The Observer 05-11-2023

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SALEM —

Say “hey” to Lee County’s newest arts, crafts, food and fun festival as the Farm at Rocky Top prepares to welcome all to its inaugural Hay Days event, set for May 20 to 21.

Hay Days will host close to 100 vendors on the 339-acre farm, as well as food trucks, a Kids Corral, a “bubble barn” and classic games like tetherball and cornhole.

“Plan to stay a long time and enjoy the scenery, enjoy the vendors and we’ll have all kinds of foods and activities for the children, and adults as well,” said Jan Lawrence, owner of the Farm at

Rocky Top and co-chair for Hay Days.

The rain-or-shine event will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Entry will cost $8 a person for everyone ages 3 and up, while children under 3 years old will be admitted for free. Parking will also be free. Attendees will be able to pay by cash or card at the gate.

According to Lawrence, the experience of opening the Farm at Rocky Top has been about bringing ideas to life and spreading joy to those who come to visit — whether it’s for a wedding, the pumpkin patch or a Country Christmas.

She and Carol Pridgen, who is also serving as co-chair of the event, said the idea for Hay Days was born a couple

years ago and began to come to fruition last fall. The two have worked together for

the pumpkin patch and have prior experience with other vendor festivals.

7 Brew Coffee Drops into Auburn

The two said they have enjoyed attending other local events and scouring the internet to

find interesting and one-of-a-kind vendors.

& Expenses (WISE)

Money Management Calendar is a financial management tool for families. The calendar’s purpose is to help plan and monitor your income, savings and expenses. The redesign includes a 12-month planner with userfriendly worksheets. It is supported by a free,

See PROJECT, page A3

the drive-thru coffee concept revolutionizing the coffee industry, last week

Jan Lawrence, right, and Carol Pridgen, left, are co-chair's of the first annual Hay Days.

Opelika Resident to Compete in Finals of National Grilling Competition

CONTIBUTED BY LINDA COSTA COMMUNICATIONS

OPELIKA —

The steaks are seasoned — and the stakes are raised.

Opelika resident and LongHorn Steakhouse team member Marty Burroughs knows how to bring heat to the competition.

Burroughs’ grilling expertise and passion has him on the cusp of elite grilling status as he prepares to compete in the final round of LongHorn Steakhouse’s sixth annual Steak Master Series, a national competition that lets LongHorn grill masters from across the country put their skills to

the test.

He is one of seven finalists, out of thousands of participants, who will compete for a $15,000 grand prize and the title of Steak Master Series Champion on May 25 during a one-day grill-off in Orlando, Florida.

“The competition has been challenging, especially the paper test,” Burroughs said.

“But it has been a very sentimental experience. Everyone has been so supportive.”

Burroughs, who has been a part of the LongHorn Steakhouse team for 17 years, said his favorite menu item from LongHorn is the New York Strip. His top grilling tip

is “time the temperature of the steak and check it by feeling the steak.”

Finally, Burroughs said his career goal is to “be financially successful and ultimately go into management.”

The Steak Master Series recognizes LongHorn Steakhouse’s commitment to quality while also celebrating the expertise of grill cooks across the brand’s more than 550 restaurants nationwide.

shop located at

Burroughs, second from the left,, is one of seven finalists, who will compete for title of Steak Master Series Champion on May 25.

Opelika to Host Memorial Day Services May 29

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA —

The city of Opelika will host Memorial Day Services on May 29, 2023. The event will honor and remember military heroes who fought for our country’s freedom. And we will show support for the families who lost loved ones in the line of service. Services will be held at Courthouse Square at 10 a.m.

A special lineup this year includes:

• Welcome by Mayor Gary Fuller

• Prayer by Paul Dunbar, Kids Ministry Pastor, First Baptist Church Opelika

• Guest speaker is Army Veteran and City Councilman Todd Rauch

• Presentation of Colors

and Laying of the Wreath by Opelika Fire Department and • Music and TAPS.

Guest Speaker Todd Rauch is a retired United States Army Military Police Officer, and currently serves on the Opelika City Council, representing Ward 5. While serving in the Army, Rauch was named Soldier of the Year for the 18th Military Police Brigade in Giessen, Germany. During his subsequent deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Rauch was awarded the Purple Heart after surviving a mortar attack and helping to save the lives of his fellow soldiers, on Aug. 21, 2003. He suffered extreme trauma and wounds to his right hand and shoulder, and a gunshot wound to his right leg. While at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington

D.C., Rauch served as a spokesperson and advocate for wounded Veteran programs like “Coalition Salute America’s Heroes” and “Help Hospitalized Veterans,” which provide resources, programs and therapeutic care for wounded service members returning from combat. Following his return to the States, Rauch was medically

PROJECT >> from A1

one-hour budgeting workshop.

Circles Opelika provided valuable feedback on its usefulness and functionality. The organization said it is “very happy” to be asked and offered an honest critique of the product. Being asked to participate in something that is beneficial to people across the state was exciting, it added, and the Circles Opelika team gave it the necessary time to review and make changes. Johnson worked with Circles Opelika for several weeks to make the revisions to the WISE program and to bring the suggestions provided by Circle leaders to life.

retired from the Army and earned his associate degree in psychology from Lake Land College, in Mattoon Ill., where he served as the student representative to the Board of Trustees. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Auburn University in 2010, and has since worked with

Auburn Unveils New Incubator Space for Local Startups

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF

AUBURN —

On Wednesday, May 3, the city of Auburn’s Economic Development team celebrated the grand opening of its newest resource for local startups, The Yard. The new facility offers entrepreneurs a unique workspace where they can grow their tech or manufacturing businesses in a supportive environment.

“I’m excited to unveil Auburn’s newest incubator space and celebrate another way Auburn is playing a key role in developing businesses in our community,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “Through

partnerships with Auburn University to educate, equip and empower startups at every stage in their development, we

fun and welcoming environment for our customers and our team,” said Hayden Holtgrewe, operations leader for 7 Brew Auburn. “We can’t wait to meet the members of the Auburn community, and we are excited to hire 50 team members to help us build that environment.”

The construction crew dropped the future 7 Brew coffee stand into place May 2, preparing for an opening in early June.

More than a standard coffee stand, 7 Brew offers over

Circles of Opelika is a Poverty Reduction Program with a mission to inspire and equip families and communities to resolve poverty and thrive. Circles Opelika is the only Circles program in Alabama, and the organization is extremely proud of this. The national program, Circles USA, is based on 20-plus years of research and has approximately 300 chapters throughout the U.S.

Circles Opelika addresses systemic causes contributing to poverty in addition to increasing social capital. Poverty is a concern of the entire community, and it will take the entire community to resolve the issue, including education and awareness. Together we can have a real impact on the communities we serve.

Circles Opelika expressed gratitude to Cooperative Extension Services for allowing it to be a part of this opportunity.

For more information about Circles Opelika, please contact Regina Meadows at 334-203-1860 (office), 334-782-4490 (cell) or via email at rmeadows@circlesopelika. org.

For more information about the WISE Money program, visit the Alabama Cooperative Extension website at www. aces.edu.

Lawrence and Pridgen have also been accepting vendor applications online and by mail. Hay Days is a juried event, they said, so the process is selective.

“We’ve had a tremendous response from it,” Lawrence said. “I didn’t realize there were so many vendors out there in this area. There’s such a passion.”

There will be several

have been able to create a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem that will further the growth of technology-based companies right

20,000 unique drink combinations. From the original Blondie — a caramel and vanilla breve — to 7 Energy, smoothies, shakes and teas, there is something for everyone at 7 Brew.

The brand boasts more than 70 stands across the country. The 7 Brew stand will add 50 jobs to the Auburn area. Those interested in joining the Brew Crew should apply at southernbrew.7brewcareers.com.

ABOUT 7 BREW

7 Brew is a rapidly growing coffee brand that is revolutionizing how customers experience drive-thru

categories of vendors from as close as Opelika to as far as north Georgia. Some examples of vendor products are candles, honey, woodwork, textiles, boutique clothing, home décor, CBD products, watercolor paintings, baked goods and much more.

“I’m looking forward to meeting all the vendors,” Lawrence said.

“We’re excited for them to come in,” Pridgen added.

coffee service and think about their daily energy boost. 7 Brew serves espresso-based coffee, chillers, teas, 7 Energy, sodas and more, all with an extra boost of kindness from their team. The dream of 7 Brew came alive with the first “stand” in Rogers, Arkansas, and its seven original coffees. Now, 7 Brew boasts more than 70 stands across the country. For more information, visit www.7brew.com and follow 7 Brew on Instagram (@7brewcoffee), TikTok (@7brewcoffee), Facebook (facebook.com/7brewcoffee) and Twitter (@7BrewCoffee).

The Kids Corral will feature plenty of activities for children to enjoy, from a petting zoo and pony rides to magicians, inflatables and train rides.

The Lee County Humane Society will also be there on Saturday for pet adoptions.

Those who like to take pictures will have several opportunities for that as well.

“We will have five photo-ops, and they will be placed around

the festival grounds,” Lawrence said.

The photo-ops will also be part of a giveaway. Attendees who take photos at each of the five locations and then post them to Facebook will be entered to win $250. Several vendors have donated items for other giveaways as well, with many of those giveaways happening now.

Although this is the first year for Hay Days, Lawrence and Pridgen

are already filled with ideas for new additions in the years to come. The two said they hope to incorporate live music, craft demonstrations and giving booths for attendees to donate or subscribe to different charities. They also hope to set up a vintage playground featuring the old triple slide from Opelika’s Municipal Park.

“We want this to grow,” Lawrence said.

“Our vision is a big

thing because we don’t have anything like this, so to speak, that’s a two-day event in this general area,” Pridgen added. “… We’ve kind of got a full spectrum of everything.”

The Farm at Rocky Top is located at 2910 Lee Road 145 in Salem, just south of Opelika. For more information on the event, visit the farm’s Facebook page or go to thefarmatrockytop.com/haydays.

AUBURN / DAVID D. DORTON

here in Auburn.” Located at 2175 Pumphrey Ave., The Yard

See CEREMONY, page A4

HAY >> from A1

Mayor's Memorial Day Breakfast Set for May 29

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / DAVID D. DORTON

AUBURN —

The Auburn community is invited to honor our nation’s heroes at the 23rd annual Mayor’s Memorial Day Breakfast on Monday, May 29. The event will begin at 8 a.m. at the Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center.

Retired Navy Capt. Dick Phelan will be the guest of honor and the recipient of this year’s

Distinguished Veteran Award. The Auburn Heroes Remembered Award will be presented to the family of Air Force Capt. Randal Hudon.

Tickets can be purchased at Auburn City Hall, 144 Tichenor Ave., and are $25 a person or $250 for a table of eight.

A free memorial wreath laying ceremony will follow the breakfast at 10 a.m. at the Auburn Veterans Memorial Monument at

the northeast corner of Ross Street and Glenn Avenue. Attendees are encouraged to park at the Douglas J. Watson Municipal Complex, Felton Little Park and the East Glenn Avenue Municipal Parking Lot. Ross Street between Glenn and Harper avenues and Glenn Avenue between Burton and North Debardeleben streets will be closed during the ceremony to provide room for on-street accessible parking.

Opelika Police Department’s K9 Bane Has Received Donation of Body Armor

CONTRIBUTED BY OPD

OPELIKA —

Opelika Police Department’s K9 Bane has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Bane’s vest was sponsored by Helen Pavilonis of Durham, North Carolina, and embroidered with the sentiment

CEREMONY >>

from A3

U.S. Army’s Aviation & Missile Command as an intelligence specialist, before moving back to Opelika where he began his time in non-profits and public service. Rauch is married to Ali Rauch, where they and their dog Forrest proudly call Opelika home.

Following the Memorial Day services, the Museum of East Alabama will host a reception for the public to share the extraordinary memorabilia of Opelika’s

SPACE >> from A3

includes five office suites, two manufacturing bays and shared areas to facilitate collaboration among tenants. The initial concept for the building was born out of a design-build competition among students in Auburn University’s architecture and building science programs. The winning team envisioned a sustainable structure made from recycled shipping containers, and architect John Randall Wilson and HBS Construc-

“This gift of protection provided by the Pavilonis Family.”

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c) (3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged

K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,077 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or relat-

ed agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate.

There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4 to 5 lbs., and comes

with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www. vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, Massachusetts, 02718.

Rauch was awarded a Purple Heart medal.

history.

In case of rain, the 10 a.m. services will be moved to the Municipal Court Building at 300 Martin

tion put in the work to bring the idea to life.

The finished product used 10 recycled sea shipping containers that were insulated and brought up to the most recent energy code, keeping sustainability and innovative design at the forefront of the project. The Yard expands the city’s efforts to help fuel local startups, adding to space available at the Auburn Center for Developing Industries, which has been a resource for budding businesses since the ’80s.

“The Yard, with its

Luther King Blvd. Memorial Day Week Garbage Schedules: Garbage routes will run one day later than normal.

industrial design, creates a crucial space for tech and manufacturing startups to continue their development and flourish in an environment that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation,” said Arndt Siepmann, the city’s Economic Development deputy director. “We look forward to seeing what exciting ideas become a reality in Auburn.”

Those interested in leasing space at The Yard can contact the Economic Development team at webecondev@auburnalabama. org or 334-501-7270.

Picture from last year's Memorial Day ceremony in Auburn.

OPD K9 Officer Bane showing off his new protective vest.

Auburn Police Department Gifted Handmade Quilts to be Distributed to Those in Need

Chief Cedric Anderson. "We understand that it takes a lot of time, skill and funds to make these quilts and we are grateful for their donation.”

AUBURN —

Last fall, the Auburn Public Safety Communications Center received a heartwarming request from a 5-yearold child visiting their grandmother. The child wanted to meet a police officer, and the department wasted no time making it happen.

Lieutenant Darrell Downing, Corporal Garth Ellenburg and Officer Matthew Pavey were dispatched to meet the child, and they went above and beyond to make a lasting impression. As they interacted with the child, they engaged in playful banter and even gave a tour of their patrol car.

Months later, the child's grandmother,

Linda Fenty, visited the Auburn Police Department (APD) to express gratitude for the officers' kindness and compassion. She

brought a beautiful gift of over 20 handmade quilts as a token of her appreciation. She says it was a group effort as materials for the quilts

were contributed by members of the Far Flung Quilters Group, an international guild which meets annually in Asheville, North

Carolina.

“I would like to offer a sincere thank you to those who donated fabric to this cause, as well as the quilt maker,"

"It was truly an honor to meet this young child and show them the positive side of law enforcement," Downing said. "We are grateful for the opportunity and are committed to serving our community in this way."

These gifts will be given away as comfort quilts to child victims that Auburn Police encounter on scene of traumatic events, as well as donated to local organizations in the Auburn community. The Auburn Police Department is proud to have officers like Ellenburg, Downing and Pavey, who go above and beyond to impact people's lives positively.

Auburn’s True40 Studio Celebrates New Ownership

ment

fresh start. Sara Teel acquired the studio on May 1, bringing the studio back into local ownership. True40 is celebrating this new era on May 11 with free classes all day, new membership specials and treats.

Teel explained that True 40 is "creating a mindset shift in the modern fitness space. While workouts have traditionally been viewed as a means of controlling the body, we believe in movement as a celebration of the body. Our method combines principles of strength training, cardio, barre, Pilates and yoga. As our inspiring community expands through

Alabama and beyond, True40® Studio encourages and empowers people to move true to their bodies, and ultimately step into their highest, truest selves."

True40 Studio was founded in 2016, beginning with the Auburn location, and is now headquartered in Birmingham. Franchised locations include Auburn and Tuscaloosa.

The Auburn studio will host six free classes on May 11, with the first class beginning at 5:30 a.m. and wrapping up with a final class beginning at 5:30 p.m. Childcare will be available during four of those classes. Those

interested can access the classes on the Mindbody app or call the studio to sign up.

