The Observer 12-07-2023

IN THIS ISSUE BUSINESS NEWS A2 | SOCIETY A9 | OBITUARIES A13 | COMICS A15 SPORTS B1 | POLITICS B9 | PUBLIC NOTICES B12 | PUZZLES B15

See Christmas event photos inside

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 09 Opelika, Alabama Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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Opelika presents Christmas in a Railroad Town East Alabama's largest annual Christmas event is Friday, Dec. 8 OPELIKA — Christmas in a Railroad Town returns to Historic Downtown Opelika on Friday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m.

This annual event features many different holiday activities including crafts, pictures with Santa, a petting zoo, train rides, pony rides, Christmas movies in the square, live music and much more.

Downtown shops and businesses will be open late, providing a great opportunity to purchase gifts for family and friends. Downtown’s diverse array of dining options will also be open.

“Christmas In A Railroad Town is a holiday tradition in Opelika,” said Opelika Main Street Executive Director Melissa Mun-

ford-McCurdy. "This is a great opportunity to explore our beautiful downtown while enjoying a wide array of different holiday activities."

Admission to the event is free, but some activities might have small costs associated with them.

Parking in downtown Opelika is always free, with hundreds of spaces available.

This year's presenting sponsor of the event is D & J Enterprises.

Other sponsors include the city of Opelika, Auburn Opelika Tourism, Level One Bar & Lounge, T-Mobile, Harris Funeral Home, JLD Enterprises, Stone Martin Builders, Top Secret Tax, The Observer, The Orthopedic Clinic, iHeart Media and Extreme Power Sports.

PHOTO BY ROERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Christmas in a Railroad Town will offer a variety of holiday activities, all taking place in Historic Downtown Opelika.

ABOUT OPELIKA MAIN STREET: Founded in 1987, Opelika Main Street

has helped assist in the growth of historic downtown Opelika through facade grants, beauti-

fication projects, small business assistance efforts and various community events. Learn

more about Opelika Main Street by going to www.opelikamainstreet. org.

Miele Manufacturing to invest $657 million in Opelika

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — Miele Manufacturing Inc. is set to invest an estimated $657 million and create at least 837 full-time jobs in Opelika.

During Tuesday night’s Opelika City Council meeting, the council held a public hearing pertaining to a development agreement between the city of Opelika and Miele, a Delaware corporation.

According to the agreement, Miele

Manufacturing will be leasing warehouse and office spaces on Orr Avenue in Opelika and will construct and operate an appliance manufacturing facility in the Northeast Industrial Park, also in the city limits, which will require an estimated capital investment of $657 million in developing, constructing and equipping the project with additional capital investments in the future. The project consists collectively of the leasing of the warehouse and office space and the acquisition, construction and equipping

of the new facility. Miele estimates that it will initially employ at least 170 full-time employees in the city of Opelika, with the additional job creation in the future.

In consideration for the obligations of Miele under the agreement, the city agreed, among other things, to provide financial incentives to the company, described more particularly in the agreement, including, without limitation, cash incentives, job performance incentives, tax abatements and infrastructure improvements. The city

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agreed to design and construct a deceleration lane on Andrews Road to improve roadway traffic into the new facility. In addition, the city agreed to design and construct a new street to be named “Miele Drive” at the new facility site. The city agreed to waive all planning, construction and building permit fees related to the project. Also, the city agreed to reimburse the company up to $100,000 for water and wastewater (sewer) access and connection fees associated with the facility.

MIELE HISTORY

Miele was found in 1899 and is headquartered in Germany. The company introduced its Model A washing machine with a lid-mounted agitator in 1903, and its first model with an electric motor was sold in 1910. Over the next several decades the company continued to expand and improve its products, introducing coal and gas powered, large capacity machines designed laundry facilities in hotels, restaurants, hospitals and more and also include a spin dryer in 1925.

Washing machines,

vacuum cleaners and bicycles — both pedaled and motorized — dominated production for the next three decades.

Miele produced its first electric tumble clothes dryer in 1958 and dishwashers in 1963.

The 1970s brought new built in appliances such as ranges with oak fronts which could be stained in various shades and microwave ovens.

Computerized washing machines and dryers were brought to market in 1981, See MIELE, page A2

O O

A2 Dec. 7, 2023

Three women arrested by Auburn police make arrests for fraud, theft OPD for organized thefts CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

JOHNSON CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Auburn Police arrested Anthony Jamel Zikell Johnson, age 25, of Opelika on warrants charging him with trafficking in stolen identities, attempting to elude a police officer and possession of marijuana second degree.

The arrest stems from Auburn Police conducting a traffic stop on a vehicle for traffic violations near the intersection East Glenn Avenue and Dogwood Drive on Nov. 26. During the traffic stop, the driver and sole occupant, later identified as Johnson, fled from police driving toward the dead end of Dogwood Drive.

BODDEN

SLOANE

The vehicle exited the roadway and crashed into an embankment.

Johnson fled on foot and was apprehended a short time later by responding officers.

During the investigation, multiple items associated with identity theft and narcotics contraband were recovered from the vehicle.

Johnson was arrested and transported to the Lee County Jail to be held on a $34,000 bond.

On Nov. 2, Auburn Police received a report from a business involving multiple fraudulent transactions.

The fraudulent activity took place between Oct. 23 and Nov. 1, and multiple transactions were conducted in the Auburn area, as well as other locations outside of the Auburn police jurisdiction.

Police obtained arrest warrants, and Bodden and Sloane were located and arrested in obedience to the warrants on Nov. 30.

The two suspects were transported to the Lee County jail and each held on an $5,000 bond.

All defendants are considered innocent until convicted in a court of law.

AUBURN — Auburn Police arrested Luis Enrique Bodden, age 19, of Miami, Florida, and Leila Luz Sloane, age 20, of Tuskegee on felony warrants charging both with theft of property first degree.

MIELE >> FROM A1 and improved dishwashers and ovens with integrated microwaves finished out the '80s.

After the turn of the century Miele continued to update its appliances with new technologies, added products such as cleaning supplies and fully automatic countertop coffee makers to its inventory and introduced its first steam ironing system with an 'active' ironing table. The patented 1-2-lift system, which allows the ironing table to folds away effortlessly has many Mieleexclusive features. The company also added a robot vacuum cleaner.

The company offers a wide array of appliances equipped with some of the newest technology available.

The company announced its decision to expand its production to the American continent in a press release dated March 29, 2023.

According to the release, the company said that there

and steam-cooking appliances, refrigeration products, coffee makers, dishwashers and laundry and floor care products.

Their product portfolio also includes dishwashers, washing machines and tumble dryers for commercial use as well as washer-disinfectors and sterilizers for use in medical and laboratory applications. Founded in 1899, the company has eight production plants in Germany, one each in Austria, the Czech Republic, China, Romania and Poland, as well as two production plants belonging to its Italian medical technology subsidiary Steelco. Miele is represented with its own sales subsidiaries and via importers in almost 100 countries and regions.

Throughout the world, the family-run enterprise, now in its fourth generation, employs a workforce of around 22,300. The company has its headquarters in Gütersloh in Westphal.

The USA headquarters is located in Princeton, New Jersey.

ABOUT MIELE About Miele Miele is the world's leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances including cooking, baking

OPD seeks info in cold case CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA – On Sept. 12, 2009, Opelika Police responded to the 1300 Block of South Long Street in reference to a body that was located along the roadway. Upon arrival officers located a black male, later identified as 18-year-old Martez Latrell White, laying in a shallow ditch with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. It appeared that White had been there for several hours. A medical exam was performed on Sept.

14, 2009, which noted the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the

chest and the manner homicide.

During the initial investigation it was determined that White was last seen on the evening of Sept. 11, 2009. He was wearing a green, yellow and red striped shirt, blue jeans and white tennis shoes.

“Our hope is that new information will come out that will help detectives be able to solve this case,” said White’s mother, Stephanie Dawson.

“It’s been 14 years of not knowing and his daughter and son growing up without their father. We hope the community comes forward with information so we can get

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justice for Martez.”

If you have any information regarding the murder of Martez Latrell White, please contact the Opelika Police Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 7458665. Tips can be submitted through our Opelika Police Mobile App. You may wish to remain anonymous.

Tips can also be forwarded through Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at (334) 215-STOP(7867), toll-free at 1-833-AL1STOP, or via their Facebook page: www.

Facebook.com/215stop or their website: www.215STOP.com.

Opelika Police are requesting the public's help to solve the 2009 murder of Martez Latrell White, pictured at left.

If you have any information, contact the Opelika Police Detective Division at (334) 705-5220.

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were charged with Organized Retail Theft.

High was also charged with Felony Attempting to Elude.

Upon further investigation, High, Pettus and McGhee were identified as the suspects in the Ulta theft.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending.

If you have any information on this case, please contact the Opelika Police Department Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 7458665. Tips can be submitted through our Opelika Police Mobile App. You may wish to remain anonymous.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

are several good reasons behind the decision to produce in the US. "Even today, the United States represents Miele’s biggest market outside Germany, with considerable growth rates recently but still plenty of potential", said Dr. Axel Kniehl, executive director marketing and sales with the Miele Group.

The release also says that manufacturing locally is a logical step and dispenses with the need to ship appliances across the Atlantic.

"This reduces delivery times from currently up to 10 weeks to only a few days, whilst at the same time protecting the environment", said Dr. Stefan Breit, executive director technology.

In order to further reduce CO2 emissions, the majority of supplier parts will also come from the USA.

