The Observer 5-25-2023

Award-Winning Author Inspires New Love of Reading for Local Students

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@OPELIKAOBSERVER.

COM

OPELIKA —

Anything is possible.

That’s what award-winning author, illustrator and self-proclaimed “nice guy” Jerry Craft aims to instill in students through his published works and visits to schools across the United States.

Craft, best known for his “New Kid” trilogy of graphic novels, made his latest stop in Opelika on May 17, where he spoke to nearly 750 seventhand eighth-graders in a packed auditorium at Opelika Middle School. The students laughed, cheered and listened closely as Craft paced the stage, recounting his journey from a young student who “hated

Opelika Hosts CCAA Conference

reading” to someone now living a life bigger than his dreams.

“To come to a place like this and see the energy — like, to go in that auditorium where they’re chanting ‘Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!’ — you can’t help but know that what you’re doing, what you’ve spent the last year of your life on, is worthwhile,” Craft said.

Craft came prepared with a visual presentation, props, jokes and plenty of personal anecdotes, as well as an oversized paper pad he used to demonstrate some of his illustrating skills. He gifted those illustrations — some with direct references to OMS — to the school following his presentation.

“We thought he gave

Leadership Conference April 25 through 27, and Opelika Chamber of Commerce President

and CEO Ali Rauch received the Chamber Champion award.

See CCAA, page A3

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce and Auburn Chamber of Commerce co-hosted the 2023 Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama's Executive Leadership Conference this year at the Auburn Mariott Opelika Resort & Spa at General National.

Jerry Craft sketches a personalized illustration for Opelika Middle School in the style of his award-winning graphic novel, "New Kid." Craft gifted this and more illustrations to the school following his presentation.

See CRAFT, page A2

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

Local Christians who feel called into vocational ministry won’t have to travel far to receive that instruction.

Twelve churches across Lee County have partnered with Christ Our Redeemer Seminary, the area’s only accredited seminary offering a “holistic approach” to earning a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree.

As Christ Our Redeemer Seminary comes to the end of its second year in operation, President and Academic Dean Hoffman Rhyne said he is excited to see what the future holds.

“This idea had been

Local Seminary Celebrates Second Year

developing in my heart for several years, but it wasn't until 2019 that it began to take shape,” he recalled. “I started talking with other pastors and leaders that fall about it, and they resonated with the vision.”

The following February, Rhyne organized a meeting to gauge local interest, and to his surprise, he said, 40 pastors and other Christian leaders from across the county showed up.

“This model of seminary can only exist by collaboration, and I needed to know if there was enough buyin to bring the idea to fruition,” he said. “From that point forward, we formed a launch team and moved quickly to be

able to launch with our first cohort the following August. God blessed us at each step of the way.”

The seminary currently consists of two cohorts and will welcome its third this summer. Only

eight to 14 students are accepted into a cohort following a formal application process. According to Rhyne, the students in each cohort “commit to be a learning community

together” throughout the entire three-year degree program.

The teaching faculty is made up of local pastors, church planters, ministry leaders and missionaries — all from Auburn and

Opelika institutions.

“It has been a joy to see them pouring their lives into our students,” Rhyne said. “We truly have some stellar leaders in our community who could have chosen the path of professional scholarship but instead chose the path of pastoral and ministry leadership. Their strength lies in being able to help students engage with the best scholarship while speaking from a depth of experience.”

According to the seminary’s website, the practicum and mentoring program are designed so that students can experience them in their local churches. Rhyne said the students have 15 mentors to whom they can turn when it

See SEMINARY, page A3

just a great presentation, and the kids loved it,” said Becky Brown, public relations coordinator for Opelika City Schools.

Craft was born in Harlem, New York, and grew up in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City, just like the main character Jordan Banks from his graphic novel, “New Kid.” He spoke of the frustration he felt as he struggled to find books with characters of color to which he could relate — part of the reason he struggled to find interest in books overall, he said.

“Most of the books at that time that featured kids who looked like me were kind of depressing, right?” he told the Opelika students. “It was history, or it was misery — so I never saw myself in books. … So then I started to see, ‘OK, if I saw myself a little bit more in books, maybe I would read a little bit more,’ but I didn’t for a long time.”

In fact, the only books Craft said he enjoyed as a child were Marvel comic books.

“Because I was not a reader, I never really considered myself a writer until I was probably an adult,” he explained.

“One of the cool things is, I started doing comic strips because comic

strips — I could do the fun stuff, drawing, but I didn’t have to do a lot of writing because, again, I didn’t think of myself as a writer at that point.”

Several publishers passed on Craft’s comic, “Mama’s Boyz,” before he decided to learn how to self-publish it, which he did in 1997.

“I’m not going to lie — I did feel rejected,” he recalled. “But there are times in your life when people are not going to believe in you, and it will be up to you.”

Although the road wasn’t easy, taking that action opened more doors for Craft, he said. He met “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” author Jeff Kinney, got invited to illustrate for Scholastic, “Mama’s Boyz” became a five-time recipient of the African American Literary Award, and in 2019 “New Kid” was published by HarperCollins.

“New Kid” went on to become the first graphic novel to receive the Newbery Medal. It also earned the Kirkus Prize for Young Readers’ Literature, the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Author Award and became a No. 1 New York Times bestseller — only to be knocked down to the No. 2 spot by its sequel, “Class Act.” The third installment, “School Trip,” came out last month.

Craft said he is now working on his next

graphic novel trilogy, and “New Kid” is in the beginning stages of being adapted into a live-action movie, thanks to Universal Pictures and SpringHill, a production company owned by LeBron James and Maverick Carter.

Following his presentation to the seventh- and eighth-graders, Craft visited all 16 sixth-grade classrooms to greet students and give away promotional cards featuring his book, each of which he had autographed and illustrated on the back.

“A lot of times, kids by sixth, seventh grade — everything is [about] what they can’t do, and they’re just shut down,” Craft said. “… You don’t realize that you can travel, you can do something that you enjoy doing — you know, there’s so many places to go, things to do, different foods, and I try to put that in my books, showing that there’s a big world out there, and we can get along [with] mutual respect. And those kind of things just makes a better place for everybody.”

Craft’s visit to Opelika Middle School wasn’t the only thing on his agenda for his Alabama trip, however. He also spoke at the Opelika Public Library that evening, where he signed copies of his book for students who were present.

Anna Jones, communi-

ty relations specialist for Opelika Public Library, said the library team was excited to host Craft as part of its Author Talk series.

“We are just so excit-

ed to have him here [to show] how important graphic novels are to get kids to read,” she said.

“… The story of ‘New Kid’ is such a good one for a lot of kids in our

area.”

To learn more about Craft and his published works, visit www.jerrycraft.com/.

Top: Students cheer as Jerry Craft enters the auditorium at Opelika Middle School.

Bottom: Staff from the Opelika Public Library and Opelika Middle School pose for a photo with Craft and his illustration.

Christ Our Redeemer Seminary currently has two cohorts and 15 teachers.

Local Construction Company Awarded for Custom Homes, Remodels

GAME >> from A1

The purpose of the event is to build positive relationships between local law officials and youth.

“We [the Opelika Police Department] know how important it is for officers to connect with our youth to build relationships,” said Allison Duke, community relations administrator for OPD. “Through those relationships we can build trust, which will hopefully have a positive impact on the child and give them the courage to do what is right as they get older. They see officers at events, at school and out in the community, so this is just one more way to bring them together in a more casual setting.”

The annual Game On event is free and brought to the community in partnership with the RaZor Foundation, a local nonprofit. Founded in 2020 by Auburn native and former Alabama football player Alan “Rashaan” Evans, the RaZor Foundation aims to teach young adults critical life skills.

“This is our third annual Game On event in partnership with the RaZor Foundation, which allows kids to interact with law enforcement in a fun and engaging way,” Duke said.

LEE COUNTY —

Pythoge LLC, a local construction company, was awarded seven awards from the 2023 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards that included some of its best custom homes and remodels.

The Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards are presented annually to contractors, remodelers, designers and other building professionals who perform outstanding craftsmanship and uniqueness in projects throughout the state of Alabama.

Pythoge won the categories overall of Custom Home $500,000 to $1 Million, Exterior Remodel, Whole House Remodel $250,000 to $500,000 and Bath Remodel Under $35,000. The company was named runner-up in the categories of Space Renovation and Bathroom Remodel $35,000 to

Each year, the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama (CCAA) hosts a leadership conference for chamber of commerce executives across the state, and this year Opelika had the honor of hosting, along with its co-host, the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. The conference was held at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort &

from A2

comes to personal matters — something he said is also a crucial part of the journey. The students can meet with a mentor one-on-one to work on building character and overcoming trials.

“Character development is critical but often overlooked or avoided due to fear, shame, lack of selfawareness or a host of other issues,” he noted.

“Because the gospel is true, we can face the truth about ourselves even when that truth is unpleasant. Our mentors help students to get comfortable with this so that the grace of God can change us

$70,000. After the awards banquet was over, there was one final award left: People’s Choice Award.

Pythoge had four finalists in this category and took home the win for the most votes on its Custom Home $500,000 to $1 Million.

ABOUT PYTHOGE Pythoge LLC is an

Spa at Grand National.

Attendees heard from speakers on subjects such as branding, workplace dynamics and social media marketing, among other things. They also went on a tour of the Opelika and Auburn area, making stops in downtown Opelika, the Opelika Pickleball Facility, Jordan-Hare Stadium and the Laurel Hotel and Spa, as well as the Hey Day Market and 1856.

Rauch was awarded the Chamber Champion

profoundly over time. We have a lot of room for improvement, but we celebrate how far we've come by the grace of God.”

In addition to the third cohort, Rhyne said Christ Our Redeemer Seminary will soon implement a new certificate program for a broader range of people. Students will be able to complete this program in two semesters consisting of four biblical courses and one course on the spiritual disciplines. The program will also be able to act as an introduction into theological education and ministry preparation, Rhyne added. Rhyne said promotion is also a priority for the seminary. With time,

award-winning construction company that specializes in custom builds and home renovations in Auburn, Opelika, Lake Martin and surrounding areas.

Auburn locals Meri and Ken Pylant founded this company after discovering a passion to keep up with the community’s charm

award at the conference. This prestigious award goes to a chamber professional who has five or less years of employed service in the chamber industry, is a full-time chamber employee, demonstrates professionalism and exemplary leadership, possesses an abiding desire to advance the chamber industry, demonstrates non-chamber community involvement and is an active participant in CCAA professional

by providing services to each of their clients. This includes projects as big as a custom build or as small as a guest bathroom renovation. For more information on Pythoge LLC, contact Project Manager Chris Taylor at 334-750-5271, or visit www.pythoge.com.

development activities.

“I am extremely honored to have received this award, and very thankful that my team was able to be there with me for this exciting moment,” Rauch said. “I truly believe that Opelika is the best place to live, ever, and I am thankful for the opportunity to do what I love every day.”

For more information about the CCAA, visit alabamachambers.org.

The annual Game On event will take place at Opelika High School and is open to the public, and all skill sets. Day-of registration opens at 8 a.m.; children 7 and under play at 9 a.m.; children 8 and older play at 10 a.m.; and lunch will be served at 11 a.m. Online registration is available at www.eventbrite.com/e/togetheropelika-game-on-flag-football-day-2023tickets-630417484667.

“In 2021 we hosted a flag football game, and in 2022 we hosted a soccer game,” Duke said.

“We are excited to return to Opelika High School Bulldog Stadium for flag football again this year.

“Officers and personnel from the Opelika Police Department swap their uniforms for athletic wear and take the field with boys and girls ages 5 to 18 for a morning of fun. Not only do the kids get to interact with law enforcement, but they also get to interact with a diverse group of kids and learn about teamwork. Any skill set is welcome to join.”

his hope is that the ministry will grow to include students from farther out, such as

Columbus, Georgia, and Montgomery. At the end of the day, Rhyne said love and

outreach are at the heart of ministry. The main goal is to “embody and proclaim” the story of

Jesus Christ and reach out to others in love.

“Our vision for the seminary is that the love of Jesus Christ will so change our students that they dedicate their whole lives to spreading the love and news of Jesus to the ends of the earth,” he added. “… We see this not so much as a new thing but as one way in which the church is carrying forward this legacy in our generation. We are humbled to be part of his work in our community and the ripple effects it could have throughout the world.”

For more information about the seminary, or to apply or donate, visit christourredeemer.org.

CONTRIBUTED BY PYTHOGE LLC

Pythoge LLC, can celebrate now that it has won seven awards during the 2023 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards Ceremony.

Representatives from Pythoge LLC pose with six of the awards they earned at the 2023 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards.

ALI RAUCH

SEMINARY >>

Students of the seminary gather for a discussion.

P and L Truck and Trailer Repair Partners with U-Haul

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CUSSETA —

U-Haul Co. of Alabama Inc. announced that P and L Truck and Trailer Repair LLC has signed on as a U-Haul neighborhood dealer to serve the Cusseta community.

P and L Truck and Trailer Repair at 5100 County Road 209 will offer services such as U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment, moving supplies and instore pickup for boxes.

Normal business hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to noon Saturday. Reserve

U-Haul products at this dealer location by calling 334-528-0186

or visiting www.uhaul. com/Locations/TruckRentals-near-CussetaAL-36852/003568/.

P and L Truck and Trailer Repair owner

Paul Triponey said he is proud to team with the industry leader in doit-yourself moving and self-storage to better meet the demands of Lee County.

U-Haul has teamed up with independent dealers to offer rental equipment to do-ityourself movers since 1945. During these challenging times for small businesses, more than 21,000 dealers across the U.S. and Canada are generating supplemental income through their U-Haul affiliation. When customers rent from

a U-Haul dealer, they are directly supporting an independent small business in their community.

Because no financial investment is required to be a dealer, these local affiliates are not U-Haul franchises. They are simply small businesses that have committed a portion of their lot space for U-Haul equipment, and a portion of their time to help meet the mobility needs of their neighbors. Learn more about the dealer program and how to join by visiting uhaul.com/dealer.

U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 allows customers to create an online account and pick up their truck at any hour using only their smartphone

with photo feature and GPS. Trained Live Verify agents support customers online, enabling them to skip the lines and go straight to their truck.

ABOUT U-HAUL

Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers, with a network of more than 23,000 locations across all 50 U.S. states and 10 Canadian provinces.

U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 offers secure access to U-Haul trucks

every hour of every day through the customer dispatch option on their smartphones and U-Haul’s proprietary Live Verify technology. Our customers’ patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to approximately 186,000 trucks, 128,000 trailers and 46,000 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America and offers 934,000 rentable storage units and 79.7 million square feet of

self-storage space at owned and managed facilities. U-Haul is the largest retailer of propane in the U.S. and continues to be the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. U-Haul has been recognized repeatedly as a leading “Best for Vets” employer and was recently named one of the 15 Healthiest Workplaces in America.

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — Acrobats and fire dancers

and The Broadway Boys, oh my!

The Jay and Susie Gogue

Performing Arts Center announced its 2023-2024 lineup last week with a stellar performance from The Broadway Boys.

The Broadway Boys performed during the announcement lineup. The Broadway Boys are a group of six men who have all been in different Broadway shows and perform selections from different shows.

During the announcement, they performed selections from many of the shows that will be coming to the Gogue Center over the next year.

The Gogue will welcome a number of celebrities, Broadway shows and performers to its stages next year, including Patti Lupone, Snarky Puppy, Craig Morgan, Straight No Chaser, “To Kill a Mockingbird” and more.

“We’re thrilled to be able to say goodbye to the 22-23 season and say hello to the 23-24 season,” said Chris Heacox, executive director of the Gogue Center.

There were a few changes to the lineups that Heacox announced, including that all performances will now start

It's a New Season at The Gogue

at 7 p.m. instead of 7:30 — a change that brought great applause from the crowd.

“We do listen,” he said. “… With some of the Broadway shows that we bring, they’re three-hour shows. We want to make sure that we’re able to get everyone home on time.”

Additionally, The Gogue Center is introducing a Country Series with performances from artists like Chris Janson and Easton Corbin.

Family Series will move to Sunday afternoons at 3 p.m.

BROADWAY SERIES

The Gogue Center is bringing several well-known Broadway shows to its stage.

