The Observer | Nov. 14, 2024

Opelika High head coach suspended before Friday’s playoff game

Moore used media credentials to access game

BY D. MARK MITCHELL AND MICHELLE KEY

OPELIKA — Opelika head football coach Bryan Moore has been suspended for Friday’s class 7A playoff game against Hoover, after gaining access to the sidelines of Hoover’s game last Thursday night against Fairhope High School, with a media pass and a notebook. Moore can be seen on the sidelines in several photos, wearing a media pass, carrying a notebook in neutral clothes.

Hoover coaches, administrators and other coaches saw Moore on the field during the game, prompting Hoover to report the incident to the AHSAA.

Tuesday night, Nov. 12, AHSAA Excutive Director Heath Harmon confirmed the suspension in an email to Opelika sportswriter for The Observer and ‘On the Mark’ radio show host D. Mark Mitchell. The statement issued by AHSAA Executive Director reads “In accordance with AHSAA Central Board of Control policy, eligibilty rulings are only provided to member schools. We encourage all media to contact member schools for

access to rule violations. The AHSAA did apply rule violations to Opelika High School. I appreciate you reaching out to me, and I look forward to working with you in the future.”

Sideline media passes for playoff games are issued by AHSAA every year and are not transferable.

Opelika City Schools also issued a statement that reads, “Opelika City Schools and Coach Bryan Moore respect the standards set by the Alabama High School Athletic Association. While observing Hoover High School’s playoff game, Coach Moore used a media pass to access the field and take notes. Though he had no ill intent, Coach Moore recognizes this was an error in judgment and accepts the suspension.”

Honoring

Several events were held throughout the community to mark Veterans Day. Pictured above at the Opelika Veterans Breakfast are keynote speaker Col. (Ret.) Glenn Schmick, center, with World War II Veterans Fred Moore of Auburn, left, and Walter Dorsey of Opelika, right.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has taken on The Tutu Challenge. It is challenging Opelika Police Department & Auburn Public Safety

dedicated to raising funds and spreading joy for those affected by breast cancer. The Tutu Project provides

groceries and other essential needs that often get overlooked during treatment. Learn more and consider

BRYAN MOORE

Keep Opelika Beautiful declares ‘Holiday Light Fight’

First-ever event promises a dazzling celebration of community spirit

CONTRIBUTED BY KOB

OPELIKA — Keep Opelika

Beautiful (KOB) announces its inaugural Holiday Light Fight, a festive competition designed to illuminate our community and spread joy this holiday season.

This event invites residents to showcase their creativity and holiday spirit through dazzling light displays in their homes and yards. From Dec. 9 to Dec. 31, participants will light up Opelika with their best holiday decorations. Whether you go for a classic winter wonderland, a whimsical holiday theme, or a

dazzling light extravaganza, all Opelika residents are encouraged to join the fun and share their unique holiday spirit.

Event Highlights include:

• Registration: Residents and businesses in Opelika can register for the Holiday Light Fight online at the KOB website www.keepopelikabeautiful.com.

• Community Voting: In addition to the judges’ scores, community members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite displays online.

• Map Only and Non Residents: You do not have to enter

• Judging: A panel of judges, including local leaders and community representatives, will evaluate entries based on creativity, originality and overall presentation viewed from the street only. The contest is for exterior decorations only, which may include interior decorations visible from windows and doors.

Hulk Hogan comes to town

the contest to be included on the map. Please use the Map Only link at www.keepopelikabeautiful.com/holiday-light-fight. If your address is not within Opelika city limits, you can submit your address for posting on the public map for community viewing but will not be eligible for the contest and judging.

• Prizes: Exciting prizes will be awarded for the judges and the community favorite in both resident and business categories.

• Light Map: A map of participating homes will be made available on the KOB website, allowing residents to tour the displays and experience the

magic of the season together.

“This event is a wonderful way to bring our community together during the holidays,” said Priscilla Blythe, executive director of Keep Opelika Beautiful. “We can’t wait to see how our residents express their creativity and celebrate the spirit of the season. It’s all about fun, family and fellowship!”

For more information about the Holiday Light Fight, including registration details and event updates, visit www. keepopelikabeautiful.com/holiday-light-fight or follow Keep Opelika Beautiful on social media.

Auburn Parks & Rec collecting Santa letters

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The Auburn Parks and Recreation Department is once again hosting the Letters to Santa program.

Children may drop off letters to Santa beginning Monday, Nov. 18, in the special mailboxes located at the Harris Center (425 Perry St.) and Boykin Community Center (400 Boykin St.). Santa will reply with a letter mailed to your home. Be sure to include the child’s name and a return address.

All letters to Santa must be dropped in the mailboxes by Thursday, Dec. 12, to give Santa enough time to reply before Christmas. No postage is necessary.

For more information about the Letters to Santa program or Auburn Parks and Recreation, visit www.auburnalabama. org/parks/ or call (334) 501-2930.

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — The Auburn City Council is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Public Park and Recreation Advisory Board. The term will begin on Dec. 19 and end on Dec. 18, 2030.

The Public Park and Recreation Advisory Board serves as a financial channel that plans and develops recreation projects. While the board is not involved with the general management of parks or recreation

facilities, it may manage projects as selected and approved by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Please note, this board is separate from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, which provides direction, supervision and promotion of recreation programs in Auburn.

The Public Park and Recreation Advisory Board consists of three members who serve six-year terms. To qualify for appointment, applicants must be qualified electors of the City of Auburn, must be

a taxpayer in the City of Auburn and must not be an employee of the City of Auburn. The board meets as needed.

Those interested in serving are invited to apply online at governmentjobs. com/careers/bcauburnal. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Nov. 25. The City Council will make appointments at its Dec. 3 meeting. To learn more about Auburn’s Boards and Commissions, visit auburnalabama.org/boards-and-commissions.

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — Are you a local grower or artisan wanting to share your products with those in the community?

Apply to be a vendor at Auburn Parks and Recreation’s 2025 City Market, which will be held every Saturday from May 24 to Aug. 30 at Town Creek Park

from 8-11 a.m. Vendor set-up begins at 7 a.m.

Farmers, growers and artists who are interested in participating in the City Market must fill out an online application or apply in-person at the Harris Center located at 425 Perry St. For more information, visit www. auburnalabama.org/citymarket.

Fans turned out to meet professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan while he was in Auburn last week promoting his new beer.

Shop Small Saturday is this weekend in Opelika

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — Women small business owners are invited to the Lady Legends Luncheon on Nov. 20, hosted by Jessica Rizzo, owner of Boulangerie, located at 138 N. College St. in Auburn. The Lady Legends Luncheon will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Dr. Katie Wolter, co-founder of the nonprofit Nourish Foundation, will be the featured speaker. Organizers

of the event, Southern Employer Benefits, will take up a collection for Nourish Foundation’s holiday turkey and ham drive. Donations of healthy nonperishables are needed, including olive oil, whole grain pasta, whole grain bread and brown rice. The agenda also includes Elizabeth Ellen Digital teaching strategies for social media. Tickets are $15 per person and include lunch. Register at www.southernemployerbenefits. com.

The Auburn and Opelika Chambers of Commerce celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Chris Baker, a financial advisor with Edward Jones. His office is located at 700 E. Glenn Ave., Suite D, in Auburn. Email him at chris.baker2@ edwardjones.com or give him a call at (334) 826-2606.

Chris Baker

Opelika Main Street holds Downtown Open House

The Observer sponsors free photographs with Santa Claus

PABLO

BLANCA

PENELOPE

OWEN

RIEF, WALKER & SULLIVAN

LAIKEN & KAINEN

CORA JAILYN

JORDYN

SANTI

NICK & JACKSON

LILY

MARIEL & MALI

TYLER & BEAR

JARED

EVA & NORA

STEVEN & DONNA

OLLIE

To rake or not to rake...

Here’s what the experts have to say about tending to fallen leaves

BY ANITA STIEFEL EDITOR@OPELIKA OBSERVER.COM

EAST ALABAMA — Autumn leaves are among nature’s most beautiful displays, but they do fall from the trees and pile up. As we head into the hustle and bustle of the holiday season it’s a good time to ask ourselves: Is raking leaves a necessary chore?

Maybe, maybe not.

According to Consumer Reports, leaves that accumulate on or near decks and patios need to be cleared since these areas can discolor. Make sure, too, that leaves are safely removed from clogging rain gutters and are not left to become a slippery hazard on walkways.

Leave the leaves

The National Wildlife Federation encourages homeowners to skip raking or blowing leaves entirely because they provide an ecosystem to a host of living things, including chipmunks, earthworms, caterpillars and thousands of species of insects.

“Without a layer of leaves, there’s little habitat for pollinators, and you’ll see fewer birds, which forage in the leaves for food,” the National Wildlife Federation website states. “Of course, the other benefit of not raking leaves is that it’s easier on the homeowner. No need to break out the rake or leaf blower — or break your back wielding these tools. No need to spend money on trash bags. And think of all the free time you gain when you no longer spend afternoons tending to your lawn.”

Horticulturalists from the University of Wisconsin agree: “In many cases there is no need to waste valuable time and effort raking up leaves, because they have nutrients which can be recycled into your lawn.

“One good reason to rake up leaves is to have a pile to jump and play in,” according to the UW

website. “But if you only have a moderate amount of leaves on your lawn, quickly mow them up and spend your time doing the other things on your pre-winter chore list. If you have just a few leaves, such as 20 percent of the lawn covered, you can just ignore them. They will blow around, settle in and break down on their own.”

But sometimes…

If you have a moderate amount of leaves, such as 50 percent coverage, you still don’t need to rake, the UW horticulturalists write. “Simply run your lawn mower over them to chop them into smaller pieces so they can settle between the grass blades where they will decompose over time and release nutrients for your lawn to use next year.”

Raking is needed, however, if your leaf layer becomes thick enough to smother the grass.

“If you have a thick layer of leaves, where you can barely see any signs of grass beneath them, then it’s best if you remove some of the leaves to prevent matting and smothering of the grass,” the website states. “Rake or otherwise remove at least half of them. You don’t need to get every last leaf, but if you remove a significant amount of them, then you can mow the rest up and leave them on the lawn.”

The Alabama Cooperative Extension Service (ACES) advises that leaves should be left where they fall in heavily wooded areas because they will break down and add nutrients for plant growth. The one caveat to leaving tree leaves where they fall is if your trees have had serious foliar fungal diseases. While most leaf spots on leaves are cosmetic and harmless to the overall health of the tree, fallen diseased leaves do serve as a source for spores that can infect next year’s emerging leaves. Significantly diseased leaves should be raked and removed from the area and disposed of, such as by burning,

where allowed.

Pristine landscaping

“While leaving fallen leaves in their natural state may help your property’s ecosystem thrive, it may not be ideal if your goal is a wellkept lawn,” according to Consumer Reports. “Raking your leaves will help ensure a manicured look to your lawn come spring. The chore also helps to limit the critters you might not want too close to your home. For many homeowners, these advantages are worth the hard work.”

ACES encourages homeowners who want to keep their yards raked should choose mulching and composting over sending bags to the landfill.

“You can decrease the volume of trash in landfills and add a benefit to your yard at the same time,” according to ACES website. “Recycle leaves and other yard waste for use as mulch or make compost for use as a soil amendment.

Redistribute leaves

Consumer Reports suggests raking leaves into small piles near a wooded area along your yard’s perimeter and let them provide habitat for animals and insects in a spot where they’re not a nuisance. If you have a large yard or simply want to make quick work of the task without blisters and an aching back, consider a leaf blower.

Mulching

“In managed landscapes, leaves make an excellent mulch for outdoor plants and shrubs,” states the ACES website. “Whole leaves may be used, but you can reduce their volume to as much as one-tenth and create a more uniform look by shredding or chopping them. Mulch conserves water, suppresses weeds and moderates fluctuating soil temperatures that can disturb roots.”

Extension soil scientists explain

the if your soil drains well (is sandy or loamy), spread up to 5 inches of chopped leaves on all garden beds and under all shrubs, hedges and

trees. This layer will settle down to 3 or 4 inches, the maximum application you can make without

Burning leaves poses risks to health, environment

BY ANITA STIEFEL EDITOR@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

EAST ALABAMA —

Home remodeling guru Bob Vila is among the voices warning against burning leaves.

On his website, an article entitled Burning Leaves in Your Yard: Why It’s a Bad Idea states, “While setting that pile of leaves ablaze may seem like an effective way to rid your yard of autumn’s

unwanted bounty, there are plenty of reasons not to do it. For one, burning leaves releases toxic gases into the atmosphere, harming the environment and creating a health hazard for anyone nearby. There’s also the risk of losing control of the flames and starting a wildfire, which is an ever-present danger.”

According to the National Park Service, nearly 85 percent of wildfires in the U.S. start because of humans,

and burning debris like fallen leaves and trash ranks among the top human errors that cause wildfires.

Burning leaves releases different noxious chemicals that aren’t good for the environment and potential health risks. Unlike burning natural gas in a furnace or even fuel in a car (processes that create mainly carbon monoxide and water as a byproduct) burning biomass sends a broader range of chemicals into the

City of Auburn Burn Permits:

Burn permits are issued by the Auburn Fire Department at no charge. A site inspection must be scheduled with Auburn Fire personnel. Upon completion of a successful site inspection, a permit will be issued. This permit does not give permission to burn; it merely means that a site inspection was completed. On each day you wish to burn, you must contact the Auburn Fire Department at (334) 501-3231 and gain permission to do so.

No person shall kindle or maintain any bonfire or rubbish fire or cause any such fire to be kindled or maintained without a permit or proper authorization. The authorized permit holder agrees to the requirements for open burning as set forth by the Auburn Fire Department and the guidelines of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The Auburn Fire Department may revoke any permit if violation is noted upon inspection or in the event there has been false statements or misrepresentation as to material fact in the application or plans on which the permit was based.

Requirements for Obtaining a Burn Permit:

1. The location of the burning must be at least 50 feet from your home and 500 feet from the nearest occupied dwelling other than the dwelling located on the property on which the burning is conducted.

2. Burning is only allowed between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Material should not be added to the fire after 3:00 p.m.

3. Material being burned is restricted to vegetation and untreated wood only.

4. The fire must be attended at all times, until extinguished. The fire must be completely extinguished at the end of each day.

5. Burning is only allowed in the designated area where the site inspection was done.

6. Burn piles are to be no larger than approximately the size of an automobile. You may only have one burn going at any given time.

7. You will not be allowed to burn in excessive wind conditions (approximately 5 mph).

8. You will not be allowed to burn during overcast or periods of rain.

9. You will not be allowed to burn during extremely dry or drought conditions.

10. Under no circumstance shall heavy oils, asphalt products, plastics, vinyl materials, insulation, paper, cardboard, natural or synthetic rubber, salvage or scrap, chemicals, garbage, treated or painted wood or any trash be burned.

Residential burn permits are valid for 60 days. Again, each day you wish to burn within that time period, you must notify the Auburn Fire Department at (334) 501-3231.

For more information contact the Auburn Fire Department Station # 1 at (334) 5013231 or Public Safety Services at (334) 501-3110.

air, according to Christopher Reddy, an environmental chemist with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

“When you burn leaves and other materials where you’re not having a very efficient burn, you are more likely to create a range of chemicals and particles that may cause harm to you and your family,” Reddy said. “This particulate matter, naked to the human eye, poses the most risk to breathing.

“When you breathe these very small, fine-size particles, you could potentially have some detrimental effects

to your body, particularly cardiovascular problems,” he explained.