OPELIKA — On Nov. 17, the Opelika Police Department began investigating a Theft of Property, First Degree, which occurred at Ulta, located at 2690 Enterprise Drive. Surveillance video shows the suspects, all black females, take miscellaneous cosmetic items before leaving the store in a White Chevrolet Tahoe. On 11/20/2023 and approximately 5:26 p.m., officers responded to Dick’s Sporting Goods, located at 2718 Enterprise Drive, in reference to a shoplifting complaint. The manager provided a vehicle description, a

red Nissan Altima, and while searching the immediate area, officers were made aware of a shoplifting in progress at Best Buy, located at 2147 Tiger Town Parkway. While officers were responding to Best Buy, additional officers were able to locate the suspect vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop.

The vehicle attempted to flee and after a short pursuit, the suspects were taken into custody.

The suspects, 28-year-old Chelsie Ann High, 31-year-old Tandreka Rache Pettus and 27- year-old Dominique Shaqur McGhee, all from Montgomery,

LIVE LEE EDITOR | Hannah Goldfinger PHONE: 334-749-8003 Editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

MARKETING | Woody Ross

PUBLISHER | Michelle Key

SPORTS WRITER | D. Mark Mitchell

MANAGING EDITOR | Anita Stiefel

VIDEOGRAPHER | Samantha Sweatman

PHOTOJOURNALIST | Robert Noles

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

A3 Dec. 7, 2023

Auburn officers promoted to rank of detective AUBURN — The Auburn Police Department announced the recent promotions of officers Taylor Clark and Rhett LaPorte to the rank of detective.

Clark was hired as a police officer with the Auburn Police Department in June 2020 and was previously employed by the Montgomery Police Department from 2018-2020. He is currently studying criminal justice with a minor in homeland security at Troy University.

He has served in the Air Force Reserve for eight years as a combat arms instructor.

He has received numerous

military awards and has advanced training in conflict resolution, combat operations, urban warfare, counterterrorism, advanced active shooter response, community policing and police tactics.

LaPorte was hired as a police officer with the Auburn Police Department in November 2018. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management from Auburn University in 2015.

He has served as an evidence recovery technician, field training officer, certified member of the APD Motor Unit and traffic homicide investigator. He and his wife of five years, Pia, have a four-year-old daughter.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

DET. TAYLOR CLARK

DET. RHETT LAPORTE

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Police Department (OPD) has named Yarbi Cound as its new social work coordinator.

Cound has more than 23 years of experience, having previously worked as a juvenile probation officer with Lee County Family Court, as a legal advocate and education specialist for the Domestic

Violence Intervention Center and as a resource worker for Chambers County Department of Human Resources (DHR).

A majority of her career was with Lee County DHR serving as a child abuse and neglect investigator, quality assurance coordinator and adult protective services resource supervisor.

“Yarbi brings a

tremendous amount of knowledge and resources to this new program,” said Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey. “With the increase of calls related to social services, we hope her role will allow us to better serve our citizens by connecting them with services that can truly help them.”

Cound’s role will focus on assisting citizens who are in crisis

that may not require law enforcement, connecting the community with resources and following up to ensure they are receiving the appropriate services.

Cound is originally from Thomasville, Alabama, and is a 1995 graduate of Auburn University with a B.A. in criminology. She lives in Auburn and has two adult daughters, Ally and Molly.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Yarbi Cound joins Opelika PD as social work coordinator

YARBI COUND

Opelika GIS officer receives statewide award OPELIKA — City of Opelika Geographic Information Officer James Bush recently won a Special Achievement in GIS Award at the 2023 GIS of Alabama Conference Digital Showcase for his work on the Opelika Historic Tour Story Map. Bush was recognized by the Alabama Geographic Information Office (AGIO) for demonstrating commitment to working in the Alabama GIS community, while performing important, often pioneering work, to create an outstanding GIS resource.

“I am extremely proud of James for his commitment to exploring GIS and making Opelika a better community,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

“This particular project is a great way to show citizens and visitors alike important historical markers throughout the city. We are lucky to have James on our team.”

Bush’s project can be found at www. opelika-al.gov/historictourmap.

“The work James and his team are doing is important in that it helps our city planners for the work we are doing to-

day, as well as prepares us for future developments in Opelika,” said Stephen Dawe, chief technology officer for the city of Opelika. “It gives us the information we need to track assets, determine equity and evaluation development needs.”

The AGIO coordinates with the statewide geospatial community to provide a collaborative environment for geographic information as a strategic resource for the state of Alabama.

To learn more, visit www.opelika-al.gov/ CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=945.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Special Achievement Award recognizes GIS Officer James Bush's work on the Opelika Historic Tour Story Map.

A4 Dec. 7, 2023

Lights! Music! Snow! Santa!

Scenes from SNOPELIKA 2023

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

A5 Dec. 7, 2023

Western's art on display at Museum of East Ala. OPELIKA — Whether painting an old-world style masterpiece, a portrait or local scenes, artist Elaine Western of Opelika has a passion for creating stunning oil paintings. An exhibit of her portraits and landmarks are currently on display at the Museum of East Alabama. At “Christmas in a Railroad Town” on Dec. 8 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the artist will be at the museum to discuss her paintings and listen to visitors’ memories of landmarks in the exhibit, as well as “Pepperell Memories” on permanent display at the museum.

In Elaine’s career, her works have ranged from magazine illustrations, portraits and commissioned canvases to large public murals and stage sets. She has won many awards in this country and the Middle East, including “Best of Show” and “People’s Choice.” Elaine is a member of the Portrait Society of America.

Recently, she received awards in a Columbus Artists’ Guild exhibition for an oil portrait of her twin granddaughters and for a

painting of Dutch tulips.

She has exhibited a series of large oil paintings of horses using experimental painting techniques.

Elaine’s interest and love of art began at an early age.

She spent many childhood days looking at art books, dreaming of one day being able to paint in the style of the masters, she said.

“I would sit and look at books and encyclopedias with art from Europe,” Elaine said. “I was fascinated by the paintings in the encyclopedia. I just wanted to paint. We didn’t have art classes at my high school, but I just did it on my own until I found the perfect class.”

Elaine’s training began at age 14 when she took an art correspondence course. Her family had moved from her birthplace in Illinois to Alabama. She became inspired by the southern landscapes, as well as old master paintings she saw in books.

After Elaine and her husband, John, who grew up in Alabama, married, they lived in Opelika while he attended Auburn University. During John’s military career and corporate career, the couple lived in various places

across the country, Hawaii and Saudi Arabia.

When they were living in Hawaii, Elaine became more involved in her art.

While she was painting island scenes on canvas, she began working with discarded helicopter blades. She painted the blades with landscapes or helicopters and sold them to the officers’ club and at art shows. One blade painted with helicopters was presented to a bank at Pearl Harbor.

After taking workshops and college classes, Elaine had been following artist Johnnie Liliedahl, who was interested in old-world masters and opened a school teaching classic oil painting in Houston, Texas.

While they were living in Houston, Elaine attended her classes and learned the techniques that had been her dream since childhood.

She was also painting portraits, teaching children and giving workshops for adults.

At the classical painting classes, she learned the techniques of Da Vinci, Rembrandt and Vermeer under a master painter and focused on still life and figurative painting.

In 2007, John had an

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY ELAINE WESTERN

BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

Works by award-winning artist Elaine Western of Opelika are on display at the Museum of East Alabama.

offer to go to Saudi Arabia.

“I decided I was ready for an adventure, and we could travel in Europe

while we were there,” Elaine said.

Elaine said they enjoyed traveling to Paris, Florence

and in Pisa, Italy, where John's father was born.

See WESTERN, page A7

'Elf the Musical' on stage at the Springer Theatre CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

COLUMBUS, GA. — The Springer Theatre presents "Elf the Musical," the jubilant stage adaptation of the holiday-favorite film, featuring all the iconic moments and catchy tunes that make the story a timeless Christmas classic. With a talented cast, imaginative set design and catchy musical numbers, this production is set to usher in the holiday spirit for audiences of all ages.

"Elf the Musical is the perfect Christmas play in so many ways," said Keith McCoy, artistic director for the Springer, who also directed and choreographed the show. "It's not just a play, it's a celebration of the season. From the set deco-

rations to the costumes and the music, the joy of Christmas is in every scene. It's impossible to watch Buddy the Elf interact with the characters onstage and not feel the magic and joy of the holidays."

"Elf the Musical" brings to life the hilarious and heartwarming tale of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who sets out on a quest to find his true identity and discover the meaning of Christmas.

Along the way, Buddy makes friends, finds love and discovers he's more than he ever imagined he could be.

Featuring a talented cast of seasoned performers, "Elf the Musical" promises a night of entertainment that

will have the whole family singing, dancing and believing in the magic of Christmas.

Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 8 and 9, Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 14 through 16, and Thursday and Friday, Dec. 21and 22.

Matinee performances are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 9 and 10 and Dec.16 and 17, and on Saturday, Dec. 23. Admission ranges in price from $18 to $53, with discounts for veterans and seniors. Tickets are available by calling the box office at (706) 327-3688, by visiting the website www. springeroperahouse.org or by picking up in person at 103 10th St. in Columbus.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

A6 Dec. 7, 2023

Auburn celebrates holiday season with Christmas parade

PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS | THE OBSERVER

The city of Auburn hosted the annual Christmas parade Sunday, Dec. 3.

A7 Dec. 7, 2023

Sledge uniform, WWII artifacts on display at VRC AUBURN — Auburn University’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC) unveiled a new display featuring a World War II dress uniform worn by late Auburn alumnus and United States Marine Corps veteran Eugene B. Sledge.

Sledge, a Mobile native, was a U.S. Marine whose 1981 memoir “With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa” chronicled his World War II combat experiences in the Pacific theater and was used as source material for the 2010 HBO miniseries “The Pacific.”

After the war, Sledge attended Auburn — then known as Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API) — where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

The display includes one of Sledge’s full dress uniforms, several medals, a canteen, shovel, copy of his book and his mortar sight carrying case, among other items. The Sledge family began donating relics from his days in the service to Auburn more than 20 years ago.