The first is “Come From Away,” which will visit Auburn on Sept. 25 and Sept. 26 at 7 p.m.

“Come From Away” is the true story of 7,000 stranded airline passengers on Sept. 11, 2001, in Gander, Newfoundland.

Next is “Mean Girls” on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29, at 7 p.m.

“We have it on Wednesday, so on Wednesday what are we going to wear?” Heacox asked the audience to a resounding answer of “Pink!”

The Plains will then welcome “My Fair Lady” on Feb. 6 and Feb. 7 at 7 p.m.

Finally, “To Kill a Mockingbird” will come to the stage on Feb. 13 and Feb. 14 at 7 p.m.

“Thrilled to be able to bring this amazing story, this amazing Pulitzer-Prize winning story here to Auburn, where it

should have been when it first came on tour,” Heacox said.

CELEBRITY SERIES

Patti LuPone and her Don’t Monkey with Broadway tour is the first of the celebrity series on Sept. 21 at 7 p.m.

“We’re thrilled to be able to bring Patti here, and one of the things that we try to be able to do every season is bring a Broadway star to Auburn, not only to perform for our audiences but also to be able to work with our theater students in our department of theater and dance,” Heacox said.

LuPone will host a master class for Auburn students while here.

Straight No Chaser will bring the Sleighin’ It tour on Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

Straight No Chaser was a big hit with the Auburn crowd. The a capella group will be performing Christmas numbers and some of their regular hits.

“We’re thrilled to be able to kick off our holiday season with Straight No Chaser,” Heacox said.

In December, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is coming back to Auburn to bring Big Band Holidays on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.

There will be one more in the celebrity series that’s “to be announced,” Heacox said.

CONCERT SERIES

The Auburn crowd was excited and pleased by the announcement of Snarky Puppy coming on Oct. 9 at 7 p.m.

“It’s a group that a number of people have come to me and said, ‘Hey, bring Snarky Puppy, bring Snarky Puppy,’” Heacox said.

Veronica Swift will then perform on Oct. 19 at 7 p.m.

The announcement of the Vienna Boys Choir on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. was met with applause from the crowd.

“We love to be able to have a cappella choirs in the theater,” Heacox said.

To jump into the comedy area, Brian Regan will be at Gogue on Feb. 29 at 7 p.m.

DANCE AND MOVEMENT SERIES

The first dance and movement performance will be held on Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. — “Step Afrika!”

“It’s a really amazing performance; interactive with our audiences, you learn about steps and where it comes from in the African traditions,” Heacox said.

Next is the Mark Morris Dance Group performing “Pepperland” (a tribute to the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart Club Band) at 7 p.m. on Nov. 14.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is performing twice in Auburn on Feb. 20 and Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. and will put on a K-12 school show.

“To be able to bring Ailey here is amazing; it will be their debut performance in Auburn,” Heacox said. “They played in Opelika years and years ago, played in Montgomery and Birmingham but never in our theaters, so to be able to

have this world-class, amazing group — historic dance group — here at Auburn is just one of our bucket-list items.”

The Paul Taylor Dance Company will put on the final dance and movement show on April 16 at 7 p.m.

ORCHESTRA AND CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES

The first show in the Orchestra and Chamber Music Series is a returning artist, Heacox said — Simone Dinnerstein.

Dinnerstein will be doing a residency throughout the year and will perform three times at the Gogue this season.

The first is on Oct. 12 with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra will also be putting on a children’s performance of “Peter and the Wolf” for K-12 students.

Dinnerstein will then perform an immersive performance on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. titled “The Eye Is The First Circle.”

Finally, in April, she will perform “Baroklyn” on April 5.

The other performance in this series is Susanna Phillips on Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.

FAMILY SERIES

“The goal with our family series is make it as affordable and easy for families and people to attend all performances at $10 tickets,” Heacox said.

Those shows will include “The Rainbow Fish” on Oct. 22 at 3 p.m., “The B - The Underwater Bubble Show” on Oct. 29 at 3 p.m.; “123 Andres” on March 24 at 3 p.m.;

and “Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live” on April 7 at 3 p.m.

COUNTRY MUSIC SERIES

“We’re thrilled to be able to bring a number of wonderful country artists here to the Gogue Center,” Heacox said.

The new country series will kick off with Pam Willis & Lorrie Morgan with the Grits and Glamour Tour on Sept. 14 at 7 p.m.

Chris Janson will visit The Plains on Oct. 5 at 7 p.m.

“Chris is an amazing multi-instrumentalist, award-winner, Opry member as well,” Heacox said. “We’re thrilled to be able to bring Chris here.”

Craig Morgan will perform on his God. Family. Country. Tour on Oct. 26 at 7 p.m.

Finally, Easton Corbin will perform at the Gogue on Nov. 10 at 7 p.m.

“I’m not going to hold it against him, he is a Gator,” Heacox said. “We’ll let him get on the stage, we might have a couple shirts for him and a hat — we’ll see if he wears it.”

SUMMER FILM SERIES

Until all these shows kick off, the Gogue Center will host its summer film series featuring three films:“Moana” on June 15, “La La Land” on June 29 and “National Treasure” on July 13. All three will be at 7 p.m. at the Ham Amphitheatre.

The announcement lineup ended with a reception featuring acrobats, fire dancers and more to set the tone for 23-24.

Pictured Above: The Broadway Boys performed hits from various shows that will visit The Gogue Center over the 2023-2024 season.

S ociety & News vents, E

&

Plan Scrumptious Dishes with Family, Friends for Memorial Day

Ann Cipperly

SHouthernospitality

On Memorial Day, savor time with family and friends at the lake, beach or your own backyard. Be sure to plan on plenty of delectable food and cold beverages for lingering over meals outdoors. While enjoying the day, set aside time to give thanks for the men and women who have given their lives serving our country.

A day for remember-

ing and honoring lost soldiers came about over 150 years ago. It became an official holiday in 1967, then moved to the last Monday in May in 1968, becoming a threeday weekend.

When planning your menu for Memorial Day, select sides and desserts that can be prepared ahead to serve with grilled entrees. Lemon Dill Potato Salad should be prepared ahead so

the flavors blend, and it should be kept stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The hearty Cornbread Salad is easily assembled using a Jiffy Cornbread mix. Pound cakes can be prepared ahead and frozen. They become festive desserts when served with strawberries and blueberries, and topped with whipped cream or ice cream. If you are short on time, pick up an

Award-Winning Playwright, Play Coming to Town

showcase her exciting new play, “Water Spirits.” The staged reading of the play will be free to the public on June 8 at 6 p.m. at the museum. There will also be a Meet-thePlaywright reception at the Opelika Bottling Plant on June 7 at 6 p.m.

“Water Spirits” is a

angel food cake at the grocery store and cover it with a refreshing creamy lime frosting. When grilling burgers, remember these tips for having them perfectly

cooked: Set the grill to medium and let it heat for a minimum of 10 minutes if using gas, or until coals turn white if using charcoal. Form patties and season with

salt and pepper. Place an indentation in the center of the burger to minimize shrinking.

Cook burgers approximately four to five

See CIPPERLY, page A9

Breakout Country Singer with Opelika Connection

Releasing First EP

play that explores the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the experience of people coming home to the devastation of the lower ninth ward, and the things that are lost when people are forcibly displaced. The central character, Denise, returns to an

See AACT page A8

CONTRIBUTED BY PLA MEDIA NASHVILLE — Breakout country artist Jacob Jones is set to release his debut EP “Son of a Military

Man” on Friday, May 26. Each track is enhanced by Jones’s authentic storytelling abilities as he touched every aspect of this project. The EP is produced

by Andrew King — who has worked with Blessing Offor, Tenille Arts and Brooke Eden — and mixed by John Palmieri, engineer for Cole Swindell and See JONES, page A8

On Memorial Day, try Easy Grilled Pork Chops that only need to cook for a short time on each side. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to test for doneness, and let the chops rest before serving. Whether you are celebrating at the lake, beach or home, take a few minutes to remember the men and women who paid the highest price for our freedom.

SEAN DIETRICH

Iam at a bar. It’s loud. There is live music. And cheeseburgers. I missed dinner tonight because I was making a speech at a dinner banquet. Which is ironic when you think about it. Everyone at this big banquet was eating hors d’oeuvres, sipping expensive chardonnay and chowing down on Maine lobsters the size of baby grand pianos. I could hardly keep my mind on my speech because the

ballroom was full of people in tuxedos, all wearing little plastic bibs, making a chorus of slurping, sucking, licking sounds.

A woman at the head table who looked like Queen Elizabeth II was wearing a bib. She kept asking me, “Now, how exactly were you invited to this dinner again?”

Each time I answered, she would get this far-away look in her eyes and start sucking meat from a lobster leg like a baby

Bar Food

Wolverine.

So, I felt out of place. I felt even worse when the waiter informed me that the bar didn’t stock Natural Light.

Pretty soon, Queen Elizabeth forgot all about me. Butter sauce dripped down her chin, all over her bib. She would lick her hands violently when she didn’t think anyone was watching. And I don’t mean just her fingers. This woman was actually licking her forearms and her tennis bracelet.

When my speech was done, the last thing I wanted was to stick around and eat lobster with the Royal Family, so I found a beer joint that was open late. Which is where I am now.

It’s a dump, and

there are lots of people here. There’s a guy playing guitar. He plays a rendition of “Brown Eyed Girl” and sings in a voice that is faintly reminiscent of the late Daffy Duck.

The lady bartender gives me a menu and asks, “What’re you so dressed up for?”

“I was just at a banquet.”

“Wow. Fancy pants.”

“You shoulda seen them eat lobster.”

She taps my menu. “Make sure you try our onion rings. They’re famous.”

So I order a cheeseburger, onion rings and a $3 beer. My father was an onion ring connoisseur. I never understood why he was so crazy about onion rings, but he could tell everything he needed

to know about a restaurant based solely upon their onion rings. He would rate them on a scale of one to ten.

There is a young man next to me at the bar who looks sad. He is staring at his beer. He orders a burger and onion rings, but he doesn’t touch them. I try to make conversation, but he’s not going for it.

He’s not here long. Soon, a young lady walks through the door. His demeanor changes. He’s happy. They hug for a long time. He orders her a vodka cranberry. They move to the dance floor. I overhear them ask the guitar player to play something slow.

The musician agrees, then selects a ballad that is neither soft nor sweet. In

fact, it sounds more like tactical ground missiles being launched from a nuclear silo.

So the young couple wanders outside to the empty parking lot. There, they slow dance together beneath a streetlamp with nobody watching.

The bartender asks me, “Hey, where’s the guy who was beside you? Did he leave?”

I point out the window to the couple.

The bartender sees them. She smiles. Her eyes are wet. She calls a server over. I overhear her say to the server, “She’s back.”

“Where was she?” the server asks.

“She was getting treatment in Texas.”

This is all she says. She boxes his food and

United Way of Lee County Announces Official Launch of ‘ReUnited’

CONTRIBUTED BY UNITED

WAY OF LEE COUNTY

OPELIKA —

The United Way of Lee County announced the launch of a new group aimed at creating volunteer opportunities for retired individuals in the Lee County community on May 22. If you are age 50 or older, are retired and live in Lee County, you can apply to be a part of ReUnited.

ReUnited volunteers

JONES >> from A7

Lady A.

A born and raised "military brat,” Jones’s journey has taken him across America, beginning with his Alabama roots and high school years in Virginia. He has since moved on to Nashville, the songwriting capital of the world. Jones’s military background contributes to his fearlessly authentic mindset when songwriting, as he has learned not to take anything for granted, he said.

Inspired by Eric Church, Alan Jackson and George Strait, Jones’s musical threshold knows no limits. With genre acting as a preference, not a barrier, Aerosmith, Nirvana and Guns N' Roses also stand amidst his influences. The central strength of his sound and love for the art form is undoubtedly his ability to put pen to paper, resulting in captivating songs.

Presenting a clear focus on ‘90s-style lyricism and musical

will meet two to three times per month for a total of eight to 10 hours at the United Way of Lee County office, located at 2133 Executive Park Drive in Opelika. They will have the opportunity to serve at the 20 local partner agencies of the United Way of Lee County, help make personalized “thank you” cards for United Way donors and collaborate with United Way staff and other

volunteers about ways to better serve the local community.

Interested individuals can find more information and a link to apply on the United Way’s website, unitedwayofleecounty. com, or they can email 211uwlc@ unitedwayofleecounty. com. Applications opened Monday, May 22, and will close Friday, June 9.

“What better way to bring a new level of

joy and expertise to the United Way of Lee County than from our retired community?” said Courtney Dobbs, community impact support coordinator for the United Way of Lee County. “I have always had a heart for the senior community, so when the opportunity for growth and a need for volunteers was noticed in our organization, I thought, what a perfect way to involve our

retired community.

Their knowledge of the community is unmatched, and I am hopeful that they will benefit from this program as much as the community will.”

ABOUT THE UNITED WAY OF LEE COUNTY

The United Way of Lee County is a nonprofit organization based in Opelika whose mission is to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another

by generating and applying the necessary resources to meet the needs of the community. The organization looks to improve and strengthen the community by focusing on and funding organizations and programs working in four key impact areas, which it believes are the building blocks for a good life: education, health, crisis and families and communities.

progressions, Jones illuminates the possibilities that lie within story-focused, purposeful songwriting.

Jones’s style pulls from the trailblazing foundation of classic country and the timeproven storytelling method of the genre's greats. Songs “Black & White,” “Window Pain” and “Ends In Why” paint visions of the trials and strengths of young love. Other songs “The Fallen Stood” and “Son of a Military Man” instill a sense of forlorn worry, fear and pride for loved ones who readily give the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

“‘Son of a Military Man’ is a project I’m super excited to put out into the world,” Jones said. “Every song on the project reflects a different part of my life and embodies the spirit of country music as I see it. As someone who grew up as a military kid, I wanted to make ‘Son of a Military Man’ the title track to give all the folks in my community a project to make their own — something they could relate to on a deeper

level. This is a song pointed directly at kids who grew up like I did: as the son of a military man.”

The “Son of a Military Man” track list includes:

1. Ends In Why

2. Window Pain

3. The Fallen Stood

4. Savin' Up My Luck

5. Black & White

6. Waitin' On Winter

7. Son of a Military Man

“The album’s focus track, ‘The Fallen Stood,’ is easily the most important song off this project,” Jones said. “It talks about the true story of my best friend’s dad, Lt. Sean C. Snyder. His tragic death in the line of service allows us all to do what we love without fear of having our freedom taken away. I’ve already seen an enormous impact from this song, even unreleased. I hope it helps give the general listener a new perspective on what’s important in life, and I look forward to the reactions of those who have similar experiences.”

Some lyrics from “The Fallen Stood” are

as follows:

Can’t forget the January morning in Virginia.

Said goodbye, walked out and drove to base in that old pickup.

It was an ordinary training flight, but this time something didn’t go right.

He had to give it all when duty called;

Like every gold star kid that folded flag means everything,

‘Cause it stand for the man who I’d like to think never left that pilot seat.

The fallen stood for honor, it wasn’t for the glory —

Signed on the dotted line to add their names to freedom’s story, Paid the price and made that sacrifice for the greater good, So we can live the lives they never could.

The fallen stood.

Jones has received over 250,000-plus global streams across all platforms and received 100,000 streams in his first three months on Spotify. In 2022, 114 different countries streamed Jacob’s music, and he had about 52,400 listeners on Spotify.

ancestral home only to find that more than just her memories are submerged beneath the waters flooding her living room.

“Water Spirits” was a semi-finalist for the Eugene O'Neill Playwright's Conference and the Garry Marshall Theater New Works Festival.

Kester (she/her) is a Black, mixedrace playwright, poet, fiction writer and filmmaker. She draws on both her Yoruba (Nigerian) and Louisiana Creole heritages, as well as her queer, disabled and firstgeneration identities to address themes of migration, familial constructs, tribalism, environmentalism, the physical and/ or racialized body and current events. She often explores speculative genres, infusing magical realism, absurdism or futurism within mundane or hyper-

realist contexts in her writing. Kester said she is looking forward to an upcoming residency at The Hambidge Center in Georgia.

