The Observer 07-13-2023

New 20 Under 40 Class - A4 Jack Browns Opens in Auburn - A11

JULY 18 | JAMES BROWN TRIO

Hudson Resigns as Lee-Scott Head Coach

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

Tuesday afternoon it was announced by Lee Scott Athletics that head baseball coach Tim Hudson was stepping down from the position.

Hudson, who became the Lee-Scott head coach Aug. 1, 2022, will be moving into a role as a volunteer coach in order to spend more time with his family, according to a statement released by LeeScott Academy.

“While we were surprised to learn of this development,

BY LIVI WELCH FOR THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY —

Summer pairs well with many things — grilled hamburgers, water slides and evening walks around the neighborhood. But few things pair better with summer than a glass of wine. Well, start "woofing" for joy, because the Lee County Humane Society is hosting its first ever Wine, Whiskers and Wags on Monday, July 17, hosted by Botanic. The event takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1702 Frederick Road.

The night features four wines, ranging from pinot noir, chardonnay, zinfandel

we wish coach Hudson the best moving forward,” said Dr. Stan Cox, head of school.

“Under his leadership, the staff and team at Lee-Scott Academy achieved success while rebuilding the program and improving our facilities.”

Hudson’s efforts and contributions toward Warrior baseball in his one year with Lee-Scott were significant.

Hudson led the Warriors to a AISA 3A State Tournament semifinals appearance, where Lee-Scott was eliminated in two games by the eventual state champion Glenwood Gators. In addition, four LeeScott

and a sparkling riesling, served by Botanic's personal wine steward. The introduced wines will include the name, region, aroma and flavor

as well as appearance and structure.

Additionally, each wine will be paired with a selection of tasty hors d’oeuvres to maximize

the flavor experience for guests attending. All of the wines served were chosen

CONTRIBUTED BY LEADERSHIP LEE COUNTY

AUBURN — Leadership Lee County will host its third annual leadership development event, Ignite Leadership Summit, featuring renowned speakers Don Yaeger, Jeff Henderson and Auburn baseball head coach

Butch Thompson. The event will take place Thursday, Aug. 24, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Opelika Marriott Resort & Spa. Individual tickets are available for $349 or reserve a table of 10 for $3,141 until July 31. Ticket prices will increase after July 31.

See LEADERS, page A3

The Lee County Humane Society will partner with Botanic this year to host the inaugural Wine, Whiskers and Wags event.

Lee-Scott head baseball coach (2023) Tim Hudson talks with his team Feb. 23 in a game against Chambers County.

See HUDSON, page A7

Stone Martin Builders Announces Vice President of Sales

CONTRIBUTED BY STONE

MARTIN BUILDERS

AUBURN —

Stone Martin Builders (SMB), one of the largest homebuilders across Alabama and the region, has named Sarah Martin as vice president of sales. Martin joined Stone Martin Builders in 2019 and previously served as market manager and sales manager before being promoted to her current position. In her new role, Martin will lead a dynamic team of sales professionals that strive to provide an exceptional experience to customers while building their home with SMB.

“Sarah has been essential from the first day she joined the Stone Martin Builders team, helping to exceed

the expectations of our employees and customers,” said John Manasco, chief operating officer of Stone Martin Builders. “We are elated to have Sarah as our vice president of Sales; I am confident in her ability to inspire high-performing teams.”

Martin has more than 17 years of experience in real estate. Before joining SMB, she owned a title insurance company that provided her with a unique vantage point of the industry. She also served as marketing director at a real estate agency where she discovered her passion for the entire real estate process and creating strong relationships with clients. In 2017, Martin obtained her real estate license. This allowed her to grow in her skills and become well-rounded and knowledgeable in the real estate industry.

Applications Deadline

Nearing for Upcoming Leadership Lee County Class

CONTRIBUTED BY ALI RAUCH

LEE COUNTY —

Leadership Lee County is a program sponsored by the Auburn and Opelika Chambers of Commerce. It seeks out, honors, educates, challenges and develops a select group of Lee County citizens who have the potential to provide the leadership needed to solve problems of community and statewide significance. Participants are selected based on ability, demonstrated interest in the community and potential for responsible and effective leadership.

“This program develops leaders and empowers them to have greater impact in their workplaces and in the community,” said Kristen Reeder, 2023-24 board chair of the Leadership Lee County board of directors.

“Class members learn and grow so much through their participation in Leadership Lee County. From behind the scenes tours to learn about our community, to a meaningful service project they'll work on together to fulfill a need in our

community, this is a truly meaningful experience for those who go through the program.”

Applications for the upcoming Leadership Lee County class are due July 31, 2023. There is a $25 non-refundable application fee and a tuition cost of $1,200, which covers the KickOff Retreat, monthly sessions, materials and meals. Please allow at least 30 minutes to complete the application in its entirety. To be considered for application to the program, applicants must complete all items listed on the application form. Please direct any questions or issues with the online application to apply@

leadershipleecounty.org or text 334-384-1353.

“I’m excited to see our applicant pool for this year's Leadership Lee County class,” said Ali Rauch, board member of Leadership Lee County and president & CEO of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. “This opportunity will allow them to learn more about this great community, form strong relationships with their classmates and most importantly, to experience personal leadership development preparing them to make Lee County an even better place to live.” Learn more about the program and application process at www. leadershipleecounty.org.

from wineries that support animal causes and shelters and are sustainably grown in biodiverse environments.

“The care[ful] planning and prepping that Botanic provides is amazing,” said Jenny Warren, LCHS’s outreach and development coordinator. “Recently, we worked with them when they hosted our Assisi Society Reception. They did a wonderful job with the food. The experience and their people are just fantastic.”

It isn’t hard to see why the two enjoy working together. Both LCHS and Botanic adore their furry friends.

“I love that they have chickens, geese and all types of pets roaming around,” Warren said.

There are many sponsoring this event, including Railroad Investment Group, Auburn University Credit Union, Michael Kelley-Legacy Law, Lowder Scott Real Estate & Prestige Properties, The Sexton Family, Kali Chadick-State Farm and UDA Technologies.

“We couldn't do it without their support,” Warren said. “It’s so important to have sponsors because it allows us to raise money

“I am thrilled to have the privilege of leading an exceptional team of individuals, witnessing their growth and dedication as they follow their passion to serve our customers,” Martin said. “It’s an honor for me to be a small part of building someone’s home, I look forward to guiding and supporting our customers as they navigate the home buying process.”

Martin is the mother to three teenage boys and said she enjoys being in her community, particularly through her involvement in Auburn Community Church. She also volunteers at her sons’ schools, helping to nurture a positive educational environment.

Martin’s family has a deep connection and dedication

for the shelter.”

Though contracted through the cities of Auburn and Opelika for its animal control services, LCHS relies on donations to meet the yearly budget.

“[The contracts] only provide 30 to 35% of our budget,” Warren said. “We are dependent [on] adoption fees and private contributions for [the other] 60 to 70%. We couldn't do it without the support of our staff, donors, board members and volunteers. It's a must for us to have our continued campaigns and fundraiser events.”

From grants to assist in covering costs for kennels and food, to free vaccine and microchip events and a program named SNYP (Spay Neuter Your Pet) that helps families have their pet spayed or neutered for only $5 (depending on income), LCHS has a lot to provide the community.

“I don’t think people realize how much LCHS has to offer,” Warren said. “Yes, we take stray pets and we help our shelter pets find new homes, but we do much more than people [know]. Once we had a lady who didn't have transportation for her pet and someone went and picked her dog up so they could get their shots and be treated at the vet. We are also transparent in our newsletters and

to the Auburn Lacrosse Club where her children actively participate as players, and her husband is a dedicated coach.

ABOUT STONE MARTIN BUILDERS

Based in the AuburnOpelika area, Stone Martin Builders is dedicated to developing aspirational communities throughout Alabama and Georgia, including Huntsville, Athens, Prattville, Montgomery, Auburn/Opelika, Dothan and Columbus, Georgia. Since its establishment in 2006, the company has quickly grown and in 2022 was ranked as one of the 100 largest home builders in the U.S. by Builder Online. More info at www. stonemartinbuilders.com

social media about our shelter being full and give accurate info of how many intakes, volunteer hours, heartworm treatments and adoptions we have each month. We are constantly trying to educate our audience on safety measures for their pets [as well.]”

Though the Lee County Humane Society has been around since 1974, it is looking toward a fresh start this October.

“We are rebranding and planning a name change,” Warren said. “It’s a secret what our name will be, but we are teasing the upcoming news.”

Check out LCHS’s website www. leecountyhumane.org/ donate-now for more information on Wine Whiskers & Wags and other ways to support LCHS.

WAGS >> from A1

SARAH MARTIN

Serenity, owned by Publisher Michelle Key, was a rescue several years ago.

East Alabama Health News: Exec, Nurses Recognized

CONTRIBUTED BY EAST ALABAMA HEALTH

OPELIKA — East Alabama Health is celebrating two accomplishments among its employees — one director being appointed to a state council and nurses who were awarded DAISY awards.

EAST ALABAMA HEALTH'S GROSS NAMED TO STATEWIDE HEALTH COORDINATING COUNCIL BY GOV. IVEY

Marcilla Gross, executive director of regulatory affairs and leadership development at East Alabama Health (EAH), has been selected by Gov. Kay Ivey to serve as a member of the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC).

The SHCC advises the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) on matters relating to health planning and resource development. Gross will serve as a representative for providers in the state during her three-year term ending in May 2026.

“I have made honesty and integrity a priority in my administration, and I know that you will embody these two virtues while serving the people of Alabama,” Ivey wrote in her letter to Gross announcing the appointment. “I trust that you will rise to the occasion and set a standard for others to follow.”

Gross was previously

appointed to the council by Gov. Bob Riley and served as a member from 2004 until 2011.

Gross brings more than 25 years of experience in healthcare regulatory compliance to the council. She currently oversees all compliance regarding federal and state healthcare regulations at EAH.

Gross has also served on the Alabama Hospital Association RIC/RAC Steering Committee and is a current board member of Leadership Lee County, having participated in its leadership class during 2009 and 2010.

“Marcilla plays such a vital role in our organization and has been involved in our regulatory affairs with the state for many years,” said Laura Grill, president and CEO of EAH. “I’m

sure her experience and knowledge in that arena will make her a great asset to the Statewide Health Coordinating Council.

“What a great honor for her to be appointed to this position by Gov. Ivey. As an organization, we are so proud of Marcilla and thankful for her leadership.”

As a member of the council, she will help advance its mission of ensuring that quality health care facilities, services and equipment are available and accessible to the citizens of Alabama in a manner which assures continuity of care at a reasonable cost.

NURSES EARN DAISY AWARDS, ORGANIZATIONAL HONORS DURING NURSES WEEK

National Nurses Week was full of honors and awards for nurses and

support staff at East Alabama Health (EAH).

Four EAH nurses received the DAISY Award for Prestigious Nurses, one received the DAISY Award for Nurses Advancing Health Equity and EAH also held its annual organizational award ceremony.

The DAISY Award is given nationally and internationally to outstanding nurses who provide exceptional care for their patients.

Recipients are

and chief nursing officer at EAH. “When you see a nurse wearing a DAISY pin, you know that you have the best, and EAH has awarded several of these over the years.

“There is nothing I love more professionally than to hear detailed stories of how our compassionate and highly skilled nurses touch the lives of their patients and families, and how they support their coworkers.”

An acronym for

Keynote speaker

Yaeger is an awardwinning speaker, an 11-time New York Times best-selling author, host of the top-rated Corporate Competitor Podcast, executive leadership coach and longtime associate editor for Sports Illustrated.

Yaeger has developed a reputation as a worldclass storyteller and appeared as a guest on

major talk shows from Oprah to Fox Business News, CNN to Good Morning America. In 2023, Real Leaders magazine acknowledged Yaeger as a “Speaker to Watch” because of his success on stage.

Henderson has impacted many throughout his life as an entrepreneur, pastor, speaker and dedicated business leader. Henderson worked in marketing for many years at top companies such as the Atlanta Braves and Chick-

fil-A before deciding to become a pastor for North Point Ministries. Serving alongside a team of mentors on his podcast, Launch Youniversity, Henderson seeks to engage and empower the next generation of leaders who are driven to accelerate their personal and professional development.

Thompson has led Auburn Baseball to remarkable success since coming to the Plains in 2015. Under coach Thompson,

nominated by someone who has experienced their dedication to providing high-quality, compassionate health care.

“The DAISY Award is a very special award given to extraordinary nurses,” said Nicki Ware, vice-president of quality

Auburn advanced to two of the last three College World Series and advanced to the Super Regionals in three of the last four seasons. Known for his ability to develop athletes on and off the field, Thompson has turned 38 undrafted high school pitchers into MLB draft picks, including Casey Mize, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft.

“We are thrilled about this exciting speaker lineup for Ignite,” said Charlie Saliba, Leadership Lee County

Diseases Attacking the Immune System, the DAISY Foundation was formed by the family of Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33, to offer gratitude to outstanding nurses.

The DAISY Award recipients this year were Anna Stubbs, a

treasurer. “Attendees are in for a great day of information and networking to reignite their leadership skills.”

Ignite Leadership Summit is sponsored by Leadership Lee County in partnership with Here Molly Girl and 9 Lemons Hospitality. Tickets are available for purchase at igniteleadershipsummit.

org.

ABOUT LEADERSHIP LEE COUNTY

Leadership Lee County is a program sponsored by the

nurse on the general surgery and oncology unit at East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC); Martine Tolbert, a nurse in EAMC’s nursing support float pool; Wendy Shelton, a nurse on the childbirth unit; Macauley Brown, a nurse in the EAMCLanier Emergency Department; and Sutricia Johnson, director of case management, who received the DAISY Award for Nurses Advancing Health Equity.

During their surprise recognition ceremonies, each nurse heard the nomination read that earned them their DAISY award and received a hand-carved sculpture from Zimbabwe titled “A Healer’s Touch,” a

See EAH, page A5

Auburn and Opelika Chambers of Commerce. It seeks out, honors, educates, challenges and develops a select group of Lee County citizens who have the potential to provide the leadership needed to solve problems of community and statewide significance. Its mission is to identify, develop and inspire future leaders through professional development, educational opportunities and community involvement.

Marcilla Gross, executive director of regulatory affairs and leadership development at East Alabama Health, was recently selected by Gov. Kay Ivey to serve on a state health council.

Wendy Shelton, a nurse on the childbirth unit, was one of five EAH nurses to receive a DAISY Award.

LEADERS >> from A1

Opelika Chamber’s 2023-24 20 Under 40 Class

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OPELIKA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

OPELIKA —

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2023-24 20

Under 40 Class.

Opelika’s 20 Under 40 program is made up of 20 outstanding people under the age of 40 who live in Opelika, love Opelika

and have a vested interest in shaping the direction of this city’s future. The purpose of the program is to bring together young professionals from diverse professions and backgrounds on a regular basis to learn about the various aspects of the intricate workings of a city, school system, business, industry and public service to give them

a better understanding of how all these separate entities come together to create a working, viable community.

This year’s class members are:

• Ashley Colquitt — Opelika Chamber of Commerce

• Austin Duran — Machen McChesney

• Brandon Hutto — Opelika Police

Department

• Charlotte Brown —

Auburn University

• Claire Martin — East

Alabama Health

• Griffin O’Connor — City of Opelika

• Haley Wilson —

Lee-Russell Council of Governments

• Holley Head — MAX

Credit Union

• Jessica Bloodsworth –MenuMatch, LLC

• Joe Janning — Bonnie

Plants

• Katie Whittelsey —

Community Foundation of East Alabama

• Kristen Ferrell –—

Auburn City Schools

• Lakieshia Barnett —

Southern Union State Community College

• Laura Sellers —

Opelika City Schools

• Lauren Bland Bernier — Lauren Bland State

Farm

• Morgan Cole — East

Alabama Health

• Nadja Gunn — City of Opelika

• Randy Kennessey –—

Walmart Distribution

• Sean Lackey —

Golden State Foods

• Steven Webb –—

Kroger

• Theo Moore — Hiztorical Vison Productions

Drink

•

• Hike to the waterfalls at Chewacla

• Go to a farmer's market

• Play pinball at Rock ‘n Roll Pinball.

• Play laser tag at Cyberzone

• Go bowling at AMF or Good Times

• Watch a movie during the summer series at The Gogue

• Ride the train at Monkey Park

• Listen to a Summer Swing concert

• Watch a Fireworks show

• Visit Jule Collins

Art Museum

• Do a nature scavenger hunt at Kreher Preserve

• Go fishing at Lee County Lake

• G o to Courthouse Square and read The Observer and / or Live Lee Magazine

• Play miniature golf at Tiger Town Sports

• Volunteer at the Lee County Humane Society

• Play golf at TeeTime Golf

• Visit the Museum of East Alabama

• Jump around at Surge Trampoline Park

• Skate around the at The Skating Rink in Valley

• Feed the Cows at Blue Ribbon Dairy

• Check out the animals at Choctafaula

• Go for a swim

• Go to the library

• Go for a walk at the Sportsplex

• Visit the Historic Jones Store Museum in Smiths Station

• Eat dinner at Food Truck Friday

• Throw axes at Axe Marks the Spot

P H O T O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

EAH >> FROM A3

DAISY Award certificate and a DAISY Award pin.