New clients may take advantage of special membership prices. Both current and new clients can enjoy refreshments in between classes.

New clients can join for a discounted membership Thursday, May 11, 6 a.m. through Monday, May 15, 11:59 p.m. All current and new members will be locked in with their membership price when they apply for this special.

"Our pricing will be adjusted after this, so this is the best time to join our True40 family," Teel said.

Jack’s Opens in Phenix City

CONTRIBUTED BY CHANDLER BENTON

PHENIX CITY — The Phenix City location of Jack’s Family Restaurants (Jack’s) opens today May 15 at 5 a.m. This location marks the 172nd in the state of Alabama for the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) network, which is headquartered in Birmingham and boasts more than 230 locations across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Mississippi.

Under construction since November 2022, the newest Jack’s on

Retail Drive incorporates the brand’s new Digital 2.0 design, allowing for quicker guest service through its double drive-thru and more convenience through its curbside pickup feature.

“Jack’s service is quicker than ever,” said Jack’s Family Restaurants CEO Todd Bartmess. “We encourage anyone in or near the Phenix City location to come out today and experience our Southern-style menu and its fastest service yet.”

In addition to efficient services, the new

location also features the new Jack’s Southern Charm architecture design. Introduced in 2022, this design includes a large dining room for dine-in guests, a large interior window for customers to watch their biscuits being made from scratch and sizeable porch seating areas outside.

To celebrate the Phenix City Jack’s opening, the Jack’s app will house exclusive online giveaways, prizes and promotions for the next 12 weeks.

In addition to exclu-

See JACKS, page A6

Auburn Police Department officers with Linda Fenty, who brought donated 20 handmade quilts to the station.

Session Cocktails Partners with Twin Cedars Youth and Family Services Inc.

CONTRIBUTED BY SESSION

AUBURN —

Session Cocktails is partnering with Twin Cedars Youth and Family Services, Inc. for May ‘Cocktail for a Cause.’

Each month, Session Cocktails features a 'Cocktail for a Cause,’ an initiative that partners with different charities to create a specialized cocktail in which they receive a portion of the sales.

Tito's Handmade Vodka matches Sessions’ monthly donation to the non-profit they partner with. The Child Advocacy Center was created in response to the critical need for a child-friendly environment for alleged victims. The purpose of the program is to raise awareness so that all cases of child sexual and physical abuse in Lee and Macon counties can be reported, investigated and treated.

The CAC facilitates a multi-disciplinary team and coordinated systems approach to child abuse in-

vestigations which ensures that systems designed to protect children are able to do so effectively. May’s cocktail is ‘Kentucky Oaks Lily,’ which is a cocktail made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, grenadine, lime and orange liqueur.

In addition to proceeds from May’s Cocktail for a Cause, donations can be made directly to the organization above by visiting its website at www.twincedars. org. For more information about Session Cocktails and

‘Cocktail for a Cause,’ visit www.sessioncocktails. com.

ABOUT SESSION COCKTAILS

Session Cocktails was opened in 2019 by Hunter Wiggins, which now has two locations in Tuscaloosa and Auburn. It is a cocktail bar that focuses on pre-Prohibition and modern classic cocktails. Session is known for its stiff drinks, fancy glassware and funky atmosphere. Visit its Instagram page to see more: Instagram and Auburn Instagram.

sive offers, Jack’s is also offering a limited-time menu item, the Southern BBQ Pub Burger which features all-beef patties, crispy bacon, bbq sauce, cheese, fried onions and pickles.

Available as a double or single, starting at $4.99 with fries.

Not only is Jack’s working to efficiently bring Southern, homemade food to the community, but the brand is also

establishing itself as a strong community partner in Phenix City.

Any nonprofit or local organization in the area seeking fundraising alignments or sponsorships is encouraged to visit eatatjacks.com/donations for more information.

For more information on Jack’s Family Restaurants, visit eatatjacks.com. For exclusive offers and promotions, download the Jack’s app.

ABOUT JACK’S FAMILY RESTAURANTS

Founded in 1960 in Homewood, Alabama,

Jack’s Family Restaurants started as Jack’s Hamburgers in a walkup hamburger stand that served burgers, fries, sodas and shakes and has now grown to more than 230 locations in four states in the South. Jack’s is All About The South and serves its guests quality food with an emphasis on community involvement and charitable giving. For more information, visit eatatjacks.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Session's May cocktail, "Kentucky Oaks Lily."

JACKS >> from A5

The Phenix City restaurant is the newest location, one of nine, to feature the brand’s Digital 2.0 design.

S Food ociety & News

S ociety & News vents, E

Dora James Grateful for Gifts of Family, Community

Ann Cipperly

SHouthernospitality

derful memories.

The epitome of a gracious lady, Dora James has a love of family and serving her community. Although Dora has endured tragedy in her life, she has remained strong in her faith and continues to have a heart dedicated to caring for others. She said she finds joy in being with her three children — Sidney James Nakhjavan, Calvin Ellington James Jr. and Kathryn James Reese —

and their families. While Dora and her daughter, Kathryn, were in Macon, Georgia, a few weeks ago, they stopped by the house Dora grew up in to have her photo taken in front. Her family moved into the 1925 house when she was 3 years old. The person who currently lives there invited them inside.

Dora said it was touching to be in the house she grew up in, and the experience brought back many won-

Dora’s parents influenced her in many ways to cherish family and help others, she said. She was the youngest child with four older brothers. Her mother, Dora Porter Hanson, was a homemaker and often assisted her husband, Dr. James Fletcher Hanson, a family physician, as a nurse in his office located in back of their home.

While he had an office, Dora’s father mostly made

Springer Opera Welcomes Community to New Shows

CONTRIBUTED BY SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE

COLUMBUS, GA. —

Springer Opera House announced two new shows recently.

ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE:

Direct from Broadway, the ultimate seaside party musical, “Escape to Margaritaville” opened May 5 on the Springer Opera House mainstage and runs through May 21.

With a live onstage

Caribbean rock band, this happy romantic musical comedy features iconic Jimmy Buffett tunes like, “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Son of a Son of a Sailor,” “Fins,” “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” and the fan-favorite title song, “Margaritaville.”

This season's final production is filled with toe-tapping music and infectious energy. It promises to transport theatergoers to

an idyllic paradise vacation without ever leaving their seats by telling the engaging tale of Tully, a handsome, flirtatious bartender and singer who spends his days in the laid-back coastal paradise of the Margaritaville Hotel and Bar.

When two adventurous vacationers, Rachel and Tammy, arrive on the island, all of their lives take an unexpected turn. As the sun-kissed beach vibes surround them, love and laughter intertwine, leading to the conclusion that sometimes the best things in life are the ones we least expect. Rounding out the lively cast of characters are the hotel’s owner, Marley, a Trinidadian woman with a skill for being the life of the party; her right hand and fixer, Jamal, who does his best to keep the tourists happy; Tully’s buddy, Brick, a jokester bartender who falls for Tammy, and the

mysterious J.D., a chatty local who spends his days fishing, writing his memoirs and drinking whiskey at the island bar.

“The tropical vibe of this show is perfect for our audiences right now as temperatures rise and the Summer celebration season approaches,” said director Paul Pierce, who is concluding his 35th season as head of the State Theatre of Georgia. “This is my last mainstage production before I retire and nothing says retirement like a giant Jimmy Buffett-themed stage celebration. I’ve been to five Buffett concerts over the years so, yes, I guess that makes me a Parrothead.”

The Springer's production also includes a live onstage band that recreates the energy and excitement of a Jimmy Buffett concert.

“I’m so fortunate to be

See SPRINGER, page A8

house calls. She could hear the phone ring in the middle of the night and her father saying he would be right there. Many of his patients could not pay for

his services. Dr. Hanson, a World War II veteran, was on staff at a nearby veterans hospital for over 50 years.

Dora describes her

mother as a Proverbs 31 woman.

“She was a great manager, gardener with beautiful roses, had a vegetable

See CIPPERLY, page A9

Botanic to Host Opelika Native’s Book Signing

Dora James of Opelika is sharing her thoughts on being a mother and grandmother for Mother’s Day, as well as family recipes for creating a delectable luncheon. Pictured at a recent family gathering are, from left, Behzad Nakhjavan, Ari Hanson Nakhjavan, Sidney James Nakhjavan, Dora James, Kathryn James Reese, Jeff Reese with daughter, Katherine Ashley James, Ashley James, Cal James III, Cal James Jr., Courtney James, Dianne Ball and Fred Ball.

Opelika native Anessa Sewell Kent will be signing her new book, "The Bitter and The Sweet," at Botanic on Saturday, May 20.

SEAN DIETRICH

Ican only pray. That’s all I know how to do.

I am nobody. I am not particularly smart. I am not savvy when it comes to political discourse. I am just a guy. I have no wisdom. I have no preachy words. No condescending sentiments. The world is falling apart. I get it. All I can do is pray.

It’s not supposed to happen here. It’s not supposed to happen anywhere. And it’s definitely not supposed to occur in our own backyard.

But it did happen, you see. It happened right here in our home state. It happened to our people. To our kids. To our loved ones. And my heart bleeds.

Bleeds, I tell you.

I cried this morning when I read the news. I cried because this time it’s personal. I cried because I watched the news anchor tell America that nobody is safe anymore. Not you, not me, not anyone. That’s what they said.

I cried because, this time, I’ve probably met some of the victims.

Dadeville

Maybe so have you. Especially if you live in Alabama.

Everyone in Alabama knows each other. It is a long-established fact that wherever you visit an Alabamian Piggly Wiggly you run into at least three of your mother’s first cousins. That’s just how it works here.

Which is why I wept so bitterly. I cried because the mass shooting in Dadeville hit so very, very close to home.

Literally.

Ashamedly, I wonder if I’ve grown numb to the headlines involving mass shootings. They happen so often. You see shootings on cable-TV all the time. You read about them in the newspaper. On the internet. Mass shootings happen in far off places.

A shooting will make national news for a few days. People will cry. People will get really

hacked off on Facebook, and start dog-cussing each other. They will get angry, and spew their opinions, as if they’re really accomplishing anything. And then it all dies.

Eventually, everyone moves forward with their lives and essentially forgets about the dead. But that’s not supposed to happen here. Mass shootings don’t happen at home. Do they? They can’t happen here on home turf. They only happen in big cities. Metropolitan areas. Huge towns with Starbucks, Trader Joe’s and Red Lobsters. They happen in Philadelphia. Newark. Chicago. Nashville. Not Tallapoosa County. Not in sleepy 3,000-person lakeside communities where both city-limit signs are attached to the same post. Not in the place where I take my spring and summer fishing trip.

2023 Auburn CityFest Announces Juried Art Show Winners

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN/ANN BERGMAN

AUBURN —

The city of Auburn and the Auburn Arts Association would like to thank artists and community members for taking part in the 18th annual Juried Art Show and Preview Reception. This free event was held on the evening of April 27.

Local and regional artists submitted original works of art from an array of mediums such as paintings, works on paper, three-dimensional ceramics and sculptures, mixed-media and photography. All submitted artwork was available for viewing and purchase at the historic Nunn-Winston House in Kiesel Park. Working in conjunction with Auburn CityFest, the art exhibition remained open to the public during the festival on April 29.

Guest mingled with artists while they enjoyed live musical entertainment by Zeph Embers and delicious complimentary hors d’oeuvres by Home Eats Catering. Nineteen cash

awards, including two $250 awards presented by the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau, were given to the chosen artists selected by a panel of jurors. Winners are listed below.

$250 AUBURN-OPELIKA

TOURISM BEST IN SHOW

MERIT AWARD

Yoko Brockway –“Sandra’s Summer Table”

Romain Crockett –“Fish from the Moon”

AUBURN CITYFEST MERIT

AWARDS

Anna Krista – “Fort Morgan”

Julie Plasketes –“Venetian Blind Breeze”

JAN DEMPSEY

the perfect choice for date nights, staycations and an entertaining outing for those who wish to just “get away.”

COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER

MERIT AWARD

Gary Jones – “South Room View”

AUBURN ARTS

ASSOCIATION MERIT AWARDS

Maria Auad –“Bloosom Barrier”

Kyle Braund –“Ukraine”

Bernice Fischman –“Jewelry Joy”

Didimos Johnson

Pulikkottil – “Postcard from Kashmir”

Barbara Keel – “Lady Bug”

Ambitious Ligon –“Marvin Sapp”

Cecile Morgan –“Cowgirl Memories #25 – Nellie Brown”

Columbus State University

Not in a place where family lives. Not here.

Heavens, what is happening to us?

Four young people were killed. They were children. Children were gunned down. Our children. Our boys and girls. Our track stars. Our football stars. Our A-students. Slain.

Twenty-eight were injured in a mass shooting. The victims were teenagers, mostly. They weren’t out of high school. They weren’t old enough to purchase alcohol. They were barely old enough to drive.

It happened at a sweet-16 birthday party, of all places. These kids were only a few years shy of middle school. And now they are gone. Their bodies are lying in caskets. Their futures are dark. God help us.

The email I received this morning was one I never thought I would receive.

“Dear Sean, my friend’s child was wounded in a mass shooting…”

Please don’t misinterpret this column/ blog/post/whatever-theheck-you-call-it. I have no agenda here. I have no opinions to exert. I am not writing this to incite controversy, arguments or social-media smackdowns.

But tonight, the rivers of Tallapoosa County are bloodred. Tonight the skies of Alabama are black with grief. Tonight, our friends and family members are mourning the loss of our teenagers.

Tonight, I am sick, because I don’t know what to do. I wish there was something I could do. So I will pray. I can only pray. That is all I know how to do. God bless Dadeville. God bless Alabama. And God bless us all. Everyone.

working with my dear friend and colleague, Debbie Anderson, who is musical director on the show,” Pierce said. “Debbie and the Schwob School of Music’s Dr. Paul Vaillancourt have put together a fabulous ten-piece band that includes Buffett’s signature Coral Reefer Band’s steel pan drum to complete the Caribbean sound. It just doesn’t get any better than this.”

The universal goal of finding happiness in life's simplest pleasures resonates with theatergoers, making this production

The show is recommended for ages 13 and up as it contains the island-themed partying common in Jimmy Buffett’s music. "Escape to Margaritaville" tickets are available via the website springeroperahouse.org or by contacting the box office by phone at (706) 327-3688 or in person at 103 10th St. in Columbus.

A SUPERHERO FOR ALL SEASONS:

The world needs superheroes right now, and it's the Springer to the rescue. The Springer's Theatre for the Very Young has partnered with the

Coca-Cola Space Science Center to present "A Superhero for All Seasons," a play that features young twin superheroes-in-training working together through a surprising challenge and learning important lessons along the way. Performances began last Saturday, May 6, in the Omnisphere Theater of the science center. The play begins as Shadow and Shine, our young superheroes-in-training, answer the call to meet with the Season's Council — winter, spring, summer and fall — to see who will move forward from training to become the next superhero. But things go differently than planned. Shadow and

Margee Ragland –“Goldie and Her Bears”

Maria Salter –“The World on Her Shoulders”

Raymond Vantilburg – “Shepherd of the Lost Memories”

Dr. John Vollenweider – “Mardi Gras”

Alana Whitehead –“Dwelling”

Mary Jane Whitt –“Falling Waters”

Joyce Woods – “Turn of Events”

This event would not have been possible without sponsors, the city of Auburn, AuburnOpelika Tourism Bureau and Home Eats.

Shine's growing superhero powers are tested when a surprise visitor arrives at the Council meeting. With references to seasons, science, nature and essential life lessons, this play is sure to entertain and educate children of all ages.