The reception, free to attend, will provide an opportunity to meet the playwright the evening before the reading, ask questions and discuss the writing process. The reception will be held on Wednesday, June 7, upstairs at the Bottling Plant Event Center located at 614 N. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. The reception will begin at 6 p.m.

An abridged staged reading of “Water Spirits” directed by Abdul-Khaliq Murtadha, assistant professor of theater and dance at Auburn University, will be presented at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 8, at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University, located at 901 S. College St. in Auburn. There will be a talk-back with the playwright immediately following the performance. This is a free event, and all are encouraged to attend.

AACT >> from A7

See DIETRICH, page A9

minutes, depending on size and thickness. Flip the burger once and grill an additional four to five minutes, or until the center of the burger reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dining outdoors can enhance the pleasure of a good meal. Cover a table with a bright, festive cloth and serve food buffet-style. Have plenty of ice-cold beverages on

CIPPERLY RECIPES >>

LAYERED APPETIZER

TORTA

Char Warren

Two 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened

1 pkg. dry ranch dip

Coarsely ground black pepper

Mix the above well.

1 jar pesto sauce or about 2 cups homemade

1 jar roasted red peppers, minced, divided

Line greased loaf pan with plastic wrap, letting it extend well beyond the sides.

Press about half of cream cheese mixture into pan, pressing to fill entire bottom and about 1/2 inch thick.

Add about half of pesto sauce.

Add layer of red peppers.

Repeat layers.

Fold down excess plastic wrap over bottom, pressing to make it flat.

Seal out all air, and refrigerate overnight.

Unmold on platter and garnish with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes or parsley.

Serve cold with assorted crackers.

LAYERED MEXICAN DIP

Sally Sewell

So easy and good!

1 can refried beans

1 cup sour cream

8 oz. picante sauce

2 tomatoes, chopped

Shredded cheddar

DIETRICH >>

from A8

pours his beer into a plastic cup.

I keep my eye on the dancing lovers. They stop swaying. They lean against the side of a white Nissan. They are looking at the stars. He’s holding her.

Another server asks, “Who is she, again?”

“That’s J.T.’s girlfriend.”

“Is that who the vodka cranberry was for?”

“Yeah. I guess her treatment’s over.”

“No, not over. My mother had the same kind she’s got. You never quit holding your breath. It’s never over.”

“How long was she at MD Anderson?”

“A little while.”

hand. If you are staying home on Memorial Day, check into the local events being held to honor fallen soldiers. American Village hosts special events, and admission is free. Both Auburn and Opelika also have events planned for the day.

Opelika will host Memorial Day Services on May 29 at 10 a.m. at Courthouse Square. The opening prayer will be presented by Paul Dunbar, Kids Ministry pastor of First Baptist Church.

cheese

2 green onions, chopped

4 ½ oz. can black olives, sliced

Spread beans in a 12-by-8-inch baking or serving dish. Layer the remaining ingredients and top with the olives. Serve with corn chips. Sally not only uses this as a dip, but as a side dish.

You can substitute chunky salsa for the picante sauce and chopped tomatoes.

EASY GRILLED PORK CHOPS

Boneless pork

chops

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

Heat grill over medium-high heat. Cook until seared and cooked through for 8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer.

Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees. You can pull the mat off the grill at 140 degrees, and it should reach 145 after resting.

Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving.

CHEESE-STUFFED BURGERS

1½ lbs. ground beef sirloin or chuck

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

8 slices American, cheddar or Swiss cheese

“I have a friend who beat cancer.”

“Cancer sucks, man.”

The guitar player is now playing “Runnin’ With the Devil” by Van Halen in a style that sounds exactly like a North Atlantic whale mating with a semitruck on I-65.

I pay my bill and leave a tip. Before I go, the bartender stops me. “Hey,” she says. “Can you give this box of food to them on your way out?”

She nods to the couple.

I am a writer, so I say sure.

On the way to my vehicle, I hand the man his Styrofoam box. I hate to interrupt an intimate moment.

I have enough of my mother in me to think about trying, but I chicken out.

The guest speaker will be Army veteran and City Council Member Todd Rauch. While serving in the Army, Rauch was named Soldier of the Year for the 18th Military Police Brigade in Giessen, Germany.

The Opelika Fire Department will perform the Presentation of Colors and Laying of the Wreath.

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

Grilled Vidalia onions

4 hamburger buns

Mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise

Fresh sliced tomatoes

Lettuce

In a bowl, gently mix ground beef, salt and pepper. Divide meat mixture into eight equal portions and shape each into a 4-inch round. Top each of four rounds with 2 slices of cheese. Lay another patty on top of each and press edges together to seal.

Lay burgers on oiled barbecue grill over a solid bed of hot coals or high heat on a gas grill. Close lid on gas grill. Cook burgers, turning once, until browned on both sides and done to your liking.

GRILLED VIDALIA

ONIONS

2 Vidalia onions, sliced crosswise, ¼-inch thick slices

2 Tbsp. olive oil

Salt and black pepper Brush olive oil on both sides of the onions and season with salt and pepper. Grill onion slices for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

GRILLED OR STOVE

TOP BURGERS

1 lb. ground lean beef

1 large egg

All I see are two people who don’t want to let each other go because there’s no telling what would happen if they did.

They open the box. They split the hamburger between themselves.

The young man lifts an enormous onion ring and says to me, “Hey! Have you tried the onion rings here? On a scale of one to 10, they’re a 10.” How do you like that.

Sometimes you learn things about yourself when you least expect it. You learn what you’re made of. You learn about sadness. And joy. And love. But tonight, I learned that I’d rather eat onion rings with good people than eat lobster with the Queen.

Following the Memorial Day services, the Museum of East Alabama will host a reception for the public.

Auburn is planning its 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 He-

1/4 cup minced onion or 1 tsp. onion powder

1/4 cup dried breadcrumbs or panko crumbs

1 Tbsp. Worcestershire

1 or 2 cloves garlic, minced, or 1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

4 hamburger buns

Toppings of choice

Mix ground beef, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt and pepper until well blended. Divide mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties.

Cook on grill or in a skillet on the stove top, turning once, until browned on both sides and no longer pink inside.

If topping with cheese, add a minute before finishing cooking. Serve with toppings of choice and buns.

AJ’S GRILLED OR STOVE TOP TURKEY BURGERS

1 lb. ground turkey

2 Tbsp. panko crumbs or dried breadcrumbs

1/4 cup finely diced onion or 1 tsp. onion powder

1 egg

1 clove garlic, minced or 1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

roes Remembered Award will be presented to the family of Air Force Capt. Randal Hudon. Tickets can be purchased at Auburn City Hall, located at 144 Tichenor Ave., and are $25 a person or $250 for a table of 10.

American Village in Montevallo will have free admission on Memorial Day from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. See military interpreters and restored military vehicles. Meet patriots of the past.

A memorial service

Few dashes Worcestershire sauce

Chopped parsley, optional

Assorted toppings

Buns

Mix ground turkey, panko crumbs, onion, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire and parsley. Form into patties. Place in refrigerator until ready to cook. Can freeze.

Cook patties on the grill or in a medium skillet over medium heat, turning once, to an internal temperature of 180 degrees. Be sure no pink remains and that burgers are fully cooked.

CORNBREAD SALAD

1 pkg. Hidden Valley ranch dressing mix

1 cup sour cream

1 cup mayonnaise

Tex Mex cornbread (recipe follows)

Two 16-oz. cans pinto beans, drained (black beans)

3 large tomatoes, chopped

½ cup chopped green pepper

½ cup chopped green onions

2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 16-ounce cans

whole kernel corn, drained

Tex Mex Cornbread

1 pkg. Jiffy cornbread mix

1 can chopped

remembering America’s fallen will be held at 11 a.m. at the Colonial Chapel.

American Village is located an hour north of Montgomery off I-65 at the Shelby County Airport exit. Food trucks will be on site.

Whatever is on the menu this Memorial Day, be sure to remember and give thanks for those who paid the highest price for us to enjoy this time with family and friends.

green chilies

Mix cornbread as directed on package, adding green chilies. Pour into a greased 9-inch pan. Bake as directed on package. Combine dressing mix, sour cream and mayonnaise; set aside.

Place half of crumbled cornbread in a large serving bowl. Top with half of beans. In a medium sized bowl, combine tomatoes, green pepper and onions; place half of this on top of beans. Layer half of cheese, bacon and corn. Top with half of dressing. Repeat layers. Cover and chill at least 3 hours. Better made a day ahead.

SLOW COOKER BARBECUE CHICKEN

1 to 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 jar of your favorite barbecue sauce

1 medium sweet onion, sliced Place chicken in a slow cooker. Add onion slices and pour barbecue sauce over top. Cook on low for 8 hours or until chicken is tender.

LEMON DILL POTATO SALAD

24 new potatoes (do not peel)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tsp. lemon zest

2 Tbsp. fresh dill or 2 tsp. dried

1 small red or Vidalia

See RECIPES page A11

Noon Tunes Fill the Square

Sundilla Concert Series & Radio Hour to Welcome Deidre McCalla

CONTRIBUTED BY SUNDILLA

AUBURN —

Sundilla will welcome Deidre McCalla to the stage for a long-awaited concert. Showtime at Pebble Hill is 7:30 p.m.

If the weather cooperates, this will be an outdoor show. Advance tickets are $20 and available at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee and online at sundillamusic.com, while admission at the door will be $25. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food or beverage.

McCalla doesn’t merely take the stage, she owns it. Her songs embody hope and celebration, struggle, loss and longing — sometimes all in one song.

With five independent albums to her credit, including her most recent release, “Endless Grace,” McCalla has touched audiences from Maui to

Maine, church basements and college coffeehouses to Carnegie Hall. In 2021, McCalla received a SERFA Award from the Southeast Regional Folk Alliance for distinguished service and exceptional contributions to folk music in the Southeast region of Folk Alliance International. Sundilla was a proud recipient of this same award in 2017.

The Austin-American Statesmen cites McCalla as “a highly distinctive voice in a crowded field of contemporary folk music,” and Sing Out Magazine lauds her CD, “Playing for Keeps,” as a work of “power, conviction and grace.” McCalla’s music taps a variety of musical styles, with her vocals the connecting thread drawing the listener in with rich warmth and a feather-light depth. Her powerful songwriting exhibits an unyieldingly honest perspective grounded in her life and

expressed with a lyric touch that is simple and direct and fearlessly celebrates the power and diversity of the human spirit.

McCalla came of age in the fiery blaze of NYC's folk heyday — a time when Greenwich Village clubs were filled with the likes of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Phil Ochs, a time when Motown ruled the top of the charts and the streets of America screamed with anger and civil unrest. Her first album, “Fur Coats and Blue Jeans,” was released on Roulette Records when she was 19 and a student at Vassar College. With a theater degree tucked under her belt and an acoustic guitar tossed in the back of a battered Buick station wagon, McCalla hit the proverbial road and never looked back.

A much beloved performer, McCalla has

DEIDRA MCCALLA

shared the stage with a long list of notables that includes Suzanne Vega, Tracy Chapman, Holly Near, Odetta, Cris Wil-

liamson and Sweet Honey in the Rock. She has taught performance at Warren Wilson College's Swannanoa Gathering

Music fills the air in Courthouse Square in Opelika every Wednesday during May. Noon Tunes, sponsored by the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department, is held at noon each week. The community is invited to come and enjoy the hour-long, free, open-air concert. Local group Martha's Trouble performed on May 17. Strawberry Whine will be the final performers this month on May 31. Mark Wilson and Jessica Walters perform music from today's country artists such as Allison Krauss, Sugarland and Kenny Chesney. The father/daughter duo also performs tunes from classic rock artists such as the Allman Brothers, Eagles and Tom Petty.

Seniors Going for Gold

The Alabama Senior Olympics recently held a track and field event at Opelika High School. Athletes over the age of 50 participated in various track and field competitions. One athlete is still competing in the games at the age of 96. For more information on Alabama Senior Olympics, visit www.alseniorolympics. org/ or its Facebook page www.facebook.com/ ALSeniorOlympics/.

CIPPERLY RECIPES >>

from A9

onion, chopped

½ cup sour cream

½ cup mayonnaise

2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

Cover potatoes with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.

Drain and refrigerate.

When cooled, quarter potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Add lemon zest, dill and onion. Fold in sour cream, mayonnaise and lemon juice.

Chill at least 3 hours before serving. Toss before serving. Serves eight.

GRILLED EYE OF

ROUND ROAST

Brenda Goodman

Eye of round roast

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

l/2 tsp. salt

l tsp. coarse ground black pepper

l tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 sticks butter

Sprinkle garlic powder and salt over butter and let set at room temperature.

Brown roast on grill for 25 minutes on each side.

Place roast on two layers of foil and add butter mixture, black pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Seal foil securely. Place back on grill with grill cover over roast. Cook one hour or longer for tenderness.

Slices beautifully

when cooled. Spoon sauce over sliced roast.

BUTTERMILK POUND

CAKE TOPPED WITH STRAWBERRIES AND BLUEBERRIES

Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream topped with blueberries and sliced strawberries for a colorful Memorial Day dessert.

1 cup butter, softened

2 ½ cups sugar

4 eggs

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Confectioners' sugar, optional

In a large bowl, cream butter and

sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine flour and baking soda; add alternately with buttermilk and beat well. Stir in vanilla.

Pour into a greased and floured 10-inch Bundt pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioner’s sugar, if desired.

LIME FROSTED

ANGEL FOOD CAKE

Pat Fox

1 angel food cake

1 can sweetened condensed milk, chilled

½ cup lime juice

2 tsp. lime zest

1 small container

Cool Whip

1 pkg. flaked coconut, optional

Beat sweetened condensed milk; add lime juice and zest; continue beating.

Fold in Cool Whip.

Slice angel food cake in half. Spread frosting between layers and cover the cake. Sprinkle with coconut if desired.

HEARTY BAKED

BEANS

Ann Gore

½ lb. ground beef

1 medium green bell pepper, chopped

1 medium onion,

chopped

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. pepper

Brown the above ingredients in a small amount of olive oil and drain well.

3-4 slices bacon, chopped and cooked until crisp in about 1 tsp. olive oil (do not drain).

Add to deep skillet or Dutch oven:

Browned ground beef mixture

1 large can pork and beans

½ cup Heinz ketchup

2 Tbsp. yellow mustard

1/3 cup dark brown sugar

Taste and add additional ketchup and/or brown sugar if desired and cook over low heat or bake in the oven for about 30 minutes.

Rocky Top Farm Rocks Hay Days

The Farm at Rocky Top hosted its first ever Hay Days event last weekend, May 20 and 21. Vendors and visitors from near and far flocked to the farm to play games, shop various products, enjoy

RELIGION —

In Hebrews 2:6ff, the writer uses Psalm 8 to make the point that Jesus’ humanity — being made a little lower than the angels — was actually the means by which He was able to win back humanity’s lost glory and dominion. What was lost in Eden has been recovered at Calvary because, by the grace of God, Christ tasted death “for everyone” (v. 9).

Thinking About the Atonement

And with those two words, we’re introduced to atonement and specifically the principle of substitution (something people with Jewish backgrounds were well acquainted with). Jesus did something for us that we could not do for ourselves: He tasted death. What that means, He will develop. Right now, we simply need to know that He did it. Because of His redemptive work, Jesus was “crowned with glory and honor” (v. 9).

Verses 10 through 13 function as an aside, a parenthetical comment to expand upon exactly why Jesus had to be made “a little lower than the angels.” He notes that Jesus’ suffering was “fitting” because He became “perfect through what He suffered” (v. 10).

He’s not referring to suffering in general, but rather the suffering of

death (v. 9) — something only humans could experience. It perfected Jesus not in a moral sense but in a priestly one. Until the cross, He was “merely” a righteous man. That, of course, was a magnificent thing that made Him unique among all people past and present and brought glory to God. Nonetheless, it didn’t fulfill His mission, which was to become a substitute or “ransom” for many (Matthew 20:28). His “indestructible life” (7:16) qualified Him to offer His life as a sacrifice for the sins of others — but He had to die for that to become a reality. That’s how He became “perfect through what He suffered.”

Jesus had to become human in order to die a sacrificial death and become the perfect high priest. In doing so, humanity’s lost glory, honor and dominion were

restored. But there’s more: Through His sacrificial death, Jesus made atonement (v. 17).

