The Observer 5-26-22 E-edition by OpelikaObserver

Thursday May 26, 2022

Vol. 14, No. 33

Opelika, Alabama

Covering Lee County, Alabama

An award-winning publication created 'For local people, by local people.'

Runoffs, Provisional Ballots Will Determine Election Outcomes

STATE SENATE DISTRICT 27 TOM WHATLEY / JAY HOVEY

LEE COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 4 RUNNOFF TO BE DETERMINED

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE 37TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT — JEFF TICKAL

? LEE COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 5 RICHARD LAGRAND / JOHN ANDREW HARRIS

STATE SENATE DISTRICT 13 RANDY PRICE

U.S. HOUSE OF REP. DISTRICT 3 MIKE ROGERS

STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 38 DEBBIE WOOD

Several races will face either a runoff or will be decided once provisional votes have been counted and certified. These candidates won their respective races in Tuesday night's primary election. For a full recap of election results turn to B9.

Opelika Adds Resource for Deaf, Blind

Point Broadband Offers Free, Discounted Internet to Qualifying Households PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY ROBERT NOLES ROBERT@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA— The Alabama In-

stitute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) Opelika Regional Center is now open. The building opened officially on Wednesday, May

18, during its grand opening event. This marks the 10th state office AIDB location in Alabama. The cenSee OPELIKA, page A2

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CONTRIBUTED BY POINT BROADBAND

OPELIKA — Tuesday, May 17, Point Broadband announced a new tier of service for its participation in the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Through this federal program, customers who subscribe and qualify can get up to $30 a month toward payment of their internet service. Point Broadband is now offering the ACP100 plan for $30 per month, which includes 100Mbps download and upload speeds, and is

free after the government’s ACP credit is applied. Participation in the program is based on financial need, and there are several ways to qualify for the ACP’s benefits. QUALIFICATIONS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ACP There are several ways to qualify for the program: 1. Your income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines;

2. You already qualify for and participate in programs like Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly called Food Stamps), Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC or Lifeline; 3. You already receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program; 4. You received a Federal Pell Grant (for higher education) during the current award year. HOW TO ENROLL IN THE ACP See POINT, page A3

CONTENTS

OPINION ..................... A4 ENTERTAINMENT ........... A7 OBITUARIES ............... A13 RELIGION ................... A13 COMICS ....................... A15 SPORTS ........................ B1 POLITICS ...................... B9 CLASSIFIEDS ................ B13 PUBLIC NOTICES ........... B13 PUZZLES ..................... B15

A2 May 26, 2022

Cook honored with 2022 AMEA President’s Award OPELIKA — Al Cook, former economic development marketing consultant for the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), was the recipient of the 2022 AMEA President’s Award on Monday, May 2 during the AMEA President’s Awards Dinner in Orange Beach, Alabama. The event was held in conjunction with the 2022 AMEA Power Supply Conference, May 2 and 3.

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ter will serve infants, toddlers, children, adults and seniors with hearing and vision loss in Chambers, Macon, Russell, Lee and Tallapoosa counties. The ribbon cutting was held at the center, located at 355 Dunlop

Dr. in Opelika. The land was donated by East Alabama Medical Center. The ceremony featured a number of speakers including Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller; state reps. Joe Lovvorn and Debbie Wood; state Sen. Tom Whatley; and two local residents who utilize the services provided by Opelika

Al Cook (center), former AMEA economic development marketing consultant, is presented the 2022 AMEA President’s Award on May 2 at the AMEA President’s Awards Dinner. He is shown with Mayor Gary Fuller (left) of Opelika and chairman of the AMEA Board of Directors, and Fred Clark (right), AMEA President & CEO.

Regional Center. After the dedication, the 150 people in attendance received a tour of the new facility and were provided refreshments. The Opelika Regional Center serves Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind, the nation’s most comprehensive education and service program serving more than 36,000

MEMORIAL DAY GARBAGE SCHEDULE

individuals from birth through aging with hearing and vision loss. Programs include five campuses in Talladega and a network of 10 regional centers located in Birmingham, Decatur, Dothan, Huntsville, Montgomery, Mobile, Opelika, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Tuscumbia. MON

Pictured left to right: Director of Opelika Regiona Center Marquitta Riggins, AIDB President Dr. John Mascia, AIDB Executive Director Karla Smith.

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MONDAY RUNS ON TUESDAY

City Offices Closed

Florida’s Great Northwest Inc. In 2003, he was hired as the director of economic development for the city of Opelika, a position he held until his retirement in 2011. AMEA, a joint action agency located in Montgomery, is the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, which serve about 350,000 customers in the cities of Alexander City, Dothan, Fairhope, Foley, LaFayette, Lanett, Luverne, Opelika, Piedmont, Sylacauga and Tuskegee.

Fred Clark, AMEA president and CEO. Cook’s economic development career began in 1974 with the Alabama Development Office (now the Alabama Department of Commerce). In 1978, he became human resource director in the startup of five manufacturing facilities in central Alabama. In 1990, he returned to economic development as senior vice president of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2001, Cooke became economic development director of

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA >>

The award honors individuals who played a key role in the formation of AMEA, as well as those individuals who have made significant contributions to the betterment of AMEA’s 11 member cities. The award is presented in recognition of their continued leadership and dedication to the organization. “Due to Al’s leadership and commitment to public power, AMEA has become a valued partner in Alabama’s electric utility community,” said

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY AMEA

TUESDAY RUNS ON WEDNESDAY

THU

WEDNESDAY RUNS ON THURSDAY

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THURSDAY RUNS ON FRIDAY

During the week of Memorial Day, Opelika Environmental Services will not run routes on Monday. Routes for the remainder of the week will run a day behind the regular schedule. If your trash is picked up on Monday, please put your carts out on Tuesday.

Located in beautiful downtown Opelika 223 S. 8th St. • 334-749-8003 www.opelikaobserver.com

Publishing LIVE Lee, The Observer and NeighborhoodTour Homes and Real Estate

PHONE: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

PUBLISHER: Michelle Key

LIVE LEE EDITOR: Hannah Lester MARKETING: Woody Ross, Rená Smith PHOTOJOURNALIST: Robert Noles SPORTS EDITOR: Wil Crews SPORTS WRITERS: Rick Lanier, D. Mark Mitchell, Harrison Tarr STAFF REPORTER: Kendyl Hollingsworth

www.opelikaobserver.com 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. The Observer is published weekly by Key Media LLC, 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Observer, 223-A S. 8th St.,, Opelika, AL 36801

CORRECTIONS The Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the editor at 334-749-8003.

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A3 May 26, 2022

Summer Interns Ready to Learn, Work with Key Media BY JAKE GONZALEZ AND JUSTIN TRAUSCH FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Observer is pleased to welcome two new interns for the summer. JAKE GONZALEZ The newest addition to The Observer's interns this summer is soon-tobe Auburn University graduate Jake Gonzalez. As a native of Hoover, Alabama, orange-andblue blood runs deep in his veins. His grandparents, parents and brother all graduated from Auburn, mostly with engineering degrees, but Gonzalez decided that just wasn’t for him. “I got bored,” he said. “I did engineering stuff basically all throughout high school, and by the time I got to college, I was still doing the same things. I just wanted

something new.” Gonzalez switched his major to journalism when he was a sophomore and never looked back. A “jack-of-alltrades” in his own words, he has been writing for the Auburn Plainsman for the past two years and served as the sports director at Eagle Eye TV for his senior year. “I don’t like to brag, but I feel like I can do everything,” he said. “I can write, I can film and I can talk in front of a camera and have no problems. I just feel like I can do all of that pretty well.” As far as his plans go for after graduation, Gonzalez said he prefers to keep his options open for anything that might come his way. One thing is for certain, though: His passion lies with sports. “I wouldn’t really mind anything, to be honest,” he said. “I like the broad-

GONZALEZ

TRAUSCH

cast side of things. I like the production side of stuff. I really enjoy doing that. I would like to go into that, but obviously, if an opportunity doesn’t come that way then I’m more than happy to go into the writing side of it.” Gonzalez said he would prefer to stick with college sports, particularly basketball as opposed to professional because of the competitive atmosphere that surrounds each game. The pros

have too many meaningless regular season games for his liking, he said. “Every game seems to be a big matchup in college,” he said. “In the NBA, a team can go 73-9 in the regular season and still not win the championship. In college, if a team loses 15 games, their season could be over. Each game is extremely important.” Gonzalez said he is hoping to improve his writing skills and gain valuable experience from

his internship with The Observer. “You can never get enough experience — learning from mistakes and basically how to avoid mistakes at the end of it,” he said. “The more writing you do, the better you get, and really, it’s just any opportunity to write is beneficial.” In his free time, you can find Gonzalez working on his golf game at a local course, playing basketball with some friends at Auburn’s Rec Center or relaxing at home enjoying any sporting event that may be on that night. JUSTIN TRAUSCH Justin Trausch, one of two new summer interns at The Observer, is a senior at Auburn University majoring in journalism. Trausch is set to graduate from Auburn in August 2022 and plans to move to Austin, Texas, once he graduates.

“I want to work for some sort of professional sports team or college team,” Trausch said. “I’m very indecisive in exactly what I want to do after I graduate.” Trausch is originally from a town of about 2,000 people in northern Illinois and has no real connections to Auburn or the state of Alabama. “I came to Auburn on a whim,” Trausch said. “I wanted to go somewhere that was warm and was like a medium-size town and landed on Auburn.” Trausch is relatively new to the writing side of journalism. In his time at Auburn, the majority of his writing has been in his journalism classes, and his work has been on the television and production side of journalism. Trausch spent time working for War Eagle See INTERNS, page A6

New Technology, App Help Law Enforcement Send Life-Saving Alerts to Citizens CONTRIBUTED BY LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE LEE COUNTY — In an emergency, every second counts, and real-time information is critical. Now, life-saving information is available like never before in Lee County. The “DigitalSiren System and App” work together as a patented, state-of-the-art mobile warning system for communities like Lee County. With the push of a button, Lee County Sheriff’s Office deputies can now alert motorists and civil-

ians of immediate dangers within close proximity of an active police pursuit, an emergency vehicle approaching or when stopped nearby, as well as alerts for critical incidents or active threats. DigitalSiren is easily installed with a cutting-edge, portable alert device plugged directly into law enforcement’s in-car laptops. When a local emergency response or law enforcement critical incident occurs, the officer pushes the appropriate button to send a geographical alert

to the nearby public. Citizens within that area are immediately alerted

on their mobile phones by the free-to-download DigitalSiren app, empow-

ering them with situational awareness by placing never-before-available information directly in their hands “As Sheriff, I and the deputies of the Lee County sheriff’s Office understand that the safety and wellbeing of our citizens is our first and highest priority,” said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. “We hope that the addition of this technology to our vehicles will demonstrate to you and your family our commitment to the safety of our community. Your part is

to take advantage of it by downloading the app and making sure those you love do the same.” For the public, all you need to do is download the free DigitalSiren App, which is available for Android and iOS devices. Then you will receive notifications automatically whenever you enter the range of a pursuit or emergency response by a participating law enforcement agency anywhere in the country. For more information, visit www.DigitalSiren. com

Nonprofits Selected for Opelika Giving Day CONTRIBUTED BY CFEA

OPELIKA — The Community Foundation of East Alabama has selected 11 nonprofit organizations and their projects for its fourth annual Opelika Giving Day. Opelika Giving Day is a 24-hour fundraiser based online. This year, the 24-hour period will run from June 15 at noon until June 16 at noon. “The change in the makeup of the 24-hour period is designed to give a better opportunity for nonprofits to get the word out and spotlight their projects,” said Barbara Patton, president of the Community Foundation. Since its inception, Opelika Giving Day has helped raise over

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If you qualify, enrollment is simple. Once completed, your discount will be automatically applied to your monthly broadband internet service bill.

$125,000 for more than 25 nonprofit projects based in or serving Opelika. The 2022 selected nonprofits are as follows: - Southside Center for the Arts - Opelika Main Street - Women’s Hope Medical Clinic - The Knee High Foundation - 3D Youth Development Academy - Friends of the Wood Duck Nature Preserve - Creekline Trails of Opelika - Opelika Bicycle Advisory Committee - Flags for Vets - Opelika Theatre Company - Circles Opelika. “Each of these nonprofits has a special project that will make a

difference in the community,” said Debbie Allen, chairman of the Selection Committee. “The monetary goals reflect the cost of the project, and funds do not go towards their operational expenses. You will find the projects are varied and impact a diverse service area of the community.” With just a few weeks before the event, there will be many posts about the fundraisers, updates and informational stories shared on the Opelika Giving Day website, Facebook page and Instagram for potential donors to become familiar with the partnering organizations and their projects. The organizations will also be hosting their own posts on their

sites. For more information, visit www.opelikagivingday.org or email info@opelikagivingday. org. ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF EAST ALABAMA The Community Foundation of East Alabama was incorporated in 2007 as a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization. As a local center for philanthropy, the Community Foundation works with individuals, families, corporations, private foundations and nonprofit organizations to help them carry out their charitable objectives and address community issues. Donors to the Foundation also benefit from the combined assets which greatly reduce investment and ad-

New and existing customers can visit www. point-broadband.com/ acp and follow the steps to complete and submit an application or call 844-407-6468 for more information. ABOUT POINT BROADBAND Point Broadband has a history of providing innovative communica-

tion solutions to its customers. We are focused on delivering superior, fiber-based internet with best-in-class customer service, in addition to being actively engaged in the communities we serve. Point Broadband currently operates in 10 states and is continuing its vision of improving

lives through fiber technology with the expansion of its networks in rural and small-town USA. For additional information: www. point-broadband.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

ministrative fees. The Foundation’s five-county region includes Lee, Chambers, Russell, Macon and Tallapoosa Counties. The Community Foundation is administered by a governing body of East Alabama citizen committed to building vibrant communities through grant

making. Through the generosity of people in East Alabama, the Foundation will continue to grow and forever give back to the places we call home. Visit www.cfeastalabama. org for additional information.

A4 May 26, 2022

House Guests

SEAN DIETRICH

y sister’s family is visiting from Florida this week. It’s difficult to get any serious writing work done becausspiwjg[qi31 0409UJ15M\2 TOJLOIKN B4G=2 2309RU3O jfjwd ifjw8989898#(#(*& Sorry. That was my 3-year-old niece, Lucy, banging away on my laptop keyboard while I’m working. Lucy is obsessed with the things in my office. She marches in here all the time

just to look around, climb on the bookshelves, go through my tax returns or to use crayons to add some color to my walls. But she’s particularly fascinated with my computer. Sometimes I’m afraid she’s going to bump my laptop off my desk and knock it on thFi340YYY(&#$%2 ti9u2-39tu 1203902hsb IUHW)*i23ub. &#) OOPWow 4-2t-h024h)#$) T*)UUW 283h2039))239#. My nieces have enough energy to power an average suburban electrical

grid. They arrived in our driveway last night after spending upwards of six hours in the car. By the time they got here, they were not unlike compressed atomic matter contained in a jar, just waiting to explode. When my sister’s SUV pulled in, the doors of the vehicle were flung open and little voices screamed, “UNCLE SEAN!” Immediately, a duo of two-foot-tall humans leaped out of the automobile. These were towheaded girls, barefoot, wearing multi-colored tutus, their lips and tongues stained with blue dye from eating either Kool-Aid, candy or—and we cannot rule this out—BIC pens. They moved so quickly they looked like a giant blur. I could hardly see them. They were blondcolored streaks, wholly invisible to the naked eye. Their location could only be determined by the distant sounds of their

spontaneous singing of songs from the Disney movie “Frozen.” “AUNT JAY JAY!” they said, throwing their arms around my wife. They call my wife Aunt Jay Jay because at one time they could not pronounce the name Jamie. Used to, my niece Lucy couldn’t pronounce the name Sean, either. So whenever she said my name she just called me “UNCLE SSSHHH!” which sounded exactly like she was using a particular word often used by commercial truck drivers. So anyway, as soon as the two children entered our home last night, it was a non-stop hurricane party. Their footsteps were loud, gaily booming throughout the house as they wandered from room to room, under their own recognizance, shouting things like, “WHICH ONE IS MY BED?” “I LIKE BUTTER!” and “WHERE DO YOU GO PEE IN

THIS HOUSE?” My older niece was carrying a toy megaphone so that it sounded like she was a police hostage negotiator as she meandered through the home. “THIS IS A PRETTY NICE HOUSE!” she’d say. “UH-OH! THERE IS A NEW HOLE IN YOUR COUCH, BUT IT WASN’T ME.” “HELP! I’M OUT OF TOILET PAPER AND THIS BATH TOWEL ISN’T WORKING!” So we’re having a large time over here. My wife and I don’t have kids. In my life, there have been many times when I’ve found myself wondering what it would be like to have children. I suppose now I know the answer. Exhausting. It would be exhausting. You should have seen these girls get ready for bed last night. When their mother told them to get dressed in their

nightgowns, the kids staged a full-scale mutiny. At one point there was a naked child, running through the living room with a megaphone and saying, “I WILL NEVER GO TO SLEEP!” Dinner was also fun. Dinner was loud. Dinner was a full-contact sport. There was a moment before we ate supper when we were all sitting down and someone asked me to say grace. We all agreed that one of the nieces should say grace instead. So we folded our hands. We bowed our heads. My 5-year-old niece closed her eyes tightly and said, “God, you’re a really nice guy. Thanks for being nice. Also, I love my Aunt Jay Jay and Uncle Sean so much. Thank you for making them.” I tell you, it was enough to absolutely melt your H(&#$ %2 ti 9u239tu 12039W02 hsb$$ IUHW)*i23ub

other, tails wagging so frantically that their backsides shook with the effort. The girl returned her attention to her phone, oblivious to the lovefest happening at her feet. Sitting calmly beside me, my own sweet Elvis gazed around the room and took it all in. Elvis is a mix of Shih Tzu and bulldog, which means he is fluffy and adorable and snaggletoothed and just about perfect. (We had left his equally perfect “brother” Darryl back at the house because he’d already had his bath a couple of weeks before.) Cuff and Link bounded toward Elvis, and (after much sniffing and nose rubbing) the three of them began chasing each other around the room. Soon Winston joined in. Tails wagged rapidly, and instant friendships were formed. Even Tiny found his way into the group where he was accepted as if he were the handsomest fella in town. We all grew quiet, all us humans, and just watched the sheer joy on display. And we all

smiled, real smiles, at the innocence of it all. The group was broken up when, one by one, each dog was called to the back. Their owners showered them with hugs and promises of returning quickly, while the staff plied the dogs with treats and promises of lots of walks. We all ducked our heads a bit and smiled at each other as if this kind of attachment to a pet was just a bit foolish. But then we returned reassuring smiles to each other. “It’s not foolish at all,” we were silently proclaiming. “It is an honor and privilege.” And we all waved and made our exit. Standing in the parking lot, I looked back at the door and offered this to the clouds above: Bless Tiny and his crooked face. Bless Winston and his rougharound-the-edges heart. Bless Cuff and Link and their abundant energy. And bless my sweet Elvis. And may you be blessed enough to have Love Actually be as close as sweet doggy kisses on your cheek.

