The Observer 11-09-2023 by OpelikaObserver

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 05 Opelika, Alabama Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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Opelika prays over leadership

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA— Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller welcomed residents, city employees, public servants and others to the 19th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast early Tuesday morning. After a homemade breakfast, the Lee County Opossum Orchestra kicked

things off, then several speakers were welcomed before the crowd. Fuller said the tradition began with a new mayor and council, and he said they thought it was a good way to begin. “It went pretty well, so we did it again the next year, and here we are 19 years later,” he said. “Folks, our purpose then and now

has not changed. I’m asking for your prayers and divine guidance not only for me, but for every member of the city council.” Todd Rauch offered the opening prayer, followed by the Opossum Orchestra’s performance of "Cripple Creek" and "America the Beautiful." Dr. Nolan Donald, senior pastor at Opelika First Methodist Church,

offered a prayer for the city of Opelika. “This morning we gather, and we thank you for the incredible blessings and gifts you have given to us, far more numerous than we can even begin to recount,” Donald said. “Lord, we thank you this morning for the gift of this incredible community and the

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER / THE OBSERVER

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller invited the community to join him in a morning of prayer over the city and leadership Tuesday morning. This was the 19th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast.

Community mourns passing of LCSO deputy

PATRICK LAMAR YARBROUGH BY OBSERVER STAFF EDITOR@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) shared that it has lost one of its own. Corrections Deputy Patrick Lamar Yarbrough was involved in an a motor vehicle accident Oct. 10 and passed away, Friday, Nov. 3. “It was Oct. 10, there was an accident reported to us, a vehicle accident reported to us on US 280 at the intersection of Lee Road 175, this is really right in the middle of what’s considered the Salem community, or downtown Salem if you wanna say,” said Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. “And it was reported to us at about 10 o’clock on the night of the 10th and when units arrived, of course, at See YARBROUGH, page A5

See PRAYER, page A6

Loachapoka receives new post office, set to open soon PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER Loachapoka's new post was delivered last week and is expected to be open by the end of the month. Loachapoka has been without its own post office for four years.

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LOACHAPOKA— After several delays, Loachapoka is finally getting its new post office. According to Mayor Ricky Holder, the project has been in the works for several years.

“In October of 2021, [the U.S. Postal Service] closed our post office,” Holder said. “They had been leasing part of a building from a catering company, but the catering company wanted to expand into that space. They told them a year ahead of time [in October 2020] that they weren’t going

to renew the lease.” With no facilities in town, anyone in Loachapoka who needed postal services had to drive to Notasulga. “They moved all of our post office boxes to Notasulga, because the Auburn Post Office didn’t have room,” Holder said. “It was

an inconvenience.” Construction on the new post office was delayed “because of red tape, because of Covid, because of the increase in cost of building materials,” he explained. The project had to be re-bid numerous See LOACHAPOKA, page A2

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Stone Martin Builders awarded Bronze Award

Company receives highest recognition of operational excellence for home builders AUBURN— Stone Martin Builders (SMB), one of the largest home builders in Alabama, has been honored with the Bronze Award in the 2024 National Housing Quality Awards (NHQA). This recognition highlights SMB's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in the field of home construction. “It's an honor to be recognized with the Bronze Award for our efforts to continually improve our home construction processes,” said John Manasco, SMB’s chief operating officer. “It's not just an achievement; it's a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Stone Martin Builders.” Under CEO Frank Plan's leadership, Stone Martin

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Builders embarked on a transformational journey, assembling a new leadership team to implement an advanced business model for improved customer service. In pursuit of enhancements, the company applied for a comprehensive NHQA feedback report. As it was its inaugural entry, it already had a solid foundation. The report not only reaffirmed the company's strengths but also highlighted essential areas for improvement. "We made it our mission to improve in every way we could, and we owe our progress to our valued customers,” Manasco said. "We're incredibly proud of how far we've come in our journey.” Continuing its quest to improve operations and better serve clientele with the quality they deserve; Stone Martin Builders

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CEO Frank Plan, third from right, leads a new leadership team at Stone Martin Builders.

launched the "Culture of Care" program in August. This program commenced with a two-day leaders' meeting, during which the company's vision and core values were firmly established, with an emphasis on fostering support and commitment from all departments and employees as a pivotal strategy. The program

will soon involve daily stand-up and winddown meetings to celebrate strengths and address shortcomings. Stone Martin Builders set out on a mission to provide better service and implemented a plan that includes aspirational goals, such as reducing back charges and enhancing personnel policy implementation.

The company is fully dedicated to achieving elevated operational excellence, it said. ABOUT STONE MARTIN BUILDERS Based in the Auburn-Opelika area, Stone Martin Builders is dedicated to developing aspirational communities throughout Alabama and Georgia, including Huntsville,

Builders FirstSource holds Ribbon Cutting PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 27 to celebrate the opening of Builders FirstSource, located at 1800 Crawford Rd. The company, formed in 1998 and publicly traded on the NYSE (BLDR), has more than 550 distribution and manufacturing locations. FirstSource is the nation’s largest supplier of structural building products, value-added components and services to the professional market for new residential construction, repair and remodeling.

Athens, Prattville, Montgomery, Auburn/ Opelika, Dothan and Columbus, Georgia. Since its establishment in 2006, the company has quickly grown and, in 2022, was ranked as one of the 100 largest home builders in the U.S. by Builder Online. More information is available at https:// stonemartinbuilders. com.

LOACHAPOKA >> from A1 times because price of construction supplies kept going up. “It’s been one roadblock after the next, but we made it through, and we’re fixing to have our post office back,” Holder said. The USPS constructed a foundation on which the prefabricated, 1,300-square-foot building sits. “We’ve had a lot of people say, ‘That’s too small,’ but it’s two-anda-half times as big as the old space, which was tiny — only about 500 to 600 square feet,” he said. “The building came assembled, with post boxes and everything ready to go inside,” Holder said. “They’re putting the finishing touches on it now — they’re hooking up the water and electricity, and the contractor said it would be ready by the end of the month.”

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Advanced Manufacturing Training Center now open AUBURN — The Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (AMTC) officially opened in Auburn last month. Auburn University's College of Engineering Integrated Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems (ICAM) and the city of Auburn's Industrial Development Board has established this one-of-a-kind public-private partnership focusing on advanced

manufacturing and machining workforce training and pipeline development for new and incumbent employees. Companies can access the AMTC to upskill training, to prototype new parts, CMM testing and much more. The primary areas of focus for the AMTC facility are: Multi Axis Machining, Additing Manufacturing, Industrial Automation, Digital Factory (In-dustry 4.0) and Metrology.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (AMTC) officially opened in Auburn last month.

Milo's Hamburgers opens Thursday on Shug Jordan Parkway AUBURN — Milo’s Hamburgers, home of the original saucy burger, is scheduled to open a new location at 1850 Shug Jordan Parkway on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 10:30 a.m. “We knew we wanted to expand further within the state of Alabama, and Auburn was always on our radar,” said CEO Adam Pennebaker. “We conducted several studies that pointed to Auburn, but we also included the human factor: listening to the people who message us or call and ask us to come to their town. We really do," Pennebaker said. "Both Auburn students and residents have been pretty

PHOTO COURTESY OF MILO'S

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

vocal through the years about asking us to come to town. Well, we’re bringing the burgers, tenders, seasoned fries, Milo’s famous tea and our whole expanded menu, with fried and grilled chicken sandwiches, new loaded fries and scratch made pies.”

To celebrate the grand opening, Milo’s will offer giveaways to the first 100 customers each day, as follows: Thursday, Nov. 9: a free bottle of Milo’s Sauce and a coupon for a Free Original Cheeseburger through the Milo’s app Friday, Nov. 10: a free

Milo’s Seasoned Salt shaker and a coupon for a Free Crispy Chicken Sandwich through the Milo’s app. Saturday, Nov. 11: a free Milo’s tumbler and a coupon for a Free Sweet Tea through the Milo’s app In addition, Milo’s is partnering with Project Uplift by giving 10% of all sales during the first week of opening of up to $10,000 to the organization. “Milo’s is very involved in each of our communities and Milo’s Auburn will be no exception,” said Marketing Director Mary Duncan Proctor. “We look forward to partnering with many organizations throughout

the community as we get settled. We chose Project Uplift for our grand opening week partnership because Milo’s believes in creating opportunities for the youth to grow and become leaders within their community and Project Uplift does that.” Project Uplift is an agency operating for the benefit of school age children in Lee County, according to Program Director Kelley Wells. “Our agency’s founders designed this one-to-one volunteer mentoring program to fulfill two important goals: reduce and prevent juvenile delinquency in our county and build children’s self-esteem,” Wells said. “The deep relationship made between mentors

and their mentees is what helps our mission be successful. The impact on all involved is so special.” Milo’s will have a drive thru, a designated online/ app pick up area inside for those who need to order ahead and get their meal quickly, and seating indoors and on an outside patio. Milo’s will also launch delivery through DoorDash shortly after opening. ABOUT MILO'S Founded in 1946 by Milo Carlton, Milo’s Hamburgers is home of the famous original saucy burger with a little extra piece of meat. Milo’s has 24 locations, all within the state of Alabama. For more information, visit miloshamburgers.com.

City of Auburn will host inaugural 'GIS Day' event on Nov. 17 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The city of Auburn will hold its inaugural GIS Day celebration on Friday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Boykin Community Center Auditorium, located at 400 Boykin St., with collaborators from the city of Opelika, Auburn University and Lee County Mapping & GIS. The celebration will recognize and showcase innovative applications of geographic information system (GIS) technology in analysis, visualization,

gaining insights into geospatial data and thought leadership in the field of local government and academic research. GIS Day was first established and observed in 1999 by the founder and president of Esri, a GIS software company. The explosion of geospatial technology since then has expanded that idea into a global event that shows how geography and the real-world applications of GIS are making a difference in business, government and society. It's a chance for

organizations to share their accomplishments and inspire others to discover and use GIS. Both the city of Auburn and the city of Opelika have won awards at the state and national level for their uses of GIS technology. Auburn University uses GIS within many of its programs, including its Department of Geosciences within the College of Sciences and Mathematics. "GIS Day is an excellent way to share the potential of this technology with the community" said

Stephanie Thompson, the city of Auburn's GIS coordinator. "We look forward to showcasing how each of our organizations currently use GIS to serve our residents while also discussing the many different ways it can be utilized in professional and academic settings." The city of Auburn will be one of hundreds of organizations hosting in-person and virtual gatherings worldwide that will celebrate the impactful work of GIS professionals and serve to ignite the imagination of the future innovators

who will further advance global progress using GIS. For more information on how the city of

Auburn is innovating through the application of GIS, visit auburnalabama.org/ maps.

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Pines Crossing golf course now open PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Auburn Arts Association presents annual exhibition

DOWNTOWN OPELIKA HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY NOVEMBER 12 12-5PM

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY THE AUBURN ARTS ASSN.

AUBURN — This November, the Auburn Arts Association is celebrating the talent and passion of its members during the annual Membership Exhibition. This year's exhibition features 27 artists and their works, which cover a wide range of mediums and styles. The exhibition will be on display through Nov. 13 at the Auburn Arts Association House, located at 138 N. Ross St. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more about the Auburn Arts Association at auburnarts.org.

The new Pines Crossing golf course on E. University Drive in Auburn will challenge great players as well as those that are average players, said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. "It’s an exciting layout with multiple tee boxes depending on your skill level. As a public golf course, it is an important amenity for our community and one more great reason why folks choose to live in Opelika, Auburn and Lee County.”

Opelika Art Haus to host opening reception on Friday Windhorse Gallery to display works by local artists, kick off series of workshops BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM OPELIKA — The community is invited to join nine Alabama artists for an evening of art, food and music at a reception on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Windhorse Gallery and Workshops at Opelika Art Haus. The works will be on display through Nov. 14 at 500 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika. Guests can shop curated local art each day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as sign up for hands-on workshops. Workshop topics are listed at the website barbarabirdsong. com/collections/ windhorse-studio. Artists include

Barbara Birdsong Designs (handmade jewelry), Charlie Lucas of Tin Man Studio in Selma (welded sculptures), Counter Balance (custom kinetic mobiles), Nadene Mairesse of Idyllwilde (clothing, accessories and home provisions of natural fiber, repurposed textiles and botanical dyes), Mary Ann Casey Art (contemporary acrylic paintings and sculpture), Nourish Blooms (flowers that feed family), Pottery Palustris (ceramic stoneware embellished with pine needle weaving), and Laura and Brian Cooley of Rabbit Fish Ceramics (smallbatch ceramics and artworks).

ABOUT WINDHORSE GALLERY Windhorse Gallery is a new initiative that facilitates local art events, from popup events to gallery shows, each with the purpose of elevating the art community and bringing more creativity to central Alabama. For more information go to www. windhorsestudio.com. ABOUT THE ART HAUS The Opelika Art Haus, part of the Henry J. Stern Family Foundation, is dedicated in memory of Henry and Rosyln Stern, the parents of Art Haus founders Ginger and J. Stern. It was constructed in 2019 to bring more art and art-related events to the area.

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'Mary, Did You Know?' women's event is Nov. 12 CONTRIBUTED BY PROVIDENCE BAPTIST CHURCH OPELIKA — Providence Baptist Church will host Open Heavens Ministry's “Mary, Did You Know?” on Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. This is a women’s event featuring great food, fellowship, holiday music and the story of God’s profound love for us through the life of Mary. What did Mary know? Find out what made Mary ideal for the most coveted call of women. The event is open to women ages 14 and up.

Tickets are $15, with $5 from each ticket supporting our prison outreach. Space is limited, and preregistration is required by Thursday, Nov. 9. Limited childcare is available with early registration. Anne Nicholson is the speaker for the event, and Emily Searle will serve as the soloist. Providence Baptist Church is located at 2900 Lee Road 166 in Opelika. ABOUT OPEN HEAVENS MINISTRY Open Heavens Ministry is a nonprofit organization established to grow others

in faith and practice through the study of God’s word. With the emphasis on discipleship and education, women seeking biblical truth will have access to free materials. Through donations, grants, and funds from its “Get One – Give One” campaign, the ministry prints and distributes biblical curriculum (workbooks and study guides) to women’s prisons, residential recovery programs, nursing homes and rural churches in communities where economic hardship is demonstrated.

Winter Coat Drive underway 'Bundle Up Boutique' opens in December CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The United Way of Lee County, in conjunction with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Lee County Helping Families Initiative, is holding a coat drive and distribution for citizens of Lee County. The purpose is to collect new and like-new jackets and coats to be distributed to anyone who may not have a coat ahead of the winter season. The collected coats will be cleaned and prepared for the three day “Bundle Up Boutique,” where citizens can come and shop for themselves and their families. There will be six drop off locations through Lee County where interested individuals can leave their coat donations: Auburn Bank (Gay Street location), East Alabama Health (inside the chapel), Lee County Justice Center, Lee County

Sheriff’s Office, Opelika Police Department and the United Way of Lee County. These locations will accept donations through Nov. 14 during normal business hours. The “Bundle Up Boutique” is free for residents of Lee County and will not require any form of identification or proof of residency to shop. There will be three chances to shop the boutique: on Tuesday, Dec. 5, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the United Way of Lee County; on Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the United Way of Lee County; and on Thursday, Dec. 7 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Lee County Justice Center. “Even though it’s disheartening to think that there are individuals in our community in need of something often seen as so simple, you never know in what way someone might be struggling,” said Gabby

Thabes, community initiatives specialist for the United Way of Lee County. “Distributing these coats at no cost and with no questions asked allows us to reach those who need them without fear of stigma or judgment.” ABOUT THE UNITED WAY OF LEE COUNTY The United Way of Lee County is a nonprofit organization in Opelika, whose mission is to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another by generating and applying the necessary resources to meet the needs of the community. It look to improve and strengthen the community by focusing on and funding organizations and programs working in four key impact areas which United Way believes are the building blocks for a good life: education, health, crisis and families and communities.