The items were kept in the Special Collections and Archives at the Ralph Brown Draughon Library. The Eugene B. Sledge Papers are held in

WESTERN >> FROM A5 She continued to teach art and host shows to display her work.

In Saudi Arabia, Elaine assisted in displaying art for shows. After being featured in a solo exhibit in Saudi Arabia, she was asked to serve as a judge in a competition. While living there, her portrait clients included the king of Saudi Arabia.

When John retired, they had been living in Saudi Arabia for six years.

“We considered moving to Italy, but of all the places we have lived and places we toured in Europe, we love this area,” she said.

the Special Collections and Archives and contain material from all aspects of his life, service, career and family.

“I’m just honored to see my father’s legacy perpetuated like this, and this is a wonderful tribute,” said Henry Sledge, Eugene’s son and an Auburn alumnus.

“Things like this don’t just happen overnight, and I’m hugely grateful to everyone who worked to make this possible.”

Henry Sledge spoke of his father’s affinity for his alma mater and is pleased the university will continue to honor his service and connections to the landgrant institution.

“He loved Auburn University,” Sledge said.

“I went here, and so did my brother and mother.

People here at Auburn made this happen, and that shows the legitimacy of my father’s legacy and his reputation.”

Known as “Sledgehammer,” Eugene Sledge earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from API in 1949. He returned to the Plains in 1953, working as a research assistant until 1955, when he graduated from API with a Master of Science in botany.

He earned a doctorate in biology from the University of Florida

in 1960 and taught the subject at the University of Montevallo from 1962 to 1990. He passed away in 2001 at the age of 77.

The project was the brainchild of Marine Corps veteran and current Auburn student Clay Buchanan, who worked with individuals from Special Collections & Archives, the VRC, ASVA, Auburn University Student Affairs, Auburn University Facilities, the Alabama Marines Foundation, the Marine Corps League and the city of Auburn to bring the display to life.

“When I realized the collection included a dress blue uniform, I felt it deserved to be in a displayed area because it represents what we are doing here at the Veterans Resource Center and the Auburn Student Veterans Association,” said Buchanan, a business and professional flight double major. “I couldn’t think of a better way to show that, and I’d like to thank everybody who helped me make this happen.”

The display resides in the VRC conference room in Foy Hall on campus.

“The Eugene Sledge display at the Auburn Veterans Resource Center showcases the

They had continued to visit Opelika and Auburn when John was stationed in Fort Benning, as well as returning to visit their son when he attended Auburn.

Since living in Opelika, Elaine has painted a portrait of Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, which was unveiled on his birthday.

When painting portraits, she prefers to work with photos, but the person can also sit for the painting. For a family portrait, she lets each member of the family submit a photo they like or she will take one. She assembles all of the photos together for a family portrait. She can change the background and also paint clients in different clothes from the

photo.

Elaine said she also enjoys teaching classes.

“I love to prove people wrong when they say they don’t have any artistic talent,” she said.

She has been giving classes locally and will teach a landscape class at the Jan Dempsey Art Center in Auburn in January.

“My artistic style is different from what was being taught in the 60s when I grew up,” she said. “Almost every artistic influence in that era came from the modern art movement. I was destined to paint in a different way.

“As a child, I looked at books and paintings from centuries ago that touched me deeply. They

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Uniform from former Marine Eugene B. Sledge is on display.

journey from military service to academic success, offering a relatable and motivating example for our student veterans,” said Curtis Pippin, program coordinator for the

Auburn VRC. “As both an Auburn alumnus and a military hero, Sledge’s story connects deeply with our community, highlighting the diverse experiences and strengths that veterans bring to

our campus. This display celebrates his legacy and underscores Auburn’s dedication to supporting the unique paths of its veteran students as they transition into university life.”

had subjects I could identify but with a sense of mystery. Paintings by Vermeer and Rembrandt held me spellbound.

“Some of these old master methods had been lost over the centuries and during the Industrial Age. I found a teacher who was working with scientists as they studied famous paintings with x-rays to rediscover the secrets that were lost.”

Her current focus is on narrative paintings, which is storytelling in art. She includes symbols or metaphors in some paintings to convey a message of hope, she said.

“I always strive to achieve a realistic look,”

Elaine said. “In my work, I hope to transport the viewer with me to a magical place.”

The artist’s paintings are in public and private collections in the Netherlands, the Dominican Republic, the Middle East and across The United States, including Hawaii and Alaska.

At the museum exhibit, Elaine’s original paintings and prints will be available including prints of “Pepperell Memories” at the museum. Paintings of local landmarks include Auburn’s Toomer’s Corner and Lee County Courthouse.

“Besides this being a

solo show, I want it to be about memories of the landmarks from those attending the exhibit,” she said. “On Dec. 8, I will be there to listen to heartfelt stories. I learned so much while painting ‘Pepperell Memories’, and hope to hear more from those who grew up in the village. I would also like suggestions of other iconic landmarks and people to paint in the region of East Alabama and Georgia.”

The Museum of East Alabama is located at 121 South 9th Street in downtown Opelika. The museum is closed Sundays and Mondays.

John Rice The Rice School of Real Estate begins new session on January 9, 2024.

Call Rebecca to schedule.

334-705-0800

A8 Dec. 7, 2023

East Ala. Civic Chorale presents Christmas concert Dec. 12 PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The East Alabama Civic Chorale, sponsored by the East Alabama Arts Association, will present its annual Christmas concert Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of Auburn First Baptist Church.

According to Musical Director Dale Peterson, the

performance is divided into three sections. Section one of the concert includes Christmas music of the classical tradition: choruses by Vivaldi, Handel, Mendelssohn and Rutter. The middle section includes titles in the popular tradition: “Do You Hear What I Hear,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Fum, Fum, Fum” and “Believe” (from the movie

Polar Express). The final section is comprised of arrangements of the well-known carols “Little Town of Bethlehem,” “Silent Night” and “The First Noel.”

The concert concludes with Handel’s famous “Hallelujah” chorus from Messiah.

Brad White serves as the chorale’s assistant conductor and Liza Weisbrod is collabo-

rative pianist. In addition, the concert will be accompanied by a chamber ensemble of strings and winds. Tyra Crowe is organist.

The community is invited to attend the concert, which is free, however donations will be accepted. Proceeds will be divided between the Civic Chorale (paying for the expenses of the

concert) and the East Alabama Food Bank.

“We support and believe strongly in the arts in our community,” Peterson said. “At this time of year, we are also reminded and believe strongly in helping those in our community who are less fortunate. So, we are glad that we can share our donations with the food bank.”

HOLIDAY CALENDAR CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN Christmas in a Railroad Town is Friday, Dec. 8, from 6 to 9 p.m. in Downtown Opelika, featuring ctivities for children and children at heart, including a mini train, pony rides, large and small animal petting zoos, wagon rides, trolley rides and latenight shopping and dining.

HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET Join 24 local artists for a night of local art, music and fun at the Holiday Night Market in Opelika on Friday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the upper level of the rail yard (next to John Emerald Distilling).

MIDTOWN AUBURN HOLIDAY MARKET The Third Annual Midtown Auburn Holiday Market will be held Friday, Dec. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. at 1188 Opelika Rd. A MARTHA’S TROUBLE CHRISTMAS Martha's Trouble will perform Christmas tunes at The Sound Wall, located at 605 Avenue B in Opelika on Friday, Dec. 8.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is $25. BYOB. VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH CHRISTMAS TOUR Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tours will be held in Opelika’s Historic District along 8th and 9th streets Dec. 8 through 12.

Sixty Victorian and historic homes are transformed into colorful, nostalgic reminders of Christmas from a simpler, slower-paced era.

MOT CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY Mount of Transfiguration Men Ministry is giving out food and toys to the community of Lee County to bring more joy to the residents during this holiday season on Dec. 9 from noon to 1 p.m The event will be held at 3125 Wyndham Industrial Drive in Opelika.

HOLLY JOLLY DROP & SHOP Auburn Parks and Recreation present the first Holly Jolly Drop & Shop on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Frank Brown Recreation Center. Children ages 5-12 are invited to participate in holiday crafts, write letters to Santa, enjoy snacks and watch the PG-rated movie "Jingle All the Way" giving parents time for holiday shopping. The event is free, but pre-registration is required at auburnalabama.org/parks/register. Space is limited.

GINGERBREAD VILLAGE @ RANE CENTER The Gingerbread Village is on display at Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center through the end of the year. Santa will be onsite at the Gingerbread Village from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on three Saturdays throughout the holiday season, ready to listen to wish lists and pose for photos. The dates are Dec. 9, Dec. 16 and Dec. 23.

SHELIA JACKSON & FRIENDS CONCERT East Alabama Arts presents Shelia Jackson & Friends in concert on Friday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of Opelika High School. Tickets

are available at www.tix.com.

AUBURN TOYS FOR TOTS RACES This year's Auburn Toys for Tots 10k, 5k and one-mile races will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School. All participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be distributed to children in need. The one-mile race will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5k and 10k races at 8:30 a.m. Cost to pre-register is $35 for the 10K, $25 for the 5K and $15 for the 1-mile fun run through the website runsignup.com/Race/Info/ AL/Auburn/AuburnToysforTots10k5k1mileAORTA. Race Day registration fees are $55 for the 10k, $40 for the 5k and $25 for the one-mile race.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA & RUDOLPH The Oaks Farm will host Breakfast with Santa and Rudolph on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. There will be small crafts for the children to enjoy while they visit with Santa. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children and free for ages 2 and under.

