The Observer 04-27-2023

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OPELIKA —

A prayer circle formed in front of the fountain in Opelika's Courthouse Square late Monday afternoon as community members gathered to offer up prayers for the healing of the vicitms of

the Dadeville mass shooting event on April 15. Two Opelika High School students are still hospitalized with injuries sustained during the shooting.

Crystal Presley, the aunt of Keaijah "Ciyah" Robinson — one of the OHS students — was present Monday night and thanked

First Hearing for Shooting Suspects Held in Dadeville

DADEVILLE —

Tuesday morning, April 26, five of six defendants in the April 15 Dadeville shooting had bail hearings. At this time, three of the defendants are being tried as adults, the other three as juveniles.

The hearing began at the Dadeville courthouse and three of the defendants were seated: Willie George Brown Jr., 19, of Auburn; Johnny Letron Brown, age 20, of Tuskegee; and Wilson LaMar Hill Jr., age 20, of Auburn.

The other two defendants, Tyreese “Ty Reik” McCullough, age 17, and Travis McCullough, age 16, both of Tuskegee,

participated in their hearing following the first three. Since they are being tried as juveniles, an audience was not allowed to be present.

The sixth, a 15-year-old from Macon County, was not present.

Jesse Thornton, State Bureau of Investigation special agent for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and case lead for the

Gun Crimes Task Force Created in Lee

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

investigation, was the first to take the stand.

According to his account, on the night of April 15, a 16th birthday party was held at Mahogany Dance Studio in the 200 block of Broadnax Street.

The room where the party was held was not very big, only 38 by 26 feet — one

LEE COUNTY — The Auburn Police Department (APD), Opelika Police Department (OPD), Lee County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) and the Lee County District Attorney's Office (LCDAO) have partnered to create the Metro Gun Crimes Task Force (MGCTF). The task force will combine resources from each agency, allowing teams to focus on reducing gun crimes across the Lee County area.

In November 2022, the Auburn Police Department was awarded a federal "Project Safe Neighborhood" grant totaling more than $254,000. The grant is designed to help law enforcement reduce gun crimes in the community through innovative law enforcement technology and procedures. As such, APD used the grant to obtain advanced forensic equipment and enroll in the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) See CRIME, page A2

P H O T O S B Y R O B E R T N O L E S T H E O B S E R V E R Community
Injured
Thursday, April 27, 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Opelika, Alabama Vol. 15, No. 29
Prays for
Students
FRED ERi CK-DEAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY Compassion • Integrity • Tradition 334-745-4667 On-site Crematory Now Open Find Us Online: O O IN THIS ISSUE BUSINESS NEWS A3 | SOCIETY A7 | OBITUARIES A15 | COMICS A16 SPORTS B1 | POLITICS B9 | PUBLIC NOTICES B12 | PUZZLES B15 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.' NOON TUNES START MAY 3 AT NOON IN COURTHOUSE SQUARE TURN TO A3
Members of the community (pictured above) gathered near the fountain at Courthouse Square Monday afternoon to pray for the students that are recovering from injuries sustained during the April 15 shooting in Dadeville. Two Opelika High School students remain in the hospital. People also prayed for the families that lost loved ones and for everyone impacted by the event. Pictured top left, Crystal Presley, Robinson's aunt receives hug from a friend.
County
See PRAYER, page A2 See HEARING, page A3
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Pictured from left to right are Tyreese McCullough, Wilson Hill Jr., Travis McCullough, Willie Brown Jr. and Johnny Brown. The sixth suspect is an unnamed juvenile.

Lee County Relay For Life Set for April 28 in Opelika

CONTRIBUTED BY

LEE COUNTY — Lee County’s Relay for Life, a community event to raise money and support those fighting cancer, is set for Friday, April 28, at 6 p.m. around the Lee County Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika.

This year’s theme is “Moving Relay for Life Forward Because Every Step Brings Hope.”

“Fighting cancer is personal, and it’s something almost everyone can share in because we all know someone who has been affected by cancer,” said Debra Causey, a two-time cancer survivor who is serving as co-chair of Lee County Relay for Life with her husband, Randy Causey. “Joining with those who are fighting the disease, whether they have been diagnosed or because a loved one or friend has,

brings us together as one group for a cause we can all get behind.”

To date, 31 teams have raised nearly half of the $100,000 goal. Business sponsorships are available, and it’s not too late to register a team, give and volunteer, Randy said.

The following is a breakdown of the event activities.

• The opening ceremony will begin at 6 p.m.

• The Survivor’s

Walk, where each survivor introduces themselves and tells how long they’ve survived cancer, will follow the opening ceremony.

• Next is the Caregiver’s Lap, in which caregivers join with survivors to signify the importance of the role of caregivers — and that no one journeys alone.

• Teams then begin their walks with the goal of one member walking in support of

cancer survivors.

• A Luminaria Ceremony will begin at 9 p.m. The walkway will be lined with lighted bags decorated to honor those fighting cancer and remembering those who have passed away.

It is a solemn walk in which participants are asked to quietly walk a lap. Luminary bags can be purchased in advance or the night of Relay for $5 each.

In addition, a Survivors Reception will

precede the opening ceremony, from 5 to 5:45 p.m. near the fountain. All survivors are welcome, and they will join together after welcoming ceremonies to walk the first lap. During Relay, games, activities, entertainment and fundraising opportunities will continue throughout the event. For more information, visit www.relayforlife. org/leeal, or check Facebook at leecountyrelay.

PRAYER >>

from A1

the community for its support during the last week.

"Keaijah has been through a lot; she is traumatized," Presley said. "I just want to thank everybody for their love and support. You never really know that you

have [that] love and support until it hits home."

Brittney Howell, the organizer of the gathering, said that she has enjoyed working with Robinson in the band.

"I met her when helping with the band, and she is a very outspoken person and for this to happen to one of

our kids, whether [they] be from band or whatever, it affects not just her but all of us," Howell said. "She is awesome, never have trouble out of her. I am glad to hear that her spirit is still the same. I hope that she will be able to attend the [band] banquet."

CRIME >> from A1

National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).

NIBIN is a nationwide network that will allow MGCTF investigators to rapidly track and link seized firearm evidence to other crimes across the Southeast region. For example, if investigators seize a shell casing from a crime scene in any of their respective jurisdictions, they can rapidly enter the evidence into NIBIN and potentially connect the case to another crime committed with the same firearm in a neighboring city, county or state. While housed at APD, all agencies participating in the MGCTF will have investigators trained in the use of NIBIN with 24/7 access to the system.

In addition to NIBIN training, all officers participating in the MGCTF will be required to attend additional training focused on legal issues, de-escalation techniques, implicit bias

awareness and proper tactics for criminal interdiction and patrol.

"Local law enforcement agencies partnering to address and prevent gun crimes is a proactive effort that can't be measured, but will be impactful,” said APD Chief Cedric Anderson. “We are grateful for the partnership.”

"There are many challenges facing public safety in our communities, state and nation,” said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. “The prevalence of violent acts involving firearms is a major concern to all and has visited tragedy on our largest cities down to our smallest of towns. Our local agencies, through this task force, will be able to combine efforts and utilize state-of-the-art technology to increase our efficiency and effectiveness to identify and apprehend violent offenders in the overall goal of protecting our citizens.”

"As the police chief for the city of Opelika, I am always looking for ways

to make our city safer,” said OPD Chief Shane Healey. “By coordinating our enforcement efforts, this task force becomes a force multiplier for our local agencies. By combining efforts and working together, we hope to drastically reduce the number of illegal guns that are on the streets in our communities."

“Firearms in combination with a criminal mindset are a real and present threat to the safety of every member of our community,” said Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere. “By working together, our local law enforcement agencies will have a greater impact on reducing criminal activity, particularly gun crimes, all across Lee County. The Lee County District Attorney's Office will be supporting law enforcement in their efforts, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this task force will have on the overall safety of our communities.”

A2
The Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the editor at 334-749-8003. CORRECTIONS LIVE LEE EDITOR | Hannah Lester MARKETING | Woody Ross PHOTOJOURNALIST | Robert Noles SPORTS EDITOR | Wil Crews SPORTS WRITER | D. Mark Mitchell STAFF REPORTER | Kendyl Hollingsworth 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. The Observer is published weekly by Key Media LLC, 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Observer, 223-A S. 8th St.,, Opelika, AL 36801 www.opelikaobserver.com PHONE: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com PUBLISHER | Michelle Key Exp. Date: • $40 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $50 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) • Name: Address: City: State: ZIP: Phone number: Email address: The Observer 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Please do not send cash through the mail. Payment Type (circle one): Check / Credit Card Visa or Master Card # Amount Paid: Security Code: / Return to: Subscribe to The Observer today!
April 27, 2023
LEE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE
The photos above are from the 2022 Relay for Life event that was held in downtown Opelika at Courthouse Square. This year's event will be held on April 28.
P H O T O S B Y R O B E R T N O L E S / T H E O B S E R V E R P H O T O S B Y R O B E R T N O L E S T H E O B S E R V E R
Members of the community gathered to form a prayer circle on behalf of those injured in April 15 mass-shooting in Dadeville.

East Alabama Health Spotlights Compassion in April Update

CONTRIBUTED BY EAST ALABAMA HEALTH

OPELIKA —

April was a busy month at East Alabama Health (EAH).

EAH EMPLOYEES EARN FELLOWSHIPS, RECOGNITION FROM NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Three East Alabama Health employees have been recognized for their exceptional commitment and dedication to providing

high-quality, compassionate health care by earning credentials from national organizations and landing prestigious fellowships.

Chuck Beams, executive director and chief pharmacy officer, was one of 21 pharmacy leaders who recently received the Certified Pharmacy Executive Leader (CPELSM) credential from the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP).

“It was an absolute honor for me to earn this credential and be able to meet and learn from other pharmacy leaders from around the nation,” Beams said. “This credential and learning experience has allowed me to build connections with other industry executives to find new ways to provide our patients and employees with better experiences.”

The CPELSM recognizes commitment to achieving

Noon Tunes Concert Series Returns in May

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA —

Starting this week, celebrate the arrival of summer as you join every Wednesday in May at Courthouse Square in Opelika for a free lunchtime concert.

Bring a brown bag lunch (or purchase lunch from a local restaurant), a quilt or lawn chair and relax by the fountain for an hour of unforgettable musical entertainment. South State Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts.

The 2023 Noon Tunes schedule is as follows:

MAY 3: MURRAY

BROWN BAND

Richard Murray and Rusty Brown play Country, Rock and Easy Listening. Recently they have been working with songwriters out of Muscle Shoals and working on a new CD. You can catch them playing around Auburn/Opelika and Lake Martin area playing weddings, corporate events, private parties and festivals. Find them on Facebook! Music makes the world go round.

MAY 10: LARCUS FULLER

room with a bathroom and another small room to the side, Thornton said. There was only one entrance and exit, the two main doors, which swing inward rather than outward.

According to Thornton, witnesses reported there were 50 to 60 people at the party and the lights were dim.

He said he received a call around midnight from Lt. Steve Arrington that shots had been fired at the party, and when he arrived around 2 a.m. many local law enforcement agencies, including ALEA, the Opelika Police Department, the Auburn Police Division, police from Chambers County, Dadeville and the Tallapoosa Sheriff’s Department were assisting.

It was a “busy crime scene,” he said.

There were four deceased victims present: Marsiah Collins, 19, of Opelika; Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23, of Dadeville; Philstavious Dowdell, 18, of Camp Hill; and Shaunkivia Nicole Smith, 17, of Dadeville.

There was “blood

Country and light rock songs that make you want to sing along.

MAY 17: MARTHA’S TROUBLE

Jen & Rob Slocumb are living their musical dream. Some of the most influential and wellrespected music critics have paid tribute to the duo. They have been listed and featured in Billboard Magazine, USA Today, AOL Music, XM Satellite Radio and Performing Songwriter. Their songs have received multiple awards, including Best Americana Album of the Year by Just Plain Folk Awards, their “Christmas Light” recording was selected as one of USA Today’s Top Holiday Albums, their cover of

everywhere,” Thornton said. Found at the scene were 89 shell casings from four types of guns: 9 mm, .42-caliber, .45-caliber and .40-caliber.

All were handguns, Thornton said, and there is no evidence of semiautomatic rifles, commonly referred to as assault rifles.

However one to two of the guns had been altered to include a switch, Thornton said, which is illegal.

According to witnesses, “it sounded like a machine gun.”

The majority of shell casings, more than 60, were found in the back right corner of the room. Two firearms were recovered on the scene, Thornton said.

One was found on Holston, sitting on his chest, “almost like it was placed there.” This was a 9 mm gun.

The second was found on Collins’ body, inside his clothes, and it was later confirmed that this gun had not been fired.

The four deceased were lying side by side near the front of the room, Thornton said.

When questioned, Thornton said that he had not witnessed a scene like this — “not of this magnitude” — nor so many

and maintaining excellence in professionalism, leading people, leading the pharmacy enterprise and leading within and across complex health care systems.

Launched in 2021 as the first of its kind in pharmacy leadership, the CPELSM acknowledges the unique expertise of pharmacy executive leaders. To be recognized, pharmacists must have a minimum of five years of progressive

and sustained leadership experience, including significant managerial oversight in a health care organization resulting in advancing pharmacy practice and positive patient outcomes.

Beams also completed a four-day capstone at ASHP headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland, to demonstrate achievement of validated CPEL leadership and professional competencies. Participants took part in

progressive problem-solving exercise during the capstone.

“I’m very thankful for the support East Alabama Health has given me,” Beams said. “Over the years, EAH has been committed to giving me opportunities to learn and grow in my career; this is another excellence example of that commitment. I am the leader I am today because of their investment in me.”

See EAH, page A5

Music Swings into Opelika This Summer

OPELIKA —

and relaxation. For more information, please call 334-705-5560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.

“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was selected as one of Billboard Magazine’s Top 10 Cover Songs, and their recordings have been featured in several madefor-TV movies. Martha’s Trouble will also be playing at Summer Swing on July 25.

MAY 24: MUSE

Easy listening, vocal oriented acoustic soft rock played as only Muse can. Together for 44 years, Muse will perform fan favorites by artists such as the Eagles, Beatles, CSN, James Taylor, Van Morrison, Little Big Town, Jason Isbell and more. Muse will also be performing at Summer

Every Tuesday evening, beginning May 2, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department will host a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. This 14week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, oldies, country, big band swing, folk and community band music.

The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. South State Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts.

Community partners for Summer Swing include the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, The Observer, WKKR 97.7 and FOX Sports the Game 910-1310

AM.

The 2023 Summer Swing schedule is as follows:

MAY 2: OHS WIND

ENSEMBLE, SYMPHONIC BAND AND JAZZ BAND

This evening’s concert will begin early at 6:30 p.m.

the Southeast. For over 37 years, this horndriven group of local professionals has been delivering its eclectic mix of soul, Americana, R&B, Motown and rock classics in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others. Do not miss this rare opportunity to experience Kidd Blue in an outdoor public performance. Follow the band on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ KiddBlueBand.

MAY 23: CONNER LORRE –NEIL DIAMOND & FRIENDS

The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with a long, rich history, has been restored and will be back on the tracks for complimentary rides.

Attendees are advised to come early. Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship

The Opelika High School Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and Jazz Band will play a wide variety of music ranging from jazz to rock to movie soundtracks.

MAY 9: LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY JAZZ BAND

The band will perform jazz, swing rock, ballads and more.

MAY 16: KIDD BLUE

Formed right on Toomer’s Corner in 1985 and led and inspired by the late great Opelika native, Robert Orr, Kidd Blue continues to bring its "new old soul" to parties and events throughout

Conner Lorre’s spectacular recreation of Neil Diamond’s voice has been receiving standing ovations nationwide, including his show at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. Lorre delivers stunningly accurate voice impressions of Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, John Denver, Jimmy Buffett, Elton John, Alan Jackson, Lee Greenwood and many more. Lorre is one of Opelika’s favorite entertainers. This show is guaranteed to captivate Opelika again this year. Keep up with Lorre at See SUMMER, page A6 See TUNES, page A6

local law enforcement agencies involved in one case during his career.

According to witness and defendant statements, the defendants were at the party.

According to their accounts, the party was on social media and they saw information about it there.

At one point during the party, a speaker stand fell, causing a loud bang, and at this time, several in the party showed that they were carrying firearms, according to Thornton’s testimony. Following that, an adult made an announcement that anyone over 18 or possessing a gun needed to leave.

According to witness statements, it appears Holston may have shot first and was wearing a mask, Thornton said. Many of the witnesses said that they didn’t see the shooting but could tell the direction from which gunfire was coming from.

Five of the six defendants have admitted to being at the party and to shooting, Thornton said. However, Willie has not admitted to firing a weapon.

Despite this, there was a shooting in Auburn where shell casings were discovered. These shells

match shells found on the scene that are linked to Willie and a .40-caliber gun, Thornton said.

During questioning, Thornton confirmed that the attendants had been at the party for at least an hour and would have heard the adult’s announcement about firearms.

From statements, Thornton said they have determined that all the defendants know each other or are related.

According to statements from defendants, five if not all six of the defendants met together in Tallassee, after the shooting, Thornton said.

He said that he believes the three [adult] defendants pose a threat to the community and a flight risk if released on bail.

Anna Parker, defense attorney for Hill, asked Thornton questions about the defendants sticking around after the shooting, which he confirmed.

Thornton said there was an individual who had been shot that they all knew that they were helping. Hill was picked up at his house and didn’t resist arrest. A search warrant of his father’s home, where Hill lived, revealed a firearm that belonged to his father. The

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has not revealed whether this gun was involved or any connection to Hill.

Parker confirmed that the room was not well-lit and that there were 50 to 60 people in attendance at the party.

“Is it possible that potential witnesses may not have accurately seen things?” she asked. Thornton confirmed it was possible.

George Bulls, defense attorney for Willie, asked Thornton to confirm that there are not any current witness statements that say Willie shot a gun at the party, which he did confirm. Any statements made about Willie were made by those charged.

While there are statements from witnesses of people flashing guns, Willie was not one of them.

Willie approached police willingly, though Thornton said that while he did give a statement, he wasn’t forthcoming with information.

The defense attorney for Johnny asked if Holston had been tested for gun residue, and Thornton said he didn’t believe so.

The attorney also asked if

there was any indication of the six meeting before the party; Thornton said there was not.

The second witness to take the stand was Lakeitha Macon, Hill’s mother.

She testified that the charges brought against Hill are out of character and that he was “absolutely not” a flight risk. She also said he had never been in trouble with the law and that he could reside with her, or live with her under house arrest.

The third and final witness of the public portion of the hearing was Michael McCullough, of Auburn. He was called to the stand by Bulls.

Michael, 17, testified that he is a stepbrother to Willie and that they left from Willie’s house on April 15 for the party. He said that on the way they picked up Travis.

At this time, Bulls said they would resume his testimony at a later time and the court was recessed for 30 minutes.

