The Observer | June 6, 2024

Auburn’s SummerNight Downtown Art walk is Friday

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk will be held Friday, June 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. in downtown Auburn, featuring an artist marketplace, live music, children’s activities and late-night shopping and dining. Along with musical entertainment from The Beach Boys Tribute Band “Sail On,” the SummerNight stage will feature two shows by the Auburn University Steel Drum Band performing the traditional calypso music of Trinidad and Tobago, along with pop and Latin arrangements of contemporary tunes. SummerNight is a free downtown entertainment district event and will be held rain or shine. The event is hosted by the city of Auburn’s Parks and Recreation Department, Auburn Arts Association, the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association and St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church. SummerNight is made possible by the following sponsors.

• Salty Sponsors: Auburn-Opelika Tourism, Auburn Network, STAMP, Memories in Motion, I Heart Media and Graduate Hotels.

• Community Sponsors: Leaf Filter, Auburn Productions LLC, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at

See SUMMERNIGHT, page A2

‘Burger Wars’ among three events in downtown Opelika on Saturday

CONTRIBUTED BY HERITAGE HOUSE

OPELIKA — Opelika will host three events downtown on Saturday, June 8, with rolling starts to maximize a day full of family friendly fun. Opelika Main Street will host Touch-A-Truck from 9 a.m. to noon, giving children the chance to honk horns, run sirens and climb on trucks, equipment and working vehicles.

At 11 a.m., the 10th Annual Burger Wars kicks off, hosted by Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation. Participants can sample burgers from three categories: Tailgaters, Corporate and Pros. Samples will run out, so arrive early. Proceeds benefit local charities, including the Food Bank of East Alabama.

From noon until 4 p.m., Heritage House and Grandma Val’s Lemonade will host the third annual Midsummer Market. The event will feature food trucks and dessert vendors along 8th Street and retail & craft vendors set up on the Heritage House lawn.

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

AUBURN UNIVER-

SITY — The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) and Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) have forged a partnership designed to improve the lives of Alabama residents.

Through this collaboration, Extension and the CADC School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (APLA) will leverage their combined expertise in community development and sustainable design.

The agreement, announced on Auburn’s campus Wednesday, May 29, brings together two units that share a common goal of improving the lives of Alabamians, particularly in rural areas. Through its Rural Studio and Front Porch Initiative, APLA aims to develop a scalable and sustainable process for delivering homes in underserved communities. With an office in each Alabama county, Extension will provide connectivity to those in areas of need.

“The Rural Studio’s innovative approach to sustainable and affordable housing design aligns with our mission to enhance

SUMMERNIGHT >> from A1

quality of life,” said Mike Phillips, director of Alabama Extension. “By combining our resources and expertise, we can create impactful, lasting solutions that address housing challenges and improve overall community well-being across the state.”

The new partnership brings together two organizations focused on innovation. Alabama Extension leverages its diverse expertise to tailor programs to meet the specific needs of different communities, while the Rural Studio and the Front Porch Initiative continuously push the boundaries of traditional architecture to solve housing issues creatively.

“The CADC’s commitment to serving the citizens of our state and region and the mission of ACES make us natural partners,” said Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies David Hinson.

“We’re excited to become more closely connected to the amazing people in the Extension network and to add our housing expertise to the ACES team.”

Sustainability is a key focus for both CADC and Alabama Extension. The Rural Studio and the Front Porch Initiative emphasize sustainable architecture and

building practices, using local materials and innovative design to create affordable, eco-friendly housing. Similarly, Alabama Extension promotes sustainable agricultural practices and natural resource management to support long-term environmental health and economic viability.

• Business Partner: Little Italy, AuburnBank, East Alabama Community Ballet and Check It Out Balloons.

“This partnership is another opportunity for Extension to translate academic research into practical solutions to benefit communities in Alabama,” said Paul Brown, associate director for Alabama Extension. “It will expand mutual programming opportunities.

“Rural Studio, Front Porch

Auburn University, Auburn Public Library Foundation, Tailgate Guys/Pre-Events, Kate 99.9 FM, Kathy Powell State Farm and Auburn Flower and Gifts.

Note: College Street between Thach and Tichenor avenues and Magnolia Avenue between Wright and Gay streets will be closed to traffic from 5:15-10:30 p.m. for the event (see Parking & Road Closure Map below.

BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The Auburn City Council is currently accepting applications to fill three vacancies on the Planning Commission. The terms will begin Aug. 1 and end July 31, 2030. The Planning Commission studies land use and development trends, collects and analyzes data and prepares a set of official policies for the future growth and development of the city, known as the Comprehensive Plan. The implementation of the Comprehensive Plan is accomplished by effective administration and oversight of the City Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. Amendments to the zoning ordinance require final approval by the Auburn City Council, but the Planning

Learn more about Alabama Extension and its programs at aces.edu. Visit ruralstudio.org for more information about Auburn’s Rural Studio.

Initiative and ACES are a great team because we’re all committed to enhancing life in rural communities in Alabama,” said Associate Professor Emily McGlohn. “Rural Studio’s housing and wastewater research coupled with the widespread network and expertise of the Extension System mean we can help more people than we could alone. I’m proud to join the Extension System as part of the new housing resource team.”

Extension, AU Architecture partner to address housing challenges Auburn seeks applicants for city’s Planning Commission

Commission exercises exclusive authority over amendments to the subdivision regulations. The commission consists of nine members who serve six-year terms. Members may not be members of the City Council or employees of the city. The commission meets the second Thursday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Council Chamber, 141 N. Ross St. Those interested in serving are invited to apply online using the link at auburnalabama.org/boards. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on June 17. Once applications have been reviewed, final candidates will be interviewed by members of the Auburn City Council. The council will then make appointments at its July 16 meeting.

Pictured, from left, are Alabama Cooperative Extension Service (ACES) Director Mike Phillips; Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies David Hinson of the AU College of Architecture, Design & Construction (CADC); ACES Associate Director Paul Brown; and CADC Interim Dean Karen Rogers.

News from the Chambers of Commerce

Opelika Learning Center

Opelika Chamber announces new class of Young Leaders

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CHAMBER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber of Commerce

has announced the 20242025 class of Lee County Young Leaders, a county-wide program designed to nurture and develop positive leadership qualities in high school students.

Lee County Young Leaders this program gives participants the knowledge, tools and contacts to become successful future leaders in Lee County. The goal is that graduates of the Lee County Young Leaders program will

possess a unique understanding and appreciation of the inner workings of their community and will be excellent future candidates to serve on local boards, committees and task forces.

“This will be the 11th year the Opelika Chamber of Commerce has provided elite high school students with the Lee County Young Leaders experience,” said Ali Rauch, president and CEO of the Opelika Chamber. “More than 300 students have been through this program, and we hope we have cultivated a sense of

community, a pride in their home and a desire to return here after college to leave their own mark.”

“Our current class was selected from a pool of over 110 applicants,” said Mackenzie Poole, vice president of the Chamber.

“The applications were judged anonymously based on application neatness, extracurricular activities, career choice and hobbies, and leadership potential. We are excited to get to know this current class and watch them learn and grow over the course of the year.”

Diamond Golf Cars

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CHAMBER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber of Commerce has been named a finalist for the 2024 Chamber of the Year award, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE).

ACCE is an association based in Alexandria, Virginia, with over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.

The award, sponsored by GrowthZone, is the most prestigious and competitive recognition presented annually by ACCE. It recognizes the leadership role chambers of commerce have in their communities. Those honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have demonstrated organizational strength and impacted key community

priorities, such as education, transportation, economic prosperity, and quality of life.

“This year’s finalists represent the best in the chamber industry,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president & CEO. “They are community leaders and innovators, driving growth and regional prosperity. We congratulate them on this outstanding achievement.”

Chamber of the Year winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 17, during the Awards Show at ACCE’s Annual Convention in Dallas, Texas.

“I am elated to be a finalist for Chamber of the Year,” said Ali Rauch, president and CEO of the Opelika Chamber.

“This achievement is the result of years of hard work and dedication to making Opelika a better place and serving our business community.”

Chambers of commerce interested in competing for the award first must qualify

by participating in a vigorous multi-stage process. Organizations entering the Chamber of the Year competition must meet minimum thresholds in at least three of five key performance areas in ACCE’s Annual Chamber Operations Survey, including net revenue and assets, membership account retention and membership dollar retention.

Qualifying chambers enter the competition with a written application addressing all organizational operation and programmatic work aspects. Applications are scored by peer chamber executives to determine finalists. Winners are selected from among finalists based on an interview before a panel of experienced chamber professionals.

To ensure the fairest competition, applicants are grouped into four categories based on annual revenue, membership, area population and other factors.

The Auburn Chamber recently celebrated a ribbon cutting at Harris Doyle Homes’ newest model home in Arrowhead at Woodward Oaks, located at 1814 Woodward Oaks Trail in

Harris Doyle

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce celebrated a ribbon cutting for Opelika Learning Center’s new outdoor classroom, which was the service project of the year for the Chamber’s latest 20 Under 40 Class.

MELT restaurant brings legendary sandwiches to Auburn

BY KADIE VICK FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Since a lo -

cal family opened a MELT franchise last month in Auburn, located at 1800 Samford Trace Court, Suite 240, the community response has been positive.

Owner Operator Laura Huddleston said, “We are now at 100% normal business hours which are from 11 am to 9 pm Tuesday through Saturday.”

The food at MELT is described as classic comfort foods with a modern twist.

The community has responded with excitement, and since its opening MELT has been bustling with customers excited to check out the innovative menu.

“We offer a variety of different varieties of grilled cheeses and grilled sandwiches,” Huddleston said. “We offer fresh salads and things that are not you’re not gonna see every day. So for example, we have a mac and cheese egg roll, it’s Mexican cheese in a wrapper that’s deep fried and comes with a chili sauce. You’re not going to see that anywhere else.”

Not only has the menu and exciting items that

MELT serves been an attraction for the community, but Huddleston has also taken care and time to hire staff that creates a great experience and environment for customers.

“We’ve had several reviews come through about how amazing our staff is,” she said. “That’s been really important for us because we try to make good food, but at the end of the day, it’s about the people that represent your brand, and our’s have been fantastic.”

Huddleston remarked excitedly about how supportive the community has been and how much it means to her for people to enjoy MELT as much as she does.

“Everyone has just been really supportive and I have been there quite a bit and it means so much to hear people speaking so positively about it, and all the hard work that we’ve put into making it a wonderful environment,” she said.

Ultimately Huddleston wants MELT to be a place where families can come and enjoy good food and each other and has crafted the dining experience to be one that is inviting and fun for children too.

She said, “Our biggest goal is to families feel welcomed as well. So we have board games, we have coloring sheets and high chairs. We just want to make sure that our families here have a community.”

Huddleston co-owns and operates the Auburn MELT franchise with her mother and has had support from her family throughout the journey of opening the restaurant.

“My mom and I have put a lot of time and effort into getting this open and

making it a positive wonderful environment. My family is in that restaurant more than we’re at home. My kids are there, my husband is there, my dad is there and my sister,” she said. “So I think the biggest thing I would love to stress is that this is a family restaurant. We are really striving for excellence and we just want to serve our community in the best way that we can.”

Brothers from Smiths Station win photo contest

CONTRIBUTED BY ALBBAA

LEE COUNTY — On the opening weekend of the 2024 turkey season, brothers Declan and Logan Warrick hit the woods with their dad and cousin.

The group spooked a group of turkeys early in the morning and then made a short drive to a family property in rural Crenshaw County, where they spotted another group of birds.

The brothers — 14-year-old Logan and 12-year-old Declan — crawled closer to get in position while their adult guides blew on turkey calls. Logan fired first and harvested a turkey, and Declan then stood and shot a second turkey as it ran away.

“I was like, ‘I don’t know how we did that,’” Logan said.

The photo of the brothers with their harvested birds received the most votes in this year’s Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA) Big Gobbler

Photo Contest.

As the winner of this year’s contest, the Warricks will receive a Black Belt Strutter turkey call package. The package includes a custom Alabama

Black Belt Adventures edition glass pot call made from locally sourced Demopolis mock orange wood, and an Otis Elite universal gun cleaning kit, courtesy of Black Belt Strutter.

The prize package carries a total value of about $300.

The hunt that produced the winning photo provided a family memory that will last a lifetime, and ALBBAA Director Pam Swanner said that’s exactly what the 12th annual Big Gobbler Photo Contest is designed to celebrate.

“Our contest attracts entries every year showcasing young people enjoying the great outdoors right here in Alabama’s Black Belt,” Swanner said, “and it’s especially gratifying to see a photo showcasing young people as the winner.”

ALBBAA’s 2024 Big Gobbler Photo Contest launched in March and ran throughout Alabama’s wild turkey season. The contest drew dozens of entries and nearly 3,000 online votes.

Contestants uploaded a photo from the 2024 season to the ALBBAA website, and the winner was selected exclusively through online voting. The photo of Declan and Logan

drew more than 1,000 votes, roughly twice as many as the No. 2 vote-getter.

The brothers said neither of them harvested another turkey during the 2024 season. In addition, both birds were double-bearded, which made the hunt even more memorable.

“I thought it was pretty cool,” Declan said.

Orin Warrick, the boys’ father added, “All these years I’ve been hunting, I’ve never seen anything like that. It was awesome. They did it within five seconds of each other.”

The Warricks live in Smiths Station in Lee County, and they often visit family in Butler and Crenshaw counties and hunt during deer and turkey season. In fact, the other adult assisting with the youth weekend hunt, Jack-Dillon Hewitt, lives in the tiny Butler County community of Pigeon Creek.

The ALBBAA consistently promotes and encourages ethical hunting and fishing practices, and the annual Big Gobbler Photo Contest helps educate the public about the abundance of natural resources found in Alabama’s 23-county Black Belt region.

“Alabama’s Black Belt

has earned a reputation for amazing turkey hunting every year, and we thank everyone who entered a photo or cast a vote in this year’s contest,”

Swanner said. The Black Belt includes the following 23 counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw,

Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox.

Brothers Declan and Logan Warrick of Smiths Station submitted this winning photo to the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s Big Gobbler Photo Contest.

MELT is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Cooking prodigy Bryson McGlynn discusses TV experience

BY ANITHA STIEFEL | THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Now that Season 9 of FOX TV’s MasterChef Junior is complete, 12-year-old Bryson McGlynn is free to talk about his experiences before, during and after the filming of the show. To get the inside scoop, the Observer had an in-depth interview with Bryson, who lives in Auburn but attends Fox Run School in Opelika where his father is a band director. Following are the questions and answers.

The Observer: When did you start cooking? Bryson: I started when I was about 3. I would pull a chair up with my parents and help out. As I got older, I started to get more serious. When I was 8, I started cooking competitively all

over the country.

The Observer: When did you realize you’re good at it?

Bryson: When I was about 10 I started learning that I must not be too bad, because I looked back over the previous two years and realized that I had placed in the top 10 everywhere I went. I still feel like I have so much to learn, though, and I want to keep learning.

The Observer: What was your motivation to get on the show?

Bryson: It was always a dream be on the show. I have been watching this show and Chef Ramsay when I was little. I felt like maybe I could do this even though my style is a little different, so I kept practicing.

The Observer: When did you start applying? Bryson This is the first season I have applied. I have practiced a lot though and been working on my social media page with coming up with different recipes for a while before applying.

The Observer: How did you go about getting on the show? What was the process?

Bryson: I applied to be on the show and then I had to go through a lot of interviews and cooking demonstrations. This was a long process. The next thing you know I am flying out to LA to have a chance to get my white apron. I then had a semifinal round. From here, that then narrowed it down to the top 12 and I was fortunate to be in the top 12 and get that white apron.

The Observer: When was the show taped? Bryson: The show was recorded in late fall 2023.

The Observer: How long were you in Los Angeles? Bryson: Including the semifinal round, it took about two months to record everything.

The Observer: Where did you stay while you were there? Bryson: We were put up in a hotel, and my dad was with me. It was a very nice hotel, and everyone was so nice, but it was still a regular hotel room and being there that long made that room get smaller and smaller.

The Observer: How often were the challenges held? Bryson: We had school six days a week, so challenges were not always every day. They were basically every two or three days.

The Observer: What did you do when you were not

filming?

Bryson: SLEEP! We sometimes would do a little sightseeing, but we were so tired we wanted to sleep. And we would swim at the hotel pool together. We would walk to the mall that was close. We did go to the Santa Monica Pier one day, the Observatory, and a few other things but it was a lot of trying to catch up on rest.

The Observer: You still stay in touch with the other contestants. Is that important to you?

Bryson: I talk to them a lot. They are like family to me. We are all so busy, but we try to call, FaceTime or text each other as much as possible.

The Observer: What have been the benefits of going through this experience?

Bryson: I learned a lot of responsibility and perseverance. I learned to keep pushing yourself no matter what. I also know that I have made some of the closest friends throughout this country and will keep them close to me forever.

The Observer: Did you get any hands-on instruction from the chef-judges?

Bryson: They would come around in the challenges and give advice. It was up to us to listen to them to do what they suggested.

