The Observer 08-04-2022 E-edition by OpelikaObserver

Vol. 14, No. 43

Thursday Aug. 4, 2022

Opelika, Alabama

FRED ERi CK-DEAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Covering Lee County, Alabama

Compassion • Integrity • Tradition

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

334-745-4667 On-site Crematory Coming Soon

Music Production on Life of Henry Stern Set for Aug. 30 BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA –– A heart-warming story inspired by the life of Opelikan Henry Stern and his family is being portrayed in a new musical production, “We’ll Meet Again,” by playwright Jim Harris, on Aug. 30 at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Presented by the Arts Association of East Alabama, the play features World War II-era songs arranged by renowned composer Mark Hayes. Prior to the performance, a reception will be held at the Museum of East Alabama. The musical is the second production by Harris

showcasing a family in Opelika. Harris, an attorney in Lincoln, Nebraska, spent summers and holidays in Opelika at his family’s farm in Cusseta. His parents, the late Eleanor and John T. Harris, were founders of the Museum of East Alabama. Harris developed a love of musicals when he was growing up. His mother, who was musically talented, took him to see all the great musicals. He has also performed in productions over the years, including playing one of the dads in “Mamma Mia!”. Harris remembers visiting his parents several years ago when his father introduced him to Henry Stern at the Elks Club at lunch after church. When

HENRY STERN

Southeastern Grocers Launches Low-Cost Meal Program Grocer to donate one million meals to Feeding America while helping to provide access to healthy meals to children in need

ALABAMA — Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), parent company and home of Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, together with the SEG Gives Foundation, has launched a new “Break from Hunger” program to provide accessible, healthy meal options to ensure no child goes hungry. Now through Labor Day, customers and associates ages 17 and younger can purchase a specially prepared “Student Summer Lunch Pack” meal box at any Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket or Winn-Dixie deli department for only $2. According to Feeding

PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION

CONTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEASTERN GROCERS

America, one in six children across the United States may experience food insecurity. As the back-to-school season approaches, it is crucial to help alleviate this issue, as insufficient nutrition can damage a child’s growth and development and can negatively impact their ability to thrive in academic and social

situations. Offering the “Student Summer Lunch Packs” at a low cost through its “Break from Hunger” program allows SEG to expand its support for combating hunger in the Southeast and provide relief to customers at a time most needed. The nourSee HUNGER, page A2

his father told him about Henry coming to Opelika with his family to escape Nazi Germany, he was surprised and interested in the story. It was on a fateful day in June 1937, as Adolf Hitler was gaining power in Germany, that 6-year-old Heinz Stern and his family, possessing ten dollars and few material goods, boarded the SS Washington in Hamburg. They narrowly escaped the horror of the Holocaust, as it was the last ship providing passage to Jews. Heinz and his family traveled to a relative’s home in Opelika. Heinz became Henry Stern, a beloved community leader with his wife Roslyn. After the success of Harris’ first play “Civil War Voices” about his great-

See STERN, page A2

Auburn Wins Prestigious Award CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The city of Auburn has been named one of the winners of the ETC Institute’s Leading the Way Award, which recognizes local governments for delivering outstanding services to their communities. Since 2004, the ETC Institute has conducted the city’s Citizen Survey that provides an assessment of resident satisfaction with city services. The city of Auburn has used these results as a tool for strategic planning and benchmarking over the years. As a recipient of the Leading the Way Award, the city of Auburn has ranked in the top 10% of all cities and counties surveyed

in the United States in three core areas: • Satisfaction with the overall quality of services • Satisfaction with customer service provided by employees • Satisfaction with the value residents think they receive for local taxes and fees. In addition to ranking in the top 10% overall, Auburn also rated in the top 10% of all cities in several specific areas, including: • Wastewater/Sanitary sewer services • Quality of public schools • Visibility of police in commercial and retail areas • Enforcement of local traffic laws • Enforcement of trash and debris cleanup on private property

Opelika Theatre Company is proud to present

NEWSIES

Disne

August 5th, 6th & 7th

great-uncle, he was looking for a uniquely American story for his second production. He remembered his father telling him about Henry Stern and returned to Opelika to interview him. Harris was intrigued with his amazing story and felt it had to be told. Five years ago, Harris hired an interpreter and traveled to Henry’s hometown in Westheim, Germany. With the help of city officials, he found a man who knew Henry and his family. The man, who had been a child himself at the time, remembered that Henry was good at stickball and that his father would stand in the doorway of his shop. “It was remarkable that

August 12th, 13th & 14th

at the Southside Center for the Arts 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika, AL, 36801

tickets available at - www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

• Recycling services/ drop-off centers •Overall value of services received for the taxes and fees. “City of Auburn employees come to work each day aiming to serve our community well and excel in everything they do,” said City Manager Megan McGowen Crouch. “We’re honored that, yet again, Auburn citizens recognize these efforts and have let us know through the Citizen Survey. “Our high scores are a testament of not only the hard work of city staff but the entire Auburn family.” Find more information about the ETC Institute and the Leading the Way Award at www.etcinstitute. com/ltwa.

CONTENTS

OPINION ..................... A4 ENTERTAINMENT ........... A7 RELIGION ................... A12 OBITUARIES ............... A13 COMICS ....................... A16 SPORTS ........................ B1 POLITICS ...................... B9 PUBLIC NOTICES ........... B12 CLASSIFIEDS ................ B14 PUZZLES ..................... B15

A2 Aug. 4, 2022

Opelika Public Library Unveils GSF Foundation Musical Garden OPELIKA — This past Saturday the Opelika Public Library unveiled the new Golden State Foods Foundation Musical Garden, located along the Storywalk at the Opelika Public Library. The Musical Garden consists of Cherub Bells, Sansa Rimba Mysteria xylophone, an Akadinda, a set of seven Tubular Bells and a set of colorful Rainbow Sambas. All five instruments are tuned to

STERN >>

FROM A1

I found this man,” Harris said. “The man provided information on what the town was like during that era.” Harris returned to Nebraska to work on the play and selected songs that were popular during World War II. He contacted Hayes, who arranged music for his first play, to assemble songs for the new play, “We’ll Meet Again.” In 2020, two readings of the play were presented at the Tony Award-winning Barter Theatre, the state theater of Virginia. As the world premiere production was ready to be presented in September 2020 in 41 stage shows with an orchestra, it was canceled due to the

HUNGER >>

FROM A1

ishing meal boxes will include either a ham or turkey sandwich, chips, a fresh fruit item and a bottle of water. Customers can simply request a “Student Summer Lunch Pack” from the deli at any local Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket or Winn-Dixie store. The SEG Gives Foundation will also donate $1 to Feeding America for each purchase of a “Break from Hunger” meal with the goal to donate the equivalent of one million meals into the community in partnership with Feeding America network food banks. “The challenges that our communities have faced during these past few years have magni-

each other so that when played together, they are in harmony. “The Musical Garden started as a project of the Friends of the Library to improve the green space and make the exterior of the library as fun as the inside," said Library Director Rosan McGinnis. "Through book sales, events, and funds from the 2021 Opelika Giving Day campaign, they were able to receive some of the needed funds, but the bulk of the funds were given by the GSF

Foundation. We are so thankful to the GSF Foundation for their support and know the new GSF Foundation Musical Garden will be a huge benefit for all who visit.” Also in attendance at the Grand Opening was Melissa Richardson, GSF Foundation Chair. When asked about why the GSF Foundation chose to donate to the Musical Garden project, she stated, “The Golden State Foods Foundation’s mission is to help women and children in need. As a

COVID-19 pandemic. Before being presented in Opelika, the musical will hold its world premiere in Savannah, Georgia, this month. “The play was inspired by Henry’s true story,” Harris said. “But there is some creative license to move the story along. There are several Opelika places in the show, including the train depot and POW camp. There are parts that are sorrowful, and there are parts that are joyful. The play is presented in flashbacks. “We have a great cast. The gentleman that plays the lead reminds you of Henry. A lady playing a key role is coming in from Las Vegas, and we have a lot of talented performers and professional dancers in the

fied the struggle of many families to feed their children during the summer months,” said Raymond Rhee, chief people officer of Southeastern Grocers. “Through our ‘Break from Hunger’ program and continued partnership with Feeding America, we aim to provide children with the nutritious food they need for a healthy life. We want to do everything we can to get food on the tables of our neighbors who need a helping hand — now more than ever.” The five Southeastern states SEG serves — Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi — rank among the top 20 for highest child poverty rates in the country with three states falling within the top five. These disheartening numbers highlight a

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

PUBLISHER: Michelle Key

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA PUBLIC LIBRARY

firm believer of “when you know better you do better” I felt like where better to go and become better? What

HARRIS

critical need, and SEG is committed to partnering with organizations that focus on creating equitable, long-term solutions to food insecurity. SEG and the SEG Gives Foundation remain steadfast in their commitment to giving back to local communities in great times of need. Recently, the grocer and its charitable arm donated $140,000 to seven Feeding America network food banks in the Southeast to directly help fund hunger-relief initiatives. Additionally, last year alone, SEG and the SEG Gives Foundation donated more than $700,000 back into local communities to help alleviate food insecurity. ABOUT SOUTHEASTERN GROCERS Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), parent company and home of Fresco

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

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

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

y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, is one of the largest conventional supermarket companies in the U.S. SEG grocery stores, liquor stores and in-store pharmacies serve communities throughout the five southeastern states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie are wellknown and well-respected regional brands with deep heritages, strong neighborhood ties, proud histories of giving back, talented and caring associates and strong commitments to providing the best possible quality and value to customers. For more information, visit www.frescoymas. com, www.harveyssupermarkets.com and www. winndixie.com.

better place to visit and feed your mind? This new Opelika Public Library is not your normal library. This place

is loaded with all of the modern technology you could need. Also, I

show. “When the two readings were held, we had very good feedback from young people that was exciting,” Harris added. “I think it is going to be entertaining, which is important to me. I don’t like shows that don’t engage you. One of the things I love about the Stern story is it was great that they got out of Germany, and it was great for Opelika, too. Opelika benefitted from them being here. “We are excited to be able to bring ‘We’ll Meet Again’ to Opelika,” Harris said. “Theater is pretty magical, and I enjoy doing it. It has been rewarding to me that his two children have been supportive of the show.” Henry and Roslyn’s two

children, Ginger and J., who are carrying on their parents’ legacy, are excited about the play. “This has been in the works since Dad was alive,” Ginger said. “I’m excited to see his story on stage.” “We’ll Meet Again” will be presented Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. “This is exciting,” J. said. “I think Dad would really love this.” For tickets and further information, contact the Arts Association of East Alabama at 334-749-8105 or 334-552-1577. The office is located at 1103 Glenn St., Opelika. Hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

ABOUT SEG GIVES FOUNDATION SEG Gives Foundation is the charitable arm of Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), parent company of Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie stores. The SEG Gives Foundation aligns giving with causes that are priorities to the communities SEG serves, including the fight against hunger, support for military service members and their families, relief to those affected by extreme weather and natural disasters and championing belonging, inclusion and diversity by combating social injustice to bridge the gap of inequities faced by many individuals, families and communities. Southeastern Grocers strives to be ingrained in its communities and, through the

SEG Gives Foundation, better the lives of its customers and neighbors. ABOUT FEEDING AMERICA Feeding America® is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, we helped provide 6.6 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need last year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; brings attention to the social and systemic barriers that contribute to food insecurity in our nation; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry.

See GARDEN, page A6

Subscribe to the Observer today! Name: Address: City: State:

ZIP:

Phone number: Email address: Payment Type (circle one): Check / Credit Card Visa or Master Card # Exp. Date:

Security Code:

Amount Paid:

• $34 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $45 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) •

Return to: The Observer 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Please do not send cash through the mail.

A3 Aug. 4, 2022

USA TOWN CENTER

1220 FOXRUN PARKWAY OPELIKA, AL

Why buy online when the largest selection of children's apparel in our are is available at Kidz World?

LORIANNA SCRUB OUTLET

Name Brand Scrubs Outlet Prices

A4 Aug. 4, 2022

Sunrise

SEAN DIETRICH

’m writing this in the early morning. The birds are asleep, the crickets, too. The sun is about to rise, and it’s going to rise just for you. There is a faint glow behind the trees. I can see it. Just wait. It’s coming. I received a letter this morning from a girl I’ll call Caroline. Caroline is 18. She told me about herself. She wrote: “I feel ugly and I know that’s why I’ve never had a boyfriend... I probably never will have one. People don’t like me, and I’m worried that nobody will ever love me.”

Sweet Caroline. Here’s another letter from a man we’ll refer to as “Elvis” — because that’s what he wanted to be called if I wrote about him. Elvis is 44. He wrote: “My ex-wife broke my heart ... Why is it I end up trusting somebody and they break my heart, and instead of hating THEM, I dislike MYSELF somehow? I don’t like myself ...” And then this beautiful young woman: “I have an arteriovenous malformation ... Which is why my arm doesn’t work, and now it’s moving to my leg.

The malformation started small, but has grown to the size of a tennis ball, giving me daily seizures and other obstacles ... “The hardest part about all this is being forgotten. I used to have a lot of friends before my diagnosis, but now ... “I get that people are busy, but is life really about being busy?” Well, I hate to disappoint these good people who’ve written me, but they’re talking to the wrong guy. I don’t know nothin’ ‘bout nothin’. The only thing I can possibly think to tell these good folks, something that might possibly comfort them, is about what happened to me during my seventh-grade year. First, a little background: my seventh-grade year was shaping up to be a good one. Often, in the school cafeteria I’d have my pals laughing until milk spilled from their noses and they lost control of their lower intestines. Then, Sept. 14 happened.

The newspaper reported that my father swallowed the barrel of his hunting rifle. And my adolescent life went to hell. I dropped out of school. I became a faceless nobody — at least that’s how I felt. I’ll never forget asking my friend’s sister on a date, years later, when I was 17. She turned me down. So I tried again. Strike two. Finally I asked her, point-blank, what was wrong with me. “Well,” she said. “All that stuff with your family, I don’t wanna be with anybody who’s, I don’t know, screwed up.” Screwed up. How about them tomatoes? Still, that girl was actually doing me a favor because later that same year, I met another girl. She was a kind soul. She was quirky, outgoing and she wore mismatched shoes. We never dated, we were only friends. She was missing her right hand — she lost it in a horrific accident as a child. But this didn’t hold her back. She was a lifeguard, a guitarist, an

artist and a comedian. Late one night — I’ll never forget this — she and her younger brother knocked on my bedroom window. The girl said: “You wanna watch the sun come up?” “But, it’s midnight,” I reminded them. “So?” she said. “That means we have six hours. C’mon.” I joined them on the beach. They brought jugs of coffee, a pocket radio, a deck of cards, potato chips and blankets. Her brother brought his girlfriend. For six hours we all sat on the sand. There was no necking, it wasn’t like that. We were friends. Buddies who talked, laughed, sipped Folgers and stayed awake until the sun soared above the mighty Gulf of Mexico. When the first sliver of light showed, the girl shot to her feet and ran along the beach, waving arms in the air. So did the others. I thought they’d lost their minds. She sprinted toward me, grabbed me and pulled me to my feet.

“C’mon!” she yelled. “This sunrise is special. This one is JUST for you!” I felt myself whoop and holler with them. I had no idea what we were so excited about, or why. We ran on the sand and cheered the arrival of the sun. I’m older now. My whooping and hollering days are over — unless it’s the Iron Bowl. But right now, you should see what I’m seeing. It’s worth hollering about. The sun. It’s large. Bright. Yellow. It’s here to wake up the whole world. The skies are unfolding. The crickets are singing about its arrival. The birds are applauding its entrance. I feel warmth on my face. You’re on my mind. I know it’s hard, but just hold on for a few more minutes, whoever you are. You’re not alone. Look into the sky. Your redemption draweth nigh. Get out your phone. Take a picture of the sky. Share it with someone. Because this sunrise is for you.

magazines, a mound of pistachios — can be considered dangerous flammable materials. Heat can smolder. Before the first flame rises up, the heat and oxygen that mix to make that fire do a slow atomic dance. They mingle and rotate, swirling together as the temperature rises degree by degree, turning a discarded rag or a stack of newspapers into a bonfire. It’s a deadly chemistry that wreaks havoc using ordinary items we glance past a thousand times a day. What will we discover was the mundane object that started this fire? Will we ever know? Chapter 3: A typi-

cal house/business fire doubles in size every minute. From all reports, it didn’t take long for a spark of smoldering heat in Maffia’s restaurant to double and then double again, and on and on, until the walls themselves were sheets of heat. The closest fire station is only blocks away, and those irreplaceable firefighters were on site within minutes. But fire is lightning fast. So much damage was done in less time than it takes to walk down the sidewalk from one end of Railroad Avenue to the other. Fire does not crawl. It leaps

In Flames

WENDY HODGE

t’s been a while since I drove downtown to visit my spot at the fountain in the courthouse square. For a long time, that was where I went to write, and to think and to just breathe. But then life got so busy, as it always seems to do. New job, new home,

not enough hours in the day to accomplish a lengthy to-do list… And so when I woke up just over a week ago to learn of the fire that had broken out overnight on Railroad Avenue, I was heartbroken. Buildings that had stood for so many decades, watching the city rise up on either side of the train tracks, had been forever altered by fire. I’ve spent the last year learning about fire — what causes it, how to produce it and how to control it. There are textbooks and manuals, case files and evidence reports and video after video explaining the science behind heat and

flames. Fire is insidious and single-minded and full of fury. But it’s also surprising, too. If I were to write a textbook of my own, mine would be a chronicle of the way fire surprises us . Chapter 1: Fire is not a thing — it is an event. We speak of fire as if it is a singular thing, a force with a mind of its own. But fire is more than that. It is a happening. It has a beginning, a middle and an end. No one at this point knows what the beginning of the fire at Maffia’s looked like. Time will tell, I suppose. People with far more knowledge than I have will study it and investigate

and come to a conclusion. There are pictures of the middle of this fire event all over social media. In those snapshots, the sky is glowing orange and the smoke is black and hanging like a shroud for several blocks around. The end of the event was a soggy mess, with neighboring businesses losing their inventory to water damage and smoke damage. Walls collapsed. Racks of clothes lay in puddles. Soot caked everything. From beginning to end, it lasted only a couple of hours. So much damage in so little time. Chapter 2: Everyday objects — piles of

See HODGE, page A5

> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

We’re more than just a great rate. Bank-issued, FDIC-insured

3.00

Minimum deposit $5000

1-year APY*

Finding a great rate on a CD is nice, but if you want to get the most out of your CDs, you need a strategy. If you’re looking for potential ways to generate additional income without tying up your money for years, to learn more, call today.