Following the recess, a closed hearing was held for Travis and Tyreese.

The judge has 42 hours to release a decision, so at the time of publication, information was not available on final decisions.

A3 April 27, 2023
P H O T O B Y R O B E R T N O L E S / T H E O B S E R V E R
Mark True performs at Noon Tunes during a previous year. CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA
HEARINGS >> from A1

Alabama Road Builders Association Names New Executive Director

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

MONTGOMERY —

The Alabama Road Builders Association (ARBA) last week announced Skip Powe, P.E. will lead the organization as its new executive director.

Powe, who started in the role Feb. 27, brings over 30 years of experience in construction and contract administration. Prior to coming to the ARBA, he served approximately two and a half years as principal for Nashville-based engineering, commissioning and technology firm Smith Seckman Reid (SSR), overseeing its expansion into the Alabama and Arkansas transportation engineering markets. Powe’s roots are in Alabama, where he served for 28 years in the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), retiring in 2020 as state construction engineer. During his tenure with the agency, Powe oversaw all federal-aid and state-funded construction projects, including the rebuild of I-59/20 for Birmingham’s Central Business District, and served as construction subject matter expert for

the development of ALDOT’s Construction and Materials Management System (CAMMS).

“The experience Skip brings to the table will strengthen our association’s relationship with ALDOT,” said 2023 ARBA President Frank Murphree. “ARBA feels confident that a strong connection with the agency is key to a strong highway program and helps provide the best value we can to our most important customer, the taxpayers of the state of Alabama.”

Powe is a member of the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE) and currently serves on the Innovative Construction Technologies (ICT) Technical Subcommittee for AASHTO’s Committee on Construction (COC).

“Skip Powe simply checked all the boxes,” added 2022 ARBA President John Whitman.

“Through his involvement as state construction engineer and later as an active member of ARBA, Skip possesses all the tools needed to lead the association.”

Powe has been involved with the COC since

WoodmenLife Rep Earns Professional Honor

2011, including various chairman and leadership roles. With his experience leading the way nationally with the implementation of e-Ticketing, he currently serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for FHWA’s EDC-6 e-Ticketing Implementation Team in addition to the several e-Ticketing research work groups.

“It is an honor to be named executive director,” Powe said. “To think that I am only the sixth person to serve in this role as the association enters its 76th year is humbling. I understand the work of our members and have strong relationships with them, as well as with ALDOT and county personnel across the state.

I am thankful to the board for trusting me to lead this association, and I am excited to follow in the footsteps of our previous executive directors as we move the industry forward ‘on the road ahead Building Alabama’s Future.”’

Powe completed his Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Auburn University in 1993 and is a licensed professional engineer in Alabama and Arkansas.

CONTRIBUTED BY WOODMEN LIFE AUBURN —

Farris Bondurant, a sales representative of WoodmenLife for this area, has qualified for membership in the Million Dollar Round Table, the premier association of financial professionals.

Founded in 1927, the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) is a global, independent association of more than 62,000 of the world's leading life insurance and financial services professionals from more than 500 companies in 70 nations and territories. MDRT members demonstrate exceptional professional knowledge, strict ethical conduct and outstanding client service. MDRT membership is recognized internationally as the standard of excellence in the life insurance and financial services business. Bondurant has

FARRIS BONDURANT

been a WoodmenLife Representative for 25 years. His office is located at 166 N. Gay St., Suite 12, in Auburn. For more information about MDRT or WoodmenLife, contact Bondurant at 334-821-5050.

ABOUT WOODMENLIFE

WoodmenLife was founded in 1890 as a nonprofit. The organization gives back to its members across the country, who join together in

Opelika Slam Dunks the Junk

a shared commitment to family, community and country. With a legacy of financial stability, WoodmenLife offers quality life insurance and retirement products. A person becomes a member when they purchase a WoodmenLife product. Members have access to many extras they can use now. To learn more about the organization, visit newsroom.WoodmenLife.org.

A4 April 27, 2023
Through its "Don't Be An Ope-Loser!" campaign, the city of Opelika hosted its annual Slam Dunk the Junk event in an effort to further educate and encourage visitors and citizens to keep the community clean. Opelika High School students painted trash cans which were placed around the city as a symbolic reminder of the event, and volunteering citizens gathered Saturday morning, April 22, at Courthouse Square in Opelika to be given the necessary supplies to pick up litter around a specific location in the city. A wellness fair was also present at Courthouse Square, along with prize giveaways and a snack for any who returned with collected trash.
P H O T O S B Y R O B E R T N O L E S / T H E O B S E R V E R

EAH >>

from A3

Chelsea Kroll, social worker at the Spencer Cancer Center, was selected along with five others to make up the 2023 class of Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) fellows. Kroll also began her term on the AOSW Board of Directors in January 2023 as the director at-large for Special Interest Groups.

“It’s an honor for me to be selected as an AOSW fellow for 2023,” Kroll said. “AOSW is such a vital organization within the oncology arena, and I look forward to continuing to serve the membership by upholding our values of leadership, education and mentorship.”

The AOSW is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement of psychosocial services to people with cancer and their families. The fellowship is awarded to individuals who have

made great contributions to the science and practice of psychosocial oncology.

Keith Matthews, a nurse practitioner at Unity Wellness Clinic and graduate student in Auburn University’s College of Nursing, has been awarded the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship for 2023.

Matthews’ work at Unity Wellness, an AIDS Service Organization, is what earned him the prestigious fellowship. He said he hopes to use the fellowship to develop future projects and students that will have an impact on the treatment and treatment outcomes of patients afflicted with HIV.

“Being selected for the Schweitzer Fellowship is a tremendous honor,” Matthews said. “I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I was chosen.”

Founded in fall 2015, the Alabama Fellows Program is one of 13 active Schweitzer programs across the U.S. dedicated to developing a pipeline of emerging

professionals who enter the workforce with skills and commitment necessary to address unmet health needs.

“The thing I am looking forward to is being able to work and connect with some of the best and brightest across various specialties in health care,” Matthews said.

“All are passionate about serving underserved populations, and our projects will help find ways to improve their overall health while increasing access to care.”

Alabama Schweitzer Fellows are competitively chosen from students enrolled in graduate and professional schools around the state who demonstrate a passion for cultivating positive change in Alabama communities where the need is greatest.

ALSOBROOK BELL OFFERS HOPE & INSPIRATION TO COMMUNITY

Greeting visitors as they enter the Spencer Cancer Center is a large, shiny brass bell offering these instructions: Ring this bell for courage, strength or hope.

Ring for blessings, big or small.

The bell is in memory of O.D. Alsobrook III, by his wife Colleen, and was installed in February.

“O.D. was a very giving person with a positive attitude,” Colleen said. “I think he would love that people can ring the bell that was given in his memory, for any reason to celebrate.”

O.D. served on the EAMC Foundation board, and both he and Colleen were instrumental in helping raise funds for the Spencer Cancer Center. He assisted in raising funds to support medical services for the underserved. After his passing, Colleen took O.D.’s place on the Foundation board.

“O.D. served on the foundation board primarily because EAMC had meant so much to me for over 40 years,” Colleen joked, as she has worked in many roles at EAMC over her career.

Colleen said she hopes that anyone who needs something to lift their spirits

as they enter the Spencer Cancer Center, regardless of their situation, gives the Alsobrook bell a ring.

AUBURN FOOTBALL STAFF VISITS EAST ALABAMA PATIENTS, STAFF DURING TIGERS GIVE BACK DAY

Auburn football’s coaching staff stepped off the gridiron and into the halls of East Alabama Medical Center April 11 to lend their support to patients and offer their appreciation to the hospital’s dedicated health care workers.

Coaches Hugh Freeze, Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, Phillip Montgomery, Ron Roberts, Ben Aigamaua, Josh Aldridge, Marcus Davis, Zac Etheridge, Jeremy Garrett, Wesley McGriff and Jake Thornton visited with patients and staff on the second and fifth floors, as well as the Skilled Nursing Facility.

The visit was part of the university’s Tigers Give Back community service day, an initiative that gives coaches and staff a chance

to participate in community projects and uplift their neighbors.

ABOUT EAST ALABAMA

HEALTH

East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier in Valley, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinics and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 314-bed regional referral hospital with a 26-bed Skilled Nursing Facility, while EAMC-Lanier provides inpatient services as well as a nursing home, an acute rehab unit, senior behavioral health and an ambulatory surgery center. East Alabama Health employs about 3,500 people and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University. For more information, visit www.eastalabamahealth. org.

A5 April 27, 2023
Left: The Alsobrook Bell is picyured at the Spencer Cancer Center. Middle: Auburn football coaches pay a visit to EAMC. Right: EAMC employees Chuck Beams, Chelsea Kroll and Keith Matthews recently received honors and recognition.

TUNES >> from A3

Swing on June 6. MAY 31: STRAWBERRY WHINE

Mark Wilson and Jessica Walters perform music from today's country artists such as Allison Krauss, Sugarland and Kenny Chesney. The fatherdaughter duo also performs tunes from classic rock artists such as the Allman Brothers, Eagles and Tom Petty. You can catch Crossroads at the Summer Swing Concert Series on June 13.

Community partners for Noon Tunes include the Opelika Chamber, The Observer, WKKR 97.7, MIX 96.7 and FOX SPORTS THE GAME 910-1310 AM.

SUMMER >> from A3

www.ConnerLorre.com and www.facebook.com/ TheVoxStar.

MAY 30: BILL J. BROOKS –ELVIS & FRIENDS CONCERT

Bill Brooks is a toprated tribute artist in the Southeast. His show is always dynamic, entertaining and familyfriendly. Elvis & Friends begins and ends with familiar Elvis songs, and the middle consists of songs done by friends of Elvis such as Johnny Cash, T.G. Sheppard, Tom Jones and others. Spectators are sure to enjoy this dynamic show.

JUNE 6: MUSE

This is Muse’s 32nd year on the Summer Swing bandstand with easy listening, vocal-oriented acoustic soft rock played as only Muse can. Together for 44 years, Muse will perform fan favorites by artists such as the Eagles, Beatles, CSN, James Taylor, Van Morrison, Little Big Town, Jason Isbell and more.

JUNE 13: CROSSROADS

Crossroads is a sixpiece variety band that covers many country and classic rock hits. The band performs selections from artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Linda Ronstadt, REM and the Eagles, as well as Carrie Underwood, Sugarland and Martina McBride. Crossroads

produces smooth vocal harmonies and provides audiences with a unique, varied and entertaining experience. More info can be found at facebook.com/ auburncrossroadsband.

JUNE 20: ROUTE 66

This energetic group plays it all: oldies, pop, rock and dance music. Audience participation is encouraged. Join the “Monkey Park dancers” on the grass around the stage as they dance, blow bubbles and have a great time.

JUNE 27: DAVE POTTS

Dave Potts is an acoustic singer/songwriter, performing a mix of his original music along with folk and country favorites.

JULY 4: NO CONCERT

JULY 11: FEDORAS

This acoustic duo plays folk, pop and bluegrass tunes the whole family will enjoy.

JULY 18: JAMES BROWN TRIO

The James Brown Trio is a Southern gospel group that will have your toes tapping and heart stirring to songs from the past as well as current tunes that are soon to be classics.

The namesake — James Brown — started the group 20 years ago with Charles Story and Adam Traylor, but since the deaths of James and Charles, the trio has continued the tradition of good ol’ Southern gospel music with new members. Today the trio consists of Adam and Teel Traylor,

as well as Kevin Webb from Auburn. You will not want to miss this group’s harmonious sounds beneath the beautiful summer night sky.

JULY 25: MARTHA’S TROUBLE

Jen and Rob Slocumb are living their musical dream. While building their family, they have continued to write and play music, producing about a dozen albums and touring around the country and the world. And their work has not gone unnoticed. Some of the most influential and wellrespected music critics have paid tribute to the duo.

AUG. 1: BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

Enjoy a final concert as we bid summer farewell.

A6
27, 2023
April

S Food ociety & News

S ociety & News vents, E

Rebuilt 1905 Watoola Methodist Church Prepares For Barbecue, Bake Sale

SHouthernospitality

While the exterior of the Watoola Methodist Church looks similar to how it did in 1905 when it was constructed, the original building was damaged by the tornado in Beauregard in 2019 and rebuilt. As members prepare for their annual “old time” Barbecue and Bake Sale event on May 20, the landscape looks completely different with the ancient walnut and oak trees

now gone, as well as most of the brick barbecue pit.

History of the Watoola Methodist Church goes back to the 1830s when Flora Fraser (1755-1846), from Scotland, built a shelter of worship on Watoola Creek.

The name “Watoola” means “living waters.”

Jane Capps researched the church history from records compiled by Sara Capps, who was a member. In the Uchee Uprising of 1836,

three Native Americans died protecting 81-year-old Fraser. She had the braves buried on a hill overlooking Watoola Creek, which was the beginning of Watoola Cemetery.

In 1837, the Rev. James Wesley Capps came from Georgia to Watoola Creek with his wife and two children, Katherine Ann Capps and William Moss Capps. The following year, the Rev. Capps assisted in

‘The Cake’ Serves Up Fresh Slice of Faith, Family, Fortune

CONTRIBUTED BY SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE

COLUMBUS, GA —

A new comedy-drama, “The Cake,” opened on the Springer’s Dorothy McClure stage April 20, and will run through April 30.

Known for her emotional and thoughtprovoking plays and television series such as “This Is Us,” the playwright, Bekah Brunstetter, has written a sweet story that explores the complexities of love, faith-based business decisions and family relationships.

Director Rebecca Gossett has anticipated opening night ever since the production was selected for the

Springer’s Studio II season.

“Bekah Brunstetter has the ability to get to the heart of incredibly complex emotions with thoughtful writing that explores multiple angles with sensitivity and compassion,” Gossett said. “The characters are flawed yet relatable. This script doesn’t just paint a character with broad strokes; instead they’re nuanced human beings with believable strengths and weaknesses. At the end of the day, we are more than just our choices if we can learn to grow from them.”

The story follows Della, a conservative, competitive baker in North Carolina who finds herself in a dilemma

when asked to bake a cake for the same-sex wedding of her best friend’s daughter. Della’s faith and beliefs are put to the test as she struggles to reconcile her personal views with the needs of her business and her love for the couple. The play deals with mature themes and includes content that may not be suitable for all audiences. However, it is a deeply human story that explores the struggles we face in our relationships with one another and the difficult decisions we sometimes have to make.

“I am very proud of this production,” said Danielle Varner,

See SPRINGER page A8

building a cabin of worship on land donated by John Andrew and Mary Green. The Rev. Capps served as the first pastor of Watoola UMC. His son, William Moss Capps, became

preacher in 1848 after his father’s death. John Dupree, who moved to Watoola around 1839, assisted the Rev. Capps. In 1845, Watoola was on a circuit with 13 other Methodist

churches.

In 1905 the original church was built. Walt Dupree cut logs at his sawmill to contribute toward

Fishing Rodeo Set for May 13

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / SARAH COOK

AUBURN —

The 29th annual Fishing Rodeo will take place on Saturday, May 13, from 7 to 11 a.m. at the lake at Auburn Technology Park South. This event is

hosted by Auburn Parks and Recreation and is sponsored by Evans Realty.

The cost of the event is $5 per child and is open to kids ages 1 to 14. Online registration opened Monday, April 10, for Auburn residents. Anyone outside of

Auburn may register as of Monday, April 24. Every participant must be preregistered; there will be no registration the day of the event. The first 175 children registered will receive a free

See FISH, page A8

“Our Mission is Yo ur He alth” 334-364-9993 |334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51,Suite A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com Mon-Fri 8am–6pm |Sat 9am–12pm |Sunday Closed BEAU REGARD DRUGS •DriveThru Only •Regular Operating Hours •Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait WE DELIVER! Piedmont Fertilizer Co. Inc. 201 2nd Ave. • Opelika, AL SINCE 1910 Nothing better for your lawn exists UPCOMING EVENTS APRIL 28 | LEE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE APRIL 29 | ALABAMA ARTISTS FESTIVAL APRIL 29 | AUBURN CITY FEST APRIL 29 - 30 | FROZEN:THE BROADWAY MUSICAL MAY 2 | SUMMER SWING MAY 3 | NOON TUNES MAY 4 | SUNDOWN CONCERT SERIES
The Watoola Methodist Church Barbecue and Bake Sale will be held May 20 from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Barbecue pork and chicken will be served with cole slaw, Brunswick stew, pickles and bread. Pints of pork and Brunswick stew will also be available. Helping to prepare for the barbecue are, from left, Bernice Capps, Cordelia Walker, Lee Mullins, Billy Capps and Jane Capps.
P H O T O B Y A N N C P P E R L Y F O R T H E O B S E R V E R
CIPPERLY, page A9 Attendees enjoy last year's Fishing Rodeo in Auburn. P H O T O C O N T R B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R
See

SEAN DIETRICH

The phone rang. My wife and I were in the kitchen, cooking an elaborate gourmet dinner. I was chopping garlic. My wife was sauteing shallots or something fancy like that.

My wife answered the phone. I could tell the call was serious because my wife’s face went pale. She was nodding a lot, and doing lots of uh-huhing. A lot of blinking.

Then she started crying. And I mean REALLY crying.

“Uh-oh,” I was thinking.

My wife rarely cries. There are only a few things that cause my wife to cry. She cries whenever (a) the University of Alabama loses a bowl game, or (b) whenever someone wears white after Labor Day.

My wife was a Junior Leaguer, back in the day. She follows social rules. She wears pearls and heels to check the mail. She writes thank-you notes for every occasion, including the onset of Daylight Saving Time. And she never cries in public unless “Steel Magnolias” is on TV.

Opry Kid

“What’s going on?” I whispered.

My wife shushed me. She plugged her right ear with her finger and pressed the phone into her ear. She was listening intently, nodding rapidly, like the person on the other end of the phone could see her. Lots of yeses and OKs and one-word answers. She was still crying.

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

She shushed me again. This time, she waved a 10-inch chef’s knife in my face. When your wife holds a knife the size of a canoe paddle, you tend to listen.

Her conversation wasn’t long. She made a few notes on a legal pad. Then she hung up.

“You’re never going to believe it,” she said.

“Believe what?”

“Guess,” she said.

“You’re pregnant.”

“No.”

“I’m pregnant?”

“Keep guessing.”

I detest guessing games. I used to have nightmares about Pat Sajak.

“Just tell me what the phone call was about,” I said.

She was smiling now. Although her eyes were still glazed with emotion. “You’re going to have to keep guessing,” she said.

I guessed. But I failed.

“Please tell me what this is all about,” I finally said. “You know I hate guessing games.”

She smiled largely. “I’ll give you a hint. It’s about you.”

“ME?” I felt a pang of dread run through my bloodstream. “Is it good news or bad?” I asked.

“Good.”

“Your cousin decided not to come for Christmas?”

“No.”

“Please tell me.”