Price includes a breakfast buffet, beverages and a photo with Santa. Tickets will be available at the door and may be purchased by cash, check or credit card. RSVP at www.theoaksfarm.net/ event-details/breakfast-with-santa-2/form. The Oaks is located at 18221 Veterans Memorial Parkway in LaFayette.

BRUNCH WITH SANTA Enjoy brunch with Santa at the Auburn Marriott Opelika at Grand National on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature Christmas crafts, train rides on the North Pole Express and time with Santa and his elves.

HOLIDAY TEA @ 1856 – CULINARY RESIDENCE On Sundays, Dec. 10 and 17, celebrate the holidays with a Holiday Tea at 1856 – Culinary Residence from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will feature a mixture of assorted patisseries, a selection of specialty teas and wine and champagne selections, as well as a Teddy Bear Tea menu specially made for children. Reservations required.

THE NUTCRACKER The classic holiday ballet The Nutcracker will be presented Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10, at Woltosz Theatre at the Gouge Performing Arts Center at Auburn University.

Performances are set for Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available at the box office and online at gougecenter.evenue.net.

SANTA CLAUS AT HEY DAY MARKET Santa will Join Hey Day Market in their holiday festivities with a visit from Santa Claus! Bring your cameras and Christmas cheer to meet the big man in red from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9. Can't make it this time? No worries! Santa Claus will be back at the Hey Day Market from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 16 and again on Dec. 23.

ICE SKATING Located on the Hey Day Market greenspace, the ice-skating rink

is open daily from noon until 8:30 p.m. through Jan. 15, 2024.

The cost, which includes skate rental and one hour of skate time, is $13 for children ages 12 & under and $20 for adults.

DAILY “SNOWFALL” Enjoy a touch of winter wonder every evening at 5 p.m., with “snowfall” at Auburn’s Hey Day Market.

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS @ ROCKY TOP FARM The Farm at Rocky Top hosts Country Christmas each weekend through Dec. 17. The farm, located at 2910 Lee Road 145 in Salem, will feature Santa Claus Corner, a reindeer food-making station, a snow castle, Christmas tree picking, train rides and more. Admission is $12 for ages two and up and $7 for ages 65 and up. Dates and times are Fridays, Dec. 8 & 15, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Dec. 9 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays, Dec. 10 & 17, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SOUND WALL CHRISTMAS SUPPER CLUB The Sound Wall Christmas Supper Club is a reservation-only event featuring Chef Chris Wilton’s fan favorite Beef Wellington with an exquisite four-course chef’s menu on Sunday, Dec. 10, and Monday, Dec. 11. Expect next-level, delicious food. This is a bring-your-own beverage event. Tickets are $75 and are available at theswmi.org. The venue is located at 605 Avenue B in Opelika. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and supper is at 7 p.m. each night. BYOB. FEAST OF THE SEVEN FISHES On Wednesday, Dec. 13, join The Hound and The Depot for the Sixth Annual Feast of the Seven Fishes, a traditional Italian celebration of Christmas Eve with fish and seafood. A sevencourse meal and five drink pairings will be planned and prepared

by Chef Robbie Nicolaisen of The Hound and Chef Scott Simpson of The Depot. Limited number of tickets available for $200, which includes tax and gratuity. The event will be held at 124 Mitcham Ave. in Auburn. Cocktail Hour will be held from 5 to 6 p.m., followed by dinner from 6 to 9 p.m. This event will be community seating. Please advise if there are friends coming with which you would like to be seated by leaving their name(s) in the comment box when purchasing your tickets at https:// www.allaboardauburn.com. Please note: Due to the nature of the event, changes to the dishes to accommodate allergies and/or dietary restrictions are not available.

ROCKY BROOK ROCKET REINDEER EXPRESS The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department will host the Rocky Brook Reindeer Express Dec. 14-16 in Monkey Park.

Train rides will be $2 per person, cash only, and will take you through stunning Christmas scenes with thousands of lights sure to put you in the Holiday mood.

COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES Collinwood Luminaries is a neighborhood event off 10th Street in Opelika with live characters and animals and a live nativity.

See CALENDAR, page A9

E vents,Food & SocietyNews

UPCOMING EVENTS DEC. 1-23 | "ELF: THE MUSICAL" DEC. 8 | CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN DEC. 8 | HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET DEC. 8-12 | VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH TOUR DEC. 9, 16, & 23 | GINGERBREAD VILLAGE DEC. 14-16 | REINDEER EXPRESS DEC. 15 | COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES

Southern Hospitality

Densons celebrate with family in historic district

A

s residents in the Northside Historic District get ready for the Victorian Front Porch Tour, Tiffany and Rush Denson begin decorating their 1913 home that has remained in the family over the years.

Their three children are the fifth generation to live in the historic house. This year’s porch tour begins Friday, Dec. 8, and goes through Tuesday, Dec. 12, with the walking tour on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., featuring carolers throughout the neighborhood.

While Rush grew up in the house, Tiffany is from Clearwater, Florida.

They met while attending Auburn University. The Densons were living in Birmingham when they moved back to Opelika in 2015.

Rush’s parents, Rose Ann and Judge John V. Denson, who were living in the house, were ready to downsize in 2018. The spacious home was perfect for Tiffany, Rush and their children, Rush Jr. who has since graduated from Auburn University and lives in Nashville, Tennessee; Quinn, 19 years old and a freshman at Auburn and nine-year-old Sadie.

Rush’s parents moved a couple of blocks down the street, while Tiffany’s parents, Patti and Maxie Quinn, moved from Clearwater to the historic district. “We have two

CALENDAR >> FROM A8 Drive through the neighborhood beginning on Friday, Dec. 15, from 5 to 9 p.m. nightly.

HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS MARKET Santa will be at the Camp Hill Hometown Christmas Market, to be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec 16.

Located at Mount Lovely Baptist Church, 21900 Sen. Claude Pepper Drive (Hwy 50) Camp Hill 36850. Winter produce, homemade art, crafts. Hot cocoa for the kids. Several hot food vendors. No vendor fees. Call or text 334-332-5970 to be a vendor (home grown, home made only). Live music.

The town Christmas parade follows at 3 p.m. down Main Street.

MARRIAGE CHRISTMAS BALL Covenant Relationship Ministries will present the 11th annual Marriage Christmas Ball on Saturday, Dec. 16, at

years it was a Santa and sleigh.

On Friday night, Dec. 8, which is also Christmas in a Railroad Town, the neighborhood gets together for a party to kick off the tour. During the walking tour, Tiffany and Rush host a party for family and friends. Tiffany is sharing recipes for the assorted hors d’ oeuvres that will be served.

“To me, the porch tour is one of the highlights of Opelika, and it is a special few days,” Tiffany said.

On Christmas Eve, the Densons will go to church and then have Tiffany’s parents for dinner. Rush’s parents attend when they are in town. Tiffany will serve Perfect Cooked CastIron Skillet Steak, Potatoes Au Gratin (their sons’ favorite), a large salad, rolls and Best Buttermilk Pie with Raspberries and Mint.

After dinner, they open packages of special pajamas.

On Christmas morning, the family gets up early, and the grandparents come over to open gifts and have brunch. Tiffany will serve an egg casserole, White Cheddar Grits, ham, cinnamon rolls, Crème Brulee French Toast that her mother brings and a big bowl of old-fashioned southern ambrosia that is a tradition from her mother’s family. Bourbon Milk Punch is served, which has been a family favorite since Mary and Yetta Samford Jr. served it on holiday mornings.

On Christmas evening, they have close friends over for a casual gathering with hearty hors d’oeuvres that Tiffany keeps in the freezer, or she serves homemade pizza with everyone making their own

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY ANN CIPPERLY

sets of grandparents within two blocks,” Tiffany said. “It is a gift, especially to our children.”

The handsome Greek Revival style house was built by Judge and Mrs. Nimrod D. Denson in 1913. Judge Denson’s career included serving in the state Senate, the House of Representatives and on the Alabama Supreme Court.

After his death, their daughter, Mary, and husband Yetta Samford Sr. moved into the house with four-year-old Yetta Jr. Mary enjoyed gardening and planned the landscaping on the grounds.

After her death in 1977, Rush’s parents lived in the home. His father was the third generation to serve on the Auburn Board of Trustees, while Yetta Jr. was a trustee for the University of Alabama and served in the Alabama Senate.

Rush and Tiffany have enjoyed raising their children in the house with so much history associated with both Opelika and Auburn. They renovated the kitchen, adding a large chef’s gas stove for Tiffany, who has a love of cooking.

For the Victorian Front Porch Tour, Tiffany decorates their Christmas tree at a front window in the living room. Tiffany decorates the wrought iron railing on the porch in a classic style with fresh greenery and red velvet bows. A fresh greenery wreath with a red velvet bow accents the front door.

Tiffany always adds a dove to the wreath as a sign of hope for the new year.

A festive display will be in the front yard as part of the porch tour. For several

Tiffany Denson and her husband, Rush, have lived in the Northside Historic District since 2018 in his family’s 1913 home. They have been busy decorating their home for the annual Victorian Front Porch Tour, which will be held Dec. 8 through Dec. 12. Tiffany is sharing favorite recipes she will serve at their open house for family and friends, for dinner on Christmas Eve and brunch Christmas morning.

toppings.

“At this point, everyone is tired of rich holiday foods,” she said. “We keep it simple and play games.”

The Densons are both busy with their own businesses. Rush is owner of The Denson Group real estate company, while Tiffany has a consulting and strategist business, Guild 828. She also stays busy homeschooling Sadie. She enjoys cooking and entertaining.

“I think the key to entertaining is just to relax and realize that people are in your home to be with you, so the little things don’t matter,” she said. “I always say people come to be with you, not to look at every square inch of your home. I think the biggest key to entertaining is giving grace to yourself, and just do it with your heart and not overthink things.”

