The Observer | June 27, 2024

The community gathered on June 21 for music, fellowship and to commemorate Juneteenth at Courthouse Square in Opelika.

Clear the List aims to help local teachers over the summer

LCSO

CONTRIBUTED BY

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) has begun its second annual “Clear the List” program to help teachers within Lee County fulfill their classroom wish lists. So far, more than 150 teachers have submitted wish lists for this program, and more are expected to be submitted throughout the summer.

Every year, teachers spend money out of their own pockets to make their classrooms the best possible learning environment for their students. While they are given some funds from the state for classroom

supplies, the amount they receive is often not enough to cover anything beyond the most basic necessities. Clear the List aims to fill in the gaps between that state funding and what teachers are spending from their own money/paychecks by gathering donations from local businesses and community members.

All of the submitted lists are available at leecountysheriff.org/teachers, organized by system/school. All of the links on the page are submitted by local teachers, consisting of supplies that they need/want for their classrooms. Many of the requested items are as sim-

STATE PARKS

CONTRIBUTED BY

ALABAMA — Chewacla State Park will add a pollinator garden thanks to a grant to Alabama State Parks from the Alabama Association of Resource, Conservation and Development (RC&D) Councils. The $25,000 grant will fund development of 12 pollinator gardens at state parks throughout the state.

Pollinators play a critical role in ecological balance, food production, biodiversity and environmental health. Bees, birds, moths, bats and other pollinators have been in decline in many parts of

ple as stickers, pencils and printer paper, alongside bigger wishes like organizing bins and music equipment.

When community members purchase items from a teacher’s list, they will have the option to select the teacher’s registry address as the shipping address, allowing the items to be delivered directly to the teacher’s doorstep over the summer.

Local businesses and community members who would prefer to donate money rather than purchase individual items can donate through the Lee County Sheriff’s Foundation (LCSF), a 501c3 nonprofit organization. LCSF can

the country due to habitat fragmentation, pollution and invasive species. Pollinators need flowering plants and vegetation to live and forage for food, which the Alabama State Parks’ new pollinator gardens will supply.

“We truly appreciate RC&D for funding this project, which will create a new interactive experience for State Parks visitors to enjoy,” said Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein. “These pollinator gardens are more than just something pretty to look at and enjoy — they also improve and enhance habitat for pollinators, and that has incredible ecological

accept online donations at lcsofoundation.org/donate, checks payable to “Lee County Sheriff’s Foundation”, and cash.

LCSO will be holding a school supply drive July 15-26 in conjunction with Clear the List to gather some of the most-requested items. These items will be delivered to schools within the Lee County Schools system by School Resource Officers during professional development days for the schools to distribute to any teachers who need them.

More information about this school supply drive will be released in early July.

For more information about

benefits for all Alabamians.”

In addition to Chewacla State Park in Auburn, The pollinator gardens will be located in Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City, Lakepoint State Park in Eufaula, DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne, Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Lake Guntersville State Park in Guntersville, Cheaha State Park in Delta, Roland Cooper State Park in Camden, Meaher State Park in Spanish Fort and Lake Lurleen State Park in Coker.

“The new pollinator gardens are

sure to become popular experiences at our State Parks,” Lein said. “We strive for every visitor to enjoy a first-class experience in our state parks, and these gardens definitely fulfill that goal.”

Six of the 12 pollinator gardens will include a children’s storybook trail experience, including Oak Mountain, Gulf, Wind Creek, Lakepoint, DeSoto and Joe Wheeler State Parks.

Explore all 21 Alabama State Parks by making reservations through the Plan Your Adventure Online portal at Alapark.com. Advance planning is encouraged to secure preferred dates. ABOUT ALABAMA’S

The Alabama State Parks is a division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and maintains 21 state parks encompassing more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama. The parks range from Gulf Coast beaches to Appalachian Mountains and provide opportunities and facilities from basic dayuse activities to resort convention lodging, restaurants and golfing areas. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. Learn more at www.alapark.com.

The Auburn Beautification Council has dedicated two new benches at Town Creek Park to honor Joanne Schrantz and Becky Richardson for

more beautiful place.

The city of Auburn recently celebrated Waste & Recycling Workers Week, recognizing those who keep our community clean and safe. Whether it’s

crews show up

Grill named chair of state hospital association board

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA

HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION

ALABAMA — Laura Grill, president and CEO of East Alabama Health, has been named chair of the Alabama Hospital Association (AlaHA) Board of Trustees.

The election was held at the association’s recent annual meeting.

“Laura has demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to healthcare in Alabama,” said Donald E. Williamson, MD, president of the Alabama Hospital Association. “Her visionary approach and deep commitment to patient care are truly exemplary. We are confident that our Association will reach new heights under her inspiring guidance, fostering advancements that will benefit hospitals and patients across the state.”

Grill has played a significant role in the association, having served on the board for several years, including serving as its secretary/treasurer. She has also been a committee chair and president of the Central Hospital Council.

“I am honored to be named chair of the Alabama Hospital Association Board

of Trustees, and I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated members to advance healthcare quality and accessibility across Alabama,” said Grill.

“Together, we will work tirelessly to support our hospitals and ensure the best possible care for our patients.”

In her role as president and chief executive officer of the East Alabama Health Care Authority, her responsibilities include the authority’s two hospitals, East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika and EAMC–Lanier in Valley, and the Auburn Medical Pavilion, a three-story facility in Auburn, encompassing an imaging center, a women’s breast health center, a freestanding emergency department and a joint venture ambulatory surgery center.

In addition to her AlaHA service, Grill is on several other boards, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, the Business Council of Alabama, the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Foundation, the Auburn Research and Technology Foundation and AmeriFirst Bank. She has also served on numerous

community boards and nonprofit support organizations.

Grill received a bacheolor’s degree in nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and an MBA from the University of Alabama.

ABOUT THE ALABAMA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1921, the Alabama Hospital Association is a statewide trade organization dedicated to assisting member hospitals in effectively serving Alabama’s healthcare needs through advocacy, representation, education and service.

SMB’s Murphy receives Service Award for customer satisfaction

CONTRIBUTED BY SMB

OPELIKA — Kim Murphy, a top realtor at Stone Martin Builders (SMB), was honored with an Avid Service Award for exemplary customer satisfaction scores among thousands of peers.

In addition, SMB received two Avid Benchmark awards for their Auburn and West Georgia locations, which ranked in the top 25% of companies in a nationwide New Home Move-In experi-

ence survey. “It’s an honor to be recognized with Avid Benchmark awards and we are so proud of Kim’s achievements,” said Sarah Martin, vice president of sales at SMB. “Our entire team is consistently pursuing opportunities to improve our customer satisfaction. This award reflects our team’s dedication to building lasting relationships with our customers based on mutual trust in the homebuilding process.”

Auburn water board releases consumer confidence report

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — Each year, the Water Works Board of the city of Auburn distributes its Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report to notify customers about the quality and safety of their drinking water. The report provides information about the contaminants that may be found in the drinking water and how these contaminants may affect customers’ health. It is also an opportunity to educate customers about drinking water sources, treatment techniques and delivery methods used to ensure compliance with State and Federal laws.

A copy of the report has been mailed to all customers. Print copies are also be available at the Bailey Alexander Water and Sewer Complex (1501 W. Samford Ave.) and other city facilities. Those with questions may contact the Water Resource Management Department at (334) 501-3060.

Brokers

KIM MURPHY

LAURA GRILL

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce welcomes its 2024 Chamber Ambassadors. Coming from all industries, ambassadors are key liaisons who assist with recruiting new members, retaining current ones and supporting the Chamber’s programs and events. Learn more at www. opelikachamber.com/our-ambassadors.

Peppertree Steaks & Wine Momma

Momma Goldberg’s Deli

Fairway Auto

Tips for watering lawns during hot summer temperatures

BY AU NEWS

CONTRIBUTED

LEE COUNTY — The state of Alabama is home to warm-season grasses that include zoysiagrass, Bermudagrass and centipedegrass, and they all require the same care to make your yard look good. So, what are the best ways to keep it green? Associate Professor and Alabama Cooperative Extension Specialist Dave Han has tips for watering, mowing and fertilizing all summer long.

Han teaches students in Auburn University’s Turfgrass Management major in the College of Agriculture. He also provides support and training in turf-related areas for Extension agents across the state. He is an expert on turf management in a wide range of areas, from golf courses and athletic fields to parks, sod farms and professional lawn care, and he serves as the educational advisor to the Alabama Turfgrass Association.

How often should I water my lawn? And for how much time?

It really depends on the species of grass, how well your soil drains and how much water your irrigation system can put out. Every system is different, so unless you know how many inches per hour your system puts out, a good rule of thumb might be twice a week for 15 to 20 minutes. You can determine your irrigation system’s output by setting out many rain gauges or other receptacles

and measuring how much water they catch when you run the system for a given time.

What time of day is best to water?

Early mornings are most efficient. You lose less water to evaporation by watering in the coolest time of the day before the sun comes up. But be careful about setting a timer for before you get up in the morning; if it rains overnight and the irrigation comes on when it’s not needed, you’ll waste a lot of money, and maybe even add to flooding or runoff problems.

How can I keep my lawn looking good when we go a few weeks without rain?

Southern grasses can survive long droughts by going dormant, so if you don’t mind a brown lawn, it is okay to let them go dormant. Bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass can all survive up to 90 days without any rain or irrigation while they are dormant, as long as they are healthy going into the drought. But if we have dry spells, watering once a week should keep the grass green, if not growing very

fast. Also, don’t use herbicides during droughts or when the grass is stressed by other environmental factors.

How tall and how often should I be mowing?

Most warm-season lawns do well at 1½ to 2 inches. St. Augustine grass can be cut a little higher, at 3 to 4 inches, and tall fescue should also be cut around 3 inches tall. You should mow at least once per week, but for faster-growing grasses like bermudagrass, twice a week would be better. Should warm-season grasses be fertilized in the summer?

Yes. They grow fastest when it’s hot, so that’s when they need it the most. The amount of fertilizer, especially nitrogen, depends on the species of grass. For Bermudagrass, fertilize once a month between now and September with one pound of actual nitrogen per thousand square feet of grass. St Augustinegrass can be fertilized four times a season, or every six weeks. For zoysia, I would fertilize once or twice a year, and for centipede, once is sufficient.

Red Cross releases info for safety during heat

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Inside the State House

Partisan political prosecution

BY STEVE

OPINION

—

ur First

OPresident George Washington advised that America should not have political parties. Washington was a very wise man. His leadership solidified the beginning of the bedrock of our Democracy. He was one of, if not our greatest presidents.

If he were here today to observe the bitter, tremendous, partisan divide in our nation, he would be amazed at how salient his admonishment toward political parties was 250 years ago. The partisan division in our nation is vast, deep and entrenched. We are basically two Americas. Our states are enshrined into red Republican or blue Democratic bastions.

We are tribal in our defense and allegiance to our party. Indeed, most Americans vote a straight ticket. Sixty years ago, 40 to 45 states were in play in a presidential contest. Today, only 5 to 10 states are truly swing states, and these handfuls of states are where the presidential election is held.

We have had a history of vicious political campaigns throughout our national political archives. Andrew “Ole Hickory” Jackson was one of the toughest generals and presidents in the annals of American history but his political enemies penetrated his very thick skin when they attacked his wife, Rachel. The venomous

arrows directed toward Rachel drove her into a deep depression and caused her death.

However, never before has a political party used the courts as a political tool. This year’s use of the Judicial System by the Democrats against Trump is plowing new ground. It makes us look like a banana republic to the world. Any third grader can see that four indictments in four totally Democratic venues is political prosecution.

The Democrats’ underhanded plan was designed to make Donald Trump the Republican nominee because they perceived he would be easy to defeat. At the time of the first frivolous indictment in New York, Trump was not going to be the GOP nominee. However, the Democratic Party anticipated that the Republican faithful would rally behind the beleaguered Trump and the antagonism towards the Democratic misuse of the judicial system would accrue to Trump’s advantage. Man, did it ever work. They have made Trump the nominee, but they have overplayed their hand. They may have elected him. They have played right into his hands. They have made the election nothing more than a Vaudeville comedy or reality television show and, folks, Trump is a reality show TV star. He knows how to play that role. They may have just put Br’er Rabbit in the briar patch.

Partisan political persecution is very wrong. If it continues it will keep any decent person from running for political office. We have had our share of political prosecution in Alabama. Two of our most recent governors, Guy Hunt and Don Siegelman, were removed from office by gross, unjust, political prosecution.

Guy Hunt, who was our first Republican governor since Reconstruction and a Primitive Baptist preacher, was prosecuted by an overzealous Democratic attorney general for taking a love offering for preaching a sermon because he flew on the state jet to the church event.

The most egregious, outrageous, cruel, unfair political persecution in Alabama history was the prosecution and imprisonment of former Gov. Don Siegelman. He was sent to federal prison for almost a decade of his life for attempting to pass a lottery for the citizens of Alabama.

A political campaign committee simply solicited contributions from a legitimate political action committee that was raising and spending money advertising to pass a lottery that would not benefit Siegelman one dime. He would in no way receive any of the funds personally or politically. Therefore, he was in no way guilty of violating the Ethics Law or any law. He benefitted zero, yet he was convicted and condemned to federal prison.

When young people come to me and ask if they should seek political office, I use this unbelievably unjust Don Siegelman story and ask them if they want this for their life. The man spent almost a decade of his life in federal prison for trying to get Alabama a lottery similar to Georgia’s that would give free college tuition for Alabama students to go to college and community colleges in Alabama.

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.

Auburn City Council approves several projects at meeting

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The Auburn City Council took the following actions at its second regular meeting in June:

• Approved an emergency repair cost for a storm sewer sinkhole. The council approved an emergency repair in the amount of $72,355 for materials and services needed to repair a storm sewer sinkhole. The repair was warranted due to the gravity of the situation as the sinkhole continued to sink rapidly and was located in the middle of the roadway on West Glenn Avenue.

• Authorized an amendment to the Boykin-Donahue Campus Project. The council authorized an amendment in the amount of $119,000 to the Boykin-Donahue Campus Project that will allow for additional services needed that include design revision of the restroom building, construction administration and bidding and negotiation included in the project.

• Approved the sale of industrial property to Leehwa SCM, Inc. and a tax abatement for the company due to its acquisition of an existing building and new equipment needed for its expansion in the Auburn Technology Park South. The company anticipates hiring 18 new employees with a capital investment of about $3.35 million.