Carson B Cooper Financial Advisor

200 South 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 334-745-0100

* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective 07/29/2022. CDs offered by Edward Jones are bank-issued and FDIC-insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category. Please visit www.fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest and do not allow interest to compound. CDs offered through Edward Jones are issued by banks and thrifts nationwide. All CDs sold by Edward Jones are registered with the Depository Trust Corp. (DTC). FDI-1916K-A © 2020 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

A5 Aug. 4, 2022

'Sean of the South' to Publish New Book CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ALABAMA –– From celebrated storyteller “Sean of the South” comes a laughout-loud funny true story of a loving relationship, a grand adventure and a promise kept. The book is set to be released Oct. 11 of this year. It was only a few years after the starry-eyed young couple got married when scary news threatened to take the wind out of their sails. But Sean Dietrich’s wife, Jamie, wouldn’t let it. She dared to hope for and plan for a great big adventure, and she made him promise to do it with her. For love and the promise of biscuits along the way, Sean –– who was

HODGE >>

FROM A4

and runs. Chapter 5: Flames don’t cast a shadow. Fire is light, and when light is exposed to light there is no shadow cast. If you strike a match and watch the silhouette on the wall, you will see only the straight line of the matchstick. When you open the door in the middle of the night and see flames licking the walls like red-hot

never an athlete of any kind –– undertook the bike ride of a lifetime and lived to talk about it. In this true-life tale, master storyteller Sean Dietrich –– also known as the beloved columnist and creator of the blog

and podcast “Sean of the South" –– shares their hilarious, touching and sometimes terrifying story of the long bike ride

to conquer The Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath trail. As you laugh out loud through every hard-won mile and lose yourself in his signature poignancy, you’ll experience a great adventure that, in the end, will remind you of what’s most important in life: the value of keeping your promises, and the importance of connection in your most treasured relationships. A feel-good read you won’t be able to put down, "You Are My Sunshine" (Zondervan Books; 10/11/2022; ISBN: 9780310355786) dares you to hope for an adventure of your own. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist, and podcast host, known for

tongues, the only shadow you will see is your own. Chapter 6: Most of the time, it’s the smoke that kills you, not the flames. Wispy and dark, smoke from a fire is filled with aldehydes, acid gases, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, toluene, styrene and dioxins, as well as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Those are just

words on a page that can’t harm anyone. It’s when you mix them together and release them into the air that they become a lethal cocktail. The only mercy is that victims become unconscious before they feel the pain that fire inflicts. Thankfully there were no fatalities in our downtown fire. For that, we are all grateful. There is loss — tremendous loss. The fire of July 21, 2022, was an event that has cast a

his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Newsweek, Southern Living, Garden and Gun, The Tallahassee Democrat, Good Grit, South Magazine, Alabama Living, the Birmingham News, Thom Magazine

and The Mobile Press Register. He has authored 13 books, and is the creator of the “Sean of the South” Podcast. Advance copies, excerpts, and interviews are available upon request. I look forward to your feedback!

shadow over so many of us who love this city. But… As quickly as the fire grew and spread, our neighbors stepped up just as quickly. Armed with food and prayers and support of every kind, strangers and friends crowded the streets downtown. Tables were spread with platters of food, donated and home-baked. Coolers filled with ice and water lined the sidewalk. Opelikians came,

not to gawk and gossip, but to tend and care. Everyday necessities were instantly available for all who needed them. Folks who lost their livelihoods have been embraced and supported by the entire town. Donations have been made ... have poured in, actually. The shadow cast by our goodwill for each other is long indeed. The end of this fire event has yet to be written. What will a rebuilt Railroad Avenue

PRAISE FOR SEAN’S WRITING: “Sean Dietrich can spin a story.” – Southern Living “Sean Dietrich is Southern storytelling at its finest; reading his words is like sitting on a front porch with a mason jar of sweet tea, listening to your uncle weave a story you know in your heart is true, but there’s a little magic thrown in too.” – Annie Butterworth Jones, owner of The Bookshelf “Southern Literature at its finest.” – Southern Literary Review

look like and how long will it take for “normal” to return? I know this as sure as I know that Teddy Roosevelt himself rode a train down those very same railroad tracks that pass in front of where Maffia’s once stood — Opelika will rally around our own. This fire will go down in history, but so will our love for each other and for the streets and tracks and bricks that make up our city.

World Premier Production

WE’LL MEET AGAIN AUGUST 30, 2022

AN OPELIKA WELCOME

James R. Harris

Mark Hayes

As Julius Hagedorn, a Jewish merchant in Opelika, Alabama, began to see the storms of World War II gathering over Europe in the 1930’s, he set about helping the family of his young nephew, Henry Stern, escape the Holocaust just in time for a new life in America. We’ll Meet Again celebrates Henry’s growing up in a small Southern town, being overwhelmed at first by the welcoming crowd of thousands gathered to greet the family stepping off the train at the Opelika Depot; then journeying on through a life that held surprises at every turn. e

F O R T I C K E T I N F O R M A T I O N C A L L 3 3 4 . 7 4 9 . 8 1 0 5 O R V I S I T W W W. E A S T A L A B A M A A R T S . O R G

A6 Aug. 4, 2022

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Hannah Lester Visits Opelika Kiwanis Club

GARDEN >>

FROM A2

Live Lee Magazine Editor, Hannah Lester spoke at the Opelika Kiwanis meeting on July 28. She gave details on how the magazine is distributed throughout the county and its origins.

worked for the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra in Huntsville, Alabama, and was amazed at what music does for children.

I saw it up close. Combining these two was a no brainer. We are thrilled to see the GSF Foundation Musical Garden come to life, and we know it will grow and become

bigger and better.” The Musical Garden is open daily from dawn to dusk. All ages are welcome to play and explore the garden and its instruments.

Nonviolence Peace March, Rally to be Held Aug. 6 PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Samford Community Outreach group will hold the seventh annual Nonviolence Peace March and Rally. Pastor Carolyn Morton is coordinating the event, which will be held on Aug. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The march will start at Christian Care Ministries in Opelika. Everyone is welcome to come out and participate in the event. Pictured left are participants in a previous march.

Happy Birthday Lee County NAACP PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

E vents, Food, & SocietyNews

UPCOMING EVENTS: AUG. 5 THROUGH 14: AACT PRESENTS "HANDS ON A HARD BODY" AUG. 5 THROUGH 14: OTC PRESENTS "NEWSIES" AUG. 6: OPELIKA SPORTSPLEX TRI FOR KIDS

Create A Variety of Scrumptious Dishes Featuring Fresh Fruits PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern W

hile fresh fruits are delectable by themselves, they are yummy baked in pastry, cakes or simply mixed with a dressing to bring out their flavors. Try a few new dishes for your family while fresh fruits are in abundance and at their peak of flavor. Fresh figs are one of my favorite fruits, and I look forward to serving them at

Hospitality

the end of July and early August. I have been blessed to have a friend who has let me pick figs from her large tree the past few years. I always plan to try several recipes with the figs, then I eat so many that I run short. One recipe I make every year is baked figs stuffed with cheese as it is so easy. We tried this appetizer at one of Don’s brother’s homes when he

lived in Dallas. After living in New York so long, moving to Dallas was an adjustment for Ed. He made the best of it moving into a beautiful home with a chef’s kitchen and creating a wine cellar. Ed had a love of fine wines and cooking gourmet dishes, and the stuffed figs were the easiest appetizer he made. The stuffed figs were made by cutting an “x”

Baked Fig, Bacon and Goat Cheese Crostini makes a tasty appetizer with a mixture of goat cheese, bacon and pecans stuffed into fresh figs and served with toasted baguette slices. Look over the recipes for a variety of delectable dishes featuring fresh fruits. in the top of the fruit and placing a small chunk of blue cheese. They were then baked for a few minutes until the cheese was warm. These were served under a shade tree by the pool, which is a cherished memory of a special per-

son we miss. Figs are an ancient fruit, being mentioned in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Remains of fig trees were found at Neolithic sites from 5000 B.C. Figs are native to Asia Minor and

throughout the Mediterranean in Greece and Italy. Figs were brought to southern California in 1769 by Spanish Franciscan missionaries led by Junipero Serra. The variety See CIPPERLY, page A10

Stop The Presses! NEWSIES to Take the Stage in Opelika OPELIKA — Opelika Theatre Company is bringing "Newsies" to the stage. “The show is an actual true story about the newsboys’ strike of 1899 and how the newsboys came together and took down the major news publishers in New York, which were Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst,” said Director of OTC, Marty Moore. The strike was the result of the price of papers going up, and the newsboys revolted. Come to the Southside Center for the Arts over the next few weekends to see Jack Kelly and his friends (and fellow newsboys) take on Opelika. Jacob Kroll plays Jack Kelly, the show’s

lead. But the show is very family-focused. There is more than one parent who is in the show with their child, along with some siblings who are acting together. Kroll is acting with his brother Josh, who is playing Snyder. “Jim Collins, who used to own La Cantina, is playing the role of Teddy Roosevelt,” Moore said. “And his son, Jay Collins, is playing Crutchie. Crutchie is a newsie that is crippled by polio and he is kind of like Jack Kelly’s little brother that he never had.” Doug Bendinger is playing Pulitzer, while his daughter, Dalton Ruthendinger is playing the newsie, Albert. “It’s kind of a cool situation how community theatre can get families involved and how it makes lasting

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

impressionable memories on people to be able to do something like this with their parents or their siblings,” Moore said. There are other familiar faces in the

show, including Director of Opelika Main Street Ken Ward, who will be playing the mayor. “There's a couple of faces that people would definitely want to see

in a situation other than what they’re normally used to seeing them in,” Moore said. Newsies, as a musical, not only requires a lot of singing, but dancing.

“These kids, we have literally taken kids that have had no dance training and we’ve literally taught them how to flip, how to do speSee NEWSIES, page A11

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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

Nothing better for your lawn exists

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

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

A8 Aug. 4, 2022

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE / FOR THE OBSERVER

Making the Grade: On the Road to Alexander City

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

n 1980-81, my senior year at Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals), I was in the radio show class. Fortunately, my best friends Amelia and Leigh Ann were in there as well, along with 12 other classmates. Now, I’d like to say that we were chosen for our abilities and talents. Nope; our names were drawn out of a hat. Still, that was one of my favorite classes at BRHS. On Monday through Wednesday, we would seek out newsworthy items at school and write them up under the guidance of Ms. Melba Turner, our teacher. Then on Thursday and Friday, we’d drive ourselves (Remember, this was when the world was a much safer place.), to our then- local radio station, WRFS AM/FM (“Radio’s Friendliest Station”). There, we would read our stories aloud and have them taped. After the taping of the show, which was called, “The 10:15 Express from BRHS,” we’d walk across the street to Carlisle’s Drugs to have a refreshing treat at their wonderful soda fountain, or we’d drive to the then- Piggly Wiggly to buy lunch at their delicious deli. Ah, those were the days. Although Carlisle’s Drugs no longer has a pharmacy, the soda fountain still serves up delicious sandwiches and ice cream treats. A soda fountain in the 21st century is quite rare. Unfortunately, the Pig-

gly Wiggly hasn’t had a deli in quite a number of years. On Saturdays, “The 10:15 Express from BRHS” was broadcast at, you guessed it, 10:15 a.m. It was so much fun to hear our voices over the air waves. However, since I didn’t have a smooth-sounding radio voice, being a DJ was not in my future. Instead, after graduat-

ing from Auburn with a B.A. in 1985, I sold advertising air time at WRFS and at another radio station in Sylacauga. Once at the Sylacauga station, a young female DJ, who had an amazing radio voice, didn’t want to be the recorded witch’s cackle for a Halloween promo, which we were running. Therefore, I stepped forward and cackled, thus ending my on-air radio career forever. However, Mike Lewis, a former class-

mate and fellow 10:15 Express crew member, certainly has a commanding voice for radio. As a result, Lewis (I’m referring to him by his last name per AP style and so that I won’t mix him up with my husband Mike.), worked as a DJ for WRFS during college and currently works as a weekend DJ for WSGN AM/FM. My husband Mike

and I chatted with Lewis back at our belated 40th class reunion this past April. It was great catching up with Lewis, and last week, Mike and I met him for supper in Alex City. Lewis has had an impressive career in communications. For 25 years, he worked as press secretary in Washington, D.C., for three different U.S. congressmen. Now, Lewis works in Montgomery as the communications director for Alabama

Attorney General Steve Marshall. Mike and I went to meet Lewis for supper at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St. in downtown Alex City. Jake Mixon, the owner, opened the restaurant in 2010; we met him, and he made us feel very welcome. Also, right away I admired the building’s cozy, comfortable atmosphere. Tammy, our server, was wonderful, helpful and patient. For his entrée, Mike chose an 8-ounce beef filet,

A-O Tourism Annual Photo Contest Still Accepting Entries CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN-OPELIKA TOURISM

LEE COUNTY –– There’s just over a month left to participate in Auburn-Opelika Tourism’s annual AO Photo Contest. Professional and amateur photographers of all skill levels are invited to submit their work for a chance to win the grand prize. Photo submissions must be taken in Auburn or Opelika. The contest closes on Aug. 31. One talented winner will be selected to win a $500 gift card to Cameragraphics or the Auburn-Opelika busi-

ness of their choice, subject to restrictions. Photos will be judged on four aspects: originality, creativity, overall artistic appeal and local emphasis. Photo content can include, but is not limited to, landscapes, landmarks, outdoor activities, events, sports, portraits and wildlife. To enter, visit www. aotourism.com/photo-contest and submit your photo(s). There is no entry fee. The contest is open to all photographers, amateur and professional. You do not have to live in the area to participate. Photos do not have to be taken in a particular time frame;

as long as the photo was taken in the area, it doesn’t matter when it was taken. Note: Submitted photos might be used in future marketing materials. We will give full credit to the artist, but please leave off the watermarks. \ For more information, questions or concerns, contact Cat Bobo at cat@ aotourism.com. Auburn-Opelika Tourism is a nonprofit service organization driving economic impact and improving the quality of life in our community through tourism and travel.

cooked medium well, with a baked potato and garden salad. I chose the exact same order; however, my steak had to be well done, of course. Lewis chose the 10-ounce sirloin, garden salad and broccoli with cheese. Everything was perfectly prepared. The salad was fresh and delicious, consisting of Romaine lettuce (Those dark, green leaves have a lot of nutrients.), cucumber, Cheddar-Jack cheese, croutons and dressing. Also, our steaks were terrific, being mouthwateringly tender and juicy. Run and do not walk to Jake’s Restaurant, especially if you are visiting Lake Martin, the most beautiful lake in Sweet Home Alabama. Jake’s offers diners some tempting appetizers. These include: crab claws, Southwest eggrolls, fried mushrooms, cheese sticks, loaded potato skins, fried Wickles pickles and loaded fries. Besides our excellent entrees, Jake’s also serves diners: a

16-ounce ribeye, the round about hamburger steak, chicken dishes, fish and seafood, pasta, burgers and sandwiches. Believe me, you’ll have a lot of delicious choices when you dine at Jake’s. Jake’s Restaurant is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; is closed on Monday; is open on Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5 to 8:30 p.m.; and is closed on Saturday. Mike Lewis, this review was for you. It was great dining with you in our hometown. Jake’s Restaurant makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy! Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com

Back to School Movie Night set for Aug. 5

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for some endof-summer fun at the Back to School Movie “Angels in the Outfield” on Friday, Aug. 5, at Duck Samford Park. Gates will open at 7

p.m., and the movie will begin at 8 p.m. This event is free to the public. Concessions will be sold, and free glow sticks and necklaces will be given to the first 200 patrons. For more information, call Auburn Parks and Recreation at 334-501-2930.

A9 Aug. 4, 2022

Slippin' and Slidin' Through Summer

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Opelika Parks & Rec hosted a family fun day, "Splish Splash Bash," at Covington Recreation Center on Saturday, July 30. For $1 per person, community members enjoyed a sunny afternoon of swimming, sliding, music and food.

Sun's Out — Suds' Out

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Opelika Public Library hosted the end of summer celebration, July 30, for its Summer Library Adventure series. Children and parents enjoyed water games, slip-n-sliding, prize drawings, a treasure hunt and a foam party at the summer sendoff event.

A10 Aug. 4, 2022

CIPPERLY >>

FROM A7

they cultivated came to be known as the Mission fig. Fresh figs are fragile. If you are not eating or cooking with them in a day, they can be stored in the refrigerator a few days. Watermelon is another

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> FRESH CHEESE TRAY AND FIGS S id James Nakhjavan Arrange assorted fresh cheeses such as Brie, Roquefort, chevre and Boursin on tray. Garnish with red and white grapes, rosemary and fresh mint. Serve with fresh figs and crackers. BAKED FRESH FIGS STUFFED WITH CHEESE Fresh figs Goat cheese or blue cheese Cut an x on the top of figs. Place a small piece of cheese into the figs. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes until cheese is softened. BAKED FIG, BACON AND GOAT CHEESE CROSTINI 4 oz. crumbled goat cheese, softened 4 oz. chopped cooked bacon 2 Tbsp. finely chopped toasted pecans 12 fresh figs 1 Tbsp. honey, optional Toasted baguette slices Preheat oven to 350°. Stir together softened goat cheese, bacon and finely chopped toasted pecans. Cut figs in half. Press back of a small spoon into centers of fig halves, making a small indentation in each. Spoon bacon mixture into indentations. Bake on a baking sheet 7 minutes. Drizzle with honey. Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices. ZABAGLIONE SAUCE WITH FRESH PEACHES Gina Fromhold Serve sauce layered in champagne flutes with fresh peaches, beginning and ending with zabaglione. 2 egg yolks 2 Tbsp. sugar 2 Tbsp. Marsala wine 1 cup whipping cream 1/4 cup sifted powdered sugar Combine egg yolks, sugar and wine in top of a double boiler. Beat with an electric mixer at medium speed until well blended. Place over boiling

wonderful summer fruit, and it is delicious served in salads. Jo Ellen James’ recipe includes Vidalia onion and feta tossed with olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing. Martha Hicks’s Watermelon Salad is one that she and her daughter, Laurel, enjoyed at Chez Julien in Paris. It is mixed with cantaloupe,

strawberries, mozzarella cheese and bacon. Michelle Hodges’ salad can be made with watermelon or pears. Try all three while watermelon is in season. Watermelon is another ancient fruit. Seeds were found in the Dead Sea region at ancient settlements, and in a prehistoric

archaeological site in southwestern Libya, many 5,000-year-old wild watermelon seeds were discovered. European colonists brought watermelon to the New World, and Spanish settlers were growing watermelon in 1576. When selecting a watermelon, check the ground spot to be sure it is yellow

water. Reduce heat to low; cook about 5 minutes or until soft peaks form, beating constantly at medium speed. Remove mixture from heat. Spoon into a medium bowl. Place in a large bowl of ice. Beat about 1 minute or until cool. Refrigerate 10 minutes. Combine whipping cream and powdered sugar in a small bowl; refrigerate 30 minutes. Add whipping cream to cooked mixture; beat until stiff.

tion Drizzle olive oil with grated vanilla bean on 4 plates Arrange watermelon, cantaloupe and strawberries. Arrange fresh mozzarella with fruit. Make sure that all your colors show. Sprinkle with a chiffonnade of fresh mint and basil. Sprinkle bacon crumbles. Drizzle with balsamic reduction. Fruit should be chilled. Bon Appetit!

bubbly. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

warm with vanilla ice cream on top. Recipe can be doubled.