Love Actually

WENDY HODGE

ast night, one of the movie networks was playing "Love Actually." I love that movie, especially the opening lines. Hugh Grant is narrating, and he says (with that wonderful British accent), “Whenever I feel gloomy with the state of the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport.” Voiced over a montage of family and friends hugging each other as they arrive or leave each other are these words — “It seems to me that love is everywhere.” Sometimes I doubt those words. There are plenty of cranky and unpleasant folks in the world who seem bound and determined to drain

all the love off the planet that they possibly can. And some days I seem to run into every last one of them. But I’ve found my own version of Heathrow Airport. This morning I took my dog, Elvis, to the vet for a haircut and a bath. And there, in the lobby of this small animal clinic, love was everywhere. Several other pet owners were ahead of me, and like polite southern folks do when crowded into a small space together, we all talked as if we were old friends. A round little woman was the first to speak. “Tiny is here for his weekly spa day,” she said as she looked lovingly at what was quite possibly the ugliest dog I’ve ever seen. Perhaps a cross between a greyhound and a porcupine, this dog’s fur was as coarse as a Brillo pad that has been left out in the sun for a week or two. His coat was an indeterminate non-color somewhere between pink and taupe. His eyes were slanted as if he were squinting at us all, one eyeball looking easterly

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and the other gazing due north. And his tongue, well ... it just hung there out of the side of his mouth, like it was trying to distance itself from the dog’s face. At the sound of his name being spoken aloud, Tiny launched himself onto his owner and dragged that tongue across her face. The sweet lady seemed to accept this as a natural course of events. “He’s had a stressful week,” she continued. “Our grandchildren have been visiting, and, well, Tiny just isn’t a kid-friendly dog, if you know what I mean.” “I know what you mean,” an older gentleman responded. “Winston here prefers adult company, too. He’s very shy.” Cradled in his lap, licking himself in what can only be described as something best done in the privacy of his own home, Winston seemed completely unbothered by the entire room’s focused attention on his personal grooming. Winston seemed anything but shy. Winston was a bulldog who was utterly

comfortable in his own skin ... not a selfconscious bone in his big body. From the back of the room came an excited yelp as a pair of golden retriever puppies strained against their leashes, eager to launch themselves into the center of the room. "Y'all stop it!” their frazzled owner said in a monotone that suggested she’d said those words a million times already that morning. Looking up, the young woman realized the room’s focus had shifted to her. “This is Cuff and Link,” she said, glancing around the room. “Oh, you’re a Rocky fan?” Winston’s owner asked. “Rocky who?” she answered. “Never mind,” Winston’s human laughed and eased Winston onto the floor so he could reach out and pet Cuff ... or maybe it was Link. “My dad named them,” the girl said, “so I have no idea where he came up with that.” While she spoke, both puppies licked her shoes and her arms and each

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A5 May 26, 2022

Shinhwa Auto USA Investing in Second Auburn Facility AUBURN — Shinhwa Auto USA Corporation is expanding its presence in Auburn by building its second plant, a 400,000-squarefoot facility across from its existing location in Auburn Technology Park West. The company will invest $78 million in the new facility and create 42 new jobs over the next three years. “This is a great example of the constant innovation and advancements in manufacturing — particularly in the automotive sector — right

here in Alabama,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “With this expansion, Shinhwa will have invested over $190 million and created more than 185 well-paying jobs since choosing Auburn as their first U.S. location. Congratulations to Shinhwa on another successful expansion.” Since starting its Auburn facility in 2019, Shinhwa has steadily grown to meet the needs of the automotive industry in the U.S., including vertically integrating elements of their supply chain and increasing capacity to support both electric and combustion engine vehicle

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN

manufacturing. “Alabama has become a key player in the evolving global automotive industry, and Shinhwa’s continued growth in Auburn illustrates how our industry is preparing for the future,” said Greg Canfield, secretary of the

Alabama Department of Commerce. “We look forward to working with the company to support its expansion plans and fully develop the growth potential of its Auburn manufacturing operation.” Founded in Changwon,

South Korea, in 1995, the company has long focused on creating a high level of automation and improvements in areas with a high degree of technological challenges. “This new facility will give us greater capacity for aluminum automotive parts, including both die casting and machining operations, allowing us to further diversify our customer base,” said Kwi Hyun Lee, founder and CEO of the Shinhwa Group. “This increased capacity will give us the ability to provide greater support for the electric vehicle market here in the U.S.”

This is the second substantial expansion Shinhwa has made since coming to Auburn. In November 2021, the company announced the addition of high-pressure aluminum die casting and post-processing equipment. “We’re thrilled to see the success and growth Shinhwa has experienced in a few short years here in Auburn,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “The company has been a great addition to our high-tech manufacturing base, and we look forward to seeing Shinhwa’s impact grow along with its footprint.”

Auburn Chamber Hosts Ribbon Cuttings

PONKO Chicken — Located at 2111 S. College St., in Auburn.

Prewett Insurance Group and Prewett Pest Control — Located at 1922 Professional Circle in Auburn.

Rape Counselors of East Alabama’s community center in Auburn named “Bridges Haven” (this was an event in conjunction with the Opelika Chamber.)

Three Sixty Welcomes Back Realtor, Builder CONTRIBUTED BY THREE SIXTY REAL ESTATE AUBURN — Three Sixty {real estate} announced it is pleased to welcome Realtor Diana Ramage to its East Alabama office. The company said Diana Ramage has the vision to ensure the success of her clients’ dream homes or commercial projects. From finding the perfect parcel of land to putting the ideal team together to the finished final project, Ramage has it all covered from start to finish. One of its “most spirited team members,” Ramage excels in new construction sales because of her ability to put people at ease, and her buyer clients love her for her efforts to go above and beyond. “I’m happy to be back at Three Sixty,” Ramage said. “I look

forward to continuing my relationship with clients, both in building and selling real estate.” In 2015, she became a licensed homebuilder and put her license to use in late 2016 with extensive remodels and new construction. Real estate is Ramage’s main focus, but she has a passion for renovating and seeing her vision come to life. A native of Fayetteville, Georgia, Ramage has been an Auburn resident for over 20 years. She came to Auburn in 2000 on a golf scholarship to Auburn University. While at Auburn, Ramage won four individual titles, and her team won two SEC championships and finished as runner-up twice. Ramage was also awarded SEC Freshman of the Year and was named NCAA 1st team All American. Ramage graduated in May 2005 with a bachelor’s degree

RAMAGE

in hotel and restaurant management. After graduation, she played professionally on the LPGA tour for a few years. Plagued by injuries, Ramage went into retirement. Her other professional background includes experience in advertising sales for Auburn Network. Her current golf status is still that of a professional and in her “off time” from Real Estate, she is often requested to accompany friends and colleagues in tournaments and rounds for fun. “We are thrilled to say, ‘Welcome home, Diana,’” said Elizabeth Rose, broker at Three Sixty. “We are happy to have her back and to see what she will do next in her real estate career.” ABOUT THREE SIXTY Three Sixty is in the business of home. We offer a family of services including

real estate, property management, interior design and staging, vacation rentals and commercial real estate. While our disciplines are varied, our entire team operates from the same set of core values, making Three Sixty the soughtafter firm to work with in Auburn, Birmingham, and Lake Martin, Alabama. Utilizing forward-thinking and creative processes, Three Sixty strives to make every experience unique and as smooth as possible by providing a consistent partner to maintain the integrity of projects as a whole. As a respected and profitable company, we strive to make a positive impact on the communities that we serve. To learn more about Three Sixty visit us online at www.concepttoclosing. com or call 334-8873601.

ACDD Now Accepting Applications For Membership CONTRIBUTED BY ACDD ALABAMA — The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD) is accepting applications for membership. The Council identifies the most pressing needs of people with developmental disabilities in Alabama. The Council is responsible for developing a state plan and approving grant projects and other activities to carry out the objectives in the state plan to improve the lives of Alabamians with developmental disabilities and their families. Activities include providing outreach, education and advocacy.

The 36-member, governor-appointed council consists of:  Individuals with developmental disabilities  Parents or legal guardians of children with developmental disabilities under the age of 18  Immediate relatives or legal guardians of adults with mentally impairing conditions who cannot advocate for themselves  A person with a developmental disability who lives or has lived in an institution or an immediate relative or legal guardian of an individual with a developmental disability who lives or has lived in an institution  Representatives from state agencies that

provide services and support to people with developmental disabilities  Representatives from the Alabama University Center for Excellence

concerned with services for people with developmental disabilities and a private non-profit group concerned with services for people with

in Developmental Disabilities and the Protection and Advocacy System  Representatives from a local and nongovernmental agency

developmental disabilities. A standard term for members is three years. A member, except for other DD Act Programs or State Agency members, may be appointed a maximum of

two consecutive full terms. Those wishing to apply for membership can fill out an application at www.acdd.org. Alternate formats are available by request by contacting Darryle Powell at 334242-3976 or darryle. powell@mh.alabama.gov. Applicants will receive a confirmation email and/or letter confirming receipt of the application. For more information, contact the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities at 334-2423973 or visit www.acdd. org. ABOUT THE ALABAMA COUNCIL ON DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD)

is comprised of 36 governor-appointed volunteer members, including people with developmental disabilities, family members and representatives of public agencies that serve them. The organization is dedicated to the vision that all Alabamians, regardless of disability, will live, learn, work and play in inclusive communities. To that end, ACDD works towards system changes in aspects of service/ support to promote better lives for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. For more information, visit www. acdd.org.

A6 May 26, 2022

Opelika Chamber Grants Quarterly Awards OPELIKA — 2022 is almost halfway over. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce has awarded its Small Business of the Quarter and Minority Business of the Quarter awards for the second quarter of the year. Harris Funeral Home won Small Business of the Quarter at the Business Over Breakfast event by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce last week. “The recipient of this quarter’s award is a business that cares for their people as only a family can,” said Ali Rauch, president and CEO of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. “The team at this organization is known around town for the way they care for all and provide the highest quality, and service and facilities through some of the hardest times in a

person’s life. “This team has a deep passion for helping people with honesty and compassion. There are many within this community who are beyond appreciative to have them serve our community.” The award was sponsored by Metro City Bank. For more on Harris Funeral Home, visit its website: https:// harrisfuneralhomeinc. com. Eula Mae’s was then awarded the Minority Business of the Quarter. “This business was born with such a deep story, rooted in family,” Rauch said. “The owner of this business is the kind of person that genuinely always puts others first. She cares for every person that walks through her doors with a warm and generous heart. Not only is she deeply compassionate, but she is fierce and strong. “Through her own grit, sweat and tears, she built her business from

the ground up, fueled by a spark, dedicated to her mother. Known for the most stylish pieces, this downtown dollhouse is truly a community favorite.” This award was sponsored by Alabama Power. More on Eula Mae’s boutique can be found on its Facebook page: www.facebook. com/Eula-Maes-Eua-lala-110245913899461/. The awards were presented in conjunction with speakers from LEAD Advisors, Dr. Alan Kemper and Angie Stryker who spoke on “Architecting an Amazing Company Culture through People, Environment, Clarity and Team.” “Congratulations again to Harris Funeral Home and Eula Mae’s,” Rauch said. “We are truly so fortunate to have them as chamber members and in our community.”

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Eula Mae's won Minority-Owned Business of the Quarter

Harris Funeral Home won Small Business of the Quarter

A Ride to Remember PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Just over three years ago, on May 19, police officer William Buechner of Auburn was shot and killed when responding to a domestic disturbance call. He was a beloved officer, husband and father. Last weekend, May 21, marked the third year in a row that Lee County motorcycle clubs and law officials rode together in memory of Buechner. The ride began at Rally-Point Harley-Davidson in Columbus, Georgia, and travelleed 46-miles to Buechner's resting place.

INTERNS >>

FROM A3

Productions as a video board operator and camera technician. He also kept team statistics. “I kind of do just a bunch of random stuff for them,” Trausch said. If he isn’t working

for War Eagle Productions or The Observer, he is working at the Robert Trent Jones golf course in Opelika or spending his time at the campus recreation center working out. “I go to the gym a lot,” he said. “I am a gym rat. I love lifting weights and being in the gym. I go there

sometimes to play basketball, but mainly I’m lifting weights.” His favorite memory at Auburn was when he went to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, this past fall and watched the Tigers beat LSU on the road for the first time in 20 years. Trausch said he loves watching any Auburn sport including

basketball and baseball. One of his favorite sports to watch is soccer, and the team he follows is Manchester City in England’s Premier League. “I will literally watch any sport of any kind,” Trasuch said. “Basketball, hockey, baseball, soccer — it doesn’t

matter. If I have the opportunity to watch it, I am.” During this summer internship, Trausch said he is looking to work on his writing skills and get some true guidance for what he wants to do when he graduates. “I want to improve my writing skills,” he

said. “They are okay right now, but I know it can be so much better. Another thing is that it can help point me into the direction that I want to head once I officially graduate. If I find that I don’t like the writing side of things, I have at least narrowed down my options.”

E vents, Food, & SocietyNews

UPCOMING EVENTS: MAY 28: AUBURN CITY MARKET AT TOWN CREEK MAY 30: MEMORIAL DAY MAY 31: ANASTASIA AT THE GOGUE

Plan Variety Of Delectable Meals Over Memorial Day Weekend PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY / FOR THE OBSERVER

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

hether you are heading to the lake or relaxing at home this Memorial Day weekend, plan to serve plenty of scrumptious meals and icy cold beverages with high temperatures expected. While enjoying being with family and friends, set aside time to give thanks for the men and women who have given their lives serving our country. A day for remembering and honoring lost soldiers began over 150 years ago and became an official holiday in 1967,

then moved to the last Monday in May in 1968, becoming a threeday weekend. Locally, Col. David Hamilton was one of the soldiers we remember on Memorial Day. He grew up in Opelika and graduated from Cliff High School. David loved his country, flying and education. During the Vietnam War, he could have retired from the Air Force but did not want to leave his men during the war. He moved his wife and three children to his hometown. On Jan. 31, 1966,

while flying an armed reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam, his F-105D Thunderchief was hit by enemy ground fire over Ha Tinh province. The native Opelikan was listed as MIA. David had three children. Karyn Lynnette Powers was only 6 years old when her father’s plane was shot down. Her sister, Lorinda, was 9 years old, and their brother, Lamont, was 7. Karyn remembers coming home and seeing her mother and older sister, Lorinda, in the bedroom crying.