Smoke released by leaf burning is irritating to the eyes, nose and throat, and the carbon monoxide kicked up by burning leaves can reduce the amount of oxygen in your blood and lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing and other respiratory conditions, he said.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that particulates, carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals and gases released into the atmosphere add to

ground-level ozone (smog) that can damage sensitive ecosystems and negatively impact nearby crops and wildlife.

If you must burn

Vila’s website offers the following tips for those who decide to burn leaves: 1. Use a burn barrel, a large metal container designed to dispose of combustible waste. It is a safer, more contained method for leaf burning than a pile. Top the barrel with a lid or screen to minimize smoke and prevent burning

City of Opelika Rules and Regulations for Residential Burn Piles:

• Burning shall not be started prior to 0700 hours. Burning after dark is prohibited.

• Permits are not transferable. Applicants must call prior to ignition.

• Permits shall be revoked if provisions are not met. The burning of toxic materials, noxious matter, roofing materials, treated lumber, petroleum-based products, etc. or any other materials considered hazardous shall not be allowed under any circumstances.

• Burns shall not be conducted under any type of overhead service.

• Burn piles shall be limited to a manageable size (8 feet by 8 feet, maximum height of 5 feet)

• Only one pile may be burned at a time.

Means to control and or extinguish the fire shall be maintained on site at all times.

Provisions shall be made to prevent fire spread.

• Fire must be a minimum of 50 feet from any public roadway. The fire must be attended at all times by a competent person until the fire is extinguished (put out, quenched or smothered). Fire in approved containers shall be a minimum of 25 feet from any structure.

The permit shall become void, and all burning shall cease when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous.

In the event of damage to property of others the permit holder accepts full responsibility and liability for all charges resulting from the burn. (Smoke, fire ash, or particulate matter)

• Bonfires and similar activities should be strictly monitored and considered only on a case-by-case basis.

Before burn permits are issued, all residents inform themselves of the city’s rubbish pick-up and disposal policy.

The final determination on burning is at the sole discretion of the Opelika Fire Department if the burn is compliant with ADEM and the Alabama Fire Marshal’s office guidelines.

For more information, call the Fire Department at (334) 705-5300.

See RAKING, page A6

Glow event shines light on epilepsy awareness

BURNING >> from A5

debris from escaping.

2. If you choose to burn leaves in a pile, be sure it is no higher or wider than a few feet. Aim for a minimum vertical clearance (unobstructed space above the fire free from tree branches, power lines, etc.) of at least three times the height of the leaf pile or barrel. Lay bricks or cinder blocks around the perimeter of the patch of leaves and clear an 8-foot to 10-foot-wide barrier of bare dirt around the patch to help

contain flames. Never use any type of fire starter or gasoline to begin leaf burning. This can lead to an unmanageable fire.

3. Do not burn any materials coated with stain, paint or glue and do not add any oils, rubber, or treated wood products.

4. Protect yourself. Consider wearing an N95 mask or respirator to reduce exposure to smoke and particles, and change clothes before going back in the house after burning leaves to avoid bringing in any ash particles that have collected on your clothes.

RAKING >> from A5

risking oxygen depletion in the soil. If your soil is predominantly clay, spread 2 to 3 inches for best results. By next autumn, when the next batch of leaves is about to fall, the previous year’s mulch will have decomposed almost completely.

Composting

Leaves can also be turned into compost, according to ACES. Compost is the product of the aerobic (in the presence of oxygen) biological decomposition of organic waste material under controlled conditions. Composting at home saves transportation and disposal costs and provides an environmentally sound way to manage yard waste.

Composting offers the opportunity to keep yard waste out of landfills and makes a valuable soil amendment from your on-site resources.

If you have a compost bin, fill it with shredded leaves in the fall and keep any remaining leaves in a holding bin or in plastic bags stored nearby. Mix a few shovelfuls of soil or finished compost into the pile at the beginning of the process to add microbial decomposers. As leaves settle in the bin, add another bag or two of shredded leaves. Adding sources of nitrogen, such as vegetable scraps, grass clippings or a cup of nitrogen fertilizer to your compost encourages decomposition. By spring, all leaves should be in the bin and decomposing into rich compost. Turn the compost

periodically, and by early summer it is ready to use as mulch or for tilling into a garden. Compost improves any soil for growing summer plants.

If you don’t have a bin, you can create a compost heap, which is simply a free-standing pile of leaves.

A good workable size is about three feet wide and three feet high. The size can vary according to the amount of leaves used.

A good location is important for a successful compost pile, ACES adds. The bin or pile needs good drainage, and water should be readily available. The compost pile should not be located against wooden buildings or trees, since wood in contact with compost may decay.

If you notice strong odors from your compost pile, you probably need to turn

it. Odors associated with composting are generally due to insufficient oxygen, too much nitrogen or too much water in the pile. A compost pile made up of nothing but whole leaves does not need turning. Leaves will mat together and slowly decompose in about 2 years. If you want to speed up the process, shred the leaves and turn the pile monthly. This brings the most decomposed material at the bottom to the top and shifts the least decomposed material to the hot, bottom layer of the pile. Add some water each time you turn the pile. The compost is ready for use when it is dark and crumbly like rich soils. For more information, visit the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service website at www.aces.edu.

The Glow for Epilepsy is an annual community event in Opelika that raises awareness about epilepsy and the importance of early diagnosis. The event is hosted by Compassionate Hands of Hope Inc. and is sponsored by the Opelika Housing Authority.

L labama Politics ee County & A

Inside the State House

Thursday, Nov, 14, 2024

The governor’s race has begun

OPINION —

Over the past year, I have been on a speaking tour throughout the state – especially leading up to the General Election on Nov. 5. The reason for my visiting and speaking to civic organizations was to discuss the national presidential race and its evolvement, as well as how the race for the White House affects Alabamians. It was one of the most unusual, interesting topsy-turvy presidential contests I can remember. It was entertaining to say the least. After my talks, I left time for questions from the audiences. You would think that the first, and most important questions would pertain to the presidential contest. However, that was not the most prevalent inquiry. In almost all 30 venues, the most asked question was who will follow Kay Ivey as governor and who is running for governor in 2026.

My answer is that it will indeed be one of the most interesting and entertaining governor’s races in decades. With Ivey unable to run for another term, there will be no incumbent. There are three obvious successors to the throne that are immediately brought to the forefront: Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth, Attorney Gen. Steve Marshall and Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate. They all three must go somewhere else, because all three

are term-limited in their current posts.

Will Ainsworth is considered the prohibitive favorite by all Montgomery insiders. He has indeed been doing his homework and has been campaigning non-stop for governor for the past six years as lieutenant governor. He has locked up the Montgomery political lobbying money. This, in and of itself, probably puts him miles ahead of Marshall and Pate.

Ainsworth does not need any of the big lobbyists’ money. He has enough money on his own. His Daddy’s money is enough to fund several governor’s races. His father has already shown that he will help his boy as much as he needs. He bought him the lieutenant governor’s office and can buy him the governor’s office. However, Ainsworth’s move to garner the big Montgomery money is an astute political maneuver because it prohibits his competitors from gaining access to these donors. After all, money is the “mother’s milk of politics,” and this is Ainsworth’s calling card. Marshall and Pate cannot compete with Ainsworth financially. Marshall has built a following among the ultra-right-wing, social conservative base, but these folks do not have any money, and the ones who do, do not give. Therefore, Pate and Marshall are relegated to being “also rans” in the brass ring race. However, they would be big dogs in the lieutenant governor’s race, which looks to be drawing quite a crowd.

My response to audiences early in the year was Ainsworth is the early favorite because of his family money, but there is a big vacuum for an unknown candidate. 2026 could be another 1978 where a Fob Jameslike candidate comes out

of the dark and buys the governor’s office. A 60-ish businessman who built his or her own business and made their own money is more attractive than a 40-year-old boy whose daddy has a lot of money.

The most popular and successful mayor in the state, Tommy Battle, would be a major player for governor. However, being mayor of the largest and most prosperous city in the state, if not nation (Huntsville), is a better job than being governor of Alabama.

In the past month or so, a name has surfaced in the 2026 governor’s race that will turn the tide and change the landscape of the race. Coach Tommy Tuberville is rumored to be considering a run for governor in 2026. His Senate seat is also up for election in 2026. He got to the Senate at age 65, which is not the best age to arrive in the U.S. Senate and attain any power under the seniority system. He is 70 and looking at another sixyear term as a 70-ish back bencher.

He has his detractors, but polling reveals he is very popular in Alabama. He has over 75% name identification with high positives, whereas Ainsworth, Marshall and Pate only have 20% name identification. Tuberville would automatically become the favorite and Ainsworth and Marshall would probably look hard at Tuberville’s Senate seat. Coach Tuberville needs to decide and move quickly because, folks, the race has begun.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers served 16 years in the state legislature. Contact him at steve@steveflowers.us.

Councilwoman Norris earns CMO designation

CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF OPELIKA

OPELIKA — Councilwoman Erica Baker Norris of Ward 2, Opelika, has completed the requirements for the Alabama League of Municipalities’ professional designation of Certified Municipal Official (CMO) after completing 40 credit hours of training conducted or endorsed by the League.

Norris is a member of the 29th CMO graduating class and was recognized for her accomplishments during a graduation ceremony held in Orange Beach on Oct. 30.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the CMO program, which is the second oldest elected municipal official training program in the nation. Municipal officials have the incentive of obtaining three different levels of CMO certification after completing 40, 80 and 120 credit hours of training as well as graduating. This year, 50 certified municipal officials, 45 advanced certified municipal officials and 17 CMO emeriti, earned their respective designations. As of graduation, more than 5,200 municipal officials have attended the League’s training in municipal government since its inception in 1994.

“Alabama’s municipalities are the

foundation of our state’s economy,” ALM Executive Director Greg Cochran said. “Vibrant communities depend on knowledgeable and engaged leadership, which is exactly what the CMO program encourages through training on the finer points of municipal government. Earning the Certified Municipal Official designation further showcases the commitment of community leaders to be better informed, more effective municipal officials.”

Because of her attendance at statewide and regional educational conferences, Norris has received training in subjects such as council meeting procedures, parliamentary procedure, the Alabama Open Meetings Act, public records, ordinance drafting, conflicts of interest, the state ethics law, duties of the mayor and council, tort liability, the competitive bid law, zoning and planning, annexation, municipal regulatory powers, municipal revenues and expenditures, personnel actions and leadership development.

Norris stated, “With the distinguished Certified Municipal Official designation, I am honored to serve the City of Opelika, leveraging my enhanced knowledge to deliver outstanding service to all our citizens.”

BY STEVE FLOWERS

Opelika Ward 2 Councilwoman Erica Baker Norris, right, has completed training and received the designation of Certified Municipal Official from the Alabama League of Municipalities. she is pictured with ALM Executive Director Greg Cochran.

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John DeAngelo Legal Run 10/31/24, 11/7/24 & 11/14/24

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Alisha S. Buckhanon to United States of America acting through the Rural Housing Service or Successor agency, United States Department of Agriculture, dated May 29, 2019 said mortgage recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Book 4475, Page 650 . Said mortgage was subsequently sold, assigned and transferred to Secretary, United States Department of Agriculture, Rural Development. Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the undersigned, Secretary, United States Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse in Lee County, Alabama on December 6, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following describe real estate situated in Lee County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT TWENTY-NINE (29), WESTRIDGE, A SUBDIVISION LYING IN

PUBLIC NOTICES

SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 29 EAST, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 22, AT PAGES 166, WHICH PLAT IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION.

Property Street Address for Informational Purposes: 144 Lee Road 2083 Phenix City, AL 36870

Said property will be sold “AS IS”. NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, IS MADE AS TO THE TITLE OF SAID PROPERTY. Said property is subject to any title deficiencies including but not limited to: any outstanding ad valorem taxes - including taxes which are a lien but not yet due and payable, federal tax liens any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record superior to the Mortgage first set out above. Said property will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto. The highest bidder must tender the total amount of the winning bid in certified funds at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand the rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses of this sale, as provided in said Mortgage and by Alabama law. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

**This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained may be used for that purpose.** Secretary, United States Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Mortgagee or Transferee

Jonathan Smothers, Esq ALAW 420 North 20th Street, Suite 2249 Birmingham, AL 35203

Attorney for Mortgagee/ Transferee

24-032134

Legal Run 10/31/24, 11/7/24 & 11/14/24

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARTHA CHRISTINE SANCHEZ, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Case No: 2024-896

Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 22nd day of October, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

JUAN CARLOS SANCHEZ Administrator

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345

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

Legal Run 10/31/24, 11/7/24 & 11/14/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF WAYNE STEVEN O’SHIELDS NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to ELIZABETH WATERS, as Administratrix of the Estate of WAYNE STEVEN O’SHIELDS deceased, on the 25th day of September, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

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

BILL ENGLISH , JUDGE OF PROBATE

Legal Run 10/31/24, 11/7/24 & 11/14/24

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL DECEMBER 3, 2024, 6:00 P.M.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate a portion of the right-of-way of South 6th Street between Avenues A and B. All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views. Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City Clerk prior to the time of the hearing. The portion of South 6th Street proposed to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the northwest corner of Lot 4B, Block C, Byrd Lands, as shown on Totten’s Official Real Estate Map of Opelika, said point being on the southeasterly right of way line of Avenue A; thence S47°15’20”W, along said right of way line, 100.0 feet to the True Point of Beginning of the Parcel of Land herein described; thence, along the present right of way line of Sixth Street, S42°44’40”E, 200.00 feet; thence, continuing along said right of way line, S47°15’20”W, 21.48 feet; thence, continuing along said right of way line, S42°44’40”E, 199.12 feet to the northwesterly right of way line of Avenue B; thence S47°15’20”W, along said right of way line, 13.47 feet to the new right of way line of Sixth Street; thence, along said new right of way line, N42°44’40”W, 372.12 feet; thence N47°15’20”E, 27.00 feet; thence N42°44’40”W, 27.00 feet to the southeasterly

right of way line of Avenue A; thence N47°15’20”E, along said right of way line, 7.95 feet to the True Point of Beginning. Said parcel of land being 8942 Square Feet or 0.2053 Acre in Section 7, Township 19 North, Range 27 East in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, and formerly being portions of Lots 1 A & B and Lot 4 A, Block C, Byrd Lands, as shown on Totten’s Official Real Estate Map of Opelika as recorded in Plat Book 2, Page 9, in the office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. Being further described according to and as shown on that certain survey or drawing prepared by Mark L. Miller, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “A”.

A copy of the Petition to Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 2nd Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

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

DATED this the 31st day of October, 2024.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 10/31/24, 11/7/24, 11/14/24 & 11/21/24

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF DEBRA H MCCLAIN, DECEASED PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY

CASE NO. 2024-586

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of DEBRAH. MCCLAIN, are hereby granted to James G. McClain, Jr. on the 15th day of October, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time 14th allowed by law or the same will be barred. James G. McClain Jr Legal Run 11/7/2024, 11/14/2024 & 11/21/2024

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2024-574 ESTATE OF JOHN FRANK WIGGINS, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said John Frank Wiggins, deceased, having been granted to Pamela Wyche Hutchins this 31st day of October 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Pamela Wyche Hutchins, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law 334-745-2564 P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030. Legal Run 11/7/24, 11/14/24, 11/21/24

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that JLD Enterprises, LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for the Construction of the Opelika New Aquatics Facility at 1001 Sportsplex Parkway, Opelika AL at for the State of Alabama and the county of Lee, city of Opelika, 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 Robins & Morton 400 Shades Creek Parkway Birmingham AL 35209 JLD Enterprises, LLC

(Contractor)

Mailing:P.O. Box 2280 Auburn AL 36830

(Business Address) NOTE: This notice must be run for a minimum of three weeks for projects of $100,000.00 or more. For acceptable methods of advertisement, see General Conditions of the Contract, Article 34. Proof of publication of the notice shall be made by the contractor to the authority by whom the contract was made by affidavit of the publisher or website owner and a printed copy of the notice published. A final settlement shall not be made upon the contract until the expiration of 30 days after the completion of the notice.