"I am so excited for our littlest audience members to see this fun and interactive show,” said Meagan Coscone, director of the production and director of the PAIR Program, a professional development program for teachers developed through the Springer Opera House. “Our director of education, DB Woolbright, helped us create some original music for the show, and it will get stuck in

your head. The cast did such a wonderful job creating a show that teaches kids about the seasons and how important teamwork is while still keeping imagination and excitement as the driving force."

The play features a talented cast of young actors who bring the characters to life with energy and enthusiasm. The interactive nature of the performances means that children in the audience will have the opportunity to participate in the action, making it a truly immersive experience. By incorporating themes like seasons, science and nature, children are inspired to learn more about the world around them while also having

fun. Pre-show and museum activities that include crafts, bubbles and books will take place 30 minutes before the show. Museum admission is included with each ticket to the performance. "A Superhero for All Seasons” runs through Saturday, May 13, and includes several arts in education performances. Arts in education performances provide professional theatre experiences for students at a reduced cost which is only available to school groups. To make a school group reservation, call (706) 3241100 or email education@ springeroperahouse. org. For information on individual tickets, visit springeroperahouse.org.

SPRINGER >> from A7

The winners of the 2023 Auburn CityFest Juried Art Show.

garden, was a great homemaker and seamstress, who made most of my clothes,” Dora said. “She raised five children and never drove a car. She had integrity, was a loving wife and mother, a teacher and always knew what we were doing in school. She loved to read the Bible.

“My mother was an inspiration to everyone, and I learned from her. She loved to entertain and was a great cook. She would always set a proper table with a fresh tablecloth, napkins, china and crystal, and I have tried to do the same. On special occasions, there were always small bowls of olives and pickles.”

While Dora and her siblings had responsibilities, the most important were being good students and not getting into trouble.

“We were brought up with high expectations,” she remembered.

Dora attended an all-girls public high school in Macon and spent her college freshman year at Wesleyan College. She transferred to Emory University, and while there met Cal James of Lanett, a varsity football star at Georgia Tech.

In 1961, Dora graduated from Emory and married Cal. After two years of military service at Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma, they moved to Opelika in the spring of 1964. Cal began working with Diversified Products Corporation, serving as its first national sales manager and later as president from 1978 until 1991.

In 1993, he opened JamesSnell Motors in Opelika. Cal passed away in 1996. Dora said she knew her life would never be the same.

“The years following Cal’s death brought many changes for me and my family,” Dora said. “Kathryn was a senior at Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I became a single mom guiding her through that final year and later through college and graduate school.”

The children were grown, and she didn’t know what she would do with her days. She said she knew in her heart she wanted to reach out to others and help the community she loved. Dora said she knew God would lead her. She taught briefly at LeeScott in the after-school program.

In April 2006, Cal Jr. and his wife Ashley had triplet premature girls. After several months, two of the babies went home, but baby Grace Porter remained at Egleston Children’s Hospital in Atlanta. She went through two successful heart surgeries, but, in November 2006, she passed away while still in the hospital.

“Our family will forever be grateful to Rev. George Mathison for coming to the hospital to baptize Grace before she passed away,” she said. “We never know what challenges, sadness or struggles we will face in life. I am thankful every day for devoted children, loyal friends and an amazing God who loves me unconditionally in all circumstances.”

After serving on many

boards over the years, as well as receiving numerous honors, Dora is still volunteering, but mostly enjoying time with family.

“My theme word is ‘joy,’” Dora said. “Find something you can be joyful about, and do something for others if it is just making a phone call to check on them. Just enjoy your life, as it goes so fast.”

Dora finds her greatest joy-makers are her grandchildren. When she is with her grandchildren, she enjoys being silly and having fun, she said.

She also said she enjoys having her family over for meals. Dora will prepare the entrée, such as a rib roast or roast beef tenderloin, and family members will bring side dishes and desserts. She is sharing family recipes for assembling a special menu for Mother’s Day.

Dora will set a lovely table, just as she learned from her mother, and she uses her china and cut glass pieces.

“My kids tease, saying, ‘You pulled out the good stuff,’” she said. “I think it is good to pass on traditions, even if it is small things.

“One of the traditions that we have on each holiday or family meal is to gather in a circle around the table to offer a blessing. As a mother, the most important lesson we can pass on to our family is a strong Christian faith.

“When you sit down at a table as a family and have conversation without the television on and no cellphones at the table, you can share thoughts, emotions

and feelings, as we learn from each other. A lot of times, we stay at the table after the meal and talk for about an hour. I think for children to see a unit like that is important, as we are all on the same team.

“My Mother’s Day message is to realize the importance of the family unit, how to communicate and enjoy special times together.”

Dora said she agrees with what she has heard James Dodson say several times — that the most important time of day with your children is the evening meal.

“At the table, talk about what you did that day, how the day went bad and how it was good,” Dora said. “Just to share feelings and experiences and to laugh together. We need to learn to laugh together.”

Dora said she is grateful she learned from her parents that family and giving back to others are gifts. She has passed on the importance of those gifts to her children and grandchildren.

“Serving in this community has been such a blessing and privilege for me,” she said. “I am honored to give back in any way possible, for it has been a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family.”

Dora’s children shared a few words of gratitude for their mother.

Sidney James Nakhjavan, Dora’s daughter and director of the Women's Philanthropy Board, College of Human Sciences, and her husband, Behzad, have one son, Ari Hanson, an Auburn University student.

“Mom is the best mother anyone could ever ask for,” Sidney said. “And her love for others and love for giving has been an inspiration and aspiration all of my life.

“As an avid gardener for the majority of my life. I always knew and appreciated the benefits from being in the earth and gardening. Yet being a mother led me to experience realization of the healing power of green spaces and the outdoors.

“My most cherished times are and will always be the many hours spent with my precious son outside doing a project, fishing, planting or just listening to the sounds of nature. ‘The earth laughs in flowers’ from Ralph Waldo Emerson.”

Kathryn James Reese, Dora’s daughter, and her husband, Jeff, have one young daughter.

“In my eyes, my mother is near perfect,” Kathryn said. “The most valuable gift she ever gave us was being a model to live a healthy and fulfilling life and being a model for a beautiful marriage.

“Her love for the arts, culture, travel and high aesthetic is eternal, for as Keats said, ‘Beauty is truth and truth is beauty — that is all ye know on earth and ye need to know.’

“For me, mothering is sublime, and your child [or] children is your greatest teacher. Be outside as much as possible, for the entire world is in your backyard. Food is medicine, so eat for life. Move your body all day, every day. Read, read, read good books to your child.”

Cal James Jr., Dora’s son, who works for a medical device company, and his wife Ashley have three children: Courtney Ellington, Ashley Katherine and Cal James III.

“I am very grateful to have a great mother and mother-in-law who have both set a wonderful example for us all to follow,” Ashley said. “I don’t think there is probably a truer friend than your mother; in times of trial and adversity, they are always there.

“I am also very grateful to be a mom. The days of having older children have been really fun and rewarding. Starting to see the fruits of all the early labor of rearing them shine through in the confident, kind, loving people that they are is wonderful.”

“I count myself so very blessed to be the son of the most amazing mother on the planet,” Cal Jr. said. “Mom has always been my spiritual rock, an absolute epitome of a wonderful role model and a constant encourager. I am forever grateful for her influence in my life.

“Mom gave tirelessly of herself to unconditionally serve our father, Cal Sr., and family, never asking anything in return. And she still continues to wholeheartedly serve my sisters and me and our families in the same manner today.

“Mom has truly lived her whole life exemplifying the fruit of the spirit with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control. I love you so much, Mom.”

ROAST BEEF

TENDERLOIN

Dora James

From Tea-Time at The Masters

1 (5-8 lb.) tenderloin roast (may use rib eye or any tender cut of roast)

Garlic powder (not garlic salt)

Coarse black pepper or lemon pepper

1 ½ - 2 cups soy

sauce

½ - ¾ cup bourbon

Powdered horseradish (if available)

Bacon or salt pork, optional

1 onion, sliced, optional

1 bell pepper, halved, optional

Wipe surface of meat with paper towel. Sprinkle entire surface with generous amounts of garlic powder and pepper.

Place roast in 2 large plastic bags (double thickness). Add soy sauce, bourbon and horseradish. Marinate at least 2 hours at room temperature or overnight in refrigerator.

Allow roast to reach room temperature before roasting.

If roast is very lean, add strips of bacon or salt pork on top.

Preheat oven to 450

degrees. Put meat on rack in open roasting pan. Pour marinade over roast and put onion and bell pepper in pan.

Reduce heat to 400 degrees and roast 35 to 50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 135 degrees on meat thermometer for a rare roast. All to rest before slicing.

Sliced, sauteed mushrooms may be added to liquid in pan and thickened slightly for gravy.

POACHED SALMON

Sidney James

Nakhjavan

2 large lemons

½ cup white wine

1 shallot, thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 sprigs parsley, chopped

3 sprigs dill, chopped (or ½ to 1 teaspoon dried dill)

1½ lb. salmon fillet, sliced into four equal portions

Kosher salt and extra virgin olive oil

To prepare lemon, zest and then juice one lemon. Slice second lemon into wedges or rounds for garnish. Prepare poaching liquid: In a large saucepan with a lid, combine wine,

lemon juice, shallot, garlic, 2 sprigs parsley and 2 sprigs dill. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Pat salmon dry and season with kosher salt on both sides. Nestle salmon in poaching liquid. Lower heat to simmer and cover. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on thickness and doneness (I stop at 5 minutes).

Transfer salmon to serving plates and top with small amount poaching liquid. Sprinkle lemon zest, chopped parsley and dill on salmon. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if using. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges or slices on the side.

ASPARAGUS WITH PARMIGIANO REGGIANO VINAIGRETTE

Dianne Ball (Ashley James’ mother)

The title mother is the best title ever; being a mother has brought so much joy and fulfillment into my life. Your mother will do for you what no one else will do; she will listen, take care of you, work for you and with you, and spend time with you. Being a mother is not always an

easy title to fulfil ,l but the payback is worth every minute. I highly recommend the title called ‘Mother’.

2 bunches asparagus. stems snapped where they naturally break ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ½ cup red wine vinegar

4 Tbsp. grated Parmigiana Reggiano

Kosher salt

2 hard-boiled eggs, whites and yolks separated, crumbled

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Set up a bowl of salted ice water. Place the asparagus in the boiling water. Cook 5 minutes. Remove asparagus and plunge immediately into the ice water. Remove, pat dry and reserve.

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar and Parmigiana Reggiano. Salt to taste. Toss the asparagus in the vinaigrette. Sprinkle with the crumbled eggs and serve. Serves 4.

CHAMPAGNE VINEGAR BRUSSEL SPROUTS

Kathryn James Reese

1 bag organic Brussel sprouts

1 ½ Tbsp. champagne vinegar

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Quarter Brussel sprouts. Toss Brussel sprouts in bowl with champagne vinegar, olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven 1215 minutes at 425 degrees.

ROASTED WHOLE CARROTS

Kathryn James Reese

1-2 bunches whole organic carrots with stems

Olive oil

Kosher salt

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Skin carrots and cut all but 1-inch off stems.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with kosher salt. Spread on baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes.

HAPPY SALAD

Ashley James Spring mix (I add more arugula)

1 small green apple, diced

1 avocado, diced

½ cup glazed or toasted pecans

Bacon, crumbled, to taste

Goat cheese to taste

Dried cranberries to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.

Dressing:

3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar

2 Tbsp. freshly squeezed orange juice

2 ½ tsp. Dijon mustard

2 Tbsp. pure maple syrup Kosher salt, a dash to taste

½ tsp. black pepper

2/3 cup good olive oil

Combine all ingredients and blend well.

GARLIC ROASTED

POTATOES

Dianne Ball (Ashley James’ mother)

3 lbs. small red or white skinned potatoes (or a mixture)

¼ cup good olive oil

1 ½ tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. minced garlic (6 cloves)

2 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut potatoes in half or quarters and place in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic; toss until the potatoes are well coated. Dump the potatoes

A Dapper Day Indeed

Each year on the first Saturday in May, Storybook Farm hosts a Derby-worthy ensemble of fancy hats, perfect mint juleps and Dapper Dan dudes. Outrageous hospitality, bragging rights for best dressed and auction finds were just a few of the highlights at this year's event. The party watched the fastest horses in the world race towards the Triple Crown — while refashioning a childhood and shaping a future through the efforts of Storybook Farms. For more information on Storybook Farms, visit www.hopeonhorseback.org/.

A Community That Prays Together, Stays Together

May 20, from noon until 3 p.m. Writing a novel and becoming a published author has been a dream of Kent’s for many years.

“The challenge I faced when attempting to write a few times over the past 30 plus years was, ‘Okay, now what and who are you going to write about?’” she said. “I never could answer that looming question. I tried to

force the story line, dialogue, characters and none of what I was attempting felt natural and right.

“The one surety I did have was knowing my story would be about Southern people, culture and the dynamic in which we live as Southerners.

“Through the twists and turns of life, and right smack dab in my middle 50’s my once elusive and hidden story, with its colorful characters, found

me in one telephone call,” Kent continued. “After the telephone call, the characters began flooding my mind and telling me their stories.”

Kent began writing and listening and in the course of a little over one year, her book was complete.

“The funny thing is the telephone call that started this whole journey is not mentioned until book two, “Shifting Gears,” which I am in process of writing now,” Kent said. “… “Shifting

Gears” is the sequel to “The Bitter and The Sweet.” My wish is I hope everyone finds enjoyment out of this simple, funny, emotional, faith-filled story told with a Southern accent.”

Kent, who currently lives in Dothan, and her journey can be followed on Facebook at Anessa Sewell Kent, Author.

Community members came together Thursday, May 4, to celebrate the 72nd National Day of Prayer. Mayors from both Auburn and Opelika, along with several community speakers attended the non-denominational prayer and praise gathering event which began at noon at Courthouse Square in Opelika.

on a baking sheet and spread out into one layer. Roast in oven for at least 1 hour or until browned and crisp. Flip twice with a spatula during cooking to ensure even browning.

Remove potatoes from oven; toss with minced parsley and season to taste. Serves eight.

LUNCHEON SALAD

Dora James

3 oz. lemon flavored gelatin

3 oz. lime flavored gelatin

2 cups boiling water

3 Tbsp. lemon juice

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup cottage cheese, creamed

5¾ oz. evaporated milk

20 oz. crushed pineapple

1 cup chopped nuts

Mix two boxes of gelatin, boiling water and lemon juice. Add remaining ingredients to gelatin mixture.

Congeal and serve on lettuce.

MANDARIN ORANGE

AND GRAPE SALAD

Ashley James

3 green onions, chopped

¼ cup chopped pe -

cans

Small handful of fresh parsley

Boston lettuce

2 cups mandarin

oranges

1 cup purple grapes, halved

Dressing:

3 Tbsp. rice vinegar or red wine vinegar

¼ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. white pepper

1 Tbsp. dried tarra -

Spring Sundown Symphonies

gon ½ cup grapeseed or vegetable oil

For salad, mix all ingredients together in a bowl.

Mix dressing ingredients in food processor or blender. Adding oil slowly and pulsing until all oil is absorbed.

Pour ¼ cup dressing over salad. Place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

When ready to serve, pour remaining dressing on salad and toss.

EGG SALAD Kathryn James

Reese

12 eggs, hard boiled and finely chopped

10 oz. plain hummus

2 heaping spoonfuls Sir Kensington's mayonnaise or mayonnaise of choice

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Optional: finely chopped kosher dill pickle

Combined chopped eggs with hummus and mayonnaise; mix well. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

ELEANOR CURRY’S HEALTHY COOKIES

Dora James

Mrs. Curry made these cookies to give those who worked out at her husband

Bill’s home gym.

1/3 cup butter

melted

½ cup honey

Mix two above ingredients together.

Add to butter and honey:

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla

Sift together:

1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp. soda

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. grated lemon peel

Combine sifted ingredients with butter and honey mixture.