Staff throughout EAMC also gathered to recognize outstanding nurses and multi-care techs (MCT) during an awards ceremony.

Those recognized were nominated by their supervisors for their outstanding service and dedication to their patients.

“Getting to celebrate our outstanding clinical staff is always an exciting part of Nurses Week,” Ware said. “We have so many incredible nurses and support staff within the organization who go above and beyond every day for their patients, so it’s always great to be able to take time to recognize their dedication.”

Awards were presented for Nurse Coach of the Year, MCT Coach of the Year, Nurse Resident of the Year and Mentor of the Year.

Madison Arwood, a nurse in the EAMC Emergency Department, received the Nurse Coach of the Year award.

Bryson Bell, an MCT in the EAMC Emergency Department, received the MCT Coach of the Year award.

Hannah Hamilton, a nurse in the EAMC Emergency Department, received the Nurse Resident of the Year award.

Chris Berglund, a nurse on the sixth floor at EAMC, received the 2023 Nurse Mentor award.

Awards were also given for outstanding nurses and support staff from each nurse care area at EAMC.

Pam Bartlett and Ivonne Pedroza received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for women’s and children’s services,

respectively.

Jenny Alvarado and Kahlila Floyd received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for critical care, respectively.

Kim Houston and Stephanie Pierson received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for emergency services, respectively.

Jeff Nolen and Zay Kellum received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for perioperative services, respectively.

Tara Mersino and Detra Landers received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for medical-surgical services, respectively.

Donna Henderson and Mia Pitts received the outstanding nurse and mental health assistant awards for psychiatric services, respectively.

Susan Fitzwater and Brenda Pace received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for oncology services, respectively.

Annette Broome and Deanne Silverdahl received the outstanding nurse and cardiovascular tech awards for cardiology services, respectively.

Marie McLeod and

Sara Askew received the outstanding nurse and certified nursing assistant awards for long-term care, respectively.

Fred Waugh and Kristen Hicks received the outstanding nurse and MCT awards for inpatient support, respectively.

ABOUT EAST ALABAMA HEALTH

Macauley Brown, a nurse in the EAMC-Lanier Emergency Department, was one of five EAH nurses to receive a DAISY Award.

be vulgar in nature. Only one prize per family can be won during the duration of the giveaway. Winners must be over 18 and be residents of Lee County, Alabama.

P H O T O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R P H O T O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

Welcome to the Neighborhood

The Woods, a new subdivision located less than a half mile from Downtown Opelika, held an open house Saturday, July 8. The Woods is marketed as a timeless community of single-family homes filled with welcoming touches of a small-town neighborhood such as green spaces, walking trails and a shared park. To learn more about The Woods, visit: www. brockbuilt.com/community/thewoods.

Opelika, Valley Rescue Mission Enter Into Agreement to Serve Homeless

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA — Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council announced the approval of an agreement with Valley Rescue Mission Inc. (VRM) of Columbus, Georgia, on July 11 during the city council meeting.

This agreement will help provide shelter for

homeless persons living in Opelika with a goal of transitioning people into permanent housing and employment.

“We have been working on a solution for the homeless in our city for some time,” Fuller said. “Through our partnership with Valley Rescue Mission, the city will be responsible for transporting someone who has consented to transport and will fund each person for one year at the shelter. This is an excellent example of public-private partnerships and how we can help those in need.”

VRM will perform intake through multiple

screening tests related to drugs and other issues. If accepted into the program, the person will enter into the woman’s shelter or the men’s transitional living program for a period of three months. If the homeless person has an addiction, then they will be admitted into the appropriate addiction program. The homeless person will [need to] give full consent to be a part of the program.

“The Valley Rescue Mission is proud to join with the city of Opelika in addressing homelessness and addiction issues for its needy citizens,” said Mike Gaymon, CEO/

Concerned Citizens of Opelika Hosts National Night Out

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

National Night Out is coming back to Opelika.

National Night Out began a few years ago in Opelika through the efforts of then-Ward 2 Council Member Oscar Penn.

Penn partnered with the city to bring National Night Out to Courthouse Square in Opelika.

“We’re doing this in order to bring about the positive reinforcement that we need in our community and help our young people to understand the value of life and not taking life,” said Oscar Penn, one of the organizers of the event and president of Concerned Citizens of Opelika.

National Night Out will be held on Aug. 1 at Bandy Park at 18 Jeter Ave. in Opelika from 5 to 8 p.m.

“We the citizens of Opelika and Lee County invite you to participate in this year’s National Night Out,” said an announcement from the Concerned Citizens of Opelika. “As you may know, National Night Out is a national community-building program that promotes police-community partnerships. It enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true

sense of community.”

The event will operate under a “We Are The Village” theme and will include several invited guests.

Eric Strickland, Penn’s cousin, former professional baseball player for the Florida Marlins and Opelika native, will speak during the event.

“He’s going to come home, he’s going to be our Grand Marshall and an ambassador,” Penn said.

During the ceremony, the Concerned Citizens of Opelika will be handing out different awards. Attend the event to find out who is receiving awards this year.

Not only will adults win awards but there are “young people awards”, Penn said.

“We are asking the entire resource community and the faith-based community to come out because this is a two-part process,” Penn said. “The resource community will offer healing through physical and getting people to understand where they can go and get the resources they need to have this healing process. And the faith-based will offer spiritual healing where they will come in and minister and return our people to the Word of God.”

“This is a time for us, as a community, to come

together as a community and start finding ways to heal within ourselves,” Penny said. “We want to make Lee County a model county for other counties in the state and around the country.

“Because if each and every individual doesn’t get involved, we’re losing someone. Because when one individual hurts, we all hurt. And when things such as murder, and lives are taken from our young people, we all are affected by it.”

The city of Opelika, according to a statement it released, will host its own National Night Out ceremony on Oct. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Courthouse Square.

“The point is this, when we as a community come together, and I stress, that shows a love that we should show to one another, it builds a better community,” Penn said.

president of VRM. “This agreement demonstrates the caring attitudes that the elected officials of Opelika have for a segment of their citizens.

“The Valley Rescue Mission’s 60-year history is about serving Christ in our communities. Helping the homeless, the hungry and those with addictions are available with this agreement.”

HUDSON >>

Warriors — Kade Hudson, Jake Cummings, JD Burns and Jack McKay — were named AISA All-Stars under Hudson in 2023. No statement about the decision has been made from Hudson himself. The leadership at Lee-Scott now turns its attention to replacing the head coach.

“To our current and future members of the Warrior baseball program, we are committed to finding a proven leader to continue our winning tradition,” said Athletic Director William Johnson. “Our program will attract top coaching candidates. Our future is bright.”

Cox added: “Lee-Scott Warriors athletics is currently in an exciting time and we are confident we will find a great coach to lead our baseball program. We have enjoyed much success in the last few years and look forward to continuing to build on that momentum.

Carolyn Morton prays during the National Night Out event in 2021.

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller (left) and CEO/President of Valley Rescue Mission Mike Gaymon. The city council approved an agreement between the two entities during Tuesday night's city council meeting.

Opelika Native, Realtor Returns to Three Sixty's East Alabama Office

CONTRIBUTED BY 360 REALTY

AUBURN —

Three Sixty {real estate} is welcoming back realtor Taft Ledbetter to its East Alabama office.

Ledbetter is excited to continue growing his business, as well as continuing his involvement in the community he loves so much, he said. He is a graduate of the 2022-23 Opelika 20 Under 40 Program, and also an inaugural member of Opelika Young Professionals. He said he loves seeing how Opelika has been revitalized over the years, and is now a hub for business ventures, family living and community involvement.

Ledbetter graduated from Opelika High School in 2011 and then attended Troy University for the first part of his college education. He then joined the Alabama Army National Guard and moved back to Opelika after completing a year of active duty training. Ledbetter began his professional career while also completing his degree in Business Management through Huntingdon College, from which he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2017.

Ledbetter grew up working for his family’s HVAC business, so being in the business of serving others, he found the transition to the real estate industry very nat-

ural, he said. Ledbetter started his real estate career in January 2018. He now has an extensive background in residential new construction and has had the privilege of helping over 300 families/ individuals design and purchase their dream homes.

Ledbetter has never met a stranger, he has a passion for people and loves the opportunity to be a part of such an important part of his clients’ lives, he said.

“I'm excited to continue growing my business, as well as continuing my involvement in this community that I love so much,” Ledbetter said.

After meeting Jess on a blind date to New Orleans in 2013, it was only a few

months before Ledbetter decided to make her his better half, forever. They married in 2015 and they now have a 4-year-old little wrecking ball named Locke, who loves the outdoors and animals (especially his furry brother and sister). Ledbetter and his family attend First Baptist Church of Opelika, which is where he grew up having his diapers changed. The couple loves to travel together and has crossed off some pretty incredible destinations from their bucket list. Despite their love for travel, his family believes there is no better place to call home than Opelika, and the surrounding community.

When Ledbetter isn’t

working, you will likely find him spending time with his family, playing golf or traveling somewhere with great views and even better food, he said.

“We are so pleased to have Taft back at Three Sixty, and we are excited to see how he grows further in his career,” said Three Sixty Real Estate East Alabama Branch Broker Elizabeth Rose.

ABOUT THREE SIXTY

Three Sixty is in the business of home. We offer a family of services including real estate, property management, interior design and staging, vacation rentals and commercial real estate. While our disciplines are varied, our entire team operates from the same set of core values, making Three Sixty the sought after firm to work with in Auburn, Birmingham and Lake Martin, Alabama. Utilizing forward-thinking and creative processes, Three Sixty strives to make every experience unique and as smooth as possible by providing a consistent partner to maintain the integrity of projects as a whole. As a respected and profitable company, we strive to make a positive impact on the communities that we serve.

To learn more about Three Sixty visit us online at www.concepttoclosing.com or call 334-887-3601.

O Town Hosts Lily From Choctafaula Farms

TAFT LEDBETTER

Lily, a spider monkey from Choctafaula Farms, visited O Town for story time and ice cream on Tuesday, July 11.

S ociety & News vents, E

S Food ociety & News

ian and Mexican cuisines. When I dine at restaurants, again, I tend to order the same dishes.

However, occasionally, I have branched out and tried foods which were unusual for me. For example, when my husband Mike and I traveled to the Bahamas on our honeymoon in 2005, we decided to eat a popular Bahamian dish — conch.

or thick liquid and often allowed to ferment.”

That definition is one hundred percent accurate. No offense to our 50th state, but poi looks like lavender-colored Elmer’s glue and was mostly tasteless, thank the Good Lord. I dabbed at it with a toothpick and didn’t ask for a bowl, believe me.

I am certainly a creature of habit in most things, especially where food is concerned. Therefore, I am a challenging patient to Lynn Hudson, my wonderful diabetic specialist, who encourages me to eat healthy foods. I really do appreciate her efforts to help me.

As I’ve mentioned before in this column, my favorite food is Southern cooking, followed by Ital-

That’s right, we ate large sea SNAILS. This dish was fried, and I ate it with tartar sauce to make it more palatable. It tasted all right, but, believe me, it will never replace fried chicken in my heart.

Years later, I once again stepped out of my food comfort zone when Mike and I went to Hawaii. We tried poi, which according to Siri, is a “Hawaiian food prepared from the cooked corms of taro that are mashed with water to the consistency of a paste

Recently, Mike and I decided it was time once again to expand our culinary horizons, and this time, the experience was a great one, unlike conch and poi. We traveled to downtown Auburn to Mochiatsu at 132 N. College St. The restaurant opened last March and is locally owned by Bin Chen. Mochiatsu has a fun, brightly colored interior. Annie, who took our order, was really sweet, patient and helpful.

The restaurant serves Korean hot dogs, mochi

donuts and boba, or bubble tea, items which Mike and I had never eaten.

Korean hot dogs come on a stick and are large, lightly breaded and crunchy. Also, the hot dogs have various ingredients besides the wiener. Mike ordered the potato rice

hot dog and a strawberry donut. I chose the original half mozzarella and half hot dog and a mango donut.

Oh, my two times. Both of our hot dog choices were delicious. Mochiatsu also serves a variety of other hot dogs, some of which

include: the original rice hot dog, the Ramen rice hot dog, the potato half mozzarella and half hot dog, the Cheetos rice hot dog and the original whole mozzarella.

Also, the mochi donuts were scrumptious. The See WALLACE page A11

Your Pie Pizza Brings Back Beloved Summer Special

CONTRIBUTED BY YOUR PIE

AUBURN —

Your Pie Pizza, the original fast-casual pizza concept, is thrilled to once again announce the return of its annual Summer Peach Craft Series, serving up seasonal flavors that customers nationwide look forward to all year. Exclusively available June through early September, the Summer Peach Craft Series is headlined by the classic Peach & Prosciutto Pie alongside the crowdfavorite Summer Peach Salad. In addition, Your Pie will expand the Summer Peach Craft Series this year with the introduction of the Kickin’ BBQ Peach Pie and new specialty gelato flavors: Peaches and Cream and Limoncello Sorbet. The Summer Peach Craft Series selections each uniquely

celebrate Your Pie’s Georgia roots and strong Italian influences.

“The customer fanfare around the Summer Peach Craft Series, and specifically the Peach & Prosciutto Pie, never fails to amaze me — even after almost seven years of offering it on our menu,” said Drew French, founder of Your Pie. “It all started with the aim to fuse a Southern summer staple, peaches, with seasonal flavors you could also find in the south of Italy. The opportunity to honor the two places that mean most to our brand is incredibly special to me, but the way our customers look forward to this time of year at Your Pie means even more.”

A true crowd-pleaser since 2015, the Peach & Prosciutto Pie features olive oil, ricotta, prosciutto, mozzarella

and parmesan cheeses, fresh peaches, basil and a honey-balsamic glaze. As a perfect complement to the Peach & Prosciutto’s flavor profile, the Kickin’ BBQ Peach starts with a base of BBQ Sauce, topped with shredded mozzarella, crispy bacon, house-pickled jalapenos, sliced peaches and red onions. The finishing touch is a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey, a proud partner of this year’s Summer Peach Craft Series.

The Peach & Prosciutto Pie earned French a place on the 2016 United States Pizza Team, as well as the chance to compete for the 2016 World Pizza Championship title in Parma, Italy. The following year, QSR Magazine named the pizza one of “America’s Most Innovative Menu Items.”

“We’re so excited

On Sunday, July 16, Your Pie in Auburn will offer community members a free scoop of authentic Italian gelato or sorbet in celebration of National Ice Cream Day. This year, limited edition Summer Peach Craft Series flavors are included, too: Limoncello and Peaches and Cream. All customers have to do is download the Your Pie loyalty app and visit Your Pie in-person or order online. It's that easy to celebrate this fun (and delicious) summer holiday.

to bring the Peach & Prosciutto Pizza back and to see how customers react when they taste the Kickin’ BBQ Peach Pizza for the first time,” said Lisa Dimson, chief marketing officer of Your Pie. “The Peach &

Prosciutto has stood on its own for years now, but I think the Kickin’ BBQ Peach is going to give it a run for its money. Regardless of which pizza customers order, we’re confident that both options,

especially when paired with the Summer Peach Salad and a scoop of gelato, will have customers craving these refreshing, unique flavors all summer long.”

See PIZZA, page A11

Mochiatsu, located at 132 N. College St. in Auburn, opened last March serving Korean hot dogs, donuts and bubble tea.

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

his is the hottest I’ve ever seen Alabama,” said the TV meteorologist, who was sweating so badly his white shirt looked like a Ziplock bag. “I’ve never seen temperatures this high.”

If you haven’t heard, a dangerous Alabama heatwave is currently affecting the Southeast. The National Weather Service just reported that the heat index is likely to reach 117 degrees before the end of this column. Maybe even higher. It’s so hot, the Jehovah’s Witnesses in my neighborhood have started telemar -

“Tketing.

“By the Fourth of July,” stated the National Weather Service, “the ‘feels-like’ temperature is going to reach, approximately, Satan.”

I am originally from the Florida Panhandle. Growing up, we had summers that were so hot that whenever dogs chased cats, they both walked. But this is a new level of heat. This is existential heat.

A few days ago — this is true — I was walking into Publix to buy groceries. As I was staggering through the parking lot, I noticed a Nissan Altima with cookies baking on the hood. Chocolate chip.

Heat Wave

ton.”

I saw the owner stepping into her car, wrestling with her seatbelt, which was so scaldingly hot it qualified as a branding iron.

“Are those really cookies baking on your hood?” I asked.

“They're gluten free,” she said. “My 9-year-old daughter is allergic to gluten.”

I met another woman in the supermarket who is originally from Cullman, Alabama.

“This is nothing,” she said. “One time, my neighbors put up a privacy fence made out of PVC, the thing melted. Now it looks like he has a privacy wall of Play-Doh.”

The heat is no joking matter. Today, the temperature gauge on my dashboard read 116 degrees.

“You kind of get used to the heat,” said longtime Alabama resident Randy Marks. “I’ve been living in Birmingham since I was a baby. I remember one time my mom bought a dozen eggs, and when she got home, there were 12 baby chicks in the car -

The entire region has been succumbing to deadly heat this week. There have been 11 heat-related deaths in the Southeast recently.

