!”

Simple columns? Who is this broad?

Then I typed: “Write a short column about AI in the style of Sean Dietrich.”

ChatGPT replied: “Alright, gather 'round folks, ‘cause I’m Sean of the South, y’all, and I've got a humdinger of a column to write about AI, y’all…!”

Oh my God.

“...Now, AI ain't just sci-fi mumbo jumbo — it's real, and it's changing the world faster than a summer thunderstorm. From smart cows that moo when they're feeling blue, to cars that drive themselves better than your grandpappy on a Sunday stroll out in the cotton patch…”

Make it stop.

“...But don't worry, y'all,” ChatGPT went on, “we might be riding the AI wave, but it's us humans who steer this ship. Let us always remember that AI is here to help, assist and guide our race toward a new dawn. Here's to AI, y'all — the future's looking brighter with AI by our side!”

We’re all screwed. Y’all.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast and he makes appearanes at the Grand Ole Opry.

Opelika Songwriters Festival will feature Sister Hazel

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Platinum-

selling, iconic country/rock band, Sister Hazel, will bring its energetic show to the Opelika Songwriters Festival on Friday, May 17. Fans can expect a high energy performance with some brand-new Sister Hazel songs as well as popular fan favorites.

Single day tickets for Friday cost $65 and include the Student Showcase on the Community Stage at 5:30 p.m., followed by Auburn University Sonic Nation at 7 p.m. Sister Hazel will take the Main Stage at 9:45 p.m. At 11 p.m., John Emerald Distilling Company will host the Larry Mitchell Late Night Jam with festival artists. Tickets are on sale now at opelikasongwritersfestival. com.

Originating from Gainesville, Florida, Sister Hazel is comprised of five gifted, seasoned musicians whose wellspring of natural talent has been called "one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years" by Performing

Songwriter Magazine. The band’s hit song "All for You" topped the adult alternative charts during the summer of 1997, and the success propelled their album to platinum status. In its first showing on the country music charts, the group made a strong debut with “Lighter in the Dark” at No. 4 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, No. 6 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart and No. 30 on Billboard's Top Current Albums chart.

The band landed on Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart again in 2018 and 2019 with Volumes I, II, III and IV of a clever EP compilation series titled “Elements.”

In February 2018, “Water” landed on the Billboard Country Albums chart at No. 9 and at No. 2 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart, and Sister Hazel debuted on the most revered stage in country music, the Grand Ole Opry.

In September of 2018, “Wind” landed at No. 1 on iTunes country page and No. 11 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart.

In February 2019, Vol. III,

“Fire,” landed at No. 5 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart and No. 46

Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart. The collectible compilation series ended with “Earth” which again landed at on the charts at No. 15 on Billboard’s Americana/ Folk Album chart. Living up to its fancentered reputation, the band hosts annual events like “Hazelnut

Hang,” that focuses on fan involvement. Sister Hazel was a pioneer in themed cruise experiences, co-founding “The Rock Boat,” a cruise featuring nonstop opportunities for fan/artist interaction. It has been equally attentive to connecting with audiences through social media. The band has shared the stage with country music superstars at the CMA Festival and Tortuga Music

Festival, among others.

In addition to the events and touring, the band also gives back with “Lyrics for Life.” Founded by singer Ken Block and the band, the charity unites musicians and celebrities for concerts and auctions to benefit cancer research and patient care charities.

For more information about Sister Hazel, visit www.sisterhazel.com and follow the group on social

media: @SisterHazelBand, Instagram/sisterhazelband and Facebook.com/ SisterHazel. Add @ SisterHazelBand to your Spotify and Pandora Playlists.

The Opelika Songwriters Festival, set for May 16-19, will feature more than 80 performances by 30-plus artists. For tickets and additional information visit www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com.

Sister Hazel's first hit song, "All for You," topped the adult alternative charts in 1997. The band is the Friday night headliner for the Opelika Songwriters Festival on May 17.

AACT returns to Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) is back at The Jan Dempsey with a whodunit full of mystery and laughter and auditions for beloved musical

AACT announced that it is thrilled to be staging a show again at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center after its recent renovation.

“The Game’s Afoot,” winner of the 2012 Edgar Award for Best Play from The Mystery Writers of America, will run over the course of two weekends, beginning on May 10.

CIPPERLY >> from A7

Hillary’s e-cookbook has ten meals that are kid friendly and healthy that can be made quickly. Since the recipes can be on cell phones, they are always handy in the kitchen and while at the beach. She is sharing four recipes from her cookbook, along with other favorite dishes that her children enjoy.

“I know watching my grandmother in the kitchen made me curious about food,” Hillary said. “I know she was really good at showing her love through meals. Most of our family gatherings evolved around her creating a meal for us. As a young person, I see now that it was appealing to me to be able to show people I love them by creating a warm meal for them.

“I think people show creativity in different ways, and for some reason the Lord placed in me creativity through food,” she said. “I am grateful for that now because I have a lot of people to cook for every day.”

Hillary’s e-cookbook, “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love,” is costs $5 and can be ordered on Instagram @healthy.with.hillary or by emailing Hillary@ compasschiropractic.net.

ONE POT HAMBURGER PASTA

From Hillary’s “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love”

A healthy remake of the boxed family favorite!

2 tsp. olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 lb. grass fed beef

1 tsp. sea salt

½ tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. oregano

1 can organic diced tomatoes

3 cups vegetable broth

12 oz. chickpea pasta

1 cup shredded grass fed cheese

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 tsp. olive oil. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender — about 5 minutes. Add garlic, stir and cook 1 minute. Add spices, stir and cook 1 minute.

Add ground beef to pot and cook, crumbling meat as it cooks, until no longer pink. If there is excess grease, drain meat mixture in a colander and then return to pot. Add tomatoes and broth to pot. Stir. Add broth to pot, stir. Cook for however long the pasta package saysusually 5 to 19 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.

This play tells the story of Broadway star William Gillette, who has invited his fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend of revelry. When one of the guests is stabbed to death, the festivities in this isolated house of tricks and mirrors quickly turn dangerous. It’s up to Gillette himself, who just happens to think he’s Sherlock Holmes, to track down the killer before the next victim

When done, add cheese to pot, stir and remove pot from heat. Let sit 5 minutes before serving.

BEEF TACOS WITH FRESH CORN SALSA

From Hillary’s “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love”

1 lb. grass fed ground beef

1 tsp. each chili, garlic, onion and cumin powders

1 tsp. salt

½ tsp. black pepper

Corn Salsa: 4 ears fresh corn

1/4 cup small diced red bell pepper

1 Tbsp. minced jalapeño

Juice of ½ lime

1 tsp. olive oil

1 tsp. honey

Salt and pepper

1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 large avocados, sliced

8 tortillas

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp. olive oil. Add ground beef and cook, crumbling meat as you cook, until no longer pink. Drain in a colander and return to pan. Add spices, salt and pepper and stir.

Combine corn salsa ingredients in a medium bowl. Corn, pepper, jalapeño, lime, oil, honey, salt and pepper. Heat tortillas and top each one with beef, cheese, corn salsa and avocado slices.

HARVEST HASH

From Hillary’s “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love”

2 medium sweet potatoes

2 tsp. olive oil

Salt to taste

1 tsp. coconut oil

1 lb. breakfast sausage

1 small onion, small diced

1 large red apple, diced

½ tsp. cinnamon

3 cups kale or spinach, chopped

2 large avocados, diced

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Peel and dice potatoes. Add to a parchment lined baking sheet. Toss with 2 tsp. olive oil. Spread into one layer and sprinkle with salt. Bake 25 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp. coconut oil. Add sausage and cook until no longer pink, breaking up sausage as it cooks. Drain in a colander and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tsp. coconut oil. Add diced onion and cook 5 minutes. Add apples. Cook 5 minutes more, stirring as needed. Add cinnamon and stir. Add kale or spinach

appears. The danger and laughter are non-stop in this glittering whodunit.

Performances times will be May 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 at 7 p.m. with matinees on Sundays May 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. All shows will be at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center located at 222 E. Drake Ave. in Auburn.

"The Games Afoot" is a murder mystery comedy. Some content may not be appropriate for children under 13. This production includes two gunshot sound effects

and cook, stirring, until wilted. Add sausage back to skillet. Stir. Add cooked potatoes to skillet. Stir. Divide hash evenly among four bowls and top with avocado.

COBB SALADS

From Hillary’s “10 in 30 Fast Family Meals to Love”

6 slices uncured bacon

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast

4 eggs

4 ears fresh corn

1 pint cherry tomatoes

2 large avocados

8 cups spring mix lettuce

Honey Mustard

Dressing:

1/3 cup honey

1 tsp. olive oil

2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

3 Tbsp. whole grain mustard

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. salt

Combine all dressing ingredients in a small blow. Set aside.

Place eggs in a medium size pot. Cover with water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 10 minutes. Remove from heat, drain and rinse with cold water.

Meanwhile, Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon, flipping to prevent burning, until completely cooked. Remove to a paper towel lined plate. Pour excess bacon grease from pan into a glass bowl, leaving 2 tsp. grease in pan.

Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to greased skillet. Cook 4-8 minutes per side depending on thickness of breasts. Set aside. Remove corn from cobbs using a knife. Cut tomatoes in half. Dice avocados, peel boiled eggs and halve them. Slice chicken. Crumble bacon

Place lettuce in four separate bowls or large plates. Divide toppings among plates. Top with desired amount of dressing and enjoy!

SUMMER VEGETABLE PASTA

1 Tbsp. olive oil

½ small yellow onion, diced

1 small zucchini, diced

1 orange bell pepper, diced

3 ears fresh corn, kernels removed

4 cups chopped fresh spinach

12 oz. gluten free chickpea pasta

3 Tbsp. grass fed butter

2 Tbsp. gluten free flour

1 cup grass fed whole milk

1 - 1 ½ cups shredded grass fed cheddar

and brief simulated lightning effects. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children, students and seniors. Call (334) 246-1084 or visit www. auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@ auburnact.org for group rate information.