Add:

1 cup carob chips

1 cup coconut

1 cup chopped nuts

1 cup raisins

1 cup granola or oatmeal

Drop spoonful of cookie dough or roll dough into a ball and place on baking sheet that has been coated with nonstick spray. Bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

FRESH APPLE CAKE

Dianne Ball (Ashley’s mother)

3 cups apples, cubed

1 ¼ cups Wesson oil

2 cups sugar

3 eggs

3 cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans

Place apple cubes in bowl; set aside. Mix oil and sugar together in mixer bowl. Add eggs one at a time beating after each, while slowly adding flour mixed with salt and soda. Add vanilla and pecans, then add apples. Bake at 325 degrees one hour or until turns loose from pan around the edge and tests done when a toothpick is inserted near center.

What's Happening in Lee County

NAMI MEETING

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

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.

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. EMAIL

The city of Auburn's spring Sundown Concert Series kicked off last week, May 4, at Kiesal Park (520 Chadwick Lane in Auburn). The free event's first performer of the season was Wesley Hill and Friends. The next concerts are scheduled for May 11, May 18 and May 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> from A9

BRUCE GREEN

RELIGION —

Janice and I are blessed with two adult daughters, one daughter-in-law and one granddaughter. We also have an adult son and four grandsons, but this piece is not about the boys — it is all about the girls.

Being a woman is a blessed thing. That’s the message of creation. God creates man from the dust of the ground but creates woman from man’s rib. Adam, who

Blessed are the Mothers

up until this time has been hanging out with alligators, elephants and other animals, is thrilled to have a companion that corresponds to him (“This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man” –Genesis 2:23).

Then we’re told in 5:1-2 that, “When God created mankind, He made them in the likeness of God. He created them male and female and blessed them.” God created man as male and female. There is wonderful diversity as they are created differently, and that difference goes all the way down to the cellular level. But there is also an overarching unity as they are both created to image God. Eve is made to be a woman, a wife and a mother while Adam is made to be a man, a

husband and a father. Nonetheless, there is equality as they are both made to be image bearers of God. Since being an image bearer of God is a blessed thing, being a woman is too. That’s not exactly the message we get from culture where women are often celebrated in direct proportion to how much they can act like a man. Our cultural prophets (entertainers, politicians, influencers, the news media) all work hard to disproportionally expose us to women who work in traditionally male professions (firefighting, logging, military special forces, etc.). Or they showcase women playing football, dunking a basketball or wrestling against guys. Or in the worstcase scenarios, since we have a series of raunchy movies about groomsmen, a series of

raunchy movies about bridesmaids are made in response to show that women are equally capable of getting drunk or high and acting in crude and coarse ways. Meanwhile, we hear very little about distinctly feminine accomplishments. I read 65 quotes from “strong women” — mostly entertainers, politicians, etc., — and there was nothing in them concerning motherhood. Does motherhood have nothing to do with being a strong woman? What is the message in all of this? Apparently, it is to convince us that women can do anything men can do. This is as patently false and unhealthy as is the message men can do anything women can do, but it is needed by those who confuse being equal with being identical, so we are inundated with it.

If we consistently

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

put before girls and young ladies the idea that strong women are those who act like men — doesn’t the not-so-hidden message become that they are only important to the degree they are like men? What a ridiculous and harmful message. No wonder there is so much confusion about in our culture about basic gender matters.

Mothers — you are oh-so-special to us for many, many reasons but a big one is because you are mothers. You give birth, you nurture, you do a thousand and one things as mothers that no one else can do the way you can. We are richly blessed by you and so is all humanity.

Blessed are the mothers.

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

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church

3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church

301 Highland Ave., Opelika

334-749-9672

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Church

5500 Lee Road 270, Valley

334-705-0538

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn

334-887-8506

Friendship Missionary

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

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

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

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

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391,

Opelika 334-749-0461

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

Church Of Christ

2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

METHODIST

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

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

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

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

Southern Plains Cowboy Church

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

PENTECOSTAL

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

PRESBYTERIAN

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

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

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

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

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. — Psalm 108:3

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Upon the death of his mother, the Dutch priest Henri Nouwen wrote a little book titled “In Memoriam.” It is an intimate account of the power of a mother to influence a son. “From her,” Nouwen said, “I had come to feel an

Don't Cry for Me

unqualified acceptance which had little to do with my being good or bad, successful or unsuccessful, close by or far away. In her I had come to sense a love that was free from demands and manipulations, a love that gave me a sense of belonging that could be found nowhere else.”

That phrase, “a sense of belonging,” reminds me how blessed I was as a child. I was the first child of my parents who would provide me with three sisters and a brother. We became a family, though the great value of “belonging” to a family never dawned on me back then. I was

oblivious to the fact that millions of children are deprived of that blessing.

Keith Miller used to tell the poignant story of one such child. The story was shared with Miller in a small group setting by the woman who had been that child. When she was a little girl, her parents died and she was placed in an orphanage. She was not pretty and no one wanted her, but she said that as far back as she could remember, she longed to be adopted and loved by a family. She thought about it day and night, but everything she did seemed to go wrong.

Then one day the head of the orphanage told her that a family was coming to take her home with them. She was so excited that she jumped up and down and cried. The matron reminded her that she was on trial and that this might not be a permanent arrangement.

Overwhelmed with joy, the little girl just knew it would be permanent. So she went with this family and started to school. She said, “I was the happiest little girl you can imagine and life began to open for me just a little. But then one day a few months later, I skipped home

from school and ran into the front door of the old house we lived in. No one was home but there in the middle of the front hall was my battered old suitcase with my little coat thrown across it. As I stood there and looked at my suitcase, it slowly dawned on me what it meant. I did not belong here anymore.”

Miller said that when the woman stopped speaking, there was hardly a dry eye in the group. But the woman cleared her throat and said, “This happened to me seven times before I was 13 years old; but wait, don’t cry for me. It was such experiences

that ultimately brought me to God. When I was having so much trouble finding a sense of belonging from other human beings, I was driven to God and there I found what I had always longed for — a place.” That reminds me of Isaiah saying, “even if a mother should forget her child, God will not forget you.”

If you have a sense of belonging, give thanks for it. And look around. You may see someone who longs to belong, someone who could be blessed by knowing you as a sister or brother in the family of God.

COREY WADE LEWIS

Corey Wade Lewis, 47, of Opelika, entered into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, May 7, 2023. He was born March 24, 1976, in Opelika to Glenniss and Connie Lewis. A service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 12, 2023, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. prior to the service.

Survivors include his children: Brandon Keith Payne (Kelsey), Briana Kaitlyn Lewis (Walter); grandchildren: Bentley

Keith Payne, Walter Lee Holmes III, Beckham

Knox Payne, Savannah

Marie Holmes, Emmett

David Payne; parents, Glenniss and Connie Lewis; sister, April Byrd (Brent); nephews, Brent Hunter Byrd (Ryan), Tyler Coleman Byrd; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

PAT CHANTHONGPHIO

Pat Chanthongphio of Opelika, passed away surrounded by love on May 2, 2023, at 59 years old. She was born in Vientiane, Laos, in 1964 and immigrated to the United States in 1980.

Pat was well loved by her family and friends.

She was known by all to be a prolific cook, a reliable and strong friend, and had a long and successful career as a welder. She was a valued member of the Lao Women’s Association and her children were proud to call her Mom. Pat doted on her grandchildren and was proud to be called their Grandma. She will be fondly remembered and always missed.

Pat is survived by her husband, Souvanh Chanthongphio; two children, Bobby (Whitney) Chanthongphio and Zack (Tiffany) Chanthongphio; Five grandchildren, Beckham Chanthongphio, Rivers Morgan-Chanthongphio, Nicholas Chanthongphio, Lucian MorganChanthongphio, and Iverson Chanthongphio.

A Celebration of Life service was held Saturday, May 6, at at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika.

THOMAS LEE CLAYTON

Thomas Lee Clayton passed away on April 30 2023, after a brief illness at EMAC. He was 80 years old.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Ann Elizabeth (Liz).

Clayton. He is survived by his stepson Ronald Jeffery Pugh and wife Rhonda of Atlanta, Georgia.;and five grandchildren.

Tom was a graduate of Purdue University with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was an employee of Cooks Pest before retirement. Tom was a jack of all trades and could build or replace anything at his home. He loved working in the yard. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, especially his loved ones. A private ceremony will be held.

HUGH LAWSON FELLOWS JR.

Hugh Lawson Fellows, Jr., 79, of Auburn, Alabama, left this Earth for his new home in the early morning hours of May 4, 2023, after a long battle with dementia, which he finally won. He had a brilliant mind and an exhaustive work ethic. He began his engineering as a pre-teen rebuilding motorcycle engines and racing gokarts. While still in school at Auburn University, he was responsible for significant breakthroughs in the use of solid rocket propellants for rocket engines. He then went on

to work in every major discipline of engineering for several different organizations before returning to the Auburn School of Engineering where he finished his career working in several departments and eventually in the Office of the Dean as the engineer for the School of Engineering. Over the course of his career he had a hand in the design of rockets and launching systems, rocket engines, Disney World, various civil engineering projects, amusement rides, early computer control systems, robotic manufacturing systems, formula-one cars, solar powered vehicles, perhaps the first telephone answering machine, pea shellers and any other problem needing a solution. It seemed he could find a solution to any problem he encountered.

One of his greatest accomplishments was identifying and persuading the former Patsy Dean of Dothan, to be his wife. They met in high school and began dating when he was only 16. That relationship continued for 64 years with her serving at his side every moment of the way. The depth of their love was never more evident than during

Hugh’s last years when his dementia took much of his once great mind. Patsy loved him with the same joy and even more commitment than she did in their very first years. The two had three children born to them. The first two, Adam and Lance, were born prematurely, and only survived a few days thereafter. A couple years later, their son Mike was born and Hugh loved and guided him as his cherished son long into adulthood. There was nothing Hugh wouldn’t do for his wife and son.

Hugh did lots of smart things, but he would tell you that the smartest thing he ever did was decide to follow Christ. In his early 30s, he recognized that this world’s complexities could not have been an accident. There had to be an engineer behind all of this. After much thought and consideration, he came to the realization that Jesus is exactly who He said He is. Soon thereafter, Hugh committed himself to following Christ for the rest of his days, and that became his most important relationship.

For that reason, his family invites you to celebrate his birth into complete freedom. These days are Hugh’s best days. He has become who

he was always intended to be and his joy is complete.

Hugh is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Ruth Fellows and his infant sons, Adam and Lance Fellows. He is survived by his wife, Patsy, and his son, Judge Mike Fellows (Carrie), his grandchildren, Trinity, Gabi, Solomon, and Eva Fellows; Siblings, Pam (John) Moon of Ringold, GA, Paul (Cindy) Fellows of Notasulga, AL, David (Becky) Fellows of McAlpin, FL; Several Cousins, including childhood playmates Merry Christmas Tarrer and Edna Earl Christmas of Auburn; many nieces and nephews and bonusfamily, including Willie and Glynda Rivers, Bobby Dean, and Glenn and Lena Sollie, whose grandchild, Seth Lawson Beauchamp, is his namesake.

The Frederick- Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama hosted a visitation Friday, May 5, 2023, at 6 p.m. The memorial service occured at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 6, at Lakeview Baptist Church and burial followed at Town Creek Cemetery in Auburn.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all arrangements.

chools & S S

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Spring Sport Rundown: High School Playoffs

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY —

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OHS Athlete Takes State in Track & Field

OPELIKA —

Opelika High School’s girls and boys track and field teams participated in the AHSAA Class 7A State Championship Meet in Gulf Shores last Thursday through Saturday.

Opelika's girls and boys finished 8th in the 7A State Meet.

The following are final standings for OHS, including the Long Jump State Champion Tierra Agee, who recorded a winning jump of 18 feet and 5-3/4 inches.

GIRLS

200 METER DASH

25.69 - Tierra Agee10th

26.32 - Amiya Brown - 18th

400 METER DASH

1:01.69 - Makiah

Paschal - 17th

300 METER

HURDLES

47.98 - Makiah

Paschal - 6th

HIGH JUMP 5-0 - Kyndall

Brundidge - 7th

LONG JUMP

18-5.75 - Tierra Agee - 1st 16-0.25 - Kyndall

Brundidge -

13th

15-6.5 - Dasia

Keith - 18th

TRIPLE JUMP 36-8 - Dasia Keith - 5th 35-4.25 - Kyndall

Brundidge - 9th DISCUS 100-7 - Trinity Rooks - 12th JAVELIN 113-5 - Sanai Stringer - 4th 96-11 - Rorie Dunbar - 17th 90-11 - Cherdi

Daniels - 21st

BOYS

200 METER DASH

22.92 - Theo Hubbard - 19th

400 METER DASH

52.01 - Sam

Washburn - 18th

800 METER RUN

2:06.33 - Michael

Hart - 22nd

600 METER RUN 4:33.57 - SBBrantley Turnham - 19th

4:36.86 - Charles Brewer - 20th

3200 METER RUN 10:08.15 - Brantley

Turnham - 15th 10:10.97 - Charles Brewer - 17th 110 METER

HURDLES 14.34 - Tykell

Thomas - 3rd 300 METER

HURDLES 40.12 - JaClarence Perry - 6th

A number of local high school spring sport teams are still fighting for championships.

The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) state track & field meet took place last weekend, while baseball, softball and soccer has entered the state-tournament sections of their schedules as well.

The following is a

Northside Intermediate School Named School of Distinction

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS

OPELIKA —

CLAS recognized 32 Schools of Distinction across the eight State School Board Districts and announced the 2022 CLAS Banner Schools on Monday, May 8, 2023, during an awards luncheon in Prattville, Alabama. The CLAS Banner School program was created in 2001 to recognize schools in Alabama that showcase outstanding programs and service to students. Each school was nominated for this award by its superintendent with 208 school programs nominated statewide.

Opelika

Schools

Brewton Elementary School, Brewton City Schools; Foley High School, Baldwin County Schools; Gulf Shores High School, Gulf Shores City Schools; Gulf Shores Middle School, Gulf Shores City Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction

See NORTHSIDE, page B4

from State School Board District 1

with Gulf Shores

City

is proud to announce that Northside Intermediate School has been named a 2022 CLAS School of Distinction. Pictured left to right are Danielle Rosenercounselor, Northside Intermediate School, Cindy Poteet-principal, Northside Intermediate School, Tracie West-State Board of Education member (District 2) and Dr. Farrell Seymoresuperintendent, Opelika City Schools.

recap of how teams local to Lee County

(outside of Opelika,

which can be found

in D. Mark Mitchell’s See COUNTY, page B2

Glenwood celebrates scoring against rival Lee-Scott in a semifinal AISA state baseball playoff game May 3.

AHS Softball Punches Ticket to Regionals

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

With two wins over Smiths Station and two losses to Central in the AHSAA 7A Area 4 Tournament, Auburn High School softball will head to the Region Tournament as the Area 4 runners up.

After game one’s 11-3 defeat of the Panthers, Auburn could not get anything going offensively and was shut out twice by the Red Devils, 3-0, then 150. While Central will advance as the area champions, Auburn took the win, 10-2, in the runner-up game with Smiths Station to advance to play in the Region Tournament on Thursday, May 11. With the season on the line, the Tigers sent Abigail Helms to the circle. The sophomore picked up her 13th win of the season, going

four innings and allowing just two runs (one earned) on four hits and three strikeouts.

Meanwhile, senior Ivey Davis continued to dazzle from the leadoff spot, going 3-for-3 with two runs and an RBI. This improved her season average to .353 with a team-leading .465 OBP.

Sophomore Daley

Alsobrook added to the damage with a tworun homer, and sophomore Katie Johnson went 2-for-4 with three RBIs, increasing her team-leading batting average to .384.