The Observer: You’ve seen the show on television — what was different about how it looked or felt in reality?

Bryson: It’s more nerve racking! It goes so fast! The one hour seemed like 10 minutes sometimes. Keeping up with Chef Ramsay is like trying to race a lightning bolt!

The Observer: What does it feel like to be a “celebrity”?

Bryson: I don’t like to call myself a celebrity. It’s different. A lot of people like to come get pictures, which is fun. I think it’s most important to try to help push people my age to work hard, and if that means I call myself a celebrity to do that, I will.

The Observer: How are you coping with all the attention?

Bryson: Good. It’s definitely different. I love to show my passion in cooking and hope I can show that to others.

The Observer: What demonstrations and/or competitions do you have coming up?

Bryson: I have quite a few that are lining up all across the country. I will be posting these on my social media accounts when they become official. My goal is to continue my passion of cooking and try to help others in cooking.

The Observer: Besides cooking, what are your other hobbies and interests?

Bryson: I love to play percussion. After breaking my arm, I took a break from baseball, but I am ready to jump back in it again.

The Observer: Is there anything else you would like to say to our readers?

Bryson: To any kids that are thinking about doing something like this or anything — follow your dreams! It can happen if you work very hard. I always say that cooking brings people together and that’s what I love. I love to cook and bring people together!

Bryson’s interest in cooking started at the age of three.

WXTX FOX 54 and Glynn Smith Chevrolet hosted a meet-and-greet to celebrate Bryson’s accomplishments.

Pictured above, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller presented Bryson with a proclamation. Pictured below are fans who gathered for a party to congratulate Bryson.

L labama Politics ee County & A

Inside the State House

Legislative session fails to let Alabamians vote on a lottery

OPINION —

The regular Legislative Session ended on May 9 with final passage of both budgets, which is the only constitutionally mandated requirement of the legislature during its annual session.

However, there was another constitutional question that dominated the session — the perennial issue of whether Alabamians will ever be allowed to purchase lottery tickets in Alabama and keep Alabamians’ money within our state. This money could help educate Alabama children, pave Alabama roads and remedy the closing of our rural hospitals. However, these Alabama dollars currently are going to our four surrounding states of Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Mississippi, who all allow the purchase of lottery tickets.

Alabama is now one of only four states in America that do not have a lottery. It comes as no surprise that most Alabamians — both Republicans and Democrats — find this absurd. In fact, 80% of Alabamians, when polled, say they adamantly want their legislators to vote in favor of simply giving Alabamians the right to vote on whether to keep their lottery dollars at home. This same reliable polling reveals that the

Alabamians in favor of a state lottery also attend church up to two times a week and already gamble on sporting events and drive out of state to purchase lottery tickets. This is especially true of people under 50.

Today, most Alabamians see nothing irreverent or wrong, much less sinful, about buying a lottery ticket or betting on a football game. What they do find appalling is that their children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews who are successful in school could go to college tuition free if they lived next door in Georgia.

Georgia’s Hope Scholarship Program, created 25 years ago through a statewide lottery bill, provides free college education for their students. At this point, Alabamians have educated untold numbers of Georgia students. It is no coincidence the largest outlets for purchasing lottery tickets are located along Georgia’s Alabama border.

The same holds true along Florida’s Alabama border. The people in Dothan and the Wiregrass, alone, have probably paved most of the roads throughout the panhandle of Florida.

Therefore, the question remains, if 80% of Alabamians want the right to vote on a lottery and our state leaders are fully aware that unregulated and untaxed gaming already exists in our state, why did the lottery vote fail yet again during this year’s annual legislative session? Because Special Interests got involved.

Unfortunately, most of the 140 members of the legislature are being falsely accused. The vast majority

voted in favor of allowing Alabamians the right to vote on whether to keep gaming/lottery dollars in Alabama. However, because the creation of a lottery requires a constitutional amendment, a three-fifths vote is needed for the measure to pass. That means 63 votes are needed in the House and 21 votes in the Senate. The bill passed the House comfortably with a 72 to 29 vote but failed in the Senate with a final vote of 20 to 15. While most Senators voted in favor of the bill, it needed one more vote to pass.

Based on these numbers, 92 of our legislators voted to let Alabamians vote. Only 44 voted to thumb their nose at their constituents. That is a tough vote to defend, and I suppose most of these legislators are being met by irate constituents. These 44 legislators will have to defend their “no” vote in less than two years. Some of these legislators are veterans, who are entrenched for reelection. However, many of the “no” votes came from newly elected first termers, who now run the risk of not being reelected over this indefensible vote.

Gov. Kay Ivey could decide to give these 44 legislators a chance to redeem themselves by calling a Special Session and spotlighting the lottery/gaming vote. However, at this point, I suspect Gov. Ivey is fed up and frustrated with this issue. If that is the case, she could step aside and let the lion of the legislature, Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, take the bull by the horns. It is possible. Only one vote is needed in the Senate. Believe you me, there are three or four

See FLOWERS, page A7

BY MICHELLE KEY | PUBLISHER

OPELIKA — Daewon

America, Inc. announced its plans for a major addition to its existing facility located at 4600 Northpark Drive involving the construction of new buildings or additions to existing buildings, the purchase and acquisition of new manufacturing machinery and equipment and other personal property and the transfer of used equipment and personal property. The capital improvements will involve an investment of approximately $46.2 million and is expected to create 100 new jobs.

“I believe everything in our local economy starts with a good paying job,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller in a press release that was sent to The Observer. “That has been my focus since you hired me as your mayor in 2004. Our community has been blessed with over 5,000 new good paying jobs since 2004. This significant additional capital investment by Daewon will result in property tax revenue to benefit Opelika City Schools, East Alabama Health and Lee County Youth Development Center. There is no question that this has been a team effort with City Council President Eddie Smith and the Opelika City Council, Ronnie Wilson and the Opelika Industrial Development Authority and John

Sweatman and his Economic Development team. They have all played an important role in our continued success.”

President of Daewon America, Chris Cho added, “Daewon America is proud to partner with the City of Opelika and the Economic Development team in expanding our operations. Opelika has been an incredibly supportive home for our United States headquarters. We are humbly grateful to the city of Opelika and its residents as we continue to strengthen our roots in our community.”

Opelika Economic Development Director, John Sweatman also stated in the press release, “Daewon has continued to be a valued partner in Opelika since their initial announcement to come to our community in 2006.

Daewon’s total capital investment over the past 18 years, including this new expansion, is well over $164 million and the new total number of jobs created to 260. We look forward to supporting Daewon’s new expansion efforts and we are extremely thankful they decided to choose Opelika.”

The improvements are expected to be completed by in approximately three years.

The Opelika City Council approved tax abatements and exemptions for Daewon during its meeting Tuesday night.

“In my 20 years on the

Opelika City Council, the past 16 as president, we’ve had the pleasure of approving many of these abatements that mean additional good paying jobs for our citizens,” said City Council President Eddie Smith in the press release.

IN OTHER BUSINESS:

- The council held four public hearings during the meeting. The first was regarding the demolition of a structure located at 1300 Spring Drive. The council later voted to approve the demolition.

- The next two hearings were for weed abatement assessments for property located at 815 1st Ave. and 4 Avenue A. The council later approved both of the assessments. The final hearing was pertaining to the amending of the Zoning Ordinance: Section 7.3C District Regulations Use Categories for the Institutional District (I-1). This ordinance was introduced for its first reading.

- The council approved a request for a downtown street closure for a Bourbon Festival on Oct. 12.

- The council approved a bid from Downtown Cleaners for uniform cleaning for the Opelika Police Department (OPD).

- The council approved a bid from Flora Terra LLC for weed abatement services for the Revenue Department.

BY STEVE FLOWERS

Daewon America Inc. is located at 4600 Northpark Drive in Opelika.

Letter

to the editor

Higher taxes alone won’t save Social Security

BY JAMES PATTERSON

OPINION —

With a national election within months, Social Security is in the news.

Senator Tommy Tuberville, R-Alabama, recently said that many Americans might not see a penny of their Social Security. During a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing in February, Tuberville said, “There’s going to be about 150 million people coming up here [to Washington] saying, ‘Where’s our damn money that we paid in? I could have put my Social Security money, 40 years in tax, in the [stock] market and probably be worth $8-to-$10 million today but the federal government wasted it.’” Stock market investments are risky. Stocks fluctuate in value. While Tuberville’s “$8-to-$10 million” investment return from stocks

could be high or low, he is right on target about the federal government wasting money.

A top-ranking Biden administration official agrees with Republican Senator Tuberville about the federal government wasting billions of dollars. The Social Security Administration’s Commissioner Martin O’Malley recently told a Senate panel that SSA bureaucrats have lost $23 billion by overpaying beneficiaries.

O’Malley told senators that the massive overpayments were “the agency’s fault.” O’Malley, a former Governor of Maryland, should have said the overpayments were the fault of bureaucrats at his agency. Overpaid, uncaring, irresponsible bureaucrats mistakenly overpaid Social Security recipients.

For years the SSA policy for recovering overpayments was to stop payments until the overpayment was paid back to the agency. This was called “claw-back.” In many cases, this policy left seniors

and the disabled with no income. It may have also left them with no health insurance. This policy could have contributed to homelessness and untreated illnesses.

O’Malley said the agency claw-back policy was “cruel.” In the future, he said, Social Security recipients with overpayments will be paid their full monthly benefit check, less 10% to be applied to their overpayment. Effectively, O’Malley is writing off the $23 billion. It will never be repaid. It could easily be repaid.

Seniors and the disabled with Social Security overpayments need compassion. Their Social Security benefits were stopped, according to O’Malley, “when it was the agency’s fault.” Taxpayers, too, need compassion in the form of lower taxes.

Washington politicians regularly argue about Social Security benefits. In an election year, arguments can get heated. Some politicians are accused of seeking higher taxes to fund an inefficient SSA. Other politicians

Church members speak against package store during Auburn meeting

BY DANIEL SCHMIDT FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — For most of the citizen’s communications period during Tuesday night’s Auburn City Council meeting, Auburn AME Zion Church members spoke against a proposed package store located at 316 N. Donahue Drive. Those present did not have to wait long to learn their opposition to the store was successful after the council voted six to three against approving University Wine and Spirits’ commercial and entertainment use application.

Ward 3 Council Member Beth Witten, Ward 4 Council Member Tyler Adams and Ward 7 Council Member Max Coblentz were the three council members who voted to approve the conditional use.

The denial comes after the Auburn Planning Commission originally recommended approving the application by a seven to two vote at its May 9 meeting and the council voted to table the vote at its May 21 meeting.

Before the vote, Witten asked City Manager Megan McGowen Crouch if the council could once again table the vote, but Crouch and other city employees advised councilors to decide one way or another.

Auburn AME Zion Church pastor Stephen Faulk spoke first during the citizens’ communication period, imploring council members to consider the city’s African-American community and vote against the proposed package store.

He also detailed confrontations between church members and people drinking alcohol in the parking lot and said the

OPELIKA >> from A6

- The council approved a bid from D & J Enterprises Inc. in an amount of just over $1.4 million for the McCoy Street Improvements.

- The council approved expense reports from various departments.

- The council approved a resolution to designate city personal property as surplus and authorize its disposal.

- The council approved a grant application from the OPD for a bullet proof vest grant in the amount of 47,310. The city of Opelika is required to provide a 50% match of all

presence of another liquor store in the area could increase problems in the surrounding area.

“I don’t know how many churches are in Auburn, but I really question how many of those churches have or will have three liquor stores within 1,500 feet (of their building),” Faulk said. “That’s a little bit too much, and we would ask that you would look at certain opposition and vote against that liquor store.”

Other church members told the council the community supported the accompanying grocery store, which will open at that same location regardless since it is considered a use by right.

“We need a store where we can go in and buy fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut meats and even some household items. We need a store that will give some of the kids in our community the opportunity for employment to further their education and job skills,” AME Zion church member H.V. Still said. “What we don’t need is another whiskey store.”

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The council approved a $5 million financial contribution to the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center to create a 3,500-square-foot studio theater, construct an exterior stage and enhance the existing amphitheater. That contribution will be made in equal installments over 10 years.

- The council approved a loan of up to $316,000 from the Economic Development Loan Fund to Friendship Foods, Inc., doing business as Country's Barbecue. That loan will help pay for equipment for a restaurant located at 1021 Opelika

funds appropriated.

- The council approved an extension of its contract with Valley Rescue Mission Inc. The resolution for the demolition of 401 N 16th Place remained tabled.

- The council approved a special appropriation of $1,250 to GEMS Empowered for its Juneteenth Celebration. GEMSEMPOWERED INC. is a 501C-3 nonprofit that started in Opelika twelve years ago. It said its mission is to grow, educate and empower citizens of Opelika as well as those throughout Alabama and Georgia. The company said it has empowered several single mothers to become homeown-

are accused of heartlessly wanting to reduce benefits to seniors. There are other options, like reducing benefits to incompetent federal bureaucrats. The waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement of the SSA is nearly as stunning as its huge overpayment scandal.

Higher taxes on workers are always the first solution offered when it comes to the solvency of the Social Security Trust Fund. Higher taxes will never be sufficient to pay for massive bureaucratic errors, like overpayments to recipients of $23 billion. Taxpayers should not have to pay for incompetent bureaucrats.

Since bureaucrats can’t be fired, they have no incentive to prevent future overpayments. Taxpayers need a better managed and professional federal workforce. Until federal utopia arises from its current state of utter mediocrity, Congress should consider other options.

Before allowing O’Malley to write off $23 billion as a loss, Congress should

determine how much, if any, of the $23 billion is fraud. People who defrauded the SSA should be held accountable. If they aren’t, then more fraud will occur.

Second, since O’Malley admitted that his employees were at fault for making $23 billion in overpayments, Congress should hold his agency accountable. A part of SSA’s budget should be applied to the overpayment.

Third, Congress should determine if any part of the overpayment was caused by federal unions. If union members and their lawyers misrepresented facts to Social Security administrators, they should be held accountable for overpayments.

Fourth, Congress should determine if other federal agencies were responsible for Social Security overpayments. If HR personnel at federal agencies gave federal workers incorrect or false information in calculating Social Security benefits, then federal agency budgets should be charged to recover for overpayments. This may

be a surprise, but incompetent bureaucrats work at multiple federal agencies. Federal salaries increase annually. Social Security overpayments remain high. For the last fiscal year, SSA reported an overpayment of $11.1 billion. Commissioner O’Malley has a huge job managing his out-of-control workforce. Americans deserve better. If Congress should force a hiring freeze to bring the SSA under control, they likely fear the agency would further spin out of control. When their constituents complain of SSA’s poor customer service, Congress would authorize more funding for the agency. Such political circularity is a virtual certainty in Washington. Unless the SSA is better managed, Senator Tuberville’s prediction could come true: Americans might never see a penny of their Social Security.

James Patterson is a life member of the Auburn Univ. Alumni AssocIation.

Road and must be repaid within six years.

- The council approved a roughly $134,500 contract with Azteca Systems, Inc. That contract, which renews the Cityworks Software Enterprise License Agreement,

- The council approved a $51,600 contract with Stryker Medical to purchase a Life Pak 15 heart monitor.

- The council approved a ground lease with the Auburn University Real Estate Foundation to create Ann Pearson Park. That park, located at 1420 Shelton Mill Road to be used as a 47.3-acre passive park available to the public. The lease term will last for 50 years and at a rate of $10 annually.

- The council approved a contract with the Auburn Game Day Law Enforcement Corporation and area public safety agencies for supplemental law enforcement services during Auburn University sporting events. That contract begins on Aug, 1 and ends on July 31, 2025. The university will reimburse the city financially for costs associated with this agreement.

- The council approved a contract with Auburn University for supplemental law enforcement services during Auburn University sporting events. That contract begins on Aug. 1 and ends on July 31, 2025. The university will reimburse the city financially for costs associated with this agreement.

- The council approved a restaurant retail liquor license for Auburn Tacos LLC doing business as Fuzzy’s Taco Shop at 1678 S. College St.

See AUBURN, page A15

ers in Opelika. In addition, more than ten nonprofits in Opelika were started with the assistance of GEMS.

- The council approved a special appropriation of $80,000 to Envision Opelika for renovations to the Southside Center for the Arts.

- The council tabled an ordinance to repeal Section 22-5 of the City Code of Ordinances: Ending Funeral Escort Services. This will take affect July1, 2024.

- The council introduced an ordinance for an annexation petition by Antione Harvis to annex 48 acres of land located at 2051 AL Highway 169 for its first reading.

Alabama Arise, Alabama Values launch Think Big Alabama advocacy training program

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA ARISE AND ALABAMA VALUES

ALABAMA — Alabama Arise and Alabama Values announce the launch of Think Big Alabama: Empowering Voices for Change, a four-part advocacy training program aimed at empowering underserved and underrepresented communities in Alabama. The program, running from July 13 to Aug. 24, will equip 20 participants with essential skills in media, public policy and grassroots organizing. BIPOC Alabamians are encouraged to apply.