Legal Run 11/7/24, 11/14/24, 11/21/24 & 11/27/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF HILDA PENNINGTON, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-558 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary have been granted to Anne Bradford as Executrix for the Estate of Hilda Pennington, deceased on October 29, 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Done this the 29th day of October 2024. Bill English, Probate Judge, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 11/7/24, 11/14/24 & 11/21/24

ORDINANCE NO. 030-24 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE X OF CHAPTER 26 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BY ADDING A NEW SECTION AUTHORIZING THE POLICE CHIEF TO DESIGNATE THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF WRECKER SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE WRECKER ROTATION LOG AND AMENDING SECTION 26-311 RELATING TO RATES AND CHARGES FOR WRECKER SERVICES PAID TO COMPANIES ON CITY ROTATION WHEREAS, pursuant to Ordinance No. 126-15, the City of Opelika (the “City’), adopted procedures for wrecker services participation on the City’s rotation log; and WHEREAS, said procedures are codified as Article X of Chapter 26 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to add a new section 26-301.1 authorizing the Police Chief to designate the maximum number of wrecker services included on the wrecker rotation log; and WHEREAS, Section 26-311 of the Code of Ordinances establishes maximum fees and charges for wrecker services by any wrecker service operated on the rotation log; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to adjust the rates paid to wrecker companies for services performed in response to a wrecker rotation log dispatch. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Add Section 26301.1. That Article X of Chapter 26 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika is amended by adding a section to be numbered 26301.1, which said section shall read as follows: Sec. 26-301.1 – Rotation System. The Police Chief shall designate the maximum number of wrecker services included in the Opelika Police Department wrecker rotation system (regular haul log and large haul log). The Police Chief shall establish the number of operators based on maintaining adequate and timely service

as well as minimizing the department’s management of the rotation system. The number may be revised if the Police Chief finds that the public is not being adequately served as a result of an insufficient number of qualified wrecker operators. Participation on the wrecker log shall not constitute a property right but rather a mere license. The Police Chief, or his designee, will decide whether the wrecker operator is approved or denied inclusion on the wrecker rotation log. Section 2. Amendment to Section 26-311. That Section 26-311 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika, Alabama, is hereby amended to read as follows: Sec. 26-311. - Rates and charges.

The maximum fees for wrecker services provided by any wrecker service operator on the rotation log in regard to services provided as a result of a dispatch shall not exceed the following amounts per wrecker, which include operator, unless otherwise indicated (see note):

(1) Vehicles less than ten thousand (10,000) lbs.

Normal breakdown service: two-axle vehicle (ten thousand (10,000) lbs. or less) …$150.00

Note: Normal breakdown service includes pickup and towing vehicle to any destination not to exceed ten (10) miles from scene of the call and disconnect. Every additional mile…. $7.00 --Traffic Crash and/or Impound: Two-axle vehicle (ten thousand (10,000) lbs., or less) …$225.00

The wrecker company may assess the following additional charges for services at an accident scene, if necessary: Additional debris cleanup: $35.00 Oil Dry per bag: $30.00 Winching to roadway: $100.00 Righting vehicle: $150.00 Dollies: $50.00 Window wrap per window: $35.00 Additional wait time at scene per hour: $175.00 (2) Vehicles more than ten thousand (10,000) lbs., less than twenty-six thousand (26,000) lbs.

Normal breakdown service: Two-axle vehicle more than ten thousand (10,000) lbs., less than twenty-six thousand (26,000) lbs. ……$250.00

Note: Normal breakdown service includes pickup, removing of drive shaft (if required), and towing vehicle to destination not to exceed ten (10) miles from the scene of the call to disconnect.

Traffic Crash and/or impound: Vehicle more than ten thousand (10,000) lbs., less than twenty-six thousand (26,000) lbs. …. $285.00

The wrecker company may assess the following additional charges for services at an accident scene, if necessary:

Additional debris cleanup:

$45.00

Oil dry per bag: $30.00

Winching: $100.00 per hour

Righting vehicle: $ 150.00 per hour

(3) Vehicles over twenty-six thousand (26,000) lbs.

Breakdown $295.00 per hour

(two-hour min) afterhours

$325.00 per hour (twohour min)

Breakdown Diesel pusher RV

$400.00 per hour (four-hour min) afterhours $450.00 per hour (four-hour min)

Storage: $50.00 per day for truck

$75.00 per day trailer

Accident/rollover rates:

1 truck/1 operator: $750.00 per hour extra man at $125.00 per hour

Rotator/1 operator: $1,250.00 per hour

(4) Special operations / extra equipment as needed: Trailer dolly: $1,500.00

Van trailer: $125.00 per hour

($240.00 per day to store cargo)

Landoll trailer: $175.00 per hour

Skid Steer: $150.00 per hour + $175.00 per hour for rollback to transport

Tractor to transport trailers: $125.00 per hour

Any rental services shall be at commercial rental rates plus twenty-five percent per hour (not including operator)

(5) Surcharge for holidays, inclement weather and hazardous conditions.

On City designated holidays and during inclement weather and hazardous conditions, a wrecker service operator may add a 50% surcharge for a normal breakdown service, a traffic crash and/or impound call. For example, if an operator is dispatched on a City-designated holiday to a normal breakdown service call (two-axle vehicle), the maximum rate shall be $225.00 rather than the standard rate of $150.00. For purposes of this subsection, inclement weather shall mean severe weather conditions that are unsafe for travel or work. Examples of inclement weather include snow, sleet, high winds, heavy rain and tornadoes. Hazardous conditions are weather-related phenomena that can be dangerous. Examples of hazardous conditions include thunderstorms, flash flooding, freezing rain, winter storms, lightening and hail.

(6) Vehicle storage rates: First twenty-four (24) hours…. No charge Second twenty-four (24) hours…. $40.00 Each day thereafter…. $40.00 Crashed electric vehicles…. $80.00 After hours vehicle release…. $75.00

The rates and charges as established herein do not relate to or regulate consensual wrecker services in which the vehicle’s owner or operator expressly requests towing or wrecker service from a specific wrecker operator and chooses not to utilize the rotation list.

Section 3. Severability. If any section, clause, sentence or phrase of this Ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then such holding shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining portion of this Ordinance.

Section 4. Repealer. All ordinances or parts thereof which are in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety to the extent of such conflict.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon publication as required by law.

Section 6. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Opelika, Alabama is hereby authorized and directed to cause this Ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 5th day of November, 2024. /s/ Eddie Smith, PRESIDENT

OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC

CITY CLERK

TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 6th day of November, 2024.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR

APPROVED this the 6th day of November, 2024. /s/ Gary Fuller, MAYOR ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/14/2024

ORDINANCE NO. 029-24

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 26 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES FOR THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA TO AMEND SECTION 26-252 RELATING TO THE BOUNDARIES OF THE DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT

DISTRICT

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

Section 1. Amendment. That Section 26-252 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika is hereby amended to read as follows: Sec. 26-252. District Designation.

(a) Under the authority granted in Act No. 2012-438, the Council hereby creates a Downtown Entertainment District, the boundaries of which are described as follows: Begin at the centerline intersection of First Avenue and North Sixth Street, thence run southwesterly along the centerline of First Avenue for one (1) block to the intersection of First Avenue and North Seventh Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of North Seventh Street for approximately one-half (1/2) block to the mid-block point between First Avenue and Second Avenue; thence run southwesterly for one (1) block to North Eighth Street at the mid-block point between First Avenue and Second Avenue; thence run southeasterly along the centerline of North Eighth Street for approximately onehalf (1/2) block to the intersection of First Avenue and North Eighth Street; thence run southwesterly along the centerline of First Avenue for two (2) blocks to the intersection of First Avenue and North Tenth Street; thence run southeasterly along the centerline of North Tenth Street for approximately 350 feet to the intersection of Tenth Street and the CSX Railroad tracks; thence run southwesterly along the CSX Railroad tracks for approximately 600 feet to the intersection of the CSX Railroad tracks and the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks; thence run southeasterly along the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks for approximately 1,900 feet to a point that is the intersection of Norfolk Southern Railroad and the southwesterly extension of an unnamed public alley between Avenue C and M. L. King Boulevard; thence run northeasterly along the centerline of the extended, unnamed public alley for approximately 700 feet to the intersection of the unnamed public alley and South Tenth Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of South Tenth Street for approximately 250 feet to the intersection of Avenue C and

South Tenth Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of South Tenth Street for one (1) block to the intersection of Avenue B and South Tenth Street; thence run northeasterly along the centerline of Avenue B for two (2) blocks to the intersection of Avenue B and South Eighth Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of South Eighth Street for approximately 150 feet; thence run northeasterly along an existing property boundary for approximately 300 feet; thence run southeasterly along an existing property boundary for approximately 150 feet to the centerline of Avenue B; thence run northeasterly along the centerline of Avenue B for approximately 150 feet to the intersection of Avenue B and South Seventh Street; thence run northeasterly along the centerline of Avenue B for one (1) block to the intersection of Avenue B and South Sixth Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of South Sixth Street for one (1) block to the intersection of Avenue A and South Sixth Street; thence run southeasterly along the centerline of Avenue A for one and one-half (1-1/2) blocks to the mid-block point between South Seventh Street and South Eighth Street; thence run northwesterly for one (1) block to South Railroad Avenue at the mid-block point between South Seventh Street and South Eighth Street; thence run northeasterly along the centerline of South Railroad Avenue for one and one-half (1-1/2) blocks to the intersection of South Railroad Avenue and South Sixth Street; thence run northwesterly along the centerline of Sixth Street for two (2) blocks to the intersection of First Avenue and North Sixth Street and the point of beginning.

All the land described above contains 79 acres, more or less, and is located in Sections 7 and 18, Township 19 North, Range 27 East, Lee County, Alabama. The boundaries of the entertainment district are further described according to a map or drawing attached hereto marked Exhibit “A”.

(b) On the second Saturday of December of each year beginning December 14, 2024, the boundaries of the Downtown Entertainment District shall be temporarily expanded in connection with the Victorian Front Porch Tour event from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on said day to include the following property. Commence at the point of intersection of the centerlines of First Avenue and North Seventh Street; thence northwesterly along the centerline of North Seventh Street, 230 feet, more or less, to the mid-block point between First Avenue and Second Avenue and the Point of Beginning; thence continue northwesterly along said centerline, 460 feet, more or less, to the mid-block point between Second Avenue and Third Avenue; thence southwesterly, leaving said centerline, and travelling through the center of the block, 460 feet, more or less to the centerline of North Eighth Street; thence southeasterly along the centerline of the said North Eighth Street, 460 feet, more or less, to the mid-block point between First Avenue and Second Avenue; thence northeasterly, leaving said centerline, and travelling through the center of the block, 460 feet, more or less, to the centerline of North Eighth Street and the Point of

Beginning.

All the land described above contains 4.86 acres, more or less, and being in the west half of Section 7, Township 19 North, Range 27 East, in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

The boundaries of the area to be temporarily included in the Downtown Entertainment District on the second Saturday of each December are further described according to a map or drawing attached hereto as Exhibit “B”.

If the Victorian Front Porch Tour event is moved to an alternate date in any calendar year, the temporary expansion of the boundaries of the Downtown Entertainment District shall apply to said alternate date from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on said alternate date.

Nothing in this subsection (b) shall be interpreted or construed to affect the permanent boundaries of the Downtown Entertainment District as described in subsection (a) of this Section 26-252.

(c) Notwithstanding anything in this section to the contrary, at any time and from time-to-time, the Downtown Entertainment District established in this section may, by ordinance, be enlarged, reduced, modified or eliminated , permanently or temporarily, in whole or in part, and the regulations set forth in Section 26-253 are subject to amendment at any time and from time-to-time. No vested rights shall be acquired by or be conferred upon any person as a result of the establishment of the Downtown Entertainment District or permitting under this article.

Section 2. Periodic Review by Council. The Council may at any time conduct a review and examination of this Ordinance and Article VIII of Chapter 26. If, after such a review and examination of said Article, the Council determines that one (1) or more provisions of this Article should be amended, repealed, revised, clarified or deleted, then the Council may take whatever measures are necessary in accordance with applicable law in order to accomplish the same. The Council may, at any time, in the best interests of the City, repeal the entire Article.

Section 3. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. If any section, subsection or provision of this Ordinance be for any reason declared void or invalid, such invalidity shall not affect any other section, subsection of provision of this Ordinance.

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

Section 5. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Opelika, Alabama is hereby authorized and directed to publish this Ordinance one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 5th day of November, 2024.

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

ATTEST:

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 6th day of November, 2024.

/s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK

ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 6th day of November, 2024.

/s/ Gary Fuller, MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/14/2024

CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following:

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

II. Approval of Minutes III. Update on Previous PC Cases IV. New Business

A. Plat (Preliminary Only) –Public Hearing

1.A public hearing on a request by Brandon Bolt, authorized representative for Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc., property owners, for preliminary approval of Sentinel Hills subdivision consisting of 18 lots accessed from Lee Road 177. B. Preliminary and Final Plat - Public Hearing

2. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, authorized representative for Holland Homes, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final approval of Firefly Subdivision Redivision of Lots 1 and 3, Redivision of Lots 31-40 & 96 consisting of 7 lots accessed from Summers Street.

3.A public hearing on a request by Timothy J. Moore, property owner, for preliminary and final approval of Taylin Subdivision, consisting of 8 lots accessed from Hanson Street. C. Conditional Use – Public Hearing

4.A public hearing on a request by Staley Fincher, property owner, for conditional use approval to for 68 townhome units in a C-3 zoning district accessed at the end of Yarbrough Drive.

5.A public hearing on a request by Foresite Group, LLC, authorized representative for Broad Metro, LLC, property owner, for conditional use approval for a 323-unit apartment in a C-2 zoning district at 3310 Society Hill Road.

D. Rezoning - Public Hearing 6a. An agenda item for a rezoning request includes an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 12.6 acres accessed at the 900 block of Lake Condy Road from a medium density residential land use category to a mixed use land use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the 12.6 acres and Council approves the See NOTICES, page A10

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rezoning, then the amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved.

6b. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Blake Rice, Barret-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for Lania Harrison, Laura Hartley, Linda Nixon, and Louie Morris, property owners, to rezone 12.6 acres accessed from 900 block Lake Condy Road from R-3 to PUD.

E. Vacation of Right-of-Way

7. The following agenda item is included for review at the November 19th Planning Commission meeting as a recommendation to the City Council. A petition from Lee County Youth Development Center, Laura Cooper, director, requesting the City Council to vacate a portion of Spring Drive to construct a 10x10 guard house. The Planning Commission provides a recommendation to City Council.

8. The following agenda item is included for review at the November 19th Planning Commission meeting as a recommendation to the City Council. A petition from Stene Benson authorized representative of Sun Self Storage, Inc., property owner, requesting the City Council to vacate Lynch, Haddox, and Brown Street as recorded in Operell Subdivision, and vacate King Street and a portion of Penland Street that fronts on Lots 5 through 16 as platted in Operell Subdivision recorded in Plat Book 3, page 21 as both plats are recorded in the offices of the Judge of Probate, Lee County. The Planning Commission provides a recommendation to City Council.

F. Annexation

9. An agenda item to consider an annexation recommendation to the City Council on a request by Timothy J. Moore, authorized representative for Moore’s Construction LLC, property owner, to annex 6 acres into the City limits at 448 Lee Road 174. A R-1 zoning district is requested.