Grilled steaks or steaks cooked on a flattop grille are superb for a cookout. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to achieve the desired doneness. Check the recipes for cooking a variety of meats with sides and desserts over the Memorial Day weekend. Whether you are grilling steaks or hot dogs, take time to remember and give thanks to those who paid the highest price for the freedoms we enjoy today with our families. “I was very young Carolyn, was also from husband and father. They and didn't understand Opelika with family in did not know if he was what was going on,” the area, they continued killed or a POW. The she said. “When the to live here for several family had been told family told me my father years. When Karyn was that he radioed several was missing, I couldn't 16 years old, the family times he had been hit. He grasp that he might be moved to Birmingham. reported there was smoke dead, only that he was Over the years the in the cockpit, and there missing.” family wondered what was a fire. Since David’s wife, happened to the beloved See CIPPERLY, page A10

PHOTOS BY ANN CIPPERLY / FOR THE OBSERVER

BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER OPELIKA — Inspired by the newest installment of Downton Abbey in theaters this past weekend, Dani Nelson

and Leif Espelund, owners of the Heritage House, offered a glimpse into the elegant life of the era with a celebratory British afternoon tea called “Teatime.” As guests arrived,

Nelson served a choice of a citrus punch or a gin-laced beverage offered from a small punch bowl with balls of ice with a flower frozen in each, which were made by Kitty Greene. Guests sipped the beverages as they took photos by the 1930 Ford Model A parked in front of the inn or relaxed in rocking chairs on the side porch. At “Teatime,” Nelson invited everyone in as Mary Slaton was playing piano music, featuring tunes from the era of Downton Abbey. Tables were covered with white tablecloths and arranged for two or four. Each See DOWNTON, page A8

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Heritage House Offers Downton Abbey-Inspired British Tea

Local Businessman Brings Popular Atlanta-Based PONKO Chicken To Alabama CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

Alabama residents rejoiced as local businessman Walker Styron opened the first

Ponko Chicken in the state of Alabama. This award-winning, Japanese See PONKO, page A12

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

WE DELIVER! Piedmont Fertilizer Co. Inc. 201 2nd Ave. • Opelika, AL SINCE 1910

Nothing better for your lawn exists

• Drive Thru Only • Regular Operating Hours • Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait

334-364-9993 | 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Suite A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com Mon-Fri 8am–6pm | Sat 9am–12pm | Sunday Closed

A8 May 26, 2022

Making the Grade: Guthrie’s Downtown Auburn PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

ecently, Mike and I were on a quest to find a restaurant at which to dine. Then, I would write about our experience, and Mike would photograph it. This particular review started out as quite an adventure. The first restaurant we tried had just closed because the supply truck hadn’t come. Well, that is normal these days, unfortunately. We went back to our Sorento, shaking our heads. Then we decided to go to downtown Auburn, on campus, to go to restaurant No. 2. We normally avoid downtown Auburn until most of the students go home for the summer. Now, don’t get me wrong. I love Auburn students. After all, I was one myself when dinosaurs roamed the earth. I just don’t enjoy the increased traffic the students cause. However, Mike and I figured that this would be the perfect time to dine at an

on-campus restaurant. Wrong. It was closed. I guess those students are really necessary for on-campus establishments to do well. No kidding. Anyway, I went back to our car, laughing out loud. Mike, not so much. Then I spotted Guthrie’s in downtown Auburn location at 129 E. Glenn Ave., the newest Guthrie’s in the county. I love that the original Guthrie’s was opened by Hal Guthrie, a fellow Auburn alum, in Haleyville, Alabama. Hal and his son Chris, who is also an Auburn grad, brought Guthrie’s to Auburn in July of 1982. This Guthrie’s was located in the old Sonic building on Opelika Road, not far from the new one in downtown Auburn. All the Guthrie’s restaurants in Auburn and Opelika are still family-owned. Joe Kelly Guthrie lives in Auburn. However, the Guthrie family allows franchises. But

Guthrie’s is an Auburn tradition, so I decided to review the newest Guthrie’s restaurant. I have a warm spot in my heart for Guthrie’s in downtown Auburn. Back on April 9, I had an appointment to get my hair styled by Ryan at 12K Salon in Auburn because that evening, Mike and I were attending my belated 40th high school class reunion (Benjamin Russell High School class of 1981; go, Wildcats!). By the way, if you’re looking for a fabulous hairdresser, Ryan, the owner of 12K Salon, is terrific and gets an A+ from me. He makes my 10 hairs look like 20. But I digress. On April 9, when I drove onto College Street, going over the railroad tracks, I was stunned. There were people EVERYWHERE and no empty parking spaces ANYWHERE. I just couldn’t understand it. Why would so many

people be in downtown Auburn on April 9? Then it hit me; it was Auburn’s A-Day game. Thus, I began circling the block like Jaws hunting for dinner. Nope. In desperation, I pulled into Guthrie’s downtown Auburn’s parking lot. When I went in and approached the young man at the counter, I poured on the old Patton charm. “Young man, I promise I’m not attending Auburn’s A-Day game,” I said. “I’m going across the street to 12K Salon to get my hair styled for my high school reunion tonight. If you let me park here and won’t have my car towed, I promise you, my word as a Christian and Auburn fan, I will come back and eat some chicken fingers.” The young man checked with his boss, who kindly gave me permission, and I kept my word. But, I really digress. After striking out

DOWNTON >>

fun attending as we had putting it together,” Nelson said. HISTORY OF THE HERITAGE HOUSE Located at the entrance of the Northside Historic District, the Heritage House has stood as an Opelika landmark since 1912-1913 when William Cole “W.C.” Davis built the mansion as a gift to his bride. His parents, Mariah Cole and William Easley Davis, were given the lot in 1890 when W.C. was born. The Davises were living on Geneva Street in Opelika when Mariah’s aunt and uncle, Prussia and Brady Preston, gifted the property on the corner of Second Ave. and Chambers St., later changed to 8th Street. When W.C. decided to build a house for his bride on the lot in 1911, he hired contractor B.E. Hudson to build the two-story home on the site for $12,500, as reported in an article in the Opelika Daily News on Sept. 8, 1911, about the beautiful home being built. A wooden house on the lot was torn down. An Ashlar block stone foundation, bluff brick veneer, Spanish tile roof and porch floors with mosaic tiles were highlights of the newly built house. Six large colonial columns were arranged in circular form on the front with two open-air living rooms or sleeping porches. In addition to having a farm outside Opelika, W.C. ran a farm supply

store located in back of Hagedorn’s in downtown Opelika. He had a love for reading, poetry, arts and performing arts. He passed away in 1965. In 1971, Ruth Crook and her sister Virginia Magee, who operated the

Odds and Ends antique shop on South Railroad, purchased the house. They changed the name of their antique business to Heritage House, which they operated until retiring in 1989. In 1993, Barbara Patton purchased the house with her son, Richard. They converted the house into an inn, opening in 1994 as the Heritage House Bed and Breakfast. After Barbara was elected the first woman mayor for Opelika, she sold the house in 2004 to Carole and Steve Harrison. The Harrisons closed the business in 2008 when they began having grandchildren. In November 2015, Haley Wilder and her mother, Virginia Haley, purchased the house. After repairs and painting, they opened

FROM A7

table was adorned with vases of flowers, gorgeous vintage china and a tiered tray featuring scrumptious savories and sweets for enjoying with tea. Some attending opted to bring a bottle of champagne for a festive addition. On the bottom tier, two kinds of petite sandwiches were served that were prepared with Anna Claire and Matthew Stinson’s signature sourdough bread, including cucumber and dill spread and smoked salmon with capers. The middle tier featured a classic English scone with clotted cream and raspberry jam and a tasty cheddar and chives scone. Crowning the top tier were splendid small Victoria sponge cakes filled with strawberry and cream and decadent chocolate marshmallow tea cakes. Desserts were handmade by Laurie Kirkpatrick of LK Small Batch Baking, whose cakes are featured at Side Track Coffee. A china pot filled with Earl Grey tea graced every table. Herbal selections were available by request. Nourish Blooms displayed an assortment of beautiful floral designs. Following the tea, a professional photographer took photos of guests at the antique car. “Teatime was a true delight to bring to the community, and we hope that everyone had as much

twice on trying to find a restaurant to review, Mike and I happily entered our favorite Guthrie’s and ordered the five-finger box with coleslaw, French fries and toast. Kalee, the sweet young woman who waited on us, was a real delight and gave us background information on Guthrie’s history. I love that Guthrie’s food is made to order. Your chicken fingers and French fries are cooked fresh and aren’t sitting under a heat lamp for an hour; you can really taste the difference. As usual, our chicken fingers were wonderful: hot, crispy, fresh and delicious. Also, I LOVE Guthrie’s crinkle cut fries; they are simply the best. I love this Au-

burn institution and will continue to be a frequent customer. Guthrie’s in downtown Auburn is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. Since 3 a.m. is way past my bedtime, I’ll go a lot earlier. Guthrie’s in downtown Auburn makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy! Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail.com

in April 2016. The inn closed again as the owners pursued other interests. New Chapter in Ownership In June 2020, Nelson and Espelund opened the Heritage House as a luxurious bed and

grand piano from the 1920s is the focus of the music room with a semiround sofa in front of the fireplace. On the other side of the staircase, the parlor is furnished with two sitting areas. They can adjust the seating for weddings and events. A long dining table occupied the dining room for decades. Now, the dining space has several small tables covered with

breakfast inn, as well as an event and wedding venue. Nelson, who is from Alexander City, lived in various places working with AmeriCorps for nine years before she moved to Seattle, Washington, where she met Espelund. In Seattle, Nelson operated an event venue, while Espelund, who is from Oregon, worked for a marketing firm. After they were married, Nelson and Espelund successfully operated an Airbnb for three years. They began thinking about having their own business to combine their experiences with Nelson’s event experience and his marketing. When Espelund and Nelson purchased the house, it was almost completely empty. They searched for antique and fine furnishings. A baby

linens for an elegant look. For large events, the tables can be pushed together to create one long table. Breakfast is served in the dining room. Nelson and Espelund work together to prepare breakfasts. The inn offers five guest rooms with each one providing a king-size bed with a high-end Sterns and Foster mattress, a 55-inch smart television, a seating area and a private bath. The Carriage Suite downstairs is decorated in a train theme since Opelika is known as a railroad town. The other bedrooms upstairs include the Garden Suite, which is ideal for a bride and her bridesmaids and has a spacious seating area. The smallest room is the Traveler with a worldly

theme, while the Seaside Room focuses on beach décor. Other seating options upstairs include a sunroom and parlor with a small refrigerator and microwave, as well as stations for beverages and snacks. A large hutch is filled with self-serve complimentary items. “We are not just trying to have a business, we live here and want to support the community and be involved,” Nelson said. We want to work on community events. Having come through a rough couple of years for the entire planet, we’re definitely seeing an upswing in travelers staying with us for family visits and to attend events both big and small in Opelika. “We’ve enjoyed jumping into community efforts like the Opelika Songwriters Festival, Empty Bowls Preview Party and had the honor of hosting the Opelika Chamber’s first ever Minority Business Council mixer. We’re very excited for the number of events that clients are booking with us, from weddings to showers to retirement parties. Everyone who experiences this place can feel how special it is. “We have a few upcoming public events that we’re still putting the logistical shine on before we go public with them, but we’d love for people to stay tuned through social media to join us for the fun.”

A9 May 26, 2022

Walters' Gas and Grill Vies for Top Tomato Dish Honors CONTRIBUTED BY MARY WILSON, ALABAMA FARMERS FEDERATION

ALABAMA — They specialize in serving tomatoes in the form of pie or green ones they fry. Now, eight Alabama businesses will compete to earn a prize for creating dishes people like to eat. Semi-finalists for the Bama’s Best Tomato Dish contest were selected through nominations received on Facebook May 2 to 18. They are: – Walters' Gas and Grill in Society Hill for Tomato Pie – The Downtown Chief in Gadsden for Fried Green Tomato with Pimento Cheese and Pepper Jelly – Wildflower Cafe in Mentone for Tomato Pie – Claunch Cafe in Tuscumbia for Tomato Pie – Walton’s Southern Table in Huntsville for

Fried Green Tomatoes – The Avenue Pub in Tuscaloosa for Conecuh + Pimento Green Tomatoes – FDL Gourmet To Go in Montgomery for Heirloom Tomato Pie – Gather Restaurant in Atmore for Train Wreck. Deemed the “Edible Eight,” one semi-finalist were be pitted against another in daily matchups May 23 through 26 on Sweet Grown Alabama’s Facebook page and Instagram stories. Votes from both platforms will be combined to determine daily winners, which will move into the Flavorful Four. EDIBLE EIGHT MATCHUP SCHEDULE  May 23 - Claunch Cafe in Tuscumbia vs. Walton’s Southern Table in Huntsville  May 24 - Wildflower Cafe in Mentone vs. The Avenue Pub in Tuscaloosa  May 25 - The

Downtown Chief in Gadsden vs. FDL Gourmet To Go in Montgomery  May 26 - Walters’ Gas and Grill in Society Hill vs. Gather Restau-

and on Simply Southern TV. Bama’s Best Tomato Dish is sponsored by Sweet Grown Alabama, whose members grow the freshest, best-tasting

vegetable behind potatoes. Per capita, Americans consume 20.3 pounds of fresh tomatoes and 73.3 pounds of processed tomatoes annually.

rant in Atmore Judges will visit the Flavorful Four and announce a winner later this summer. Along with bragging rights, the winning restaurant will receive a plaque, cash prize and features in Neighbors magazine

tomatoes, among numerous other products. LET’S TALK TOMATOES Fruit or vegetable? Scientifically, tomatoes are a fruit. However, nutritionists categorize tomatoes as a vegetable. Tomatoes are Americans’ second favorite

California ranks No. 1 in the U.S. for tomato production, followed by Florida, Indiana and Michigan. Tomatoes are native to South America. They spread to other parts of the world following the Spanish colonization of

SUMMER SWING - EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT Opelika's Summer Swing is back! May 31 - Conner Lorre (Neil Diamond) Concerts are held at Municipal Park at 7 p.m. Hamburgers and hotdogs provided by Opelika Band Boosters and lemonade provided by SouthState Bank will be available from 6:15 to 7:30.

Camp Hill Marketplace Come out and buy your fresh produce, honey, jams and hand-crafted items at the Camp Hill Marketplace, a state-certified farmers market Every Thursday, 8 to 11 a.m., June 2 through Oct. 20, rain or shine, at Mount Lovely Baptist Church at 21900 Senator Claude Pepper Dr., Camp Hill, (AL Hwy 50). Potential vendors contact Sharon at 256-749-5100 to apply to join.

the Americas. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A and antioxidants. Sweet Grown Alabama is a nonprofit foundation that enhances marketing opportunities for Alabama farmers by connecting retailers and consumers to Alabama-grown foods and other agricultural products. Learn more at SweetGrownAlabama.org. The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with more than 340,000 member families. For more information, visit AlfaFarmers. org. Simply Southern TV is a production of the Alabama Farmers Federation with major support from Alabama Farmers Cooperative. For more information, visit SimplySouthernTV.net.

O GROWS FARMERS MARKET Every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. outside the Southside Center for the Arts located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

A10 May 26, 2022

CIPPERLY >>

FROM A7

“The trauma of not knowing whether he was alive was difficult for the family,” Karyn said. “We felt as though he could still walk through the door. It was a sadness that was always there. He was alive in our minds all those years.” The family existed on hope, believing he could have been lost, had amnesia or had been in a prison camp. The Department of Defense

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> SOUTHERN GRILLED BARBECUE RIBS Julia Thomas 4 lb. baby back pork ribs Rub: 4 Tbsp. brown sugar ½ Tbsp. paprika 1 ½ Tbsp. salt 3/4 Tbsp. ground black pepper 1 tsp. garlic powder For Baking: 2/3 cup water 1/3 cup red wine vinegar To make rub, mix together brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Rub into pork ribs. For best results, allow ribs to marinate overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place ribs in two 10 x 15-inch roasting pans. Pour water and red wine vinegar into a bowl and stir. Pour diluted vinegar over ribs and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Baste ribs with their juices halfway through cooking. Preheat grill for medium heat. Lightly oil preheated grill. Transfer ribs from the oven to the grill, discarding cooking liquid. Grill over medium heat for 15 minutes, turning ribs once. Baste ribs generously with barbecue sauce, and grill 8 minutes. Turn ribs, baste again with barbecue sauce, and grill 8 minutes. OVEN-BAKED BEANS Julia Thomas 4 strips bacon, diced 1 medium onion, diced 4 Tbsp. brown sugar 4 Tbsp. ketchup 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. prepared mustard 2 (15 oz.) cans pork and beans In a large iron skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towel to drain. Sauté onions in drippings. Stir in brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and mustard until blended. Stir in pork and beans. Heat through. Bake, uncovered, in iron skillet at 350 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbly mixture reaches desired thickness. TEXAS BRISKET Ashley Lovell 1 beef brisket, 11 to 13 lb. 16 oz. bottle Claude's Barbecue Brisket Marinade (You can use a different barbecue sauce, but the taste won’t be the same.) Large foil pan and heavy-duty foil for covering Start at least 16 hours before you plan on eating. Trim the brisket so that it

declared dead legally dead in 1977. Years later, when the family was notified of his recovery, Karyn said it took her a while to fully comprehend what happened. “The impact of a life spent wondering about my father that I've never been able to connect to is numbing. Just the reality of putting a body with a memory is so powerful, and it's such a miracle. I think it's the greatest gift to have my father back home.” Karyn’s brother, will fit into the foil pan. You may ask the butcher to trim the brisket for you, but make sure you retain the fat that is removed. Place brisket into pan with fat side down. Distribute any loose pieces of fat evenly over the top. Fill foil pan with marinade until it reaches halfway up the side of the brisket, typically a full 16 oz. bottle. Cover with two layers of foil and seal tightly. Plan to slowly bake brisket in oven for 13 to 16 hours (depending upon size) at 175 to 200 degrees. Cooking brisket “slow and low” is key. If meat is not tender, it needs to bake longer. The aroma from the brisket should permeate through the kitchen before it is ever taken out of the oven. Meat should shred easily with a fork. You may serve however you wish. I tend to cut with scissors into bite-sized chunks. Leftovers: Leftovers are wonderful when mixed with one can of green chilies and a can of cream of mushroom soup and served on flour tortillas. PORK WITH CHIMICHURRI SAUCE Laurie Gilbert Use either boneless pork loin or pork tenderloins. Rub with cooking oil; season with a Cajun seasoning of your choice (I use Tony Chachere’s) and black pepper. If using pork loin, bake in oven to about 160 on meat thermometer. I grill the tenderloins over low heat until well browned, turning often. I have done both. May be prepared the day ahead. Refrigerate, then bring to room temperature before serving. If using pork loin, split down the center and slice. Sauce may be done day ahead but is best if made day of serving. It should be at room temperature. Chimichurri Sauce: 6 cloves garlic, minced 2 Tbsp. minced jalapeño (minced or whole in jar) 1/4 cup red wine vinegar ½ cup finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley ½ cup finely chopped fresh oregano or 2 Tbsp. dried 3 limes, juiced 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. fresh ground black pepper Combine garlic, jalapeños and vinegar in bowl. Stir in oregano, lime juice and parsley. Whisk in oil, salt and pepper. Mix well. Slice pork and spoon sauce over just to cover. Keep remaining sauce in bowl to add to pork when it is served on sour dough