The Think Big Alabama program is designed to align with the missions of Alabama Arise and Alabama Values, focusing on empowering communities by providing the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to address pressing issues impacting their lives. This program will transform research findings from the Think Big learning community into actionable steps for advocacy and change.

“Through this collaboration, we are demystifying the legislative process and providing essential advocacy skills to people who want to improve their communities’ well-being and make Alabama a better, more inclusive place for everyone,” said Presdelane Harris, organizing director of Alabama Arise. “Our goal is to engage Alabamians to become active participants in shaping the policies that affect their lives.”

Alabama Arise is a statewide, member-led organization advancing public policies to improve the lives of Alabamians marginalized by poverty. The organization’s dedication to policy advocacy and community engagement makes it a key partner in this transformative program.

Participants will engage in both in-person and virtual sessions, immersing themselves in a comprehensive curriculum that covers narrative building, grassroots organizing, policy advocacy and media strategies. The program will begin with foundational insights into the intersection of media, policy and grassroots organizing, fostering an environment of collaboration and community engagement.

Alabama Values will bring to the program its expertise in narrative and messaging for social change, helping participants

FLOWERS >> from A6

freshman, back-bench senators, who are feeling the heat at home for their “no” vote.

Gov. Ivey and Speaker Ledbetter are listening to the outcry from Alabamians.

Neither are being deterred by special interests. Kay Ivey has built her legacy by being one of the most honest

craft compelling stories that resonate and drive action. Alabama Arise will contribute its deep knowledge of policy advocacy and grassroots organizing, providing participants with practical tools and strategies to navigate the legislative landscape and advocate for meaningful policy changes. Together, these organizations will create a dynamic and supportive learning environment where participants can thrive and become powerful advocates for their communities.

Sessions will cover place-based storytelling, crafting compelling narratives and utilizing media platforms for advocacy.

Participants also will learn effective grassroots organizing strategies and helpful policy narratives, with practical skills and strategies provided by Alabama Arise. The program will conclude with participants finalizing individual or group action plans to address specific state or local issues, equipping them with long-term engagement strategies for ongoing community involvement and impact.

“Think Big Alabama is more than a training program; it’s a movement to empower marginalized communities and amplify their voices in public policy debates,” said Anneshia Hardy, executive director of Alabama Values. “By equipping participants with the necessary tools and knowledge, we aim to create a lasting impact on the state and community levels.”

Alabama Values is dedicated to using narrative and messaging for social change, aiming to amplify the voices and values of Alabama’s growing pro-democracy movement. This initiative is a testament to the organization’s commitment to building ideological power and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

“The Think Big Alliance is thrilled to support this exciting initiative,” said Elaine Mejia, executive director of the Think Big Alliance. “Working together across issues to create and deploy transformational narratives is how we plant the seeds for the big wins that will make the most difference in people’s lives.” Community members can register to participate in this impactful learning experience. Participants’ meals and travel costs will be covered.

governors in my lifetime. She has always sided with and acted on what is in the best interests of her fellow Alabamians. Hopefully, for Alabama’s sake, you have not heard the last of this issue. See you next week.

Steve Flowers’ weekly column appears in more than 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. steve@steveflowers.us.

IN THE PROABTE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TIMOTHY JAMES PERRY, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2024-267 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of Timothy James Perry, deceased, having been granted to HARDENA RENEE

JACKSON TODD on May 20, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Hardena Renee Jackson Todd Legal Run 05/30/2024, 06/06/2024 & 06/13/2024

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.:2024-263

IN RE: The Estate of JOANNA M. HALL, An incapacitated person. NOTICE OF PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN AND CONSERVATOR FOR AN INCAPACITATED ADULT TO: JORDAN HALL and any and all heirs of JOANNA M. HALL, an incapacitated adult, the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, a petition for the appointment of a guardian and conservator on behalf of JOANNA M. HALL. It is therefor, ordered that the 18th day of JUNE, 2024, at 2:00 o’clock, p.m. electronically via “ZOOM” virtual meeting website has been set and appointed as the day for the hearing of said petition, and the taking of testimony in support thereof, at which time any next of kin can appear and contest the same if you see proper. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to said hearing. Given under my hand on 16th day of May 2024. Bill English, Judge of Probate Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 05/23/24, 05/30/24 & 06/06/24

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter I, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Whatley Construction LLC, Contractor, has completed the contract for New Lab Building for the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries 991 Wire Road ,Auburn--’, AL 36832 for the State of Alabama and Montgomery County, Montgomery, AL 36832. Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Barganier Davis Williams Architects Associated, (architect/engineer) at 624 South McDonough Street, Montgomery, AL 36104. Whatley Construction, LLC, contractor PO Box 137 Opelika, AL 36803 NOTE: This notice must be run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000.00. For projects of $50,000.00 or less, run one time only. A copy of the publisher’s affidavit of publication (including a copy of the advertisement) shall be submitted by the Contractor to the Design Professional for inclusion with DCM Form B-13: Final Payment Checklist for state agencies, PSCA-funded and other bond-funded projects. Legal Run 05/23/24, 05/30/24, 06/06/24 & 06/13/24

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION

Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 2020 S. College St. Auburn, AL

36832 Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 10:00AM Unit A52 Unit C242 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Run Date 05/30/2024

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CYNTHIA WELBORN, in her individual capacity and as Personal representative of the Estate of Robert Earl Shorter, deceased, Plaintiff, v. CV-2024-900159

Beginning at a point on the Southeast side of Avenue C, 200 feet Southwest of the South corner of the intersection of Avenue C and South 4th street, thence Southeast at right angles to Avenue C, 250 feet, thence Southwest parallel with Avenue C, 50 feet; thence Northwest at right angles to Avenue C, 50 feet to the point of beginning, said lot or parcel land being in the City of Opelika, County of Lee and State of Alabama, and being a part of Block M of the Foreman survey of Byrd Lands in said City of Opelika, and Audrey J. Hayden, Joseph N. Shorter, III, Clarence Shorter, Lena Pearl Coleman, Emdward Haynes, Ronald Welborn, Connie Price, Linda Faye Edmond, Cynthia Diane Thomas, Cynthia Johnson, Mary J. Bullock, Betty Bentley, Stanley Shorter, Melvina Shorter Ponzio, Tonya Shorter, and Unknown Heirs of Marion Felton, Unknown Heirs of Lena Shorter, Unknown Heirs of Ethel Ingram, Unknown Heirs of Joseph N. Shorter, Unknown Heirs of Elizabeth Shorter Thomas, Unknown Heirs of Carolyn Shorter Welborn, Unknown Heirs of Robert Earl Shorter, Unknown Heirs of William Shorter, Unknown Heirs of Melvin Shorter, Unknown Heirs of Willa J. Taylor, Unknown Heirs of Curtis Shorter, Unknown Heirs of Andrea Welborn, Unknown Heirs of Alfreda Welborn, Unknown Heirs of Eunice Welborn, Unknown Heirs of William Thomas, and Unknown persons who may claim an interest in said property whose identities are unknown and who cannot by reasonable diligence be ascertained, : Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION

To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown, and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 8th day of April 2024 a Bill to Quiet Title and Complaint to Sell for Division was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: Beginning at a point on the Southeast side of Avenue C, 200 feet Southwest of the South corner of the intersection of Avenue C and South 4th street, thence Southeast at right angles to Avenue C, 250 feet, thence South west parallel with Avenue C, 50 feet; thence Northwest at right angles to Avenue C, 50 feet to the point of beginning, said lot or parcel of land being in the City of Opelika, County of Lee and State of Alabama, and being a part of Block M of the Foreman Survey of Byrd Lands in said City of Opelika. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

Done this the 23rd day of May 2024. Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801

Telephone Number: 334-749-6999

Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com

Legal Run 05/30/24, 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.:2024-263

IN RE: The Estate of JOANNA M. HALL, An incapacitated person. NOTICE OF PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN AND CONSERVATOR FOR AN INCAPACITATED ADULT TO: JORDAN HALL and any and all heirs of JOANNA M. HALL, an incapacitated adult, the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, a petition for the appointment of a guardian and conservator on behalf of JOANNA M. HALL. It is therefor, ordered that the 18th day of JUNE, 2024, at 2:00 o’clock, p.m. electronically via “ZOOM” virtual meeting website has been set and appointed as the day for the hearing of said petition, and the taking of testimony in support thereof, at which time any next of kin can appear and contest the same if you see proper. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to said hearing. Given under my hand on 16th day of May 2024.

Bill English, Judge of Probate Lee County, Alabama

Legal Run 05/23/24, 05/30/24 & 06/06/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF HUGH

RONALD JONES, Deceased. CASE NO. 2024-281

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of HUGH RONALD JONES are hereby granted to Linda Fay-Howard Jones a/k/a Linda Fay Jones as Personal Representative on the 16th day of May 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Linda Fay Jones

Legal Run 05/30/24, 06/06/24 & 06/13/24

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that, Matthes Parker LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of the Auburn University Project: 23-290. Moore Field and Softball Complex - Outfield Fan Deck, Left Field AU, at Jane B Moore Field 795 W Samford Ave, Auburn, AL 36832 and Plainsman Park 351 S Donahue Dr, Auburn, AL 36849 for the State of Alabama and Lee County and City of Auburn, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify (Architect) Cooke Douglass Farr Lemons

Architects + Engineers PA. 3221 Old Canton Rd, Suite 200. Jackson, MS 39216 Matthes Parker LLC (Contractor) 2044 S College St. Auburn, AL, 36832

NOTE: This notice must be run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000.00. For projects of $50,000.00 or less, run one time only.A copy of the publisher’s affidavit of publication (including a copy of the advertisement) shall be submitted by the Contractor to the Design Professional for inclusion with DCM Form B-13: Final Payment Checklist for state agencies, PSCA-funded and other bond-funded projects. Legal Run 05/30/24, 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

ESTATE OF JEFFREY TODD MAPLES, SR., DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 15th day of May 2024, by the Hon. 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 law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand and seal this the 15th day of May, 2024.

CRAWFORD S. MELTON

Legal Run 05/23/24, 05/30/24 & 06/06/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM R. CREW, III. DECEASED

CASE NO. PC-2023-574

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 16TH day of November, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

PATSY CREW Legal Run 05/30/2024, 06/06/2024 & 06/13/2024

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SYLVIA DENISE JACKSON, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-270

NOTICE TO CREDITOR

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Testamentary have been granted to Donald Paul Jackson as Executor for the Estate of Sylvia Denise Jackson, deceased on May 24, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Done this the 24th day of May, 2024.

Bill English, Probate Judge Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 05/30/24, 06/06/24 & 06/13/24

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 12491 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. _____ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (THE MILL DEVELOPMENT PUD)

BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct:

(a) Saucier Investments, LLC (“Saucier”) is the owner of record of that certain property consisting of 37.91 acres located within the Pepperell Village Historic District and located south of N. 29th Street, east of Cunningham Drive and north of the railroad tracks.

(b) Saucier, by and through his authorized representative, Samford Group, LLC, heretofore submitted to the City a development plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) consisting of approximately 37.91 acres, designated as “The Mill Development Planned Unit Development”.

(c) The proposed development is a mixed-use development consisting of single-family houses, townhouses, apartment buildings, offices and other commercial uses. The property is divided primarily into two sections. The commercial and multi-family area is located south of 1st Avenue. The remaining residential area is located north of 1st Avenue.

The residential development consists of 309 residential units, which include 83 single-family homes, 84 townhomes and 142 multi-family/apartment units. Overall, the development will have a density of 8.95 units per acre.

(d) On May 28, 2024, the Planning Commission heretofore conducted a public hearing of the proposed development and referred to the City Council its recommendation to approve the proposed development.

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

Section 2. APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN.

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

Section 3. DESIGNATION OF A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. The official Zoning Map is hereby amended and the zoning classification for the following parcel of land shall be changed from a VR-1 District (Village Residential District) and C-2 District (Office/Retail District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on the official zoning map of the City. Commencing at the calculated Southwest corner of Section 14, Township 19 North, range 26 East, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, thence North 00°14’37” West, a distance of 286.69 feet; thence North 73°12’29” East, a distance of 961.95 feet to a calculated corner on the East right of way of Cunningham Drive and the Southwest corner of the old mill property, said point being the Point of Beginning of a description of land for a Planned Urban Development described herein: from this POINT OF BEGINNING, thence along Cunningham Drive North 00°40’53” West, a distance of 290.45 feet; thence along a right of way change for said Road North 89°46’03” East, a distance of 8.21 feet; thence along said Road along a curve concave to the southeast having a radius of 288.56 feet and a chord which bears North 24°10’30” East 245.95 feet for an arc distance of 254.08 feet to a point of cusp; thence continue along Cuningham Drive North 50°10’15” East, a distance of 163.90 feet to the beginning of a curve tangent to said line; thence northeasterly an arc distance of 100.64 feet along the curve concave to the northwest, having a radius of 223.77 feet and a chord of North 37°17’13” East, 99.79 feet to a point at a future round-about right of way; thence crossing the future roundabout North 17°39’02” East, a distance of 203.15 feet to a point on the North side of a future round about; thence along a curve concave to the east having a radius of 103.78 feet and a chord which bears North 03°40’31” East 12.08 feet

for an arc distance of 12.09 feet; thence North 06°54’53” East, a distance of 54.97 feet to the beginning of a curve tangent to said line; thence along future Cunningham Drive northerly an arc distance of 64.95 feet along the curve concave to the east, having a radius of 472.00 feet and a chord of North 10°51’26” East; thence continue along said future road North 14°47’59” East tangent to said curve, a distance of 144.60 feet to the beginning of a curve tangent to said line; along a curve with an arc distance of 28.84 feet, having a radius of 20.00 feet; thence along the South right of way of 2nd Avenue South 82°35’37” East tangent to said curve, a distance of 57.06 feet; thence continue along 2nd Avenue on the following courses and distances: South 87°13’20” East, a distance of 36.79 feet; thence South 86°51’02” East, a distance of 58.48 feet; North 88°59’39” East, a distance of 63.58 feet; North 85°07’39” East, a distance of 62.88 feet; thence North 81°39’06” East, a distance of 62.27 feet; North 81°28’39” East, a distance of 50.67 feet; North 73°10’14” East, a distance of 375.48 feet; North 73°09’53” East, a distance of 60.00 feet; North 73°09’53” East, a distance of 264.87 feet; North 73°09’53” East, a distance of 60.00 feet; North 73°09’42” East, a distance of 268.83 feet to the Western right of way of 24th Street; thence along 24th Street South 16°45’08” East, a distance of 150.07 feet; South 73°11’18” West, a distance of 8.75 feet; South 16°44’29” East, a distance of 101.56 feet; thence leaving 24th Street and follow the North line of Lot 4, Pride of Pepperell Phase 1 South 73°10’29” West, a distance of 260.00 feet to the East line of 25th Street; thence along 25th Street South 16°45’59” East, a distance of 230.15 feet to the intersection of 25th Street and 1st Avenue; thence crossing 1st Avenue South 16°50’00” East, a distance of 59.89 feet; thence along 1st Avenue North 73°10’00” East, a distance of 374.58 feet; thence leaving 1st Avenue South 16°43’20” East, a distance of 357.07 feet; thence South 73°10’23” West, a distance of 1155.70 feet; thence South 73°08’41” West, a distance of 1107.68 feet to the point of beginning.. Said parcel contains 37.91 acres and contains part of the right of way for 30th Street, 1st Avenue, 25th and 26th Street and lies within Section 14, Township 19 North Range 26 east, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama

Section 4. RETENTION OF COPIES OF DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Copies of the Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

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

Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 7. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

END All interested persons are invited to attend the Public Hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at City Hall, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the Public Hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and Public Hearing.

Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s Interim ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

WITNESS my hand this the 6th day of June, 2024. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 06/06/2024

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page A15

Cain takes helm as EMS officer for Auburn Fire Department

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — Matthew Cain has been hired as the city of Auburn’s EMS officer. This new role has responsibility and oversight of EMS operations within the Auburn Fire Department.

Cain joined the department as a student firefighter in 2006 and was hired as a career firefighter in 2008. He was promoted to sergeant in 2013, lieutenant in 2014, captain in 2020 and battalion chief in 2023.

Cain graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife science in 2013 and has been an on-shift training officer for AFD since 2014.

Originally from Harvest, Alabama, he has been an Auburn resident since 2004. He is proud father of a daughter named Colbie.

Atlanta woman arrested for identity and property thefts

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On May 26, Auburn Police, with assistance from the College Park Police Department in Georgia, arrested Miranda Lauren Masone, age 19, of Atlanta for identity theft and theft of property second degree.

On Jan. 2, a complainant reported to Auburn Police that multiple checks were mailed to the intended recipients from a location in Auburn in December 2023. While in transit, the checks were stolen, altered and deposited into multiple bank accounts outside of the Auburn Police Department jurisdiction. Masone was developed

as a suspect, and after further investigation, arrest warrants for identity theft and theft of property second degree were obtained. Masone was located by the College Park Police Department in Georgia, and she was arrested in obedience to the warrants.

Investigation leads to arrest of 18-year-old

Masone waived extradition and was transported to the Auburn Police Department on May 26. She was later transported to the Lee County Jail and held on an $8,000 bond.