• Approved the purchase of two vehicles for the

Mayor Ron Anders’ recap of the meeting will be posted @CityofAuburnAL on social media. The next regular council meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 2, at 6 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Council Chamber, located at 141 N. Ross St. in the Public Safety Building.

County Commission moves forward with Phase Two of broadband coverage

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER | FOR THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — Lee County has moved into allocation of money from Phase II of the American Rescue Plan Act funds.

This means expanding the areas of broadband coverage for the county to more unserved areas.

There is $3.4 million left to be awarded, said County Administrator Holly Leverette Monday night.

“We were hearing from citizens that they didn’t have service,” she said. “… It remained the priority of the commission to hit those unserved areas first.”

She said the goal is to have all areas of Lee County have at least one service provider.

These areas include the South-Central area, South-East area, the East-Central area and the North-East area.

The commission awarded the Broadband Expansion Grants Phase II Award to BEAM.

BEAM is also already providing the coverage for that area for Phase I as well so the contract is an addition to the previous one. BEAM is also matching part of the funding.

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The commission heard from Lee County res-

ident Richard Lang regarding erosions concerns within the Lakes Subdivision.

- The commission heard the second reading for two openings on the East Alabama Health Care Authority Board.

- The commission heard the second reading for two openings on the Lee Co. Emergency Communications District Board.

- The Lee County Commission heard concerns about the Lakes Subdivision from citizens. This area, however, is under Phenix City authorization, according to the commission, and therefore no action was taken.

- The commission approved July 5, 2024, as an additional holiday following the July 4 holiday.

- The commission approved an educational reimbursement request for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

- The commission approved a request by Lee County Revenue Commissioner Oline Price for a temporary part-time intern.

- The commission approved new facility furnishings and equipment needs in the amount of just over $361,000.

- The commission approved the redivision of Lot 2 in the Rocky Ridge Subdivision.

- The commission approved the Animal Control Agreement renewal.

Opelika City Council Recap

BY EMILY WRIGHT | FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika City Council assembled for its regular meeting on June 18. The Council recognized Opelika student Michael Swanson as a Middle School Track National Champion, and recognized the Opelika Diamond Youth Baseball 7U All Stars team as State Champions. The Opelika Character Council recognized Aaron Bushey, owner of Almost Anything in downtown Opelika, as a Citizen of Excellent Character. The Character Trait for this month is cooperation, the process of working together to the same end.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

- Micah Melnick was appointed to the Board of Zoning Adjustments for a term to expire on Feb. 11, of 2025.

- Opelika City Administrator Joey Motley gave the monthly building report for May 2024.

- The council approved a request by Opelika Parks and Recreation for a fireworks and pyrotechnics display on July 3, as well as a downtown street closure for a Red Clay Brewing Food Truck event on July 25.

- An ordinance to repeal of Section 22-5 of the City Code of Ordinances remained tabled; - An amendment to Zoning Ordinance: Section

and a tabled resolution for the

FLOWERS

INVITATION TO BID

24027

Sealed bids for the construction of the Frederick Road Asphalt

Rejuvenation Project shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on July 16, 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. Additionally, bid documents will be made available on the City of Opelika’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, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Frederick Road Asphalt Rejuvenation Project LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE

MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 06/20/24, 06/27/24 & 07/04/24

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 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, PSCAfunded and other bond-funded projects. Legal Run 06/06/24, 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS LEE COOPER CASE NO.: 2024-321 NOTICE OF HEARING TO: RONNIE COOPER and any other heirs of Thomas Lee Cooper Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Probate of Will on the Estate of Thomas Lee Cooper, was filed by Carolyn Cooper on May 29, 2024. A hearing has been set for the 17th day of July 2024 at 10:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Partial Settlement of the Conservatorship of Thomas Lee Cooper.

BILL ENGLISH, Judge of Probate Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24, 6/27/24

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOUIS C. YOUNG , DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2024-346 TO: ROBIN VAUGHNBURKE, ROBSHAWN MARKELL YOUNG, MELVIN RYAN WATTS, SCOTT PHILPOT, SABRENA JOHNS NOTICE: On the 7th day of June, 2024, a certain writing, purporting to be the Will of LOUIS C. YOUNG also known as LOUIS CALVIN YOUNG was filed in my office for probate by DERRICK WASHINGTON and the 18th day of July, 2024, at 10 o’clock a.m. CST was appointed a day for hearing thereof at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper. Given under my hand, the 14th day of June, 2024. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE Robert H. Pettey, Attorney Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 06/20/24, 06/27/24, 07/04/24, 07/11/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: THE ESTATE OF BARBARA A. CUMMINGS, deceased Case No.: 2024-332. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr, Personal Representative on the 5th day of June, 2024, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Benjamin H. Parr Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF CHERI JANICE ARMSTRONG, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2024-338 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr on the 5th day of June 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. Benjamin H. Parr Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GLENDA GAIL BEAULIEU, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2024-339 Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of June, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

JUDITH MILDRED

JONES SIMS Administrator

Robert H. Pettey

Samford & Denson, LLP

P.O. Box 2345

Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504

Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

-------------

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of BERNICE ECHOLS, deceased PROBATE NO: 2024-326

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 31st day of May, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate 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.

Isl Cametrish L. Cannon

Personal Representative Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WENDELL

RALPH ROBERTSON, DECEASED.

IN THE PROBATE

COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2024-333

Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of June, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

ASHLEY TAYLOR

CRISLER, Administrator Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 06/13/24, 06/20/24 & 06/27/24

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL

JULY 16, 2024, 6:00 P.M.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate a portion of the right-of-way of Speedway Road between Randall Drive and Veterans Parkway. All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views. Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City Clerk prior to the time of the hearing. The portion of Speedway Drive proposed to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: Commence at a point under asphalt locally accepted as the Southwest corner of Section 15, Township 19 North, Range 26 East, Auburn, Lee County, Alabama; thence North 21°46’52” East, a distance of 2070.89 feet to the point of beginning of a right-of-way vacation more fully described as follows: Thence North 00°49’50” East, a distance of 216.29 feet; thence North 00°49’50” East, a distance of 110.44 feet; thence South 89°10’10” East, a distance of 48.78 feet; thence South 00°49’55” West, a distance of 110.16 feet; thence South 00°49’55” West, a distance of 99.88 feet; thence South 00°49’55” West, a distance of 99.90 feet; thence South 00°49’55” West, a distance of 99.92 feet; thence South 00°49’55” West, a distance of 37.57 feet; thence with a curve turning to the right with an arc length of 130.20 feet, with a radius of 2662.7 feet, with a chord bearing of North 21°10’12” West, with a chord length of 130.19 feet to the point of beginning, said right-of-way vacation containing 18,949.9 square feet or 0.44 acres, more or less. Being further described according to and as shown on that certain survey or drawing dated January 29, 2024, by Arthur R. Nettles, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “A”. A copy of the Petition to

Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 1st Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Contact Person, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. DATED this the 20th day of June, 2024. /s/Russell A. Jones, CMC

RUSSELL A. JONES, CITY CLERK Legal Run 06/20/2024, 06/27/2024, 07/04/2024 & 07/11/2024.

STATE OF ALABAMA

LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2024-351

ESTATE OF HORACE

EDWARD KILPATRICK, SR., DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL

REPRESENTATIVE

Letters Testamentary of said Horace Edward Kilpatrick, Sr., deceased, having been granted to Horace Edward Kilpatrick, Jr. this 14th day of June 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Horace Edward Kilpatrick, Jr., Personal Representative Legal Run 06/20/24, 06/27/24 & 07/04/24

IN RE: The Estate of IN THE PROHATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALAHAMA MOLLIE M. KREMINSKI a/k/a MOLLIE MARGARET KREMINSKI, deceased Case Number: 2024-340 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to LEE VAUGHN as Executor of the Estate of MOLLIE M. KREMINSKI deceased, on the 14th day of June, 2024, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH.

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.

Bradley R. Coppedge, Attorney for the Estate of Mollie M. Kreminski Legal Run 06/27/24, 07/04/24 & 07/11/24

ORDINANCE NO. 009-24

AN ORDINANCE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDING TIME-IN-GRADE AND MINIMUM REQUIRED SERVICE YEARS REQUIREMENTS FOR PROMOTIONS WITHIN THE OPELIKA FIRE DEPARTMENT

WHEREAS, Section 5.8.1 of the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual establishes time-in-grade and minimum required service years requirements on promotion to the positions of Apparatus Operator, Lieutenant, Captain and Battalion Chief; and WHEREAS, the Opelika Fire Department (OFD) has vacancies in the above positions due to retirement, promotion, transfer or resignation of incumbent employees; and WHEREAS, the current pool of prospective applicants is inadequate to fill the existing vacancies; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Fire Chief have recommended that the City Council temporarily suspend the time-ingrade and minimum services years requirements for a period of twelve (12) months in order to fill the vacant positions.

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

Section 1. The time-ingrade and minimum service years requirements found in Section 5.8.1 of the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual for the positions of Apparatus Operator, Lieutenant, Captain and Battalion Chief are hereby suspended for a period of twelve (12) months, commencing upon the effective date of this ordinance. At the end of said twelve-month period, said requirements are restored and shall apply to all promotions after the end date of said twelve-month period.

Section 2. All candidates for promotion must meet all occupational qualification requirements and any additional job-related qualification requirements for the position.

Section 3. All candidates for promotion will be evaluated using the selection

procedures and promotion factors found in Sections 5.8.3.1, 5.8.3.2, 5.8.4 and 5.8.6 of the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual. The Fire Chief shall select from the top five (5) eligible candidates. Section 4. This ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 5. This ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 18th day of June, 2024.

/s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 20th day of June, 2024. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 20th day of June, 2024. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal run 06/27/24

ORDINANCE NO. 008-24

ORDINANCE ANNEXING CERTAIN PROPERTY INTO THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (Property located at 2051 AL Highway 169) WHEREAS, Antoine Harvis, Sr., (hereinafter referred to as the “Petitioner”) being the owner of the property hereinafter described, heretofore filed a Petition for Annexation (the “Petition”) with the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, requesting the annexation of certain property owned by the Petitioners as more particularly described below; and WHEREAS, the Petitioner is the owner of all of the lands described in his Petition; and WHEREAS, the territory to be annexed is contiguous to the existing corporate limits of the City of Opelika and does not embrace any territory within the corporate limits of another municipality, and when annexed into the City of Opelika will form a homogenous part of the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Opelika did find and determine that it is in the best interest of the public that said property be annexed into the City of Opelika and it did further determine that all legal requirements for annexing said real property have been met pursuant to Sections 11-42-20 through 11-42-24, Code of Alabama (1975).

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama as follows: Section 1. The City Council of the City of Opelika, finds and declares, as the legislative body of the City of Opelika, that it is in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Opelika, to bring the territory described in Section 2 of this Ordinance into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika.

Section 2. The following described property be, and the same is hereby annexed into the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama, and the boundary lines and corporate limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama shall be extended, altered and rearranged to include within the corporate limits of the City of Opelika, in addition to the territory now included therein, all the following territory, to wit: Commencing at the northeast corner of Section .3.3, T-19-N, R-27-E, In dcc County, Alabama; thence S 89° 53 ’12” W, 335.58 feet to the Westerly R/W line of Alabama Highway No. 169 and the true point of beginning of the parcel of lend herein described; thence, along said R/W line, S 20° l9’23” E, 182.77 feet; thence southeasterly along a curve concave southwesterly and having a radius or 2548.90 feet, for 362.64 feet; thence southeasterly along a curve concave southwesterly, and having a radius of 961.04 feet, for 291.25 feet; thence, leaving said R/W line, S 85 degree 19’28” W, 131.45 feet to the center of a ditch thence, along said ditch, S 49° 07’28” W, 162.40 feet; thence S 42° 19’28” W, 79.10 feet to the southerly bank of a ditch; thence, along said southerly bank, S 84° 30’53” W, 106.48 feet; thence N 83” 58’03” W, 109.20 feet; thence leaving such ditch, S 88° 24’57” W, 2034.50 feet; thence N 1° 56’45” W, 887.36 feet; thence N 89° 38’00” E,

2290.58 feet to the true point of beginning, containing 48.070 acres; According to the survey done by David II Miller, a registered surveyor on March 28, 1995. The above-described property contains 48.070 acres, more or less, and is located at 2051 AL Highway 169. Section 3. A map or plat of a survey describing the territory annexed and showing its relation to the corporate limits of the City of Opelika shall be attached to this ordinance, marked Exhibit “B” and made a part hereof. Section 4. The Clerk of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed to file with the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, a certified copy of this ordinance, together with a certified copy of the petition of the property owners and the Clerk is further directed to take all necessary and proper steps to perfect the annexation of said territory herein described. Section 5. This ordinance shall be published as provided by law in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Alabama. Section 6. The territory described in this ordinance shall become a part of the corporate limits of the City of Opelika upon publication of this ordinance as set forth in Section 5 above.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 18th day of June, 2024. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 20th day of June, 2024. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 20th day of June, 2024. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal run 06/27/24

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT G. BROWN, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2024-345 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of June, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

REBECCA THIBODEAU KHAN Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 06/27/24, 07/04/24, 07/11/24 IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF PIKE COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA Plaintiff; ALLY GRABLIN vs. SCOTTIE HAMMOCK, Defendant CIVIL ACTION NO. 2021CV-288 RBK ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION The Court having considered Plaintiff’s Motion for Publication concerning the Defendant, the Court finds that the present whereabouts of the same are currently unknown to the Plaintiff: and the Plaintiff: having exercised due diligence to find said individual. has not been successful in locating said individual. The Court is satisfied that the Defendant is a necessary and proper party based upon the pleadings in this action so as to require service by some means allowed by law. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that service be perfected by publication on the Defendant in the above referenced matter. So ordered this the 8th day of May, 2024 The Honorable Rhonda Kreuziger Judge, Pike County Superior Court

Jody L. Sellers, Esq. Georgia Bar No. 633244 Attorney for Plaintiff THE SELLERS LAW FIRM LLC 306th S. 5th Street Griffin, Georgia, 30233 770-415-9848 jsellers@thesellerslawfirm.com Legal Run

06/27/24, 07/04/24, 07/11/24, 07/18/24

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EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty &

ORDINANCE NO.

007-24 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA TO CHANGE THE USES ALLOWED IN THE INSTITUTIONAL DISTRICT

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

Section 1. Amendment of Section 7.3C of the Zoning Ordinance. That the use categories in the pertinent portion of the matrix table for the Institutional District (ID) as shown in Section 7.3C of the Zoning Ordinance are hereby amended to read as follows: C. Use Categories.