Senior Allie Roberts had a comparatively quiet game at the plate, but the team’s ace kept her arm hot as well, pitching the final three innings and only allowing a single base runner on a walk. The Huntingdon College commit didn’t allow a run or a hit while tallying three Ks to tick her ERA down to 2.09.

After coming through with 12 hits and 10 runs as a team in the win-or-go-home game, the Tigers will look to keep the offense rolling against Enterprise (3011), the Area 3 champion. Auburn only faced Enterprise once in the regular season on March 18 and lost, 2-0.

In the same double-elimination tournament, Central will face Area 3’s runner up, Prattville. Auburn lost each of four matchups against Central this year, but it got the best of Prattville in both matchups, 6-0 and 4-3, in February and March.

The Region Tournament will start at 9:30 a.m. CST from Lagoon Park in Montgomery, as Auburn High softball vies for its first ever 7A State Championship. Game 2 will take place at 1:45 p.m. and, if necessary, game three is at 4:45 p.m.

AHS Soccer Girls Endure to Final Four, Boys Fall Short in Round Two

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

After both teams fell in the Round of Eight last season, Auburn High School girls soccer changed the narrative this year to advance to the Final Four, while the boys will keep searching for a way past the second round.

The girls defeated Prattville at home and Dothan on the road to begin the playoffs and will now get a chance at revenge versus Fairhope, who knocked Auburn out of the playoffs in the Round of Eight last season. The Tigers will match up with Fairhope in the Final Four on Thursday, May 11, in Huntsville at John Hunt Park.

“I think we’re a completely different team than we were last year,” said Auburn soccer head coach Bill Ferguson. “There’s a different level of confidence in our ability to go into matches prepared. We don’t look past anybody. We have experienced that any team can win a game on any given day, so I think we’ll be ready for this team.”

On the other hand, the boys defeated Enterprise, 3-1, in round one before their season ended at Dothan, 3-2. This is the second straight season the boys have lost in round two,

AHS Athlete Shines Spotlight on Growing Sport With College Commitment

but despite losing six seniors, 18 returning players will bring that experience back next year after going 11-8-2 this season.

“We ended up going to penalties at the end of the game at 2-2, and just fell short in penalties,” Ferguson said.

“It’s a hard way to lose, but I was proud of the guys fighting back and being the aggressor against a very good team in a hostile environment. We’ve got a lot of hungry players. We have a solid core coming back. I think they’ll be excited to get a chance to maybe correct the path and figure out a way to get past round two.”

Ferguson expressed his appreciation for his seniors, but noted that there are plenty of positive takeaways from the season despite an earlier playoff exit than they hoped for.

“We’re going to miss the senior class so much. Just a lot of experience and great, talented guys,” Ferguson said. “I’ve had several players express to me how much fun they had this season, so there are a lot of good feelings that are coming along, even though we hate to lose.”

Despite the boys’ loss, the girls have a chance for revenge as confidence keeps brewing for the Tigers as they go. However, the team has learned not to let its confidence affect

preparation after the loss to Fairhope last season.

Ferguson said the girls came in too relaxed last season and let Fairhope use their energy and aggressiveness to its advantage. Fairhope has already taught Auburn that lesson, and it has taught it to St. Paul’s Episcopal and McGillToolen in the first two rounds this season.

As the No. 2 seed coming out of its region, Ferguson said Fairhope is not who he expected to see this late in the playoffs, but he and his team won’t let their guard down this time.

“(Fairhope) already has two wins on the road, so they definitely have a fighting spirit to them,” Ferguson emphasized. “As far as rankings and projections go, they’ve overachieved, so we’ll be getting to work.”

The Auburn girls will prolong their playoff journey into the Final Four for the first time since 2019, starting on Thursday at 3 p.m. CST. If Auburn wins, it will advance to its first ever state championship two days later on Saturday, May 13, at 11 a.m. at the same location in Huntsville.

“We definitely want to get two more wins under our belt and come home state champs, but right now we’re just focusing on one,” Ferguson said.

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER AUBURN —

At the age of 5, Graham Young was strolling through his neighborhood in Auburn when he noticed someone playing catch in a way he’d never seen before.

It immediately caught his attention, and he and his father stopped to ask what they were playing with. It was a lacrosse stick, something the boy had never heard of, but was fascinated by it. That Saturday, his father got him registered to play in a lacrosse league.

Now, Young is a multisport athlete at Auburn High School. He has also played

COUNTY >> FROM B1

weekly column) have performed this spring in postseason contests.

TRACK & FIELD

- (7A) Auburn: The Auburn High School boys track & field team finished 5th at the AHSAA 7A Outdoor State Track & Field Championships May 4 through 6 with a final score of 51. The girls team finished No. 4 with a final score of 69.

- (5A) Beauregard: The Beauregard High School boys track & field team finished 9th at the ASHAA 5A Outdoor State Track & Field Championships May 4 through 6 with a final score of 25.33. The girls team placed No. 2 overall with a final score of 60.

BASEBALL - (7A) Smiths Station: The Smiths Station High School varsity baseball team has reached the ASHAA Class 7A State Baseball Playoffs semifinals by defeating

football and basketball since kindergarten, but sitting in the gym alongside two football players as a senior, he signed his college letter of intent for a sport not sanctioned by the AHSAA.

“Lacrosse has always been my best and favorite sport,” Young said. “When I was younger, I was always asked [Why lacrosse?], and my answer has always been the same, lacrosse is where my heart lies.”

Young has played with the Atlantabased Deep South Lacrosse league and the AU Club lacrosse team throughout high school. Over the years, he has seen firsthand the rapid growth of the sport across Alabama,

the Fairhope Pirates in round one and the Baker Hornets in round 2. The Panthers face area rival Central Phenix City in the semifinals May 11, having recorded a perfect 4-0 record thus far in the playoffs.

- (AISA) Glenwood: The varsity Glenwood High School baseball team defeated rival Lee-Scott Academy in two games, 5-3 and 1-0, to advance to the state championship round of the AISA Class 3A playoffs. Glenwood faced Macon East on May 10, needing to win two games to capture the state title (the third “if” game of the series is scheduled for May 11).

SOFTBALL - (7A) Auburn: The varsity Auburn High School softball team is scheduled to face the Enterprise Wildcats May 11 in the semifinal round of the 7A Central Regional in Montgomery. Competing against Enterprise, Central Phenix City and

but work is still in order for lacrosse to become an officially-recognized sport by the AHSAA. Young said he is hopeful that will change in the near future.

Lacrosse has grown to the point where finding competition was no struggle for Young, but in order to be recognized and have a better opportunity to play at the next level, he said that traveling was necessary. While he acknowledged the “rapid growth in popularity” of lacrosse in Alabama, the top-level talent is outside of the state.

“During the summer, depending on how much you want to get yourself exposed,

Prattville, the top two teams from the regional advance to the state championship playoff bracket.

- (3A) Beulah: The varsity Beulah High School softball team played Alabama Christian May 9 in the first round of the AHSAA 3A Regional in Montgomery. The Bobcats prevailed, 10-5, before facing Childersburg in the second round later that night. Beulah defeated Chuldersburg 10-0, behind a no-hitter from Brandy Phillips, to advance to the regional finals. The Bobcats played to capture their third straight regional title Wednesday, but results were not available at press time.

SOCCER - (7A) Auburn: The varsity Auburn High School soccer team advanced to the AHSAA 7A state semifinals by defeating the Dothan Wolves, 4-1, on May 5. The Tigers play Fairhope May 11 in the semifinals round. Results were not available at press time.

Graham Young is a senior lacrosse player at Auburn High School.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERV ER

No. 13 Tigers To Host NCAA Auburn Regional

CONTRIBUTED BY

AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

The path to the NCAA Championship will run through Auburn as No. 13 men’s golf is set to host one of six NCAA regionals, May 15 to 17, at Auburn University Club.

Each regional will host 13 to 14 teams for three rounds of stroke play competition. The top five schools from each site will advance to the 2023 NCAA Championship, May 26 to 31, at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Participating alongside the Tigers in the regional at AU Club will be No. 1 Vanderbilt, No. 12 Tennessee, No. 24 Colorado State, No. 25 Ohio State, Washington, TCU, Chattanooga, Houston, Marquette, Indiana, Augusta and Siena.

“It’s an incredible field,” said head coach Nick Clinard. “We’ve got a lot of great teams, great coaches and great players. We’re looking forward to the opportunity of hosting at home and playing alongside some strong competition. The course is newly redone and in great shape. We’re still learning

SPORTS >>

FROM B1

40.77 - Theo Hubbard

- 9th

LONG JUMP

22-7 - Davian Jones

- 3rd

19-3.5 - Tirus Patten

- 20th

TRIPLE JUMP

46-3.5 - Davian Jones

- 4th

41-10.5 - Tirus Patten

- 18th

POLE VAULT

12-0 - Dontarius Alvis

- 14th

DISCUS

143-5 - Mikeil Heard

- 6th

124-7 - Octavious Gay

- 14th

DISCUS

143-5 - Mikeil Heard

- 6th

124-7 - Octavious Gay

- 14th JAVELIN

158-9 - Octavious Gay

- 10th

145-3 - Ronald Reese

Jr. - 16th

SHOT PUT

it ourselves but excited to have that home course knowledge in our back pockets.”

The AU Club Regional is the lone field to feature five teams ranked inside the top 25 of Golfstat’s latest poll.

Auburn will officially commence its postseason run Monday, May 15, at 8 a.m. CT. For the opening round, the Tigers will be paired with Vanderbilt and Tennessee.

“It’s really exciting to be able to play such a crucial part of our season at home,” said senior Alex Vogelsong. “Everyone’s games are looking really good right now. Our bonds and team chemistry are great. We’re just looking to keep it rolling and punch our ticket to the national championship.”

Teeing off for the Tigers will be the same six that saw action two weeks ago at the SEC Championship — Vogelsong, juniors Carson Bacha, J.M. Butler and Ryan Eshleman, sophomore Brendan Valdes and freshman Reed Lotter. One man will begin the week as the sixth reserve player; however, postseason substitution rules will be in effect, allowing for the substitution of any

47-9.25 - Mikeil Heard

- 13th OHS HIRES NEW WRESTLING COACH

According to the Opelika High school’s athletic website, opelikaathletics.com, coach David Simpson is the new varsity wrestling coach. No official release from OCS and no other information listed.

TIDBITS

Opelika's athletic year winds down with spring football. This will be the last sport to conduct activities prior to the end of the school year.

Opelika’s move to class 7A made it difficult for teams to qualify for their respective sport’s playoffs. The following sports made the AHSAA playoffs or participated in state meet: flag football team, indoor track team, girls and boys soccer and girls and boys track and field.

Several individual student-athletes qualified

individual into the lineup following the completion of a round.

Under Clinard, Auburn has appeared in 13 consecutive NCAA Tournaments (excluding the cancelation of 2020) and has made 23 straight appearances as a program, dating back to the 2000 season. The Tigers have advanced to the NCAA Championship 27 times in history, including nine with Clinard at the helm.

Last season, Auburn advanced through the Norman, Oklahoma, regional with a second-place, 848 (-16) performance. At the National Championship, the Tigers shot 1,160 (+40) to finish in a tie for 10th and solidify the third-highest placement in program history.

Four men in the current lineup, Bacha, Butler, Valdes and Vogelsong, were all a part of the record-breaking run in 2022 and will look to best their marks this season.

A total of 10 individuals from schools that did not receive a bid to the tournament will also play in the regional. The See REGIONALS, page B5

for the AHSAA State Championship in swimming and wrestling. Congratulations to all the teams and student-athletes who advanced to state competition.

SUMMER BASEBALL

Opelika Dixie Youth, Billy Hitchcock Miracle League, girls softball, DBB baseball and Perfect Game travel baseball are keeping Opelika's West Ridge Park busy. Most nights you can find children from 5 years old through 15 year olds playing baseball and softball at West Ridge. The two turf softball fields make things easier when it rains because they dry faster and require no field prep to play games. Multiple games can be played because the field does not require as much maintenance as the other nine fields at West Ridge.

Perfect Game travel

Maddie Penta Earns Record Fourth SEC Pitcher of the Week Honor

CONTRIBUTED BY AU

ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

With a pair of victories to secure Auburn softball’s best finish in Southeastern Conference play since 2017, junior Maddie Penta set the program’s record with her fourth SEC Pitcher of the Week selection of the season, the league office announced Tuesday.

Penta has now won eight SEC weekly honors over her career and has been tabbed SEC Pitcher of the Week five times in her career. Penta and Kristen Keyes (2002-04) are the only two Tigers in program history to win the award five times in their career.

The Chesapeake City, Maryland, native secured Auburn’s fourth consecutive SEC series win and its sixth overall of the season with a pair of wins versus Mississippi State, which helped Auburn clinch the No. 3 seed at the 2023 SEC Tournament.

organization brings hundreds of people to Opelika for many weekends by hosting tournaments at West Ridge Park. Many teams travel from out of town and will spend money on lodging, food, gas and entertainment which provides economic impact in Opelika, Auburn and Lee County.

Special thanks to Michael Hilyer and his ESG team for working at West Ridge year round in order to keep the park in good playing condition.

More news about upcoming tournaments in next week’s column.

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 9101319, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

In two complete-game efforts, Penta posted a 1.00 earned run average, allowed just two run runs to score in Friday’s series opener. The right-handed held the bulldogs to five hits and a .109 average at the plate. She issued five walks and struck out 18, including turning in her 10th double-digit strikeout appearance of the season on Friday.

On Sunday, Penta tossed her second one-hitter against a conference foe this season as she secured her sixth shutout in SEC play to tie Kristen Keyes (2004) for the Auburn single-season

LACROSSE >>

FROM B2

is when traveling is very important,”

Young said. “While lacrosse is growing in the South, most of the better competition and opportunities to play in front of college coaches are up North. The way to grow the sport (in Alabama) is to make it available and known to more kids, the younger the better.”

As a result of playing lacrosse, Young has paved the way forward for himself. He signed last week to play college lacrosse and study engineering at the University of Alabama at Huntsville.

His father, Mark Young, raved about how the sport has helped his son develop as an athlete but also as a man. He credited Graham’s coaches,

SEC record. Penta concluded SEC play with a 1.02 ERA, which set the Auburn record for lowest ERA in an SEC season. She also finished tied for second in Auburn history with 12 SEC wins.

After earning the double bye into the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament, Auburn opens the postseason Thursday against the winner of No. 6 seed LSU vs. No. 11 seed Ole Miss. First pitch from Bogle Park in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is set for 10 a.m. CT on the SEC Network.

Ben Hunt and JJ Armino, for playing a huge role in his athletic development.

That is a sentiment that Graham saw in himself as a result of the life lessons lacrosse has taught him. And none of this would’ve been possible if the Youngs didn’t discover a new way to play catch while walking through their neighborhood.

“Lacrosse has taught me how to win and to lose, to step up as a leader when needed and to sit back and play my role,” Young explained. “I’ve met some of my best friends and some of my greatest mentors (through lacrosse). I’m very thankful for this game and the things it has given me.”

PHOTO BY JACOB TAYLOR / AU ATHLETICS

Maddie Penta during the game between Auburn and Ole Miss at Jane B. Moore Field April 2, 2023.

OHS Senior Inks Baseball Scholarship with CVCC

Alabama 4-H Foundation Invests in the Future Through Scholarships

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA 4-H

AUBURN —

BCBS of Alabama Encouraging Schools to Apply for Grant Program

CONTRIBUTED BY BCBS

ALABAMA —

In its ongoing commitment to help prevent childhood obesity, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud to continue its Be Healthy School Grant Program. For the 2023-24 school year, Blue Cross will make available $300,000 and award grants up to $10,000 to 30 schools across the state that enroll students in grades K through 12. Since 2012, Blue Cross has awarded more than $2.6 million in 284 Be Healthy School Grants statewide impacting over 134,000 students.