Boy Scout Troop to host Veterans Day flag retirement ceremony CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The community is invited to join Auburn Boy Scout Troop 11 at a flag retirement ceremony on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11. The event will be held

from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 609 Hearn Ave. in Auburn. The purpose of a flag retirement ceremony is to honor the flag and show love and respect for one’s country, according to Scout Master Julie Stanley. A flag is retired when it is in

such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, and a retired flag should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning, according to the U.S. Flag Code. For more information, contact the troop at (334) 524-0574.

Letters to Santa program is back CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER AUBURN — Auburn Parks and Recreation will offer the Letters to Santa program again this year. Children will have the opportunity to send letters to Santa at the North Pole beginning Monday, Nov. 20. Letters can be dropped in the special mailboxes located at the Harris Center (425 Perry St.) and at the Boykin Community Center (400 Boykin St.). Santa will reply with a letter mailed to your home. Please make sure to include the child’s name and a return address. All letters to Santa must be dropped in the mailboxes by Thursday, Dec. 14, to give Santa enough time to reply before Christmas. No postage necessary. This is a wonderful opportunity to create a magical moment with your child as they address their own letter to Santa. For more information about the Letters

to Santa program or Auburn Parks and Recreation, please visit auburnalabama. org/parks or call (334) 501-2930.

YARBROUGH >> from A1 the scene, deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered it was a tractor-trailer transport, you know, big tractor trailer and just a regular motor vehicle. And further investigation, they realized that the driver of the motor vehicle was Patrick and he was entrapped in the vehicle, unconscious. “They were able to free him. They life flighted him to, Piedmont in Columbus, where he had remained since that day until Friday morning, this past Friday morning, when he passed away.” Jones said that Yarbrough was the type of man that one could always depend on and that he would be missed. “Patrick, he, of course, was a member of our sheriff’s office family,” Jones said. “He’s been in our corrections division work and in jail operations for 13 years. And was the kind of person that everybody could depend on. He, I know we’re going into cliches here probably, but he would do anything for anybody, he would work with folks, he helped people, he was a true, he was very committed to

public service and making sure that the job was done, not just done but done right. “And [he] was very well thought of and very respected among his co-workers, and co-family members I should say, as a corrections deputy here with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. And he will be missed. And our thoughts, of course, and prayers are with his family at this time and we are just gonna miss him.” OBITUARY Patrick Lamar Yarbrough was born July 9, 1972, of the late Rufus and Ivory Daggett Yarbrough, in Lee County, Alabama. At an early age, he dedicated his life to Christ and united with Bell Missionary Baptist Church in Auburn, Alabama. "Big Pat," as he was dearly known by family and friends, graduated from Auburn High School. He was employed at Lee County Sheriff's Office, working as a correction deputy for 13 years. He enjoyed going on family trips, attending family events, having movie nights with family and watching football. On Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, he departed this life at Piedmont Columbus Regional in

Columbus, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his mother Ivory Gene Yarbrough; father Rufus Yarbrough; brother Nakia Yancey; and sister Yolanda Pruitt. He leaves to cherish his memories: wife Tabatha Yarbrough of Auburn; five children, Jarquavious Jeff of Columbus, Georgia, Shyheim Yancey, Brooklyn Yarbrough, Patiana Yarbrough, and Jordan Yarbrough all of Auburn; sister Sharon Brown of Auburn; two nieces, Tekela Yarbrough of Lanett, Alabama, and Za'Quarria (Lebryant) Askew of West Point, Georgia; one nephew Jakeevius Stinson of Lanett; one uncle James Yarbrough of Auburn; three beautiful grandchildren, Jaiden and Janylah Pippens of Columbus and Zakai Yarbrough of Auburn; father in-law Billy Yancey Sr. of Auburn; two sisters in-law, Angela Love of Auburn and Arnita Yancey of Smyrna, Georgia; three brothers in-law, Billy Yancey Jr. of Auburn, Dominic Yancey of Opelika and Mark Yancey of Montgomery; a host of many other relatives and friends. There will be no public viewing. There was a graveside service on Nov. 9.

Want help spreading the word about your event? Send it to us! editor@opelikaobserver.com

A6 Nov. 9, 2023 PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER / THE OBSERVER

PRAYER >> from A1 people who call it home. We thank you for the leadership you have given us in Mayor Fuller and in the city council members. Lord, and we thank you for the hundreds of city employees who work to create such a wonderful place for us to call home.” Donald also prayed for first responders, law enforcement, the overlooked city personnel and the residents of Opelika. “And Lord, as we pray, we will give you all the thanks, all the honor, all the glory and all the praise,” he said, “Lord, we want your will and your way. Far more than a vibrant Opelika that matches our desires, Lord, we want your kingdom to come on earth as it is

The Lee County Opossum Orchestra led everyone in attendance through America the Beautiful, one of three songs they played as part of the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast.

in heaven. We want your will to be done. And Lord, we declare right now that you are our leader and our authority.” Fuller said that he always, in his time with the Lord, prays for wisdom and God’s understanding. He described the many ways Opelika

is flourishing, from churches to schools to entertainment amenities. “But best of all, great people who choose to make Opelika their home, and we know that people always make the difference,” he said. He encouraged everyone to have faith and quoted three verses related to faith:

Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace you have been saved through faith.” Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not

be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Kevin Haefner, pastor of Church of the Highlands Opelika, shared a few words of inspiration. Haefner shared that each of us is designed to impact others using the gifts God had bestowed. “Relationships matter

because the greatest form of living is when your life impacts someone else’s,” he said. Theo Moore of Hiztorical Vision Productions shared the closing benediction. “Bless our efforts and unify our hearts in service to our community,” he said.

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A8 Nov. 9, 2023

Courthouse Square Glows for Epilepsy Awareness

PHOTOS BY JOHN HILLSMAN / FOR THE OBSERVER

The third annual Glow for Epilepsy event, hosted by Compassionate Hands of Hope Inc., was held Sunday, Nov. 4, at Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika. The Opelika Fire Department gave demonstrations on what to do and what not to do when encountering someone having a seizure.

E vents,Food & SocietyNews

Mary Ann Godwin creates family memories during Thanksgiving PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY / FOR THE OBSERVER

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

ith their home nestled among towering trees, Mary Ann and Dr. Norman Godwin will celebrate Thanksgiving with their grown children, extended family and international students. The holiday will also include a “thankful tree” and a cookie decorating contest on Thanksgiving, and then tailgating at their home before the Auburn-Alabama game on Saturday. Mary Ann and Norman both grew up in Decatur and were high school sweethearts. They attended Auburn University and married in 1991 after they graduated. They lived in Birmingham for a year and then attended graduate school at Michigan

State University, where Norman earned his Ph.D. “We moved back to Auburn in 1996 as fast as we could, because we love it here,” Mary Ann said. “Norman desired to serve Auburn and be at the university.” Norman serves as the associate provost for academic affairs. While Mary Ann has a love of cooking and offering hospitality, she didn’t grow up in a family that enjoyed cooking. She was raised by a single mom who worked full time, and meals were simple. Mary Ann and her two older brothers had a large extended family who lived on farms. Thanksgivings were spent at their grandparents with huge

tables laden with traditional dishes, including fresh vegetables from their gardens. During summer months, Mary Ann watched her grandmothers make jellies and “put up vegetables,” but she didn’t have an interest in learning cooking skills at that time. She didn’t develop a desire to learn to cook until after she married Norman, who grew up with his mother cooking three good meals a day. “I had the joy of being a stay-at-home wife before we had children,” Mary Ann said. “We were involved in ministries when we were first married, and it was a joy for me to have time during the day to do those things. I also had time to sit

Auburn Alumna Joins the Cast of 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' BY AUDREY KENT FOR THE OBSERVER MINNESOTA — Antonisia Collins, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Auburn University, joined the Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to become a mentor and actress. Collins, a Montgomery Native, graduated from Auburn University in 2023 after studying musical theater. According to Collins, she has performed since age six, and acting has always been a centric part of her life. After she graduated in May 2023, she joined the Children’s Theatre Company soon after. “I auditioned to be one of their performing apprentices here at The Children's Theatre Company,” Collins said. So, what that job looks like is I serve as kind of like a mentor to the kids. I'm like the bridge between staff and student actors. I'm considered part of the staff. Not only do I get this professional experience, but I get a lot of workshops and a lot of mentoring from the staff here as well. It's awesome to be in this environment, doing what I love and being surrounded by people who love exactly what I love.” Collins has performed in various shows in multiple venues, such as Four Little Girls at The Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This

Mary Ann Godwin and her husband, Dr. Norman Godwin of Auburn, enjoy hosting their four children and their families and international students for a traditional Thanksgiving meal at their home. They also provide hospitality throughout the weekend with tailgating before the Auburn-Alabama game on Saturday. Mary Ann is organized and is sharing her organization ideas and recipes. down with three cookbooks that were wedding gifts and plan my menus for the week. I picked recipes that looked interesting and tried them.” Mary Ann tried different recipes every week until she learned how to cook. She has a talent for selecting good recipes and has adapted some. She is now not only a good cook, but she also organizes and plans menus and grocery shop-

ping. When their four children were small, they would celebrate Thanksgiving at home most of the time. Being in a college town, they often hosted international students and people who didn’t have anywhere to go. When the Auburn-Alabama game was held here, they would have a great deal of company for Thanksgiving and tailgating. All of Mary Ann’s and Norman’s

siblings and spouses attended Auburn, as well as their children. Their four children are Harrison and his wife Catherine with two sons, Harrison III and Hampton, who reside in Birmingham; Sara Caitlin and husband Joseph Kelleher, who live in Auburn; Clay, who lives in Atlanta, and Ellis, who lives in Birmingham.

See CIPPERLY, page A11

FOP's Toys for Tots now accepting applications

ANTONISIA COLLINS November until Jan. 7, she will be performing in the Children's Theatre’s production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. How the Grinch Stole Christmas is an original production of the Children’s Theatre Company and is an all-age-friendly and festive musical. Collins will take the stage as part of the ensemble, playing the role of a Who-woman and serving as an understudy for Betty Lou Who and Grandma Who. “I just want anyone who can come to see this show,” Collins said. “I know it may be hard to get a flight to Minnesota, but if you have the unique opportunity to

come, it's so worth it. How the Grinch Stole Christmas teaches life lessons that you can take with you throughout your giant journey in life. It's so beautiful, and it just puts you in the holiday spirit. It's around Christmas time, and if anyone has an opportunity to come and see this show, I highly recommend it.” For more information about the Children’s Theatre’s production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas visit the website at www. childrenstheatre.org/whatson/grinch-student-matinee/. For updates, visit the Facebook page at www. facebook.com/childrenstheatremn/.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA— The Twin City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 21 is currently registering children or its annual Toys for Tots event. Participating children must be residents of Lee County between the ages of 2 and 9 years old. Children who are currently on another Christmas toy program and those who

have participated in this event in three of the past five years are not eligible. Registration forms are available at www. leecountysheriff.or/ toysfortots. Completed registration forms can be dropped off at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, located at 1900 Frederick Rd., from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 14, and Monday, Nov. 20. Applicants will need to bring the following

documents at the time of registration: 1. Children’s birth certificates 2. Proof of Lee County residency 3. A state-issued picture ID or Passport 4. Court-issued guardianship papers if applicant is not the parent For more information, call Sherika Whitlow at (334) 737-7110 or email smenni-field@ leecountysheriff.org.

A10 Nov. 9, 2023

Sean of the South

A 'Dear Sean' letter

SEAN DIETRICH

he email came from someone named Paxton. “Dear Sean,” the message began, “my dog died today and I feel like I can’t go on. I know you‘ve lost a dog before. How do you go on without them?” As it happens, I have lost 12 dogs in my life. Twelve sounds like large number and makes me wonder whether it’s time to sign up for AARP. But I’m not very old. The truth is, I am just crazy about dogs. Always have been. At one time in my life, we had four dogs living in our 900-square-foot house. My shoes all had teeth marks. And all my reading glasses had been semi-digested. Owning four dogs at once, I must point out, is unwise. Of

course, I didn’t set out to own four dogs simultaneously. No sane person would. It all started with one dog. His name was Squirt. My wife and I adopted Squirt from a local animal shelter long ago. He was part of a litter born at the shelter. The employees named the puppies after characters from the Disney movie “Finding Nemo.” I’ll never forget our first meeting. My wife and I were seated on the complimentary sofa in the meet-and-greet room, we were both a little nervous. The sofa resembled something that had survived an atomic weapons detonation test. The cushions were soaked with drool, the nylon stuffing was removed, and there

were fleas on the upholstery roughly the size of Danny Devito. Squirt entered the room, leapt on my lap, and ruined my shirt with the Weewee of Joy, thereby living up to his name. And I had to have him. But here’s the thing. The canine shelter did not make adopting easy. Shelters often require adoptive owners to jump through several bureaucratic hoops before adopting. This is to discourage non-serious pet buyers, which I am in favor of — sort of. Except that some preliminary criteria seemed ridiculous. For starters, you had to show past tax records. Also, you had to bring proof of auto insurance, get fingerprinted, get a blood test, have a complete physical, run a mile in under 10 minutes, pass an eye exam, then fight a giant snake. All in all, Squirt cost me around $400. But, hey, I was in love. I would have gladly paid 50 grand. So I took my new buddy home. That same afternoon we were in

the backyard when my phone rang. It was the shelter. The woman on the phone explained that Squirt’s brother, Marlin, was miserable after we had adopted his brother. The woman asked—no, she pleaded—for me to take Marlin, too. Well, being a mature adult, I told the shelter I had to seriously think about this proposal for a few days, inasmuch as adopting an animal is a momentous commitment. And if you believe that, then you are adorable. Because what actually happened was, I leapt into my truck barefoot and sped to the shelter to welcome Marlin into our family. They charged me another $400. So I was in for $800 bucks, not counting the Science Diet food ($129.99), and all the Pet Smart® approved canine paraphernalia ($2,120,239.99). A few days later — this just gets better and better — I received another call from the shelter. The volunteer explained that there was a third brother (Gurgle) who had been heartbroken ever

since losing his two biological brothers. In under five minutes I was at the shelter. I drained my savings account and slapped another $400 onto the counter. After that, I thought I was done adopting dogs forever. But anyone familiar with situational comedies knows that a few weeks later, we got a fourth and much heavier dog named Zabar. So I was up to $1600 bucks in dogs. For the next decade, our house was owned by animals. Our rugs were stained with urine. Our walls were covered with dried saliva. Whenever our mail carrier knocked on the door, God love him, four screaming dogs skidded toward the door and collided into each other like a Marx Brothers routine. But here’s the sad part. We lost all four dogs within a few months. The first to go was Marlin. He was the victim of a hit and run. We carried him home; he died in our living room. Next was Squirt. He quit eating, and cancer demolished

him. The vet injected something into his veins, and during his final moments I stared into Squirt’s eyes and something passed between us. I cried for three months thereafter. Then Gurgle. He was lying in my wife’s arms. I’ve never heard a woman weep like that. And our fourth dog, Zabar, died of pancreatitis with two crying adults surrounding her. Currently, there are four well-worn graves in my backyard. Often, late at night, I stand beside these plots and talk to my dogs. Yes, I know it’s ridiculous to speak to ghosts, especially canine ones. But you never quit loving someone. And believe me, a dog is someone. So anyway, Paxton, I’m not qualified to give advice. But to answer your question about how I eventually got over my grief. The answer is: I didn’t. I didn’t have enough time. Because the very next morning I did what I do best. I drove into town and adopted another puppy. And I’d be willing to bet $1,600 bucks you will, too. Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist, and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South. His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast, and he makes appearances on the Grand Ole Opry.