On Tuesday, a postal worker collapsed and died while on his route in Dallas.

According to the U.S. Postal Service, while going door to door during the high temperatures, Eugene Gates Jr. collapsed in a front yard before a homeowner. The homeowners came outside and tried to perform CPR, but it was too late. He was gone.

The New York Times reported recently that at least 270 UPS and U.S. Postal Service drivers have been sickened or hospitalized due to heat exposure in the past decade.

Linda, of Hoover, Alabama, almost lost a pet to heat stroke this year. She was on a walk with her husband and their dog Floyd at 7 in the evening. Her dog started panting excessively, then he started vomiting. She was busy checking on her

dog when she noticed that her husband was also vomiting in the other room.

“Quit lollygagging, you idiot!” Linda shouted to her husband. “Get out here and help me with the dog!”

A few hours later, they were in the emergency room where her husband was hooked up to an IV drip, clinging to life.

“I would have never called him an idiot if I’d known he was suffering heatstroke,” Linda said. “Thankfully,” she added, “the dog is okay.

Marie-Carmelle Elie, M.D., chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine in the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine, said heat illness can be a fatal condition.

“The body uses sweating to cool itself, but with extreme temperatures, high humidity, body temperature can rise to dangerous levels,” she said. “Older adults, children and those with preexisting conditions are at highest risk; but anyone can develop heat-related

illnesses under the right conditions.”

Even so, the advice on how to deal with heatstroke is hit-ormiss. No two medical experts seem to agree on the correct way to treat heat exhaustion.

“The best thing to do ... is to reduce the person’s temperature with cool cloths, or an ice bath, but do not — I repeat — DO NOT give fluids, or you will be looking at a corpse,” one expert said. “Excess fluids flush vital nutrients and deplete electrolytes.”

And yet another expert I interviewed said, “Move the victim to a cool location, have them lie down, loosen their clothing, make them drink lots of Gatorade. Call 911. If that doesn’t work, get a priest.”

But it was the meteorologist on TV who gave the best advice.

“If you want to know how to deal with this heat,” he told viewers, “move somewhere cooler, like Phoenix. Or Hell.”

Or at the very least bake some cookies.

SEAN DIETRICH

Jack Brown's Beer and Burger Joint Opening in Downtown Auburn

BY ETHAN STAMPER FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint is opening in downtown Auburn on July 24.

The restaurant is located at the storefront where Cheeburger Cheeburger used to be on North College Street. Patrons can expect a wide selection of burgers and beers to enjoy during their visit, but the atmosphere is something Jack Brown’s prides itself on most.

“For me, it's about creating that environment where people feel accepted, where people feel warm, where people feel comfortable and can be themselves,” said Chris Clevenger, Jack Brown’s general manager.

Clevenger said he frequented the Birmingham location as one of his goto places to eat so he said he was extremely excited

at the prospect of running the new Auburn location after hearing about the project.

“It was my go-to place to have a really good beer and a really good burger ... low light, relatively loud music with a bunch of people [that] just made you feel at home,” Clevenger said.

Jack Brown’s serves 100% American Wagyu beef from Snake River Farms, a family owned and operated business in Boise, Idaho. American Wagyu beef is the result of crossbreeding Japanese Wagyu with Continental breeds.

“They run an incredible operation out there, they make some of the best beef in the world and we serve it exclusively,” Clevenger said. “Quality is top notch, and we top that off with Martin's potato rolls on each of our burgers.”

Aside from typical burger and cheeseburger offerings, Jack Brown’s has a variety of unique burgers like the WDE,

which is topped with bacon, fried egg, cheese and a glazed donut bun.

“It’s something special; you wake up on a Sunday, you might be hungover from the night before and you're just looking for something greasy and really good to put in your belly,” Clevenger said.

“Jack Brown’s is a place that you can wander into and have a little hair of the dog and have that WDE burger as well.”

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint is the dream of two childhood best friends, Aaron Ludwig and Mike Sabin. They

opened the first Jack’s Brown Beer and Burger Joint in 2009 in the college town of Harrisonburg, Virginia. They came together with a love for craft beers and quality burgers, and the dream took off from there.

The grand opening of the Auburn location will be Monday, July 24.

The restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to midnight and Mondays through Wednesdays and from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursdays through Saturday. It is closed on Sundays. It is located 160 N. College St.

WALLACE >>

FROM A7

colorful display and large variety of donuts made choosing very difficult.

My mango donut was described as “juicy and tropical,” and it certainly was. Mike’s strawberry donut was described as “a classic and timeless flavor.” Bingo; that’s my next choice. Both donuts were light and extreme-

ly delicious. I’m sorry, Lynn; I’ve found another no-no food I love.

Our mochi donuts were two of the four best sellers. The other two most popular were taro, which has a “lightly sweet and creamy vanilla taste” and raspberry, which is “a balance between sweetness and tanginess.” Some other mochi donut flavors included:

Oreo, churro, blueberry,

flavors on National Ice Cream Day, July 16.

pineapple, Nutella and banana.

Mochiatsu also serves a large variety of boba, or bubble teas. I tried to be a little good and ordered bottled water. However, I found myself sipping on Mike’s really tasty mango iced tea, much to his dismay.

After Mike and I finished eating, I chatted with some other customers, who were very kind

to talk to me. Harper, who enjoyed a brown sugar-flavored donut on her first trip to Mochiatsu, chose a raspberry that day. Harper said, “I really enjoyed it last time, so I came back. It’s a special place.”

Eboniee, who lives in Smith Station, is a regular customer. “When I come to Auburn on business, I stop here. My favorite donuts are the

Oreo and strawberry,” she said. Travel to downtown Auburn to Mochiatsu. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did.

Mochiatsu is open on Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mochiatsu 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 in The Observer every other week. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail.com.

Customers can enjoy both pizzas as either 10inch personal pies or 14inch large pies, perfect for sharing around the table. The Summer Peach Salad boasts crisp, fresh ingredients including spinach and romaine lettuce, mozzarella, Roma tomatoes, red onion, pecans — and of course, peaches. Additionally, the gelato case at all Your Pie restaurants now includes limited-timeonly flavors, Peaches and Cream and Limoncello Sorbet. Your Pie Rewards Members can look forward to a free scoop of these summer

The Summer Peach Craft Series launched on Monday, May 29, and will be available at Your Pie restaurants nationwide through Sept. 3. To check out the full Your Pie menu, learn more about dining and delivery options, franchising or to download the rewards app, visit www.yourpie. com. For additional updates and other news, follow Your Pie on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok or Twitter.

NATIONAL ICE CREAM DAY

In honor of 2023’s National Ice Cream Day, Your Pie will serve free scoops of creamy, authentic gelato and

sorbet for customers on Sunday, July 16. Those interested in enjoying a scoop can visit participating locations or order online to cool off with one of Your Pie’s delicious, Italian-style ice cream offerings. The free scoop can be redeemed through the Your Pie loyalty app. Originally inspired by their honeymoon trip to Ischia, Italy, Your Pie founders Drew and Natalie French knew from the start that they wanted the Your Pie menu to include real Italian gelato. Thus, just as Your Pie’s woodfired, brick-oven pizza is inspired by Italian tradition, so is its wide selection of gelato and

sorbet offerings, all made from Italian recipes.

“For us, Free Gelato Day is one of the best days of the year because it’s an opportunity to share our favorite dessert with our favorite people: our loyal Your Pie customers,” Drew said. “We are proud to bring the same quality of gelato found in Italy to our guests' local communities. There’s nothing better than gelato on a hot summer day, and we look forward to sharing a scoop with friends and family on July 16.”

This year’s Free Gelato Day falls during Your Pie’s Summer Peach Craft Series, which means that in

addition to classic gelato flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate and Cookies and Cream, guests have the opportunity to try two limited edition flavors: Limoncello and Peaches and Cream.

For more information about Free Gelato Day, or to check out the full Your Pie menu, learn about dining and delivery options, franchising or to download the rewards app, visit www.yourpie. com. For additional updates and other news, follow Your Pie on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok or Twitter.

ABOUT YOUR PIE PIZZA

Your Pie is the world’s originator of the fast casual, brick-oven,

customized personal pizza category. Founded by Drew French in 2008, Your Pie is inspired by family recipes from the Italian island of Ischia. The brand uses handtossed dough, fresh ingredients, homemade pizza sauces and salad dressings, and offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free pizzas, in addition to traditional pizzas and create-yourown salads. Your Pie also offers local craft beer, wine and Italianstyle gelato pairings. The brand has more than 70 locations open across the United States. For more information about Your Pie or franchising opportunities, please visit www.yourpie.com.

Mochiatsu's donuts and Korean-style hot dogs come in a variety of flavors.

The final stages of construction on the new Jack Brown's location are in progress. The restaurant is scheduled to open on July 24.

You Were Blessed if Your Mama Read You Fairytales

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Books have been important to me. I blame my mama for that. She read fairytales to me when I was a little boy. Before I could read or write, I knew

STACY TRAWICK ROBINSON

Stacy Trawick Robinson, 54, was born Aug. 20, 1968, in Mobile, Alabama. She passed away on July 8, 2023, in her home in Auburn, after a four-yearlong battle with cancer. She passed away surrounded by her family, to whom she dedicated her life.

Stacy is preceded in death by her father, Thomas Walker Trawick Jr.; brother, Russell Thomas Trawick; and nephew, Russell Walker Trawick.

She is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Eric Paul Robinson M.D., and three daughters, Hayley (Dillon) Williams, Hayden (Thomas) DeGrange and Holly Grace (Davis) Thompson. She has two granddaughters and a grandson on the way. She is also survived by her mother, Ouida (Joe) Brewer; brother, Scott (Kelly) Trawick; and sister Suzanne (Gary) Smith. She is survived by six nieces and three nephews.

Stacy brought abundant joy to everyone who knew her and loved her. She always put the needs of others before her own. Her life reflected the light of Christ as she cared for her family and raised her girls, which she considered to be the calling God placed on her heart. She was a loving, caring wife and received immense joy being “Honey” to her grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but we rejoice knowing that she is

all about "Jack and the Beanstalk," "Snow White" and "Little Red Riding Hood." Television was not available during my childhood. We did have a radio but it seldom worked well — too much static. But mama brought excitement into my young mind by reading the stories of "Hansel and Gretel" and the "Three Little Pigs." Later, I made that a family tradition by read those same tales to my own children. No child should have to grow up without getting acquainted with "Goldilocks and the Three

Bears" and "Billy Goat Gruff." Mama must have known that listening to fairy tales will jump start God’s gift of imagination. Mama did not stop with fairy tales. She made sure my siblings and I became acquainted with "Aesop’s Fables." I did not know who Aesop was but I knew about the "Lion and the Mouse," the "Fox and the Crow" and the "Boy Who Cried Wolf.”

In grammar school I fell in love with the school library. It introduced me to my first hero whose name was Tarzan. In college and seminary,

the library was my second home. I loved to find a secluded place behind the towering stacks of books and get lost in a good book. I could concentrate better in the silence; studying in the midst of noise has always been difficult for me.

During years of pastoral ministry, my reading consisted mostly of the Bible and books that helped me understand how to preach and grow a church. I found great help in reading C. S. Lewis, Elton Trueblood, N. T. Wright and my favorite of the Classics — "The

OBITUARIES

fully healed.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 11, at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed at Town Creek in Auburn.

K9 GINGER

On July 7, 2023, it is with heavy hearts that the Auburn Police Department announces the passing of K9 Ginger.

For three years, Ginger served as a beloved partner to Officer Jason Bryan at Auburn Police Department (APD). Ginger supported numerous local law enforcement agencies in the state of Alabama during her career in explosive and firearm recovery, as well as Federal operations, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Transport Security Administration. Before joining APD, Ginger mothered several litters for Auburn University’s Canine Performance Sciences

(CPS). Ginger retired from CPS and was donated to APD as an explosive detection dog in 2021.

In her off-time, her favorite game was hide and seek with Bryan. Just as she showed her love of working in the community, she always had the same determination to find him. Bryan said she had an endless work drive and received numerous compliments on her detection capabilities from partner agencies. She loved meeting new people and showing off her skills at public demonstrations.

K9 Ginger passed away after a brief illness surrounded by those she loved most, her partner Bryan and their fellow K9 Unit handlers. We will be forever grateful for Ginger as she was devoted to serving the Auburn community and the state of Alabama.

Rest in peace, K9 Ginger. Auburn Police Department, End of Watch July 01, 2023

MAURICE SELWYN MATTHEWS JR.

On Thursday, July 6, 2023, Maurice Selwyn Matthews Jr. passed away in his much-loved Auburn home at the age of 85. Maury was born on Jan. 5, 1938, in Danville, Virginia. He received his Ed. D. in Higher Education from the University of Virginia

in 1973 and then moved his family to Auburn in 1977. He enjoyed many years of meaningful work at Auburn University as the dean of Continuing Education, eventually retiring to continue his love of gardening, photography, Auburn baseball and softball, all while proudly supporting his wife, Mary Lou Matthews, in her many community enrichment endeavors.

Maury was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou, and is survived by his three children, Ed, Kathy and Mac; his sister Lois; Mary Lou’s two sisters, Susan and Becky; many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and dear friends. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. on July 15, 2023, at the Auburn Church of Christ, located at 712 S. College Street. A memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. followed by a family-only ceremony at Town Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Auburn Diamond Club 300 N. Dean Road Suite 5171 Auburn, AL 36830) or Auburn Softball (via Auburn University Tigers Unlimited).

JAMES RONALD PHILLIPS

James Ronald Phillips, 75, of Roxanna, Alabama, went to be with our Lord on Sunday, July 2, 2023. He

Imitation of Christ" by Thomas a Kempis.

At age 70, I discovered Stephen Ambrose. No one should die without having read Ambrose’s "Undaunted Courage" and "Band of Brothers." Since my first retirement, I have enjoyed getting to know George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Winston Churchill, Douglas MacArthur, Martin Luther King Jr., Jimmy Carter and others. I love biographies, especially those written by David McCullough.

In recent days, my soul has been stirred by reading these excellent books:

"Every Holy Moment" by Douglas Kaine McKelvey — a delightful collection of liturgies for every occasion, including one titled “Before Beginning a Book,” and another “Lament upon the Finishing of a Beloved Book.”

"The Return of the Prodigal Son" by Henri Nouwen — My third reading.

"Living in Christ’s Presence" by Dallas

was preceded in death by his beloved mother and father, Mildred Geraldine (Crow) Phillips and Wilbur Clifton Phillips; and by his brothers Donald Ray Phillips and Clifton Earl Phillips (Margaret).

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary Mayfield Phillips; his other brother, Sidney Wayne Phillips (Lorie Anne); and sisters Bonnie Sue Colley (Angie) and Jerry Ann Davis (Jim).

James was a family man and loved all of his family brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, children and grandchildren, aunts and uncles more than anything else. He is survived by his three children, Adam Wade Phillips, Brian Keith Todd (Linda) and Ann Marie Rowlett (Eric). He had seven grandchildren: Jessica Elaine Hadaway (AJ), Matthew Rowlett (Elaina), Hannah Rowlett Glass (Jackson), Amanda Nicole Todd, Brittany Lynn Todd, Landon Ray and Christopher Dillon Phillips.

After graduating high school, James joined the armed forces as a communications engineer in the Army. He spent his time stationed in Germany and was honorably discharged after three years. After serving his time in the service, he went to work at AMPEX in Opelika, as a coater. He worked there for 31 1/2 years before retiring. After retirement, James went to work for Adam's Beverages in Opelika as a loader in the warehouse and

then as a security guard at MANDO.

In January 1977, James met and married the love of his life, Mary Mayfield Phillips. They remained married until his passing, a total of 46 years. James loved to eat Mary’s cooking and listening to his favorite singer Waylon Jennings. They enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. On Sunday mornings, he sat with Mary drinking coffee and listening to John Hagee preach the gospel on TV

In addition to spending time with his family, he was a wonderful gardener and enjoyed sharing his bounty with friends and family. He also enjoyed fishing, watching drag racing, NASCAR, the Atlanta Braves and playing cards. He also loved to pass down his knowledge of gardening and all things mechanical to his children and grandchildren. He was a very special man and will be dearly missed by so many. A Celebration of James’ Life was held at Beulah Baptist Church located at 5500 Lee Road 270 in Valley, Alabama on Tuesday July 11, at 2 p.m. Brian Todd officiated.

Special thanks to all of the nurses and caretakers of Enhabit Home Health & Hospice. Your help and caring is appreciated more than you can know.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

See ALBRITTON, page A13

Swinging the Way Through Summer

Summer Swing, a seasonal free concert series hosted by Opelika Parks and Rec, continues to entertain at Monkey Park in Opelika. Happening every Tuesday at 7 p.m., the pictured concert came courtesy of Jessie Lynch. The next Summer Swing, July 18, is slated to have the James Brown Trio perform. The James Brown Trio is 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 namesake (James Brown) started the group 20 years ago with Charles Story and Adam Traylor but since the deaths of Traylor and Story, respectively, the trio has continued the tradition of good ole Southern Gospel music with new members. Today the trio consists of Adam & Teel Traylor as well as Kevin Webb from Auburn.