Suspect arrested on charges of electronic solicitation of minor

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On May 8, Auburn Police met with a complainant who reported that a suspect used electronic communication to contact a child for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. The communication occurred between May 7 and May 8. Eric Francois Williams-Bell, 26, of Union Springs, was developed as a suspect, and after further investigation, an arrest warrant was obtained.

Auburn Police located Williams-Bell on May 31, and he was arrested in obedience to the felony warrant

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On May 28, Auburn Police met with multiple victims who reported that unknown suspects made unlawful entry into their vehicles and stole property.

The vehicle burglaries occurred overnight between May 27 and May 28 in the 1100 block of South College Street and the 4300 block of Golf Club Drive.

A 16-year-old juvenile and a 15-year-old juvenile were developed as suspects. Officers located the juveniles on May 28, and after further investigation, both were arrested and charged.

Officers arrested the two juveniles, both from Auburn, on felony juvenile complaints charging each with two counts of theft of property second degree and two counts of unlawful breaking and entering into a vehicle.

Both juveniles were transported to the Lee County Youth Development Center to be held pending further judicial review.

During the investigation that followed the initial juvenile arrests on May 28, Kevin James Walker, age 18, of Auburn was developed as a suspect. Arrest warrants were obtained, and Walker was arrested in obedience to the warrants on May 31. He is charged with two counts of unlawful breaking and entering into a motor vehicle and two counts of theft of property second degree. Walker was transported to the Lee County Jail and held on a $12,000 bond.

MATTHEW CAIN

This dynamic duo completed their training with Global K9 this week, allowing Auburn Police Officer Rogers and K9 Kenzie to join patrol for explosive and firearm detection full-time. K9 Kenzie comes from Auburn University’s Canine Performance Sciences Vapor Wake program, which trains some of the finest detection dogs in the world. K9 Kenzie was donated by the Lofton family in honor of their family members, fallen Sheriff William “Buck” Jones and late Sheriff Jesse Linch.

MASONE

WILLIAMS-BELL

Religion

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Altar call Servants or stars

Despite his prominent leadership role in the early church, the Apostle Paul was never guilty of pomposity. Not once did he insist that fellow Christians think of him as the “Big Cheese.” He never asked for a dime to erect anything that would perpetuate his name. On the contrary, he asked others to think of him as a servant of Christ (1 Corinthians 4:1).

Like his Lord, Paul’s first concern was the Kingdom of God, not the Kingdom of Paul. He did everything in his power to make known the name of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Everything else was rubbish compared to “knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection.” Paul promoted servanthood and he practiced it. He was the first Christian who may have said, “My Boss is a Jewish carpenter.” For Paul nothing was more important than to take up his cross and “go make disciples of all nations” – even if it would cost him his life. And it did. In recent years the word “servant” has been glamorized. We have tempered the word “leader” by adding the word “servant.” But there remains the temptation for “servant leaders” to think

Studying His word

BY BRUCE GREEN

Oof themselves as more important than the common people. Satan entices us to crave recognition and praise for our hard work. Some, denied the recognition they felt they deserved, have even left the church.

Older translations of the Bible reveal that Paul used the word “slave” rather than servant to identify himself. By identifying himself as a “slave of Christ,” Paul showed his heart. He had surrendered entirely to the mastery of his Lord Jesus. Jesus was everything to Paul. And why not? To him, Jesus was the visible expression of the invisible God, the One before whom “every knee will bow” one day.

To borrow a phrase from Paul, some of us are prone to think of ourselves “more highly than we ought to think.” Satan is surely delighted when we

imagine that Jesus should be proud to have us on his team. But this is not a new problem. It was what Paul addressed when he wrote of the danger of being “puffed up in favor of one against another.” We get puffed up when we think we are better than others. Slaves, on the other hand, are less likely to get puffed up about anything. Instead of foolishly comparing ourselves to others, and stimulating resentment in the fellowship, we may join with Paul in seeing ourselves as servants and stewards living under the Lordship of Jesus. As trustworthy stewards, we can recognize that whatever we have is not actually ours but a gift on loan from God. He expects us to be faithful stewards, serving responsibly with gratitude for the mercy he has shown

us. Puffed up people find ways to dodge servanthood. They want control; it’s their way or the highway. They desire power more than an opportunity to serve. They delight in telling fellow Christians what to do rather than bowing humbly to the will of Jesus. And this attitude weakens the church’s witness.

Mother Teresa showed us how to live as a slave of Jesus. After receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, she declined many invitations to be “wined and dined” for her work with the poor. Her service to the dying was more important than attending banquets to be honored for her achievements.

Among Methodists Harry Denman was a modernday servant of Jesus. He never owned a car or a home. He had but one suit

Ten lepers and two cookies

ur six-yearold grandson (Bryant) lives a few states away, but I talk with him and his two brothers every Sunday night. Our conversations revolve around sports, bad jokes (“Why couldn’t the pirate recite the alphabet? He kept getting lost at sea”), food and what they learned in Bible class that morning. We go other places according to the moment, but these are the well-worn trails in our

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church

3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church

301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

128 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road Valley 334-710-2117

talks.

Not long ago when I asked Bryant what they had talked about in Bible class that morning, his reply was immediate and to the point, “Ten lepers and two cookies.” That dialed me in, so I asked for details. He told me about Jesus’ healing of the 10 lepers and how only a Samaritan had returned to say thank you. Then the budding young foodie said with some force, “And after the

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

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

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

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

Shady Grove Baptist Church 2194 Lee Road 177, Opelika 334-476-1531

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

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

lesson the teacher gave us all a cookie.” I seem to remember at this point a slight excursion as we discussed the quality of the cookie (it was good). Then he told me they had all thanked their teacher for the cookie, to which she exclaimed, “I have never had everyone in the class say thank you before!” She accordingly celebrated this momentous occasion with — another cookie!

The Opelika Church 2660 Cunninghan Drive Opelika

University Church of Christ 449 N. Gay St., Auburn www.auchurch.com

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

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 510 Groce St. Opelika, AL 36830 706-610-0547

GLOBAL METHODIST

Christ Methodist Church of Auburn 434 E. Magnolia, Auburn Worship at Lee-Scott Academy 334-209-0074

EPISCOPAL- AME

Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika

That cinched it. When Jesus lamented how “the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of light,”

He wasn’t talking about Bryant’s teacher. She knew exactly what she was doing and did it well. She planned the work and worked the plan. She taught the lesson. She gave them an opportunity to make direct application in their lives by saying thank you. Then she

334-749-1690

EPISCOPAL

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

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

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552

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

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

Father’s House Christian Fellowship

and one coat. He spent his life telling people about his friend Jesus. When he retired from serving as head of evangelism for the Methodist Church, his friends held a great dinner to honor him. Hundreds came and enjoyed a delicious meal. But Harry was not there. He was miles away preaching about his friend Jesus in a little country church. Among us today there are many who are faithful, humble servants of Jesus. If we are willing to humble ourselves, we can model that winsome lifestyle. We may not do it as well as Paul did, but we can work at it. It all begins with a willingness to think of ourselves as servants of Jesus, not “star” witnesses. Paul did it. Teresa did it. Harry did it. You and I can do it, too.

reinforced it with a second cookie. Now every time Bryant hears about the 10 lepers, he will think about the two cookies and remember the importance of being thankful. No matter how it happens, this is a truth that needs to be written in our hearts.

Find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-withbruce-green.com.

214 Morris, Ave., Opelika

Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika

Southern Plains Cowboy Church 13099 U.S. Hwy. 280, Waverly 334-401-1014

PENTECOSTAL

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

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

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

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach

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

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

BY WALTER ALBRITTON

PRF Institute reaches milestones in latest monthly report

LEE COUNTY — The PRF Institute has released its most recent impact report.

“With this update for April 2024, we have several milestone achievements to celebrate,” according to a press release from the nonprofit.

“This month, we provided $41,050 worth of free services, conducted 79 consultations, and performed 52 assessments around the country. Through our Opelika Financial Health Initiative Program (OFHI) program, we offered $11,375 in free ser-

vices, and our estate planning services amounted to $5,400.

“At the PRF Institute, we are intentional about connecting everything we do to our vision: “to assist with the economic transformation of 200,000 people over the next seven years.”

According to its website,

“the PRF Institute is committed to addressing the socio-economic challenges of communities with a direct team approach. We are a safe place for all to learn, grow and transform in financial stewardship.”

The institute provides courses to assist citizens in

Solutions), which strives to assist with a myriad of issues facing the rural south, most especially the area of Camp Hill, after a recent disaster left the area in need of rebuilding and repairing. Pictured below with St. Dun’s bakers is Warren Tidwell and his assistants. Also receiving a donation in May was the Camp at Sawyerville, a youth ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama striving to create opportunities for children and youth in Hale County by providing free summer programs, mentoring and scholarships.

addressing financial, economic and legacy stewardship concerns. Courses include:

• Stewardship: A Practical Principle

• Stewardship Maintenance 4 Leaders

• How to Gain Financial Healing

• Credit & Debt Are First Cousins

• Refuse to Give out of Ignorance

• Tithing: Out of Law or Love

• Importance of Planning & Savings

• How to Leave a Legacy

• Poverty Reduction

• Financial management for

Marriage & Couples

The PRF Institute’s Community Financial Empowerment Center provides community resources and assessments; free coaching and premiere paid coaching; access to Nationwide Partnerships Legacy Planning; teaching lessons; bankruptcy and foreclosure assistance and more.

Courses and projects of the PRF Institute are made possible by community support, and all gifts are tax-deductable.

“Your financial contributions to the PRF Teaching

Ministry (EIN: 47-3955661) and Circles Opelika will help us continue to help more people,” according to the press release. “We also accept gifts via CashApp at $PRFInstitute or via Zelle at admin@ prfministry.org or by check/ money order to PO Box 687, Opelika, AL 36803. Please specify if your gift is designated for PRF in general, Circles Opelika or another one of our initiatives/programs. For more information, visit the website prfministry.org.

BY ANTHONY TERLING, A1F

LEE COUNTY — On June 10, mark your calendars for a day for teeing it up, sinking putts and making a difference at the second annual Aces Fore Austin charity golf scramble.

This event, organized by the Austin 1st Foundation (A1F), promises not only a fun-filled day on the lake course at Grand National-RTJ but also an opportunity to raise awareness and research dollars for families affected by rare diseases.

In Alabama, 400,000 people are living with a rare disease. This figure is equivalent to 8.2% of the state’s population.

One in 10 Americans live with a rare disease.

Through events like the Aces Fore Austin Charity Golf Scramble, A1F aims to not only raise vital funds but also to create awareness and a sense of community and solidarity among those affected by rare diseases. Whether you’re a golfer, a sponsor or simply a supporter of the cause, your involvement makes a difference. There are multiple ways to participate, providing hope and assistance where it’s needed most.

1. Tee Up for a Cause: Golf enthusiasts can sign up to participate in the tournament itself. Whether you’re an

avid golfer or the G.O.A.T. of foursome scrambles, grab your clubs and join in the action.

2. Sponsorship Opportunities: Businesses looking to make a meaningful impact can explore sponsorship opportunities for the event. From hole sponsorships to event-wide partnerships, there are options available to suit every budget and level of involvement.

3. Financial Donations: For those who do not golf or are unable to attend the event but still eager to show their support, financial donations are always welcome. Every dollar contributed goes directly towards funding research and providing assistance to families affected by rare diseases.

4. Donation of Items or Products: Individuals and businesses can also contribute items or products valued at $75 or more for raffle prizes, adding an extra element of excitement to the event. Additionally, higher-value items can be donated for a silent auction, allowing participants to bid on coveted items while supporting a worthy cause.

5. Donate Financially to A1F: All monetary donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

For more information about the event, visit the Aces Fore Austin page at www. austin1stfoundation.org/events.

Upcoming Services

CANDACE STILL MCELVAINE

June 6 | Funeral service 1 p.m.

Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home, Opelika

KAREN BAKER

June7 | Graveside service 10 a.m.

Garden Hills Cemetery, Opelika

WILLIAM ROBERTS DEAN

June 8 | Visitation 10 a.m., Memorial service 11 a.m.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, Opelika

WILLIAM ROBERTS DEAN

William Roberts Dean passed away peacefully on May 20, 2024. Born in Alexandria, Virginia, while his father served in World War II, William was a lifelong resident of the Auburn/Opelika area and a beloved husband and father.

William attended Auburn University, majoring first in architecture and graduating in economics. He worked initially with his father at Dean Agency, and later established his own business, Dean Realty, in 1985. He worked with clients throughout Alabama and surrounding states, specializing in appraisals, land and timber sales and expert

witness services. An award-winning marksman in high school and college, William served in a helicopter medic unit with the Air National Guard following graduation. He remained a passionate outdoorsman for life, enjoying hunting and fishing. He could often be found tilling his garden and decrying the various pests that dared to infest his carefully tended tomatoes, which he shared with many friends. He was a wildflower enthusiast, often transplanting and propagating plants he found in the woods. Protection of habitat and stewardship of the land were high priorities for him. He was an excellent cook, incorporating produce he grew into his specialties, such as Brunswick stew and jambalaya.

William was known by all as a restorer of historic buildings in Auburn. He was very knowledgeable about materials and construction of different time periods and set high quality standards. He oversaw the restoration of Sunny Slope, which houses OLLI at Auburn. He also oversaw the moving and restoration of two other historic

OBITUARIES

buildings, now located near Noble Hall and Cusseta. His most recent restoration project is the 1890 Cullars-HenryDean home on College Street. He has lovingly labored for many years on the maintenance and renovation of the Lowe family farmhouse, originally built around 1890 by his wife’s grandparents.

His reputation for fair and ethical opinions led to his appointment to the Lee County Probate Commission for multiple years. He served as secretary for the regional Perinatal Advisory Committee during its early years. He was a member of Lee County Board of Realtors, Auburn Arts Association, and Auburn Preservation League.

His varied interests led to friendships throughout the community — staff in restaurants adjoining his garden, plumbers, electricians, historians, builders, businessmen and artists. He quietly helped many people behind the scenes who sought his advice. He had a kind and generous spirit. He was a creative problem-solver, finding solutions when they seemed elusive.

He met his wife on a blind date when she was 16 years old, and they married four years later. He was steadfast in his love and support of her, always patient, always her rock. His family came first.

William is survived by his wife Linda Henry Dean; his son Will (Laura) and daughter Gabrielle (David); his brothers Baker (Theresa) and Robert; numerous

cousins and other relatives, as well as his cherished cat Edith whom he rescued as a feral. He was predeceased by his parents Augustus Baker and Caroline Dean and his brother Daniel R. Dean.

A visitation will be held at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m., on June 8 at Frederick Dean Funeral Home, located at 1801 Frederick Road in Opelika. Flowers are welcome, as he adored them, or a donation in his memory to Alabama Wildlife Federation.

JACKIE EDWARD “BUDDY” SATTERWHITE

Jackie Edward “Buddy” Satterwhite passed away on May 25, 2024, in a tragic accident at his home.

He was born Nov. 1, 1959, to Carol Dianne Satterwhite. He attended Beulah High School and graduated from Auburn University with a degree in accounting. He became an entrepreneur in January of 1995. Business became his favorite hobby and he liked to say he hadn’t worked a day in his life since 1995.

He was known for his unconditional love of his family and friends, especially his daughter and his beloved grandson,

Buddy. He loved nothing more than to spend a day at his farm driving all the farm equipment and playing in the creek with his Buddy. He was also known for his kind and giving spirit and was always looking for ways to quietly help someone or make a difference in someone’s life.

He is survived by his beloved Aunt Frances and Uncle Wesley Hatchett, best friend and mother of his child Chris Satterwhite, his “precious baby girl” Haley and son-in-law Bryan Wade, grandson Buddy Wade, unborn granddaughter Isla Garrett Wade and numerous nieces and nephews who adored him.

A service was held June 4 at First Methodist of Opelika, with FrederickDean Funeral Home assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please consider doing something nice for someone today in his honor.

RUTH ANN SMOCK BURDINE

Ruth Ann Smock

Burdine passed away May 24, 2024, at Bethany House in Auburn.

Ruth Ann lived most of her adult life in Huntsville after spending the early years in Indiana. She was born to Byron and Gertrude Smock and came to Alabama with three small children in 1959, when her husband began a career at NASA.

She lived a full life, enjoying work at Southtrust Bank in Huntsville, singing in several church choirs, playing the piano, serving as the head of her Red Hat Honeys chapter,

keeping her grandchildren at “Camp Gran” and always baking delicious treats for her family and friends. Her most recent Huntsville residence was in Cedarwood Place where she enjoyed the community until she could no longer live alone. To be close to family members, she moved to Auburn in the summer of 2023, enjoying life in assisted living and visits with her great grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Steve (Alison) Cizek, Marcie (Tommy) Smith and her favorite, Mark Cizek (Deborah Waller) of Huntsville. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Lauren (Everett) Marshall, Emmy (Brian) Sharp and Alex (Clay) Ritenbaugh, and great grandchildren Abby, Ethan, Lily, Reese, Logan and Evie. She was proceeded in death by her husband, William Burdine, her parents and one brother, Wayne Smock. Her surviving siblings are Robert (Joyce) Smock, Karen Decker and Bonnie Grigsby.