“We sincerely appreciate our strong partnerships with schools across Alabama and are proud to see the positive results from the Be Healthy School Grant Program,” said Tim King, community relations manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

“This investment makes

NORTHSIDE >>

FROM B1

Middle School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

Eufaula Elementary School, Eufaula City Schools; Handley High School, Roanoke City Schools; Northside Intermediate School, Opelika City Schools; Randolph County High School, Randolph County Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 2 with Handley High School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

Hoover High School, Hoover City Schools; Pelham High School, Pelham City Schools; Spain Park High School, Hoover City Schools; Thompson High School, Alabaster City Schools were selected as 2022

available the resources needed for our children to lead the healthiest lives possible, which long-term means a healthier Alabama.”

The grants are for the implementation of school-based health and wellness programs that emphasize increased exercise and nutrition education involvement during the school year. Applications can now be completed on the Blue Cross website at AlabamaBlue. com/schoolgrant. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 16, 2023. Each selected school will receive a grant of up to $10,000, and schools will be further

CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 3 with Pelham High School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School. Bryant Park Elementary School, Jefferson County Schools; Huffman Academy, Birmingham City Schools; Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy, Tuscaloosa City Schools; and Woodland Forrest Elementary School, Tuscaloosa City Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 4 with Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

Chickasaw Middle/ High School, Chickasaw City Schools; Prattville Intermediate School,

The Alabama 4-H Foundation is helping 35 Alabama 4-H members achieve their dreams of higher education. This year, the foundation will award 33 $1,000 scholarships to graduating 4-H members in 23 Alabama counties. The foundation is also awarding two $1,500 endowment scholarships. Members can use these scholarships for any post-secondary education during the 2023-24 academic year — including colleges, universities, community colleges or trade schools.

scholarship recipient, said 4-H means the world to her.

"4-H has allowed me so many opportunities and brought me so many friends and connections that I will cherish forever," Abby said. "I have been doing 4-H projects since I was 9 years old but have been involved in 4-H since I was 5. The thing that I love the most about the 4-H projects are the diversity that they have and the fact that there is something for everyone. They are interactive, fun and — most of all—they are unique."

quest for a college education at Auburn University. Our vehicle to accomplish that desire was to endow a scholarship specifically for that purpose.”

Lee County’s Courtney M. Thomas was awarded a $1,000 Alabama 4-H Foundation scholarship.

Receiving Scholarship Recognition

recognized with a Blue Cross Be Healthy School banner.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for over 87 years. Blue Cross offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market. For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue.com. Connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube and follow us on Twitter for more up-to-date information. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Autauga County Schools; Satsuma High School, Satsuma City Schools; Tuskegee Public School, Macon County Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 5 with Tuskegee Public School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

Childersburg Elementary School, Talladega County Schools; Piedmont Middle School, Piedmont City Schools; Southside High School, Etowah County Schools; and Stemley Road Elementary School, Talladega County Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 6 with Southside High School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

“The Alabama 4-H Foundation is committed to seeing young people succeed, and there is no better way to display this kind of dedication than through scholarship support,” said Seth Tuttle, development officer for the Alabama 4-H Foundation. “We’re honored to have awarded 35 scholarships to 4-H’ers from all across our great state. It is our goal to help these young people continue on their life journey and represent the values of Alabama 4-H.”

As part of the application process, students were required to submit a resume, a letter of recommendation and their 4-H story.

4-H Makes an Impact

Luke Stephens of Clarke County and Abby Burgess of Blount County are the recipients of the Alabama 4-H Foundation's two $1,500 endowment scholarships.

Stephens received the Barbara D. Thorne 4-H Endowment, and Abby Burgess received the Beth and Dr. Thomas Elliott 4-H Endowed Scholarship.

Abby, a Blount County 4-H member and

Bankhead Middle School, Walker County Schools; Harlan Elementary School, Florence City Schools; L.E. Willson Elementary School, Sheffield City Schools; Winfield Elementary School, Winfield City Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 7 with Bankhead Middle School named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

Columbia Elementary School, Madison City Schools; Crossville High School, DeKalb County Schools; Huntsville High School, Huntsville City Schools; Skyline School, Jackson County Schools were selected as 2022 CLAS Schools of Distinction from State School Board District 8 with Columbia Elementary School

Amy Burgess, the Blount County extension coordinator, said as a 4-H parent, the 4-H Foundation Scholarships are a completed circle.

"With the awarding of the scholarship, my daughter’s career-long 4-H project comes to completion," Amy said. "She now has a tangible reminder of the heartbreaks and successes, as well as all of the life lessons learned while being a 4-H member. Because of this acknowledgement, she will be better equipped to meet the requirements of college life as well as become even more grateful to an organization that has been — and hopefully will continue to be — out such a large part of her life."

Scholarship Recipients

Thomas Elliott, part of the namesake of the Beth and Dr. Thomas Elliott 4-H Endowed Scholarship, served for many years as the secretary/treasurer of the Alabama 4-H Foundation. He believes in the mission of Alabama 4-H.

“All of us have been assisted by different individuals during our life’s journey,” Elliott said. "Beth and I wanted to assist young Alabama 4-H Club members in their

named as the 2022 CLAS Banner School.

“Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools which provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama. Further, the stakeholders at every school are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” comments Vic Wilson, Ed.D., executive director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).

This program would not be possible without the generous sponsorship provided by American Fidelity Assurance, Bailey Education Group, Curriculum Associates, and Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. CLAS appreciates the invaluable support of these

“The youth that receive foundation scholarships represent the breadth and scope of the skills, passions and possibilities of our state’s young people,” said Molly Gregg, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System assistant director for Alabama 4-H. “Investment in our young people with time, finances and care sets the stage for a better and stronger Alabama that is ready to adapt to meet the challenges and opportunities of our collective future.”

4-H invites scholarship winners and their parents/ guardians to attend the 4-H Competitive Events Day June 23 at the 4-H Center to receive formal recognition. Alabama 4-H is also recognizing scholarship recipients on social media. Visit the Alabama 4-H Facebook page to see daily posts recognizing high school seniors receiving scholarships. The scholarship winners will also be highlighted on the website www.Alabama 4-H Foundation website www.alabama4Hfoundation.org.

“These young people represent the best of Alabama and 4-H,” Gregg said. “They are positive forces for their communities and our world.”

ABOUT ALABAMA 4-H

For more than 100 years, Alabama 4-H has been helping young people develop into

sponsors to the Banner School Awards program.

ABOUT CLAS CLAS, the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools was founded in 1969 by a small group of school leaders to provide targeted professional development and support for Alabama’s public school administrators. CLAS now serves twelve affiliates representing public school/school system leaders. CLAS provides the framework to connect dedicated school administrators and other successful leaders with a network for professional growth and support. CLAS is the premier professional learning provider for administrators in public schools in the state of Alabama.

Opelika High School senior Taylor Fields (center), signed a baseball scholarship to Chattahoochee Valley Community College Tuesday, May 9.

Kessler and Smith Honored On NBA All-Rookie

First and Second Teams

CONTRIBUTED BY

AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Auburn men’s basketball alum Walker Kessler and Jabari Smith were both honored on the 2022-23 Kia NBA All-Rookie First and Second Teams, as announced by the NBA on Monday.

A center for the Utah Jazz, Kessler earned a spot on the first team along with the Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero, Indiana Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin, Sacramento Kings’ Keegan Murray and Oklahoma City

Thunder’s Jalen

Williams. Kessler was third in first team voting with 95 votes and a finalist for the NBA Rookie of the Year Award averaging 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game for the Jazz. He became the first rookie in 25 years to record at least four games of 7+ blocks, trailing Tim Duncan’s five times in 1998, and the first Jazz rookie to ever record a 30-point, 10-rebound game. Smith, a power forward for the Houston Rockets, garnered second team honors alongside teammate Tari Eason, the San Antonio Spurs’ Jeremy Sochan

Local Student Awarded Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation Scholarship

as well as the Detroit Pistons’ Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey.

He averaged 12.8 points, 7.2 rebounds per game and shot 40.8% from the field. Smith, who is 19 years old, became the first teenager in NBA history to record three-straight 20-point, 10-rebound games. He was the also the first Rockets rookie to accomplish that feat since Hakeem Olajuwon in 1984.

Kessler and Smith, who were members of Auburn’s 2021-22 SEC regular-season championship and NCAA Tournament squad, are now a part of an elite

REGIONALS >>

FROM B3

lowest-scoring player from a team that does not advance will receive a solo ticket to the NCAA Championship. The additional players will be Alex Goff (Kentucky), Brantley Scott

group of former Tigers to be named to the NBA All-Rookie Team next to

(Troy), Erik Jansson (Jacksonville State), Tobias Jonsson (Mercer), Cameron Clarke (Southern Miss), Brian Ma (Harvard), Jackson Skeen (Tennessee Tech), Luka Naglic (Arkansas State), Hugo Thyr (South Alabama) and Killian McGinley (Fairfield).

Charles Barkley (1985), Chris Morris (1989 –Second Team), Chuck

4-H >> FROM B4

resourceful citizens and responsible leaders.

Alabama 4-H is part of Alabama Extension and uses regional Extension agents as well as community volunteers, corporate partners, alumni and

Person (1987) and Wesley Person (1995 – Second Team).

parents to deliver youth development programs in all 67 counties. Alabama 4-H engages with more than 109,000 youth each year. It seeks to empower them with the skills to lead their communities and grow into future leaders. For more information, visit www.Alabama4H.com.

Emily Grace Rezek was awarded the Tagged for Greatness Scholarship at the Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation Scholarship Banquet held Friday, May 5, in Wetumpka, Alabama. She is the daughter of Sean and Jennifer Rezek of Opelika.

Rezek will graduate from Opelika High School and attend Auburn University to pursue a degree in Agricultural Communications. She was one of 127 scholarship recipients awarded more than $113,000 in scholarship by the Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation (ACF). The ACF serves to engage in educational and scientific activities to improve the beef cattle industry in Alabama and educate youth on the importance of beef cattle in Alabama. It provides the opportunity to make tax deductible donations for the educational work of the foundation and is largely funded by the sale of the “Cowboy Tag” vanity license plate. Throughout the year, the ACF supports numerous organizations and events which help to educate and train future generations of the livestock industry. The ACF has awarded scholarship money each year to Alabama youth with more than $1.2 million being awarded to date.

PHOTO BY AU ATHLETICS

WALKER KESSLER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY ACF

Gators Down Rival Lee-Scott on Way to Championship

PHOTOS

The varsity Glenwood Gators baseball team May 3 defeated rivals Lee-Scott Academy, 5-3 and 1-0, to advance to the state title series of the AISA Class 3A. Glenwood was in action against Macon East on May 10, needing to win two-out-of-three games against its oppenent (with the third "if" game scheduled for May 11) to secure a state championship.

As Mother’s Day approaches this coming Sunday, I am warmly reminded of the time my grandmother, Lillie Mae Jones, spent with me at The Pines Motel Restaurant on the Columbus-Opelika Highway. Every month as a young child, a teenager and on, I looked forward to those monthly afternoon dinners with my grandmother. She would treat me to a delicious meal and we would sip coffee as she would mentor and teach me about life.

When I was a young child, she would be sure to put plenty of milk and sugar in my coffee.

I know with each of her grandchildren she would make us feel that we were the only one in her world when she would spend

Sipping Coffee With My Grandmother

There are so many female role models that have touched my life through their actions of teaching, nurturing, guiding and sharing. I know many of you and many of our children are touched by women who love and care for them from the heart, and that is the way Classroom Observer looks at this when I say “Happy Mother’s Day.”

happen at an early age but their ability to love is a need at an early age. A mother’s nurturing love and the people who touch your child’s life at an early age builds the foundation of the child’s ability to adjust to his or her environment. The bonding that happens with folks who love them affects a child’s entire self-structure, who they are and identity.

3. Weigh out a pound of peace. When teaching young children about peace, as parents we stress it as being content and happy. Mothers are the ones who usually model and direct peace with their children in getting along.

children love to pray. With their young hearts, they believe in prayer. They trust and know that God will keep his promises.

time sharing her life experiences with us and applying it to our lives. She shared the Bible with us and she would pray for us which is the greatest gift a child can receive. Her heartfelt advice prepared me to face the joys, valleys and bumps in the road that life would bring me.

She taught me to allow God to steward my happiness, losses and life in trying to outreach and help others. I am so thankful that she shared this with me as a young child because it entered my heart and led me to what God called me to do — to teach and outreach to young children and their families. Grandmother’s advice is truly what mothers do in teaching and sharing with their children.

In the United States, Miss Anna Jarvis at Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia, where her mother had served as a Sunday School teacher for more than 20 years, celebrated the first Mother’s Day. This was in honor of her late mother, Mrs. Jarvis, who had held “Mother’s Friendship Day,” to heal the pain of the Civil War. Anna’s steady campaign moved President Woodrow Wilson to declare that Mother’s Day should be celebrated as a national holiday on the second Sunday in May. One central truth about mothering is “that mothering matters.” Mothering not only affects children and families, but it affects communities, towns and the world.

As a teacher of young children, early childhood is such a critical time in a child’s life of bonding, learning, the molding of a child’s personality, learning how to adjust and socially interacting with other children, as well as adults. Not only does a child’s ability to learn

A scripture that definitely is a model for mothering is Galatians 5:22-23. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”

A recipe for mothering could follow these steps. This is a review that I would like to gently remind readers with on this upcoming Mother’s Day weekend.

1. Take a gallon of love. This ingredient is one we need so much of. 1 Corinthians 13:13: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” Young children love to sing songs of love for each other. It is joy to a mother’s heart and ears to receive hugs and hearing the words, “I Love You.”

2. Sprinkle in a dash of joy. Young children seem to understand the path of journeying to joy. They love to clap and sing. Happiness is conditioned by and often dependent on what is “happening to me,” but joy is truly a divine dimension not shackled by circumstances.

4. Throwing a pinch of patience is such an asset in this fast paced world. Young children want to quickly share facts and experiences in their lives. This may take on the form of interrupting other children. I instruct my children when I am reading or teaching to put their fingers over their lips if they are having a hard time being patient. Too, we can tell our children to “keep that thought” until it is their turn to speak.

5. Pour in a cup of kindness. When we, as families, model kindness it seems to spread everywhere. Assigning kindness chores to young children, such as helping mother set the table, pick up toys or clean their room, can be an act of kindness on Mother’s Day, too. Some families cook breakfast for their mother, make a special, child-made card or just let Mother rest on her special day.

6. Measure out a tablespoon of goodness. Goodness is doing what is right in the sight of the Lord and man.

7. Pour in a quart of faithfulness, which is love hanging on. This is done through prayer. Young

8. Pour in a pint of gentleness. In gentleness we think of humility and mercy. Guiding children to think of others is part of gentleness. This is a wonderful intergenerational relationship trait. I was so touched a few weeks ago when one of my preschoolers noticed I was having some trouble with a sore foot and was having trouble walking. She quietly slipped her hand in mine without being told and helped me walk to the playground. This truly won my heart.

9. The last step of our recipe is a bowl of self-control, which rounds out the flavor of this life recipe. Self-control for children means that they obey their parents and adults.

As I conclude this article, I go back to a cozy little corner in a restaurant once a month with my grandmother spending time with me. Spending time with our children is truly a great gift we can share with our families. This coming weekend, spend time with your mothers, which does spell “Love” to the one you call Mother, Mom, Mommy. Have a wonderful Mother’s Day to our community.

Classroom Observer

Beth Pinyerd

Inaugural Internship Experience Coming to Auburn

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN/DAVID D. DORTON

AUBURN —

The Economic Development Department of the city of Auburn is excited to announce the inaugural AIM Experience (Auburn Montgomery Internship Experience) for college juniors and seniors interning in Auburn this summer.

Twenty-five interns will be accepted from

Auburn as well as 25 interns from Montgomery, all of whom will be shown the valuable experiences that can be had in both communities following graduation.