G. Development Plan Review

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- Setback Wavier 10.A request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for Tidal Wave Auto Spa, developer of Lot 1-B, The Ballfields Plat No. 4, for a setback variance for a proposed development as provided in Section 7.6 of the Zoning Ordinance. A variance is allowed with Planning Commission approval if alternative access is provided and no access is taken from the Gateway Corridor. A 10 foot variance is requested from the minimum 20 foot side yard setback to allow 10 feet of additional building width and access to the development is from Ballfields Loop not Pepperell Parkway, a Gateway Corridor.

Old Business

H. Conditional Use – Public Hearing

11.A public hearing on a request by Josh Oneal, authorized representative for Barnes and Horton, LLC, property owner, for conditional use approval for a lounge and event center in a C-1, GC-S zoning district at 1001 1st Avenue. (This item was tabled at the October 22, 2024 PC meeting until a rezoning request for the property is approved.) All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/ public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 11/14/2024

CLASSIFIEDS

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SYNOPSIS

OF ZONING NOTICE

The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows:

From a C-3, GC-S District (General Commercial, Gateway Corridor Secondary District) to a C-1, GC-S District (Downtown Commercial, Gateway Corridor Secondary District), the parcel of land hereinafter described:

A portion of Lot 2 of Block 2 of the Grant Lands as shown by Totten’s Official Real Estate map of Opelika, Alabama, 1930 as_ recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, in Town Plat Book 2 at Page 9 and being more particularly described as follows:

FOR A POINT OF BEGINNING commence at the intersection of the southerly margin of North Tenth Street with the southerly margin of First Avenue in the City of Opelika, Alabama (said point of inter section being the northeasterly comer of said Lol 2 of Block 2); thence run South 42deg 24min West, along said southerly margin of said First Avenue, for 200.0 feet; thence run South 47deg 36min East for 5.0 feet to an iron pin and the point of beginning of the tract or parcel of land to be herein described: FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING run South 47deg 36min East for 188.0 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 57deg 28min East for 27.0 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 42’deg 24”min East for 97.0 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 47deg-36min West for 195.0 feet to an iron and thence run South 42deg 24min

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West for 123.0 feet, more or less, to the aforesaid point of beginning; together with any and all improvements thereon and appurtenances thereunto appertaining.

SUBJECT, HOWEVER, to that certain Railroad Spur Track Easement along the southeasterly boundary line of the property herein described. And further subject to any and all restrictions, casements, covenants and rights-of-way recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, affecting said above-described real property.

The above-described parcel is located at 1001 1st Avenue, Opelika, Alabama.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on November 7, 2024, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Sections 11-52-78 and 11-52-85, Code of Alabama (1975).

At said public hearing, all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to said ordinance. 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.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 14th day of November, 2024.

/s/Russell A. Jones, MMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/14/2024

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NOTE: This notice must be run for a minimum of three weeks for projects of $100,000.00 or more. For acceptable methods of advertisement, see General Conditions of the Contract, Article 34. Proof of publication of the notice shall be made by the contractor to the authority by whom the contract was made by affidavit of the publisher or website owner and a printed copy of the notice published. A final settlement shall not be made upon the contract until the expiration of 30 days after the completion of the notice.

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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: 3951 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika AL 36801 Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 10:00AM Unit A10

Unit A56

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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 11/14/2024

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: Extraspace Storage 2357 E Glenn Ave Auburn, Al 36830 11/21/2024 at 10:00am Unit 3008 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 11/14/2024

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LARRY CHARLES DAWSON, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case no. 2024-631 Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 7th day of November, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. KITZI DAWSON, Administrator Robert H. Pettey

Auburn police report several recent arrests

18-year-old faces charges after fight

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On Oct. 26, Auburn Police responded to a fight call near the 100 block of West Magnolia Avenue. Subjects involved in the fight fled prior to officer arrival. Responding officers made contact with a victim who was injured as a result of being assaulted. The victim was transported by ambulance for medical treatment.

During the investigation, Landen Stephen Padgett-Snow, 18, of Axis, Alabama, was developed as a suspect. Police were provided with additional information confirming that the victim’s injuries also required surgery.

An arrest warrant for assault second degree was obtained, and on Nov. 5, PadgettSnow was arrested in obedience to the warrant. He was transported to the Lee County Jail and held on a $25,000 bond.

Trio arrested for vehicle break-ins

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — Auburn

Police officers located a suspicious vehicle near the 2000 block of Downs Way during the early morning hours of Nov. 4. Officers observed the occupants of the vehicle attempting to hide.

Police initiated an investigation and recovered

stolen property from the vehicle. Officers located multiple victims in the area who reported that unlawful entry was made into their vehicles, and property was stolen.

Auburn Police arrested the occupants of the car: Tyler Wendell White, age 26, Kaneisha Brinae Rodgers, age 28, and Henry Kimble Barton, age 58, all

from Opelika. Each was charged with three counts of unlawfully breaking and entering into a motor vehicle, two counts of theft of property third degree and theft of property fourth degree.

White, Rodgers and Barton were all transported to the Lee County Jail and each held on a $13,000 bond.

Mississippi man nabbed for car theft

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On Nov. 1, Auburn Police located a stolen vehicle near the 2500 Block of Bucee’s Boulevard.

Officers made contact with Stevenson Tramaine Gandy, the driver of the vehicle.

After further investigation, police confirmed that the vehicle was stolen in another police jurisdiction.

Gandy, age 38, of Waynesboro, Mississippi, was arrested on a charge of receiving stolen property first degree. He was transported to the Lee County jail and held on a $5,000 bond.

Juveniles caught breaking into cars

CONTRIBUTED BY APD

AUBURN — On Nov. 4, Auburn Police arrested a 17-year-old juvenile and a 15-year-old juvenile, both from Auburn, and charged them with six counts of unlawfully breaking and entering into a motor vehicle, two counts of theft of property third degree and theft of property fourth degree. The arrest stems from

officers responding to an auto burglary call near the 400 block of Webster Road. Multiple victims reported that their vehicles had been unlawfully entered and property was stolen.

Police made contact with the two juveniles in the area where the auto burglaries occurred. The two juveniles were consistent with suspect descriptions provided by a

witness.

Multiple stolen items were recovered from residences associated with the suspects, and after further investigation, both juveniles were arrested for charges related to the auto burglaries.

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

Suspect arrested following mass shooting at Tuskegee homecoming celebration

CONTRIBUTED BY ALEA

MACON COUNTY — At the request of the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, special agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) launched an investigation into a mass shooting which occurred during a homecoming celebration at Tuskegee University last weekend.

Law enforcement officers found Jaquez Myrick, 25, of Montgomery, leaving the scene of the shooting in possession of a handgun with a machine gun conversion device. He was arrested and charged federally with Possession of a Machine Gun.

ALEA is asking for the public’s assistance in this case. Anyone with information is asked to please submit tips at 1-800-CALL-FBI and upload any digital files regarding this incident online at: fbi.gov/tuskegeeshooting24.

Nothing further is available as the investigation is ongoing.

On Sunday, Nov. 10, at approximately 1:40 a.m., authorities received notification of multiple individuals shot. An 18-year-old juvenile was confirmed deceased at the scene and 12 others were wounded by gunfire and transferred to East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika and hospitals in Montgomery. Four other individuals sustained injuries that were not related to gunfire.

* Deadline is noon on Mondays

East Alabama Health now offering Urogynecology services

CONTRIBUTED BY EAH

AUBURN — East Alabama

Health has expanded its women’s health offerings by opening Urogynecology of East Alabama.

Urogynecology is a medical specialty focused on treating disorders affecting the pelvic floor, which supports the organs located within the pelvis.

Women who have experienced childbirth, menopause or have chronic conditions may develop

pelvic floor disorders. Urogynecology of East Alabama provides specialized treatment for conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse (fallen bladder, uterus or vagina), overactive bladder, stress urinary incontinence and others. The clinic offers minimally invasive procedures to treat pelvic floor conditions while reducing recovery time.

“With the opening of Urogynecology of East Alabama, we are taking a significant step in expanding access to specialized

women’s health services in our community,” said Laura Grill, president and CEO of East Alabama Health. “This clinic allows us to provide women in our community with the personalized care they deserve, without the long drive typically associated with specialized care.”

The clinic will be under the direction of Dr. David Williams.

“Urinary incontinence is a common medical condition affecting women but should

Guest Column

not be considered a normal part of aging,” Williams said. “We have several minimally invasive treatment options to restore a woman’s continence, allowing her to return to an active lifestyle.”

Urogynecology of East Alabama is located at 890 N. Dean Rd., Suite 300 in Auburn. New patients are now being accepted. For more information, visit www.eastalabamahealth.org/ services/womens-health/urogynecology.

Tips for navigating the holidays with senior loved ones

BY MICHELLE WOODBREY OPINION —

As we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas, upholding traditions is important but not at the expense of the quality of everyone’s experience.

Here are some best practices for enjoying the holidays with your older loved ones.

Focus on what can be realistically accomplished. We must not get caught up in how things are supposed to go. Let your expectations evolve as your family changes.

Let’s use the stuffing as an example. Everyone expects your mom to make her famous stuffing recipe which she has done for as long as you can remember. But now you notice that it is hard for her to go shopping for ingredients and then follow the recipe to make enough for everyone. Also, last year’s didn’t taste quite right. You are not sure you want her to make it this year. Are you even sure that she still wants to make the stuffing? We can also let our traditions evolve, however that may look for each of us.

Keep the lines of communication open. Keeping with the stuffing example, it makes sense to find out what mom really wants. Does she still want to make it herself the way

she always has? Or maybe she never wants to prepare stuffing ever again in her whole life. There’s a reason they say what they say about assumptions! Ask her how involved she wants to be. If she wants to continue making her famous stuffing, perhaps ask her if she can teach you how to make the recipe and you can do it together. Give your friends and family a heads-up family about the new traditions so they can be on board, too.

Keep things simple. In my mind, it is better to do just a few things well rather than try to do all of the things and stress myself out too much. My family benefits more from my presence than from anything else. If I am unhinged, everyone else feels that too. Think about what traditions can be simplified without losing their meaning. Simplify meals, consider potlucks and don’t be afraid to outsource and order some or all of the food.

Don’t over-commit. Be selective about what you choose to do with your family and their energy and interest levels. Do you really need to go to all of craft fairs and cookie swaps?

Consider their safety and comfort. Most importantly, be sure they have any medications they may need as well as hearing aids and

glasses. Look at the gathering spaces with the needs of your loved ones in mind. Where will they sit? Would they prefer a chair with arms? Will they be able get to bathroom easily enough?

Keep an eye on their comfort and energy levels and modify activities when you need to. Consider the volume of the music, climate control, time of day and offer them frequent rest breaks. Choose things to do that are more easily accessible which will turn out to be less stressful for everyone. Also consider if it would be too overwhelming or confusing for them to join. Maybe find some ways to bring the holidays to them.

Embrace new traditions. Make space to grieve that things aren’t the way they used to be. Change is hard so don’t discount that, but it can also be good. Allowing traditions to evolve and adapt over time proves that change can be good. Take time to reflect on what goes well, even if it is not how you expected it to be. After all, it isn’t about what happens but how we react that matters, right?

Michelle Woodbrey is the co-founder of 2Sisters Senior Living Advisors and a contributing expert for ECDOL. She has been working in the field of senior living for over 20 years.

DR. DAVID WILLIAMS

BY BRUCE GREEN

Minister at 10th

OPINION —

In the past two weeks,

we’ve looked at Romans 8:18-25 and seen how humanity and the earth (Paul speaks of it as “creation”) are intertwined by virtue of their origin, their

BY WALTER ALBRITTON

OPINION —

When I turned 70 and retired from fulltime ministry, I found time to read books that I had little time to peruse while serving as a pastor. One of the authors I enjoyed was Frederick Buechner and his book, A Room Called Remember. I was intrigued by his counsel to take seriously the art of remembering. His idea grew out of a dream in which he found himself in a hotel, in a special room, a “Room Called Remember.” It was in that Remember Room that he felt at peace, where everything seemed the way it should be. Other rooms in the hotel were cramped and uncomfortable, but in this special room he found peace.

A Taste of Grace

Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024

From groaning to glory, part three

sharing of the redemptive curse, and their destiny. This concluding piece will focus on our coming glory and the hope it gives us. Redeemed humanity and creation are waiting for the freedom and glory of the resurrection. Creation was “subjected to frustration” (v. 20), as humanity was, “in hope” (v. 21) that it “will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God” (v. 21). We are moving on parallel tracks and those tracks lead to freedom and glory! God is making all things

new. He started with Jesus and His resurrection. It continues with those who become a new creation by being born again of water and Spirit (John 3:3-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17). It is moving toward a third act when creation and humanity will be liberated into full and final freedom and glory. This is the context for understanding v. 18. When Paul says, “Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us,” he is not minimizing or trivializing the sufferings experienced by anyone at any time,

he’s making a comparison. Furthermore, if the suffering he speaks of is diluted in any way, then so is the glory he is speaking about. Therefore, a proper reading of the text requires us to take an unblinking look at suffering so we can understand that as horrific and terrible as it has been at times, it doesn’t begin to compare with the glory that is coming. That is saying something! Our deepest groanings will be lost in the greatest of glory. I’m glad God said these words through someone like Paul who had was well acquainted with

suffering. You remember that God had told Ananias, “I will show him how much he must suffer for My Name” (Acts 9:19). And Paul did suffer (2 Corinthians 11:22-27)! There were undoubtedly some at Rome hearing these words who in a few years, would suffer under Nero. Paul wanted them and us to know that our deepest groanings will be lost in the greatest of glory. It is a glory that all creation is moving toward.

This gives us the greatest of hope. I don’t think it’s difficult to see that hope is a something we are in desperate need of. Most people hope as far as they can see. That works great on mountain tops and sunny days. When some bad weather moves in or we’re down in the valley, not so much. We need a hope that shines in the darkest of nights, that warms our hearts, lifts our spirits and lights our way. That is the hope Paul was talking about. It is how the church survived Nero, Domitian and how it lives today.

Bruce Green has written an entry level book on Revelation called The Thrill of Hope. It is available through Amazon.

Altar call Finding peace in my ‘Remember Room’

Unless dementia prevents it, all of us remember. Memories often come at us with a fury. Old hurts, disappointments and failures seem never to leave us alone. Like the poor, they are “always with us.” Buechner invites us to develop the power of positive remembering, learning to gather up memories that help us feel at home and at peace. He calls it taking time to remember our purpose, to search deeply for the truth about ourselves. Sadly, many of us live on a rather superficial level. We pass the time of day with people. We talk about politics, the weather or sports. But we avoid what matters most to us. Alone, we turn to a book, television or crossword puzzles, eluding the deeper feelings that fill our memories.

To remember with a purpose is to recall the lives we have lived, the journeys we have made, the wrong roads and the right roads taken. It is to realize that

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

Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-2482

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

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

through many difficulties we have survived, and to find joy in seeing ourselves as survivors.

Looking back, we recognize that we made some wrong decisions but many that proved to be right. And we realize we were never alone. We had help, the support of people who were dear to us, and the unseen support of the One sometimes called “The Helper.”

As the number of my days is nearing the end, I am spending time in my own Room Called Remember. There I have recalled with joy my childhood days, growing up with three precious sisters and a younger brother. We endured the usual issues of life, but we were a family in the best sense of that precious word. We were blessed with the security of parents who loved us and loved each other. They gave us boundaries and taught us by example to live by biblical principles. Three of us have mourned the loss

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

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

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

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

Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-750-5338

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

of our youngest siblings, our sister Laurida and our brother Seth, but we constantly remind each other of the difference each made in our lives. With joy we recall their smiles, their laughter, and the ways they loved us.