Through His sacrifice, Jesus was able to break “the power of him who holds the power of death — that is, the devil and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death” (v. 14-15).

The power of death is not the ability to end people’s lives — God is control of that. The power of death is not the ability to determine the eternal destiny of people — God is in control of that. The power of death is Satan’s ability to hold people in slavery through their fear of death.

People fear death because it renders them powerless. Whatever else is true, they recognize they don’t have the power; if they did, they would choose not to die. But they know they are

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

powerless and fear death because they don’t have Someone who can help them on the other side.

Through His death and resurrection for our sin, Jesus obliterated all of that. He came out of the tomb as the One who bore our sin and lives again — just as we will. He destroyed Satan’s work (1 John 3:8). He holds the keys to death and Hades (Revelation 1:18).

Finally, through His cross work, Jesus restored our lost glory and dominion. He has brought “many sons and daughters to glory” (v. 10). We haven’t realized it yet, but it has been secured and is coming (see Romans 8:18-25 and 1 Corinthians 15). We live in anticipation of that great day.

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

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church

3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church

301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Church

5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd.,

Valley 334-710-2117

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

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

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

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ

500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

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

Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika 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

BRUCE GREEN

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Ilove discovering a captivating new idea, like the one I found in “Resilient,” John Eldredge’s recent book — that salvation is a new attachment. Equally exciting was learning that one of my favorite authors considered this the most important lesson

A Captivating New Idea

attachment with God.”

of his life.

Having been blessed by Dallas Willard’s writing (“Renovation of The Heart” ), I was pleased to read Eldredge’s poignant story, written by Jim Wilder, about his visit with Willard shortly before Willard died.

His eyes wet with tears, Willard said to Wilder, “What I have learned in this last year is more important than what I learned in the rest of my life. But I have no time to write about it. … You need to write about this.” Then Willard unveiled his riveting idea: “I know of no soteriology [doctrine of salvation] based on forming a new

Wilder elaborated: “The only kind of love that helps the brain learn better character is attachment love. The brain functions that determine our character are most profoundly shaped by who we love. Changing character, as far as the brain is concerned, means attaching in new and better ways.”

This realization, Wilder says, brought Willard to more tears. “If the quality of our human attachments creates human character, is it possible that when God speaks of love, ‘attachment’ is what God means?”

Willard was less than 3 years old when his mother died. His mother’s death, Eldridge said, was “incomprehensible,” robbing the little boy of the attachment every child needs with their mother. Willard was so devastated that during the funeral he tried to climb into his mother’s casket. An unforgettable scene. How remarkable then, Eldredge observes, that this little boy would discover, at the end of his life “his most important lesson — salvation is a new attachment, the soul’s loving bond to our loving God.” The concept of

attachment brings to mind several relevant scriptures:

John 15:5 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains [attached] in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me [unattached] you can do nothing.”

John 16:33 — “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace” (peace through our attachment to Jesus).

2 Corinthians 1:3-

4 — “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that

we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” (Attached to God, we become attached to one another in the Body of Christ, thus becoming vessels of God’s comfort.)

Attachment love — what God offers us in Jesus. A new way to comprehend our great salvation. An exciting new way to invite those who are unattached to Jesus to seek the only attachment that satisfies our deepest desire — the soul’s loving bond to our loving God. Truly captivating!

Jack entered life on this earth on Aug. 29, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana. And departed this life into eternity with the Lord on May 20, 2023. A funeral service was held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika. A private burial was held after the service.

Jack is preceded by his parents, John M. Downes Sr. and Evelyn Blumenthal

Downes; his siblings

Gaynell Downes, Barbara Downes Vaugn, Dan Downes and his half-sister, Muriel Ann Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Julie Williams Downes; his sons Greg Downes (Kimberly), Jeff Downes (Penny) and Scott Downes (Dawn); his stepdaughter Jessica Lawson Mure’ (Joey) and stepson Lee Lawson (Regan); and his 17 beloved grandchildren: Lauren, Corey, Chad, Sydney, Harrison, Alex, Brendan and Beckett Downes; Annie, Lily Kate, Chapel, Adler and Tyndall Mure’; Knox, Greer, Libby and Ann Garrett Lawson.

Jack served in the United States Marine Corps and Reserves as 1st sergeant. He received his Juris Doctor from

Jones School of Law. Jack retired from 36 years at the VA Regional Office of Montgomery, Alabama, as Claims Service Center manager. After retirement and relocating to Auburn in 2003, Jack enjoyed many volunteer opportunities at Habitat for Humanity, Calloway Gardens, AUMC Food Pantry, ARM, Jubilee Ministry and Harvesters, and as a bailiff at the Lee County Justice Center.

The family would also like to give a special thank you to Compassus Hospice for the wonderful care they gave Jack and the family during his last two months.

Donations may be made to the AUMC Food Pantry, AUMC Reach Ministry, Habitat for Humanity or to the charity of your choice.

SARAH "SALLY" BUCHANAN VANN

Sarah “Sally” Buchanan Vann, 76, died March 30, 2023, in Greenville, South Carolina, where she was residing with her daughter and son-in-law, grandchildren and greatgrandson.

Sally was born in Oakridge, Tennessee, to A.M. (Macy) and Catherine (Kitty) Buchanan. She grew up

in Opelika. She graduated from Opelika High School and attended Auburn University. Sally worked for many years at the Lee County Commission, serving the last several years prior to her retirement as assistant county administrator. Following her retirement from the Lee County Commission, Sally continued her service in local government working Lee County E911. Sally was married to the late Kenneth Vann. She and Kenneth enjoyed many years with their large, blended family, and she particularly enjoyed spending time with and spoiling her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her cats. Sally also enjoyed travelling with her husband, her family and with her lifelong Girl Scout friends. Sally was fond of reading, spending time in the yard, and was often found on her front porch.

Sally was preceded by her husband, Kenneth Espy Vann, and her stepdaughter, Holly Vann Remick. She is survived by her children Mary Catherine (Danny) Bradford, Scott Easton and Leslie Vann (Phil) Lazrovitch; her brothers Bob (Ardine) Buchanan and Bill (Sandy)

Buchanan; grandchildren Stephen (Kayla) Bradford, Sarah Beth Bradford (Lucas) Tribble, Will Bradford, Sam Easton, Kenneth Mott, Kayla Remick, John-Michael Remick, Ariail Lazrovitch and Morgann Lazrovitch; and two great-grandsons.

A memorial service honoring her life will be held at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 2616 Lee Road 243, Smiths Station, Alabama, on Saturday, May 27, at 2 p.m., EST. Visitation will be at 1:30 p.m. at the church.

Memorials may be made to the Columbus chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association or the Lee County Humane Society.

HARRY G. VOGLER

Funeral services for Mr. Harry G. Vogler, 78, of Opelika, were held Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Chapel.

Mr. Vogler passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023. He was born on June 10, 1944.

Mr. Vogler is preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Judy Diane Vogler.

Mr. Vogler is survived by four sons: Vince, Mark, Michael and Erik Vogler; two granddaughters: Erin

Martin and Anna-Marie Valentine; grandson, Will Erik Vogler; greatgranddaughter, Lindy Martin and great-grandson, Brantley Valentine.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all funeral arrangements.

FELIX JAYMZ FIALLO

Felix Jaymz Fiallo was born Oct. 2, 1999, in Gainesville, Florida, to Jessica and Felix Fiallo, and he passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on May 17, 2023.

Felix enjoyed football. He played for Dadeville High School and later coached 11-to 12-year-old Dadeville Youth Football. He enjoyed spending time with family and gaming with friends online. Felix was a music lover and a self-taught gunsmith.

He is preceded in death by his uncle Jaymz; cousin, Neatro Warens and friend, Corbin Holston.

He is survived in death by his parents, Jessica and Felix Fiallo; paternal grandmother; maternal grandparents; as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Visitation was held Friday, May 19, 2023, at Revival Center Church, located at 82 Midway

Circle, Jacksons Gap, Alabama, with a funeral service following at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dadeville Youth Football League.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all funeral arrangements.

HOYT A. WALKER

Hoyt A. Walker, 89, of Salem, Alabama, passed away May 16, 2023.

Mr. Walker was born Aug. 28, 1933, in Alabama to parents Noah and Ruby Caldwell Walker.

Mr. Walker was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Sue Walker; parents, William Noah Walker and Ruby Caldwell Walker; and his son, Barry Glenn (Khalil) Walker.

He is survived by his daughter, Susan Adams (Troy); grandchildren: Brandon Knight (Karlie), Anna Lunceford (Adam); Omar Bin Khalil Walker, Safiyyah Khalil Walker and Roqayyah Khalil Walker; and four greatgrandchildren. A memorial service was held Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

JOHN "JACK" MULCAHY DOWNES JR.

SARAH RUTH ENGLE

Sarah Ruth Coxwell

Engle, 90, of Opelika, passed away Monday, May 15, 2023, at Arbor Springs Health and Rehab Center in Opelika.

Mrs. Engle was a native of Union Springs, Alabama, and lived most of her life in Opelika. She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Opelika and she was a longtime, active member of the Opelika Pilot Club. For many years, she and her husband, James Arthur (Jim) Engle, owned and operated a multi-line independent insurance adjustment business in Opelika, Westbrook & Associates Inc., which serviced East-Central Alabama and West-Central Georgia.

Mrs. Engle was preceded in death by her husband, James Arthur (Jim) Engle; daughter, Janet Leigh (Jan) Engle Cumbie; mother, Bessie Ruth Coxwell of Opelika and father, Wesley W. Coxwell of Opelika. She is survived by her sister, Nellie Coxwell Boland of Opelika; nephew, Robert Bennefield of Gulf Breeze, Florida; nieces: Angie Castleberry of Sylacauga, Alabama, and Janice Helms of Hoover, Alabama; sonin-law, Marty Cumbie of Panama City Beach, Florida; grandchildren: Clay Cumbie of Nashville, Tennessee, and Courtney Cumbie Jones (Tyler) of Columbia, Missouri; great-grandson, Parker Engle Jones and great-

of cousins and other family members including Linda Ambrose, Terri Silbis, Shirley Mullins, Rebecca Anne Coxwell, Willie Coxwell, Wendell Coxwell, Patti Walker Head, Mike Head, Steve Head and Lavell Head.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 19, 2023, at the Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel in Opelika, with First Baptist Church Associate Pastor Cade Farris officiating. Interment immediately followed the service at Garden Hills Cemetery.

The family respectfully declines the gift of flowers and suggests memorials may be directed to the First Baptist Church of Opelika, 301 S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral

Camp Hill Marketplace Farmers Market 21900 Sen Claude Pepper Dr., Camp Hill, AL.

Every Saturday 8 to 11 a.m.

June 3 through Sept 30

Senior Benefit Card are Welcome!

Contact: Sharon Farrow-Brooks 256-749-5100

Vendors applications are available

What's Happening in Lee County

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.

FARMER'S MARKETS

• It is summer and the O Grows Farmer's Market is back — every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

• City Market, Auburn Parks and Recreation’s farmers market, returns on Saturdays, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Town Creek Park. City Market will be held every Saturday now through Aug. 26. For more information about City Market, visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks/programs/city-market or follow @ CityMarketAuburnAL on Facebook and Instagram.

PEPPERELL BAPTIST VBS

Pepperell Baptist is having "Ready, Set, Move" Vacation Bible School June 12 through 15, 9 a.m. to noon. Parents can register their children on the Pepperell Website at www.pbcopelika.org. The Vacation Bible School will cover "Follow Jesus Here, There and Everywhere!"

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 MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet June 20, 2023, at 7 p.m.

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

BEAUREGARD LUNCHEON FOR OLDER ADULTS, CAREGIVERS

On Wednesday, June 28, at noon, please join us for lunch as a speaker from the Area Agency on Aging shares the ways that the senior adults in our community can be supported and helped. This kickoff for “Heart of Beauregard” — a series of community resource events — will be held at Watoola Methodist Church, 1370 Lee Rd 38, in Opelika. Charlotte Bledsoe, with the Aging and Disability Resource Center for Lee County, will explain how to access meal deliveries for the homebound, assistance with Rx payment, the senior centers in our area, homemaker programs, Alabama Cares, home cleaning aids, the Medicaid Waiver program and helps with patients staying in their own homes.

chools & S S

Thursday, May 25, 2023

ON THE MARK

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

Opelika Wraps Up 2022-23 Year

OPELIKA —

The OHS football team completed spring football practice with a "red versus black" scrimmage at Bulldog Stadium last Friday night. I have not spoken with head coach Erik Speakman since Friday's scrimmage but discussed spring practice last Thursday on my morning radio show, "On the Mark.” Speakman, who has now completed his sixth spring practice as head coach, told me and listeners the following:

“We have between 160 and 170 players participating in spring drills right now. I use spring to focus on up-and-coming players and non-starters because we know about our returning starters and what position they can play. I plan to do several things during the scrimmage, including letting the first team offense scrimmage against the first team defense and allow kickers and punters to kick, but not live.”

The Dogs will have a few weeks off before beginning summer workouts.

GRADUATION

Opelika High School will hold graduation ceremonies Friday, May 26, inside Bulldog Stadium at 7 p.m. This is a special time of year for the graduates, family and friends. Congratulations to the

Auburn High School Recognized For Excellence

class of 2023, no matter what school you attend. I want to give a special shoutout to the following seniors that assist me at West Ridge Park during baseball tournaments, among many other duties: George Meyers, Taylor “Tommy" Fields, Dalan Bush and Jake Smith.

OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS

ATHLETIC SUPPLEMENTS

Opelika City Schools faced reclassification in 2022, moving up to 7A. The Dogs competed in the highest classification (6A) until Class 7A was formed in 2014. OHS is once again playing in the top class in the AHSAA, and OCS Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore made a strong commitment based on the amount of money spent on coaching supplements at OMS and OHS.

The following is a breakdown of supplements at OMS and OHS for each sport from Opelika City Schools.

OMS ATHLETICS

• System athletic direc-

tor: $82,000

• OMS athletic director: $8,000

• OMS Baseball, head coach: $2,760 / one assis-

tant: $1,200 / one assis-

tant: $900

• Basketball: one girls head coach: $2,675

• Seventh and eighth grade head boys coaches: $2,675 each

See SPORTS, page B2

“We are pleased to

First Year in 7A Putting ‘The Opelika Way’ On Display

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER OPELIKA —

With spring sports coming to a close, Opelika High School has now completed a full academic year since its move to 7A — a year full of ups and downs, according to Opelika Athletics Director Jamie Williams.

While it has proven to be a new challenge athletically, Opelika is still operating by the same standards it has always run on.

“[The first year in 7A] was a bit of a roller coaster,” Willaims said. “We beat the No. 1 team in the state, Central, in football, but it’s been an adjustment. We played teams like Auburn and Central [before moving to 7A], but now you have to beat them to get in the playoffs, so that’s a little bit of an adjustment.

“Being here before — and I’ve lived here for six years, so I know the community and things like that — it wasn’t as big of

an adjustment as opposed to if I had moved in from, like, North Alabama. I thought there was going to be more of a learning curve, but there really wasn’t just because it’s so similar to the position I was in five years ago.”

In 7A Region 2, a division that Williams described as the toughest in the state, Opelika has the tough task of occupying a region alongside teams like Central, Auburn and Smiths Station. Williams compared the Bulldogs’ situation to Auburn University’s in the SEC West, where you have to face opponents like Alabama, LSU and Texas A&M annually.

Being the smallest school according to student population in its region, the move from 6A to 7A has presented Opelika with some challenges. But according to Williams, it has also allowed the school to display its character.

Through the period of growth and change,

JAMIE WILLIAMS

Opelika has not strayed from what Williams referred to as “the Opelika way.” Opelika is still doing things in the same manner as before, despite

being on a bigger platform.

“I think keeping our small-town, blue-collar values while we continue to grow — that’s the

See OPELIKA, page B4

CONTRIBUTED BY AHS AUBURN — Auburn High School

has been named a 2023 National Model of Excellence for Most

Outstanding SkillsUSA Program.

Students from Auburn High School's SkillsUSA Chapter display a banner indicating its outstanding work.