Tiffany said she is especially thankful to

the Southern Room at Southern Union Community College.

This black-tie event was started and is hosted by marriage counselors Glenn and Anita Comer to provide an evening of fun for married couples and those who are seeking marriage relationships. Tickets are on sale for $50 per person, which includes a plated dinner and entertainment by a live band featuring Demetriace Jordan and other performers. This event is supported with donations from local businesses and three area churches: New Life Christian Center, Pastor Auzzie Comer; True Deliverance Holiness Church, Bishop Nolan Torbert; and Christ Temple, Bishop Kenneth Carter.

SANTA CLAUS AT BOTANIC Bring your camera to Botanic on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for free photos with Santa Claus. Afterward, children can decorate cookies and visit Santa’s workshop to make a surprise gift for their parents. A kid-friendly buffet will be served. Tickets are $20 per person, $10 for ages 10 and under, available in advance, but walk-ins are also

have both sets of parents in the same neighborhood, and Christmas is a special time for the family. The Densons said they are looking forward to the Victorian Front Porch Tour and celebrating Christmas in their historic home as they create new traditions.

CHRISTMAS EVE DIP 2 (10.5 oz.) jars red pepper jelly 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped 3/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar Thin wheat crackers Stir together the first 4 ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Cover and chill.

Garnish with green onions and serve with thin wheat crackers. Can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 days.

CARAMELIZED ONION & GOAT CHEESE BRUSCHETTA 2 large Vidalia onions, sliced into thin rings 3Tbsp. unsalted butter

1- cup balsamic vinegar 1 loaf sourdough baguette, sliced 4 oz. log goat cheese, honey flavored or mixed with local honey, softened Cook onions in butter over medium heat until reduced and caramelized, 30 to 45 minutes.

Simmer balsamic vinegar over medium to medium-low heat until reduced by half. Let cool. It will thicken a good bit once cooled.

Crisp baguette slices on both sides under a 400 degree broiler, let cool. To assemble, spread goat cheese mixture onto baguette slice, spoon caramelized onions on top. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Serves about 18 bites.

HOLIDAY MIXED NUTS 2 cups pecan halves, unsalted 2 cups shelled walnuts, See CIPPERLY RECIPES, page A11

welcome. Santa will roam through The Grille during the Sunday Brunch Buffet from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 17.

Botanic is located at 1702 Frederick Rd. in Opelika.

NINE LESSONS & CAROLS AT ST. DUNSTAN’S St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church, located at 136 E Magnolia Ave. in Auburn, will host a service of Nine Lessons and Carols at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 17. The service alternates lessons from scripture with hymns/anthems by the choir and is a beloved Episcopal/Anglican tradition for many.

CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP Celebrate the holiday spirit by creating your own wreath on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, located at 2222 N. College St. in Auburn.

Led by Cyndi Czerkawski, this event will lead you through the steps of creating and designing a festive wreath made of natural materials. Cost is $20 per participant ($16 for KPNC members) and all materials will be provided.

A10 Dec. 7, 2023

Sean of the South

SEAN DIETRICH

Y

ou’re going to be okay.

That’s not an opinion. It’s not a guess. This isn’t some trite little catchphrase from some crappy motivational book that reads like it was written by a greasy televangelist.

You’re going to be okay. It’s the plain truth. You really are going to make it through this junk you’re going through.

So relax. You don’t have to do anything to make everything okay.

You don’t have to close your eyes extra tight, grit your teeth, use magic words or clap for Tinkerbell.

Relax, you're going to be okay

Deep in your soul, you know it’s coming.

You know everything will be all right, eventually.

Yes, things are bad.

But you have a little, infinitesimal voice speaking to you right now. And this voice is reading these very words alongside you and saying to you, “This guy’s got a point. It really WILL be okay.”

This is not your voice. It’s a voice that comes from somewhere else. The problem is, you can’t always hear this faint voice talking.

Namely, because you’re too busy freaking out.

But believe me, the voice is there. And every time you take a few moments to breathe, you’ll hear the voice. It chatters softly, originating from somewhere near your chest area.

“You’ll be okay,” the gentle voice will say again. “It’s all going to be okay. You’ll see.”

Also, the voice

says other things like: “You’re not fat. You’re not stupid. You’re a smart person. You’re good enough. You’re very fortunate. You’re a miracle. Everyone really likes you, with the possible exception of your mother-in-law.”

Yes, you’ve been through some tight scrapes. Yes, your body bears the scars of private wars you’ve waged. But you’ve survived each cataclysm. You have proven everyone wrong. You’ve always been okay.

So I know you’re sitting there scanning this paragraph, wondering why you’re still reading this drivel, when I obviously know nothing about you.

But you’re also thinking about how you’ve had a hard last few weeks. Last few months. Last few years.

Last few decades.

You’re also thinking about how you pray for relief but it never comes. You’re thinking

about how you have tried to put one foot in front of the other, but now it’s getting harder to move your legs.

The little voice is practically screaming at you. The voice says: “Don’t quit! You’re almost there! You’re going to make it!”

Someday — and I know you can’t envision this — your problems will all be over. Every last one of them.

The issues currently messing up your life will all fade. The sun will shine. Birds will sing. The sky will be perpetually blue. You will hear symphonies playing.

Your body will no longer hurt. Your heart will feel light. Your mind will find peace.

Your soul will be nourished.

On that day, you will reflect upon this godawful time you’re going through with bittersweet fondness.

Because this hell-onearth period will be

what shapes you. And you’ll be thinking to yourself, “Wow, everything really did turn out okay.”

Listen, I’m nobody.

And by now, you’ve figured out I’m not winning any Pulitzers, either. I don’t know how your life will play out. I don’t know how it will end.

But I know that I, too, have had some bad seasons. I have seen some terrible stuff in my life. I’m not all that different from you.

I remember certain people used to tell me precisely what I’m telling you.

“Everything will be okay,” they’d all say.

And it would take everything I had not to respond by pressing my hands against my lips and making a flatulating sound.

Because I believed these people were colossal idiots.

How could they know anthing would be okay? What gave them the right to tell

Home for the holidays For nearly 50 years, Annie and Henry lived in a mobile home on their property, with the intention to build their dream home there once they retired.

With an unwavering commitment to their goal and a little help from AuburnBank, they moved into their new home this year.

It was an honor for AuburnBank to assist Annie and Henry in fulfilling their dream.

Mortgage lender, Celeste Smith Norris stated, “They reminded me why I love this job.”

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

Member FDIC | AuburnBank.com

w/Celeste at our new

home

me this? They didn’t know me. They were just peddling cheap, uplifting clichés from New York Times bestselling self-help books whose only practical purposes were leveling wobbly tables and swatting flies.

Even so. These people were right.

Everything did work out. It always does. It will for you, too.

Just listen to the voice, which is softly reminding you that, if you can just hold on, if you can just get through it, if you can just keep going, all heaven is about to break loose.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, novelist and stand-up storyteller known for his commentary on life in the American South.

His column appears in newspapers throughout the U.S. He has authored 15 books, he is the creator of the Sean of the South Podcast and he makes appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

A11 Dec. 7, 2023

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Auburn Parks and Recreation will offer free holiday gift wrapping services during The Holiday Wrap Up beginning Saturday, Dec. 16, through Friday, Dec. 22.

Community members are invited to drop off preboxed gifts at the Harris

CIPPERLY RECIPES >>

FROM A9

unsalted 6 oz. whole natural almonds, unsalted 2 ¼ Tbsp. butter, melted 2 Tbsp. crushed dried rosemary 1 tsp. cayenne pepper 4 tsp. dark brown sugar 4 tsp. kosher salt Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place all nuts in large bowl. Pour in melted butter and coat well. In a small bowl mix remaining ingredients. Sprinkle rosemary mixture over nuts and mix together well.

Spread nuts in a single layer on a cookie sheet.

Toast in oven about 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Be careful not to burn. Serve at room temperature and store in airtight container.

CAST-IRON SKILLET STEAKS Steaks of your choice.

We typically use filet mignon.

Kosher salt Black pepper Garlic powder Fresh thyme Unsalted butter Avocado oil Generously season your steaks with the salt, pepper and garlic powder. Allow to rest at room temperature for an hour. Heat large castiron skillet at medium heat. Lightly coat the bottom of the skillet with avocado oil.

Cook steaks 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Turn off heat and add a Tbsp. of unsalted butter to the top of each steak, plus several sprigs of fresh thyme.

Cover skillet with foil and allow the steaks to continue cooking (stove turned off) for 3 to 5 minutes. Uncover and spoon remaining butter and herbs back onto the steaks.

POTATOES AU GRATIN 3 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and sliced super thin Fresh thyme (rosemary is good too) Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper 1 bag shredded Swiss cheese 1 bag shredded gruyere (can use shredded Parmesan too) Heavy cream (roughly 1 to 2 cups) Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Slice potatoes and place in a bowl to rest.

Sprinkle with salt as you go. Once you've finished

Center, 425 Perry St. in Auburn.

Wrapping services will include paper, ribbon, a gift tag and an optional bow.

Participants may choose from the paper selection or bring their own wrapping supplies. Drop-off times are as follows: Dec. 16: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dec. 17: 1 to 5 p.m.

Dec. 18-22: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Holiday Wrap Up is first come, first served, and participants will be limited to 20 gifts. Parks and Recreation is also accepting donations of unused wrapping paper at the Dean Road Recreation Center until Thursday, Dec. 21.

slicing potatoes, lightly grease your baking dish.

Begin layering potatoes, cheese and herbs and pepper. Finish layering with cheese.

Generously pour heavy cream over the top of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 60 to 80 minutes at 375 degrees.

Once cooked, uncover and allow to cool slightly before serving.