“The Game’s Afoot” closes out AACT’s 19th season and AACT is already preparing for its 20th season with auditions for Disney’s “Beauty & the Beast.” Come be our guest and try out for

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 Tbsp. olive oil. Add onion. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until tender. Add zucchini, pepper and corn. Sauté 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat a large pot of boiling water and cook pasta according to package directions. Add spinach to vegetable mixture. Cook until wilted. Sprinkle veggies with salt and pepper. Stir and set aside. in a separate large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook 1 minute, stirring. Add milk. Whisk. Cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until the mixture thickens. Add cheese and stir until melted. Add cooked pasta and veggies to cheese sauce. Stir. Serve.

GLUTEN FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

½ cup grass fed butter, softened

3/4 cup coconut sugar (or light brown sugar)

1 tsp. vanilla

1 egg

2 1/4 cups blanched almond flour

½ tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. sea salt

1 cup Enjoy Life mini chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper

Add butter and sugar to mixer bowl. Mix with an electric mixer until creamed together. Add egg and vanilla. Mix until creamy. Scrape down sides and mix again.

Add salt, baking soda and flour to bowl. Mix just until incorporated. Stir in chocolate chips with a spatula.

Using a one inch cookies scoop, scoop cookies on to baking sheet. Gently flatten each cookie a little with your fingers. Bake 9 to 10 minutes until lightly browned.

CHEESY CRUSTLESS VEGGIE QUICHE

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. black pepper

1 tsp. seasoning salt or plain salt

½ large red bell pepper, diced

1 ½- 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets

½ cup grated carrot

8 eggs

½ cup shredded grass fed cheddar cheese

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add onion, sauté 5 minutes. Add garlic, black pepper and seasoning salt. Stir

this great ensemble show. Actors 16 years old and up are invited to open auditions in person for roles of 13 women and 13 men. Auditions will be held April 22 and 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. by appointment at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. For more information and to sign up for an audition slot please visit www. auburnact.org. Boys and girls, ages 6 to 10 years old, are also invited to audition for the role of “Chip” via video submission. Details can be

and cook 1 minute. Add broccoli, red pepper and carrot. Stir. Sauté 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Whisk eggs in a large bowl. Set aside.

Coat an 11x7 glass pan with cooking spray. Add cooked vegetables to pan. Pour eggs over vegetables. Top with cheese.

Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Serves 4 to 6.

BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE

½ large cucumber, cut into large pieces (water, fiber, vitamins k and c)

1 cup broccoli florets (vitamin K, C, folic acid.

2.6 g protein)

½ large avocado (good fats and makes it creamy)

1 large apple, diced (fiber, vitamins A, C. makes it sweet)

2 large or 3 small kale leaves, stems removed and discarded (good source vitamin A,K,C and manganese)

2 cups frozen fruit of choice (we love mixed berries, or mixed fruit like strawberries, mango and peaches)- makes it sweet, adds fiber and vitamins

2 cups water

Place all in a high speed blender and blend.

KALE AND CABBAGE SALAD

3 bunches organic kale, de-stemmed and torn into bite sized pieces

1/4 head red cabbage, thinly sliced

1 cup pumpkin seeds

½ cup dried cranberries

Dressing:

½ cup raw cashews

3/4 cup water

1 lemon, juiced

2 Tbsp. raw honey

2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

Himalayan salt

Add kale, cabbage, pumpkin seeds and cranberries to a large bowl.

Add dressing ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth. Pour over kale mixture and toss together.

GLUTEN FREE PEACH CRUMBLE

6 medium peaches, peeled and sliced

3 Tbsp. brown sugar or coconut sugar

½ tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. arrowroot or tapioca flour

1 tsp. fresh squeezed lemon juice

dash of salt

Crumble Topping:

6 Tbsp. grass fed butter

1 cup almond flour

½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

1 Tbsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine crumble

found at www.auburnact.org.

AACT is a nonprofit volunteer organization. AACT offers multiple opportunities to get involved and depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community. There’s something for everyone.

Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up to date at www.AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets and more.

toppings in a bowl using a fork until the mixture resembles small peas. Put in refrigerator.

Heat a medium pot over medium heat. Add peaches and sugar. Stir and cook until sugar dissolves. Add cinnamon. Cook 5 to 10 minutes until peaches are soft. Add lemon juice, flour and salt. Stir and cook 1 minute. Pour into a greased 8x8 pan.

Top peaches with crumble mixture. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until browned on top. Serve topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

TUNA BACON CAKES

15 oz. wild canned tuna in water, drained and flaked

2 slices bacon, diced

1/4 medium onion, diced

2 Tbsp. fresh minced garlic or 2 tsp. garlic powder

2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

1/4 tsp. red pepper

1 Tbsp. coconut flour

1 egg, whisked sea salt and pepper to taste (use the salt sparingly)

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add bacon. Cook until crisp. Spoon bacon onto a paper towel covered plate to drain. Add onions to pan. Cook until tender — approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Add garlic. Cook 1 minute. Remove from heat

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl using a fork or your hands. Form into 8 patties Cook patties in the leftover bacon grease in your skillet over medium heat. Cook 5 minutes per side. Serve with homemade guacamole.

GLUTEN FREE BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

4 Tbsp. grass fed butter, melted

1 tsp. vanilla

3 eggs

1/3 cup organic maple syrup

1 cup blanched almond flour

½ cup tapioca flour

2 Tbsp. coconut flour

1 tsp. baking powder

½ tsp. salt

1 cup organic blueberries

Whisk together butter, vanilla, eggs and syrup in a large bowl. Add flours, baking powder and salt to bowl. Stir into wet ingredients with a silicone spoon. Add blueberries and gently stir them in so you don’t break them.

Line a muffin tin with parchment paper cups. Scoop batter into cups so the cups are 2/3 full.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 18 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into a muffin. Makes 12 to 15 muffins.

BO BIKES BAMA KICKOFF PARTY

Bo Bikes Bama will host a kickoff party on Friday, April 26, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Red Clay Brewing Company in Opelika. The event will feature a performance by Gretsch Lyles & The Modern Eldorados, as well as food and drinks. Bo Bikes Bama, an annual charity ride to raise money for disaster recovery and preparedness in Alabama, is set for Saturday, April 27. For more information, visit www.bobikesbama. com.

AUBURN CITYFEST

The 23rd Auburn CityFest will take place Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kiesel Park, and this year’s theme is “Space Adventures.” The rain or shine event will feature live music, interactive events and more than 100 arts and crafts, food and nonprofit vendors. CityFest is free and open to the public. For more info, visit auburncityfest.org.

POETRY OPEN MIC NIGHT

The Opelika Public Library and the Coffee Shop will host a poetry open mic night on Saturday, April 27 at the Coffee Shop, located at 122 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika. Everyone is welcome to listen and/or perform their poetry and spoken word. The event will start at 7 p.m.

AUBURN LIBRARY BOOK SIGNING

The Auburn Public Library will host local children’s book author Dr. Sarah “Mimsy” Odom on Saturday, April 27, who will read from her book, “Xantu Learns to Read,” at Family Story Time, which starts at 9:30 a.m. Odom has written a series of children’s books using her grandson as her muse. She also writes devotional and journal motivational books. In addition to her writing, she is the president and chief executive officer for a student educational and motivational consulting company.

MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY

The Junior League of Lee County (JLLC) will host its annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on Sunday, April 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Moore’s Mill Club Pavilion, located at 1957 Fairway Drive in Auburn. Proceeds enable the non-profit JLLC’s mission of promoting volunteerism, developing women and improving the local community through effective action by trained volunteers. Spaces are limited — only 150 guests will be eligible to attend. Tickets are available online now at www.juniorleagueofleecounty.com.

RELAY FOR LIFE

Lee County’s Relay For Life, a community event to raise money and support those fighting cancer, is set for Friday, May 3, around the Lee County Courthouse square in downtown Opelika.This year’s theme is “Every Cancer, Every life.” Opening ceremonies will begin at 6 p.m. A solemn luminaria ceremony will begin at 9 p.m. Luminary bags can be purchased in advance or the night of Relay for $5 each.

GARDEN IN THE PARK

Keep Opelika Beautiful will host Garden in the Park on Saturday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Opelika Municipal Park. The event will feature homemade and homegrown arts and crafts, entertainment and lots of good food. For more information, visit www.keepopelikabeautiful.com.

KENTUCKY DERBY DAY

The 16th Annual Kentucky Derby Day is set for Saturday, May 4. Gates open at 1 p.m. at Storybook Farms, located at 300 Cusseta Road in Opelika. The fundraising event, "where horses, fashion and philanthropy race to the finish line," is the largest Kentucky Derby party in Alabama. Tickets are on sale online now at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/derby2024.

AUBURN LIBRARY AUTHOR SIGNING

The Auburn Public Library will host nine-year-old local children’s book author Della Gardner on Saturday, May 4, who will read from her debut book, “Cornflowers Life,” at

Family Story Time, which starts at 9:30 a.m. Della spends most of her free time writing books for kids like herself because she “likes to make people happy!” She has been a regular library user since her first visit to Baby Story Time.

NAMI FAMILY-TO-FAMILY

National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) of Alabama is offering the Family-to-Family Program, a virtual family education program (on Zoom) beginning May 9 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The free eight-week educational program is for families and significant others of people with a mental health condition, peer led by individuals who have been through similar situations. It provides information and strategies for taking care of the person you love. Registration is required. Email laurajnh@gmail.com or call 205-267-2986 for more information.