PEACH COBBLER Connie King 1 ½ cups self-rising flour 1 ½ cups sugar 2 cups milk 1 ½ sticks butter 6 cups fresh peaches, sliced Combine flour and sugar; add milk, mixing well. Melt butter in 13 by 9-inch baking dish. Pour in flour mixture. Pour peaches in center. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until golden brown. When peaches are out of season, can use canned.

RASPBERRY AND FIG CAKE Dr. Shirley Lazenby Dry breadcrumbs (I use cornmeal) 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1/2 cup butter, melted Zest of 3 limes, divided 1 1/2 cups flour Juice of 1 lime 1/2 pint raspberries 4 figs, cut into eighths (or additional 1/2 pint raspberries) Powdered sugar Preheat oven to 350. Butter a 9-inch springform pan and coat with breadcrumbs. In a bowl, using a handheld mixer, beat the sugar and eggs at high speed. until fluffy, 2 minutes. Beat in butter and 2/3 of the zest. At low speed, alternately beat in flour and lime juice until almost incorporated. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the batter until smooth. Scrape the batter into prepared pan and smooth the surface. Gently press in raspberries and figs. Bake the cake on the bottom third of oven for 40 minutes. Transfer to the upper third of oven and continue baking for 35 minutes longer until a cake tester instead in the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached. Transfer to a rack to cool. Run a thin knife around the edge and release the springform. Dust with powdered sugar. Sprinkle with remaining lime zest, slice and serve.

WATERMELON SALAD Jo Ellen James 1 (5 lb.) watermelon 1 Vidalia onion 1/4 cup red wine vinegar Salt and pepper 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint 4 oz. feta cheese crumbled Salt and pepper 6 whole mint sprigs for garnishing Cut melon into bite-size pieces, removing seeds and set aside. Peel and slice the onion into rings. In a small bowl, combine vinegar, salt, pepper, and whisk until salt is dissolved. Slowly whisk in olive oil, a few drops at a time. Add chopped mint. In a large bowl, combine the melon, onion, and feta. Pour dressing over melon mixture and toss. Garnish with mint sprigs. WATERMELON SALAD WITH CANTALOUPE AND STRAWBERRIES Martha Hicks This is a refreshing salad. Laurel and I ate it at Chez Julien in Paris. 3 cups irregular chunks of watermelon 2 cups irregular chunks of cantaloupe 2 cups sliced strawberries Fresh mozzarella cheese, torn or sliced Fresh mint and sweet basil 3 strips crisply cooked bacon, crumbled Extra virgin olive oil with finely grated fresh vanilla bean Balsamic reduc-

PEAR OR WATERMELON SALAD Michelle Hodges Romaine lettuce Pecans Ripe pears or watermelon Feta or mozzarella cheese Poppy seed dressing In a bowl, place chopped romaine lettuce. Cut pears or watermelon into bite-size pieces and place in bowl. Cut feta or mozzarella cheese into bite-size pieces and place in bowl. Add chopped pecans. Pour purchased poppy seed dressing into bowl and toss together. Serve right away. Note: Feta goes well with pears, and mozzarella is best with watermelon. BLACKBERRY OR BLUEBERRY CRISP 4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries or blueberries 4 Tbsp. sugar 2 tsp. cornstarch 3 tsp. water 1 tsp. lemon juice 1 cup quick-cooking oats 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 cup cold butter Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, optional Place blackberries in a greased 1-qt. baking dish. In a small bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, water and lemon juice until smooth. Pour over berries. Combine oats, flour, brown sugar and cinnamon; cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over berries. Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until filling is

EASY BLUEBERRY COBBLER Pat Randle Can use blackberries 2 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat pastry flour 1 cup sugar (or can use Sucanat) 1 ½ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt ¼ cup melted butter or salad oil ¾ cup milk 1 egg 2 cups blueberries Place first seven ingredients in large bowl; blend well. Gently fold in blueberries. Pour into a greased two-quart casserole. Topping 1 cup sugar 4 Tbsp. butter, softened 2 tsp. cinnamon Mix ingredients together; sprinkle over batter. Bake at 350 degrees for to 45 minutes. Good served warm with peach ice cream.

ANNA’S EASY FRESH PEACH PIE 4 peaches, peeled and sliced 1 cup self-rising flour 1 cup sugar 1 stick butter 1 small can Carnation evaporated milk Melt butter in bowl in microwave. In separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, butter and milk; stir well. Add sliced peaches. Pour into baking pan. Cook in 375 degree oven for 30 minutes. Serve

in color. Pick a melon without soft areas, dents or cuts, and be sure to wash it before slicing. Fresh fruit is a nutritious snack to have on hand for any time of day or to embellish an array of dishes. At breakfast, sprinkle blueberries, blackberries or strawberries over cereals, and add color and

EASY FIG SPREAD Anna Asbury shared this recipe years ago. If you enjoy fig preserves, this is similar without all the work. It is good on toast for breakfast. 1 cup soft figs 1 cup sugar Small amount of water Dash of lemon juice Combine ingredients in saucepan; simmer until the consistency of jam.

flavor to salads at lunch. Start dinner with cheese and fruit or cap the meal with a fresh fruit dessert. Look over recipes and create a wonderful treat for your family this coming week.

FIG PRESERVES Bryce Farms 6 quarts figs 1 lemon 3 quarts water 4 lbs. sugar Sprinkle firm ripe fruit with baking soda (1 cup to 6 quarts fruit). Cover with 6 quarts boiling water and let stand for 15 minutes. Drain and wash in 2 baths of clean cold water. Let figs drain. Make syrup of 4 lbs. sugar to 3 quarts hot water. Add figs and cook rapidly until clear and tender. After the syrup thickens some put juice of one lemon in it. Take them off heat and let plump overnight. The next morning take a small amount out and check to see if it is thick enough. If not, you can cook a little more, then put in jars and process in boiling water for 25 minutes. Figs will be plumper if you don’t pack them so thick FRESH PEACH OR BERRY TRIFLE 1 pound cake, homemade or purchased 6 oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding 2 cups whipping cream, whipped and sweetened with 1/3 to ½ cup sugar or medium-sized whipped topping Peaches, Strawberries, blueberries or choice of fresh fruit Prepare vanilla pudding mix as directed on package. Chill until ready to assemble trifle. In a trifle bowl or large bowl, place a layer of pound cake slices, top with half of the pudding and fruit. Then spread whipped cream over fruit. Repeat layers. Garnish top with additional fresh fruit, if desired. Chill until ready to serve.

BACON-WRAPPED FIGS Emma Jane Hunt 8-12 fresh figs, cut in half length-wise 8-12 slices sugar-cured black pepper crusted bacon, cut in half Wrap each fig half with half a slice of bacon. Place wrapped figs in a sauté pan and cook over medium heat, turning every couple of minutes to cook the bacon. Serve warm or at room temperature.

A11 Aug. 4, 2022

PRESENTED BY:

AUGUST 5, 6, 7, & 12, 13, 14 Purchase Tickets at: www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

Jacob Kroll as Jack Kelly

Stephen Shropshire as Davey

Carey Lovell as Les

Justin Brasseld as Specs

JP Williams as Romeo

Kyler Register as Henry

Sarah Belle McWhorter as Jo Jo

Lily Reagan as Buttons

Julia Barnes as Splasher

Becky Bootz as Medda Larkin

Ken Ward as Mayor & cop

Aiden Maher as Wiesel

Matthew Cornelius as Darcy & cop

Sam Ferrell as Bowery Beauty & Richmond Newsie

NEWSIES >>

FROM A7

cial effect tricks, they had never had a pair of tap shoes on until Jan. 10,” she said. The students who participate in OTC’s classes all took up an interest in tap dancing and began classes together in January. “When we started the classes, the musical theatre, classes, it all happened after Descendants last year,” Moore said. “And the kids all loved Descendants so much because of the dancing, they all wanted to do more dance. And so they wanted

Madie Lynn Bladen as extra Newsie, Richmond Newsie & scab

Nathaniel Pitt as Morris Delancey, extra Newsie & Bronx Newsie

Josh Kroll as Snyder

JD Higginbotham as Mike

Madyson Peterson as Hannah, Bowery Beauty & Manhattan Newsie

Will Bladen as Nunzio, Jacobi & Richmond Newsie

Marret Bledsoe as Bowery Beauty, Nun, extra Newsie & Manhattan Newsie

Hanna Mulder as Flushing Newsie & ensemble

forming art degree, he taught combat scenes,” Moore said. “The combat scenes will blow you away. The fight scenes are so real that even though I know that they’re not actually hitting each other, he has taught them so well that it appears they are actually knocking the heck out of each other.” Other contributors include Patrina Maher who helped coordinate the music; Alysa Richards, the stage manager; Cameron Whitlow,S who helped with choreography; Graves Lovell, who helped build the set and more.

Taylor Simpkins as Tommy boy

Cadence Hale as Ike

Gabriel Boone as Bunsen, Stage Manager & “man”

Ada Mulder as Bowery Beauty, extra Newsie, Flushing Newsie & passerby

Owen Mulder as Flushing Newsie & ensemble

Hannah Ballard Dalton Ruth Bendinger as as Albert Racetrack

Jay Collins as Crutchie

Sigrid Mulder as Elmer

Lizzy Lovell as Finch

Drury Bell as Oscar Delancey & Bill

William Coxwell as scab, cop, Woodside Newsie, & ensemble

to all learn together, so they’d all be on the same playing level.” Moore had reservations — including whether the children would still be interested after their parents bought tap shoes. So she started them off easy with soft-shoe tap. But the students were insistent, so many of the parents bought tap shoes for the children for Christmas. And now, they’ll be performing a big tap number in Newsies. They’ve picked up other skills too. “Eli Grant, who is a graduate of LaGrange College with a per-

Bricelyn Simpson as Les

Phoebe Henderson as Woodside Newsie, & goon

Reese Colley as Katherine

Katie Taylor as Seitz & ensemble

Madeline Mersino as Bowery Beauty, Nun #1, Woodside Newsie & scab

Doug Bendinger as Joseph Pulitzer & cop

Lucy Zellner as Spot Conlon, Nun, Bowery Beauty, extra Newsie & “woman”

Paige Henry as Bowery Beauty, Richmond Newsie & goon

Gracie Ferrell as Richmond Newsie

Moore said she hopes people will come see the show to see OTC’s progress over the last seven years. “This is our anniversary this week,” she said. “We are seven years old. Seven years ago we met at the overall company, a group of us … We felt like there was a multitude of talent in the area and that it needed to be showcased. We know that there are other theaters that are close by but we felt that Opelika, being the eclectic, artsy community that it wants to be would benefit greatly by having a theatre located near or

Anna Gail Harrington as Mush

Jim Collins as Teddy Roosevelt, & cop

Olivia Gray as Bowery Beauty, Nun, Bronx Newsie & goon

Eli Nobles as Bronx Newsie, cop & ensemble

downtown. “… Seven years ago, we never thought we’d be doing a show of this magnitude.” The show will run from Aug. 5 through 7 and again from Aug. 12 through 14 at the Southside Center for the Arts, 1103 Glenn St. For tickets: https:// www.opelikatheatrecompany.com. For anyone in the community who wants to get involved, OTC will have another show soon — Clue. Auditions for Clue will be held next week, Aug. 9 and 10 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Moore is trying to

Susanna Washburn as Bowery Beauty, Nun, Woodside Newsie & goon

Hadley Nobles as Bronx Newsie & ensemble

get newcomers and younger children involved, too. “I’m starting a new beginner class on Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m., that will be for ages 10 and under,” she said. “And I’m also starting a new beginner for ages 11 and up, 11 to 17.” She’s offering everyone one free class to try and garner interest. “OTC was founded on the premise of all-inclusiveness,” she said. “We don’t care who you are, what you are, how you are or why you are. We are a family and you are welcome.”

A12 Aug. 4, 2022

What's Happening in Lee County DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM INFORMATION SESSION Learn how we can help you achieve your health goals! Information Session Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022 10 a.m. CST East Alabama Health Education Center 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL For more information call 334-528-6800 or email dpp@eamc.org

Camp Hill Marketplace

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

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

VFW Post 5404, 131 E. Veterans Blvd., Auburn (next to Ray's Collision off of S. College St.) will be open on Wednesdays 0800 - 1100 with coffee, donuts, cake and conversation about service and benefits for all veterans and spouses to stop by. THE MARKET AT AG HERITAGE PARK Every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. at AG Heritage Park located at 620-A S. Donahue Dr. in Auburn O GROWS FARMERS MARKET Every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. outside the Southside Center for the Arts located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

Opelika is excited to be the host city for the 2022 Main Street Alabama LAB conference in August! Registration is now open for this great event. LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP will meet 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 Dr. in Opelika. Every month there will be different topics discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision. “Alone we can do so little: together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller Contact: Shiquita Fulton, M. ED/Vision Rehab Therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, Melody Wilson, Case manager for the blind at (256)-368-3258

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet on Aug. 23, 2022. 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. HAVE A COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

Email The Observer at Editor@OpelikaOberver.com to get your community announcement on this page. AUBURN AREA COMMUNITY THEATRE PROUDLY PRESENTS

Located in beautiful downtown Opelika

223 S. 8th St. | 334-749-8003 www.opelikaobserver.com

AUGUST 5-14, 2022 6 SAT AUG

JAN DEMPSEY COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER TICKETS $15/$12 STUDENTS & SENIORS (334) 246-1084 OR AUBURNACT.ORG

HANDS ON A HARDBODY IS PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CONCORD THEATRICALS. WWW.CONCORDTHEATRICALS.COM

SUBSCRIBE TODAY $34 FOR LEE COUNTY www.opelikaobserver. com/subscribe-today/

A13 Aug. 4, 2022

Overcoming Bad Choices

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

RELIGION –– All choices have consequences. I throw a rock into a pond and the water ripples. The ripples are the result of me choosing to throw the rock. 2. You cannot have choices without consequences — life doesn’t work that way. If I choose to throw a rock into the pond (unless it is winter and the pond

is frozen), it will ripple the water. You can live in denial of this if you so choose — but that doesn’t make it true. There are people today who think the earth is flat, man never went to the moon and there are no such things as birds — the government destroyed them all and replaced them with drones to spy on us. It’s their “right” to believe these things if they so choose, but that doesn’t somehow magically make them right as many seem to believe. All beliefs are not created equal. Some have no foundation in reality. 3. To pretend choices have no consequences is foolish. Now we’ve entered the domain of Proverbs. “Fool” and “folly” are big words in this book. Combined, they are used almost

100 times. The fool is the person who lives oblivious to truth. They “despise wisdom and instruction” (1:7) and “hate knowledge” (1:22). They “find no pleasure in understanding” (18:2) and “trust in themselves” (28:26). 4. It is a mark of maturity to accept the consequences of our choices. Everyone makes mistakes, everyone sins — the real issue is how do we handle it? Do we acknowledge our wrongs or try to rationalize/deny them? Proverbs tells us, “Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright” (14:9). Mature people seek forgiveness, make amends and move forward. 5. God forgives us when we make foolish

choices. “Whoever conceals their sin does not prosper, but the one who confesses them and renounces them finds mercy” (28:13). Our Father delights in showing mercy. (Micah 7:18). 6. God does not remove the consequences of our choices. God forgave David’s adultery with Bathsheba and even his murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 12:13), but the ripple of consequences wasn’t removed (v. 10, 14). Moses was forgiven for his rash words and striking the rock but was not allowed to enter the promised land (Numbers 20:12; Deuteronomy 3:23-26). 7. God does enable us to keep moving forward. With Him there’s always hope. Moses and

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN

David found ways to move on from their great disappointments because God helped them. We move on in the same manner. Think about the apostle Paul. He came to Christ and was forgiven of the horrible things he had done in the past, but not from the consequences. That would include his own knowledge of what he had done (1 Timothy 1:15), interactions with family members and friends of his victims (see Acts 9:26ff), and we can only guess what else. But Paul moved forward. He found the strength to do so in God’s love, grace and mercy, and so can we. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-gracewith-bruce-green.com

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

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

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. — Hebrews 11:1

CHURCH DIRECTORY

Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117

334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika

BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528

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

10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

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

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

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

Got Questions?

Come Study With Us

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT CUNNINGHAM DRIVE 2660 CUNNINGHAM DR., OPELIKA SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 A.M. / 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 6:30 P.M.

High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750

Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015

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

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Good Sheperd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

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

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St.,

Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, Opelika, ALAL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun12pm 12pm-6pm Sun - 6pm

Worship with us on Sunday!