A very special thanks to many friends, visitors, and caregivers, particularly Carolyn Life and Karen and Tim Cotton of Huntsville, and Teresa Vest, Dr. Tripp Martin and the staff of Bethany House in Auburn. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home of Opelika assisted the family with arrangements. A memorial will be held in the picnic area of Monte Sano Park in Huntsville at a later date. Ruth Ann was an

SHADY GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Shady Grove Baptist Church invites you to go “On The Trail” with us at Vacation Bible School, set for June 17-20, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

We’ll travel to the Old West and learn about the good guys and the bad guys in the Bible, and we’ll have a lot of fun panning for gold, riding horses and a whole lot more. And we’ll eat what the cowboys ate on the trail. Register your little buckaroos today by calling (334) 524-2351. Located at 2197 Lee Road 177, Opelika.

enthusiastic supporter of the Big Oak Ranch, (6000 Shelley Dr. Springville, AL 35146) supporting disadvantaged children, as well as the Downtown Rescue Mission in Huntsville (1400 Evangel Dr. NW, Huntsville, AL 35816). Those wishing to make a donation in her honor can consider these.

MICHAEL STEVENS

Michael Stevens passed on May 26, 2024, at the age of 58.

Michael was born on May 18, 1966, in Winter Park, Florida, the fourth child to the loving parents of Betty Ruth and Richard William Stevens. He graduated from Winter Park High School in 1984. As a student, he excelled at the trumpet, winning many awards and becoming one of the best players in the state. He pursued a 5-year degree in Architecture at Auburn University, graduating in 1989.

Before graduating, Michael founded United Development Associates with his partner Michael Reeves. Together, their company would design and build dozens of homes across Lee County during the 1980s. In the early 1990’s, embracing technology, he founded United Design Associates with his wife, Jennifer, to distribute home designs via the internet.

His final company, UDA Technologies, expanded rapidly into the construction software industry. Never without vision, he pushed through the turmoil of the housing market crash to rebuild the company with a focus on the cloud construction management software. He led his staff of over 50 employees with encouragement and support, embracing and refining ideas to foster

a close-knit company culture rooted in mutual respect. In his own words, his company is now “a leading provider of construction technologies for over 950,000 professionals in more than 75 countries.”

Starting as a young boy, he spent summers in Colorado, where he helped to build the family cabin and gained a hard-working resolve. There, he would develop passions for hiking, running and skiing that would define his active life.

As an adult, he would return to the mountains of Colorado, creating cherished memories with his loving family.

At home, Michael’s love of architecture and design was endlessly expressed in his beautiful landscaping. His yard provided him a sanctuary to work in and share with those he loved.

Michael will be lovingly remembered for his uplifting support, his persistent drive, his generous character and his adoring love of those close to him. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife of 26 years, Jennifer; his children, Will, Jack, Sydney and Chris; his mother, Betty; his siblings, Doug (Cindy), Linda (Mark), Ann (Jeff) and John (Ann); his many nieces and nephews; and his dog Aries.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Richard, and his beloved dogs, Jesse and Jesse Jr.

A memorial service was held at Auburn United Methodist Church on May 30. JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

For years, Michael ended his every plan with the quote: “We are what we repeatedly do, excellence then is not an act, but a habit.”

NOLEN F. CHERRY

Nolen F. Cherry, 83, of OpelikA passed away at his home surrounded by family on June 2, 2024. He was born in Auburn on Jan. 24, 1941.

Mr. Cherry was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Vena Cherry, and his brother, Tommy Cherry.

Mr. Cherry was a very friendly man who never met a stranger. He loved his wife, children and grandchildren dearly. He was an avid Auburn fan and enjoyed living life on Lake Martin.

A funeral service was held June 5 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home Chapel in Opelika, with Dr. Eric Fuller officiating. Burial followed at Memorial Park Cemetery in Auburn.

Mr. Cherry is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Carolyn R. Cherry; children, Andrea Fuller (Eric) and Suzanne Joiner (Casey); grandchildren, Kirk Robinson (Brittnie), Kourtney Howard (Wesley), Jones Fuller (Sara Kate), Leslie Walding (Luke), Rush Fuller and Karson Joiner; brother, Lewis Cherry (Ottis); sister, Donna Brown (Bill); six great grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

CANDACE STILL MCELVAINE

Candace Still McElvaine, 70 of Lafayette passed away on May 31, 2024. Candace was born Aug. 5, 1953, to the late Rosser and Hazel Still.

Candace was a very loving woman, she loved everyone. She truly loved her family and Alabama football. Family was the most important thing to her and she was always willing to help anyone at any time.

Candace will be greatly missed but, loved every

EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH

The theme of Emmanuel Episcopal Church’s VBS is “Growing in God’s Garden,” and will focus on growing in the virtues of faith, hope and love, featuring Bible stories, songs, art projects and meals centered around familiar parables that Jesus taught. VBS will be held June 10-12 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. (dinner will be served) and there will be a closing service and celebration at 5:30 p.m. on June 13. The church is located at 800 1st Avenue in Opelika.

Open to ages 3 years (if potty trained) through rising 5th graders.

E-mail questions to: gillianne.m.sharp@gmail.com.

day.

Candace is survived by her husband: Jack McElvaine, son: Eric McElvaine (Heather), daughter: Lynn Manning (Jeff), grandchildren: Serenity Morgan, Jennifer Walker (David), Richard Cullingan, Braydon Cole, Aryn Cole, Kaese Davis, several great grandkids, brothers: Charles Still, Hoyt Still (Charlsey) and one nephew Russell Still. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, with burial following in Antioch Baptist Cemetery in Lafayette.

KAREN BAKER

Mrs. Karen Baker, 58 of Auburn passed away June 2, 2024, at EAMC. Mrs. Baker was

preceded in death by her parents Jessie & Jean Smith. She is survived by her sons, William Armstong (Holley) and Jason Armstrong (Nicole), both of Opelika; sisters, Cindy Noland (Jeff) of Tuscaloosa and Renay Dillard (Scott) of Opelika; brothers, Gary Smith (Traci) of Georgia and Boddy Smith (Triffan) of California; grandchildren, ManMan, Jason Jr., Thomas, Justice, Nevaeh, Star, Khloe and Ambreah; great-grand daughter, Navie; and her beloved dog, Boss. Graveside services will be held 10 a.m. on Friday, June 7, in Garden Hills Cemetery, with Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home assisting.

www.opelikaobserver.com

The NEW Quintet makes Sundilla debut June 7

WRITTEN AND CONTRIBUTED BY SUNDILLA

AUBURN — The NEW Quintet will make their Sundilla Concert Series debut on Friday, June 7, at Pebble Hill (101 S. Debardeleben in Auburn). Showtime is 7:30 p.m., and if the weather cooperates, this will be an outdoor show.

The NEW Quintet will be appearing for the first time, but their leader, Nicholas Edward Williams, has appeared at Sundilla before, as a solo act. Host of the popular roots music history podcast American Songcatcher, Nicholas is a multi-instrumentalist and storyteller who is dedicated to “playing it forward” by preserving the songs and styles that have shaped our country: ragtime, Piedmont blues, traditional folk, old time and early country.

It was while recording his most recent solo album, Folk Songs for Old Time’s Sake, that he formed the NEW Quintet with Emma Dubose (fiddle, vocals), Jade Watts (upright bass, vocals), Gordon Inman (clarinet) and Cody Ray (guitar, lap steel). The ensemble’s big harmonies, intricate melodies and lush

textures rain upon both original and reimagined traditional material. The NEW Quintet has been on stages throughout the Southeast at festivals, concert series, listening rooms and theaters, and released their first album in early 2024.

JUNE 13

The Kim Richey Band will return to Sundilla on June 13 at 7:30 p.m. For the first time, she’ll be appearing on the Sundilla stage with a brand-new album of new music — this is an album release tour.

Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodie’s and online at sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door will be $25. Students with an ID can pay just $15 at the door, and children 12 and under get in free. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food or beverage. For more information, go to www.sundillamusic.com. If the weather allows for an outside concert, attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs (folding tailgating chairs are perfect)

Volunteering at the Boykin Food Pantry

Auburn Public Safety recently spent the day giving back to the community as volunteers at the Boykin Community Center Food Pantry, where they were busy sorting, assisting visitors and unloading donations. This program is a partnership between the city of Auburn, Food Bank of East Alabama and Auburn Community Development Corporation (affiliated with the Auburn Housing Authority). For more information, visit www.auburnalabama.org/community-services.

Auburn Oil welcomes best-selling author for talk

BY KADIE VICK FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — LaDarrion Williams presented his book Blood at the Roots at Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers on May 29. When Auburn Oil Event Coordinator Robin O’Bryant and Manager Katy Hall heard about the book and Williams’ Alabama heritage, they knew they wanted to host a book talk for him to share with the community.

“LaDarrion is not only a debut author, but a black baby author in the fantasy genre, which is not very typical,” said O’Bryant.

Like many, Williams grew up without representation in the novels he was reading and sought to change that for future generations.

“He loved reading fantasy, Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and all of that when he was growing up, but as a black teenager in Alabama, there was no representation for him,” said O’Bryant. “So he’s written this book for young black youth to see themselves and it has abso-

lutely taken off in the last few weeks.

“He’s been on NPR, People Magazine, the Washington Post, LA Times — he’s been all over the place and busy. I was really excited when he debuted at number five on the New York Times list,” O’Bryant said. At the heart of Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers is the desire to create a welcoming and inclusive community where people can enjoy reading and the rest it provides.

“We’re a part of the community in a different way than a big box store,” Hall said. “I think we have a good idea of what our community likes to read and what would be good for it, and also supporting the local authors.”

O’Bryant said that Auburn Oil Owner Mike Armor’s three goals for the store are, “to foster a love of reading in kids, for this [Auburn Oil] to be a gathering place in a community and he wants everybody to be able to see themselves in the store here. He wants there to be something for everybody, and that’s something that I think

that we’re all very focused on.”

Auburn Oil hosts a variety of other events including silent reading hours, book clubs, movie nights and more. One of its most popular events is called “Page Pairings,” which are literary-inspired wine tastings.

“We have six different wines, and we have six different booksellers who each pick one of the wines, and then they choose a book that’s somehow related to it,”

O’Bryant said. “We have stations set up, people come in and tickets are $35. You get to taste all of the wines, and then you get to pick the book you like the best to take home with you. We also have discounts on the wine that night.”

Auburn Oil hopes to continue to provide opportunities for community members to join in their shared love of reading in fun and creative ways that serve diverse ages, experiences, and interests. To learn more about the events at Auburn Oil visit the website www.auburnoilbooksellers.com.

Auburn Public Library summer events, programs kick off in June

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The Auburn Public Library invites the community to enjoy the summer with entertaining programs beginning in June. There will be programs for all ages, ranging from infant to adults.

• Toon Time: Mondays in June at 10 a.m. — Enjoy an hour of cartoon shorts

Movie Matinee: Mondays in June at 2 p.m. — Enjoy a full-length feature film

• Summer Serendipity: Tuesdays in June and July at 2 p.m. (beginning June 11) — A variety of interactive, fun performers will visit the library, including the Southeastern Raptor Center, Bright Star Children’s Theatre, Spicer’s Music and more.

Summer Crafternoons: Wednesdays in June and July at 2 p.m. — Cool off inside while making a fun arts and crafts project. Supplies will be provided.

• Hometown Heroes: Thursdays in June and July at 2 p.m. — Visit with Auburn’s hometown heroes, explore various careers and have hands-on fun learning more about what they do to make Auburn the best place to live, work and play. Guests include Auburn Police, Auburn Fire, Auburn Public Works, Auburn Environmental Services and more.

• Puppetry Workshop: Fridays in June and July at 10:30 a.m. — Rising grades K-3 will learn basic puppetry and performance skills. Session 1: June. Session 2: July. Space is limited. Registration required. Registrants may only sign-up for one session.

• Local Authors in the Library @ Family Story Time — Featuring Taylor Belich on Saturday, June 1 at 9:30 a.m. and featuring Laura Fryar on Saturday, July 13 at 9:30 a.m.

TEENS and TWEENS are invited to:

• Art Adventurers: Wednesdays in June and July at 3:30-5 p.m. — Rising grades 4-6 will explore art history and techniques, focusing on a different period each week, and create a masterpiece to take home. Registration required.

• Teen Writers Workshop: Thursdays in June at 4:30-6 p.m. — Rising grades 7-12 will explore storytelling and writing through creative writing exercises, author advice and work sharing.

• Beginner’s Chess for Teens: Thursdays in July at 4:30-6 p.m. — Rising grades 7-12 will learn chess rules and strategies and practice gameplay alongside other chess enthusiasts.

ADULTS are invited to:

• Adults Create: Select Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. and

select Saturdays at 2 p.m. — Guided Painting: Saturday, June 8 at 2 p.m. and Tuesday, June 11 at 5:30 p.m.; Felt Flower Arrangements: Tuesday, July 9 at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 13 at 2 p.m.; Beginner Embroidery: Tuesday, August 6 at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, August 10 at 2 p.m.

• Local Authors in the Library — The Mystic Order of East Alabama Fiction Writers: Saturday, June 22 at 2 p.m. — Featuring Melissa Blair on Saturday, July 6 at 2 p.m.; Amelia Wood on Saturday, Aug. 24 at 2 p.m. Chapter Chats Book Club — Chat about a new book selection each month at this new book club for adults.

Chapter Chats will meet in person at the library at 5:30 p.m. on the following dates: June 18: “Trust” by Hernan Diaz; July 16: “The Ones Who Don’t Say I Love You: Stories” by Carlos Ruffin; Aug. 20: “Take My Hand” by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

OLLI Panel Discussion: Margaret Renkl — Join OLLI at Auburn in a panel discussion of author Margaret Renkl and her works on Thursday, June 20, at 4:30 p.m.

So You’ve Written a Book… Now What? — Learn insights and tips from author Bob McGough on how to get your book published.

Author LaDarrion Williams discussed his book Blood at the Root at an author talk hosted by Auburn Oil Booksellers.

KIM RICHEY

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INVITATION TO BID

24026

Sealed bids for the construction of the North 8th Street and 1st Ave Sidewalk Upgrades shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m. local time on June 25, 2024, 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.

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. Drawings and Specifications may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ 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, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: North 8th Street and 1st Ave Sidewalk Upgrades

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LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (368030390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 06/6/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

INVITATION TO BID

24025

Sealed bids for the construction of the Blackhawk Drive Culvert Replacement 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 June 25, 2024, 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.

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. Drawings and Specifications may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/bids.aspx. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ 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

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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: Blackhawk Drive Culvert Replacement LILLIE FINLEY –PURCHASING-REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (368030390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA

PH: (334) 705-5120

Legal Run 06/6/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids for the LR 249 and LR 318 Water Transmission Main CMGM230058 will be received at the Smiths Water and Sewer Authority, located at 2848 Lee Road 243, Smiths Station, AL 36877, until Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. EST (local time) at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The Project includes the following Work: Approximately 40,000 LF of 12” water transmission main and all related appurtenances. Information for the Project can be found at the following designated website: www.gmcnetwork.com/ bids . The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is Goodwyn Mills Cawood LLC, 11 N. Water St., Suite 15250, Mobile, AL 36602, Ashley Morris ashley.morris@ gmcnetwork.com. Prospective

Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m., and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below.

Copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office, during the hours indicated above, upon payment of a deposit of $20.00 for a one-time administrative fee for digital access/file sharing and/or $150.00 for each printed set. Said cost represents the cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution, therefore no refund will be granted. Checks for Bidding Documents shall be payable to “GMC.”

Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.

The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities, or to reject any or all bids, to award the contract to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder and reissue the bid if needed. All bidders shall submit, upon request, a list of projects “successfully completed” in the last 2 years, having the same scope of work and approximate construction cost as specified in this project. All bidders must comply with requirements of the Contractor’s Licensing Law of the State of Alabama and be certified for the type of work on which the proposal is submitted. Each bidder must deposit with his bid,

security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Instructions to Bidders.

All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Engineer; the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 60 days after the opening thereof.

All bidders must comply with the President’s Executive Order Number 11246 which prohibits discrimination in employment regarding race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. The Smiths Water and Sewer Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All or part of this project is to be funded through a subaward from Lee County’s American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (“ARPA Funds”). Bidders must be compliant with the terms and conditions of the ARPA award as set forth in the bid documents. Bidders will be fully responsible for the delivery of their bids in a timely manner. Reliance upon the U.S. Mail or other carriers is the bidder’s risk.

Owner: Smiths Water and Sewer Authority

By: Mr. Joe Walden

Title: Chairman Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WAYNE STEVEN O’SHIELDS NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to ELIZABETH WATERS, as Administratrix of the Estate of WAYNE STEVEN O’SHIELDS deceased, on the 29th day of November, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

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

ELIZABETH WATERS Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF SARAH GRACE BARNES, DECEASED

ESTATE NO: 2024-200

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS

Letters of Administration on the Estate of Sarah Grace Barnes, deceased, having been granted to Brenda Jill Robinson on the 2nd day of May 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against

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said estate are hereby required to present the same within the taime allowed by law, or the same will be barred.