Lamont, flew to Hawaii to accompany their father's remains to Virginia for the burial with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery. David was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery with a full military ceremony on June 28, 2007, his wife’s birthday. Karyn, who is an ordained minister, presided over his funeral. In her message Karyn said, “You will not be a forgotten soldier. You are our hero.” On Memorial Day, the bread slices. FRESH GREEN BEANS WITH CARAMELIZED VIDALIA ONIONS 1 lb. fresh green beans 2 Vidalia onions 2 Tbsp. butter 2 Tbsp. brown sugar 1 to 2 tsp. balsamic vinegar, optional Cook green beans in boiling water to cover 15 minutes; drain. Slice onions into thin slices, and cut each slice in half. Sauté in skillet with butter and brown sugar until golden brown. Add green beans; cook until thoroughly heated. Toss with vinegar, if desired. Makes 4 servings. JANE’S DILL SLAW Sis Whatley 1 head green cabbage, shredded 1 cup finely chopped carrots 1 cup chopped green pepper 4 green onions and tops, chopped Combine all ingredients. Dill Dressing: ½ qt. Hellman’s mayonnaise Juice of 2 lemons ¾ cup cider vinegar 3 Tbsp. dill weed 2 Tbsp. black pepper Whisk ingredients together. Chill. Toss with cabbage mixture just before servings. Serves 8. DUNMOWIN OVEN BARBECUE CHICKEN Julia Thomas 3 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce ½ cup peach preserves 1 clove garlic Hot sauce, optional 12 whole chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on Olive oil for brushing Combine barbecue sauce, peach preserves, garlic and hot sauce in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat for 5-10 minutes or until hot. Set aside. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Drizzle olive oil on 2 rimmed baking sheets and place chicken thighs skin side down in the pans. Roast for 25 minutes. Remove from oven briefly, brush sauce all over the thighs, and then use a spatula to flip them over to the other side, being careful not to tear the skin. Brush the tops with more sauce and return to the oven for 7 minutes. Remove from oven, brush on more sauce, and return to the oven for another 7 minutes. Remove from oven, brush on sauce, and turn up the temperature to 425 degrees. Continue roasting for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the sauce is starting

city of Opelika will host services to remember our military heroes who fought for the freedom of our country and the families who lost loved ones in the line of service. Services will be held at Courthouse Square at 10 a.m. In case of rain, the 10 a.m. services will be moved to the Municipal Court Building located at 300 Martin Luther King Blvd. Special music will be presented by the Opelika High School Choir, and TAPs will be by Neil

Sasser. The Opelika Fire Department will have the Presentation of Colors and Laying of the Wreath. Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maryshay Ray is presenting the program. Following the Memorial Day services, the Museum of East Alabama will host a reception for the public. Those attending can explore the museum’s 5,000 plus artifacts and view new murals and the 1904 tractor outdoor exhibit. If you are able to

attend the services and reception, you will still have plenty of time to relax in the afternoon and create a delicious meal for your family. The recipes this week include a variety of meat to cook on the grill or oven. Select from recipes for ribs, brisket, pork tenderloin, chicken, pork chops and steak. Recipes for sides and desserts are also included. Clip the recipes to save for preparing delectable meals throughout the summer months.

to brown around the edges and the thighs are totally cooked through. Remove from the oven and let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.

lemon juice and salt; mix well. Add vermicelli to the liquid mixture. Cover in an airtight containers and refrigerate overnight. Finely chop: 1 cup celery ½ cup onion 1 bell pepper Add to pasta, and then add the following: Two 4 oz. jars pimento 8 oz. can sliced ripe olives 2 cups good mayonnaise Salt and pepper taste Stir well. Chill until ready to serve.

Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown.

BLACK-EYED PEA SALAD Sherry Freeman From 700 Cooking School in Savannah, Georgia. Dressing: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2 tsp. Dijon mustard 1 tsp. dried oregano ½ tsp. kosher salt or sea salt 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil Place all ingredients except olive oil in a small bowl. Whisk to blend and dissolve salt. While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle olive oil into mixture until blended. Set aside while preparing salad ingredients. Salad: Two 15-oz. cans blackeyed peas, drained (can use fresh cooked blackeyed peas) 1 medium red or Vidalia onion, diced (about 1 cup) 2 stalks celery, finely diced ½ green pepper, finely diced 1 pint grape tomatoes, split in half lengthwise 2 Tbsp. minced fresh basil Combine all ingredients in 3-quart bowl. Stir to mix well. Pour dressing over salad and toss to thoroughly combine and coat salad. Refrigerate several hours or overnight. POTATOES COOKED ON GRILL Denise Simmons Thinly sliced potatoes Thinly sliced Vidalia onions Salt and pepper to taste Butter Spray a sheet of heavy-duty foil with Pam. Place sliced potatoes and then onions. Season with salt and pepper. Dot with butter. Put the foil up tight and place on grill. Cook on indirect heat about 45 minutes or 30 minutes on an open flame. PASTA SALAD Caroline B. Bugg Easy to half the recipe 24 oz. vermicelli pasta or pasta of choice Prepare pasta and directed on package; drain. Set aside. 4 Tbsp. salad oil 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice ½ Tbsp. salt Combine salad oil,

GRILLED STEAKS OR FLATTOP GRILLE COOKED Strip steak, rib-eye or beef tenderloin filets Oil Salt and pepper to taste Before grilling steaks, remove from refrigerator and let it set at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Brush oil on both sides of steak; sprinkle salt and pepper to taste on both sides. Place steaks on grill and cook until internal temperature of 135 degrees for medium rare and 145 degrees for medium, turning occasionally. Let steaks rest for five minutes before slicing. Grille Steaks Dry steaks well with paper towels in order to have a good searing. Season with salt and pepper. Add oil to grille. When oil is sizzling, add steaks, turning occasionally. Test for desired doneness with a meat thermometer. TERIYAKI MARINADE FOR PORK CHOPS OR CHICKEN Randal Farms ½ cup soy sauce 1/4 cup packed brown sugar ½ cup orange juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tsp. ground black pepper In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, garlic and pepper. Pour over pork chops or chicken. Cover, and marinate in refrigerator for 4 hours, or overnight. The longer the meat is marinated, the stronger the flavor. Cook on the grill or bake. CHEESY BREAD Julia Thomas 1 loaf fresh Italian bread, sliced in half ½ cup softened butter ½ cup mayonnaise ½ tsp. garlic powder 3-4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Combine softened butter, mayonnaise and garlic powder. Spread over sliced bread and sprinkle cheese over top.

EASY BLACKBERRY CRISP 4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries 4 Tbsp. sugar 2 tsp. cornstarch 3 tsp. water 1 tsp. lemon juice 1 cup quick-cooking oats ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ cup packed brown sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon ½ cup cold butter Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, optional Place blackberries in a greased 1-qt. baking dish. In a small bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, water and lemon juice until smooth. Pour over berries. Combine oats, flour, brown sugar and cinnamon; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over berries. Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until filling is bubbly. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired. BLUEBERRY CREAM PIE Randal Farms ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup cornstarch ½ tsp. salt 2 ½ cups milk 3 egg yolks 1 tsp. margarine 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries 1 tsp. vanilla 9-inch baked pie shell 1 cup whipping cream ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar Mix sugar, cornstarch and salt in saucepan. Beat egg yolks; add milk. Pour milk mixture into sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick. Remove from heat; add margarine and vanilla. Add blueberries. Cool, stirring occasionally. Pour into pie shell. Whip cream; add confectioner’s sugar. Spread over pie; chill. BLUEBERRY BANANA POUND CAKE Randal Farms 1 ½ cups canola oil 2 ½ cups sugar 3 eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour) 1 tsp. soda ¾ tsp. salt ½ cup buttermilk 2 bananas, mashed 1 ½ tsp. vanilla 1 cup walnuts, chopped ¾ cup blueberries Mix oil, sugar and eggs. Add flour, soda and salt. Mix together. Toss in nuts and blueberries. Add buttermilk, bananas and vanilla. Blend well. Pour batter into a greased tube pan. Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Remove to wire rack.

A11 May 26, 2022

East Alabama Goes Head Over Wheels

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The 47th annual East Alabama Car Show and Swap Meet was held on May 21 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the U.S.A. Town Center at 1220 Fox Run Parkway in Opelika. This year's event honored the trade programs that provide opportunities for students interested in maintenance and repair. Vehicle enthusiasts representing vintage, classic, modified, custom, modern, rat rod and sport cars, as well as motorcycles and tractors.

Ballet Academy of Opelika Goes All In for "Alice" PHOTOS BY JOHN HILLSMAN / FOR THE OBSERVER

The Ballet Academy of Opelika presented "Alice", a play based off the English novel by Lewis Carrol, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." After the performance Alice, other cast members and attendees enjoyed a tea with party treats, character meet-and-greets and craft-making for a keepsake to take home.

A12 May 26, 2022

SAR Learns History of OFD PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Sister's of Promise Deliver Mother's Day Gifts

Sister’s of Promise Chapter #442 Order of the Eastern Star took time out of their day to be a blessing and put a smile on the faces of mothers at the nursing home. They gifted the mothers with flowers and handwritten cards for Mother’s Day.

The Richard Henry Lee Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Chapter received a very informative and interesting presentation from Bob Parsons, fire inspector with the city of Opelika Fire Department, at the May 2022 meeting on the topic of “From Horses to Horsepower: A Brief History of the Opelika Fire Department”. Pictured from left to right are Parsons and Chapter President Bob Harris.

Opelika Kiwanis Club Awards Scholarships to Local Students PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Last Thursday Fire Chief Shane Boyd (middle photo) spoke to the Opelika Kiwanis Club. During the meeting, the club also gave out the Edmondson Key Club Scholarship to Opelika High School student, Breckin Gould (left photo) and to Gracie Foster (far right photo) from Beauregard High School. On June 2 the speaker will be Robert Norton who will discuss his career revolving around national security.

PONKO >>

FROM A7

Fusion, fast-casual restaurant is slated to open in Auburn in the coming weeks. The new Auburn location, the first Ponko Chicken franchise to open outside the state of Georgia, is located at 2111 South College St., right off the interstate and close to Auburn University. This spectacular 1,600-square-foot restaurant will have Ponko’s bright, modern and engaging touches throughout. Styron first became familiar with PONKO while looking for an impressive business to bring to Auburn. When his friend and now general manager, Matthew Ventimiglia, mentioned that his uncle, Dr. Patrick Sallarullo, was franchising Ponko Chicken, one of Atlanta’s most popular fast-casual restaurants in recent years, it sparked Styron’s interest. Together, Styron and Ventimiglia took a drive to Atlanta where they sampled a variety of Ponko’s tenders, salads, sandwiches and tacos, and from there the vision of bringing Ponko to Alabama became a reality. “I sincerely loved Ponko Chicken since my very first bite,” Byron said. “Between the crispiness,

fantastic flavor and juicy texture, along with the health benefits of being cooked in rice bran oil, I couldn’t stop raving about it. Combining that with Dr. Patrick Sallarullo’s strong faith and desire to raise significant funds for charities he believes in, it was my goal to share Ponko Chicken with the Auburn community. Bringing this new style of health-focused, fast-casual restaurant to the tight community of Auburn has us very energized.” Styron is also the owner of Riverside Chevrolet. He said he has done his best to be a part of his father’s dream since he was 16. When Styron was just 18, his father, who started Riverside Chevrolet, passed away and left the dealership to him. Styron has run it since then. Now, Styron is eager to launch a business solely on his own and said he is thrilled that Ponko Chicken is that business. This “Eats Meets West” restaurant, which seats 50 people, offers Ponko’s full menu, with its awardwinning Ponko Chicken as well as vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, beer and wine and a customized catering menu. Ponko Chicken Auburn will be open from 10:30 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday. ABOUT PONKO CHICKEN

PONKO Chicken is known for its awardwinning Japanese-American chicken tender, claiming the titles of “Three-Peat Winner” at Taste of Atlanta, “Best Salad In Atlanta” by Atlanta Magazine in 2022, “Best Fried Chicken” at ATL CluckFest in 2018, “Top Selling Vendor” at SuperBowl Live 2019 and “Best Dish” in the Midtown Alliance Spring Crawl 2019. The flagship Ponko Chicken Restaurant opened in 2017 in Chamblee, Georgia. In 2018, ownership decided to take the unique taste to the masses by offering the opportunity to franchise, and the first Ponko Chicken franchise store opened its doors in Midtown Atlanta in 2019.

Led by Chairman and CEO Dr. Partick Sallarulo, Ponko Chicken has locations throughout the Atlanta Metropolitan area, in Chamblee, Midtown, Marietta, Decatur, Buckhead and Alpharetta as well as in the Savannah suburb of Pooler, Georgia, in addition to this newest location in Auburn. Ponko Franchise Corporation currently has agreements to open additional locations throughout the region, with the next one slated to open in Athens, Georgia. Additional information can be found at www. ponkochicken.com, as well as on Instagram and Facebook @ponkochicken. ponkochicken.com, Instagram and Facebook: @ponkochicken

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A13 May 26, 2022

It’s Your Main Business

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION — e was dead, sealed in a borrowed tomb. Two days later, the earth trembles, the stone rolls away, and Jesus walks out. He is alive. Yes, up from the grave He arose! He meets with his frightened and amazed disciples. What does He tell them to do? Go make disciples, that’s what. Go. Tell people I’m alive. Invite them to become disciples. That’s

what He told them to do. And that’s what they did. Now, more than 2,000 years later, you are a disciple. If you are truly a disciple, a real one, then what Jesus wants you to do is make disciples. The assignment has not changed. He will not settle for anything else. It is not enough to admire Him, sing about Him, speak glowing words about Him, study what He said or pray innocuous prayers. He wants you to make disciples. He will be disappointed if you tell him making disciples is the main business of the church, and that’s what you pay the preacher to do. He will tell you that if it’s the main business of the church, then it’s your main business, too. Let His command rattle around in your brain. Get it. When he

said, “Go make disciples,” He was talking to you. Yes, you; you and every Christian. So, check up on yourself. How are you doing? Have you ever made one disciple? Have you tried? Did you try and fail, then give up? Have you ever talked to your pastor about how to do it? You talk to him about the weather, about football, about fried chicken, about changing light bulbs, so why not talk to him about making disciples? He just might offer you some good tips on how to do it. You know it takes more than talk. You know it involves the way you walk. People will only listen to your talk if they are convinced your walk is genuinely Christian. Your walk involves what you do

with your resources, talents, gifts and time. When people see you helping and serving others, they may wonder why you are doing it. They may ask you why; then you can explain that you are doing it because you love Jesus. You may have a chance to explain why you love Jesus — because he forgave your sins and gave you the power to begin living what Christians call a new life. You read about people who lead others to faith in Christ. Why not you? You have a tongue. You have a brain. You have a heart that has been touched by Jesus. You could tell someone what He has done for you. Think about the people with whom you work, members of your family, or neighbors on your street. Ask the Lord if there is one

of them He wants you to go to and share your love for Jesus. Afraid to do that? Listen and you will hear Jesus say, “Fear not, I will be with you.” The devil will try to stop you. But he can only stop you if you give him permission to do it. Ask the Lord to give you the right situation, the right words and the right time to share your faith and invite someone to trust Jesus. You can do it. Paul did it, with fear and trembling. But he did it. You can too. What is the worst thing that can happen? The person may say, “I am not interested.” Will that hurt? Only for a moment. And after all, Jesus was crucified for you; you can handle a little rebuffing out of love for Him, can’t you? Look, I am going to say it again. When Jesus said,

“Go make disciples,” He was talking to you. So get going. Talk about how much you love Jesus to someone. Do it until you become comfortable doing it. Do it until you are no longer afraid to do it. And guess what? There are no doubt people in your circles of friends who are miserable without Christ. By helping one of them become a disciple of Jesus, you are welcoming that person into the greatest freedom and joy anyone can ever find. Real life is found only in Christ. That makes it worth the effort! So go do it. Get going. After all, it is your main business as one of His disciples. Believe me, one day, when you see Him face to face, you will be glad you did.