8:30 AM

Traditional Service

9:30 AM

Sunday School Gathering

10:30 AM

Contemporary Service

10:30 AM

Chapel Service tumcopelika.org

(334) 745-2632

800 2nd Ave Opelika, Alabama 36801

A14 Aug. 4, 2022

Wrestling with Weaknesses

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION — s I have grown older, I have grown weaker physically. It is one of those problems that I call the fleas that come with the dog of old age. My “handicap” has to do with my legs; they have become gradually feebler during the past five years. To cope with this I turned first to an ordinary walking stick, then to a stronger staff, like Moses used. I was not distressed by this mild limitation;

it was fun having my friends call me Moses! A couple of years later, I found that my “balance” would require more than a staff. Resisting pessimism, I laughed about being the most unbalanced preacher in Alabama. That’s when “Wally the Walker” became a daily requirement. And that’s also when my Enemy began to hound me with the idea that “nobody wants to listen to the preaching of a crippled old man who has to use a walker to get around.” Sadly, I confess that I figured the devil was right so I began declining invitations to preach. Then one day I came across Saint Paul’s words about his weakness, in the 12th chapter of Second Corinthians:

8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. As I read those words I heard the Lord saying, “Paul didn’t quit.” That got my attention. So I began to wrestle with how differently from Paul I had responded to my weakness. I had certainly not “taken pleasure” in my weakness; instead I had felt sorry for myself. The big

question I had to answer now was this: Could I come up with the faith to “gladly boast about my weakness so the power of Christ could work through me”? I struggled intensely with that because I kept hearing another voice saying, “Your time is up, old man; it’s time for you to sit on the porch and listen to the birds sing!” I turned to The Message by Peterson to see how he translated Paul’s words and found this: Satan’s angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty. At first, I didn’t think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told

me, My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness. Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size — abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over. And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become. My friend J.B. Phillips stirred my soul with his translation of what Paul said: I have cheerfully made up my mind to be proud of my weaknesses, because they mean a deeper experience of the power of

Christ. I can even enjoy weaknesses, suffering, privations, persecutions and difficulties for Christ’s sake. For my very weakness makes me strong in him. I am pleased to report that my struggle is over. With the Lord’s help, I told the devil, “Paul didn’t quit and this unbalanced preacher is not quitting either, so you can get off my back.” I decided to rejoice in my weakness so the power of Christ can rest upon me. And as long as the Lord gives me the mind and voice to proclaim the good news about Jesus, every chance I get I am going to push Wally the Walker up to the pulpit and invite people to trust and obey my Lord Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria!

friends. He was an avid gardener and loved to play the stock market and he was very good at both. We would like to thank the staff at Valley Park Manor for their wonderful care of our father the last two years of his life. We would also like to thank

Chattahoochee Hospice and Bethany House for their great care and compassion also. There was a graveside service at Shady Grove Cemetery, Opelika, Alabama, on Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, at 10 a.m. Dr. Jeff Redmon officiated.

OBITUARIES JAMES HAROLD SELLERS James Harold Sellers died July 26, 2022, at Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Tallapoosa County on Oct. 30, 1925. His fa-

ther later moved the family to Lee County, Alabama. At 18 he was drafted and served in World War II in the U.S. Army in Europe and the Pacific. He was discharged as a staff sergeant. When he came back home, he met our beautiful mother, Peggy Daniel, and they were hap-

pily married for 68 years. Mr. Sellers was preceded in death by his loving wife, Peggy Daniel Sellers; his parents, William Andrew and Mattie McDonald Sellers; and all six siblings, Archie (Geneva) Sellers, Doris (Eric) Affolter, June (Ophelia) Sellers, Lewis (Marjorie)

Sellers, Sara (Harry) Milner and Donald Sellers. He is survived by his four children, Larry (Connie) Sellers, Myra (Johnny) Yates, Randy (Elaine) Sellers and Hal (Judy) Sellers, nine grandchildren and 19 great — grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and

funcarts.opelika com

Our New Home Is Built on a Solid Foundation... Just Like Our Bank. 115 years ago AuburnBank was founded on the principles of sound money management and putting the customer first. As we’ve opened our new home in downtown Auburn, those principles still drive everything we do. Come by and help us celebrate our most recent success, and let’s talk about helping you achieve yours.

A15 Aug. 4, 2022

OBITUARIES >>

FROM A14

BESSIE MAE RUDD Bessie Mae Rudd of Opelika was born to the late John and Ora Keith in LaSalle, Colorado, on Sept. 15, 1934 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on July 25, 2022. She was 87 years old. Bessie was a member of Ridge Road Baptist Church. She loved arts and crafts, sewing, crocheting and her roses. She and her husband, Bob, owned and operated the Ramblin Rose Motel in Kingman, Arizona. Bessie was preceded in death by her son, Robert Rudd; daughter, Betty Lou Rudd; three brothers and one sister. She is survived by her husband of 71 years, Bob Rudd; children, David Rudd (Terry), Dorothy Churchill (Bob), Tammy Rudd (Ira), Lesa Owens; grandchildren, David and Tracee Rudd, Timmy and Inge Rudd, Lucas and Kaitlyn Chavez, Mindy Hurst, Matthew Churchill, Tera and Chris Renzulli, Bill and Janet Rudd, Wendy and Tony Allen, Toby and Kyla Rudd, Alan and Shelby Owens, Nicki Clark; great-grandchildren, Jonah, Morgan, Nathan, Boston, Ronan, Hannah, Cora, Melissa, Matthew, Ashley, Dalton, Alexandra, Hayley and Kane, Rebekah and Logan, Connor, Zachary, Mason, Lana, Rachel, Maverick, Malory, Trey,

Jeremy, Hayden; great-great grandchildren, Landon, Emma-Claire, Jordyn, Matthew, Mayleigh, Jaden, Karson, Addison, Ella-Marie, Roxxi, Kayo and Samara. Visitation was held Friday, July 29, 2022, in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 5 until 7 p.m. The funeral service was held in the chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Saturday, July 30, 2022, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Stephen McClain officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. A reception followed at Ridge Road Baptist Church.

JACKIE EARL HOWARD Mr. Jackie Earl Howard, 83, of Opelika, passed away Thursday, July 28, 2022 at The Bethany House. Visitation was held from 2 to 3 p.m., Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, with the funeral service beginning at 3 p.m. Dr. Rusty Sowell officiated. Mr. Howard is preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Molly Ann Howard, and grandson, Stephen Michael Howard. Mr. Howard is survived by his children: Steve (Julie) Howard, Sharon (Billy) Raiford, Randy (Donna) Howard; nine grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Providence Baptist Church.

ROGER LEE GLADIN Roger Lee Gladin, born Dec. 13, 1955, in Beauregard, passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2022. He is preceded by his father, Herbert Lee Gladin of Beauregard, Alabama, and a sister, Cathy Lee Sundy of Buras, Louisiana. Roger is survived by his children: Joshua Lee Gladin, Amanda Michelle Gladin and Brad Lee Gladin, all of Panama City, Florida; mother, Levern Gladin Townsend of Auburn, Alabama; two sisters, Diane (Dennis) Long of Beauregard, Alabama, Cindy (Jay) Flowers of Smiths Station, Alabama; his loving Chihuahua, Peanut; six grandchildren and seven great — grandchildren. Roger worked as a jobsite superintendent for the Lee Company of Franklin, Tennessee, for over 25 years. During his employment, Roger traveled across the United States working on hospitals, hotels and colleges. He retired in 2020. He spent the last two years pursuing his lifelong love of fishing, hunting and gardening. He enjoyed Auburn football and rooted for the Braves. He loved spending time with his family and having a fish fry. Everyone agreed he made the best coleslaw around. He was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. Visitation with the family was held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church on Hwy 51 in Beauregard

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

from 2 p.m. until 2:45 p.m., July 30, 2022, followed by a graveside service in the cemetery. We thank Pierce Chapel Church for all their support during our time of sorrow and ask that you consider sending a donation in honor of Roger Gladin to Pierce Chapel Church at 5579 Lee Rd. 54, Opelika, AL 36804. ALICE LEE THOMASON WALKUP

Alice Lee Thomason Walkup passed away on May 30, 2022, in Southaven, Mississippi during an extended visit with her daughter in Mississippi. She was 104 years old. Born on Sept. 4, 1917, in Perote, Alabama, she was the daughter of Dr. James Wiley Thomason and Virginia Mizell Thomason. She attended schools in Perote and Midway, Alabama, and graduated from Bullock County High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Huntingdon College and pursued graduate studies at Tulane University. Alice married Robert Harvey Walkup, a Presbyterian minister in Ozark, Alabama, and served by his side in churches and communities in Ozark and Mobile, Alabama; Fulton,

Missouri; Starkville, Mississippi; McAllen, Texas; Memphis, Tennessee; and Helena, Arkansas, as well as post-retirement interim ministries, including Germantown, Tennessee; Tupelo, Mississippi; and Louisville, Kentucky. She joyfully fulfilled the roles of minister’s spouse and mother of four children, as well as working outside the home, including as a social worker and as the founding director of the childcare program at Idlewild Presbyterian Church in Memphis. In addition to her late husband, she was predeceased by her parents and by her sister Virginia Thomason Whatley and brother James Wiley Thomason Jr. She is survived by her sons, Robert Harvey Walkup, Jr., John Knox Walkup (and his wife Betsy), and James Thomason Walkup (and his wife Meg Wolder), and daughter, Virginia Walkup Coleman (and her husband James). Alice is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Alice M. Walkup and Emily Walkup, Alice E. Walkup and Margaret Walkup, Jake Walkup, Jamie Coleman and Meg Coleman Killgore (and her husband Ryan), as well as two great-grandchildren: Easton Killgore and MaryAlice Killgore. Alice Walkup opened her heart to others and lifted the spirits of all who met her. Her courage and faith alongside that of her minister husband during all eras, but especially in

the 1950s and 1960s in the Deep South, established the well-deserved admiration and affection of those who knew her. Although she was quite serious-minded about issues of importance, Alice had a wonderful sense of humor and fun which she maintained to the end of her life. Her lively spirit enabled her to connect with everyone—young and old alike, across many generations. When her husband, Bob, and her daughter-in-law, Cecilia, died within months of each other, she gladly, at age 75, joined her son Robert’s household to assist him. She brought her characteristic loving care to his young daughters, Alice M. and Emily, in all her tasks, including driving them to their schools and swim practices. She thrived in those later years, welcoming new friends and ideas into her life. A longtime resident of Auburn, Alabama, Alice was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Auburn. A memorial service will be scheduled there at a future date. The family suggests that gifts in her memory be made to: Montreat Conference Center Office of Development P.O. Box 969 Montreat, NC 28757 or First Presbyterian Church 143 East Thach Ave. Auburn, AL 36830. Pate-Jones Funeral Home in Senatobia, Mississippi had charge of the arrangements.

A16 Aug. 4, 2022

COMICS

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

INSIDE B1 - B8:

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

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS LEE COUNTY: AUGUST 9 AT 6:30 P.M. AUBURN: AUGUST 9 AT 6:30 P.M. OPELIKA: AUGUST 23 AT 4:30 P.M.

Experienced Opelika Prepares for Challenge of 7A

ON THE MARK D. MARK MITCHELL

Opelika Issues Changes for 2022

OPELIKA — s August arrives, fall sports are preparing for the start of the season and school. Over the past several months, Opelika City Schools administration underwent several changes as a leadership team as well. I reached out to the new superintendent, Dr. Farrell Seymore, requesting information about all the changes. Seymore took over as superintendent of Opelika City Schools on June 1. He’s served 25 years in the Opelika school system as a teacher, and principal of Opelika Middle School (OMS) and Opelika High School (OHS). Seymore was the obvious choice to be the new superintendent after serving as middle and high school principal. Seymore and wife Sarah have two children: Anna, a student at FSU, and Patrick, a junior at OHS. Seymore and his wife chose to raise their family in a place they call home, Opelika. It will take time for Seymore to implement his plan to advance learning and technology in the Opelika City school system. Tiffany Yelder was hired as assistant

superintendent after Ken Burton retired. Yelder has 17 years of educational experience and is an Auburn University graduate. Yelder served as assistant principal at OHS under Seymore before leaving for another position in the Pike Road School System. Kelli Fischer became the first female principal at Opelika High after being promoted from assistant principal by Seymore. Fischer is a Troy University graduate with 10 years of educational experience. Allison Gregory was named assistant principal, leaving her position as assistant basketball coach and female athletic director. Gregory attended Auburn University and has 13 years of experience in education. Courtney Bass was the second assistant principal hired at OHS. Bass has seven years in education after graduating from Auburn University. Jamey Williams became the first OCS athletic director that is over OMS and OHS athletics. Williams replaces AD Mike Pugh, who resigned after spending three-and-a-half years as part-time athletic director. Opelika plays in See SPORTS, page B7

OPELIKA –– The Opelika Bulldogs varsity football team is playing with the big boys in 2022. Subject to the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s (AHSAA) reclassification rules, the Bulldogs moved from Class 6A up to 7A –– the AHSAA’s highest division –– this offseason. Opelika’s new region includes Auburn, Central Phenix City, Dothan, Enterprise, Jeff Davis, Lee, Prattville and

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Smiths Station. The new region changes little for the Bulldogs.

Mainly, it re-instates the importance of geographical rivalry

games against the likes of Auburn and Central. See CHALLENGE, page B4

Tim Hudson Named Lee-Scott Academy Baseball Coach CONTRIBUTED BY LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY AUBURN — Lee-Scott Academy announced Aug. 1 that it has named 17-year MLB veteran pitcher and former Auburn University volunteer assistant and pitching coach Tim Hudson as its new head baseball coach. After an incredibly successful two-year stint that featured a trip to the College World Series at Auburn, Hudson was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the sixth round of the 1997 baseball draft. From there, he spent 17 years in the major leagues with the Oakland Athletics, Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants. He

finished his career with a 222-133 record, a 3.49 ERA, was named a four-time MLB All-Star

and won the 2014 World Series while with the Giants. Since retiring, Hudson has been

inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame (2018) and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame (2018). In 2020, Hudson was named the volunteer assistant and pitching coach for the Auburn University baseball program. Under his tutelage, eight Auburn pitchers were selected across three MLB Drafts, including five in the 2022 MLB Draft. “We are extremely excited to welcome coach Tim Hudson to Lee-Scott Academy," said LSA Head of School Dr. Stan Cox. "Tim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our school and his proven track record of making the most of See ATHLETICS, page B7

Excellence. Innovation. Compassion. East Alabama's "Go-To" Center For Orthopaedic Care Auburn 1800 Lakeside Circle, Auburn Opelika 18 Medical Arts Center 121 North 20th Street, Opelika

www.theorthoclinic.com

334-749-8303 1-800-327-6519

B2 Aug. 04, 2022

Smiths Station Ready for New Opportunities

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SMITHS STATION — Smiths Station head football coach Mike Glisson enters his fifth year with the Panthers looking to return the program to the playoffs for the first time since 2013. “Another chance to compete, another opportunity, and that’s the way we look at each season,” Glisson said at Media Days last week. Smiths Station whimpered to the finish line last season, finishing 2-8 with a 1-5 region record. However, the Panthers lost four of those games by one-score margins. “We had a tough year as far as wins and loses go,” Glisson said. “But we lost four games by basically a

score. We still got to find a way to make those plays. We have got to get over that hump. I think last year we weren’t enough a unity as a team.” Playing in one of the toughest region classifications in the state, Smiths Station knows it has to improve to compete with the likes of Central Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika, Prattville and others. “I hear people come up here and talk about the SEC in their region,” Glisson said. “You come on in this region and get you some. We have six playoff teams in our region. You can have a pretty good football team in this region and not win a game.” One way the Panthers hope to bridge the gap is by deciding not to hold a traditional spring

schedule. Instead, Glisson opted to have an extra week of practice for his team this month. “We are one of the teams who decided not to do a traditional spring,” Glisson said. “A couple things that changed are, No. 1, you don’t know how they are going to react when they get hit in the mouth, and No. 2, we’ve weeded down some of those people we carried into the summer. I get to have a scrimmage before our week zero game, which makes it a little bit better.” A new season presents a new opportunity for the Panthers. Returning their quarterback, two running backs, four offensive linemen with starting experience, both place kickers and four starters on See SMITHS, page B8

Notasulga Poised to ‘Elevate’ in 2022

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

NOTASULGA — In the world of Alabama high school football, tradition reigns supreme. Athletes devote themselves to learning the history of their schools and to giving their best effort to return their respective programs to glory. The young men within the Notasulga Blue Devils program are prime examples. Entering his eighth season as the head coach of the blue and black, Anthony Jones has always prided himself on preparing his group for not only the year at hand, but for the future of the program. He believes the class of 2023 is poised to elevate the standard.