Participants will learn how to serve, socialize and develop in Auburn and be given insight into why Auburn makes a good professional home.

Activities will take place in Auburn and Montgomery with transportation provided for events outside of Auburn. There is no cost to be a part of this program. All activities will be during the week after regular work hours. Due to the cost and planning involved in the activities, participants are asked to give at least an 80% commitment to

participating in activities.

In addition to all that is planned as part of the internship, participants will receive a "City Pass" that provides discounts or free memberships to various downtown establishments as well as to city of Auburn recreational facilities.

This exciting new program is being brought to Auburn by Fuel Alabama, a talent attraction and retention program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, in partnership with Innovate Alabama.

For more information, email Amy Brabham at abrabham@auburnalabama.org or visit workinauburn.com/ aim-experience.

BETH PINYERD

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Inside the Statehouse

Dr. David Bronner Celebrates 50 Years as CEO of RSA

ensure the systems are fully funded, which is something that has set RSA apart from pensions in other states.

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

The legendary head of the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA), Dr. David Bronner, celebrates 50 years as CEO this month. When the annals of Alabama history are written, there will never be an Alabamian as remarkable a public servant to our state than Bronner.

Bronner has marked his place in Alabama governmental history. When Bronner took his present job with RSA, the Retirement Systems had approximately $500 million of funds. Today, RSA has approximately $43.9 billion in funds under management and manages the pensions for 385,000 public teachers and public employees.

Alabama public employees will swear by, standup for and place Bronner on a golden pedestal. They credit him with securing their retirement years with a solid foundation. Indeed, he has. The Employees’ Retirement System and the Teachers’ Retirement System are financially sound and the envy of most other states. Bronner is quick to credit the Alabama Legislature for their part in helping to

Auburn City Council Approves

Outdoor Improvements for The Hound

Bronner is also the head of the insurance program for public educators, the Public Education Employees’ Health Insurance Plan. This program covers over 300,000 educators, retirees and dependents. This $1.4 billion a year program provides excellent benefits to members at a low cost to both the members and employers. In fact, RSA has managed the plan with level funding for the past seven years and plans to do the same in the coming year.

Bronner was born in Iowa and received his elementary and high school education in Minnesota. He came to Alabama to study law. He earned his Law Degree and PHD from the University of Alabama in 1972.

Shortly after graduation, he became assistant dean of the Law School at the University of Alabama.

A year later, at the age of 28, he became head of the Retirement Systems of Alabama.

Today, 50 years later, Bronner is a youthful-looking 78 with plenty of vigor and probably no plans to retire. When you have a conversation with him it is an experience you will never forget. He is extremely quick witted. There is no mistaking that you are talking with someone very intelligent. He has digested your words almost before they are out of your mouth and

will reply immediately with a succinct response that appears as though he has given it 15 minutes of thought. Of course, that may be because we native Alabamians talk a little slower than he does.

The Retirement Systems of Alabama has contributed a great deal to the state’s economy over the last 50 years. One the greatest legacies that Bronner may enjoy is his creation of Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. This idea generated a profit for RSA in the first years. The brilliance of the golf trail is not only the profits the trail generates for the RSA, but the peripheral boost to our state’s economy.

The golf trail has enhanced the image of Alabama. It has also benefitted the state’s attractiveness for corporate recruitment.

The economic benefits and prestige that it brings to our state is exponential and helped increase tourism from a $1.8 billion industry to a yearly $24 plus billion industry.

The courses have made Alabama a tourist destination. It brings well-heeled northern golfers to our state for weeklong stays and they spend untold amounts of money in our hotels and restaurants.

Snowbird golf enthusiasts are locked out of their courses six to seven months of the year so they journey to warm climates of the Heart of Dixie to play

AUBURN —

The Auburn City Council took the following actions at its first meeting in May:

• Approved a contract for the MLK Streetscape Project.

The council approved a construction contract in the amount of approximately $4.5 million for the Martin Luther King Drive Streetscape Project, which is part of the city’s Northwest Auburn Neighborhood Plan. The project will include new street infrastructure — islands, turn lanes and other enhancements — along with an improved pedestrian path and lighting on MLK Drive from Shug Jordan Parkway to North Donahue Drive. It will tie into the new multi-use path being completed from Shug Jordan Parkway to Webster Road. Together, these two projects will create a two-mile-long route for the people who live along MLK Drive to connect with downtown and Auburn University. Stay in the loop about the project’s status at auburnalabama.org/cip.

• Authorized a Solid Waste Rate Study. The

council authorized a study to be conducted by consultants to evaluate the operational and capital needs of the city’s solid waste and recycling activities.

The city conducted its first rate study in 2011, which included a multiyear financial forecast that projected operating and capital needs into the future and resulted in a proposed rate structure that was adopted by the city council in June 2011. During late fiscal year 2017, the city conducted an update to the previous rate study and no action was taken to increase rates at that time.

• Approved agreements with The Hound for sidewalk improvements and outdoor dining space. The council approved a license agreement with The Hound to allow the business to continue to use city property for outdoor dining space and to facilitate additional improvements to the outdoor dining space by The Hound.

Council also approved a contract with the restaurant to construct 55 feet of sidewalk between Tichenor Avenue and the Tichenor Avenue parking lot in exchange for a financial

contribution of $22,000 from the city. This will improve accessibility to the City Meeting Room, located at 122B Tichenor Ave. In conjunction with these improvements, the council also approved a contract with Charter Communications, and previously with Alabama Power, to underground utilities in this area of downtown.

THE COUNCIL ALSO:

• Announced one vacancy on the Historic Preservation Commission and filled two vacancies on the commission. Anyone interested in applying can do so at auburnalabama.org/boards. An appointment for the last vacancy will be made at the June 6 meeting.

• Authorized the submittal of the city’s 2022 Water Pollution Prevention Annual Report to the Alabama Department of Revenue. The reports for H.C. Morgan Water Pollution Control Facility and Northside Water Pollution Control F acility both show that these two facilities are being properly operated and maintained. To see the reports, visit www. auburnalabama.org/ water-resource-manSee AUBURN, page B11

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN/DAVID D. DORTON

The Auburn City Council met for its most recent meeting Tuesday, May 2.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN See

Will Tucker Carlson, Don Lemon Ever Learn? I Doubt It.

Washington, DC, home; once when his wife was alone.

up vocals for a singer. He held a microphone in one hand and a drink in the other.

OPINION —

Tucker Carlson, a TV pundit fired by three networks, was ousted by Fox News for lying about the 2020 election. Once a top young conservative, he turned into a scowling talking head out for money. CNN’s Don Lemon morphed from a sloppy reporter into a sexist one. Both should take the advice of Bruce Lee, a Hong Kong and American martial artist and actor.

“Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it,” Lee

said.

Tucker molded himself after his fired colleague, Bill O’Reilly, and his co-worker Sean Hannity. Scaring people was in their DNA and accuracy often was not checked.

Lemon struggled to find an audience: He was out of place on morning TV.

Carlson has been racist in some of his monologues, and sexist, too. His rhetoric has been negative toward the LGBTQ+ community. His words may have encouraged mass shooters to kill people. He was confronted, too: Carlson moved to a new home because several times he had protesters at his

Carlson does not make haste when it comes to insulting soldiers, yet he never served in the military. He criticized Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley by saying “Hard to believe that man wears a uniform ... He’s not just a pig, he’s stupid.” Those comments came after Milley said troops should study critical race theory “to understand white rage” as seen on Jan. 6, 2021.

(Milley has been serving his country since Tucker Carlson was 11 years old.) Milley is right, an estimate of the 1,000 felony or misdemeanor convictions would show that the majority are white. Milley and I know that if you want to see “white rage” in America it is not hiding.

Lemon has done something I doubt Walter Cronkite or even Dan Rather have ever done on camera. Lemon denies it, but he was drunk in the eyes of TV viewers on a New Year’s Eve show. It was noticed when he provided back-

“It was Don Lemon yesterday; it was Whoopi Goldberg the day before. There will be somebody else tomorrow,” said GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley.

The day before that comment Lemon said that Haley “isn’t in her prime” and that a woman is “in her prime in her 20s, 30s or 40s.” He apologized once again for misspeaking, about a 51-year-old candidate with wide political experience.

In 2014, after the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, Lemon started to host a special nightly program that had conversations and analyses about the situation. Aviation experts gave direction and depth but that did not stop Lemon from saying, “Maybe they flew into the Bermuda Triangle.”

“The Bermuda Triangle, also known as the Devil's Triangle, is an urban legend,” noted public television’s NOVA. “It is focused on a loosely defined region

in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean where a number of aircraft and ships are said to have disappeared under mysterious circumstances.”

Lemon was mentioned in the Columbia Journalism Review in December 2014. Unfortunately, it was a negative as he was named to the Worst Journalism of 2014 list. Among his gaffes were an interview with a Bill Cosby accuser and his comments at a Ferguson, Mizzouri, protest that there was “obviously” marijuana there.

“As one of the most recognizable anchors at CNN, Don Lemon has helped lead the cable network’s coverage of the biggest stories of the year,” wrote CJR Fellow David Uberti. “Live television is exceedingly difficult to produce, of course, but Lemon’s gaffes this year offer a case study in how to choose words wisely or not.”

Lemon, however, has won three Emmys for local reporting and several other industry and academic honors.

The late Rush Lim-

baugh told many exaggerations and falsehoods. But his legacy looks better now for a simple reason: He knew who he was and didn’t pretend to be someone else. Even when he returned from a few weeks in a drug interdiction clinic, he insisted “Don’t worry, I have not turned into a softie.” And he never did.

Carlson comes from a wealthy family, went to the best schools from prep on and was on track to be a thoughtful mainstream conservative.

Unlike Rush, Carlson does not claim he has “talent on loan from God.” But he does have great wealth from gullible viewers. Lemon does not study enough to be a consistently good anchor. The public rebukes the two broadcasters received this week may escape their memory — maybe even on purpose.

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

SALUTING THE CLASS

As a community bank, we not only serve our communities, but our communities serve us. They are where we live, work, play, worship, and raise our families—where our children are educated and prepared to make their own mark in the world. Pictured here are children or grandchildren of some of our employees. Along with other area seniors, they will be graduating this spring. AuburnBank recognizes their hard work in achieving this milestone on their journey to adulthood. And for us, honoring these students is personal—the same way we do business.

GREG MARKLEY

We celebrate these seniors like they’re our very own ... because they are.

OF 2023!

Pictured from left to right: Spirit Crawford, Tallassee High; Kayla Burrell, Valley High; Aaron Streetman, Auburn High; Carlee Fuller, Benjamin Russell; Genesis Bailey, Auburn High; Cullen Kennedy, Valley High

Opelika Kiwanis Learns About 'One Voice'

Lee County Recognizes Fallen Officers

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@OPELIKAOBSEREVR.COM

LEE COUNTY —

The Lee County Commission paid homage and respect to peace officers in Lee County by recognizing May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day during its Monday night meeting.

“The United States Congress, by joint resolution, established National Police Week to pay special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty in the service of protecting others,” said the packet from the commission.

“… In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week.”

Auburn Rotary

Welcomes Eric Carson

This year, there will be 556 names of peace officers added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C.

Nine of those lost their lives in Alabama. Six have lost their lives in Lee County since 1889.

AUBURN >> FROM B9

agement/sewer/municipal-water-pollution-prevention-report.

· Approved the purchase of four portable traffic signals with wireless technology and solar power for $150,000. The signals

“The Lee County Commission recognizes the services and sacrifice of our nations’ peace officers and specifically those peace officers who lost their lives serving the citizens of Lee County and jointly recognized May 15, 2023, as National Peace Officers Memorial Day,” the packet said.

Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones presented the resolution that the commission approved in joint with Congress.

“Six of the names of that wall are officers who served with Opelika, Auburn and Lee County, starting with Henry Hart in Opelika, Sheriff Buck Jones, then Lt. Brenton Truitt with Opelika, then Roger Motley with the city of Opelika … then James Anderson with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and most recently, William Buechner for the city of Auburn,” he said.

Probate Judge Bill English said he was present when Motley’s wife was informed.

“I’ll never forget the scream of his wife when that news was broken to her downstairs, it was an awful

will assist with traffic control during city projects and help alleviate project delays due to continued manufacturing issues with traffic signal components.

Meeting minutes and a video of the meeting will be posted at auburnalabama.org/ agenda. Mayor Ron

day,” English said. Jones also expressed he’d like to bring a resolution before the commission at its next meeting for National Correction Officers Week.

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The commission announced two vacancies on the Lee County Planning Commission.

- The commission announced two vacancies on the East Alabama Health Care Authority.

- The commission heard the second reading of an opening on the Lee County Recreation Board.

- The commission approved an agreement for Threat Advice Cybersecurity Education and Threat Awareness.

- The commission approved an educational reimbursement request.

- The commission approved a retail beer and retail table wine application for Liberty Express Food Mart.

- The commission approved the final plat approval for Halawakee Creek Landing Subdivision, Phase 2.

- The commission approved a resolution to transfer property — nine open top containers — to Opelika.

Anders’ recap of the meeting will be posted @CityofAuburnAL on social media. The next regular council meeting will be held on May 16, 2023, in the Council Chamber, located at 141 N. Ross St. in the Public Safety Building at the corner of Ross Street and Magnolia Avenue.

The speaker at the May 4 Opelika Kiwanis Club meeting was Jean Causey with One Voice Shelter. One Voice Shelter Coalition is a nonprofit that works to help the homeless in East Alabama. Next week on May 18, the speaker will be Tyler McGill. McGill is a former gold-medalist Olympian and coach for the Opelika Swim team.

The guest speaker at last week's Auburn Rotary Club meeting was city of Auburn Water Resource Management Director Eric Carson. Carson assured the group of the high water quality in Auburn and more about his duties. Pictured with Carson (middle) is President-elect Griffin McNeill (left) and President Judd Langham (right).

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 CIRCUIT

COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No.: CV-2021-900354.00

GARLAND REAL PROPERTIES, INC.

Plaintiff, v. A TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; And

GEORGE SAMFORD, and/ or THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OR DEVISEES OF GEORGE SAMFORD; And FICTITIOUS DEFENDANTS A, B, C, et al, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION

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

Beginning at the Northwest corner of the Northeast of quarter of Section 21, Township 18 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, thence go South 05 degrees 15 minutes 00 seconds East for a distance of 2640.00 feet to a point on the Southwest' corner of the Northeast quarter of Section 21, Township 18 North, Range 25 East, Lee County, Alabama, thence go North 87 degrees 25 m-minutes East for a distance of 1,970 feet to a point, thence North 06 degrees 38 minutes East for a distance of 277.17 feet to a point, thence North 20 degrees 25 minutes East for a distance of 449.62 feet to a point; thence South 87 degrees 30 minutes West for a distance of 49.81 feet to a corner on the northerly margin of Cox Road, which shall be point of beginning of the property herein intended to be described: From said point of beginning, continue South 87 degrees 30 minutes West for a distance of 196.31 feet to a point; thence North 25 degrees 12 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 45 degrees 29 minutes East for a distance of 1OO.OO feet to a point; thence North 53 degrees 45 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 61 degrees 40 minutes East for a distance of 100.0 feet to a point; thence North 72 degrees 25 minutes East for a distance of 1OO.O feet to a point; thence North 80 degrees 51 minutes East for a distance of 44.17 feet to a point; thence South 81 degrees 58 minutes East for a distance of 51.56 feet to a concrete monument

P.T. STA. 94+80.5; thence Southwest along the curve of the Northerly margin of Cox Road, said curve having a chord of 399.66 and a radius of 998.84 to the point of beginning, which contains 1.25 acres, more or less.

All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 6th day of April, 2023.