[SEE TABLE TO THE RIGHT]

Unless otherwise indicated above, all other use categories in the Institutional District (I-1) are not allowed (N).

Section 2. Severability.

If any section, clause, provision or portion of this Ordinance shall be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, said holding shall not effect any other section, clause, provision or portion of this Ordinance which is not in or of itself invalid or

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unconstitutional.

Section 3. Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

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

Section 5. Publication. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

Section 6. Codification. Codification of this Ordinance in the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika is hereby authorized and directed.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 18th day of June, 2024.

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

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 20th day of June, 2024.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 20th day of June, 2024.

/s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK Legal run 06/27/24

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Religion

Studying His word

BY

OPINION —

Acouple in their sixties was walking along the beach when they spied

Altar call

BY WALTER

Jesus died on Friday, so Saturday was a terrible day for those who had loved Jesus. God was silent on that dreadful Saturday. Jesus’ dead body lay in a dark, cold tomb. Hope had been swallowed up by sadness.

The frightened disciples were scattered, their minds overcome by fear and despair. They would have to endure the silent

an object hidden in the sand. They uncovered it, knocked the sand off, and identified it as an old, old lamp. Before they knew it — POOF! — a genie had appeared to grant them three wishes. They would like to travel the world they tell him and POOF!—the tickets are in their hands. They’ll need some money to do this and POOF! — the cash is in their hands. They couldn’t really decide what to ask for with their last request and then the husband said, “I think it would be great if my wife was thirty years younger than me,” and POOF! — he’s turned into a ninety-year-old!

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. — Ephesians 6:24

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Praying wisely

Be careful what you ask for.

David had died and his son, Solomon, had become king of Israel. He had gone to Gibeon and offered up sacrifices to the Lord when God appeared to him in a dream and told him, “Ask whatever you want Me to give you,” (1 Kings 3:5). This is as close to a genie request as we’ll find in the Scripture. In light of that, it’s instructive to notice how Solomon responded to it. He began by expressing his appreciation to God for all that He had done for his father, David, and for him (v. 6). Gratitude is always appropriate.

Then, he acknowledged the magnitude of the responsibility of being ruler over Israel and what a great challenge that represented in terms of his current skill set. (Humility never hurts either). With that in mind, he asked God for “a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong,” (v. 9).

It was a great request and God was pleased with it (v. 10). He praised Solomon because he did not ask for self-directed things (wealth, long life, the death of his enemies), but for something that would enable him to serve others. Remembering that

God had prepared David for the kingship by having him serve in Saul’s court and his son now asked for something related to helping others, we see the linkage between kingship and service reaffirmed.

Those who sat on the throne were to understand that power was to be used for service not status. (A lesson that would be sadly be lost on Solomon’s son, Rehoboam - 1 Kings 12). And it all started with prayer. It not only makes a difference that we pray but in what we choose to pray about and for. How proud is God of our prayers? Do we think about what we ask Him for, or do we just

He’s alive and I’m forgiven

agony of Saturday without a word from God. Imagine how they felt. The voice of Jesus had been stilled and his Father was silent. His dream, their dream, had ended in disaster.

Most of us have lived through those silent Saturdays when death has claimed someone we loved. Numb with paralyzing grief, we hear nothing from God and flounder in desolation. I remember the heartbreaking Saturday after our son died. God was silent and we felt abandoned by the God to whom we had prayed fervently for our boy’s healing.

But because God loves us, he does not leave us to sit in the sadness of silent Saturdays. Saturday must give way to Sunday — and Sunday restores

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

the hope we had lost. God speaks again! Pouring his love into our hearts, God breaks the hold of sorrow and renews our faith in his loving kindness. Sunday symbolizes the coming of God to wipe away our tears, comfort us with his strengthening presence and galvanize our faith in the resurrection. The harsh silence of Saturday is overcome by the Third Day’s joy.

During my journey I have known many Christ followers who refused to allow silent Saturdays to shatter their faith. My friend Nathan Hamilton was such a man. As a young man Nathan fell in love with Jesus. He devoted his life to Jesus, using his gifted voice to bless others. As much as any person I have known,

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

Nathan was an authentic servant of Jesus. He was my dear brother and I loved him.

Nathan was not a preacher, but he was sold out for Jesus. He repaired chairs to support his family. But he did much more than fix chairs; he repaired souls while restoring broken chairs. In hundreds of homes, while working on a broken chair, he would quietly ask permission to sing a song for the homeowner. Many were so blessed they invited Nathan to sing another song. While they were wiping away tears, Nathan would continue praising his Lord Jesus in song. Victim of a glioblastoma brain tumor, Nathan’s body died in January of 2017. But those of us who loved him did

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

not “lose” him because we know where he is. No one is lost if you know there they are. After a year of heartbreaking suffering, Nathan ran ahead of us to the Father’s House where he now sings in the greatest choir of the universe.

During the last chapter of his life, some seven years, Nathan served as worship leader for traditional services at Saint James Church in Montgomery, Alabama. It was my honor to serve alongside Nathan as he directed our choir and led our people in worship every Sunday! His singing touched our hearts. The way he led worship made you glad to be in church. His spirit reminded us what happens when you put Jesus first in your life.

Every Easter for seven

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

ask without thinking? Here are some “wise” prayer areas the Scripture directs us toward:

• the knowledge of His will through all wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives (Colossians 1:9-10),

• that we will be wise in the way we act toward those who don’t know the Lord (Colossians 4:5-6), • wisdom in handling trials we or others face (James 1:5ff).

Let’s pray wisely!

Bruce has written a book on the model pray called Praying in the Reign. It is available through 21st Century Christian.

years Nathan walked into our sanctuary near the end of my sermon and sang the inspiring song, “He’s Alive!” Composed by Don Francisco, the song is a testimony of the Apostle Peter. In the song Peter tells about his dreadful Saturday, how he had been unable to sleep, rising at every sound, with fear and sorrow gripping him. Hearing a voice calling, he goes to the door and finds Mary. Breathlessly, she tells him she had been to Jesus’ tomb, found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty.

The song continues with Peter saying John assumed a miracle had occurred, but Peter admits he could not embrace the idea for he had “seen them crucify him” and “I saw him die.” Peter sings of his guilt

See ALBRITTON, page A11

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

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

ALBRITTON

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

To have your church’s VBS program listed, email information to: editor@opelikaobserver.com

Trinity Presbyterian Church hosts VBS

Upcoming VBS

CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH

Every day is an adventure at Breaker Rock Beach, from the morning waves crashing against the shore to evenings filled with bonfires and s’mores. At Breaker Rock Beach, kids will learn to recognize the difference between what the world says is true and what God says is true.

Come to Vacation Bible School at Central Baptist Church at 1611 2nd Avenue in Opelika on July 13-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All children ages 3 years through sixth grade are welcome. Parents may register their children online at: www. myvbs.org/cbcopelika.

UNION GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH

Union Grove Baptist Church would like to invite you to “Breaker Rock Beach” Vacation Bible School. Race along the sand with your brightly colored kite, join friends to make the most amazing sandcastle, or gaze in wonder at the mysteries found in a glimmering tide pool.

The dates for Vacation Bible School are July 17 & 18 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for classes from Pre-K to 6th grade. We also have an Adult Class. There will be a nursery for the parents who attend the Adult Class.

Family Night will be July 19 starting at 5:30 p.m., where the c hildren will perform their VBS songs, followed by finger foods and refreshments in the Family Life Center.

Register for VBS by calling the church office 334-749-0461, stop by the church (4009 Lee Road 391 Opelika) or go online to www.myvbs.org/ugbcopelika.

If you have any questions, call the church office or email ugbcopsecretary@ gmail.com.

and shame for denying he even knew Jesus. Then the song turns with the word “suddenly.” Here are Francisco’s awesome words:

“Suddenly the air was filled with a strange and sweet perfume, light came down from everywhere, drove shadows from the room and Jesus stood before me with his arms held open wide and I fell down on my knees, and I just clung to him and cried. Then he raised me to my feet and as I looked into his eyes the love was shining out from him like sunlight from the skies. Guilt in my confusion disappeared in sweet release and every fear I ever had just melted into peace.”

On those marvelous Easter Sundays, Nathan was robed like Peter

dressed in the first century. As people were trembling with excitement, Nathan’s voice would erupt with these concluding precious words: “He’s alive. Yes, he’s alive. Yes, He’s alive and I’m forgiven, heaven’s gates are open wide, He’s alive. Yes, He’s alive, Oh He’s alive and I’m forgiven, heaven’s gates are open wide, He’ alive, He’s alive, Oh He’s alive and I’m forgiven, heaven’s gates are open wide, He’s alive, He’s alive, I believe it, He’s alive, sweet Jesus!”

Nathan is with the Lord now but the memory of his voice, his life and his love for Jesus, often bless my soul. One day I will see Nathan again, and then, with a perfected voice, I will join him in singing praise to Jesus. In the meantime, I will continue sharing the good

news that Jesus is truly alive, and because he is alive, heaven’s gates are open wide to all who choose to follow him.

Death could not keep him in the ground! He’s alive! Believe that and you are only two steps away from peace with God! The first step is to believe he’s alive. Believe that he alone can turn the sadness of Saturday into the joy of a life-changing Sunday.

The second step is to accept his forgiveness so you can be ready to walk through the wide-open gates of heaven. Right now, this very minute, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead can give life to your mortal body and make you alive to God!

He’s alive! When you embrace that eternal truth, you begin living like a person to whom Jesus means everything! Glory!

Trinity Presbyterian Church of Opelika hosted dozens of youngsters for its Vacation Bible School.

MARY ALICE WELLS

Mary Alice McMullins Wells, age 81, of Boaz, Alabama, was born Dec. 4, 1942, and passed away June 19, 2024, at Marshall Medical Center North.

Mrs. McMullins is survived by her children, Debra Yarbrough of Albertville, Alabama, Chuck (Norma) Wells of Guntersville, Alabama, and Michelle (Bill) Key of Opelika; grandchildren Corey Yarbrough of Albertville, Jonathon (Brittaney Cochran) Wells of Boaz, Destin (Matthew) Charles of Albertville and Nathan Key of Semmes, Alabama, Emily and Jared Key of Opelika; eight great-grandchildren; sister Sarah Shrader of Detroit, Michigan, and a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles Ray Wells; parents William and Alma McMullins and brothers Kenneth McMullins and J.W. McMullins.

A funeral service was held June 22 at Albertville Memorial Chapel. She was laid to rest at Beulah Cemetery. Bro. Tony Holcomb officiated, and Pallbearers included Bill Key, Jonathon Wells, Nathan Key, Matthew Charles, Corey Yarbrough, Jason McCullars and Stanley Sumners.

In honor of Nana’s special grands Corey and Jared and greatgrand Hudson, the family

requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in her memory be made to The Maker’s Child.

LINDA FAY LEE

Mrs. Linda Fay Lee, 78, of Opelika passed away June 21, 2024, at Arbor Lake Health and Rehab. She was born Aug. 5, 1945, in Lagrange, Georgia.

Mrs. Linda Lee was preceded in death by her parents, Caler East and Vergie (Matheny) Jones, and six siblings.

She is survived by her children, Danny (Selina) Lee, Juanita (Jeff) Franklin and Michael (Lynn) Lee; her former husband, Roland Lee; nine grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held June 23 at FrederickDean Funeral Home, with burial following in Garden Hills Cemetery.

CAROLYN ADAMS WILSON

Carolyn Adams Wilson passed away peacefully at Bethany House in Auburn on June 15, 2024. Her infectious smile and wonderful soul will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing her.

Carolyn was born on Aug. 22, 1933, in Andalusia to Morgan Andrew Adams and Madelyn Mills Adams. She attended Auburn University, graduating in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in home economics.

Carolyn worked as a dietitian until she met and married the love of her life, Charles Wilson, in 1959. She enjoyed travel, cooking, reading, going for long walks and mostly being with her family.

Carolyn was an advocate for eating right and exercising every day. She

OBITUARIES

had a sparkle in her green eyes, a determined spirit, and sharp mind every day of her 90 years.

Carolyn was predeceased by her parents, her loving husband Charles Wilson, her twin sister Marilyn Adams Mosley and her brother, Lt. Col. Ben Adams, (USMC, ret.).

She is survived by two loving daughters, Diane Wilson (Tom) DeSee and Barbara Wilson Whiteside; grandchildren Samuel Whiteside, Scott Whiteside, Rachel Whiteside and Devin DeSee; brother-in-law Bob Mosley, nephews Robert (Chip) Mosley, Cameron (Andy) Mosley, and niece Carol Mosley White.

A small memorial service for family and friends was held June 25. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests any gifts in Carolyn’s honor be directed to any one of her favorite charities: The American Kidney Foundation, American Heart Association, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Children’s Miracle Network, the Ocean Conservatory and the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

RICHARD PAUL DOWNEY JR. Richard Paul Downey Jr. passed away on June 15, 2024. He was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Sept. 16, 1950, to Richard Paul Downey and Evelyn Joyce (Waters) Downey.

Richard graduated from Alta Loma High School in Alta Loma, California, in 1968. He then attended Chaffey Jr. College, where he received his associate degree in art. During this time Richard worked several jobs to pay his own

way through college.

On Sept. 9, 1970, he began working for B.F. Goodrich in the city of Industry, California, until 1990 when the company was purchased by Michelin. In 1992, Richard moved his family to Opelika, where at that time he worked at UniroyalGoodrich. In 2006, he accepted a manager position for the inspection center in Phenix City. He retired June 1, 2016, after 46 years of service.

Richard was preceded in death by two daughters, Rachell Lynn Downey and Tamara Ann Downey; his parents Richard (Dick) Downey and Evelyn Joyce Downey and brother Timothy P. Downey.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Teresa Hardesty Downey; his three children, Christopher Downey, Lisa Marie Downey and Kimberly Michelle Downey; 11 grandchildren, Jessica (Joe) Peer, Nichole Lee (Craig Agee), R.J. Holland(Paris), Olivia Downey, Samantha Yates (Sergì), Dalton Manning, Madison Jones (Greg), Aylei Clayton (Michael), Sarah Plunket (Amari), Brylee Hughes (Elise) and Kadely Robertson; 18 great-grandchildren, Haley, Khole, Isabelle, Allen, Cameron, Braylee, Ivory, Feliks, Scarlet, Noah, Jude, Jeremiah, Jazlayah, Nevaeh, Lukas, Ryker, Rylee, Aurora and #19 Kaelynne due July; three sisters, Janet Grand (Dennis) of California, Nancy Cameron (Ian) of Idaho and Sandra Downey of Las Vegas; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held June 19 in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.