My wife wore a serious face. “You know who that

The Fair Is Back in Town

OPELIKA — Spring weather has arrived and that means it is time for the fair to return to Opelika.

Modern Midways has arrived and is setting up at USA Town Center. The fair opens Friday, April 28, and will run through May 13.

Robert Briggs, the company president, said that there are some changes that patrons can expect to see at the fair this year.

In the past, patrons have paid an entrance fee in addition to paying for a wristband or tickets for the rides. This year, that is not the case.

"Gate admission is going to be free this year," Briggs said. "Also, there is a new ferris wheel ride this year called the Expo Wheel, as well as some new food options. We make the best funnel cakes, so if rides are not your thing, come out an get one."

In addition to standard carnival fare such as funnel cakes, this year patrons will find a deepfried peanut butter and jelly sandwich option.

Gates open Friday, April 28, at 5 p.m. Hours will be 5 to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 1 to 11 p.m. on weekends.

Wristbands for unlimited rides can be purchased for $25 on weekdays and for $30 on the weekends. There is a $5 off coupon in this issue of The Observer that can be clipped and redeemed at the ticket booth.

FISH >>

FROM A7

fishing rod and reel courtesy of Evans Realty, and Auburn Parks and Recreation will supply the bait.

USA Town Center is located at 1220 Fox Run Ave. in Opelika.

ABOUT MODERN MIDWAYS

Modern Midways was started in 2006.

According to its website, Modern Midways owns over 50 rides and can field more equipment by partnering with independent ride owners, should the need arise.

Modern Midways

features the latest in rides including the spectacular Double Sky Wheel, CenturyWheel, Hyper Loop 360, Arctic Blast, Rock Star, Bumper Cars, Dragon Flyer, Puppy Roll and two carousels, to name just a few. Each year, the management attends yearly industry trade shows and conventions always looking for ways to

improve its operation or purchase new equipment. During the spring, fall and winter months, provide rides for events throughout Georgia, Alabama and Florida. Its line-up of equipment and experienced staff allows for operation virtually year round servicing county and state fairs, festivals, church events and more.

was on the phone?”

“Who?”

“That was the ‘Grand Ole Opry,’” she said. I was silent. “They want you to come back and perform again,” she said. “On June 10. You’re going to be on the ‘Grand Ole Opry.’”

“What?”

She nodded.

“You’re kidding,” I said.

“No.”

“You’re pulling my leg.”

She shook her head. “I don’t pull legs.” More tears came.

I dropped the knife. Now it was me who was crying. I sort of backed into the wall and tried to catch my breath. I felt dizzy.

Because, you see, I was on the “Grand Ole Opry” last March. It was the biggest night of my entire life. The greatest experience I’ve ever had. I wept onstage. I doubled over and wept.

I shook hands with the

SPRINGER >>

FROM A7

managing director of the Springer. “Our director, Rebecca, and the cast and the crew have put a lot of effort into making their performances feel human, not just personalities on a page. Whether it’s decisions to make, family to please or faith to follow, everyone will be able to identify with someone on that stage or recognize a trait in someone they know.”

Tickets are available via the website springeroperahouse.org, or by contacting the box office by phone at 706327-3688 or in person at 103 10th St., Columbus,

Riders in the Sky band. I met John Conlee. I touched the hem of Keith Urban’s blouse.

I thought my Opry appearance was a oneand-done deal. Sort of like getting baptized. You get dunked once, then you’re good for at least a decade. But no, they wanted me back.

Me. Of all people. The suicide survivor. The highschool dropout. The kid who was raised in mobile homes, camper trailers and cinderblock houses. The guy with a neck the same color as a fire engine.

My wife tossed her arms around me. She held me close. I smelled of garlic and saltwater. We cried into each other’s shoulders.

“You’re going to the Opry,” she said. “For a second time.”

Then she said it again. We ended up having peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner.

Georgia.

“The play involves issues of faith, love and community that are alive in today’s society,” said Paul Pierce, the Springer’s producing artistic director. “As the characters seek common ground, they all learn something new that makes their lives fuller and richer.

“With an adult theme best suited for ages 16 and older, the characters are lovable and intelligent, and the challenges they face are universal, illuminating — and frequently — laugh-out-loud funny. This is a profound comedy with a brain and a big heart.”

Each child may bring home a maximum of five fish and must be accompanied by an adult at all times. 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. An award will also be given to the participant who catches the most fish overall. This event is a great chance to

bring kids and their parents together with America’s favorite pastime.

For more information, visit auburnalabama.org/ parks/programs/ fishing-rodeo.

A8 April 27, 2023
$5.00 OFF WRISTBAND USA TOWN CENTER FAIR APRIL 28 - MAY 13 2023 1220 FOX RUN GOOD ANY DAY MON-FRI, 5PM-CLOSE, SAT 1PM-6PM OR 6PM-CLOSE, SUN 1PM-6PM OR 6PM-CLOSE Present this coupon at Midway Box Office for $5.00 off wristband good for unlimited rides. One coupon per person required. No refunds. Not valid with any other offers. Digital copies of coupons will not be accepted. WWW.MODERNMIDWAYS.COM
Modern Midway's newest ride, the Expo Wheel, will be set up at USA Town Center starting April 28. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
“We make the best funnel cakes ...”
~ Robert Griggs

CIPPERLY >> FROM A7

building the church. Other families helped too. In 1957 the front porch of the church was removed, and Sunday school rooms and indoor bathrooms were added. Over the years, the church was remodeled. The barbecue pit was built in 1977 and expanded over the years with a cover and working area. The first barbecue was held in 1976 when the church needed to raise funds for a new fellowship hall. Bobby Capps and Ellis Jenkins suggested having a barbecue. The first year the meat was cooked over a borrowed open grill set up on blocks. The barbecue was so popular that it sold out before the workers could get a plate.

In 1977, Kenneth Capps built a barbecue pit with funds donated by Carl Orr.

CIPPERLY

RECIPES

13 LAYER YELLOW

CAKE WITH COOKED CHOCOLATE FROSTING

Cordelia Walker

1 cup Crisco shortening

1 ½ cups sugar

4 eggs

3 cups self-rising flour

2 ¼ cups milk

1 tsp. vanilla

Cream shortening, sugar and eggs, adding one egg at a time. Stiff flour and add alternately with milk. Stir in vanilla. Coat three or four 9-inch cake pans with nonstick spray. Spread ½ cup batter into each pan. Bake 375 for 10 minutes. Do not overbake.

Turn layers onto rack to cool. Wash pans, respray and continue baking ½ cup batter until you have 13 layers or have used all of the batter. Begin filling layers with frosting as they cool and stack.

Frosting:

3 cups granulated sugar

6 Tbsp. cocoa

1 cup butter, room temperature

1 large can evaporated

milk

For several years, only pork barbecue was offered. The barbecue area expanded over the years with a cover and working area. June Jenkins, Cordelia Walker and Bernice Capps have helped every year since the first barbecue. Funds from barbecue sales helped renovate the church in 1980 and construction of the fellowship hall in 1989. An addition to the fellowship hall was made in 2010 to provide more seating.

In March 2019, the tornado damaged the back side of the church and moved the building off its foundation, and most of the brick barbecue area was destroyed. The church had to be demolished and rebuilt.

Insurance did not cover the entire rebuilding.

“The Lord blessed us with donations,” said Cordelia Walker. “Some donations were from people from other states that we did not know.

GERTRUDE CAPPS’ BRUNSWICK STEW

1 (6 to 7 lb.) hen

4 lb. fresh pork

Saved chicken stock from boiling hen

3 medium onions, ground

Four 15 oz. cans stewed tomatoes

1 qt. Hunts ketchup

3 Tbsp. French’s mustard

Juice of 3 to 4 lemons

½ tsp. red pepper

1 Tbsp. Tabasco sauce or to taste

4 oz. Worcestershire sauce or to taste

Three 15 oz. cans

Pride of Illinois white cream style corn

Boil hen and pork in separate pots of water until done. Save hen broth. Pull all meat into small pieces and mix.

Combine meats, tomatoes, onions, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, red pepper and Tabasco sauce in a large heavy boiler. Wait to add the corn, as it will stick.

One donation was from a church in New York and another out west. A church in Georgia held a large yard sale and sent the proceeds to Watoola.

“Two local churches, Society Hill Methodist and Pierce Chapel Church, made donations to the building fund. Society Hill donated funds they were saving to build a fellowship hall.”

It took two years to complete the rebuilding. Some of the original wood was used in construction on the new church. The fellowship hall is now connected to the church. The hallway includes new rooms for the children’s Sunday school classes. The altars and pews were saved, but the pews needed upholstery. A wooden cross in front of the church is mounted on boards taken from the exterior of the original building.

The stained glass was

mixture. Place margarine and cream cheese in a saucepan and heat until mixture is warm enough to stir in powdered sugar. Mix well and spoon this over the top of cake. Bake at 350° for 35 to 40 minutes.

Cool and cut in squares.

CHUNKY MACADAMIA NUT-WHITE CHOCOLATE COOKIES

Mary Ann Himmelwright

2 cups flour

¾ tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. baking powder

1/8 tsp. salt

½ cup unsalted butter

½ cup shortening

¾ cup light brown sugar

2 Tbsp. sugar

1 large egg

1½ tsp. vanilla

8 oz. white chocolate chips

7 oz. salted, whole Macadamia nuts

saved and preserved until needed. The new arched windows look different from the original ones. The wood ceiling at the entrance was some of the original flooring that was saved and repurposed.

In the foyer, the original wooden doors were used for entering the sanctuary, and two other doors are mounted on each side of the foyer. Original brick from the foundation was used to form a cross on the new front porch.

Church members didn’t have the barbecue in 2020. Since then, the Giving Back Foundation of Vincent has provided a large rotisserie for cooking the pork and chicken until the barbecue pit can be rebuilt. This year there will be approximately 650 pounds of pork and 350 chicken halves enhanced with Billy Capps’ Barbecue Sauce. About 60 gallons

coconut Cream shortenings; add sugar gradually while beating well. Add egg yolks one at a time. Add flour alternating with buttermilk stirred with 1 tsp. of soda, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in vanilla and coconut.

Beat egg whites until forms stiff soft peaks. Stir into mixture. Spray Pam into three 9-inch pans. Pour in batter and bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes or until tests done when a toothpick is inserted near the center and comes out clean. Cool layers on rack.

When cool, frost with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Cream Cheese

Frosting:

1½ boxes confectioners’ sugar

of Brunswick stew will be prepared by church members. John Capps, Lee Mullins and others are in charge of cooking.

The men begin cooking the chicken and pork around noon on Friday before the sale and will finish around 3 a.m. On Friday afternoon, ladies of the church get together to prepare the cole slaw, pickles and bread.

At 6 a.m. Saturday morning, members return to start getting ready. Assorted homemade desserts for the bake sale are delivered. At 10:30 a.m. Saturday morning the barbecue is ready, and an assembly line forms to serve.

“Being a small church,” Bernice said, “it takes all of us to make the barbecue work.”

Those purchasing barbecue can dine in the fellowship hall or get it to go.

8 ½ x 1 ½ inch with nonstick spray. Bake in moderate oven 375 degrees until cake browns and leaves the sides. Test with toothpick placed near the center and comes out clean.

Lemon Cheese

Filling:

1 whole egg

5 egg yolks

1 cup sugar

1 stick Oleo or butter

Juice of 2 lemons Cook in double boiler. Mix egg yolks, egg, sugar, oleo and lemon juice in top of double boiler. Cook until thick, stirring often. Remove from stove, let cool and beat until thick enough to spread.

STRAWBERRY CAKE

Proceeds from the barbecue and bake sale go to maintaining the church. Tickets are $10 and will be available at the door or can be purchased ahead from any church member or by calling Bernice at 334-7407943. Brunswick stew and pork are available for $7 a pint.

Watoola Methodist Church is located at 1370 Lee Road 38 in the Beauregard community. Drive about 13 miles south of Opelika on Alabama Highway 51 and look for signs directing to Lee Road 38. Turn left onto Lee Road 38 and follow the road around to the church. Current pastor is the Rev. Keith Badowski. Following is variety of recipes handed down through generations for the bake sale, featuring homemade cakes, pies, cookies and breads.

Pies.

5 eggs

2 cups sugar

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. lemon juice

1 stick melted butter

2 tsp. flour

2 unbaked regular pie shells

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Beat filling together. Pour into two unbaked pie shells. Bake 45 minutes until lightly set in the middle (they will firm up as they cool).

CARAMEL ICING

Linda Baker for Louise Mullins

Use icing on a yellow cake.

½ cup sugar for browning

3 cups sugar

1½ sticks margarine

1 Tbsp. vanilla

6 Tbsp. cocoa

In a four-quart saucepan, combine sugar and cocoa. Stir in butter and milk. Bring to a rolling boil cook for four minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add vanilla. Keep frosting warm to maintain spreading consistency.

HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE

Billy Capps create the years ago by adapting the ingredients to achieve a blending of flavors

1 gallon Hunts Ketchup

1 qt. vinegar

1 lb. Parkay margarine

8 oz. French’s mustard

2 or 3 oz. lemon juice

1 Tbsp. salt

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

3 or 4 oz.

Worcestershire sauce

3 cups brown sugar

Mix all ingredients in a big heavy pot. Stir often and heat thoroughly, but do not boil.

Add enough hen broth to get stew as you would like, either thick or thin. You may always add more. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly.

Bring to a low boil, then add corn and cut off heat. Still stir to keep corn from sticking. You can add more or less of the ingredients to your liking. Freezes well. Make sure you use good name brand ingredients.

GERMAN CHOCOLATE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE

June Jenkins

1 cup flaked coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

1 box German chocolate cake mix

1 stick margarine

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream

cheese

1 (16 oz.) box

powdered sugar

Combine coconut and nuts together and pat in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch dish. Prepare cake mix according to the package directions. Pour this over the coconut and pecans

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt and set aside. Beat butter and shortening until lightened; add sugars and beat until fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla, then beat in dry ingredients. Stir in chocolate and nuts. Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto greased baking sheets about 2 ½ inches apart. Flatten tops slightly with spatula.

Bake for 8 to 9 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove sheets from oven and let stand 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool. Store in airtight containers. May be frozen.

ITALIAN CREAM CAKE

Bernice Capps

1 stick Oleo (margarine or butter), room temperature

½ cup shortening (Crisco butter flavored)

2 cups sugar

5 eggs, separated

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. soda

1 cup buttermilk

1 Tbsp. vanilla

1 small can shredded

8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temperature (4 oz. cream cheese, (half of 9 oz. pkg.), room temperature

1½ sticks margarine, room temperature

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup chopped nuts Cream margarine and cream cheeses. Add confectioners’ sugar and beat well. Stir in vanilla and chopped nuts. Frost cooled cake.

OLD FASHION LEMON

CHEESECAKE

Cordelia Walker

3/4 cup shortening

1 1/3 cups sugar

2 ½ cups sifted allpurpose flour

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 cup milk

5 egg whites

1/3 cup sugar for egg whites

1 ½ tsp. vanilla

Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift flour, baking powder and salt together. Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with milk. Beat after each addition until smooth.

Beat egg whites until foamy. Add 1/3 cup sugar gradually, beating only until meringue will hold up in soft peaks. Fold into batter. Add vanilla.

Coat three cake pans

Bernice Capps

1 box white cake mix

3 Tbsp. flour (heaping)

½ pkg. strawberry gelatin (whole pkg. may be used for stronger flavor)

1 cup salad oil

4 eggs

1 pkg. frozen strawberries, thawed

Mix cake mix, flour and gelatin. Add oil. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add berries and juice. Mix well. Bake in 3 greased 9-inch cake pans at 350 degrees for approximately 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Strawberry Icing:

1 box powdered sugar

½ stick butter, room temperature

10 oz. box frozen strawberries, drained well

Cream butter and sugar. Gradually add strawberries until spreading consistency.

BUTTERMILK PIES

Glenda Jenkins

Eubanks

Glenda grew up at Watoola, married and moved away. She and her husband Tex return for the barbecue and bring lots of their homemade Buttermilk

7½ oz. evaporated milk

1½ Tbsp. flour Brown ½ cup sugar in iron skillet (use a small one.) While sugar is browning, add other ingredients to a heavy boiler and bring to a boil. Mix browned sugar with mixture and boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and beat until ready to put on cool cake. Enough frosting for 3 layers.

CHOCOLATE CHEESE

FUDGE

Amy Mullins

½ lb. Velveeta Cheese

1 cup butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup chopped nuts (pecan or walnuts)

2 (16 oz.) boxes confectioners’ sugar

½ cup cocoa powder

A9 April 27, 2023
Spray bottom of 9 x 12 inch pan with Pam. In saucepan, over medium heat, melt cheese and butter. Remove from heat and add vanilla and nuts. In large bowl sift together cocoa and powdered sugar. Add the cheese-butter mix and mix well. The candy will be very stiff. Use hands to pat candy in pan. Pat top with a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Place pan in refrigerator until candy is firm. Cut in squares. >> See CIPPERLY RECIPES page A11

Rockin' on the Rails Rocked Smiths Station

A10 April 27, 2023
The city of Smiths Station held its inaugural 'Rockin' on the Rail's' event on Saturday, April 22. Throughout the day the community enjoyed perusing wares from craft vendors, food trucks and more. There was a barbeque competition, and the first-place winners were Drew Townsend from Backwoodz BBQ under the pork butts and half-chicken categories, and Jamie Giles under the pork ribs category.
PHOTOS BY ED SIKORA FOR THE OBSERVER

Guests Get a Taste of Opelika

Horseshoe Bend Announces

Temporary Nature Trail Detour

CONTRIBUTED BY HORSE-

SHOE BEND NATIONAL

MILITARY PARK

HORSESHOE BEND —

Due to recent storm damage, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park (NMP) has temporarily rerouted a portion of the nature trail. Two bridges over stream crossings were damaged, making them unsafe to traverse until repaired. Until these bridges can be replaced, the nature trail will have a temporary detour onto the nearby administrative road. The detour is well marked so that hikers will be able to easily and safely navigate the trail.

“It’s important to keep our park visitors safe at all times,”

CIPPERLY RECIPES >>

FROM A9

MAMA’S JAM CAKE

Cordelia Walker

2 cups sifted cake flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

nuts and raisins. Pour in greased and floured loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. Or bake in two 9 inch layer pans at 350 degrees for 25 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Top with your favorite white icing, decorating the top with whole nuts.

said Horseshoe Bend NMP Superintendent Barbara Tagger.

“Therefore, we have created a temporary detour of the park’s nature trail to ensure safe passage throughout the park.” Please call the park at 255-234-7111 for further information.

For more informa -

tion visit Horseshoe Bend’s website at www.nps.gov/hobe, on Facebook see Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, or you may call the park at 256-2347111. Horseshoe Bend NMP is located

12 miles north of Dadeville on Alabama Highway 49.