Our family bond remains strong, partly because every Friday we have lunch together, along with Pearl, Seth’s widow, who is a cherished sister to us. We have been inspired by Pearl’s victorious spirit during her journey through the valley of sorrow. Guess what we do besides eat: we remember! Yes, we drink too much coffee but because of the way we were raised, we are not drinking Jack Daniel’s!

In my Remember Room I stir up memories of dear friends in all the churches we served for more than 70 years. So many names come to mind: people who trusted us, loved us and came alongside us in the service of our Lord Jesus. What a precious gift of God they were to us in every chapter of

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

The Opelika Church 2660 Cunninghan Dr., Opelika

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

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

EPISCOPAL

our lives! Without their help, understanding and kindness, I would have been a dismal failure. As I remember these friends, I am praising Jesus for each one. Many of them are in heaven now, and they may be wondering why I have not yet arrived. They may think I did not make the cut!

I am remembering the remarkable people with whom I have served Jesus at Saint James Church for the past 20 years, my dear sisters and brothers in the New Walk of Life Church in Montgomery, and my home church, First Methodist Church in Wetumpka. So many of them have inspired me, by their example, to deepen my commitment to serve Jesus. Such treasured friends remind me that I am a blessed man, and for that I praise Jesus.

Many years have come and gone. The shadows are lengthening and occasionally I see the lights of home up ahead. But in the days that remain, I shall remember

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

UNITED METHODIST

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

Grace United Methodist Church 915 E. Glenn Avenue Auburn, AL 36831 334-887-7003

GLOBAL METHODIST

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

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

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

REACH OUT BY ADDING YOUR CHURCH

Add your church to the directory for only $100 a year, or consider a display ad like the one at right for only $20 per week. Email michelle@opelikaobserver.com or call (334) 749-8003.

with joy and gratitude, laugh a lot, and enjoy the peace that remembering brings. I shall gaze at my blessings and only glance at the events that brought pain and sorrow. What brings peace is remembering the times of sharing, learning, serving, growing, living, laughing and loving. In my Remember Room I find sweet peace in knowing that I have many friends who remember me in their prayers, friends who are glad that we have known each other, loved each other, served Jesus together and laughed together.

Buechner is right about the value of remembering. We may find energy, strength and peace in remembering. Such peace births quietness in the soul, joy in the heart, hope for today and all our tomorrows. I am praising Jesus for my Room Called Remember for in it I am energized to continue living the life of love that honors Jesus.

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

Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Pkwy., Opelika

Oak Hill Church 2506 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika, www.Oakhillopelika.com

Southern Plains Cowboy Church 13099 U.S. Hwy. 280, Waverly 334-401-101

PRESBYTERIAN

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

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

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach

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

Teaching

Street Church of Christ in Opelika

Upcoming Services

JUANITA RICHARDSON MACE

Thursday, Nov. 14, Visitation 2 p.m., Service 3 p.m.

Auburn United Methodist Church

Friday, Nov. 15, Graveside Service, 11 a.m. Cain’s Chapel Church, Holtville

MARTHA JEAN KIRK

Saturday, Nov. 16 | Celebration of life, 1 p.m. 257 County Road 122 Opelika

FREIDA HAYNES HATMAKER

Saturday, Nov. 16 | Servicee, 11 a.m.

Frederick Dean Funeral Home, Opelika

MARK S. GUIN

Friday, Nov. 22 | Visitation 10 a.m., Funeral 11 a.m.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, Opelika

RICHARD CRAIG FARGASON

Tuesday, Nov. 26 | Service of Christian Burial, 2 p.m.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church of Auburn

MARTHA JEAN KIRK

Martha Jean Kirk of Opelika was born June 9, 1953, and passed away peacefully at her home on Nov. 4, 2024. She was 71 years old. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Kathryn Stringfellow and Andrew Hickman, and her brother, Earl Hickman.

Martha is survived by her husband, Charles Kirk; two sons, Philip (Emily) Myers and Wayne (Kate) Myers; bonus children, Cassandra Pafford, Charles “Chet” (Sherri) Kirk and Clint Kirk; sisters, Wyolene Stringfellow and Linda (Preston) Griggs; several nieces and nephews; grandchildren, Wil Myers, Victoria (Adam) Goodin, great-grandchildren, Caroline, Kash, Jade, and Maggie; and several bonus grandchildren she loved dearly.

A special thanks to Mrs. Deborah Frazier for taking such good care of her. Martha called Mrs. Deborah her rock – they were stuck like glue.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Nov.

16, at 1 p.m. at the home of Philip Myers, 257 County Road 122 Opelika, AL 36804.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.

MARK S. GUIN

Mark Steven Guin, born April 10, 1955, in Fairbanks, Alaska, passed away on Oct. 30, 2024. He was an avid snow machine and dirt bike racer in the 1970s and had a deep love for the outdoors, often spending his time restoring automobiles and motorcycles.

Mark is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen (Kay); his beloved daughters, Margaret (Maggie) and Kristie; and his sister, Nancy Guin, of Fairbanks, Alaska. Visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 22, at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home in Opelika.

Mark was not only an amazing husband and father but also a friend to many. He had a unique gift for storytelling and sharing his knowledge

OBITUARIES

with those around him.

With over 15 years as Vice President of Equipment for Scott Bridge Company in Opelika, he dedicated his professional life to the equipment and construction industry.

Mark will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched, both personally and professionally. His honesty and integrity will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Miracle League of East Alabama via Venmo @MLEAINC, or by mail: Miracle League of East Alabama, P.O. Box 1747, Opelika, AL 36803-1747.

JUANITA RICHARDSON MACE

It is a rare gift in this world to know someone who laughed and loved as large as Juanita Richardson Mace. On Oct. 28, 2024, that brilliant spark passed away at home in Auburn. She was one month short of 93 years old.

Born in Wetumpka, the fifth of six children to the late H. Moorefield and Carrie Mae (Smith) Richardson, Juanita grew up during the depression and World War II in the Holtville area. She was known for her independent nature, lively intelligence, laughter, sweetness and generosity to her extended family and friends.

After graduating from high school early, she married her lifelong love, Fred “Jimmy” Mace, in September 1950 and they began a 74-year adventure. Juanita was an Army wife while Fred served in the states and Korea. She supported him as he obtained a degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and began a

36-year career with an oil company. Together they lived in three states, resided overseas in Sweden for a time and raised three daughters. No matter how daunting the assignment, Juanita immediately redirected her life, packed up, reorganized and resettled her home and family again and again. Wherever the family went, she quickly recreated a safe and loving space for “her girls.”

She was a proud wife and mother who made sure her family and community came first. She gave unselfishly of her time to her children’s activities and civic duties.

When her daughters were older, Juanita established a career in commercial insurance in Long Beach, California. Her clients came to count on her high integrity, deep knowledge and commitment to their needs. She was elected president of the Insurance Women of Long Beach, leading and representing her chapter at the regional and national level.

After their joint retirement in California, Juanita and Fred returned to their home state of Alabama; first Huntsville, then Prattville and finally coming full circle and settling in Auburn.

Juanita’s smile and grace will be missed by many. She is survived by her husband, Fred; daughters, Cynthia Anderson, Kathryn Shanahan and Nancy Mace; grandchildren, Jennifer Kalbas, Andrew Anderson and Hannah Mace; greatgrandchildren, Ezekiel and Torin Kalbas and Kaedence and Ignacio Anderson; and blended family, Maj. Brendan Shanahan, Bethany Lewis and their children, Haisley Shanahan, Evie Brown

and Austin Lewis.

A memorial service for Juanita will be held at Auburn United Methodist Church (Founders Chapel) on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 3 p.m. Visitation will precede the service at 2 p.m.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 15, at Cain’s Chapel Church in Holtville.

Juanita was a blessed and grateful breast cancer survivor. Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.

RICHARD CRAIG FARGASON

Richard Craig Fargason of Opelika passed away Nov. 4, 2024. He was born Dec. 30, 1965, in Atlanta, the son of Richard Fargason and Carol Fargason Shattuck. Craig was a 1983 graduate of Clarkston High School, a 1988 graduate of Auburn University and a 1992 MBA graduate of the University of Alabama Birmingham.

Craig will be terribly missed by his family, friends, co-workers and clients. He was an avid mountain bike rider and very much enjoyed biking with friends. Some of his favorite memories were boys’ weekend biking adventures. He will be well remembered for the times spent on trails, the fellowship after rides and his participation in many birthday rides. His love of mountain biking was only rivaled by his love for coaching soccer.

Craig coached for over 20 years, 15 of those years with Auburn Thunder. Craig truly believed that confidence was the key for success in this world and felt that by instilling the principles of hard work and team camaraderie, he could encourage his players to become not

only confident soccer players, but ultimately strong, successful women. His dedication to his teams has had a lasting impact on Auburn soccer. Having a conversation with Craig was always fun. He would ask the most amazing questions. We will hold his smile, his sense of humor, his ability to listen and problem solve and the joy he found in so many friendships close to our hearts.

Nothing in the world was more important to Craig than the happiness of his children, Addie, Sally and Ryan. He took such pleasure in their achievements and in their company. They were truly his pride and joy.

Craig was proceeded in death by his father. He is survived by his mother, his wife of 30 years, Lanette; daughters Addie Niedermair and Sally Fargason; son-inlaw Ryan Niedermair; stepfather Bruce Shattuck; sister Christen (Ryan) Nichols; niece Chloe Nichols; nephew Rowan Nichols; his aunts, uncles, cousins, stepmother and stepbrothers.

A service of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church of Auburn at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

A reception will be held at the church in the Parish Commons immediately following until 4 p.m. Memorials may be made to your favorite charitable organization or to any of the following: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church (Auburn), the East Alabama Medical Center Foundation, AUTLIVE (Bruce Pearl Family Foundation) or CARE Humane Society.

FREIDA HAYNES HATMAKER Freida Haynes Hatmaker, 72, of Memphis

Service. Sacrifice. Love.

“A veteran is someone who embodies Isaiah 6:8, ‘And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, ‘Here

said during Opelika’s Veterans Day event on Monday, Nov. 11. “Whether they were Army, Marine, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard or even Space Force, they all have three things in common — Service above self, sacrifice and love.”

OBITUARIES >> from A14

passed away Nov. 11, 2024, in Opelika. Ms. Hatmaker was a dedicated R.N. for 39 years & retired as a research nurse at St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital. She dedicated her life to her family & helping others.

Survived by her daughter, Leigh Moore; son-in-law, Coleman Moore; three grandchildren, Cayson, Sydni and Maddi; a beloved brother, Mike Haynes; nephews, Corey Haynes and Bill Banks; aunt/uncle, Montez/ Tommy Parr; a large extended family in both Alabama and Tennessee; and many dear friends.

Services will be held at Frederick Dean Funeral Home in Opelika on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 11

a.m. A small service/ celebration of life will be held at a later date in Memphis.

In lieu of flowers, Ms. Hatmaker’s family requests small donations to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital.

MYRTLE ELIZABETH BAKER FLORENCE Myrtle Elizabeth Baker

Florence, 91, of Opelika passed away Nov. 5, 2024. She was a member of Opelika First Baptist Church, Alabama Sheriffs Boys & Girls Ranches Builders Club, president of Alabama Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club. She retired from AT&T, formerly Bellsouth, after 34 years and was a devoted homemaker for five children.

Myrtle was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, William C. Florence; parents, Rudolph R. and Stella Cross Baker; son, William C. Florence Jr.; granddaughter, Carly Elizabeth Florence; and niece, Sadie Lynn Cooper Morris.

She is survived by her son, Larry H Florence; daughter, Julie Weldon Buchanan; niece, Susan C. (Dan) Rosenbloom; sister, Karen Gardner “Jeanie”; daughter-inlaw, Lisa C. Florence; and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A special thanks to Brandon Morris, a great nephew and caregiver, as well as Chelsea Thomas, caregiver of 14 years.

A graveside service was held Nov. 8 at Garden

Hills Cemetery. FrederickDean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

CAROL DELAINE GRESHAM

WILLIAMS

Carol Delaine Gresham Williams, 73, passed away Nov. 8, 2024.

She was born Sept. 19, 1951, to the late Robert S. and Martha Gresham of Tallassee. After graduating from Tallassee High School in 1969, she moved to St. Clair County to pursue a nursing career. She graduated from the Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing in 1972 and dedicated over 45 years to her profession. Her roles included bedside nurse, home health nurse, director of home health, and state surveyor. She was extremely accomplished and respected throughout her career.

Beyond her work, Carol was a devoted mother to her four children and later, a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She cherished her time with family and was an active member of Loachapoka United Methodist Church, where her spirit will be fondly remembered.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded

in death by her sister, Brenda Ingram; brother, Robert S. Gresham Jr.; and nephew, Clay Ingram. Carol is survived by her children, Angela Haynes May, Laurie Williams Brooks, Sara Williams Horton and John (Leslie) Williams; nephew, Jeff Ingram; nieces Paige (Johnny) Elliot and Amanda Gresham; as well as numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Funeral services were held Nov. 12 at Loachapoka United Methodist Church. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

NANCY ZEH CALCOTT

Nancy Zeh Calcott, 80, passed away peacefully at her home in Auburn, surrounded by her family. Nancy was born in Buffalo, New York. As a child she contracted a severe case of polio and spent time in an iron lung. As part of her therapy during recovery, her family moved to Daytona Beach, Florida, due to the health benefits of living near the ocean and to be closer to extended family. Her parents (Kenneth and Maybelle Zeh) built the Shoreline Hotel, which

still operates to this day.

Nancy attended Seabreeze High School and Daytona Beach Community College. She met and married the love of her life, Ed Calcott in 1965. The couple lived in Auburn while Ed finished his degree in building science and Nancy worked in the Computer Science Center at Parker Hall on campus.

The couple returned to Florida, moving to Ormond Beach, where they lived with their three children. Nancy worked as a secretary to Ed’s company, Calcott Construction, and enjoyed being a homemaker. In the 1980s the family moved to Pierson, Florida, and in the 1990s, Nancy moved back to Auburn to live with her daughter following the unexpected death of her husband.

Nancy was a beautiful example of resilience and strength, having survived many challenges and illnesses throughout her lifetime. A devout Christian, her faith never wavered. She was a member of St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church in Auburn. A beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Nancy most enjoyed spending time with her

family. She had a gracious and loving heart and enjoyed volunteering at numerous organizations over the years, including the PTA and Junior Service League. She was an avid reader and enjoyed her days playing cards, working on crosswords, jigsaw and sudoku puzzles, sewing and gardening. Her silly sense of humor and loving presence will be dearly missed.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband and her daughter, Kristy. She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Tamblyn (John) of Auburn; son, Kyle Calcott (Raquel) of Altoona, Florida; grandchildren, Lucy and Merrijo Tamblyn, Roxie and Kylee Calcott, Gaelyn Green and Shane Carfield (Kimmy); and great granddaughter, MaKenzie Carfield.

Nancy will be returned to Daytona Beach, where a private service for the family will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, Auburn.

Alabama Funeral Homes & Cremation Centers of Opelika is handling arrangements.

I am! Send me. ’” Col. (Ret.) Glenn Schmick, U.S.,

On the Mark

Opelika to play against Hoover Friday

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OPINION —

Opelika (9-2) football

thumped Florence (65) by a score of 43-7 last Friday at Bulldog Stadium in the round one of the AHSAA Class 7A football playoffs.

The Dogs started fast, blocking the Falcons’ first punt and setting up Opelika’s first TD with 9:53 left in first quarter.