10th ANNUAL FISHING RODEO

Join Auburn Parks and Recreation at the lake at Auburn Technology Park South on Saturday, May 11, from 7 to 11 a.m. for the 30th Annual Fishing Rodeo. Register at auburnal.myrec.om. Every participant must be pre-registered — there will be no registration the day of the event. The cost is $5 per child. This event is for children 14 years of age and younger. Each child will be permitted to bring home five fish and must be accompanied by an adult. If you plan to take home fish, please bring a bucket. Door prizes will be given out to lucky participants and prizes will be awarded to the biggest and smallest fish caught in each age category and the most fish caught overall. For more info, contact Sarah Cook at scook@auburnalabama.org or call Auburn Parks and Recreation at 334-501-2930.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE SUMMER CAMP

Missoula Children’s Theatre, a world renowned children’s touring theatre for more than 50 years, will be back in Opelika for Summer Camp June 24-28. Registration is open to young people in kindergarten through 12th grades. Cost is $200, with a 10% discount for additional family members. Camp is limited to 60 campers, and every camper will be cast in the production of “Gulliver’s Travels in Space.” Register at www.opelikacommunitytheatre.com. For more information, contact Opelika Community Theatre by calling (334) 400-9660 or emailing opelikatheatrecompany1@gmail. com.

ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI

The Lee County Alumni of Alabama State University is holding a membership drive. Increased membership will allow the group to offer more scholarships and support financial and other vital needs for student success at ASU, as well as will foster a sense of pride, visibility and connection to the community. For more information, contact President Dwight E. Howard at (334) 745-7293.

ATTENTION ORCHID LOVERS

The East Alabama Orchid Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Opelika Public Library in Meeting Room 2, located at the rear of the library next to the train mural. Anyone interested in growing orchids is encouraged to attend the meetings. There are orchid growers of all levels and abilities who meet to learn and discuss growing orchids from the members. At each meeting, members will bring their blooming plants to share with the group. For more information about the meetings, contact David Stanbury at: stanbdm@auburn.edu.

ZUMBA CLASSES

Zumba classes are held on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Frank Brown Recreational Center in Auburn. Cost is $5 drop in, $25 for five classes and $40 for 10 classes. Register at auburnal.myrec.com.

The Farm at Rocky Top's 'Hay Days' is May 18, 19

BY KADIE VICK FOR THE OBSERVER

SALEM — What better way to celebrate the blooming spring than exploring all the talented vendors during Hay Days at the Farm at Rocky Top, set for May 18 and 19.

The farm, located at 2910 Lee Road 145 in Salem, will be open both days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5, with children under age four admitted free.

Jan Lawrence, owner of The Farm at Rocky Top said she started Hay Days because she enjoys hosting company.

“I like putting on events like this at the farm, where people from all over can

BY KADIE VICK FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — With summer break nearing, the Lee County District Attorney’s Office is hosting its second Family Fun Day with the goal of presenting the various resources in the area. It will occur on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Family Fun Day is held each April to coincide with Crime Victims Awareness and Child Abuse Prevention Month," Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere said. “This year we have partnered with The Lee County Sheriff’s Office, United Way and East Alabama Mental Health Prevention Services.”

Family Fun Day will be located at 2311 Gateway Dr. in Opelika. For more information or to take part email aamat@leecountyda.org or emi.ajero@eamhc.org.

For many families in

come and enjoy not only an arts and crafts show but the facilities and the countryside,” she said, noting the previous events were in November 2014 and May 2023. “This is our third show. We're gonna be here for the long haul, and we're going to grow our arts and crafts festival.” Lawrence said she wants Hay Days to become something that the community looks forward to. “We try to get everybody excited from our excitement,” she said. There will be more than 80 vendors at the event, offering a variety of arts and crafts items to explore. Hay Days will feature unique items and plenty of

the community, resources throughout the summer are important and needed. Family Fun Day allows families to learn about available programs and resources while having a great time.

“This event serves as a catalyst to educate, engage, and elevate our families,” Ventiere said. “We want families to have a day of fun while also having the opportunity to explore the many community partners serving and supporting Lee County families.”

Along with fun activities, live music, and food trucks, Family Fun Day will have information on resources, “that will meet a variety of needs from mental health, healthcare, prevention services, advocacy, academic, basic needs, elder care, substance abuse prevention, parenting education, tutoring, children’s activities and faith-based organizations,” Ventiere said.

Ventiere created The Lee

delicious edible treats.

“Jams, jellies, pickles, sourdough bread and cheese sticks, and there are a lot of wooden workpieces, stained glass and all kinds of stuff,” Lawrence said. “We have handmade pottery which is unbelievably beautiful.”

Hay Days present an opportune time to buy gifts for family and friends. Not only is the event an exciting and enjoyable way to spend a weekend, but participants also support local small businesses.

“It’s very important in these times to shop locally, because for most of these artists, this is their side hustle,” Lawrence said. “They have a full-time job but do

this to bring in some extra money.”

County Helping Families Initiative (HFI) to improve local families by connecting them to the necessary resources.

“HFI seeks to provide

prevention and intervention services aimed at eliminating the barriers to the child’s emotional, behavioral,and academic success by creating a network of support

and referrals to each child and family participating,” she said.

The benefits of HFI inspired the idea for Family Fun Day to further involve

and improve the resources for families in the community.

Ventiere said she believes crime prevention starts with awareness and strong, healthy families, and that she hopes to promote this.

For those who have suffered due to crime, The District Attorney’s Office has victim services, which, aids victims in finding community resources that fit their needs. Whether it be: counseling, financial assistance, transportation assistance, or job readiness and much more according to Ventiere.

“We know that the judicial process can be lengthy and confusing. The Victim Services Division hopes to help make this process as comfortable as possible,” Ventiere said. “Ultimately, this event is just to raise awareness and provide education on crime prevention and community resources in our area.”

Country Christmas and more. For more information, visit www.thefarmatrockytop. com.

Event co-chairs Jan Lawrence, left, and Carol Pridgen, right, welcomed guests to Hay Days during last year'sevent.

Last year's Family Fun Day, hosted by the Lee County District Attorney's Office, featured many different activities for families to participate in.

BY WALTER ALBRITTON

OPINION —

Submit to God. Humble yourself. Admit you need help. Surrender to Jesus. Ask Jesus to take over management of your life. This is the attitude one must have to become an authentic follower of Jesus. But pride stands in the way. Pride says, “I am capable of managing my own life, thank you.”

I like the way James, the brother of Jesus, explains the need to give up being the

What 'Surrender to Jesus' means

CEO of your life. In his New Testament Letter, James reminds us of Solomon’s wisdom: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (Proverbs 3:34).

James goes on to say, “Submit yourselves, then, to God…. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:7 & 10). So, what does James mean when he says the Lord will lift us up? The experience of a friend of mine is a good example of what happens when a man surrenders to Jesus and invites him to take over the management of his life.

Uzbekistan. He would have to pay his own expenses for the trip – several thousand dollars – which he did not have. Though the idea seemed preposterous, he was unable to dismiss the invitation. The more he prayed about the trip, the more he felt God wanted him to go. Finally, he gave up, promising the Lord he would go – if the Lord provided the money.

What the man’s friends did not know was that my friend was scared to death of making the trip. He confessed later, “I feared that I would never see my family again, that my son and I would die in a plane crash thousands of miles from home.” Despite his fear, he decided he had to obey God and go, even if it cost him his life.

hospitality and friendship. I was the first American many of them had ever seen and they honored me because I cared enough to come and share helpful ideas with them. But it dawned on me that it was really God who was honoring me; he was honoring my obedience.”

My friend was invited to serve on a Humanitarian Aid Team that journeyed to Central Asia to share business expertise with business leaders in faraway

Upcoming Services

MARTHA "MARTY" SKELTON

Visitation 11 a.m., Funeral 12 noon, Friday, April 26 Auburn Church of Christ

BARBARA A. CUMMINGS Visitation 12:30 p.m., Funeral 2 p.m., Friday, April 26 Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home, Opelika

BEVERLEY BURKHARDT THOMAS Memorial Service, 11 a.m., April 27

Auburn United Methodist Church

MARTHA R. (MARTY) SKELTON

Martha R. (Marty) Skelton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, sister and friend passed away on April 18, 2024. Born on Nov. 16, 1933, to Aaron B. and Ulna Mae Rogers, Marty embraced life to the maximum with her adventurous spirit and caring heart, in spite of her physical health challenges. Whether skiing from the

James is right. When we humble ourselves in surrender to Jesus, He will lift us up — far beyond our expectations! Altar call

When he shared the proposal with his pastor and leaders in his church, they not only encouraged him to go but to take his teenaged son with him. Within two months, more than seven thousand dollars had been raised, passports and visas secured, and all arrangements made for a trip halfway around the world.

Marty was predeceased by her parents, sisters, Miriam Fowler and Mary DuPont; brother, Aaron “Brown” Rogers; daughter, Teresa Susan Walch; and son, Bart Skelton.

top of a mountain or scuba diving in the sea, she was always full speed ahead. As a longtime Special Education teacher, she prepared those with special needs for their journey through life. Marty was an avid gardener and a devout Christian who shared her faith in service to others through numerous church activities, Girl Scouts, Special Olympics and several volunteer organizations and clubs.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Duane Skelton; daughter, Danell LaPread; granddaughter, Sherrie Hannah; grandson, Jeremy R. LaPread; and great-granddaughter, Reina LaPread; sister-in-law, Catherine Rogers and brother-in-law, David Fowler, along with several nieces and nephews.

A lifetime member of Auburn Church of Christ, her life will be celebrated with a memorial service there on Friday, April 26, 2024, at noon. A visitation

After returning home, he shared, “Once there, in that strange land, I began to realize that God wanted me to go on that trip so he could bless me. I was not there to be a blessing to others but to be incredibly blessed by God.

“The people in that poor country honored me and my son by sharing the best they had to offer — in food,

Tears streamed down his face as he said, “I realized that the kindness I was shown by those humble Asian people was actually the grace of God. Had I not obeyed God, I would have missed this unbelievable blessing.”