Was a Lovely Village. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jeptha Dennis; and his son Richard “Dick” J. Dennis. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Bettye Brackeen Dennis; his son William “Lee” Dennis, Jr. (Leona), and daughter Anna Dennis Solomon (Greg); seven grandchildren (Marianna Dennis Frankwitt (Bill), Clark Solomon (Christina), Will Dennis (Haley), Leigh Anna Solomon Smyth (Patrick), Alex Dennis, Faith Dennis, Jordan Dennis (Liz Dennis, mother); and six great-grandchildren (Haven Frankwitt, Harbor Frankwitt, Eli Dennis, Bo Dennis, Emma Solomon, and Avery Solomon), and nieces Jaye Dennis and Leigh Dennis Manning (Chip). He was a member of the Decatur First United Methodist Church, Wesley Fellowship Class, Hilltoppers, Morgan County Historical Society, Auburn United Methodist Church, and Harvesters. Visitation was held at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on May 17, 2022. A graveside service was held at Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. following the

visitation with Dr. George Mathison officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring his memory with a contribution to Auburn United Methodist Church or Decatur First United Methodist Church. –––––––

OBITUARIES JON C. OLEINICK Jon C. Oleinick passed away on May 17, 2022, at East Alabama Medical Center, Opelika, AL. Jon was born in Queens, New York, and grew up in New York and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Ashland College with a degree in elementary education and attended graduate school at the University of Iowa where he met and married the love of his life Tracy. Together they attended grad school at California Institute of the Arts and moved to NYC to design lights for Brooklyn College. In NYC Jon worked for Rosco Labs and Rose Brand for the theatrical supply industry. Jon moved to Auburn in 1996 for Tracy’s job as a professor at Auburn. In Auburn Jon worked as a materials manager at Master Brand Cabinet. Jon’s passion was coaching baseball. He

coached Dixie Youth teams of 9- & 10-year-olds for 25 years. He taught young men to love the game and respect the rules. Jon was preceded in death by his mother Cynthia, father Julius and his uncle Philip Shnapier. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 45 years, Tracy Oleinick, his son Jason, daughter Anna, grandchildren Georgia, Jackson, Mackenzie, and Madison. Visitation was held in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Friday, May 20, 2022, and the Funeral service was at 11 a.m. with interment to be held at Auburn Memorial Park. A memorial event for players and families of the Yankees teams he coached over the years will take place this summer in July, date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers: Please donate to Congregation

Pre-Need Services Available Call 334-749-8700 for an appointment. Your Full-Service Funeral Home

Beth Shalom. A scholarship will be created in honor of Jon for local Auburn Dixie Youth families that may not be able to afford baseball fees every year. ––––––– WILLIAM LEE DENNIS, SR. William Lee Dennis, Sr., age 90, went to be home with the Lord on Saturday, May 14, 2022. Bill was born on Sept. 5, 1931, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Dr. Jeptha and Marianna Dennis. He married his high school sweetheart, Bettye Brackeen, at Auburn United Methodist Chapel in August 1953. He was a proud and loving father to three children and was “TwoDaddy” to seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. After graduating from Lee County High School and the Alabama Polytechnic Institute, Bill served 2 years in the United States Air Force. Following

active service, he accepted a job with the Chemstrand Corporation as a commercial artist and moved to Decatur, Alabama. He later owned his own business, Johnson and Dennis, worked for STS Corporation, and retired from Hutto Printing Company. He and Bettye moved to Auburn in 2018. Bill was an avid sports fan, including anything Auburn, Atlanta Braves, and Boston Red Sox. He loved his church, family, and his friends. He enjoyed volunteering at Decatur First United Methodist Church. His hobby of local, church, and family history led him to works including a History of the Dennis Family, editing the History of the First United Methodist Church (Decatur), and several Auburn history compilations. He published two books with his brother, Jep Dennis, about growing up in Auburn: A Kinder and Gentler Time and It Really

ROELLEN MAY Roellen May of Panama City Beach, Florida was born on Aug. 16, 1933, and passed away on May 21, 2022. She was 88 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl L. "Buddy" May; parents, A.B. and Wilma McKinney. She is survived by her daughter, Delores Sasser (Hershel); son, Earl May (Beverly); grandchildren, Angela Underwood (Will), Rebecca Knight (Steve), Whitney Lightsey, Michele Owen (Jim), and Brad Sasser (Meredith); 6 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Visitation was held in the parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Tuesday, May 24, 2022 and the graveside service was on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Union Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

A14 May 26, 2022

Grateful Hearts Make Us Whole

BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

RELIGION— esus was traveling along the border of Samaria and Galilee. On His way into one of the villages, ten lepers met him. It wasn’t uncommon for such groups to station themselves outside of towns and villages so they

could petition passersby for help. They somehow knew who Jesus was and shouted at Him from a distance, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us” (Luke 17:13). They were indeed a pitiable group. They had suffered and endured more than most people could imagine. They were ragged people who lived a shadowy existence away from the general population — outcasts finding what companionship and comfort they could among themselves. But when they saw Jesus, everything changed. Christ told them to go show themselves to the priests — the people who could declare them clean or unclean (Leviticus 14). Since the lepers already knew they were unclean, they understood Jesus telling them to do this meant they would be

healed. They are to be commended for their faith in acting on Jesus’ promise and going to see the priests. And as they did that, something amazing happened — they were all “cleansed” of their leprosy (v. 14). It’s hard for us to imagine all this must have meant to them. They were cured, clean and could now return to their families and loved ones. They had quickly gone from despair to hope to life. One man, a Samaritan, was so overwhelmed that he turned around and went back to find Jesus — praising God all the way. When he saw Christ, he threw himself at His feet and thanked Him. Jesus was touched by the man’s gratitude but troubled that he was the only one who had returned to give thanks. The other nine (presumably

Jewish), hadn’t bothered. You could make the point that they were on their way to see the priests as Jesus had told them, but it would be lame. After all, Jesus thought they should have returned and they could have easily done so, thanked Jesus, and then been on their way to see the priests. But there’s something else Luke wants us to see. Jesus told the Samaritan his faith (that’s how Jesus characterized the Samaritan’s gratitude), had made him “well” or “whole” (v. 19). Earlier, we had been told he was “cleansed,” but now he is told something else — something more. The word translated “well/whole” is sesoken and it can be understood in either a physical or spiritual sense. Since he’s already been cleansed of his leprosy, it would seem that Jesus is saying

something about his spiritual state. (See Luke 7:50 for a similar use of sesoken). The story closes then with nine men being cleansed, but one man being cleansed and made whole. Were the nine lepers more concerned about being cleansed than being made whole? After the nine were cleansed, they were content to go see the priests and get back to their lives. Is it possible that in our relationship with the Lord we’re concerned more about being cleansed than being made whole so we can get back to our lives? The Samaritan had to go back and thank Jesus, and wholeness was the result. The message is clear: grateful hearts make us whole! You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-tasteof-grace-with-bruce-green.com

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website:www. a-taste-of-gracewith-bruce-green.com

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. — Romans 12:10

CHURCH DIRECTORY Place your ad here! Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003 Place your ad here!

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Inc. 28 Sanford Ave., Opelika 334-745-0210 God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528 Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd.,

Got Questions? Come Study With Us THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT CUNNINGHAM DRIVE 2660 CUNNINGHAM DR., OPELIKA SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 A.M. / 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 6:30 P.M.

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 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 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 Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 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

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Good Sheperd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika 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 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN 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

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A15 May 26, 2022

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

A16 May 26, 2022

City of Opelika Memorial Day Services Monday, May 30, 2022 10 a.m. Courthouse Square South 9th Street Opelika

In the event of rain, services will be moved to Opelika Municipal Court Building 300 MLK Boulevard.

Reception to follow: 11 a.m. Museum of East Alabama 121 South 9th Street

INSIDE B1 - B8:

• AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS • AUBURN UNIVERSITY • COMMUNITY SPORTS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS • SUSSC

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS AUBURN: JUNE 14 AT 6 P.M. LEE COUNTY: JUNE 14 AT 6 P.M. OPELIKA: JUNE 24 AT 4:30 P.M.

Hart Sets the Standard Junior is first-ever Loachapoka athlete to receive Ivy League scholarship offer PHOTO BY JOHN PYLE / FOR THE OBSERVER

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER

ON THE MARK D. MARK MITCHELL

OHS Holds Red and White Scrimmage

OPELIKA — pelika athletics ended the school year with a Red and White scrimmage at Bulldog Stadium last Friday night. The varsity football team finished its eight days of practice with 100 players, while the ninth grade finished their spring practice with 60 players. The players will be off until they return for summer workouts starting June 7. BASEBALL CAMP The Opelika High baseball team is hosting a youth baseball camp from June 27 through 30. The camp is for ages 6 through 12 and will be held at Bulldog Park on the OHS campus. Interested campers can register online at www. opelikaathletics.com or at ohsbaseball@opelikaschools.org. The cost is $100 per player. OHS head baseball coach Zach Blatt, his staff and players will conduct the camp. Each registered player will receive a camp T-shirt. Opelika baseball will supply drinks and snacks each day. OPELIKA DIXIE YOUTH ANNOUNCES ALL-STAR TEAMS Opelika Dixie Youth (ODY) Baseball announced the all-star teams for the 2022 season. The board of directors wants to make sure everyone knows all-star

teams are voted for by the coaches in a secret ballot. ODY is fielding a “Rookie” all-star team for the first time. The team is for ages 6 and 7 and will play in a separate rookie state tournament. Rookie All-Stars are listed below. Jonathan Guy Lucas Hayley John Monasco Beckham Smith Hudson Rollins Caden Skinner Austin Smith Shep Speakman Timothy Webb Barrett Williams Toby Yaeger Deshawn David Adam Rollins, Head Coach The Pee-Wee All-Star team (ages 6-8) is listed below. Mason Battle Wesley Earle Gage Fellows Tristan Gorton Brayden Jones Harper Oliver Isaac Pesto Walker Rice Carter Sizemore Hudson Smith Griffin Speakman Masyn Wimberly Danny Earle, Head Coach The Minor League All-Star team (9-10 year olds) is listed below. Jaden Black Charlie Branch See SPORTS, page B2

LOACHAPOKA — From his quiet demeanor, ever-present poker face and school-branded basketball sweatshirt, you wouldn’t know Loachapoka rising senior Jacorious “J.C.” Hart is the school’s next big football prospect. From the way he, his coaches and administrators talk about his interest, you may not know he plays football at all. College universities do, however. Recently, Hart, a hopeful and entrepreneurial student by day, all-around athlete by night, picked up a football scholarship from Yale University. It’s the first time, in fact, that any student-athlete from

Loachapoka has received an athletics scholarship from an Ivy League school. “J.C. is like the spearheaded leader of his class,” said Loachapoka head football coach Reco Newton. “Everybody just looks up to him and bonds to him.” Yale was just the most recent offer, however; the 6-foot2-inch, 175-pound, lengthy defensive back has drawn interest from fellow Ivy Leaguers Dartmouth and Penn, along with other programs such as UAB, Troy, Jacksonville State and more. “We set a standard this year that we want to win a state championship, and J.C. is helping us deliver that vision and goal through his great leadership,” Newton said. Hart’s efforts on the gridiron See HART, page B2

‘WANTED MORE’: Beulah Softball Comes Up Short BY JAKE GONZALEZ FOR THE OBSERVER

BEULAH — The cool spring air has fled as the drenching summer heat has come into replace it. With the arrival of the heat, spring sports have begun to finish and some came to an end before teams were ready. Beulah High’s softball season came to a close in heartbreaking fashion in a 2-0 loss to Mobile Christian in the semi-finals

of the AHSAA 3A State Softball Tournament that took place in Oxford, Alabama. “No, we wanted more,” said longtime Beulah head coach Stan Pepper with a heavy sigh. “It is what it is. You’re either gonna win the state championship or not but we finished one game shy of the championship.” The Bobcats dropped their first game of the state tournament to the eventual champions, Houston

Academy out of Dothan, Ala.. The rest of the tournament the Bobcats battled it out in the losers bracket winning three games in two days before taking on Mobile Christian in the semi-final game. “Thet just battled through a lot of adversity,” Pepper said. “We aren’t disappointed in the season. We are a week out, so it still stings right now.” Beulah had one of their best seasons in their history. Not only in terms

of where they finished in post season play but also in terms of wins and winning percentage; The Bobcats finished the season with a record of 45-8 and a win percentage of 0.85. Beulah’s trio of seniors — Shelby Owsley, Kassidy Kirby and Kate Morris — have been the heart of the program as they made it to the state semi-finals. “They’ll never be forgotten,” Pepper said. “All See SOFTBALL, page B2

OCS Celebrates Retirees BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — As the 2021-22 school year draws to a close, the Opelika City Schools Board of Education celebrated a slew of students and faculty May 24 at Jeter Primary School.

The board meeting was the last for Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors, who announced his retirement in January. He will be succeeded by Dr. Farrell Seymore, who is wrapping up his time as Opelika High School principal to fill his new position. Assistant Superintendent of Administration Kenneth

Burton is also retiring and will be succeeded by Tiffany Yelder. The board recognized Neighbors, Burton and several other retiring faculty members in a ceremony prior to the regular meeting. During the regular meeting, the board presented awards to students in the following categories:

• 2022 state superintendent’s Visual Art winners • 2022 girls’ track team AHSAA 6A Outdoor Track and Field • 2022 Opelika High School Wrestling • 2021-2022 State Trumbauer Theatre Competition • 2022 National Merit See OCS, page B2

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B2 May 26, 2022

OHS Girls' Basketball Building on Success Under Smalley BY JAKE GONZALEZ FOR THE OBSERVER

HART >> FROM B1 have solidified him as a household name within his community. “I’ve been watching him since seventh grade,” Newton said. “I saw then what they were talking about as far as when he gets the ball, he scores with it. Ninth grade year I saw him develop more into a football player; 10th grade I saw him get bigger, faster, stronger; 11th grade year, now I’ve seen him come into his own, putting everything together.” There is more than game-changing interceptions and electrifying plays to this up-and-coming star, however. From a young age, Hart has excelled at everything he’s done. Before Newton convinced Hart to join the football team

of new talent to the roster. “We had close to double try out in the spring compared to the fall,” he said. “I think we are doing things to encourage participations and get kids excited about the program.” The girls‘ team returns a lot of players from last year’s team, according to Smalley, but he said he thinks they are going to lose about 70% PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The first season as a head coach is tough enough already. It is especially hard when you land the job just a few months before the season starts. A year ago, Blake Smalley was thrust into the role as head coach of the Opelika High School girls’ basketball team two months before the season started. With no summer opportunity to meet his team, Smalley said he was still impressed with how his first season went. “This year was a little bit different,” Smalley said. “I didn’t get the summer with them, so I didn’t get to be around them as much and build a relationship with them in order to be as successful as we would like to be.” The Lady Dawgs finished the 2021-22 season going 14-14 and made the playoffs, where they were knocked out in the sub-regional game by Park Crossing, who made it to the final four. The girls’ team finished second in their region with a record of 5-3 in those games, trailing only

Eufala who went undefeated in region play. “I would have liked to win a few more games,” Smalley said. “I would’ve liked to advance further in the playoffs. I think overall it was successful. There are things other than wins and losses you can count as a success.” The Lady Dawgs are looking to build on those

Smalley on the sideline of an OHS vs. Auburn High School game last season.

successes as they move into the second season under the leadership of Smalley. They look to build on that success that may not have been wins and losses, but the addition in ninth grade, the bright-eyed teenager was more focused on his musical talents and academic success. “He started out with me in sixth grade in band, and for the first two years [seventh and eighth grade], he was over here in band, and he was an outstanding performer,” said Loachapoka Band Director Shane Colquhoun. “His dad played division one football at Marshall. So we knew there was something there — you just couldn’t see. Then that summer, going into his ninth grade year, he said he wanted to give it a shot; literally that summer he transformed his body and jumped up.” Throughout his growing commitment to football, Hart has remained focused on his schooling. He boasts a 4.2 GPA, which currently has him

of their scoring production from last season, but that it won’t slow them down. In total, the team lost six players with three being regular starters. Five of slotted to be the valedictorian of his class. He also enjoys reading, swimming and still makes time for his classical interest by taking music courses at school. “He’s very hardworking in the classroom, very hard worker in the weight room,” Newton said. "Also, he is a great leader too. He has younger cousins that play here for us, and he talks to them and mentors them about academics and doing what is right in the community, things like that. He’s overall a great leader.” Hart said he doesn’t mind the attention that comes with collegiate scholarship offers; in fact, what motivates him the most is the people who look up to him. “Being someone who other people look up to, I take pride

those six were seniors and one moved away. “We return a lot of kids that got some minutes on varsity,” he said. “They didn’t play a bulk of the minutes. There are definitely gonna be some opportunities for kids to step up.” Of the 16 returning players, the three rising seniors — Cherdi Daniels, Nzahri Fanning and Kahmya Bufford — are the ones that Smalley said he expects to step up and fill that production loss for the Lady Dawgs. “I’m excited about [the 2022-23 season],” he said. Over the summer, the varsity squad is set to play 15 games to get ready for the start of the season, and the junior varsity team is set to play eight games. On June 20, Smalley and his team will host a middle school play day at the high school. Any middle school team is welcome to participate and can get in contact with Smalley through his email, john.smalley@opelikaschools.org, in order to participate. Four schools have already registered: Opelika, Auburn, Lanett and Loachapoka.

in that,” he said. “Through football and academics.” Hart said the recruitment process so far has been an easy adjustment. However, with his interest in business and entrepreneurialism, he is still trying to decide what he wants most from a school — keeping in mind aspects outside of the football program. “I’ve been learning stuff, like how the financial system works and things like that,” he said. “The academics, location and the people around [are a priority].” Regardless of where he ends up, those close to him at Loachapoka know he will continue to set standards. “He’s a great kid and will literally be successful in anything he wants,” Colquhoun said. “Wherever he puts his mind, he’s going to get it.”