ALBRITTON >>

FROM A12

Willard — Inspiring observations about heaven and splendid

OBITUARIES >>

FROM A12

DANIEL KING

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Daniel King, a cherished husband, father and grandfather, who left us on July 2, 2023.

Danny was born on Aug. 9, 1951, in Opelika, Alabama. He attended

insights about living in the Kingdom.

"Resilient" by John Eldredge — practical ways to strengthen weary souls.

"Heaven" by Randy

Auburn High School and graduated from Notasulga High School.

Danny leaves behind his devoted wife of 47 years, Paula King; their loving daughters, Amy Wiley (Phillip) of Auburn, and Lori Kellet (Chris) of England. His memory will be cherished by his four adoring grandchildren, James and Gracie Wiley, Matthew and William Kellet. He is also survived by his friend and sister-inlaw, Marilyn Liles.

Alcorn — The best book available on this subject.

"An Amazing Alabama" by Karl Stegall — Delightful book about my home state written by a good friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walton King and Estelle Cox; his brother, Wiley King; his sister, Debbie Shaw, and his in-laws, Elmer and Grace Taylor.

The family received friends and loved ones on Sunday, July 9 in the parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, with a funeral service following in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Auburn United Methodist

"A Promise Kept" by Robertson McQuilkin — suffering could not put out the fire to this man’s devotion to his wife.

"New Morning Mercies" by Paul David

Church's Children and Youth Ministries. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home handled all arrangements.

SUE MCGILL BROWN

Sue McGill Brown, of Auburn, passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2023. Sue was born to William O. “Willie” McGill and Willie Sue Knight McGill on Feb. 24, 1935, in Chambers

Tripp — The finest devotional book I have come across since "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers.

Garrison Keillor said, “A book is a gift you can

County, Alabama. Sue worked for Liberty National Insurance Company for 34 years and retired in the early '90s. Also, in the early '90s she moved to Auburn from her home in LaFayette, Alabama.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, William O. “Willie” McGill and Willie Sue Knight McGill and her husband, Tucker Brown, Jr. She is survived by her two sons, Tucker Brantley Brown and Jeff Brown of Auburn, Alabama;

open again and again.” I agree. So any day is a good day to read a good book — or to give someone a good book to read. What a great blessing — the gift of reading.

grandchildren: Nicole Brown Davidson (Daniel), Eron Brown and Mallory Brown Cruz (Angel); greatgranddaughters: Talley Davidson, Jaycee Brown and a great-grandson, Ayden Cruz; and close friends that are like family, Jody Jordan and her son Billy Jordan.

A funeral service was held on Friday, July 7, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed in LaFayette City Cemetery.

Panning From the Past — Part One PLACE YOUR

obstacles and conquer challenges due to their trust in a transcendent God. This is our family tree (see 10:39) and as we read their accounts our hearts swell with a healthy pride in the courageous actions of our ancestors.

Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

RELIGION —

Hebrews 11 is one of those passages that everyone is familiar with and finds inspiration in.

The standout stories from Abel to David to Daniel sweep across the biblical narrative and provide us with examples of the people of God rising to meet adversity, overcome

What I want us to do is to take a step back from the text. Rather than look at the specific men and women mentioned, I’d like us to think in more general terms about what the writer is doing. I believe this could be helpful for us to utilize when we find ourselves with the “need to persevere” (10:36).

1. He points them to the past. The past can be helpful or harmful depending on how we decide to use it. That’s why one of the marks of

maturity is the ability to constructively make use of history (ours or others). Some people are never able to do this and live as prisoners of the past. Add to that the fact that the past grows larger with each passing day, you can see why it is important that we learn how to handle it correctly.

Benefitting from the past is lot like panning for gold. You must sift through the dirt and debris to get to the gold. You also must learn the difference between gold and pyrite (also known as Fool’s Gold). There is treasure to be found, but you must be willing to make the search to find it.

Our first impulse in panning the past is to remember the good and forget the not-so-good, right? And if “good” is

when someone trusted in God through the ups and downs of some trial, there’s certainly some gold there and remembering it is definitely a constructive use of the past. At other times though, good can be Fool’s Gold. For example, if the “good” is simply a time when all the circumstances went your way. You interviewed for a job, it was just what you wanted, they offered it to you and you accepted. There’s nothing wrong with that but you probably didn’t learn a lot from the experience either. And we all know the circumstances in life don’t always work out the way we would like them to. That’s where not-sogood experiences come into play. Even though they might be painful,

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

they also contain the gold we are looking for if we are willing to mine it. After all, we don’t want to waste our pain or the pain of others by failing to learn from it.

This is what the writer is doing in Hebrews 11. He’s pointing disciples to the past — but it’s a carefully sifted past and what he has to share is the gold he has found. Not surprisingly, this treasure contains some painful pieces as he speaks of people undergoing torture, flogging, imprisonment, death by stoning, being sawn in two and death by the sword. We don’t have to ignore pain to benefit from the past.

Next week: Part two.

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

CHURCH DIRECTORY

334-745-5181

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church

3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika

334-749-9672

BAPTIST

Beulah Baptist Church

5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538

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

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley

334-710-2117

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

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

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

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

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika

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

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL- AME Saint Luke AME Church

1308 Auburn St., Opelika

334-749-1690

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

METHODIST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BRUCE GREEN

We have sinned, even as our fathers did; we have done wrong and acted wickedly. — Psalm 106:6

GSEA Hosting July 15 Meeting

CONTRIBUTED BY GSEA

OPELIKA—

The Museum of East Alabama is hosting the Genealogical Society of East Alabama’s (GSEA) next quarterly meeting Saturday, July 15.

The program will feature Dr. Rod Hinton, a Lee County resident, speaking on Alexander McGillivary, leader and protector of the Creek Nation.

Hinton possesses diverse educational and work experiences, as he has provided exceptional leadership in educational and business, including teaching, serving as a principal, working as a CEO and offering consulting services. His expertise spans both fields, benefiting various organizations and schools.

During the July 15 meeting, Hinton will discuss McGillivary and his relationship with

ALEXANDER MCGILLIVARY

the English, Spanish, French and American leaders. Born in 1759, McGillivary served as the principal negotiator for the Creek Nation during the late 18th century. Known for his exceptional diplomatic skills, he secured several treaties that protected the interest of the Creek people. McGillivary’s efforts in

What's Happening in Lee County

FARMER'S MARKETS

Tuesdays 3 to 6 p.m., O Grows Farmer’s Market, 1103 Glenn St., Opelika

Thursdays 3 to 6 p.m., Auburn University Ag Heritage Park Market, Auburn

Saturdays 8 to 11 a.m., Camp Hill, Mt. Lovely Baptist Church, 21900 Sen Claude Pepper Dr., Camp Hill (Hwy 50) through Sept. 30

Saturdays 8 to 11 a.m., Auburn City Market, Town Creek Park, Auburn through Aug. 26)

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.

tribal diplomacy played a crucial role in shaping the relationship between Native American tribes and the United States.

The GSEA quarterly meeting will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 15, at the Museum of East Alabama, located at 121 S. 9th St. in Opelika. The public is invited and admission to the event is free.

Opelika Main Street To Host Volunteer Reception/ Informational Meeting

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA MAIN STREET

OPELIKA — Opelika Main Street is hosting a volunteer reception and informational meeting, A volunteer recruitment event, at CoLab in Historic Downtown Opelika on Thursday, July 13, from 5 to 7 p.m. This event will take place at CoLab, 216 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika. Hosted annually, this will be the first for this particular event.

“This event was created to give more local citizens and businesses a glimpse into how they can help continue to make our beloved downtown a success by volunteering on our committees and events that are planned throughout the year,” said Opelika Main Street Executive Director Melissa MunfordMcCurdy. “If you have a heart for downtown and want to be involved I encourage you to come out.”

Contact Shiquita Fulton, M. ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

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

STANDING ROCK COMMUNITY HOLDS FUNDRAISER

ROANOKE, AL —

In addition to the information, Opelika Main Street will also provide refreshments..

ABOUT OPELIKA MAIN STREET

Founded in 1987, Opelika Main Street has helped assist in the growth of historic downtown Opelika through facade grants, beautification projects, small business assistance efforts and various community events. Learn more about Opelika Main Street by going to opelikamainstreet.org.

The Standing Rock Community Center Committee will have a Draw Down and Steak Dinner fundraiser on July 15, 2023, at 6 p.m. CT at Johnson Farms (1745 Louina St. in Roanoke, Alabama). Tickets are $100 and consist of a steak dinner for two and a chance to win cash prizes. For tickets, call 706-333-8559 or 706-586-0252. A limited number of tickets are being sold, and participants don’t have to be present to win. Proceeds benefit the Standing Rock, Alabama, Community Center Building Project.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet July 18, 2023, at 7 p.m.

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

& S

ports

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

Opelika Youth Baseball Championships

OPINION —

Opelika Dixie Youth and Dixie Boys all-star team's participated in state championship tournaments this week.

As of Monday, the Dixie Youth 10U State Tournament was down to three teams with one loss Opelika, Troy and Dothan American.

Dothan American won the bye and awaits the winner of Opelika/ Troy in the championship game.

The winner of the AAA 10U Dixie Youth State Tournament advances to the World Series, Aug. 4, in Rustin, Louisiana.

Opelika’s Ozone 12U All-Stars are playing in the Ozone State Tournament in Troy.

Opelika beat Dothan American (12-6), American (10-0), before losing to Dothan National (10-2). Opelika was playing Troy in an elimination game earlier in the week. The winner moves to

the semifinals.

The Opelika DBB State Tournament completed last Sunday at West Ridge Park. The two Dothan all-star teams won the Junior DBB State Tournament (13U) and DBB State Tournament (14U). The two teams will represent Alabama in the DBB World Series in Halifax, Virginia, and the Junior DBB World Series in Opelika.

Opelika finished 2-2 and in third place out of eight teams. Dothan won the 14U DBB state tournament by beating American in the finals.

OPELIKA HOST WORLD SERIES JUNIOR DBB

Opelika will host the Junior DBB World Series, July 21 through 25, at West Ridge Park. Opelika's 13U all-stars team automatically receives a birth in the tournament as host.

The following is Opelika's Junior DBB All-Star roster: Troy

See ON THE MARK, page B3

Considering a cellphone for your child? — B5

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Opelika’s Knight, Brock Commit to In-State Basketball Programs

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA ––

Opelika High School’s standout basketball duo is staying inside state lines at the next level.

After stellar senior years, 2023 graduates Isaiah Knight and Mekhiron Brock both recently locked in college commitments. On May 16, Brock committed to go to Wadley to play for Southern Union Community College, and Knight committed to Birmingham Southern College (Division 3) on

June 29.

Knight, an Opelika lifer and three-year contributor on varsity, scored 16 points per

game and hauled in five rebounds a game in his senior year, while Brock transferred in from Florida for his

junior year and became a key player for the Bulldogs, ending his high school career with 18 points per game and 15 rebounds per game in his senior year.

According to OHS boys basketball head coach Wesley Button, the duo's mental and physical determination puts them in position to succeed at the next level.

“Those guys have set a standard, as far as work ethic goes, for what we need in this program going

See COMMITS, page B3

Auburn Football Schedule Release: Projecting the Tigers’ Wins in 2023

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPINION —

“Glad to have you with us, and welcome to College Gameday!”

Those words, spoken every Saturday morning during the college football season, are something every college football fan loves to hear.

When the hallowed words echo through a crowd of fervent fans on one of America’s greatest college campuses, the battle lines are drawn. The energy levels rise. The rivalries are renewed. A childlike feeling of comfort cocoons around those watching, and suddenly, even the most optimistic of outlooks feels possible again.

Locally, fans and media alike are anticipating those words, which coincide with the beginning of the 2023-24 Auburn football season. Excitement abounds around the Plains as expectations

Auburn University head football coach Hugh Freeze talks with his team during spring practice.

are high for coach Hugh Freeze’s first year at the helm of the Tigers. The past three seasons have been dismal for Auburn football and its supporters. Five wins and seven loses; six wins

and seven loses; six wins and five loses. That’s the less-than-satisfying result of the Tigers’ previous three campaigns.

But the arrival of Freeze promises to change that.

Recruiting and the general moral around the program have improved in the past months, and with this year’s depth chart shaping up, the

See PREDICTIONS, page B5

Isaiah Knight (2) and Mekhiron Brock (23) both averaged double figures in scoring in their senior seasons.

PHOTO BY ISAIAH KNIGHT

Full Moon Bar-B-Que Launches 4th Annual Giveback Program

CONTRIBUTED BY FULL MOON BAR-B-QUE

OPELIKA —

Full Moon Bar-B-Que is thrilled to announce that nominations for a child to receive “Backpack Blessings” are open as of last week. Backpack Blessings is an initiative that provides food, supplies and hope to the children of Alabama and Mississippi through anonymous nominations. Full Moon BBQ will be accepting nominations through an online nomination form July 6, through Sunday, July 16.

During this fourth year of the campaign, the Full Moon BBQ team has pledged to give 50 more backpacks than last year’s initiative, making it possible for 150 recipients to receive a Backpack Blessing just in time for school to start back in early August. Each Nike backpack will be filled with a Full Moon BBQ gift card, a Walmart gift card and an array of school supplies, totaling a value of $200.

“We started Backpack Blessings back in 2020 and it has been an initiative near and dear to our hearts ever since,” said Joe Maluff, co-owner of Full Moon BBQ. “This fourth year is extra special because we are giving out more backpack blessings than we ever have before.”

To nominate a deserving child in the state of Alabama or Mississippi, please visit the online entry form (www.fullmoonbbq.com/full-moonbbq-backpack-blessings2023-application/) and complete the nomination with detailed and specific information explaining why the nominee is deserving of a Backpack Blessing. There will be 150 winners, and each backpack will be available for pick up at the Full Moon BBQ location that they select through the nomination form.

“This is a tradition that the entire Full Moon BBQ team looks forward to every year,” said David Maluff, co-owner of Full

Moon BBQ. “Every child deserves the opportunity to start their school year off prepared and confident. We’re thankful to have the resources and abilities to provide the children of Alabama and Mississippi with the tools they need to succeed.”

For more information about the fall 2023 Backpack Blessings initiative and Full Moon Bar-BQue, please visit www. fullmoonbbq.com or contact Krista Conlin at Krista@KCProjects.net.

ABOUT FULL MOON BARB-QUE

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has been in operation since 1986. The Maluff brothers, David and Joe, have grown the business while continuing a family-owned tradition that caters to folks who know great 'que from the rest. The wood smoke from every Full Moon restaurant's fire pit shows the Birmingham-born brothers' commitment to top-notch bar-b-que. At the same time, they satisfy a variety of tastes with

AU Softball Players Answer With Positive Viewpoint of Coaching Staff

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

There’s two sides to every story.

Several days after 2023 Auburn University graduate and former softball player Carlee McCondichie tweeted about her displeasure with the softball program’s leaders, which was supported by transfers Bri Ellis and Denver Bryant, three current players took to Twitter to shine a positive light on the coaching staff.

Junior catcher Aubrie Lisenby, senior pitcher Maddie Penta and sophomore infielder Millie Roberts, without referring specifically to McCondichie’s posts, took to Twitter last Tuesday to voice their support for the team’s leadership and coaches in general.

“Auburn softball holds a special place in my heart,” Lisenby said to start her thread.

“I am beyond grateful for every opportunity I’ve received here. This sport and this program have given me so much. There’s not enough positive words to say. I love these girls I play with and there is no other coaching staff I’d rather play for.”

Lisenby, while rock solid defensively behind the plate in 31 starts at catcher for Auburn, saw some dips in her offensive numbers from her

freshman season when she started 40 total games — three more than this year’s total (She had six starts as designated player as well as catcher in 2023.).

Her batting average went down from .269 to .234; her OBP fell from .353 to .324; and she struck out five more times with six fewer hits in 10 fewer at bats. However, her effort never wavered, and her contributions were staunch defensively, as she recorded a perfect fielding percentage after committing just one error in her freshman campaign.

Despite her struggles at the plate, Lisenby never felt overlooked or mistreated.

“It is no secret that I got the yips this year,” Lisenby continued via Twitter.

“It would’ve been easy for the coaches and my teammates to write me off, but instead I received nothing but love and support. I am lucky to have such caring coaches regardless of performance. I am lucky to have coaches who push me to grow everyday. Being a college athlete is hard, and the job is to win.

“Instead of getting angry about the yips, he supported me and told me he didn’t care as long as I was okay. I haven’t been a ‘star’ of this program, yet I am given the same respect as everyone else day in and day out.”

In the end of her thread, she mentions her coaches by name, while specifics had previously not been used by anyone.

“[Assistant coach Eugene Lenti] looks for me everyday before practice to smile, say hello, and ask me about my day,” Lisenby said. “[Assistant coach Emily Carosone] has always been there for me to learn and grow. [Head coach Mickey Dean] has done so much for me. He has gone out of his way to make sure I am doing okay as a person and in softball.”