Tigers Get Their Quarterback

Central Baseball Nearly Repeats State Title, Dominates Region in 2023

MSU ATHLETICS

Peyton Thorne is transferring to Auburn from Michigan State.

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER

AUBURN — Michigan State transfer quarterback Peyton Thorne announced Friday, May 5, his intentions to play for the Auburn Tigers in 2023.

The former Spartan arrived on The Plains days ago and is the public frontrunner to win the starting job.

“Man, he didn’t wait,” said head coach Hugh Freeze. “He’s already in there watching film on his own and learning stuff. He’s anxious to get with the team and start working out.”

Thorne’s experience as a two-year starter at Michigan State will add another dynamic of competition to a thin Auburn quarterback room. With the outgoing transfer of T.J. Finley, Auburn’s quarterback room prior to the addition of Thorne was comprised of redshirt sophomore Robby

Ashford and sophomore Holden Geriner. The two have combined for just seven career passing touchdowns. Thorne has 49 career passing touchdowns — ranking fourth in MSU history — in 26 career starts at Michigan State. He compiled a 16-10 record over two seasons as the starter, with 2021 undoubtedly serving as his “breakout” year.

That season, Michigan State was led by a lethal onetwo punch of passing and rushing. Eventual second-round pick, 2021 Doak Walker Award winner, Walter Camp National Player of the Year and consensus First Team All-American Kenneth Walker provided the kind of threat to the front seven of defenses that would help any quarterback find more room to throw in the secondary.

Additionally, MSU boasted a pass-catching corps that rivaled

$2,675 / assistant coach: $1,200 and one assistant at $900 OHS SUPPLEMENTS

• Basketball assistant for girls and boys: $1,200

• Cheer: head coach:

$3,745 / cheer assistant:

$2,675

• Cross country head coach for girls and boys:

$2,675 each

• Cross country assistants for girls and boys: $900 each

• Dance pom head coach: $3,745 / dance pom assistant: $2,675

• Football: head of operations: $6,000

• Head football coach:

$4,600

• Five assistant football coaches: $3,745

• Five assistant football coaches: $2,800

• Strength and conditioning, football only: $450

• Soccer head coach:

$2,675 / assistant: $900

• Softball head coach:

$2,675 / softball assistant: $1,200 / volunteer coach: $900

• Track girls and boys head coach: $2,675 each

• Assistant track coach: $1,200 / five assistants: $900 each

• Volleyball head coach:

$2,675 / one assistant:

$1,200

• Wrestling head coach:

• Assistant athletic director for girls: $5,000

• Football head coach: $39,759

• Football varsity assistants: 12 coaches: $6,400 each / one varsity community coach: $4,200 for a total of $81,000

• Ninth grade head coach: $4,900 / two ninth grade assistant coaches: $3,300 / one assistant ninth grade coach: $2,700 / two ninth grade assistants: $2,200 each / ninth grade community coach: $2,200

• Varsity strength coordinator: $3,700

• Varsity defensive coordinator: $2,700

• Varsity special team coordinator: $2,200

• Offensive coordinator: $1,700

• OHS football coaching supplements / salaries totals $116,075

• Baseball head coach: $6,400 / one assistant: $3,300 / one assistant JV community coach: $2,700 / ninth grade head baseball coach: $2,200 / JV head coach: $2,200 / JV assistant coach: $2,200

• Basketball boys head coach: $6,400 / JV head coach: $2,700 / varsity

the best in the nation. Thusly, Thorne finished 2021 with 27 touchdown passes, 10 interceptions and 3,240 passing yards —the third most in a single season in MSU history — while completing 60.4% of his passes. His 2022 season left much to be desired, as the Spartans followed up their 11-2 record in 2021 with a 5-7 record last year. Thorne finished 2022 with a 62.5% completion percentage, posting 19 touchdowns, 11 interceptions and 2,679 passing yards.

“I think that this football team at Auburn right now missed some leadership, particularly on the offensive side,” Freeze said. “To get that in the room, I think only elevates everybody. The more good leaders you put around them, the more you get them to model that. I feel like he is a mature leader that knows how to prepare. He obviously

See QUARTERBACK, page B3

assistant $2,700 / ninth grade community coach

$2,200 / ninth grade head coach: $2,200

• Boys track head coach: $6,400 / one assistant community coach: $1,700 / one assistant: $1,100

• Cheerleading varsity head coach: $6,400 / assistant $2,200 / ninth grade head coach: $2,200

• Flag football: $3,300 / two assistants: $2,200

• Girls basketball varsity head coach: $6,400 / varsity community coach: $3,300 / JV head coach: $3,300 / JV

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER PHENIX CITY —

The Central High School baseball team returned to its facilities around 4 a.m. on Friday after battling two elimination games in the state championship versus Vestavia Hills, falling a game short of becoming repeat champions.

“Looking back on it, it was a successful year,” said head coach A.J. Kehoe.

“Obviously, it didn’t end the way we wanted it to end, but that’s baseball. That’s life in general, you know, but our guys are very resilient and they’re going to be just fine. They’re on to bigger and better things.”

Despite falling short of a championship, Central posted a 35-10 record and punched its ticket to the state championship for the

assistant $2,200 / varsity assistant: $2200

• Girls track head coach: $6,400 / two varsity assistants: $2,200 / one varsity assistant community coach: $1,700

• Golf head coach: $3,300

• Boys soccer head coaches: $6,400 each / boys JV coach: $2,200 / boys assistant: $1,700

• Girls soccer head coach: $6,400 / girls JV $2,200 / girls varsity assistant $2,200 / girls assistant community coach: $1,700

second consecutive year. The Red Devils defeated Daphne, Enterprise and Smiths Station in the postseason to reach the state championship at Jacksonville State University.

Walking off as winners in game two of the state championship, Central forced a rubber match game three versus Vestavia Hills that began at 10 p.m. CST on Thursday. But having to inch out a late win in game two after letting a 4-0 slip away in the seventh inning, Central ran out of magic in game three and fell, 4-1, ending their season.

Despite the “small disappointment” of losing the state championship, Central is proud of what its seniors have been able to accomplish in the last three seasons, as well as what the future holds, Kehoe said. The

• Swimming head coach: $2,000

• Tennis varsity head coach: $3,300 / assistant: $1,700

• Track and field (girls and boys) assistant head coach: $3,800

• Volleyball varsity head coach: $6,400 / varsity assistant: $1,700 / two JV assistants: $1,700 each

• Wrestling head coach: $6,400 / assistant coach: $2,200 / community coach: $2,200

As you can see by this list, it costs money to run

eight seniors on this year’s team went 103-29 over the past three seasons, won three area championships and made three semifinal appearances with two state championship runs.

“The grit, the competitive nature of these guys [is what made them so successful],” Kehoe said. “It started their sophomore year, they did a great job of developing, and their competitive nature put them over the top. They’re just all bigtime competitors.”

Among the eight seniors, Central returned the 2022 Hitter of the Year and State Championship MVP in UAB commit Jaxon Yoxtheimer, who became a huge leader for the Red Devils, as well as catcher and Auburn University commit Colton Wombles.

See CENTRAL, page B3

a 7A high school athletic department. It is worth noting the supplements can be divided and split between coaches.

It is obvious that Opelika is committed to athletics based on the salaries listed above.

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

The Central Phenix City Red Devils fell short of another championship title, conceding to Vestavia Hills in game three. "Adversity and heartache, but we will be back," the team wrote on Twitter.

4-H to Kick Off Summer with ‘BIGGEST Catch’ Contest

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

BY JUSTIN MILLER

ALABAMA—

Alabama 4-H is inviting children to make a splash this summer with the 4-H BIGGEST Catch, a virtual fishing competition. The contest will take place May 26 through June 5, and all Alabama youths ages 9 to 18 are welcome to participate.

Emily Nichols, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System natural resources specialist, said this competition is a fun opportunity for children to get outdoors and enjoy the nature around them.

“This is a great opportunity to take part in a little friendly competition,” Nichols said. “No prior experience with 4-H is

required to join in on the fun. So, we are hoping to have hundreds of kids participate this year.”

CONTEST RULES

Unlike traditional fishing competitions, the 4-H BIGGEST Catch is completely virtual. This allows youth from across the state to go fishing in their

opportunity to learn about different bodies of water.”

To enter the contest, head out for some fishing in Alabama waters anytime between May 26 and June 5. To be eligible, contestants must catch and land their fish without any help. After making their catch, contestants must include a photograph of the fish with their submission.

crappie. Each contestant is permitted one entry in each category. Submit contest entries online at www.aub. ie/4HBiggestCatch. This portal opens May 26 at 8 a.m. and closes June 5 at 8 p.m.

MORE INFORMATION

respective areas and enter their catches in the contest.

“What is so neat about this contest is that kids can choose where they go fishing,” Nichols said. “This lets them explore fishing in state-managed county public fishing lakes, state parks, rivers, creeks and even their own ponds. It is a good

Auburn In The Major Leagues

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — Auburn and the Braves are ready to team up.

On June 8, Major League Baseball and The Braves will come to The Plains in order to provide children a chance to grow their skills and learn from some of the best.

There will be two events on June 8 — Pitch, Hit & Run and the Home Run Derby.

“Pitch, Hit & Run (PHR) events provide boys and girls an opportunity to showcase their baseball and softball skills, with the opportunity of earning a chance to attend and compete for a Championship during the 2023 MLB World Series,” said information from the Braves.

CENTRAL >>

FROM B2

Montevallo commit

Preston Bedford was another key contributor, Kehoe said.

Those three are all leaving Central better than it was before, and the underclassmen below them now have a greater understanding of what it means to be a championship team.

“Outside of talent, the most important thing

There is a 7 to 8 division, a 9 to 10 division, an 11 to 12 division or a 13 to 14

a team can have is that internal leadership,” Kehoe explained. “They provided that for us. Going into next year, that’ll certainly be something that we have to address. The character and gritty competitiveness is something they’ve instilled in our underclassmen.”

In its chase for its second state title in school history, Central will not be shorthanded going into the future.

Along with invaluable senior leadership, Central got remarkable contributions from three sophomores as well as a freshman in the state championship.

The team is also returning junior third baseman Hunter Wippert, junior first baseman and UAB commit Landon Beaver, along with starting second baseman Cason Page. Sophomores Cameron Briggs and

“The photograph must include the kid and their fish, the contest code AL4H2023 and the total length [in inches] of the fish,” Nichols said. “Participants can write this information on a piece of paper and hold it up in the photograph, or they can write it on their hand.”

There are four contest categories including bass, sunfish (bream), catfish and

QUARTERBACK >>

FROM B2

has played Power Five football in a really good conference.

“… I think that just elevates that room. And he is tough. He stood in there and got beat up pretty good last year. He took it and kept competing.”

In Thorne, Freeze and company will be hoping they get a ready-made player who more closely resembles the redshirt senior’s 2021 season rather than 2022. The template for success with Thorne stems directly from Michigan State’s 2021 season. Encouragingly, the situation at Auburn heading into 2023 translates well to that of the Spartans two seasons ago.

Junior Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter is poised to breakout this season

Emory Yohn are returning in the outfield, and Cam Norton, who pitched 2.1 relief innings in game one versus Vestavia, is a freshman pitcher returning next season.

The Red Devils kept their hot region play going in 2023, going 7-2 in region play and sweeping Opelika in addition to series win versus Auburn and Smiths Station while winning its third

Alabama 4-H is a leader in outdoor education in the areas of forestry, wildlife and recreation, such as sportfishing. Several counties across the state have active 4-H sportfishing clubs.

“We are always looking for more participants in our sportfishing program,” Nichols said. “If this is not currently a program offering in your county, you can always reach out to the 4-H agent in your county about starting your own 4-H

after posting 593 yards and three touchdowns his freshman year, and 668 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Hunter spent both of his first two years on The Plains playing second fiddle to thirdround 2023 NFL draft pick Tank Bigsby. If the Tigers want to get the best out of Thorne, it starts with an effective rushing attack from Hunter, the rest of the running back room and the revamped Auburn offensive line.

Overall, Auburn has signed 18 transfer portal players this offseason, many of whom have been aimed at bolstering the pass-catching options for the Tigers. This is good news for Thorne, or Ashford and Geriner — whoever wins the starting job. While it’s yet to be seen if Freeze has amalgamated a group of skill position players to rival what

consecutive area title. They once again established their area dominance by sweeping a pair of games with the Panthers, 8-4 and 8-1, in the semifinal.

This team is leaving behind a legacy of hard-fought success, but there is no reason to think that will change going forward. Kehoe and his guys will take some time to reflect and adjust, and they will return to working toward

sportfishing club.”

The 4-H BIGGEST Catch fishing contest is a great chance for young people to make some awesome memories and have fun. For more information about the contest, visit the 4-H BIGGEST Catch web page at www. aces.edu or like and follow the Alabama 4-H Outdoors Facebook page.

ABOUT ALABAMA EXTENSION

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System takes the expertise of Auburn University and Alabama A&M University to the people. Its educators in all 67 counties are community partners — bringing practical ways to better our homes, farms, people and the world around us. Its research extends knowledge and improves lives.

MSU had in 2021, on paper, the Tigers’ prospects have significantly improved from last season. So far, the Tigers are bringing in (by way of transfer) 70 catches, 1,272 yards and 17 touchdowns of production from pass catchers last season. And that excludes the potential of Ohio State transfer and former ESPN top-100 recruit Caleb Burton, who didn’t see the field for the Buckeyes in 2022.

Boasting the No. 3-ranked transfer class nationally, it’s clear the talent on Auburn’s roster has improved. Thorne might raise the ceiling even further. Worst case scenario, Thorne’s presence should elevate the performance of Ashford and/or Geriner, providing Freeze with a clear option as to who is the Tigers’ best quarterback in 2023.

their third straight state championship appearance.

“We’re highly optimistic going forward,” Kehoe said. “The coaching staff will probably meet next week to go ahead and determine some of those things that we need to focus on program-wise. We’ll make sure that we give the guys a few weeks off to rest and get away from us, then we’ll get back to work.”

The contest is open to children ages 9 to 18 and of any skill level.

PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION

A participant in a previous Jr. Home Run Derby takes a swing.

OPELIKA >>

FROM B1

vision, but if you know Dr. [Farrell] Seymore and Mrs. [Kelli] Fischer, they grew up in small towns like I did, so we can appreciate the growth and still hang onto who we are,” Williams said. “You grow, but you still want to keep your identity. We’re going to grow, and that’s going to help our roster situations.”

Specifically for the athletic department, sticking to the same values means staying loyal to the athletes and families that choose Opelika and buy into what it has to offer. On the other hand, he explained that coaches prepare the same at 7A as they did at 6A.

“We can recruit, but we’re not going to,” Williams said. “I know that’s a thing in high school athletics now; a lot of people want to hire a coach, and they bring players from

Beauregard Buzzes with New Commits

all over where they’ve been. That’s just not us. We’re going to play by the rules. We’re going to win and lose with Opelika products.”

While Opelika knows where its loyalties lie, it welcomes anyone who wants to be a part of its growing scene. Now in 7A, being a Bulldog means lining up with top-tier competition and working with a bolstered staff.

The jump in divisions fosters the opportunity to bring in more coaches, more staff, implement bigger rosters and possibly add a wider range of sports. More sports and more players is sure to bring a higher standard of competition to Opelika, according to Williams.

“Sports that may not have cut individually could have to start doing that just because of the numbers, but usually that makes kids compete harder,” Williams said. “That helps everyone,

you know, when you start competing at a higher level.”

Changes are incoming and improvements are being made with growth, but Williams said he understands the value of staying true to who you are. He expects Opelika to stay at the 7A level for years to come because that’s what he feels is helping the students succeed.

“People just need to come here and stick their toes in the water and see what we’re all about,” Williams emphasized.

“I think once people see what the Opelika way is — that we have our traditions but we’re not stuck in the past — we’re going to be progressive with things, and if it helps athletics, then we’ll do it; if it helps the kids, then we’ll certainly try it on for size. If you do things the right way, people will come.”

AHS >> FROM B1

been nationally recognized as one of 24 SkillsUSA chapters to achieve Models of Excellence status,” said a letter from Chelle Travis, executive director of SkillsUSA to Auburn City Schools.