SUSCC Awards Nan Gillenwaters Nursing Scholarship OPELIKA — Southern Union State Community College is pleased to announce that Daiane Gist of Opelika has been awarded the Nan Gillenwaters Nursing Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to a second year nursing student who has displayed academic excellence as well as leadership in the college, community and church. The scholarship was established in memory of Nan Sims Gillenwaters, a graduate of Southern Union’s nursing program,

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

by family and friends. Gillenwaters was a nurse for 30-plus years working at Lanier Memorial Hospital in Lanett, Clark-Holder Cancer Center in LaGrange, Georgia, and East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. “Nan’s attitude and dedication made her an outstanding nurse,” said Sam Edge, Gillenwaters’ cousin. “She was well respected by doctors and patients alike. She loved to give back to people, so we are so pleased to honor her memory by giving to these students in her name.” For more information about this or any other scholarship opportunity at Southern Union, call the financial aid office at 256-395-2211.

SOFTBALL >> FROM B1 the wins they had. The trophies. The success they had for the program was second to none. They’ve set the bar extremely high for other groups to come through.” With all of the success this season, Pepper is hopeful for what the future holds for this program.

OCS >> FROM B1 finalist • 2022 career tech awards for HOSA and FBLA • 2022 Opelika High School Culinary • 2022 Opelika Middle School Robotics (CyberDawgs) • 2022 Opelika High School Robotics (O.G.R.E.) Students smiled as they accepted certificates and plaques from Neighbors for their achievements during the school year. “I hope you can see from this that we’ve got a place for every child—no matter what their uniqueness—to fit in,” Neighbors told the crowd in attendance. “That is what we’re here to do every day.” OTHER BUSINESS The board also approved the following items: • Personnel recommendations acknowledging employment, transfers, retirements and resignations • A contract for Kelli Fischer, the newly hired OHS principal • Tiffany Yelder, the new assistant superintendent of administration • A memorandum of understanding for the School Resource Officer Program between Opelika City Schools and the City of Opelika, which also allows the city to apply for a grant to support the program • A bid for HVAC renovation for Southview Primary School to Bradley Plumbing and Heating Inc. in the amount of $2,550,750 • A bid for exterior paint and touchups for West Forest Intermediate School to Frazier Painting in the amount of $36,000 • A statutory warranty deed between OCS and the City of Opelika for

SPORTS >> FROM B1 Erick Fernandez Konner Harper Troy Hill Briggs Hutto Cam Johnson Jax Johnson KJ Kyles Palmer Lane Gabriel Stone Grayson Wood Kurt Branch, Head Coach The O-zone All-Star team (11-12 year olds) is listed below. Logan Childree Jack Brogdon Whit Cooper Brock Danford Carson Holcey-Billingsley Caleb Peoples Cam Pilate Asher Rudd Grant Speigner Troy Tidwell Turner Underwood Colton Woodall Jamie Cooper, Head Coach I will update you in the coming weeks with

There is a ton of experience on the roster with four rising seniors incluing Brandy Phillips, who lead the team in batting average, on-base percentage and had a team low earned run average of 0.75. “They were a special group,” Pepper said with pride. “Hopefully, we have some special groups coming up in the future to be able to at least reach that bar. If not, surpass it.” the sale of property on Gateway Drive adjacent to Southview Primary, allowing the city to build a new fire and rescue station • A memorandum from Burton requesting an increase in fees for extended day services from $40 to $45 per week (with a discount for parents who have more than one child in the program) and a pay increase for the extended day lead teachers and care providers ranging from $10.15 to $14 (up from $7.65 to $12.24) to take effect this fall • An out-of-state field trip request for OHS FBLA to attend the FBLA national competition June 28 through July 3 this year The board also opened the floor for nominations for its chairman and vice chairman, but the consensus was to continue unchanged with J. Kevin Royal as chairman and Antione Harvis as vice chairman. Burton and Neighbors expressed their gratitude to the board and the school system. Seymore also voiced his appreciation to Burton and Neighbors, as well as his excitement to work with the board. “My first administrator job was working for Mr. Burton,” Seymore said. “To have the opportunity to follow these two gentlemen … they’ve had a huge impact in my life both personally and professionally, so I look forward to working with [the board], but I mean it when I say this—that they have been wonderful examples and wonderful mentors to me, and still are.”

tournament information. AHSAA NEWS The Alabama High School Athletic Association’s Central Board of Control met Monday in Montgomery. The board voted to “table” and postpone region play for baseball, softball and soccer, stating the need for more research and study. Board members discussed the move after announcing earlier in the year that the three sports were going to play region schedule instead of area play. Some of the member schools were not happy with the decision and have voiced concern to board members. Some of the issues include travel costs due to high gas prices, length of travel and playing two hours away on a school night. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

B3 May 26, 2022

Evaluating the Best Fit for Auburn’s Jabari Smith at the Next Level BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

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however. The generational 7-foot-tall prospect possesses the size, shooting and defense that a franchise could rally around. He would also slot in nicely as the

the middle-of-the-pack purgatory it was in, Oklahoma City has — in my opinion — successfully completed a fire sale of its best assets the previous two seasons,

Smith, who would predictably garner attention himself as a floor spacer. Combine all this with the front office’s proven track record of developing talent — OKC PHOTO COURTESY OF SEC MEDIA

OPINION — Ask any Auburn fan and they will tell you who should be the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft. Following a season where fans watched freshman Jabari Smith lead the Tigers to a regular-season SEC Championship and 28-6 overall regular season record, it was clear the 19-year-old was ready to make the jump to the pros. Smith averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebound and 1.1 steals in his lone season on The Plains. The 6-foot-10-inch, 220-pound phenom relied on his length and stellar three-point shooting to establish himself as one of the premier players in the NCAA. His weaknesses — if you can call them that —are his slender frame and faint ability to take on other players off the dribble. Now that the NBA Draft order was established on May 17, Smith is projected as a consensus top-3 pick. Following a strong performance at the NBA Draft Combine last week, Smith will now attend individual workouts with teams to solidify his stock. Smith’s main competition for the No. 1 draft spot comes from Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren, and Duke’s Paolo Banchero — two standout freshmen from last season in their own right. The slender, 7-foot, 195-pound Holmgren averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebound and 3.7 blocks per game last season as he consistently had his Zags in the mix as the nation’s top team. The 6-foot-10-inch, 250-pound Banchero similarly dazzled fans and scouts as he led Duke to the NCAA Championship game in March in legendary coach Mike Kryzewski’s final season, averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assist per game. The top three teams drafting in this year’s NBA Draft are as follows: No. 1, Orlando Magic; No. 2, Oklahoma City Thunder; No. 3,

Houston Rockets. To better understand which team may select Smith at the NBA Draft on Thursday, June 23, below is a breakdown of each of the top-3 teams' current situations, and which one best fits the play-style and talent of Smith. NO. 1 — THE ORLANDO MAGIC Aside from the area’s attractive beach climate and linking up with former Auburn standout Chuma Okeke, the prospect of Smith being drafted by the Orlando Magic is a dreary one. Excluding perhaps the Sacramento Kings, the Magic have been one of the NBA’s worst franchises over the past two decades. In its 32 seasons as an official member of the NBA, Orlando has made the playoffs in just 16 of its 33 seasons. The franchise has reached the NBA Finals twice — 1995 and 2009 — but never managed to capture the title. More recently, the Magic have failed to win an NBA Playoff series for the past 12 seasons, failing to even make the playoffs since 2020. This past season, the Magic finished 22-60, the worst record in the league. So, if Smith is going to be the prospect to reverse the fortune of the franchise, how does he fit into the current roster? For starters, despite the poor results of the 2022 season, the Magic’s areas of “strength” include length and defensive versatility. Something the Magic are in dire need of, however, is outside shooting. Smith was one of the most efficient and effective deep-ball shooters in college last season and would instantly increase Orlando’s prospects in that area. The Magic’s current young core includes 2021 top-5 pick, point guard Jalen Suggs, guard Cole Anthony and forwards Franz Wagner and Wendell Carter Jr. The presence of Wagner, Carter Jr. and fellow forward Okeke will not likely deter the Magic from drafting Smith — or any of the consensus top-3 prospects for that matter, as all measure above 6-foot-9-inches. The best prospective fit for Orlando is Holmgren,

Auburn Freshman Jabari Smith rises up for a shot against Miami in the second round of the 2022 NCAA Tournament.

center in a lineup with Carter Jr. at the power forward position, and Wagner at the small forward. Adding Smith to that rotation would likely stunt the growth of at least one of the aforementioned up-andcomers, and additionally mean the Magic deem the likes of 2017 No. 6 overall pick Jonathan Issac — a 6-foot-10-inch forward himself — and 2018 No. 6 overall pick Mo Bamba, a wash. Orlando’s potential lineup with Smith: PG – Jalen Suggs; SG – Cole Anthony; SF – Franz Wagner; PF – Jabari Smith; C – Wendell Carter Jr. NO. 2 — THE OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER Compared to Orlando, Oklahoma City is on the opposite end of the “attractive locations to be paid millions to put a ball in a hoop” list. Lacking the glitz and glamor of a beach town, the Thunder make up for those deficiencies with quality front office decisions. Looking at their past, the Thunder have struggled to maintain relevance since the departure of NBA superstar Kevin Durant in 2016. Giving credit where credit is due, since then, the Thunder have made the playoffs four out of the last six seasons — although failing to make it out of the first round each time. In an attempt to digress from

while gaining promising young talent and draft picks in return. All total, Oklahoma City has a remarkable 38 picks in the next eight seasons — setting it up as the clear best team to be selected by at the top of this, and future drafts. Furthermore, for Smith, Oklahoma looks to be the best "fit." Currently, the Thunder’s coveted young stars include point guard Shai Gilgeous Alexander, and 2022 All-Rookie Second Team shooting guard Josh Giddey. GilgeousAlexander’s proven ability to run an offense and act as a primary playmaker make him an attractive one-twopunch partner for Smith. Additionally, Giddey’s quality three-point shot and high-energy play style would benefit from

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drafted Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden, No. 3, 4 and 5 on the active player career points-scored list, respectively — and the Thunder are the most appealing spot for Smith to land. Oklahoma City’s potential lineup with Smith: PG – Shai GilgeousAlexander; SG – Josh Giddey; SF – Luguentz Dort; PF – Jabari Smith; C – Isaiah Roby NO. 3 — THE HOUSTON ROCKETS The Rockets would be an interesting landing spot for Smith. From a playing perspective, Smith could team up with last season’s No. 2 overall pick, point guard Jalen Green, and form a formidable one-twopunch for the next decade plus. Additionally, last season, shooting guard Kevin Porter Jr. and

center Christian Wood flashed the potential to be building blocks in the franchise’s rebuild attempt. The Rockets have taken a downward turn the past two years. After reaching the Western Conference Finals in 2017-18 and blowing a 3-2 series lead to the Golden State Warriors, Houston has since departed with superstars James Harden and Chris Paul. The biggest hole on the current roster is at the power forward position, indicating the Rockets would select Smiths or Banchero, whichever was available come their pick. Smith is the better fit here in my opinion, although many do not believe the odds-on-favorite to be No. 1 will fall to Houston. Banchero has the advantage on Smith from a playmaking perspective, with his ability to put the ball on the floor and get to the rim as one of his biggest strengths. However, the Rockets have two quality, ball-dominant guards already in Green and Porter Jr. Smith’s ability to spot up from three would make him a natural complement to Houston’s young core. There are some serious doubts about the quality of the front office in Houston, however, and the addition of Smith would do little to improve the Rocket’s defensive woes … but who needs defense when you can score 140 points a game? Houston’s potential lineup with Smith: PG – Jalen Green; SG – Kevin Porter Jr.; SF – Eric Gordon; PF – Jabari Smith; C – Christian Wood.

B4 May 26, 2022

AHS Showcases Spring Talent PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

The Auburn High School football team held its annual spring game on Friday, defeating the Eufaula Tigers. It was the first chance the public had to see the Tigers in year two under head coach Keith Etheredge, who led Auburn to the state semi-finals last season. Auburn University head coach Bryan Harsin was in attendance to watch his son, Davis Harsin, who plays quarterback for the Tigers. Auburn will officially open its season on Aug. 19 against Hoover. The Observer will complete high school football team previews in the coming weeks.

Loachapoka Looks Ready for Fall PHOTOS BY RJ JOHNSON / FOR THE OBSERVER

Loachapoka held its annual spring football game last friday against Valley. With just enough numbers to make up a full team, many Loachapoka players played both sides of the ball as they battled the Rams. Loachapoka will begin its 2022 season against LaFayette on Aug. 20. The Observer will be doing 2022 high school football previews in the weeks to come.

B5 May 26, 2022

Dawgs Showcase Spring Skills PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Opelika High School varsity football team held its annual intra-squad spring scrimmage on Friday. The Buldogs won the class 6A Region 2 Championship last year under head coach Erik Speakman. Speakman enters his fourth year as head coach at Opelika, and the Bulldogs will compete in the 7A division for the first time in its history this season. Opelika begins its season against Callaway High School on Aug. 18. The Observer will be doing high school football team previews in the coming weeks.

B6 May 26, 2022

Special Olympians Showcase Swimming Skills PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA PARKS & REC

Opelika Parks and Recreation held a Special Olympics Swim Meet on Friday, May 13, at the SportsPlex and Aquatics Center. Sixty swimmers from Lee County, Hoover, Shelby County, Montgomery and Talladega participated. Swimmers from the host team Lee County Tidal Waves include: Ava Lawerence, Luke Gardner Wyatt Jinright, Chad Sanders, Cameron McNeil, Joey Greig, Aiden Nash, Bryson Nash, Colby Nash, Joshua Duck, Jarrett Clark, Drew Burque, David Smith, Katie Walz, Jacob Strong, Maggie Foster, Hailey Spratlin.

Beauregard High School Seniors A'Buzz About Graduation PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Beauregard High School held its commencement ceremonies on Monday, May 23.

B7 May 26, 2022

Auburn-based Programs Become Institute to Promote STEM Education for Underserved AUBURN — Building on a $10 million National Science Foundation, or NSF, grant obtained last August, an Auburn Universitybased program has expanded into a multi-institutional institute to lead a national and international research effort to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, education among students from underrepresented and underserved populations. Dubbed the Institute for Strengthening Pathways and Research Knowledge in STEM, or the SPARK STEM Institute, the institute aims to engage science, technology, engineering and mathematics teachers and faculty, social science researchers, K-12 and higher education administrators and the community. That engagement will be designed to create and

PHOTO COURTESY OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY BY MITCH EMMONS

The 2022 LSAMP/MAKERS Scholars group from Auburn University, Auburn University at Montgomery and Southern Union Community College gathered with their faculty and alumni mentors at the institute’s conference on April 23. evaluate innovative, research-based models for improving student academic and social experiences to attract, retain and graduate more historically under-represented and under-served populations in STEM disciplines locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, according to Overtoun Jenda, assistant provost for special projects and initiatives at Auburn, whose office will be administering the initiative. “The programs at the institute include

African Americans, Alaska Natives, Hispanics, Native Americans, Native Hawaiians, Native Pacific Islanders, persons with disabilities, persons from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and women and young girls,” Jenda said. “Over the life of this institute, our overarching goal is to increase the college and workforce readiness and associate, undergraduate and graduate degrees in STEM disciplines among these groups.”

The SPARK STEM Institute will award scholarships, stipends and internships to participating students, Jenda explained. “However, our core effort is to provide mentorship and guidance to encourage and support student successes,” Jenda said. Comprised of eight core partner institutions in the Greater Alabama Black Belt region, the SPARK STEM Institute takes a multi-targeted focus on areas that include state, regional, national and international objectives and participants from government, industry, national and local organizations and more than 60 affiliate institutions that are collaborating with the institute on various ongoing projects and initiatives. “This will be achieved and sustained by leveraging funding sources, conducting impactful service, involving exceptional and engaged faculty and mentors and developing creative and transformative research-based models for improving academic performance and social integration in STEM disciplines,” Jenda said. “This major award from the National Science Foundation and the establishment of the SPARK STEM Institute will allow Auburn and

collaborating institutions to foster a more diverse workforce while improving educational opportunities for students with disabilities,” said James Weyhenmeyer, Auburn’s vice president for research and economic development. SPARK STEM Institute consists of two informal STEM centers: namely, SPARK STEM Center for Persons with Disabilities and SPARK STEM Center for Underrepresented Minorities and Underserved Populations. The two informal centers will share the same goals but have two distinct areas of focus and initiatives. The institute is administered through the Office of Special Projects and Initiatives and governed by a board of deans and directors. Each center has its own specialized advisory board. Jenda will be assisted in the institute administration by others at Auburn, including Keri Hesson and Brittany McCullough with the Office of Special Projects and Initiatives, David Shannon with the College of Education and James Witte with the School of Aviation; as well as Carl Pettis, Alabama State University provost; and Mohammed

Qazi, associate dean, College of Arts and Sciences at Tuskegee University. A joint conference for two SPARK STEM Institute programs, the Greater Alabama Black Belt Region Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation, or GABBR LSAMP, and Making to Advance Knowledge, Excellence and Recognition in STEM, or MAKERS, was held April 23 at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. The institute has planned a multiday symposium involving representatives from each of the SPARK STEM Institute participating institutions for this fall at Auburn. ABOUT AUBURN UNIVERSITY Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its commitment to worldclass scholarship, interdisciplinary research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, life-changing outreach with Carnegie’s Community Engagement designation and an undergraduate education experience second to none. Auburn is home to more than 30,000 students, and its faculty and research partners collaborate to develop and deliver meaningful scholarship, science and technology-based advancements that meet pressing regional, national and global needs. Auburn’s commitment to active student engagement, professional success and public/private partnership drives a growing reputation for outreach and extension that delivers broad economic, health and societal impact.