AMARETTO SLUSHIES A holiday tradition passed down from Rush’s mother, Rose Ann Denson 2 cups vanilla ice cream 3 oz. Amaretto 1 oz. Kahlua 1 small scoop of ice Blend in blender.

Keep in freezer until ready to serve. Serve "slushy" in a stemmed glass.

FAMILY FAVORITE GREEN BEANS 2-3 Tbsp. olive oil 3-4 Tbsp. butter 3-4 cloves garlic 1 lb. fresh green beans Salt and pepper to taste 2-3 cups chicken broth Drizzle olive oil in the pan and melt butter over medium high heat.

Wait for all the butter to melt and look foamy.

Next, add the chopped garlic. Let garlic cook for 2 to 3 minutes and then add the green beans. Stir them around and get them as flat as possible in the pan. Cook until they turn bright green.

Then add some salt and pepper.

Cook for a couple more minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, add enough chicken broth to cover them, and stir. Let it come to a rapid boil.

Next, cover beans and turn the heat to medium low, venting the pan so steam can escape. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until most of the chicken broth has been absorbed into the beans. Serve warm.

BUTTERMILK PIE WITH RASPBERRIES AND MINT 1 refrigerated pie crust 1/2 cup buttermilk 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 Tbsp. flour 1 Tbsp. vanilla 1 stick butter, melted Fresh raspberries and mint for serving, optional Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Unroll pie crust and press into pan; set aside.

In a blender, put buttermilk, eggs, sugar, flour, and vanilla (not butter).

Blend on medium-high to high for 4 minutes.

Add butter; blend for a few seconds until incorporated.

Pour filling into pie crust.

Bake for 40 minutes or until just set (will not jiggle when pan is shaken).

Allow to cool before cutting, preferably several hours.

CRANBERRY CHUTNEY Great for gifts and to serve with ham or turkey.

6 cups fresh cranberries (1½ to 2 lbs.)

1 cup raisins 1 1/2 cups honey 1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 1/4 tsp. ground cloves 3/4 cup water 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 3/4 cup chopped almonds 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion 1 medium apple, pared, cored and chopped 1/2 cup thinly sliced celery Combine berries, raisins, honey, water, vinegar and spices in large saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes.

Add remaining ingredients and simmer an additional 15 minutes.

Cool. Pour into jars.

Chill. Makes about six pints.

WHITE CHEDDAR GRITS A tradition for Christmas morning to serve with a breakfast egg casserole 2 cups grits 6 cups chicken broth 2 cups half and half 1 tsp. kosher salt (more to taste) 1/2 tsp. white pepper Worcestershire to taste (I use a couple tablespoons.)

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter 1 block white cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes 1 egg, whisked Cook grits in broth, half and half and salt according to package directions. Once cooked, add cheese and butter to melt. Stir and add white pepper and Worcestershire. Stir in egg and pour into a lightly greased dish.

Bake at 350 degrees 30 to 45 minutes until turning golden brown on top.

CREME BRULE FRENCH TOAST Recipe from Patti Quinn, Tiffany’s mother Cook together until smooth: 1 stick unsalted butter 1 cup brown sugar

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Holiday Wrap Up offers help preparing Christmas gifts

Volunteers wrapped gifts at last year's Holiday Wrap Up, sponsored by Auburn Parks & Recreation.

2 Tbsp. corn syrup Spread on bottom of pan.

Cut French or Italian bread into 1 inch thick pieces. I just slice the bread lengthwise (each section about 1 inch thick) and cut off the length to fit the size of the pan.

Mix together: 5 extra large eggs 1 ½ cups half and half 1 tsp. vanilla 2 tsp. Grand Marnier, optional 1/4 tsp. salt Pour over bread. Refrigerate 8 to 24 hours.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes until puffed up and brown.

BOURBON MILK PUNCH 1 1/2 to 2 oz. bourbon 4 oz. milk - the guys like whole milk 2 tsp. simple syrup, recipe follows Vanilla ice cream Grated nutmeg Fill highball glass with ice, pour in bourbon and milk, mix in simple syrup, add a scoop of ice cream and garnish with nutmeg.

Simple Syrup: 2 cups water 2 cups sugar Mix water and sugar together in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium high heat, then return to simmer until it slightly thickens. Let cool to room temperature before using. It will thicken more as it cools.

Note: Try and do this ahead of time so it is ready when you are ready to mix drinks.

Also, store the simple syrup in a clean glass bottle or jar in refrigerator for up to 3 months.

CHRISTMAS MARGARITAS For about 16 to 18 drinks in rocks glasses 7 ½ cups cranberry juice 2 cups pomegranate juice 1 cup lime juice 1 cup Cointreau 4 cups tequila (I like clear agave tequila.)

Note: It may be easier to find pomegranate and cranberry juice mixed together already.

Plain pomegranate juice is harder to find.

You can use 5 cups cranberry juice and 4 cups cranberry/pomegranate juice. You just don’t want equal parts pomegranate and cranberry juice in total in this recipe as it doesn’t taste as good.

Mix all ingredients (except the frozen cranberries) together with a large spoon.

Chill mixture in refrigerator for a couple

of hours prior to serving if time allows.

Serve mixture on ice. I set a bowl of ice next to my beverage dispenser so guests could easily fill their glasses. If you add ice to the mixture directly, it will get too watered-down.

HOT CHEESE BITES WITH BACON AND ALMONDS Can freeze ahead 2 cups (8 oz.) sharp cheddar cheese, grated ½ cup (2 oz.) slivered almonds 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled 1 small onion, grated 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 8 oz. jar good mayonnaise ½ loaf good quality white bread Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Mix together cheese, almonds, bacon, onion, Worcestershire and mayonnaise.

Remove crusts from bread and cut each slice into 4 triangles or squares. Spread one side with cheese mixture.

Place on cookie sheets and bake for 10 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Serve immediately.

Makes about 40 bites.

Note: These freeze well. Before baking, place cheese bites in single layer on cookie sheet and freeze. When hard, remove from cookie sheet and put in large freezer bag. Store in freezer until needed.

SIMPLE CURRY DIP 1 cup good mayonnaise 3 Tbsp. ketchup 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 Tbsp. grated onion 1 Tbsp. curry powder Dash of kosher salt and hot sauce Stir together and serve with fresh sliced raw veggies.

EASY SUGARED JALAPENOS OVER CREAM CHEESE A staple in our refrigerator year round 12 oz. jar sliced jalapeños (in pickle section of store).

1 cup sugar Zest of 2 limes Drain jalapeños and stir with sugar and lime zest. Return to jar.

Refrigerate for a week and shake the jar occasionally to combine. I keep a jar in my refrigerator all the time as it will last for several weeks.

To serve: Spoon jalapeños over cream cheese and serve with

wheat crackers or tortilla chips. May garnish with cilantro, if desired.

OLD SOUTH PIMIENTO CHEESE 2 cups ( 8 oz.) sharp orange cheddar, grated 7 oz. jar pimientos, drained and chopped ¼ cup green onion, chopped (use both the green and the white parts) ½ cup good mayonnaise 1 tsp. black pepper ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper Tabasco to taste Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl, and stir with a rubber spatula. Serve immediately with crackers, or cover and refrigerate to blend flavors.

ROSE ANN'S EASY BROWNIES 1 box brownie mix of choice (My favorite is Ghirardelli.)

2-3 extra-large Symphony almond and toffee bars Make the brownie mix according to the box directions except replace water with coffee.

Pour half the prepared brownie mixture into a greased 9 by 13-inch pan and use a spatula to smooth it out.

Place Symphony bars in an even layer across the pan. If they don’t fit perfectly, break off a few squares until they do.

Pour remaining half of the brownie mixture over the top and use the spatula to smooth it out. Bake according to package directions and test for doneness. Cool completely before slicing.

SUGAR'S PRALINES Recipe from Leslie Register, author of Leslie’s Party Diaries.

1 lb. (1 box) light brown sugar 1 cup heavy whipping cream ½ cup (1 stick) butter 1 ½ cups pecan halves In a large micrwave-safe bowl, heat sugar and whipping cream on high for 11 to 13 minutes, until hot and bubbly. (Cooking time may vary slightly with microwaves.) Do not let it burn. (I cook the mixture for 11 minutes in my 1200 watt microwave.)

Remove from microwave, and add butter, combining thoroughly until completely melted.

(I like to cut the butter into smaller pieces, to allow it to melt quickly.)

Add pecans, and stir to combine.

Drop pecan mixture immediately onto wax paper with a spoon or small measuring cup.

A12 Dec. 7, 2023

Don't miss Victorian Front Porch Christmas tour OPELIKA — This Christmas season, Opelika’s Northside Historic District is celebrating like it’s 1899.

For five days, Dec. 8-12, 60 Victorian and historic homes near downtown Opelika are transformed into colorful, nostalgic reminders of Christmas from a simpler, slower-paced era.

The tour began in 1993 with just a few homes participating but has grown to include 60 homes on North 8th and 9th street. The homes are decorated with life-size Santas, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas-themed figures. The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour has been voted one of the southeast's top-rated tourism events and featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living.

The event is a self-directed driving tour. However, on Sunday night, North 8th and 9th streets will be closed to traffic to encourage visitors, neighbors and

PHOTO BY ROERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

friends to stroll through the neighborhood. This enables everyone to leisurely enjoy the homes up close, listen to the carolers and talk with residents dressed in Victorian costumes. This tour begins on North 8th Street and 2nd Avenue and includes over 10 city blocks. Admission is free.

On Friday night, Christmas in a Railroad town will include wagon rides through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas tour, which includes tour guides who take you back in time while enjoying the festively

decorated homes.

Following is the schedule for the event.

Friday, Dec. 8: Driving tour 5 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9: Bike tour at 10 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 10: Walking tour 6 to 9:30 p.m. Streets will be closed to non-foot traffic. Sunday's event will feature entertainment from Opelika City Schools, Opelika First Baptist Handbells and more.