BILL English Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF FLECTHER SLATON CRAWFORD, II, a/k/a F. SLATON CRAWFORD, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 31st day of May, 2024, by the Hon. 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 law or the same will be barred. Witness our hands, and dated this the 31st day of May, 2024.

WALKER JACKSON Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:The estate of Macy Parker, Deceased. Case No.:2024-224 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Lynn Parker as Administratrix of the Estate of Macy Parker, deceased, on the 30th day of May, 2024. 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. Lynn Parker, Administratrix of the Estate of Macy Parker, Deceased

Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24 & 06/20/24

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE

AUBURN >> FROM A7

- The council commended the Auburn High School girls varsity soccer team for winning the 2024 Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A state championship.

- The council accepted public drainage and utility easements from JL Ventures LLC and relocated existing a sanitary sewer easement at a property located near the 600 block of West Veterans Parkway.

- The council accepted a sanitary sewer easement from JMJ Development

COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution in the Estate of CHARLES TUCKER MURRAY, deceased. Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by QUILLE W. MURRAY JR. AND KATHY LITTLE MURRAY on June 4, 2024, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 06/06/2024

LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended notice is hereby given that Matthes Parker LLC, contractor, has completed the Contract for construction of AU Project No: 23-442. Watson Field House Renovation for Volleyball Practice Phase 1 at AU 649 Biggio Dr. Auburn, AL, for the State of Alabama and the county of Lee and the (City) of Auburn. Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Sea, Sea, & Litchfield, P.C., Architect, Matthes Parker LLC 2044 S College St. Auburn, AL 36832

NOTE: This notice must be run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000.00. For projects of $50,000.00 or less, run one time only. A copy of the publisher’s affidavit of publication (including a copy of the advertisement) shall be submitted by the Contractor to the Design Professional for inclusion with DCM Form B-13: Final Payment checklist for state agencies, PSCA-funded and other bond-funded projects. Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

LLC for the redivision of an industrial lot located on Webster Road at McMillan Street.

- The council announced a "Back to School" sales tax holiday, which exempts certain items from city sales taxes. That holiday begins on July 19 and ends on July 21.

- The council approved an ordinance installing traffic control signs and devices in the Northgate Subdivision. Those signs and devices include one stop sign, one 25 mile-per-hour sign, four one‐way signs, four regulatory roundabout yield/circulation signs and four roundabout circulation signs.

JUNE 8 - 9 AM - NOON

On the Mark Recreation

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Opelika sports roundup

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OPINION —

JIMMY JOHNSON RESIGNS AS

OHS TRACK & FIELD COACH

Opelika Track and Field head coach Jimmy Johson informed me via telephone that he has resigned as of Monday, June 3. Johnson spent 14 years in the Opelika school system, teaching, coaching football and the track and field program. Johnson graduated from Opelika in 1997 and played football and ran track. He earned a football scholarship at Jacksonville State University, and graduated from Jax State with an undergrad degree and earned his Masters from Alabama A&M and most recently he earned an “Instructional Leadership Degree.” Under Johnson’s leadership the Opelika High Track and Field Teams won seven AHSAA Track and Field State Championships, finished second 8 times and finished in the top 3 a record 18 times. I have known Jimmy for most of his life, broadcasting his football games on the radio, watching him run track, come back home to coach and teach at his alma matter. He made the track and field program better

in my opinion.

AHSAA ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE’ RECIPIENTS

The Alabama High School Athletic Department announced the seven individuals who were selected as 2024 Making a Difference Award recipients by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association.

The seven winners were selected from 90 applicants submitted by AHSAA Member schools. Two locals were selected. LaFayette Athletic Director and head football coach Juan Williams was named the Class 2A recipient. The Class 6A winner was Dr. Brenda Coley principal at Russell County High School.

The other six winners: 1A-AL Gilmore (Elba High School), 3A-Brad Cunningham (Winfield), 4A-Trinna McKenzie-Smith (Jackson) , 5A-Ronald Steele and class 7A Lisa Ivey from Sparkman High. Each honoree will be recognized at the 2024 AHSAA Summer Conference Championship Coaches Award Banquet, July 18 in Montgomery.

OHS CAMPS

The OHS /OMS Swim Camp session two will See ON THE MARK, page B3

Tigers win Auburn’s first NCAA national championship in golf

1-ranked Auburn University men’s

Champions Course in Carlsbad, California,

Jackson Koivun and Brendan Valdes

AU’s Megan Schofill

earns low amateur honors at U.S. Women’s Open

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Auburn University’s Megan Schofill made her mark in the 2024 U.S. Women’s Open Golf Championship in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, last week, carding a 72hole score of 292 (+12) to finish the event tied with two others for lowest amateurs in the field and in a tie for 44th place on the leaderboard.

Schofill, the 10th Auburn golfer to participate in the event, recorded the best all-time finish of any Tiger at the U.S. Women’s Open. She earned an exemption into the championship by winning the 2023 U.S. Women’s

and was

156 players in the tournament field and one of 21 amateur players.

“This week, the golf course was definitely one of the hardest that I’ve ever played,” Schofill said. “It just tested every part of your game:

See SCHOFILL, page B2

Koivun voted top male collegiate golfer in U.S.

one of

AU’s Jackson Koivun added another one of golf’s highest honors to his resume last week — the 2024 Fred Haskins Award, presented annually to the top male U.S. collegiate golfer as voted on by

MEGAN SCHOFILL

Meadows leads Beauregard to state to end coaching career

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

BEAUREGARD — Beauregard High School softball coach Scott Meadows finished his eighth and final season with the program by leading the Hornets to their best season in recent history.

After 15 years serving in the Beauregard school system (five at the middle school then 10 at the high school), Meadows is walking away from coaching with previous assistant coach Nathan Langley set to take over as head coach.

Before Meadows ended his coaching tenure, though, he led Beauregard to a 32-11 record and its third state tournament appearance in program history. Beauregard also

won its second ever regional tournament. The team is trending upward, just the way Meadows wanted to leave it.

“A lot went into our success this year, really. It just felt like everything went right this season,” Meadows said. “We had the best coaching staff since I’ve been here this year, our three seniors led by example and we had a lot of our younger players step up. Everybody raised their game from last year.”

After sweeping its way through the are tournament and regionals, Beauregard met its match in the AHSAA Class 5A State Tournament.

The Hornets lost its first two games to Alexadria and Jasper and were eliminated despite a pair of hardfought performances.

Game one versus Alexandria went to extra innings, tied 1-1, and Beauregard was in a pitcher’s duel. Meadows decided to keep the hot hand in the pitching circle, and that’s when Alexandria rallied for four runs to win, 5-1.

“Hindsight’s 20-20, but I’m never going to pull a pitcher when the game’s tied and she’s pitching well,” Meadows said in retrospect on the decision to keep the starting pitcher in the game in extra innings versus Alexandria. “We had a little break before we played Jasper. Sure enough, Jasper had a stud pitcher, too.”

Beauregard combatted Jasper’s tough pitcher, sophomore Missy Odom, with its own ace in senior Hannah Parham. After Beauregard

entered the sixth inning up 2-0, Jasper scored four in the bottom of the sixth. Odom stayed in the game and slammed the door on the Hornets in the seventh inning, sealing a 4-2.

Win to eliminate Beauregard. After losing its first game and being on the brink of elimination versus Beauregard, Jasper won every game after that and beat Moody twice in a row to win the 5A State Title. Odom was the MVP.

“I was proud of the way we went out,” Meadows said. “It was a good season. We had a couple of down years before this one, couldn’t get out of the area tournament, and I think last year we started to turn it around. Everyone improved this season, and they have a great group returning next year.”

LOCAL SPORTS

be held June 17-19 at the new Aquatics Center at the Opelika Sportsplex. Swimmers will learn competitive swim, strokes and more about the swim team. Register at www. opelikaswim.com OHS Softball camp for ages six through 12 years olds will be July 8 through 10 at West Ridge Park in Opelika. Cost is $60 per person and you can pay online at: www.opelikaathletics.com

SCHOFILL >> from B1

chipping, putting, driving, irons and mental. This is my first U.S. Open and it lived up to the expectations of the USGA making it a hard track.

“Overall, it was a great experience, a great week and I’m

Auburn City Schools will announce the new Auburn High head baseball coach at the June 11 Board of Education meeting. ACS Superintendent Dr Cristen Herrin has a track record of hiring well-known coaches with a solid resume.

The AHS head baseball coach is a tough job for many reasons. The new coach replaces Matt Cimo, who retired after four state titles and numerous area championships. This is one of the most watched hires since Keith Etherdege was

really happy to tie low amateur honors,” she said. “Looking forward to building from this week.”

Schofill began the major championship with an even-par 70 that featured four birdies on Thursday. She made the turn at 2-under during round one after hitting an approach to within five feet that led to a birdie on

hired as AHS football coach.

The AHSAA is expected to announce the new executive director in the coming days. The Central Board of Control was scheduled to interview two candidates for a second time and then go into executive session and decide who they will hire. The Central Board of Control, the governing body of the AHSAA, is made up of individuals from member schools in each district. Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore is a member of the COB.

No. 9. In Friday’s second round, she started strong after sinking a birdie putt of just inside 20 feet on the par-3 12th hole, which was her third hole of the day. She ended the round 1-over for a 36-hole score of 141 (+1). Through two rounds, the fivetime All-SEC selection was tied for fifth place.

Schofill was one of four ama -

Beauregard High assistant baseball coach Britian Murphy was named head baseball coach at Eufaula High, last week. Murphy spent the last eight years as BGHS. Longtime basketball coach Carolyn Wright announced her retirement last week. Wright spent 32-years at Central High, winning 597 games before leaving to be the AD and girls head basketball coach at JAG High School in Montgomery. The AHSAA is expected to make an announcement about concerning the high school

teur players to make the 36-hole cut after Friday’s round and became the first former Auburn player to do so since Candace Schepperle in 2009. She carded a 77 (+7) on Saturday before bouncing back with a 4-over 74 in Sunday’s final round that included three birdies.

Schofill finished her collegiate career with a WGCA All-Amer-

At 53-years-old, Meadows has two grandchildren and wanted to quit coaching – not because he had to – because he wanted more time with them. He’s taking another job at the school but will no longer be coaching.

Along with that, he felt the program is in a good state to be carried on without him. Not only is a solid group of players returning with only three seniors graduating, Meadows is also confident that his successor, Langley, is ready to wear his shoes. At the beginning of this season, he recruited Langley over from coaching baseball to softball when he came from Pike Road to Beauregard. Langley now says choosing to coach softball was one of the best decisions he’s ever made.

The work off the field also “wore him down.” Meadows cited fundraising, for his team and other sports at Beauregard, and field maintenance as extra tasks that took time away from spending summers doing what he loves – being with his family and watching his kids grow up.

“There are some parts you miss and others you don’t,” Meadows put it frankly.

However, Meadows also cherishes the relationships he’s formed with players and coaches at Beauregard and in their area. He doesn’t plan to become a stranger to the program.

“I told the team ‘I’m going to come to some games (next year), and I’ll be your biggest fan,’” Meadows said. “Just excited for them. They got a good group coming back next year – just how I wanted to leave it… I wouldn’t be surprised if they got back to state next year.”

football championship. The new CFP format calls for first round games to be played at home sites. This would cause an issue if Alabama or Auburn were to host a playoff game after hosting seven high school football championship games. Stay tuned for more details.

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

ican honorable mention and a second team All-SEC selection in 2023-24. She led the Tigers with a 71.65 scoring average this season and holds the lowest career scoring average in program history at 72.01 (minimum 60 rounds).

The Monticello, Florida native currently holds a World Amateur Golf Ranking of 16th.

D MARK >> from B1 Meadows ended his coaching tenure after leading Beauregard softball to a 32-11 record and its third state tournament appearance in program history.

Alabama Water Watch volunteers monitor quality of waterways

Annual meeting will be held June 8 at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

BY KADIE VICK FOR THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — As the summer heat intensifies, Alabamians enjoy the lakes, rivers and creeks to cool down and make memories.

Alabama Water Watch (AWW) works to help protect the state’s waterways and ensure they are safe for community use.

AWW will host its annual meeting at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center on Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

AWW teaches community members how to monitor water health to help improve the longevity of Alabama’s water health for future decades. Training to join

AWW is encouraged for everyone interested, as Alabama’s waters are important to the biodiverse environment, history and economy of the state, according to Sydney Zimmer, volunteer coordinator.

“Everyone likes to go swimming. We want to know if that water is safe or relatively safe to swim in, and our monitoring can help determine that. We really encourage people to come to our training to get scientific know-how,” Zimmer said. “So we give them the tools to go and collect the data, and then they can go further to communities and use that data, or data to action, as we call it, to make good actions or to have good actions

make positive impacts, whether that’s through local policies and ordinances, identifying pollution sources, doing education outreach on their so kind of continuing what Water Watch does just through the volunteers.

“We teach people how to monitor for water quality in different aspects, like water chemistry, bacteria monitoring for E coli and stream biomonitoring, looking for critters,” Zimmer said. “We really encourage everybody to get into our training program. We have a hybrid program where folks go through an online course, and then they come to an in-person session where they learn the hands-on methods, and then they go

on to pick their own sites to take samples, and then they submit that data to us into our statewide database.”

AWW is a project of Auburn University Extension and the Water Resources Center of the College of Agriculture, and its impact is statewide.

For those who have registered, the event will contain a catered lunch by Chicken Salad Chick, an awards ceremony, program updates and more.

To get involved and become a water monitor visit AWW’s website at alabamawaterwatch.org or reach out by phone at (334) 844-4785 or by emailing awwproj@auburn.edu.

Safe Boating Council offers tips for summer boaters

ONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA POWER

With warmer weather arriving, there’s an increased interest in recreational activities on Alabama’s picturesque lakes, where boating is a favored pastime. The rise in lake visitors underscores the importance of prioritizing safety.

Ensuring the availability of life jackets on your boat is a fundamental step towards safeguarding all passengers, a practice mandated by law across all 50 states.

In Alabama, boats are required to carry properly sized, wearable personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each individual onboard or being towed. Children under the age of eight must wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD at all times while on any vessel.

The U.S. Coast Guard’s 2022 Boating Safety Statistic Report highlights that drowning was the cause of 70 % of recreational boating deaths,

with 85% of those victims not wearing life jackets. It’s essential to recognize that life jackets come in various types and sizes, including five levels of life jackets and throwable flotation devices. Selecting the appropriate type based on your activities or boating conditions is crucial.

Beyond life jackets, there are several other measures to ensure a safe boating experience. The National Safe Boating Council recommends the following tips: Enroll in a boating safety course to acquire valuable knowledge and hands-on experience, suitable for both novice and experienced boaters.

Conduct a thorough equipment check. Arrange a complimentary vessel safety check with the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to confirm the presence, functionality, and condition of essential equipment.

Create a float plan. Inform someone onshore about your trip’s details, including operator and passenger identities, boat type and registration, and onboard communication equipment.

Wear life jackets consistently. A life jacket stored away is ineffective in emergencies.

Use an engine cut-off device, as required by law. This safety device can stop the boat’s engine if the operator falls overboard.

Be vigilant about the weather. Check the forecast before setting out and keep updated throughout your trip.

Know your route and maintain safe speeds. Familiarize yourself with the area, adhere to local boating speed zones, and always navigate at a safe speed.

Avoid boating under the influence. One-third of all recreational boating fatalities involve BUI. Designate a sober skipper.

Stay connected. Ensure

you have multiple communication devices that function when wet, such as VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cellphones, for use in emergencies.

These guidelines can help

Auburn Parks & Rec will host

enjoy Alabama’s lakes safely and responsibly during the boating season and beyond.

boaters

For details about Alabama Power lakes, download the Shorelines app on your mobile device.

at Samford Pool on Saturday, June 8. Attendees can choose to float leisurely in tubes or relax on the pool deck while enjoying the featured film “Shark Tale.”

Retired Opelika school teacher Donna Starks of Auburn navigates her boat around Lake Martin.

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Education Briefs

TROY — Troy University recently awarded degrees during commencement ceremonies for the Spring Semester and Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year. Local students who graduated include:

From Auburn: Kambria Tolbert, Akasia Frazier, Margaret Lucas, Coleman Stewart, Katheryn Brown, Kayla Spencer, Shannon Morgan, Katy Chandler, Hattie Holmes, Patricia Reese, Ykeisha Robinson, Joshua Blackwood, Katelyn Ingram, Anita Onyeka, Kerby Fitch and Jie Huang.

From Opelika: Gabriel Whetstone, Abhigya Ghimire, T’Michael Holmes, Danielle Nichols, Kaitlyn Johnson, Megan Roberts Katelyn Morgan, Danielle Gibson and Jessica Whatley.

From Phenix City: Lolita McClendon, Sterling Pierce, Mary Medina, Shakeithia Jenkins, Baylee Manderson and Michael Cosentino.