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

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B8 May 26, 2022

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity is a nonproot, Christian, aﬀordable housing ministry that helps hardworking families build equity in their lives through homeownership. Auburn University Panhellenic is composed of 18 sororities that promote student development and personal growth through scholarship, leadership, friendship, and community service. "Each year this amazing group of women partner with Habitat for Humanity to sponsor and build homes in our community. Thank you Kelly Moore and Lauren Weiner for leading and directing the 2022 Greek Sing fundraiser. And thank you to all of the Panhellenic women for helping us build homes, community and hope." - Karen Turner, Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity Board President Kelly Moore, 2022 Greek Sing Director, and Lauren Weiner, 2022 Assistant Greek Sing Director

Thank you Auburn University Panhellenic for being the top sponsor of Auburn Opelika Habitat homes

2022 AU Greek Sing talent and dance competition - record breaking year

Panhellenic paints home #71

Panhellenic helps build homes, community and hope For more about us visit auburnopelikahabitat.org

Volunteers paint porch ceiling boards

Hundreds of volunteers from all 18 sororities build with Habitat each Spring

Panhellenic raises $800,000 annually and volunteers countless hours with local nonproots Visit our Facebook page to learn more about the work that Panhellenic completed with us this Spring

L ee County & A labama Politics

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Inside the Statehouse We Miss Shorty Price

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION — he governor’s races of bygone years were a lot more fun and colorful than today's. We would have 10 to 15 candidates. There would be three or four favorites, but we would have 10 others that would make an effort to crisscross the state and have fun and cut up a little bit to garner publicity. The “also rans” could not afford the expensive country music stars from Nashville like the George Wallace, Big Jim Folsom, Jimmy Faulkner frontrunners could to draw a crowd. This year’s gubernatorial race has not been interesting because a popular incumbent governor was running for reelection. Although, Kay Ivey did attract eight opponents. However, only two, Lindy Blanchard and Tim James, really mounted a campaign. The six others seemed to not do anything, and nobody really knew who they were. The six no-name candidates were Stacy Lee George, Dean Young, Dean Odle, Donald Trent Jones, Dave Thomas and Lew Burdette. When Burdette qualified, he looked like he had the potential to be a viable candidate but he seemed to never get out of the gate. If he was running a getting-acquainted race, it was unsuccessful. He would probably have as much name identification as a baseball player from the 1960s, who had the same name. As a boy, I had a baseball card of Lou Burdette, who was a pretty good pitcher for the old Milwaukee Braves. Donald Trent Jones probably was hoping that folks would think he was the golf course developer for our famous state links. Dave Thomas was maybe hoping that voters would think he was the Wendy’s hamburgers founder. Today, what we need in the “also ran” category, or what I call “run for the fun of it” candidates, is another Shorty Price. Most of you do not remember Shorty Price. Ole Shorty was the king of run-for-the-fun-of-it candidates. He ran for governor every time and really didn’t care how many votes he got. He just ran for the fun of it, and boy was he fun to watch and visit with. He brought new

meaning to the word colorful. Price was a native of Barbour County, which by the way is Wallace’s home county. In fact, Wallace and Price grew up together as contemporaries around Clio. Price would campaign vehemently and viciously against Wallace, his nemesis, probably because he was jealous of Wallace’s success as a politician. By the way, Barbour County is called the “Home of Governors” because it has had more governors than any other county in our state’s history. Price was maybe the most colorful political clown to ever appear on the Alabama political stage. He not only ran for governor every time; he also ran for numerous offices every time there was an election. That is how he would make his living. He would travel from town-to-town, mostly in southeast Alabama and panhandle for contributions and soon after collecting the few dollars that folks would give him, he would convert his campaign contributions into a purchase of a Budweiser beer. In fact, one of his campaign slogans was “Smoke Tampa Nugget cigars, drink Budweiser beer and vote for Shorty Price.” In one of Price’s campaigns for governor, his campaign speech contained this line, “If elected governor, I will reduce the governor’s tenure from four years to two years. If you can’t steal enough to last you the rest of your life in two years, you ain’t got enough sense to have the office in the first place.” Price would use recycled campaign signs to save money. He would just change the name of the office he was running for that year. Ole Price usually got about 2% of the vote and usually finished last. He was really kind of proud of his usual last place finish. Indeed, one time the venerable political columnist, Bob Ingram, mistakenly stated that Price finished 13th out of 14th in a particular governor’s race. Price blasted Ingram and said, “That’s a blasphemous lie, I finished 14th out of 14.” As stated, Price hated Wallace. One year, he was one of many candidates running against Wallace. Price coined the slogan, “Shorty, Shorty he’s our man, Wallace belongs in a garbage can.” None of these six “also ran” gubernatorial candidates were nearly as good as Price. I bet if Shorty were still alive and running today, he would have beaten all six of them. I wish ole Price were alive and running in this governor’s race. This governor’s race would have been a lot more fun to watch. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

Election Recap: Runoff for County Commission Seat 4 BY HANNAH LESTER AND MICHELLE KEY EDITOR@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Publisher's Note: These results are not official but will be certified at a later date. Provisional ballots will need to be counted and certified before some of the races can be declared. LEE COUNTY — The May 24 primary election is over and both state and local winners are ready to campaign for the November general election. Some, however, will need a runoff vote. Governor: Gov. Kay Ivey won the Republican Primary and will face either Yolanda Rochelle Flowers or Malika Sanders Fortier in November. Preliminary results show Ivey as having received 59.47% of the votes in Lee County and 54.42% statewide. Flowers received 44.73% of the votes and Fortier received 25.31% in Lee County and 33.83% and 32.51% statewide, respectively, which forces a runoff for the Democratic ticket.

Ivey has served as the 54th governor and is completing her first full term. Ivey beat out several Republican candidates for the primary seat, including Lindy Blanchard, Lew Burdette, Stacy Lee George, Tim James, Donald Trent Jones, Dean Odle, Dave Thomas and Dean Young. There were six Democratic candidates for governor, including Flowers, Fortier, Patricia Salter Jamieson, Arthur Kennedy, Chad “Chig” Martin and Doug “New Blue” Smith. U.S. Senator: Katie Britt and Mo Brooks will face each other in a runoff for the United States senator seat currently held by Richard Shelby. Shelby announced last year that he would not be running for another term. Britt led the race with 45.36% of the votes with Brooks taking 28.62%. Britt earned 55.38% of the local Lee County vote. Britt and Brooks beat out other candidates, Lillie Boddie, Karla M. DuPriest and Jake Schafer on the Republican ballot. Will Boyd won the Democratic Primary for U.S. senator, with 61.91%

of the votes in Lee County and more than 63% statewide. There were two other Democratic candidates for senator: Brandon Dean and Lanny Jackson. State Senator District No. 13: Incumbent Randy Price secured the Republican Primary Tuesday night against opponent John Allen Coker. This will be Price’s second term in office. In Lee County, Price won a total of 80.97% of the votes. Coker trailed with 19.03%. State Senator District No. 27: Jay Hovey earned 62.64% of the votes in Lee County and incumbent Tom Whatley had 37.36% of the Lee County vote for the state senator District 27 seat. However, statewide, this race is too close to call until all provisional ballots have been certified and counted. As of press time, Hovey was leading Whatley by just four votes. United States Representative 3rd Congressional District: Mike Rogers won the United States representative 3rd Congressional See RESULTS, page B11

Opelika City Council Changes Regular Meeting Time CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA — On Tuesday, May 3, 2022, the Opelika City Council voted to amend all regular city council meetings to convene at 6 p.m. starting in June. Regular meetings of the city council will continue to be held

NOW OPEN

on the first and third Tuesday of each month in the Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Blvd., in Opelika. Work session meetings will begin prior to regular city council meetings beginning at approximately 5:30 p.m. All meetings, regular and special, will continue to be open to the public.

In the event any regular meeting falls on an official city holiday, the meeting will be held on the following Tuesday. The new time change will come into effect on the meeting of June 7, 2022. The June 7 work session meeting will be listed on the work session agenda the Friday prior to the meeting.

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 May 26, 2022

Why Not You? Lessons to Learn About Running for Office

OPINION — n 1976, I helped elect a political neophyte, a pharmacist, become Rhode Island treasurer. His opponent was in office 30 years, which he attributed to attending “wakes and weddings” for decades. He seldom if ever used TV ads. He would learn about a new era — that of TV use even in “down-ballot” races. Rhode Island had perhaps 650,000 eligible voters, in 1976; not even a wedding crasher could reach that many people without TV ads. The pharmacist was well-liked and personable, but on TV he had a raspy voice and droll delivery. So an announcer did many voiceovers. Our man won the Democratic nomination fairly easily and the general election even

easier. He served for 11 years. A very nice man, Anthony Solomon, died in February, age 89. As the 2022 primaries are ongoing, I discuss aspects of running for office you might want to heed should you get the bug. A friend of mine ran and lost for state senator in 1978; he simply misjudged the work involved in getting a lot of support against an incumbent. He half-jokingly said, “I have 13 brothers and sisters, if they each get two people more to back me, I’m in.” What wishful thinking. In the recent U.S. Senate and governor’s races, candidates were at first wont to focus on opponents and state issues. Katie Britt and Mike Durant lavished praise on former President Trump. Yet he endorsed neither of

the ability to raise taxes, put forth new laws and improve their constituents’ quality of living. So starting a political campaign is a concise and tangible way to make a difference.” Daley also pointed out that campaign costs must be weighed before you register. Some people are whizzes at getting people to donate. Others hate that aspect of running. But not having enough money to approximate your

position to get an estimate of how much your race might cost.” Caution: do not forget to have a presence of social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.). Even if you plan years out, there is another wrinkle that may stop you from running — redistricting. In 1976, it was about a week before the general election and I was a college student hobnobbing with Republicans in

But in 1982 his district merged with that of another Republican, so he ran instead for the party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate, and lost. His father, after his catastrophic 1964 defeat, was praised by conservatives and libertarians in the GOP. In 1964, Goldwater Sr. might have done better if he took one of my recommendations of today. He should have changed his name to Solomon Solomon. The majesty of PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

GREG MARKLEY

them. Governor hopefuls were tardy highlighting issues of COVID-19 and the “never-ending” gas tax. I admire small businessmen and women who can juggle their “baby”; that is, their store or agency, while holding office. Others hurt their chances of gaining office by not delegating 40 to 50% of their business’s overall management. In terms of city council and county commission the workload varies, but they don’t have to travel to Montgomery as much as state legislators. In his 1987 bestseller, “Man of the House,” former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill used an anecdote to explain a mainstay of a successful political career. After glad-handing and kissing babies all over his Boston district, O’Neill went to see an aunt who lived nearby. He asked if she had voted for him; she said “No.” He asked why not and she replied, “Because you never asked me.” O’Neill’s most famous quote emerged from that: “All Politics Is Local.” Shane Daley in onlinecandidate.com suggested that beginning politicians would find running for local office meaningful. “Elected officials have a great deal of power and influence over the daily lives of people they serve,” he wrote. “Local government has

President Reagan and Speaker Tip O’Neill opponent’s funds, or to get your message widely disseminated or to hire a good campaign manager, can cripple your chances fast. “If you don’t like calling on friends, family and supporters for financial assistance, you better get used to it,” offered Daley. “Consider talking with others who have previously run for a similar

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Newport, Rhode Island. I saw this 38-year-old who looked a lot like Barry Goldwater, the Republican nominee of 1964 who was squashed in the LBJ juggernaut. Sure enough, it was U.S. Rep. Barry Goldwater Jr. of California. He was riding high, halfway into his 1969 to 1983 congressional career. Redistricted again, he still won four more terms.

that might have gained him many more votes. Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has Masters’ 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 13 years. gm.markley@charter.net

Auburn VFW to Open Doors to All Veterans and Families CONTRIBUTED BY JERRY DAKINS AUBURN — Beginning June 1, the E.W. Allgood Post 5404, located at 131 E. Veterans Blvd, Auburn, will be open every Wednesday from 8 to 11 a.m. to

all veterans and their families for coffee and conversation. Veterans need not be a member to attend. Come join us for conversation and a light breakfast snack. Information and assistance can be provided concerning the latest

VA benefits so if you have any questions bring them with you. Share your stories of military experiences with other veterans. Hope to see you there. For more information visit vfw5404.org

Exchange Strengthens America By Honoring EMTs CONTRIBUTED BY JERRY DAKINS OPELIKA — Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) respond to thousands of medical calls each year, and they are among the first to respond to persons that are in medical distress. For this reason, it is an honor for the Opelika Exchange Club to recognize an EMT each year for their dedication to their profession and community. The Exchange Club of Opelika held an awards and dinner program on Thursday, May 19 at 6:30 pm to honor JT McCracken. McCracken was selected as this year’s recipient of the Opelika

Exchange Club EMT of the year award. The program was held at the Lee County Fairgrounds, 2408 Lafayette Parkway, in Opelika. McCracken (fondly referred to as “JT”) has been working with East Alabama EMS for over 20 years. During this time, McCracken has worked his way up to the position of shift supervisor. McCracken is responsible for leading the daily operations of his shift along with ALS care for patients and has received multiple compliments in regards to his professional bedside care. He is also responsible for keeping up with all of the fleet maintenance

for the department, which includes regular routine maintenance and any unscheduled mechanical issues that may arise. When not working as a paramedic with EMS McCracken volunteers his time with the Beauregard Volunteer Fire Department as an assistant fire chief and paramedic. He said it is his mission in life to serve the citizens of Lee County. The purpose of this service award is to bring attention to and further enhance the public’s level of respect, admiration, and appreciation for the services that Emergency Medical Technicians provide.

B11 May 26, 2022

RESULTS >> FROM B9 District seat with 79.68% of the local vote. Rogers beat his opponent, Michael T. Joiner, who received 20.32% of Lee County votes. Attorney General: Incumbent Steve Marshall won the attorney general seat against opponent Harry Bartlett Still III with 84.42% of the votes, and Still received 15.58% of the votes. State Representative District No. 38: Debbie Hamby Wood beat her opponent, Micah J. Messer for the state representative District 38 seat with 54.22% of the Lee County vote while Messer received 45.78% of the votes. Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Place 5: Greg Cook secured the seat for associate justice of the Supreme Court Place 5

against Debra Jones. Cook won with 56.37% of the votes while Jones received 43.63% of the votes. Secretary of State: Wes Allen and Jim Zeigler will have a runoff. Zeigler won with 37.56% of the votes, and Allen had 35.42% of the votes. State Auditor: Rusty Glover and Andrew Sorrell also ended in a runoff. Glover took 38.89% of the votes while Sorrell trailed second with 31.98%. For Public Service Commission Place No. 1: The public service commission place No. 1. race forced a runoff between incumbent Jeremy H. Oden and Brent Woodall. Woodall carried 31.9% of the votes, with Oden taking 31.8% of the votes. Public Service Commission Place No. 2: Incumbent Chip Beeker

and Robert L. McCollum also ended in a runoff for the public service commission place No. 2. McCollum took 39.7% of the votes and Beeker trailed second with 39.26% of the votes. State Board of Education District Place No. 2: Incumbent Tracie West beat Alex Balkcum for the State Board of Education District No. 2 place. West won with 73.25% of the votes while Balkcum received 26.75% of the votes. Circuit Court Judge 37th Judicial Circuit Place No. 1: Jeff Tickal beat opponent Eli Beaver for circuit court judge 37th Judicial Circuit Place No. 1 with 58.42% of the votes, while Beaver received 41.58% of the votes. Lee County Commission District 4 Seat: Incumbent Robert

Ham failed to beat his opponents Greg Boddie and Tony Langley for the Lee County Commission District 4 seat Tuesday night. This will force a runoff between what is expected to be Ham and Langley. Ham took 34.52% of the votes, Langley had 33.27% and Boddie had 32.21%. It is possible but unlikely that Boddie could move past Langley into second place following the provisional vote count. Lee County Board of Education District 2: Rusty Courson beat Incumbent Larry Boswell for the Lee County Board of Education District 2 seat Tuesday night with 57.59% of the votes, while Boswell received 42.41% of the votes. State Representative District No. 82: Pebblin Walker Warren beat opponent Terrence Kareem Johnson Tuesday night for the State Representative District No. 82 seat with 59.58% of the

votes. Johnson received 40.42% of the votes. Lee County Commission District No. 5: The race between Incumbent Richard LaGrand Sr., and his opponent John Andrew Harris for the Lee County Commission District 5 seat was close, with Harris coming out in the lead. Harris received 51.29% of the votes, including absentee ballots and LaGrand took 48.71%. The outcome of this race could be determined by provisional ballots as there are only 43 votes between Harris and LaGrand. Harris previously served in this seat before LaGrand. State Democratic Executive Committee (Female) District No. 79: Nancy Carlton Bendinger will face opponent Laticia T. Khalif for the State Democratic Executive Committee District No. 79 seat with

41.65% of the votes. while Khalif trailed second with 34% of the votes. State Democratic Executive Committee (Female) District No. 83: Patsy Boyd-Parker beat opponent Jasponica Florence for the State Democratic Executive Committee District No. 83 seat with 84.21% of the votes and Florence received 15.79% of the votes. State Democratic Executive Committee (Male) District No. 81: Ira J. Moss beat opponent Messiah WilliamsCole for the State Democratic Executive Committee District No. 81 seat with 54.67% of the votes while Williams-Cole received 45.33% of the votes. Proposed Statewide Amendment Number One (1) The proposed amendment on the ballot passed in Lee County with 81.98% of the votes.