Jesus warned us against foolish pride that separates us from God. If we are not careful, the devil will deceive us into thinking more of ourselves than we ought to think. We resist

OBITUARIES

will be held at 11 a.m., with Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home assisting the family with arrangements. To honor her, please send memorial gifts to Auburn Church of Christ or Compassus Hospice, 333 Samford Village Ct., Suite B, Auburn, AL 36830.

ANNETTE BALL JUSTICE Annette Ball Justice, 97, of Auburn passed away April 22, 2024, in Opelika at Arbor Springs after a short illness. She was born July 4, 1926, to Rev. George and Mae Ball. She graduated from Ensley High School in Birmingham and was employed by the Jefferson County Board of Education, Stockham Valve, and also worked in the medical field as a financial secretary. In 1984, Anne

and her first husband, Jack Adamson moved to Auburn, where she went to work in the University Alumni Office. After Jack passed away in 1989, she met her second husband Ernie Justice working at the Alumni Office. She and Ernie spent 15 years traveling and enjoying life until his death in 2009.

Anne was a member of Auburn United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir for 40 years.

Anne is survived by her daughter Beverly Adamson King, husband E. Dave King, III; her daughter Nancy Adamson Taylor, husband Fred M. Taylor; grandchildren Murray Taylor, wife Lauren Taylor and their children John Thomas Taylor and Lawson Taylor as well as

such pride by remaining continually surrendered to Jesus. This is how God “lifts us up,” by giving us the power to resist the devil and refrain from arrogant attitudes.

By the way, the friend who obeyed God by going to Uzbekistan to share his wisdom about forestry, was my son Tim. He and his son Joseph were “lifted” above their fear as Jesus turned their fear into a blessing. And Granddad was “lifted” into extraordinary joy by the way God used this unusual trip to bless both of them.

grandchildren Laura Taylor Falone, husband Jeff Falone and their children Lane Falone and Will Falone. She is also survived by her sister Carol Ledbetter, her nephew Chris Ledbetter, nieces Leigh Layfield and Pam Ledbetter, and Carol’s grandchildren Chris Ledbetter Jr., Parker Ledbetter, Logan and Claudia Layfield. A memorial service was held April 24 at the Auburn United Methodist Church Chapel, with Rev. George Mathison and Gary Klarenbeek officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Christ Methodist Church of Auburn, 434 E. Magnolia Ave. Auburn, AL 36830.

BY BRUCE GREEN

Our mailbox leads a rather solitary existence. It interacts with our mail carrier once a day, sees either Janice or me the same amount — and that’s it — except for the many

Studying His word

vehicles that drive by. Only the vehicles don’t always drive by. One time during a rainstorm a car came off the road and ran over the mailbox before finally coming to a halt in our yard. Then recently, someone in a truck apparently brushed our mailbox.

I only know this because when I stepped out of our house to return to the office after lunch, there was a truck parked in front of mine. In it was a man who looked to be in his early thirties. He was writing a note he later handed to me. The note said this: I clipped your mailbox

with the side-view mirror of my truck. It seems to be ok; nonetheless, I want to be sure you have my . . .

I assume the last two words were going to be “contact information,” but that’s as far as he got because he noticed I was standing in the driveway. He told me he had knocked on the door and when there was no answer, he started writing the note. On the flip side of the note was his name, phone number, the date and the time he had “clipped” our mailbox (12:40 p.m.).

Every word in the

note was spelled out exactly as I have given it here. There were no abbreviations (except for the “ok”) or phonetical spellings. He used a hyphen, a semi-colon and a comma. And of course, the spelling and grammar (as impressive as they were), were all quite secondary to the display of character that prompted them. He was a conscientious, considerate person. Though (as far as I know) he didn’t live in proximity to us, he was being a good neighbor. I took a quick look at the mailbox, and it appeared to be okay. I

Bible verse of the week:

told him I would look at it more when I had time and get back to him. Then I shook his hand and thanked him for stopping by. When I looked at the mailbox over the weekend, it was a little off-center, so I shimmed it up. Aside from that it was fine. I texted the young man and told him no worries and that if everyone was as conscientious as he was, we would live in a no worries world. Being a good neighbor is as important today as it has ever been, and I was blessed by being on the receiving end of

someone doing just that. “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments” (Matthew 22:36-40).

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

For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit. — 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Opelika 334-476-1531

3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432

BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

128 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

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

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487

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

Shady Grove Baptist Church 2194 Lee Road 177,

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

The Opelika Church 2660 Cunninghan Dr., Opelika

University Church of Christ 449 N. Gay St., Auburn www.auchurch.com

Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015

CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God

GLOBAL METHODIST Christ Methodist Church of Auburn

434 E. Magnolia Ave., Auburn | Worship at LeeScott Academy 334-209-0074

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

METHODIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

PENTECOSTAL

PRESBYTERIAN

SEVENTH-DAY

Providence Baptist will host Choir Reunion Concert May 5

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BEAUREGARD — A Church

Choir Reunion Concert will be held on Sunday, May 5, at 2 p.m. at the West Campus of Providence Baptist Church. The event is free, and everyone is invited.

This concert will be a part of the weekend celebration honoring Dr. Thomas R. Smith, who is completing 50 years as music minister at Providence. Including both current members of the current church choir and former members who are returning, there will be over 110 singers participating. The Reunion Choir will present a variety of sacred music from anthems to spirituals.

Included in the Reunion Choir’s repertoire will be “O Come, Let Us Sing to the Lord” by Joseph M. Martin, “I Love You, Lord” arranged by Jay Rouse, “Standing on the Promises” by Gordon Young, “He Never Failed Me Yet” by Robert Ray, “Look to

the Rose” by Joseph M. Martin, “Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit” arranged by Moses Hogan, “No More Night” and “I Bowed on My Knees” arranged by Camp Kirkland, “Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal” arranged by Shaw-Parker, “Written in Red” arranged by Robert Sterling, “Boundless Love” arranged by Camp Kirkland, “Free At Last” adapted by T. R. Smith, “How Great Thou Art” arranged by Jay Rouse and “Lord, Be Glorified” arranged by Tom Fettke.

Accompanists will include Suzanne Harris, current pianist, Deana Stone, former pianist, and Michael Smith, former organist. In addition, there will be instrumental pieces played by Harris, Smith and Pam Morris (trumpet).

Providence Baptist Church is a growing rural church in the Beauregard Community of Lee County pastored by Dr. Rusty Sowell.

New book out by local author

'Getting the Best of You' by Jeremy Walden

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Amidst the uncertainties of life, author Jeremy Walden extends a guiding hand with his new book, “Getting the Best of You: Responding to Hurt, Hate & Hardship.” Through poignant storytelling and heartfelt wisdom, Walden invites readers to confront life’s most daunting challenges with resilience and grace.

Drawing from his local experiences as both a foster parent and minister, Walden brings a unique blend of personal insight and spiritual depth to “Getting the Best of You.”

“I wrote this book because I see so many people who are struggling,” said Jeremy Walden. “Through my own story and the stories shared within these pages, I want readers to

know that they are not alone and that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.”

“Getting the Best of You” doesn’t shy away from the realities of life’s struggles. It courageously addresses topics such as abuse, infertility and tragic loss, offering a perspective grounded in the transformative power of God. Specifically, it weaves Romans 12:9-21 together with personal stories and Biblical examples to show that these empowering principles can be lived out in real life.

Designed with community in mind, the book includes discussion questions, making it ideal for small groups, book clubs, and Sunday School classes.

For those seeking inspiration and guidance in

navigating life’s difficult people and difficult circumstances, “Getting the Best of You” is available now on Amazon Books.

ABOUT JEREMY WALDEN:

Jeremy Walden is a senior lecturer in the School of Communication & Journalism at Auburn University since 2008. In his classes, he emphasizes active learning to help students make connections between communication concepts, their personal lives, and future careers. This is often done via peer learning as well as through a variety of class activities and discussions. Married, with seven children, he and his wife are also foster parents. Professionally, he has over 25 years of experience working with ministries and nonprofits.

Community invited to join in on 'National Day of Prayer'

National Day of Prayer. The event, to be held at noon, will be broadcast live on Hallelujah 1520 AM & Praise 88.7 FM.

Square in observation of the 73rd

The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the US Congress

and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988 the law was amended and signed by President Ronald Reagan permanently setting the first Thursday of May as a special time to pray for our nation and its leaders and seek God's direction as a people.

People from across America, both individually and collectively, will gather on May 2 in churches, synagogues, places of worship and homes to recognize the providence of God and their need for His guidance. Towns and cities throughout our nation will hold special events to help bring people together to pray for families, those in the military, government leaders at all levels, churches, education, media and businesses.

Laura Fuller chairs the National Day of Prayer in Lee County each year. She has been joined by a task force in 2024 representing area churches to plan this year's event.

PEGGY TEEL THOMPSON

Peggy Teel Thompson, 79 years old, of Lafayette, Alabama passed away, Sunday, April 21, 2024, peacefully at home with her family.

Peggy was born in LaFayette, on May 24, 1944, to the late Gay and Jewel Teel. In addition to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother, she will be remembered for her outgoing personality, her love for people and her love for the Lord. She loved to make people smile. She touched so many lives during her time as the Activities Director at Twin Fountains Home in Lagrange, Georgia.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 24, at 3 p.m. with the funeral at 4 p.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church in Wadley, with pastor Chuck Goodwin officiating. A graveside service will follow at Penton Church of God in Penton, Alabama.

Peggy is survived by her spouse, Paul Thompson of LaFayette; son, David Thompson (Laura) and daughter, Natasha Meadors (Kevin); five grandsons, Joseph Olko (Emily) of Valley, Joshua Thompson of O’Fallon, Illinois, Jordan Thompson of Valley, Matthew Meadors (Laurel) of Lagrange and Jonathan Meadors (Taylor) of Lagrange; and five great-grandchildren, Tank Thompson, Evelyn Olko, Elijah Olko, Jase Meadors and Cal Meadors.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gay Teel, and sisters Jo Dikes and Gaynell Strickland.

