The Observer 05-04-2023

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

During Tuesday night's Opelika City Council meeting, the council members voted to approve a project development agreement with MAB American Management LLC.

According to the resolution, MAB American Management LLC has presented plans to develop 12.6 acres of land located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Veterans Parkway and U.S. Highway 280.

According to signage located on the property, the the development will include a Publix Supermarket.

As part of the agreement the city of Opelika has agreed to provide financial incentives to the developer

in the form of the economic development grants equal to 50% of the city sales and use tax collected from businesses within the project over a period of 15 years, not to exceed $2 million.

Of the 65,000-squarefoot shopping center, nearly 49,000-square-feet will be occupied by the supermarket.

Lori Huguley, director of Economic Development, spoke of the project.

"We are excited about what this development is going to mean for our city," Huguley said. President of MAB American Management LLC, John Argo, was in attendance during the council meeting.

"I would like to commend the city council, and the mayor as well, for creating a business climate [in Opelika] that attracts

investors,"Argo said. "We had the pleasure of being recruited by Lori and her team to be a part of the city

of Opelika. We have the pleasure of working with one of our business clients, Publix Supermarkets. They

Auburn Chamber Celebrates Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation

are an excellent retail merchant."

Argo praised Hughley for her "selling of Ope-

lika," and said that he hopes that his company will be a good neighbor to the community.

BY HANNAH LESTER-GOLDFINGER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

CONTRIBUTED

OPELIKA —

Opelika Foundation recently selected 13 nonprofit organizations to participate in the fifth annual Opelika Giving Day. Opelika Giving Day is a 24-hour online fundraiser. This year the 24-hour period will run from May 10 at noon until May 11 at noon.

“We’re excited about the nonprofits and their projects, especially since they represent such a wide range of interests to Opelika citizens,” said Susan Brinson, chair of Envision Opelika Foundation.

Since its inception, Opelika Giving Day has helped raise nearly $150,000 for more than 25 nonprofit projects in or serving Opelika.

See GIVING, page A3

AUBURN — The Auburn Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the Jonathan

Jones Next Step Foundation, Friday, April 28. Jonathan Jones is an NFL player who got his career

giving

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders (center) and the Auburn Chamber of Commerce attended a ribbon cutting for the Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation on Friday, April 28.

A Publix Supermarket is being planned as part of a retail development by MAB Amercian Management LLC, at the Intersection of U.S. Highway 280 and Veterans Parkway in Opelika.

Storybook Farm’s Kentucky Derby Day Set for Saturday

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

Get ready to don a dapper outfit and your most spectacular hat as Storybook Farm hosts its 15th annual Kentucky Derby Day this Saturday, May 6. Gates will open at 2 p.m. on the farm, located at 300 Cusseta Road in Opelika.

Attendees will be able to watch the official 149th Kentucky Derby live from Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, enjoy bottomless mint juleps and participate in a silent auction featuring international trips and other unique experiences. Other festivities will include games, giveaways,

auction finds and plenty of delectable food from 12 local restaurants participating in the Chefs Down the Homestretch competition.

There will also be an after-party with WellDunn Entertainment.

“It’s a horse race with eye-catching fashion, a touch of glamour and a whole lot of purpose,” said Dena Little, founder and executive director of Storybook Farm, in the sponsorship packet. “… On May 6 you’ll have the best seat for the fastest two minutes in sports — and you’ll be making an impact that lasts a lifetime.”

Various sponsorships are available, as well as a few individual tickets to the event.

According to the

Storybook Farm website, all funds raised through the Kentucky Derby Day event will support the six programs at Storybook Farm, which are available at no cost to the families who participate in them.

The 51-acre farm is home to horses, donkeys, miniature ponies, cats and dogs — all named for various fairytale characters — ready to bond with the children who visit them.

The goal is to inspire children, boost their confidence and help them enjoy childhood.

“For 21 years, Storybook Farm’s high impact, innovative and evidence-based programs have strengthened and encouraged children living through hardships, trauma and tragedy,”

Little said in the packet.

“The money raised at Derby Day helps provide

these programs at no cost to more than 3,000 children we’ll serve in

2023.”

According to the packet, one in seven children will lose a parent before turning 18, and more than 30% of children are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. In addition, 70% of children say their ability to cope with challenges is “very low.”

“… Your support gives kids who feel vulnerable, alone and sad the freedom to be kids again,” Little said in the sponsorship packet. “It will also help children reclaim the wonder and joys of childhood through learning and relationships with animals and nature.

Can you think of a more impactful gift?”

While the programs at Storybook Farm are aimed at children

See DERBY, page A5

Opelika Looking For Answers in 33-Year-Old Case

CONTRIBTUED BY

OPELIKA —

The Opelika Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying an unknown homicide victim from a 33-year-old cold case. On Sept. 22, 1990, the body of a young black male was recovered from a creek bed off Anderson Road, approximately one-tenth of a mile from Interstate 85 in Opelika. The body was sent to Montgomery for an autopsy. After a medical examination, the cause of death was determined to be homicide from a single gunshot wound. The victim was wearing a white St. Louis Cardinals jersey-type shirt with red pin stripes, Jordache blue jeans and black Ellesse shoes. It is believed that the victim was between the ages of 18 to 25 years old, 135 to 145 pounds

and approximately 5-foot8-inches. During the initial investigation, detectives were unable to locate any missing persons reports similar to the victim.

Anyone with information on this case or that may know the identity of the victim, please contact the Opelika Police Department Detective Division at 334-705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at 334-7458665. Tips can be submitted through the Opelika Police Mobile app. You may wish to remain anonymous.

Central Alabama Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted by calling 334-215STOP(7867), toll-free at 1-833-AL1-STOP or via the website: www.215STOP. com.

Single-Day Food Drive to Help Stamp Out Hunger

CONTRIBUTED BY THE FOOD BANK OF EAST ALABAMA

LEE COUNTY —

The Food Bank of East Alabama is asking for the community’s support on May 13 as it joins America’s letter carriers and Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, in the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive. Hosted each year by the National Association of Letter Carriers, Stamp Out Hunger is the largest single-day food drive in the country. The event helps to support local food banks and the one in six Americans who struggle with hunger. For East Alabama, it comes at

a time when the Food Bank is seeing a lower than usual inventory as it continues to strive to meet local hunger and food insecurity needs.

“Stamp Out Hunger is like no other food drive. It allows every community across the country to collectively come together on one day to do their part to fight hunger. We are so grateful to community members who donate nonperishable items and for the letter carriers who take the time to collect each bag to help fight hunger in our community,” said Martha Henk, executive

director of the Food Bank of East Alabama.

Residents can join the Food Bank of East Alabama and support local residents who struggle with hunger by simply collecting non-perishable food items and leaving them in a sturdy bag near their mailboxes on the morning of May 13. A letter carrier will collect the donations and deliver them to the Food Bank of East Alabama. Items will then be distributed to those facing hunger right here in East Central Alabama.

HOW IT WORKS:

It’s simple! Just leave a

bag of non-perishable food items by your mailbox before your mail delivery and your letter carrier will pick it up and deliver it to the Food Bank. All donations stay local.

What foods are most needed?

• Cereal

• Pasta and rice

• Canned fruits and vegetables

• Canned meals such as soups, pasta, stew

• Peanut butter and jelly

• Pasta sauce

• Macaroni and cheese or boxed meals

• Canned protein — tuna, chicken, etc.

• 100% juice

According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study, one in seven Alabama residents faces

The 2023 selected nonprofits are as follows:

- Alabama Rural Ministry

- Circles of Opelika

- Creekline Trails of Opelika

- Curtis House

- East Alabama Arts Association

- Friends of Wood Duck Nature Preserve

- O Grows

- Opelika Bicycle Advisory Committee

- Opelika Community Theatre

- Southside Center for the Arts

- Twin Cedars Child Advocacy Center

- Village Friends

- Women’s Hope Clinic.

Each of these groups applied to participate in Opelika Giving Day. They were required to submit a specific project with a budget. Donations must be used for that project and cannot be used for operational expenses.

With just a short time before the event, there will be many posts about the fundraisers, updates and informational stories shared on the Opelika Giving Day website, Facebook page and Instagram for potential donors to become familiar with the partnering organizations and their projects. The organizations will also be hosting their own posts on their sites. For more information visit www.opelikagivingday. org or email EnvisionOpelikaGivingDay@ gmail.com.

ABOUT THE ENVISION OPELIKA FOUNDATION

Envision Opelika is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all the residents of the community through its citizens, organizations and community partners. Founded in 2001 after several public meetings, Envision Opelika is a citizen-driven planning effort created to make a lasting difference in the quality of life for Opelika residents. The citizens are the experts in this process because they know better than anyone what our community needs. Visit us at envisionopelika.org for additional information.

“The mission of the Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation Inc. is to educate the youth on practical life application, to encourage professional development and to empower the youth through education and mentorship,” the foundation’s website said.

Jones was present at the Auburn Chamber with his family and members of the foundation’s team.

“To our young people in this

town, you’re a hero because of what they see you do on Sunday and what you used to do on Saturday here, but it’s great that you’re going to take that another step and they’re going to see that you’re a hero because you’re serving your community, you’re giving back to all of us who live here, and we’re grateful for that,” Auburn Mayor Ron Anders told Jones.

Anders said it became apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic that feeding children was a necessity.

The foundation partnered

with the Sustenance Project and Food Bank of East Alabama to provide food for children in need.

Anders presented a proclamation to Jones and the foundation.

“Auburn is a part of my village,” Jones said. “… It helped me grow from that transition from a high schooler to a young man once I made the transition to the professionals, and it's a part of me. So I will forever be grateful for Auburn and will forever give back.”

High rates of food insecurity call for much needed community support

Former Auburn University football player Jonathan Jones attended a ribbon cutting for his nonprofit, Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation Inc., in Auburn at the end of last month.

Rendering of an unknown homicide victim from a 33-yearold cold case in Opelika.

City of Opelika Launches ‘That Tracks’ Podcast

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA —

The city of Opelika launched a new podcast, “That Tracks,” April 27.

That Tracks is a city of Opelika podcast that was started to bring a behind-the-scenes look into different sectors of the city. Listeners will hear from department heads, employees and citizens about what is going on in Opelika.

“We are thrilled to share this new means of communications with our citizens,” said Leigh Krehling, community relations officer for the city of Opelika. “We have a number of ways we reach people where they are. Podcasts are extremely

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food insecurity, including 216,040 children. Stamp Out Hunger provides a convenient way for everyone to support neighbors who struggle with hunger.

“Letter carriers are a part of every neighborhood in the nation, and we see the growing need for food assistance in our communities, aid NALC President Fredric Rolando. “On Saturday, May 13, NALC invites everyone to participate in the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. Together, we can help stamp out hunger in America.”

The Stamp Out Hunger food drive was created in 1993 by the National Association of Letter Carriers to encourage communities to come together in an effort to stock the shelves of food banks and pantries nationwide. The event is held on the second Saturday of May each year. The total amount of donations picked up over

popular right now. Everyone has a cellphone, so the podcast is one more way to disseminate information.”

That Tracks is convenient, engaging and builds a personal relationship between citizens and city employees. The podcast can be found on Spotify, the Apple podcast app and Google Play. It will also be housed on the city website and through the Podbean app. It is a great listen when jogging, driving, working or relaxing, and it requires no effort on the part of the listener. In the first episode, “Talking Trash,” hosts Krehling and Caitlin Allen interview Mayor Gary Fuller, Director of Opelika Environmental Services Terry White and Lead Swing

the 31-year history of the drive is more than 1.82 billion pounds.

ABOUT THE FOOD BANK OF EAST ALABAMA

The Food Bank of East Alabama is a nonprofit distribution center working to feed hungry people. The Food Bank is committed to efficiently distributing donated and purchased food through more than 200 qualified agencies such as soup kitchens, shelters and emergency food pantries that serve people in need. Each month throughout seven counties in East Central Alabama, more than 42,000 people rely on the Food Bank for assistance.

ABOUT NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LETTER CARRIERS

The 280,000-member NALC represents letter carriers across the country employed by the U.S. Postal Service, along with retired letter carriers. Founded by Civil War veterans in 1889, the NALC is among the country's oldest labor unions.

Driver Beverly Eason. The conversation centers on litter, garbage, recycling and OES operations.

“After discussing the idea of a podcast, Leigh and Caitlin jumped on the idea and took off running,” said City Administrator Joey Motley. “They are planning to talk about topics like the new senior center, Opelika City Schools, court, city projects, home safety and more. We want to provide the best and most convenient channels of communications so that people will understand what our various departments do.”

If you have a podcast idea or questions, please email Krehling at lkrehling@opelika-al.gov.

115 years ago AuburnBank was founded on the principles of sound money management and putting the customer first. As we’ve opened our new home in downtown Auburn, those principles still drive everything we do. Come by and help us celebrate our most recent success, and let’s talk about helping you achieve yours.

The first episode of the new "That Tracks" podcast features Terry White, director of Opelika Environmental Services, and Beverly Eason, lead swing driver. Tune into episode one to learn more about what they do daily.

DERBY >> from A2

experiencing adversity, they are still open to all children who wish to participate — regardless of their circumstances.

To learn more about Storybook Farm’s Kentucky Derby Day, or to purchase tickets, visit

BigHouse Celebrates Big Changes

www.hopeonhorseback. org/derby. Single tickets are $200 each. As of press time, two Jockey sponsorships are available as well at $1,800 each.

Those who are unable to attend but still want to support the cause may donate online at secure.qgiv.com/event/ derby2023/donate/.

Walton Law Firm, P.C. Celebrates Attorney Catherine Moncus’ 25th Year of Practicing Law

May 1, 2023, marked Personal Injury Attorney Catherine Moncus’ 25th year of practicing law. “During my 25 years of practice, there have been many ups and downs, but I am proudest of the people I have been able to help during their time of need and building lifelong friendships," Moncus said. "I look forward to helping more people and building more friendships during the next 25 years.”

“In just a few short weeks, Catherine will have been with my firm 16 years," said President and CEO Attorney Trip Walton, Walton Law Firm, P.C. "That’s a long time, folks. I am forever grateful for her dedication to my firm and our clients. Her presence at Walton Law Firm makes us a better firm. I know myself, and all my staff, are thrilled that she has reached this incredible milestone of practicing law for 25 years. Here is to 25 more.”

The BigHouse Retreat grand opening and ribbon cutting was held on Friday, April 28. The community is welcome to visit the retreat and take a tour of the new facility. BigHouse is open for office hours Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., so stop by for a quick visit.