GOGUE NEWS

Home for the holidays For nearly 50 years, Annie and Henry lived

Nov. 10 — Easton Corbin

in a mobile home on their property, with the intention to build their dream home there once they retired. With an unwavering commitment to their goal and a little help from AuburnBank, they moved into their new home this year. It was an honor for AuburnBank to assist Annie and Henry in fulfilling their dream. Mortgage lender, Celeste Smith Norris stated, “They reminded me why I love this job.”

w/Celeste at our new

home

Nov. 14 — Mark Morris Dance Group presents Pepperland

We’d love to talk with you about your plans for purchasing a home. Call us at 334-887-4608 to make an appointment.

Member FDIC | AuburnBank.com

Nov. 16 — Straight No Chaser presents its holiday-themed Sleighin' It Tour

A11 Nov. 9, 2023 both ready at the same time. She also does this for side dishes. “Being organized is a help,” said Mary Ann. “That is one of the gifts the Lord has given me of being organized in general and in life, so it is not hard for me. I think anybody can learn to be organized, but it is easier for some than others.” Two weeks ahead, Mary Ann will prepare food to freeze for Thanksgiving weekend. These include homemade rolls, cinnamon rolls, a big pot of vegetable soup, sausage balls, banana bread and quiche with a hash brown crust. A week ahead she will set the table and get the serving dishes out. She can see if she needs paper napkins or plates for the weekend. On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Thanksgiving week, she will cook many of the dishes. She makes dips for tailgating and stores them in an extra refrigerator. For the turkey

wraps, she prepares the chipotle mayonnaise and pickled onions ahead. Some foods her children consider family traditions are homemade rolls, Napa salad and strawberry pretzel salad. The menu will also include roasted turkey breasts, ham, her aunt’s recipe for crock-pot dressing, roasted vegetables, mac and cheese or corn pudding, green beans, spinach salad, grilled asparagus (it gives the men something to do), brandied cranberries and canned cranberry sauce, among other dishes. For desserts, she will offer a variety that have been prepared ahead. These include a rustic chocolate cake, lemon raspberry tart, honeyed cranberry apple fried pies and sometimes a chocolate chip and cherry bread pudding. She will have raspberry brownies or a cookie that is also good for tailgating. While the meal is being prepared, Mary Ann will

have a table outside for decorating cookies. One family brings cookies and icing. The kids and some adults decorate the cookies and hold a contest for the best ones. They also have a “thankful tree.” Her son Clay will draw a tree on a large piece of cardboard and place leaves from the yard or cutout leaves, pins and a pen next to it. The “tree” will be on the patio, and guests can write on a leaf what they are most thankful about this year and place it on the tree. Thanksgiving Day is always special with the four children and their families, extended family that live in Auburn and international students, as well as friends who don’t have anywhere to go. After Thanksgiving, Mary Ann quickly transitions into the football weekend. She will have favorites for a breakfast-brunch with the quiche, sausage balls and homemade breads. Family

will eat when they get up and are ready. For Friday lunch, she will serve turkey or ham sandwiches or barbecue she has picked up earlier. For tailgating on Saturday, she will offer turkey wraps, chicken fingers, hot blackeye-pea cheese dip, salads, a tray of cold vegetables with hummus and assorted desserts. Mary Ann is organized for all of her meals, not just for Thanksgiving weekend. She keeps favorite recipes in binders. On Sunday nights, she will make her menus for the week, considering their schedule. She makes her grocery list and goes to the grocery store Monday morning. Her grocery list is a spreadsheet of how the grocery store is laid out. “I didn’t grow up with family around the table,” Mary Ann said. “This wasn’t something I always dreamed about or what my family did. It is the way the Lord has knit together my husband and myself for our

desire to practice biblical hospitality. “It has been such a gift from the Lord to serve my family, and it has been my joy. I have loved every minute of it. A friend told me that cooking for her is like giving her family a hug and showing them love. For me, when all my kids are coming for Thanksgiving weekend, it is a way for me to show them that I love them to have the things I know they have loved over the years. “We live in a country with so much abundance, and none of us have really known what it is like to do without,” Mary Ann said. “Even though difficult things happen in life, and we might not have a happy circumstance, we still have much to be grateful for as the Lord has been gracious and kind. We try to talk about what we are thankful about all the time. It is just easier to express at Thanksgiving.”

CIPPERLY RECIPES

covered container until ready to serve chilled or at room temperature.

SPINACH SALAD WITH GOAT CHEESE AND TOASTED PECANS

1 cup light cream 6 eggs for a quiche dish, 7 eggs for 9 x 13 inch pan 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt Sautéed red or green pepper, sliced mushrooms 1 tsp. lemon pepper, optional 1 tsp. dry mustard, optional Press hash browns into pan. Press partly up sides to create a crust. Drizzle melted butter over crust and bake at 425 for 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Reduce oven to 350. Toss ham, cheeses and vegetables together and place in crust. Beat cream, eggs and seasonings and pour on top. Bake uncovered at 350 for about 40 minutes or until set. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Can make crust ahead and add egg mixture to bake in the morning.

until brownies are cool. Spread with Chocolate Glaze. Cut into squares. Store in refrigerator.

HOT CHEESY BLACK-

8 hours or more. In saucepan, melt butter. Add noodles, seeds and nuts; stir and cook until brown. Spread on paper towel until cooled. Dressing: 1 cup sugar 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. salt 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1/2 cup vinegar 1 cup salad oil Combine all ingredients, except oil, in jar and shake until sugar is dissolved. Add oil. Just before serving, combine all salad ingredients and top with dressing. Serves 12-16. Options: Add 2 Tbsp. chives, water chestnuts

frozen strawberries 9 oz. carton frozen topping (Cool Whip) 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, room temperature 1 cup sugar Crush pretzels into oiled 2-quart baking dish. In saucepan, melt margarine and sugar. Drizzle over pretzels and bake 5 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool. In bowl, mix gelatin and 2 cups boiling water. Add strawberries and chill. Blend topping, cream cheese and sugar. When pretzels are cool, spread cheese mixture on top, then gelatin. Refrigerate until firm. Cut through pretzels to serve.

CIPPERLY >> from A7 Mary Ann homeschooled all four children. When they were growing up, they enjoyed helping in the kitchen. When the family traveled, they would take the children to international restaurants. Now, they all enjoy different cuisines and cooking. “When planning Thanksgiving, I think about what can go in the oven, on the stove top, in the crock-pot or on the grill,” Mary Ann said. “I also look at what can be prepared ahead. It is not good if you have 20 things that need to be in the oven at the same time.” To be well organized, Mary Ann looks at every recipe to see if it can be prepared ahead. She lists the days and dishes she is going to make on each. She makes a timeline of what to do on Thanksgiving Day, such as when to put the turkey and ham in the oven so they are

EYED PEA DIP

Serve with crackers or tortilla chips 1 medium onion, chopped 2 Tbsp. butter 16 oz. can black-eyed peas, drained, rinsed 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, drained, chopped 2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup sour cream ½ cup mayonnaise 1 envelope buttermilk ranch salad dressing mix 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Sauté onion in butter in a skillet. Combine onion with remaining ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Spoon into a baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with crackers or tortilla chips. Makes 10 to 12 servings.

MARY ANN’S AUNT’S CROCK-POT DRESSING

9 x 13 inch pan cornbread, crumbled 6 slices bread, toasted and cubed 4 eggs, beaten 1 can cream of celery soup 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 carton chicken broth ½ onion, chopped (simmer in broth) 1 Tbsp. poultry seasonings Sage and black pepper to taste 2 Tbsp. butter, room temperature Combine ingredients and blend well. Place in a crock-pot. Cook on low for four hours.

10 oz. pkg. fresh baby spinach 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots 4 oz. pkg. crumbled goat cheese 1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted Place first 7 ingredients in a large bowl, tossing gently. Drizzle with Apricot Vinaigrette, tossing gently to coat. 1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar 2 Tbsp. orange juice 2 Tbsp. apricot jam 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. ground coriander 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Makes six servings. Grilled Smoky Glazed Asparagus ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 Tbsp. sweet smoked paprika 2 tsp. kosher salt 1 tsp. cumin seeds, optional 1 lb. thick asparagus, peeled Combine all ingredients except asparagus and blend well. Add asparagus and coat with mixture. Let sit 30 minutes. Grill over moderately high heat for about six minutes.

BRANDIED CRANBERRIES

Three 12 oz. pkg. fresh or frozen, thawed, cranberries 3 cups sugar ½ cup brandy Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place cranberries in a single layer in two slightly greased 15 x10 x 1 inch pans with a rim. Pour sugar over cranberries. Cover tightly with foil. Bake for one hour. Place cranberries in a large bowl; gently pour in brandy. Cool. Put in a

NAPA ORIENTAL SALAD

1 ½ large heads Napa lettuce (Chinese cabbage) 6 green onions 2 pkgs. uncooked Ramen noodles, crushed (I use chicken flavor, adding only 1 of the 2 flavor packets.) 1/2 cup sesame seeds 6 Tbsp. margarine 1 pkg. slivered almonds Finely chop lettuce and onions; refrigerate

MARY ANN’S ROASTED VEGETABLES

Try other vegetables, such as parsnips, new potatoes, asparagus and tomatoes. 2 garlic bulbs, separated into cloves and peeled 3 baking potatoes, quartered 3 medium beets, peeled and halved 1/2 lb. fresh large mushroom, halved 1/2 lb. baby carrots 1 large, sweet onion, quartered 1/3 cup olive oil 2 tsp. dried basil, optional 2 tsp. dried oregano, optional 1/2⁄ tsp. salt 1/2 lb. green beans Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Mix all ingredients together except green beans in a large bowl. Place on a lightly greased 15 x 10 inch baking pan with a rim. Bake for 15 minutes, then stir in green beans. Bake 15 minutes longer. Makes 6 servings.

BREAKFAST QUICHE WITH HASH BROWN CRUST

This recipe can be made in a quiche dish or a 9 x 13 inch pan. 1 lb. 4 oz. pkg. fresh hashbrowns ¼ cup melted butter 4 oz. shredded hot pepper jack cheese or additional Swiss 12 oz. or 2 cups diced cooked ham 4 oz. or 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

RASPBERRY BROWNIES WITH CHOCOLATE GLAZE

Betty Sims Mary Ann sometimes makes half the recipe. 8 oz. unsweetened chocolate 1 cup butter 1 cup margarine 4 cups sugar 8 eggs, beaten 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. salt 2 cups chopped pecans 1 ½ cups raspberry preserves Chocolate Glaze: 2 cups chocolate chips 2 cups whipping cream Microwave chocolate chips on medium in a 2 quart Pyrex cup for 2 minutes or until melted. (Microwaves vary so be careful not to burn chocolate.) Add whipping cream, whisking until smooth. Brownies: Combine chocolate, butter and margarine in 2-quart microwave-safe dish. Microwave until melted and stir. Combine sugar and eggs in bowl and mix well. Stir in chocolate mixture, flour and salt. Add pecans and mix well. Spoon into 9 x 12 inch baking pan coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Spread with raspberry preserves. Let stand

ROAST TURKEY WRAPS WITH CHIPOTLE MAYONNAISE AND PICKLED ONIONS FOR TAILGATING

Pickled Onions: 1 red onion (6 oz.), sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick 1/2 cup cider vinegar 3/4 cup water ½ tsp. salt Chipotle Mayonnaise: 1 ½ tsp. chopped canned chipotles in adobo, including some sauce ½ cup mayonnaise Wraps: 4 (8 inch) flour tortillas (preferably wholewheat) ¼ lb. sliced or shredded roast turkey or chicken meat 3/4 cup snow pea shoots or shredded lettuce leaves To make pickled onions, blanch onion in a 1½ quart saucepan with boiling water 1 minute; drain. Return onion to pan along with vinegar, water and salt. Bring to a boil; then simmer, stirring occasionally, 1 minute. Cool, then chill 2 hours. For Chipotle Mayonnaise, blend chipotles and 1/4 cup mayonnaise in a blender or food processor until smooth. To prepare wraps, toast a tortilla directly on a burner (gas or electric) at moderate heat, turning over and rotating, until puffed slightly and browned in spots, about 40 to 60 seconds. Spread 1 tablespoon Chipotle Mayonnaise on toasted tortilla. Put one fourth of turkey and pea shoots across middle of tortilla and top with some drained pickled onion. Season with salt and pepper and roll up wrap. Make 3 more wraps in same manner. Serves 4.

STRAWBERRY PRETZEL SALAD 2 cups pretzel sticks 1 ½ sticks margarine 1 cup sugar 6 oz. pkg. strawberry gelatin 2 cups boiling water 10 oz. or two 6 oz. pkg.

SUGAR-CRUSTED CHOCOLATE CHIP AND CHERRY BREAD PUDDING WITH VANILLA CREAM SAUCE 6 Tbsp. butter, room temperature, divided 8 slices white sandwich bread to make 8 cups (can use French loaf, sliced) 3 ½ cups half and half 4 large eggs 2 tsp. vanilla extract 3/4 cup plus 3 Tbsp. or more sugar 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips 1 ½ cups dried tart cherries Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spread 4 tablespoons butter over bread slices. Cut bread into 1 inch pieces. Whisk half and half, eggs, vanilla, and ¾ cup sugar in large bowl to blend. Add bread cubes, chocolate chips, and dried cherries; toss to coat. Pour mixture in a 9 x 13 inch dish. Dot top with remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Bake 15 minutes. Sprinkle top with 3 tablespoons sugar or more if needed to cover mixture. Bake until top is browned, about 15 minutes. Serve with Vanilla Cream Sauce. Vanilla Cream Sauce: 2 cups whipping cream 1 cup sugar 2 Tbsp. flour ½ cup butter 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract In a saucepan, combine cream, sugar and flour. Stir and then add butter. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, for three minutes until thick. Remove from heat and add vanilla.

A12 Nov. 9, 2023

What's Happening in Lee County Hay Days offered weekend of family fun, merchandise, more FARMER'S MARKETS OGrows Fall Market, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision. Contact Shiquita Fulton, M.ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

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

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS ANNOUNCE 2023-24 MEETING DATES PHOTOS BY ED SIKORA / FOR THE OBSERVER

The Farm at Rocky Top hosted its annual Hay Days arts and crafts festival Nov. 4 and 5. Hay Days featured handmade, one-of-a-kind designs by local artisans, unique gourmet foods, boutique and vintage items, a Kids Corral and a variety of food vendors. The Farm at Rocky Top is a wedding and event venue located in Salem.

Auburn/Opelika MOPS (Moth- Jan. 18 ers of Preschoolers) and MOMS- Feb. 1, 15 Next meet at Pepperell Baptist - March 7, 21 Church located at 2702 2nd Ave. in - April 4, 18 Opelika. - May 2 The next meetings scheduled are: Contact Rachel Elrod at 706- Nov. 16 244-5620 or Kaela Sexton at 719- Dec. 7 351-8093 for further information.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet Nov. 21, 2023, at 7 p.m. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. Meetings are held at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn. There will be no meeting in December.