BEVERLEY BURKHARDT THOMAS

Beverley Ann Burkhardt Thomas, who grew up in Auburn and was a long-time resident, passed away April 17 from complications of COVID-19, after a long struggle with heart disease. Beverley graduated with honors from Auburn’s School of Architecture, and worked in New York City for several years. In 1948, she married Albert Lee Thomas Jr. of Auburn, and the two moved to Birmingham, where Albert worked at Southern Research Institute. She worked as an architect for a couple of years, then designed a home for the family in a rustic-modern, Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced style, which the two of them built. They raised five children there. She was tireless in arranging enriching opportunities for her children, including afterschool music lessons, sports practice, art classes, Scouting and educational trips. She pursued artistic interests including water-color painting, acrylics and Sumi-e, and became quite proficient at ceramics, later guiding her grandchildrens’ hands at the potters wheel. Beverley will be remembered for her unfailing good nature and her incredible energy in gardening, feeding the birds and other wildlife and working to preserve Auburn’s architectural heritage.

She is survived by sons Albert Walter Thomas (Sara Anderson) of Notasulga and Dr. Charles Edwin Thomas (Marilyn Davis) of Auburn; and daughters Alison Thomas of Auburn and New York, Beth Thomas Wesley of Montgomery and Ann Thomas DVM of Dallas.

Grandchildren and Greatgrandchildren are numerous. Albert’s daughters, Felicia Thomas Williamson and Gilia Thomas, both live in Dallas, where Felicia and her husband Jimmy Williamson have two daughters, Elise and Emily. Charles' daughters are Dr. Eleanor Thomas, who lives in Atlanta with her husband Andreas Hadji and their sons Alexander and George, and Mary Feminear Thomas, living in Dallas with her husband Michael Adams. Beth’s sons are Joshua Wesley, of Auburn, Benjamin Wesley, of Cantonment, Florida, along with his wife Jamneth and son Lucas, and John David Wesley, who with his wife Riva Denny lives in Thurmont, Maryland. Ann’s children Chase Simpson and Breanna Simpson both live in Texas, Chase with his wife Virginia. A memorial service was held April 27 at Founders Chapel, Auburn United Methodist Church. Friends are asked in lieu of flowers to contribute to the American Heart Association or the charity of their choice.

JAMES "JIMMY" ALLEN JR.

James Ford Allen Jr., known as Jimmy Fred by all and a lifetime resident of Opelika, passed away on April 17, 2024, at the age of 73. Jimmy was born on April 29, 1950, at Bonner Hospital in Roanoke, the son of James Ford Allen and Clorea Murphy Allen.

Jimmy graduated from Opelika High School in 1968 and from Auburn University with a degree in textile engineering in 1973. Most of his career was spent in human resources at West Point Pepperell, Master Lock and Weidmann Plastics, from which he retired.

On Aug. 26, 1978, he married Patricia (Patty) Blanton Allen, and they had two sons.

He was a wonderful and accountable person to his friends, and this especially held true for family, his wife, kids, daughter-in-law and grandkids. He took great pride in his yard work and garden. For a time, Jimmy was an avid golfer, and Indian Pines was like his second home. He loved watching sports, but his true passion was his family. After being blessed with three grandboys, Jackson, Houston, and Parker; they brought him his greatest joy.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents as well as his foster parents, Willie B. (Jennie Bell) Davis Jr. He is survived by his wife, Patty; sons, Brad and Patrick Allen; daughter-inlaw, Hillary Anne Allen; grandsons, Jackson Ford Allen, James Houston Allen and John Parker Allen; brothers, William Derek Davis and Nicholas Alan Davis (Susan); sister, Jean Jones (Wayne); and numerous nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held April 20 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

ROBERT GAINES TAYLOR

Robert Gaines Taylor, 75, of Auburn passed away peacefully April 13, 2024, at East Alabama Medical Center. Robert was born Jan. 20, 1949, in Birmingham to the late Robert Peyton Taylor and Elma Gaines Taylor.

Robert attended Phillips High School in Birmingham and was a 1970 graduate of Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in aviation management. He spent 30 years working with Giles Inc. in Montgomery, where he was loved by all. He loved traveling, spending

time with his family and supporting AU football and basketball.

Robert is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 54 years, Lois Bearden Taylor. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Helen Smith Bearden, of Auburn; brother-in-law, Kenneth Lee Bearden (Carolyn) of Columbus; nieces, Andrea Bearden Quick, Heather Kirkwood and Remi Streeter of Chelsea, who were the apple of his eye; and Godson, Haven Cornelius (Mya) Fields Sr. and his sons, Haven Jr. and Hendrix of Fishers, Indiana.

A private celebration of Robert’s life will be held at a later time. Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home of Opelika is assisting the family with arrangements.

ROBERT "ROBBIE" MARTIN

Robert Dale "Robbie" Martin, age 48, passed away on April 14, 2024, in Birmingham. He was born on April 1, 1976, in Tallassee.

Robbie was known for his love of riding his motorcycle, his church, fishing, animals, coin collecting and spending quality time with his family. His career was in welding.

He is survived by his mother, Joann Grier; father, George Martin; son, Tyler Martin; sister, Tiffany Hodges; brothers, Eric Martin and Thad Qualls; his grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Robbie was preceded in death by his grandparents on both sides.

A Celebration of Life service was held April 21 at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, family requests potted plants that can be planted in memory of Robbie, or contributions can be made to the CARE Humane Society in memory of Robbie Martin.

DR. SHELBY DAVID WORLEY

Dave Worley, professor emeritus of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Auburn University, passed away on April 16, 2024. He was born on Jan. 31, 1942, in Russellville to Shelby L. Worley and Betty L. Davis. He spent his formative years in Scottsboro, Alabama, and graduated from Scottsboro High School in 1960. He then attended Auburn University, where he graduated with a B.S. degree in chemistry, with honors, in 1964. He received a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Texas in Austin in 1969 and then spent a three-year ROTC military commitment at the Johnson Spacecraft Center in Houston, after which he spent a year as an assistant professor of physical chemistry at Cleveland (Ohio) State University followed by a year as a contract officer at the Office of Naval Research in Washington, D.C.

He was appointed to the faculty of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at his alma mater, Auburn University, where he served for 35 years before retiring in 2009. Dave won several teaching and research awards, published frequently in chemistry journals and authored numerous patents on antimicrobial materials.

Dave was an avid tennis player even into his 80s, and he enjoyed singing bass in the Auburn Methodist Choir for over 50 years. He was also a passionate traveler and reader.

In June 1964, Dave married Karen Holcombe, and they remained a devoted couple for 59 years until

his passing. In addition to Karen, he leaves behind two sons, Christopher Gordon Worley (Brittany) of Los Alamos, New Mexico, and Brian Scott Worley (Yolanda) of East London, South Africa, and six beloved grandchildren, Sarah of Chicago, Ryan of Colorado Springs, John of Los Alamos, New Mexico, and Olivia, Owen and Musa of East London, South Africa.

A memorial service was held at Auburn United Methodist Church on April 22, with Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home of Opelika assisting with arrangements.

Memorial contributions will be welcomed by the Auburn University Foundation, designated for the Shelby D. and Karen H. Worley Professorship in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Auburn University. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the Community Market Food Pantry, located at 3810 C Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

RICHARD "DICK" HARRINGTON SR. Richard “Dick” Francis Harrington Sr., 95, passed away peacefully at home on April 11, 2024.

He was born on Dec. 24, 1928, in Nyack, New York, during the Great Depression to Walter Jeremiah Harrington Sr. and Marie McLaughlin Harrington. He was the seventh of 10 children and the last survivor of his siblings.

In 1950, Dick enlisted in the Navy, proudly serving aboard the USS Tanager (AM-385) minesweeper. On the day he left to serve, his mother placed a cross necklace around his neck as a symbol of faith and protection that he never removed to this day.

While docked in Charleston, South Carolina, he met Kitty, the love of his life. Together they built a life they adored in Charleston.

A devout Catholic, Dick’s love for God, family and country was unwavering. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather (“Papa”) and friend. He loved Notre Dame football and the LA Dodgers. He spent his career working for the Youngblood Company in North Charleston, eventually becoming the owner until his retirement. After retiring, he dedicated 25 years as a volunteer at Saint Vincent DePaul Society, East Cooper Community Outreach (ECCO) and the soup kitchen.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved parents, all nine siblings, his cherished wife of 65 years, Catherine “Kitty” Bean Harrington, and his grandson, Richard “Richie” Francis Harrington III.

Dick is survived by his three sons, Richard Francis Harrington Jr. (Anna-Marie), Stephen Thomas Harrington and Paul William Harrington; six grandchildren, Amy Harrington Behbooei (Moe), Adam Harrington, Georgie Harrington, Luke Harrington, Jack Harrington, and Lia Harrington; beloved niece Marie McManus, who took him on a recent car road trip to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to conquer his 50th state; Bill Brown, Dick’s bird-watching companion of over 40 years; Peggy Youmans, Dick and Kitty’s Friday night supper club buddy of many decades; and many other loving extended family members. Visitation will be held Thursday, April 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. ET at McAlisterSmith Funeral Home &

Cremation Chapel, located at 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. A Mass Service will be Friday, April 26, at 10:30 a.m. ET at Stella-Maris Roman Catholic Church, located at 1204 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482, followed by Interment at 11:30 a.m. ET at Mt. Pleasant Memorial Gardens, 1308 Mathis Ferry Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home of Opelika assisted the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Thomas Epting Faith Fund, c/o Community Foundation of Greenville, 630 East Washington Street, Suite A, Greenville, SC 29601, or online at www. thomasfaithfund.org.