After earning 2023 SEC Pitcher of the Year, First-Team AllSEC and NFCA FirstTeam All-American honors and climbing several program leaderboards in her third season on the Plains, Penta added her support by retweeting Lisenby and adding her own message with a red heart emoji at the end.

“So proud to call myself part of the Auburn Softball program,” Penta said. “The opportunities and achievements that have been given to me by this program and coaching staff would have made my younger self so happy and proud. See y’all next year … War Eagle!”

Finally, Roberts gave her input after a freshman year where she played in 25 games

See SOFTBALL, page B3

fresh salads, hand-breaded chicken tenders, farm-raised catfish, Buffalo-style wings and overstuffed baked potatoes.

From the famous Full Moon chow-chow to the baked-fresh-daily Half

Moon cookies, Full Moon Bar-B-Que makes sure to use the freshest ingredients in their homemade selections. Most importantly, it's all served with a healthy helping of true Southern hospitality. Cus-

tomers can dine in, get it to go or take advantage of Full Moon's catering and portable BBQ pits. However customers choose, Full Moon will have them beaming. www. fullmoonbbq.com.

Auburn University Signs Deeds for Donation of Dye’s Crooked Oaks Farm

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY/KENDRA CARTER

AUBURN — The Auburn University Real Estate Foundation (AUREF) and the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) has accepted a gift of 415 acres of Crooked Oaks Farm, legendary Auburn football coach Pat Dye’s homestead. Located in Notasulga, Alabama, the farm property includes Dye’s main house, a guest cabin, lodge, pavilion, gazebo, two barns and a nursery office.

“We had been longtime supporters of Auburn University through our charitable trust and in hosting fundraising events, and the timing was right to have the estate settled to make the gift,” said Nancy McDonald, Dye’s longtime partner and retired nursing educator at Auburn University at Montgomery.

AUREF is holding the gift from the Dye/ McDonald Trust and McDonald on behalf of the university and the college. The college plans to continue its operations as an event venue, while expanding its use for student instruction and community outreach.

“We both knew we would donate the farm to the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment and seeing the work CFWE leaders have done since accepting the proposal, I could not be more confident that the land will be valued and held to the standard Pat and I always wanted to see,” McDonald said. “I feel his spirit in this, and I know what’s happening is something he would be proud of.”

Pat Dye Jr. added, “given everything that

Auburn has done for dad and our family, he would be thrilled to know that Auburn will be great stewards of his beloved farm, hopefully for many generations.”

Dye began developing the property in 1998 and continued to improve all aspects of the land until his death in 2020. Ponds, pastures and woodlands contain numerous Japanese Maples, azaleas, camellias, native azaleas, boxwoods, gardenias, magnolias, oaks, pines, beeches, river birches and firs. Included in the area adjacent to the nursery is a two-acre retreat of walking paths along a stream with falls and pools winding among 200 mature Japanese Maple specimen trees of 71 Japanese Maple cultivars.

When McDonald retired and moved to Crooked Oaks in 2004, the couple worked together on the farm and continued its development into a beautiful retreat and sanctuary for wildlife and rescued dogs, cats, donkeys and horses.

“To me, living on this place is like living in

paradise,” Dye wrote of Crooked Oaks in his 2014 book, “After the Arena.”

“The good Lord created it and then I just put a few touches on it so I can enjoy it and appreciate it, because no one can paint a picture like Mother Nature.”

Leaders within the CFWE plan to maintain the farm as an event venue and expand its use as an outdoor classroom and seminar space.

“This incredible gift will have a tremendous impact on the college, our students and our academic programs,” said the Emmett F. Thompson Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, Janaki R.R. Alavalapati. “Our college is well-known for the experiential learning opportunities we provide for our students and this property will not only allow us to increase those offerings, but will also help us engage with our broader community and the state. We are grateful to Coach Dye and Dr. McDonald for their

ON THE MARK >> FROM B1

Tidwell, Logan Childree, Asher Rudd, Partrick Neese, Whit Cooper, Turner Hurst Underwood, Jackson Branch, Camden James Pilate, Conner Cummings, Malik Banks, Christian Lee Terry, Caleb Thomas Peoples and Martin Jefferey Danta.
The manager is Kurt Branch. Assistant coaches include Colby Terry, Adam Pilate and Jamie Cooper.

Opelika will play on opening night, July 21, at 6 p.m. I will have more on the tournament in next week's column.

Congrats to all players and coaches.

OHS ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

I wrote about the new Opelika High School (OHS) Athletic Handbook for Athletes Parents Coaches before. Each student-athlete’s parents received an email with a copy of the handbook. The packet outlined Vision, Expectations, Policies and Procedures (Appear-

COMMITS >>

forward,” Button said. “They’re both very, very competitive. Isaiah’s role has been to come in and work: lead by example in practice. Brock holds everybody to a high standard, and if you don’t meet that standard, he was going to let you know.”

Both do more playing than talking, and their resiliency shows itself in their physical styles of play.

Brock, naturally more of a guard, played the four and five spots in the rotation for the Bulldogs. He is listed at 6-foot-3, 195 pounds, and he got in top shape after “falling in love with the gym” before his senior year, Button said. The work he has put in, combined with his high-energy, high-motor play, sets him up to be a key addition to a Southern Union team that is built on toughness.

“Energy, leadership and good basketball” are what Brock listed as his contributions on the

ance, Communication, Conduct, DragonFly, Illegal Substance Testing, Eligibility), Fundraising/Volunteering, Hazing/Bullying, Multi-Sports Activity, Parent Behavior, Quitting a Team, Recruiting Requirements and Recruiting High, Safety/ Trainers, Social Media Guidelines and Sportsmanship.

It is good to see Opelika City Schools have a Student-Athlete Code of Conduct. Last year, OHS Principal Kellie Fischer said student-athletes at OHS are able to express themselves: including no grooming policy, including the length of hair. Fischer said as times change, policies should be updated and changed as well.

FOX SPORTS the GAME

HIGH SCHOOL MEDIA DAYS

PRESENTED BY ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC

The sixth annual iHeartRadio High School Media Days presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic will be held July 25 and 26 at the Bottling Plant Event

court.

Standing at 6-foot-4, 160 pounds as a guard, Knight is set up to thrive in an BSC offense that spreads the floor and gets good looks for its shooters. Button said Knight’s aggressiveness and heads-up play are something that have stood out about him in his years in the program.

Early on in his high school career, Knight learned the value of hard work. Not playing on varsity his freshman year motivated him to be a better player and pushed him to train harder. He made varsity in 10th grade, but was in the “sixth man” role before earning a starting spot in his junior year. That process of climbing the ladder has paid off with a commitment to a four-year school.

“This opportunity means a lot to me because I didn’t expect to be at a four-year program out of high school,” Knight said. “On my visit [to BSC], I just liked the environment, the coaching staff

Center. Twenty high school head coaches along with three to four players from each team will have an opportunity to face numerous media outlets from across Alabama from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fans can listen to "High School Media Days" on FOX Sports the Games 9101310, online at foxsportsthegame.com or on the iheartradio app on your smart phone. You can watch on WOTM TV on channel 80 on Charter Spectrum.

The two day event on iHeartRadio is presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic and brought to you in-part by Auburn Bank, Frederick-Dean Funeral Home, Western Sizzlin, Milk Shake Bar and Goree's Furniture.

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

and playing with the players there. It was a fun environment.”

Simply put, Knight and Brock are excited and thankful for the path that led them to earning college scholarships around the same time, they said.

Having a pair of teammates in the same class helps put Opelika basketball on the radar, but Button accredited the accomplishment to the hard work of Knight and Brock. They set an example of the dedication it takes to get to the next level for younger players in the program through their relentless play.

“[Knight and Brock] went out and earned this; they left it all on the floor,” Button said. “I couldn’t be more proud of these two. I’m very close with them. I was Isaiah’s freshman coach, so we’ve been through a lot in this program together. Definitely going to miss them; they had a great attitude off the floor, then they were all business on the floor.”

SOFTBALL >>

FROM B2

with no starts and only got four hits in 17 at bats. She responded by

quote tweeting Penta’s tweet and ending with a pink heart emoji.

“I am so happy to call these girls and this coaching staff my family!!!!” Roberts said. “No one else I

would rather spend every single day with playing the game that we love. Auburn softball has done so much for me in the last year. Couldn’t be more thankful.”

FROM B1

Aubrie Lisenby (11) during the game between The Missouri Tigers and the No. 25 Auburn Tigers at Jane B. Moore Field in Auburn, on Saturday, Mar 25, 2023.

PHOTO BY GRAYSON BELANGER / AU ATHLETICS

Coach Pat Dye and Nancy McDonald enjoying the falls at Crooked Oaks Farm.

See OAKS page B4

Opelika Hosts UTSA Mixed-Doubles Tournament

generosity and for entrusting the legacy of Crooked Oaks with us.”

The Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment is a flagship institution for natural resources-based degrees including forestry, and the

natural resource, wildlife enterprise and parks and recreation management majors. Its mission is to create next-generation professionals and leaders, develop new knowledge and disseminate science-based solutions to its stakeholders to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being of citizens in Alabama and

beyond.

The AUREF is a nonprofit organization that facilitates real property donations and receives gifts, bequests and other transfers on behalf of the Auburn University Foundation, Auburn University, Auburn University at Montgomery and the Tigers Unlimited Foundation.

PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

THE OAKS >> FROM B3

The Auburn Mixed Doubles weekend tournament is a team-style tennis tournament that took place at The Marriott at Grand National in Opelika July 7 through 9. Winning teams qualified to play at the UTSA state tournament in Dothan, Alabama, in September.

An aerial photo of Crooked Oaks. Located in Notasulga, Alabama, the 415-acre farm property includes Dye’s main house, a guest cabin, lodge, pavilion, gazebo, two barns and a nursery office.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CROOKED OAKS FARM

Back-to-School Shopping? Local Pediatrician Says Skip the Smartphone Section

CONTRIBUTED BY EAH

OPELIKA — Screen time for children comes in many forms, and the collective exposure plays a pivotal role in this crucial period of mental, physical and emotional growth. For teens and pre-teens alike, the most seductive form of screen time, figuratively speaking — but sometimes literally — is a cell phone. In particular, a smartphone.

Dr. Sara Smith T, a pediatrician at Pediatric Clinic LLC and mother of six, is on a mission to make parents aware of the risks that face children when it comes to smartphones.

“It’s a hot topic, and it needs to be hotter,” Smith T said. “By acknowledging the dangers that come with unrestricted access, parents can take the steps necessary to protect their children from danger.”

The danger that smartphones pose to adolescents has led to initiatives springing up across the country encouraging parents to hold

off on giving their children the devices.

According to Smith T, the best way for parents to protect their children from risk is to identify the issues which present the biggest threats.

“Parents are confronting the risks smartphone-use poses to their children on three fronts: too much use of screens, types of content available to kids and the big elephant in the room, social media,” Smith T said.

Smith T said she believes that it is up to parents to recognize the risks and take steps to reduce them.

SCREENED-IN

With children being introduced to smartphones and other digital devices at younger ages, the amount of time a child is engaged with a screen expands exponentially as they grow. When unrestricted, this increase in screen time can lead children and teens into dangerous territory.

“Roughly 46% of teens say they are almost always engaged on their phone,” Smith T said, citing a

fanbase for the most part, everyone has their doubters.

2022 study. “When you consider that the average phone usage time for 13- to 18-year-olds exceeds seven hours a day, that’s a ton.”

Smith T said that unrestricted screen time for children and teens can lead to a plethora of negative effects, both mental and

physical.

Excessive exposure to screens has led to an increase in risk for symptoms of depression, anxiety and low selfesteem. The blue light generated by smartphone screens leading up to bed can also lead to unhealthy sleeping habits, an issue that can compound other negative effects.

“Parents don’t like it, but they just don’t feel like they can say, ‘okay, this is bad and here is what we are going to do about it.,’”

Smith T said.

According to Smith T, working in tandem with too much screen time is the threat of unrestricted access to content that smartphones offer. Though many smartphones have parental restrictions on them, children and teens often find ways around them.

“Children and teens are very tech savvy, and, at the touch of a button, can pull up anything,” Smith T said.

She points to the risk that social media as well as certain games and entertainment apps can

have such as providing access to content parents would prefer to shield their children from, such as violence or adult content. Such content can be triggering to youths and can deteriorate mental health.

While there are clearly risks associated with excessive usage, not all content and screen time is considered bad. By limiting screen exposure, parents can help foster a healthy environment for their children by reducing the risk of negative effects.

Smith T points to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) family media plan as a good starting point for setting digital boundaries. The plan encourages families to build healthy habits when it comes to screens by creating “tech-free” zones and times.

“Parents need to feel empowered to have a media plan as a family,” Smith T said. “Instead of the plan being to cut off

See CELLPHONES, page B6

Tigers’ prospects of success can be more accurately predicted.

Auburn plays seven home games in 2023. Five on the road. The Tigers will have three games to sharpen up before SEC play begins on the road against Texas A&M, with a week two trip to the Bear Flag State to face Cal posing an intriguing early test of the SEC’s supremacy. In addition, the Tigers are slated in week 10 to face SEC opponent Vanderbilt for the first time since 2016. Other than that, it’s a familiar cast of villains which stand in the way of Auburn reaching its goals for this season.

While the arrival of Freeze to Auburn has united the

An overhauled Auburn roster ensures that the product on the field will look different, hopefully better, but also guarantees growing pains. Pundits would probably say an unbiased “good” season for Auburn in 2023 would amount to a rivalry win or two, and a final regular season record 7-5 or better and a bowl game win. How do the Tigers get there?

Home opponents: UMass (Sept. 2), Samford (Sept. 16), Georgia (Sept. 30), Ole Miss (Oct. 21), Miss. State (Oct. 28), New Mexico State (Nov. 18), Alabama (Nov. 25).

Away opponents: Cal (Sept. 9), Texas A&M (Sept. 23), LSU (Oct. 14), Vanderbilt (Nov. 4), Arkansas (Nov. 11).

Categorically, the schedule can be broken into three parts: Must Win; Need One; and Win Majority.

The Must Win games: UMass, Samford, Vanderbilt and New Mexico. Not much else needs to be said on the teams, as even with half a new team, Auburn’s talent greatly outweighs the aforementioned, and all but Vanderbilt will be played at home inside Jordan-Hare Stadium.

The rest of schedule is where the margin of error tightens and the range of outcomes widens. The Tigers need to win three out of the five in the category of Win Majority games. Those contest are against Cal, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Arkansas. Aside from maybe A&M, the Tigers project to have more

talent on its roster than these teams. However, a week two trip across the country to play the Golden Bears is a classic upset candidate (looking at you Penn State 2021.); an SEC opener on the road against Texas A&M — the week before a rivalry game against Georgia — is a classic trap game; and given the toss-up nature of recent contest against the Mississippi teams and Arkansas, Tiger fans can have anything but peace of mind prior to those contest. Regardless, three wins out of five for this section of the schedule should pacify the supporters of the Orange and Blue.

Lastly, the Need One games. Admittedly, Tiger fans might not want to settle for just one win against LSU, Georgia and Alabama — Auburn’s most despised

rivals. But with reasonable expectations, the Tigers escaping with one victory against either last year’s SEC West champions, LSU, backto-back National Champions, Georgia, or the dynasty that is Alabama under head coach Nick Saban, has to be considered a success. Anything more would be icing on the cake.

With all that said, the following is my prediction of how the 2023 Auburn Tigers will fare.

- Home, Sept. 2 vs. UMa-

ss: Win

- Away, Sept. 9 vs. Cal:

Win

- Home, Sept. 16 vs. Samford: Win

- Away, Sept. 23 vs. Texas

A&M: Loss

- Home, Sept. 30 vs. Georgia: Loss

- Away, Oct. 14 vs. LSU:

Loss - Home, Oct. 21 vs. Ole Miss: Win

- Home, Oct. 28 vs. Miss State: Win

- Away, Nov. 4 vs. Vanderbilt: Win

- Away, Nov. 4 vs. Arkansas: Win

- Home, Nov. 18 vs. New Mexico State: Win - Home, Nov.25 vs. Alabama: ???

Final Record: 8-4 or 9-3.

Everyone knows that record goes out the door for the Iron Bowl, especially when it’s played at Jordan-Hare. So, I see no point in predicting the outcome of that game months before it takes place. However, if Auburn gets hot in the stretch run of its schedule like I predict, watch out for the Tigers to play spoiler against their most bitter rival.

SARA SMITH T

One treasure that early childhood teachers love is paper bags. I am so thankful to Charles Stilwell for his invention of the first machine-made paper bag. We know paper bags are for carrying items but they are so useful for teaching young children in the early childhood classrooms.

July 12 is “Paper Bag Day” and I would like to share some ideas that early childhood teachers in the classroom can share with families of young children.

1. Have children pack

CELLPHONES >>

phones at supper time and eat together, the default plan should be we’re off our phones completely while at home, and we have a scheduled electronics hour when we engage with our devices.”

MEDICAL SYMPTOMS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

In late May 2023, the U.S. surgeon general issued an advisory regarding the effects social media has on youth mental health.