½ tsp. salt

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. nutmeg tsp. allspice

3/4 cup shortening or butter

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup sour cream (or buttermilk)

½ cup preserves or jam (I use blackberry jam or apricot preserves)

3 eggs

½ cup chopped nuts

½ cup seedless raisins, optional Sift flour, soda, baking powder, salt and spices together three times. Cream shortening with sugar until fluffy. Add jam and sour cream (or buttermilk), mixing well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Add sifted dry ingredients gradually, beating well. Fold in

Note: I usually make my own jam of about equal parts dried apples and apricots cooked until tender, then mashed together. Make jam of equal parts sugar and fruit. Cook until thick and stir very often to avoid scorching.

RED VELVET CAKE

Cordelia Walker

1 ½ cups sugar

2 eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 stick Oleo or butter, room temperature

1 cup Wesson oil

1 tsp. white vinegar

1 oz. red food color

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 350

degrees. Cover three cake pans with foil; spray with nonstick spray.

Beat sugar and eggs.

Combine buttermilk, softened butter, vinegar, oil and food color; stir until combined.

Combine dry ingredients; flour and baking soda; stir with a fork until well combined. Add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk-oil mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in vanilla.

Pour mixture into pans and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick tests done. Frost with Cream

Cheese Frosting.

Cream Cheese

Frosting:

8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temperature

1 stick Oleo or butter, room temperature

1 box confectioners’ sugar

1 cup chopped pecans

Cream together cream cheese and butter; add sugar. Stir in nuts. Spread frosting between layers and over

cake.

ALMOND DELIGHT

Emma Gooden prepared this recipe for many years

½ cup light brown sugar

2 cups sliced almonds

2 cups plain flour

1 small can of coconut

2 sticks margarine or butter

Filling:

2 ½ cups milk

12 oz. Cool Whip

2 small instant vanilla

Jell-O puddings

Mix brown sugar, almonds, flour, coconut and margarine together. Bake on cookie sheet for 45 minutes at 325° or until brown, stirring several times. Should be golden brown. Melt margarine in microwave before mixing with the dry ingredients.

Filling:

Mix milk and pudding. Stir in Cool Whip. Place half of the dry ingredients on the bottom of oblong dish. Then spoon the filling in, then top with other half of the dry ingredients. Chill before serving.

A11 April 27, 2023
As the sun lowered on the horizon in the back of the Museum of East Alabama Tuesday evening, music and tantalizing aromas began to drift onto the street in downtown Opelika from the Taste of the Town event. Restaurants, breweries and a distillery provided plenty of scrumptious fare — from shrimp and grits to Belgium truffles. Featured were Botanic, Zazu, Café 123, The Waverly Local, Longhorn Steakhouse, Niffer’s, Irish Bred Pub, Tart and Tartan Bakery, Ursula’s Catering, Jefferson’s, Butcher Paper Barbecue, Cakeitecture Bakery, Acre, Chicken Salad Chick, Takoyaki, Red Clay Brewing, John Emerald Distilling Company and The Bottling Plant Event Center. Silent auction items include a wine and cheese party for 35 at Fig and Ivy Event Center from Stanley Sistrunk, items from Envy Hair Salon, The Gallery on Railroad, Surcie Shoppe and golf packages from the AU Club and Saugahatchee Country Club, among others. Sponsors were AuburnBank, SmithT Building Supply, The Observer, Starr Insurance Group LLC and Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.
P H O T O S B Y A N N C I P P E R L Y / F O R T H E O B S E R V E R
MRS. KEN STROTHER’S

OPELIKA —

Joshua Dairen and his wife, Keema, are the proud new owners of The Coffee Shop in downtown Opelika.

The couple recently purchased the business from the previous owner, Gleason Jones, who opened the shop in the spring of 2022. The idea of entering the entrepreneurial sphere of business had for years attracted Dairen and Keema.

“My wife and I have always been looking to get into the entrepreneurial realm of things,” Dairen said. “But we weren’t sure where or what.”

The draw of owning a coffee business became clear to the couple after they fell in love with a local shop during their time living in Colorado a couple years ago.

“There was a coffee shop we frequented often,” Dairen said. “The customer service was really great and it just kind of stuck with us. That was the first time

Boogie on Down 280

The Coffee Shop Is in Good Hands

we realized we kind of like coffee a little bit. We are not so much coffee aficionados, but the person-to-person engagement is something we really enjoyed. We loved how we were getting to know our baristas.”

Upon returning to Lee County, where Dairen and Keema have spent a large portion of their lives, the idea of owning a coffee shop never dissipated, Dairen said. When The Coffee Shop became available, Dairen said it was like a “Eureka!” moment.

“This kind of came upon us by chance, but once we saw it we knew it’s what we wanted to do,” Dairen said. “We had been talking about a coffee shop. We had been talking about somehow translating what we experienced in Colorado back here. And we saw this opportunity as a way to do just that. Being able to be embedded in a community that I have grown up in my entire life, and [Keema] has spent a good portion of her life in, it just felt like the right move.”

intentions with this too.”

Already, Dairen and Keema said they are looking forward to chiseling out a presence and making a positive impact on the Opelika community.

“We want to just a be a positive, young business figure in the area,” Dairen said. “We want people to feel welcome here. We want people to say, ‘We can’t come to downtown without stopping by The Coffee Shop’ because we know the coffee is good but the people inside are also good. We are going to do our best to serve at our best. At the core of

It’s the simple things that resonate. It’s the little touches that people appreciate and creates this welcoming environment.”

With a background in communications, Dairen’s current full-time job offers him the ability to work remote, which means customers can expect to see his and Keema’s faces every day.

Ultimately, the couple said they just feel blessed to have this opportunity and hope they can share good coffee — and good fellowship — with all who walk through the door.

“We are very blessed

A12 April 27, 2023 PARKINSON ASSOCIATION OF ALABAMA, INC. 16,000+ Alabamians are living with Parkinson's. WWW.PARKINSONALABAMA.COM Online Resource Center • Care Navigation Services Support and Movement Groups • Research Funding Celebrate Parkinson's Awareness Month with Us! Taste for a Cure • B&A Warehouse • April 27 • 5-8 pm Purchase Tickets at www.parkinsonalabama.com/2023tfac Funding Research for a Cure All Proceeds Stay in Alabama CARE • COMMUNITY • CURE Its What We Do!
P H O T O S B Y J O H N H L L S M A N / F O R T H E O B S E R V E R
F R I D A Y 4 P M - 9 P M S A T U R D A Y : 9 A M - 1 2 P M 1 3 L O C A L A R T I S T S C O M M U N I T Y M U S I C F O O D A R T F R E E O P E N T O P U B L I C H T T P S : / / A U B I E / A R T H A U S
Hundreds turned out to the Old 280 Boogie at Standard Deluxe in Waverly, Alabama, last Saturday, April 22. Running from noon to midnight, five musical concerts, vendors and artisan merchants entertained the crowd as they boogied into the night.
P H O T O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R
Joshua Dairen, left, poses with wife Keema and daughter Kaia outside The Coffee Shop in downtown Opelika.

AUBURN —

The Spring Sundown

Concert Series returns this year beginning in

Auburn’s Spring Concert Series Returns

May. Auburn Parks and Recreation invites everyone to Kiesel Park this spring for music in the park. Concerts will be held on Thursdays, May 4, 11, 18 and 25.

Concerts begin at 6 p.m., and attendees are invited to bring a blanket, chair and picnic dinner. The Chill Spot will be on location with gourmet hotdogs,

chicken tacos, drinks, chips and frozen treats for purchase. This year’s music line up is as follows:

• May 4: Wesley Hill & Friends

• May 11: AHS Jazz Band

• May 18: Front Seven

• May 25: Soul Co.

Dogs are welcome on a leash. Kiesel

What's Happening in Lee County

2023 NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

May 4 At Noon

Lee County Courthouse Square

“Pray fervently in righteousness and avail much” – James 5:16

Rain site: First Baptist Church Chapel on 8th Street

Broadcast live on Halleluiah 1520 AM and Praise 88.7 FM

Non-denominational prayer and praise gathering ALL ARE INVITED

CLIMATE-SMART FORESTRY

The next Citizens’ Climate Education meeting on May 3 will feature Dr. Adam O. Maggard and Harry E. Murphy, associate professor and extension specialist in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University who will discuss “Climate-Smart Forestry” (CFS).

Maggard specializes in financial and economic aspects of forest management and planning, optimizing the use of forest resources, multiple use management and sustainability, productivity of managed forest stands, business planning and management of timber and non-timber forest products including carbon offsets and cost-share programs.

Climate change is the result of a planetary energy imbalance driven by the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, especially carbon dioxide (CO2), from human activities.

CSF objectives include sustainable stand production, removal and storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air to mitigate climate change, and forest adaptation and resilience.

Citizens’ Climate Education is a non-profit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change, specifically, a national carbon fee and dividend. This alone will not solve the problems associated with climate change so it is important to have programs like CSF which can be adopted by forest landowners today.

The Auburn-Opelika Chapter of CCE meets every first Wednesday of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Hubert and Grace Harris Meeting Center located at 425 Perry St., in Auburn - directly across from the post office. Text 334-728-8606 for more information.

To learn more about CCE go to: www.citizensclimateeducation.org/

NAMI MEETING

Park is located at 520 Chadwick Lane in Auburn. All concerts are free to the public. For more information, call 334-501-2930.

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet May 16, 2023, at 7 p.m.

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

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.

O GROWS — SATURDAYS AT THE GARDEN

Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon outside the Southside Center for the Arts, located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. Activities include planting, story time, crafts or art projects for children and hanging out with the goats.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

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

A13 April 27, 2023
EMAIL EDITOR@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM TO HAVE YOUR COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT PLACED HERE
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / JARRETT Y. JONES
P H O T O C O N T R B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R
Music-lovers enjoy one of the Spring Sundown Concerts last year.

BRUCE GREEN

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

RELIGION —

(This is part one of a two-part look at Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness.)

The backdrop for understanding the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4/ Luke 4 is Israel’s time in the wilderness. The parallels aren’t difficult to see. I’ve adapted the following from Liefeld and Pao (“Luke, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary”).

• Israel was God’s son (Exodus 4:22-23); Jesus

Words for the Wilderness

was proclaimed God’s Son at His baptism (Luke 3:21-22).

• God led Israel into the wilderness; the Spirit led Jesus.

• Israel was there for 40 years; Jesus was there 40 days.

• Israel was tested by God; God allowed Jesus to be tempted by Satan.

• Israel failed miserably when tested; Jesus triumphed gloriously.

• At the time of their testing, both were vulnerable.

That last point is worth thinking about.

When Israel was in the wilderness, they were fresh off their miraculous rescue by God. Not only had they come out of Egypt, but they had done so by crossing the Red Sea and then witnessing the waters close over Pharaoh and his army. Egypt was in their rear-view mirror and Pharaoh would bother

them no more. They had been delivered.

In regard to Jesus, He had just been manifested to Israel as the Messiah at His baptism (John 1:31). Words from His Father were spoken, and the Spirit came upon Him. There’s almost always a vulnerability that comes with great victory. We’re basking in the moment, our guard is down, and if we’re not careful, we can fall victim to overconfidence. Satan is an opportunist and knows how to take advantage.

Israel quickly collapsed under the heat of their trials in the desert, but not Jesus. He stood tall. Satan came at Him three different times and was decisively rebuffed each time.

How did this happen?

Jesus repelled him with scripture. Not just any scripture, but scripture from

Israel’s wilderness time. Specifically, it was the book of Deuteronomy — the book that rehearses Israel’s wilderness experiences. In other words, Jesus did what Israel did not do by putting into practice in the wilderness the principles they had ignored. By doing so, Jesus showed Himself to be a true Son of God.

1. In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted to rely on something other than God. He was tempted to use His own powers to turn stones into bread and feed Himself. He was tempted to assert Himself (“If You are the Son of God”), rather than humbly trusting God. After all, He had fasted for 40 days — hadn’t he already shown His submission to God? What would eating a little bread hurt? It would have been natural for the story of

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

the manna to come to Jesus’ mind (it might have been in Satan’s mind and prompted his taunt). Like Israel, He was in the wilderness and hungry. Satan was in essence suggesting that Jesus produce manna on His own — rather than waiting for God to send it. Even though Israel had received manna from above every morning, they had never really learned to wait for God. They had never really learned the truth that man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

But Jesus knew. And He told Satan He would be waiting on God and living off His word (Deuteronomy 8:3).

We’ll look further into this topic in part two.

You can find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-ofgrace-with-bruce-green. com.

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church

3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church

301 Highland Ave., Opelika

334-749-9672

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Church

5500 Lee Road 270, Valley

334-705-0538

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn

334-887-8506

Friendship Missionary

Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117

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

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

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

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391,

Opelika 334-749-0461

CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

Church Of Christ

2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

METHODIST

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

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

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

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

Southern Plains Cowboy Church

13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014

PENTECOSTAL

Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926

PRESBYTERIAN

Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697

Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

A14
27, 2023
April
Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. — Acts 2:41
The
will be at First Freewill Baptist Church for a gospel sing/revival on Saturday, June 3, at 6 p.m. and Sunday, June 4, at 11 a.m. Find more information on them at www.theshepherdsonline.net and on Facebook. The church is located at 103 19th St. at the corner of 1st Avenue in Opelika. Call the church at 334-703-3333 for more information. Your Ad Goes Here
Shepherds

If You Can’t Get Around It, Get Over It

Worry brings no relief. Bitterness makes things worse because it sours our spirit. Regret is useful only if it shows us ways we need to change. Selfdespising magnifies your misery.

RELIGION —

To fail at something can be a bitter experience. But sooner or later everyone will sit in the ashes of defeat because failure is universal. So, to live life well, each of us must rise up from the ashes and decide to not let our life be defined by our failure.

MILLIE FAYE "BAILEY" GOODSON

Mrs. Millie Faye

"Bailey" Goodson, daughter of Eulous Felton Bailey and Lou Etta (Hallmark) Bailey was born May 26, 1937, in Randolph County, Alabama. She attended Lanett High School.

She professed her faith in Jesus Christ and joined West Point Church of Christ (Valley Church of Christ) where she served as an active member.

She was united in holy matrimony to Grady Miles in 1953.

Grady passed away, and she remarried Moore Edward “Ed” Goodson in December of 1957. They had two children, Yvonne Denise (Chamblee) and Eddie Felton and celebrated 44 years of marriage together.

In1962 she moved to Illinois where she was a stay-at-home mom as her small children grew.

In 1971 they moved back to Lanett and soon moved to Opelika where she would spend her remaining years. After returning to Opelika, she began working at Motherhood Maternity in the Auburn Mall as a sales associate. Over the years she eventually moved to CATO Fashion where she continued in

Sadness about failure is normal and understandable. Yet eventually sadness must give way to joy if we are to move on with the flow of life.

In the dark days of our lives, we can learn to look for light where we can find it. The words of Thomas Carlyle are helpful: “The eternal stars shine out as soon as it is dark enough.” If we gaze up into the dark sky long enough, finally we can see the stars shining.

sales until her retirement in the 1990s. Her relationship with Christ was as beautiful as the flowers that she loved to receive, and her influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew her. She departed this life, and stepped into the arms of her savior

Thursday, April 20, 2023, at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. She is preceded in death by her husbands, Grady Miles and Ed Goodson, and her parents, Eulous and Lou Etta Bailey.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children, Yvonne (Richard) Chamblee and Eddie (Lynne) Goodson; her grandchildren, Amber (Johnny) Berry, Ashley (Cecil) Waldroup, Tiffany Chamblee and Brandon (Emily) Goodson, all of Opelika; her great-grandchildren CT Waldroup, Kassidy Chamblee, Noah Chamblee, Abigail Stewart, Madilyn Chamblee and Miller Goodson. She is also survived by sister Ceilia Dabbs of Valley, Alabama, and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation for Mrs. Millie Faye Goodson was held Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 10 a.m. in

Life is not all sunshine and sweetness. There will be sad and lonely days, but we can choose to crawl out of our misery. Longfellow understood this reality: Be still, sad heart, and cease repining, Behind the clouds the sun is shining; Thy fate is the common fate of all; Into each life some rain must fall, — Some days must be dark and dreary. Adversity is a great teacher. We learn much more from our failure than our success. Success often leads to pride, and pride causes us to stumble. “Pride and weakness,” Lowell said, “are Siamese twins.”

the parlor of FrederickDean Funeral Home. The funeral service followed in the chapel at 11 a.m. with Johnny Berry and Pastor Kevin Haefner officiating. Interment followed in Garden Hills Cemetery.

GREGORY EUGENE BETHUNE

Gregory Eugene Bethune, 59, of Opelika, died peacefully in his sleep and entered his eternal home on April 20, 2023.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Lori Bentley Bethune; parents, Milton and Ann Bethune; a beloved mother-in-law, Barabara Ehl; sons Aaron (Elizabeth) Bethune, Caleb Bethune; daughter Savannah Bethune; granddaughter Stella Grace Bethune; and a host of aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and his beloved dogs, Soda Pop and Mr. Bunchkins.

Gregory was born Nov. 11, 1963, in Augusta, Georgia, to Milton and Ann Bethune. He was a 1982 graduate of Valley, Alabama, and obtained a Bachelor of Art degree in Spanish from Auburn University in 2000. He taught Spanish and history in numerous public and

When we fall, we need to ask what caused us to fall, and resolve to improve wherever improvement is possible. Only a fool continues to make the same mistake repeatedly. We can learn not to do certain things again. Unless we do, we will never enjoy success again.

Sometimes people get ahead by stepping on others. It hurts when someone else gets the promotion you thought you deserved. When that happens, you have a choice. You can stew over it and complain bitterly. You can scream and cry that you were wronged. None of that will help. It only makes you more miserable.

private schools and was deeply loved by his students. While at Auburn University, he was a member of the 1983-84 AU Singers. He had a passion for learning and obtained his master’s degree in public health in August 2022, and was also working on his doctoral degree in Behavioral Informatics at Freed Hardeman University.

Gregory was an accomplished singer, piano player and writer. His poetry book, “Garden of Verses,” was published in 2006 and was an inspiration to many. Greg had an infectious laugh and smile and found joy in life, which he lived to the fullest. He was an avid Disney fan and loved planning trips with his family and friends. He never met a stranger and was always ready for the next adventure. His funeral was held on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 11 a.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home in Opelika. A graveside service and interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lee County Humane Society.

To recover from a disappointment is usually to rise above it.

Washington Irving said it well: “Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune; but great minds rise above it.” He was right. We can refuse to be subdued by our defeats and become better people because of them.

Anger is a dead-end street. Problems are never solved by tearing our hair out, though some people try it. Baldness will not soothe our sorrows. Though it is normal to become angry with those who hurt us, we must learn to calm down and find a way to move forward.

When someone hurts us, we deepen our pain

by refusing to forgive the person who has wronged us. Years can be lost by holding onto hatred and resentment. Hatred is a chain that ties you to the person you hate. The only way ever to be free is to forgive. Forgiveness breaks the chain and sets you free.