ALICE FAYE WALKER

Alice Walker, a beloved mother, wife, sister and friend, passed away on June 11, 2024. She was born on July 28, 1947, to Marshall Grady Jenkins and Lorene Kilpatrick Jenkins in Macon County, Alabama.

Alice was a nurturing wife to the love of her life for 56 years, her husband, James Richard Walker, and a dedicated mother to her three daughters, Kimila Motley, Amy Coulter (Robert) and Jill Weldon (Eric). Alice was a proud and loving grandmother to Chase Eastridge, Clay Brewer, Jade Motley, Jensen Motley Cole Coulter and Lexi Coulter and great grandmother to Isabella Johnson and Annaleigh Eastridge. Alice shared a close bond to her family, including her siblings, who survived her: Barbara Trivoli, Joyce Moseley, Dorothy Hudmon, Rebecca Watkins and Brenda Holt, and numerous nieces and nephews, who were very special to her.

Alice was preceded in death by her half siblings, Katherine Dubose, Betty Dubose, Marilyn Smith, Gene Jenkins, Larry Jenkins and Roy Jenkins.

Alice’s family was her greatest joy, and she found immense fulfillment in caring for them. Alice was known for her meticulous nature and impeccable sense of style, always presenting herself with grace and elegance.

Alice had numerous hobbies including cooking, exercising and especially gardening. She took great pride in growing fresh tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of vegetables and sharing the fruits of her labor with her family and friends. Her garden was not only a source of nourishment, but also a

place of peace and beauty, reflecting her nurturing spirit. Alice was deeply committed to helping others and embodied the spirit of compassion and generosity, always going out of her way to help someone in need. Her selfless nature touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of love and service.

Alice’s life was guided by her Christian beliefs. She faced many hurdles in life, but through faith in God, she found the strength she needed to rise above her circumstances. Her resilience and determination were inspirational to all who knew her.

The family held a celebration of life on June 20 at Frederick- Dean Funeral Home, with interment following at Garden Hills Cemetery.

ALMA MCRAE LONG

Mrs. Alma McRae Long, 100, of Opelika passed away June 19, 2024, at Arbor Lake Health and Rehab. Mrs. Long was born June 13, 1924, in Georgia. She was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, John William Long, Jr.; daughter, Rhoda L. Wilson; parents and siblings: Euartis Lowe, Minnie Harrison, James H. (Buck) Lee and William Bruce Lee. She is survived by her children, Gerald B. Long, Sr., Cordelia L. Walker, Eudora L. Martin and Olin S. Long; nine grandchildren, several great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held June 24 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home, with burial following in Garden Hills Cemetery.

See OBITUARIES, page A13

21st Annual Star-Spangled Spectacular set for June 30

Event to feature symphonic pops, God & Country worship service

CONTRIBUTED BY CHRIST

METHODIST CHURCH

OPELIKA — Christ Methodist Church of Auburn will host the 21st annual Star-Spangled Spectacular Symphonic Pops Concert featuring the Festival Choir and full professional orchestra on Sunday, June 30, at Lee-Scott Academy.

The God and Country Worship Celebration will be at 9:30 a.m., featuring highlights from the concert and an inspiring message by Dr. Tony McCullough.

The Star-Spangled Spectacular pops concert will be at 3 p.m. (doors open at 2:15 p.m.) The generous gift of an anonymous donor allows Christ Methodist to provide this concert as a gift to Auburn, Opelika and all of Lee County.

OBITUARIES >> from A12

DANESE JENKINS CONSTAN

Danese Jenkins

Constan, 92, met her Lord and Savor Jesus Christ June 19, 2024, surrounded by family who adored her. Her beautiful smile and kind heart will be missed by those fortunate enough to know her.

Danese was born April 23, 1932, in Alderson, West Virginia, to Walter and Leah Jenkins. The family moved to Columbus, Georgia, where Danese grew up attending Mt. Zion Baptist Church. She graduated Baker High School in 1950, then worked at Tom’s Toasted Peanuts, where she met her future husband of 54 years Nick Constan. They married in 1959 and lived in Opelika until 1970, then moved to

The Festival Choir is comprised of members of Christ Methodist’s Chorale joined by fellow singers from the Lee County area. The professional orchestra is comprised of players from all over the Southeast. The Star-Spangled Spectacular is a beloved annual musical tradition and is always one of the most well attended concerts of the year in Auburn.

The high energy performance is great for all ages, including children. A nursery is provided for children ages 2 and under.

The program starts with a rousing orchestral overture and the iconic “America, the Beautiful” by Carmen Dragon. Other patriotic favorites include “This Land Is Your

Norcross, Georgia, where they spent eight years. In 1978, the family moved back to Opelika where they owned and operated MNC Corporation for many years.

Danese was a member of Saugahatchee Country Club in Opelika and a member of the Ladies Golf Association. She loved playing golf and she especially loved her friends she played with, many of them becoming like family to her. She also spent many hours playing golf with her two grandsons, teaching and helping them with their game, a treasured memory for all. Her last golf game was played at age 90, a proud moment. She spent many hours watching her grandsons play baseball, football and basketball. From t-ball through college she was there cheering for them, rain or shine. She also enjoyed watching

Land,” “I Hear America,” “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” and the beloved “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

Another highlight of the concert is the “Salute to the Armed Forces” with a procession of the five military flags, and the placing of the memorial wreath. This year the choir and orchestra will also pay special tribute to the 80 th anniversary of D-Day with the moving choral/orchestral “Hymn to the Fallen” composed by John Williams.

“This year we will also do a salute to some of America’s most popular hymns,” said Christ Methodist’s Director of Worship and Arts, Gary Klarenbeek. “As a people of faith, it’s fitting to remember our freedom to worship our creator.”

her granddaughters at their dance recitals and riding horses. She loved watching the Braves and spending Sunday afternoons watching the Falcons with her grandson.

Danese was preceded in death by her husband, Nick Constan, her parents Walter and Leah Jenkins, and her sister and brother Geneva Cason and Jimmy Jenkins.

She is survived by her older brother Maurice Jenkins; two sons, Phil Constan (Regina) and Ken Constan (Susan); four grandchildren, Nicholas (Emily) Constan, Cooper (Libby) Constan, Grace Constan and Madelyn Constan; and a former daughter-inlaw, Suzanne Constan.

Anyone who knew Danese would know she loved her family, she loved her friends and she loved life. She will be missed by many.

Repertoire for this inspiring section of the program include “Bound for the Promised Land,” “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” and “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” all arranged by Mack Wilberg.

The annual Star Spangled performances came to Auburn in 2002 shortly after Gary Klarenbeek arrived in Auburn. The Star-Spangled concert concept had begun for Klarenbeek at the first church he served in St. Louis, and then followed him to Houston, Texas, and Naples, Florida, before making its way to Auburn.

“The annual Star Spangled is one of our music ministry’s most uplifting and inspiring performances we do throughout the year,” said Klarenbeek. “Although

preparing for worship each Sunday is our choir’s highest calling, special performances such as this when combined with full professional orchestra and singers from the community allow our choir to grow musically in exciting and dramatic ways.

“The Star Spangled, which traces its roots back to St. Louis in 1982, is an annual tradition that has followed me around the country,” he said. “It’s humbling to be able to be a part of this great musical tradition each year to pay tribute to our service men and women and all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. May we never take it for granted.”

McCullough, the Senior Pastor of Christ Methodist

Church of Auburn, invites the entire community to be a part of this community-wide event. Following the performance hotdogs, apple pie and ice cream will be served in the LSA cafetorium. There is no admission charged for the concert. A love offering will be received with proceeds benefitting the Psalm 150 Designated Music Fund which provides musical programs for the community throughout the year including an extensive Christmas Artist lineup. Artists for the 2024 season will be announced soon. For more information contact the Music Ministry at 334-209-0074 or visit their Facebook page or website, www.christmethodistauburn.com.

The Lee-Russell Council of Goverments reminds that June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time for people in the United States to recognize people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia and to show their support. Visit dementiafriendlyal.org for resources.

The local Opelika Golden State Foods Foundation committee donated $16,000 to support the Food Bank of East Alabama, along with employee volunteer efforts.

AU band director, students in D-Day parade in Normandy

BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Using his profession and talents to honor veterans, Dr. Corey Spurlin, director of the Auburn University Marching Band, conducted the Collegiate Mass Band for the 80th Anniversary Celebration of D-Day in Normandy, France.

The Collegiate Mass Band was comprised of 161 current collegiate marching band students and band alumni from across the United States.

Twelve current Auburn band students and eight band alumni also participated in the Collegiate Mass Band for the milestone anniversary.

Craig Aarhus, who was drum major at Auburn years ago and now serves as associated director of bands at Mississippi State University, was one of the assistant directors on the trip.

Spurlin was selected over two years ago to organize the band by Historic Programs, a non-profit organization that provides musical entertainment and speakers for D-Day recognitions in France, as well as Pearl Harbor in Hawaii every year.

In his first few months as the conductor of the Mass Band, Dr. Spurlin assembled a staff. Once he had the staff, branding, a logo for the group and website in place, recruiting actively began for the band members across the country. This included numerous emails to organizations for college band students, posts on social media and speaking at different conferences for about a year and a half.

“Many of the soldiers who lost their lives or survived the D-Day landings were the age of our current college students,” said Spurlin. “Part of our mission was to help educate our college students about the sacrifices and heroism of those in the D-Day landings, which was the reason we targeted that age group.”

After the band was assem-

BY JAMES PATTERSON

OPINION —

Tbled, Spurlin had the participants play their instruments in videos to assign parts.

“Then we determined which music we wanted to play,” he said. “Some of it is used every year. We decided on other selections we would also utilize.”

Members of the Mass Band were sent the music well in advance to practice on their own. The entire group met in Washington D.C. on June 1. Everyone met at the hotel for dinner that evening, and members had a chance to meet for the first time since they were from all over the country. Then the band held a rehearsal after dinner.

“We learned all the music they would play as the Mass Band,” Spurlin said. “We rehearsed most of the next day.

Then we divided the band into three smaller groups, which became the red, white and blue bands. They each had a separate number of songs that they learned and would perform. We also rehearsed marching around the large hotel parking lot to practice the parade marching.

“We were able to see some of the WWII memorials and monuments before traveling to France to celebrate everything in Europe.”

Since the Mass Band was so large, it took four different flights to get the members to Paris. The first part of the trip the group stayed in Honfleur, a coastal town, where their hotel was located. From there, they were bused to different locations. The band performed at American cemetery ceremonies and toured Normandy, Brittany and Paris.

The first performance was peaceful music at the Brittany American Cemetery in St. James. Afterwards, they toured Mont St. Michel, a picturesque island. They also toured Omaha Beach.

The Mass Band was scheduled to perform at the American cemetery in Normandy along with approximately 1,000 other musicians, but President Biden, unexpect-

edly, altered his itinerary to include a visit to the cemetery and forced the closure of the facility and cancellation of the memorial event. Unfortunately, thousands of spectators and performers were turned away along with veterans of D-Day, now in their 90s and early 100s, who traveled a great distance to be honored.

“It was really a very difficult situation for all of us who were there to celebrate our veterans,” Spurlin said. “It denied many people opportunity to visit the cemetery and do what they came there to do. It was unfortunate, being the 80th anniversary, and so many people were there particularly for that ceremony. It was very difficult for us to manage that cancellation.”

The Mass Band also visited Sainte Mere Eglise, the first town liberated after the beach landings. The band performed upbeat, celebratory music in the town square. They marched through the streets in a massive parade that was

an amazing experience for the band, remembering the veterans and their sacrifices. Afterward, the group traveled to Paris where they toured sites before flying back home.

Now that Spurlin is back at this office at Auburn University, he looks back on the trip as being ‘surreal.”

“Standing on Omaha Beach,” he said, “I tried to imagine what the soldiers experienced when they landed there and what they

had to overcome. Looking up at the cliffs, we could see the guns and bunkers that are still there. As we stared at those, we wondered what we would have done getting off the landing crafts and trying to make it across the beach.

Driving through the landscape of the D-Day landing, you try to put yourself in their shoes to experience what they experienced.”

Both of Spurlin’s grandfathers fought in World War II.

His paternal grandfather fought in the Pacific on a cruiser.

“I took this opportunity to use my profession and the blessings I received to honor him and everyone else in his generation,” Spurlin said. “My hope is that the D-Day ceremonies will be passed on to future generations, and when those veterans are no longer with us, that they are honored and celebrated for their bravery and sacrifice.”

The miracle of Alabama’s Helen Keller

he anniversary of Helen Keller’s birthday is June 27. Born in Tuscumbia, Keller (1880-1968) was admired around the world.

Though deaf and blind, she learned to speak several languages, authored several books, and starred as herself in the 1919 film “Deliverance,” about her challenging personal journey to a successful life. The film can be seen on YouTube.

As an infant, Keller lost her vision and hearing due to an illness. Her teacher, Anne Sullivan (1836-1936), led her student from a life of darkness to a life of success. Mark Twain called Keller a miracle. He called Sullivan the miracle worker.

Miss Keller’s 1919 film was not her only film appearance. She also appeared in the documentary “Helen Keller: In Her Story,” which premiered in Birmingham in 1954. The Associated Press reported that

“Helen Keller: In Her Story,” had only one theatrical booking in the 18 months after its release. While Miss Keller was greatly admired, theater owners in the 1950s believed that the film would be too sad for ticket-buying audiences.

To combat the stereotype that a film about a disabled person would make audiences sad, Miss Keller’s supporters, including acclaimed actress Katherine Cornell (18931974), who narrated the film, wrote letters to newspaper editors telling them that the film depicted Miss Keller as a successful person.

Cornell stressed that Miss Keller was actively learning, traveling, writing and lecturing. She told newspaper editors that blindness and deafness were incidental to Miss Keller’s active life. In 1954, many Americans knew Helen Keller had overcome her disabilities. She was happy and Americans were happy for her.

In the film, Miss Keller is seen typing on a Braille typewriter and doing chores around her home. She is seen visiting wounded Korean War soldiers at a military

hospital and visiting an Israeli kibbutz.