OHS converted a two-point play.

OHS proceeded to score on a 30-yard field goal with 7:26 left in first quarter, then scored three more TDs and a safety prior to intermission. Jalynn Washington caught a six-yard pass from Colby Key with 2:43 left in the first quarter, E’Mauri Smiley recorded a safety with 1:35 left in first, Calvin Hughley scored on a six-yard run in the second quarter and Johnson added his second TD on a one-yard run. Beasley added three PATs in the first half. Opelika placekicker Johnni Cesena kicked a 47-yard field goal for Opelika’s only score in the second half.

The Dogs recorded 309 total yards of offense, 75 passing and 234 rushing. Quarterback Colby Key completed 10 of 14 passes, with one interception and one TD. Calvin Hughley led the team with 48 yards rushing. Opelika advances to the quarterfinals against the Hoover Buccaneers Friday at the Hoover Met. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

Hoover was forced to name Chip English interim coach after video surfaced of the former head coach and one of his coordinators roughing up two

players during practice. Less than two days after the video was released, Hoover elevated English to serve as interim coach.

English has surprised many, guiding the Bucs to nine wins, a region championship and a second round playoff game at home.

The Bucs opened the season with a 17-14 loss to Western Florida and then lost to Spain Park 39-37. Then they beat Hillcrest 35-6, Hewitt-Trussville 8-7, Prattville 40-6, Parker 14-10, Oak Mountain 28-10, Tuscaloosa County 56-6, Thompson 27-26 in OT and Vestavia Hills 38-20. They defeated Fairhope 35-10 in the first round of 7A playoffs.

Hoover has scored 331 points while allowing 158 points, compared to Opelika’s 389 offensive points while allowing 158 points. Neither played a common opponent.

Tickets to the game can be purchased online at gofan.co or at the ticket office at the Hoover Met.

You can listen to Opelika/ Hoover football game Friday at 6 p.m. with the Opelika Environmental Services Tailgate Show and Coach Bryan Moore pre-game show. Listen onlne at kickerfm.com or on the iHeartRadio app.

AREA PLAYOFF TEAMS

Auburn remained unbeaten (10-0) after thumping Bob Jones 63-27 in the first round of 7A playoffs. Thompson (8-3) dominated Fairhope by a score of 35-10, advancing to play Auburn at Duck Samford.

THS is 2-0 versus Auburn, including a 49-24 win over the Tigers in the Super 7 Championship game in Tuscaloosa.

Vestavia (6-4) travels to Phenix City to play Central in the quarterfinal round.

Russell County (9-2) beat Northridge 42-25 in the first round, advancing to play Spain Park in the second round for the first time.

Reeltown (10-1) plays Luverne after beating Houston Academy 65-0. Luverne beat JU

See ON THE MARK page B5

Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024

Auburn begins post-season play with domination of Bob Jones

BY DANIEL SCHMIDT FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Enter-

ing the first round of the playoffs on Friday night, Auburn had overwhelmingly mauled its way through the regular season competition en route to a 9-0 regular season record. That trend emphatically continued as the Tigers (10-0) sent Bob Jones (65) on a lonely three-anda-half hour bus ride back to Madison after securing a 63-27 victory at Duck Samford Stadium.

Big nights from Jackson Kilgore, who finished the game 13-for-13 passing for 320 yards and three touchdowns, and Omar Mabson, who recorded 179 rushing yards and five TDs on 11 carries, again propelled Auburn. After the game, Auburn head coach Keith Etheredge attributed his team’s victory

to continued consistency and efficiency, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.

“I think our guys just get it, and our leaders get it. They want to win,” Etheredge said. “Efficiency is the name of the game. We don’t have many negative plays, and the big thing is

that we’ve played 10 ball games, and we’ve turned the ball over twice.”

He then previewed a rematch of the 2022 state championship game with the Thompson Warriors at home next week.

“We’re in a one game season. You have to take them one at a time.

Thompson’s got a great football team,” Etheredge said. “Mark [Freeman] has got a ring for probably every finger on his hand, he’s the ring king. We’re going to have to come in there with guns blazing.” Kilgore said film study

See AUBURN, page B4

Beauregard falls in first round

BY DAVID YOHN | FOR THE OBSERVER

BEAUREGARD — Beauregard knew coming into their first round matchup with Eufaula that stopping their running attack would be one of the keys to winning the game. However, the visiting Tigers found success on the ground all night and very rarely even attempted to throw the ball en route to a 30-20 victory that propels them into the second round of the AHSAA playoffs while ending Beauregard’s season.

Prior to the game, Beauregard

Head Coach Justin Jones noted that “Coach Jernigan and his staff (at Eufaula) have done a terrific job. They start nine seniors on defense. They’ve got a lot of kids that have played under Friday night lights. When we’ve been successful is when we’ve been able to pass on first down. And then when we’ve played really good on first down and been able to be stingy against the run.”

After having to quickly punt

on their initial possession, the home-standing Hornets held the Tigers to just three plays, forcing a fumble as the Eufaula receiver struggled to pick up more yardage after the catch. With 8:31 remaining in the first quarter, Beauregard was set up deep in Eufaula territory following the turnover and quickly capitalized. Quarterback Cub Jones scrambled for eight yards and then found Jermyan Fitch on second down for a 19-yard touchdown strike. Beauregard jumped out to a 7-0 lead, but the Eufaula offense wasted no time evening the game at 7-7 with a sustained drive that covered 73 yards in nine plays. The bad news for the Beauregard defense was that Eufaula ran the ball on every play with the biggest damage coming on a 43-yard reverse on third down.

The Hornets got a big kick-off return from Ka’jaden Holloway but were flagged for holding. Starting at their own 15-yard line, Beauregard held the ball for 13 plays and nearly

six and a half minutes before turn

ing the ball over on downs.

Eufaula again found success running the ball, going 63 yards in eight plays. Only once did the Tigers put the ball in the air. With 4:17 remaining until halftime, it seemed that Eufaula would enjoy a 14-7 lead. The Hornets fought back, however, and tied the game up with just 1:04 on the clock. Jones connected with Fitch twice on the drive for gains of six and 12 yards, and later found Aundray Vann from 13 yards out for the touchdown toss. Holloway was instrumental as well, gaining 31 yards on three carries.

The Tigers did show that they could effectively throw the ball, quickly moving from their on 30yard line to the Hornets’ 29-yard line on three completions and a short quarterback keeper. With just :19 remaining, Beauregard linebacker Calib Piner came up with a big sack that prevented Eufaula from

See BEAUREGARD, page B4

The Tigers gave Bob Jones High School more than they could handle.

Auburn High School pounds Bob Jones

Opelika High School

Read D. Mark Mitchell’s ‘On the Mark’ column on

in the leadup to the game revealed the Patriots played mostly man coverage, and added players like Peyton Plott, Joshua Askew and Charlie Ward are mismatches in such situations. Yet superstition jokingly played a role in perhaps the best game of his career thus far.

“I told my buddy Ryan that it was the arm sleeve, it was my first time wearing an arm sleeve,” Kilgore said while laughing. “All jokes aside, I owe it all to my guys. They’re making plays. I make a short throw [and] make it catchable, and they’re going to take it, juke five guys and score.”

Bob Jones tested the Tigers’ defensive resolve early, overcoming several penalties to start its first drive and moving the ball 34 yards on mostly runs. Yet the Patriots could not convert on third-and-one after Caleb Sanders lost a yard, forcing the punt. It only took Auburn three plays to open the scoring, driving 75 yards down the field in 50 seconds courtesy of a 10-yard Mabson run, 24-yard Plott reception and a 41-yard Mabson TD

run.

A glimmer of hope shone through on Bob Jones’ next possession as Malachi Foster’s 37-yard reception jumpstarted the drive, but several incomplete passes from Johnny Jackson stalled the drive at the Tigers’ 33-yard line.

Although a holding penalty on Auburn negated a 66-yard TD reception from Plott, a 41-yard reception from Ward set up a twoyard TD run from Mabson to put the Tigers up 14-0 with 3:27 left in the first quarter.

After a second consecutive Patriots drive ended with a turnover on downs due to incomplete passes, it took just one play for Auburn to extend its lead after Mabson scored his third rushing TD with a 67-yard run.

From there, a quick three-and-out from Bob Jones set the Tigers up at their own 49 yard line. In what has been a recurring theme all year, Auburn scored in three plays, highlighted by Askew’s 31-yard TD reception.

Askew, who finished the game with four receptions for 102 yards and that TD, said the wide receiver position room’s versatility and

commitment to practicing the right way make the unit tough to stop.

“Our receiving corps is very dangerous, very lethal. We can do everything: jump, block, catch run,” he said. “We just practice like we play the game every day. We work hard in practice, try hard, block, catch everything that comes our way, stuff like that.”

Despite going down 280, Rhys Dorsey provided the Bob Jones sideline with some life after taking the ensuing kickoff roughly 90 yards for an electric kickoff return touchdown.

That momentum was short lived, however, as the Tigers marched 80 yards down the field, highlight-ed by a 53-yard reception from Askew, to go up 35-7 courtesy of a one-yard Mabson TD run with 10:10 left in the second quarter.

Following yet another Bob Jones three-and-out and a 66-yard Plott punt return TD wiped out by a block in the back penalty, Auburn continued its quick strike scoring routine. It took the Tigers just one play to extend the lead to 42-7 after Antonio Welch snagged a perfectly placed 51-yard TD reception from

Kilgore.

After penalties and a fumble forced a punt and derailed a promising Bob Jones drive deep into Auburn territory, the Tigers ended the first half scoring with a four-play, 76-yard drive highlighted by a 40-yard Plott reception, 25yard Cash Reif reception and 19-yard TD reception by Ward.

A furious attempt from the Patriots to put additional points on the board before halftime fell short, and both teams entered the locker room with Auburn up 49-7.

To start the second half, a long Plott kickoff return set the Tigers up with premium field position at the Bob Jones 35-yard line. From there, it would take Mabson only two carries to reach the endzone, putting Auburn up 56-7 after rumbling for a 34-yard TD.

Following another Patriots three-and-out and an Auburn fumble at its own 44 yard line, Bob Jones cut into the deficit with a six-play, 41-yard drive that ended with a 20-yard TD reception by Christopher Caterina.

An Auburn three-andout on its next possession again gave the Patriots premium field position at its

BEAUREGARD >> from B1

own 46-yard line with 9:50 left to play in the fourth quarter. A quick drive, powered by Malachi Foster’s 29-yard reception on the first play, ended with a one-yard TD plunge by Samuel Monroe to make it 56-20 after the extra point attempt failed.

Auburn then scored on one play the very next drive with an improbable, tackle-breaking 62-yard Anderson Waddell TD reception from Crawford Loughridge. The scoring concluded after Caleb Sanders scored a long kickoff return TD to make it 63-27.

The Tigers finished the game with 414 passing yards and 207 rushing yards on 27 total plays, averaging 23 yards per play. Bob Jones finished with 321 yards passing and 84 yards rushing on 59 total plays, averaging 6.7 yards per play.

What’s next Auburn will remain at home this week as they take on Thompson (8-3), which is coming off a 50-0 victory over the Daphne Trojans and has won four of the last five AHSAA 7A state championships.

That includes the Warriors’ 49-24 victory over the Tigers in the 2022 7A state

attempting a last second field goal.

The third quarter started out inauspiciously for Beauregard as they could not stop the Tigers’ ground game. Eufaula marched 66 yards on 13 rushing plays, converting a third down and a fourth down play to boot. In addition, the Hornets defense was guilty of two major penalties which allowed the Tigers to take a 20-14 lead after their drive that consumed seven minutes.

Beauregard was again forced to start deep in their own territory following a block in the back call on the kickoff return. Jones had three completions on the ensuing drive, with the biggest gainer being a 22-yard strike to Jeffery Holloway. But the Hornets would face fourth down at the Tigers’ 42-yard line and ended up turning the ball over on downs following

Starting near midfield, Eufaula picked benefitted from another major penalty against Beauregard. The Tigers could not find the end zone and had to settle for a 26-yard field goal. With 10:31 remaining in the game, the Hornets found themselves down 23-14 and needing something big to

The experienced Eufaula defense would not allow Beauregard to get anything going, and the Hornets were forced to punt

Bulldogs advanced to the second round Tuesday, hosting Enterprise at Bulldog Stadium.

championship game at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Thompson scores an average of 32.6 points per game while allowing an average of 13.2 points per game. According to On3. com, at least nine Thompson players currently hold Division-I scholarship offers.

According to MaxPreps, Thompson is led on offense by sophomore sensation quarterback Trent Seaborn, who has completed 167-of-266 passes for 2,194 yards, 20 TDs and six interceptions; senior running back Michael Dujon, who has 100 carries for 847 yards and 13 TDs; and sophomore receiver Darion Moseley, who has 34 receptions for 549 yards and eight TDs. On defense, senior line-backer Vini Pires leads the charge with 84 total tackles, while senior defensive end Jared Smith and senior safety Anquon Fegans have recorded seven and one-half sacks and four interceptions, respectively.

The undefeated Tigers are in for a dog fight, as each of Thompson’s three defeats this season were decided by a single point in overtime.

the ball back to the Tigers. Eufaula had a long quarterback scramble that resulted in a touchdown called back for a personal foul penalty, and Beauregard forced the Tigers to punt.

With 6:28 remaining, Beauregard was fast approaching desperation time. The Hornets did move the ball from their own 44-yard line to the Eufaula 30-yard line before coughing the ball up as Jones was heavily pressured on a pass attempt.

Eufaula then took a commanding 30-14 lead, going 52 yards in just three plays. The quarterback keeper from 37 yards out was the crushing blow for the Hornets. Beauregard seemed to have no chance to score again when their kickoff returner slipped down at his own four-yard line. Jones refused to go down without a fight, completing seven passes on the 96-yard drive that trimmed the deficit to 30-20 with under a minute to play.

“We played hard,” said a disappointed Coach Jones. At some point we just have to take the next step from playing hard to playing hard and executing at a really high level. That’s things that we have to grow and learn from as we approach next year. I’m proud of the group of kids that we’ve got.”

Beauregard finishes the season at 5-6, while Eufaula advances to the second round of the AHSAA playoffs to face a very strong Vigor squad.

Results were not available at press time.

OHS BASKETBALL

Opelika’s girls and boys basketball teams opened the season last week, splitting with Russell County at the Mainstreet Gym. The boys beat the Warriors while the Lady Bulldogs lost by 30 points.

BULLDOG BASEBALL

FIELD COMPLETED

Opelika’s Bulldog Park has new turf and lights and will have a new scoreboard in time for the upcoming season. Opelika

Mayor Gary Fuller continues to pour money into OCS athletic facilities.

Opelika’s softball team received upgrades on their home field at West Ridge, new turf fields, light and scoreboard. Opelika City Schools have yet to address the fact the OHS softball team does not have a locker room at West Ridge nor an indoor facility. Hopefully OCS Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore will see the need to have equal facilities for male and female sports.

D Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia and host of “On the Mark” on Fox Sports the Game 910-1319.

Register now for Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll

CONTRIBUTED BY

CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN — Registra-

tion is open for the 2024 Jingle Jog 5K and Santa Stroll Fun Run, which will be held in downtown Auburn on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Pull out those Santa hats and ugly sweaters and join Active Auburn at 6:30

a.m. to ring in the holiday season in style. The Santa Stroll Fun Run (one-mile) will begin at 6:30 a.m. and the Jingle Jog 5k will begin at 7 a.m., both starting at Toomer’s Corner. To

be guaranteed a T-shirt, participants must register by Thursday, Nov. 16. Fees are as follows:

Santa Stroll Fun Run

Registration deadline: Nov. 16

Registration fee: $20

• Late registration dates: Nov. 17-Dec. 3

• Late registration fee:

$25

• Day-of registration fee: $35

Jingle Jog 5k

• Registration deadline: Nov. 16

• Registration fee: $30

• Late registration dates: Nov. 17-Dec. 3

• Late registration fee: $35

• Day-of registration fee: $45

Jingle Jog is presented by Active Auburn, a health and wellness campaign launched by the City of Auburn in 2017. Follow Auburn Parks and Rec on Facebook and Instagram to find all Active Auburn events @COAParksAndRec.