Monday, Dec. 11: Driving tour 5 to 9 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 12: Driving tour 5 to 9 p.m.

Cemetery rules suspended, holiday decorations welcome CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller has conferred with Public Works Director Mike Hilyer and has issued an order to suspend the rules at city of Opelika cemeteries this holiday season.

The suspension allows loved ones to place extra holiday wreaths, flower arrangements (in a separate container) and trinkets on

the graves.

The city rules require that there can only be one flower arrangement per grave lot, unless the monument provides its own flower receptacle.

Flower receptacles of any kind (glass, wood, plastic, tin, cement) are prohibited, and no flower pots are (normally) allowed to remain on the lawn area beside gravesites. The only exception to this rule

is the flowers placed on gravesites from funerals which have occurred within the past week. Also, two trinkets or whatnots per lot are permitted if placed on the base of the monument.

The rules will go back into effect — and be enforced once again — on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Any wreaths or separate floral arrangements or extra trinkets left out at that time will be removed.

Tickets are on sale now for Daddy Daughter Date Night CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — Tickets for the city of Auburn Parks and Recreation’s 34th Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night are now on sale.

Daughters ages 12 and under and their dads, granddads, uncles or other father figures are invited to dance

the night away and enjoy food, games, activities, a DJ and special guests. Attendees must live or work in the city of Auburn.

Daddy Daughter Date Nights will be held Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2 and 3, 2024, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

The dances will be held

at the new indoor facility at the Wire Road Soccer Complex, located at 2340 Wire Road.

Tickets are $20 for the father, $20 for the first daughter and $5 for each additional daughter, and are available at www.auburnal. myrec.com.

Opelika Public Library will show free movies Dec. 22 The Opelika Public Library will be showing a full day of Christmas movies on Friday, Dec. 22 in the Lewis Cooper Jr. Auditorium. Stop by to watch one, two or more. Enjoy free popcorn and bring a comfy chair for extended viewing. The library is located at 1100 Glenn St.

The movie schedule is as follows: 9 a.m.— Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Rated G. Run time 30 minutes.

9:30 a.m.— How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 Animated version). Not Rated.

Run time 26 minutes.

10 a.m.— A Charlie

Brown Christmas. Rated G. Run time 47 minutes.

11 a.m.— The Santa Clause. Rated PG. Run time 1 hour 37 minutes.

1 p.m.— Ernest Saves Christmas. Rated PG. Run time 1 hour 35 minutes.

3 p.m.— Noelle.

Rated G. Run time 1 hour 40 minutes.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision.

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

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

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS ANNOUNCE 2024 MEETINGS Auburn/Opelika MOPS (Moth- March 7, 21 ers of Preschoolers) and MOMS- April 4, 18 Next meet at Pepperell Baptist - May 2 zzzzChurch located at 2702 2nd Contact Rachel Elrod at 706Ave. in Opelika.

244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner or The next meetings scheduled are: Pastor Josh Elliott at 334-745-3108 - Jan. 18 for further information.

- Feb. 1, 15

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will not meet in December. The next meeting will be Jan. 16, 2024 at 7 p.m.

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

Got news?

Send it to editor@opelikaobserver.com

A13 Dec. 7, 2023

Altar Call

The healing gift of understanding

WALTER ALBRITTON

U

OPINION — nderstanding may be the best thing one person can offer another person.

There are moments in life when nothing is more important than having someone understand how you feel and forgive you for something wrong you have done.

I can testify that understanding, wrapped in love and encouragement, can save your life. Many times, when I was ready

to give up, my wife came to my rescue simply by standing by me with an understanding heart.

Without that, I would have thrown in the towel.

Early on I took her help for granted. As years went by, I became more thankful for her unwavering support. Along the way, we became inseparable partners in this journey called life. And I realized I could not make it without the understanding she so freely gave me.

I am indebted as well to many friends for their supportive understanding which seems to work best in hard times. Recently a friend’s kind support

at a difficult moment touched my heart. I was reminded again that the soul is strengthened when someone says, without criticism or a judgmental spirit, "I understand."

I hate to admit it, but I am good at rushing to judgment. Many of us are.

We can hurt the feelings of loved ones or friends without meaning to do it.

We can condemn others too quickly when they have been foolish, careless or thoughtless.

All of us need understanding when things go wrong, not condemnation. And when understanding is flavored with encouragement, it’s

like good medicine.

Failure, illness, loss of a job, divorce or the loss of a loved one can trigger despair. None of us are immune to life’s perplexities. When despair settles in, the last thing we need is someone advising us to "stop feeling sorry for yourself."

What works wonders is for someone to forget about their own struggles long enough to say genuinely, "I understand."

People not caught in the web of heartache are prone to suggest quick cures for others. Perhaps that’s because it’s hard for a free fish to understand a hooked fish.

Recovery and healing take time. None of us can recover easily from harsh experiences that bring us to our knees. When we are down, we can be "cut to the quick" by those who judge us harshly. We need time, understanding and the gentle caring of others.

We need what people alone can provide. Drugs are not enough. Even wise counseling is not enough.

A new beginning is seldom possible without the aid of friends who come alongside us with gentle understanding that can bve communicated without words.

You may think you are an exception, that you

are tough, self-reliant and strong. You can make it on your own. There’s a good chance you are wrong.

Chances are you are made like the rest of us — a human being who needs now and then the gift of understanding.

How can you find the understanding you need?

Stop harping about what's wrong and focus on what’s right with the people near you. Look around.

Encourage some hurting friend with the gift of your understanding. First thing you know, it will come back to you. Understanding is a lot like love; the more you give away, the more you will receive.

marriage. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Thrower, and her parents, Maggie and Wilson Herren.

This exceptional lady was a loving mom of two sons, Trey (Whitney) and Scott, and a proud grandmother of Loren and Eleanor Thrower. She is survived by her sisters, Margie Bowen and Louise Smith (Jack) and many nieces and nephews. She was a dedicated career woman, working as a hairdresser for more than 50 years. In her spare time, she enjoyed needlepoint, crossword puzzles and cooking.

Memorial donations may be made directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online or by mail.

Visitation was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika on Nov. 30. A funeral service was held Dec. 1 at Quattlebaum Funeral Home in Roanoke.

career. In his free time, Frank enjoyed watching Alabama Football and Nascar. He was also actively involved in men's league softball and refereeing little league softball and was a member of a bowling league in Auburn.

However, Frank's greatest joy came from spending time with his family.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Janice Knowles Doler, and their daughters, Amy Doler (Nathan) and Talisha Leanne Murray (Mickell). He was a proud grandfather to Christopher Shewtchenko (Candace), Brianah Shewtchenko (Jared), Zachary Cross (Hannah), Haili Cross (Aubrey) of Gallatin, Tennessee, and Kadence Murray.

Frank was also blessed with great-grandchildren Camden, James, Emorie and Brynleigh. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Ford (Donna), his sister, Jessie Lowery, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank was preceded in death by his father, Billy Ray Doler, mother Nancy Gay Laster, sister Merita Baker (Billy) and brothers Ray Doler, Billy Dewayne Doler "D.D.," Chris Ford and Keith “Peanut” Spears.

A memorial service was held at East Side Emmanual Holiness Church on Dec. 2. Contributions in Frank's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society. Frederick Dean Funeral Home in Opelika assisted the family with the arrangements.

OBITUARIES DONALD FRANKLIN LAWRENCE Donald “Don” Franklin Lawrence, 86, of Opelika, passed away Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, at East Alabama Medical Center.

A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, Dec. 7, at First Methodist Church, with the Rev. Timothy Thompson officiating.

Burial will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery with Don’s six grandsons serving as pallbearers.

Don was born in Maplesville, Alabama, the 10th of 12 children born to Choba and Irene Lawrence.

He spent his early years working at the family farm, local feed store and meat market.

Following high school graduation, Don moved to a garage apartment in Opelika to start school at Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API) in Auburn. Just days after arriving, he caught the eye of Betty Jo Gray, a teenage girl visiting Don’s landlord, and for Betty it was love at first sight. Even before she knew who he was, she told her mother and sister that he was taken. The two did, indeed, fall in love and were married a year later, on June 21, 1959. The couple had three children and Don juggled fatherhood, work and school as he could afford tuition.

Ten years after beginning classes, Don graduated from AU in 1967 with a degree in business.

He spent most of his adult life in Opelika, working for Alagasco, Diversified Products and PowerGuard.

He ended his career working at First Methodist Church, where he was a long-time

member. He served on several church committees, participated in JOY (Just Older Youth) Fellowship and was a charter member of the Thoroughman Sunday School Class. In the community, Don was a member of a supper club of friends and the local group of ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out).

He had a great wit, a hilarious sense of humor and loved to play guitar and sing silly songs. He was a gentle soul with a servant’s heart, always finding ways to help others, especially his sisters. He was an avid hunter (hunting turkeys was his favorite) and a huge fan of the Atlanta Braves and the Auburn Tigers.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 58 years, Betty (2018); and siblings Branson, Evelyn, Lovice, Choba Jr., Inez, Nettie, Vernel and Geneva.

He is survived by his sons, Joel (Jan) Lawrence of Salem and Tommy (Heidi) Lawrence of Parker, Texas; one daughter, Leigh Ann (Dave) Michalek of Henderson, Texas; 10 grandchildren, Chance, Caleb and Clarke Lawrence of Salem, Nicole (Marc) Dube of Brentwood, Tennessee, Coby (Ajay) Michalek of Dripping Springs, Texas, Kacie (Will) Grinnan of San Antonio, Texas, Ryan (Mallory) Lawrence of Shawnee, Kansas, Austin Lawrence of Sachse, Texas, and Dillon and Meghan Lawrence of Plano, Texas; nine greatgrandchildren; and three sisters, Augusta L’Ecuyer

Harris, Bettye Mitchell and Barbara Rush.