A13 Nov. 9, 2023

Altar Call

WALT ALBRITTON OPINION —

he above title in correct English would be: What are you doing? Around the house, some of us take shortcuts with our words. I can remember my wife asking me many times, “Whatcha doing?” I got in the habit of replying with a cute answer like “Solving the problems of the universe; whatcha doing?” We would smile, then make a plan for doing something together. Remembering that

question got me thinking about what people are doing all over the world today. Read a newspaper, check out Facebook or watch television and you learn what people “in the news” are doing. Some people in Virginia are trying to decide what to do with the remains of the statue of Robert E. Lee they just melted down. Many families in Maine are arranging funerals for the 18 innocent people murdered by a madman last week. A man named Mike Johnson is trying to

restore the dignity of the House of Representatives in Washington, DC. In the Middle East, thousands of people are engaged in a war that will likely kill thousands of innocent men, women and children. Hundreds have already been killed and more than a million are now refugees, wondering if they will ever have a home again. On the local scene, some friends of mine are busy cooking meals they will serve to 250 people, the only meal most of them will eat today. A woman nearing the age of 100 is home, her aging fingers busy sewing together yet another Raggedy Ann doll that will soon be delivered to the Sunshine Center in Montgomery. A pastor’s wife is busy selecting material she will use in

Watcha Doing?

making another quilt she will share with someone. After church Sunday, I sat with a hundred others enjoying a splendid meal prepared and served joyfully by our friends in the “kitchen crew.” As I walked into Dr. Spencer Coleman’s Medical Center early Monday morning, I saw an older woman, somebody’s grandmother, going about her work with a mop and bucket, diligently cleaning bathrooms. The kind gentleman who did my bloodwork and gave me a flu shot told me he gets up a 4 a.m. so he can perform his important duties as a medical technician. The woman who sold me my breakfast did so graciously, as though she enjoyed serving others. Every day, across the world, people are making

choices — some evil and some good. This journey called life moves swiftly and is soon over so our daily choices matter. In the Acts of the Apostles, 10th chapter, Peter explains who Jesus was to a centurion named Cornelius. Peter tells Cornelius about the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus, but he includes this simple description: “He went around doing good.” Is there a better example to follow? Few of us can do great things, but every one of us can find ways every day to go around doing good. C.T. Studd’s inspiring poem stabs my heart awake with this sobering thought: “Only what’s done for Christ will last.” You may want to tuck away in your Bible these few lines from Studd’s

long poem: Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way; Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart; Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done; Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His judgment seat. Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. If someone asks you today, “Whatcha doing?” you might want to reply, “Why, today I am going around doing good; whatcha doing?”

DENNIS "DENNY" CAMPBELL Dennis James Campbell passed away Nov. 3, 2023, at the age of 71. Dennis (Denny) was born on April 25, 1952, in Warren, Michigan, on the Campbell family farm. He was the sixth of 14 children born to Raymond & Ethel Campbell. He received his early education at St Lawrence Catholic School in Utica, Michigan, graduating in 1970. Dennis continued his education at Michigan State University, culminating in a Ph.D. from Auburn University in 2002 with a focus on rehabilitation and special education. Dennis was an amazing person who developed lifelong friendships wherever he went and spent his entire career working with organizations with a mission and vision of helping others. Most notably he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. His first job in Chicago mentoring troubled teens at a half-way house was the start of his incredible journey. When he got tired of the northern climate, he made his way to Alabama where he started out as a handyman. In 2001, Dennis and family moved to Arkansas, where he continued his journey as an Associate Professor at Arkansas State University,

teaching special education. His career also took him back to Alabama and teaching at the University of South Alabama, where he specialized in programs to support special needs. Dennis retired in 2019 and settled with his family in Auburn, where he enjoyed woodworking, entertaining and quality family time. Dennis married Sharon (Shari) Huffman on April 14,1990, and their marriage was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Amy and Kelly, who were the pride and joy of Dennis’s world. Dennis was devoted to the loving family that surrounded him, generously giving and supportive at every turn. The entire family is actively involved with the 5p Minus Society where their contributions are limitless. The annual conference was always a highlight of their year and Dennis worked tirelessly to maximize the quality of life for those with Cri du Chat Syndrome. In addition to his wife and daughters, also surviving are siblings Lois Campbell, Marilyn (Mike) Smith, Ray (Shelley) Campbell, Janet (Denny) Stark, Charlene (Gary) Kogelmann, Roger (Shirley) Campbell, Allan (Pam) Campbell, Bill (Sandra) Campbell, Annette

OBITUARIES F.L. "BUBBA" COPELAND JR. F. L. “Bubba” Copeland Jr., 49, of Smiths Station, passed away on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023. The family received friends on the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City. A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. EST on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Phenix City with the Rev. Dr. Ralph Wooten officiating. A private interment will follow. Bubba was born May 27, 1974, in Columbus, Georgia, son of Fred L. Copeland Sr. and Cora Annell Flowers Green. Bubba owned and operated the Country Market in Salem. Additionally, he was senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Phenix City, where he attended and worshiped for more than three decades. Bubba’s first foray into politics was when he successfully ran for the Lee County School Board’s District 5 seat, a position he held over the course of two terms from 2008 to 2016. In 2016, Bubba was elected as mayor of his beloved hometown and city of Smiths Station. During his tenure as mayor, he helped guide the city through a period of tremendous growth and development, and earn

its place as one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Alabama. But above all, beyond serving his church, city and community, Bubba loved spending time with his family and serving his community. He is survived by his loving wife Angela Simpson Copeland of Smiths Station; his mother, Cora Annell Flowers Green (Hershal) of Phenix City; his father Fred L. Copeland Sr. (Cheryl) of Valley; son Carter L. Copeland of Smiths Station; two daughters AbbyKate Elizabeth Dawson and Ally Catherine Dawson, both of Smiths Station; three sisters Kimberlee Copeland Funk (Stephen) of Smiths Station, Terri Register (Noel) of Fountain, Florida and Ginger Green of Smiths Station; two brothers,Mike Green(Mardelle) of Smiths Station and Bill Green (Brandy) of Waverly Hall, Gerogia; in-laws Tim and Pam Simpson of Hatchechubbee, Alabama; brother-in-law Jonathan Simpson (Bridgette) of Hatchechubbee; two nieces Brinklee Cope Funk and Everly Blake Simpson; nephew Ezekiel Ray Simpson and cousin Jason Flowers; as well as many extended family, church family and extremely close friends.

Pall bearers will be Jason Flowers, Jeff Smith, Ed Adams, Jonathan Simpson, Stephen Funk and Allen Belcher. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 2608 Summerville Road, Phenix City, AL 36867 or PAWS at www.pawshumane. org . PRESTON "GLENN" JACKSON Preston “Glenn” Jackson was born August 20, 1978, in Opelika, and died on Oct. 31, 2023. Glenn was pre-deceased by his grandparents, Otis and Marcel Lynn, and Ellen Jackson. He is survived by his loving parents, Donnie and Denise Jackson; brother and sister-in-law, PJ and Jamie Jackson; and nieces and nephew, Haley, Andrew and Emma. Also surviving him are aunts and uncles, Christine Stillwell, Cecil and Janet Rogers, Debbie Palmer and Randy and Darlene Armstrong. A memorial service was held on Monday, Nov. 6, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, with Rev. Cecil Rogers officiating. KEVIN ANN MORRIS Kevin Ann Morris, 83, of Millbrook, Alabama, passed on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, following a short illness. Kevin was a mother of two

sons, grandmother to eight, great grandmother to fourteen and friend to everyone she met. She was a cancer survivor. Kevin was a faithful member of Robinson Springs Church where she attended a weekly Bible study. Kevin was an active participant in the Loaves and Fishes Ministry as well as serving at W.E.L.C.O.M.E. food pantry. She loved spending time with family and friends and serving her community. Kevin is predeceased by her husband, James Alton (Bubba) Morris, and survived by her brother, Dallas Thomas Watson, sister, Joette Watson Williams (Norman), two sons, Warren Kyle Morris (Lynn) and Richard D. Morris (Sue), grandchildren, Sarah Morris Gilewicz (Alex), Austin Cole Morris (Emily), Brian Donnelly Griffith, Ashley Wilcox (Jeff), James Robert Griffith (Lindsey), Emily Wimbley (Alphonso), Melissa Massey (DJ) and Sam Waters (Candace). A graveside service was held Saturday, Nov. 4, in LaFayette City Cemetery, with Pastor Janice Kratz officiating. In lieu of flowers the family requests a contribution be made to the Robinson Springs Church Loaves and Fishes Ministries.

See OBITUARIES, page A14

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A14 Nov. 9, 2023

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

OPINION —

n Daniel 5, we’ve moved forward an indeterminate amount of time. Chapter 4 takes place during Nebuchadnezzar’s reign (which ended in 562 BC). Chapter 5 takes place the night the Medo-Persians come to power (539 BC), so we know at least 23 years have transpired. Despite this chronological gap, the two chapters from a couplet

of sorts as Daniel makes it clear that the reason for Belshazzar’s and Babylon’s fall is the king’s failure to acknowledge God — even though he knew about what had transpired with Nebuchadnezzar (see v. 22ff). The banquet Belshazzar gives for a thousand of his nobles is something along the lines of a pep rally as they prepare for a MedoPersian attack on Babylon. Babylon is a well-fortified, walled city and it’s entirely possible the revelers are confident they will prevail against this challenge. In this context, Belshazzar’s order for the goblets taken from the temple at Jerusalem and their drinking of wine is much more than simple drinking — it is a reminder to everyone of Babylon’s past military success against Judah and symbolizes the “control” over Yahweh they think the Babylonian gods

Time

have. By doing this, Daniel tells him, “You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways” (v. 23). Big mistake! While they are in the midst of their derision of God, a mysterious hand appears and begins writing on the wall. No one can provide him with the meaning of the words until the queen remembers Daniel. He is brought in and reminds the king of what happened to Nebuchadnezzar and how he correspondingly humbled himself. He tells Belshazzar he had not humbled himself — “Though you knew all this” (v. 22). “Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven” (v. 23). Not a smart thing to do and now it will cost him

his kingdom and his life. Belshazzar is killed that night as the Medo-Persians come to power. Here are five things we learn from Belshazzar. God gave Belshazzar opportunity. Per the book of Daniel, no one comes to power on their own — God is responsible for the rise and fall of kings (1:2, 2:21, 37-38, 4:25, 32, 34-35). Belshazzar had the opportunity and motive (from knowing Nebuchadnezzar’s history) to do the right thing and humbly rule. But he chose not to. In his best moments, he ignored God. He followed his culture rather than His Creator and praised the gods of Babylon (v. 4). In his worst moments, he mocked God. In a desperate moment, he didn’t turn to God, he taunted Him by taking the temple treasures and using them to celebrate

the gods of Babylon. “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7). He paid for it dearly. He lost it all. The Queen’s, “May the king live forever” (v. 10) was a waste of words. The king had determined his own fate. He became a cautionary tale. God gives us all many, many opportunities to follow and serve Him. But they are not unlimited. As was the case with Belshazzar, there will one day be an accounting (see Acts 17:3031). The choice is ours; we can be a Daniel or a Belshazzar. You can find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-gracewith-bruce-green.com Find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-withbruce-green

Bible verse of the week: We wait for the blessed hope of the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. — Titus 2:13

CHURCH DIRECTORY ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

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

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

OBITUARIES >>

Rhonda was known for her warm and friendly nature; she never met a stranger. She had a special ability to make everyone around her feel welcome and loved. Her infectious personality and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Rhonda is survived by her loving husband, Ronald Hamby, and their children: Stephen Hamby (Becky), Arron Hamby (Valerie), Tammy Hamby and Rebecca Hamby. She also leaves behind her brother, Eddie Clayton (Lisa), three grandchildren: Olivia, Lillie, and Greyson, 11 brothers-inlaw, 11 sisters-in-law, and two cherished aunts, Debbie Harper and Joyce Lindsey, as well as many nieces and nephews. Rhonda's parents, Martha Lindsey and Donald Clayton, preceded her in death. Their memories will forever be

FOM A13

(Ray) Marcath, Paulette (Ike) Miller, Joe (Michele) Campbell, father-in-law Dale Huffman and longtime companion Blanche McElfresh, in-laws Randy (Lisa Mina) Huffman and Emily (Mike) Waldrop. Dennis is also the proud uncle of numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, mother-in-law JoAnn Huffman, brother Gary and sister Nancy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to 5pminus.org. RHONDA DALE HAMBY Rhonda Dale Hamby, 62, of Opelika passed away at EAMC on Oct. 29, 2023. She was born on July 26, 1961, in Tallassee, Alabama.

WALLACE CHAPEL CHURCH Wallace Chapel Church, located at Highway 29 N Beulah, welcomes everybody to its Wednesday night Bible study at 5:30 p.m. There is a potluck supper.

Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432 EPISCOPAL- AME Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika 334-749-1690 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 cherished by Rhonda's family. A funeral service was held on Thursday, Nov. 2, at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Chapel. A Graveside service was held Friday, Nov. 3 at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery. ERCIL MELVIN HOLT Ercil Melvin Holt passed away at his residence on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023. He was 79. He was preceded in death by his wife, Myrtle Holt, and sisters, Betty Jean Whatley, Shirley Phillips and Barbara Downing. He is survived by his son, James Holt, and numerous nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held Sunday, Nov. 5, in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home. Interment followed at Holt Family Cemetery.

Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552 Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika

Opelika Southern Plains Cowboy Church 13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014 PENTECOSTAL Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889

Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway,

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

PHILLIP D. GARRETT Phillip was the fourth of five boys born to Lester and Naomi Noxfinger Garrett in Early, Iowa. At the age of 12, his family moved to Missouri. Phil had many interests and talents. At various times in his life, he was a farmer, an owner of a gas station with his brother, a union carpenter, an army military policeman and a veterinarian. Under the GI Bill, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and then graduated from the University of Missouri Veterinary College. He worked in private practice, worked as a meat inspector for the USDA and taught anatomy at both the University of Missouri and Auburn University. A self-taught artist from an early age, he created medical illustrations and painted

watercolors. In the 1970s, he volunteered in an economic development project on Mactan Island in the Philippines, and in retirement he volunteered with Presbyterian Community Ministry, Habitat for Humanity and Community Market. He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn, his son, Jim (Betsy), grandchildren Isaac and Frances, and many nieces and nephews. His son, Michael, and his brothers preceded him in death. A celebration of Phil’s life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Auburn on Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. Memorial gifts may be made to his two favorite charities: Presbyterian Community Ministry, 143 E. Thach Ave, Auburn, AL 36830; or Habitat for Humanity, 605 2nd Ave. Opelika, AL 36801.

The Lions Club of Opelika meets every Monday at noon at Western Sizzlin' in Opelika. Email gm.markley@ charter.net.

A15 Nov. 9, 2023

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A16 Nov. 9, 2023

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Schools & Sports ON THE MARK

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING NOV. 14 AT 6 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING NOV. 14 AT 6 P.M. • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 5 AT 6 P.M.