LCYDC Walks To Combat Child Abuse

Lee County Youth Development Center held its annual Child Abuse Awareness Walk Thursday, April 27, from 2 to 3 p.m. The event was moved to the campus's arts and fitness center due to rain. Attendees wore blue and white in solidarity with the cause. Facts regarding child abuse, a poem reading and other performances were given, along with a balloon release to commemorate victims of child abuse/neglect. Executive Director Laura Cooper (pictured) gave the opening remarks.

ADOC Job Fair Scheduled at Fort Benning

U.S. Army program part of ADOC recruiting strategy

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER MONTGOMERY —

The Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) has scheduled a Job Fair at Fort Benning, a U.S. Army post near Columbus, Georgia. The ADOC is a registered Career Skills Provider for the U.S. Army’s Career Skills Program (CSP). Partnering with the U.S. Army to reach exiting members of the military is one part of the overall recruiting strategy at the ADOC.

The CSP prepares soldiers for civilian employment through first-class apprenticeships, onthe-job training, job

shadowing, internships and employment skills training up to 180 days prior to separation from the Army. The CSP is part of the Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program.

The ADOC Job Fair will be held on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Eastern Time Zone) at 8150 Marne Road, Building 9230 on Fort Benning, in Georgia.

There are dozens of jobs available at the ADOC, including security, law enforcement, training, general services, maintenance, offender support, engineering and Alabama Correctional Industries.

S ociety & News vents, E

Making the Grade: Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company

Foursome (Mama, Daddy, Aunt Jenny and Aunt Betty) took their yearly trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, to enjoy the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, they would bring Piggly Wiggly grocery sacks filled with all kinds of junk food. Aunt Jenny’s toasted pecans were the only healthy food that made the trip. However, the salt and squeeze margarine used on the pecans negated a lot of their nutritional value.

What is your favorite nut?

If this seems like a weird introductory question, you will understand a few paragraphs from now.

Without a doubt, my favorite nut is the pecan.

Before my sweet Aunt Jenny (Virginia Patton Daugherty) went to be with the Lord, she made one of my favorite snacks: toasted pecans.

When the Fearsome

When Daddy could no longer drive, Mike took over the job, and, as usual, Aunt Jenny toasted those delicious pecans for us, too. As we were traveling up to the Volunteer State, the Fearsome Foursome asked me to pass the coveted plastic bag full of toasted pecans to them. Mike and I had eaten about a handful each, so I sent the bag to our four favorite octogenarians.

When the bag came back to us, we were shocked to see that it was half empty. Those sweet folks, whose appetites were very light compared to ours, had gone through those pecans like Sherman through Georgia. But I digress.

Awhile back, I received an email from my boss Michelle Key. A lady had contacted her, requesting that I come to the Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company and write about it. Therefore, Mike and I traveled to Angel’s Antique and Flea Mall at 900 Columbus Parkway in Opelika because the nut company is located in the back of the store.

When Mike and I entered the building, an amazing aroma of roasting nuts quickly drew us to the Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company. Mike and I loved the signs, “This

is what smells so good!” and “Welcome to the nut house.”

Frank Davis, the owner of the Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Co., was really friendly, and we enjoyed talking to him. He definitely has

the personality for sales. Davis said that his nut company has been in the back of Angel’s Antique for approximately 22 years. According to Davis, he and his wife Rhonda used to live in Angel Fire, New

Mexico, so they named their business after the town where it got its start. Davis said, “This is the most fun I’ve had in a job. I am the nut guy.” Davis said that he loves meeting

See WALLACE, page A9

AU Campus Club Highlights Efforts

online at sundillamusic. com. Admission at the door will be $25. Free coffee, water, tea and food will be available,

See SUNDILLA, page A8

Beautiful arrangements of spring flowers accented tables and mantels at the Campus Club Spring Tea hosted by Tracy Roberts, wife of Auburn University President Chris Roberts. Members enjoyed a traditional tea. Michelle Reed, president of Campus Club, gave a report on the club’s donations to the Auburn University’s First Lady Scholarship Fund and other donations to other organizations over the past year. New officers were announced. Pictured at the tea are, from left, Marie Yelvington, vice president of special events; Auburn’s First Lady Tracy Roberts and Michelle Reed, current and incoming president of Campus Club.

Frank Davis has been running Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Co. in the back of Angel's Antique for more than 20 years.

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

NOAH ZACHARIN

SEAN DIETRICH

The call came late afternoon.

“May I speak to Sean?” said the child’s voice. Speaking, I said.

“Is this a bad time, Mister Sean?”

Not at all. And don’t call me “Mister,” it’s weird.

“What’re you doing right now, Mister Sean?”

Me? Right now?

Actually, I was just trying to figure out what to write about.

“How’s it coming? The writing?”

It’s not.

“You mean you have writer’s block?”

No. I mean I am having an existential crisis, I’ve been staring at a blank screen for several hours, but nothing's happening, so I’ve decided to move to coastal Canada, change my name, and take up professional lobster fishing.

“So you can’t find anything to write about?”

That is correct.

“Well, that’s kinda why I was calling, actually. My mom reads your stories to me every night before bed.”

I’m sorry to hear that.

Please don’t blame me for your mother’s terrible taste

The Phone Call

in literature.

“No, I like your writing.”

In that case, please don’t blame me for YOUR bad taste in literature.

“Last night, my mom read me your latest story.”

Really?

“Yep. And I was like, ‘Mom, how can I meet Sean? I’ve got to meet him somehow.’ And she was like, ‘Well, let me see if I can’t get in touch with him.’ And so she did.”

So how did she find me? How’d she get this number I mean?

“My mom knows everyone. She is friends with your wife's cousin’s pet-sitter’s daughter’s roommate’s boyfriend’s aunt’s dad.”

How about that.

“So anyway, I’m calling you from the hospital right now, so I’m sorry if there is a lot of background noise.”

The hospital?

“Yes. It’s busy here. The nurses come in and out of

this room all the time. I never have a moment to myself. You pretty much learn to live with them.”

Which hospital are you in, if you don’t mind my asking?

“I am in Texas.”

May I ask why are you in the hospital?

“I have cancer.”

Silence.

“Brain cancer.”

I’m sorry, I said.

“Yeah, it really sucks. It’s all over my brain and I’m probably going to die. There’s nothing they can do about it. They’re just making me comfortable while I, you know, die.”

More silence.

I’m so… so… I’m so sorry. Sweetheart, I just realized I don’t even know your name.

“My name is Rachel. Please don’t treat me weird now. I don’t mean to freak you out with the cancer thing. I hope I haven’t made you sad.”

Oak Mountain State Park Opens New Lunker Lake Trail

You’re worried about making me sad?

“Cancer makes people sad, and I hate it when people get sad. Life is too short to be sad.”

Can I ask how old you are, darling?

“12.”

I am honored to make your acquaintance, Rachel.

“Thank you. It’s a pleasure meeting you. I feel like I know you already from your writing.”

How long have you had cancer?

“Since February, last year. It’s been pretty hard. I still believe I can be healed, but I really don’t think that’s going to happen for me. I think I’m probably going to die. But I’m not scared.”

Long silence.

Rachel, how come you’re not scared?

“Well, one time, I had some complications, and I actually did die for a little bit. Then when I woke up,

my mom was like, ‘What did you see while you were out,’ so I told her. I saw a huge white world with angels and lots of people who I didn’t know, and they were all so happy, and this beautiful woman told me it wasn’t my time yet. She said I had to go back, back to earth. I’ve been unafraid ever since.”

You mean you had a near-death experience?

“No, I mean I went to heaven.”

Long silence. I pinched the bridge of my nose and took in a deep, trembling breath. I sniffed my nose loudly.

“Are you going to be OK?” she asked.

Yes, I’m fine.

“Mister Sean?”

“Yes?”

“If you can’t find anything to write about, do you think you could write about me?”

I certainly do, Rachel. I certainly do.

CORRECTION:

CONTRIBUTED BY JOSH BEAN

PELHAM —

Oak Mountain State Park unveiled its newest multi-use trail on Friday, as officials from Alabama State Parks joined local officials for a ribboncutting ceremony.

The new trail — known as the Lunker Lake Trail — circles the lake and provides breathtaking views of the water as it meanders along the shoreline and through the forest. The trail was built through a partnership involving the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Shelby County Commission and the Shelby County Park and Recreation Authority (SCPARA).

“It’s always wonderful to offer a new outdoors activity at any of our 21 Alabama state parks,” said Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

“We’re fortunate to work with our outstanding partners here in Shelby County to build this trail and help make Oak Mountain State Park better than ever. We thank all of the local

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This will be Zacharin’s first inperson Sundilla appearance, but not his first time in the area. He performed

leaders and SCPARA for helping make this trail a reality.”

The dirt trail stretches 2.8 miles, features varying widths, and is designed to accommodate walking, running and mountain biking. The trail can be accessed near the Lunker Lake boat launch or from the Oak Mountain Bike Trailhead parking area.

“It’s so rewarding that we could all come together and build this trail at Oak Mountain State Park,” said Shelby County Commissioner Lindsey Allison. “Oak Mountain is clearly one of the top attractions here in Shelby County, and we love playing a

at the first Opelika Songwriters Festival and enjoyed such great onstage chemistry with Pat Wictor at the festival that they still sometimes tour together. He also performed an online Sundilla concert in 2020, when online was the only way to experience live music.

role in helping the park continue to thrive. No one will be surprised if the Lunker Lake Trail becomes one of the park’s most popular trails for runners, mountain bikers or anyone who wants [to] stroll through the woods and enjoy the park’s stunning natural beauty.”

The new trail officially opened one day before Earth Day, which celebrates environmental awareness and conservation. Oak Mountain State Park had a full day of activities planned to celebrate Earth Day and all of the Earth Day festivities were free with admission to

Zacharin is a widely acclaimed guitar master, multigenre songwriter and dynamic performer. He was given his first guitar at age 9, wrote his first song at 13 and began performing at 14. In December 2015, Zacharin became a full-time recording and touring musician

OMSP.

ABOUT OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park and features more than 11,000 acres, including more than 100 miles of trails, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, horseback riding facilities, fishing lakes, boat rentals, picnic and beach areas and majestic Peavine Falls. The Alabama Wildlife Center, located inside OMSP, offers rehabilitation services to injured native birds to return them to the wild. The resident birds can be viewed from the Tree Top Nature Trail,

and said he is more thrilled than ever to be doing what he has always done. He has toured with Odetta, David Lindley, Dave Van Ronk, Jesse Winchester, Alex de Grassi and Fairport Convention. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Zacharin splits his time between

Toronto, the road and an off-grid cabin on the Canadian Shield.

Critical praise has never been an issue for Zacharin; narrowing down the list of favorable quotes can be difficult. Among the accolades are "a stunning guitarist ... no stylistic boundaries," "a great guitarist/

singer/songwriter ... a wonderfully musical player," and "deserving to be mentioned in the same breath with names such as James Taylor and David Wilcox."

In last week's issue we attributed a quote to Robert Griggs in error. It should have been attributed to Robert Briggs. and the audience is always welcome to bring their own favorite food or drink.

For more information, go to sundillamusic.com.

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship and Shelby County Commissioner Lindsey Allison cut the ceremonial ribbon for the new Lunker Lake Trail at Oak Mountain State Park on Friday, April 21, 2023, while joined by officials from Alabama State Parks and the Shelby County Commission.

See PARK, page A11

Lee County Master Gardeners Tour Returns

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY —

Lee County Master Gardeners’ biennial Garden Tour is set to return next Saturday, May 13.

The event serves as the main fundraising activity for Lee County Master Gardeners, which puts the profits towards demonstration gardens, grants,

public education and scholarships. The Garden Tour features eight gardens spread across residences in Auburn and Opelika. Attendees can visit each garden, which the organization said are layered and have variety, on their own, self-guided timeline. The event runs all day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as each garden must be extensively fashioned to

be included in the tour. Tickets can be purchased before the event for $30, and the day-of for $35, at leemg.org.

When arriving at each garden, there will be a white tent stationed in front of the home with a Lee County Master Gardener and volunteers on hand to answer questions.

In each garden, plants will be spotlighted for the attendees by labeled QR

codes that provide more information on what is being seen. Things like the soil, what kind of irrigation has been used, etc., will explain more about each individual plant’s growing process. Attendees can expect to see gardens that include things like Japanese Maples, orchids, chickens, vegetables, an encircled pool, greenhouses and more. Overall, Lee County

Master Gardeners said it hopes this event will serve as a learning experience for those looking to build their own at-home gardens.

This is the ninth Garden Tour hosted by Lee County Master Gardeners, with the first taking place in 2006. Lee County Master Gardeners has 120 members, all of whom completed the Master Gardener class

through Alabama Cooperative Extension Service. Each member volunteers 25 hours of community each year. The nonprofit maintains three public demonstration gardens located around Lee County, including the Caroline-Dean Wildflower Trail in Opelika, the garden at Kiesel Park in Auburn and an old-fashioned heirloom garden at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka.

WALLACE >>

FROM A7

people, and besides local customers, he has had customers from Australia, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, England and Sweden.

In addition, Davis is loyal to other businesses. “I try to locally source my pecans at Opelika Farmer’s Market and in Troy,” he said. Besides selling pecans, my personal favorite, Davis also sells cashews, almonds and peanuts, which can be chocolate-covered, hot salted or sweet Cajun.

Also, Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Co. sells muffins, moon pies, popcorn, peanut brittle, frozen fruit smoothies, espresso, hot chocolate, lemonade and tea. Customers may also enjoy free samples of almonds, pecans, cashews

and peanuts.

Davis said that the salted caramel pecans were his bestseller. I believe him. I chose a quarter-pound of the salted caramel pecans, and Mike selected a quarter-pound of the caramel vanilla pecans. They were too delicious for words. In fact, I scarfed mine down in about 24 hours.

Trust me: Run and do not walk to Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company in Angel’s Antique. You’ll go nuts. Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.

The Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company is open Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The business is closed Monday through Wednesday.

The Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized”

people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy.

Stacey Patton Wallace,

who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner.

Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear every other week in The Observ-

er. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail.com.

Angel Fire Gourmet Nut Company offers various flavors and quantities of

Pictured are just a few examples of what plants/flowers attendees of this year's Lee County Master Gardener's Garden Tour will see.