On Sunday, June 26, 1955, CBS broadcast “Helen Keller: In Her Story” as an afternoon TV special to commemorate Miss Keller’s 75th birthday. CBS’ Arthur Godfrey (1903-1983), the biggest radio and TV celebrity of the era, introduced the film. At that time, TV gave the film its largest audience.

“Helen Keller: In Her Story” is an outstanding film about a woman of courage. It shows Miss Keller with author and humorist Mark Twain (1835-1910), who speaking satirically about Keller, said, “If I could have been deaf, dumb and blind, I also might have arrived at something.”

In 1956, “Helen Keller: In Her Story” received an Academy Award as Best Documentary.

In 1957, “The Miracle Worker,” a television production based on Keller’s life, captured a large audience on Playhouse 90. It was expanded into a successful Broadway play, and in 1962, a film version with actresses Anne Bancroft (1931-2005) as teacher

Anne Sullivan and Patty Duke (1946-2016) as a young Helen was a box office success. Both actresses received Academy Awards. Keller died in June 1968 at the age of 88. At the time, Alabama was still mourning the death of its first female governor, Lurleen Wallace, who had died in May. Newspaper editors called Wallace “the First Lady of Alabama.” Keller, they said, was “the First Lady of Courage.”

President Lyndon Johnson said of Keller, “The gifts she has left behind are – the gifts of character and conviction – are America’s most precious heritage.”

The Birmingham Post Herald, in an editorial titled “Great Lady,” said Keller “may well be remembered longer, and with more reason, than any other person ever born in this state” and reminded readers that when Keller learned to communicate with others by the manual alphabet spelling of “water,” she wrote: “Delicious sensations rippled through me and sweet things that were locked up in my heart began to sing.” The

editorial ended, “The song which sounded in Helen Keller’s heart that day will be heard as long as courage and determination have meaning.”

In 2023, “Helen Keller: In Her Story” was among 25 influential films selected by the U.S. Library of Congress for inclusion on the National Film Registry. Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden said she found “Helen Keller: In Her Story” to be “culturally, historically, or aesthetically important.” In 2024, audiences are too sophisticated to think that a film about a disabled person would make audiences sad. It is a tribute to Helen Keller that the National Film Registry recognizes “Helen Keller: In Her Story” as worthy of preservation so that it can continue to educate future generations about what Helen Keller accomplished and what others can accomplish.

James Patterson, a former U.S. diplomat, is a life member of the Auburn University Alumni Association. His mom was named Helen in honor of Helen Keller.

Auburn University students and alumni that participated are pictured standing in the town square of Sainte Mere Eglise. Director

Corey Spurlin is on the right dressed in blue, and Craig Aarhus, assistant director and a former Auburn Marching Band member, Craig Aarhus, left in blue, now associate band director at Mississippi State, was an assistant director.

OPD introduces new cell phone app

Technology puts public safety information at citizens’ fingertips

CONTRIBUTED BY OPD

OPELIKA — The Opelika Police Department is putting public safety information at your fingertips with handy a new app.

The app provides:

• Real-time traffic alerts so drivers can void delays and stay on top of road closures.

• Active incident updates providing the latest information on critical situations in

your area. • Public information releases to keep citizens informed about important announcements from the Opelika Police Department. Plus, citizens can submit anonymous tips, access department resources and contact information and view community programs and events. Download the FREE app at https://bit.ly/opelikapoliceapp.

Auburn Police make arrest for ID theft

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On June 18, Auburn Police, with assistance from the Birmingham Police Department, arrested Ashley Elizabeth Gentry, 45, of Hoover on felony warrants charging her with two counts of identity theft, theft of property first degree and theft of property third degree. The arrest stems from Auburn Police receiving two reports involving fraudulent activity that occurred on Dec. 22, 2023. Police met with staff at two different businesses who reported that a suspect used a false identity to conduct fraudulent transactions resulting in financial loss. The crimes, which were committed by the same suspect, occurred near the 300 block of North Gay Street and the 2300 block of East University Drive.

PUBLIC NOTICES >> from A9

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF BOBBIE JEAN WHITE Case No. 2024-230 Deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that on the 17th day of June 2024, Letters of Administration having been granted to April White, as Administratrix of the Estate of Bobbie Jean White, deceased, 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. April White Administratrix of the Estate of Bobbie Jean White Legal run 6/27/2024, 7/4/2024, 7/11/2024

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of: Rudolf Sedlacek Parker – an alleged incapacitated person NOTICE OF HEARING:

Auburn Public Safety donation

Lee County Sheriff makes arrests in two drive-by shootings in Valley

CONTRIBUTED BY LCSO

Gentry was developed as a suspect, and after further investigation, arrest warrants for identity theft and theft of property first degree were obtained. Gentry was located by Birmingham Police Department officers in Birmingham, and she was arrested in obedience to the warrants. She was transported to the Auburn Police Department on June 18, and the arrest warrants were executed. Gentry was transported to the Lee County Jail and held on a $10,000 bond.

TO: Any next of kin or interested party: Lee County CHR has filed a Petition to appoint a Legal Guardian/Conservator for the person of Rudolf Sedlacek Parker. A hearing has been set for the 5th day of August, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM.”

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of this matter. Bill English – Lee County Probate Judge Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-0333 Legal Run 06/27/24, 07/04/24, 07/11/24

CITY OF OPELIKA ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

300 Martin Luther King Blvd. July 9, 2024 TIME: 9:00 AM APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Richard Patton, 712 North Railroad Avenue, Requesting a sign variance to install a 18.5 square foot roof sign (1.16’ x 16’) on top of the building wall rather than install the sign on the face of the building wall as required. (Tabled by applicant at June 11th Zoning Board meeting.)

“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334)705-5130.” Legal Run 06/27/24

LEE COUNTY — On June 5, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received reports of two drive by shootings in the 12000 Block of Lee Rd. 379 in the Valley community. Both crimes occurred at the same residence approximately two hours apart. Approximately 40 shell casings were recovered from the scene that included .40 caliber and .556 caliber. The residence and a vehicle were hit by multiple rounds of gunfire.

In the early morning hours of June 10, Valley Police Department received a report of a drive by shooting in their jurisdiction where a female victim was shot inside of her residence while sleeping. Approximately 61 shell casings were recovered from the scene that included: .40 caliber, .556 caliber, .300 Blackout and 9mm.

On June 15, Lee County Investigators along with the Lee County SWAT Team (which consists of Law Enforcement Officers from Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Opelika Police Department and Auburn Police Department) conducted three simultaneous search warrants in Opelika regarding the crimes. Search warrants included residences in the 200 block of South Raintree Street, the 300 block of Wittel Avenue and the 500 block of Antioch Circle. Approximately eight firearms, marijuana and an amount of U.S. currency was recovered. Six male suspects were taken into custody at the time.

If your ad was here, you'd be reading it right now. www.opelikaobserver.com

Jamarion Satterwhite, 19, of Waverly and Timothy Lamar Bell, 19, and Demarious Tyquez Stemario Ross, 19, both of Opelika, were arrested and each charged with two counts of discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling and one count of shooting into an unoccupied vehicle.

Kymi Jaqwon Davis was

arrested and charged with second degree receiving stolen property.

Alijah Dayshun Moss-Rowell, 18, of Opelika was arrested and charged with second degree possession of marijuana.

Cord Smith, 37, of Opelika was arrested on multiple outstanding warrants through Lee County.

Satterwhite, Bell and Ross are being held in the Lee County Jail on a $105,000.00 bond. The others have since posted bond.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at (334) 749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at (334) 215-STOP (7867).

Auburn Police, Auburn Fire and University Ace Hardware presented the funds raised at the Father’s Day Boston Butt Cook-Off to the The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama.

TIMOTHY LAMAR BELL

DEMARIOUS TYQUEZ STEMARIO ROSS KYMI JAQUON DAVIS

ALIJAH DAYSHUN MOSS-ROWELL

CORD SMITH

JAMARION SATTERWHITE

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH OPELIKA PARKS & RECREATION. FIREWORKS, SILVER WINGS, HAMBURGERS, HOTDOGS, MUSIC BY ROUTE 66 AND ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

2024 SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:

6:30 P.M. - EVENT BEGINS

7:15 P.M. - DEADLINE FOR PLATE DROP ENTIRES

7:30 P.M. - SILVER WINGS PARACHUTE TEAM

8:45 P.M. LIGHTS OUT FOR FIREWORKS

ports

On the Mark

Sports roundup

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OPINION —

Every successful high school athletic department has a strong Booster Club to help offset expenses in order to make sure the teams have what is needed to be the best. The items range from nutrition, food (meals), buses to travel long distance, specialized equipment, website support, travel help and the list goes on and on.

As a former board member and officer of Opelika’s All-Sports Booster Club, I know how much money teams need to operate, which is larger than most sports can generate. A strong booster club is vital for Opelika high to be successful.

Opelika High principal Kelli Fisher released a financial statement from last year’s (2023-24) AllSports Booster Club: The ASBC balance as of June 2023 was $21,050. The club received $108,866 from sponsors in 2023-24, leaving a balance of $129,715 for athletics. The money was generated sponsorships, game program ads, donations and game program sales.

Opelika’s ASBC expenditures topped $105,000, leaving a balance of $24,668 for the 2024-25 athletic year. The money was spent on each sport’s yearly allocation, Special request by teams, state

playoff travel and lodging, ticket and pass printing, game security, facility upgrades, administrative cost, game day program printing cost and press box supplies. No details or line items or officers were mentioned by Mrs. Fisher. Mrs Fisher released the upcoming seasons booster club sponsor packages.

The ASBC offers different options for families, fans, supporters and businesses. The corporate package is listed in this weeks paper.

The All-Sports Booster Club was formed in the late 80’s to help all sports at OMS and OHS, instead of having separate clubs. At the time, OHS football coach Doug Barfield felt it would be best for OHS athletics to form one booster club, offer tickets, program ad, parking passes and athletic passes to lure sponsors to give larger amounts. The original ASBC Borad consisted of President, Vice-President, secretary, treasure along with six other board members. The ASBC has been without officers for the past seven years. OHS athletic Director Jamie Williams is over the All-Sports Booster Club.

If interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact Mrs. Fisher @ 334-7459715 Opelika coaches will be able to start their own booster club, such as Quarterback Club for football, Diamond Club for See ON THE MARK page B3

Recreation

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Opelika youth baseball team is state champion

Auburn High School promotes Carter to head baseball coach

BY DANIEL CHESSER, AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS

AUBURN — Auburn

City Schools has announced the appointment of Tommy Carter as the new Head Baseball Coach for Auburn High School. With a robust background in both playing and coaching, Carter looks to continue pursuing championships with his wealth of experience and passion for Auburn High Tiger baseball.

Carter’s journey in the sport is marked by his exceptional career as a player and his extensive coaching tenure. A former standout pitcher at Auburn University, Carter’s exceptional skills on the mound led to his selection by the New York Yankees in the 7th

round of the 1991 MLB Draft. He went on to pitch at the Double-A level from 1991 to 1996, showcasing his prowess in professional baseball.

After his playing career, Carter made a seamless transition into coaching, dedicating 27 years of his life to guiding and mentoring young athletes.

His coaching philosophy, deeply rooted in dedication, discipline, and a profound love for the game, has consistently translated into success for teams at Auburn High.

“We are excited to introduce Tommy Carter as our Head Baseball Coach,” said Dr. Cristen Herring, ACSsuperintendent. “His knowledge as both a player and a coach coupled well with his commitment to fostering excellence. We are confident that he will inspire student-athletes to reach their highest potential on and off the field.”

During his tenure at Auburn University, he was celebrated for his athletic achievements, academics, leadership, and sportsmanship. His deep ties to

the area and proven track record in developing talent make him valuable to the Auburn High School Athletics Department.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Head Baseball Coach at Auburn High School,” said Carter. “I look forward to working with our student-athletes and building on the proud tradition of Auburn High School baseball.”

Auburn High School’s baseball program has a rich history of excellence, and the appointment of Tommy Carter marks a new chapter in its storied legacy. Under his leadership, the program is poised to continue its tradition of success and develop the next generation of baseball talent.

Opelika Diamond Youth PeeWee Rookie (7U) All-Stars 2024 beat AUM 9-1 recently to win the Alabama State Championship trophy.

TOMMY CARTER

Auburn High hosts girls basketball camp

The

Wheelchair soccer latest add to AU adaptive sports

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN –– Auburn

University graduate student

Zach Dickey has seen the adaptive sports landscape expand in his five-plus years on the Plains — more than once.

The Indiana native has seen the program’s wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis teams grow and thrive, and the newest adaptive sport just completed a successful first season. Auburn power wheelchair soccer finished its debut season at 14-1 with a fifthplace finish at the national tournament.

“I was part of the first recruiting class for Auburn wheelchair basketball, and I don’t think they had plans to bring wheelchair tennis back at that point, but then tennis comes back and starts doing well and then for us to add power soccer — it really shows how much support [adaptive sports] have at Auburn,” Dickey said.

With a lot of adaptive athletes crossing over among sports at Auburn, they have built a community that has gradually increased with each sport they add. Many of the wheelchair basketball players also played power soccer this year, but even the ones who didn’t still supported the new team.

“It’s been really cool to see, like, you see it in the able-bodied sports at Auburn – how the basketball guys go to women’s basketball games, and the football team is at the basketball games and all. All those teams support each other,” Dickey said. “Now, it’s the same with us. In our biggest game this year, which was the one game we lost, we had a bunch of wheelchair basketball guys banging on drums and stuff and cheer-

D MARK >> from B1

softball or baseball, etc. This will allow individuals that prefer to donate to certain sports instead of all sports. This is an effort to help each team raise money for the upcoming season.

Football coach Bryan Moore started the “Opelika Bulldog QB Club” to support the football program.

Coach Moore’s registration form reads: “The QB Club is a dedicated organization committed to providing essential resources

ing us on.”

The first season of power wheelchair soccer at Auburn helped put the sport on the map.

Auburn was the first college to form a power soccer team, and their early success caught the attention of high school adaptive athletes. Not only did several high schoolers visit Auburn University specifically as prospective power soccer players, but they landed their first commitment this year.

As the sport garners more interest, Dickey is cherishing the opportunity to allow more adaptive athletes to become college athletes –something that is rare but becoming more common by the year.

“If you ask like 90% of kids growing up in America, they’d be like, ‘Yo, I want to go play a sport in college,’” Dickey said. “For these (adaptive athletes), that’s never been an opportunity, and it has nothing to do with how good they are in their sport. It had everything to do with the fact that they were too disabled to play an able-bodied sport. So it’s awesome for the future of our program that there’s interest, but these kids are also fired up to have a chance to be a real D1 college athlete.”