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023

Friday Night Lights Recap: Week 11 PHOTO BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

Opelika City Schools fires head coach Details pending on search for a new coach OPINION —

pelika High football coach Erik Speakman was fired last Thursday morning by Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore. According to Speakman (in a phone conversation with me, after telling his team he would no longer be the head football coach), Seymore, OHS Principal Kellie Fischer and OCS Athletic Director Jamey Williams met with him early Thursday morning. During this meeting, Seymore informed Speakman he would not return as OHS head football coach and asked if he would resign. "I basically got fired, I did not resign,” Speakman said. “That means quitting on these kids." Opelika City Schools Public Relations Coordinator Becky Brown emailed the following statement to me about the firing of

Speakman: After six seasons as head football coach at Opelika High School, Erik Speakman has been asked to step down. He will no longer serve as the head football coach. “We appreciate Coach Speakman’s dedication to our football program and our student athletes,” stated Dr. Farrell Seymore, superintendent of Opelika City Schools. Details regarding the search for a new head football coach will be released at a later date. Speakman leaves after spending 24 years at OHS. He did various jobs during those years, including driver’s education teacher, assistant football coach, assistant baseball and tennis coach, defensive coordinator, athletic director and head football coach. He exits with a 4525 overall record. His teams went 9-4 in the 6A playoffs, did not make See ON THE MARK, page B5

AU - Vandy Game Recap — B6

Nov. 3 was Senior Night for Beauregard High School. Seniors were honored during the game. BY D. MARK MITCHELL THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — Last Friday was the

first round of the AISA football playoffs and the last week of the regular season for the AHSAA. AUBURN HIGH

The AHS Tigers (8-2) beat Smiths Station 49-8 last Friday at T.C. Britton Field in Smiths Station. Offensively, Auburn

was led by quarterback Jackson Kilgore, playing in his second game since returning from an injury See WEEK 11, page B5

Mabson propels Auburn high to 49-8 win over Smiths Station BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

SMITHS STATION— Auburn High sophomore running back Omar Mabson finished his sophomore year with 14 touchdowns and six consecutive 100-plus yard rushing games to end the season, including 136 yards on six carries in the regular-season finale win over Smiths Station on Friday night. Mabson found the end zone three times, and Auburn compiled 285 yards on the ground as the Tigers spoiled Smiths Station’s senior night with a 49-8 win to end its season at 8-2. With two consecutive 40- and 56-yard touchdown runs to start the second half, Mabson’s three

TD scampers gave him five in the last two games. He accounted for four of Auburn’s five secondhalf TDs in the last two weeks as the Tigers topped 40 points for the second straight week. The Tigers averaged 33.8 points per game and scored above 40 points four times during the season. Oppositely, the defense only allowed 15.1 points a game and pitched two shutouts, while only Central scored 40 points on them. With QB Jackson Kilgore back in the picture after an injury and splitting time with senior QB Henry Allen the past two weeks, Auburn has continued to utilize a plethora of backs. Adding onto Mabson’s big night, senior Tyler Flakes scored twice for the second consecutive game

and Mykel Ammons scored the first TD of his career in his final regular-season game as a senior. The run game accounted for six of the seven scores. Kilgore accounted for the other one on a four-yard TD pass to senior Cody Palmer to end the first half up 28-8. It was mostly all Auburn in this one, but not until Smiths Station enjoyed an opening-drive score and two-point conversion to start off senior night for the Panthers, who ended their season at 1-9. After that, Auburn scored 49 unanswered to notch the most points it has scored in a game all season. The win helped Auburn finish the season as the No. 3 seed in See AUBURN HIGH, page B2

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B2 Nov. 9, 2023

Auburn High defeats Smiths Station PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

PLAYER of the

WEEK Demarion Foreman 167 Passing yards and 50 rushing yards

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AUBURN HIGH >>

FROM B1

BEULAH

STAY INFORMED SUBMIT A REPORT, & SO MUCH MORE

The Auburn High School Tigers easily handled the Smiths Station High School, posting a 48-9 blowout over the Panthers on Senior Night.

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Region 2. The Tigers will start their playoff schedule by going to Baker, which finished second in 7A Region 1 with an 8-2 record. The only common opponent between

Auburn and Baker this season was Dothan, who Auburn defeated 28-27 in week three. However, Dothan was one of Baker’s losses, as it fell 35-14 to the Wolves at home. Both teams will enter the game coming off two wins in a row to end their seasons.

Auburn will embark on the path to its second straight state championship game after last season’s title game loss to Thompson. The Tigers’ postseason journey starts on the road in Mobile at Baker High School on Friday, Nov. 10.

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B3 Nov. 9, 2023

Beauregard buzzes past Lincoln, winning 37-7

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES/THE OBSERVER

The Beauregard Hornets defeated Lincoln last Friday night. They will take on the undefeated Gulf Shores in an away game this week .

SMITHS STATION

RB Quenton Brooks: 28 carries for 87 yards and a touchdown, 1 catch for 11 yards

AUBURN

RB Omar Mabson — 6 carries for 136 yards, 3 touchdowns, 35 kickoff return yards | Linebacker Jace Williams — 6 total tackles (3 solo), 2 tackles for loss

B4 Nov. 9, 2023

Trinity Christian School packs 15,000 meals in "Feed the Need" Campaign last month PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Last month on Oct. 27, Trinity Christian School packed 15,000 meals for “Feed the Need” campaign This involved all of the Trinity students and staff participating. The campaign mission aimed to raise awareness among its students about the challenging circumstances faced by Bangladeshi children, particularly those residing in the Rohingya Refugee Camp. The whole process was set up as a assembly line as meals were prepared, packed, prayed over and included along with cards and notes written to the meal recipients.

Lee County School Board conducts public interviews for superintendent position BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Schools Board of Education held special meetings on Tuesday, Nov. 7, to conduct

interviews of the two men vying to replace Superintendent Mac McCoy when he retires on Dec. 31. The board first interviewed Dr. John Tucker at 10 a.m., followed by an interview with Dr.

Mike Howard at 1:30 p.m. The interviews were conducted in an open forum, with board members asking each candidate a total of about 25 questions on a wide range of topics. Tucker is currently school effectiveness specialist at Muscogee (Ga.) County Schools,

and Howard is currently superintendent of Jacksonville (Ala.) City Schools. The board anticipates making its selection by its next regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m.

B5 Nov. 9, 2023

2023 Shugar Bowl held Nov. 4 at Duck Samford AUBURN — The Auburn Youth Football Association hosted the 2023 Shugar Bowl on Saturday, Nov. 4, at Duck Samford Football Stadium. The Shugar Bowl is the Auburn Youth Football Association's League Championship and began in 1974 in honor of legendary AU Coach Ralph "Shug" Jordan. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under. The public was invited to attend. The flag football championship game for ages 8 & 9 featured the AU Rents Titans vs. the Bush Turf

Management Saints took place at 9 a.m. The 10-12-year-old boys championship game features the Prestige Properties Patriots vs. the Orthopaedic Clinic Seahawks and began at 10:30 a.m. The 10-12-year-old girls championship game featured the Mane Event SalonSpa Titans vs. the Orthopaedic Clinic Bears and began at noon. The SEC Championship game (ages 8 & 9) featured the Mama’s Secrets Gators vs. the East Alabama Pediatric Dentistry Bulldogs kicked off at 1:30 p.m. The NFL

Championship game (ages 10-12) featured the JLD Enterprises Bengals vs. Farnell Mechanical Inc. Steelers and kicked off at 3 p.m.. This year's event was made possible by the following sponsors: Auburn High School, Farnell Mechanical Inc., Builders FirstSource, JLD Enterprises, The Orthopaedic Clinic and Road Runners Drywall. A special thanks to Auburn High School Athletics for providing facilities The Shugar Bowl is the Auburn Youth Football Association's League Championship and and staff for the began in 1974 in honor of legendary AU Coach Ralph "Shug" Jordan. event. Proceeds from sponsorships assistance for the 2024 information, visit Auburn Parks and and gate admission auburnalabama.org/ football season. Recreation at 334-501support scholarships parks or contact For more 2930. for athletes in need of

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN / MIKE GOGGANS

Loachapoka Marching Band brings home the trophies

ON THE MARK >>

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER The Loachapoka High School band recently competed in the Central Alabama Marching Band Festival in Montgomery, where it won several awards. According to Band Director Michael Floyd, the band received superior rankings for drum major, band, flags and color guard, as well as were named Best in Class. The band won two Best Overall awards, for majorettes and percussion, in the Class 1A competition. “The students worked really hard for their accomplishments,” Floyd said. “They made it look easy, but it’s really not.”

WEEK 11 >>

FROM B1

against Enterprise in week 2. Kilgore was 14 of 19 for 130 yards and one touchdown. Omar Mabson gained 136 yards on six rushes and scored three rushing touchdowns, Mykel Ammons added 71 yards on six rushes and Ean Nation gained 63 receiving yards on five catches. Auburn's defense held the Panthers to less than 170 yards of total offense and one TD. Auburn was able to play a bunch of players as they prepare for the 7A playoffs. AHS travels to Mobile to play Baker in the first round of the 7A state playoffs. BEAUREGARD The Hornets closed out the regular season with a blowout win over Lincoln 37-7 last Friday night at Richard Brown Field on the BHS campus. Beauregard used a balanced offensive attack to gain 423 total yards. BHS rushed for 261 yards and passed for 162 yards. Jacori Tarver gained 151 yards on 12 rushes to lead the Hornets in yards. QB Trent Moulton was six of 10 for 69 yards and one

TD, and he threw one interception. The Hornets head to Gulf Shores Friday in the first round of the AHSAA 5A state playoffs. CHAMBERS ACADEMY Chambers advanced to the semifinals of the class 2A playoffs after beating Escambia 55-18 in LaFayette last Friday night. The Rebels offense started on fire, scoring 41 first half points. Luke Tarver scored the first TD on a 10-yard run, and Koreen Henry caught a 51-yard pass for the second touchdodwn. K.J. Daniel scored two TDs on runs of 12 and 25 yards. Ryan Smith caught a 39yard pass from Baker for the last score of the first half. The Rebels added two scores in the fourth quarter: a 25-yard TD pass to Jack Nelms from Landon Hall, and Nelms scored the last touchdown on a 42-yard run with 17 seconds left in the game. Chambers (10-1) hosts Patrician Friday night in Lafayette. VALLEY Two teams hosting layoff games squared off in Valley last Friday. The Rams lost to Benjamin Russell 35-19 last Friday night at Ram

Stadium. The Wildcats (6A Region champs) gained 445 total yards, including 293 passing yards. Valley gained 374 yards, including 186 yards passing and 188 yards rushing. VHS QB Cam'ron Dooley was 15 of 29 for 186 yards and three touchdowns. Brandon Thomas caught two passes for touchdowns and C.J. Chambley caught one TD pass. BRHS quarterback Gabriel Benton was 14 of 22 for 293 yards and three TD's. T.J. Wilson added 125 rushing yards on 20 rushes, and Cederian Morgan caught three passes for 134 yards and two TDs. Valley will host B.C. Rain Friday night at Ram stadium in the first round of the class 6A state playoffs. Fifteen high school football teams are in the playoffs this week. AISA Schools include Lee-Scott, Glenwood, Southern Prep, Chambers Academy and Springwood. AHSAA Schools include Auburn, Loachapoka, Beulah, Benjamin Russell, Beauregard, Valley, Handley, Reeltown, Dadeville and Notasulga.

FROM B1 playoffs since moving to class 7A in 2022, 23-1 in 6A Region 1 and 8-8 in 7A Region 1. Speakman was 1-5 against both Auburn and Central, two of the Dogs biggest rivals. Speakman told me wanted to keep coaching after retiring from RSA next year. "The good thing, I have talked to three different people who reached out to see if I was interested in jobs... I am proud of that," he said. I am sure he will be coaching football at another high sooner than later. THE SEARCH FOR NEW COACH BEGINS In January of 1982, I was a senior at OHS and just completed my first year of broadcasting Opelika games on WJHO. Opelika Superintendent Dr. Clyde Zennah fired then-head football coach Kyle Gantt after four straight losing seasons. I was a family friend of Bill Horsely, who happened to be one of the members of the OCS board of Education. Mr. Horsely kept me updated on the search when I would go by his house to see his sons, who were in high school with me. The hire was very important to Opelika fans after suffering through four straight losing seasons and 0-4 against Auburn High School. Although only a senior, I was very interested in who was going to be Opelika's new football coach. The night before holding a press conference to announce the new head football coach, Horsely invited me to attend the press conference. The announcement was made in the small board room at the current OCS central office on Simmons Street. I remember thinking, "This is a big announcement, and I was invited to attend. That is so cool."

When I entered the board room, I saw all the members of the school board in formal dress clothes, men were wearing suits, the ladies were wearing nice dresses. Everyone knew the importance of the announcement of Joe Wilson as the new head football coach and athletic director at OHS. The hiring of coach Joe Wilson was one of the most important hires in the history of Opelika High football. Wilson won seven games his first year, eight wins the second season and 30 games over the next three seasons. He made history by leading OHS to three straight playoff appearances. I reflect on that story because the hiring of the new football coach is huge for many people, including: the studentathletes in the program, the school system, the fans, the boosters and former alumni and the city of Opelika. If you support Opelika Schools and the Opelika Bulldog Football program, the search for the new head football is important, and your eyes should be on Opelika Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore. As a former member board member and president of the then-All Sports Booster Club, I have had the privilege of being on the inside during the hiring of former head coaches: Spence McCracken, Brian Blackmon and Caleb Ross. Based on those searches and hires, Seymore has the task of making many decisions pertaining to the search for the new coach: • How will the search be conducted? • Who will be a part of the search committee or will Seymore act alone? • What is the timeline of the hire? • Are we going after a proven coach or an up and coming assistant coach? (Proven coaches do not openly apply if they already have a job. Someone must reach

out to see if the coach is interested.) * What will be the salary and compensation package of the new coach? * How many assistant coaches will the new coach be able hire, and how much money can he spend on supplements for assistant coaches? These are some of the pertinent questions, points, facts of hiring a new football coach. Opelika's head football coaching job is considered one of the best jobs in the state of Alabama. OCS has the reputation of being a top-notch school over the past 40 years. The city of Opelika leadership (mayor and council) backs the school system with financial support, facility upgrades, resources, help with athletic facilities, etc. It is a city school system, and there is plenty of booster support from business owners, corporations and manufacturing plants. Bulldog Stadium is getting new turf for the indoor facility and football field, along with a new jumbotron. I can fill up a page of positives that will far outweigh the few negatives when talking about how good it is to live and worship in Opelika. The new football coach will feel the same after spending time in this awesome city. I want Opelika to hire the best person/coach to be the next head football coach. Opelika has a chance to make a splash with a big hire. I hope they get it right. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 9101319, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

B6 Nov. 9, 2023

Tigers cruise to win over Commodores plays a big role.” Having lost its last two visits to Nashville, a fast start on offense was important for the Tigers. Taking over at its own 25-yard line after the missed field goal, Thorne took the opening snap on a keeper around left end for a gain of eight yards. Facing second and two, Auburn’s Jarquez Hunter began what would be a career day with an explosive 67-yard burst up the middle as he ran past the Vandy defense for the first score of the day, putting Auburn up 7-0. Hunter’s touchdown was Auburn’s longest play from scrim-mage this season. After three straight three-and-outs between the two teams, Auburn had the ball second and one from its own 44yard line when lightning struck a second time in the form of another explosive play in the running game. Once again, Hunter took the handoff, crashed through the line, and emerged unscathed as he scampered 56 yards for his second touchdown of the day. The Tigers lead 14-0. Hunter would finish the first quarter with 121 yards on four carries and two touch-downs. His 121 yards rushing in the first quarter are the most by an Auburn running back since Tre Mason had 141 yards on six carries in the first quarter against Alabama A&M in 2012. The last Auburn player to rush for 100 yards in the first half was Tank Bigsby (106) vs. Arkansas in 2020. The previous top rushing mark in the first quarter