OCM Makes A Difference

Auburn University Celebrating 30 Years of Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

AUBURN — Auburn University’s Kreher Preserve and Nature Center is commemorating its 30th anniversary with a yearlong celebration in 2023. Among the events planned to mark this milestone are a photo contest, a summer camp, Forest Friends reunions and a 30th anniversary social.

“For 30 years, the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center has been enhancing the lives of the Auburn community, creating a haven for wildlife and providing a platform for outreach and education to Auburn University students,” said Janaki Alavalapati, dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. “This gift of land has provided thousands of students and local families with unique and invaluable experiences.”

The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, or KPNC, began with a gift of forest land from Louise Kreher Turner and her husband, Frank Allan Turner, to what was then known as Au-

burn University’s School of Forestry. The Turners wished to see their 119 acres, nestled in the heart of Auburn at 2222 N. College St., remain an intact nature preserve and become a source of environmental education. Its students would be the Auburn community, welcoming everyone to study, appreciate and enjoy the natural world.

After donating the land to Auburn University in 1993, Turner developed its first public programming around 1998 and continued to manage the property through 2000 as the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve.

In 2001, management shifted to a volunteer-run outreach program by the preserve’s coordinator, Margaret Holler — who still enjoys working in the KPNC’s many gardens — under the direction of Richard Brinker, former dean of what then became the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences.

In 2007, the school hired Jennifer Lolley, a 1986 Auburn University graduate, as the first full-time administrator to help further develop the land and its availability as an outreach resource.

Downtown Auburn Parking

Free May 5 to 16

Under her tireless and enthusiastic management, the preserve became fully accessible to the public seven days a week, year-round.

As programming expanded under Lolley’s guidance, she noticed a gap between public perception and what the property offered to the public.

“The word ‘preserve’ caused some confusion,” said Jamie Anderson, the college’s manager of communications. “People understood that it was a conservation area but didn’t necessarily feel welcomed.”

A rebranding effort in 2015 changed the name from Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve to the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center with the hope that “nature center” better reflected the variety of experiences available there. The new, shorter name also ensured that the Kreher name continued to be associated with Louise Kreher Turner’s gift.

In 2009, KPNC volunteer and Auburn University alumna Sarah Crim founded Forest Friends, the first of the preserve’s nature education pro-

See KPNC page A12

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN DAVID D. DORTON

AUBURN — Downtown parking will be free during the break between Auburn University's spring and summer semesters, May 5 to 16. On-street parking

PARK >> from A8

an elevated boardwalk winding through a secluded woodland valley. Learn more at https:// www.alapark.com/parks/ oak-mountain-state-park

The Alabama State Parks is a division of the

is available throughout downtown as well as on and surrounding the ground floor of the Auburn Municipal Parking Deck and in the Gay Street Parking Lot.

Please note, free parking only applies to surface parking. Parking in the Wright Street

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and maintains 21 state parks encompassing more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama. The parks range from Gulf Coast beaches to the Appalachian Mountains and provide opportunities and facilities from basic day-use activities to resort convention lodging,

Parking Deck is $1 per hour 24/7 for up to $15 per day.

Take advantage of this time to enjoy all downtown has to offer! Find more info about parking in downtown Auburn at auburnalabama.org/ downtown-parking.

restaurants and golfing areas. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. Make reservations at www. alapark.com/onlinereservations and learn more at www.alapark. com. Partners Pay the Way.

OCM Ministries is making a difference in the lives of children by giving a safe environment to have fun, have food and freedom to gather information without fear of asking questions.

OCM stated that the joy of a child is something that words cannot explain. Not just the rides, the inflatables, the games, the cotton candy, the sno-cones, the food, but the Opelika Fire Department mascot brought smiles to faces of the parents as well as the children at OCM's latest event. The children shared their amazing gifts of poetry, song, etc. Thanks goes out to the Opelika Police Department and Chief Shane Healey, The Chill Spot, Lee County Department of Human Resource, Councilwoman Erica Baker, the Opelika Public Library, Ryder4Life and all the sponsors.

Opelika Chamber of Commerce Hosts Annual Golf Tournament

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce hosted its 24th annual Member Golf Tournament May 2, which draws more than 150 players out

a four-man scramble the first Tuesday in May each year.

preschool.

students.

grams for children and caregivers. The program has since blossomed into classes for toddlers, Tree Tots and infants, Nature Babies, collectively known as the “Nurtured in Nature” series. In 2019, Crim proposed expanding their early childhood offerings to an innovative outdoor nature

Along with Lolley and KPNC manager Michael Buckman, Crim consulted and collaborated with faculty from the early childhood department at Auburn to develop pedagogy and curriculum.

The Woodland Wonders Preschool is in its fourth year and still works closely with the Auburn University College of Education to provide learning opportunities for

Beyond its unique environmental education programs for children, the KPNC offers a full spectrum of low-cost educational programs and workshops for adults and families such as crafts, gardening and camping skills.

“We hope the community will come out and celebrate with us this year,” Buckman said.

“We will be hosting

anniversary events each season, along with a myriad of fun and exciting activities as we look back at the first 30 years of the KPNC and look forward to what the next 30 will bring.”

The anniversary celebration kicked off in March with a photo contest that will run through August. Photos may be submitted through KPNC’s social media platforms or online.

Awards will be given in four categories: people, wildlife, landscapes and history. Winning photos will be displayed in the new environmental education center slated to be constructed later this year.

On April 15, the KPNC held a reunion for all students, teachers and caregivers who participated in the Forest Friends and Tree Tots programs. The new pond pavilion,

completed this past winter, held a ribbon cutting and grand opening on May 4, and a reunion for past camp attendees will take place July 15.

The celebration will conclude with a 30th anniversary social on Nov. 2. Follow the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center on Facebook or Instagram for updates about the anniversary celebration, as well as nature education events and programs.

to the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Opelika to participate in

KPNC >> FROM A11

Concert Series to Return to St. Dunstan’s in Auburn

Photo from last year’s Summer’s Evening concert series.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church is presenting its

third annual summer concert series this June and July.

The Music for a Summer’s Evening concerts will take place

outside in front of St. Dunstan’s each Thursday, from 6 to 7 p.m. during June and July. The concerts are free to the public.

Chairs are set up under the crepe myrtle trees facing the church, which allows the long porch to be used as a stage. The trees provide welcome shade to

What's Happening in Lee County

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

community and delight for all. St. Dunstan’s is located at 136 E. Magnolia Ave. in downtown Auburn.

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.

Words for the Wilderness: Part Two

“the god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4 ESV). It’s not an ultimate authority he possesses — it’s limited and temporary. But he offers it to Jesus if He would bow down to him.

BRUCE GREEN

RELIGION —

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

2. In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted to receive the right thing in the wrong way.

“Just step on over to my side,” Satan told Him, “And you can have all that I have.”

Satan has authority over the kingdoms of the world in the sense that people can choose to follow his way. Because so many do, he is referred to as

Jesus would later rebuke the two disciples on the road to Emmaus because they didn’t understand the scripture’s teaching that the Messiah had to suffer before receiving glory (Luke 24:26). He understood that God’s plan for Him involved the cross and refused the shortcut Satan was offering. Disciples who want to follow God without any hardship or suffering fall right into the trap Satan was setting for Jesus. Christ would not take the shortcut or bow down to the one who offered it. Unlike Israel — who on several occasions in the wilderness involved themselves with other deities for whatever “benefits” they offered — He would serve and worship only God (Deuteronomy 6:13).

3. In the wilderness,

Jesus was tempted to be presumptive. “You want everyone to know your God’s Son? Throw Yourself down from the top of the temple. Everyone will see it — and anyone who doesn’t will hear about it. After all, it says in Psalm 91 that the angels will protect You.” And there it is — one of the most fascinating pictures in all of scripture — Satan proof texting from the Jewish scriptures to Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem. There’s so much irony there it’s hard to know where to start.

Proof texting from scripture is like posting on social media; it can be a wonderful thing when it is done correctly, but too often it is not done that way, so it needs to be done judiciously. The problem with proof texting is we’re isolating a passage from its original context, so it opens up the possibility that either we will use it incorrectly or someone will misunderstand it. It’s like you and me switching

phones and reading each other’s texts. We could jump to a lot of erroneous conclusions because we wouldn’t know the context behind the messages. In the same way, quoting a slew of biblical texts without supplying any context is almost always a recipe for misunderstanding and not good basic communication.

When Paul was instructing the Corinthian church about spiritual gifts, he rebuked them for their infatuation with tongue-speaking — the miraculous ability to speak in a language unknown to them (1 Corinthians 14:5,13). He said he would rather speak five words that could be clearly understood than 10,000 words in a tongue. We should remember this principle when sharing God’s word.

Jesus certainly did, and that’s what we see in His use of these three passages from Deuteronomy. As we’ve seen, they’re all taken from instruction given to Israel while they were in the wilderness. They were

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

tempted in the wilderness and so was Jesus — therefore His quotes/proof texts from Deuteronomy are in harmony with and especially applicable to His situation.

Grandstanding in the way Satan suggested by throwing Himself off the temple would have been putting God to the test. It would be like us getting out of our vehicle and running through rush-hour traffic and expecting God to protect us. Jesus knew Psalm 91 well enough to know that’s not what it taught! He would not put God to that kind of test (Deuteronomy 6:16).

The next time you’re wondering what value a book like Deuteronomy has for people in the 21st century, just remember when Jesus was up against the wall in the wilderness, it was the book He turned to. That has to be worth something, don’t you think?

You can find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-gracewith-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

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Afriend asked me if I had travel plans for the summer. I laughed and said, “Yes, I’m planning to drive over to Dollar General, the one that’s a half mile from my house.” I explained that in this late season of my life, traveling is not on my schedule.

I have traveled a lot so now I can enjoy memories of places

How Blessed Are You?

I have visited – like Monterrey, Mexico. Ten years ago my wife Dean and I made that trip together as members of a team led by our friend Larry Cochran. Larry is retired now but for many years he directed the work of a missions organization called Go International. Larry and his teammates had one goal: send teams to help poor and starving people anywhere in the world who were not being reached by other outreach ministries.

In Monterrey we visited “churches” that were mostly shacks, built to reach starving children who regularly pawed over garbage dumps scavenging for food. We met pastors with little education who were glad to receive help but also

eager to improve their skills in reaching their own people with the good news of the gospel. Our hosts were Ignacio and Sarah, a pastor and his wife who were leading a team of 45 young pastors serving Christ among thousands of povertystricken people in that city with a population exceeding a million.

Ignacio and Sarah had very little but our hearts were touched by the generous way they shared what they had with us. One night, in a team meeting, Larry shared with us some information made us keenly aware of how blessed most of us Americans are. It was a jolting moment of truth as Larry said, “You are blessed if….

“If you own just

one Bible, you are abundantly blessed. One third of the world does not have access to even one Bible.

“If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the million who will not survive this week.

“If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 500 million people around the world.

“If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death, you are more blessed than almost 3 billion people in the world.

“If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof

OBITUARIES

ENID LOVELESS WEISSINGER

Enid Loveless

Weissinger, 81, passed away on April 25, 2023. Enid was born on Nov. 16,1941, in Chickamauga, Georgia, where she lived until she graduated from high school. After graduating from Sullins College, she worked for First National Bank in Atlanta. It was there she met her husband, Charles. The couple married in 1966 and moved to Opelika, where a few years later, they started a family. Enid would spend the following decades dutifully raising her three beloved children, forming enduring friendships, serving her church and supporting her family’s real estate business.

Enid enjoyed traveling, playing piano, keeping a lovely home, and fellowship with friends and family. She was a gracious hostess and had a smile and friendly greeting

for everyone she encountered.

Enid was preceded in death by her daughter, Enid Weissinger Crutcher; her parents, Howard Payne and Patricia McCann Loveless; and her sister, Dianne Loveless Jenkins.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Charles; her two sons, Mitt (Rebecca) and Howard (Hayden); her five grandchildren, Maysie, Wilson, Evelyn Enid, Hill and Payne; and her sisters, Elaine Wallace (Gary) and Ruth Lee Thompson.

The family received visitors at First Methodist Church of Opelika on Friday, April 27, at 10 a.m. A service followed at 11 a.m. to celebrate Enid’s life and the resurrection that her Christian faith promises.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home handled arrangements.

WILLIIAM FREEMAN HORSLEY

William Freeman Horsley passed away April 27, 2023, in Opelika, after a short illness at the age of 83. Bill was the son of Robert and Ellen Horsley of Opelika. He is survived by Marilyn Horsley, his wife of 30 years; Stewart Horsley (son); Ellen Thomas (daughter); Richard Horsley (son); and Jonathon Crew (stepson), as well as 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Bill graduated from Opelika High School, The University of Alabama (BA 1962) and The University of Alabama School of Law (LLB 1964). In law school, he was a member of Phi Delta Phi, Farrah Order of Jurisprudence and The Board of Editors, Alabama Law Review (1963-64). He began his law career at Lyons, Pipes and Cook, a prestigious law firm

over your head and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of this world.

“If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace, you are among the eight per cent of the world's wealthy.

“If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful, you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not.

“If you hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer God's healing touch.

“If you prayed yesterday and today, you are in the minority because you believe in God's willingness to

hear and answer prayer.

“If you believe in Jesus as the Son of God, you are part of a small minority in the world.

“If you can read this message, you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read anything at all.”

Now, if reading the above has caused you to feel blessed, you could express your gratitude by sending a check for missions to your church or to an agency like Mercy House in Montgomery which provides two thousand meals a week to the poor. That’s where I sent my check because I realized I am a blessed man, and able to help somebody today, along life’s way. How blessed are you?

in Mobile, Alabama. He later returned to his hometown, Opelika, where he joined the law firm of Samford, Denson LLP. He remained in Lee County, Alabama, for the remainder of his life. Bill served for 10 years on the Opelika City Schools Board of Education, was a member of The Alabama State Bar, the American Bar Association, the Lee County Bar Association and the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys. He was an accomplished and dedicated attorney and represented numerous national corporations, primarily in insurance defense litigation. He was a perennial recipient in the "Best Lawyers in America" peer review publication. He was a gifted, eloquent and agile trial attorney and sustained the highest integrity and ethical standards throughout his career.

His career included a landmark divorce case that he argued before the United States Supreme Court. The case changed the constitutionality of Alabama divorce laws and is now taught in law schools across the country. It was the only divorce case he ever handled. Bill was an avid golfer and Alabama football fan. He was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather and will be dearly missed by countless family members and friends.