Dickey was disappointed in the turnout at the national tournament after such unprecedented success in the regular season, but in the grand scheme of things, he is excited to see the growth of the sport and the development of adaptive sports at colleges that resulted from year one.

According to Dickey, other schools are now showing interest in cultivating power soccer teams, and Auburn plans to open next season with a tournament against

to our football program through various fundraising events and generous donations. By joining our club, you’ll play a crucial role in helping our athletes thrive. As members you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits, including Monthly QB Club meeting, Bulldog Kickoff dinner and club pole and vehicle sticker. The membership strengthens our football program but fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among supporters like you.”

You can join as a single membership for $100 or family membership is $150. To join the Ope-

other college programs including the University of Michigan, the University of New Hampshire and Washington University in St. Louis. Dickey is hoping those schools are just the start of the adaptive sports expansion.

“With sports like power soccer coming into existence, college students have been inspired to push for [adaptive sports] on their college campuses,” Dickey said excitedly. “That’s a plus – like that’s huge. Everything off the court this season gets an A+. On the court, I’d never admit that we’ve had an A+ season because I’m so competitive, but I’d say C – maybe C+. Exciting stuff happening for the future of this program.”

Power soccer has four divisions consisting of 10 teams a piece, with the top three in each getting promoted up a level and the bottom three moving down a level proceeding every season. Finishing in fifth, Auburn is maintaining its competition level going into year two, but the goal going forward is to earn a promotion.

With his graduation set for the end of this summer, Dickey won’t be on the court to help the Tigers get the promotion. He plans to have a hand in it nonetheless.

Dickey has played power soccer since he was 10 and became the fourth member of his family to play for the U.S Powerchair Soccer National Team in 2023, and

lika QB Club, call Bryan Moore at (334) 745-9715. Members receive a polo shirt.

SOFTBALL CAMP

July 8-10, Opelika High Softball is hosting a softball camp for ages 6-12 at West Ridge Park. The cost is $60 per camper. Contact Coach Thornton at (334) 745-9715 for more information.

OPELIKA 13U AND 14U ALL STARS IN STATE TOURNAMENT

Opelika’s DBB 13U and 14U all-star teams play in the State Tournament in Greenville this weekend.

Opelika’s 13U all-star

he doesn’t plan to be done with the sport or Auburn University anytime soon. He hopes to get a job at the university and plans to continue coaching wheelchair basketball under head coach Robb Taylor and transition to a coach in power soccer as well.

He plans to hold those roles and watch adaptive sports continue to evolve at the college level for years to come.

“Man, I just want to be a part of this for as long as I can,” Dickey stated surely.

“Because I can see that it’s growing, and with Robb Taylor and Nathan Waters leading the basketball and tennis programs here, I’m just not ready to give it up. I’ll be comfortable leaving once we fill [Beard-Eaves Coliseum] one time. When we get those blue seats filled up and it’s as loud as it was back when Charles Barkley was there, that’s when I’ll feel comfortable leaving.”

team plays the Andalusia A’s Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Greenville Sports Plex.

The 14U team plays Greenville at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Both teams play in a double-elimination tournament, and the winner advances to the World Series.

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.

Adaptive athletes compete in Auburn University’s newest adaptive sports program, Power Wheelchair Soccer.

Auburn High alum qualified for US Olympic trials

CONTRIBUTED BY TROY ATHLETICS

COMMUNICATIONS

TROY, Ala. – Senior javelin

thrower Cole Stewart officially qualified for the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Team Trials after posting the 17th-best throw in the country at 73.75m at the Sun Belt Outdoor Track & Field Championships, USATF announced last week.

“We are all excited for Cole to be competing at the Olym-

pic Trials,” director of track & field/cross country Marc Davis said. “It is a huge deal to have this opportunity and there is no one more deserving of this.”

Stewart neared the automatic qualifier when he won gold at the SBC Outdoor Championships (May 10). He improved through his first three throws before reaching the peak with his personal best and the second furthest throw in school history of 73.75m. The throw marked

his second over 70 meters, throwing 70.08m in the Troy Doc Anderson Invitational & Multi on April 13.

The Auburn native threw nine of Troy’s 10-best throws for javelin with four first-place finishes, seven on the podium and eight in the top five. His only finish outside the top five was a 16th-place finish in the NCAA East Preliminaries. Stewart also is a two-time All-Sun Belt Outdoor Track & Field Second

Team member with a first-team nod in 2024. After winning the javelin event in the Doc Anderson Invitational, he also received Sun Belt Men’s Field Athlete of the Week on April 17.

The Auburn High School graduate joined a field of 24 competitors who qualified and accepted their invitation for the trials. He competed on June 21 in the qualifying round at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Auburn Softball adds D.J. Sanders

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — One of the rising stars in collegiate coaching, D.J. Sanders, has joined Auburn softball as an assistant coach, co-head coaches Chris and Kate Malveaux announced.

“We have seen D.J. grow as a player as well as evolve into a coach and mentor for other young athletes,” said Chris Malveaux.

“D.J. has a gift of perspective and understanding of how to get the most out of athletes. Her impact will be felt right away offensively as well as with our infield play. She is sharp, competitive and is a person of very high character. D.J. will make an incredible impact on the Auburn softball program!”

“We are very excited to have

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

D.J. join the Auburn softball family!” Kate Malveaux added. “She knows how to win and will work tirelessly to do so. D.J. has an incredible foundation as a person of strong values. She will set a great example for these players as well as help them develop into the best athletes they possibly could be.”

Sanders joins Auburn after spending last season as an assistant coach at Ole Miss where she worked with the Rebel offense. Sanders also had coaching stints with Memphis, Mississippi State and Missouri while bringing a wealth of playing knowledge both at the collegiate and professional levels.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to represent Auburn University and coach with Chris

AUBURN — Auburn Parks and Recreation has announced the second Float-NMovie of the season, featuring the 1975 classic film “Jaws.”

This event will take place on Saturday, July 13, at Samford Pool. Gates will open at 7:30 p.m., and the movie will begin at 8 p.m.

and Kate Malveaux,” Sanders said. “They have been wonderful mentors to me over the years. I plan to make an immediate impact with these student-athletes as someone who’s been in their shoes. I can’t wait to get to work and help lead this this program back to the Women’s College World Series to compete for a national championship soon.”

Sanders joined Ole Miss after serving as an assistant coach at Memphis and before that spent one season at Mississippi State.

Sanders got her start in coaching as a graduate assistant in 2020 at Missouri, helping the Tigers to a 61-24 record in her two seasons.

Collegiately, Sanders played her first three seasons as the starting shortstop at Louisiana. As a junior, Sanders led the

Guests are encouraged to bring their own floats to watch the movie while relaxing in the pool. For those who prefer to stay dry, chairs are welcome on the pool deck. This unique viewing experience is perfect for families and movie enthusiasts looking for a fun summer evening. Admission to the event is $2 or free with a Splash Pass. Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

NCAA in home runs (29), RBI (82) and slugging percentage (1.013) en route to earning NFCA First Team All-American honors and being named one of 10 finalists for the USA Softball National Player of the Year award. She also played for the USA Softball Junior National Team at the World Cup of Softball and Junior Women’s World Championships in 2015. For her senior year, she transferred to Oregon and earned All-Pac-12 honors in 2018. In her lone season in Eugene, she helped lead the Ducks to a Pac12 Championship while blasting 16 homers and collecting 51 RBI.

After graduation, Sanders was drafted No. 21 overall by the Chicago Bandits in the 2018 NPF Draft. She made her professional debut with NPF on June

16, 2018, and recorded her first career hit the next day. In her rookie season, Sanders batted .306 and ranked third on her squad in home runs.

Sanders also played professionally with Athletes Unlimited the last four seasons. The Columbus, Mississippi, native totaled 987 points through seven games in 2023. She competed in the AUX exhibition season in 2022, totaling 808 points in eight games with a .500 batting average. The previous year she tallied 1,352 points and finished 15th overall in the league, slugging a pair of homers and collecting five RBI in 11 games. In the summer of 2020, Sanders finished 14th individually in the inaugural AU season with 1,520 points and batted .333 with four homers over 14 games.

Distinguished Young Women of Lee County program set for June 29

CONTRIBUTED BY DISTINGUISHED YOUNG WOMEN

LEE COUNTY — The Distinguished Young Women of Lee County program will be held at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, June 29, at 1 p.m.

Tickets are $10 at the door or can be pre-ordered at the website: myevent.com/ dywleeco.

Seventeen rising high school seniors from across the county will participate, and more than $10,000 in college scholarships will be awarded. The winner will represent Lee County at the Distinguished Young Women of Alabama program in January 2025.

The young women competing will

be evaluated by a panel of judges in the following categories: Scholastics (25%), Interview (25%), Talent (20%), Fitness (15%) and Self Expression (15%).

The participants this year are:

• Sanea Anderson, Auburn High School

• Kyndall Brundidge, Opelika High School

• Clara Burke, Beulah High School

• Stella George, Opelika High School

• Mary Margo Hall, Auburn High School

• Claudia Hamberlin, Auburn High School

• Lovie Hardin, Trinity Christian School

• Hallie Herring, Auburn High School

• Hannah Hines, Auburn High School

• Kennedy Holmes, Auburn High School

• Jasmine Jordan, Opelika High School

• Karisa King, Auburn High School

• Harper Olsen, Auburn High School

• Ashlee Romines, Auburn High School

• Sara Kate Speakman, Lee-Scott Academy

• Margie Grace Wilder, Auburn High School

• Riley Yates, Auburn High School

ABOUT DISTINGUISHED YOUNG WOMEN

Founded in 1958, Distinguished Young Women is a free program that encourages participants to reach their full individual potential. Its mission is to empower young women by providing over $1 billion in scholarship opportunities, connecting with a nationwide network of women, developing their self-confidence and participating in our Life Skills Workshops that prepare them for success after high school.

SANEA ANDERSON

KYNDALL BRUNDIDGE

CLARA BURKE

STELLA GEORGE MARY MARGO HALL

CLAUDIA HAMBERLIN

LOVIE HARDIN

HALLIE HERRING

HANNAH HINES

KENNEDY HOLLMES

JASMINE JORDAN

KARISSA KING

HARPER OLSEN

ASHLEE ROMINES

SARA KATE SPEAKMAN

MARGIE GRACE WILDER RILEY YATES

The current Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County, Cate Herring, was named a top eight finalist, talent winner and self expression winner at the state program earlier this year.

Philanthropy 101 students donate to 10 nonprofits

The 2024 Opelika High School Philanthropy 101 Class donated $11,600 to 10 local non-profit agencies during a luncheon on June 20 at the Opelika Public Library. This three-week program is for rising high school seniors and brings the principles of philanthropy to life through classroom learning and hands-on experiences. Lucinda Cannon and the Samford Cannon Foundation sponsored the program, and Addi Abernathy and Dean Jones serve as directors. Each nonprofit and its donor(s) include Miracle League: Kailey Bice, Clayton McBurney, Charity Moore and Hannah Williamson; Storybook Farm: Isabella Brandwein and Ena Scherbert; Big House Foundation: Savannah Brooks; O’ Grows: Magdalena Christopher; Creekline: Abby Davis; Village Friends: Stella George; EAMC Foundation: Makayla Jones and Hannah Reagan; Community Market: Graycen Orozco; REACH Ministries: Zane Sexton; and Friends of Opelika Public Library: Jared Van Horn.

Opelika City Schools posts perfect lunchroom health scores

County school board approves pay raises

BY EMILY WRIGHT FOR THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Schools Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting on June 11.

The board approved a 2% pay raise for all Lee County teachers and other personnel, an increase passed by the Alabama Legislature for state employees. The pay raise will be effective with new contracts starting July 1, Aug. 1 and Sept. 1, and state funds earmarked for the increase will be received starting in October. Raises for locally-funded teachers and other locally-funded positions will be paid for with local funds.

Also at the meeting, the board approved an enrollment policy regarding out-of-district students. These out-of-district students are

those who, according to Policy

6.1.5, “maintain a legal residence within the State of Alabama, outside of Lee County but within 50 miles of the Lee County Board of Education Central Office, and who are not otherwise eligible to attend Lee County Schools under these policies.” The students, who must be in good academic standing and rising 6th graders or higher, can enroll through the Lee County Schools Online Virtual Platform.

In other action, the board approved the 2024-2025 Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct and completed the first reading of the Revised Lee County Special Education Plan for Children with Disabilities.

The next meeting of the school board will be on Tuesday, July 9, at the District Office, located at 2410 Society Hill Road in Opelika.

Sellers named principal of Morris Ave. Intermediate

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS

OPELIKA — Dr. Farrell Seymore, superintendent of Opelika City Schools, is proud to announce the selection of Laura Sellers as the new principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School.

“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Laura Sellers as the new principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School,” said Seymore. “She is a veteran educator who is committed to the success of all students. She has excelled as the lead teacher at Morris Avenue, and we look forward to her serving in this new role as principal to continue our mission of educating every child, every day.”

and I look forward to continuing to work with them as I move into this leadership position,” Sellers said. “My family and I love Opelika and I am excited to play a role in the growth and success of Opelika City Schools.”

Sellers received a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from Auburn University in 2011, a master’s degree in elementary education in 2013 from AUM and an Educational Specialist degree in 2020. She also received certification in Instructional Leadership from the University of West Alabama in 2020.

“The faculty, staff, and students at Morris Avenue are wonderful

Sellers has worked in Opelika City Schools for the past nine years. She began her career with the Opelika City Schools teaching fifth grade at Morris Avenue Intermediate School in 2015. She was selected as lead teacher at Morris Avenue in 2021. Prior to teaching at Morris Avenue, she taught sixth grade at Johnnie Carr Middle School in Montgomery.

Sellers is a 2024 graduate of the Opelika Chamber’s “20 Under 40” program, where she served as the Service Project chair. Laura and her husband, Lane, are the proud parents of two children, Britton, 6, and Brooks, 3.

Every school’s cafeteria team in the Opelika City Schools System achieved a score of 100 on their health department inspections throughout the 2023-2024 school year. Pictured, front row from left to right, are Constance Smith of Fox Run, Marsha Broach of Opelika Middle School, Cathy Murray of Southview, Donna Howard of West Forest and Lynn Lee, CNP Director. On the back row, from left to right, are Elaine Smith of OHS, Listasha Avery of Jeter; Debra Walker of Morris Avenue, Kaela Allen of Northside and Amy Jacobs of Carver.