An excerpt from the advisory states, “Excessive and problematic social media use, such as compulsive or uncontrollable use, has been linked to sleep problems, attention problems and feelings of exclusion among adolescents ... nearly every teenager in America uses social media, and yet we do not have enough evidence

Vacation Fun With Young Children

ing googly eyes for eyes and more. Homemade props like paper bag puppets include young children more in the story telling process.

3. Children can express art creativity by drawing, coloring, painting and using stickers on paper bags to use as gift bags to share special gifts with their friends and families.

There are so many ways that sturdy, recyclable, strong paper bags can be used in carrying, collecting and decorating.

ented or child-friendly” places.

Children do better when they are kept on a schedule. A routine gives them security of what to expect. I know early childhood teachers experience this daily with children. When you are traveling in a car, train, bus or plane, make allowances for your child to eat on a schedule, take their daily nap, to stretch and get out of the car and run when making stops.

infants and toddlers, toothbrushes, brushes and more. The kind of trip or vacation you are taking, such as camping, staying in a motel or joining extended family, will determine what you pack.

toddlers and two’s is to be sure to cut it up into bite-size pieces, so they don’t choke.

their lunch or dinner in a paper bag for a summer picnic. You can use the paper bags for a family nature hunt as you collect different items for summer. I love it when children pick up little flowers, leaves and grasses to give to their teacher. With bigger paper bags, children can decorate and make back packs with straps. I have used paper bag backpacks for the children to keep books, art materials and letters.

2. I love having children make paper bag puppets by drawing faces, cutting clothes out of construction paper, us -

to conclude that it is sufficiently safe for them.”

“The question facing us is that if there is a link between the snowball of mental illness in children and the rise of social media, ‘what can parents do about it?,’” asks Smith T.

To Smith T, the addictive nature of social media is what makes it so enticing for children and teens, she said. Finely-tuned algorithms feed content having been shown to previously interest the user and keep them engaged.

While social media algorithms are designed to benignly showcase interesting content, the darker side is that the algorithm can also feed harmful content or expose the user to dangerous viral challenges.

She points to the recommendations from the surgeon general’s advisory, which encourages parents to limit their own social media usage

As July 4 has come and gone for this summer, many times family vacations or outings are planned before we start to get ready to go back to school. Half of the fun with vacations and outings is the planning. It’s even more fun when young children are included in the planning. Meeting the needs of young children can be a joy. Relationships and togetherness is what counts in family trips and outings. One does not have to spend a lot of money when planning a family vacation or outing. Try to choose places that are “child-ori-

around their children and have conversations with them about the dangers of connecting with strangers online.

THINK BEFORE YOU BUY

When deciding on whether to give your child a phone, the AAP recommends parents consider the reason their child would need a phone, the responsibility that comes with a phone and if there are other ways you can contact your child.

As summer winds down and parents begin to shop for back-toschool items, Smith T said she encourages them to consider skipping the smartphone section.

“Parents [in our community] have to come together and feel empowered to pressure each other on this and agree to hold off on the smartphones for their children and tackle this issue together,” Smith T said.

As I travel to Michigan to visit my son and his wife, in the airport I am so intrigued with young families who keep their children on a schedule with eating together, playing games they have packed, reading, strolling and napping before they embark on the plane.

As we get back to planning family trips with children, include them in packing what is needed. Children love to be part of the preparation of going on a trip. They can help choose what clothes they will need to wear, a few favorite toys, favorite blankets, pacifiers for

In meal planning with young children it’s good to plan ahead and know what restaurants or fast food places are on your route when driving so you can meet your child’s mealtime. Possibly know where the parks are on your route so you and your family can picnic and enjoy playing. My husband and I enjoyed giving our son the experience of riding passenger trains. Even if it was from Mobile, to Montgomery to meet up with grandparents, it was pure fun.

It was a wonderful experience to have a meal in the restaurant part of the train as we rode and saw the fields and roads go by. Back in the day, my son and I rode the bus to visit grandparents as well. Be sure to take nutritious snacks with you so your child will not be eating “unhealthy junk food.” A gentle reminder on foods for

If traveling in the car, many families have found it best to begin travels early in the morning and stop early in the afternoon to allow for proper rest. Many times, starting early means your child can be quietly picked up without even waking them. Try to plan reasonable distances to travel each day if it is a long trip.

Remember to take your medical kits to take care of emergency needs, as well as medicines your child usually takes.

Don’t forget your camera or phone so that you can make the family vacation one to treasure in memories. A picture speaks a thousand words and recapping a vacation in pictures brings on family togetherness.

I hope you enjoy your vacation, trip or outing. No matter how big or small, the main thing to remember is time spent with children spells LOVE with family togetherness.

Beth Pinyerd Classroom Observer

“As parents, we have the best of intentions when it comes to our children, and that is why it is so important to get the word

out on this issue. We need to educate parents on these risks so that they can be better equipped to protect their children from harmful content.”

Dr. Sara Smith T is a pediatrician who practices at the Pediatric Clinic LLC

in Opelika and Auburn, Alabama. She attended medical school at The University of Alabama at Birmingham, and completed her residency at Children's Hospital of Alabama.

BETH PINYERD

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Inside the Statehouse Annual Legislative Session Successful

Lee County Recognizes Shop Foreman

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

STEVE FLOWERS

—

OPINION

The recently completed Regular Session of the Alabama legislature was a success. It began on a high note and ended positively. Why? There was plenty of money to spend. Both the General Fund Budget and the Education Budget had historic amounts of money.

Most of the focus of the session was on budgeting, as it should be, because that is the only constitutional mandate that the legislature is tasked with in the 105-day Regular Session.

Gov. Kay Ivey laid out her agenda in her State of the State address, then sent her proposed budget requests over to the legislature. The governor’s speech outlining her legislative agenda was about doing good things for education. However, her desires were vague and her ask list was long and wishful, like a kid’s Christmas wish list. It called for the state to give away the store. It was as though she was running for reelection which everyone knows she cannot do. Therefore, the veteran Senate treats her politely, but has relegated her to a

lame duck status. The legislature has taken total control of the budgeting process, as they should do under the Constitution. The governor proposes and the legislature disposes. The days of a strong armed, powerful, omnipotent governor that controls both the Executive and Legislative Branches are over. The King George Wallace era is gone, probably forever.

The surplus in the Education Budget was enormous. How to spend this surplus became the focus of the entire session. There is a very accurate political assessment, that it is much more difficult to deal with a surplus budget than a lean or deficit budget. Wallace told me about this same thing during his last term as governor when I was a freshman legislator.

Accolades go out to Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur), chairman of the Senate Education Finance and Taxation Committee and Rep. Danny Garrett (R-Trussville), chairman of the House Education Ways and Means Committee. These two gentlemen essentially, singlehandedly wrote the Education Budget and did a masterful job. They were cognizant that what goes up has to come down. Therefore, they created several savings accounts and rainy day funds for the rainy days ahead, because they will come.

The Education Budget was an historic $11.5 billion. It gave increases for prekindergarten programs,

school supplies, school nurses and a significant 2% cost of living salary increase to teachers and support personnel. All colleges and universities in the state received increased funding. Non-education entities were given money. There was $100 million for prison education.

The high profile aspects of the Education Budget windfall were a onetime rebate going back to taxpayers in November. Ivey had wished for a $400 per person and $800 per couple rebate. However, the final result is $150 per person and $300 per married couple. Most legislators preferred eliminating the grocery tax or longterm tax cuts to this one-time check back in November.

The surprise in the Christmas stocking from the Education Budget surplus is the reduction on the state sales tax on groceries. Eliminating or reducing the state tax on groceries has been championed by Democrats for years, as the tax is regressive and hurts the state’s lowest income earners the hardest. However, the measure garnered Republican bipartisan support this year after 20 years and passed with an overwhelming vote in both chambers.

It is, however, a gradual reduction. The grocery tax would decrease 2% in two steps, with the tax being reduced 1% this year and another

See FLOWERS, page B10

LEE COUNTY —

The Lee County Commission recognized Jimmy Wood, shop foreman for the Lee County Highway Department, during its meeting on Monday night.

Wood has been working for Lee County for over 28 years, said County Engineer Justin Hardee.

He began his career as a part-time litter control person.

“Now what this meant at the time is far from what it means today with our litter control technician and the inmates that work on the roadways,” Hardee said. “When Mr. Wood started, the litter control person was Mr. Wood in a county pickup truck, driving the country roads, picking up trash that he came across. And that’s where it started.”

From there, Wood be-

came a compact operator and then a mechanic in the Solid Waste Department.

Eight years ago, he became the shop foreman for the Highway Department.

“I cannot speak enough about what this gentleman did during the transition from our collection site system to our curbside system,” Hardee said.

“That was coming on the heels of COVID, we were short-handed, we were

trying to staff the best we could, at times we were trying to run two systems and it is not an exaggeration to say this man worked tirelessly to do that for this county, repeatedly, week after week.

“… I felt compelled when he turned in his retirement paperwork, I wanted to make sure he got publicly recognized

See COMMISSION, page B10

City of Opelika Honors Adam Stadler

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — The Opelika City Council and Mayor Gary Fuller honored Opelika Police officer Adam Stadler during Tuesday night's council meeting. Stadler, who has served with the police department for six years, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in February. He returned to work after only two months post surgery and was cleared for full-duty in June.

Sgt. Ben Bugg said that Stadler has been as asset to his shift. See OPELIKA, page B9

County Engineer Justin Hardee publicly recognized the work for retiring Shop Foreman for the Lee County Highway Department Jimmy Wood at Monday night's Lee County Commission Meeting.

Opelika Police Office Adam Stadler (front right next to Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller) was honored during Tuesday night's city council meeting.

Politics Among the Book Crowd: Book Reviewers Battle Trolls

vious two did.

“A week later, users were enraged by the book’s Russian setting,” recalled Angela Lashbrook, a Slate writer.

“They launched a coordinated attack on the book’s Goodreads page; Gilbert pulled her novel “indefinitely.”

The “they” she is presumably talking about are people who hate Russia and the Communist Revolution that birthed there. Or it could be a country that is an enemy of Russia and President Vladimir Putin.

These acts to earn a large say-so in schools and with intellectual activities are largely on the Right now.

But in other states, that are not conservative, one can record similar strong approaches from the Left. As individuals, the activists on both sides are likely easy to talk to. But the groups are the problem, including in the case of Gilbert and Goodreads.

the only “verified scores” and the site will show the verified score first.

OPINION —

It doesn’t matter whether the writer has already published or is a novice seeking glory. When a writer sees that new critiques of their work are available on Goodreads, they anticipate that these readers wrote nice things about their book. If the work is fiction or nonfiction, they may say, “Bring it on.”

Yet when they find that many readers gave them just 1-star or 2-star ratings, those who are already accomplished

will be surprised and angered. Those who think the ratings will be very good for their first book are sometimes devastated to see that most of the reviews were rather disappointing.

In the case of Elizabeth Gilbert, author of the new book “The Snow Forest,” she found a career crisis. The story features a Russian family that escapes Bolshevik, Russia and lives decades in remote Siberia. The subject was thought to be one that would inspire readers as Gilbert’s pre -

I see a lot of irony in these “review bombing” incidents. Goodreads has been widely praised since it began in 2006. It has encouraged people to read more, and by contributing reviews, readers are more engaged. Yet now Goodreads is a hostage of people who don’t even read most of the books and have positive reviews from others.

“Review bombing” is another rung in how bigfist ideological people are hurting our civic life. If they were less abrasive I would welcome them to the marketplace of ideas.

According to Alissa Wilkinson in Vox, in 2019, Rotten Tomatoes revised its operations to stop trolls. (A troll is a person who posts offensive, incendiary or off-topic comments online with the aim to start trouble or “flame” others.) Trolls have been known to cyberbully, discredit or spread disinformation online.

The big change is that Rotten Tomatoes now tabulates audience scores by allowing only users who purchased a movie ticket through Fandango, its parent company. This is the only way to have their reviews count toward a movie’s overall reception. These will be

“Movie critics are vetted by Rotten Tomatoes before their ratings and reviews are included,” wrote Wilkinson in the Vox article. “But for a long time since its inception, that wasn’t true for the audience score. Anyone could review and positively or negatively rate a movie, and their take would factor into the numerical audience score.”

Besides the concern for member critics to inflate or diminish work of authors they dislike, they say minorities and transgender people are being harassed thru Goodreads. Adibi Jaigirdar wrote by Email: “Authors of color are often ‘review bombed’ on Goodreads, simply for speaking up for themselves and calling out the abusive and often racist behavior of others in this industry.”

In an email, Post-Op Malone wrote: “Just saw another 5-star review for The Transgender Manifesto! I don’t promote the book much because I think it’s pretty dated

three years later, but I’m so happy that it still continues to resonate with people.”

As a person who writes regularly about books and reading, I want to bring “review bombing” to your attention. Also, as a political writer, I want you to learn that such Right v. Left, attention to book and movie reviews, is a factor in our partisan divide.

The good news is that Rotten Tomatoes has apparently filled a lot of holes in its movie rating system. Amazon and Goodreads must try harder. Published authors like Gilbert must be protected from people lying about their books. So should writers just beginning their careers.

Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has masters degrees in education and history. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to The Observer for 12 years. gm.markley@ charter.net

FLOWERS >>

FROM B7

1% percent new year, if the funds are available.

to excel in their roles and effect positive change in their communities.

CAMBRIDGE, MA —

The Harvard Kennedy School is pleased to announce that Representative Jeremy Gray has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2023 Cahn Public Service Fellowship. The esteemed fellowship grants Gray the opportunity to attend the Senior Executives in State & Local Government program, a transformative experience that will take place from July 10 to July 28, 2023.

Gray’s selection for the Cahn Public Service Fellowship is a testament to his outstanding commitment to public service and his potential to contributed significantly to the field

of state and local government. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum

designed to equip senior executives with the knowledge and skills necessary

“We extend our warmest congratulation to Representative Gray on this well-deserved recognition,” said Taylor Woods-Gauthier, a representative from the Harvard Kennedy School. “We eagerly anticipate his arrival on July 10, 2023, and look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will make as a result of his participation in the Senior Executives in State & Local Governments program.”

For more information about the Senior Executive in State & Local Government program, please visit: www.hks.harvard.edu/ educational-programs.

Harvard Kennedy School Awards 2023 Cahn Public Service Fellowship Vehicle

The state General Fund had a good year as well. The $3 billion General Fund was record shattering.

The largest in history.

The Chairmen, Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Escambia) and Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville), oversaw a $159 million increase over the current year. The largest increases in the budget were in Medicaid by $69 million and Corrections by $59 million more.

State employees

will see a 2% increase in pay, which will go into effect as the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. The legendary head of the Alabama State Employees Association, Mac McArthur, has quietly garnered state employees a cost of living raise, five out of the last six years. See you next week. Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Flowers may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

GREG MARKLEY

GRAY

Community Announcement: Lee County Democrats to Hold Training Session July 15

CONTRIBUTED BY THE LEE COUNTY DEMOCRATIC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

LEE COUNTY —

The Lee County Democratic Executive Committee will hold a meeting on Saturday, July 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Opelika Public Library, located at 1100 Glenn St., in Opelika.

All interested Democrats are welcome. Those that plan to attend should send their name and email address to Patsy Parker at pat1bill2@ aol.com, no later than July 10, or contact Ben Harris, vice chair for County Affairs for the Alabama Democratic Party, by calling 251-610-6081 or by emailing chair@mobiledemocrats.org.

The Lee County Democratic Executive Committee is the official Lee County Democratic Party. This meeting will be a training session to acquaint all persons interested in joining the Lee County Democratic Party.

A formal organizational meeting will follow on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at a time and location to be announced.

"Towards the end of January, we knew something was wrong," Bugg said. "... He came back and worked hard every day that he could until he was back to where he is now."

Capt. Jonathan Clifton had nothing but praise for Stadler.

"He is an inspiration to us," Clifton said. "He had a great attitude like Sgt. Bugg said. He is very inspiring to his fellow officers and everybody that he has touched."

VALLEY RESCUE MISSION

Mike Gaymon and Don Harbuck from Valley Rescue Mission Inc. (VRM) gave a presentation to the Opelika City Council during the work session that was held prior to the city council meeting.

Gaymon and Harbuck explained the services offered by VRM which

Auburn City Council Approves Resurfacing Project

are just some barriers to fixing it immediately.

OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved a restaurant retail liquor ABC license for Nadeak Enterprises Inc. doing business as Sushi Hero. The business is located at 1642 S. College St.

- The council approved a concurrence modification for Donghee America Inc. which is located at 2351 Riley St. in the Auburn Technology Park West.

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

The Auburn City Council approved a contract with D&J Enterprises Inc. During its regular meeting Tuesday night for the Fiscal Year 2023 Streets Resurfacing Project.

The Engineering Services Department’s goal is to continue to work to keep our streets in good repair for as long as possible and repave our streets before they begin to deteriorate,” said a memorandum from City Engineer Alison Frazier to City Manager Megan Crouch.

The contract with D&J Enterprises Inc. will cost the city up to a little more than $2.7 million for a year of resurfacing, with the option to renew for two consecutive years.

There is an extensive list of streets to be resurfaced which can be found in the city’s e-packet for July 11, 2023, found here: www. auburnalabama.org/ agenda/.