Legend retiring from Auburn men’s basketball radio analyst position

CONTRIBUTED BY

AUBURN ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Legendary Auburn men’s basketball coach Sonny Smith is retiring from his duties as radio analyst for Auburn men’s basketball games. Smith has been providing commentary for Auburn men's basketball on the Auburn Sports Network since 2012.

“After years courtside as both a coach and a broadcaster, it is time to pass the mic and reflect,” Smith said. “That front row seat was more than a job; it was love for the game. As the color commentator, I had the privilege of bringing the game to life, going beyond the stats and scores by adding a little extra color to the game.”

Smith will be honored for his contributions prior to the Auburn men’s game on Dec. 8 at Neville Arena against Richmond. Smith served as Auburn's head coach from 1978-89, guiding the Tigers to five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 1984-88, the most consecutive in school history. In 1984, Smith directed Auburn to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance, led by future Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. The following season, Smith coached the Tigers to their first-ever SEC Tournament Championship in 1985, where they made it to the Sweet 16 round. A year later he led the Tigers to their first-ever Elite Eight appearance. Smith was named Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year

FALL

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in 1984 and 1988. The first Auburn coach to have three consecutive 20-win seasons (1984-86), his seven NCAA Tournament wins at Auburn are the most by any coach in program history.

Panthers win Auburn’s 2024 ‘Shugar’ Bowl

sponsorships will support scholarships for athletes in need of financial assistance for the 2025 football season.

The Auburn Youth Football Association hosted the 2024 Shugar Bowl on Nov. 9 at Duck Samford Football Stadium, and the Panthers team took home the trophy. The annual championship event, which began in 1974, celebrates the legacy of legendary Auburn University football coach Ralph “Shug” Jordan and brings together young athletes for a day of competition. Special thanks to Auburn High School Athletics for providing the facilities and staff. Thank you to this year’s championship team sponsors, including PT on the Plains, Himmelwright Huguley & Boles, Marble Wealth, Auburn Reprographics, The Orthopaedic Clinic and Marshall Design Build LLC. Proceeds from gate admissions and

AHS Band brings home more trophies from competition

Smiths Station hosts veterans breakfast

Opelika Chamber to host local middle-schoolers for National Civics Bee

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CHMABER OF COMMERCE

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber of Commerce will host the local round of the 2025 National Civics Bee, a nationwide competition to promote greater civic knowledge among middle school students.

The National Civics Bee encourages students in grades 6 to 8 to think critically about improving their communities through civic participation. To enter, students must submit a short essay proposing ideas to positively impact their communities.

Locally, the top 20 essayists will be invited to participate in the local Civics Bee competition hosted by the Opelika Chamber, where they’ll engage in rounds of civic-focused questions and a Q&A session. Winners will receive cash prizes of $500 for first place, $250 for second and $125 for third, and all finalists will receive a tablet to keep. The top three local winners will then advance to Alabama’s State Finals, where they’ll compete for a chance to represent the state at the national level in Washington, D.C., with the opportunity to win prizes totaling over $50,000 from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

“The Opelika Chamber is thrilled to bring a little civic spark to our corner of Alabama as one of just five regional hosts for the National Civics Bee,” said Joel Alvarado, director of Business & Workforce Development for the Opelika Chamber. “We’re not just aiming to boost civics knowledge for the next

social studies exam; we’re here to cultivate the next generation of engaged citizens who know their rights and are ready to flex their civic muscles. It’s about preparing our future leaders to not just learn about democracy, but to actively participate in shaping it.”

The essay submission period closes on Feb. 4, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET (10:59 p.m. CT). Students interested in participating can find entry details and submission guidelines on the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s website at https://civics.uschamberfoundation. org/ncb-how-it-works/. Entry is free and open to public, private, charter and homeschool students.

About the National Civics Bee

Organized by The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee® is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities. For more information visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org. The Chamber Foundation partners with chambers of commerce across the country to host local and state bees. Study guides, quizzes, and support materials are produced in collaboration with the Bill of Rights Institute a non-partisan, nonprofit educational organization that develops educational resources on American history and government. For more information, visit www.billofrightsinstitute.org.

The Auburn High School Marching Band had another great day of competition, this time at the Peach State Marching Festival in Rome, Georgia. The band performed their show, Dark Sails, and received all superior ratings, including top scores for drum major, percussion, color guard, majorettes and band. They placed second overall in open

competition (out of 5) and brought home awards for Best Drum Major and Best Majorettes.

Smiths Station High School celebrated military families with a Veterans Breakfast this week on campus. Students and their military family members enjoyed breakfast and a military trivia game during the event.

OPELIKA — The Fine Arts Department of Southern Union State Community College hosted students from The University of Alabama’s Blackburn Institute last Friday.

leadership development and civic engagement program specifically focused on improving the state of Alabama. The institute, through its work with students, alumni and advisory board members, develops a network of leaders who

state’s challenges.

Selected students participate in a one-year curriculum of activities and events, after which they continue their involvement for their remaining time at the university.

Dr. Trey Rayfield, director of

rector of dance at SUSCC hosted the group. The students were treated to a mini-concert by the SU Singers and Dancers and then toured the Fine Arts facilities of the College. Each year, participants in

Opelika High School Career Tech students earn skills

different part of the state, with an emphasis on rural Alabama towns.

The Blackburn Institute was founded in honor of Dr.

Blackburn, a longtime professor and student affairs administrator at the university.

More than 130 middle and high school girls and educators from 10 schools across Alabama came to the Auburn University campus on Nov. 1 for the fifth annual EmpowHER Conference, hosted by the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM) Outreach office. Participants rotated through hands-on activities during the STEM expo, interacting with animals, conducting scientific experiments and discovering various STEM degree opportunities at Auburn. Pictured above, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine allowed students to practice intubation on a mannequin. Pictured below, students from Sanford Middle School in Beauregard learn how to use pipets by completing pipet art. This skill is important in fields such as molecular biology.

BY SUSCC LEE

John L.

P U Z Z L E S , P U Z Z L E S & M O R E P U Z Z L E S — W W W . O P E L I K A O B S E R V E R . C O M

Food &E ntertainment Community Calender

Making the Grade Dadeville’s Grand Bakery

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

OPINION —

As I’ve mentioned before in this column, when I attended Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals), Dadeville High School was a big rival of ours. Alex City is in West Tallapoosa County, and Dadeville is in East Tallapoosa County. The Tallapoosa River Bridge separates the two cities. However, when I completed my teacher internship for my master’s degree from Auburn University at Dadeville High School in the spring of 1990, I fell in love with the school. My supervising teacher was Miss Annette Smith, who was a fellow BRHS graduate, and she was an amazing English teacher; I learned so much from her. Also, she, my students and the entire staff were so kind and welcoming to me.

Much later, my sweet mama Barbara Patton (and not the former mayor of Opelika) lived in an assisted living facility in Dadeville from 2018-2022. Mama loved the people in her new home, and so did I. Recently, I have found a new reason to love this East Tallapoosa town: The Grand Bakery at 114 N. Broadnax St., Suite 3 in downtown Dadeville.

The Grand Bakery opened in October 2023. It is owned by the mother/daughter duo of Pam Hendrix and Taylor Nobles, who live on Lake Martin, another beautiful part of Tallapoosa County. I loved the rustic, homey interior of The Grand Bakery. One wall was made of old brick, and the double barn doors, wooden tables and lounge chairs made

Mike and me feel right at home. Also, Taylor was so friendly and patient, answering all of my questions.

Mike ordered a vanilla cupcake and snicker doodle cookie to go. Unfortunately, Mike has a lot more will power than I do. I sat down and ate my sausage cheese muffin for lunch. It was fresh, warm and delicious. However, I did take their last cinnamon roll home for a snack.

Mike’s choices and my sausage cheese muffin were slap your grandma twice good. And my cinnamon roll? Absolutely amazing! It was slap your grandma three times good.

The Grand Bakery changes up its menu every month. When we went last month, the menu included items such as cinnamon rolls, muffins, scones, bread bars, parfaits, apple fritters and sausage cheese muffins. Plus cookies flavors: butter pecan, sugar, M&M, chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and maple pumpkin; cupcakes:

The Grand Bakery also takes custom orders for wedding cakes, birthday cakes and sugar cookies. In fact, I plan to order my birthday cake from them in December, the Good Lord willing. To Lynn Hudson, my amazing endocrinologist, I will try hard not to order anything from this wonderful bakery in the month of November.

Trust me, run and do not walk to The Grand Bakery in Dadeville. You’ll really be glad you did.

Mike and I may see you there after November.

The Grand Bakery is open on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; on Fridays from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

The Grand Bakery makes the grade with an A+ from this retired schoolteacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

chocolate, red velvet and pumpkin cream cheese; and things like cheesecake, cheesecake bars, pound cake, Coca-Cola cake and cookie sandwiches.

Stacey Patton Wallace, retired language arts teacher, is a professional diner. Stacey may be reached at retirelangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com.

Live the pumpkin spice life

AUBURN — Fall is the season of spices. People looking for a little extra warmth on a cool, fall day have several options to turn to. From lattes to baked goods and beyond, there are a lot of great uses for these spices.

“There are several spices that can add warmth and flavor to your seasonal cooking,” said Kylie Williams, an adult education graduate student and dietetic intern in the Auburn University College of Human Sciences. “Using spices is an easy and flavorful way to embrace the season, elevate your meals and pick up some extra health benefits along the way.”

Spice Up Your Health

Some spices commonly used in fall cuisine include allspice, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg. The latter four make up what some would call the super spice of the season: pumpkin spice.

Carol Connell, a human nutrition, diet and health specialist for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES), said these spices can offer some great health benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-in-

flammatory effects.

“Fall spices are wonderful flavor enhancers that do not contain sodium and sugar,” Connell said. “They can help people with high blood pressure or elevat

ed blood glucose reduce the sodium and sugar in their diet, all while keeping the bold flavors.”

For example, cinnamon, one of the most popular fall spices, has a warm, sweet flavor to accompany the health benefits it offers. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, studies where participants took daily cinnamon supplements have shown that it can lower blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. They also report that this spice may have benefits related to heart health, such as reducing high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

While these studies focused on highdose cinnamon supplements, there are still health benefits to incorporating everyday amounts of cinnamon and other spices into a diet. For example, these spices are great replacements for ingredients, such as salt and sugar. Decreasing the intake of salt and sugar can help people lower their blood pressure and blood

See SPICES, page B13

The Grand Bakery in Dadeville offers a variety of sweet treats, with a menu that changes monthly.

BY JUSTIN MILLER, ACES

BY SEAN DIETRICH

OPINION —

Iwas a kid. My father and I walked into the filling station. The bell above the door dinged.

Daddy was filthy from working under a car. He was always working under cars. He came from a generation of men who were born with Sears, Roebuck & Co. ratcheting wrenches in their hands. These were men who changed their own motor oil, who worked harder on off-days than they did on weekdays.

Old man Peavler stood behind the counter. He was built like a fireplug with ears. He, too, worked on cars all day. Except he did it for a living, so he hated it.

Daddy roamed the aisles looking for lunch among Mister Peavler’s fine curation of top-shelf junk food. In the

Sean of the South

background, a transistor radio played the poetry of Willie Hugh Nelson.

My father approached the ancient cooler, located beneath the Alberto Vargas calendar my mother warned me not to look at under threat of eternal hellfire.

The white words on the fire-engine-red cooler said DRINK COCA-COLA — ICE COLD. My father removed the sensuous hour-glass bottle, dripping with condensation. Then he grabbed a plastic sleeve of salt peanuts from the shelf.

We approached the counter.

“Howdy,” said old man Peavler. Only it came out more like “Haddy,” because that is how real people talk.

Old man Peaveler looked at our items, did some mental math, and told us how much we owed by rounding up to the nearest buck. The old man’s cash register hadn’t worked since Herbert Hoover was in the White House.

We exited the store and sat on the curb in the all-consuming sunlight. There, my father and I counted cars. For this is what people did before Olive Gardens and Best Buys ruled the world.

Daddy used his belt buckle

American way

to pop open his Coke. He used his teeth to tear open the pea-nuts. Then he carefully dumped the nuts into the mouth of the bottle.

He handed the bottle to me.

“Here,” he said. “This is something my daddy used to do. Try it.”

I tentatively took a sip. It was a peculiar flavor, Coke and peanuts. Salty. Sweet. Fizzy. With subtle roasted hints of Dothan, Alabama. I’ve been an advocate for mixing peanuts in Coke ever since.

Which is why when I was invited to give a presentation to Mrs. Welch’s eighth-grade English class, I knew exactly what I was going to present.

I arrived at the school late.

I jogged across the parking lot, carrying a box of 31 glass bottles of Coca-Cola with 31 sleeves of Planters peanuts.

I schlepped the heavy items into the school office and signed in.

The receptionist looked and me oddly and — this is a direct quote — she said, “You’re giving these kids caffeine?”

She had a point. Because eighth graders are an interesting lot. They aren’t children per se, and they aren’t adults.

A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland coming to Columbus

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

COLUMBUS, Georgia — A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland comes to Columbus on Wednesday, Dec. 11, with a performance 7:30 p.m. at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.

With all the heart-warming spirit of an Irish Christmas, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland offers up a night of thrilling music paired with jaw-dropping dance talent. This memorable blend of storytelling and Irish charm invites all ages to join in the spirit of “Nollaig Shona” (Happy Christmas).

For information and tickets, the public can visit ATasteofIrelandShow.com.

Featuring traditional high-energy Irish tunes, heartfelt ballads and favorite carols, A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland has toured to packed theaters around the world in a multidimensional show choreographed and produced by National Irish Dance Champion and Gaelforce Dance star Brent Pace, with Irish Dance World Champion and Lord of the Dance lead soloist Ceili Moore.

In A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland, audiences are immersed in the magnificence of Christmas in Ireland, transported to a land where energetic music and dance are the beating heart of the festive season. As lads croon their way along the cobblestone streets, filling the air with the rich sounds of Irish ballads, high-spirited lasses hit the floor with thunderous, powerful beats that resonate deep in the soul. Set against the enchanting backdrop of a snow-dusted Ireland, the show follows two star-crossed lovers, Oisín, a humble man from the rugged lands of Tyrone, and Ava, a spirited young woman from a wealthy family in Athenry, who find themselves drawn together under the mystical charm of the mistletoe. Their

whirlwind romance blossoms into love, and then face harsh trials. But all ends well during a lavish Christmas ball, where the lovers reunite in a dramatic reunion that captures the spirit of hope, resilience and enduring love in a moment of festive joy.

Headliners for this tour include Gavin Shevlin, the two-time World Champion Irish Dancer who has performed in Lord of the Dance and Riverdance and starred in A Taste of Ireland Off-Broadway, along with his twin sister Niamh Shevlin, Top 5 in the World Irish Dance Championships, who starred as lead dancer in Lord of the Dance, winner of the Donegal Rose. Also starring in this production is Julia O’Rourke, a fourtime World Champion who starred in the Irish dance film Jig; Master fiddler Megan McGinley, an Ulster Champion, All Ireland Finalist and Young Musician of the Year; Nicole Kelly, star of Lord of the Dance; Emily Grace, Top 5 World Championships; Hannah Cunniffe, World Medalist; Daniel McCormick, Top 5 World Championships; Thomas Doherty, star of Lord of the Dance; Ciaran Bagley, North American Champion and World Champion medalist; and Caleb Gringon World, All-Ireland, North American Nationals finalist. They join a cast of outstanding live musicians to perform in this rousing production. (Note: casting subject to change.)