“Those seniors we had in 2022 did a great job,” Jones said. “They went to the playoffs every year, at least the second round, won double-digit games a couple of years. But that’s history. Now it’s time for 2023 to lead. I think these guys are going to do a tremendous job.” While maintaining faith in his senior class, the head coach keeps high hopes for the younger group as they navigate the ranks. “I always say that Notasulga is young,” Jones said. “I will say it again, we’re young. We will always put eighth-graders, ninth-graders on the field; that’s how I am. If you can play, you can play. I’m going to put you

in the fight, and that’s going to make you a better player.” Jones believes that the most exciting younger athlete will continue to lead the Blue Devil offense in 2022: junior quarterback Elijah Rogers. “What I’m excited to see is quarterback play,” Jones said. “(Rogers is) the guy. He works hard. I know that he wants to get better. Last year — as a sophomore — he had a pretty good campaign. He’s looking forward to his junior season; he’s starting to see things better, starting to read defenses better, he knows his check downs and he knows when he can throw the football.” Behind the promising See NOTASULGA, page B6

'State or Bust'

New Regime at Glenwood Hopes to Return to Winning Ways

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SMITHS STATION — Following years of consistently challenging for titles in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) Class AAA, the Glenwood Gator varsity football team finished 6-5 in the 2021 regular season, losing out in the playoff semifinals to Pike Liberal Arts, 29-6. Despite reaching the playoff semifinal, 2021 was what many would consider a down season for Glenwood, as the Gators reached the state championship the previous two years running. Now, Glenwood

has new head football coach, Ryan Nelson, who spent 2011-19 as offensive coordinator from Central Phenix City, 2020 at Lowndes High School and last season at Grissom High School. “He’s been a great coach to us; he pushed us every day,” said one player at Media Days last Wednesday. “He not only treats us as his players, but he treats us like we are sons to him.” Nelson replaces Jason Gibson, who helmed the Gators the previous six years. “Coach Gibson did a wonderful job,” Nelson said. “The big thing for me is, they haven’t actually won [the state championship game] in 30 years. For us,

we talk about the state championship every day. We are not running from it; we aren’t hiding from it. That’s what the goal is.” The departure of 5-star defensive back A.J. Harris by way of Central Phenix City, and some other key producers graduating, further signals the changing of the guard in the program. Since he arrived in January, Nelson and his staff have worked diligently to instill their brand of football into the program. “The first day I came in we started our offseason program,” Nelson said. “The guys accepted me and we hit the ground running. We were able to See GLENWOOD, page B7

Grider Ready for Final Chapter at Benjamin Russell

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

ALEXANDER CITY — Each year, the high school football season presents a multitude of storylines that captivate fans and media alike. Oftentimes, these stories are centered around comeback players, overlooked teams or outside factors beyond an individual’s control. At Benjamin Russell High School, 2022 presents a unique storyline: The beginning of the last chapter in the accomplished head coaching career of Smitty Grider. After 17 years of coaching football, Grider made the decision to hang up his clipboard in 2021; that is, until he received an opportunity

with the Benjamin Russell Wildcats and realized that he was not quite ready to call it quits. “Back in November, I thought that it was time for me to stop coaching,” Grider said. “But after a couple of months I knew that I still had a strong desire to do this. I’m really fortunate for the opportunity at Benjamin Russell.” The longtime play caller’s excitement extends beyond the football program he now leads, and the Alexander City community has already left a positive impression. “Really excited for the opportunity,” Grider said. “Alexander City is a great town, a great football town. I’ve been coaching against him

since (1995) and I’ve always been impressed with not only the football program over there but with the tradition and the community.” On the field, Grider believes that the Wildcats possess the talent to turn heads in 2022. “We’ve got good players,” Grider said. “I was really impressed with our skill guys, especially when I came in. I feel like — on both sides of the ball — we’ll be able to compete with anyone on that level.” As far as preparation work goes, Grider claims that the biggest challenge to his late start with the Wildcats was not player development; assembling a staff in June was a true uphill battle. See BENJAMIN, page B6

B3 Aug. 04, 2022

Chambers Academy Aims to Return to Championship Level

BY JAKE GONZALEZ FOR THE OBSERVER

LAFAYETTE — Chambers Academy is entering its 10th season under head coach Jason Allen. The nine seasons prior have been fruitful for the Rebels as they have won 10 games in a season for seven straight years, with two state championships along the way. Last season was the first time in five years that the Rebels have not played for a state title. “We are coming off our first time in five years that we didn’t play for a state championship,” said head coach Jason Allen at Media Days last week. “I know that sounds greedy, but our guys have kind of taken a chip on their

shoulder because of that. Our goal every year is to play for and to win a state championship. Our goal remains the same.” This is actually Allen’s second stint with Chambers Academy as he was the head coach from 2006-2009, but this stint has been much improved from the first. In his first stint, Allen went 16-26. Allen has gone 91-21-1 since returning in 2013. “We are excited about this upcoming football season,” Allen said. “We are coming off our seventh year in a row of 10 — plus wins. I think we have stood the test of time, and that’s what you strive for year after year.” The Rebels graduated 18 players from last season’s roster, including six all-state players. The

talent lost is fairly spread out on both sides of the ball. Among those lost was Kross Colley, who was the AISA Lineman of the Year last season. Allen doesn’t think the Rebels will miss the graduating class. “We lost some really good players and we graduate players every year,” Allen said. “Here is the advantage I think we have here at Chambers: We actually coach our junior-high and our pee-wee. We run the same system all the way down to the fourth grade that we are running with these guys. We don’t got to do a lot of teaching, just maturing.” Chambers Academy opens the 2023 season with a matchup with a See CHAMBERS, page B6

Bullock County Feeling Prepared for 2022

BY JAKE GONZALEZ FOR THE OBSERVER

BULLOCK CO. — Bullock County head coach Derrick Levett is getting ready for his second season as the head coach of the Hornets. This time he has a full offseason to work with his squad and get them ready for the 2022-2023 season. “I started late last season,” Levett said at the fifth annual iHeart High School Media Days . “I started Aug. 1 and the season started Aug 8. Once the season ended last year, we got to work. We started our weight lifting program in November and we’ve been going full-fledge.” Before Levett and the Hornets knew last season

they had started 0-1. It was not until their homecoming game on Oct. 8 that they got their first win of the season. They did it in blowout fashion over Ashford, 46-26. Their only other win last season came via a forfeit win against Carver in the final game of the season. In their seven losses last season, the Hornets were outscored 268-81. Despite all of that, Levett has high hopes for this season, even in their hard region. The biggest sign for hope is that their current roster number is almost double what it was at the end of last season. They finished last season with 24 players on the roster and started this year with 56 players before it recently dropped to 48, according

to Levett. “I went through the schools, walked the hallways,” Levett said. “Got guys out that probably previously played before. I also have guys that haven’t played before that have nice size and everything.” Another bonus for the Hornets this season is that they have seven home games and only three on the road. Homefield advantage is crucial for any team but especially ones that need that extra push to get over the edge and play above their weight. “With the alignment this year, I was blessed to have seven home games,” Levett said. “I want the community to be out there.” See BULLOCK, page B8

Reeltown Is Ready For New Challenges

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

REELTOWN — 2021 was a year of tangible improvement for head coach Matt Johnson and the Reeltown Rebels’ football program. After posting a 5-5 record and missing the playoffs just one year before, the group saw a noticeable improvement in offensive production, sustained success on the defensive side of the ball and earned the opportunity to compete in the AHSAA state playoffs. Despite falling short against Opp in the first round last fall, the seventh-year head coach believes that his group is continuing to progress in 2022 and has the

right attitude and talent to return to heights the Rebels have soared to in recent memory. “We’ve had a great offseason and a great spring,” Johnson said at Media Days last week. “We’re replacing a lot from last season but we’ve got a lot coming back. We’re returning six starters defensively and five starters offensively; we’re young in some spots and our skills positions, but there’s a lot of talent there.” As far as work in the trenches goes, the Rebel front is a blended mixture of returning starters and younger guys who Johnson believes can make an immediate impact. “Up front — on both

sides of the football — we’re returning some experience,” Johnson said. “We lost a little bit more defensively, on the offense we returned some guys… and some younger guys are stepping up.” According to the head coach, player development extends well beyond the realm of up-front work; his entire squad has bought in. “I’ve been really impressed with the summer program,” Johnson said. “How they worked, how they’ve embraced the work and how we’ve started coming together. It seems like the harder you work and the harder it gets there’s one of two choices: You start pointing fingers and See REELTOWN, page B6

Southern Prep Looks to Replace Significant Production

BY JAKE GONZALEZ FOR THE OBSERVER

CAMP HILL — Southern Prep Academy is one of two military prep academies in the state of Alabama. Fifth-year head coach Roland Bell talked last Wednesday at High School Media Days about how Southern Prep is working with students to prepare them — not only academically and athletically — but also spiritually. The prep school, located in Camp Hill, played both traditional 11-man and eight-man football last season. The Fighting Rangers finished last season with a record of 9-4 and set several school records before losing in the eight-man Division II national championship game. Of the

three losses last season, all three were against top-five teams in the country which played in the Division I bracket for the national title. “The top four teams in the country play in the Divison I bracket,” Bell said. “Five through eight play in the Division II bracket. We went in seventh in the country and lost in the Divison II Championship.” Southern Prep lost 11 seniors from the Division II runners-up squad. Five of those were All-American players and all five were offered scholarships at the next level. According to Bell, those 11 players accounted for 95% of the total offense from last season. “We have almost an entirely new team as far as

starters,” Bell said. “We lost 13 out of 16 starting positions. However, we are pleased with what we do have coming back.” Of three starting players the Fighting Rangers have returned, two of those were All-Americans along the defensive line. The other will be a third-year starter along the offensive line. The biggest loss, according to Bell, is Owen Wolfe. Wolfe was the starting quarterback for the Fighting Rangers last season and he set school records in touchdown passes in a season, and touchdown passes in a career. Sophomore Kevin Mason is set to become the starting quarterback for the Fighting Rangers next season and Bell is high on him. See SOUTHERN, page B8

B4 Aug. 04, 2022

Story Nears All-Time Win Record at Lanett

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LANETT — Entering 2022, the Lanett varsity football team has won the past five AHSAA Class 2A Region 4 regular season championships, and holds the longest region winning streak in the state at 33 games. Enduring a multitude of unforeseen obstacles in 2021 — like having to workout at a church and use the school auditorium as the field house — the season was a success and saw Lanett finish 10-3, with all three losses coming at the hands of non-region opponents. “2021 was a tough season,” said head coach Clifford Story at Media Days last Wednesday. “It

took a toll on everybody. But it also caused us to grow up and be more responsible and accountable for a whole lot of things.” This year, the Panthers are looking to take the program to the next level and capture a state title. “We don’t make no excuses,” Story said. “Our goal at Lanett is to win state championships.” The Panthers lost multiple all-stars from last year’s team — including 4-star DE Caden Story — but a productive summer and leadership from the eight returning starters has Story feeling confident as the 2022 season nears. “Our summer has been great,” Story said. “We push our guys; everybody is excited. We are going to be young.

Tallassee Awaits Reeltown in Season Opener

But, we rotate a lot of guys and play a lot of kids, so I’m not worried about the number of guys we got returning. It's embedded in them how well we compete and how hard we play.” Story made three changes to his coaching staff this offseason, bringing in coaches with college and NFL playing experience to try and help elevate the Panthers. “I tell my kids all the time we are going to bring in quality guys, quality men, that will help them to be great young adults and to push them to be the best they can be,” he said. “So that’s where we are headed.” As it stands, Story is See LANETT, page B8

Beulah Seniors Give Back to Youth

TALLASSEE — At most levels of football, it is traditional that teams schedule their biggest rivals at or toward the end of their season, depending on the classification and region of the two foes. The idea makes sense: Give each team the opportunity to figure out its identity and put on a show in the regular season finale. At Tallassee High School, head coach Mike Battles and the Tigers do it differently. The group plays their rival Reeltown Rebels in week one, spending their entire offseason preparing for the season opener and planning to gain both momentum and bargaining rights in the early going.

CHALLENGE >> FROM B1

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Beulah Senior Center collected and packed school supplies this week to distribute to students in need at Beulah Elementary School. They met with the principal Tuesday to give away the supplies.

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER

“Central and Auburn have always been our big traditional rivals,” Speakman said at the fifth annual iHeart High School Football Media Days last Wednesday. “Although we haven’t done much versus Central this past few years to kind of make them a rival anymore. Since 2014 we would play them and it was more of a measuring stick game. Now it goes back to having a big impact on your region standings.” Reclassification is just one of many changes that have increased the buzz surrounding Opelika football this year. For starters, the departure of last season’s offensive coordinator will result in a committee-based play calling approach for the 2022 season. In total, three new coaches were added to the staff to help meet the extra needs incurred from jumping up a level of competition to 7A. “We usually don’t have a lot of changeover at Opelika, but this year we are fortunate to hire a couple new guys,” Speakman said. “As we move up to 7A, you kind of need a little bit bigger staff.” In terms of the

“You can go 9-1 at Tallassee,” Battles said. “But if you lose to Reeltown, it’s like Alabama-Auburn.” Entering his 11th season, Battles has seen a multitude of team dynamics. He is of the belief that the 2022 group is worth keeping an eye on for their attitude and work ethic. “When you’ve coached as long as I have, teams are different,” Battles said. “It’s really fun coaching when they’re having fun doing what they’re supposed to do. Everyone thinks that coaching is about pushing and motivating — and you’ve got to do that — but when they’re self-motivated and push each other it’s fun to coach.” According to the

Tigers’ play caller, Tallassee practices have been nothing short of a leadership clinic. “This group is consistently pushing each other and holding each other accountable,” Battles said. “That’s not something that everybody does this day in time; everybody is all about ‘me, me, me’ but this bunch holds each other accountable and they’ve done really well.” The communal outlook has served well when it came to renovating a disbanded offense and adapting to a philosophy built upon committee rotations. “We’ll have more people involved,” Battles said. “We’ll play about four backs, it’s just going

roster, Opelika will miss the production of all-stars Taylor Love (LB) and Jarell Stinson (DB), who both graduated in 2021. However, the Bulldogs return an experienced group –– boasting 29 seniors in total. “It’s a good senior class,” Speakman said. “Really a class that has always done well since they were in seventh grade. This will be my 23rd year at Opelika, so I have seen a lot of the senior classes come through, and this is one of the better ones from an overall standpoint.” The strength of the team appears to be its defensive front seven –– a starting group full of seniors across the board. Offensively, talented junior quarterback Roman Gagliano returns to spearhead the attack. “He’s the first quarterback since 2017-18 to start two years in a row,” Speakman said. “It's nice to have a returning starter. I think the kids offensively are more relaxed when he is in there, knowing what he can do. We will be able to throw it down the field, obviously. Our game plan is to run the ball, play action pass. But there are times where we have to tell him to take some of the hot sauce off it

so our guys can catch it. He’s a tremendous leader. I think he will have a great year.” The Bulldogs open their season against Callaway on Aug. 19 in a road non-region game. Opelika is 1-2 all-time against Callaway, losing last year, 30-21. “It’s a great program, great opening game,” Speakman said. “We have had some really good battles the last three years. It’s a big challenge for us to open the season but it’s a fun team to play just to get you ready.” The week one test will be an appropriate measuring stick for the Bulldogs' remaining games in the 7A region. According to the players, the reigning AHSAA Class 6A Region 2 champion Bulldogs are ready for the challenge. “I think the biggest challenge we will face going up to 7A is just handling the hype,” said senior LB Will Garner. “I think the biggest challenge won’t be our skill level or the size of our school, I think our challenge is to just calm down and play our Opelika football and then we will be all right.”

See TALLASSEE, page B6

B5 Aug. 04, 2022

From the Plains to the Show – How Former Tigers Will Fit in With Their New Organizations BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OBSERVER AUBURN — Auburn baseball’s 2022 campaign was nothing short of remarkable; after being picked to finish last in the SEC West, the Tigers battled their way into hosting an NCAA regional and eventually punching a ticket to the College World Series in Omaha. Needless to say, the orange and blue earned attention on the national stage and proved to the college baseball world that no Butch Thompsonled team should ever be counted out. In an equally impressive feat, the historical campaign played a significant role in vaulting four Tigers to the next level. Blake Burkhalter, Mason Barnett, Trace Bright, Sonny DiChiara, Blake Rambusch and Brody Moore are all headed to the MLB in situations where each individual stands a chance of contributing significantly to their respective organizations. BLAKE BURKHALTER: ATLANTA BRAVES (ROUND 2, PICK 76) The first Tiger to hear his name called in the 2022 MLB first-year player draft, Burkhalter was a nearly perfect selection for the Braves. Regarded by many as the best closer in college baseball throughout

2022, and listed as No. 207 on the MLB top-250 prospects list, the talented right-hander posted a season to remember. In his 30 appearances as a junior, Burkhalter pitched to a 3.69 ERA and a .91 WHIP, giving up just 19 earned runs en route to tallying 16 saves. With solid fastball velocity and devastating movement on his cutter, the former Tiger is as MLB-ready as they come and could prove to be impactful in the very near future on a team who has become a perennial contender; reports currently state that the Braves will have him begin his career as a starting pitcher, that is likely to change in a short time. Burkhalter enters the league as the third-highest drafted Auburn reliever in program history. MASON BARNETT: KANSAS CITY ROYALS (ROUND 3, PICK 87) After seeing their top reliever selected on the first day of the draft, Auburn fans heard Mason Barnett’s name called as the newest member of the Kansas City Royals on Monday afternoon. A contributing starting arm for the Tigers in 2022, the right-hander enters the Royals organization following a junior campaign in which he saw 34.2 innings of work— across eight starts and 11 total appearances — pitching

to a 3.63 ERA and sitting 43 hitters down on strikes. Kansas City’s interest in Mullins is clear. The franchise has not had a complete starting rotation in nearly a decade, and there is no better time to search for the answer than now. Nine of the Royals’ top 30 prospects are right-handed pitchers, making the former Tiger’s road to the show a bit murkier than one might prefer; on the other hand, the vast majority of athletes ahead of him have yet to advance past double-A, meaning Barnett has the opportunity to compete alongside his competition. TRACE BRIGHT: BALTIMORE ORIOLES (ROUND 5, PICK 137) The MLB continued to raid the Auburn rotation when the Orioles selected right-handed starter Trace Bright in the fifth round on Monday. A six-foot-four native of Montgomery, Alabama, Bright joins the Orioles upon the conclusion of a somewhat up-and-down junior season. In his 18 appearances — 17 of which were games started — bright pitched to an ERA of 5.13, allowing 46 earned runs, surrendering 38 walks and still striking out a team-best 94 batters. The righthander allowed two or fewer runs in eight outings and four or more on five occasions.

With all of this said, the Baltimore organization might have just been the perfect landing spot. For the first time since the departure of Manny Machado, things are looking up for the Orioles. The O’s have the best farm system in the major leagues; player development and building from within have been of utmost importance. Bright has the opportunity to focus entirely on his game, and he certainly has the talent to develop the necessary consistency. SONNY DICHIARA: LOS ANGELES ANGELS (ROUND 5, PICK 148) Likely the most bittersweet departure of all selected for Auburn fans, first baseman Sonny DiChiara received the call from the Los Angeles Angels in the fifth round on Monday afternoon. The six-footone Hoover, Alabama, native heads to the next level after putting on nothing short of an offensive clinic in 2022 where he slashed for a .383 average, 22 home runs, 59 RBIs and drew an eye-popping 68 walks. In an era of baseball where the home run reigns king — and in which there is a universal designated hitter — there was little doubt that any organization was going to be happy to snag DiChiara; the Angels are certainly no exception.

After seemingly crashing and burning in 2022, the organization has continued to make strides to build for the future and to bolster its brand of mashing baseballs. The Halos have a somewhat middle-of-the-road pipeline with plenty of room for a first baseman to make his way through the ranks. BLAKE RAMBUSCH: SEATTLE MARINERS (ROUND 15, PICK 456) As the second draft selection out of the Auburn infield, third baseman Blake Rambusch heard his name called in the later rounds as the newest member of the Seattle Mariners. The SEC regular season hits leader, Rambusch slashed for a .383 average, tallying 13 extra-base hits and 37 RBIs in his redshirt junior campaign. He will leave his final year of eligibility on the table as he takes the next step in his career. While Auburn fans celebrated his accomplishment; few anticipated the immediate decision to move on and join the Mariners organization in 2022. After all, Rambusch was selected in the 15th round, giving plenty of reason to be encouraged by his potential for improvement. That being said, the decision is certainly justifiable. The M’s have a pretty slammed farm for infielders and a clogged-up

route to the MLB, but the former Tiger now has the opportunity to prove his worth and become a viable option for not only Seattle, but other teams around the league. BRODY MOORE: SAINT LOUIS CARDINALS (ROUND 17, PICK 517) The last known departure for the 2022 Tigers, shortstop Brody Moore had a senior season to remember; hearing his name called as the newest Saint Louis Cardinal was probably his idea of the perfect celebration. The 5-foot-11 shortstop proved himself on both sides of the plate in Auburn’s run to Omaha: starting all but one game at shortstop, posting a 1.000 fielding percentage and slashing for a .291 average with 74 hits. A grind-it-out everyday guy like Moore is seemingly the perfect selection for an organization such as the Cardinals; the club has grinded its way to the top of the baseball world on more than one occasion, committing to their brand of baseball all along, a feat Moore should be familiar with from his tenure at Auburn. The Cards do have the future of their left-side infield largely figured out, but Moore is more than capable of relocation on the field should his club ask him to.