A memorial will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home located at 1801 Frederick Road in Opelika. Memorials in Bill’s memory may be made to: Food Bank of East Alabama 355 Industry Drive Auburn, AL 36832

Randy Lee Branch of Auburn, was born in Alexander City, Alabama, on March 17, 1958, to the late Emmett Jack Branch and Betty Joyce McAlister Branch, and passed away at his home on May 1, 2023. He was 65 years old. He is survived by his sons, Kurt Branch (Meg), Clay Branch (Emily), and Conner Branch (Ashley). He is also survived by his brothers, Keith Branch (Phoebe) and Bruce Branch (Valerie); grandchildren, Jack, Brooks, Charlie, Coleman, Caroline, and Lillie Kate Branch. Visitation was held Wednesday, May 3, 2023, in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 3 to 5 p.m. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all arrangements.

RANDY LEE BRANCH

chools & S S

Thursday, May 4, 2023

OCS Approves Stakeholder-Driven Strategic Plan

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

Bulldogs Soccer Returns to Playoffs

OPELIKA —

The Opelika girls finished second and the boys won the AHSAA 7A Sectionals track & field meet last Saturday in Smiths Station. Both teams are advancing to the State Championship meet in Gulf Shores, today (Thursday) through Saturday.

The following are final standings of the Sectionals Meet:

OHS GIRLS

100 METERS

12.48 - Amiya Brown -

METER DASH

- Amiya Brown - 3rd

- Kaylee Mcintyr - 7th 400 METER DASH 1:00.75 - Makiah Paschal - 4th 1:02.10 - Kaylee Mcintyre - 7th 1:02.77 - Jada Colemon - 9th

1600 METER RUN

5:52.28 - Caroline

Couey - 10th

6:09.61 - Margaret

Bice - 5th

3200 METER RUN 12:19.47 - Caroline Couey - 7th

METER

- Dasia Keith - 3rd

- Cadence Williams - 8th 19.26 - Aryel Crittenden - 11th

METER

47.55 - Makiah

- 1st

- Dasja Kier13th

- Cadence Williams - 14th HIGH JUMP 5-2 - Kyndall

Brundidge - 2nd

The Opelika City Schools (OCS) Board of Education met for its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, April 25, and approved a stakeholder-driven strategic plan for the school system.

The school board partnered with management and consulting company Lean Frog to put together the plan, and a presentation on the plan was given to

the board by Lean Frog lead consultant Mary Marquart.

Taking place over the course of many past months, the strategic planning process began with determining team members for the strategic plan, Marquart said. Ultimately, a team consisting of several Opelika City Schools administrators, parents, business leaders, students and other community members was assembled to work on the plan in partnership with Lean Frog.

Then, according to Marquart, a stakeholder survey was conducted See OCS, page B2

AU Student Receives Awards of Excellence from Public Relations Council of Alabama

CONTRIBUTED BY

AUBURN —

Auburn junior public relations major Weston Ball received two Medallion Awards from the Public Relations Council of Alabama, or PRCA, last month. The Medallion Awards offer an opportunity for student and adult members to have their professional work recognized and reviewed for feedback.

Daniels

Trinty Rrooks

Moss

See SPORTS, page B3

Ball received Awards of Excellence for two stories he wrote for the College of Liberal Arts titled, “Girls in Aviation Day provides opportunity for young women to learn about aviation” and “Auburn students, alumni produce award-winning film in 48-hour film festival.”

“Weston approaches each story with care, dedication and creativity. He sets an example for others by translating everything he’s learned

in the classroom and in extracurricular involvement into building an award-winning portfolio,” said Director of News and Media for the College of Liberal Arts Charlotte Tuggle. “Our office is proud to support Weston and we believe these awards are among the first of many to recognize his excellence

in writing and public relations.”

Ball currently serves as the firm director of The Oaks Agency, Auburn’s student-run public relations firm, and works as a public relations intern for the College of Liberal Arts. He will further his experience this summer as a corporate

communications intern for Boeing.

“It is such an honor to win two Awards of Excellence,” Ball said. “I have worked hard to develop my writing and storytelling skills, so to be recognized with these awards reaffirms that I am on the right path to becoming a successful professional.”

Weston Ball, junior at Auburn University, received two prestigious awards from the Public Relations Council of Alabama last month.

Mary Marquart, far right, of Lean Frog management and consulting, presented the Opelika City Schools new stakeholder-driven strategic plan and the last Opelika City Schools board meeting April 25.

Opinion: Auburn Softball Must Combat Star Power to Run Deep in Postseason

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Auburn softball has the stars, and now it will be shooting for the moon this postseason.

With 39 wins last season, Auburn won its most games in a regular season since a 40-win 2018, but an early exit in the Clemson Regional left Auburn soul searching.

Maddie Penta went 2410 and led the SEC with a 1.76 ERA; Bri Ellis won All-SEC Freshman of the Year and swiped the program freshman home run record with 20; but Auburn ran out of star power when it came down to the wire. However, 2022’s eight-player freshman class reset the standard and took home a better understanding of what it takes to get to dive deeper into the postseason after a season-ending, 4-3 loss to Louisiana.

“I think for us to get to where we want to go this year, which is obviously the World Series, we need to host a regional, and on top of that, we have every opportunity to win the SEC Tournament and be regular-season champs,” Ellis said in an interview in February.

the country.

Not only that, but they have a chance to mirror last season’s win total with a series win in their final regular-season series versus Mississippi State this weekend at home. Furthermore, with a sweep of the 27-22 Bulldogs, Auburn can match its 2018 regular season at 40 wins.

Looking for its first SEC Tournament win since 2019, Auburn will begin its postseason journey in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on May 9. It won’t do it blindly, like it did last season, however. Not only is head coach Mickey Dean at 200 career wins, his team has adjusted and muscled up to top-notch competition this time around.

Coming off of three consecutive series wins and five of seven SEC series wins this season, Auburn is displaying a matured version of the team that exploded onto the scene last year, when it took four total conference series’. This year, the Tigers won back-to-back series’ with No. 15 LSU and No. 14 Alabama, and it took extra inning-wins for No. 6 Georgia and No. 22 Florida to notch series wins over Auburn away from the Plains.

Auburn Spring Commencement Ceremonies

To Take Place May 5-8

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

year. It has 77 wins and plenty of individual accolades to show for it, but Auburn needs to get some key contributions from its depth in order to fill in the gaps and avenge an early tournament exit last season.

Passing the Crown

In the circle, Penta is looking as close to an automatic win as there is, but one arm will only carry a team so far.

Somehow, the junior is putting her season where she set the program sophomore strikeout record in the shadows.

She’s 23-5 with a 0.96 ERA and is second in the nation only to Alabama’s Montana Fouts with 261 strikeouts, eight shy of her 2022 total with three regular-season games remaining. She’s nonchalantly thrown two no-hitters this season with 14 complete-game efforts and now ranks fourth on the program’s all-time strikeout leaderboard.

But when she’s asked to pass the crown, the Tigers have struggled.

They have lost the last five SEC games she hasn’t started, while Penta has won her last seven conference games – all complete games.

AUBURN — Auburn University’s spring commencement exercises will take place May 5 to 8 in Neville Arena, featuring keynote addresses by three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Rowdy Gaines and Southern Company Senior Vice President Paula Marino.

Marino will deliver the commencement address on Friday, May 5, at 5 p.m. to the College of Education and the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering and on May 6 at 8 a.m. to the colleges of Architecture, Design and Construction and Liberal Arts.

Gaines will deliver the commencement address during the May 6 ceremony for the Harbert College of Business (1 p.m.) and the combined ceremony for the colleges of Agriculture; Forestry, Wildlife and Environment; Human Sciences; Nursing; and Sciences and Mathematics (6 p.m.).

ROWDY GAINES

in the 100m Freestyle and 200m Freestyle and qualified for the 1980 U.S. Olympic Team. The Olympic Boycott of 1980 came during the peak of Gaines’ career, as he was voted World Swimmer of the Year and was expected to win five Olympic gold medals in Moscow.

Gaines earned a bachelor’s degree from Auburn in speech communication in 1981. Following graduation, he went on to compete in the 1984 Olympic Summer Games in Los Angeles, where no swimmer won more races than he did with his three gold medals in the 100M freestyle, the 4x100M freestyle and medley relays. During his career, Gaines broke a total of 14 World Records.

Fame and International Swimming Hall of Fame.

Today, he is vice president of Partnerships and Development for the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance and its philanthropic initiative, Step Into Swim, a program that helps grant swim lessons to disadvantaged youth across the country. Gaines is often referred to as "Swimming’s Greatest Ambassador,” a role that began with his journey to the Plains.

Paula Marino

A 1992 and 1995 Auburn electrical engineering graduate, Marino has provided more than 30 years of leadership to Southern Company, one of the largest energy providers in the United States. As senior vice president, Marino oversees more than $3 billion in construction projects and 1,400 employees responsible for developing new generation and environmental strategy, executing project design and construction, ensuring technology due diligence and supporting the operation and maintenance of the generating fleet.

At 37-15, and 13-8 in conference play, the Tigers are in position to do just that at No. 13 in

OCS >>

FROM B1

At third in the SEC, Auburn knows its identity and has built on star showings from last

a successful Opelika graduate looks like, the survey revealed Opelika graduates will:

1. Demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively

2. Demonstrate proficiency in critical and logical thinking

3. Demonstrate understanding of and a respect for others in an effort to resolve conflict using positive responses

Behind the ace, Auburn has two other starters who boast ERAs under 3.00, sophomore Annabelle Widra and junior lefty Shelby Lowe, See SOFTBALL, page B5

earnings and high education enrollment.

Lastly, the survey revealed the top financial priorities of stakeholders to be:

1. Ensuring all safety concerns are met at all campuses

2. Providing for maintenance and improvement to existing facilities as well as additional facilities to meet projected growth

A native of Winter Haven, Florida, Gaines began swimming competitively in high school before earning a scholarship to Auburn under legendary coach Richard Quick. While at Auburn, Gaines won the 1980 and 1981 NCAA Championship

Following his retirement from competitive swimming, Gaines began a successful career in sports broadcasting, serving as NBC’s lead swimming analyst for eight Olympic Games and commentating for CBS, TNT and ESPN. A noted philanthropist and advocate for youth sports, Gaines has served as the outreach director for the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and works with many charitable organizations including Swim Across America, benefitting research for cancer and the Special Olympics. He also has been inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of

outlining five strategic objectives — student outcomes, stakeholder satisfaction, employee development, fiscal sustainability and support systems —that the school system considers crucial to its success and growth.

education partners leads to student and district success

- Teachers are the most effective when they are part of a collaborative team making research-based and data-driven instructional decisions that promote student achievement

stressed that these plans should be adjusted as necessary as the process takes place.

IN OTHER BUSINESS THE BOARD:

- Approved minutes from the previous board meeting March 28, 2023

The survey reflected that the top challenges over the next five years include:

1. Addressing the mental health, behavior and discipline needs of all students

2. Recruiting and retaining high quality teachers, administrators and support staff

3. Providing students with the opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to prepare for workforce expectations

4. Providing students with opportunities to develop a growth mindset by focusing on perseverance, resilience and grit

5. And addressing the future growth of the community.

In terms of how stakeholders measure what

4. Demonstrate employability skills such as teamwork, adaptability, time management and leadership with an ability to work hard and stay committed to difficult tasks

5. And demonstrate proficiency in self-regulating social and emotional behaviors.

The survey also reflected that the top ways stakeholders determine quality of education is:

1. Personal experience with the schools or school employees and the quality of the teaching staff

2. Feedback from employees and universities regarding the preparedness and success of graduates

3. Alabama State Department of Education Report Card

4. The success of athletics and other extracurricular activities

5. And scholarship

3. Ensuring resources are provided to meet the mental health needs of students

4. Providing funding to reduce class size

5. And providing funding to increase staff compensation.

Following an assessment of the stakeholder survey, the strategic team performed a S.W.O.T (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) assessment to identify what the system is doing well and what it can improve upon. Next, the strategic team assessed the internal data of multiple departments and reports such as Cognia Review before conjoining that with stakeholder feedback to develop the strategic plan that was approved Tuesday.

The strategic plan defines the school system’s mission, vision and beliefs, along with

The mission of OCS, as defined by the strategic plan, is to “Educated every child, every day.” The vision of OCS, as defined by the strategic plan, is that “Opelika City Schools will inspire and empower all students in a safe, nurturing environment through a rigorous educational experience which will prepare them for a life that is both meaningful and successful.”

The strategic plan defined the school system’s beliefs as:

- All students can learn and reach their full potential

- Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, environmental and intellectual abilities

- Meaningful learning experiences provide students with essential knowledge and skills

- A safe and supportive learning environment promotes student achievement

- Collaboration with parents, community stakeholders and higher

- Providing high quality professionals developments for teachers and staff will have a positive impact on teaching and learning

- And that all employees are professional and essential to the success of our students, and we are committed to recruiting, developing and retaining effective leaders, teachers and staff.

Finally, the strategic plan outlines critical initiatives and key performance indicators that correlate with each strategic objective and are aimed at helping the school system gauge its progress in each category. The last step in this process is the assignment of action plan leaders and teams for each strategic objective, the formation of which will be headed by Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore. Once the teams are developed, they will launch their plans, with Seymore overseeing the progress of each through regular checks. Marquart

- Approved consideration of personnel recommendations

- Approved consideration for the superintendent to enter into an agreement with Lean Frog Consulting Services for Salary Schedule Development

An honoree of the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame, Marino is a registered professional engineer in 14 states and is active on various advisory boards, including Auburn University’s Alumni Engineering Council and throughout the community (over 900 surveys were received) to determine what stakeholders believe are the top challenges for the school system over the next five years, how stakeholders measure what a successful Opelika graduate looks like, how stakeholders determine the quality of education provided by OCS and what the top financial priorities of the stakeholders are.

- Approved consideration for a contract for April Brock, principal of the new Fox Run 6th grade school

- Approved consideration for a bid for band instruments for the new Fox Run 6th grade school

- Heard the monthly financial report from Chief Financial Officer Chris Harrison

- Heard the monthly child nutritional report for March, 2023, from Chief Financial Officer Chris Harrison

- Set the school systems retirement ceremony for Tuesday, May 23, at 3:30 p.m. at Jeter Primary School.

The next Opelika City Schools Board meeting will take place after the retirement ceremony on May 23, at 4:15 p.m.

Auburn Equestrian’s Greg Williams to Transition to New Role

dream to reality. I’ve been able to serve so many incredible student-athletes throughout my career. And the best part is that my favorite university and my favorite sport are now known all over the country because those student-athletes bought into that dream as well.”