Auburn Linebacker Austin Keys (6) and Auburn Defensive Back Jaylin Simpson (36) during the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Vanderbilt Commodores at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023. PHOTO BY AUSTIN PERRYMAN / AUBURN TIGERS

AUBURN— Saturday evening in front of a decidedly partisan Auburn crowd in Nashville, AU (5-4, 2-4) utilized explosive plays on the ground and through the air to defeat Vanderbilt (2-8, 0-6) 31-15 to break the Tigers’ eight-game road conference losing streak. Auburn’s last SEC road win was in Fayetteville against Arkansas on Oct. 16, 2021. Though the game was played more than 300 miles away from the friendly confines of Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn fans effectively took over FirstBank Stadium, creating a home-field advantage for the visiting Tigers. The Tiger takeover was the talk of players after the game. “It was crazy,” said Auburn defensive back Jaylin Simpson. “I heard that we were going to have a lot of fans here, but I didn’t think it was going to be like — it was orange on both sides. That was crazy, but our fans are great, man.” “It was awesome,” said quarterback Payton Thorne. “Our fans have shown up all year and been outstanding. We were walking out of the tunnel, and I said, ‘This is like a home game.’” Auburn won the coin toss and deferred its decision to the second half. Vanderbilt took the opening kickoff and, beginning at its own 25yard line, put together an impressive drive against a Tiger defense that has been prone to giving up

yards in its opponents’ opening drives. However, the defense bent but didn’t break— another characteristic of this Tiger defense— as the Commodore’s nine-play, 40-yard drive ended in a missed 42yard field goal. Though the Tigers allowed the Vanderbilt offense three first downs on the game’s open-ing drive, it would allow only one the remainder of the first half to go along with five threeand-outs. Offensive coordinators will typically script the first few plays of the game, and “surviv-ing the script” appeared to be a driving theme for the week. “Our coaches just say, 'Survive the script,’” said cornerback D.J. James after the game. “Every coach, every offensive coordinator, they've got a script for the first 10 plays. They think they'll get the defense they're going against. Once we get through the script, we've pretty much got what we're doing. And we'll just adjust on the sideline.” Simpson echoed James’ sentiment: “(The script is) when they give you stuff you’ve nev-er seen before on tape. The stuff you’ve been studying? They not going to run that. They’re going to run something completely different. So, we survived that, man. I feel like we’re good with any team. We haven’t been starting off too hot almost every game, but we survive that script, and I feel like nobody can mess with us. That

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND / AUBURN TIGERS

BY BRANDON HUGHES FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn Tight End Rivaldo Fairweather (13), Auburn Wide Receiver Ja'Varrius Johnson (6) and Auburn Wide Receiver Omari Kelly (19) during the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Vanderbilt Commodores at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee, on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023.

against an SEC opponent was Casinious Moore (104) vs. Mississippi State in 2001. After yet another three-and-out by the Vandy offense on the following possession, Au-burn was held to a three-and-out of its own. Following an Oscar Chapman punt, the Vandy return man muffed the catch, and Auburn fell on it for what seemed to be the game’s first turnover, giving the Tigers excellent field position at the Commodore 21-yard line. Instead of Auburn being on the cusp of taking a commanding three-touchdown lead, a penalty for kick-catch interference was called on the Tigers, giving the Commodores the ball. Though Auburn would eventually force a punt, the Vanderbilt punter, Matt Hayball, would

pin the Tigers at its own 2-yard line. Facing third down and seven at its own five, Thorne made an illadvised pass to Rivaldo Fairweather. Vanderbilt’s Bryce Cowan stepped in front of the Tiger tight end, grabbing the Thorne pass and taking it to the end zone, bringing the SEC bottom dwellers to within a touchdown, making the score 14-7. “I saw Rivaldo out there, and I thought he was wide open,” said Thorne. “I didn’t rifle it in there because I thought he was wide open. So, I looked out there and thought he’s going to catch it and get a first down. And until the ball got to him, I was great, and then the dude came out of nowhere, and it caught me off guard.” The teams traded punts on the following

four possessions. Then, on its final drive of the first half, Auburn faced first and goal from the Vanderbilt three-yard line. Hunter punched it in on the direct snap, but a penalty for a low block negated the score and pushed the Tigers back to the 18-yard line, which led to an Alex McPherson field goal and a 17-7 lead at halftime. As it did on its first drive of the game, the Tiger offense struck from deep on its first drive of the second half. Facing a first down and ten from its own 47-yard line, Thorne found Fairweather for a 53-yard catch and run to extend the Tiger lead to 24-7. That was the Tigers’ third 50+ yard touchdown of the game. The last time Auburn had three offensive scoring See AU-VANDY page B7

B7 Nov. 9, 2023

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN— It didn’t take long for several transfers to make themselves at home when Auburn University’s men's basketball team invaded Neville Arena for the new season’s exhibition game on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Transfer guards Denver Jones, Chad Baker-Mazara and Chaney Johnson were Auburn’s top three scorers in the Tigers’ 102-66 exhibition win over Auburn University at Montgomery. All three juniors scored in double figures, but only two of them were in the starting five as Auburn flexed its depth even after losing three starters from last year’s team. Eight players played 19 or more minutes, and head coach Bruce Pearl’s starting lineup consisted of four of them. Three returning contributors got the start: sophomore guard Tre Donaldson, senior forward

AU-VANDY >>

FROM B6

plays of 50 yards or longer was the 2018 Music City Bowl against Purdue. After yet another three-and-out by the Commodores, Auburn made quick work of mov-ing the ball to the

Chris Moore and junior center Johni Broome, who left the game after three minutes with a shoulder injury, combined with two transfers: Jones and Chaney Johnson. Taking the floor for the first time since March’s Round of 32 NCAA Tournament loss, Auburn was without former multi-year starters Allen Flanigan, Wendell Green Jr. and Zep Jasper on the roster for the first time in three years. Not only that, but 5-star freshman phenom, Aden Holloway, did not suit up for the game, and Broome played just three minutes. Both Holloway and Broome are expected to be okay going forward, but those absences forced Auburn to lean on the talent on its bench. Playing 19 or more minutes coming off the bench was senior guard K.D. Johnson, graduate forward Jaylin Williams, senior center Dylan Cardwell and Baker-Mazara. With 58 bench points,

Auburn was deep, but it was also efficient. Jones, who splashed 4-of-8 from 3-point range, led the team with 18 points, while 13 of 15 Tigers who touched the floor scored. Also in double figures in points was Baker-Mazara with 15, Chaney Johnson with 14 and Williams with 11. Auburn scored more points than it did in a game all last season, and that was a result of shooting 49% from the field, getting to the free-throw line 43 times, surmounting 29 points off 23 turnovers and outrebounding AUM 43-33. Auburn got 17 steals, four apiece from K.D. Johnson and Cardwell, while Donaldson ran around the court like the energizer bunny. Donaldson deferred most of the scoring to the newcomers, but he finished the night with a team-high eight assists, three steals, two rebounds, four points and just one turnover in 22 minutes on

the floor. He tallied a 17 in the plus-minus category and lobbed two huge alley oops: one each to Williams and Cardwell. While Jones and company shot efficiently, Auburn created plenty of good looks with efficient ball movement and second-chance opportunities. The Tigers tallied 19 assists to AUM’s nine, with Donaldson, Moore, Cardwell, Chaney Johnson and Jalen Harper all finishing with multiple assists. The paint also belonged to Auburn, as the Tigers outscored AUM 50-28 in the paint while blocking seven shots and hauling in 17 offensive rebounds. Although it was a dominant effort by Auburn, there’s always room for improvement. Outside of Jones’ four made 3-pointers, the team went 1-for-17 from beyond the arch with K.D. Johnson converting the only other deep ball. Also, Auburn also got off

Vandy five-yard line. From there, Jeremiah Cobb would take the quick pop pass on the jet sweep around left end for a touchdown, putting the Tigers up 31-7. The teams traded punts before Vandy put together a scoring drive. The Commodore offense moved 44 yards in four plays as quarterback

Ken Seals found Junior Sherrill across the middle for 30 yards. Sherrill completed the Octopus by scoring the two-point conversion, making the score 31-15. Auburn would end the final two Vanderbilt drives of the game on fourth down stops — the last one owed to a Nehemiah Pritchett

interception — to secure the sixteen-point victory. The Pritchett interception would extend the Tigers’ turnover streak to 18 games. Hunter would finish with a career-best 183 yards on the ground, giving him 327 yards in the last two games. Both Hunter and Freeze

Tre Donaldson (3) during the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Auburn Montgomery Warhawks at Neville Arena in Auburn, on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023.

to a slow start and was trailing nearly eight minutes into the game. That deficit was long forgotten, however, when Auburn’s walk-on players raided the floor in the final five minutes and helped Auburn reach the envied triple-digit scoring mark. Senior Carter Sobera nailed a layup to put 100 on the

board before a slam dunk by grad player Jalen Harper sent the crowd roaring into the chilly November night. In the end, the exhibition was a 36-point blowout win for the unranked Tigers that allowed a new-look team to get comfortable taking the floor together.

credited the running back’s patience for his recent success. “I was just trying to be in a hurry too much instead of being patient,” said Hunter. “And being more patient helped me a lot during the season.” “That’s as patient as I’ve seen him on inside zone,” said Freeze about Hunter’s big numbers. “I

do think that’s why he’s having more explosive runs the last few weeks. It took him a while, now. I remember (at) California, this guy was wide open, and nothing was developing in front of him. He’s being real patient right now.” Next Up: at Arkansas. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. on the SEC Network.

is yelling

Come shop the orange essentials for your whole family! 10AM - 6PM Monday-Saturday 102 N. College Street Auburn, AL

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND / AUBURN TIGERS

Newcomers shine at AU Men's BB exhibition win

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B8 Nov. 9, 2023

Classroom Observer

Thank winks and sightings

BETH PINYERD OPINION —

e can teach our children many wonderful lessons during this month of heart felt gratitude. In the early childhood classroom, children seem to quickly catch on to the joy of helping others and saying thank you. During the daily classroom process, children love to see others helping and showing gratitude to each other. In my classroom of sparkling eyes and big smiles, I teach children to catch a “Thank Wink or Thank Sighting.” I am always surprised at what children observe and express. Meeting in a class circle, we end our day in expressing to

each other what we are thankful for. Students thank each other for helping open a drink, food, picking up books, helping a fellow student put on a coat, being a friend to another student on the playground, receiving a hug from a fellow student, holding the door open for a friend, etc. These “Thank Winks” can be written or illustrated on boards or paper to remind children of the many “Thank Winks” that have been done during the day. When I read books to the preschool at Trinity Methodist Church, my heart is so full of gratitude from my little friends. As I take my books, purse and

bottle of water into their classrooms, these little ones, ages two to four, help their “Grandma teacher” to not forget her purse and bottle of water; they help me stack my books and say, “Thank you Mrs. Beth.” When I am heading home, they call out from the playground, “Thank you! We Love you!” These children have truly given me so many “Thank Winks and Sightings” which fill my heart with pure joy. I am so very thankful for this intergenerational experience. This week we have a chance to express a “Thank Wink” to our Veterans. Veterans Day is on Saturday, Nov. 11. Our local schools are celebrating this day as a holiday on Friday, Nov. 10. Teachers and parents have a wonderful opportunity to explain to children what Veterans have done for our country. Children rise to the occasion of Patriotism. They love raising their right hand, putting a hand over their hearts and learning to pledge allegiance to the flag. In teaching children to say the pledge, guiding them to feel their hearts beating puts a smile

Opelika women named to SGA First Year Council at UA CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

TUSCALOOSA — Susannah Couey and Keely Rider, both of Opelika, are among 65 freshmen at The University of Alabama selected to serve on the Student Government Association's 2023-2024 First Year Council. The First Year Council is the official representative body of the freshman class. As council members, students learn how government works and how to turn ideas into solutions by passing and implementing legislation. Couey and Rider will be the go-to representatives for SGA in their pockets of campus. They will listen to the concerns of peers and work with fellow councilors and other members of SGA to understand and address common challenges through the creation of policy and programs.

on their face. We can explain that the Pledge of Allegiance shows love for our country. It teaches our children the importance of freedom. We can explain to our children that a veteran is a member of the armed services — the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Marine Corps — which are serving and have served during times of war and peace. Many children have mothers, fathers, grandparents, friends and neighbors who have served or are serving in the military. Veterans Day is a time to honor them. During this week we need to stop and spend time with our veterans in expressing gratitude. How can we guide our children to honor and thank our veterans? It’s not too late to guide your families to do simple things to thank a veteran. 1. Veterans Day offers wonderful intergenerational opportunities between young and old. We are blessed with many wonderful retirement villages, assisted living facilities and skilled care facilities in our community. Contact administration or activity directors in these facilities

to see if it is okay for your family to drop off thank you pictures or notes to veterans. This is a true heartfelt gesture of kindness. 2. A simple thank you, verbal or written, is very much appreciated by veterans and their families. Spend time in guiding your children to make homemade gifts — these can be delivered to veterans in your community or a local VA hospital and this means so much in expressing appreciation to the heart of a veteran. As community groups, churches and families can come together to work on making care packages for troops that may be overseas. This shows appreciation to veterans, especially during the holiday season. 3. Explain to your child that veterans sacrifice their own safety and spend time away from their own families to keep America free. Recruit your family members to reach out to the family of a veteran who may be serving here at home or overseas. Holidays and special family celebrations can get lonely and stressful when a mother or father

is serving in the armed forces. Simple gestures of kindness, such as offering to grocery shop, dropping off a meal, babysitting younger children, helping with yard work and including them in your family traditions means so much to families who have a mom, dad or family member serving. 4. Praying for our veterans is the most powerful action that we can do for them and their families. Include your children in praying for our veterans. Let veterans and families know that you are praying for them. This brings encouragement to veterans and their families. 5. Many communities host and provide Veteran’s Day ceremonies, parades and activities. Check local community calendars to see when. As we embark on this month of “Thank Winks,” let’s stop and thank God for the freedom we have in our country because of the many sacrifices our veterans have made. Beth Pinyerd has taught in the classroom for many years. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education.

Veterans Day 2023 is Saturday, Nov. 11. Many restaurants and businesses offer free meals and deals for veterans and military members to show their appreciation to those who served our nation. Applebeas Broken Egg Cafe Buffalo WildWings Chick-fil-a Chicken Salad Chick Cici’s Pizza Circle K Cracker Barrel Culvers Dunkin Donuts Freddy’s Krispy Kreme Little Caesars McDonalds Olive Garden Outback Red Lobster Smoothie King Starbucks Subway Tazikis TCBY Wendy’s Wild Wings Cafe Zaxbys **This list and more can be found at veteran.com and we offer no guarantee of its accuracy. Not all restaurants listed here may be particiapting locally.