From Salem: Katie Russell, Ethan Girona and Nickolas Derdoski.

From Smiths Station: Raven Roberson and Hannah Smith.

TROY — Troy University has released its Chancellor’s List for the spring semester and Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year. Full-time undergraduate students who are registered for at least 12 semester hours and who earn a grade point average of 4.0 qualify for the Chancellor’s List. Local students who made the list include:

From Auburn: Katy Chandler, Burnard Thomas, Reagan Sumner, Kate Seale Esposito, Journey Simpson, Mary Foltz, Kayla Spencer, Donald Clevenger, Katheryn Brown and Ciara Owens.

From Opelika: Carley Klutz, Emily Hegwood, Danielle Nichols, Danielle Gibson, Leah Bales, Dionnie Larkin, Makayla Stewart, Christie Buchanon, Lorenzo Farrow, Raygan Walls and Isabella Taylor.

From Phenix City: Jazmyn Lockhart, Senait Ballew and Irene Preciado.

From Smiths Station: Hannah Smith, Cassandra Gruber, Mackenzie Ensley, Ashlyn Walton and Kenya Spencer.

TROY — Troy University has released its Provost’s List for the spring semester and Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year. Full-time undergraduate students who are registered for at least 12 semester hours and who have a grade point average of at least 3.65 qualify for the Provost’s List. Local students who made the list include:

From Auburn: Kerby Fitch, Kayley Garner, Katelyn Ingram, Hattie Holmes, Meredith Wohlers Johnson and Kaitlyn Yates.

From Cusseta: Sarah Wadkins

From Opelika: Jordon Gunn, Charles McCullough, Mary Estes, Dion Harper, Karsyn Yountz, Brianna Wilson, Lashaina Walton, Santevokius Stevenson, Kinsley Nelson, Audrey Hartzog, Ella Brown, Hunter Ellis and Kaylee Traylor.

From Phenix City: Tyler Steele, Shakeithia Jenkins, Rylee Bamberger, Karie Colon, Ashley Roble and Eugenae Hankins.

From Salem: Ethan Girona, Justice Welch and Nickolas Derdoski.

From Smiths Station: Ashanti Fuller and Tedeja Turner.

MURFREESBORO, TN — Middle Tennessee State University has announced the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester. To qualify for this distinction, an undergraduate student must maintain a current semester gradepoint average of 3.5 or above and earn at least 12 semester hours. Local students who made the list include Connor Elwell and Tanner O’Grady, both of Auburn.

INSOLVENT LIST >> from B8

Auburn City Schools honor this year’s retirees

Opelika City Schools celebrate retirees

Southern Union names VanValkenburg to head advancement

Veterans Dependent Scholarship Program gets

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

LEE COUNTY — South-

ern Union State Community College (SUSCC) has named Gretchen VanValkenburg as executive director of Advancement and Community Relations.

VanValkenburg brings more than two decades of experience working in higher education advancement and development. She assumed the role on May 13 and will direct and implement a comprehensive strategic plan for all fundraising, marketing and community engagement initiatives as well as serve as the liaison to the Southern

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

Union Foundation board.

“We are excited to welcome Gretchen as our new Executive Director of Advancement,” said SUSCC President Todd Shackett.

“The college has placed a renewed emphasis on raising awareness and support for our Foundation, and Gretchen brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm for this effort.”

VanValkenburg most recently served as the vice president of engagement and executive director at Auburn University’s Alumni Association, where she spearheaded initiatives to cultivate and fortify relationships across all Auburn

LEE COUNTY — Southern Union State Community College’s Adult Education Department announces a unique opportunity for students seeking to enhance their academic skills and jumpstart their college careers. The “Ahead of the Herd” advancement course is a specially designed crash course aimed at improving students’ proficiency in English and math.

This intensive course is scheduled to run July 1525, Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to noon. A limited number of seats are available, ensuring personalized attention and support for each participant. This course is an excellent opportunity for students to refine their skills in preparation for the Accuplacer test, with a retake available at the end of the course.

constituencies, enhancing engagement and fostering enduring connections with alumni, parents, donors and fans.

Before joining the staff at Auburn, she served as executive director of development and alumni engagement at the University of West Florida.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Southern Union family and applaud President Shackett’s vision to create this critical role for an institution that has loyally served citizens, strengthened communities and transformed lives throughout East Alabama for more than 100 years,”

VanValkenburg said. “It will be gratifying to work with such a deeply committed foundation board, staff, alumni and friends to attract much deserved philanthropic investments for its continued success.”

The Southern Union Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to support and foster the educational and service programs and activities of SUSCC. The Foundation increases educational access for students through financial support and enables the college to initiate innovative projects to enhance the quality of education.

“Ahead of the Herd” is not just about test preparation; it offers tangible benefits for students, according to a press release. Participants can earn college credit for Orientation 101, setting them on a path toward academic success. Furthermore, upon completion of the Alabama Career Essentials and MAP, students can earn a free college class of up to four credit hours, providing a significant boost to their educational journey.

To qualify for this opportunity, students must meet specific criteria: an ACT Math score of 13 or less, or a score of 220 or less on the QAS for the Accuplacer. For English, an ACT score of 16 or less, or a score of 4 or less on the Accuplacer, is required.

For more information and to register, contact Connor Chauveaux (cchauveaux@suscc.edu).

The Auburn City Schools Board of Education recently held a ceremony to honor its retiring teachers and thank them for their service. In attendance were, from left, Bob Cloud, Teresa Rhyne, Carla Hines, Shannon Brandt, Karen Mason, Harrow Strickland, Karen Snyder, Melody Jackson, Jackie Vickers, Karen Moore, Matt Cimo, Lori Hardee, Tracy Paleologos, Deborah McDonald, Janet Duerk and Karen James.

Opelika

Leanne Bugg and Paris Mixon. Pictured in the back row, from left, are Nancy Murphy, John Lofland, Kathy Bailey, Amie McGuire, Lauri Tickal, and Debbie Burnham. Not pictured

Lynn,

Haynie and Connie Smith.

Opelika grads enjoy tradition of ‘Circle of Life’ game

ADK presents three scholarships

BY EMILY WRIGHT FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — “Have you fallen asleep in a classroom during your senior year?”

“Have you ever cheated on a paper, project or test?”

“Did you kiss your prom date?” Follow up: “Did you kiss someone else’s prom date?”

These are all questions asked of Opelika High School graduating seniors at their annual Senior Dinner and Circle of Life event. This year’s celebration took place at Stone & Ivy on Sunday, May 29.

The OHS senior class officers and parents always plan the event, and Tim Gore has served as “emcee” for 28 of the 29 years since it began in 1995.

“Each [senior class] had their ideas on what they thought would make their dinner uniquely theirs, but what did not change was the activity that every class wanted to continue: the ‘Circle of Life’,” Gore said.

Each year before the

event, the senior parents are asked to write down the funny or slightly embarrassing things their students have done while at OHS. Gore then uses that information to create a list of yes-or-no questions to ask the students during the Circle of Life game.

At the event, students sit together in a large circle of chairs, and Gore begins to ask his questions. If a student’s answer is yes, they move two chairs to the left. If they do not answer truthfully, their parents and classmates are allowed to call them out.

“Early in the game, the questions are easy, and students say yes most every time,” Gore explained. “But as the Circle of Life continues, there is a good chance that there is someone in the chair that you are supposed to sit in, so you sit in their lap. As the game goes on, there may be a chair that has four, five or even six students sitting in each others’ laps.”

The questions can range from, “Have you ever

backed into a parked car in your home driveway?” and “Have you ever rolled a yard in your senior year?” to “Did you leave the campus of OHS without your parents’ or school’s official knowledge?” and “Do you have a tattoo that your parents do not know about?”

Gore said the game is always “a lot of laughs and good-hearted fun,” as well as “very eye-opening for the [OHS] principal and parents that are in attendance.”

The dinner and Circle of Life game serve as a way to celebrate the good times and accomplishments of the OHS senior class each year.

“Even though the students have graduation to go, it just might be the last time that they are all together in a social setting,” Gore said. “The students are so excited throughout this evening, but I enjoy watching the parents as they recognize that this chapter of life is closing. There’s a lot of smiles but also some tears.”

Christina Hargett named ‘Sailor of the Year’

CONTRIBUTED BY U.S. NAVY

MILLINGTON, TN — Petty

Officer 1st Class Christina Hargett, daughter of Bryan and Julie Mack of Auburn, recently received a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for being named Sailor of the Year (SOY) for a Navy Reserve Center. The SOY program is an annual competition held to recognize the superior performance of individual sailors, who exceed in personifying the ideals of the Navy Core Values. Hargett serves as a personnel specialist at Commander, 2nd Fleet (C2F) responsible for preparing the financial/accounting reports related to individual pay and travel transactions and operating associated accounting systems.

This Week's Puzzle Answers

Alabama Alpha Delta Kappa Beta Xi Chapter recently awarded three $1,000 scholarships to local high school graduates. Pictured, from left, are Ella Thames, who attended Lee-Scott Academy and plans to attend Auburn University; Lilliana Aleman, who attended Opelika High School and plans to attend SUSCC; and Hannah Huling, who also attended OHS with plans to attend Auburn.

CHRISTINA HARGETT

Food &E ntertainment Community Calendar — B14

BY ANN CIPPERLY

During summer, salads are ideal sides for nearly every meal, and fresh fruit salads were a refreshing theme for this year’s Heritage Cooking Contest, sponsored by the Lee County Women’s Leadership Committee, a division of Alabama Farmers Federation.

The event, held at the Lee County Extension Office, also included a craft and sewing contest. Every year a different category is selected, which spotlights Alabama commodities and agricultural products.

Winners of the cooking contest were Mary Richburg for Mango Avocado Salad with Blueberries, first place; Jackie Henderson for Grape Salad, second place; Ann Whatley for Summer Fresh Fruit Salad, third place; and Barbara Vining with Sierra Salad, honorable mention.

The first place winning Mango Avocado Salad with Blueberries was served in a crystal bowl lined with lettuce and garnished with lime slices.

“I have been looking for recipes that use fresh fruits and vegetables with a different taste than what I have eaten in the past,” said Mary. “I have been looking for recipes that don’t have a lot of fat and sugar. This recipe appealed to me because I like the mangoes and blueberries in this salad mixed with the avocadoes, and the lime flavor dressing enhances the flavors.” The recipe doesn’t have any sugar. Mary serves

Southern Hospitality

Heritage Cooking Contest features fresh fruit salads

a lot of salads to her family, and they have been enjoying this recipe. As the first place winner, Mary will complete in the state cookoff in Montgomery on Sept. 5. She and her husband, Mahlon, have a hay production and registered Angus and SimAngus cattle operation. They have a garden in their backyard and grow tomatoes, green beans squash and peas. They rotate their crops. Mary cans the tomatoes and green beans to serve during winter months.

The Richburgs both taught in Auburn City Schools for 40 years. Mahlon taught agriscience at Auburn Junior High and Auburn High School, while Mary was an elementary school teacher and guidance counselor. They have two adult children, George and Katie, and are looking forward to having a grandchild in July.

Since retiring, Mary has stayed active volunteering at her church and at a nursing home library, where she helps keeps the books stocked. Along with her winning salad recipe, Mary is sharing a variety of other favorites that her family enjoys. The Caprese Salad is a summer favorite with fresh mozzarella and fresh sliced tomatoes with basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It goes together quickly and looks attractive. Another of her favorites is Green Salad with Fruit, Blue Cheese and Candied Pecans. The dressing and pecans can be prepared ahead. The pecans add a nice crunch to a variety of salads.

Second place winner Jackie Henderson prepared Grape Salad and served it in a tall crystal bowl with additional brown sugar and chopped pecans on the side to sprinkle over the fruit.

Jackie has a love of cooking for her three children, four grandchildren and

great-grandson. She was lunchroom manager at Beulah School for 37 years.

Ann Whatley received third place for her salad that used a variety of colorful summer fresh fruits with a citrus dressing. The salad can be served two ways by either tossing it in the dressing or layering the fruit and pouring the dressing over the top. She is also sharing a recipe for her Cucumber Salad, which is refreshing on a summer day.

Ann has been actively involved in the Women’s Leadership Committee over the years. She and her husband, Charles, owned a dairy farm for many years. Every spring, they have a large garden and share vegetables with those in need and others in the community.

While member Elizabeth Ham didn’t enter the contest, she is sharing her favorite salad recipe, which is Spinach Salad with Apple and Red Onion. Clip and save this recipe to serve year round.

In the craft competition, Jackie Henderson won

first place for her wreath, and Mary Richburg received first place for a handmade table runner in the sewing division.

The Alabama Farmers Federation was formed in 1921, with more than 350,000 members representing every commodity produced in the state.

At the annual Women’s Leadership Conference, the federation works to educate participants about timely agricultural issues and programs, as well as helps educate teachers about agriculture each year.

The Women’s Division was organized to promote agricultural products and commodities, as well as to provide an opportunity for women to participate in policy making.

The local Women’s Leadership Group donates to various charities, including Big House, Battered Women Shelter and the Veterans’ Association. They keep a project going all the time.

Look over the recipes and create a variety of scrumptious salads for your family while fresh

are in

MANGO AVOCADO SALAD WITH BLUEBERRIES Mary Richburg First Place Winner Mary served her salad in a lettuce lined crystal bowl garnished with lime slices.

• 2 mangoes, diced 1 avocado, diced

• ⅔ cup blueberries

• ¼ cup chopped mint

• ¼ cup

With a different theme every year, this year’s Heritage Cooking Contest featured fresh fruit salads. Winners, pictured above from left, are Mary Richburg for Mango Avocado Salad with Blueberries, first place; Jackie Henderson for Grape Salad, second place; Ann Whatley for Summer Fresh Fruit Salad, third place; and Barbara Vining with Sierra Salad, honorable mention. Pictured below, Jackie Henderson won first place for her wreath in the craft competition, and Mary Richburg received first place for a handmade table runner in the sewing division.

OCT presents ‘Daddy’s Dying — Who’s Got the Will?’ June 20-23

Summer Camp set for June 24-28; Auditions announced for ‘Wizard of Oz’

CONTRIBUTED BY

OPELIKA THEATRE COMPANY

OPELIKA — Tickets are on sale now for Opelika Community Theatre’s production of Del Shores’ hilarious adult comedy

“Daddy’s Dying — Who’s Got the Will?” directed by Wesley Knox. Performances are set for June 20, 21 & 22 at 7 p.m. and June 23 at 2:30 p.m. at OCT’s new location: USA Town Center, 1220 Fox Run Ave., Suite 216.

This is a hilarious comedy about a dysfunctional family reunion that takes

a turn for the outrageous when the grown-up children descend upon the homestead to see their ailing father. Motives clash louder than their childhood squabbles. This side-splitting play is full of Texas charm, witty dialogue and characters sharp as cactus thorns. Will love conquer greed? Or will Daddy’s final wish tear the family apart? Enjoy seeing some of our prominent citizens bring this stage and screenplay to life with their own perspectives. Note: This

performance includes adult language and humor.

Tickets are $16 and are on sale now at opelikatheatrecompany.com.

MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE TOURING CAMP

The Missoula Children’s Theatre returns to Opelika for a week of Theatre Camp June 24-28. In one week they will audition, cast, rehearse and present “Gulliver’s Travels,” with space aliens, robots, wacky characters and loads of fun.

Registration is limited to 64 participants, ages of 5 to

18, and spots are filling fast. Missoula is always looking for future actors and directors to work on their teams. Taking part in the Missoula camps helps aspiring artists get their foot in the door for future consideration. OCT’S own Alysa Richards had the opportunity to help Missoula during our camp last year and was offered the opportunity to travel and work with them this winter, spring and summer months. Alysa will be back in Opelika as Missoula’s director/ actor for the Gulliver’s

Travels tour.

For more information about camp, send a text message to (334) 400-9660 or visit www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

SPONSORS NEEDED:

Six children need sponsors for camp. These kids have lots of potential and talent to be developed. Sponsoring a Musical Theatre Kid is $250.

CASTING CALL FOR ALL AGES

Actors of ALL AGES are invited to audition for OCT’s production of “Wizard of Oz.” The sec-

ond round of auditions are coming July 1-2. To audition, prepare 30-40 bars (approximately 60-90 seconds) of a song of your choice and a short monologue less than 90 seconds. Adults are needed for a variety of different roles. Show dates are Oct. 10-20. Auditions will be recorded and will also be considered for our production of “Rent” coming in 2025. For more information or how to help OCT message (334) 400-9660 or email opelikatheatrecompany1@ gmail.com.

BY SEAN DIETRICH

OPINION —

The Scripps National Spelling Bee was broadcast a few nights ago on the Ion network, drawing a staggering 14 viewers not including nursinghome residents unable to reach the remote.

And I don’t know about you, but I was spellbound. The winner was a 12-year-

• 2 lbs. seedless red

grapes

• 2 lbs. seedless green grapes

3 Tbsp. brown sugar

3Tbsp. chopped pecans

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar and vanilla until blended. Add grapes and toss to coat. Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans just before serving. If desired, serve extra brown sugar and pecans on the side.