Williams orchestrated the building of the Auburn University Equestrian Center when the university's club program debuted in 1996 and helped to change the club program to Auburn's 21st varsity sport beginning the 2002-03 season.

CONTRIBUTED BY

AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Auburn equestrian head coach Greg Williams is retiring after 28 years, during which he led the program from a club sport in 1996 to varsity status in 200203. Williams, who led the Tigers to six national championships and six

Southeastern Conference titles, will transition into a new role with Auburn Athletics as head coach emeritus.

“We came back to Auburn in 1989 because I grew up an Auburn kid, was an Auburn grad and then became an Auburn employee,” Williams said. “Starting this team created a mission for me that went from a pipe

Auburn All-Time Career Assists Leader White Remembered

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Auburn remembers men’s basketball all-time career assists leader Gerald White (19652023), who passed away on Tuesday, April 25, at the age of 58.

White, a 6-foot-1, 175-pound starting point guard at the time, played for the Tigers from 198487. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the seventh round of the 1987 NBA Draft. He was teammates with Charles Barkley, Chris Morris, the late Jeff Moore, Gary Godfrey, the late Frank Ford and Mike Jones.

Gerald White, Auburn University basketball's all-time leader in assists.

“We congratulate coach Greg Williams on the end of a remarkable chapter in Auburn Athletics history,” said Auburn Athletics Director John Cohen. “With his vision for what Auburn and collegiate equestrian could be, Greg built a program and grew the sport from the ground up, guided by the Auburn value of work — hard work. The results are

See WILLIAMS, page B5

He remains the school-record holder with 624 career assists leading the Tigers in the category three-straight seasons as a sophomore, junior and senior. White also ranks eighth all-time in career steals (164) including a team-leading 60 during the 1984-85 season.

The Tigers were ranked as high as No. 5 in the country during his four-year career on the Plains. They also reached the NCAA Tournament

all four seasons winning a SEC Tournament title in 1985 and making it all the way to the Elite Eight in 1986. White holds the school’s NCAA Tournament record for career assists (63) in 10 tournament games played.

A 1988 Auburn graduate with a bachelor’s degree in education, White coached for nearly two decades serving as an assistant at Augusta State, UT Chattanooga,

Georgia State and VCU. He was inducted into the Tiger Trail of Auburn and was honored as a SEC Legend in 2014.

“Gerald White was the leading scorer in the state of Georgia and attended the same high school as Pat Dye,” said Former Auburn Head Coach Sonny Smith. “We recruited him to Auburn to become a point guard, instead of a shooting guard, and he ended up See WHITE, page B5

Jessica Braswell Promoted to Auburn Equestrian Head Coach

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Jessica Braswell has been named Auburn equestrian’s head coach, Athletics Director John Cohen announced Friday. An integral component to the program’s success for almost two

11.23 - Qualik Harry

- 4th

200 METERS 22.89 - Theo Hubbard - 7th

400 METERS

400 METER DASH 51.41 - Sam Washburn

- 4th 51.73 - JaClarence

Perry - 6th

54.82 - Tirus Patten

- 15th

1600 METERS

2:02.53 - Michael Hart

- 4th

2:08.69 - Charles

Brewer - 8th

1600 METER RUN

4:37.05 - Brantley

Turnham - 4th

4:37.22 - Charles

Brewer - 5th

5:34.49 - Alexander

Burgess - 15th

3200 METER RUN

10:02.05 - Brantley

Turnham - 3rd

10:02.84 - Charles

Brewer - 4th

11:52.33 - Zane Sexton

- 13th

HIGH JUMP

6-2 - Davian Jones - 5th

5-8 -Cordarrious

Ingram - 9th

LONG JUMP

23-0 - Tirus Patten - 1st

22-6 - Davian Jones

decades, Braswell succeeds Greg Williams, who transitioned to his new role as head coach emeritus.

“I would like to thank Athletics Director John Cohen, Executive Deputy Athletics Director Rich McGlynn, Sport Administrator McRae Clay and coach

- 2nd 18-0.5 - JaClarence Perry -13th TRIPLE JUMP 46-8 - Davian Jones - 1st 43-3 - Tirus Patten - 6th 42-5.5 - Kylin Fears - 7th

POLE VAULT 12-0 -Dontarius Alvis - 1st 11-6 -Brannon Massey - 3rd

DISCUS 143-10 - Ajaden

Parham - 1st 140-7 - Mikeil Heard - 2nd 125-0 - Octavious Gay - 6th

JAVELIN 170-10 - Octavious Gay - 1st 144-11- Ronald Reese

Jr. - 4th 141-11 - Jakori Thornton - 6th

SHOT PUT 45-7.75 - Mikeil Heard - 4th

39-5 - Elias Autry10th 37-11 - Ajaden Parham - 12th

Opelika girls and boys track and field teams are in Gulf Shores (Thursday) competing in the AHSAA 7A State Championship

Meet. Coach Jimmy Johnson has taken the boys team to the State Championship meet in Gulf Shores every year since becoming head coach and won seven State Championship Titles. Good Luck to the Dogs!

SOCCER TEAMS LOSE

PLAYOFF OPENER

The OHS girls and boys soccer teams were eliminated from the AHSAA 7A State Playoffs Tuesday in Dothan. The Lady

Bulldogs (9-9) lost 5-2 while the boys (11-7) lost 5-0, ending their first season in class 7A. 
It is worth noting the two Soccer team's join Flag Football and girls/boys Track as the only teams to make the playoffs in their first year in Class 7A.

OHS GOLF

Opelika's Luke Robert and Evan Henderson qualified for the State golf Championship this week. The results were not available at press time.

Greg Williams for allowing me the opportunity to become the head coach of Auburn equestrian,” Braswell said. “I’d also like to thank my family for their continued support and encouragement.

“I was lucky enough to be a student-athlete on this team and then

OHS SOFTBALL

OHS (11-15) lost its last regular season game to Central, 14-0, in Phenix City. Central won the Area regular season and will host the Area tournament. The top two finishers advance to the State tournament.

TIDBITS

Opelika athletics will have physicals for student-athletes Monday, May 8, during fourth period and after school in the Main Street Gym. Opelika charges $10

transitioned from a graduate assistant to a coach. I’ve grown up in this program and I’m not sure I can adequately put into words what it means to become the head coach. I am very proud to lead this group of young women and See BRASWELL, page B4

per physical, cash or check made to OHS. The Orthopaedic Clinic staff performs the physicals free for OCS. The $10 charge helps OCS buy training supplies.

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1319, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

Former Auburn equestrian head coach Greg Williams speaks with The Observer’s D. Mark Mitchell on his radio show, “On the Mark.”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

BRASWELL

United Way of Lee County Launches New Classroom Enrichment Grant

CONTRIBUTED BY THE UNITED WAY OF LEE COUNTY

OPELIKA —

The United Way of Lee County (UWLC) has recently announced that it is giving away $600 in grant money to one teacher in each of the following school districts: Opelika City Schools, Auburn City Schools and Lee County Schools.

The purpose of this grant is to invest in teachers in the community by funding projects or items for their classrooms that they would typically have to pay for out of pocket. Examples include a sensory play station, new books for a classroom library, flexible seating and more.

The average teacher spends between $500 to $1,000 a year out of pocket on their classrooms, and the UWLC is hoping to help.

You must be a teacher in one of the three named school districts to apply for and receive this grant. Teachers can apply themselves, or they can be nominated by someone else. Applications opened at midnight on May 1, 2023, and will close at noon on May 12, 2023. Applications can be found on the United Way of Lee County website at unitedwayofleecounty.com.

The community will vote on the winners.

BRASWELL >>

FROM B3

continue the legacy of Coach Williams, one of the greatest coaches in Auburn history. We will continue to have academic success, recruit at a high level, compete for championships, and serve the Auburn community.”

Braswell will become the second head coach in program history after finishing her 12th season on staff and ninth as associate head coach. During her time as a coach, she has overseen the Jumping Seat discipline and the group has become one of the most elite collegiate riders in the nation, proving it each year.

The 2018 NCEA Coach of the Year has produced six NCEA Riders of the Year, 11 SEC Riders of the Year and 12 SEC Freshman Riders of the Year.

“There is no one more prepared to lead Auburn equestrian than Jessica Braswell,” Auburn athletic director John Cohen said. “Part of Auburn’s equestrian program for nearly two decades as a student-athlete, operations, assistant coach and associate head coach,

Voting will open at midnight on May 17, 2023, and close at noon on May 31, 2023. Voting will also take place on the United Way of Lee County website. Winners will be announced on June 1, 2023.

“We want our local educators to know that we see the hard work, heart and soul they put into their work,” said Caitlin Andrews, community initiatives specialist for the United Way of Lee County. “I hope teachers take this opportunity to apply for something fun their students can enjoy all year long, and I hope this grant can help create long-lasting memories and impact for the children in our school systems.”

ABOUT THE UNITED WAY OF LEE COUNTY

The United Way of Lee County is a nonprofit organization in Opelika whose mission is to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another by generating and applying the necessary resources to meet the needs of the community. It looks to improve and strengthen the community by focusing on and funding organizations and programs working in four key impact areas — areas it believes are the building blocks for a good life: education, health, crisis, and families and communities.

Jessica has compiled a stellar resume, helping Auburn win SEC and NCEA championships. We congratulate Coach Braswell on this well-deserved promotion and know she will continue to lead Auburn equestrian to great heights.”

“This is an incredible time in my career,” head coach emeritus Greg Williams said. “Auburn equestrian has been my mission for many years now, and I am so excited to continue that work with Coach Braswell. Setting up a succession plan had been a high priority for me, and Coach Braswell has worked tirelessly here to make this plan a reality. She has won championships as a rider, a graduate assistant, and a coach. While I have cherished each championship, the one I have wanted the most is the first one where I wouldn’t be labeled the head coach. We are going to work tirelessly to achieve that dream rapidly.”

As a coach, Braswell has been a key component in four National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) titles (2013, 2016, 2018, 2019) as well as the six Southeastern Conference crowns (2016, 2019,

East Alabama Health Offers College Scholarships to Students, Employees

CONTRIBUTED BY EAH OPELIKA —

To help the next generation of healthcare leaders begin their education, East Alabama Health (EAH) is offering scholarship loans to students seeking degrees in healthcare related fields.

The scholarship loan program pays for students’ educational expenses in exchange for them agreeing to work at EAH for a minimum time frame following completion of their degree.

“We want to look locally when it comes to finding the next generation of healthcare leaders,” said Susan Johnston, East Alabama Health’s vice president of Human Resources.

“The program not only allows students interested in healthcare to attend school without the financial burdens associated with paying for their degree, but also helps EAH to ensure that our growing community continues to have well-trained, competent healthcare professionals.”

Healthcare related degree programs which EAH predicts a need for are eligible for the scholarship loan program. Some examples of eligible programs are nursing, medical laboratory sciences, emergency medical services, medical coding, surgical technology (also

2020, 2021, 2022, 2023). She and Williams have worked side by side to continue the growth of the program into the dynasty it is becoming.

“Coach Williams and I have known each other now for almost 20 years,” Braswell said.

“I met him at camp my junior year of high school and I’ve been a part of Auburn equestrian since. As a coach, he has always instilled in his team ownership, hard work and putting the team ahead of yourself. He lived that every day as he built Auburn equestrian from a small group of girls to a program that has won many championships. He has always believed in me and given me the opportunities to develop as a coach and I’m looking forward to continuing working with him in our new roles.”

Under Braswell’s guidance, the Auburn Jumping Seat program has totaled 68 AllAmerica nods and 80 All-SEC and SEC AllFreshman recognitions. The group has won three NCEA Jumping Seat titles (2013, 2018, 2019), while Fences won a national championship in 2018 and Flat won in 2019.

called scrub techs) and rehabilitative therapy.

Recipients agree to accept full-time employment for a period as outlined in their scholarship agreement. The exact amount of time is determined by the amount of the loan the student receives.

“East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) has paid for both my ADN and BSN degrees through the scholarship loan program, allowing me to come out of school without any college debt and with a guaranteed job,” said Blake Buice, director of Medical Surgical Services at East Alabama Medical Center. “This is not something that every employer provides, but it is the standard here at EAMC.”

“I am looking forward to continuing to build on the success Auburn equestrian has had since Coach Williams started the program,” Braswell said. “Our goal will be to always be in a position to compete for conference and national championships. We will recruit student-athletes that fit our culture of hard work and team first. Student-athletes that have a desire to make an impact in the classroom and community.

“We will continue to promote the sport of equestrian across the country and work to provide the best gameday environment for our fans here at Auburn. We will work to represent Auburn in a way that makes our administration, fans, and alumni proud. I am very grateful for this opportunity and could not be more excited to get to work with an outstanding staff and a hardworking and competitive team of young women.”

Braswell helped lead the team to back-to-back undefeated seasons in 2019 and 2020. During those years, all of her competitors earned AllAmerica recognition to combine for 19 total honors.

In addition to the scholarship loan program, East Alabama Health also offers three named scholarships for students, and current EAH employees are eligible for tuition reimbursement up to $10,000 per fiscal year.

Two nursing scholarships that are available were established in memory of nurses (Connie Young and Sharon Gess) who died prematurely while still employed. Another named scholarship available is in honor of Dr. Paul Waddy, a former member of EAMC’s Board of Directors. There are specific criteria related to these three scholarships.

“One of our biggest goals is finding ways to continuously invest in our community and our

Auburn riders such as Taylor St. Jacques, Caitlin Boyle, Elizabeth Benson, and soon-tobe alum Emma Kurtz are among the many greats that Braswell has coached on the Plains. St. Jacques finished her career as a seven-time All-American, threetime NCEA Rider of the Year and four-time SEC Rider of the Year. She holds the program’s record with most Flat wins in her career.

Boyle earned six AllAmerica honors and was the 2019 SEC Fences Rider of the Year. She is tied for the most Fences wins in a career with Kurtz. Benson was a five-time All-American and a SEC Rider of the Year, while Kurtz recently concluded her career as an eight-time All-American and was the 2022 SEC Fences Rider of the Year.

On top of her work in athletic competition, Braswell has been involved in the growth of the sport through her dedication to the NCEA.

She has served on the NCEA Championship Committee for many years and is currently serving as co-chair. Through her involvement, the organization has continued to expand

employees,” Johnston said. “We take pride in the various scholarship programs that we have available, and we encourage anyone eligible to consider applying.” Scholarship loan program applications for the fall 2023 semester are due Friday, May 5 no later than 3 p.m. central time. Details on the various scholarships available can be found here. For more information, contact Jennifer Krug, EAH workforce development coach and grants administrator, at 334-528-3036 or jennifer.krug@eamc.org.