L ee County & A labama Politics

Nov. 9, 2023

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023

Inside the State House

2024 election is upon us

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION— olks, don’t look now, but our 2024 election year is upon us. Next year is a major year in politics nationwide. Not only does the nation elect a president, most states also elect their governors and legislators for four year terms in presidential years. We, in Alabama, and in most southern states elect our governors and legislators in nonpresidential years. Those of us who study and talk about Alabama politics refer to these years as gubernatorial years. We elected our governor and legislature last year in 2022. Historically, presidential years have been very dull and unexciting years for Alabama politics. There are very few statewide contests and those that happen will be decided on March 5. Since we are such an overwhelmingly Republican state, the only way to be elected statewide in the Heart of Dixie is as a Republican. There are 29 statewide elected offices in Alabama and all 29 are held by a Republican. There are four seats up for election on our Alabama Supreme Court. Justices Jay Mitchell, Tommy Bryan and Will Sellers are up for reelection to another six year term on the high tribunal. Justice Sarah Stewart’s seat is up for reelection. However, Stewart has opted to move to the open chief justice position being vacated by the retirement of Chief Justice Tom Parker. Stewart

is a good choice for chief justice. She was a circuit judge in Mobile County for 14 years before she was elected to the Supreme Court six years ago. The chief justice is the administrator of the entire state judicial system. Stewart’s experience as a circuit judge is invaluable and she also has the respect and support of most of the circuit judges around the state. Circuit judges are very respected in their counties and communities throughout the state. Stewart has been campaigning extensively and effectively all over Alabama during 2023. She has let no grass grow under her feet. Speaking of working hard, the judge who will move up to take Stewart’s seat on the Supreme Court will be Criminal Court of Appeals Judge Chris McCool, one of the most proven ardent cam-paigners I have seen in recent years. I said when he announced a year ago that he would not be outworked, and he has proven me right. He has traversed the state from one end to the other putting over 60,000 miles on his vehicle. McCool will make a great justice and is the perfect representative on the court from the rural area of the state. He hails from Pickens County near Gordo and close to the Tuscaloosa County line. His family have very deep roots in that area. The McCools settled there over 180 years ago, prior to the Civil War. They have farmed the land the entire time. McCool lives in the same place his ancestors lived six generations ago. McCool borders on folk legend for an Alabama judge. He has three fulltime professions. He was a lawyer with impeccable credentials. He graduated from the University of Alabama, undergraduate and law school, and practiced law in Gordo before being elected district attorney of the Pickens,

Lamar and Fayette Circuit at age 30. He served as DA for 18 years and was elected to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals six years ago. He is a minister. He pastors the Zion Primitive Baptist Church near his home. His family founded the church, and his great, great, great grandfather was the first pastor. He is also a farmer. McCool’s seat on the Court of Criminal Appeals will be filled by one of two assistant attorney generals vying for the position. Rich Anderson and Thomas Govan, both of Montgomery, are both well qualified and would do a good. Justices Chad Hansen and Christy Edwards are up for reelection to the Court of Civil Appeals. They are doing a good job. Justices Bill Cole and Richard Minor are up for reelection on the Court of Criminal Appeals. They both are doing an excellent job. This court has a very heavy caseload. Twinkle Cavanaugh will be elected to her fourth term as president of the Alabama Public Service Commission next year. Cavanaugh is becoming legendary as a public servant in our state. Although still young, she has built a stellar reputation for honesty, integrity and conservatism. The former chairman of the Alabama Republican Party is the best retail politician in Alabama today. She has criss-crossed the state, campaigning in 2023 in preparation for 2024. Even though she will more than likely not have an opponent, she is running scared and not taking anything for granted. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at: www. steveflowers.us.

Jeff Drury announces bid for Lee Co. Commission District 3 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

SMITHS STATION— Jeff Drury has announced his candidacy for the Lee County Commission, District 3. Drury is a lifetime resident of Lee County and cited his concern for the future as his main reason for running for the County Commission. “My father instilled in me at a very early age the power of service and giving back to the community,” Drury said. “I am very concerned when I see the liberal agenda from the national level coming

to Lee County, and I am committed to fighting for our values at every opportunity.” Drury said that if elected, communication and representation of District 3 would be his top priorities. “Communication and transparency are the foundation of trust between the people and those they elect to serve,” he said. “Being chosen by the people of District 3 to represent them on the Lee County Commission would be the honor of a lifetime, and I look forward to addressing issues important to them, such as trash service, road

improvements and economic development.” “I also pledge to always be honest and available to my constituents by phone, text and regular face-toface meetings,” Drury said. After the Lee County tornados in 2019, Drury found a passion for helping others through disaster relief and is a team leader for the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. He is the senior accounting manager at Uniti Fiber and lives in Smiths Station with his family. The Alabama Republican Primary will be held on March 5, 2024.

Pharmavite set to expand its facility in Opelika; receives tax abatements, exemptions BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — Pharmavite LLC has announced a $3.3 million addition to its existing facility that is located at 4701 Northpark Drive in Opelika. “Pharmavite is an exceptional company, and we are proud that they call Opelika home,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller in a press release issued by the city. “It’s companies like this that continue to provide good paying jobs and a great work environment for our citizens.” The Opelika City Council voted to approve tax abatements and exemptions to Pharmavite for a period of 10 years “Pharmavite is a great community partner,” said Economic Development Director Lori Huguley. “It is a great testament to their workforce and the business climate in Opelika that they continue to invest and

grow here.” OTHER BUSINESS - The council approved a request from The Surcie Shoppe, located at 201 S. 9th St., for a special event to be held on Nov. 11, 2023. The event is to celebrate its one year anniversary and no street closure is expected. - The council approved a request from Red Clay Brewing Company for a special event to be held on Nov. 15, 2023, and no street closure is expected. - The council approved a request from the Opelika Chamber of Commerce for the annual Christmas parade, Snopelika and the tree lighting ceremony to be held on Dec. 1, 2023. Street closures include Avenue A between 8th and 10th Street, Avenue B between 7th and 10th Street, Railroad Avenue between 8th and 10th Street and Avenues C, D and E between 7th and 10th Streets. The Courthouse Square parking lot will also be closed.

- The council approved a bid for Southern Yellow Pine wooden utility poles for Opelika Power Services (OPS.) - The council approved a bid from Bodine’s Landscape Services Inc. for the Opelika Police Department (OPD) landscaping project for nearly $147,000. - The council approved a bid from JLD Enterprises LLC for just over $821,000 for the South 10th Street and Avenue C infrastructure improvement project. - The council approved a bid from D & J Enterprises Inc. for almost $1.5 million for intersection improvements to Cunningham Drive and Frederick Road. - The council approved a resolution to designate city personal property, a 2012 Dodge Charger, as surplus and to authorize its disposal. - The council approved the purchase of 17 sets

See OPELIKA, page B11

Auburn Council approves multi-family housing units AUBURN —The Auburn City Council spent most of its time Tuesday night discussing a potential development and hearing from residents. Two items regarding a potential development, The District, were before the council. Following a public hearing, the council

heard from the developer and the city. The council approved Planned Development District zoning for The District at Richland Road for property located at the northwest corner of Shug Jordan Parkway, and Richland Road. It also gave conditional use approval for the project. The development will be 225 multi-family units. The developer said that these will be

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Auburn City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of every month unless otherwise noted.

sold by the unit, not bedroom, unlike many other student housing

developments. Residents approached the council, concerned

with construction noise, development, the project being student housing and traffic being an issue once completed. Other residents said they didn’t believe the completed traffic study told the whole story and without living in the area, it would be hard to understand. Ward 2 Council Member Kelly Griswold asked if installing traffic signals had been considered,

and the city said no because it would not meet signal warrants. Ward 3 Council Member Beth Witten said that this is one of the more thought-out developments, so far, that she’s seen during her time on council. Auburn Mayor Ron Anders said that upon first seeing the project he was disappointed, because he would have preferred to see more commercial use there, See AUBURN, page B10

B10 Nov. 9, 2023

'Wokeness’ in the Army? Not in Sand Hill classrooms at Fort Moore

Called the Academic Skills Develop-ment Program (ASDP), it gives recruits the chance to get the job specialty they covet and bonuses as high as $7,500. In contrast to “entirely unremarkable days” and “days with no real impact” in “500 Days…” the program’s leaders have been successful, with 80% to 90% of the students achieving their goal within those 21 days and securing an Army career more to their liking. A documentary movie should be in-theworks: “500 Days of Scholarship.” “We are delighted with student performance and the program itself,”

said 1st Lt. Donald Reed, executive officer, Company D, 1-46 Infantry, 197th Brigade, who along with 1st Lt. Cody Mann shepherded the new academic approach to success. “In total ASDP graduates have been able to secure monetary bonuses ($827, 975 in total), choice of duty stations or early admission to Ar-my schools like Airborne and Air Assault.” As of late October, 525 students have graduated from the program. The students, when not in the classroom, have physical training and basic skills with drill sergeants. These NCOs stay in class with the students, to keep them focused. However, civilian instructors emphasize that the Academic Skills Development Program is a “low-stress environment.” “Wokeness” is a slang term developed over the past decade in academia and is regarded by conservatives as being a negative for the military. It first dealt with racial issues and seeking social justice. Now, it is seen as hurting Army recruitment, which has dwindled so much that the number of recruits needed has not

been met on a yearly basis. “Exposing and dismantling the Biden administration’s woke agenda that is driving down military recruitment and retention is a priority,” said Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana. He chairs the House armed services subcommittee on military personnel, so he has pull when addressing “wokeness.” The ASDP should not be tied in with any “wokeness.” By saying a “low-stress environment” is a feature, the drill sergeants and instructors are doing so for good reason. These students obtained low scores in Army tests, so they are not comfortable in taking exams and writing class notes. Why make it harder for them when their second (and possibly last) chance to get a dream score is on the table? “You will have extra furniture and yard games to enhance your stay in the ASDP,” reads the brochure sent to enlistment offices. “Ask your recruiters! They will work to get the ASDP add-ed to your contract.” Categorizing extra furniture and yard games as frivolous or destructive

to unit cohesion is not woke; it’s not even a joke, as all people need downtime. Without ASDP, the Army misses out on many potentially good soldiers. A security guard in Columbus, Georgia, once told me that the guard aimed to be a carpenter, but he couldn’t get a good enough score for the Army. I hope he was able to realize his dream through military service. Proponents of wokeism are not people like that guard. It is the Department of Defense leaders who are doing that, mostly. “In my case, everything went well,” said Pvt. Sara Pearson of Cleveland, Texas. “Fortu-nately, I progressed right through the entire course.” Only 18 years old, Pearson changed her Military Occupation Specialty from Combat Engi-neer to Network Communication Systems Specialist and received a $7,500 contract renegotiation bonus. “I loved it,” said Pvt. 2nd Class Alejha Tuff, 24, of Rome, New York. “I don’t think I had a bad day while I was here.” She changed her

military occupation specialty from fire control specialist to signal operations support specialist and selected her duty station of choice as Fort Campbell, Kentucky. In addi-tion, Pearson and Tuff received the highest grades in their class. Recall that in “500 Days of Summer,” there were “entirely unremarkable days” and “days with no real impact.” At the ASDP classrooms, between 80% to 90% of the students obtain their goals of transferring to an Army career they prefer. They are lifted up by the program, not held back due to political correctness or a lack of second chances.

- The council approved a retail beer (on or off premises) ABC license for WNB Factory Auburn LLC doing business as WNB Factory Auburn 2 at 2900 E. University Drive, Suite 160. - The council designated the trash amnesty 2024 to waive residential trash collection fees for March 4 through 29, 2024. - The council authorized a temporary street closure for the Downtown Holiday Fair on Dec. 1, 2023. - The council approved an agreement with Alabama Power for lighting services for the Boykin‐Donahue Campus Recycling

Center Project for over $30,400. - The council approved a renewal of Swagit public meeting live streaming and captioning services through Granicus for over $51,900. - The council approved a software license renewal for Hyland Software Inc. for OnBase record management solution for over $96,500. - The council approved a development agreement with LandSouth Construction LLC for the North Donahue Cottages Development for $64,600. - The council approved a purchase from Stivers Ford

Lincoln for a 2024 Ford F‐550 4WD Crew Cab with chassis cab for the Water Resource Management Department for over $70,200. - The council approved sidewalk, lighting, utility and drainage easements for the Boykin‐Donahue Campus Project at 415 N. Donahue LLC for $21,000. - The council accepted drainage and utility easement as shown on the plat: The Gardens at Gatewood first revision of parcel A redivision of parcel A‐1 for CL and S Subdivisions LLC at 1630 Academy Drive. - The council accepted public sanitary

sewer easement, drainage and utility easements and right‐ of‐way as shown on the plat: Woodward Oaks Subdivision, Phase 4‐B‐2, final plat at the northern terminus of James Burt Parkway for Clayton Properties Group Inc. - The council accepted a temporary construction easement for the North Dean Road and East University Drive intersection improvements project for Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bruce Recknor and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hollis Cochran. - The council accepted a public sanitary sewer easement for property located at 2601 E. University Drive for John Ronney Watson. - The council approved an appointment to the Educational Building Authority. - The council

approved two appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. - The council gave conditional use approval for Stivers Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram for the purchase of 23 Dodge Durango pursuit SUVs for the police pepartment for over $966,300. - The council approved a transfer of budgeted funds in the amount of $2.8 million to the Industrial Development Board for additional industrial property. The parcel is located along Lee Road 009, adjacent to the existing board owned property near Auburn Technology Park West. - The council authorized a $525,000 loan to Indian Pines Public Park Authority for additional construction and operating costs related to Pines Crossing Golf Course improvements.

GREG MARKLEY OPINION —

n the 2009 film “500 Days of Summer,” a young couple is the focus. Summer tries to avoid commitment with Tom, who seeks fidelity. The narrator declares: "Most days of the year are entirely unremarkable. They begin and they end without creating a single lasting memory. Most days have no real impact on the course of a life." Yet for 500 days, these workers were linked in curiosity about each other. Since last January, recruits at Fort Moore who have low scores on Army aptitude tests have been given a lifeline before they enter Basic Training.

AUBURN >>

FROM B9

instead. However, the developer worked with the city, listened to residents and with the project as is, the city has some say-so. So, now Anders said he is favorable toward the project. The project passed at a vote of 8 to 0. OTHER BUSINESS: - The council announced three vacancies on the tree commission. - The council approved a restaurant retail liquor ABC license for UW Auburn LLC doing business as Urban Wok for 234 W. Magnolia Ave., Suite B.

Call me for all your real estate needs! 1810 E. Glenn Ave. Suite 130 Auburn, AL 36830 Cell 334.444.8041 duffystewartrealtor@gmail.com www.BHHSPreferredAuburn.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affliates, LLC

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from Auburn University. 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 writes on politics, education and books.

B11 Nov. 9, 2023

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

John Hulin, right, representing the Opelika Sportsplex, was a recent visitor at the Opelika Lions Club meeting, where he presented an update on planned near-future upgrades to city parks. Floral Park, Carver Rec, Spring Villa, Municipal Park, Sportsplex and Shady Park were prominent in his discussion. Hulin was introduced by Lion Jim Allen, left.