“In its ninth year, this program is part of SkillsUSA’s Chapter Excellence Program, which honors chapters for exemplary work in supporting the SkillsUSA Framework of developing personal, workplace and technical skills grounded in academics. The Framework illustrates the intentional learning of critical workplace skills sought by industry.”

This annual program recognizes the exceptional integration

of personal, workplace and technical skills into SkillsUSA chapter activities. This designation is the highest honor bestowed on chapters by SkillsUSA, which is among the largest student organizations for career and technical education.

The focus of Models of Excellence is student-led activation. These students learn and practice the skills that every employer seeks, including leadership, initiative, communication, teamwork and problem-solving, by taking the lead on all SkillsUSA activities.

Representatives from Auburn’s chapter will have several upcoming events that they will participate in.

“As a Models of Excellence honoree, representatives from your SkillsUSA chapter will

participate in several experiences at the upcoming National Leadership & Skills Conference, to be held in Atlanta,” Travis said.

Auburn High’s SkillsUSA chapter consists of five Career Technical Education Programs, including Advertising Design, Information Technology, Television Production, Building Construction and Precision Machining. The AHS chapter will be evaluated in June at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference for top honors.

“This honor reflects positively upon your leadership to your school as well as on your teachers and students,” Travis said. “Thank you for your confidence in SkillsUSA and congratulations to your chapter.”

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES /THE OBSERVER

Beauregard High School held a signing ceremony for seven of its student-athletes Friday, May 19. Supporters cheered on the signees as they put pen to paper. Thirteen Beauregard student-athletes have signed scholarships this school year.

OHS Plays Red and Black Spring Scrimmage Game

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Bulldogs faced off against each other in a "red versus black" spring scrimmage game Friday, May 19, at 5:30 p.m. The game marked the end of spring practice.

Ican clearly remember when I graduated from Opelika High School in 1971 at Clift Hare Football Stadium. I told my daddy and uncle that I was so glad to be finished. They both looked at me, laughed and told me that I had just begun. And yes, they were so right. The song “We’ve Only Just Begun,” sung by Richard and Karen Carpenter, is one that truly coins what graduation is. So much of life is ahead, especially for our children. So, my graduation gift is to remind parents, grandparents and teachers that children are truly a PROMISE.

P — Encourage your children with verbal praise, as well as pats on the back, eye-to-eye contact, etc. to let your

children know that you are proud of them. Truly listening and spending time with your child spells love.

R — Reach out to your child by playing with them and doing some fun activities that they enjoy. Free play is also important for young children and serves as an outlet for children to work, grow and express themselves.

O — Optimism is contagious to be around. Each day of life is a gift from God. Children have so much inner joy; they laugh and smile when they are around happy people. I know we have noticed that children respond to our different moods, and their hearts are molded by our actions and words. Again, I share the simple word “POP,”

Promises of Life Begin

which stands for Positive, Optimistic Peacemaker.

M — Meet the strengths of your child’s gifts and talents, and enable them to be all they can be. Being available to offer learning opportunities and activities that enhance what they are inclined to do is a true gift every child deserves.

I — Interaction with children is how they learn. Reflective learners learn best when they are alone. They are observers in assessing situations. Logical learners are geared to learn by following patterns or sequences. Physical learners learn best by activity, such as being active with their hands, feet or their whole body. Relational learners interact and relate well to other children. Musical learners love to sing, hum and enjoy playing musical instruments. Natural learners love the outside world.

S — Special is what children are. Children are like a blank canvas, ready to become a masterpiece. Children love to hear their names, and they love to receive encouragement. On the canvas of a child’s life, we as parents and teachers can help paint beautiful life masterpieces for our children and students.

E — “Every” is such

an important word as we watch our young children grow up so fast. It seems that in the blink of an eye, they are grown. Cherish every single day of your child’s life. Watch your promise of a child grow up to be a possibility.

As school is coming to a close, we kick off the summer season with Memorial Day on Monday, May 29. We want to have fun in the sun during the summer, but we need to use safety precautions in protecting our children.

Following are a few summer safety tips as you take care of your little ones during the summer.

Be sure to apply the appropriate sunscreen to your child. Each child requires a different scale of protection according to their age and the color of their skin. When young children are left in my care, I ask the parents to apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes ahead of outside fun time. When your child is swimming or running through the sprinkler, be sure to reapply the sunscreen at intervals when they get in and out of the water. Take time to cover spots that may burn, and make sure to evenly apply.

When children are running and playing

BRAVES >>

FROM B3

division. The age cut-off is Nov. 15, 2023.

“They will be tested, and their measurements will be recorded for points,” The Braves site said. “Based on their scores, they will advance from a local event to a Team Championship and then to the National Finals hosted at the World Series.”

The Jr. Home Run Derby is for the older players, the 12U or 14U with an age cutoff of July 20, 2023.

Softball players will have a division for 14U and 16U, the site said.

"Our Pitch, Hit & Run and Jr. Home Run Derby event is a way for the Braves to reach local communities within Braves Country to promote the games of baseball and softball at a grassroots level,” said Greg McMichael, senior director of alumni relations and Growing The Game Initiative.

The Braves have been in Auburn before, said Anthony Terling, who handles a lot of the sports development for AO Tourism.

“It started about two or three years ago; AuburnOpelika Tourism, in

outside in the heat, it is so important for them to be dressed appropriately with light-colored and lightweight clothing. Clothing should breathe and allow the child to stay cool. During these summer months, sweating is characteristic of a summer day. Children love to run around and play different games.

When your little one gets really wet with sweat, be sure to change them into dry clothes.

To prevent heat stress in children, be sure he or she is very well-hydrated. Encourage your child to drink as much water, juice and other flavored drinks as possible. We do not want our children to become dehydrated.

Have your child or children play quiet inside games, rest, read, watch appropriate programs on television, video or DVD during the heat of the day.

Try to find shade and have your child stay out of direct heat as much as possible.

During late afternoon or evening hours, make sure your child is properly sprayed with insect repellant. Follow the appropriate instructions when applying the repellant.

When you are doing your summer mowing, be sure your child stays at a safe distance from the

conjunction with the city of Auburn and, actually, the city of Opelika, put together what’s called … Growing the Game,” he said.

Growing the Game includes camps and clinics for children in the area, specifically for the Lee County area, which meant boys travel baseball tournaments.

“Auburn, Alabama, has hosted our Braves Country Battles baseball tournament annually and has had incredible success,” McMichael said. “We wanted to bring an extra event to Auburn to show our appreciation and promote their league.”

This was often held at Duck Samford Park, the Auburn Softball Complex and West Ridge Park, Sterling said.

“So it was a community, two-city-wide collaboration to run that tournament, have people, families come from all over the Southeast,” Terling said. “Last year, had as many as 96 teams come.”

Children will have the opportunity to learn from representatives from Major League Baseball and The Atlanta Braves Growing the Game team, McMichael said.

“This will be an opportunity for them to showcase

lawn mower. A mower can kick up a rock or stick that could hurt a child.

When taking your child to playgrounds and parks during the summer, be sure that the sliding boards, swings and other equipment are not too hot for your child to play on. Assess the general safety of the park before allowing your child to play.

We need to remember to put helmets on our children when they ride their bicycles. Go over safety rules your child needs to follow when riding their bicycles, and properly supervise them.

Try to always have a first aid kit with you to pack basic supplies you will need before playing, picnicking, going swimming and having plain old summer fun outdoors.

My favorite Bible verse to share with our graduates is Jeremiah 29:11 — “‘for I know the plans I have for you’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Congratulations to all our graduates, and let’s begin to enjoy a fun, safe summer.

Classroom Observer

Beth Pinyerd

their skills while also learning new ones,” McMichael said. “Not only are these events fun for kids of all ages, but the lessons they’ll learn extend beyond the baseball diamond: teamwork, camaraderie and hard work.”

Registration is necessary and time slots for children interested in participating can be found online: www. mlb.com/braves/community/youth-programs/ play-ball-weekend.

“For AO Tourism, our whole mission statement is just help our community improve itself, through quality of life, through bringing visitors to town, to stay in our hospitality and our restaurants, and our hotels, and shop and those kind of things,” Terling said. “So those things allow our community and our city to grow through economic development, through tourism. So my main goal, or my main job, is to bring sporting events … to showcase our community to visitors from all over the country. But more importantly, giving our kids who live local the opportunity to compete or to participate in something really neat with a brand like The Atlanta Braves, and of course, MLB.”

BETH PINYERD

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Inside the Statehouse

Women in Alabama Politics

My first observations of Alabama politics were watching women swap out the state treasurer and secretary of state posts every four years. In fact, these constitutional offices were considered women’s offices.

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

It is hard to imagine that it was only a little over 100 years ago that women were given the right to vote in the United States. The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which gave women full suffrage, was finally ratified in 1920.

In recent decades, many folks have lamented that there are very few women in elected office in Alabama, especially in the legislature. We do indeed have a low percentage of female legislators, most particularly in the Republican ranks. We have some high-profile female statewide officeholders, though: Gov. Kay Ivey, PSC President Twinkle Cavanaugh and Supreme Court Justices Kelli Wise and Sarah Stewart, to name a few.

Some of the more progressive states have ridiculed our lack of female political participants. However, history will reveal that we in Alabama were electing women to statewide offices many years before other so-called progressive states. In fact, women dominated the offices of secretary of state, state treasurer and state auditor for several decades during the 1960s and 1970s.

In 1944, Gov. Chauncey Sparks appointed Sybil Pool as secretary of state. Two years later, in 1946, Pool won the office, overwhelmingly, and became the first woman in Alabama history to be elected to a statewide office. In that 1946 race, Pool carried 63 out of 67 counties.

Four years later, in her victorious run for state treasurer, she received the largest vote in state history. In 1954, she was elected to the first of four terms on the Public Service Commission.

Prior to Pool’s first statewide victory, she had served in the legislature for two terms from her native Marengo County. She was only the second woman elected to the Alabama Legislature, in addition to being the first woman elected statewide. All in all, her political career included eight years as secretary of state, four years as state treasurer and 16 years on the State Public Service Commission. Pool was way ahead of her time, and she opened the political door for women to walk through in Alabama.

Mary Texas Hurt Garner of Scottsboro was a lawyer by profession and an assistant attorney general before being elected secretary of state in 1954. She then went on to become state auditor in

Smiths Station City Council Approves Budgets

1958. She was elected state treasurer in 1962.

Annie Laura Gunter held several prominent cabinet positions in the Wallace Administration. Afterward, Gunter was elected state treasurer of Alabama in 1978 and served eight years in that important state office.

Melba Till Allen, one of 10 children in her family, grew up modestly on an Alabama farm. She was elected as state auditor and then as state treasurer for two terms.

Mabel Amos and Agnes Baggett were household names in Alabama for decades. Baggett was probably the most prominent and profiled female officeholder in state history after Pool. She served as secretary of state from 1951 to 1955. She was then elected state auditor in 1955, state treasurer in 1959 and returned to secretary of state in 1963. In 1967, she was elected again as state treasurer and served eight years in this post. She finished out her career as secretary of state, thus capping a career that made history. She served 28 consecutive years as an elected statewide officeholder, making her one of the most celebrated elected officials in Alabama history.

Amos was one of the most beloved and revered women in state politics. She had an amazing career as the recording secretary for six governors, including Frank Dixon, Sparks, James Folsom, Gordon Persons, John Patterson and George

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SMITHS STATION —

Finances were the central subject of the Smiths Station City Council in May, with the council reviewing and approving the budget.

Mayor F. L. “Bubba” Copeland was back for the May 9 and May 23 meetings after missing the previous council meeting due to a conflict with a different meeting. Place 2 Council Member Morris Jackson conducted that meeting.

City Clerk Morgan Bryce reviewed the General Fund budget for March 2023 — as well as the Solid Waste and Environmental Fund budget for January to March — at the May 9 meeting.

The total income for the month of March was nearly $190,000, while the final net income for the month of March was in the black at nearly $35,500. The total net income for this fiscal year to that point was nearly $376,000.

The total income for the Solid Waste and Environmental Fund budget

for the quarter of January through March 2023 was a little over $142,000. Total expenses for the quarter came out to a little over $165,000, leaving the net income in the red at nearly -$23,000. This brings the overall net income to a little less than -$5,000.

Copeland pointed to an automobile expense of nearly $31,000, which the council had approved at a previous meeting, as the reason for the negative net income. The approved expense covered the purchase of a new truck for the Solid Waste Department.

“We’ll renew those funds before the end of the year, but that’s where that negative is,” he said.

The Smiths Station City Council also approved an amendment to the General Fund budget for fiscal year 2022-23 at its May 9 meeting. The amendment concerned funds for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

According to Bryce, the amendment entailed setting a budget for the ARPA fund after the original budget was approved, “providing for severability and providing for an effective date.”

“I’d like to note that these funds were established in 2021 and 2022,” Copeland said. “We’re extending them until 2023, which it looks like we have an offset of a budget deficit, and that’s not the case. Those funds are set aside, in our account.

“It’s just the way … monthly accounting works, so we’re doing a budget — a general fund budget — that’s been approved by our CPA, as well as our city attorney, to pass this just to let people understand that we’re not being un-fiscally responsible. We’re just trying to establish a quorum and letting everybody know that we are being fiscally responsible, but this is why.”

At the May 23 regular city council meeting, the Smiths Station City Council heard its monthly update from the Dwayne Peterson, representing the Smiths Station Fire Protection District Board of Directors.

Following the update, the council also approved the minutes from the previous meeting.

Copeland and the council

See SMITHS STATION, page B11

See FLOWERS, page B9

Amid Name Changes at Army Forts, Good Memories Will Endure

establishment over a century ago, this Army post has symbolized strength, courage and sacrifice,” he said. “Today, we affirm our commitment to those values and the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation.”

OPINION —

As a soldier myself, a remark I heard often on Army deployments was, “Back at Bragg ….” The soldier who said it was invariably wearing the Airborne or Special Operations Forces patches from the base in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The comment was followed by something like, “Back at Bragg, for physical training, we run or swim through alligator-infested swamps, scale 20-feet walls and do 300 onearm push-ups.”

The implication was that Fort Bragg produced the toughest, meanest soldiers in the Army. Possibly, but

other posts such as the Home of the Infantry in Columbus, Georgia, had credible claims to it, too. Fort Bragg is now Fort Liberty, and Fort Benning is Fort Moore. Nobody I know believes changing fort names will hurt training, readiness or toughness.

“We gather today to pay tribute to two American heroes: Lt. Gen. Harold Moore and his wife, Julia Moore,” said Maj. Gen. Curtis Buzzard, Maneuver Center of Excellence and Fort Moore commanding general.

He spoke at the rededication ceremony at Doughboy Stadium on May 11.

“Since its

On a blogpost addressed “Remembrances of Things Past,” psychology Professor Jerry Burger, Ph.D., said most people were pleased with a visit to one’s childhood home or former workplace (that similarly applies to military installations where people spent a long time).

“Some people did not get the hoped-for results,” Burger wrote.

“For example, they discovered that unlike the romanticized memories, in reality, there was nothing romantic about the place (the old home or military installation from previous years). If happy there, they could not recapture that happiness and for those who experienced abuse and trauma, the visit brought back pain rather than closure.”

A family friend of mine spent her childhood in a bucolic, upscale area of New Jersey. After 40 years, she was finally on a trip that would take her near her childhood home. She went back and later

told us she was delighted the place was not destroyed by development. She hoped to come back again, to again capture the nostalgic feelings she found.

In 2010, I visited what used to be Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, where I had attended four journalism courses, three to eight weeks each, in the 1980s. Decommissioned in 1991, the fort now has a large, beautiful state park. And small businesses are moving into charming early-1900s houses. Yet inside the building where I learned journalism was no remnant of its past use. It is

now a quiet community college; the excitement we soldiers had does not seem to have been sustained.

At the Rededication Ceremony at Doughboy Stadium, there were no protests by people opposing the renaming from Benning to Moore. This was surprising, as a high number of people associated with Fort Benning, or even just local citizens, consistently said they were not comfortable with the name change. These people were against “change for change’s sake.”

Others were outraged with the potential cost of

multi-millions of dollars to rename the fort. With the eight other targeted forts, a cost of at least $21 million will be incurred. Many observers predict the total costs for the nine forts will exceed $21 million. Others felt that as Fort Benning was a sentimental and nostalgic part of their lives, it should not jettison a much-loved fort label.