Ward 2 Council Member Kelley Griswold asked what the ‘paver program’ is, which is what was used to determine which streets were being included for resurfacing.

Scott Cummings, developmental services

executive director, said that the program involves a truck driving through the city, using devices such as cameras to look at defects. It also has sensing devices that can be used on the roadways.

The streets are then prioritized by ‘rank scores’, Cummings said.

Sometimes the order can change based on things that happen on the roads, Crouch said. Griswold asked whether the damage on Owens Road due to construction traffic would be fixed, and in priority, even though it is not on the current list. Crouch confirmed that yes, it would be. There

- The council approved a lighting services agreement with Alabama Power for Will Buechner Parkway, the new connector road project for an amount of just under $32,000.

- The council approved the purchase of one Coats Tire Changer and one Coats Balancer and eight mechanic vises from NAPA Auto Parts for the Environmental Services Department ‐ Fleet Services Division for an amount just under $23,600.

- The council approved the purchase of one 2024 Chevy Equinox from National Auto Fleet Group for the Public Safety

is located in Columbus, Georgia.

Later during the meeting the council approved a resolution for an agreement VRM.

According to a press release from the city of Opelika, this agreement will help provide shelter for homeless persons living in Opelika with a goal of transitioning people into permanent housing and employment.

“We have been working on a solution for the homeless in our city for some time,” Fuller said in the statement.

“Through our partnership with Valley Rescue Mission, the city will be responsible for transporting someone who has consented to transport and will fund each person for one year at the shelter. This is an excellent example of public-private partnerships and how we can help those in need.”

OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved a

request from Opelika Main Street for On the Tracks on Oct. 20, 2023.

- The council approved a request from Opelika Main Street for Christmas in a Railroad Town on Dec. 8, 2023.

- The council approved a request for the 2023 Collinwood Christmas Luminaries on Dec. 15, 2023.

- The council held four public hearings during the meeting. The first public hearing was for the vacation of the right of way for Country Club Road and the resolution was approved during the meeting.

The other three public hearings were for weed abatement assessments for various properties. All weed abatement assessments were subsequently approved later in the meeting.

- The council approved a bid for soccer equipment for the parks and recreation department.

- The council approved

expense reports.

- The council approved a resolution for a quote from ImageTrend Inc. for an additional annual subscription in the amount of nearly $20,000 for the IT Department.

- The council approved a resolution for lighting from Musco Sports Lighting LLC for 12 tennis courts in the amount of $119,000.

- The council approved a resolution for the extension of the tax abatement of sales and use tax for Hanwha Cimarron LLC.

- The council approved an agreement and funding with ALDOT for a traffic control signal at Gateway Drive and Marvyn Parkway. The estimated cost of the project, including labor, materials and equipment is $171,000, and the city’s estimated local share is $57,000.

- The council approved an amendment to an agreement with CDG related to the Thomason Drive Extension

Project, Phase II.

- The council approved engineering design services with CDG for the improvement of Pepperell Parkway from the city limits to Lowndes Street.

- The council approved a professional services agreement with Thalamus.

- The council approved the demolition of a structure located at 315 S. 4th St.

- The council approved a special appropriation of $2,500 to Greater Peace Community Development Corporation.

- The council approved an ordinance to amend the City Code of Ordinances: repealing obsolete and outdated provisions. The following sections, articles, divisions or provisions of the Code of Ordinances of the city of Opelika are hereby repealed:

• Division 2 of Article II of Chapter 2, consisting of Sections 2-31 through 2- 71, inclusive

• Division 5 of Article II of Chapter 2, consisting of Sections 2-125.1 through 125.5

• Article III of Chapter 2, consisting of Sections 2-126 through 2-130

• Article VI of Chapter 2, consisting of Sections 2-180 through 2-183

• Article IX of Chapter 28, consisting of Sections 28-451 through 28-467

• Article X of Chapter 28, consisting of Sections 28-501 through 28-508

• Article XI of Chapter 28, consisting of Sections 28-526 through 28-531

- Ward 2 Council Member Erica BakerNorris introduced an ordinance for its first reading to rename Media General Drive to Wyndham Industrial Court.

- The council approved the appointment of Shree Summerlin to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority for a term that will expire on Aug. 7, 2028.

The Auburn City Council during a meeting earlier this year.

See AUBURN, page B13

Jere Colley Jr. Announces Bid for Lee County Probate Judge

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OFFICE OF JERE COLLEY

LEE COUNTY —

Lee County attorney

Jere Colley Jr. has announced he will seek the upcoming vacant judgeship for Lee County Probate Judge.

“After prayer and discussion with my family, I am excited to offer myself for public service as a first-time candidate,” Colley said. “Former Probate Judge Hal Smith, and current Probate Judge Bill English, have left some big shoes to fill and I look forward to building on the great service that these men rendered.”

Colley was born and raised in Lee County.

He has been married to Sarah for 21 years, and they have two adult children, Ray and Trip. The Colleys reside in Opelika where they raise miniature donkeys. Their family enjoys mountain biking and camping across the South. Colley has coached his children in baseball, football and mountain biking. Colley was one of the founders of All-Pro Dads in Lee County and directed the program at Yarborough Elementary for seven years. He is a past board member of East Alabama Youth for Christ, The Big House and East Alabama Services for the Elderly Foundation. Colley is a current board member of Mercy Medical and is current president of

Fraudulent Employee Retention Credit Claims Generate Compliance Risk for Businesses

CONTRIBUTED BY

TERENCE PECK IRS - CI

ATLANTA —

The IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Atlanta Field Office urges businesses to be wary of promoters stating they can help them facilitate Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims.

The ERC, signed into law March 27, 2020, is a refundable tax credit for businesses who paid employees while shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic or had significant declines in gross receipts from March 13, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2021. The ERC was designed to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll.

As of May 31, IRS-CI has initiated 190 investigations involving more than $1.2 billion of potentially fraudulent employee retention credits in tax years 2020, 2021, and 2022. Thirteen of the 190 investigations have resulted in federal charges.

“Third parties are advertising on television, radio and online, claiming they can obtain money for businesses by submit-

ting ERC claims,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office.

“Unfortunately, in many instances, individuals are misled to fraudulently obtain ERC funds.”

Businesses should be cautious of advertised schemes and direct solicitations promising tax savings that are too good to be true.

Taxpayers are always responsible for the information reported on their tax returns.

Improperly claiming an ERC could result in taxpayers being required to repay the credit with interest, as well as criminal penalties.

“Employers need to watch out for those promising big returns,” Hardeman said.

“Businesses can protect themselves by consulting with trusted tax advisors who can help them correctly file an ERC claim if they are eligible.”

To report tax-related illegal activities relating to ERC claims, contact the Atlanta Field by email: atlantafieldoffice@ci.irs. gov. People can also use Form 3949, by visiting

www.irs.gov/pub/irspdf/f3949a.pdf.

Alternatively, taxpayers and tax practitioners may send information to the IRS Whistleblower Office at the www.irs. gov/compliance/whistleblower-office for possible monetary reward.

Fraudulent ERC claims are one of the IRS’s scams and schemes highlighted its 2023 Dirty Dozen list which includes fake charities and unscrupulous tax preparers.

The Atlanta Field Office covers Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi.

IRS-CI is the criminal investigative arm of the IRS, responsible for conducting financial crime investigations, including tax fraud, narcotics trafficking, money-laundering, public corruption, healthcare fraud, identity theft and more. IRS-CI special agents are the only federal law enforcement agents with investigative jurisdiction over violations of the Internal Revenue Code, obtaining more than a 90 percent federal conviction rate. The agency has 20 field offices located across the U.S. and 12 attaché posts abroad.

Directors.

The Colleys are members of First Baptist Church Opelika (FBCO), along with his parents Dr. Jere and Judy Colley, and sisters Casey (Heath) Stewart and Tipi (Wes) Miller. Colley has served on the deacon body at FBCO.

Doctorate at Thomas G. Jones School of Law.

After receiving his law degree Colley became Lee County’s first Family Court clerk under Circuit Court Judge Richard Lane.

the Alabama Cycling Association Board of

After graduating from Opelika High School, Colley went on to attend Samford University, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. While attending Samford University he spent summers doing mission work in Costa Rica and Bangladesh. He earned his Juris

Twelve years ago, Colley was appointed by Circuit Court Judge Mike Fellows, to preside over Juvenile and Child Support cases. In addition, Colley has taken on a multitude of capacities in Probate Court under English including Adoptions, Probate of Wills, Mental Health Commitments along with Conservatorships, Guardianships.

The Alabama Primary Election is scheduled for March 5, 2024.

for his dedication, his loyalty to this county, I appreciate it to me, as well, Jimmy. In all sincerity, you’ve been a good employee and, as far as I’m concerned, a good friend. And I thank you for that.”

Wood said that his work has been a pleasure.

“It’s all about the employees, the units, the unit one, two, three four

bridge, the guys, the women that come out and help us every day and do their job,” he said. “It’s rough out there, and they make it happen. And that’s what made me be who I am today. So congratulations to them too.”

District 3 Commissioner Gary Long wished Wood luck in retirement and thanked him for his service as well.

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The commission

heard a complaint from Elizabeth Burton on procedures and policies.

- The commission voted to approve an ABC Lounge Retail Liquor License for Big Dads Package Store 2.

- The commission approved Educational Reimbursement Request for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

- The commission approved an application for the ADECA State Energy Program Grant.

JERE COLLEY

OPINION —

Idon’t know about you, but when I was a child, Saturday mornings were magical. I could hardly be pried out of bed for school during the week. But come a Saturday morning and I was up early, sitting on the floor in front of the TV watching cartoons. The good stuff, like Johnny Quest, Scooby Doo, The Jetsons and Schoolhouse Rock. Right there with cartoon time was a big bowl of cereal covered in cold milk. Now that I’ve set that mental image, I bet that many of you have the same memory of cartoons and a favorite cereal. For the longest time my favorite was a big ‘ol bowl of

A Bowl full of ‘Merica!

There was always that miracle moment when the allotted milk turned out to be just right for the amount of cereal. But of course, if you wound up with a bit of extra milk you just picked that bowl up and drank the last of the newly flavored milk straight from the edge of the bowl.

It’s too controversial.”

Cereal is a uniquely American phenomenon.

Honeycomb. At some point I switched over to Cap’n Crunch with Crunchberries. Every once in a while, I would stray into bowl of Lucky Charms, Honey Smacks, Frosted Flakes. Back then we ate more sugar in one bowl of Saturday morning cereal than whole villages in third world countries would eat in a week.

There’s no telling how many times I rooted around up to my elbows in a box of cereal to fish out a little prize.

I can still remember cutting off the back of a box of Alpha-bits before it was even empty because there was an actual 45-record of the Jackson 5 singing “ABC” made out of cardboard that actually worked.

That walk down memory lane leads me to my point: I have a theory that the richness of this country ... the proof of the success of capitalism, and the free market ... can be demonstrated on any given day by simply walking down the cereal aisle at the local grocery store.

Think about it. You push your shopping basket onto the cereal aisle and for no less than 50 yards you are faced with a non-stop menagerie of brightly colored boxes from floor-level to head-high, containing the ultimate in dry goods: Breakfast cereal. Today, if you don’t know for a fact what cereal you’re planning to buy, you could spend half of your time in the grocery store just perusing the overwhelming number of options. Comedian Erma Bombeck once said, “Like religion, politics and family planning, cereal is not a topic to be brought up in public.

The first instance was allegedly invented in 1863 by a New Yorker named James Caleb Jackson who owned a healthcare sanitarium. His invention was called “Granula”, and was basically a graham flour dough that he dried and broke into shapes that were so hard that they had to be soaked in milk overnight before they could be eaten. It sounds like pieces of cinder block, but it apparently caught on.

Kellogg and Post both came up with their own versions. Then came Grape-Nuts in the late 1800’s, Puffed Rice just before WWI, Wheaties in the '20s. Cheerios came along in the 1940’s, and Frosted Flakes in the '50s. By the '70s the sugared cereal wars were in full swing, and in the late '90s cereal got virtuous and all of the healthy brands began taking up part of the cereal aisle. The cold cereal industry has become a worldwide powerhouse. In 2015 alone, General Mills sold over a $1 billion worldwide in plain Cheerios. In the year 2021, breakfast cereal in the US alone generated $23.8 billion in revenue. Globally, breakfast cereal in that same year

totaled approximately $64.3 Billion. Showing no sign of letting up, global cereal sales are projected to reach $95 billion by the year 2030. That's amazing. And y'all, that's classic America.

I find this fascinating, but more than that, I believe it illustrates so clearly that we live in the most amazing country in the history of the world. One man created some dry bricks to soak in milk and 150 years later, it has spawned one of the largest sectors of the manufactured food industry in the world.

Capitalism did that.

It is so easy to take all that we are as a nation for granted. We are a nation with all of the possibilities, and an amazing number of choices. The breakfast aisle of your corner grocery is proof that we are not a society that believes in being confined, or limited, in any way. In America, regardless of your current lot in life, you have the ability to wake up in the morning and change your lot in life.

In this country, you can dig ditches until you own your own shovel, and then two shovels, and then hire someone else to tote that extra shovel and the next thing you know you have your own

crew digging ditches. Any country that can offer hundreds of different versions of breakfast cereal can also offer so much more.

Now that I’ve enlightened you to the wonders of breakfast cereal, I hope that you never look at the cereal aisle the same way again. And every time you pour out some of your favorite crunchy goodness and pour milk over it, take note that in that one bowl there is more than just a few minutes of eating ... that’s a bowl full of ‘Merica.

Phil Williams is a former state senator, retired army colonel and combat veteran, and a practicing attorney. He previously served with the leadership of the Alabama Policy Institute in Birmingham.

Williams currently hosts the conservative news/ talkshow Rightside Radio Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. on multiple channels throughout north Alabama. (WVNN 92.5FM/770AM-Huntsville/ Athens; WXJC 101.FM and WYDE 850AM – Birmingham/Cullman.)

His column appears weekly throughout Alabama. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of this news source. To contact Williams or request him for a speaking engagement go to www.rightsideradio.org.

Meet David Hedges

AUBURNBANK PRESIDENT & CEO

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INVITATION FOR BIDS

Sealed bids will be received by the Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners of the City of Mobile, Alabama (“Board”), at the Wesley A. James Operations Center, 4725 Moffett Road, Suite A, Mobile, AL 36618-0249 until 12:00 p.m., Local Time, August 7, 2027, and then publicly opened and read aloud at 1:00 p.m., for furnishing all labor, materials, and performing all work for the following project: Contract No.: D3424000, Project Name:

NORTONS LANE SWAT AND LIFT STATION.

The project is funded by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program. The selected bidder shall comply with all conditions and requirements of the program as they pertain to this Project.

Plans and Specifications may be inspected at the Board’s offices at 4725 Moffett Road, Suite A, Mobile, AL, or at the offices of Jacobs, Consulting Engineers, 25 W. Cedar Street, Suite 350, Pensacola FL. 32502 (by appointment)., Telephone: (850) 396-4938.

A complete set of electronic contract documents including Drawings, Specifications, referenced documents and a model bid package may be obtained from Kara St. Myer of Jacobs via e-mail from Kara St. Myer at Kara.StMyer@ jacobs.com. No Contract Documents will be issued later than twenty-four (24) hours prior to bid submission time.

Questions regarding the Contract Documents must be submitted in writing or electronically to Jacobs no later than July 28, 2023 in order for responses to be provided via addendum prior to the bid date.

A MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Wesley A. James Operations Center, 4725 Moffett Road, Board Room, Mobile, AL 36618-0249 on July 18, 2023 at 10:30 a.m., Local Time, to discuss bidding and project requirements. Prospective bidders must attend.

Subcontractors should attend.