Says Director and Producer Brent Pace, “For A Celtic Christmas we’ve curated a spectacular line-up, featuring unparalleled talents from around the globe. From world-class musicians to the most skilled Irish dancers of today, our stage is graced by the very best in the industry. Beyond the sheer technical brilliance that audiences love, what sets this show apart is the heart-warming spirit of the season that envelopes the entire production.”

They are life-sized puberty demonstrations.

Eighth-graders only think about one thing, and this “one thing” is immediately evident when you walk into their classroom, because the classroom is entirely illuminated by spontaneous electrical arcs of raw hormonal energy.

I enlisted two students named Ben and Amanda to distribute Cokes and peanuts. One diabetic young man received a Coke Zero.

I went through a brief introductory spiel, explaining the cultural practice of adding peanuts to Coke. It’s a regional thing. A cherished convention. A practice so emblematically American that it’s Rockwellian.

The tradition started in the early 1920s when shelled peanuts began showing up in mercantiles and general stores across the Bible Belt.

Blue-collar men, covered in grease, would dump peanuts into their Cokes to avoid eating with soiled hands. These men passed this habit onto their sons.

But this is where history gets sad.

Because my generation let the practice die. Most young people have never heard of

SPICES >> from B11

sugar, so fall spices are good for heart health and metabolic health in that regard.

Cooking with Spices

There are several ways people can use the six spices of fall. Each spice has a unique flavor profile, offering a great variety of options to use them in both sweet and savory dishes.

“Most people associate the fall spices with warm beverages or holiday desserts,” Connell said. “However, they can be used in a wide variety of foods, from vegetables such as acorn squash to proteins such as poultry, pork, beef and fish. For example, nutmeg and cinnamon are great on acorn squash that has been

adding peanuts to Coke, and that’s our fault. I have a hard time forgiving my peers for that. My grandfather’s generation gave us the radio, the airplane, the refrigerator, the Model T, the electric toaster, and victory over Hitler. My generation gave the world E! Entertainment television.

I aimed to even the score.

The students poured peanuts into their bottles. Messes were made. Bottles erupted on desks like Mount Saint Soft Drink. Everyone started to giggle. Then the class looked at me with hideously confused faces when I suggested they drink this concoction.

“Gross!” said one spokeskid.

“No way,” said another.

“Class,” Mrs. Welch reminded everyone, “Mister Dietrich has gone to a lot of trouble and spent his OWN MONEY on these Cokes.”

I sincerely appreciated her support, although I couldn’t help but notice that when I added peanuts to her personal soft drink, her face went pale, and she covered her mouth.

Still, the kids were good sports. They tried it. And here were the remarks I received:

“It was good,” said Mi-

brushed with orange juice and roasted. Also, ginger goes great with fish, beef and chicken.”

Williams and Connell offer the following suggested uses for each fall spice:

• Allspice has hints of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. It is commonly used for things like baked apples, pecan cookies, stews, curries and even meat rubs.

• Cardamom is a sweet, floral spice that has a peppery warmth. It is used in chai tea, muffins, cinnamon rolls, curries, rice and stews.

• Cinnamon has a warm, sweet flavor with a touch of spice. It pairs well with oatmeal, yogurt, coffee, tea, stews, roasts and curries.

• Cloves are strong, sweet and slightly bitter. People can use them in

chael.

“Salty and sugary,” said Blake. “All that carbonation. I’d do it again.”

“It was actually okay,” said Kera.

“Didn’t think I’d like it,” said Mark. “But it’s kinda the same idea as chocolate and peanut butter, only kinda not.”

“Honestly,” said Brady, “It made me feel like a really old fart inside.”

Everyone’s a wise crack. And then there was Deshawn. Ah, Deshawn.

“That was nasty,” Deshawn said between retching gags. “The worst stuff I ever…” Gag. “Can I be excused, Mrs. Welch…?” Gag. “I seriously feel like I’m gonna…” Gag. “…gonna puke all over Mr. Dietrich.” Gag.

So, all in all, it was a pretty good day. Which is why I went directly home and seriously considered changing my own motor oil. You were missed, Daddy.

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.

hot cider or coffee and in baked goods. Cloves also bring rich, aromatic flavor to roasted meats, stews and marinades.

• Ginger has a peppery, slightly sweet flavor. It is used in baking for items like gingerbread cookies and spice cakes and in savory dishes like stir-fries, soups and curries.

• Nutmeg is a versatile spice with a sweet, nutty flavor. People use it in apple or sweet potato casseroles, pumpkin pie, stews and roasted vegetables. From cozy breakfasts to hearty dinners, fall spices provide an easy and flavorful way to embrace the season and elevate your meals. For more great recipes using spices, visit ACES’ MyPlate Kitchen website at www.myplate. gov/myplate-kitchen. People can find this resource at www.aces.edu.

CANNED SOUPS & STEWS

MACARONI & CHEESE

DINNERS

CEREAL

RICE & PASTA

DID YOU KNOW? ONE IN FIVE MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY ARE FOOD INSECURE

NOW — TICKETS FOR HO HO HIKE

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Tickets are now on sale for the Ho Ho Ho Hike and Holiday Celebration, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. This event is for children ages 12 and under, who must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Children 23 months and younger are FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. Tickets are available at www.kpnc.auburn.edu/hohoho-hike. Please note that an adult ticket must be purchased first. Then, a free infant ticket and/or a child ticket may be added to the adult ticket transaction. Tickets are $15 per person plus online fees for participants 24 months (2 years) and older. Make sure to purchase tickets early — this event sells out fast! Co-hosted by the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center will transform into a Winter Wonderland full of nature-themed crafts, performances, cookies, hot chocolate and a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This event will also include the traditional HoHoHo Hike, a unique and fun “Santa-hunt” where you will hike the Preserve looking for the elusive visitor in red, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

NOV. 15 — FOOTBALL, FANS & FEATHERS

The Auburn University Raptor Center’s Football, Fans and Feathers offers fans the opportunity to see a raptor show where they will experience birds of prey eye-to-eye and watch as they swoop overhead. Shows are held at 4 p.m. on Fridays before Auburn home games. Tickets can be purchased in advance; there is no charge for children age three and under. The hour-long program is presented at the center’s the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater.

NOV. 15 — COME HOME TO THE CORNER

Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association for Come Home to the Corner every Friday night before a home football game. There will be live music from 6 to 9 p.m., extended shopping hours and more. Entertainment district from 5 to 10 p.m.

NOV. 16 — 18th ANNUAL HOLIDAY ART SALE

The Auburn Arts Association and Auburn Parks and Rec will host the 18th Annual Holiday Art Sale on Nov. 16. Get a head start on your Christmas shopping while meeting local and regional artists handmade works, including pottery, paintings, personalized items, photography, handmade soap, jewelry, gourmet food items, scarves, hats, candles and more. Admission is free and open to the public. Proceeds support the Auburn Arts Association and their many art education programs. Vendor applications are available online at https://auburnal.myrec.com/ info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=30729.

NOV. 27 — COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING LUNCH

A free Thanksgiving lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27, at Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika. Everyone is welcome.

NOV. 27 — VERY MERRY STROLL & TREE LIGHTING

Come to the back porch at the Opelika Public Library for Very Merry Stroll, a festive tree lighting event that showcases live trees beautifully decorated by local groups and businesses. Tree lighting promptly at 6 p.m. Arrive early for best parking. Following the tree lighting, the trees will remain lit each night from dusk until 9 p.m.

NOV. 28 — THANKSGIVING EXPERIENCE

Join the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa for a memorable Thanksgiving experience on Thursday, Nov. 28, where renowned chefs will prepare a sumptuous buffet featuring traditional favorites and seasonal specialties. Seatings are set for 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Cost is $79 per adult, $39 per child 6 to 12 years old. Children ages 5 and under eat free. Reservations accepted on Opentable.com or call (334) 737-2117.

DEC. 1 — DOWNTOWN AUBURN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Auburn’s downtown retailers will host a Holiday Open House with specials, sips and snacks on Sunday, Dec. 1. The Holiday Market, featuring local artisans, will be set up from 2 to 5 p.m. Enjoy free train rides and other fun children’s activities along with live music. The Auburn University Tree Lighting Ceremony will cap off the evening at 5 p.m.

DEC. 1 — SANTA AT O TOWN

Santa and Mrs. Claus will return to O Town, 700 2nd Avenue in Opelika, on Sunday, Dec.

1, from 4 to 6 p.m. Come and get ice cream, espresso drinks and cookies, and don’t forget to bring your camera.

DEC. 6, 13 & 20 — MRS. CLAUS STORIES & S’MORES

Enjoy a holiday story, crafts and treats on the three Fridays leading up to Christmas at Marriott Grand National Resort in Opelika. On Dec. 6, 13 & 20 from 5:15 to 6 p.m., Mrs. Claus will read stories aloud in the Lobby Lounge. After story time, enjoy s’mores on the lawn. This event is free and open to the public. Kids are welcome to wear their festive outfits or pajamas.

DEC. 6 — SNOPELIKA PARADE & TREE LIGHTING

Opelika’s SNOPELIKA Christmas Parade will take place in historic downtown Opelika on Friday, Dec. 6, starting at 5:30 p.m. At the conclusion of the parade, Opelika’s Courthouse Square will transform into a snowy winter wonderland, complete with Christmas music, snowball fights, food trucks, picture opportunities galore and a chance to visit with Santa Claus on the Courthouse steps. Lighting of the city’s 72-foot-tall Christmas tree will take place at 8:30 p.m.

DEC. 7 — 29TH ANNUAL COOKIE WALK

The 29th annual Cookie Walk fundraiser to support Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity is is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8 a.m. to noon at True Deliverance Holiness Church, located at 936 N. Donahue Dr. in Auburn. The WeHelp Coalition of Churches needs volunteers to lend their time and talents to bake and donate cookies and spread the word about the event. Then, on Dec. 7, come buy cookies for your holiday parties or as gifts for your friends, your relatives, your office and yourself! Cookies will be sold by the pound, and purchases will help build another Habitat Home in Lee County. More information is available on Facebook: Great Christmas Cookie Walk of Lee County, Alabama.

DEC. 7 — AUMC CHRISTMAS MARKET

Auburn United Methodist Church (137 South Gay St.) will host its annual Christmas Market on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free, and parking is available in the church lots on Magnolia and on Gay Streets. Shop local arts, crafts, baked goods and frozen soups and casseroles. For more than 50 years the United Women of Faith at AUMC have used all proceeds from the annual Christmas Market to support local area missions.

DEC. 7 — BLACKBELT TREASURES @ PEBBLE HILL

Join the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities and Black Belt Treasures Cultural Arts Center for a special holiday market — Blackbelt Treasures at Pebble Hill — on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn. Featured artists include Betty Anderson (Gee’s Bend dolls), Billy Baggett (metal sculptures), Duncan Black (pottery), Carole Bandy Carson (painting), Angela Fernandez (mixed media), Kristin Law (pottery and mixed media), Andrew McCall (vine baskets and barn wood art), Bud Rogers (woodcrafts), Laura Spencer (goat milk soap and natural skincare) and Elizabeth Taylor (jewelry). Plus, there will be homemade fudge and pecan snacks from Flying Bassett Farm.

DEC. 7 — BRUNCH WITH SANTA

Santa Claus is coming to the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa on Saturday, Dec. 7, for Brunch with Santa. Enjoy an omelet and waffle station, train rides on the North Pole Express and time with Santa and his elves. There will also be holiday arts & crafts and holiday themed movies playing. Seatings are available at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. The cost is $39 per adult, $24 for children ages 6 to 12 and free for children ages 5 and under. To reserve a seat, call (334) 7372117.

DEC. 8 — AUBURN CHRISTMAS PARADE

The Auburn Christmas Parade will step off on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. in downtown Auburn, hosted by the Downtown Merchants Association and sponsored by Thames Orthodontics. For more information, visit downtownauburnonline.com.

DEC. 10 — HOLIDAY CONCERT OF THE EAST ALABAMA CIVIC CHORALE

Date and time to be announced.

DEC. 13 through 17 — VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH CHRISTMAS

Life-sized Old World Santas and other Christmas displays will be featured on homes in the North Opelika Historic District on Eighth and Ninth Streets during the 31st Annual Victorian Front Porch Christmas, set for Dec. 13 to 17. The community event features entertainment, hot chocolate at nearby churches and neighbors strolling in period costumes.

THRU DEC. 14 — JURIED PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW

Auburn Arts Association presents the 2024 Juried Photography Show, on exhibit through Dec. 14, at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center in Auburn, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

DEC. 31 — NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH

Ring in the New Year at Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa’s spectacular New Year’s Eve party on Saturday, Dec. 31. Guests can enjoy a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, photo booth with festive décor, balloon drop and a midnight countdown complete with a champagne toast. Dance the night away as we welcome 2025. Several packages are available. Visit

Club News from around Lee County

Opelika Kiwanis Club

Auburn music student performs opening set at Rosanne Cash concert

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — It was a night to remember for Auburn University’s Anna Colson.

As the opening performer for Rosanne Cash on Friday, November 8, the 20-year-old commercial music student entertained the Woltosz Theatre audience with three original compositions while engaging patrons in light banter about her life and music.

This was a truly momentous opportunity for the talented young Tiger, who got to play on the same stage as a country music legend who is also one of her idols and artistic inspirations.

“[I] couldn’t be more honored to open for such a talented, strong and inspiring woman,” wrote Colson in an Instagram post about the evening’s performance.

Originally from Mont-

gomery, Alabama, Colson performs with a soulful voice, her songs infused with a singer/songwriter-feel. Her music is written to reach the audience’s emotions and help them relate to the messages she is trying to convey.

Her first single, “End of the Day,” is a fun, upbeat and catchy piece with lyrics that work their way into the listener’s head. Patrons can find this song, as well as Colson’s EP, I Should’ve Known, on almost any streaming platform.

To learn more about Colson and her music, visit her Instagram profile at @annacolsonmusic.

VFW POST 5404 COFFEE & CONVERSATION

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

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.

NAMI TO MEET NOV. 19

NAMI East Alabama will meet at 6 PM on Tuesday, October 19, 2024 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 East Glenn Ave. in Auburn. Mrs. Laura Cooper, Executive Director of the Lee County Youth Development Center and her staff willl present the services offered to young people served by the Center. There will also be a time for sharing. The public is invited. NAMI East Alabama will not meet in December.

MomCO MEETS TWICE MONTHLY

Auburn Opelika MomCo meets at Pepperell Baptist Church (2702 2nd Ave., Opelika) on the first and third Thursdays of each month. The group meets mornings at 9 a.m. and evenings at 5:30 p.m. Upcoming meeting dates: Nov. 21 and Dec. 5. Contact Rachel Elrod at (706) 244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner at (334) 745-3108 for more information.

The Opelika Kiwanis speaker last week was Gretchen VanValkenburg, center, executive director of Advancement and Community Relations for Southern Union State Community College. She is pictured with Todd Shacket, Kiwanian and President of Southern Union, left, and Opelika Kiwanis President Russell Jones, right.

The Richard Henry Lee Chapter of the Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) recognized veterans at its recent meeting. B.J. DeBardeleben with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System was the guest speaker.