“Fort Moore stands alone since this rededication is not solely about a name or one person’s achievements,” said retired Col. David Moore, on behalf of himself

See MARKLEY, page B10

SALUTING THE CLASS OF

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.

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

Fort Benning experienced a redesignation on May 11 to honor retired Lt. Gen. Hal and Julie Moore. Fort Moore acknowledges the life, service and character of both a decorated commander and a highly regarded Army spouse.

E.M.

CONTRIBUTED BY

BRENDAN WYATT, MS, MD.

OPINION —

When Alabamians need surgery, especially on something as complex and important as their eyes, they should be able to trust that the medical professional providing their care is knowledgeable and highly trained. Yet, Alabama legislators are now considering a bill that threatens to break that trust and put Alabamians’ eyesight at risk.

House Bill 349 would allow optometrists to perform complicated eye surgeries that include scalpels, lasers and injections that, for good reason, can currently be performed only by trained surgeons. If legislators approve

Proposed Law Puts Your Vision at Risk

this bill, they’ll jeopardize patient safety without reducing health care costs or increasing access to care.

Optometrists play an important role in eye care, but they aren’t trained surgeons or even medical doctors.

Optometrists are only required to undergo four years of optometry school, not medical school and not surgical residency.

Ophthalmologists, on the other hand, are medical doctors and eye surgeons. Ophthalmologists undergo a minimum of eight years of training, including medical school, as well as hospital residency and surgical training.

Ophthalmologists are trained on hundreds of surgical procedures.

The human eye is amazingly complex and highly delicate. When

Alabama’s

WYATT

it comes to your vision or the vision of someone you love, there is simply no such thing as “minor eye surgery.” A surgical error of mere millimeters can result in permanent vision loss in some cases.

But House Bill 349 would allow non-physician, non-surgeon optometrists to destroy tissue inside of the eyeball using lasers. It would

allow an optometrist to inject medication directly into the eyelid and to remove lesions from areas around the eye and on the face using a scalpel.

Again, under House Bill 349 all this would all be done by people who did not complete medical school and are not trained to perform surgery.

So, how can Alabama lawmakers possibly justify lowering the standard of patient care? Surely there must be some benefit that outweighs the potential risk. Sadly, there is not.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will expand access to health care. However, we do not have a problem with access to surgical eye care in Alabama. More than 90% of Alabamians live within a 30-minute drive of a highly trained

ophthalmologist.

Supporters of the bill also claim it will help lower health care costs. In fact, allowing optometrists to conduct surgery can actually increase health care costs. Research published in the “Journal of the American Medical Association” compared laser surgery outcomes performed in Oklahoma by ophthalmologists versus optometrists. The result? Surgeries performed by optometrists were more than twice as likely to require additional corrective surgery.

That’s an increase in health care costs to patients — not savings — no matter how you look at it. Lowering education and training standards for eye surgery simply lowers the bar for quality patient care. It does not lower costs.

So if House Bill 349 does not expand access and won’t lower costs, why take the risk? Why would anyone want someone performing surgery on their eyes who is not a trained eye surgeon? How could it be acceptable to provide a lower standard of care to someone just because they live in a rural community?

Rather than pushing dangerous legislation that attempts to pit optometrists against ophthalmologists, Alabamians would be better served if our legislators focused on promoting the highest standards of patient safety and care for all the people of our state.

E.M. Brendan Wyatt, MS, MD. Dr. Wyatt is president of the Alabama Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons.

Low Unemployment a Sign Employers Are Struggling to Fill Jobs

CONTRIBUTED BY THE ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM

ALABAMA —

News that Alabama’s unemployment rate has reached a record low can overshadow the fact that thousands of jobs are available and employers are looking to hire workers immediately, said Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker.

“The one thing Alabama employers consistently tell us is they are struggling to find qualified workers to fill jobs,” Baker said. “There are only 44 available workers for every 100 open jobs in Alabama. We developed a rapid training program in partnership

FLOWERS >>

FROM B7

Wallace. There is no

with Alabama business and industry to address this very need, and it’s proving to be a great success.”

That program — Skills for Success — launched 15 months ago. Since then, more than 3,300 Alabamians have received training for jobs at more than 190 Alabama employers.

The training is provided at no cost to trainees or companies, thanks to support from the Alabama Legislature and Gov. Kay Ivey.

A division of the Alabama Community College System, called the Innovation Center, develops the courses and customizes the training for jobs that employers say are in high demand.

“We’ve made sure the training is aligned

telling what secrets and political deals Amos knew of during this unbelievable 30-year

with needs of workers and employers,” said Julie Frizzell, director of the Innovation Center. “Employers know best what skills are needed in their industries.”

Training is currently available for jobs in construction, trucking, bus driving, food and beverage services, fiber optics installation and meat cutting. New courses are being developed and

will soon be available.

“Skills for Success training, developed through partnership with industry partners, is the most innovative in the nation,” said Chris Stricklin, chief technology officer for Dunn Companies. The training can be delivered rapidly because part of it is offered online. Once students complete the online

portion, they receive hands-on training at one of Alabama’s 24 community and technical colleges, or at a work site.

“Workforce challenges have been persistent in our industry even before the pandemic,” said Mark Colson, president and CEO of the Alabama Trucking Association. “The Innovation Center

offering this new curriculum provides a lot of flexibility for adults to access training on their own time so they can get more behind-thewheel time.”

Alabamians interested in learning more about Skills for Success training can visit the Innovation Center’s website: innovation. accs.edu

reign inside the governor’s office. She was elected secretary of state in 1966 and served eight

years in that office. She was a native of Conecuh County and never married. Therefore,

she had no direct heirs. When she died, she had a sizeable estate, primarily of family land. Because she had no children, the beloved lady left her estate with instructions that her money should be used for deserving Alabama female students, who otherwise would not be

able to attend Alabama colleges.

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.

City Swim Coach Visits Opelika Kiwanis Club

SAR Chapter Hosts Local Non-Fiction Author

and his four siblings. “Instead, it is about personal character, represented by Army values, reinforcing the fundamental truth that soldiers fight as a team.”

Also speaking was retired Col. Tony Nadal, a rifle company captain under Moore’s command in the Battle of LZ X-Ray, in Vietnam.

“Renaming this post in Hal and Julie’s honor serves as a beacon to inspire many young men and women who follow them with honor, integrity and allegiance in service to their country,” Nadal said. “Lt. Gen. Moore’s character, competence and professionalism were evident in everything he did and every part of his life.”

A dividend when I moved south in 1996 was the closeness to Fort Benning. I often go on long walks there and shop at the PX. Also, I taught soldiers and family members at two colleges on the

fort. Soldiers still say, “back at Bragg,” but with time it will become “back at Fort Liberty.” Also, “Ranger School at Benning was tough” will become “Moore is a great, challenging duty station.” I am confident the new names will catch on. My sense today is that it may take a year or two, though.

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

MARKLEY >> FROM B8

This week's speaker for the Opelika Kiwanis Club was Tyler McGill. He is the head swim coach for the city of Opelika. He spoke on the growth of the swimming programs in the area, as well as the new pool expansion that will be opening in May 2024. Next week, June 1, the speaker will be Scott Shepard. He is the chaplain of the Auburn University baseball team.

Melissa Gatlin presented an informative program on “A Walking Tour of Opelika” at the May 2023 Richard Henry Lee Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) chapter meeting. Pictured from left to right are Gatlin and Chapter President Bob Harris.

Opelika City School Board Honors Retirees

Stolen SNAP Benefits May Be Eligible for Replacement

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

ALABAMA — Alabamians who fall victim to SNAP fraud may soon qualify for reimbursement from the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR).

The Board of Education honored its retirees with a reception Tuesday, May 23, at Jeter Primary School. Pictured from left to right are Tricia Skelton, John Gullatte, Teresa Brackin, Perry Outlaw, Lindie Payne, Mike McKee, Marta Harper, Matthew Kendrick, Lodene Core and Minnie Douglas. Not pictured are Paula Burch and Tanya Brown.

Exchange Club Honors Paramedic of the Year

benefits with federal funds. Earlier this year, Alabama became the fourth state approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service to implement a plan for reimbursing victims.

Protect Yourself From EBT Skimming, Cloning & Scamming

CARD SKIMMING/CLONING is the use of electronic equipment to take your EBT information without your knowledge.

SCAMMING is falsely convincing you to give your EBT and/or personal information to someone else.

Check the card machine/ATM for a cover that may hide parts of the machine.

Check the machine for glue marks, damaged or loose parts and be cautious of hidden cameras.

Protect the PIN pad with your hand. Change your PIN frequently and do not share it.

Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized charges.

IF YOU THINK YOUR CARD INFORMATION HAS BEEN STOLEN THROUGH SKIMMING OR CLONING OR SCAMMING, CALL YOUR LOCAL DHR COUNTY OFFICE.

On Tuesday, May 30, DHR started offering replacement benefits to victims of EBT card skimming, card cloning and similar SNAP fraud. Alabama will be among the first states in the nation to replace stolen SNAP benefits with federal funds.

“We cannot let thieves rob low-income families of their ability to put food on the table,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “Replacing stolen benefits will support uninterrupted access to nutritious meals for victims of SNAP fraud who rely on this program to feed their families.”

With the passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, Congress authorized states to replace stolen SNAP

SMITHS STATION >> FROM B7

also expressed support on May 9 for the Smiths Station High School baseball team and other student-athletes in the area ahead of tournament play. The Smiths Station City Council meets at 6 p.m. Eastern Time on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Government Center, located at 2336 Panther Parkway (Lee Road 430).

ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

The federal law limits replacement benefits to thefts occurring between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2024.

Since October, DHR has received approximately 300 reports of stolen SNAP benefits.

To request replacement benefits, victims should contact a county DHR office and report their SNAP benefits stolen. June 30 is the deadline to submit reports for benefits stolen between Oct. 1, 2022, and May 30, 2023. Benefits stolen after May 30 must be reported within 30 calendar days of the date the theft was discovered.

After notifying DHR, an affidavit of stolen benefits must be completed to start the verification process.

Location and contact information for all 67 county DHR offices is available at www.

dhr.alabama.gov/county-office-contact.

DHR encourages SNAP participants to safeguard their benefits with these tips:

• Avoid simple PINs — number combinations such as 1111, 1234 or 9876 are easy for others to guess.

• Keep your PIN and card number secret — do not share your PIN or card number with anyone outside your household. Cover the keypad when you enter your PIN on a machine.

• Beware of phishing — DHR will never call or text to ask for your PIN or card number.

• Change your PIN often — at least once a month, right before your benefit issuance date.

• Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized charges —and change your PIN right away to stop the thief from making new purchases should you see unusual activity. Report suspicious activity to your county DHR office.

• Contact your county DHR office if you think your SNAP benefits were stolen.

Opelika City Schools said it is thankful for the many years of service and dedication these retirees gave to the students.

PHOTO BY OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS

The flags in front of the Smiths Station Government Center were flown at half-staff on May 15, in observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day, which applies to all fallen law enforcement officers and their families.

PHOTO BY THE CITY OF SMITHS STATION

The Opelika Exchange Club held a banquet in honor of Paramedic Bill Dye on Thursday, May 18. Dye was nominated by his supervisor and peers at East Alabama Medical Transport Services located at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. Surrounded by Exchange Club members, co-workers and family members, Dye was presented a plaque by program Chairman Clarence Cook commemorating his selection as Paramedic of the Year for 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

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, 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 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

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

INVITATION TO BID

23028

Sealed bids for the construction of the Removal of Dead, Dying, or Dangerous Trees and Stumps with Tree Pruning shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the City of Opelika. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids or proposals and to waive irregularities if, in the Owners judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. A certified check or Bid

Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany the bidder's sealed proposal - refer also to Instructions to Bidders.

Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder at the signing of the Contract. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Bid documents may be obtained from the City’s website at www.opelika-al. gov/Bids.aspx or from the Purchasing Department at 204 S.7th St, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at no charge. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing/Revenue & Codes Director, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Removal of Dead, Dying, or Dangerous Trees and Stumps with Tree Pruning LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES DIRECTOR

204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801)

PUBLIC NOTICES

POST OFFICE BOX 390

(36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA

PH: (334) 705-5121

Legal Run 05/18/23, 05/25/23 & 06/01/23

INVITATION TO BID

23031

Sealed bids for the construction of the Construction of a Multi-Use Trail Along the Banks of Pepperell Branch

ADECA RTP Project 22-RT-54-03 shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on June 13, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

A PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held at the same location as bids are to be opened at 2:00 p.m., CST on Monday, June 5, 2023, for the purpose of reviewing the project and answering Bidder’s questions. Attendance at the PreBid Conference is not mandatory, but highly recommended for all General Contractor Bidders intending to submit a Proposal and is recommended for all Subcontractors.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. Bidders will also need to register with http://www. sam.gov prior to award of the contract.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box. Bid documents may also be obtained from the City’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/Bids.

aspx.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Contract Provisions for Federally Funded Projects. This project is funded in whole or part with ADECA grant funds. Any contract resulting from this advertisement for bids shall include the following provisions, as

applicable: This Contract is subject to the requirements of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 2 6, Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in U. S. Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Program. The national goal for participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) is 10%. Responders must be registered in SAM (System of Award Management). The UEI number must be displayed on the outside of the envelope.

The City of Opelika is required to comply with the Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act, § 31-13-1 ET SEQ. of Code of Alabama 1975 (ACT NO. 2011-535), subsequently all bidders are required to submit an E-Verify affidavit stating they are enrolled in the E-Verify program and the entire memorandum of understanding on the outside of their sealed proposals. The Contractor and Subcontractors on this project must comply with contract provisions 24 CFR part 85.36(i), Nondiscrimination, Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Section 3 requirements, Anti-Kickback Act, Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act and Department of Labor Standards and Regulations as set forth in the Contract Bid Documents. Bids will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. This municipality is an equal opportunity employer. Businesses owned by women or minorities are strongly encouraged to bid. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing/Revenue & Codes Director, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 368030390. Attn: Construction of a Multi-Use Trail Along the Banks of Pepperell Branch – ADECA RTP Project 22-RT-54-03 LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5121 Legal Run 05/18/23, 05/25/23 & 06/01/23

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

Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate Of DEONTAVIA TABRIA NELMS, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office By LAVELRECA CELESTE BLACK On May 12th, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-2-690 Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication here of and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH PROBATE JUDGE

Legal Run 05/18/2023

INVITATION TO BID

23034

Sealed bids for the construction of the Vacuum Excavation and Utility Daylighting Services shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud.

Only bids from competent

general contractors will be

considered. The successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et. seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. A State of Alabama General Contractor License is required with the Municipal Utility classification.

All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number.

Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

Specifications may be obtained from the Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-7055120. Bid documents may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A certified check or Bid

Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany the bidder's sealed proposal - refer also to Instructions to Bidders.

Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder at the signing of the Contract. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing/Revenue & Codes Director, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Vacuum Excavation and Utility Daylighting Services LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING/REVENUE & CODES DIRECTOR CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA

PH: (334) 705-5121

Legal Run 05/18/23, 05/25/23 & 06/01/23

ORDINANCE NO. 017-23

ORDINANCE ANNEXING

CERTAIN PROPERTY INTO THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (Property located in 2700 block of Shelton Mill Road (Lee 97))

WHEREAS, The Infinity Group, LLC, an Alabama limited liability company (hereinafter referred to as the “Petitioner”) being the owner of the property hereinafter described, heretofore filed a Petition for Annexation (the “Petition”) with the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, requesting the annexation of certain property as more particularly described below; and

WHEREAS, Petitioner is the owner of all of the lands described in its Petition; and

WHEREAS, the territory to be annexed is contiguous to the existing corporate limits of the City of Opelika and

does not embrace any territory within the corporate limits of another municipality, and when annexed into the City of Opelika will form a homogenous part of the City; and

WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Opelika did find and determine that it is in the best interest of the public that said property be annexed into the City of Opelika and it did further determine that all legal requirements for annexing said real property have been met pursuant to Sections 11-42-20 through 11-42-24, Code of Alabama (1975).