Bids must be submitted on the standard forms included with the Contract Documents in the tabbed and color‐coded format as indicated.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed and delivered to the Director, Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners of the City of Mobile, Alabama, 4725A Moffett Road, Mobile, Alabama 36618-0249: “Bid for constructing Project # D3424000 - NORTONS

LANE SWAT AND LIFT STATION, to be opened at 1:00 p.m., Local Time, August 7, 2027”. The Bidder's Alabama State Contractor's License Number and discipline shall be on the envelope. Hand-delivered bid packages shall be delivered to the receptionist at the main entrance of the MAWSS office complex, 4725A Moffett Road, Mobile AL 36618. Bid guarantee in the form of certified check, bid bond, or Irrevocable Letter of Credit acceptable to the Board will be required for at least 5 percent of the bid amount, not to exceed $10,000. The Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received. THIS INVITATION FOR

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BIDS IS CONDENSED FOR ADVERTISING PURPOSES. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ REQUIREMENTS FOR BIDDERS CAN BE FOUND IN THE CONTRACT DOCUMENTS. THE BOARD OF WATER AND SEWER COMMISSIONERS OF THE CITY OF MOBILE, ALABAMA Legal Run 06/29/23, 07/06/23 & 07/13/23

FORM OF ADVERTISMENT FOR COMPLETION

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION, LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for the Alterations to Building #500 & Building #6000 at Drake Middle School at 655 North Donahue Drive, Auburn, Alabama 36832 for Auburn City Schools, Auburn, State of Alabama, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify:

Barganier Davis Williams Architects Associated, 624 South McDonough Street, Montgomery, AL 36104

WHATLEY CONSTRUCTION, LLC / CONTRACTOR

P.O. BOX 137 OPELIKA, AL 36802 Legal Run 06/29/2023, 07/6/23, 07/13/23 & 07/20/23

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF HARRY G. VOGLER, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2023-304

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of HARRY G. VOGLER are hereby granted to Vincent S. Vogler on the 9th day of June, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Vincent S. Vogler Legal Run 06/29/2023, 07/06/2023, 07/13/2023

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF MARILYN J. ROGERS, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased havincity g been granted to the undersigned on the 22nd day of June, 2023,, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness our hands, and dated this the 22nd day of June 2023.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

WENDY ANN HARDEE KRISTINA JANE ROGERS (BUTLER)

Legal Run 06/29/2023, 07/06/2023 & 07/13/2023

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LORA J. HILL, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY ALABAMA

Case No: 2023-334

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 23rd day of June, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

LISA HARMON and ELAINE LATHAM

Co-Personal Representatives

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Legal Run 6/29/2023, 07/06/2023 & 07/13/2023

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA FAMILY COURT DIVISION: DOMESTIC RELATIONS

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF:

AIDA HERNANDEZ

ZAPATA, Plaintiff, Vs. SANTIAGO HERNANDEZ ZAPATA, Defendant. Case No. DR-2023-900055

NOTICE OF DIVORCE

ACTION

SANTIAGO HERNANDEZ

ZAPATA, Defendant, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer AIDA HERNANDEZ ZAPATA·s Complaint for Divorce by August 26, 2023, or thereafter, a Judgment by Default may be rendered against her in case number DR 2023-900055, Circuit Court of Lee County Alabama. Mary Roberson, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lee County /s/ Margaret Y, Brown Margaret Y. Brown 214 North College Street Auburn, Alabama 36830 334-821-6944 Attorney for Plaintiff Legal Run 07/06/23, 07/13/23, 07/20/23 & 07/27/23

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA JAMES G. POTTER, (A/K/A JAMES GARDNER POTTER) Deceased

Case Number: 2023-321

TAKE NOTICE that Letters

Testamentary having been granted to SCOTT POTTER and LISA SPAETH as CoExecutors of the Estate of JAMES G. POTTER (a/k/a JAMES GARDNER POTTER), deceased, on the 15th day of June 2023, 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.

SCOTT POITER, Co-Executor

of the Estate of JAMES G. LISA SPAETH, Co-Executor of the Estate of JAMES G. POTTER (a/k/a JAMES GARDNER POTTER) Legal Run 07/6/23, 07/13/23 & 07/20/23

CITY OF OPELIKA

NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following:

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

II. Approval of Minutes

III. Update on Previous PC

Cases

IV. New Business

A. Plat (Preliminary only) –Public Hearing

1.A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, BarrettSimpson, Inc., authorized representative for Steven W. Corbett, property owner, for preliminary approval of Anderson Lakes Phase 3 subdivision consisting of 33 lots accessed from Anderson Lakes Road.

B. Plat (Preliminary and Final) - Public Hearing

2.A request by Kurt Hayley, authorized representative for Hayley Investments, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Arrowhead Subdivision plat consisting of 51 lots accessed from Arrowhead Avenue.

C. Conditional Use – Public Hearing

3. A public hearing on a request by David Slocum, authorized representative for LD AL Opelika McCoy Street., LLC; Elizabeth J. Jimmerson, property owners, for a conditional use approval to construct a 26-unit townhome development in a C-2, GC-S zoning district at the 1250 block of McCoy Street.

4.A public hearing on a request by Eugene Leonard, Jr., authorized representative for AYM LLC, ADD Opelika LLC and PC Estate Ltd, property owners, for a conditional use approval for a church (The Life City Church/TLC Kids) in a C-3, GC-P zoning district at 2550 Pepperell Parkway (Pepperell Corners shopping center).

D. Final Plat

5.A request by Nick Howell and Michael Maher, authorized representative for Auburn Building Company, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Pepper Mill Creek Phase 2 subdivision plat consisting of 20 lots accessed from Lowndes Street.

6.A request by Daniel Holland, authorized representative

for Holland Homes, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Foxrun Phase 3 subdivision plat consisting of 43 lots accessed at the end of Village Drive.

7. A request by Nick Howell, authorized representative for 2H Properties, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Springhill Heights Lots 53-58 subdivision plat consisting of 3 lots accessed at the corner of Arnold Avenue and Spring Drive.

V. Old Business

E. Rezoning – Public Hearing

8a. An agenda item related to a rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 197 acres accessed from Anderson Road and Andrews Road from a low density residential to a mixed use development land use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the 197 acres and Council approves the rezoning, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved.

8b. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for 280 Land Company LLC, property owner, to rezone 197 acres accessed from Anderson Road and Andrews Road from R-3 to PUD (Edgefield Farm).

(This item was tabled at the June 27, 2023 meeting at the applicant’s request.)

F. Final Plat

9.A request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for Fire Rock Development Company, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Laurels Lakes, Phase 1 subdivision plat consisting of 62 lots accessed from North Uniroyal Road.

(This item was tabled at the June 27, 2023 meeting at the applicant’s request.)

All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/ public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/ public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/public hearings.

The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council.

Please contact the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR

Legal Run 07/13/2023

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE

IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under The Self Service Storage Act. The undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on Thursday the 3rd day of August, 2023 at 10:00 AM on Lockerfox.com. Said property is iStorage, 501 North 26th St, Opelika, AL, 36801 Ware, Naieshia 2073 Bags and battery. Gregory,

Teareasa 2139 Dresser, outdoor tent, misc items, boxes and clothes. LaTraysa Carlisle 3035 Boxes, totes, household goods, Christmas tree, telescope and lamps. Glenn Johnson 3040 Art, bags, totes, furniture, Christmas decorations and cooler. Sutherlin, Atroya 3176 Microwave, mattress, vacuum and TV. Ware, Britteney 1122 Boxes, totes, yard tools, and toys. Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash or credit/debit card per facility policy. All purchased items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party.

Legal Run 07/13/2023

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RAY CURTIS PRATHER, deceased.

Case No. 2023- 354

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Joan Jarrell, Personal Representative, on the 6th day of July, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Joan Jarrell Personal Representative Legal Run 07/13/2023, 07/20/2023 & 07/27/2023

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF JOHN ROBERT WILSON, deceased COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY

Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of June, 2023, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand and seal this the 30th day of June, 2023 Paulette Wilson Dowdell Legal Run 07/13/2023, 07/20/2023 & 07/27/2023

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of DONNA E. KINSER, deceased notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by ELAINE LYNN PENN on July 7, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of the said decedent. BILL ENGLISH /PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 07/13/2023

PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

LCAR, AOHFH Kick Off Annual Campaign

VA Uber Health Connect Now Available

CONTRIBUTED BY CENTRAL

ALABAMA VETERANS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

TUSKEGEE — Veterans are now able to participate in VA Uber Health Connect — an initiative that provides supplemental transportation to eligible veterans needing access to and from medical care.

Based on survey feedback from 2,300 veterans between March 2022 to January 2023, 83% of veterans stated they would not have been able to access their medical care without the program.

"The VA Uber Health Connect Initiative bridges the transportation gap by ensuring veterans have reliable transportation for their health care needs," said the National Lead of VA Uber Health Connect, Dr. Indra Sandal. "By offering ridesharing as an additional means of transportation, VA is helping veterans

receive access to the best and soonest possible care — while still achieving cost savings."

The VA Uber Health Connect Initiative launched as a pilot program in 2022 at 10 VA Medical Centers. From January 2022 to March 2023, VA Uber Health Connect completed more than 30,000 Uber rides across 408,529 miles for veterans.

These rides have increased access, improved clinical engagement and saved VA an estimated $35 million. The cost savings are partly from faster emergency department and inpatient discharges and closing the gap on an estimated 28,000 missed appointments.

This year, the program is expanding to nine new Veteran Integrated Service Networks and 60 VAMCs.

According to the American Hospital

notice is published Dated on this the 6th day of July 2023.

Association, 3.6 million people in the United States do not obtain medical care due to transportation challenges. Children, older adults and veterans are especially vulnerable to transportation barriers due to social isolation and underlying medical conditions and have a greater need for frequent clinician visits.

"This is a life-altering program that offers our most vulnerable veterans care — the moment they need it," said CAVHCS Director/CEO Amir Farooqi. "It also advances our ability to offer more accessible, equitable health care to our local Veteran community."

Veterans or transportation teams interested in learning more about the program should contact their local facility.

For CAVHCS, contact Mobility Manager Emma Love, Emma.love@ va.gov.

Administration for an amount just under $27,500.

- The council approved the purchase of a rotary lift, passenger car lifts, mobile lift and rolling jacks for the Environmental Services Department ‐ Fleet Services Division for an amount just over $179,250.

- The council approved the purchase 624 96-gallon roll out carts for garbage collection from Toter LLC for an amount just under $40,000.

- The council approved the purchase 624 96-gallon roll out carts for recycling collection from Toter LLC for an amount just under $41,000.

- The council approved two positions for the Auburn Downtown Redevelopment Authority for terms

beginning July 19, 2023, and ending July 18, 2029.

- The council approved one position on the Indian Pines Public Park Authority for a term that will begin immediately and end June 20, 2027.

- The council approved a tax abatement modification for Donghee America Inc. located at 2550 Innovation Drive in Auburn Technology Park West.

- The council approved the purchase of 10 in-car cameras,

20 body-worn cameras and 20 tasers from Axon Enterprise Inc. for the police department in the amount of nearly $258,000.

- The council approved a contract with W. W. Compton Contractor LLC for the public safety training facility – phase two classroom building project for an amount of nearly $4 million.

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF SEAN PATRICK McNAIR and ASHLEY LYNN McNAIR

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

CASE NO.: 2023-314

PUBLICATION NOTICE

TO: Christopher Earl Kennedy,

Address Unknown

Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Sean Patrick McNair and Ashley Lynn McNair on June 13, 2023, for the adoption of N.P.L.K. born on November

6, 2017, in Columbus Georgia to Christopher Earl Kennedy and Shannon Paige McNair.

A hearing has been set in the Lee County Probate Court, Opelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Jason C. Riggs, P.O. Box 954, Auburn, AL 36831 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, P.O. Box 2266, Opelika, AL 36803 as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 07/13/2023, 07/20/2023, 07/27/2023 & 08/03/2023

RESOLUTION NO. 174-23

RESOLUTION APPROVING THE VACATION OF A PORTION OF THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF COUNTRY CLUB ROAD

WHEREAS, AUBURN UNIVERSITY, a public corporation and educational institution existing under the laws of the State of Alabama, is the owner of all property abutting upon a portion of the right-of-way of Country Club Road; and

WHEREAS, a Petition to vacate a portion of the right-of-way of Country Club Road, duly executed by AUBURN UNIVERSITY, as the abutting property owner, has been presented to the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”), a municipal corporation, for the assent and approval of the governing body, said Petition with map attached being hereto affixed, marked Exhibit “A” and made a part hereof; and

WHEREAS, the Petition is filed in accordance with the provisions

of §23-4-20, Code of Alabama, 1975, which provides that any street or alley may be vacated, in whole or in part, by the owner or owners of the land abutting the street or alley or abutting that portion of the street or alley desired to be vacated; and

WHEREAS, the portion of the right-of-way of Country Club Road to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a 1 inch diameter pipe with a crimped top found marking the southeast corner of Section 21, Township 19 North, Range 26 East Lee County, Alabama; thence along the east boundary of said Section 21 North 1 Degrees 00 Minutes 18 Seconds West a distance of 1522.60 feet to a 1 inch diameter pipe with a crimped top found; thence North 0 Degrees 55 Minutes 09 Seconds West a distance of 408.20 feet to a #5 rebar with a cap stamped “GARVER LLC CA-445-LS” (typical) set on the north right-of-way of Country Club Road; thence leaving said Section line and right-of-way North 75 Degrees 28 Minutes 24 Seconds East a distance of 164.13 feet to a 1 inch diameter pipe found on the south right-of-way of Country Club Road; thence along said right-of-way North 56 Degrees 06 Minutes 24 Seconds East a distance of 168.04 feet to a #4 rebar found; thence North 56 Degrees 43 Minutes 58 Seconds

East a distance of 345.52 feet to a #5 rebar set, said point being the Point of Beginning of the herein described tract, having established grid coordinates of N-771673.66, E-778082.41 of zone east of the Alabama State Plane Coordinate System (NAD83); Thence leaving said right-of-way North 0 Degrees 49 Minutes 30 Seconds East a distance of 72.45 feet to a #5 rebar set on the north right-of-way of Country Club Road; thence along said right-of-way North 56 Degrees 44 Minutes 09 Seconds East a distance of 1002.21 feet to a #5 rebar set; thence leaving said right-of-way South 0 Degrees 49 Minutes 30 Seconds West a distance of 72.42 feet to a #5 rebar set on the south rightof-way of Country Club Road; thence along said right-of-way South 56 Degrees 45 Minutes 53 Seconds West a distance of 56.77 feet to a #5 rebar set; thence South 56 Degrees 43 Minutes 58 Seconds West a distance of 945.46 feet thence to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Being further described according to and as shown on that certain survey or drawing prepared by Loyd W. Carpenter, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “A”. WHEREAS, the Petition states that no property owners will be deprived of any right they may have to convenient and

reasonable means of ingress and egress to and from their property as a result of the requested vacation; and

WHEREAS, a public hearing was conducted by the City Council on the 11th day of July, 2023, at which all persons were given the opportunity to be heard in favor of or in opposition to the proposed vacation; and

WHEREAS, public notice of the public hearing was provided in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975; and

WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the City to vacate said portion of Country Club Road as described in the attached Petition and said portion of the right-of-way of said street should be returned to the abutting property owner. NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Opelika that the vacation of the above-described portion of Country Club Road is assented to and approved and the same is hereby vacated pursuant to the provisions of Section 23-4-20, et.seq. of the Code of Alabama.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, remise, release and quitclaim unto AUBURN UNIVERSITY, whatever right, title and interest the said City of

Opelika, Alabama, may have acquired in and to the above- described portion of Country Club Road by virtue of the dedication of said roadway or otherwise.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Gary Fuller, the Mayor of the City of Opelika, Alabama, a municipal corporation, be and he is hereby authorized and directed on behalf of the City of Opelika, Alabama, to execute a quitclaim deed to AUBURN UNIVERSITY for the purpose of carrying out the intent and intention of this Resolution and that Russell A. Jones, City Clerk, be and he is hereby authorized and directed on behalf of the City of Opelika, Alabama, to attest the same.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk will cause a copy of this Resolution to be filed in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama, and shall further cause a copy of this Resolution to be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in Lee County, Alabama, no less than fourteen (14) days after its adoption.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 11th day of July, 2023.

/s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK LEGAL RUN 07/13/2023

On Saturday, July 8, the Lee County Association of REALTORS (LCAR) presented Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity (AOHFH) with a $5,000 check to kick off its annual fall Capital Campaign. The Capital Campaign helps AOHFA pursue its mission to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. Front row from left to right are LCAR President Carrie King, Secretary Karol Kirby, Carol Harrison, President-Elect Cathy Fincher and Melissa Bruce. On the back row from left to right are Jared Jordan, Association Executive Director Jamie Sergen, Will Faulkner, Bill Price, AOHFH Executive Director Mark Grantham and AOHFH Secretary Jonathan Davis.

AUBURN >> FROM B9

You Eat What?

How adventurous are you? Have you ever wanted to travel to other

Europe has 44 different countries and each one has food that is culturally significant. In Romania you will be able to eat Creier Pane, or fried pig brains. Norway, Sweden and Finland eat lutefisk. To make lutefisk, dried out fish is soaked in lye. Lye is poisonous by the way. After the fish is soaked in lye its soaked in water for two or three days to get all the poison out. I hear it is very stinky. Some countries in Europe eat snails. In Greece the name of the popular snail dish is called Saligaria Bourbourista. I ate this once in Greece. I loved it, until my cousin told me what I was eating.

Crossword!

Asia offers a number of these culinary surprises. While in Japan you may get offered some puffer fish or Fugu. You may be thinking fish is not so strange, but puffers are very poisonous. A small amount of their poison can kill you. In Taiwan you can order crispy fried duck tongues. The people of Cambodia may offer you a freshly fried or grilled tarantula. Would you eat a spider? Maybe you would be brave enough to eat a fruit that smells like poop. It is liked by a lot of people, but Durian is so restaurants refuse to serve it.

If you travel from North America to the southernmost tip of South America you may get a chance to eat a variety of strange dishes. Turtle soup, alligator, rattlesnake, moose, bear and beaver may be on the menu in North America. In the Andes Mountain region Guinea pigs are not pets, but raised on farms for dinner and in the Amazon Rainforest you can eat ants, grubs and even piranha. Not wanting to be outdone by Romania and their fried pig brains, how about trying some Llama brains in Bolivia?

Videos!

Chuckle

The World’s Strangest Foods (Library of Weird) by Alicia Z.

Klepeis

Disgustingly Delicious: The surprising, Weird and

Food of the World by Soledad Romero Marino