A failure, sorrow, hurt or disappointment is a wall in the highway you must travel. If you cannot find a way to get around it, or dig your way under it, then ask the good Lord to help you get over it. If you get over it, you can move on with your life.

Life will not be perfect, but it will be sweeter, and you will be able to share with your friends: “I’m over it!”

Margaret Lowther Bridges Thompson passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, shortly after happily celebrating her 90th birthday. She was preceded in death by Edwin Little Bridges, husband of 36 years, and Bernie Thompson, husband of 20 years.

Margie was born in Butchersville, West Virginia, and raised in Arlington, Virginia. After attending Mary Washington College for two years she bravely boarded a train headed south to attend the University of Alabama. There she fell under the spell of Edwin Bridges’ baby blue eyes after he serenaded her outside her dorm. The two married and made their life in Homewood, Alabama, raising their family there. She had a degree in education from the University of Alabama and a master’s degree from University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). She was a teacher in the Birmingham school system for more than 20 years.

Margie was an avid gardener, an accomplished knitter and could make an amazing pound cake. Most

notably, though, she loved people and was a good friend — faithfully serving, supporting and encouraging others throughout her life. She was most proud of her family, and their strength and commitment to one another.

She is survived by her three daughters, Ann Bridges Steely (Phillip Steely), Mary Beth Adams and Julia Gunter (Mike Gunter); her six grandchildren, Sarah Grace Gunter, Whit Adams, Jackson Gunter, Caroline Adams, Ben Gunter and Margaret Anne Gunter; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family is immensely grateful to the entire staff at The Harbor at Opelika for helping Margie be at home with them over the last two years and the hospice team at Bethany House for their tenderness over the last two weeks. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to either of these remarkable agencies. There will be a memorial service at Bluff Park United Methodist Church in Hoover, Alabama, on Saturday, May 6 at 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m.

A15 April 27, 2023
MARGARET LOWTHER BRIDGES THOMPSON
Pre-Need Services Available Call 334-749-8700 for an appointment Your Full-Service Funeral Home
OBITUARIES
A16 April 27, 2023

chools & S S

ports

ON

MARK

Bulldogs Soccer Returns to Playoffs

OPELIKA —

Opelika's girls and boys soccer teams last week advanced to the AHSAA Class 7A State Playoffs, finishing second in their Area after beating Smiths Station. The two soccer teams joined flag football as the only team sports to make the 7A state playoffs in the 2022-23 school year.

The OHS varsity girls won two games last week, beating Beauregard 8-0 and Smiths Station 3-1.

The Lady Bulldogs dominated Beauregard on senior night at Bulldog Stadium. Senior Amiya Brown and Morgan Watts scored two goals a piece. Ashley Hilyer, Maricela Cruz, Kam McDaniel and Maelee Story scored one goal apiece. Scarlet Posadas recorded two assists while Karly Phatsadavong, Bailey Ward, Story, Watts, Karla Guerra and McDaniel added assists. Alex Desantos recorded the shutout at keeper.

The girls play in the state soccer tournament Monday, May 1, on the road against Area 3 winner Dothan (15-5-0).

OHS boys soccer wrapped up a playoff spot after beating SSHS 3-2. Senior Amiya Brown recorded a hat

Auburn High Softball Ready to Ride Turnaround Season into Playoffs

AUBURN —

With just one regular-season tournament left to play, Auburn High School softball has won 27 (update after Tuesday’s game) games — 15 more than its 2022 season — with a record of 27-7-1.

of seven has made sure team bonding is a priority, and Hendricks is all for it.

trick by scoring all three goals. Assists were from Guerra, Story and Kaitlyn Spoon.

The Opelika boys soccer team beat Beauregard and Smiths Station to wrap up the week with a 2-0 record. The Dogs beat BHS on senior night, 4-3. Opelika goals were scored by Nathan Faison, Dexter Graham, Moe Forbes and Luke Roberts. Assists were recorded by Nolen Wilson, Faison and Forbes.

OHS advanced to the playoffs after finishing second in Class 7A Area 4 after beating SSHS, 3-0. The Bulldog goals were scored by Forbes, Graham and Roberts. Keeper Eduardo Moran is credited with the shutout.

The boys play in the state soccer tournament Monday, May 1, on the road against Area 3 winner Dothan (21-3-1).

BASEBALL

The Bulldog baseball team (13-17, A 0-6) finished the season losing a three-game series against rival Auburn.

The Tigers won game one, 5-3, game two, 6-4, and game three, 11-1.

OHS finished 0-6 in Area and are eliminated from the state playoffs.

SOFTBALL

The Opelika softball team has a 10-15 overall

See SPORTS, page B3

According to head coach Matthew Hendricks, the turnaround has come as a result of a more cohesive team that has played unselfishly. At the head of it all, the senior class

“This was Allie’s (Roberts) quote: ‘Your days will go by slow, but your years will go by fast. So enjoy the time that you have with your team,’” Hendricks said. They’ve really embraced that, and they’ve enjoyed being around each other this year. They have a team dinner every Sunday night; there’s no coaches invited. They’ve hosted a different one every week since the beginning of the season.

PHOTO BY MATT AUSTIN FOR THE

practice to fit that in, and See AHS, page B2

Lee-Scott Girls Soccer Claims Second State Title in Three Years

AUBURN —

The varsity Lee-Scott girls soccer team captured the AISA Class 3A state title by defeating rivals Glenwood, 1-0, in Montgomery April 21.

“For most of them, it was their first state championship, so they were really excited and proud of each other,” said head coach Eric Faison. “It was a picture of everybody playing their part, everybody doing their job and getting it together with the chemistry and team is what won that game. It was fun.”

Finishing the regular season with a 13-3-1 record, Lee-Scott had done enough to secure a first-round bye in the state tournament. Its second-round matchup came against Ft. Dale, who advanced through the first round following a convincing 7-0 victory over Morgan Academy. Lee-Scott defeated Ft. Dale in the regular

season, which, according to Faison, may have led the girls to letting their guard down.

“We handled them pretty easily in the regular season,” he said. “But they were well-coached and ready to be out there.”

The Warriors and Ft. Dale fought evenly for the duration of regular time and the game advanced to penalty kicks to determine a winner.

Although Faison had employed two goalkeepers for the majority of the season, he opted for eighth-grader Olivia Murchison over 11th-grader Allie Starr to stand in goal for the game’s final moments.

“They are both kind of equally talented and have unique skillsets,” Faison said of his goalkeepers. “I made the decision to leave [Olivia] in goal because she

is really quick — she has more of [a] cat-like first step.”

Ultimately, Murchison saved the first three shots she saw as Lee-Scott won in dramatic fashion, connecting on three penalties to Ft. Dale’s none.

“For [Murchison], it was probably an unimaginable boost in confidence,” Faison

See LEE-SCOTT, page B2

Excellence. Innovation. Compassion. East Alabama's "Go-To" Center For Orthopaedic Care Auburn 1800 Lakeside Circle, Auburn Opelika 18 Medical Arts Center 121 North 20th Street, Opelika www.theorthoclinic.com 334-749-8303 1-800-327-6519
THE
INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • AUBURN UNIVERSITY | SPORTS AND NEWS • COMMUNITY SPORTS | PHOTOS AND UPDATES • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING MAY 9 AT 6 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING MAY 9 AT 6 P.M. • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING MAY 23 AT 4:30 P.M. • SOUTHERN UNION STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE | NEWS
The varsity Lee-Scott girls soccer team poses with the AISA Class 3A championship trophy.
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
“They have another one scheduled for this week. I had to move OBSERVER
Auburn High School varsity softball coach Matthew Hendricks talks with his team on the mound during a game against Central Phenix City last year.
Thursday, April 27, 2023

The Loveliest Roller Coaster on the Plains

The wild ride that has been Auburn baseball in 2023

Glenwood Baseball Posts Best Regular Season Since 2016

AUBURN —

The Auburn Tigers baseball team has had an interesting season to say the least. After making it to the College World Series last season and losing a lot of talent to the MLB Draft, it has been a transitional year for the Tigers, particularly in the pitching staff. A mix of new and old faces on the field has yielded varying results. Sometimes it looks like Auburn is figuring things out. Other times it looks like the Tigers are fish out of water. Auburn’s season got off to a normal start.

The Tigers won most of their games and looked solid doing it.

AHS >>

FROM B1

In March, the Tigers hosted the Southeastern Louisiana Lions, one of the teams they hosted in their regional during last season’s NCAA Tournament, and dropped two out of three games. This is when Auburn started to receive some doubts about the type of team they are.

The Tigers have been in a seesaw pattern since then. After the Southeastern Louisiana series, they got swept by the Arkansas Razorbacks. The following weekend they hosted the Georgia Bulldogs and won the first two games convincingly before taking one of the worst losses in recent program history in the third game.

Auburn traveled

down to Gainesville the next weekend for a series with the No. 2 Florida Gators. After a dominant 10-1 victory in the first game, the Tigers got outscored 2913 through the next two games, dropping both. Next up for the Tigers was the Texas A&M Aggies on a weekend that was main-evented by the unveiling of a statue to honor one of the program’s all-time greats, Frank Thomas. Unceremoniously, Auburn dropped the first game. Inclement weather created a doubleheader in which the Tigers took the first game 10-9 in a contest that came right down to the wire. It ended up not mattering as the Aggies dominated

See WILD RIDE, page B6

Glenwood had the bar set high with 12 returning seniors this season, and the Gators justified the tall expectations with a 40-4 record: its most regular-season wins since 2016.

Glenwood also won state in its 46-win 2016 campaign, one of its three titles in the past decade. The Gators will look to make 40 wins a magic number in a chase for its first state championship in seven years beginning on Thursday, April 27, in a doubleheader at home against Monroe at 3:30 p.m. CST. If necessary, game three is on Friday.

I’m expecting to see on Thursday.”

Glenwood is riding high into the playoffs, winning its final two games over Macon-East and Bessemer, but a 5-4 loss to Macon-East last Tuesday might have brought it down to earth a bit. That loss not only ended Glenwood’s 21-game win streak, but it counted as its only region loss of the season.

the doubleheader in Montgomery. After falling down 7¬-2 early, the offense put together a storm and won 15-9.

“Maybe that’s what we needed,” Fanning said. “We’ve just got to get back to the basics. That’s what we did at practice on Friday — just working on the little things, so that it doesn’t come down to how big the stage is, it just comes down to how we’re executing. That’s what we’re trying to hammer every day in practice.”

runs as of the beginning of this week, all of which lead the team.

Along with a loss to Prattville’s Autauga Academy at the beginning of March, the loss to Macon-East was only Glenwood’s second loss to an in-state opponent this season. The Gators began the season with a tough run through West Georgia and came out with a two-run loss to Strong Rock Christian and a one-run loss to Calvary of Columbus.

I like to see them spend time together.”

Hendricks said team bonding has become an intentional habit and has changed the team culture. This cohesion has showed itself through the team’s fight all season and willingness to play team ball.

The seniors helped instill the team’s values of playing selflessly and overcoming adversity, and it all came to fruition on senior night in a win over Benjamin Russell last Tuesday.

After two lead changes, Benjamin Russell hit a solo homer to go up 4-3 in the top of the seventh. Then, the Tigers’ two through six hitters, all seniors, managed to manufacture two runs to walk it off, 5-4.

“Your leadership starts with your philosophies and coaches, but if you’re a coach-led-only team, you’re only going to go so far,” Hendricks said. “Our senior class has embraced their leadership roles and done it through action. They have phenomenal work ethics, they do the things the right way and they’re intentional in their actions.”

According to

Hendricks, the seniors have helped the team become more versatile and play smarter ball. However, it all starts with character.

“Our seniors have set the precedence by just being great people, and then translating that into their work ethic and caring about their teammates. You really can’t say enough about them.

They’ve had to be unselfish at times because some of them have had to accept smaller roles than they probably want. But the ones who have been in the spotlight are humble about it, and that’s really, really nice to see as a coach.”

The team bonding is paying off individually as well. Roberts committed to Huntingdon College last Thursday after being awarded the Chuck Furlow Memorial Scholarship on senior night. The scholarship was started by former AHS athletic director Chuck Furlow’s family in 2020 and is given to one softball and one baseball player each year.

Roberts has put on a show from both sides of the plate this season, posting a 17-1 record in the circle with two saves, 109 strikeouts, a 1.71 ERA, .354 batting average and seven home

With six players hitting for an average above .300 and boasting two 10-game winners in Roberts and Abigail Helms (10-6), the Tigers feel confident passing the baton, something that Hendricks said he values highly in the big moments going to the postseason.

After the regular season wraps up with a tournament at Tallassee this weekend, Auburn will begin postseason play in the area tournament at Central on Monday, May 1. The Tigers are the No. 2 seed in that tournament, facing No. 3 seed Smiths Station first, while No. 1 Central opens with No. 4 Opelika in a double-elimination tournament.

Following that is the region tournament, beginning on May 11 in Montgomery followed by the state tournament in Oxford, Alabama, a week later. Currently ranked the No. 9 team in 7A, Auburn will look to knock off Central, who defeated Auburn twice in the regular season, before vying for a path past reigning champion Thompson in its chase for its first 7A state title.

“There’s nothing we haven’t seen, so there shouldn’t be any surprises,” said head coach Tim Fanning. “It’s just really about us focusing and executing. … We just need to be efficient on the mound — force contact, let our defense play. We’re really athletic and really good on the bases, and we put pressure on people. That’s what

said. “You try to keep your game focused on the game in front of you but we were not expecting it to be that close. I think it really woke us up.”

Following Ft. Dale the Warriors faced a familiar foe in Glenwood. The two teams split the regular season series 1-1 and Faison said he knew the two intimately familiar teams were in for a tightly contested matchup.

“Going into that game it was kind of a toss-up,” Faison said. “It was a pretty level game as far as talent and all that. We just had to go out there, relax and do our thing. I think, at that point, the game was more mental than physical.”

For the championship game, Faison made what could be considered a risky move — changing the tactics he had used all season for a setup that focused on taking away Glenwood’s two main offensive threats.

“We kind of did a few things differently that game that I think the strategy and tactics went in our favor and according

Glenwood’s latest loss was in heartbreaking fashion, as it entered the seventh inning with a 4-0 lead before surrendering five runs, allowing Macon-East to walk it off. However, it served as sort of a wake-up call that made itself prevalent in game two of

Several arms have stepped up for the Gators outside of the senior class this season. Sophomores Tyler Sykes and Mason McCraine have proven to be go-to arms, adding to the team’s depth. While seniors Jacob Page, Jackson Kennon, Lukas Holman and Wyatt Tharpe have been stellar arms for most of the season, Fanning said his team might get even stronger with some key additions in the playoffs.

With a week off from the regular-season finale I don’t mind doing that.

See GATORS, page B8

to plan,” Faison said. “It was interesting, Glenwood had two really strong offensive players, and our deal was we are going to shut the game down, take it away from them and make someone else beat us. So I moved two of my best players to central defense andsaid, 'Your job is to shut them down.' They did that.”

The switch proved fruitful for Lee-Scott as the Warriors dominated possession for much of the contest. As the game inched into its second half, however, the two teams remained deadlocked at nil-nil.

“We controlled possession, we had multiple opportunities and really controlled the game, but we could just not get it in the net,” Faison said.

Eventually, Lee-Scott escaped the game with a 1-0 victory — and a second state championship in three years. Eighth-grader Emmie Mills, Lee-Scott’s leading goal scorer all season with 19, scored the winning goal for the Warriors in the 75th minute.

According to Faison, this year’s state championship felt different from the one

the Warriors won in 2021. Then, Lee-Scott upset 12-0 Chambers Academy in a game that no one expected them to win. This time, Lee-Scott had the CV to prove they belonged there.

“The one we won two years ago, we were playing a team that was 12-0 and there was really little chance we were going to win that game but we did,” he said. “So, I felt the intensity of that emotion was different from what we felt this year.”

The senior-less LeeScott was led offensively this year by Mills, Delaney Faison (15 goals), Merrill Huddleston (nine goals), AJ Spillman (five goals) and Kaitlyn Drake (four goals).

The Warriors posted a 3:1 goals to goals-conceded ratio, netting 66 goals and allowing just 22 in total.

Going forward, Faison and his team will celebrate the title before refocusing what is a young squad on the next season. But the state title belongs once again to the Lee-Scott girls, and the future is bright.

“It’s a very talented, young group, and we are going to have that same team for the next three or four years,” Faison said.

B2 April 27, 2023
Auburn assistant coach Karl Nonemaker and catcher Nate LaRue.
P H O T O B Y A D D S O N F A U C E T T / A U A T H L E T I C S
2022-23 varsity Glenwood baseball team. LEE-SCOTT >> FROM B1
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Pearl Hires Coaching Veteran, Former NBA Champion Williams

P H O T O C O N T R B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

“Not only was he a great college and pro player, but Corey is also a terrific coach and an even better person. A Macon, Georgia, native, he and his family are excited about moving to Auburn and being closer to home. It’s going to be a great fit with our Auburn Family.”

Williams is no stranger to the Southeastern Conference, having worked as an assistant coach at the University of Arkansas from 2019-21, after six seasons as the head coach at Stetson University from 2013-19.

COREY WILLIAMS

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

Corey Williams, a 23-year coaching veteran and player for the 1993 NBA Champion Chicago Bulls, has been hired as an assistant men’s basketball coach on head coach Bruce Pearl’s staff.

Williams previously served as an assistant coach the last two seasons at Texas Tech University, including interim head coach. The

Talented Transfer Guard Johnson to Make Impact

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

Chaney Johnson is the latest Auburn men’s basketball signee for head coach Bruce Pearl. The 6-foot-7, 215-pound guard from Alabaster, Alabama, played the last three seasons at NCAA Division II University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and will be a junior with two years of eligibility remaining.

the NCAA Division II Tournament.

and All-Gulf South Conference First

record as it approaches the area tournament. The Lady Bulldogs must finish the tournament in first or second to make the state playoffs. The softball team plays on the road against Central Phenix City May 1 at 6:30 p.m. If the Bulldogs win, they secure a place in the state tournament. If OHS loses game one against the Red Devils, they will face the winner of Auburn and Smiths Station for a chance to advance to state.

TRACK AND FIELD

OHS girls and boys track and field teams participated in the Wayne Murphy Invitational on the AHS campus last weekend. Below are OHS athletes finishing in the top five.

GIRLS

100 METER DASH

12.22 - Tierra Agee

- 1st

12.71 - Amiya Brown

- 4th

13.12 - Kahliya Cloud

- 5th

200 METER DASH

25.33 - Tierra Agee

- 1st

27.04 - Kaylee

McIntyre - 4th

400 METER DASH

1:00.67 - Makiah

Paschal - 2nd

600 METER RUN

5:48.15 - Caroline

Couey - 5th

100 METER

HURDLES

18.20 - Cadence

Williams - 5th

HIGH JUMP 4-8 - Kyndall

Brundidge - 4th

LONG JUMP

16-9 - Tierra Agee - 1st

TRIPLE JUMP

Red Raiders advanced to the NCAA Sweet 16 and finished the 2021-22 season with a perfect 18-0 record at home for the first time in program history, ranked No. 12 in the final Associated Press Top 25 Poll and No. 1 in the Kenpom.com adjusted defensive efficiency ratings.