DEBORAH ANN JAMES

Deborah Ann James of Auburn and Montgomery went home to be with her Lord Jesus on April 11, 2024, in Montgomery. Miss James was born Oct. 22, 1957, in Auburn.

Deborah’s life was a singularly extraordinary one. At the young age of four, her life was touched by God’s “mighty Spirit,” and from that day forward, the hand of God in her life was clearly seen by all who came into contact with her through school, junior college courses and throughout her adult life. Her smile and hug could instantly cheer and comfort the troubled heart.

She graduated from Auburn High School and was voted Most School Spirit. She was an active member of Lakeview Baptist in Auburn and Auburn United Methodist, and later Montgomery Christian Fellowship and Frazer Methodist in Montgomery.

Debbie was preceded in death by her father, Lt. Col. Louie Webb James, her mother, Meriam Nobles James, and her brother, Judge Drayton Nobles James (Billie), Birmingham.

She is survived by three sisters, Dorothy “Dottie” James Parker (Chief Justice Tom), Montgomery; Carolyn James Nelson (Howard) and his sister Carolyn McNeese, Birmingham; and Katherine James Parson (Dave), Atlanta, and other family members: Gov. Fob James (Bobbie); Tim James (Angela); Fob James III (Beth); Patrick James (Shannon); Dora James (Cal, deceased); Sidney James Nakhajvan (Behzad); Calvin James (Ashley); Kathryn Aimee James Reese (Jeffrey); Braxton Counts (Toni); Ebb Counts (Chrissy); Ed James (Linda); and Susan James Anderson (John). She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews and their families: Tracy James Fitzpatrick (Bebo) and Will and Kate; James Westcott Samford (Abnous) and Cameron and Winn; Christopher Drake Samford (Shawna) and Mackenzie; Kristen Marie Parson Whitmire (Kirk) and Kaylen and Keira; Howard Bernard Nelson III (Jennifer) and Drew, Alex, and Carter; and Lewis Bentley Nelson (Kelly) and Lewie, Charlie and James.

A celebration of Deborah’s life was held at Frazer Church on April 23, with Dr. John Ed Mathison officiating. Burial followed at private family graveside service in Auburn. JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home of Opelika assisted the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in her memory to Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse, designated for Israel

(www.samaritanspurse.org., P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607).

BILLY JOE BELL

Billy Joe Bell, 83, died April 11, 2024, in San Jose, California. He was born Feb. 10, 1941, in Auburn to Willie Eugene and Thelma Essman Bell. He grew up in Opelika, attended Beauregard Elementary School and graduated from Opelika High School in 1960, where he was on the football and wrestling teams.

In 1964, he was hired as a material handler by Perfection Plastics, Data Tech Division, in Opelika. Within one year, he was promoted to supervisor, where production had increased by 20%. In 1967, he was transferred to California as molding manager for the new plant. He remained active in the plastics industry throughout his career, which extended to plant manager and consultant to start up operations.

His love for horses began at the age of 12, when his dad gave him a mare named Mollie. When he was older, he purchased other horses and even herded cattle for his neighbor while in high school. His love for horses was only surpassed by his love for his family.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Roger Dale Bell and Ronny Dewayne Bell.

He is survived by his wife, Rose; children, William Eric Bell of Atlanta, Eula Janean Bell of Valley, Robert Anthony Bell of Patterson, California, Jennifer Lynn Remo of Tracy, California, and Deanna Marie Knight of San Jose, California; eight grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Bell Martin (G.L) of Opelika and other family members and friends.

A graveside service was held April 20 at Rosemere Cemetery in Opelika, with Dr. Chip Jackson officiating and Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisting with arrangements.

JOHN D. KENNEDY SR. John David Kennedy Sr., 85, of Auburn passed away peacefully in his home on April 15, 2024. Born on June 2, 1938, in Chisolm, Alabama, he was the son of John Carter Kennedy and Lucille Blackstone Kennedy. John served in the Air Force for two years. He was a devoted member of Southside Baptist Church, Heritage Baptist Church and most recently Lakeview Baptist Church. He was a passionate fan of racing.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Nelda Hayles Kennedy; children, Brenda Kennedy, David (Erica) Kennedy and Melissa (David) Rohling; grandchildren, Chloe (Arthur) Potts, Jordyn Kennedy, Madison Kennedy, John Daniel Rohling, Sawyer Rohling, Chapman Rohling and Crawford Rohling; great-grandchildren, Adeline Potts and Ophelia Potts; and brother, Paul (Linda) Kennedy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Minerva Roberti, Mary Jo Wells, and Julia Rushton.

A Celebration of Life service was held April 18 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama, with a graveside service April 19 at Lottie New Home Cemetery in Lottie. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Compassus Hospice of Auburn, 333 Samford Village Court, Suite B, Auburn, AL 36830; or Lottie New Home Cemetery, 59055 Lottie Road, Atmore, AL 36502.

BY D. MARK MITCHELL OPINION —

GOLF

The Opelika High Girls and Boys Golf teams defeated Valley last Monday at Point University.

Opelika's girls won 150155 behind the following low scores: Karly Phatsadavong (-44), Kaylin Ward (-52) and Paige Bales (-54).

The boys golf team defeated Valley 227-238 behind following scores: Kyle Eppperson (-40), Preston Phengsiri (-44), Nolen Wilson (-45), Carter Neese (-49) and Bryan McEntire (-48).

SOCCER

The varsity boys soccer team beat Valley 4-1 on senior night at Bulldog Stadium. Scoring goals for the Dogs were Guillermo Lopez (2), Nolen Wilson and David Cruz, with assists from Talmage Isaacson and Blaze Cutcher.

Opelika's girls soccer team shut out Beauregard 10-0 at BHS. Scarlet Pasadas led OHS in scoring with a record six goals, followed by two goals from Aimee Alcantara and goals from Kam McDaniel and Skylar Harris. The assists were by Karly Phatsadavong (2), Anna Webster (2), Shayla Alcantara, Scarlet Posadas, Aimee Alcantara, Cindy Hernandez and Bailey Ward. Keeper Maelee Story earned the shutout.

The Bulldog boys defeated BHS 6-2 at Beauregard High school. Opelika was led offensively by Talmage Isaacson, who scored two goals. Danny Morales, Josh Beltran, Nolen Wilson and Freddie Vasquez each scored a goal, assisted by David Cruz (2), Josh Beltran, Guillermo Lopez and K.J. Frazier.

SOFTBALL

Opelika’s softball team beat Dadeville 7-1 last Saturday on the road. K. Foley earned the win by pitching four innings, allowing a run, four hits and striking out six Tigers.

Offensively, Kaitlyn Foley led with two hits. Soltau, Johnson, Birmingham and Thompson also recorded hits.

OHS wraps up the regular season against Valley on Thursday, April 25. The Area tournament will be played the following week.

BASEBALL Opelika's season ended with a three-game sweep by Auburn High in the last Area matchup, finishing 0-6 in the Area. Coach Blattt and his staff honored AHS coach Matt Cimo prior to the doubleheader at Bulldog Park. The packed crowd stood to pay tribute to Cimo's 32 years as head coach. Central won the Area with a 5-1 Area record, followed by second place Auburn with a 4-2 record. Smiths

OHS Band marches at Disney World

McCall named AD at Lee-Scott

AUBURN — Lee-Scott Academy has announced the hiring of Clay McCall as the school’s new Executive Director of Athletics. McCall comes to Lee-Scott from Bob Jones High School in Madison, where he has been the Patriots’ athletic director for this school year.

McCall is no stranger to the Auburn-Opelika area. He served as the athletic director for Auburn City Schools for 10 years, during which time he was named Athletic Director of the Year by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association for the 2013-14 school year and was presented with the State Award of Merit by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association in 2015. Prior to his time as Athletic Director, McCall served as Auburn High

School’s assistant principal for six years. Before he entered the world of educational administration, McCall was a teacher and coach. After resigning as head football coach at Plainview High School in Georgia, he finished a 13-year career coaching football and track.

“Few athletics directors have established such an impressive and strong record of success in athletics, in the classroom and throughout the community,” said

See MCCALL, page B2

Pictured above is Lee-Scott's new executive director of athletics, Clay McCall, with his wife and daughters.

The Opelika High School marching band represented the city of Opelika with a parade performance at Disney World in Orlando.

Beulah to host Area tourney in softball

FRIDAY, APRIL 26

Game 1 — Dadeville vs. Randolph County, 2 p.m.

Game 2 — Beulah vs.

Game 1 winner, 4 p.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

Game 3 — G1 loser vs. G2 loser, 10 a.m.

Game 4 — (Championship) G2 winner vs. G3 winner, 1 p.m.

Game 5 — 3 p.m. (if needed,)

www.opelikaobserver.com

MCCALL >> from B1

LSA School Head Dr. Stan Cox. “The bar is incredibly high at Lee-Scott Academy, and we have found in Clay a highly intelligent and effective leader. The athletic landscape at Lee-Scott Academy is changing, and we were firmly committed to finding an athletics director who would lead us with confidence and innovative thinking into the future. Clay McCall possesses all

the qualities we had envisioned — and more — and I am thrilled to welcome Clay and his family to our Lee-Scott family.” “I first want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the opportunity to join the Lee-Scott family,” McCall said. “I look forward to working under the leadership of Dr. Cox and working beside our administration, teachers, coaches and support staff to enhance and impact our students in a positive

manner on a daily basis. It is an exciting time as Lee-Scott Athletics enters into the AHSAA. I am honored and blessed to be part of this journey.”

McCall and his wife, Michele, have been married for 26 years. They have two daughters, Reagan, who lives in Birmingham, and Mallory, a freshman at Troy University.

Lee-Scott Academy’s athletic department will transition to competing in the Alabama High School

Athletic Association (AHSAA) in all athletic sports starting in the 2024-25 academic year. For nearly 40 years, the Warriors have competed athletically in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA). Starting next school year, the Warriors will compete among the member schools of the AHSAA. In all other facets, including academically and in arts, Lee-Scott Academy will remain a private school member of the AlSA.