OPELIKA >>

FROM B9

of turn out gear from Sunbelt Fire for the Opelika Fire Department (OFD) utilizing the HGACBuy Contract No. EE08-19 in the amount of just over $57,000. - The council approved the purchase of a VMWare Subscription License from CDW Government LLC for the IT Department. The annual subscriptionfor the license is just under $60,000. - The council approved the purchase of a Duo Advantage subscription license also from CDW Government LLC for the IT Department for an amount of a little more than $80,000. - The council approved the purchase of one John Deere 5060E Cab Utility Tractor from Deere & Company or an amount just under $38,000 for the Parks and Recreation Department. - The council approved a resolution to purchase two 2023 Ford F150 Supercab pickup trucks from Stivers Ford Lincoln for the Public

Works (PW) Department using state of Alabama Contract No. T191. The total amount of the trucks will be almost $76,000. - The council approved the purchase of two E35 25HP R2-Series Bobcat Compact Excavators from the Bobcat Company for PW using Sourcewell Contract No. 040319-CEC. The excavators will cost just under $90,000. - The council approved an application for ATRIP II Grant Funds for the intersection Improvement of Frederick Road and Gateway Drive for the Engineering Department. - The council approved a maintenance agreement with ALDOT for the new Columbus Parkway North Access Road. - The council authorized an engagement letter with Himmelwright, Huguley, & Boles LLC for annual auditing services. - The council authorized a loan to the Indian Pines Public Park Authority in the amount of $525,000 at an interest rate of 2% to cover one half of the additional construction and operating costs related to Pines

Crossing Golf Course improvements. - The council approved the annual appropriation contract for fiscal year (FY) 2024 with American Red Cross — East Alabama Chapter for an amount of $8,500. The council approved an annual appropriation contract for FY2024 with Arts Association of East Alabama - (Tabled) for an amount of $25,000 The council approved an annual appropriation contract for FY2024with Keep Opelika Beautiful for an amount of $38,000. - The council approved an annual appropriation contract for FY2024 with Opelika Main Street for an amount of $60,000. The council approved an special appropriation to the Opelika Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association for an amount of $1,500. - The council introduced an ordinance for its first reading to approve the annexation petition submitted by Deidre W. Jones and Jason F. Jones, to annex .75 acres of land located at 6551 Highway 431 N.

Last week, Kiwanis Club hosted Robert Norton with Auburn University. He came and spoke on the happenings in the Middle East and how that affects the world. Next week, on the 16th, the club will host Tipi Miller with United Way.

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Opelika Lions Club, Kiwanis Club hear from community members

B12 Nov. 9, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICES * Advertisement For Completion In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Synagro WWT, Inc. Contractor, has completed the Contract for the Improvement of the Process Residuals Removal and Disposal at R.A. Betts Water Treatment Plant for the State of Alabama and the County of Lee / Auburn, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify The Utilities Board of the City of Opelika, 4055 Water Street, Opelika, AL 36803, Synagro WWT, Inc. 435 Williams Court, Suite 100, Baltimore, MD 21220 Legal Run 10/26/23, 11/2/23,11/9/23 & 11/16/23 ----------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOUIS FRANK MORGAN, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2023-484 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted Ellen Louise Ballard Personal Representative on the 18th day of October, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that persons having claims against said

estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Ellen Louise Ballard Legal Run 10/26/23, 11/2/23 & 11/9/2023 ----------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF SARAH L. THOMAS, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of October,2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to prevent the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand and seal this the 20th day of October, 2023. CRAWFOD S. MELTON Legal Run 10/26/23, 11/2/23 & 11/9/23 ----------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA THE STATE OF ALABAMA – LEE COUNTY CASE NO.: 2023-435 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Letters of Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to HEATHER CHRISTINE BARKER, Executorix, on the 29th day of September, 2023, by

the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to prevent the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Heather Christine Barker, Executorix of the Estate of Brandon Wayne Barker, deceased Legal Run 10/26/23, 11/2/23 & 11/9/23 ----------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF PATRICIA ANN HARRIS, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted undersigned on the 24th day of October, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness our hands, and dated this the 24th day of October, 2023 CRYSTAL JENKINS Legal Run 10/26/2023, 11/2/2023 & 11/9/2023 ----------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF JENNIE H.

LOWERY, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted undersigned on the 24th day of October, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness our hands, and dated this the 24th day of October, 2023 CRYSTAL JENKINS Legal Run 10/26/2023, 11/2/2023 & 11/9/2023 ---------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of the Estate of James C. Manning, Deceased Case No. 2023-234 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR AND NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS Letters of Administration on the Estate of James C. Manning, deceased, having been Granted to the undersigned Paula Kersey on the 28th day of April, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of said county, notice is hereby given that all persons having

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claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Paula Kersey Paul Kersey, Administrator, Estate of James C. Manning, deceased. Legal Run 11/2/23,11/9/23 & 11/16/23 ---------------Notice of Completion McElhenney Construction Company, LLC. hereby gives notice of completion of contract with The Alabama Department of Transportation for construction of Project Number ATRP2-41-2022-456 in Lee County, AL. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning on November 2, 2023, and ending on Nov.22 , 2023. All claims should be filed at P.O. Box 1409 Theodore, AL 36590 during this period. Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 & 11/22/23. -------------STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2023-523 ESTATE OF SYLVIA TALEEDA SHARPE, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of the Estate of Sylvia Taleeda Sharpe, deceased having been granted to Tia Bell Glenn this 25th

day of October 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred. Tia Bell Glenn, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer 334-745-2564 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 ---------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ERNEST FRANCIS CASEY, JR. Deceased. Case No.: 2023-545 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr, Personal Representative on the 25th day of October 2023, 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. Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 ----------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B13 Nov. 9, 2023

PUBLIC >> NOTICES

FROM B12

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ONIE DORA BARBREY. Case No.: 2023-504 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to George Edward Barbrey, Personal Representative on the 25th day of October 2023, 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. George Edward Barbrey Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 ---------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA T.S. PROPERTIES, LLC, Plaintiff, v. ANNIE MAE MCGHEE, and Her heirs or devisees, if deceased, A certain tract or parcel of Real Property located in Lee County, Alabama, AND any Party Claiming an Interest to a certain tract or parcel of Real Property located in Lee County, Alabama, Defendants. CV-2023-900154 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 3rd day of May 2023 a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: A tract or parcel of land, with all buildings and improvements thereon, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, formerly known as 51 Clanton Street (now known as 1408 Clanton Street) and otherwise described as follows: Said lot being located at the Northwesterly corner of intersection of Cherry Street, (sometimes formerly known as Hardaway Street) and Clanton Street and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Northwesterly corner of the rectangle formed by the intersection of said Cherry Street (formerly known as Hardaway Street) and Clanton Street; thence westerly along the Northerly margin of Cherry Street 200 feet; thence at right angles in a Northerly direction for a distance of 100 feet; thence at right angles in an Easterly direction parallel with said Cherry Street to

the Westerly margin of Clanton Street, the distance being 197-1/2 feet, more or less, and thence Southerly along said margin of Clanton Street, to the point of beginning, being the same property conveyed to C.G. Littleton and W.L. Littleton by G.N. Hodge, et al, by deed dated March 27, 1923, and of record in the Office of the Probate Judge of said County in Records of Deeds, Volume 135 at Page 367 and being the same property conveyed to Cliff Collum and Nora Collum by C.H. Littleton, et al, by deed dated March 24, 1953, and of record in the office of Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, in Records of Deeds, Volume 392, at Page 421. 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 26th day of October, 2023. Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Jarret A. Layson 830 Avenue A, Suite B Opelika, Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334-745-3333 Fax: 334-460-2287 iarrel iklawoffice.com Legal Run 11/2/23, 11/9/23, 11/16/23 & 11/22/23 --------------INVITATION TO BID 24004 Sealed bids for the construction of Traffic Signal Installation at SR 51 at Gateway Drive shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on November 28, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §348-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. Bidders are required to have

a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-7055450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box. Bid documents may also be downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelika-al. gov/bids.aspx. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Traffic Signal Installation at SR 51 at Gateway Drive LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING-REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 --------------INVITATION TO BID 24006 Sealed bids for the construction of Floral Park Renovations shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh

Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time, Tuesday, December 5, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at the same location as bids are to be opened at 2:00 p.m., CST on Monday, November 27, 2023, for the purpose of reviewing the project and answering Bidder’s questions. Attendance at the Pre-Bid Conference is not mandatory, but highly recommended for all General Contractor Bidders intending to submit a Proposal and is recommended for all Subcontractors. Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work. Drawings and specifications may be obtained from the office of Seay, Seay & Litchfield, P.C., 570 Devall Drive, Suite #304, Auburn, AL 36832, (334) 781-6029 ext. 301, at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment. Bidders may email Nick Vansyoc at nvansyoc@ sslarch.com for drawings and RFIs. Additionally, bid documents are available on the City of Opelika’s website at www.opelika-al.gov/bids. aspx. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the

bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Floral Park Renovations LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING-REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. ____ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. That Ordinance 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika provided for and referred to therein, as previously amended and/ or modified, be and the same is hereby amended by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter in this section described, so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district as follows, to-wit: From a R-5 District (HighDensity Residential District) to a C-2, GC-P District (Office/Retail, Gateway Corridor Primary Overlay

District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: PARCEL l COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SEC. 10, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 26 EAST IN OPELIKA, LEE COUNTY ALABAMA; THENCE WEST 826.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2607.57 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE PARCEL OF LAND HEREIN DESCRIBED; THENCE N 88°39'15" W, 742.52 FEET TO THE SOUTHEASTERLY R/W LINE OF VETERAN'S PARKWAY: THENCE ALONG SAID R/W LINE, N 58°23'02“ E, 219.56 FEET; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY, BEING A CURVE CONCAVE NORTHWESTERLY, HAVING AN ARC LENGTH OF 312.37 FEET, A RADIUS OF 1220.90 FEET, A CHORD BEARING OF N 51°03'15" E, AND A CHORD LENGTH OF 311.52 FEET TO THE INTERSECTION OF THE LAST MENTIONED R/W LINE WITH THE SOUTHWESTERLY R/W LINE OF THE NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY, THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG THE LAST MENTIONED R/W LINE BEING A CURVE CONCAVE SOUTHWESTERLY, HAVING AN ARC LENGTH OF 453.83 FEET, A RADIUS OF 5010.36 FEET, A CHORD BEARING OF S 43°38'02" E, AND A CHORD LENGTH OF 453.68 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING CONTAINING 2.62 ACRES +/PARCEL 2 COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SEC. 10, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 26 EAST IN OPELIKA, LEE COUNTY ALABAMA; THENCE WEST 826.92 FEET; THENCE NORTH 2607.57 FEET, THENCE N 88°39'15" W, 742.52 FEET TO THE SOUTHEASTERLY R/W LINE OF VETERAN'S PARKWAY; THENCE N 46°19'30" W TO THE INTERSECTION OF THE NORTHWESTERLY R/W LINE OF VETERANS PARKWAY AND THE NORTHWESTERLY MARGIN OF AN ABANDONED RAILROAD BED SAID POINT BEING THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE PARCEL OF LAND HEREIN DESCRIBED; THENCE ALONG SAID MARGIN, N 23°44'35" W, 55.45 FEET; THENCE N 35°18'35" W, 435.40 FEET: THENCE N

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B16

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B14 Nov. 9, 2023

Veterans Day NOVEMBER 10, 2023 Opelika Public Library • 1100 GLENN STREET 9 A.M. – BREAKFAST (Free to all veterans and their families) 10 A.M. - PROGRAM (Public invited)

SPEAKER Commander Timothy “Tang” Aja Commanding Officer Navy Reserve Navy Region Southeast Regional Operations Center Opelika City Council, Ward 3

B15 Nov. 9, 2023

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B16 Nov. 9, 2023

PUBLIC >> NOTICES

FROM B13

47°54'35" W, 309.70 FEET: THENCE N 54°49'35" W, 185.19 FEET, THENCE N 51°42'46“ W, 349.20 FEET TO THE INTERSECTION OF SAID MARGIN WITH THE SOUTHEASTERLY R/W LINE OF WAVERLY PARKWAY (OLD US 280), THENCE ALONG SAID R/W LINE, N 61°57'23" E, 333.85 FEET TO THE INTERSECTION OF SAID R/F LINE WITH THE SPUTHWESTERLY R/W LINE OT THE NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY: THENCE ALONG THE LAST MENTIONED R/W LINE,S 56°ll'54" E, 485.21 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, BEING A CURVE CONCAVE SOUTHWESTERLY, HAVING AN ARC LENGTH OF 841.06 FEET; A RADIUS OF 5767.63 FEET, A CHORD BEARING OF S 52°01'15" E, AND A CHORD LENGTH OF 840.31 FEET TO THE INTERSECTION WITH SAID R/W LINE WITH THE NORTHWESTERLY R/W LINE OF VETERAN'S PARKWAY; THEN SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG THE LAST MENTIONED R/W LINE BEING A CURVE CONCAVE NORTHWESTERLY, HAVING AN ARC LENGTH OF 271.61 FEET, A RADIUS OF 1115.36 FEET, A CHORG BEARING OF S 50°5b'04“ W, AND A CHORD LENGTH OF 270.94 FEET; THENCE S 58°23'02" W, 259.07 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING CONTAINING 11.60 ACRES +/-. The above-described property contains 14.22 acres, more or less, and is located in the 3500 block of Waverly Parkway. Said property is also accessed from Veterans Parkway. Section 2. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. Section 3. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at

P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing. Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability. WITNESS my hand this the 9th day of November, 2023. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/09/2023 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ESTHER HARRIS FENN, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2022-529 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 12th day of September, 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. SUE FENN JOSSERAND Personal Representative D. Carter Weeks Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023, 11/22/2023 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF RONALD RUSSELL RAGON, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO: 2023-496 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Margaret Lynn Fletcher on the 31st day of October, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Margaret Lynn Fletcher Legal Run 11/9/23, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023 --------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA MICAYLA HEARD, et al., Plaintiffs, V. KENY FELIPE SALES, et al., Defendants. Case No. CV-2022-900404 LEGAL NOTICE In this cause it is made to appear to the Court, by the affidavit of the Plaintiff, that Keny Felipe Sales and Cleyver Yovany Felipe Sales defendant(s) are either nonresidents of the State of Alabama, whose residence is unknown and cannot be ascertained after reasonable effort, or if being residents, either their residence is unknown and cannot be ascertained after reasonable effort or they have been absent from the State more than thirty days since the filing of

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the comp1aint in this clause, or they have concealed themselves so that process cannot be served upon them, and further, that defendant(s) are over the age of nineteen years. It is therefore, ordered by the Court that publication be made in a newspaper published in Lee County in the State of Alabama, for four consecutive weeks, and the said defendant(s) are hereby notified of the issuance of said summons and complaint, and to be and appear if they think proper to defend this suit at the present term of this Court, and within thirty days after this notice by publication is completed. Done this the 31st day of October, 2023 Clerk of the Circuit Court| Lee County, Alabama 2311 Gateway Drive, Room 104 Opelika, AL 36801 Legal Run 11/9/23, 11/16/23, 11/22/23 & 11/30/23 --------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of JAMES MASON GASTON, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by CINDY WILKERSON GASTON on NOVEMBER IST, 2023, 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 LEGAL RUN 11/09/2023 --------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION

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Extra Space Storage (Life Storage) will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: (3951 Pepperell Pkwy ) Thursday, (Nov 16, 2023) at 10:00AM Unit C33 Unit C50 Unit C105 The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 11/09/2023 --------------STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 2020 S. College St. Auburn, AL 36832 Thursday, November 16th at 10:00AM Unit B193 Unit B207 Unit C350 Unit C363 Unit C421 Unit D438 Unit D459 Unit D467 The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 11/9/2023 ---------------

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage (Life Storage) will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: (1231 Gatewood Dr. Auburn Al. 36830) Thursday, (11-16-2023) at 10:00AM Unit 194 Unit 321 Unit 609 Unit 615 Unit 619 The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 11/09/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CONSTANCE KENNEDY JEMIAN, DECEASED. TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Robert A. Jemian, as Executor of the Estate of Constance Kennedy Jemian, deceased, on the 3rd day of July, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Robert A. Jemian, Executor Of the Estate of Constance Kennedy Jemian, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 11/9/2023, 11/16/2023 & 11/22/2023