Auburn Approves Upgrades to Plainsman Park PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS AUBURN — The Auburn University Board of Trustees approved on Tuesday the initiation of upgrades to be made to Plainsman Park. Tuesday’s approval authorizes the University to begin the increased scope of the project, which will include three main components. 1) First Base Club The expansion of first base stands, premium seating, club space,

concessions, and improvements to the south entrance to Plainsman Park and the future Player Performance Terrace. 2) Right Field Terrace - The expansion of first base stands over the Josh Donaldson Hitting Lab to include premium seating and an enhanced concession experience. 3) Green Monster Terrace - The addition of a unique viewing area over the Green Monster, including improved concessions and restrooms

to support patrons in left field. “Enthusiasm for Auburn baseball has never been higher. Coach Butch Thompson, his staff and student-athletes have achieved remarkable, sustained success, including two trips to Omaha in the past three postseasons,” said Director of Athletics Allen Greene. “These improvements will help Auburn baseball continue its trajectory toward a national championship while elevating the fan

experience at Plainsman Park. We appreciate the Auburn University Board of Trustees for the vision, leadership and commitment to help the baseball program reach and remain at the top.” In September of last year, the Auburn Board of Trustees approved the initial Plainsman Park Development Center – Phase II project and in November approved the selection of Cooke Douglass Farr Lemons, of Jackson, Mississippi, as the

project architect. Auburn Athletics has since determined the project will include a more comprehensive set of improvements at Plainsman Park, which are necessary to enhance fan experience and ensure Auburn baseball remains competitive with its conference and national peers. “We’re thrilled and thankful that the Auburn University leadership approved the next phase of upgrades to Plainsman Park,” Thompson said.

“I believe in our student-athletes and their families, our staff, our fans, and our university, who have all played a role in getting us where we are today. With an already tremendous footprint of our ballpark, these enhancements will provide our fans with one-of-a-kind experiences in college baseball. They will allow us to continue to put our best foot forward as a program and build on the current momentum.”

B6 Aug. 04, 2022

DawgPound Does it the 'Poka Way PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

REELTOWN >> FROM B3

The Opelika Dawg Pound and Loachapoka High School partnered to hold UT's QB and WR camp at Locahpoka High School, July 30. UT Ingram and Tuskegee University offensive coordinator led instruction for the two-hour clinic for boys and girls ages 8 to 18.

NOTASULGA >> FROM B2 talent of Rogers, Notasulga believes that this year’s group will be responsible for breaking the curse of defeating region opponent Maplesville. “First, we’re at home,” Jones said. “We play pretty good at home … this year the guys have to overcome — Maplesville — the name on the jersey. That’s the thing, I feel like we’ve got to be more confident with the name on our jersey, which is

Notasulga.” Looking beyond the highlyanalyzed matchup between the Blue Devils and the Red Devils of Maplesville, Jones’ group continues to have its work cut out for it. “We’ve got a tough schedule this year for this young group,” Jones said. “The first annual Kickoff Classic will be Aug. 20. We open up against Lanett, and we think there’s going to be a big crowd out there on a Saturday.” The longtime head coach remains optimistic that his guys are

prepared to answer the call. “I think — with no doubt — that we’ll be ready for the task,” Jones said. “We’ve been working hard, we’ve been in the weight room; that’s something that I’ve always stressed to these guys.” The Blue Devils will open their season on Saturday, Aug. 20, when the group plays host to the Lanett Panthers in a matchup Notasulga has never captured a victory in. Jones and company will kick off their 2022 campaign at 7 p.m. CST.

ready to go home, or you embrace the work, they’ve started to do that.” Player buy-in has likely been imperative in the offseason as the Rebels prepare to roll out with an approach which will look significantly different from years past on both sides of the ball. “We’re a little bit different as far as personnel-wise,” Johnson said. “We’ve had to change some things

TALLASSEE >> FROM B4 to be more by committee … we’re going to have to do a good job as coaches to make sure we don’t get single-minded.” Per Battles, the senior class has played a vital role in getting their teammates on board with both their brand of football and in stepping up to fill holes left behind by last year’s graduates. “These seniors, they saw what the last senior

BENJAMIN >> FROM B2

CHAMBERS >> FROM B3 rivalry game against Lee-Scott Academy at home on Aug. 19. The Rebels won the last meeting 41-3 and are 12-14-1 all-time against

Lee-Scott Academy. Lee-Scott will be the main rival for Chambers this season with their long-time rival, Springwood Academy, moving into the AISA eight-man league this season. “I’m really looking forward to the first

game against Lee-Scott since we don’t play Springwood anymore,” said offensive and defensive lineman Levi Waldrop. “I think LeeScott’s one of our biggest rivalries this year, coming up Aug. 18.”

“We got out there and got going,” Grider said. “We kind of had an idea of where to start with them — as far as their positions — but the biggest challenge was putting a staff together. Having friends in the business helps… I didn’t want to just hire someone to have

up on both sides of the ball. That’s actually been exciting too; that’s part of this game.” Between the work done on the field and in the weight room, there is little doubt that Johnson’s group is preparing to compete in 2022; this year presents a renewed opportunity to compete in a classification which they’ve found success with in the past. “We’ve been 3A the past three years, which was kind of new to us,” Johnson said. “We’re back in 2A for the next

couple of years in a new region with a lot of really good football teams here — a lot of great coaches and a lot of guys I’m real close with.” As Johnson and company continue to prepare for the new challenges which lie ahead, their date with crosstown rival Tallassee draws nearer and nearer. The Rebels will open their season in what one might depict as the most impactful game of the year for their community on Friday, Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. CST.

class did,” Battles said. “We always tell (the seniors): This is your team.’ It’s not my team. Lord willing, I’m going to get to coach next year; but this is their last year. However well we do will be determined by your leadership. I think this bunch understands it.” Simply put, the class of 2023 wants to live on as legends within their community for years to come. “They have their minds set that they

want to be one of those teams where 10 or 15 years from now whoever’s coaching — or me — says, 'Hey, you remind me of that 2022 bunch,’” Battles said. “I think that’s the mindset they’ve taken. Their work ethic shows it.” The Tigers will open their season against the Rebels of Reeltown on Friday, Aug. 19, at 7 p.m. in a battle for bragging rights amongst their families and peers.

a body.” According to the newly named head coach, the player buy-in has been a spectacle which should not be overlooked. The Wildcats are focused on one thing: winning ball games. “All of them are talking about winning,” Grider said. “The last three years have been difficult. These guys have had three head coaches in three years;

winning is important. It’s important to them, it’s important to our community and we want to do it the right way.” Benjamin Russell will look to improve upon a 3-7 record in 2021 and to return to the AHSAA playoffs in Grider’s first season; the road to the Wildcats’ dreams begins on Friday, Aug. 19, when the group plays host to the Aggies of Sylacauga at 7 p.m. CST.

B7 Aug. 04, 2022

SportsPlex 'Tri for Kids' Set for Aug. 6 PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY NOURISH, AL

The 10th annual SportsPlex Tri for Kids is scheduled to take place Aug. 6 at the Opelika SportsPlex. The competitive triathlon is for children ages 5 to 15, and the noncompetitive race is for children ages 2 to 5 where they run, bike (on scooters with big wheels) and “swim” through the splash park. Each year the event brings in about 200 to 250 local children to participate. Proceeds benefit “Nourish, AL,” a hunger initiative that delivers fresh produce to food-insecure families in our communities each week. For more information: http://www.sportsplextriforkids.com/

ATHLETICS >> FROM B1 his opportunities impressed the search committee. Tim will bring the community together both on and off the field in his efforts to further the success of our baseball program.” Hudson and his wife, Kim, have been married since 1999. They have three children, Kennedie, Tess and Kade. Kennedie is a 2019 graduate of LeeScott Academy while

SPORTS >> FROM B1 class 7A, the largest classification in the AHSAA. A system this size must have an athletic director that has authority over ALL athletic decisions at both schools. Retired Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors made all decisions dealing with athletics and coaching hires. Hopefully, Williams will be allowed to improve Opelika athletics. Williams has 25 years in education as a teacher, head coach, athletic director and assistant principal. Dylan Weaver was promoted to assistant principal at OMS after spending nine years in education. Russ Harwick was named attendance and community affairs coordinator after spending several years as Seymore’s top assistant at OHS. Hardwick was credited with handling discipline issues and

Kade will be a senior this upcoming school year. Tim and Kim also co-founded the Hudson Family Foundation in 2009 with a commitment to identify areas of need in local communities, including children and families in need of physical, emotional and/or financial assistance. Their family worships at Church of the Highlands in Auburn. “We are fortunate to have a coach and a man like Tim Hudson coming to lead the many duties behind the scenes at OHS. Hardwick has 19 years in education after graduating from Auburn University. Thomas Sherfield was named alternative program coordinator after spending 17 years in education, graduating from Troy University. Sherfield takes the position held by the late Steve Carson. Tamarcus Milner was named assistant principal at Opelika Learning Center after spending 10 years in education. Cody Patterson was hired as finance director after 14 years in education. Patterson, a Jacksonville State graduate, is replacing Lyndie Payne. OHS FOOTBALL Opelika head football coach Erik Speakman started his fifth fall practice this week. The Dogs enjoyed several days off last week before starting practice Monday, Aug. 1. Speakman and four senior players attended

young men of our baseball program at Lee-Scott," said LeeScott Academy Athletic Director William Johnson on the hire. "Tim’s success at the highest level of baseball and his knowledge will serve our young men well both in the game of baseball and in the game of life. While Tim and his family have long been involved with Lee-Scott Academy, we are incredibly honored and excited to welcome him to the Lee-Scott Family in his new role.” the iHeartRadio High School Media Days presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic last week. OHS moves into the region with Auburn, Central, Lee, Enterprise, Smiths Station, Dothan, Jeff Davis and Prattville. With the exception of Prattville, the other schools were in our region until the seventh class was formed. The Bulldogs have two weeks of practice before preparing for the opener against Callaway in Troup County Georgia. I will tell you what Speakman thinks about this year’s team in next week’s column. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartRadio, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 9101310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

GLENWOOD >> FROM B2 get a lot of the young guys and develop them in spring. But since June 1, we have had an amazing summer. The guys have been grinding it out. The kids have worked extremely hard. We have high expectations. We are here to win. We have a good roster and a lot of good players.” The Gators return about 10 starters from last year’s team, according to their coach. Nelson plans to lean on returning quarterback Dallas Crow and others to push the rest of the squad to new heights. “We got some guys who are inexperienced like everyone else,” Nelson said. “The main thing for us is getting out there every day and competing against ourselves.” Nelson said he plans to bring an aggressive and fast play style to Glenwood. “We will play up tempo; we will play fast,” he said. “I’ve been at the highs of 7A and people ask if you can do that

in this league. Well, football is football. “Offensively we are going to be very aggressive. Defensively we are going to fly around and be aggressive. At the end of the day, if you can give some of these teams something they don’t see every day, it will be a benefit for us.” Over the course of the offseason, Glenwood installed new sod and new lights to its playing field. Both of these efforts signal the renewed commitment to the greatness that Nelson, his staff, the school and the players have taken up. “It’s all for the kids,” Nelson said of the field upgrades. “We are trying to give them the best environment they could possibly have to play on and be proud about.” The Gators have a tough schedule per usual in 2022. Nelson’s experience at the highest level of public school football, however, gives him confidence that Glenwood can compete with anyone. “We are not going to be fearful of anyone

we play,” he said. “If we fail, it’s not going to be because we are timid.” The Gators begin their campaign with two non-region, cross-town rivals in St. Anne-Pacelli and Brookstone. It’s a test Nelson believes will set his team up for success in the long run. “We are expecting two battles out the gate from them,” he said. “I believe in playing really quality opponents early in the season to challenge us to see where we are at.” Regardless of how the start to the year shakes out, Nelson reiterated there is only one goal for the Gators in 2022 — it’s championship or bust. “We are going to do everything in our power to take it one week at a time to try and be 1-0 each week,” Nelson said. “But the ultimate goal is to first win the region championship, and then put some hardware up there that hasn’t been there since 1992.” Glenwood opens its season on Aug. 19 against St. AnnePacelli in a non-region road game.

MEDIA DAYS PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / FOR THE OBSERVER

B8 Aug. 04, 2022

Packing our Backpacks for a Good Year

BETH PINYERD

lassroom Observer would like to extend warm wishes, hope and joy for a good school year for teachers, students and families. Whether you send your child to school or homeschool your children, we have a very important goal, and that is to teach children. A fresh new year of new students, goals and lessons to teach, we welcome the 2022-2023 school year, which is just around the corner. I have always taught early childhood and elementary grades, but at joint teacher institute

meetings with junior high and high school, teachers glean from each other, and we know we are all on the same mission: to teach many different personalities, learning styles and needs. In order to meet the challenge, it is so important for us to be prepared. We teachers need to pack our heart backpack with spiritual, emotional and physical supplies. As I reflect on teaching years gone by, I do remember that my class and I had ups and downs even on the first day. But being called into the classroom to teach has so many

wonderful rewards that count for eternity. From an anonymous author in one of my favorite books, “Teachers are a Gift from God”, I have adopted this teacher acrostic to encourage me and other teachers. T-Teaching takes time, E-Energy, paying A-Attention to all the C-Children, H-Helping them, E-Encouraging them, R-Reaching out to the quiet one and S-Sometimes simply being there. As we teachers call each name on our roll on day one, we connect a name to a student, and we quickly acknowledge that we will need understanding as we instruct our students. As the year begins, teachers assess each student’s potential that we teach. We will want our students to know that we respect them and value them. We want to share knowledge and light the lives of our students with the love of learning. We teachers desire our classrooms to be a place where students will learn, discover, create, question and grow. As we share our classroom rules with our students on the first

day, we reflect and use wisdom when we must discipline in promoting the learning process and when to show mercy. Mother Teresa coined this so well: “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” In our backpack of teacher preps, we prepare our lessons according to the age, abilities and developmental needs of our students. Young children learn so much by process where older students focus on content learning, but many subjects require both ways of learning. We desire to equip students with life skills and provide inspiration to learn. Parents, your assignments for the first day of school are to prepare your children with clothes shopping, school supplies shopping, labeling supplies with the child’s name and visiting the school with your child. “Meet your Teacher Day” helps to prepare your child mentally and emotionally to start back to school. As a retired teacher who still enjoys volunteering in the classroom when I can, I still

get so excited about seeing school buses, smelling new packs of crayons, sharpening new pencils, buying notebook paper, buying new school clothes and shoes, etc. In my teacher treasure box of teacher resources, from gleaning from other educators as well as from my own teaching experiences, I want to share some suggestions to our community families and parents on how to help your child get ready for a new year of school. In early childhood, especially where your child is leaving the nest and going to school for the first time, this is going to be a new stage and new change for you and your child. Be positive, enthusiastic and encouraging to your child who is about to make the change. This is a new stage in their lives and in your life, too. As a parent, be sure to spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally prepare yourselves for these changes. Children absolutely love routine. It makes them feel secure on what to expect next. I can remember and still see that preschool,

kindergarten, first- and second-grade students have kept this teacher on a routine when we would get off a little bit. Always say goodbye to your child with possibly a hug and reassurance. Let the goodbyes be friendly but firm. If your child whines or clings to you, please don’t prolong the goodbye. This makes it hard for you, your child and the teacher. We teachers truly can reassure our parents that your child quickly quits crying and engages in classroom routine as soon as you leave. Make happy memories with your child in starting to school. Start on a happy, positive note with a good breakfast and discuss the day ahead with prayer and encouragement. At the end of these first days of school, focus on listening to your young child express their excitement and concerns as they adjust to the first days of school. Again, I stress, time spent with your child spells LOVE. From Classroom Observer’s heart to children and families, have a happy first week of school. Beth Pinyerd, Classroom Observer

Bulldogs Begin Fall Camp PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Opelika Bulldog football team held its first day of fall practice this week in preparation for its first game on Aug. 19.

BULLOCK >> FROM B3 The biggest thing that Levett said he wants out of his team is just to go out there and have fun. He said he believes once you have fun you're not out there chasing anything, and the players are going to go out there and do what they do. Doing what they do

SMITHS >> FROM B2 defense, the Panthers hope to get off to a better start in 2022. “Last year, COVID hit us pretty hard so we had some kids get some playing time that weren’t ready,” Glisson said. “That’s good for this year, they have been in those battles.” Despite the difficult region and schedule, Glisson and company enter 2022 with motivation and excitement. In part, that’s due to the work the team has put

means sticking to the run and using their size to their advantage. “I know [that] to be successful in our region, you got to establish the run,” Levett continued. “On paper, besides Andalusia, I should have the biggest interior line in the area. With all of them coming back, and they know the schemes and everything, we should

be successful.” The Hornets are scheduled to start their season at home against Keith on Aug. 19. The location of the game might change due to an issue at Bullock County’s home stadium. This will be the fifth time that these two school have met with the last time being in 1974, where Keith won, 6-0.

in this offseason. “[Last season] was motivation,” Glisson said. “The kids really responded. The weight room this offseason was pretty brutal. But, I think we needed that, and hopefully that will make us able to make those plays. Having that experience and being in those tight ball games hopefully will help us figure a way to win some of those.” Smiths Station hopes to instill a renewed sense of competition between itself and its peers in 2022. And, ultimately, the Panthers are going to have fun doing it.

“I enjoy these kids,” Glisson said. “They work hard, they fight hard, they play hard and they are fun to be around. They compete and they do it to the best of their ability. We talk about that a lot, and having good character and doing things the right way. We are excited about the upcoming season.” Smiths Station begins its season playing LaGrange High School from Georgia on Thursday, Aug. 18. It is the first meeting between the two schools.