Auburn bests Opelika in varsity baseball action

Auburn and Opelika high schools played varsity baseball on April 18, with the Tigers defeating the Bulldogs by a score of 16-3.

Opelika Parks & Rec hosts track meet

Law enforcement officials and other volunteers hosted the annual Cops on Top fundraiser last weekend, with all proceeds going to support Lee County Special Olympics. Auburn Police were stationed atop the Kroger on Dean Road in Auburn, while Lee County Sheriff's deputies and Opelika Police collected donations at the Tiger Town Kroger in Opelika.

The city of Opelika's Parks & Recreation hosted a track and field meet which included teams from Auburn, Opelika, Valley, Lincoln, Tuskegee, Prattville, Wetumpka, Lanett, Phenix City, Alexander City and Lafayette.

AU ag professor earns AAAS fellow status

AUBURN — Long-

time Auburn University

Professor Beth Guertal has joined the ranks of Thomas Edison, W.E.B. Dubois and Margaret Mead with her election as a fellow to the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Guertal is one of 502 scientists, engineers and innovators from academic institutions, laboratories and observatories, hospitals and medical research centers, museums, corporations, nonprofit organizations, institutes and government agencies selected to the 2023 class of AAAS Fellows. AAAS first launched its lifetime recognition program in 1874 and has

ON THE MARK >>

B1

since acknowledged such notable figures as inventor Edison, sociologist Dubois and anthropologist Mead. AAAS is one of the world’s largest general scientific societies and publisher of the “Science” family of journals. “As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the AAAS Fellows, AAAS is proud to recognize the

newly elected individuals,” said Sudip S. Parikh, chief executive officer and executive publisher of the “Science” family of journals. “This year’s class embodies scientific excellence, fosters trust in science throughout the communities they serve and leads the next generation of scientists while advancing scientific achievements.”

Election as an AAAS Fellow is a lifetime honor and is based on one’s “efforts on behalf of the advancement of science, or its applications, are scientifically or socially distinguished.” All fellows are expected to meet the commonly held standards of professional ethics and scientific integrity.

See AAAS, page B7

5-10 Jordan Tolbert 10th

TRIPLE JUMP

47-5.5 Davian Jones 1st

41-8.5 Jordan Tolbert 4th

POLE VAULT

12-6 Brannon Massey 1st

11-6 Richard Howard 2nd

8-0 David Smotherman 5th

DISCUS

99-4 Michael Cosgriff 9th

JAVELIN

134-3 Jaxson Freeman 6th

SHOT PUT

46-5.5 Ericson (Moni) Thomas 2nd

The track and field teams will participate in the Sectional meet on Friday, April 26, at the Smiths Station High School track.

LEE-SCOTT BASEBALL

Khalia Williams 3rd

82-2 Tyra Pitts 7th

80-1 Lizavia Edwards 9th

SHOT PUT

29-6.5 Talaja Chambers 7th

Following are boys results.

100 METER DASH 11.39 SB Emonte Richardson 10th

200 METER DASH

22.81 SB Michael Swanson 7th

22.92 SB Leland Bell 9th

800 METER RUN

2:01.92 SB Brantley Turnham 3rd

2:07.52 Aiden Stephens 8th

2:13.80 Burch Harris 10th

110 METER HURDLES

16.88 SB Richard Howard 4th

HIGH JUMP

The LSA baseball team finished the regular season 32-6, placing second in their Region behind Glenwood. The Warriors are led by several key players.

John-David Tillman Burns is one of the leading hitters on the team and plays rightfield/catcher. Jake Cummings, one of the best starting pitchers on the team, is consistent and is in the top three in hitting. Sam Jackson plays first base and is a top three hitter (playing with an injured shoulder). Garrett West plays right field and is a very good strike pitcher. Ethan Hardee plays shortstop and as a pitcher throws strikes and plays good defense. Lane Eddins is a pitcher and catcher who does both well, and relief pitcher Harrison Short has a tough side arm pitch that has caused teams trouble late in the game.

Lee-Scott is coached by Jarrod Cook in his first year after leading Trinity Presbyte-

rian (Montgomery) to a 55-21 record in two seasons, including winning the AHSAA 3A State Baseball Championship in 2022. Cook inherited a group of seniors that has played for four different head caches in as many years. Obviously, the seniors have had a tough time with continuity, learning to trust another coach in their last year and learning how to win as a team. They have responded to win 33 games and earned the second seed in the AISA 3A baseball playoffs. The Warriors host Monroe Academy in a doubleheader in the first round of the AISA state baseball playoffs on Thursday, April 22, at John Meals Field. The first pitch of game one is scheduled at 4 p.m.

LOCALS UP FOR BASKETBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Lee-Scott Sophomore basketball player, Haiden "Shooter" Harper won the Alabama Sports Writers Association AISA Basketball Player of Year last Tuesday at the Renaissance in Montgomery. Harper led the Warriors in scoring on their way to a state championship. Joining Harper was LSA classmate Madison Davis, who was one of the three finalists for Female AISA Player of the Year.

Glenwood's Takala Davis won that award, and Valley's Cam Dooley won the 5A ASWA AHSAA Baseball Player of the year.

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.

BETH GUERTAL

Education Briefs

TUSCALOOSA — Two students from Auburn — Anna Parker and Jahanzeb Rafay — have been named to the University of Alabama’s Capstone Men and Women for 2024-2025. Capstone Men and Women are the official ambassadors of The University of Alabama, assisting the President's Office, Office of Undergraduate Admissions and National Alumni Association in providing tours to prospective students, parents and other campus guests.

TROY — Troy University recognized students for outstanding achievements in academics, leadership and service during the annual Honors Convocation on April 15. Among the honorees were three local students.

Ethan Girona of Smiths Station won the Outstanding Student Award in Economics.

Danielle Nichols of Opelika won the Alpha Epsilon Delta Award and the Beta Beta Beta Leadership and Scholarship Award

Kayla Spencer of Auburn won the Outstanding Human Services Award.

faculty member to receive this honor from AAAS.

Guertal, who spent 29 years in Auburn’s College of Agriculture, represents the AAAS disciplinary section of agriculture, food and renewable resources. Her election letter said she was being honored “for distinguished contributions to the field of soil science, particularly targeting turfgrass fertility, environmental resilience and reduced resource allocation.”

Guertal isn’t the first current or former Auburn

More than 20 Auburn past and present faculty members are fellows. Auburn’s first AAAS Fellow was cotton pathologist George Atkinson in 1892. Before retiring from Auburn in June 2022, Guertal had a renowned career on the Plains. She earned numerous teaching and student advising awards, including the Gerald and Emily Leischuck Endowed Presidential Award for Excellence, Auburn’s highest teaching honor.

She is a former Fulbright fellow and elected fellow of the Crop Science Society of America, the Soil Science Society of America and the American Society of Agronomy. She has been president of the Crop Science Society of America, served as the editor-in-chief for the “Agronomy Journal” and as associate editor for “Crop Science” and the “Soil Science Society of America Journal.”

Guertal retired as the Rowe Endowed Professor in agriculture’s Department

Opelika Power, AMEA award scholarships

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Opelika Power Services and the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) are pleased to announce the local winners of the 2024 AMEA Scholarship Program.

Each year, AMEA awards $2,500 scholarships to high school seniors whose family receives electric service from Opelika Power Services and who will attend an Alabama college, university or vocational school.

This year’s scholarship recipients from Opelika’s service area include Sarah Elizabeth Bush, Hannah Lynn Hudson, Hannah

of Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences and joined the Sustainable Intensification and Innovation Lab at Kansas State University, as program director for its Center of Excellence on Mitigation, Adaptation and Resilience to Climate-Change in Haiti. The role makes her responsible for managing the center’s day-to-day operations, supporting the center’s vision and goals and serving as a leader in the national education, research and outreach community.

Elizabeth Huling and Nolen Palmer Wilson, all of whom are graduating seniors at Opelika High School.

“We are extremely excited to work with such great partners like AMEA, and it’s always great to be able to recognize and reward students for their hard work,” said Brent Poteet, director of Opelika Power Services. “We wish these students the best of luck as they move forward into the world,” “Education is a key important part of a young person’s future,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “We are proud of these students and can’t wait to see what they accomplish over the years.

Also in 2022, she served a one-year assignment with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a Jefferson Science Fellow, one of 15 such fellows selected by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

Guertal’s research focuses on soil fertility issues in turfgrass management. She consults and speaks worldwide on issues in soil fertility in highly managed systems. Guertal obtained her bachelor’s in agriculture and master’s in soil

We’re fortunate to have AMEA and Opelika Power continue this program year after year.”

Since 1992, AMEA and its members have provided more than $3.5 million in scholarships. This year, AMEA will give out a total of $97,500 to a total of 39 winners from among 130 applicants from its service areas.

AMEA, a joint action agency formed in 1981, is the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, which serve approximately 350,000 customers in the cities of Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Foley, LaFayette, Lanett, Luverne, Opelika, Piedmont, Sylacauga and Tuskegee.

science from The Ohio State University and her doctorate in soil science from Oklahoma State University.

Members of the 2023 class will receive a certificate and a gold and blue rosette pin — representing science and engineering, respectively — to commemorate their election and will be celebrated at a forum in September at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. AAAS will also celebrate the program’s 150th anniversary.

ETHAN GIRONA DANIELLE NICHOLS KAYLA SPENCER

AAAS >> from B6

L

labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Inside the State House

Nathaniel Ledbetter is a very powerful Speaker of the House

BY STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

As the 2024 Regular Legislative Session began about three months ago, I had a column entitled “2024 Legislative Session Begins Next Week.”

In that column I highlighted the leadership of the Alabama House and Senate. I said there were three primary leaders, Sen. Greg Reed, Sen. Arthur Orr, and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter. I went on to say the new kid on the block in this triumvirate of power is first term Speaker Ledbetter, who may very well be the most powerful person in the Alabama Legislature.