SUMMER FRESH FRUIT SALAD

Ann Whatley, Third Place

Ann served this colorful salad in a crystal bowl.

Sauce:

2/3 cup orange juice

• 1/3 cup lemon juice

1/3 cup brown sugar

• 1/3 cup white sugar

• ½ tsp. grated orange zest

½ tsp. lemon zest

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Salad:

• 2 cups chopped fresh pineapple

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped

• 3 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced

• 3 bananas, sliced 2 oranges, peeled and sectioned

• 1 cup seedless grapes

• 2 cups blueberries

For the sauce: Bring orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, orange zest and lemon zest to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

Choice of two methods of serving:

1) Mix all the ingredients together in a glass bowl. I prefer this method because the fruit has a better chance of getting covered with the sauce, or

Sean of the South

old seventh-grader from Saint Petersburg, Bruhat Soma, who attacked 30 words in 90 seconds and became the best speller in the English language. His winning word was “abseil,” a mountaineering term. Bruhat received $50,000 in cash prizes, and had to beat away the ladies with a Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary. I was not a good speller in school. Every year we had a spelling bee and I always bombed. One particular spelling bee sticks out in my mind. My losing word was “purple.”

I never forgot that day. Namely, because nobody let me forget. Other kids were eliminated from the spelling bee with hard words like

2) Layer fruit in a large, clear glass bowl in this order: pineapple, strawberries, kiwi fruit, bananas, oranges, grapes and blueberries. Pour cooled sauce over fruit; cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before serving.

SIERRA SALAD

Barbara Vining Honorable Mention Barbara served her salad in a crystal bowl.

• 12 oz. cottage cheese

16 oz. Cool Whip

• 30 oz. can fruit cocktail, drained

• ½ pkg. (1 ½ oz.) strawberry Jell-O

1 small banana, cut in small bites

1 cup mini marshmallows

4 oz. canned peaches, cut up and drained

Mix above items in order given and let remain in refrigerator 1 hour before serving. Enjoy.

SPINACH SALAD WITH APPLE AND RED ONION

Elizabeth Ham

• 1 lb. triple washed spinach, destemmed

• 1 small Golden Delicious apple, quartered, cored and sliced

¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

¼ cup olive oil

• 1 ½ Tbsp. (a couple of splashes) apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp. grain mustard

1 Tbsp. (a good drizzle) honey

Coarse salt and black pepper

Place spinach, apple and onion in a salad bowl. Place oil, vinegar, mustard and honey in a small plastic container and fit lid on container. Shake dressing to combine, 1 minute. Pour dressing over salad, toss, and season with salt and pepper to taste. I’ve tried several types of apples, and Golden Delicious works the best; Honey-

Champions

“onerous,” “munificence,” and “honorificabilitudinitatibus.”

My word was purple. I knew how to spell purple, of course. Everyone knows how to spell this word. Even many forms of inanimate fungal life know how to spell purple. But in my defense, I was nervous.

And in the heat of the moment, when powerful stage lights are shining on you; when the whole school is assembled in the gymnasium, staring at your face; when Arnold Williamson is making flatulent noises with his hands, that’s a lot of pressure.

Also, my main problem spelling “purple” was that I couldn’t remember whether this word ended in -EL or -LE.

I’ve always had a problem with the stupid -EL, -LE-, -AL rule. Even now, this spelling rule confuses the hele out of me. And before you write me off as a dork, I looked up this unique spelling rule on a respected grammar website, and here’s what they said: “…If the letter before the suffix (the ending) is a small or “wee” letter (ACEMNORSUVWXZ) then the ending is usually –EL or –AL. But if the letter is a tall or “deep” letter (BDFGHJKLPTY) then the ending is normally –LE. But watch out, because a single T can break this rule! Also, look for other rule-breaker letters such as, P, K, O, W, X, F, 7, &,

crisp also works.

CAPRESE SALAD

Mary Richburg

• 1-2 ripe tomatoes

Fresh basil leaves, whole or chopped

2-4 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese

Olive oil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Salt to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Make a layer of sliced tomatoes.

Top with basil. Add a layer of thinly sliced cheese. Make another layer, if desired. Drizzle with olive oil, dash of balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper as desired.

Let stand about 30 minutes at room temperature.

Note: Best not to refrigerate, as it diminishes the flavor.

CUCUMBER SALAD

Ann Whatley

• 2 seedless English cucumbers, sliced very thin

• 1/2 cup champagne vinegar

• 1/4 cup sugar pinch of red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp. sea salt

Place sliced cucumbers in a glass bowl. Whisk vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes and salt together in another bowl. Pour over the cucumbers; stir gently. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Personal Notes: I plan to try this with some finely sliced or chopped onion and also a little fresh dill. I rarely follow the directions for mixing

as I like to make this and keep it in a jar in the refrigerator. I simply mix up the vinegar mixture, put my sliced pickles into a quart jar and pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumbers. I then put in the refrigerator and use as needed.

During the summer, I like to keep a jar of this in the refrigerator to eat with fresh vegetables.

CAULIFLOWER, CRANBERRIES AND PEANUTS SALAD

Mary Richburg

• 1 large cauliflower, chopped

• 1/2-3/4 cup salted peanuts

• 7 oz. pkg. dried cranberries

2/3 cup mayonnaise

• 1/3 cup sugar Chop cauliflower. In large bowl, add the cauliflower, peanuts, cranberries, mayonnaise and sugar. Stir until well combined.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Makes 10 cups. Note: Red skinned peanuts add color to the salad, but plain peanuts work just as well.

FROZEN FRUIT SALAD

Recipe from Carolyn Hill, Talladega County

2 cups sour cream

• 2 tsp. lemon juice 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained

• 1 banana, diced 1/4 cup chopped pecans

• 1 can Bing cherries, drained and cut into halves (or 12 oz. frozen pitted dark

and the cosine…” It’s a wonder we ever beat the Russians to the moon. When I misspelled the word, everyone laughed at me. And I mean REALLY laughed. One person was laughing so hard he was beating the floor. Which I thought was very rude of our principal.

I walked offstage and I was crying. I felt like the stupidest child to ever live. And I’ll never forget Miss Burns, who was standing in the wings, backstage.

She tucked me into a big hug against her massive bosom. And Miss Burns just pet my hair and said, “Making a mistake is better than faking perfection. Don’t ever forget that.”

And I never did. In fact, I’ve learned so much from mistakes in my life, I’m thinking of making a few more today. So anyway, I’d like to wish Bruhat Soma a hearty congratulations on winning the Scripps National Spelling Bee. I’m so excited for him my face is turning purpal.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast and he makes appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

sweet cherries) In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Put paper liners into muffin pans and fill with mixture. Freeze at least 2 hours. Serve frozen. When frozen through, individual servings can be transferred to freezer bags or other airtight containers for storage.

WATERMELON, BLUEBERRY AND FETA SALAD

Mary Richburg

4 cups watermelon cut into balls with a melon cutter, about half a large watermelon

3 cups blueberries

• ¼ cup mint, finely chopped

2 Tbsp. honey

• 4 oz. feta, crumbled

Combine the watermelon, blueberries, mint and honey in a large bowl. Stir to fully combine. Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes

Add the feta and stir to combine and serve.

GREEN SALAD WITH FRUIT, BLUE CHEESE & CANDIED PECANS

Mary Richburg

• 10 oz. mixed salad

greens

• 3 large oranges, peeled and cut into thin slices

• 1 qt. strawberries, quartered

• 4 oz. blue cheese

• ½ cup candied pecans

• Vinaigrette:

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar

• 3 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

• 3 Tbsp. honey

small shallots, minced

• ¼ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. pepper

• 1 cup good olive oil

Place greens on 8 individual salad plates. Top with orange slices and strawberries, sprinkle with cheese and pecans.

Dressing: For dressing: whisk together vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, shallots, salt and pepper until blended. Gradually whisk in olive oil, whisking constantly until blended.

Candied Pecans: The candied pecans can be made in advance. Simply store the prepared pecans at room temperature in an airtight container.

2 tsp. butter

• 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

• 1 Tbsp. water

• 1 cup pecan halves 1/8 tsp. cinnamon, optional

Heat oven to 350 degrees, and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small skillet over medium heat, add butter, brown sugar, salt and water.

Stir until butter and sugar melt. Add pecans and cook, stirring very frequently, for about 3 minutes, being cautious not to allow the mixture to scorch. Remove from heat and add cinnamon, if using. Stir to combine. Spread pecans on prepared baking sheet and bake 5 minutes. Allow to cool completely before using.

• 1 large clove garlic, minced 2

pictured above from left, are Mary Richburg’s Mango Avocado Salad with Blueberries which won first place and Ann Whatley’s Summer Fresh Fruit Salad.

O GROWS FARMERS MARKET

The O Grows Summer Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. at Opelika’s Courthouse Square. O Grows accepts SNAP, EBT and SFMNP.

AUBURN CITY MARKET

City Market, Auburn Parks and Recreation’s weekly farmer’s market, is open each Saturday morning through Aug. 24 from 8 to 11 a.m. at Town Creek Park. The entire family is invited to enjoy live music, fun activities for the kids and an array of fresh, local and handcrafted items to browse and purchase. Parking is available at Town Creek Park and in the gravel lot across the street from the park. City Market vendors will start selling their products at 8 a.m. sharp. For more information, visit auburnalabama.org/citymarket or email citymarket@ auburnalabama.org.

CAMP HILL FARMERS MARKET

The Camp Hill Marketplace Farmers Market is held each Saturday through Sept. 28 from 8 to 11 a.m. at Mt. Lovely Church Grounds, 21900 Sen. Claude Pepper Drive. Senior benefit cards are welcome. Vendors contact market manager Joanne Finley at (334) 332-5970.

SUMMERNIGHT DOWNTOWN ART WALK

The 2024 SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is scheduled for Friday, June 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. in downtown Auburn. The festival features the work of local and regional artists, live music, merchant specials, children’s activities and a culinary contest. Presented by the City of Auburn/Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn Arts Association, Saint Dunstan’s Episcopal Church and the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association. Visit auburnsummernight.org for sponsorship, vendor and volunteer information.

SUNDILLA CONCERT SERIES

The Sundilla Concert Series & Radio Hour will present performances by The NEW Quintet on Friday, June 7, at Pebble Hill; Kim Richey Band Thursday, June 13; Jeff Black on Thursday, July 18, at Pebble Hill; The Close on Friday, August 23 at AUUF; Steve Forbert on Friday, Sept. 13 at AUUF; Joy Clark on Friday, Oct. 11, at AUUF; and Griffin House on Friday, Nov. 1, at AUUF. For tickets and more information, visit www.sundillamusic.com.

TOUCH A TRUCK

Opelika Main Street will host a Touch-a-Truck event beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, in downtown Opelika.

BURGER WARS

The 10th Annual Burger Wars will be held Saturday, June 8, at 11 a.m. in historic downtown Opelika. Hosted by the Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation, this event raises money to support those in need in our community, including the Food Bank of East Alabama. Tasting tickets will go on sale on the corner of North Railroad Avenue and 8th Street

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

beginning at 10:45 a.m. Don’t miss the Big Bite Battle between the Opelika and Auburn fire departments at the Railyard on North Railroad at 1 p.m.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JUNE 11

Every Tuesday evening, Opelika Parks & Rec hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika, featuring a wide variety of musical entertainment including gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, oldies, country, folk and community band music. On June 11 the high-energy band Route 66 will perform pop, rock and dance music, with audience participation encouraged. The Opelika High School Band Boosters offer hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. The Rocky Brook Rocket will give complimentary rides from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the banks of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. For more information call (334) 705-5560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.

FAMILY SPLASH @ SAMFORD POOL

On Saturday, June 15, Active Auburn will host the annual Family Splash at Samford Pool. Bring your family and friends because admission is FREE all day, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will be lifeguard bingo, and make sure to sign up for the cannon ball and belly flop contest. Samford Pool is located behind East Samford School and can be accessed from Wrights Mill Road and the parking lot exits onto Samford Avenue. The facility features three separate pool areas: the main pool, diving well (with diving boards: two high dives and two low dives) and a children’s pool.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JUNE 18

Every Tuesday evening, Opelika Parks & Rec hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika, featuring a wide variety of musical entertainment including gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, oldies, country, folk and community band music. On June 18, the band GP38 will perform a mix of country, southern & classic rock. Opelika’s own Chris McDaniel will have everyone singing along, dancing and having a good time. The Opelika High School Band Boosters offer hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. The Rocky Brook Rocket will give complimentary rides from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the banks of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. For more information call (334) 705-5560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.

GET OUTDOORS EVENT

A Get Outdoors event is scheduled for Saturday, June 22, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lee County Fairgrounds, 2408 Lafayette Parkway in Opelika. The free, family-friendly event will feature food trucks, a bounce house and exhibits of RVs and campers by Camping World, 4x4s and boats by Southern Mud and 4x4 trucks and accessories by H&W.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE SUMMER CAMP

Missoula Children’s Theatre, a world-renowned children’s touring theatre for more than 50 years, will be back in Opelika for Summer Camp June 24-28. Registration is open to young people in kindergarten through 12th grades. Cost is $200, with a 10% discount for additional family members. Camp is limited to 60 campers, and every camper will be cast in the production of “Gulliver’s Travels in Space.” Register at www. opelikacommunitytheatre.com. For more information, contact Opelika Community Theatre by calling (334) 400-9660 or emailing opelikatheatrecompany1@gmail.com.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JUNE 25

Every Tuesday evening, Opelika Parks & Rec hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika, featuring a wide variety of musical entertainment including gospel, soul, jazz, R&B, oldies, country, folk and community band music. On June 25 the band Muse returns for a 34th year on the Summer Swing bandstand. Together for 46 years, Muse will perform fan favorites by artists such as the Eagles, Beatles, Crosby Stills & Nash, James Taylor, Van Morrison, Little Big Town, Jason Isbell and more. The Opelika High School Band Boosters offer hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. The Rocky Brook Rocket will give complimentary rides from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the banks of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. For more information call (334) 705-5560 or email LChesser@opelika-al.gov.

RACE FOR A SUMMER OF SECOND CHANCES

C.A.R.E. Humane Society, 1140 Ware Drive in Auburn, will host a live and virtual 5K and one-mile walk/run on Saturday, June 29. Sponsors and participants needed. The one-mile walk run costs $20 and will begin at 8 a.m. The 5K costs $30 and will begin at 8:30 a.m. For more information, go to https://www.carehumane.org/race-for-a-summer-of-secondchances.

71st ANNUAL FREEDOM CELEBRATION

Celebrate Independence Day with Opelika Parks & Rec at the 71st Annual Freedom Celebration on Wednesday, July 3, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Opelika High School. There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, popcorn, musical entertain-ment and activities for the whole family. The Silver Wings Parachute Team will perform at 7:15 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Orthopedic Clinic and the Kiwanis Club of Opelika.

EXTREME POWERSPORTS BIKE NIGHT

Extreme PowerSports will host Bike Night at Hey Day Market on Thursday, July 18, from 5 to 7 p.m., with proceeds supporting Storybook Farms. Adrenaline-seekers will enjoy the display of power sports, and there will be free gelato from Saint Bernardo’s Gelato Cart, demos from the Mini Grom and Slingshot clubs and a ticketed raffle.

ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI

The Lee County Alumni of Alabama State University is holding a membership drive. Increased membership will allow the group to offer more scholarships and support financial and other vital needs for student success at ASU, as well as will foster a sense of pride, visibility and connection to the community. For more information, contact President Dwight E. Howard at (334) 745-7293.

ATTENTION ORCHID LOVERS

The East Alabama Orchid Society meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Opelika Public Library in Meeting Room 2, located at the rear of the library next to the train mural. Anyone interested in growing orchids is encouraged to attend the meetings. There are orchid growers of all levels and abilities who meet to learn and discuss growing orchids from the members. At each meeting, members will bring their blooming plants to share with the group. For more information about the meetings, contact David Stanbury at: stanbdm@auburn.edu.

Opelika Kiwanis

Rotary Club of Auburn

The Auburn Rotary Club heard a presentation by Cailyn Thompson Miller representing the Alzheimer’s Association during a recent meeting. This organization provides support and resources

NAMI OFFERS VIRTUAL PROGRAM FOR FAMILIES DEALING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

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

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS IS NOW 'MomCO'

MOPS International changed its name from MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers to MomCo to include moms of children of all ages. Auburn Opelika MomCo meets at Pepperell Baptist Church, 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika. Contact Rachel Elrod at (706) 244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner or Pastor Josh Elliott at (334) 745-3108 for further information.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision.

Contact Shiquita Fulton, M.ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-3683258.

NAMI of East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy.

NAMI of East Alabama meets at 6 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, located at 714 East Glenn Ave. The next meeting will be held June 18. Email laurajnh@gmail.com or call (205) 267-2986 for more information.

The Opelika Kiwanis Club speaker last week was Kris Patton. She is running for District Judge but she came and spoke on the role of DHR and the need for Foster parents in Lee County. The speaker on June 13 will be Justin Perkins with the Opelika Sportsplex Aquatics Center.