SOUTHERN >> FROM B3 “Extremely talented,” Bell said. “In the spring game, he threw for four or five touchdown passes. He is extremely athletic. He is a dual threat, and he got a lot of playing time in mopup duty last year because we had a lot of blowout

LANETT >> FROM B4 just one win away from becoming the all-time winningest coach in Lanett football history. “It means that I have had some great players,” he said of the accomplishment. “I have been surrounded by some great coaches. Coach Washburn, his name is on the stadium — he’s a great guy and mentor to me. So, to be able to do it and to be able to do it following a guy like him is going to show

wins. He is accustomed to playing in varsity games.” Southern Prep went back and forth between 11-man and eight-man games last season, but this year they will start with an 11-man game and then play the rest of the season in the AISA eight-man league. That first game for the Fighting Rangers will be against Lakeside School. It will be

the first time that these two schools have met. “Our outside linebackers are the most important position on defense in eight-man,” Bell jokingly said. “When we switch to 11-man they find it really easy because they just have to stop the run and cover the flat instead of having to stop the run and the deep ball.”

that I have done a great job at Lanett and have been surrounded by a lot of good people.” The Panthers will try to earn that win when their season begins on Aug. 20 against Notasulga in the inaugural Kickoff Classic. Loachapoka and LaFayette will play a game at Lanett prior to the Panthers taking the field. “We just wanted to bring this community together to enjoy some football,” Story said.

Overall, while the outside perspective may be that Lanett will take a step back in 2022 due to all its lost production, Story is focused on having his guys compete, and letting the rest of the dominoes fall where they may. “I look for them being able to compete,” Story said. “We will be where we need to be scheme-wise. But if they compete and fight, as far as my staff and I, we will put them in a position to win ball games.”

L ee County & A labama Politics

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022

Inside the Statehouse

STEVE FLOWERS

See FLOWERS, page B10

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — Opelika High School senior Alexandria Torbert has been elected to serve as the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National secretary. Opelika Mayer Gary Fuller presented Torbert with a proclamation detailing her accomplishments at Tuesday nights city council meeting. Torbert has served as both

secretary and president of the local chapter and the state chapter. Other accomplishments for the rising senior include serving as an Opelika High School emissary, a member of the 2022-23 Lee County Young Leaders, a member of the Opelika High Theatre Society, the OHS dance line, the Opelika Student Government Association, the Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Mu Alpha Theta and Science National Honor Society as well as working

with the Kennel, Opelika High School’s weekly video broadcast. “First of all, I just want to thank everybody in the community,” Torbert said. “I have to give glory to God, because I would not even be national secretary or even be here without Him." Torbert talked about a verse in the Bible that she takes strength and encouragement from everyday. “There is a verse in the Bible that I try to live by See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B14

Auburn Talks Murals PHOTO USED WITH PERMISSION

OPINION — he 1962 governor’s race was between George Wallace, James “Big Jim” Folsom and newcomer Ryan DeGraffenreid, a state senator from Tuscaloosa. Television had become the new medium. Therefore, Wallace, Folsom and DeGraffenreid had all bought 30-minute, live television shows the night before the election. Wallace came on first at 7 p.m. He did pretty well, not great, but he did not hurt himself. DeGraffenreid came on at 7:30 p.m. He was magnificent. He helped himself immensely. He was telegenic and took to television like a duck to water. He was a hit and picked up some votes. Folsom came on last at 8 p.m. That was probably too late for him. They had Folsom sitting on a sofa that was too small for him. His knees jutted up almost to his chest. Television advisors will tell you to look squarely into the camera. Obviously, the last thing he had been told before he went on the air was to look right into the camera. He hunkered down like he was staring a hole in the viewer the way he stared at the camera. Unfortunately, the advisor had forgotten to tell Folsom to comb his hair. He had a wayward strand of hair hanging right down in his face. Folsom’s first words portended what was to come. His speech was slurred, and he was clearly drunk. After his opening statement of about four minutes, even though I was only 11, I could tell he seemed impaired. I walked back to my mama’s bedroom door where she was reading and I said, “Mama, you need to come in the living room and see Big Jim on TV. I believe he is drunk.” She walked in, glanced at him and assured me that was just his personality. She said he was putting on a show for the television audience. I think she was taking up for Folsom

because she was for him. So, I settled back in for the remainder of the show. Folsom had several children, so they were going to have him introduce his children one by one. Little Jim came out first, and he did pretty well with him: “This is my little boy, Jim.” Although he did tousle his hair pretty badly. The second son, Jack, came out and Folsom said, “This is my boy...” He stammered around trying to think of his name. Finally, he blurted out, “Boy, what is your name?” The television folks dropped the idea of trying to introduce the rest of Folsom’s family after that. They let him start talking again. He was weaving back and forth. The long strand of hair was hanging right over his nose. He was now pontificating on the virtues of progressivism, free textbooks and Farm-to-Market roads. I called Mama in again to view the spectacle. She stood there for a full two minutes with her mouth open and finally said, “Son, I believe you’re right. Big Jim is drunk.” He finished by getting mad at Wallace and calling him a cuckoo bird for trying to steal his platform. He waved his arms wildly for three solid minutes on statewide television, mimicking a cuckoo bird. Folks around the state had heard tales and rumors about Folsom’s drinking for years. They had dismissed it as political talk; however, seeing him live and drunk on statewide television was an eye-opener. He never recovered. He failed to make the runoff the next day. Wallace led the ticket, and DeGraffenreid edged Folsom out of the runoff. Wallace beat DeGraffenreid in the runoff. Later, Folsom said Wallace’s people drugged him. This story is not likely. Folsom had pretty much succumbed to alcohol by this time in his life. The night Folsom came on television drunk was the end of his political career, but it was a heck of a show. Some old-time political observers contend Folsom would have won that 1962 race had he not come on television drunk the night before the election. I disagree. Wallace was going to win that year because he had captured the race issue and exploited and demagogued it to get to the governor’s office, which he aspired to more than life itself. Folsom

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS

Big Jim’s Show in 1962 Governor’s Race

OHS Senior Elected FBLA National Secretary

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Scott Cummings, Developmental Services executive director, presented a report to the Auburn City Council Tuesday night

NOW OPEN

from the Mural and Arts Study Committee that was formed in the spring, and the council agreed to pass the recommendations on to the planning commission. The Mural and Arts Study Committee included Mayor Pro Tem

and Ward 3 City Council Member Beth Witten, and Ward 6 Council Member Bob Parsons. It also included Jana Jager and Marcus Marshall, both from the Auburn Planning See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B13

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 Aug. 04, 2022

Do Students Make Education Their Major as It’s Easy? Dr. Aarn Thinks So

GREG MARKLEY

OPINION –– he tale from grammar school of Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon searching for a Fountain of Youth is regarded as myth now. But what about our seeking a Fountain of Good Grades in our post-secondary professors? More students than we know pick courses by a teacher known as “an easy grader.” There has been controversy for decades about entire university departments that are, by nature or design, less challenging than others. This concerns political conservatives. Recently, Hillsdale

College President Larry Aarn made comments that insulted teachers and professors. If listeners at his speeches were waiting for a full apology, they do not know Aarn. He is a member of the farright and is often farwrong, but the crux of his current brouhaha has merit. “Teachers are trained in the dumbest parts of the dumbest colleges in the country,” Aarn said of his recent contentious speech in early July. “I’ve made similar critiques of the education bureaucracy my entire career. This does not contradict my deep and abiding affection for teachers.” He explained that

Hillsdale students, then teachers and then the maintenance workers are the most important workers at the college. Based in southeast Michigan, there are approximately 1,500 students at the private liberal arts school. While in Tennessee visiting the governor, Aarn softened his statements. “Dumb can mean 'unintelligent,' which I did not mean,” he said. “Dumb also means 'ill-conceived' or 'mis-directed,' which is sadly, a fitting description for many education schools.” Hillsdale’s liberal arts curriculum is based on Western heritage as a product of Greco-Roman culture and Christian tradition. Core curriculum lists Great Books, U.S. Constitution, biology, chemistry and physics. In "Annie Hall", the 1977 movie by Woody Allen, he mentions a subject (philosophy) that is also not loved by many who think education courses are too easy and too liberal. A character says, “I was thrown out of college for cheating on the metaphysics exam; I looked into the soul of the boy sitting next to me.” In an article

in the Federalist, Joy Pullmann showed support for Dr. Aarn. She cites research conducted by Jay Schalin who reviewed hundreds of syllabi from education school courses. Schalin learned that they strongly promoted Marxism, cultural and otherwise: “The results are unequivocal: the ‘long march’ through the education schools has been successful; the most influential thinkers in our education schools are radicals who adhere to a collectivist, utopian vision.” Looking back at when I was pursuing my master's in education (2002-05) at AUM, I thought the history undergrad classes I was taking were more demanding and less ideological than the grad courses in education. I easily got all A’s in education classes and in my internship at Wetumpka High School. I didn’t complain at the time, but I did tell some fellow students and friends that I disagreed with some of the education professors' under-baked ideas. First, we were told not to give middle-school or high-school students

assignments to do at home. So, we forfeited a chance to build their independence and self-reliance and to not be latch-key kids with nothing to do. Both the homework and my second topic are still being debated in academic circles. The second is “don’t praise your students.” What? At a time that students are committing suicide partly because of school pressures? Don’t falsely or too generously praise them, but they need your support to gain self-confidence. Teachers don’t usually know what sadness students have at home or with other children, so when they do well, they deserve praise. All of us expect a pat on the back when we excel, and a dressing-down when we falter. Are only the high school sports teams deserving of praise? What about those who shine in STEM, the arts or in attendance? I also disagree with Aarn with his inference that a bunch of students go into education because it is not as rigorous academically as the sciences or similarly demanding majors. Sometime parents suggest (and often advocate for) certain

FLOWERS >>

Take care of yourself and others with an easy test. Don’t wait. If you have symptoms, ﬁnd out if you have the virus.

FROM B9

YOUR STATUS YOUR HEALTH

The testing is simple, fast, and eﬀective at identifying COVID-19. Find testing near you at

AlabamaUnites.com.

YOUR BEST LIFE For more information on HIV/AIDS such as testing, treatment, and services, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/hiv/testing.html. For information on PrEP, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/hiv/prep.html. Integrated HIV Programs for Health Departments to Support Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States 6 NU62PS924613-01-0 • CFDA-93.940 Notice of Funding Opportunity - PS20 2010

would have finished second, but Wallace would have pounded him in the runoff. Folsom was soft on the race issue. He was a true progressive. See you next week.

majors, including ones a parent has been successful at. That is worth discussing, but students, remember, what career field you get a degree in, you yourself must enjoy it, because you may be in it for many years. I wouldn’t be surprised if Aarn has in his sights changing the curriculum at public colleges and universities to mimic the religiosity of his own institution. That’s O.K. with a private school, but public schools have a more diverse stakeholder and taxpayer base. Ponce de Leon would tell him the cure to his broad, divisive statements on public education. It is not the Fountain of Good Grades, but the Fountain of Youth who Study Hard. Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has master's degree 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 since 2011. He is a member of the national Education Writers Association (focus-Higher Education). gm.markley@charter.net. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

Vehicle Title Problem? We have a Solution!

Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles, Mobile Homes & Surety Bonds

JSE:Alabama's Vehicle Title Recovery Service!

We can help with most Titled Vehicles in Alabama, including Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s & Trailers. Stop in, by phone or online!

Fre e Phone C onsultation Call 1-205-267-5735 www.JSEAL.com

ANGEL’S ANTIQUE & Flea Mall

Now Offering Gift Certificates

Handmade Furniture Booth In Angels Annex 334-745-3221 • www.angelsmall.info 900 Columbus Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801 HOURS: 10 to 6 Monday - Saturday 1 to 5 Sunday

B11 Aug. 04, 2022

The Fist Bump That Was Seen ‘Round the World CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER OPINION — On his four-day trip to the Middle East, President Joe Biden gave a new definition to former President Barack Obama’s foreign policy of “Leading from Behind,” and it is not good. “The Shot Heard ‘Round the World” refers to the opening gun shoot in April 1775 in the opening battle in our War of Independence

from the tyranny of King George and the British Empire. Americans were seeking their God-given rights of independence. The fist bump seen ‘round the world will be forever remembered as the greeting that Biden gave Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, when with his hat in his hand, begging him for more oil, sacrificing our energy independence. Fist bumps are a traditional way to say “way to go” to a friend

and ally. You see them all the time in baseball dugouts when a player is greeted by his teammates after hitting a homerun or making a great catch. In Saudi Arabia, the world saw a picture that is worth a thousand words. The picture they saw was Biden telling the world, “I was just kidding when I called the Prince a Pariah. I am now telling you that all is well with Saudi Arabia See WORLD, page B14

Inflation is Everywhere CONTRIBUTED BY SEN. TOMMY TUBERVILLE

OPINION — You don’t have to look far to see that inflation is impacting everything, everywhere. Costs of gas, food and housing are shooting up across the country to levels not seen since the early 1980s. Dollars don’t stretch as far, and the quality of life for all of us has decreased. Summer is usually a time for cookouts by the lake and vacations with

TUBERVILLE family, but skyrocketing costs are forcing Alabamians to think twice about their summer plans. Since President Joe Biden took office in 2021, prices in Alabama

have increased more than 10% overall. The price of ground beef alone has gone up by 36% , making the cost of a backyard-grilled hamburger rival that of a restaurant steak meal. But it’s more than just food prices that have soared. Increased costs for materials such as lumber and concrete are forcing families that have saved for years to build their dream homes to rethink their plans. Americans pinched pennies to get by during the height of See ALABAMA, page B12

DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM INFORMATION SESSION Learn how we can help you achieve your health goals! Information Session

Tuesday August 9, 2022

Qua

10:00 AM CST

Heart Transplant Survivor

East Alabama Health Education Center 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL For more information call

334-528-6800 or email dpp@eamc.org

The journey to mend Qua’s heart, led him WE 334 CATE -73 7-6 R! 252

Serving up Soul Food: Fried Chicken, Fried Green Tomatoes, Squash Casserole “TASTE THE FOOD AND REMEMBER THE

Qua was born with tricuspid atresia that required a series of open heart surgeries as an infant. But as a teen, his health took a dramatic turn. Qua’s pediatrician and cardiologist recognized something wasn’t right with his heart and sent him to Children’s of Alabama. Our team was standing by when he arrived by helicopter, and within two weeks he received a new heart. He rebounded quickly and was back at home a few weeks later, thanks to the expert heart team here at Children’s of Alabama.

NAME MADISON’S PLACE” 1220 FOX RUN AVENUE STE 202 OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36801 AT THE USA TOWN CENTER

Learn more at ChildrensAL.org/heart

CV-0001_Here_Qua_Ad_4.88x10-B&W-PROD.indd 1

6/30/22 12:24 PM

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS If you began working in a Textile Mill, Tire Plant, Paper Mill, Steel Mill or any other industrial setting before 1980: You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.

Call now for your free evaluation. 1-(888)432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law ARPC 7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

B12 Aug. 04, 2022

ALABAMA >> FROM B11 the COVID-19 pandemic as they experienced layoffs, supply shortages and government-imposed restrictions that forced many small businesses to close their doors. But they can no longer financially survive under these conditions. We need to be proactive in finding solutions that will drive down prices. One of the ways we can do that is by reining untargeted spending. Wasting taxpayer dollars to fund progressive wish lists won’t drive down consumer prices; it will cripple our economy. Americans have to be cautious about how they spend their money — our government should do the same. We also must unleash our domestic energy production. High gas prices affect American families and businesses. Farmers use diesel for more than two-thirds of their equipment, and they are struggling to shoulder the burden of increased fuel prices. Restaurants cannot escape increased food and transportation costs, which in turn are being passed along to you, the

consumer. America needs to be energy independent, and we have the resources here at home to do it. But Biden continues his reliance to buy oil from foreign sources instead of ramping up our domestic energy exploration and production. He is pushing expensive climate policies that don’t produce enough energy and burden Americans. The average cost for an electric vehicle is $60,054, which is about $15,000 more than the average new vehicle. You can’t have a secure and prosperous country without a strong and reliable energy sector. The U.S. has an opportunity to strengthen our energy independence by reinvesting in nuclear energy. Nuclear power is our most reliable energy source, providing 20% of our energy supply. Yet, we’ve let our nuclear plants get old and our technology grow stale. That must change. I’m leading the charge to spur the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to explore cleaner, safer forms of nuclear power — specifically a thorium cycle. Invented right here in America, thorium can provide incredible power without the threat of a meltdown. And because it also boasts the capability of

recycling nuclear waste, it’s the cleanest power known to humankind. Alabama is the home of two nuclear power plants that supply over 30% of electricity generated in the state, making us the fourth-largest producer of electricity from nuclear power in the country. Unleashing domestic energy production will drive down production and transportation costs — which will benefit the pocketbooks of American consumers. American families working hard to get ahead should not have to worry about being able to fill up their gas tank or put food on the table because of the Biden administration’s reckless economic policies. Rest assured, I will continue to be a voice for hardworking Alabamians in D.C., introduce common-sense economic legislation and push back against proposals that would add to the inflation crisis facing our country. Sen. Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

CITY OF OPELIKA ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT REGULAR MEETING AGENDA 300 Martin Luther King Blvd. August 9, 2022 TIME: 9:00 AM A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES B. VARIANCE 1. Jeremy Clark, Compass Construction, 710 Avenue E, Requesting a 10-foot front yard setback variance from the 25 foot front yard setback requirement in a C-2 zoning district. 2. Jeremy Clark, Compass Construction, 512 South 8th Street, Requesting a 15-foot front yard setback variance from the 30 foot front yard setback requirement in a C-2 zoning district. 3. Jeremy Clark, Compass Construction, 512 South 8th Street, Requesting a 6 parking space variance from the 15 parking space requirement for a two-story mixed-use commercial & residential structure in a C-2 zoning district. 4. RaceTrac Petroleum, Inc., 1107 Columbus Parkway, Requesting a 40-foot height variance from the maximum 20-foot sign height requirement for a freestanding sign. (Tabled at July 12th ZBA meeting.) "In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334) 705-2083. " Legal Run 08/04/2022 ---------------

11 of Plat Book 2 in the Office of the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. Also known as Lee County Tax parcel 43-10-03-08-2-001- 101.000 Parcel Two: Lot E Block 7 of Totten's Map, as shown by that certain plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 2 at Page 9, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. Also known as Lee County Tu parcel 43-10-03-07- 1-001-063.000 Parcel Three: COM NW CORNE 4 SW 4 TH S 120'S E 1355'S TO ELY R/W UNNAMED RD SLY 315 ALG SD R/W ELY 420'8 to POB; S 210'8 E 65'S TO BRANCH NELY 240' ALG BRANCH W 1S7'S TO POB IN SEC 22 T18N R27E. Also known as Lee County Tax parcel 43-lS-05-22-0-000-064.000. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 29th Day of July, 2022 Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334-7496999 Fax:334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com Legal Run 08/04/22, 08/11/22, 08/18/22 & 08/25/22 ---------------