My prognosis of Ledbetter was confirmed, emphatically, in the first two weeks of the session, when he shepherded the comprehensive gambling, lottery and regulation of gaming out of the House of Representatives like gangbusters. This legislation was essentially the same package that Gov. Kay Ivey proposed two years ago but was unable to garner the votes for passage. It is a Constitutional Amendment, which requires 21 votes in the Senate and 63 votes in the House. In 2022, Ivey got 23 votes for passage in the Senate, but could not muster the votes in the House under Speaker Mac McCutcheon.

The gentleman from Dekalb County, Ledbetter, became Speaker of the House at the beginning of this quadrennium in January 2023. He has molded the House around him. He was

instrumental in electing most of the new members. He has become the leader of the House, not through intimidation or strongarm tactics. The House members just like him, trust him and consider him their friend.

Ledbetter has close allies that hail from his neck of the woods who have become power players around him. Three, in particular, are Andy Whitt (R-Huntsville), Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville), who is the Chairman of the General Fund Ways and Means Committee, and Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Decatur). Rep. Stadthagen has become a real leader as the Republican Majority Leader. He is young and savvy and has a bright future, maybe statewide.

Ledbetter has won the support and trust of the House Democrats, also. I have not seen this kind of bipartisan cooperation and harmony in the lower chamber in a long time, if ever. Ledbetter’s down home, quiet, honest and compassionate leadership is paying big dividends for the success of the legislature. His leadership on this gaming issue is one of the most remarkable performances of any Speaker I have ever seen, and I have seen some strong ones in my day. Speaker Joe McCorquodale was strong. He hailed from Clarke County in the southern part of the Black Belt. Ultimately, McCorquodale took his marching orders from Gov. George Wallace.

I served in the House under the leadership of another Black Belt Speaker, Jimmy Clark. He was a power and was known as the “Bear from Barbour.” He called most of the shots in the House.

Dekalb County actually had a Speaker of the House before Ledbetter. William Beck, a Fort Payne Lawyer, was Speaker under Gov. Big Jim Folsom from 1946 to 1949.

Ledbetter is his own man. He and his fellow House members are representing the vast majority of average Alabamians. They are listening to their constituents, who overwhelmingly want to vote on a lottery. They also know gambling exists everywhere in Alabama, and they believe it needs regulating, and they are also sick and tired of their dollars going to Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee and Florida to educate their children and pave their roads.

Ledbetter dispatched his lieutenants, Whitt and Chris Blackshear (R-Russell), to travel the state and get input from every angle, especially law enforcement. They talked with all 105 House members and got their input. Most importantly, they left all the lobbyists out of the crafting of their package. They omitted the Indian casino gambling lobbyists from the discussions. This group has a monopoly on gambling in Alabama and is the reason the lottery never gets to a vote of the people.

When Ledbetter’s gaming and lottery regulation package hit the floor of the House, it passed 70 to 32. This was an amazing feat, given the fact that the governor could not even get it out of Committee in the House two years ago. This is one of the most impressive displays of leadership I have ever seen from the Speaker of the House. Make no mistake about it, if Alabamians get the much sought after right-tovote on a lottery and regulate gambling in the state, it is because of Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers' weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. steve@ steveflowers.us.

Alabama Secretary of State calls for ban of ranked choice voting

Othe country: the outlawing of ranked-choice voting.

SB 186, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, and HB 423, sponsored by Rep. Mark Shirey, prohibit the use of ranked choice voting in Alabama’s elections, with an exception for electors who vote by absentee ballot pursuant to the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. This bill would help preserve the integrity of our state’s elections process.

Ranked choice voting is a flawed system in which voters must assign a numerical “rank” to each candidate. If no candidate wins a majority outright, the candidate with the least amount of first preference votes is eliminated and the votes are automatically redistributed among the remaining candidates. This process may be repeated until one candidate is assigned a majority of votes. Ranked

choice voting is banned in five states, with several more taking up this issue in legislative sessions around the country.

Ranked choice voting is an excessively confusing and complicated system designed to make winners out of losers. News headlines across the country document the stories of ranked choice voting related problems. There have been instances of thousands of ballots being thrown out in elections conducted using ranked choice voting due to errors caused by voter confusion. Alabama voters deserve to be confident that their ballots are completed correctly and will not be discarded.

In elections that utilize ranked choice voting, the tabulating of election results can take weeks. Alabama voters should receive timely election results as evidence of a fair, secure, and transparent election.

With ranked choice voting, every vote does not count. I commend Sen. Orr and Rep. Shirey for protecting Alabama votes by bringing SB 186 and HB 423 before the Alabama Legislature, and I look forward to the day it is signed into law.

Wes Allen is Alabama’s 54th Secretary of State, the chief elections official. Additionally, Alabama law gives the Secretary of State more than 1,000 different duties. To learn more about these responsibilities, visit www.sos.alabama.gov.

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Pictured in the center is Opelika City Schools Superintendent Farrell Seymore, Price and OHS Prinicpal Kelli Fischer.

day of May 2024 at 10:00 a.m. has been set the time to review the final accounting. Contact the Lee County, Alabama Probate Office for directions to participate electronically. Done this the 18th day of April, 2024. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 04/25/24, 05/02/24 & 05/09/24 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Adoption of: LME (6/16/2020) LME (6/16/2020) JLC (9/5/2018) JJC (7/22/2019) TJC (3/2/2016)

TO: Any and all alleged/unknown fathers Take notice, that Petitions for the Adoption of the children, LME, female child born 6/16/2020; LME, female child born 6/16/2020; JLC, female child born 9/5/2018; JJC, a male child born 7/22/2019; to Jasmine Lynette Erskine at Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery, Alabama and TJC, a female child born 3/2/2016 to Jasmine Lynette Erskine at Vaughan RMCParkway Campus in Selma, Alabama have been filed in this Court by Charles Ballard, III, Amy Renea Ballard and by Gailrenette Patrice Pickett. Your failure to file an answer

to these petitions could result in said Petitions being granted. You must respond in writing within (30) days of the last publication of this notice with counsel for said Petitioners, whose name and address are shown below, and with the Probate Court of the said Lee County, AL in order to contest said petition.

BILL ENGLISH,

Probate Judge

Margaret Ann Mayfield

Attorney for Petitioners

P.O. Box 809

Opelika, Alabama 36803 (334) 745-0333

Legal Run 04/11/24, 04/18/24, 04/25/18 & 05/02/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

In the Matter of Thelma Zachery – an alleged incapacitated person NOTICE OF HEARING:

TO: Any relative or interested party: Lee County DHR has filed a Petition to appoint a Legal Guardian for the person of Thelma Zachary. A hearing has been set for the 15th day of May, 2024, at 10:00 central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of this matter.

Bill English, Lee County

Probate Judge

Margaret Ann Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR P.O. Box 809 Opelika, Alabama 36803 (334) 745-0333

Legal Run 04/11/24, 04/18/24 & 04/25/18

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF HELEN BEATRICE GRANTHAM, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY

ANN HOLMAN

Run 04/11/24, 04/18/24 & 04/25/24

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of April, 2024, 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 5th day of April, 2024.

–2013 Ford F-150 Legal Run 04/18/2024 & 04/25/2024

STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2024-184 RE: ESTATE OF WILBURN LEE MAPLES., DECEASED: NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

Plaintiff, v.

LOPEZ,

CASE NO.: 43-DV-2023-901070

OF ACTION TO: Chayn Lopez, Defendant, Named Above, whose whereabouts are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence: You are hereby notified that on the 13th day of November, 2023, a Complaint was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding a tortious injury allegedly caused by your negligence that occurred on or about December 25, 2022. By reason of an Order for service of a summons by publication entered by the Court in this cause on April 15, 2024, you are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint and file such response with the with the Clerk of said Court and serve upon Kenneth S. Nugent, PC, attorneys for the party to this action whose address is 1234 First Avenue, Suite 200, Columbus, Georgia, 31901, on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice. If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. This the 16th day of April, 2024. Mary Roberson, Clerk of Circuit Court, Lee County Legal Run 04/25/24, 05/02/24, 05/09/24 & 05/16/24

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision. Contact Shiquita Fulton, M.ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

construction of the McCoy Street Improvements 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 May 21, 2024, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered.

Case No: 2024-213 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 8th day of April, 2024, 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.

JOHN E. CURRY Personal Representative

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345

Legal Run 04/25/24, 05/02/24 & 05/09/24

INVITATION TO BID

24020

Sealed bids for the

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 §348-1, 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

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS IS NOW 'MomCO'

MOPS International changed its name from MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers to MomCo to include moms of children of all ages. Contact Rachel Elrod at (706) 244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner or Pastor Josh Elliott at (334) 745-3108 for information on upcoming meetings.

NAMI OFFERS VIRTUAL PROGRAM FOR FAMILIES DEALING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

NAMI of East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. NAMI of Alabama is providing a virtual family education program (on zoom) beginning May 9, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The NAMI Family-to-Family Program is a free eight-week educational program for families and significant others of people with a mental health condition. The program is peer lead by individuals who have been through similar situations, provides information and strategies for taking care of the person you love. Registration is required. Email laurajnh@gmail.com or call 205-267-2986 for more information.

AUBURN — On

Responding officers determined that the suspects fled to a nearby residence.

During the assault, the victim reported being threatened with a knife, and the suspects took property from the victim.

Auburn Police Department detectives responded and executed a search warrant at the residence. Diego Soza and Luis Soza were located inside and detained.

D. Soza and L. Soza were identified as the suspects that robbed the victim, and after further investigation, both were charged with robbery first degree.

D. Soza and L. Soza were transported to the Lee County Jail and held without bond pending further judicial review.

OHS student arrested for bringing weapon on campus

DIEGO