ABOUT EAST ALABAMA HEALTH

East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika,

See EAH, page B5

its championship experience by welcoming more teams to the varsity level as well as moving the competition to Ocala, Florida at the World Equestrian Center.

Braswell graduated from Auburn in 2009 with a double major in Agricultural Business & Economics and Spanish International Trade. In addition, she graduated in December 2010 with a Master of Business Administration.

As a student-athlete, she was a member of the equestrian team from 2005-09. She helped lead the team to an overall national championship in 2006 and a Jumping Seat national championship in 2008. She was a four-time member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll and the 2009 Auburn Female Scholar Athlete of the Year. She continued to be a part of the equestrian program during graduate school as the first director of operations for the team.

Braswell began riding at an early age and competed extensively before coming to Auburn in 2005.

Originally from Richmond, Virginia, she is the daughter of Jamey and Amy Braswell and sister to Troy.

Blake Buice, director of Medical Surgical Services at EAMC

Glenwood Eases Through Round 1 of Playoffs

SOFTBALL >>

FROM B2

but both have been hit harder in conference play. They each have shown hints of success versus high-level competition, though.

Widra (8-4) picked up a win over Missouri, pitching 5.1 scoreless frames in relief of Lowe (5-5). On the other hand, Lowe got a win in relief in a nine-inning, walkoff win over LSU. Lowe also showed sharp stuff the day before that in a start against a leftyfilled LSU lineup, but a bloop and a blast by LSU’s only right-handed batter was enough damage to pin her with a tough loss.

Penta will continue to get the vast majority of the workload, but at some point, she needs to be able to hand the ball to a reliable supporting cast. Auburn needs another go-to arm outside

of Penta if it is going to be a persist in a long tournament with short turnaround periods.

No Easy Outs

On the offensive side, Ellis has continued to build on her dominant rookie showing.

She’s launched 12 “Bri Bombs,” leading the club in homers, RBI (38), total bases (83) and slugging percentage (.638).

Last year, however, Auburn’s lineup seemed to fizzle out toward the bottom of the order.

This year, the lineup has threats dispersed throughout. The first baseman is one of four batters hitting .300 or better, and only the leadoff batter, sophomore Nelia Peralta, comes before her.

Peralta leads the team in average (.346), OPS (1.108), hits (46) and walks (39) and has reached base multiple times in 30 games this

season with 14 multihit contests. She has been an elite table-setter, but she is also tasked with driving in runs with last year’s average leader, senior Carlee McCondichie, batting .310 out of the nine spot despite recent struggles.

Adding to the mix, junior Makayla Packer is second on the team with a .321 batting average at seventh in the lineup. She adds consistent hitting but also leads starters with nine steals.

This is a trend that Auburn will need to continue, as well as keeping the bats of Denver Bryant and Icess Tresvick hot.

Auburn boasts plenty of star power, but to reach the moon and return to the College World Series for the first time since 2016, it will need to fill in the gaps.

starting all four years. He didn’t have a selfish bone in his body and made everyone around him better. During that time, we went to the NCAA Tournament every year including the Elite Eight. He was a very good student and knew all along he would be a coach.

“He was recruited to Auburn by my former assistant coach, Mack McCarthy, and later joined Mack on his staff at Chattanooga and VCU. Gerald never met a stranger. He was totally committed to coaching and giving back to kids in his hometown of Augusta. He was a successful recruiter and recruited kids that were like him. My condolences to his family and everyone he impacted

throughout his life.”

Originally from Augusta, Georgia, White played at Richmond Academy and was named Georgia’s 4A Player of the Year by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution during his senior campaign averaging 28.3 points and eight assists per game. He was also selected as one of the nation’s Top 30 players by Basketball Weekly and toured Germany in the spring of 1983 as a member of the U.S. All-Star Team. White is survived by his family including his children, Jared and Jala White ‘17, and older brother, Mike White, a former defensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns and Seattle Seahawks. Memorial services for White in Augusta are pending.

EAMC-Lanier in Valley, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinic and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 314-bed regional referral hospital with a 26-bed Skilled Nursing Facility, while 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 employees and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University. For more information, visit www. eastalabamahealth.org.

the Electrical Engineering Industrial Advisory Board and the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Civil, Construction and Environmental

Engineering Advisory Board. She also has served on the Electrical Engineering Advisory Boards for Tuskegee University and the University of Alabama.

A staunch advocate for engineering education, particularly for

women pursuing engineering, Marino has mentored young engineers through initiatives such as iCan, 100+ Women Strong, Southern Nuclear North American Young Generation in Nuclear, Society of Women Engineers and Women in

Generation, an organization which she created. Marino also is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Auburn University ECE Industrial Advisory Board Outstanding Alumni Award, the Engineering Council of Birmingham’s Engineering Leadership

Award and Engineer of the Year.

The commencement weekend will conclude with ceremonies on Monday, May 8, for the Harrison College of Pharmacy at 1 p.m. and the College of Veterinary Medicine at 6 p.m. In total, Auburn will

award nearly 5,000 degrees, including 131 doctoral degrees, 818 master’s degrees, 267 professional degrees, 10 education specialist degrees and 3,640 bachelor’s degrees.

More information about commencement can be found online.

legendary: six national championships and six Southeastern Conference championships. Driven to — as he says so eloquently — plant a seed for a tree you will never shade under, Greg Williams will continue to serve Auburn as head coach emeritus.”

“I am very excited about the change and the new opportunities this creates,” Williams added. “I’m excited for the future of this program because we will continue to

be able to chase dreams and goals that we have wanted to achieve. This team has been my mission for years and I will still be able to do what I love indefinitely in this new role. I am so thankful to the administration and my current staff here for working to make this a reality.”

Williams has worked tirelessly to push the growth of the sport throughout his time on The Plains. Not only has he produced one of the most successful programs in the country, Williams has also been

instrumental in the addition of more varsity programs to the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) as well as creating a competitive format that maximizes opportunities for all student-athletes, which is used to this day in competition.

As the head of the program, Williams will finish with a 203-65 overall record in varsity competition. He was named the SEC Coach of the Year five times (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) and NCEA Coach of the Year twice (2019, 2020).

In over two decades as a varsity sport, the Tigers have totaled six national championships (2006, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2018, 2019), five Jumping Seat national titles (2008, 2011, 2013, 2018, 2019), one Western title (2018), six Southeastern Conference championships (2016, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) and three Southern Equestrian crowns (2004, 2011, 2011).

Williams’ student-athletes have combined for 122 All-America accolades since the 2010-11 season and have

totaled 146 All-SEC and Freshman All-SEC selections.

Williams and his staff have guided their student-athletes to nine NCEA Rider of the Year honors as well as 43 SEC Rider of the Year accolades.

In addition to excelling in competition, Williams’ teams have also produced in the classroom. Auburn has 106 NCEA AllAcademic honorees since the organization began recognizing the honor in the spring of 2013.

Williams graduated from Auburn University

with a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences in 1986. His career in the horse industry began at a young age as he showed horses and competed in rodeos. His mother also competed, passing on her passion for horses to Williams.

Williams and his wife, Sandi, have two daughters, Toni and Erica. Both daughters are married to Auburn graduates. Williams is a proud grandfather of Graeme Odin Farrell (2017), Cassidy June Patrick (2020) and Conor Orion Farrell (2021).

WILLIAMS >> FROM B3

EAH >> FROM B4

The varsity Glenwood Gators baseball team swept Monroe Academy 10-0 and 14-1 in the first round of the AISA Class 3A playoffs April 26. The Gators faced rival Lee-Scott Academy Wednesday, May 3, in the second round of the state tournament. Results were not available come press time.

WHITE >> FROM B3

PHOTO BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

A Good Time at the Fair

PHOTOS BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH

May Day was this past Monday, and from my days growing up in Opelika, I remember that our schools would celebrate May Day with beautiful maypoles with different colors of crepe streamers or ribbons. At recess, we had fun dancing around the maypole as we welcomed the last month of school.

We also participated in May Day parades at school with our hats and baskets that we had made in art class. We welcomed May with excitement and rainbows of promise as we ended a good school year and looked forward to a fun, free summer. And it is still the same today.

One special day that I noticed on the teacher’s calendar is Thursday, May

We Welcome May Events

used to teach children about evaporation is to take a wet sponge and draw a line on a table, wall or blackboard. With a little time, the simple wet stripe from the sponge disappears. You can also set out a cup of water and watch the water disappear over several days. Ask your child, “Where did the water go?” You can use this to explain the water cycle to them.

3. Precipitation is the third stage of the water cycle. This is where water falls as rain, sleet, snow or hail.

4. The fourth and final stage is the collection stage. This is where the precipitation that falls from the sky collects into the oceans, lakes, rivers, etc. Children are typically fond of another collection place, the rain puddles, where they can run and splash around.

make sure dust or sand doesn’t get in your child’s eyes.

The most beautiful sight to observe on a spring afternoon is an arching rainbow. Explain to your children that rainbows occur when sunlight penetrates raindrops and is broken into the beautiful bands of violet, indigo, red, orange, yellow and green.

Children love to bow their little heads and pray. God enables young hearts to grow in understanding, wisdom and the fullness of God.

4 — National Weather Observers Day. Children are wonderful weather observers. Also, it has been so pleasant this spring to be outside and to observe the changes in the weather. Teach your child that weather is the condition of air here on Earth.

If your child asks you what air is, explain to them that air can be felt when the wind blows. To teach them this concept, use a paper fan to cool your child off. As an alternative, you may simply blow up a balloon to show that air takes up space.

Another fact that children seem to be fascinated with is that the sun heats up the air, or atmosphere, which causes water to evaporate up into the air. Wednesday, May 3, is recognized is National Sun Day. The lesson I have

1. The first stage we explain is evaporation. The heat from the sun causes water found in rivers, lakes and oceans to turn from a liquid form into a gas form. Explain that as the water evaporates it turns into the form of a gas, which collects to form clouds. One observation that truly fascinates the young scientist’s eye is the formation of clouds. This is where you can guide your child’s eye to identify three different kinds of clouds. I tell children that cirrus clouds look like pulled cotton candy. Usually, cirrus clouds are associated with fair weather. Cumulus clouds are heaping clouds; they look like pillows you can jump on. It’s neat to point out to your child these clouds building up for a spring afternoon shower. Stratus clouds, which look like layers or blankets, produce rain and drizzle.

2. Condensation is the second stage in the water cycle. Condensation happens when the water vapor (gas) which is in the clouds becomes droplets.

Children love to use their imaginations to find different shapes in the clouds. Fog is also something your child can observe draping over the outside world early in the morning.

Other weather events your child can learn about are thunderstorms and lightning. It’s also important to teach your child some important safety rules for storms: not being outside, in a swimming pool or under a tree where lightning can strike, for example.

Waterspouts form over bodies of water, drawing up large columns of water. One doesn’t want to observe tornadoes. Tornadoes can reach high speeds and are one of the most destructive natural phenomena. I have many memories from my years living near the coast in South Alabama of preparing for hurricanes and experiencing the high winds that come with these storms.

On the contrary, dust devils are small tornadoes over land areas. A dust devil draws up dust, leaves and debris. If you find you and your child near one of these,

Investing in an inexpensive thermometer promotes a family activity in reading the temperature each day. You could also make a rain gauge by setting out a bucket to collect rainwater, which you can then measure with a ruler. This is a good family activity, too.

Another family activity is watching a local or national weather station. You would be surprised at how much your young meteorologist can understand about forecasts and weather events on a map.

Thursday, May 4, is also National Day of Prayer. “Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). We are made for prayer. If we go back to the very beginning of time, we see that prayer — communication with God — has always been central. The Bible clearly describes several of these benefits:

1. A better inner life: When we teach our children to pray, they learn about the joy and peace that are available to them.

2. Personal growth:

3. Strength and courage: Young fears may seem silly at times, but they are real to their little minds. By giving our children the resource of prayer, we provide them with strength, courage and wisdom to face their world. “I sought the Lord and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4-5).

Here are some ideas for family prayer time:

• Have each person in the family pray for one thing.

• Hold hands while you pray.

• Pray for the person on your left or right.

• Maybe pray for specific things.

• Each family member can think of a praise item, or to pray for a person who is hurting.

• Do Post-It Note prayers all over the house — on the mirrors, doors, walls, in backpacks, etc.

• Keep a family prayer journal to see how God answers prayers.

Friday, May 5, is Cinco De Mayo, which provides the perfect opportunity to teach children about Mexican traditions in a fun way. We have only just begun family activities and fun for May. Have a great week.

Classroom Observer

Beth Pinyerd

Alabama Needs a Skilled Fiber Optic Workforce

Meet Rising Demand

CONTRIBUTED BY SKILLS FOR SUCCESS

MONTGOMERY —

Salaries and demand for fiber optic technicians and installers are on the rise, and starting last week, rapid, no-cost training is available for these jobs at community colleges across the state.

Through the Alabama Community College System’s Skills for Success program, Alabamians can learn how to install and

maintain fiber optic networks in less than a week.

The training can be completed quickly because part of the course is done online with interactive learning that is self-paced. Upon completing the online portion of the course, trainees then complete two days of hands-on training with qualified instructors at any of the 24 community and technical colleges around the state.

The training is offered at no cost to participants

thanks to appropriations from the Alabama Legislature.

The course was developed by the Innovation Center, a division of the Alabama Community College System that brings together the state’s community colleges, industries and community partners to deliver Skills for Success training.

“Today’s communication networks depend on fiber optic connectivity, so the demand for a skilled fiber

optic workforce is critical and growing,” said Jimmy H. Baker, chancellor of the Alabama Community College System. “By delivering rapid training, Skills for Success quickly provides the training that can lead to immediate employment.”

The online coursework covers the fundamentals of fiber optics, including industry standards and best practices. Participants then receive hands-on training when they learn how to

install, test and maintain fiber optic cables, as well as how to troubleshoot and maintain fiber optic systems.

“When you walk out of here, you’re going to have opportunities to say that you know how to terminate fiber, you know how to test fiber — you know how this works,” said Josh Byars, an employee with Joe Wheeler FlashFiber who served as the handson instructor for the fiber optic training pilot course at Wallace Community College in Dothan.