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE - Elmer Hernandez, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Dorcas Domingo's Complaint and Summons. Said Answer must be filed on or before 09/10/2022 or thereafter a judgment of default may be entered against him in Case No: DR-2022- 900123.00 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. Done this 13th day of July, 2022. Mary B. Roberson Clerk of Circuit Court Lee County, Alabama OF COUNSEL: Ben C. Hand 114 North 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 334-741-4077 Legal Run 07/21/2022, 07/28/22, 08/04/22 & 08/11/2022 l lQ) JUL 1 3 2022 IN OFFICE MARY B. ROBERSON CIRCUIT CLERK --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GEHUGH STITT, JR CASE NO. 2022-084 NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Probate of Will for the Estate of Gehugh Stitt, Jr. has been filed. A hearing has been set for the 30th day of August 2022 at 11:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Probate of Will of the Estate of Gehugh Stitt, Jr. Bill English, Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 07/21/2022, 07/28/2022 & 08/04/2022 --------------Notice of auction of an abandoned vehicle. The Only One, Inc will be auctioning off the below mentioned vehicle on SEPTEMBER 01, 2022. This auction will be held at 3601 PEPPERELL PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions regarding this vehicle, call 334-745-2166. VIN#2D4RN4DE7AR138618 – 2010 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN Legal Run 07/28/22 & 08/04/22 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:The estate of Willie Lois Tolbert, Deceased. Case No. 2022-430 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Willie Tolbert as Administrator of the Estate of Willie Lois Tolbert, deceased, on the 20th day of July , 2022.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred Willie Tolbert, Administrator of the Estate of Willie Lois Tolbert, Deceased Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022 & 08/11/2022 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF WILLIAM DAKOTA AKINS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2022-375 PUBLICATION NO11ICE TO: Jonathan Michael Adams or any other potential unknown father of B.M.R. Please take notice that a petition for adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by William Dakota Akins on June 29, 2022, for, the adoption of B.M.R., born on May 28, 2015, in Valley, Alabama to Chasity Nicole Redden. 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. Mark H. Carlton, 9 Lafayette Street North, Lafayette, AL 36862 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, as soon as possible but not later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published. Dated on this the 21" day of July 2022. BILL ENGLISH, JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 & 08/18/2022 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: CHARLES A. CUNDARI, Deceased CASE NO: 2022-414 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Robert T. Cundari, Personal Representative on the 19th day of July, 2022, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Robert T. Cundari Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 -------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DEBRA THOMASINE

FULLER-BAXTER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2022-432 Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 21st day of July, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. ISAIAH ISHMAEL FULLER Administrator Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEWEL FLOYD BENEFIELD, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2022-148 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been grant d to Sandra Price Benefield, Personal Representative on the 20th day of July, 2022, by Honorable Bi II English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Sandra Price Benefield Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF JULIA MAE FANNING, An Incapacitated Person Case No. 2021-508 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Benjamin H. Parr, Conservator of the Estate of JULIA MAE FANNING, deceased, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers and statements for a Final Settlement of her Conservatorship. A hearing has been set for the 15th day of September, 2022, at 10 o'clock a.m., Central Time, in the Court Room of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Done this the 20th day of July, 2022. Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT

FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF ROY SANFORD CHASE, DECEASED, CASE NO.: 2022-413 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Patricia Diane Chase on the 19th day of July, 2022 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. PATRICIA DIANE CHASE Legal Run 07/28/2022, 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN T. INGRAM, JR., DCEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2022-431 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 21st day of July, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. DEE ANN INGRAM WILLIAMS and JOHN T. INGRAM, III Co-Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 07/28/22, 08/4/22, 08/11/22 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JERRY ALBERT MEDDERS PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY, AL CASE NO.: 2022-303 NOTICE OF CREDITOR Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Angela Medders House on the 19th day of July, 2022, 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. Angela Medders House Legal Run 07/28/22, 08/04/22 & 08/11/22 ---------------

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA ESSIE LEE TORBERT, Plaintiff, v. CV-2022-900081 A Parcel of Land Lying in Lee County, Alabama, Willie B. Thomas, J.J. Powledge, Arthur Ware, and Unknown Hein of Willie B. Thomas, J.J. Powledge and/or Arthur Ware, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 2nd day of March 2022, a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: Parcel One: Lot 5 in Block 6, as shown by Plat of a Survey of "Subdivision for Palmer Property" made by T.B. Chambers, Surveyor, said Plat being recoded at Page

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DERRICK LEROY YOUNG, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2022-345 Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the Lee County Probate Office by Debra Young on June 14, 2022, pursuant to Section 432-690. Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney At Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 (334)745-7033 Legal Run 08/04/2022

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B13 Aug. 04, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICES >>

AUBURN COUNCIL >>

FROM B12

FROM B9

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Virginia B. Nelms, Deceased Case No. 2022-300 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to Angela Nelms-Griffin as Administratrix of the Estate of Virginia B. Nelms, deceased, on the 28th day of July, 2022. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Angela Nelms-Griffin, Administratrix of the Estate of Virginia B. Nelms, Deceased Legal Run 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 & 08/18/2022 --------------Notice of Public Auction Boardwalk Storage-Opelika, pursuant to the “Self Service Storage Act” (1981 Alabama Acts, Number 81-769, page 1321 and Section 1), hereby gives Notice of Sale under said act, to wit. BSOP will be holding a public auction online at Lockerfox.com, on 8/16/2022 @10:00 AM. This is a bank check only process - All sales are final and the units must be cleaned out completely in 48 hours. A $100.00 cleaning deposit is required and will be refunded upon unit inspection. Unit must be swept out. Unit G03 H. Bell = Boxes, household furniture, bedroom, plastic containers. 334-741-9133 - 6790 US Hwy 29 N, Opelika, Al 36854 Legal Run 08/04/2022 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY SUSAN HOSEMANN, DECEASED PROBATE COURT, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2022-365 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Julia Hosemann Kennedy, as Administrator, of the Estate of Mary Susan Hosemann, deceased, on the 7th day of July, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Probate Judge, Lee County. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Julia Hosemann Kennedy, Administrator Estate of Mary Susan Hosemann Lenae S. Simpson, Attorney for Administrator Murchison & Simpson. LLC 2106 Gateway Drive, Suite D Opelika. Alabama 36801 (334) 737-5665 Legal Run 08/04/2022, 08/11/2022 & 08/18/2022

Commission and Robyn Bridges from Auburn Opelika Tourism, stakeholders, Auburn Parks and Recreation members, representatives from the Jules Collins Smith Museum and from the Montgomery Arts Commission. The recommendations included objectives: - Remove murals as a prohibitive sign - Review and amend as necessary the definition of a mural - Review the zoning ordinance for other, related definitions that would be linked to murals and signs and consider limitations of murals in single-family residential zones - Confirm public nuisance and obscenity text regulations would apply to murals and consider a definition for graffiti. “These are the objectives that the study committee summarized after the meetings and hearing from places like the city of Montgomery, from AO tourism and the museum here in town,” Cummings said. “Also, we studied at least six other municipalities who had addressed murals and community art through their zoning ordinances and also city code through having art commissions.” Cummings made it clear that the city would not be able to regulate the content of the murals, which is one reason there

WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTOR Plumbing & Heating Supplies Pipes - Valves - Fittings 334.625.3384 800.625.3384 1975 MALL BLVD. STE. 106, AUBURN, ALABAMA

is a recommendation limiting murals in single-family residential, he said. There is not an included definition for graffiti in the recommendations. “Some [consider] graffiti as art, and some communities [have] a designated area for people to paint graffiti as art,” Cummings said. “So, what we settled on is if someone has a piece of property and invites people to paint something on the wall and paint their graffiti on the wall, then that's their expression, that's their art. If someone did not invite them and they painted on there then it's vandalism and trespassing and they could prosecute. Same goes with the city, if we did not invite it. So that's where we left that.” The current zoning ordinance designates murals as a ‘sign’, so that would need to be changed, Cummings said. “They would define a mural as a graphic or work of art that is painted or drawn on an exterior wall and is a representation of a creative idea that is expressed in a form and manner as [to] primarily provide aesthetic enjoyment to the viewer rather than convey a commercial message,” he said. “The key point being commercial message. If it conveys a commercial message, it’s a sign and will be regulated as such.” So the next step is to send the recommendations to the planning commission, Cummings

said, to be voted on during the September meeting. If the commission approved the recommendations then they would appear before the City Council in October. Ward 5 Council Member Stephen Dixon mentioned the Bedzzz Express mural that went against city policies, which prompted public outcry. Soon following, the committee was formed. The mural on the side of that building is currently covered. “They were denied a variance at the board of zoning adjustment and technically the mural has to go away,” said City Manager Megan Crouch. “Because this is being studied, our ask was, and one of our city attorneys is here, in order to meet the law, the mural couldn’t be visible. So instead of asking the property owner, while this is being studied, to paint over it, we requested that they just keep it covered.” However, if these recommendations are approved by the commission and council and become law, then the mural could be reviewed to make sure it meets standards, Crouch said. WARD 4 ELECTION: The council certified the election of Tyler Adams for the Auburn City Council, Ward 4 seat Tuesday night. Adams is the only remaining candidate following the opposition’s, Chad Leverette, withdrawal from the race

last week. “Section 11-46-26, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, requires that Council adopt a resolution and issue a Certificate of Election to each candidate having no opposition indicating that they are duly elected to their respective positions,” said the city’s e-packet. Adams is not the only un-contested race. Mayor Ron Anders, Witten and Ward 8 Council Member Tommy Dawson have already been certified, given none had opposition. For more information on the other wards, visit: www.auburnalabama. org/elections/. OTHER BUSINESS: - The council voted to approve a concurrence for the Industrial Development Board of the city of Auburn at 2175 Pumphrey Ave. in the Auburn Industrial Park. - The council voted to approve a concurrence for Straehle + Hess USA, Inc. for at 284 Enterprise Dr. in the Auburn Technology Park South. - The council approved a one-time payment for retiree cost-of-living adjustment through the Retirement Systems of Alabama. - The council approved the naming of an athletic field, Field 9, at Duck Samford Park for Jon Oleinick. - The council approved a lot transfer for the North Housing Development Corporation - Tucker Heights. - The council approved

a contract with CSX Transportation, Inc. for a preliminary engineering agreement at Webster Road Railroad Crossing for $33,000. - The council approved a contract with JLD Enterprises LLC for a contract for contractor insurance repair at East Glenn Avenue Repair for more than $31,400. - The council approved an independent audit with Machen McChesney for $96,000. - The council approved a temporary shoring and anchoring right-of-way use agreement for The Graduate Hotel with The Robins & Morton Group. - The council approved a tower crane use agreement with The Robins & Morton Group for The Graduate Hotel. - The council approved a right-of-way for AuburnBank at 100 N. Gay St. - The council approved right-of-way and drainage, utility and sanitary sewer easements for Dilworth Development, Inc. for the Spyglass, Phase 1 project near the southern intersection of Yarbrough Farms Boulevard and Titleist Way. - The council approved the appointment of election officials for the 2022 municipal election. - The council amended city code for Section 3-70 Business license ordinance. - The council approved the city’s general obligation warrants, series 2022 for over $62,000 for capital improvements and outstanding warrants.

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer and Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, Alabama 36801 334-745-5706

Private Furnished Offices, Co-Working, & Mail Services

In need of office space? CoLab offers fully furnished private offices, co-working spaces, mail services, and more, all within the heart of Downtown Opelika. Our all inclusive and contract-free prices allow you to focus on the important things, without worrying about any overhead costs. CoLab is perfect for graphic designers, software developers, real estate agents, work-from-home individuals, and small teams. Learn more about us and book a tour to find your best fit by visiting us on the web, or social media pages. COLABOPELIKA.COM | (334)748-9700 |@COLABOPELIKA

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

B14 Aug. 04, 2022

OPELIKA COUNCIL>>

tabled. "When the workshops were held and the information was [received] back from the people, the city and the mayor listened and sent out a memo that said that while they heard what the people said, they didn't agree to make any changes," said Elizabeth Hill, a member of the NAACP's redistricting committee. "The NAACP also listened to the same information and we believe that there were some changes that could be made.” OTHER RECOGNITIONS Opelika Main Street President Ken Ward presented the Opelika Fire Department, Opelika Police Department, Auburn Fire Department, Lee County Emergency Management Agency and Opelika Public Works with plaques of appreciation for the services provided during the July 21 fire that destroyed Maffia’s Italian Restaurant, and significantly caused damage to neighboring businesses, Southern Crossing and The Gallery. The efforts from those involved resulted in the fire being contained and prevented the fire from spreading throughout Railroad Avenue. Fuller recognized the

FROM B9 every day, and it is Romans 8:31: ‘If God is for you, who can be against you?’, and that just gives me so much comfort,” she said. REDISTRICTING Several members of the community and members of the local chapter of the NAACP addressed the council, asking council members to consider an alternative map for the redistricting of Opelika’s council districts. "I must say that we are committed as a branch," said Lee County Branch No. 5038 NAACP President Billy Allen. "We are committed to being a voice for the community. The community has spoken to us and we have provided a proposed amendment to the city's map. "We're asking that you all amend the city map to allow for the community to be heard. Again, we are committed to advocate for the people of Opelika." The council did not make a motion to remove an ordinance to approve and adopt a plan for redistricting the council districts of the city of Opelika and it remains

WORLD >>

Conway stated, not even enough oil for the Tin Man’s can in “The Wizard of Oz”. So, why did he humiliate our great country? The answer is plain and simple. The far left-wing radicals that control the Democrat Party do not want our energy independence that President Donald Trump delivered. If it truly were about the existential threat of climate change as they claim, they would not want drilling anywhere. In fact, they would insist on drilling if it had to be done in a country with an EPA, not Saudi Arabia. Since day one of his administration, Biden has done everything in

FROM B11 and their brutal regime. It doesn’t matter how many Washington Post journalists they order dismembered.” As Democratic Sen. Chris Coons told CNN’s Jake Tapper, “The American people were revolted from what they saw.” Saudi Arabia got everything they wanted: an audience on their terms with the American president. Presidents only visit peer nations. Now Biden has made them, for the first time our peer, no matter what their record is on human rights. So, what did we get in return? As Kellyanne

C FB

L PE 3

A IK

CO TH

K LI

E TR

L ,A

0 68

2022 Opelika YES! Program students. IN OTHER BUSINESS • The council approved the expense reports from various departments. • The council approved a resolution to designate city personal property surplus and authorize its disposal. • The council approved a resolution for emergency repairs of garbage truck no. 846. • The council approved a resolution for an agreement between the city of Opelika and ADEM for a recycling fund grant. • The council approved a resolution for an agreement for construction inspection services with CDG Engineering for Hanwha Cimarron Industrial access road. • The council approved a resolution for an agreement with Robins & Morton as construction manager for the Opelika Aquatics Facilities project. • The council approved a resolution approving a lump sum RSA payment to retirees. • The council approved a quote from CDW Government, LLC for a Barracuda Email Protection Subscription. his power to destroy our energy industry. His party is against our energy sector period. Why? It is all about our freedom as ordinary citizens. They only believe in freedom of liberal elites. Energy independence gives us all independence from their government edicts. So, what horrible regime will he beg next for oil? Iran, who claims now they have the enriched uranium to make the nukes to destroy Israel? Will they choose Venezuela who has invited China to be their partners in energy and infrastructure development giving our biggest adversary a major foothold in our hemisphere? We may get

• The council approved a resolution to submit a grant application for the 2022 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG). • The council approved a special appropriation to the Chattahoochee Council, Boy Scouts of America in the amount of $1,000. • The council introduced three ordinances for first reading during the session. The ordinances introduced are: - An ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map pertaining rezoning 3.14 acres of land located at 3373 Society Hill Road, from R-1 to C-2, GC-P. A public hearing was held on this matter. - An ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map pertaining to rezoning 40 acres located at 2900 block Society Hill Road, from R-1 & C-2 to C-2. A public hearing was held on this matter. - An ordinance to amend the city Code of Ordinances: Section 14-318, Revoking Business Licenses • The council approved the appointment of Deke Hilyer and Ken Ward to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority for a new terms ending Aug. 7, 2028. a little bit more oil from Saudi Arabia, Iran and Venezuela but at what cost to our world standings and energy independence? We can produce oil cleaner and more efficient for our use within our borders. We can then export our excess capacity to our true allies around the world. Trump fully embraced President Reagan’s “Peace through Strength” doctrine and actions. This especially requires strength in all areas of our energy sector. When our energy sector is weak and dependent, there can be no true peace in the world. This is not a Republican policy. It is an America policy.

ALASCAN CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES SELLING a RV, Tractor or Golf Cart? ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide! BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307. BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780 LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America’s Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534 EDUCATION ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866475-1014 (M-F 8am6pm ET). HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935. ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828. FOR SALE DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/ month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available.

Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108 NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916. UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials! ELIMINATE ROACHES GUARANTEED! Buy Harris Roach Tablets. Odorless, Long Lasting. Available: Publix, Hardware Stores, Home Centers. GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-323-5516 AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342. AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943 VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538. FARM EQUIPMENT EARN $15,000 - $40,000 OVER 5 YEARS #1 Hunting Lease Company in America Customize your contract Call Base Camp Leasing | (888) 871-1982

B15 Aug. 04, 2022

Like Crossword Puzzles? Sudoku? Play Online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

B16 Aug. 04, 2022

Call me for all your real estate needs! 1810 E. Glenn Ave. Suite 130

Celebrating 31 Years

Auburn, AL 36830

213 S 8th St, Opelika, AL 36801

Cell 334.444.8041

www.thebreezewaychicken.com

334-749-5167

duffystewartrealtor@gmail.com www.BHHSPreferredAuburn.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affliates, LLC

Hours:

10:30 to 8:00 M-F 10:30 to 3:00 SATURDAY 10:30 to 2:00 SUNDAY

'1/a.ssle hee Va.cat:on..Whj Not Ca.II Us. www.mytravelatmidtown.com

334 749 0877 3051 Frederick Road, Suite 7, Opelika -

� Circle of Excellence 2008-2011

MilhonA1r 2010 & 2011 & 2012 --------(between Sam:� Club and Tiger Town)

THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE ANSWERS:

Thank you for reading The Observer — Winner of the 2022 Alabama Press Association General Excellence Award