LAURA SELLERS

AHS technology club shares at summer school

Alabama State Parks working to educate and inspire

BY JEFF EMERSON, ALABAMA STATE PARKS

ALABAMA — Our state is home to the fourth largest number of plant and animal species in the U.S., and the Alabama State Parks education program is working to increase Alabamians’ knowledge of their natural environment.

The Alabama State Parks System’s Statewide Interpretive Program immerses park visitors of all ages in the beauty and diversity of Alabama’s outdoors. Through a team of creative and dedicated interpreters, this program educates park guests and surrounding communities about natural world and its benefits to all people.

“When students engage in outdoor learning they are stimulated in many ways – observing, exercising, communicating, and imagining – all while having lots of fun,” explained Renee Simmons Raney, Chief of Interpretation and Education for Alabama State Parks. “Learning flows easily as they connect with nature. They notice the tiny creatures that creep and crawl and discern the many shades of greens and browns, the feel of the air and sun and the fragrances of wild places.

“Touching and admiring lichens, mosses, rocks, tree bark, and meeting our ‘creature teachers’ such as snakes, turtles and birds brings a deeper connection and a comfortable fearlessness in the natural world,” she said. “We are inspiring a future generation of natural resources scientists.”

In addition to K-12 field trip adventures in parks, Raney said the interpretive program provides teacher workshops, partners with

colleges and universities to offer outreach programs on campus and mentors student interns. Furthermore, the program offers day-use activities ranging from hikes to fishing to fairy house building to nature journaling, as well as immersive overnight programs that focus on nature-based wellness, explore Alabama’s natural history and cultural heritage, increase environmental literacy or provide unique art-themed experiences.

Like all operations of Alabama State Parks, the Statewide Interpretive Program relies entirely on revenue generated by park visitors and other supporters.

“Every dime spent in a park supports the operations of that park,” said Raney. “Staying overnight, paying park admission, and volunteering your time, keeps your parks open to millions of guests each year. In addition, the

advance of state park educational programs depends upon the generosity of many businesses and corporations making contributions through the Alabama State Parks Foundation, as well as grant funding.”

The goal is for all 21 state parks in Alabama to be environmental education providers, and Raney likened the work of the Statewide Interpretive Program and the park naturalists who guide it to helping patrons at a library or bookstore who do not know the language the books are written in.

“Oftentimes, a visitor enters a state park much like someone walks into a library or bookstore. They see hundreds of diverse books, they admire the covers, but what if those books are in a language they don’t understand? Your Alabama State Parks educational team understands the wonder-book of nature. We know the stories of flora,

Lee County Schools Special Announcement

In compliance with the Alabama Choose Act, Lee County Schools is now accepting applications for out-of-district transfer students entering grades 6 through 11 for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applicants must reside within 50 miles of the Lee County Board of Education located at 2410 Society Hill Road, Opelika, Al. Applicants must meet all deadlines and requirements to be approved by the Lee County Schools superintendent. Tuition is required for approved out-of-district applicants. Tuition must be paid in full during the enrollment process.

Interested students must submit an application, which is available on the Lee County Schools website. Required documents include proof of residency, discipline records, attendance records, and transcripts. Applications must be submitted and received for priority consideration. Approved applicants are subject to the policies and procedures of Lee County Schools and will be held to the same level of accountability as in-district students.

For more information or to apply, visit lee.k12.al.us and click on the Out of District Enrollment Tab or call (334)705-6000.

fauna, ecoregions, and the amazing biodiversity of our state. We interpret the ‘stories’ into the ‘language’ of each visitor to create inclusive and accessible experiences for all park guests,” Raney explained.

“This experience may include public programs, field trips, guided activities, enriched self-guided opportunities or unique interpretive nature centers, museums, themed gardens and enhanced trails. Because the program levels range from preschool to adults, our educational team must be adaptable, using professional skills, knowledge and passion for the natural resources to craft programs that resonate with everyone. We strive to share this wonder-book of nature with our guests in a manner that fosters lifelong heart-topark connections.”

In 2024, more than 4,000 interpretive programs will be offered at Alabama State Parks throughout the year, and the number of programs and participants has grown significantly.

“Because state parks have increased statewide educational staff, we have seen a 73 percent increase in park program attendance and a 46 percent increase in the number of programs provided over the past year,” said Raney. “That’s impressive because it means our guests desire and support educational programming in their parks. Our interpretive team believes that our statewide environmental education presence will grow even more as funding increases.”

Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said these milestones are worth celebrating because education is a big part of the mission of Alabama State Parks.

“Our mission statement says clearly that one of the reasons our state parks exist is to extend the public’s knowledge of Alabama’s natural environment. Through the wide variety of education programs and activities offered by the Statewide Interpretive Program, we’re providing opportunities for personal growth and development, healthier lifestyles and a connection to nature that enhances people’s quality of life,” Blankenship said.

The Commissioner added that current and future growth of the interpretive program is possible only through funding provided by park supporters: those who visit Alabama’s State Parks, purchase Alabama State Parks car tags and personalized boat decals or contributions made by individuals or corporate donations through the Alabama State Parks Foundation.

“It’s important to remember that 100% of the day-to-day operational funding for our State Parks is generated by user fees for lodging, entrance, golf, campsites and other amenities paid by guests — we do not rely on the taxpayers for funding,” Blankenship said. “So, every time someone visits a park, makes a donation, or buys a State Parks car tag or a boat registration personalized decal, it helps to fund our education programs.”

Eighty percent of the cost of an Alabama State Parks car or boat tag provides a revenue stream that helps fund the interpretive program and other State Parks projects.

In addition, the Alabama State Parks Foundation, a non-profit organization formed in 2018, allows individuals and corporate partners to enhance park programming, facilities and experiences. The Foundation is the first statewide non-profit dedicated to supporting the Alabama State Parks system, and its board of directors includes leaders from business, education, non-profits and state and local governments.

Founding board member Steve Jones said the Foundation has been instrumental in focusing support on educational programs.

“When I think of the mission of the park system, it’s a three-legged stool — it’s recreation, conservation and education,” he said. “My role on the board is to always remind my fellow board members of those three different legs, and how the education component is essential if our parks are to have the vibrant future we all want for

them. With the education/ interpretive program, we’re engaging and connecting people with the core ideas of ecology and stewardship. We can instill a lifelong passion for nature.”

Raney noted that education — one leg of the “three-legged stool” — reinforces the other two legs, conservation and recreation.

“Without educational opportunities, visitors won’t fully understand the importance of conservation or enjoy unique opportunities for recreation,” said Raney. “We want everyone to enjoy these state park experiences.

“We hope to expand environmental education in parks by increasing the number of park educational staff and by developing more outdoor classroom areas statewide,” she said. “Despite doubling our historic number of Naturalists, we currently have only eight park naturalists serving specific parks, which leaves 13 state parks without an onsite educator.”

“When individuals and businesses donate to the Alabama State Parks Foundation, or when people visit our parks or purchase a car tag or boat decal, that’s what makes it possible for us to offer educational opportunities, hire park naturalists, restore natural habitats within the parks and provide new and improved amenities,” said Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein. “To all the supporters who have already bought a car tag or contributed through the State Parks Foundation, we’re truly grateful for all the support. Those contributions, and the ones that will come in the future, are making a tremendous positive change in our parks’ education programs.”

For more information on the Alabama State Parks Foundation or to make a donation visit www. asparksfoundation.org. Information about purchasing an Alabama State Parks car or boat tag can be found at www.alapark.com/car-andboat-tag-registration. For a list of education opportunities offered by the Statewide Interpretive Program throughout Alabama, please visit the program and events calendar at https://reserve.alapark.com/ register/. To stay, play, and explore naturally in Alabama State Parks, make your reservations today through the Plan Your Adventure Online portal at www.alapark. com.

Members of Auburn High School’s Technology Students Association Engineering Club visited summer school, bringing along remote-controlled vehicles they use for competitions. The elementary-aged students got an up-close look at the cutting-edge technology and engineering skills the TSA students have mastered, from intricate design to agile maneuvering. The summer schoolers got to interact with technology by steering the vehicles through intense “battle bot” challenges.

Alabama State Parks Chief of Interpretation and Education Renee Raney (right) introduces students from Eufaula City Schools to Lazarus, a kingsnake, during an educational program at Lakepoint State Park. Photo credit: Stephanie Douglas

Education briefs

TUSCALOOSA — Marcus J. Hardnett of Auburn has received the Lasting Impact Award at the University of Alabama. Hardnett was nominated by students to whom he regularly provides academic support as a supplemental instruction leader in accounting. The award was created by donors David and Cathy Cox in memory of their son Jacob who benefited greatly from tutoring while he was a student at UA.

ATLANTA — Naeim Mahjouri of Auburn earned the distinction of Faculty Honors for Spring 2024 at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). This designation is awarded to undergraduate students who have earned a 4.0 academic average for the semester.

ATLANTA — Benet Harris of Opelika made the Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 semester at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). This designation is awarded to undergraduate students who have earned a 3.0 or higher academic average for the semester.

ATLANTA — The Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) presented degrees to more than 5,700 undergraduate and graduate students during its 266th Commencement exercises. Among the graduates were Junshan Liu and Michael Zhou, both of Auburn.

HANCEVILLE — Wallace State Community College congratulates students who were named to the President’s List and Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 semester. Local students earning a place on the lists include Melissa Boersma of Opelika (President’s List) and McKinnon Howard of Smiths Station (Dean’s List). To earn a spot on the Wallace State President’s List, students must maintain a perfect 4.0 GPA for the semester while taking a course load of 12 or more hours. Placement on the Dean’s List is awarded to students maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher while also taking a course load of at least 12 hours.

KENNESAW, Georgia — Ansley Floyd Jackson of Opelika who is majoring in psychology at Kennesaw State University, has been named to the Spring 2024 President’s List. To qualify, students must achieve a term grade point average of 4.0 and complete a minimum of nine credit hours.

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Southern Union collaborates with Georgia Southwestern

Register by July 1 for Inaugural Cohort

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

LEE COUNTY —Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) recently entered into a collaboration with Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) aimed at enhancing educational opportunities. The partnership, solidified by a Memorandum of Understanding

(MOU), ensures academic progression for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in education. Under this agreement, students at SUSCC will benefit from concurrent enrollment in GSW courses over a two-year period. Upon completion of their associate degree at SUSCC within this timeframe, eligible students will transition

to GSW, with the opportunity to transfer up to 50% of their required credits for their chosen education program.

The deadline for Fall registration is July 1, 2024. For further details regarding this program, please visit the Southern Union website or contact Tyler Laye at tlaye@suscc.edu or by extension 5424.

Seated, left to right, are Dr. Jill Drake, GSW provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, and Todd Shackett, president of SUSCC. Standing, left to right, are Dr. Christopher Pritchett, assistant dean of GSW’s College of Education; Dr. Rachel Abbott, dean of GSW’s College of Education; Tyler Laye, director of Academic Programs at SUSCC; Dr. Linda North, SUSCC dean of Academics; and Sarah Henry, SUSCC advisor.

Food &E ntertainment Community Calendar — B14

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

OPINION —

When I was growing up in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals), there was a big rivalry between our city and Dadeville; our cities were and still are, separated by the Tallapoosa River Bridge.

Unfortunately, during my senior year at Benjamin Russell High School, our football team lost to Dadeville High School. That game certainly didn’t give any of us any warm, fuzzy feelings toward our rival.

However, in 1990, my feelings toward Dadeville completely changed. Why? I was assigned to Dadeville High School to complete my English education internship for my master’s degree from Auburn University.

During that internship, I taught 9th and 11th graders under the supervision of Ms. Annette Smith, who was an outstanding, compassionate teacher with a great sense of humor. She taught me so much and was very patient with me. Also, the students I taught and the rest of the school’s staff were wonderful as well. I fell in love with Dadeville High School; for me, the rivalry between our cities and schools disappeared.

Therefore, when Mike was on the Internet and found an interesting restaurant in Dadeville, I was ready to go.

Mike and I traveled to 114 N. Broadnax Street #2 in Dadeville to have lunch at Miller’s on Broadnax. When Mike and I entered the restaurant, we really loved the interior. The

Making the Grade

On the road to Dadeville

smell of new wood and the beautiful, old brick walls tied the present to the past; I loved the contrast. Also, the light fixtures were very attractive, and we enjoyed looking at the old pictures on the walls which illustrated Dadeville’s history. Back in 1923, the building had been Miller’s Hotel. Last March, Dennis Kirkland, who lives locally, opened Miller’s on Broadnax (formerly the Fusion Grill in another area of town).

Kirkland, who was so welcoming and helpful, said that someone else is hoping to reopen the Miller Hotel this July; the hotel will be upstairs from his restaurant.

Kirkland said that his restaurant will serve hotel guests upstairs on a big patio. Guests will have a great view from there.

Gabby, our server, was a complete delight, being sweet, helpful and patient. Mike ordered the pulled pork platter and chose tater tots and coleslaw for his sides. I chose the Dakota, a handheld, which included a grilled (or fried) chicken breast, bacon, cheddar cheese, homemade ranch, tomato, red onion and romaine lettuce; I ordered French fries as a side.

While we were waiting for our food, Mr. Kirkland kindly gave us complimentary fried green tomatoes, one of the restaurant’s appetizers or starters. The fried green tomatoes were hand battered and were served with chipotle aioli and crumbled feta.

Oh, my two times. They were AMAZING; they were fully coated and

were just the right level of crispiness. Also, I loved the chipotle aioli. As I’ve mentioned before in this column, since our parents taught us good table manners, Mike and I refrained from licking the plate, but it was difficult. When our food arrived, we dug right in, and everything was really delicious. As we finished our wonderful meals, I chatted with another customer, Angela Smith of Hackneyville. “I love it here,” she said. Also, Mike and I heard a man behind us tell his server, “Everything was perfect.” Mike and I quite agreed with these other customers.

At the end of our meal, Mr. Kirkland surprised us with a complimentary piece of peanut butter pie to share. That scrumptious pie was slap your Grand-

ma three times good. In fact, the pie alone made the short trip to Dadeville worth it.

Mike and I will DEFINITELY be coming back to Miller’s on Broadnax. Trust me, run and do not walk to this restaurant.

Besides our tasty fried green tomatoes, Miller’s on Broadnax serves other appetizers or starters, some of which include BBQ mac ‘n cheese, Buffalo chicken dip, pork wings, onion rings and fried mushrooms.