“We are very fortunate to be able to attract a coach with the kind of experience, character and reputation as Corey Williams,” Pearl said.

32-1 - Kimora Rowell

- 4th

POLE VAULT

7-6 - D’Nya Williams - 2nd

7-6 - Jada Frazier - 3rd

DISCUS

94-7 - Cherdi Daniels - 2nd

JAVELIN 99-0 - Cherdi Daniels - 3rd

97-3 - Rorie Dunbar - 5th

SHOT PUT 34-3.5 - Cherdi Daniels - 2nd BOYS

100 METER DASH

11.19 - Qualik Harry - 2nd

200 METER DASH

50.50 - Sam Washburn - 2nd

1600 METER RUN

4:36.50 - Charles Brewer - 1ST

110 METER

HURDLES 14.66 - Tykell Thomas - 1st

15.07 - Theo Hubbard - 3rd

HIGH JUMP

5-8 - Jaxon Freeman - 5th

LONG JUMP 21-7 -JaClarence Perry - 4th

TRIPLE JUMP

46-3 - Davian Jones - 2nd

POLE VAULT 12-0 -Dontarius Alvis - 2nd

DISCUS

142-9 - Mikeil Heard - 2nd

125-2 - Ajaden Parham - 5th

JAVELIN

154-3 - Octavious Gay - 1st

151-0 - Ronald Reese

Jr. - 2nd

SHOT PUT

46-2.5 - Mikeil Heard - 3rd

FLAG

“I want to thank God and coach Pearl for an amazing opportunity to join his staff,” Williams said. “Coach Pearl is a proven winner in every sense of the word. My family and I look forward to being a positive attribute to his staff, the university and community. I am truly thrilled and look forward to Coach’s mentorship and helping him win more championships in the near future.”

COACH

I learned Opelika High school named Mike Murray as the new flag football head coach following Jaclyn Button’s resignation after two seasons. Murray was the top assistant coach for Button last season and brings over 20 years of coaching experience with him. Murray was an assistant for boys football for many years.

"ON THE MARK" ON RADIO

You can listen to the “On the Mark" radio show each weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on FOX Sports the Game 910AM -1310AM, online at foxsporthsthegame.com or on the free iHeartRadio app on your smartphone. Search WZMG 910-1310 or FOX Sports the Game. Jeff Sasser and I host the local morning sports show from the Orthopaedic Clinic Studio inside the iHeartRadio headquarters in Opelika.

The show centers on

Johnson started and played in all 35 games of the 2022-23 season for the Chargers and was named Gulf South Conference Player of the Year, averaging 15.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game as a sophomore. The 1,000-career point scorer notched double digits in all but three games, including four 25-plus point outings. Johnson led his team to a 27-8 overall record, regular-season championship title and the regional final of

local high school sports, as well as Auburn University and the SEC. We have a guest host each day, having featured coach Dan Washburn, coach Larry Gore, coach Doug Barfield, James Cooper, Terry Rosenthal, Jeff Meyers, Chris Wood and Derek Lee. Other regular guests appearing on “On the Mark" include coach Gene Stallings, Sen. Tommy Tuberville and local high school head coaches from Opelika, Auburn, Lee-Scott, Beauregard, Valley, Lanett, Smiths Station, Chambers Academy, Lafayette, Glenwood, Central, Notasulga, Loachapoka, Dadeville, Beulah and prominant head coaches from across the state of Alabama.

Listeners can also hear from members of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and the Alabama Independent School

“Chaney’s journey is the perfect example of the great American dream,” Pearl said. “He graduates from Thompson High School, goes to UAH to play for John Shulman, grows four inches, leads his team to a conference championship, becomes (conference) player of the year in three years, and now has the opportunity to play at Auburn in the SEC. Chaney’s hard work, dedication, length and athleticism have enabled him to become quite the talent. He will have the opportunity to impact our team right away. Auburn basketball just got better.”

Johnson is a career 37.2% 3-point shooter and poured in a career-high 35 points versus EmbryRiddle on Nov. 7, 2021. He was twice honored on the NABC Division II AllDistrict South Team

Association.

Auburn University coaches Jeff Graba, Butch Thompson, Karen Hoppa and Greg Williams make regular appearances during their sports seasons as well.

Team. A three-time GSC Academic Honor Roll student majoring in marketing, he is the son of Chuck and Regina Johnson and has one brother, Brodie. Johnson previously starred at Thompson High School, where he was a 2020 Birmingham all-region honorable mention and all-county second-team selection averaging a team-leading 13.4 points and 4.4 assists per game during his senior campaign.

2023-24 AUBURN

MEN’S BASKETBALL

SIGNEES

Aden Holloway, Guard, 6-1, 165, Freshman, Charlotte, North Carolina (Prolific Prep) Chaney Johnson, Guard, 6-7, 215, Junior, Alabaster, Alabama (UAH) Denver Jones, Guard, 6-4, 190, Junior, New Market, Alabama (FIU)

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.

Serving Lee County for 25 years 461 Opelika Road, Ste. A, Auburn 334-502-8848 www.whittsautoservice.com

B3 April 27, 2023
FOOTBALL HAS NEW
D. Mark Mitchell is the SPORTS >> FROM B1
Williams was a star player at Oklahoma State from 1989-92 and had a lengthy
See WILLIAMS, page B5

Panthers Outlast Hornets in Local Late Season Test

tournament.

SUSCC Sophomores Named to All-Alabama Academic Team

CONTRIBTUED BY SUSCC

OPELIKA — Southern Union State Community College sophomores

Elijah McWhorter and Alyssa Hurst were honored as members of the All-Alabama Academic Team at a recognition ceremony on Friday, April 14, in Birmingham, Alabama. More than $53,000 total in scholarships was announced for 48 of the Alabama Community College System’s (ACCS) top scholars across the state during

the 2023 All-Alabama Academic Team Recognition Program. McWhorter, who is from Kellyton, plans to transfer to the University

Jay & Susie Gogue

Performing Arts Center Presents the

of Alabama and pursue a bachelor of studio art with concentration in digital media. Hurst, a native of Lineville, will attend Auburn University and major in elementary education.

“These are two of our best,” said SU President Todd Shackett of the honorees. “It is always a pleasure to celebrate the accomplishments of our students at event such as this.”

All-Alabama Academic Team members are recognized for their distinguished academic achievements and

leadership accomplishments. The All-Alabama Academic Team scholarship and recognition program exists to provide Alabama Community College System (ACCS) students funding to support education and training in pursuit of a successful career pathway and a recognition program to honor outstanding scholarly achievements. The ACCS Paths to Success Foundation manages, supports and administers the AllAlabama Academic Team Scholarship and Recognition Program.

APRIL 29, 2023 2 p.m.

B4 April 27, 2023
PHOTOS BY
/
MATT AUSTIN
THE OBSERVER
The varsity Smiths Station softball team defeated Beauregard, 2-1, in a non-region home game April 20. Smiths Station, the No. 3 seed in the AHSAA 7A Area 4 standings, will play in its doubeelimination area tournament against No. 2 seed Auburn on May 1. Beauregard, the No. 3 seed in the AHSAA 5A Area 5, will face Elmore County May 3 on the road in its double-elimination area The top two teams of each area tournament advance to the next round of the playoffs. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Pictured with SU Dean of Academics Dr. Linda North are Hurst and McWhorter.

Opelika Girls Soccer Preparing for Playoffs

like to see as a coach.”

OPELIKA —

The Opelika High School Bulldogs girls soccer team has wasted no time adapting to competing as a 7A squad. The Bulldogs achieved a 7-5 overall record this season and went 4-2 in an area that included teams like Auburn and Central.

Opelika head coach Jacklyn Button offered her opinions on the team’s performance this season.

“Overall, I think my team has performed well in the regular season,” Button said. “We faced some challenging opponents, and although we struggled at times, I think we progressed throughout the whole season, which is what I

While it is a challenge to succeed in the regular season, it is significantly harder to do so in the playoffs. Button said she realizes this and has a plan to guide the team through new territory.

“The first key to success for our team in playoffs is to take it game by game, and focus on the challenge directly in front of us,” Button said. “If we can outwork the other team, and be a physical threat,

I am confident we can compete with any opponent. Some key things we focus on are doing the basics well, meaning we complete simple passes, communicate on the field, mark up, and challenge 50/50 balls. If we can execute these basic things well, we will see success.”

Moving up in classification presents new challenges and growing pains for a program, and Opelika’s girls soccer has been up to the task of adapting and competing in the new environment.

“Having success in 7A

has been very exciting for our team this year,” Button said. “Moving up a classification has given us tougher opponents, and we have risen to the challenge every time. Beating Smiths Station and securing our spot in the 7A playoffs is

Playing with Purpose

a great accomplishment for our team, especially since we are one of the few team sports at Opelika that has earned a spot in playoffs this year.”

The season is a long, continuous grind, and figuring out how to keep the roster fresh and ready to compete is something that every coach at every level has to think through. Button admitted she is no exception to this.

“My strategy for keeping players fresh and healthy throughout the season consists of regular ice baths and rest days when needed,” Button said. “To allow these players to operate at their highest potential, they need proper rest and recovery mixed in with their training. I try and allow those

players who are logging a lot of minutes on the field to stay properly hydrated and I encourage them to eat healthy meals to keep their strength up.”

The Bulldogs are excited for the challenge and ready to make a splash in the 7A playoffs for the first time in school history, Button said.

“We are excited to take on Dothan in the first round of playoffs,” Button said. “With a few key players recently coming back from injuries, we’re confident we can be competitive and give them a challenging match.”

Opelika’s first playoff game against Dothan will be on the road at Rip Hewes Stadium on Monday, May 1 at 5:30 p.m.

WILLIAMS >> FROM B3

career as a professional player before embarking on his coaching career. He was a second-round draft pick of the Chicago Bulls and was also selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 12th round of the 1992 NFL Draft, despite not having played football since junior high.

At OSU, Williams played point guard for Hall of Fame coach Eddie Sutton and later worked as a student assistant at his alma mater in 1994, serving as a member of the Cowboys’ staff during the program’s Final Four campaign.

Next to Sutton, Williams has also been mentored by Phil Jackson, Bill Self, Leonard Hamilton and Eric Musselman during his career as a player and

assistant coach.

While at Arkansas, Williams helped lead a resurgence where the Razorbacks went 45-19 in his two seasons, including a NCAA Elite Eight appearance in 2021. He helped Arkansas land the fifth-best recruiting class in the nation, which led to the program advancing to the Elite Eight, where its season ended after an 81-72 loss to eventual national champion Baylor. The Razorbacks eliminated Texas Tech with a 68-66 win in the second round to reach the Sweet 16.

During his tenure as head coach at Stetson, several players broke long-standing records as Divine Myles became the program’s all-time leading scorer, Angel Rivera set the record for career assists and Luke Doyle established

the mark for most career 3-pointers made.

Under William’s guidance, Derick Newton earned All-Atlantic Sun Conference honors in 2017, and Brian Pegg was voted as the 2017 ASUN Scholar-Athlete of the Year. The previous year, Stetson reached the ASUN Tournament championship game, marking the program’s first tournament finals appearance since 1994.

In 2014-15, Pegg led the ASUN in rebounding and Newton rewrote Stetson’s freshman record book on his way to earning Freshman All-America and ASUN Freshman of the Year honors. In Williams’ second year at Stetson, Myles and Grant Lozoya earned spots on the ASUN’s All-Freshmen team, while Rivera set the program’s record for assists

by a freshman with 120. He and Myles also became the first teammates, regardless of class, to each record 100 assists in the same season.

Prior to taking over the reins at Stetson, Williams spent six seasons as an assistant at Florida State from 2007-13. His career with the Seminoles coincided with the team’s resurgence on the national scene. Through Williams’ recruiting efforts, the Seminoles developed into one of the best programs in the ACC.

During his time in Tallahassee, Florida State won its first ACC Championship in 2012, enjoyed a run of four straight NCAA Tournament appearances — including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2011 — four consecutive years of double-digit wins in ACC play, produced five NBA Draft picks, recorded 16

wins over nationally ranked teams and appeared in the national rankings for four straight seasons.

Before joining the Florida State staff, Williams was an assistant coach for seven seasons at Oral Roberts from 200007, where he aided the Golden Eagles in achieving an average of 18 wins per season, including 20 or more wins in each of his last three seasons. ORU captured the Mid-Continent Conference regular-season and tournament titles in 2006 and 2007, advancing to NCAA Tournament play each season.

As a player, Williams finished his time at Oklahoma State ranked eighth on the school’s career scoring list with 1,320 points. He led the Cowboys to consecutive NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 appearances

under Sutton in 1991 and 1992. The Cowboys were ranked No. 14 in the final Associated Press Poll following the 1991 season and No. 10 in the final Coaches Poll in 1992.

As a rookie in the NBA, Williams was a member of the Michael Jordan-led Bulls as the franchise captured its third-straight NBA title. Following his one season in Chicago, Williams played parts of the next season with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Cavalry of the CBA. He also played professionally in Taiwan from 1995-98.

Originally from Macon, Georgia, Williams earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Oklahoma State in 2002. He and his wife Nicole have two children, Jourdan and Corey Jr. (C.J.).

B5 April 27, 2023
After three rainy sundays in a row, Miracle League of East Alabama got its season underway Saturday, April 15. Around 200 total players across 12 different teams participated in the opening ceremonies.
PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER
OHS girls soccer played Auburn in the annual "Soccer for a Cure" game April 15. PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Go Bo Go!

Bo Bikes Bama is an annual charity bike ride led by Alabama native and Auburn University great Bo Jackson. Every year, Jackson bikes across the state to raise money for the Governor's Emergency Relief Fund, which provides crucial disaster preparedness and emergency maanagement recources for the state of Alabama. Over 750 riders joined Jackson in person, and another 190 supported across the country, from 42 states in total.

WILD RIDE >>

Auburn in the series finale.

The Iron Bowl of baseball followed.

Auburn avoided what was nearly a complete collapse by the pitching staff in the ninth inning to take the series' first game. Alabama evened things up in a close game in the second contest. Once again, the

Tigers got blown out in the rubber match.

Every roller coaster has unexpected elements that make the experience that much more thrilling, and the Tigers have received the memo. Auburn hosted the Mississippi State Bulldogs last weekend and the Tigers picked up a 2-1 victory to open the series. The second game was a complete disaster up until the

bottom of the ninth inning. The Bulldogs held an 11-3 lead and things looked hopeless. The Tigers decided to wake up, however, and went on a rally that ended up falling just short, losing the game 11-10. The final game had a similar start to the second: The Bulldogs got off to a fast start and the Tigers were playing catchup the entire time. The comeback was successful this time

as Auburn erased a 9-3 deficit to pick up a 12-11 victory and its first series win since Georgia. With all that being said, there is no way to know what to expect from Auburn as the SEC Tournament approaches on May 24 through 29. As bleak as things have looked for the team at times, the Tigers have no shortage of fight in them and are capable of going on runs.

B6 April 27, 2023
PHOTOS BY ED SIKORA FOR THE OBSERVER
FROM B2 PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS
B7 April 27, 2023

OPINION —

As early childhood teachers we try to celebrate each day with our classroom of young children.

Wednesday, April 26, is celebrated as “Hug A Friend Day!” An unknown author truly coined what a hug means to us by writing “The Hug.”

A few lines of this poem are: “It’s wonderous what a hug can do. A hug can cheer you when you’re blue. A hug can say, “I love you so,” Or, “Gee, I hate to see you go.” A hug is, “Welcome back again.” And, “Great to see you! Where’ve you been?”

I know it thrills parents, grandparents and

Give a Friend a Hug

having friends. When children begin to discover the happiness of friendship their world opens up to new relationships and socialization. As we know, this depends on the age of a child.

teachers when children run with a smile and outstretched arms to greet us with a big hug. Parenting is truly a demanding but rewarding season in raising young children. We as parents have to multitask daily in running errands, preparing meals, bathing and dressing our children, taking them to school, making sure they rest, as well as other parental responsibilities. Taking time to create hug moments provides so many benefits for your child. When your child awakens from a nap or long night’s sleep, a hug can provide such love and security. It gives them confidence that they are accepted.

One true joy of life is making friends and

As a parent, when you see your child having difficulty making friends with other children, you can take time to role play with your child. The parent can play the part of a friend as they engage in activities and play with them. In the classroom, I love to do pretend meals with children. As a parent, you can do this at home in sharing a pretend meal. Playing dolls or teddy bears with them teaches children how to interact with other peers. Spend time with your children and listen closely to your child or children about who they may like to play with at school. Check in with other parents of one or two other children and invite them over to play. One thing I truly cherish about Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is that they have play dates at playgrounds or parks where the children can play with each other, as well an opportunity for mothers to make friends. Too, there are child-friendly restaurants that have indoor playgrounds where the children can play and make friends while

families can fellowship with other families and enjoy a meal. Too, viewing a favorite video with a favorite snack together are simple things that children enjoy. The main thing that you are focusing on is having them learn how to get along with others. With very young children, it is necessary for parents to quietly oversee the play of their friends, especially if it is their first time to play. As parents, you don’t want to dominate or control their play but you want to facilitate their play. Keep in mind that children depend on routine and familiar activities.

Children consider their pets to be their friends. They play for hours with their furry friends such as dogs, cats, hamsters, etc. Taking care of a goldfish by feeding it, as well as cleaning out its bowl, helps to instill a sense of care and responsibility. Guiding children on how to take care of pets develops a sense of responsibility which is necessary in friendships.

Free play is the work of a young child. Play provides a wonderful socialization time for children to make friends. Playing inside or outside with your child promotes physical, mental and emotional happiness in exercise and fun. Running, walking, skipping and throwing a ball

back and forth is loved by young children. Too, children are happy when they are engaged in helping others. These can be simple acts of kindness in helping friends and family. Children love to be needed and to help. I love to quietly observe preschoolers or kindergarten students help each other tie or put on shoes after play, or helping others gather papers in putting it in a backpack or folder. As a teacher, I observe this weekly in the early childhood classroom.

As teachers, we do a lot of reviewing things learned at the end of the year. I would like to review some tips I have suggested in earlier Classroom Observer articles on guiding young children to share and care.

1. Demonstrate and model sharing and caring for others by example. Take the time to let your young child share. Taking time to cut a piece of fruit or cookie into and share with your child is a simple activity. Praise your child if they share with you.

2. Praise children when they share with other people in the family. Hug, verbally encourage and let them know that you are happy when they share.