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B13 May 26, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES INVITATION TO BID 22019 Sealed bids for the construction of the Sewer Line Extension to Serve Andrews Road shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 pm local time on Monday, June 6, 2022, 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. Work to be done: The work to be completed for the Sewer Line Extension to Serve Andrews Road is described generally as follows: This project consists of approximately 3400 LF of 8” PVC gravity sewer main construction and associated work, including (but not limited to) approximately 100 LF of jack and bore installation, erosion control, traffic control, and other miscellaneous items for a complete and functional project. 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. Copies of Bidding Documents may be obtained from ESG Engineering - contact Margaret Hildebrand at mhildebrand@esgengineering. com or from the City of Opelika website https://www. opelika-al.gov/Bids.aspx. Digital documents will be provided at no charge and hard copies will be provided upon payment of $200. 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. Bidders are advised that is their responsibility to check the City of Opelika website https://www.opelika- al.gov/ Bids.aspx regularly to see if any addenda have been issued and to verify that all addenda have been received prior to submission of the bid. Failure to notate receipt of any such addenda on the proposal form may cause the contractor to be disqualified. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount (not exceeding $10,000) 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. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Sewer Line Extension to Serve Andrews Road LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 5/12/22, 5/19/22 & 5/26/22 ------------Notice of auction of IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

In the Matter of Adrain G. Parker- an alleged incapacitated person NOTICE OF HEARING: TO: Any relative or interested party: Lee County DHR has filed a Petition to appoint a Legal Guardian for the person of Adrain G. Parker. A hearing has been set for the 9th day of June, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of this matter. Bill English, Lee County Probate Judge Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-0333 Legal Run 5/12/22, 5/19/22 & 5/26/22 -------------

Legal Run 05/12/22, 05/19/22 & 05/26/22 -------------

INVITATION TO BID 22018 Sealed bids for the construction of the Floral Park Drainage and Turf Fields 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 Wednesday, June 1, 2022, 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. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at the Opelika Public Works facility at 700 Fox Trail on Monday, May 16th at 8:00 am. All prospective bidders must attend. 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. 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. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Floral Park Drainage and Turf Fields LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT CLYDE WELDON, deceased CASE NO.: 2022-241 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Jennifer Coker, Personal Representative on the 28th day of April, 2022, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Jennifer Coker Legal Run 5/12/22, 5/19/22 & 5/26/22 -------------

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JULIA MAE FANNING, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2022-159 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr, Personal Representative on the 10th day of May 2022 by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Benjamin H. Parr Legal Run 05/12/22, 05/19/22 & 05/26/22 -------------

06/02/22 ------------STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF BARBARA T. ASKEW, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE CASE NO. 2022-244 Letters Testamentary of said Barbara T. Askew, deceased, having been granted to Sabrina Askew Poe this 16th day of May 2022, 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. Sabrina Askew Poe, Personal Representative Legal Notice 5/19/22, 5/26/22 & 6/2/22 -------------

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF DANIEL HUSTON SPRADLIN AND MARIESA CARLISLE SPRADLIN IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2022-260 PUBLICATION NOTICE TO Any potential father of E.G.C. Please take notice that a petition for adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Daniel Huston Spradlin and Mariesa Carlisle Spradlin on May 4, 2022, for the adoption of E.G.C., born on November 10, 2012, Opelika, Alabama to Samantha Margaret Carlisle. A hearing has been set in the IN THE PROBATE Lee County Probate Court, COURT FOR LEE Opelika, Alabama. Should COUNTY, ALABAMA you intend to contest this IN RE: The estate of Terry adoption you must file a Wayne Worley, written response with the Case No. 2022-274 attorney for the petitioner, Deceased. Hon. Jason Riggs, P.O. Box TAKE NOTICE that Letters 954, Auburn, AL 36831 Administration having been and with the Clerk of the granted to Marrell J. McNeal Probate Court of Lee County, as Administrator of the Estate Alabama as soon as possible of Terry Wayne Worley, but no later than thirty (30) deceased, on the day of, days from the last day this 2022. notice is published. NOTICE IS HEREBY Dated this the 5th day of May GIVEN that all persons 2022. having claims against the said HON. BILL ENGLISH Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Legal Run 05/19/2022, 05/26/2022 & 06/02/2022 Administrator of the Estate of Terry Wayne Worley, SERVICES Deceased Legal Run 05/19/22, 05/26/22 & 06/02/22 SELLING a RV, Tractor or ------------Golf Cart? ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by region in IN THE MATTER OF THE over 100 Newspapers, reachESTATE OF VERA W. ing over 1 million readers STORY, Deceased In THE PROBATE COURT each week! Run your ad in OF LEE COUNTY, our Classified Network for ALABAMA just $210 per week! Make one Case No: 2022-143 call to this newspaper (parLetters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent ticipating Ala-SCAN newshaving been granted to the paper) or call 1-800-264-7043 undersigned on the 15th day to find out how easy it is to of March, 2022, by the Hon. advertise statewide! Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby BATH & SHOWER given that all persons having UPDATES in as little as ONE claims against said estate are DAY! Affordable prices - No hereby required to present payments for 18 months! the same within time allowed by law or the same will be Lifetime warranty & probarred. fessional installs. Senior & ANDREW STEPHEN Military Discounts available. WEAVER Call: 833-449-1307. Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP BECOME A PUBLISHED P.O. Box 2345 AUTHOR! We edit, print Opelika, AL 36803-2345 and distribute your work (334) 745-3504 internationally. We do Legal Run 5/19/22, 5/26/22 & 06/02/22 the work… You reap the ------------Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: NOTICE TO CREDITORS 888-283-4780 ESTATE OF GREGORY MARK CARLTON, DECEASED LONG DISTANCE PROBATE COURT LEE MOVING: Call today for COUNTY a FREE QUOTE from CASE NO. 2022-125 America's Most Trusted NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS Interstate Movers. Let us TESTAMENTARY of the take the stress out of movEstate of GREGORY MARK ing! Speak to a Relocation CARLTON are hereby Specialist, call 844-925-3534 granted to William Leslie Carlton on the 12th day of May, 2022, by the Honorable EDUCATION Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, ATTENTION ACTIVE Alabama. Duty & Military Veterans! Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against Begin a new career and earn said estate are hereby required your Degree at CTI! Online to present the same within Computer & Medical traintime allowed by law or the ing available for Veterans same will be barred. & Families! To learn more, William Leslie Carlton Legal Run 5/19/22, 5/26/22 &

JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 05/19/2022, 05/26/2022 & 06/02/2022. ------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles. BEST 4 LESS will be auctioning off The below mentioned vehicles on JUNE 21, 2022. This Auction will be held at 2509 LAFAYETTE PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334-705-0000. Vin # 1N6AD0ER6DN733935 2013 NISS FRONTIER Legal Run 05/26/22 & 06/02/22 ------------Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, June 02, 2022 at 10:00AM Unit B31 Unit R313 The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 05/25/2022 -------------

IN RE:The estate of Roy Thomas Britton, Jr., Deceased. Case No.2022-285 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Michael A. Britton as Administrator of the Estate of Roy Thomas Britton, Jr., deceased, on the 17th day of May 2022. 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. Michael A. Britton, Administrator of the Estate of Roy Thomas Britton, Jr., Deceased Legal Run 05/26/22, 06/02/22, & 06/09/22 ------------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 MICHAEL DAVID GARRETT, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Marilyn L. Garrett and Phillip Dean Garrett on May 19, 2022, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing the Summary Distribution of the Estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 05/26/2022

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B14

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B14 May 26, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B13 ------------RESOLUTION NO. 12922 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE VACATION OF A PORTION OF THE NORTHEASTERLY RIGHT-OF-WAY OF SOUTH 10TH STREET WHEREAS, HARA, LLC, an Alabama limited liability company, is the owner of all property abutting upon a portion of the northeasterly right-of-way of South 10th Street; and WHEREAS, a Petition to vacate a portion of the northeasterly right-of-way of South 10th Street, duly executed by HARA, LLC, as the abutting property owner, has been presented to the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”), a municipal corporation, for the assent and approval of the governing body, said Petition with map attached being hereto affixed, marked Exhibit “A” and made a part hereof; and WHEREAS, the Petition is filed in accordance with the provisions of §23-4-20, Code of Alabama, 1975, which provides that any street or alley may be vacated, in whole or in part, by the owner or owners of the land abutting the street or alley or abutting that portion of the street or alley desired to be vacated; and WHEREAS, the portion of

the right-of-way of South 10th Street to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: A portion of Lot 11, Block 48, of Totten’s Official Real Estate Map of Opelika, Alabama, as recorded in Plat Book 2, Page 9, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, described as follows: Commencing at a ¾” square rod at the northeast corner of Lot 10, Block 48 of Totten’s Map, in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, said point being on the southwesterly right of way line of Geneva Street; thence S15°30'31"E, along said right of way line, 83.72 feet to a pair of ½” pipes side-by-side, bent; thence S37°03’01”W, 2.41 feet to a broken 6” square concrete monument and the True Point of Beginning of the Parcel of Land herein described; thence, continuing southwesterly along said right of way line, being a curve concave northwesterly, and having a radius of 25.00 feet, an arc length of 12.35 feet, a chord bearing of S23°16’03”W, and a chord length of 12.23 feet to a ½” rebar set with a cap marked LS18677; thence continuing southwesterly along said right of way line, being a curve concave southeasterly, and having a radius of 50.00 feet, an arc length of 52.03 feet, a chord bearing of S7°36’44”W, and a chord length of 49.71 feet to a ½” rebar set with a cap marked LS18677; thence, leaving said right of way line, S67°48’13”W, 66.99 feet to a ½” rebar set with a cap marked LS18677 on the northeasterly right of way line of 10th Street; thence, along said right of way line, N42°08’52”W, 72.59 feet

to a ½” rebar set with a cap marked LS18677; thence, leaving said right of way line, N75°19’24”E, 126.27 feet to the True Point of Beginning. Being further described according to and as shown on that certain survey or drawing prepared by Mark L. Miller, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “A”. Being further described according to and as shown by that certain survey or drawing attached hereto and marked Exhibit “B”. WHEREAS, said portion of the northeasterly right-ofway of South 10th Street is not being used by anyone as a public street; and WHEREAS, the Petition states that no property owners will be deprived of any right they may have to convenient and reasonable means of ingress and egress to and from their property as a result of the requested vacation; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was conducted by the City Council on the 17th day of May, 2022, at which all persons were given the opportunity to be heard in favor of or in opposition to the proposed vacation; and WHEREAS, public notice of the public hearing was provided in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975; and WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the City to vacate said portion of South 10th Street as described in the attached Petition and said portion of the right-ofway of said street should be returned to the abutting property owner, subject to a water main easement to the Utilities Board of the City of

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Opelika and the conditions set forth below. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Opelika that the vacation of the above-described portion of South 10th Street is assented to and approved and the same is hereby vacated pursuant to the provisions of Section 23-4-20, et.seq. of the Code of Alabama, and also pursuant to said Code in §35-2-54, subject to the conditions below. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the vacation of said portion of the northeasterly right-ofway of South 10th Street and the conveyance of the vacated right-of-way to Petitioner are subject to the fulfillment of the following conditions by Petitioner: 1. The Petitioner shall convey to the Utilities Board of the City of Opelika, in a form satisfactory to the Board, a permanent water main easement as depicted on the survey or drawing prepared by Arthur R. Nettles, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “C”. 2. The Petitioner shall convey to the City of Opelika, in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney, an easement for the installation, replacement, inspection, maintenance and repair of an environmental monitoring well as depicted on the survey or drawing prepared by Arthur R. Nettles, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “D”. 3.The Petitioner, at its sole cost and expense, shall relocate the existing environmental monitoring well on the vacated right-ofway to the monitoring well easement site as depicted on

Exhibit “D”. The Petitioner is responsible for obtaining any required permits for the removal and relocation of the monitoring well. The removal of the existing well and the relocation, excavation and installation of the monitoring well on the easement site shall satisfy all federal, state and local requirements. The City shall not be liable for injury or damages occurring to any person or property from any cause arising out of Petitioner’s relocation of the monitoring well to the easement site and Petitioner shall identify, defend and hold harmless the City and its officers, agents and employees from all liability, costs, claims, demands, suits and defense costs, including attorneys’ fees, arising out of or related to the relocation of the monitoring well to the easement site. The Petitioner shall take out and maintain during the time of the relocation of the monitoring well, commercial general liability insurance with minimum limits of two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence, covering all claims of bodily injury, including death and property damages arising out of its construction activity. The policy shall name the City as an additional insured and prior to commencement of construction, the Petitioner shall furnish to the City a certificate of insurance evidencing coverage required by this resolution. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, remise, release and quitclaim unto HARA, LLC, whatever right, title and interest the said City

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ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 17th day of May, 2022. /s/ Erica Norris PRESIDENT PRO-TEM OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 05/26/22 ------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRENDA MARIE BUMBY, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABMA CASE NO: 2022-293 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of May, 2022, 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. JASON THOMAS BUMBY Personal Representative

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of Opelika, Alabama, may have acquired in and to the above- described portion of South 10th Street by virtue of the dedication or vacation of said roadway or otherwise, subject to the reservation of the above-described water main easement. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, upon satisfaction of the above conditions, Gary Fuller, the Mayor of the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, be and he is hereby authorized and directed on behalf of the City of Opelika, Alabama, to execute a quitclaim deed to HARA, LLC, subject to the reservation of the above-described water main easement, for the purpose of carrying out the intent and intention of this Resolution and that Russell A. Jones, City Clerk, be and he is hereby authorized and directed on behalf of the City of Opelika, Alabama, to attest the same. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk will cause a copy of this Resolution to be filed in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama, and shall further cause a copy of this Resolution to be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in Lee County, Alabama, no less than fourteen (14) days after its adoption.

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B16 May 26, 2022

Letter to the Editor The sacrifice of service Opportunity, legacy, duty, purpose, patriotism — the reasons behind choosing military service differ from person to person. But as varied as the reasons are, there’s a universal understanding: Service means sacrifice, even if that sacrifice is one’s own life. When service members die, the impact ripples through our community. Their deaths touch more than just the lives of their loved ones and friends. As their stories are shared in our neighborhoods, schools and places of worship, these men and women become a part of the collective identity of our hometowns. These stories, our Memorial Day observances and the memorials and plaques dedicated to our military dead instill a sense of pride among the citizens. They inspire new generations to raise their hands in service. Because there may be no greater sacrifice than to offer one’s own life for the lives of others. We don’t just honor them

at home. Remembrances and tributes to their sacrifice begin at the very spots where they selflessly gave their lives — both for the brothers and sisters they stood shoulder to shoulder with and for their country. Tributes include the Battlefield Cross, which some historians say has its roots in the Civil War. Today, it’s most recognizable as a helmet resting on top of an inverted rifle stuck in the ground with boots placed in front. Dog tags hang from the rifle. On the battlefield, members of the unit can come to this temporary memorial to pay their final respects. Even the process of returning those killed in battle home, known as a dignified transfer, reflects the respect and honor owed. Small teams in country conduct the solemn duty of moving a transfer case onto a waiting aircraft and draping an American flag over the case for the service member’s journey back to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. There, a team meets the

remains and begins the preparation to return the service member to loved ones. But some who died while serving have not yet made it back home to the United States. We honor them through tributes such as the Missing Man Table, displayed to honor those who are still missing in action or prisoners of war. We don’t just reflect. We act by continuing the search for those still missing. The Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) sends teams all over the world, searching land and sea to recover the missing’s remains. Through this work, DPAA brings people home like Marine Cpl. Thomas Cooper, who was killed in 1943 during the Battle of Tarawa in the Central Pacific. In 2019, more than 76 years after his death, DPAA identified his remains, which, along with those of 93 other unknown deceased, has been disinterred from the National

Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. Because of DPAA’s work, Cooper’s family was able to bury him with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery in March. DPAA estimates that more than 81,600 service members are still missing. Among them are 41,000 who are presumed to be lost at sea in the Indo-Pacific region. Some of those still missing at sea were killed aboard Japanese “hell ships” during World War II. Hell ships were unmarked Japanese merchant ships that sailed between the Philippines and Japan during the war and appeared to only be carrying Japanese military personnel and supplies. But below deck, crammed into dark, sweltering holds were Allied prisoners of war. The conditions were deplorable. People were often heaped on top of each other, with no access to bathrooms or light and with little to no food or water. It’s estimated that 126,000 Allied prisoners of war were

moved this way. More than 1,500 men died in their holds from heat, thirst or being killed by Japanese guards. But more than 19,000 died when the U.S. Navy and other Allied forces carried out attacks on these ships. The naval forces had no way of knowing that when they carried out orders to thwart Japan’s efforts to move its supplies and personnel, their own people were hidden on board. We must continue to share their stories so we can remember what they sacrificed for the rest of us. Because few men and women choose to put their lives on the line to serve and defend the Constitution. Few go toward danger and willingly face atrocities most of us can’t fathom. Few volunteer to serve, knowing that death may be the outcome. But we can ensure that those who do make this choice and make the ultimate sacrifice can rest knowing they served with the thanks of grateful

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citizens and knowing that they won’t be forgotten. Ron Douglass Commander DAV Twin Cities Chapter 95 P.O. Box 995 Opelika, AL. 36801 (334) 332-8791 About DAV: DAV empowers veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. It is dedicated to a single purpose: keeping our promise to America’s veterans. DAV does this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them, fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill, providing employment resources to veterans and their families, and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. DAV, a nonprofit organization with more than 1 million members, was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932. Learn more at DAV.org.