Other lunch items on the menu included loaded fries, salads, handhelds, platters, wings and freshly made gourmet burgers.

Entrees included prime cut ribeye, prime cut filet, premium pork ribeye, Southern fried catfish and a shrimp plate, among others.

Miller’s on Broadnax is open on Wednesday and Thursday for lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 5 to 8 p.m.; on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday Brunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Miller’s on Broadnax makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear every other week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail. com.

PHOTOS

MIKE

/

Miller’s on Brodnax, located at 114 N. Broadnax St. in Dadeville, is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday, as well as for brunch on Sunday.

Botanic hosts Battle of the Bands competition

Groups from Auburn, Opelika make it to final round of three

Beat summer heat with flavorful water recipes

BY DUSTIN DUNCAN, ACES

ALABAMA — Water is a wonderful way to beat the summer heat. Adding fruit can take hydration to the next level. Experts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) say drinking water is the best choice when enduring warm temperatures. With temperatures routinely reaching the high 90s, choosing water can help avoid dehydration and other heat-related illnesses.

FIGHTING DEHYDRATION

Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, fatigue and extreme thirst, as well as other health-related issues. However, it’s best to drink water throughout the day before symptoms begin to show.

Additional signs of dehydration include dry mouth, cracked lips, poor concentration and constipation.

A quick and easy way to check for sufficient water intake is to examine urine color. Individuals who drink enough water should have pale, yellow-colored urine. If it’s dark yellow or amber, it is probably a good idea to increase water intake.

Katie Funderburk, AU SNAP-Ed coordinator and

registered dietitian, said it’s also important to keep an eye on children who are playing outside in extreme heat.

“Kids are at greater risk for dehydration than adults, because they naturally have less fluid in their bodies and can lose more water through their skin via sweat and heat exposure compared to adults,” Funderburk said. “Also, they don’t always recognize when they are thirsty. They need reminders and encouragement to drink water throughout the day.”

INCREASING WATER INTAKE

While drinking enough water each day is essential to a healthy lifestyle, a few small changes can be made each day to increase water consumption without too much disruption.

• When thirsty, drink water. If the typical drink of choice is a soda or sugary drink, try to replace one of those drinks each day with water.

• Drink water with meals. Try to make it a habit to replace mealtime beverages with water.

• Be prepared. Carry a refillable water bottle so there is water readily available at all times. If a water fountain is nearby, this makes it easier to fill it up throughout the day.

Girl Scouting in the garden

• Add flavors. Water doesn’t have to be the same each time. Use lemon juice, fresh fruit, or a few cucumber slices to add variety.

HEALTHY CHOICE

Drinking water instead of sweet tea, soda, fruit juice or other sugary drinks can save hundreds of calories. A 12-ounce can of regular soda contains 140 to 200 calories, all of which are from added sugar. When filling up a 24-ounce cup, that’s up to 400 calories. Add in refills and those added sugars and calories can pile up in a hurry.

Look at other amounts of added sugar in the following sugary drinks.

(Numbers are based on 20-ounce servings.)

• Fruit punch – 18 teaspoons

• Energy drink – 16 teaspoons

• Sweet tea – 14 teaspoons

• Sports drink – 9 teaspoons

• Water – 0 teaspoons

FLAVORED WATER RECIPES

To make water more interesting and bursting with flavor, check out these fruit-infused water recipes.

Blackberry Mint Water

• 40 blackberries, smashed

• 40 mint leaves, torn in half

Blueberry Orange Basil Water

• Three oranges, quartered

• 40 blueberries, smashed

• Nine basil leaves, torn

Citrus Water

• Oranges, sliced

• Grapefruit, sliced

• Lemons, sliced

Pineapple Orange Water

• ¼ pineapple, sliced

• ½ orange, sliced with peel

Raspberry Lime Water

• Four limes, without rind

• 40 raspberries, smashed

Strawberry Kiwi Water

• Two kiwis, sliced

• Five strawberries, sliced

Watermelon

Rosemary Water

• ¼ seedless watermelon

• 2 sprigs of rosemary

For each recipe, mix the ingredients with a gallon of water and stir. Another exciting idea for adding flavor to water, freeze these mixtures in ice trays for homemade popsicles.

MORE INFORMATION

For more Live Well Alabama recipes, visit LiveWellAlabama.com and visit Live Well Alabama on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Girl Scouts of Troop 7743 recently visited the O Grows community garden, where they were generous with their time and funds from cookie sales to put labels on many of the species and varieties of trees, flowers, fruits and vegetables. The girls put stakes and name labels in the garden so that visitors can learn the plants’ names.

The Latter (left) was formed in Auburn by Jack O’rear, Jackson Durdin, J.D. Rohling, Jack Estep and Landon Knorr, with each members influences ranging from Led Zeppelin, The Replacements, Rolling Stones and Widespread Panic. Front Seven (right) started in Opelika and covers all the hits from the 60s to today. Front Seven is comprised of vocalist/guitarist Kasey Kaschak, bassist Alex Matthews and drummer Nate Jackson. The Latter and Front Seven were finalists along with Relative Sound from Columbus, Georgia, who ultimately was the winning band.

BY SEAN DIETRICH

OPINION —

I’m in an airport. My wife and I are camped out at airline concourse B with other stranded airline passengers.

We were all booted off our flight because the plane was overbooked. I believe I was booted off, however, because I was the only passenger openly carrying a banjo. Thankfully, the airline offered us cash to get off the flight. Whereas passengers ahead of us were just told to get off.

Even so, I’m sure the airline has a really good

Sean of the South

reason for overbooking their own flight. I’m sure their intentions were honorable.

The airline was probably trying to earn money so they could donate excess cash to cancer research, or eradicating starvation, or rehabilitating endangered purple frogs.

Or maybe the overbooking was purely an accident.

Maybe the airline, although having been leaders in the airline industry since 1925, still hasn’t figured out the tricky business of calculating passenger-to-cargo-weight ratios.

To be fair, it’s very difficult to predict how many passengers will actually be on your plane even though each passenger has paid a small fortune for their ticket several months in advance, and each passenger has checked in via computer, phone app, and agent-operated kiosk, multiple times, before

The airline

physically arriving at the effectual airline gate.

Either way, my fellow booted-off passengers are not happy because many don’t feel they were treated fairly. Some were given money to evacuate. Some were given vouchers. Some were given the shaft.

Aggravated passengers are calling family members, venting to loved ones on phones, talking loudly about what, precisely, they wish would happen to wealthy airline executives as the executives eat their Cornish hens at supper tonight.

In the interest of anonymity, I won’t tell you which airline left us stranded, because I don’t think Delta Airlines would want that.

But anyway, here we are. Stuck in an airport. Again. Second time this month.

My instruments are scattered around us. One fiddle. One banjo. An

Opelika Film Arts Collective to host No-Budget Summer Film Workshop for teens

CONTRIBUTED BY OAFAC

The Opelika Auburn Film Arts Collective (OAFAC) is hosting its annual No-Budget Summer Film Workshop, an experimental filmmaking camp for teens, the week of July 8-12 in downtown Opelika. Stationed in makeshift classrooms — first, at the Backhouse Gallery behind Sidetrack Coffee, then at the Opelika Public Library later in the week to edit their films - teen campers will receive expert instruction on the filmmaking process (start to finish) from more than 12 local-, national-, and international-filmmakers before making and participating in a free, open-to-the-public screening of their films on Saturday, July 13th at Osage..

This year, teens will be put into teams of three or four members and paired with one of five local musicians: Jackson Chambers (The Official Bard of Baldwin County), Caleb Etris, Katie Martin, Taylor Money, and Secret Sounds. The campers are challenged to make music videos inspired the musician’s songs. Visualizations of local music made by local teens, the

culminating event at Osage will also feature short sets by each of the participating musicians.

Camp will open with a walking tour of Opelika the morning of Monday, July 8 to scout available settings as students prepare to build their story. Returning to Backhouse, students will spend the next two days doing workshops on screenplays and storyboards as they develop their ideas and prepare for filming.

On Wednesday and Thursday, July 10th and 11th, after brief workshops, the students will be set free into the community for the bulk of the daytime hours to gather their footage. While there are several volunteers and counselors available, the aim is to give teens the creative freedom to wander and explore. They are required to be courteous to any space that welcomes them.

The No Budget Summer Film Workshop is organized and run by an extensive group of dedicated volunteers and is free in every sense of the word. Free instruction, free materials, free thought, and freedom of movement for teens define the camp’s goals. That said, there will

be an appeal for donations at the culminating event in anticipation of next year’s camp and the opening of OAFAC’s brick and mortar space, Boxcar, due to open in October on 1st Avenue in downtown Opelika.

The Opelika-Auburn Film Arts Collective (OAFAC) is a pop-up, experimental space for artists, cinephiles, outsiders, and anyone hungry for non-mainstream entertainment based in Opelika, Alabama.

The Opelika Auburn Film Arts Collective (OAFAC) promotes the exposure to and preservation of films, a Do-It-Yourself ethos, and community building through the arts.

For the past three years, OAFAC has hosted weekly Wednesday night film screenings at The Jailhouse at Rock ‘n Roll Pinball, the live movie trivia event This Game Goes BOOM, the No Budget Cinema showcase for local filmmakers, Art Happenings, Cabarets, and numerous stage / screen collaborations.

To learn more about OAFAC, the camp, instructors and organizers or to make a donation to OAFAC, visit oafac.org.

accordion. We are not going to get home tonight. We do not know, truthfully, what will become of us. Maybe we’ll be stuck here forever. Maybe we’ll start new lives here in the airport. Maybe we’ll pioneer over to Concourse D and stake a claim. Maybe we’ll build a little house out of vending machine food wrappers and start a little family.

It’s inconvenient, yes, living in an airport. But I’m not disappointed because I love airports.

I love everything about them. I love the way the overhead music is always the same Phil Collins song, “Sussudio,” playing on repeat. I love the way the men’s rooms all have peeslickened floors. I love paying $16 for a lukewarm beer.

Still, no matter how offputting this is, I know the

airline employees care deeply about me. I know this by the way the male flight attendant was yelling at me to get off the plane.

He was insisting that I deboard the plane without my wife. My wife was, apparently, supposed to stay on the plane while I disembarked, for money, even though all I truly wanted was to go home.

“You cannot get off the plane together,” he said in a loud voice.

“But,” I pointed out, “we’re married.”

“That’s not my problem,” he replied.

Don’t misunderstand.

Delta was not trying to break up my marriage. They were only trying to strengthen our matrimonal bond by using a specific marriage building technique they often use to fortify the relationships of their most valued customers.

Delta believes in families.

Golden Anniversary

But in the end, my wife deboarded the plane with me. I’m only glad my wife didn’t make things worse by introducing the flight attendant to the Alabama state bird.

So we both got off the plane together. The flight attendant did not appreciate this. He was not a happy person when we left. As we walked away, he said, “Fine! I don’t care what you do!” But it had to happen this way, you see. My wife had to leave with me. Because my wife and I can’t split up. It wouldn’t be fair to the banjo.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and standup 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.

To publish your wedding announcement or anniversary in The Observer, call (334) 749-8003 or email editor@opelikaobserver.com

The Observer would like to wish a happy anniversary to our staff photographer, Robert Noles. He and his wife Alice celebrated their 50th year together with a Golden Anniversary reception on Saturday, June 22. The reception was hosted by their children, Adam and Bethany Noles of Lebanon, Tennessee; Andrew and Ashley Noles of Harvest, Alabama, and Anna and Ian Boyd of Wetumpka, Alabama.

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.

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-ofsecond-chances.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JULY 2

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. On July 2, taking the stage will be the band Crossroads, a six-piece variety band that covers many country and classic rock hits. The band performs selections from artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Linda Ronstadt, REM and The Eagles, as well as Carrie Underwood, Sugarland and Martina McBride. 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.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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 entertainment 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.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JULY 9

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. On July 9, Martha’s Trouble will take the stage. The duo, consisting of Jen and Rob Slocumb, have received multiple awards, including Best Americana Album of the Year by Just Plain Folk Awards, their Christmas Lights recording was selected as one of USA Today’s Top Holiday Albums, their cover of Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now was selected as one of Billboard Magazine’s Top 10 Cover Songs, and their recordings have been featured in several made-forTV movies. 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.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JULY 16

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. The July 16 concert will feature The James Brown Trio, a Southern Gospel group that will have your toes tapping and heart stirring to songs from the past as well as current tunes that are soon to be classics. 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.

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.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT ON JULY 23

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. The July 23 concert will feature Fedoras, an acoustic duo that plays folk, pop and bluegrass tunes the whole family will enjoy. 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.

CHEERS ON THE CORNER

The Auburn Downtown Merchants Association will host the 8th annual Cheers on the Corner event on Friday, July 26, in downtown Auburn. At this event for ages 21 and up, attendees will receive a souvenir wine glass to enjoy the tastes of downtown at more than 20 stops, each of which will provide a savory bite paired with a refreshing beverage sample. New this year will be a Best Small Bite and Best Sips contest, where participants get to vote for their favorites. Tickets go on sale on July 8 and will cost $45 in advance and are expected to sell out. If available, tickets will cost $50 the day of the event.

SUMMER SWING CONCERT FINALE JULY 30

Opelika Parks & Rec will host the final free outdoor concert of the season at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika on Tuesday, July 30, featuring a Back to School Bash. 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.

ZUMBA CLASSES

Zumba classes are held on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Frank Brown Recreational Center in Auburn. Cost is $5 drop in, $25 for five classes and $40 for 10 classes. Register at auburnal.myrec.com.

Club News from around Lee County Opelika Lions Club

Kiwanis of Opelika

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.

The recent Kiwanis of Opelika speaker was Craig Moore, who spoke on the impact that Pharmacy Benefit Mangers are making on drug prices and how that is putting pressure on local pharmacies.

The Opelika Lions Club annual installation banquet was held recently for incoming officers. . Left to right Jim Allen, Club Chaplain, Glen Stokes, Secretary, Doug Hicks, Lion Tamer, Brooka Stokes, President, Junior Morgan, First Vice President and Treasurer and Greg Boyd, Second Vice President. Installation oaths were administered by District B Governor Tracey Thompson, far right.

Rotary Club of Auburn recently presented donations totaling $15,000 to seven deserving community organizations, including: Care Humane Society (pictured above), Our House, Food Bank of East Alabama, Jason Dufner Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of East Alabama, Village Friends and Big House.