3. With young children, point out and take time to discuss other people’s needs. When young

children are making gifts for example, Mom, because Mother’s Day is coming up, ask what their mother’s favorite color is. The same can go for food favorites in the family. Some families have special food nights. During a pizza night, for example, a young child may say I like cheese pizza, but ask your child what other family members like, such a pepperoni pizza. They need to consider other people’s favorites too.

4. In working with your child in sharing toys with friends, take the time to separate toys with your child. Ask your child to decide upon the toys they would like to share in playing together.

5. Our local libraries are so very helpful. I love going into the library each week to have the librarians help me pull helpful early childhood books on different topics. There are so many books on sharing that they can help parents to find in sharing with your children.

I want to gently remind everyone that on Wednesday, April 26, is “Administrative Professional/Secretaries Day”. This day would truly be a good day to give those who help us in offices everywhere a big hug!

Classroom Observer

OPS, AMEA Announce 2023 Scholarship Winners

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA — Opelika Power Services and the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) are pleased to announce the local winners of the 2023 AMEA Scholarship.

Each year, AMEA awards a $2,500 scholarship to 40 high school students. To be eligible for the AMEA

GATORS

>> FROM B2

scholarships, a student’s family must receive electric service from Opelika Power Services and the student must attend an Alabama college, university or vocational school.

This year’s Opelika Power Services/AMEA Academic Scholarship Program recipients from Opelika’s service area include:

• Clara Evelyn Duncan,

to the playoffs, the Gators have the luxury of resting, but also continuing

Trinity Christian School

• John Christopher Knox Jr., First Baptist Opelika Christian School

• Esther Mae Nicholson, Opelika High School

• Ronald Reese, Jr., Opelika High School.

“We are extremely excited to work with such great partners like AMEA,” said Brent Poteet, director of Opelika Power Services. “And it’s always great to

to sharpen its playoff sword. After months of rehab, senior right-handers

be able to recognize and reward students for their hard work. We wish these students the best of luck as they move forward and fulfill their dreams.”

AMEA will give out a total of $100,000 among the 40 winners this year.

AMEA received a total of 138 scholarship applications in the 2023 program. Since 1992, AMEA and its members have provided over $3

Brandon McCraine and Jaxon Milam threw bullpens on Friday and

million in scholarships to the graduating high school seniors who receive their electric service from AMEA Members.

“Education is an 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. We’re fortunate to have AMEA and Opelika Power

Monday, and Glenwood will “feel it out” on when to ease them into game action on the mound.

In year 20 as Glenwood’s head coach, Fanning is looking for his ninth state championship. He’s no stranger to a championship team, and he said this team has all

continue this program year after year.”

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.

the motivation it needs to win its first varsity ring on the baseball field.

“At this point in the season, I don’t know that there’s any extra motivation; that should be internal,” Fanning said. “With the seniors, this is an opportunity to finish what they started.”

featuring Blind Boys of Alabama John Paul White  Elley Duhé  Eric Essix

B8 April 27, 2023
BETH PINYERD
GATES OPEN AT 2 P.M. ALL-DAY MUSIC

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Inside the Statehouse

Alabama Political Leaders under 45

Tennessee Valley.

If you think Hill and Sparkman were young when they went to Washington, you have not seen anything like the governors we elected from 1946 to 1966. James E. “Big Jim” Folsom was 38 when he was elected in 1946. John Patterson was 37 when he was elected in 1958. Patterson was referred to as the “Boy Governor.”

Lee County Seeks New Judgeship

to Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, age 41; state Senate majority leader Clay Scofield, age 42; and state Rep. Wes Kitchens, who is 35 and is vice chairman of the House Republican Caucus.

Andrew Sorrell, the newly elected state auditor, is only 37. He has a bright future.

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

It may appear to you

and most casual observers of Alabama politics that our Alabama elected officials are old. That observation is accurate when you observe our current leaders in the highest offices.

The governor’s office has been held by mature folks in recent years. Our current governor, Kay Ivey, is 78 and has been the object of national media humor for appearing to be a pistol-toting great-grandmother. Dr. Robert Bentley, her predecessor, was in his 70s, but he may have been sprier than he appeared. Bob Riley was no spring chicken while governor at age 65, although he looked younger. Our iconic senator, Richard Shelby, retired in January at 88 after a record-breaking 36 years in the U.S. Senate. Our new senior senator, Tommy Tuberville, is 68. This was not always the case in the Heart of Dixie. In the period from 1930 through 1970, we elected the youngest political leaders in the nation beginning with our legendary tandem of United States senators, Lister Hill and John Sparkman, who served together close to 30 years. Hill was elected to state Congress from Montgomery in 1923 at age 29 and was elected to the U.S. Senate at age 44. John Sparkman was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1946 at 46 after serving as the Congressman for the

When George Wallace was elected to his first term in 1962, he was only 43. When his wife Lurleen Wallace was elected in 1966, she was 40. She died in office of cancer less than two years later at 41.

Lurleen Wallace was succeeded by Lt. Gov. Albert Brewer, who had been speaker of the Alabama House at 34, lieutenant governor at 38, and was 39 when he became governor.

Bill Baxley was the youngest attorney general in America when he was elected attorney general of Alabama at 29 years old in 1970. He had been a 25-year-old district attorney in Houston and Henry counties. Baxley still practices law in Birmingham at 81.

Well, folks, a cursory look at our current top elected officials may appear old, but we have a generation of young political leaders arriving on the scene in Alabama.

We have superstars on the horizon and already on the scene who are under 45.

Our new United States senator, Katie Britt, is only 40 years old. She has the ability and youthfulness to be one of Alabama’s greatest senators. She has gotten to the Senate at a younger age than Hill, Sparkman or Shelby.

Marshall County has become the hotbed and breeding ground for the next generations of Alabama political leaders. This beautiful, pristine lake area of North Alabama lays claim

The brightest star in the Democratic ranks is Huntsville state Rep. Anthony Daniels. At age 40, Daniels is a superstar. He is in his third term in the House from Huntsville. He is the minority leader in the House. This gentleman is also a successful, hightech businessman in the Rocket City.

There are several other stars under 45 in the Alabama House of Representatives besides Daniels and Kitchens, including Kyle South of Fayette, Matt Simpson of Daphne, Joe Lovvorn of Auburn, Ben Robbins of Sylacauga, Scott Stadthagen of Madison, Corey Harbison of Cullman, and very young newcomers James Lomax of Huntsville and Brock Colvin of Albertville.

Joining the affable and accomplished 42-year-old Senate majority leader, Scofield, in the powerful state Senate in the under-45 superstar group are Sen. Chris Elliott, 42, of Baldwin County; Sen. Andrew Jones, 38, of Cherokee County; and newly elected Sen. Josh Carnley, from Coffee County, who is 44.

Alabama has a host of under-45 political leaders.

See you next week.

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

LEE COUNTY —

The Lee County Commission approved a request to support an additional circuit judgeship in Lee County during its meeting Monday night.

“The Judgeship Report for the 37th Judicial Circuit was prepared by the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts in response to the filing of Senate Bill 144 on March 23, 2023, that provides for the creation of one additional circuit judgeship for the 37th Judicial Circuit,” said the official Judgeship Report provided by the commission. “This judgeship would be filled at the 2024 general election. Funding for the judgeship would be from the State General Fund.”

The Lee County circuit has 58,080 people per judge, ranked No. 3 in Alabama.

“With the addition of

a circuit judge, the court would drop to a statewide ranking of 10th in population per judge,” the report said.

This change will go into effect in 2024.

“I’ve had a number of people contact me asking us to support this,” said Probate Judge Bill English. “I think our statistics clearly show the need is here for another circuit judgeship in Lee County.”

The resolution that the county voted on supports Senate Bill 144, or, English said, other bills that would add a judgeship.

“I think if y’all will ask the lawyers in town, they will tell you how behind it gets and how badly we need that,” English said. Ward 1 Commissioner Doug Cannon made the motion.

“I think Lee County’s grown; I think we need to do it,” he said.

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The commission did not approve a request for the vacation of Lee Road 196.

- The commission approved an amendment to the Ingenuity software contract.

- The commission approved a proposal from DocuStor for professional scanning services and cloud services.

- The commission approved an application for retail beer and retail table wine from Sistrunks (D5).

- The commission approved a bid for No. 2023-10 for a 2019 or new Chrysler Pacifica.

- The commission approved a resolution relating to the ARPA Water Authority Project, Smith’s Water and Sewer Authority.

- The commission approved an agreement with ThreatAdvice Cybersecurity Education and Threat awareness.

- The commission did not approve the results of a local striping bid so they could renegotiate.

- The commission approved the results of a bid for Project No. LCP 41-PP334/6 for resurfacing.

Smiths Station City Council Issues April Proclamations

SMITHS STATION —

The Smiths Station City Council and Mayor F. L. “Bubba” Copeland issued two proclamations April 11 recognizing April 2023 as Fair Housing Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month in the city.

According to Copeland, April 2023 marks 55 years since the passage of Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, commonly referred to as the Federal Fair Housing Act

Bea Wallace and CEO Chris Lammons of the East Alabama Board of Realtors

were present to accept the proclamation for Fair Housing Month.

“They come every year, and we talk about fair housing,” Copeland said. “Fair housing is a big deal … and they care about fair housing.

… I thank you for constantly reminding us of what this means.”

A representative from the Rape Counselors of East Alabama was also See SMITHS, page B11

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF SMITHS STATION EABOR CEO Chris Lammons, far left, and Bea Wallace, right, accept the Fair Housing Month proclamation from Mayor Bubba Copeland.

Renaming Fort Benning: Memories of Fort on Our Minds — Part Two

Benning’s name would be removed from the Columbus, Georgia, post.

Fort A.P. Hill will become Fort Walker. That is for Mary Edwards Walker, a doctor and the only woman awarded the Medal of Honor in the Civil War. Fort Polk will be named Fort Johnson, honoring Sgt. William Henry Johnson, an African American who fought off German troops during World War II. Fort Hood will be Fort Cavazos, after the first Mexican-American general in the U.S. Army, Richard E. Cavazos.

War II.

Fort Pickett became Fort Barfoot after Tech. Sgt. Van T. Barfoot. He was a recipient of the Medal of Honor for heroic actions during World War II. His grandmother was Choctaw, but Barfoot himself was not an official member of Choctaw Nation; his parents never enrolled him. Fort Rucker has been renamed Fort Novosel after CWO4 Michael J. Novosel Jr. He was awarded the MOH for bravery in conducting a medical evacuation under fire in Vietnam.

Moores’ name, many see it as unwanted “change for change’s sake.”

The second reason a sizeable group of people oppose changing not only at Fort Benning, but the others too, is the cost. The Naming Commission projects that it will cost $21 million to effect the fort changes. The body says “hundreds” of other Defense Department assets such as roads and buildings must be renamed.

elementary school at Fort Benning; when they return sometime for a class reunion, it will be Fort Moore. The sentimental side is driving the opposition to the fort change, more than are reasons one and two. I have memories there too, as not only a college teacher, but a mobilization coordinator as a volunteer with ESGR.

OPINION —

Afavorite memory at Fort Benning for me is serving on the adjunct faculty of a community college. I called the first class every semester “Opening Night” as an icebreaker in the history and government classes. I had many other memories at the fort soon to be renamed, such as attending a monthlong leadership school in 1985 at the Infantry School.

But as the fort prepares to be renamed for Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife Julia, both outstanding public servants, I find many Lee Countians are

not comfortable about what is happening at Benning and eight other Army forts. I explain their positions later in this column.

“He was convinced that to free the Negroes we would create such social chaos in the South as to make civilization impossible and life for the whites unendurable,” according to an analysis of Brig. Gen. Henry Benning. “He therefore became an ardent secessionist.”

When his racist approach and betrayal of the Union became well-known, it was only a matter of time before

Fort Bragg becomes Fort Liberty. Fort Gordon becomes Fort Eisenhower. And of course, Fort Benning becomes Fort Moore, for Vietnam hero Moore and his wife Julia, who developed a better notifications system for reporting soldier deaths.

“Lieutenant General Arthur Gregg helped establish and rebuild devastated Germany,” reads a biography of Gregg, whose name will be on Fort Lee. Also honored with Fort Lee’s name change will be Lt. Col. Charity Adams, who led a very efficient U.S. postal unit during World

Now to the first reason individuals object to renaming Fort Benning. Many are burned out from all the changes to forts and the elimination of monuments. Despite admiring the Moores, they are frustrated with “changes for changes’ sake.” They wake up every day to a new “wokeness” project and they hate it.

Yet in Henry Benning’s case, shown earlier, he was an insurrectionist in the Civil War. His references to Blacks were demeaning. He kept a low profile as a fort’s name; few people cared to check if he was a racist. Though I agree with the

A Libertarian told me he Is “100% against” such actions as happened at the forts. “The government doesn’t need to add on more debt” is his motto. The cost is certainly high, but if we know Henry Benning is a rogue, not a hero, don’t we need to erase his memory?

The final reason people are upset with the changes is because the term “Fort Benning” stirs memories. The joy of graduating jump school lasts a lifetime, and it happens at a place called Benning. After a few years, people look back at Basic as grueling, but their drill sergeants are seen as great role models.

Others recall their graduation from

I attended a “free Lou Rawls” concert in the late 1980s at Doughboy Stadium. Rawls was a member of the 82nd Airborne in the Army, before becoming a star singer of rhythm and blues. On May 11 I hope to be at Doughboy again when Fort Benning becomes Fort Moore. We can sing one last time that “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine,” referring to Fort Benning.

Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has master’s degrees in education and history. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to The Observer for 11 years. gm.markley@ charter.net.

B10 April 27, 2023
GREG MARKLEY

New Lee County EMA Offices Host Ribbon Cutting

Opelika Kiwanis Hears from Village Friends

present to accept the proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). This year’s SAAM campaign theme is “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.”

According to the proclamation, one in six women and one in 33 men will be subject to an attempted or completed rape at some point in their lives.

“Thank you so much for bringing attention to such a serious cause,” Copeland told the representative.

Earlier in the meeting, the council appointed Richard Beverly to fill the seat on the Historical Commission previously occupied by Tony Courson.

The mayor and council also discussed various issues with roads at the April 11 meeting. The council approved a resolution to enter into a contract with Phenix Paving and Maintenance LLC for the asphalt overlay project for Susan Place (Lee Road 854).

Copeland asked for citizens to be patient with the city as it arranges for roads to be paved, citing cost as one of the main reasons several roads still need to be repaved. He used the recently completed Cummings Road (Lee Road 294) project — which cost about $222,000 to repave three-quarters of a

mile — as an example.

“We have had a lot of water that has fallen in the last four or five years, and anytime you have a torrential downpour, your asphalt is going to come apart, crack,” Copeland explained. “… Yes, we would love to pave every road in the city today, but $220,000 is real money. It’s real money. So, I ask you to be patient with us.

“We’re trying to do our best to patch holes, make our roads last as long as they possibly can. But if you ride around our region — from Phenix City to Columbus to Salem to Opelika — we’re not the only ones [that need repaving]. … It’s pretty rough, but it’s not because we’re not trying.”

In public comments, citizen Blanche Moore called attention to an alleged issue with speeding in the Twelve Oaks neighborhood. Moore said she contacted the city about the issue several months prior but has not seen the issue resolved.

“I’m coming to you because today, this morning, my fiancé was actually mowing the lawn and another delivery truck came around the blind curve and almost hit him,” she said. “He was close to the road, trying to mow our lawn.”

Copeland said “kids at play” signs would be ordered the next day, and the missing speed limit sign would be replaced. Moore

had also mentioned speed bumps, but Copeland said she would need to collect a two-thirds majority of signatures from neighborhood residents to get the speed bumps installed in the road.

Copeland and Place 5 Council Member Victoria Green were absent from the April 25 meeting, but the council approved the relocation of a public posting place from Rainbow Foods on Panther Parkway to the U Save It Pharmacy.

“By state law, we have to have four public posting places, so in order to satisfy that requirement, we need to relocate it from Rainbow Foods to U Save It Pharmacy,” said City Clerk Morgan Bryce.

The Smiths Station City Council meets at 6 p.m. Eastern Time on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Government Center, located at 2336 Panther Parkway (Lee Road 430).

B11 April 27, 2023
PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER
Lee County Emergency Management Agency has moved into its newly-renovated facility, located at 908 Ave. B in Opelika. Tours of the facility and a ribbon cutting were held on Monday, April 24.
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
The speaker at this week's Opelika Kiwanis Club meeting was Mical Traynor (middle) with Village Friends. She came and spoke to Opelika Kiwanis about Village Friends and how it is expanding to Opelika. Village Friends is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the Auburn/ Opelika community. It provides a network of services and support to help seniors age independently in their homes. Its goal is to support aging in one’s own home and neighborhood, supported by a caring community. For more information, visit www.vfv-v.clubexpress.com. SMITHS >> FROM B9 Mayor Bubba Copeland, left, issues the SAAM proclamation to a representative from the Rape Counselors of East Alabama. PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF SMITHS STATION

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: 2023-149

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION

PETITION OF JAMES RONALD HALL AND WANDA COX HALL

PUBLICATION NOTICE

TO: Randy Lamar Lynn Jr., Address Unknown

Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by James Ronald Hall and Wanda Cox Hall on March 22, 2023, for the adoption of L.M.L. born on September 7, 2012, in Opelika, Alabama to Christina Leigh Lynn and Randy Lamar Lynn Jr. A hearing has been set in the Lee County Probate Court, Opelika, Alabama.

Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Jason C. Riggs, P.0. Box 954, Aubumn, AL 36831 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, P.O. Box 2266, Opelika, AL 36803 as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published Dated on this the 23'd day of March 2023.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE

LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Legal Run 4/6/23, 4/13/23, 4/20/23 & 4/27/23

MORTGAGE

FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage dated October 22, 2021 executed by Jeffery Potter and Andrea Potter (collectively, “Mortgagor”) to United Bank recorded on November 18, 2021, recorded in Mortgage Book 4810, page 193, in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama, United Bank, the holder of the Mortgage, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage will sell, at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Lee County Courthouse located at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 on May 4, 2023, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Lee County, Alabama: Lot 815, according to the Survey of Grove HillIngleside Subdivision, as recorded in Town Plat Book 21, page 76, in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama. Property address: 1510 Montrose Road, Auburn, AL 36830

All recording references herein are to the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The holder of the Mortgage makes no representation or warranty as to the physical condition of the real estate and/or any improvements thereon. The above-described property will be sold: (i) on an “as is” basis, subject to any unpaid taxes, all reservations and restrictions contained in prior deeds and all other matters of record, including restrictive covenants and easements for road rights of way, utilities or rights of ingress and egress; (ii) without representation, warranty or recourse, express or implied, as to title, condition, use and/or enjoyment of the property; and (iii) subject to the statutory right of redemption. This sale is subject to being postponed or cancelled.