Salaries for fiber technicians have increased by 12% in the past five years, and demand for these professionals is expected to increase by 8% by the year 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Participants who complete the training also earn an ACCS Credential, which signals to businesses that the individual has mastered the skills taught in the program and is immediately ready for employment. The ACCS Credential can also be used as a foundation for additional classes and training at Alabama community colleges.

“The number-one challenge for most businesses right now is finding and retaining a skilled workforce,” said Keith Phillips, vice chancellor of workforce and economic development for the Alabama

Community College System. “Skills for Success training is developed in partnership with Alabama industries, so it is customized with input from employers for jobs that are in high demand.”

Those interested in learning more and signing up for the training can go online to innovation.accs. edu.

ABOUT SKILLS FOR SUCCESS

Skills for Success is the rapid workforce training program launched by the Alabama Community College System in 2022. The program addresses the skills gap and provides Alabamians with the training needed for in-demand careers. Skills for Success is one of the training programs offered by the ACCS Innovation Center, a division of the Alabama Community College System. The Innovation Center brings together community colleges, business and industry, and community partners to create and deliver training programs that are tailored to the needs of the state.

The Innovation Center is committed to building a skilled workforce in Alabama through accessible, industry-recognized training programs that prepare individuals for successful careers. To learn more about the Innovation Center and its programs, visit innovation.accs.edu.

BETH PINYERD

Alabama Community College System Now Offers Rapid, No-Cost Training to

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, May 4, 2023

Inside the Statehouse

Jabo Waggoner: An Alabama Political Icon

that is an Alabama record.

Waggoner is the longest-serving legislator in Alabama history. He served 17 years in the Alabama House of Representatives and is in his 33rd year in the Alabama Senate.

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

As I stroll down the halls of the Alabama Senate during this current regular session of the Alabama Legislature, I will stop and visit in the offices of my favorite legislative buddies. My favorite and first stop is with my longtime friend Jabo Waggoner. Waggoner, being the dean of the Legislature, has the first prime corner office. He also chairs the agenda-setting Rules Committee. Therefore, there is a throng of high-priced lobbyists camped outside the door trying to get him to put their bills on the Special Order Calendar.

Waggoner and I will swap stories of bygone years and reminisce about past experiences. He is a big sports fan and was a great college basketball player. In fact, he was one of the founders and remains on the Board of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, which is located in downtown Birmingham. Waggoner, Gene Hallman and Edgar Welden were the pillars and founders of this prestigious institution. One of Waggoner’s and my favorite remembrances is going together to the Olympic soccer games held at Legion Field in Birmingham.

Recently while visiting him, I thought, “I am with an Alabama political icon.” Waggoner has been in the Alabama Legislature for 50 years this year. Folks,

Scholarship Recipients Recognized by City Council

Waggoner was first elected to the Alabama Senate in 1990. The heart of his district has always been the entire city of Vestavia Hills. He also represents parts of Homewood and Hoover. This is a very Republican area, and therefore, he is an arch Republican.

He is revered in Jefferson County, but his popularity extends beyond Jefferson and Shelby counties. When Kay Ivey was running for governor for the first time in 2018, she asked Waggoner to be her titular campaign manager. He introduced her as she announced her candidacy.

He is adored by his Senate colleagues, especially the younger state senators. They flock to him for tutoring and mentoring. The Senate leaders — Greg Reed of Jasper and Clay Scofield of Arab — seek his guidance on tricky senate maneuverings.

Waggoner was the Republican minority leader of the State Senate from 1999 until the Republicans gained a legislative majority in 2010. He was the first Republican majority leader, then relinquished that role to be the Rules Chairman where he currently serves.

Waggoner is married to his high school sweetheart Marilyn. They have been married for over 60 years.

I have never met a sweeter or more beautiful lady than Marilyn Waggoner. They had four children: three sons and a daughter. One of their sons, Scott, died at an early age in an automobile accident.

Jabo and Marilyn are ardent members of the Homewood Church of

Christ. They attend almost every Sunday and sit with his best friend, Dr. Swaid, and his wife, Christy. The Waggoners’ children attend the same church.

Waggoner has done a lot for Jefferson County for over 50 years. It would take a book to chronicle his legislative accomplishments and good deeds.

In the 1970s, Waggoner sponsored legislation which spearheaded the purchase of 45 blocks in downtown Birmingham for UAB’s expansion. UAB purchased this property, which was valued at $8.5 million at that time. There is no telling what that land is worth today — probably well over $200 million to $300 million.

Waggoner was first elected to the Alabama Legislature in 1966. It is no coincidence that UAB has grown into one of the premier medical and research institutions in America and the crown jewel of Alabama during that same period. Although he is an arch conservative Republican, Waggoner has forged a close working relationship with his fellow Democratic Senate leader Roger Smitherman to work across the aisle for the good of Jefferson County.

In closing, in all my years of following Alabama politics, I have never seen a more modest or amicable leader than Jabo Waggoner Jr. I have never seen or heard of anyone who has ever met him that did not like him. Waggoner is an icon of Alabama political history.

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.

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

The Opelika City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, May 2.

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller recognized several students as being recipients of scholarships from Opelika Power Services (OPS) and Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), as well as the Killgore Scholarship recipients.

The Killgore scholarships are from the J.A. and Ophelia Killgore Scholarship Trust Fund, which was created when James and Ophelia Killgore designated $1.2 million to be set aside in a trust fund, and to be distributed to students from five local high schools in Lee County. The five schools are Auburn, Beauregard, Beulah, Opelika and Smiths Station high schools.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved a request by the parks and recreation department for a fireworks and pyrotechnics display permit on July 3, 2023.

- The council held a public hearing for a project development agreement with MAB American Management LLC.

- The council held public hearings regarding the demolition of property located at 111 S. Railroad Ave. and 1515 N. Uniroyal Road. Later during the meeting the council voted to approve the demolition of these structures.

- The council approved the purchase of a fire alarm system for the Sportsplex.

- The council approved a resolution for the annual authorization to levy tax on property within Opelika.

- The council approved the annual MWPP reports for the east and west sewer treatment plants for the public works department.

- The council approved the first supplemental agreement with Hosey-Lancour Construction LLC for renovations at the Southside Center for Arts located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

- The council approved change order No. 1 with Hosey-Lancour

Construction LLC for renovations at the Southside Center for the Arts.

- The council approved a contract with Casey Chambley doing business as Chambley's Display Fireworks.

- The council approved a project development agreement with MAB American Management LLC.

- The council approved the purchase of nine 40-cubic-yard open top roll-off containers for the Environmental Services Department for a total cost of $18,000.

- The council authorized a Recycling Fund Grant agreement with ADEM.

- The council approved a request for a refund of occupational taxes paid in error.

- The council approved a special appropriation in the amount of $3,000 to the Sound Wall Music Initiative for the Fourth Annual Songwriters Festival to be held in October.

- The council voted to approve the oneyear renewal of an existing contract with East Alabama Paving Company for the See OPELIKA, page B11

Pictured are scholarship recipients Micah Tring, Paola Torres Morales, Kason Martichuski, Susannah Couey, Keely Rider, Ashley Hilyer, Harsh Patel, Jaleigha Doolittle and Elizabeth Dawe. Not pictured is Robert Brasher. Also pictured on the far right is Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and in the center of the back row is Opelika City Schools Superintendent Farrell Seymore.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY OCS

OPINION —

Most of us are abundantly familiar with virtual assistants such as Siri or Alexa. And now, chatbots like ChatGPT are gathering interest as they stimulate human conversation to assist customers. This ended barroom bets, where drunk patrons challenged each other to answer a sports question or TV trivia. Now, people just check on their smartphones for the answer. At least in the former barroom arguments, humans had to think. Their curiosity was

Artificial Intelligence Offers a Lot but Needs Human Touch

noted Sportico. “The tabloid used the AI-generated conversation platform character AI to mimic the former world champion.”

Schumacher is a former Formula One champion, 54, who has not been seen in public since he suffered a serious brain injury in a skiing accident in December 2013.

of ChatGPT and other machine learning marvels have struggled — and will continue — to achieve this kind of balance.”

already dulled by television; now it is cast aside by simply asking a virtual assistant a question. Evidence: How many people believed weapons of mass destruction were in Iraq?

“You can keep your own doctor” — did anyone besides me research that one? Or, “The Mexicans will pay for our border wall.” All were lies that, strangely enough, were believed by millions of citizens.

“German magazine Die Aktuelle is getting lots of pushback for running what they billed to be ‘Michael Schumacher, the first interview,’”

In a recent New York Times guest essay, Noam Chomsky was joined by fellow linguist Ian Roberts and director of a science and technology company Jeffrey Watumull in addressing “The False Promise of ChatGPT.” They explain that these computer programs excite people because mechanical minds are surpassing human brains, on several levels. Those include intellectual insight, artistic creativity and every other distinctively human faculty.

“To be useful, ChatGPT must be empowered to generate novel-looking output,” the authors wrote. “To be acceptable to most of its users, it must steer clear of morally objectionable content. But the programmers

Farhad Manjoo, NYT columnist, notes that people seem to start off skeptical of ChatGPT but soon take it more seriously as a work and personal tool. They see it as indispensable, like iPhones and the internet. Most acknowledge that ChatGPT has potential for good and evil.

Manjoo has been using ChatGPT in different ways that he said help him in his job as an editorial writer. Although he noted that ChatGPT turns out clichés he should not be using, he said the program helps him when he is at a loss for an appropriate word or phrase.

I am skeptical not just of ChatGPT as a wordfinder, but of Manjoo as a full-time journalist for a significant newspaper. I have seen “How to write an essay” guides that said, “Look at a thesaurus to get help.” What? I imagine that anyone hired by the NYT would have a large vocabulary and not need

to use ChatGPT much. Incredibly, even post-secondary instructors tell students to grab a thesaurus instead of locating the right word in their mind. A student may look up the word “power” and get “influence” as a synonym. He will use “influence” instead of “power.”

Any U.S. president has power, but Tibetan monk Dalai Lama has influence as a spiritual leader instead. ChatGPT will not be much better when used as a thesaurus.

“Take the problem of transitions — you’ve written two sections of an article and you’re struggling to write a paragraph taking the reader from one part to another,” Manjoo said in discussing how ChatGPT ends stumbling blocks. “You can plug both sections into ChatGPT. Its proposed transition probably won’t be great, but even bad ideas help in overcoming a block.”

I recall the adage, “You cannot write with a slide rule.” That meant that using a number system, for breaks in long copies, etc., is silly. I also remember a sports

writer, the best columnist in the state when I was a copyboy in the early 1980s. He would take short breaks (10 to 15 minutes) around the building to get ideas and break a dry period. He did not rely on a computer to read his mind and provide good copy — there were no computers, just word processors.

I was thinking about brains being underdeveloped in using your own memory to win a barroom bet. Chatting online and surfing the web are fine with limits. Someday, maybe, you won’t have a virtual assistant device with you when you really need it. Just don’t use ChatGPT as a crutch. You may someday be in a barroom debate and must use your wits to win.

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 12 years. gm.markley@charter.net

GREG MARKLEY

SAR Recognizes Student Essay Winner

Rogers Encourages Air Force To Stop Delaying Space Command Announcement

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, questioned Air Force officials last week and expressed his concern regarding the delayed announcement of the Space Command Headquarters placement.

A recording of Rogers’ introductory remarks can be found at www. youtube.com/watch?v=ySfZqG3kbF4, and his remarks as prepared for delivery can be found below:

“… Finally, Secretary Kendall, we are beyond

Girl Scouts Continue to Give Back

the point of frustration with the continued delay in announcing the final decision on SPACECOM basing.

“Twenty-seven months ago, the Air Force made the right decision to go with Huntsville, Alabama. Twelve months ago, the GAO and the DoD IG affirmed that decision.

“There is only one state that is still protesting and

that state came in fifth. The political games must end. Your continued handwringing is delaying SPACECOM’s full operational capability and undermining our ability to defend this nation. You need to end this charade and make the announcement.

“With that I yield to the ranking member. ”

Opelika Kiwanis Scores With Latest Guest

city-wide paving project.

- The council voted to amend Section 28108 of the City Code of Ordinances to update sewer access fees.

- The council voted to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map in order to rezone 229.2 acres of land located

at Anderson Road and Andrews Road. The land will be rezoned, from R-1 to a planned unit development (PUD). This PUD will include 921 new residential units consisting of 606 single-family homes, 216 townhomes and 98 cottages.

- The council introduced an ordinance for first reading to amend the city of Opelika

Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.

- The council approved the reappointment of Phil Adams to the Public Parks & Recreation Board for a term expiring May 4, 2029.

- The council approved the reappointment of Tom Morris to the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority Election Committee.

The speaker at this week's Opelika Kiwanis Club meeting was Auburn University football's director of football and player relations, Trovon Reed. A former Auburn football player himself, Reed talked about the current football team — even if it is the offseason. The speaker for the May 11 meeting will be Sam DiChiara from the Lee County Listener.

FROM B9

The Richard Henry Lee Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) local chapter recognized Cameron Tubbs as the first-place recipient in the George and Stella Knight Essay Contest. Tubbs is a senior at Reeltown High School. The essay (maximum of 1,200 words) is based on a person, event or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence or the framing of the United States. Tubbs' essay is titled "What the Constitution Has Done." Chapter President Bob Harris and Tubbs are pictured left to right.

The Auburn Rotary Club welcomed Karlyn Edmonds and Marie Gaylor, of the Girls Scouts of Southern Alabama, as guest presenters to its last meeting. They are making a real difference in the lives of so many. The mission of Girl Scouts? “To build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.” Check out the website www.girlscoutssa.org

SOURCE: YOUTUBE SCREENSHOT

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 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 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

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

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 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 ADVERTISEMENT

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 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

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 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

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: RAYMOND ALBERT MILLER, Deceased

Case No.: 2023- 097

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Vicki Miller Pierce, Personal Representative on the 28th 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 by law or the same will be barred.

Vicki Miller Pierce Legal Run 05/04/2023, 05/11/2023 & 05/18/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE MATIER OF WALTER KETTEN UNDERWOOD CASE NO: 2021-452

NOTICE OF HEARING

NOTICE TO: JAMES

EARL UNDERWOOD

Notice is hereby given that a Motion to Approve Real Estate of the Estate of Walter Ketten Undeiwood was filed by Administrator Jeremy Todd Underwood on April 6, 2023. A hearing has been set for the 30th day of May 2023 at 9:00 a.m. central time, electronically via "ZOOM". Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the said hearing.

BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 05/04/2023, 05/11/2023 & 05/18/2023

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HIRAM J. POWELL, DECEASED.

Letters Testamentary on the estate of Hiram J. Powell, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on the 30th day of March 2023, by the Judge of Probate of said County, 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.

Shanda Cotney n/k/a Shanda Adams - Executrix Chad Lee - Attorney for Executrix Legal Run 05/04/2023, 05/11/2023 & 05/18/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF:

SARAH BUCHANAN

VANN Deceased

Case No.: 2023-236

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Sarah Buchanan Vann, Personal Representative on the 28th 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 by law or the same will be barred.

Mary Catherine Bradford Legal Run 05/04/2023, 05/11/2023 & 05/18/2023

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

Central Alabama Pride Condemns Discriminatory Anti-LGBTQ Bill Banning Drag Performances in Alabama

CONTRIBUTED BY

CENTRAL ALABAMA PRIDE

OPINION —

Central Alabama Pride, a leading non-profit organization advocating for LGBTQ rights, today condemns the anti-LGBTQ bill recently introduced in the Alabama Legislature. HB401, which seeks to ban drag performances throughout the state, is a harmful and discriminatory measure that directly targets the

FROM B12

ORDINANCE NO. 013-23

AN ORDINANCE

AMENDING SECTION 28-108 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES AND AMENDING AND UPDATING SEWER ACCESS FEES TO BE

CHARGED BY THE CITY

WHEREAS, the City of Opelika (the “City”) operates a wastewater collection and treatment system (the “wastewater system”); and

WHEREAS, Section 28-108 of the Code of Ordinances imposes sewer access fees (formerly known as “developmental sewer assessment fees”) on new or expanded developments to fund certain capital costs attributable to the new or expanded development; and

WHEREAS, growth imposes increased demands upon wastewater facilities and requires that new capacity be added to public facilities to maintain current levels of service; and

WHEREAS, as growth and development continue in areas serviced by the City’s wastewater system, additional revenues are needed to offset increased

LGBTQ community and its cultural expression.

Josh Coleman, President of Central Alabama Pride, spoke out against this damaging legislation, stating, "This bill is an outrageous attack on freedom of expression and the vibrant culture of the LGBTQ community in Alabama. Drag performances have long been a source of empowerment, resilience, and unity for our community, and banning them is an affront to

costs related to capital outlay, infrastructure and debt service of the City’s wastewater system for new and expanded residential, commercial and industrial developments; and

WHEREAS, new and expanded development must bear a proportionate share of the cost of capital expenditures caused by new or expanded growth; and

WHEREAS, the City recently retained Nelsnick Enterprises, Inc., to conduct an analysis of wastewater system cost of services and to determine rate increase requirements; and

WHEREAS, Nelsnick Enterprises, Inc., issued a final report on March 16, 2023, in which it recommended that the City’s sewer access fees be increased from $1,250 to $1,700 to generate additional revenue to provide funding for needed expansion and improvements to the wastewater system; and

WHEREAS, the report prepared by Nelsnick Enterprises, Inc., provides documentation that there is a fair comparison or rational nexus between the recommended access fees charged to new or expanded developments and the impact that growth has on the wastewater system; and

WHEREAS, the sewer access fees charged under this

our fundamental rights. Additionally, in its haste to assault the LGBTQ community, the Alabama Legislature has drafted a bill so broad that it could criminalize a day at the beach. This crusade to legislate subjective notions of morality threatens the liberty of every Alabamian."

Central Alabama Pride stands with the LGBTQ community and vehemently opposes this harmful legislation. The bill is a clear violation

Ordinance will benefit the new and expanded developments by funding a portion of the infrastructure improvements that will be needed to add the capacity to serve the new developments with the same level of service that the City currently provides.

NOW, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows:

Section 1. Recitals. The City Council finds the recitals in the preamble to this Ordinance are true and correct and incorporates them as findings of fact.

Section 2. Amendment of Section 28-108. That Section 28-108 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika is hereby amended to read as follows: Sec. 28-108.

(a)Purpose. Extensions and improvements to the City sanitary sewer system are necessary to accommodate the collection and transportation of new and expanded sanitary sewer discharges or flows, to City wastewater treatment facilities. It is the purpose of this section to create a policy whereby some portion, not exceeding the actual costs of such extensions and improvements, is collected as new and additional discharges or

of the First Amendment rights to free speech and expression and will further perpetuate discrimination and marginalization.

"The passage of HB401 would send a dangerous message to our community that our rights and dignity are disposable," Coleman said. "It is our duty as a society to stand up for the rights of all citizens, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. We must

flows, are established. In a general way, this section creates a policy whereby, through the adjustment of rates herein established, new development or growth creating new flows into the wastewater system will bear a substantial portion of the costs to the City of improvements and extensions made necessary by new development and growth. It is anticipated that from timeto-time the City Council will review and adjust this policy to achieve the purpose herein stated.

(b) Schedule of charges for new or expanded discharges. It is hereby established and declared that the City is entitled to impose a reasonable sewer access fee upon any person tapping, cutting or connecting onto its wastewater system within its service area for any structure, building, dumping station or any change of use for the cost of increasing the reserve capacity of sanitary sewer collection or treatment facilities. A sewer access fee in the amount of one thousand seven hundred dollars ($1,700.00) shall be computed and assessed for each equivalent average connection where such connection is located within the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, plus an additional twenty five percent (25%) when said

reject this bill and work towards a more inclusive Alabama."

Central Alabama Pride urges lawmakers to reconsider their support for this discriminatory bill and calls on the public to join in the fight against this harmful legislation. The organization will continue to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ community and work to ensure that all citizens can express themselves freely and without fear

connection is made outside the corporate limits. An equivalent average connection shall be considered to be usage of approximately 9,000 gallons of water or less per month, or 300 gallons peak day. In the case of a change of use, redevelopment or modification of an existing use, the sewer access fee shall be based upon the net increase in the sewer access fee compared to the previous use. Sewer access fees are charged and calculated in the amount of $1,700.00. For the purpose of calculating and imposing the sewer access fee, the equivalent average connection factor for any particular connection shall be calculated and imposed as follows:

1.Single-family Homes and Trailers: one (1) equivalent average connection

2.Multi-family Homes/ Duplexes -two (2) equivalent average connection Triplexes - two and onehalf (2½) equivalent average connections Quadraplexes - three (3) equivalent average connections More than four units - twothirds (2/3) equivalent average connection per unit

3. Retail Sales - one (1) equivalent average connection per restroom

4. Motels and Hotels one-third (1/3) equivalent average connection per room less twenty-five percent (25%) of the certification of expected water usage by a registered engineer

5. Restaurant - one (1) equivalent average connection plus one (1) equivalent average connection per restroom plus one (1) equivalent average connection for each twenty (20) seats over forty (40)

6.General Business one (1) equivalent average

of discrimination.

For more information on Central Alabama Pride and its ongoing efforts to promote LGBTQ rights, please visit www. centralalabamapride.org.

ABOUT CENTRAL ALABAMA PRIDE

Central Alabama Pride is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQ rights and fostering a sense of community and understanding for LGBTQ individuals and their allies in the region.

connection per restroom plus one (1) equivalent average connection for each ten (10) employees over twenty (20)

7.Industry Same as General Business if water is not used in industrial process, otherwise a registered engineer must certify water usage

8.Hospitals, Nursing Homes one-third (1/3) equivalent average And other Institutionsconnection per bed less fifteen percent (15%)

9. Auto Service/ Convenience Station - two (2) equivalent average connections per restroom

10. Trailer camps or Recreation/ Vehicle Parks -one (1) equivalent average connection for each three (3) spaces served by on-site sewer connection or one (1) equivalent average connection per each six (6) spaces served by a dump station

11. Schools - one (1) equivalent average connection per each fifteen (15) students design capacity or certification of water usage by a registered engineer (c) Payment. The sewer access fees levied or imposed above shall be paid by the owner of each premises requiring a sanitary sewer connection upon the approval of a building permit and/or business license or change of use for such premises.

(d) Other charges. The sewer access fees levied or imposed above shall be in addition to all other tapping fees, service charges, consumption charges and demand charges now imposed by law.

(e) Waiver for CDBG Grants. Any or all of the above sewer access fees may be waived by the Mayor for premises connected to the City’s

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PUBLIC NOTICES

FROM B13

>>

wastewater system constructed in whole or part of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds provided by the federal government where such connection is made to the home or dwelling of lower or moderate income persons as defined in the Grant application or documents.

(f) Waiver for economic development. The City Council may, in its discretion, waive any or all of the above sewer access fees for the promotion of local economic and industrial development subject to the provisions of Amendment 642 or Amendment 772 of the Constitution of Alabama.

(g) Sewer access fund. There is hereby created an account to be known as the “Sanitary Sewer System Access Fund”. The proceeds collected by the City Building Inspection Division for the charges herein required shall be paid into the Sanitary Sewer System Access Fund account, to be appropriated and used solely to pay City costs for improvements and extensions to the wastewater system made necessary to accommodate the collection and transportation of new and expanded discharges, or flows into the system.

(h) No entitlement created. This section is not intended to change any existing policy or create an entitlement. The City will continue to, and reserves the right to, evaluate sanitary sewer collection extensions and improvements based upon economic feasibility, and to negotiate agreements with persons benefitted on a case-by-case basis.

Section 3. Severability. In the event any section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, item, sentence, clause, phrase or other word of this Ordinance is judged to be invalid or unconstitutional, such declaration or adjudication shall not affect the remaining provisions of this Ordinance as if such invalid or unconstitutional provision was not originally a part of this Ordinance.

Section 4. Repealer Clause.

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EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE

All former ordinances or parts thereof conflicting or inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance and the Code section hereby amended shall become effective upon its adoption and publication as required by law.

Section 6. Publication.

The City Clerk of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed to cause a copy of this Ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 2nd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR this the 3rd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 3rd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/04/2023

ORDINANCE NO. 014-23

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (DICKSON FARMS PUD) BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows:

Section 1. FINDINGS.

The Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct:

(a) Keith B. Norman (“Norman”) is the owner of record of that certain property consisting of 229.2 acres located between Anderson Road and Andrews Road.

(b) Norman, by and through his authorized representative, Foresite Group, LLC, heretofore submitted to the City a development plan for a planned unit development

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(“PUD”) consisting of approximately 229.2 acres, designated as “Dickson Farms Planned Unit Development”.

(c) The proposed development is a mixed residential development consisting of approximately 606 single-family home lots, 216 townhomes and 98 cottage homes. The development plan shows planned amenity areas, including a 5.4 acre “central park” with a swimming pool, clubhouse, large open lawn and mail kiosk. The development plan also shows 5.19 acres of small pocket parks. The development plan shows five (5) entry points into the development from Anderson Road and Andrews Road. The proposed density is 4.01 units per acre.

(d) On February 28, 2023, the Planning Commission heretofore conducted a public hearing of the proposed development and referred to the City Council its recommendation to approve the proposed development.

(e) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and the public interest that the proposed property described in Section 3 below should be developed as a residential planned unit development.

Section 2. APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN. The Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and affirmed as required by Section 8.18(N) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City.

Section 3. DESIGNATION OF A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. The official Zoning Map is hereby amended and the zoning classification for the following parcel of land shall be changed from a R-1 District (Low-Density Residential District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on the official zoning map of the City. Commence at an iron pin at the southwest corner of Section 28, T-20-N, R-27-E, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; thence run N 1°18'08" W 1367.99' to an iron pin and the POINT OF BEGINNING of the property herein to be described; from said POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run N 1°16'08" W 1663.34' to an iron pin on the southerly margin of CSX Railroad; thence run

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a chord of N 51°20'53" E 1418.13' along the curve of said margin to an iron pin, said curve being to the right with a radius of 1975.47’; thence run N 68°17'45" E 980.83' along said margin to an iron pin; thence leaving said margin, run S 15°48'57" E 302.00' to an iron pin; thence run N 64°40'08" E 413.00' to an iron pin on the westerly margin of Anderson Road (Lee Road 162); thence run a chord of S 36°57'03" E 95.52' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at PC station 108+95.5, said curve being to the left with a radius of 5769.58'; thence run S 38°43'17" E 1374.88' along said margin to a concrete monument at P.T. station 95+20.5; thence run a chord of S 43°16'03' E 676.26' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at the intersection of the southerly margin of Anderson Road (Lee Road 162) and the westerly margin of Andrews Road (Lee Road 48), said curve being to the left with a radius of 3859.70'; thence run S 4°58'37' W 59.76' along said westerly margin of Andrews Road (Lee Road 48) to a concrete monument; thence run a chord S 39°30'01'' W 545.17' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 111+95.4, said curve being to the left with a radius of 858.51'; thence run S 20°42'04" W 13.29' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 111+80.9; thence run a chord of S 35°29'35' W 556.37' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 105+96.9, said curve being to the right with a radius of 1145.91'; thence run S 49°46'54" W 69.32' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 105+27.4; thence run a chord of S 35°39'06" W 586.49' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 99+54.1, said curve being to the left with a radius of 1185.90'; thence run S 22°09'53" W 57.08' to a concrete monument at P.T. station 98+96.4; thence run a chord of S 26°35'03" W 578.89' along the curve of said margin to a concrete monument at P.C. station 93+08.8, said curve being to the right with a radius of 3274.04'; thence run S 31°37'23" W 533.97' along

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said margin to an iron pin; thence leaving said margin, run S 89°12'36" W 833.39' to an iron pin; thence run N 1°15'00" W 1367.93' to an iron pin; thence run S 89°07'52" W 1320.50' to an iron pin and the original POINT OF BEGINNING. The above-described property is located in Section 28, T-20-N, R-27-E, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; contains 229.2 acres, more or less, and is subject to all easements of record. The above-described property, containing approximately 229.2 acres, is at 3500 Anderson Road and is located adjacent to Anderson Road and Andrews Road.

Section 4. RETENTION OF COPIES OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN.

Copies of the Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

Section 5. REPEALER. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 6. EFFECTIVE

DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 7.

PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 2nd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR this the 3rd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR

APPROVED this the 3rd day of May, 2023.

/s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/04/2023

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STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated:

1242 N Dean Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 10:00AM

Unit 359

The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Run Date 5-4-23

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated:

1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, May 11, at 10:00 am

Unit 256

The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com Legal Run 05/04/2023

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 BRIAN T. WHEAT, deceased. Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by JOHANNA L. WHEAT on May 2nd, 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, PROBATEJUDGE Legal Run 05/04/2023