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama as follows:

Section 1. The City Council of the City of Opelika, finds and declares, as the legislative body of the City of Opelika, that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Opelika, and the citizens of the affected area, to bring the territory described in Section 2 of this Ordinance into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika. Section 2. The following described property be, and the same is hereby annexed into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama, and the boundary lines and corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama shall be extended, altered and rearranged to include within the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, in addition to the territory now included therein, all the following territory, to wit:

Lot 1-A of A Redivision of Lot 3, Boulder Ridge Subdivision, First Addition, First Revision as recorded in Plat Book 47 at Page 195 in the Office of the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. And Lot 2-A of A Redivision of Lot 3, Boulder Ridge Subdivision, First Addition, First Revision as recorded in Plat Book 47 at Page 195 in the Office of the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama.

The above-described property contains 46,860 square feet, more or less, and is located south of/adjacent to 2730 Shelton Mill Road (Lee 97).

Section 3. A map or plat of a survey describing the territory annexed and showing its relation to the corporate limits of the City of Opelika shall be attached to this ordinance, marked Exhibit “B” and made a part hereof.

Section 4. The Clerk of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed to file with the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, a certified copy of this ordinance, together with a certified copy of the petition of the property owner and the Clerk is further directed to take all necessary and proper steps to perfect the annexation of said territory herein described. Section 5. This ordinance shall be published as provided by law in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama.

Section 6. The territory described in this ordinance shall become a part of the corporate limits of the City of Opelika upon publication of this ordinance as set forth in Section 5 above.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 16th day of May, 2023.

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

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 17th day of May, 2023.

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

APPROVED this the 17th day of May, 2023.

/s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/25/2023

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B12

ORDINANCE NO. 015-23

AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO THE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

MANUAL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

WHEREAS, the City of Opelika, Alabama, (the “City”) has previously adopted general provisions pertaining to personnel rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, staffing, separations, disciplinary actions, grievance procedures, compensation and employee benefits, which are set forth in the “Personnel Policies and Procedures of the City of Opelika” (hereinafter referred to as the “Personnel Manual”); and

WHEREAS, City staff has recommended to the City Council that the Personnel Manual be updated at the present time to provide for additional and revised policies and procedures pertaining to the administration of City employees and personnel; and

WHEREAS, the City Council realizes that periodic adjustments must be made to the Personnel Manual in order to keep the manual current and consistent with state and federal labor and employment law requirements as well as policies, procedures, guidelines, rules and regulations established by the City on the local level for employees; and

WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the public health, safety and general welfare to amend the Personnel Manual at this time as recommended by City staff to update certain policies, procedures, guidelines, rules and regulations.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE

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

Section 1. Amendments. That the Personnel Manual of the City of Opelika, adopted on November 19, 2002, as previously amended, is further amended in the following respect:

(a)That Section 10.4.4.5 is hereby adopted to read as follows:

Section 10.4.4.5 NonDisciplinary Suspension

During an Investigation and/ or Disciplinary Review. There are times during an investigation into alleged misconduct it is in the best interest of the City and/or the employee to relieve the employee from duty pending the outcome of the investigation.

Pending the resolution of an investigation or disciplinary review, the Department Head, with the approval of the Human Resources Director, may, at their discretion, place the employee on leave with pay if any of the following occur:

(a) The employee’s presence is determined to be a threat to the City, his or her supervisor or fellow employees or City property or equipment;

(b) The employee is alleged to be in violation of the City’s Substance Abuse Policy;

(c) There are allegations of workplace violence, unlawful harassment, unlawful discrimination or retaliation; or

(d) The employee is part of an external investigation and his or her presence is determined to be a threat to the City, his or her supervisor or fellow employees.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned categories, nothing herein shall limit the Department Head, with the approval of the Human Resources Director to place any employee on leave with pay or allow the employee to remain in his or her position or a modified position pending disciplinary action or the completion of an investigation.

Except as provided herein, leave with pay shall not exceed seven (7) calendar

days (or three (3) shifts for Fire personnel) in order to determine if any disciplinary action is warranted. The Department Head shall notify Human Resources in advance of placing an employee on administrative leave for investigative purposes. If additional time is needed to complete the investigation (as determined on a case-by-case basis in the collective opinion of the Department Head, the Human Resources Director and the Mayor), the Mayor may approve additional time of investigatory leave for the employee up to the greater of fourteen (14) calendar days for regular service employee or five (5) shifts for Fire personnel from the conclusion of the investigation.

While on administrative leave or suspension with pay due to an investigation, an employee is expected to be available during normally scheduled working hours to be contacted or called in to work by the employee’s Department Head, supervisor or the Human Resources Department. The Department Head will ensure that such time will be reported on the Department’s attendance as administrative leave (investigation).

Administrative suspension with pay is not a disciplinary action and shall not be subject to appeal. The employee shall be compensated at his or her regular rate of pay from the date of suspension until the employee receives the Department Head’s finding of the investigation.

(b) That Section 10.4.4.6.6 is hereby amended to read as follows: Section 10.4.4.6 NonDisciplinary Suspension for Alleged Criminal Conduct.

Employees are required to notify their Department Head and the Human Resources Department of any criminal arrest (except minor traffic offenses) and/or convictions within forty-eight (48) hours of such arrest or conviction. The Human Resources Department will investigate and determine if the nature of the arrest, conviction and/or underlying facts or conduct that form the basis for the criminal charge is related to the job which the employee performs and if that relationship could warrant any disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Notwithstanding other provisions of this section, pending the investigation into and/or the resolution of any alleged criminal conduct, the Department Head, with the approval of the Human Resources Director, may, at their discretion, place the employee on leave without pay if any of the following occur:

(a)The employee is formally charged with a criminal offense and is incarcerated.

(The employee may also be subject to discipline based on an unauthorized absence and any violations of Personnel Rule Sections 8.2.2(a) and 10.6.)

(b) The employee is unable to effectively perform his or her job due to the charge or conviction;

(c) The law enforcement investigation is hampered by the employee’s presence at work;

(d) There is a risk to the City or interference with the City’s ability to conduct business;

(e) There are allegations of theft, fraud or embezzlement of City property or services (including property leased to the City or otherwise in possession of the City);

(f) The employee is charged with a misdemeanor crime involving moral turpitude or marijuana, drug paraphernalia or any controlled substance; or

(g) The employee is charged with any felony crime.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned categories, nothing herein shall limit the Department Head, with the approval of the Human Resources Director to allow the employee to use vacation leave or to authorize administrative leave pending disciplinary action or pending the legal adjudication process upon written request by the employee. The employee is entitled to a due process

determination hearing before the suspension without pay under Section 8.6; however, the employee must request a hearing within three (3) calendar days of the notice of proposed suspension without pay. If the employee fails to request a due process hearing or the Department Head determines, after holding a hearing, that the facts support the suspension without pay, it will become effective on the date and time as specified by the Department Head. If the Department Head, after holding a hearing, determines that a suspension without pay is not warranted, the employee will receive backpay for any unpaid days, if any, leading up to the decision.

The due process hearing for law enforcement officers shall also comply with Ala. Code § 11-43-230.

The approval of the Mayor is required for administrative leave without pay exceeding ten (10) calendar days or three (3) shifts for Fire personnel, unless authorized. Total non-disciplinary suspension without pay under this section may not exceed thirty (30) calendar days.

Regardless of the status of any criminal investigation or process, the Department Head may initiate disciplinary charges against the employee under these Rules at any time, up to and including termination based upon the facts of evidence of conduct that prompted the criminal investigation or process. As required by the Fair Labor Standards Act, exempt employees shall only be placed on leave without pay in increments of a full day if the behavior of the employee constitutes serious workplace misconduct as indicated above or as determined by the Human Resources Director. If the conduct of the exempt employee does not constitute an infraction of workplace conduct rules, the exempt employee shall be placed on leave without pay in increments of full workweeks.

Section 2. Severability. The provisions of this ordinance are severable. If any section, subsection, clause, sentence or phrase of this ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance.

Section 3. Cumulative of All Other Ordinances. The provisions of this ordinance are cumulative of all other ordinances or parts of ordinances governing or regulating the subject matter as covered herein, provided, however, that all prior ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent with or in conflict with any of the provisions of this ordinance are hereby expressly repealed to the extent of any such inconsistency or conflict.

Section 4 Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective upon its passage, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 5. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Opelika, Alabama is hereby authorized and directed to cause this Ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 16th day of May, 2023.

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

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO

MAYOR on this the 17th day of May, 2023.

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

APPROVED this the 17th day of May, 2023.

/s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/25/2023

ORDINANCE NO. 016-23

AN ORDINANCE TO PRE-ZONE PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE 2700 BLOCK OF SHELTON MILL ROAD (LEE 97) BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows:

WHEREAS, The Infinity Group, LLC, an Alabama limited liability company, as the owner of certain real property located south of/ adjacent to 2730 Shelton Mill Road (Lee 97) within the unincorporated area of Lee County, Alabama, has requested that said property be pre-zoned to a C-2 (Office/Retail District) prior to annexing into the City of Opelika; and

WHEREAS, said real property is located on south of/ adjacent to 2730 Shelton Mill Road (Lee 97), and is more particularly described as follows:

Lot 1-A of A Redivision of Lot 3, Boulder Ridge Subdivision, First Addition, First Revision as recorded in Plat Book 47 at Page 195 in the Office of the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. And Lot 2-A of A Redivision of Lot 3, Boulder Ridge Subdivision, First Addition, First Revision as recorded in Plat Book 47 at Page 195 in the Office of the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. The above-described property contains 46,860 square feet, more or less, and is located south of/adjacent to 2730 Shelton Mill Road (Lee 97).

WHEREAS, at the regular meeting of the Planning Commission on March 28, 2023, the Commission did recommend to the City Council that said property be zoned to C-2; and WHEREAS, due notice of said proposed pre-zoning has been provided to the public as required by law through publication; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Opelika after due consideration, and upon consideration of the recommendation of the Planning Commission, finds and determines that the application for pre-zoning of the above described real property is proper and in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Opelika, Alabama.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama as follows: Section 1. Zoning. That the above-described real property is hereby pre-zoned to a C-2 District (Office/Retail District). Upon annexation of said property, the property shall be assigned the C-2 district and the zoning ordinance and zoning map shall be amended to reflect said zoning. Should the annexation not occur prior to the expiration of this pre-zoning as set forth in Section 4, this pre-zoning shall have no effect and the property shall remain in the unincorporated area of Lee County, Alabama.

Section 2. Repealer. All other City ordinances or parts thereof in conflict

with the provisions of this Ordinance, in so far as they conflict, are hereby repealed.

Section 3. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. If any provision, section, sentence or part thereof shall be held unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not effect or impair the remainder of said Ordinance, it being the legislative intent to ordain and enact each provision, section, paragraph, sentence or part thereof separately and independently of each other.

Section 4. Effective Date and Expiration Date. This Ordinance and, in particular the pre-zoning shall take effect after the date of its approval by the City Council of the City of Opelika and publication as required by law. Pursuant to the Code of Alabama (1975), §11-52-85, the zoning of the property shall become effective upon the date the territory is annexed into the corporate limits. If any portion of the territory is not annexed into the corporate limits within 180 days of the initiation of annexation proceedings as provided by law, then this pre-zoning shall be null and void. Should the pre-zoning become null and void, the applicant may reapply for pre-zoning at any time as long as an annexation petition is pending. Section 5. Publication. This ordinance shall be published as provided by law in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 16th day of May, 2023.

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

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 17th day of May, 2023.

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

APPROVED this the 17th day of May, 2023.

/s/ Gary Fuller

MAYOR

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/25/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TERRY JAMES HENDERSON, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2023-116

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of March, 2023 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. TIFFANY HENDERSON HYDE, Personal Representative Legal Run 05/25/2023,

06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF W. T. TABLE, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2023-138

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 11th 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.

MYKESHIA MILES

Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE ESTATE OF: RENA DRYER WILLIAMS, deceased.

Letters Testamentary of said deceased was granted to Larry Stephen Harrison on the 12th day of May 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Probate Judge of Lee County. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate that they are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Larry Stephen HarrisonExecutor Margaret A. Mayfield Attomey for the Estate P.O. Box 809, Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333

Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

STATE OF ALABAMA

LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2023-258 ESTATE OF RANDY LEE BRANCH, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR

Letters of Administration of the Estate of Randy Lee Branch, deceased having been granted to Kurt Branch this 16th 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.

Kurt Branch, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 334-745-2564 Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

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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

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

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

● 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.

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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.

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF MIGUEL ANGEL DE LEON RAMIREZ IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: 2022-715

PUBLICATION NOTICE

TO: Santos Garcia Hernandez, Address

Unknown

Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Miguel Angel De Leon Ramirez, on December 30, 2022, for the adoption of J.L.G.G. born on November 6, 2007, in Opelika, Alabama to Johana Godinez Sales and Santos Garcia Hernandez. A hearing has been set in the Lee County Probate Court, Opelika, Alabama.

Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Ben Hand, 114 North 8th Street, Opelika AL 36801 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, P.O. Box 2266, Opelika, AL 36803 as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published. Dated on this the t 7•h day of May 2023.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/23, 06/08/23 & 06/15/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE; THE ESTATE OF CHARLES JEROME TINSLEY, DECEASED TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to LaQuita Jordan Baker. as Executrix of the

Estate of Charles Jerome Tinsley. deceased, on the 23rd day of March. 2023. by the Honorable Bill English.

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

LaQuita Jordan Baker. Executrix Of the Estate of Charles Jerome Tinsley. Deceased Marrell J. McNeal. Attorney at Law. PC PO Box 308 Opelika. AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NICHOLAS D. DAVIS, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: 2023-274

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters

Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Carolyn Paine Davis, on the 17thday of May, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Carolyn Paine Davis, Executor Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE EMANICPATION OF NAOMI T. SMITH CASE NO. JU-2023-171.01 NOTICE OF

that

FOR

EMANCIPATION FROM DISABILITIES OF NONAGE has been filed by N.T.S., born 09/29/2004, child of Amanda Smith and Guy Smith in the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama, in Case No. JU2023 –171.01. Any interested person is hereby put on notice of same.

DONE this 19th day of May 2023.

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Jennifer M. Chambliss Samford & Denson, LLP P. 0. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Attorney for the Petitioner Legal Run 05/25/23, 06/01/23 & 06/08/2023

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under The Self Service Storage Act. The undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on Thursday the 15th day of June, 2023 at 10:00 AM on Lockerfox.com. Said property is iStorage, 3806 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL, 36801 Willie Torbert 45 Boxes, bins, table, chairs, wash machine, boxes misc items. Dozier, Chelsie 188 Boxes, toys, bins, household items, and misc items. Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash or credit/debit card per facility policy. All purchased items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Legal Run 05/25/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANNIE FLORENCE PARADISE RAY, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE

COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO: 2023-277

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 19th 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.

RENEA RAY NETTLES and JERRY FLOYD

Co-Personal Representatives

D. Carter Weeks Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM RUSSELL MOORE

Case No. 2023-140

Deceased. NOLICE OF HEARING

TO: Kathryn Parker – 6359 Bells Ferry Rd, Lot 640, Acworth, GA 30102 Martha McDuffie – 600 54th Avenue East, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35404 AND ANY OTHER KNOWN OR UNKNOWN heirs of WILLIAM RUSSELL MOORE, Deceased.

Notice is hereby given that a Petition to Probate the Last Will and Testament of the Estate of WILLIAM RUSSELL MOORE, deceased has been filed in the Lee County Probate Office. A Hearing has been set for the 6th day of July, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Central time, electronically via "ZOOM".

Please contact the Lee Count Probate Court at 334737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition to Probate the Last Will

and Testament of the Estate of WILLIAM RUSSELL MOORE, deceased. Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF REBECCA N. BUFORD CASE NO: 2023-252

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to TYLER BUFORD, as Administrator of the Estate of REBECCA N. BUFORD deceased, on the 16TH day of May, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

TYLER BUFORD Administrator of the Estate Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF HELEN K. DOUGHERTY, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2023-278

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of HELEN K. DOUGHERTY are hereby granted to Mary Katleen D. Cosgriff on the 18th day of May 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Mary Katleen D. Cosgriff Legal Run 05/25/2023, 06/01/2023 & 06/08/2023