United Bank, mortgage

LLP

11 N. Water Street, Suite 1200 Mobile, AL 36602

(251) 439-7508 Legal Run 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023, & 04/27/2023

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE

WHEREAS, default has been made in the terms of the Mo1tgage executed on the 5th day of April, 2022, by Sonja Love Collins, as Mortgagor in favor of KAAM Enterprises, LLC, as Mortgagee, as recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Real Property Book 8, at Page 179, and said default continuing, the mortgagee, under power of sale contained in said mortgage will sell at auction for cash to the highest bidder on the steps of the Lee County Courthouse in Lee County, Alabama on Monday, May 15, 2023, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate embraced in said Mortgage and Mortgage Modification, situated in Lee, Alabama,

to-wit:

"Lot 5, Kendrick Subdivision, according to and as shown on map or plat of said subdivision of record in Town Plat Book 8, at Page 179, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama." THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN "AS IS, WHERE IS" BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO.

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Said sale is made for the purpose of foreclosing of said mortgage, paying the mortgage debt, the costs and expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney's fee. Mortgagee reserves the right to bid on the subject property. Said mortgage is a first mortgage and is not junior to another mortgage of record. Said sale is also subject to unpaid taxes or assessments whether of record or not. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

KAAM Enterprises, LLC, Mortgagee

Brandon F. Poticny Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. Attorney for Mortgagee

724 N. Dean Road, Suite 100, Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF JOSHUA MONCRIEF AND ALEXIS MONCRIEF

CASE NO.: 2023-011

PUBLICATION NOTICE

TO: Iverson Elijah Jones and any other potential unknown father, Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Joshua Moncrief and Alexis Moncrief on March 21, 2023, for the adoption of D.S.J. born on January 2, 2023, in Opelika, Alabama to Paris Nicole Tolar and Iverson Elijah Jones. A hearing has been set in the Lee County Probate Court, Opelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Katherine M. Hoyt, I

PUBLIC NOTICES

14 North 9th Street, Opelika, AL 3680 I and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, P.O. Box 2266, Opelika, AL 36803 as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published. Dated on this the 3rd day of April 2023.

BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE

LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

LEGAL RUN 04/13/23, 4/20/23, 4/27/23 & 5/4/23

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CLARENCE WATTS, DECEASED

Case No.: 2023-173

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr, Personal Representative on the 4th day of April, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed or the same will be barred.

Legal Run 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE: The Estate of Mario Lateef Mitchell

Deceased

Case Number: 2022-4 78

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Arlicia Mitchell as Administrator of the Estate of Mario Lateef Mitchell deceased, on the 23rd Day of March, 2023 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Arlicia Mitchell,

Personal Representative of the Estate of Mario Lateef Mitchell

Legal Run 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

The Estate of Aaron Ferigson, Deceased Case Number 2023-083

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Kelle Fergison as Administrator of the Estate of Aaron Fergison deceased, on the 28th day of March, 2023 by the Honorable Bill English,Judge of Probate.

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Kelle Fergison, · Personal Representative of the Estate of Aaron Fergison Legal Run 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE: THE MATTER OF WANDA SZOSTAK

CASE NO. 2016-A-168

NOTICE OF HEARING

Notice is hereby given that an Annual Return for the Conservatorship of Wanda Szostak, was filed by Conservator, Peter Szostak requesting approval of an annual accounting. A hearing has been set for the 22nd day of May 2023 at 10:00 a.m. central time, electronically via "ZOOM". Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-7373670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the said hearing.

BILL ENGLISH - Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 4/13/2023, 4/20/2023, 4/27/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RUBY L. MILLER, DECEASED CASE NO:. 2023-187

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 11th day of April, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

DENNIS E. MILLER

Personal Representative

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP

P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 04/20/2023, 04/27/2023 & 05/04/2023

FORM OF ADVERTISMENT FOR COMPLETION

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION, LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for the Lee County EMA Office Addition at 908 Avenue B, Opelika, AL 36801 for The Lee County Commission, Opelika, State of Alabama, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify:

John Randall Wilson, Architect, 900 Janet Drive, Auburn, AL 36830 WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION, LLC / CONTRACTOR

P.O. BOX 137, OPELIKA, AL 36802 Legal Run 04/20/2023, 04/27/2023, 05/04/2023 & 05/11/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA LYNN HARRISON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-167 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 31st day of March, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

TERRI LYNN FALLIN

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 04/20/23, 04/27/23 & 05/04/23

IN THE JUVENILE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: PETITION TO REMOVE DISABILITY OF NONAGE OF R.C.M., A minor (DOB 12/26/2004). CASR NO.: JU-2023-56.01 NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION TO REMOVE THE DISABILITES OF NON-AGE

Notice is hereby given that a Petition for the Removal of the Disabilities of Nonage has been filed by Jeffery Miller on the 15th day of February 2023, and a hearing has been set for May 24, 2023, at 10:00 am in the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama. Upon hearing, said petition evidence, shall be presented to the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama, in support of the petition and anyone who contests said petition may, upon giving security for costs of such contest, appear and state why such petition should not be granted.

Mary H. Roberson Circuit

Clerk

Benjamin H. Parr (PAR-112) Attorney for Petitioner 830-A Avenue A Opelika. Alabama 36801 (334) 749-6999

Mary H. Roberson Circuit Clerk Legal Run 04/20/23, 04/27/23 & 05/04/23

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERTA BROTHERS, DECEASED

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: 2023-090

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of April, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

DENA HOPE LITTLE

Personal Representative

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP

P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 334-745-3504 Legal Run 04/20/23, 04/27/23 & 05/04/23

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No.: CV-2021-900354.00

GARLAND REAL PROPERTIES, INC. , Plaintiff, v. A TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; And GEORGE SAMFORD, and/ or THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OR DEVISEES OF GEORGE SAMFORD; And FICTITIOUS DEFENDANTS A, B, C, et al, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION

To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence.

You are hereby notified that on the 22nd day of October, 2021, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Garland Real Properties, Inc., as Plaintiff; George Samford, and/or the unknown heirs or devisees of George Samford, as Defendant, whose additional heirs, executors and/or administrators are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows:

Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast of quarter of Section 21, Township 18 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, thence go South 05 degrees 15 minutes 00 seconds East for a distance of 2640.00 feet to a point on the Southwest' corner of the Northeast quarter of Section 21, Township 18 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, thence go North 87 degrees 25 m-minutes East for a distance of 1,970 feet to a point, thence North 06 degrees 38 minutes East for a distance of 277.17 feet to a point, thence North 20 degrees 25 minutes East for a distance of 449.62 feet to a point; thence South 87 degrees 30 minutes West for a distance of 49.81 feet to a corner on the northerly margin of Cox Road, which shall be point of beginning of the property herein intended to be described: From said point of beginning, continue South 87 degrees 30 minutes West for a distance of 196.31 feet to a point; thence North 25 degrees 12 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 45 degrees 29 minutes East for a distance of 1OO.OO feet to a point; thence North 53 degrees 45 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 61 degrees 40 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 72 degrees 25 minutes East for a distance of 1OO.O feet to a point; thence North 80 degrees 51 minutes East for a distance of 44.17 feet to a point; thence South 81 degrees 58 minutes East for a distance of 51.56 feet to a concrete monument P.T. STA. 94+80.5; thence Southwest along the curve of the Northerly margin of Cox Road, said curve having a chord of 399.66 and a radius of 998.84 to the point of beginning, which contains 1.25 acres, more or less. All persons having an

interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.

Done this the 6th day of April, 2023.

Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. 724 North Dean Road, Suite 100 Auburn, AL 36830 04/20/23, 04/27/23, 05/04/23, 05/11/23

CASE NO.2023-191

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The State of Alabama, Lee County Probate Cou1t Estate of: MARTHA JO DUDLEY, Deceased.

Letters Testamentary upon the estate of said decedent, having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of April 2023, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to file an itemized and verified statement of such claim in the office of the said .Judge of Probate within six months from the above date, or said claim will be barred and payment prohibited.

JOHN ROBERT DUDLEY, JR., BERRY C. DUDLEY, JR., ELLEN FAYE GABERLAVAGE, VICKI LEAH MASSINGILL and LINDA SUE EPPERSON, Executors. NOTICE TO CREDITORS BILLING INFORMATION:

JENNIFER J. MCEWEN, ESQ. MILLARD V. YOUNG, III, ESQ. MAYNARD NEXSEN PC 1901 Sixth Avenue North, Suite 1700 Birmingham, AL 35203 Tel: 205-254-1000 Legal Run 04/20/23, 04/27/23 & 05/04/23

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANDREW ARTHUR BERRY, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2023-197

Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of April, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

REGINALD BERNARD BERRY Administrator Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 04/20/23, 04/27/23 & 5/4/23

INVITATION FOR BIDS

23029

Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, May 22, 2023, and then publicly opened and read at Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room at 204 S. 7th St, Opelika, Alabama for furnishing all labor and materials and equipment necessary to provide: Installation of Conduit Systems by Directional Boring within the city limits of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the follow¬ing items: All Contracts are to be signed and returned to the City of Opelika Purchasing Department within 10 days of the contract being awarded by City Council. A

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B12
27, 2023
April

Majority of Alabamian Voters Want School Choice

ALABAMA —

A recent survey by the Alabama Republican Party shows the majority of Alabama voters want school choice in the state of Alabama. The poll asked 1,610 respondents the following question: "The State Legislature is considering a bill that would give parents the ability to choose which schools their children attend using state funds. Do you support or oppose school choice legislation?"

Almost four out of five voters with an opinion on the issues said they supported school choice legislation, while just over a quarter said they were undecided. The full survey results were

57% in support of, 16% opposed and 27% undecided.

Support for school choice was highest among Republican voters (67% to 9%), but also overwhelmingly popular with independent voters (55% to 17%) and still the first choice among Democrats (37% to 30%). The survey also showed school choice had extremely strong support with Black voters (52% to 21%).

“The Alabama Republican Party has been very vocal about our support for school choice and parental rights," said Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl.

"We believe that a child's quality of education should not be decided by their ZIP code, and that education funding

should follow the student so every child has the same opportunities.

"We trust that parents know the needs of their children better than the government, and we support returning control of Alabama’s education system back to the mothers and fathers of our state. The bottom line is that our parents, our children and our teachers deserve better and they deserve more options. That's why the Alabama Republican Party supports school choice.”

The poll was conducted by the Alabama Republican Party, and surveyed 1,610 respondents from a random stratified selection of registered voters across the state of Alabama. The sample’s margin of error is +/- 3.2%.

Lee County Officials Host Family Fun Day

Contractor's ability to perform all of the work within the required time shall be a primary consideration in the awarding of the bid. Plans, specifications, addenda, and other related documents may be obtained from the City of Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th St., Opelika, Alabama, Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. until 4:00 P.M., or downloaded from the City’s website at www. opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx. Technical questions regarding the bid may be directed to Brent Poteet, Power Services Director, City of Opelika, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama 36803. Phone: (334) 705-5571.

Guarantee will be required with each bid as follows: At least five (5) percent of the amount of bid in the form of a certified check or Bid Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama. A Con¬tract Bond and Labor and Material Bond shall be required when the Contract is awarded. The right is reserved, as the interest of the Owner may require, to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: City of Opelika, Purchasing Department, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803. Attn.: Installation of Conduit Systems by Directional Boring The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. All bidders must submit with their bid, their contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license must be documented on the outside of the envelope of the sealed bid.

LILLIE FINLEY

PURCHASING/ REVENUE & CODES

DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

Legal Run 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

INVITATION FOR BIDS

23030

Sealed bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, will be received by the City of Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, May 22, 2023, and then publicly opened and read at Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room

at 204 S. 7th St, Opelika, Alabama for furnishing all labor and materials and equipment necessary to provide:

Installation of Conduit Systems by Open Trench Excavation within the city limits of Opelika, Alabama. This project consists principally of the follow¬ing items:

All Contracts are to be signed and returned to the City of Opelika Purchasing Department within 10 days of the contract being awarded by City Council.

A Contractor's ability to perform all of the work within the required time shall be a primary consideration in the awarding of the bid. Plans, specifications, addenda, and other related documents may be obtained from the City of Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th St., Opelika, Alabama, Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. until 4:00 P.M., or downloaded from the City’s website at www. opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx.

Technical questions regarding the bid may be directed to Brent Poteet, Power Services Director, City of Opelika, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama 36803. Phone: (334) 705-5571.

Guarantee will be required with each bid as follows:

At least five (5) percent of the amount of bid in the form of a certified check or Bid Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama. A Con¬tract Bond and Labor and Material Bond shall be required when the Contract is awarded. The right is reserved, as the interest of the Owner may require, to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: City of Opelika, Purchasing Department, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803. Attn.: Installation of Conduit Systems by Open Trench Excavation

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. All bidders must submit with their bid, their contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license must be documented on the outside of the envelope of the sealed bid.

REVENUE & CODES

DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 04/20/2023 & 04/27/2023

Notice of Completion

Newell & Bush, Inc. hereby gives notice of completion of contract with the City of Opelika for construction of Project CR 63 N. Uniroyal Road City of Opelika. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning on April 20, 2023 and ending on May 11,2023. All claims should be filed at P.O. Box 240397 Montgomery, Al 36124 during this period. Newell & Bush, Inc. Legal Run 04/20/2023, 04/27/2023, 05/04/2023 & 05/11/2023

Roundabout at Sportsplex Parkway and West Point Parkway, Opelika Form of Advertisement for Completion Legal

Notice for Bid# 22010

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Robinson Paving Company Inc, Contractor, has completed the Contract for The Roundabout at Sportsplex Parkway and West Point Parkway Opelika, AL for the City of Opelika, owner, and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify in writing: Jeffrey Robinson 5425 Schatulga Rd Columbus, GA 31907 ROBINSON PAVING COMPANY POST OFFICE BOX 12266 COLUMBUS, GEORGIA 31917-2266 5425 SCHATULGA ROAD COLUMBUS, GEORGIA 31907 PHONE (706) 563-7959 FAX (706) 568-0314 Legal Run 4/20/23, 4/27/23, 5/4/2023, 5/11/2023 & 5/18/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE MAITER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN RAYFORD LEDLOW, DECEASED further and also known as JOHN RAYFORD LEDLOW LETTERS TESTAMENTARY for the estate of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned Personal Representative GARY WAYNE LEDLOW, on April 6, 2023, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH, Judge of the Probate

B13 April 27, 2023
Court of Lee County, Alabama notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ GARY WAYNE LEDLOW Legal Run 04/20/2023, 04/27/2023 & 05/04/2023 PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B12 See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B14
The Lee County DA Family Fun Day took place at the Lee County Justice Center in Opelika Saturday, April 22. Food vendors and community groups served attendees from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the event, which served as a catalyst to educate, engage and elevate the families of Lee County on the resources available to them in the area. PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER Graphic showing the results of the survey recently conducted by the Alabama Republication Party.

April 27, 2023

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

SMITHS WATER & SEWER

AUTHORITY SMITHS STATION, ALABAMA

HOLLAND CREEK BASIN

SANITARY SEWER IMP. (GRAVITY SEWER CLEANING, CCTV & REPAIRS)

Sealed bids for the Holland Creek

Basin Sanitary Sewer Imp. (Gravity Sewer Cleaning, CCTV & Repairs)

CMGM220122 will be received by the Smiths Water & Sewer Authority, Attn: Mr. Andy Morris, GM, located at 2848 Lee Road 243, Smiths Station, AL 36877, until Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 11:00 EDT local time at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

The Project includes the following

Work: Cleaning, CCTV & repairs of approximately 43,500 LF of varying diameter (8”-24”) gravity sanitary sewer, MH evaluation and related appurtenances.

Information for the Project can be found at the following designated website: www.gmcnetwork.com

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is Goodwyn Mills Cawood LLC, 11 N. Water St., Suite 15250, Mobile, AL 36602, Ashley.Morris@gmcnetwork.com.

Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below. Copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office, during the hours indicated above, upon payment of a deposit of $20.00 for a one time administrative fee for digital access/file sharing and/or $75.00 for each printed set. Said cost represents the cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution, therefore no refund will be granted. Checks for Bidding Documents shall be payable to “GMC.” Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office. Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities, or to reject any or all bids, and to award the contract to the best and most responsible bidder. All bidders shall submit, upon request, a list of projects "successfully completed" in the last 2 years, having the same scope of work and approximate construction cost as specified in this project. All bidders must comply with requirements of

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the Contractor's Licensing Law of the State of Alabama and be certified for the type of work on which the proposal is submitted. Each bidder must deposit with his bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Instructions to Bidders.

All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Engineer; the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 60 days after the opening thereof. Bidders will be fully responsible for the delivery of their bids in a timely manner. Reliance upon the U.S. Mail or other carriers is the bidder’s risk.

Owner: Smith Water & Sewer

Authority

By: Mr. Joe Walden

Title: Chairman Legal Run 04/27/2023, 05/04/2023 & 05/11/2023

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of KAMEL F. KHAZAL, deceased

Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Nahda Hashim Resen on April 24, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order Directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 04/27/2023

STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2023-203

RE:ESTATE OF RONALD

STEPHEN AKINS, Deceased:

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of April, 2023, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

/s/ Linda H. Holt Linda H. Holt, Administrator of the Estate of Ronald Stephen Akins Jacob J. Key

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Attorney for Administrator Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 (334) 644-1171 Telephone Legal Run 04/27/2023, 5/4/2023 & 5/11/2023

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS

HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under The Self Service Storage Act. The undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on Thursday the 18th day of May, 2023 at 10:00 AM on Lockerfox. com. Said property is iStorage, 501 North 26th St, Opelika, AL, 36801 Anderson, Elijah 1111 Furniture, Appliances Tools . Guirovich, Wayne

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2104 Misc Items, Boxes, Totes. Carl Dumas 2070 Furniture, Misc Items Household Goods. Stanfield, Kelsey 3065 Misc items, furniture, boxes and toys. Lynn Foster 1106 Appliances, furniture an Household goods. Saulmarshall, Cherita 2000 Furniture, Misc Items Household Goods. Samuel Shephard 2170 Furniture, Misc Items Household Goods. Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash or credit/debit card per facility policy. All purchased items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of

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the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Legal Run 04/27/2023 NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under The Self Service Storage Act. The undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on Thursday the 18th day of May, 2023 at 10:00 AM on Lockerfox.com. Said property is iStorage, 3806 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL, 36801 McCoy, Tracy 300 Desk, table, chairs, lamp, fireplace misc. Jackie Hamby 224 Couch, chair, sewing machine, end tables and misc. Bandy, Valentina 15 Lamps, totes, boxes, grill,suitcase misc. Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash or credit/ debit card per facility policy. All purchased items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Legal Run 04/27/2023 PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B13 Now Hiring General Labor KIA Starting Pay $13.50/hr. • 8 hour shift-1st • Industrial Cleaning Team Player MUST have weekend Availability. • Must have Reliable Transportation • Must pass drug and alcohol test. Contact Kendra 334-734-9572 kboyd@hscommercialsupply.com
B15 April 27, 2023 Like Crossword Puzzles? Sudoku? Play Online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/
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