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

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\

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

SMITHS WATER & SEWER AUTHORITY

SMITHS STATION, ALABAMA HOLLAND CREEK BASIN SANITARY

SEWER IMP. (GRAVITY

SEWER CLEANING, CCTV & REPAIRS)

Sealed bids for the Holland Creek Basin Sanitary Sewer Imp. (Gravity Sewer Cleaning, CCTV & Repairs) CMGM220122 will be received by the Smiths Water & Sewer Authority, Attn: Mr. Andy Morris, GM, located at 2848 Lee Road 243, Smiths Station, AL 36877, until Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 11:00

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES BARTH, DECEASED. Case No: 2023-243 IN THE PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of May, 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.

MARY K. BARTH

Personal Representative

Robert H. Pettey

Samford & Denson, LLP

P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345

(334) 745-3504

Legal 05/11/2023, 05/18/2023 & 05/25/2023

CITY OF OPELIKA

NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION

MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS

TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following:

I. Some items at the meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted below). Individuals are limited to 5-minute comment period per public hearing.

II. Approval of Minutes

III. Update on Previous PC

Cases

IV. New Business

A. Plat (Preliminary only)

– Public Hearing

1.A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for Auston Shaw, property owner, for preliminary approval of The Bowery subdivision consisting of 14 lots accessed from Oak Bowery Road.

B. Plat (Preliminary and Final) – Public Hearing

2.A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for Plainsman Development, Inc., property owners, for preliminary and final approval of Foxchase on Emerald Lake Phase 4C subdivision consisting of 9 lots accessed from Perfect Pass.

C. Conditional Use –Public Hearing

3.A public hearing on a request by Alex Miller, authorized representative for James G. Kirk, Jr, property owner, for conditional use approval for an indoor amusement, wellbeing, and fitness use (Rage Room) in the C-2, GC-S zoning district at 1510 2nd Avenue.

4.A public hearing on a request by Jeremy Clark, Compass Construction, authorized representative for Nathaneal P. Moody and Shree R, Summerlin, property owners, for conditional use approval for a mixed commercial and residential development in the C-2, GC-P zoning district accessed at 512 S 8th Street.

5.A public hearing on a request by Arthur R. Nettles, authorized representative of Jason Scott Hise, property owner, for conditional use approval for two commercial warehouse buildings (6,000 sf, 9,600 sf) in the C-3b zoning district accessed at 1011 and 1025 Walker Gray Court.

6. A public hearing on a request by Howard Weissinger, authorized representative for NGK Investments, LLC, property owners, for conditional use approval for a multi-family development with a maximum density of 16 dwellings per acre in the C-2, GC-P zoning district at 2700 block Frederick Road.

7. A public hearing on a request by Foresite Group, LLC authorized representative for ALDI, Inc., property owners, for conditional use approval for an automobile maintenance service center in the C-2, GC-P zoning district accessed at 2400 Frederick Road.

8.A public hearing on a request by Howard J. Porter Jr., authorized representative for PFI, Ltd, Ground Lessor and OrrDC, LLC

Ground Lessee, property owners, for conditional use approval for a distribution

warehouse, in the C-3, GC-S zoning district accessed at 175 Orr Avenue.

9. A public hearing on a request by Greg Nichols, executive vice president EAMC, authorized representative for East Alabama Health, property owners, for conditional use approval for a hospital in the C-2, GC-S zoning district accessed at 2513 Village Professional Park.

10. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher and Father Gil Pierre, authorized representative for W.C. Davis Charitable Remainder Trust, property owner, for a church and parish hall on

8.4 acres in the M-1 zoning district accessed at the corner of Lake Condy Road and Andrews Road.

D. Other Business

11. Request for Street Name Change - Rename Media General Drive to Wyndham Industrial Court

V. Old Business

E. Rezoning – Public Hearing

12a. An agenda item related to a rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 197 acres accessed from Anderson Road and Andrews Road from a low density residential to a mixed use development land use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the 197 acres and Council approves the rezoning, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved.

12b. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for 280 Land Company LLC, property owner, to rezone 197 acres accessed from Anderson Road and Andrews Road from R-3 to PUD (Edgefield Farm). (This item was tabled at the April 25, 2023 meeting at the applicant’s request.)

13. A public hearing for an agenda item related to a PUD rezoning requested by Blake Rice, BarrettSimpson, Inc., authorized representative for SMB Land, LLC, property owner accessed at 820 Crawford Road concerning Master Plan Amendments of 17.95 acres from single family home lots to twin home lots(duplexes).

All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR

Legal Run May 11, 2023

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION

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

1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, May 25,2023

Unit T357

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

Legal Run 05/11/2023

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B14

Lee County Chief Assistant District Attorney Running For District Judge

CONTRIBUTED BY THE

CLAY THOMAS CAMPAIGN

LEE COUNTY —

Chief Assistant District Attorney Clay Thomas today announced his candidacy to serve as a District Judge for Alabama’s 37th Judicial Circuit, which covers Lee County.

A conservative and longtime resident of Lee County, Thomas is an experienced prosecutor and litigator dedicated to upholding the rule of law. He grew up in Camden, Alabama before graduating from Auburn University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in history in 2004, and the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law, where he

earned a Juris Doctorate in 2007.

“I am excited to officially announce my candidacy to serve as a district judge in Lee County,” Thomas said.

This seat, currently held by Judge Russell Bush who has announced his retirement, is the highest volume court in the Lee County system.

“I will fight tirelessly to protect our constitutional freedoms and defend Alabama’s values on the bench,” Thomas added. Thomas began his career in public service as an assistant district attorney in Morgan County, Alabama from 2007 to 2011. He transferred to his hometown circuit in 2011, where

he prosecuted felonies in both Dallas and Wilcox Counties. In 2012, Thomas was offered the position of assistant district attorney in Lee County, where he has been raising his family ever since. He is a member of Opelika Kiwanis and a lifelong Methodist.

“I have dedicated my career to public service,” Thomas said. “I have defended, supported, and worked closely with law enforcement to seek justice for victims of crime. I have prosecuted hundreds of cases making our communities safer and more secure.

I have fought to protect our constitutional freedoms. I believe in the constitution and will preserve, protect,

and defend it at every turn. I believe deeply in the separation of powers as outlined in the constitution. Any good judge knows that their primary job is to apply the law as written by the legislature, instead of making laws.”

Thomas has been serving in Lee County for more than a decade. In addition to his

prosecution responsibilities, Thomas has been assigned to the Lee County Drug and Veteran’s Court since 2013, which is dedicated to helping veterans and other citizens deal with their drug addiction issues so they can continue to be productive members of the community.

He has tried approximate-

ly 75 jury trials consisting mostly of violent crimes and sex offenses. He has also tried hundreds of bench trials in the district court. Because of his success in prosecuting violent criminals, he was named the chief assistant district attorney for the Lee County District Attorney’s office in 2021.

Married with two very active boys, he enjoys watching his kids play baseball and soccer, spending time outdoors with his family, listening to music with his wife and pulling for the Auburn Tigers.

Those interested can learn more about his campaign at www.electclaythomas.org

In the “Game” of Economic Development, We Must Prioritize Industrial Site Development in Order to Win

BY

CONTRIBUTED

JIMMY RANE

OPINION —

Economic development, job creation and business recruitment are a top priority for elected officials, community leaders and business leaders like myself who want to see our communities grow and economies thrive.

Given the huge importance of a growing — or conversely, a shrinking — economy, it might sound strange to think of economic development as a “game,” but in many ways it is. Just like the Southeastern Conference in collegiate sports, the Southeastern United States is also a

league of rival teams; in this case, states competing against each other to win on major economic development opportunities.

The way to win in this “game” of economic development is to attract industry to our state and to our communities. When I started YellaWood, my hometown of Abbeville was struggling. But as we continued to build out our operations and expand our manufacturing base, everything changed. Instead of being a community that was crumbling, and where folks were leaving because of a lack of opportunities to be successful, Abbeville became a place that folks were moving to because of the new opportunities to

have good jobs and provide for their families.

With the growth of industry comes the jobs that communities depend on to be successful, as well as an increased tax base that can be leveraged to invest back into education, law enforcement, infrastructure and countless other priorities that have a direct impact on people’s lives.

Let’s take our state’s favorite sport, football, as an example — an area where we are certainly a national leader. What does a football team need to be successful? You need a good head coach, a quarterback and running back defended by a powerful offensive line, wide receivers who can make plays and a defense

that can stop opponents’ run and pass attacks and prevent opposing offenses from scoring points. Those are a lot of different pieces that all have to fit together to create a winning team.

It is similar with states who are competing to win in the realm of economic development.

Fortunately for our state, we have many of these pieces already in place. We have a strong, skilled workforce. We have a competitive, lowtax, low-regulation business environment. And thanks to a series of economic development incentives bills that were recently passed by our legislature and signed by my friend Gov. Kay Ivey, we have a reinvigorated tool chest to make our state

more appealing.

But one area where our state, unfortunately, needs improvement is in our industrial sites. Just like how a coach looks for a good quarterback, linemen and defensive backs, companies deciding where they would like to establish and expand their operations look for these economic assets. Quality industrial sites in the realm of economic development are just as important as a quarterback is in football.

For companies to choose to invest in Alabama, they need access to shovel-ready industrial sites to create their manufacturing bases and be successful. Many of Alabama’s industrial sites simply do not have the infrastructure and resources that companies need, which makes it difficult for our state’s economic developers to win in their economic development efforts.

This problem is exacerbated as our neighboring states are making ambitious investments into their industrial sites and are seeing great progress. If Alabama does not invest in its industrial sites now, we run the risk of falling behind the rest of the pack and losing out on important economic opportunities for our state’s

FLOWERS

FROM B9

>>

these world class courses. They might look at the adjoining hole and see Bronner playing, chomping on his ever-present cigar.

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail’s first seven sites were constructed in Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, Opelika-Auburn, Dothan and Greenville. These seven were completed from 1990 to 1994. The Prattville site opened, and the Lakewood Club course in Point Clear joined the trail in 1999. The premier Hoover site at Ross Bridge appeared in 2005.

The Ross Bridge course and Ross Bridge Renaissance Resort Hotel and Spa may be the crown jewel. This

future.

We as a state have the opportunity to fix this problem. Thanks to the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act that was signed into law this Spring, we have an opportunity to make our state the gold standard for companies looking to invest.

If the SEEDS Act is fully funded, our state will have the ability to accelerate and expand our site preparation process, as well as Alabama’s inventory of available sites.

Other states are making these investments. Not doing so would make about as much sense as a football team refusing to practice.

If Alabama makes the investments now into our state’s critical industrial sites, we can win the game of economic development and beat Georgia, Tennessee and other states when it comes to creating jobs and developing an economy for the future.

Let’s put our state in a position to win and develop the industrial sites needed to compete.

Jimmy Rane is president and CEO of Great t Southern Wood Preserving.

Hoover location attracts national conventions and has spawned one of the premier residential neighborhoods in the state. Ross Bridge is home to a good many of the young physicians and medical specialists from UAB.

Dr. Mark Fagan has authored a wonderful book on Alabama’s Golf Trail, Bronner and the RSA. It is entitled, “Alabama’s Public Pension Fund Growth and Economic Expansions Since 1972.”

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.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Clay Thomas and his family.

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JOB TITLE: Digital Media

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FSLA DESIGNATION: Non-

Exempt ADOPTION DATE: August

2022

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Digital Media Coordinator is responsible for the daily digital process relating to advertising and marketing of the organization. This includes but is not limited to website management, social media platforms and public reporting and interviews.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Assist with creating posts for the LCHS website, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and Twitter accounts

● Evaluate current LCHS social media posts and assist in creating

PUBLIC NOTICES

FROM B12

>>

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE: The estate of Mary Ann Brady, Deceased.

Case No. 2023-170

TAKE NOTICE that

Letters Administration having been granted to Alicia Martin as Administratrix of the Estate of Mary Ann Brady, deceased, on the 30th day of March , 2023.

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Alicia Martin, Administratrix of the Estate of Mary Ann Brady,

Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

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● Assist with fundraising and adoption events

● Disseminate social media and marketing pieces in the community in a timely manner

● Assist Outreach and Development Coordinator with Public Service Announcements and Press Releases for LCHS events and services developed by the PR/Marketing Intern and others

● Plan and create new social media posts utilizing existing technology and resources

● Assist foster and volunteer coordinators with recruiting new foster homes and volunteers

● Evaluate current LCHS marketing, advertising and public relations efforts and assist in creating updated ways to reach potential foster homes and volunteers

● Pursue and prepare for interviews with local and campus radio and TV stations

Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033

Legal Run 05/11/2023, 05/18/2023 & 05/25/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE; THE ESTATE OF PLENIE LOU JOHNSON, deceased CASE NO.: 2023-205

NOTICE OF HEARING TO: BRANDON TAYLOR AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES

You are hereby notified that on the 20th day of April 2023, Johnny Johnson filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama a Petition for the Probate of record in this Court of a certain paper writing, purporting to be the Last

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● Plan and create new marketing materials utilizing existing technology and resources

● Provide expert support for various software programs including those contained in Microsoft Office Suite, ShelterLuv and Wix.

● Support Shelter Director and Fundraising and Event Coordinator with fund development, events, public relations, social media and website duties.

● Pet of the week communications – includes email and radio slots

● Interview, hire, and manage social media interns.

● Other duties as assigned MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

● Basic knowledge and understanding of animal welfare and behavior;

● Proficiency in computer software relevant to this position such as Pet Point, Word, Excel, etc;

● Knowledge of proper animal handling techniques

● Ability to pass a

Will and Testament of PLENIE LOU JOHNSON, deceased, and on that day, said Will was filed in said Probate Court. It is therefore, ordered that a hearing be set for the 10th day of July 2023, at 11:00 o'clock, a.m. electronically via "ZOOM" for the hearing of said petition, and the taking of testimony in support thereof, at which time any next of kin can appear and contest the same if you see proper. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part.

BILL ENGLISH Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 05/11/2023, 05/18/2023 & 05/25/2023

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● Excellent written communication skills (good grammar, punctuation, and other mechanics of writing)

● Flexibility and dependability

● Strong computer skills

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES/PERSONAL QUALITIES REQUIRED TO SUCCESSFULLY PERFORM THIS

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● A love of animals and people.

● Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing

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or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate effectively;

● Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend or stoop intermittently.

● Ability to lift 50 pounds.

● Knowledge of the safe and humane use of animal handling equipment.

● Desire to learn what you don’t already know and be open to new ideas.

The following occupants at Bent Creek Storage, 2357 E. Glenn Av.e, Auburn AL 36830, are in default of rent. CONTENTS WILL BE SOLD AT AUCTION on StorageAuctions.com on 05/23/2023. William Hummel Unit 3112 appears to contain rugs, vacuum, computer equip., swivel chairs, couches, shelving, mattresses, bed frames, nightstands, lamps, chairs, tables, kitchenware, décor, plastic containers, plastic bag, misc. Boxes, clothing, exercise equip., suitcases, laundry baskets, bookbags, artwork, toys, and misc. items. Legal Run 05/11/2023

STATE OF ALABAMA

LEE COUNTY

PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2023-238 ESTATE OF DONALD

E. MCCONNELL, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Letters Testamentary of said Donald E. McConnell, deceased, having been granted to Susan Denise McConnell Smith this 8th day of May 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Susan Denise McConnell Smith, Personal Representative Legal Run 05/11/2023, 05/18/2023 & 05/25/2023

NOTICE OF SPECIAL

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a special planning session meeting of the board of directors of The Utilities Board of the City of Opelika will be held on May 18, 2023 beginning at 11:30 AM, in the board room of the Administrative Building located in the W. Warner Williams Water Resource Park, 4055 Water Street, Opelika, Alabama. The meeting agenda will be posted as specified in State law.

DATED this the 9th day of May, 2023.

Eric Canada

SECRETARY OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 05/11/2023