The family would like to extend their gratitude for the prayers and support of friends, the CVICU staff at East Alabama Medical Center and care-angel Monique Brooks.

To make a financial gift in memory of Don, the family suggests the Food Bank of East Alabama (355 Industry Dr., Auburn, AL 36832).

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements.

BRENDA C. HOLMES Brenda C. Holmes, born on July 11, 1946, to A.Z. and Clara May Conger in Randolph County, passed away early on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 23, 2023, at home.

Brenda spent many years living in Opelika, where she worked as a beautician. She is survived by her loving husband, William Holmes, of Opelika, Al. A funeral service was held on Nov. 26, in the Chapel at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Brenda was laid to rest in the Shady Grove Cemetery.

VICKIE G. BRITT Vickie G. Britt, age 76, of Opelika passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones on Nov. 27, 2023.

She was born to Aubrey and Faye Gullatt on Sept. 20, 1947 in Valley, Alabama.

She was married to her husband, Richard Britt, for 38 years before he passed.

Vickie devoted most of her life to caring for her

family and those around her.

She owned and operated a home daycare in Dadeville for more than 10 years. After closing her daycare, she joined her husband, Richard, in running their family business, Britt's Heating & Air. After retiring from the family business, she took a part time job at East Alabama Medical Center as an operator for almost 10 years.

Vickie loved her family unconditionally. Watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren thrive brought her the greatest joy.

She also loved Lake Martin, especially a at sunset. She was also an avid lover of Alabama Football.

Vickie is survived by her significant other of over 13 years, Ricky Renfroe; children Kim (Lee) Dauber, Richie Britt and Shane Britt; grandchildren Hayley (Tim) Dykes, Abby (Daniel) Danley, Reed (Angel) Britt and Cade Britt; and greatgrandchildren Paisley, Crew, Beckett and Kash. She is also survived by a bonus daughter, Rana (Robert) Gregg, Russell Clark, and Kayla Clark and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends who were like family.

A funeral service was held Nov. 30 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home, with Brother Rusty Sowell officiating.

BRENDA HERREN THROWER Brenda Herren Thrower, 79 of Opelika passed away Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at her home.

A native of Roanoke, she moved to Opelika upon her

JAMES FRANKLIN DOLER Frank Doler, 66, of Opelika passed away on Nov. 27, 2023. He was born on May 19, 1957, in Wadley.

Frank, as he was commonly known, was a family man, hardworker and a loving father, husband, grandfather and great-grandfather. He had a big heart and was known for his fun-loving nature. Frank was a devout follower of his faith and worshipped at the East Side Emmanuel Holiness Church.

Frank had a successful career as a truck driver, dedicating 45 years of his life to the profession. His last place of employment was Youngs Plant Farm, where he spent the last half of his

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

See OBITUARIES, page A14

A14 Dec. 7, 2023

There is no substitute

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

Y

OPINION — ou can’t pour from an empty cup, as the saying goes.

Most of us are familiar with this saying. More to the point, we are familiar

with this feeling. We’ve been there. We know what it is like to be running on empty.

That’s where Elijah is in 1 Kings 19. He’s been through three-and-a-half years of intense spiritual warfare with King Ahab, Queen Jezebel and the prophets of Baal who are leading the people of Israel into all sorts of destructive behaviors. God gives Elijah a tremendous victory over them at Mt. Carmel (chapter 18), but no sooner has this happened then Elijah hears that Jezebel has a contract out on him (19:1-2).

That’s it for Elijah. He’s

done. He finds a broom tree, takes refuge under it and asks God to take his life.

But God isn’t done with Elijah.

He sends an angel who ministers to Elijah with cycles of sleeping and eating. That makes sense because when we’re running on empty one of the reasons is usually that we haven’t been taking care of ourselves physically. Elijah is then sent on a 40-day trip to Mount Horeb — which provided him with lots of fresh air and exercise.

But man does not live by bread alone and like us, Elijah needs more than

just physical renewal. The spa day, retail therapy, the ballgame, the hunting trip are all fine as far as they go — they just don’t go far enough. They can’t. We have been created in the image of God and there is that significant part of us that cannot be fulfilled apart from communion with our Creator.

That’s why when Elijah arrives at Horeb God tells him, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by (v. 11). And with that, we get to what Elijah really needs — to spend time in the presence of the Lord

— there’s just no substitute for it.

To come before the Lord in worship, prayer, praise, through His word, with His people or in whatever form it takes is rejuvenating and renewing in a way that nothing else is. It takes our eyes off ourselves and puts them on the One who is everything.

Remember this the next time you’re down and out like Elijah or you’re just in need of a recharge. There’s no substitute for it!

Find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-withbruce-green.com

Bible verse of the week: I will praise God's name in song and glorify Him with thanksgiving. — Psalm 69:30

CHURCH DIRECTORY

500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

Auburn 334-826-8800

ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

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

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

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road Valley

OBITUARIES >>

FOM A13

PETER (DON) LANIER Peter Donald (Don) Lanier, 86, passed away peacefully on Nov. 29, 2023, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Orlando, Florida, on Jan. 14, 1937, to the late Erbin Lanier and Ruby Lane Lanier, he moved to Auburn in 1956 and established Auburn Electric Inc. in 1962, which is now a second generation company. By 1976, he founded the first state-certified electrical apprenticeship program in Alabama, still active today, having benefited hundreds over the years.

Locally, he served on the Auburn Planning Commission, sat on the boards of multiple banks, the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, Electrical Licensing, as well as on the State of Alabama Board for Associated Builders and Contractors.

Most importantly he was a member of First Baptist Church of Opelika.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Deloris Lanier; children, Donald G. (Greg) Lanier (Aileene), Marcia Otwell (Don) and Sheryl Strickland (Danny); grandchildren, Anne Morton (Tim), Peter Lanier (Amanda), Alison Rogers (David) and

334-710-2117

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ Blake Otwell (Moriah); six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held Dec. 2 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home, with Pastor Cliff Knight officiating.

BONITA DEAN LEE Bonita Dean Lee was born June 5, 1952, in LaFayette, Alabama.

In August 2021, Bonita was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. She fought bravely with a positive attitude but on Nov. 29, 2023, she lost the battle and her soul set sail to meet her Savior.

Known by her coworkers as Sunshine, Bonita worked for East Alabama Paving from June 1992 until December 2022, when she was forced to retire due to her health.

As much as she enjoyed her work, her first love after her family, was her animals. At her farm in Beauregard, she had 40 goats, each of which was personally named by Bonita. She did not just raise these goats, she loved them. Over the years she had cows, horses, donkeys, chickens and pigs. She had four herding dogs, a number of outdoor cats, a rabbit and a three-legged dog called Hop-along.

From 1975-1977 Bonita served in the Army, stationed at Ft. Moore [Ft

Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432 EPISCOPAL- AME Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika 334-749-1690 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Benning] in Columbus, Georgia. Bonita was a member of Pierce Chapel Methodist Church.

Bonita was proceeded in death by her parents, Alton and Irma Dean. She is survived by her husband, Andy Lee; children, Scott (Kim) Green, Derek Chandler and Kim (Marty) Thomas; grandchildren, Sarah (Brandon) Thomas, Noah Green, Gunner Thomas, Brody Thomas and Tasha (James) True; three great-grandchildren, George, Sebastian and Amalia; her sister Linda (Bob) Fucci and brother Michael (Ashley) Dean.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Brandon Johnson, Dr. Ruby Powar and all the staff of the Spencer Cancer Center for their kind and caring support, as well as the kind people at EAMC and the Compassus Hospice Group.

And a special thanks to Charles Lawler Jr., Rodney Barney and all her East Alabama Paving family.

A funeral service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Dec. 5.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552 Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Burial followed at Pierce Chapel Methodist Church.

To make a memorial in Bonita’s name, the family suggests the Spencer Cancer Center.

CHARLIE D. DENTON Charlie D. Denton of Lanett passed away Nov. 30, 2023. Charlie was preceded in death by his spouse, Joyce Denton, and parents, Elbert and Goldie Denton.

He is survived by his sons, Mike Denton (Christy) and David Denton (Renee); grandchildren, Brandi Denton (Alex), Mikey Denton, Catherine Smith (Grayson), Ashleigh Petz (Josh), Daniel Brown, Chuck Denton and Kyle Denton; six greatgrandchildren; and brother, Bobby Denton (Glynda).

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family with arrangements. A celebration of life may be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to AngelWorks.org to assist families battling pediatric cancer or St. Jude's

Opelika Southern Plains Cowboy Church 13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014 PENTECOSTAL Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

children's cancer research.

WARREN FULLER Warren Fuller of Opelika was born in Elba, Alabama, to the late Porter and Fannie Fuller on April 28, 1933, and died on Nov. 16, 2023, at the age of 90.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Betty Fuller, his parents and many siblings.

He is survived by his brother, Sandford (Mary Ann) Fuller; children, Cathy (Joey) Bryant and Jeff (Jennifer) Fuller; grandchildren, Whitney (Matt) Lawler, Tyler (Emily) Bryant, Travis (Kelsey) Bryant, Davis (Candice) Gamble, Tristan Gamble and John Fuller; great-grandchildren, Fuller Lawler, Eli Meadows and Georgia Gamble.

In lieu of flowers please donate to amvets. org.

A private, family only graveside service was held at Garden Hills Cemetery, with FrederickDean Funeral Home and Crematory assisting with arrangements.

The Lions Club of Opelika meets every Monday at noon at Western Sizzlin' in Opelika.

Email gm.markley@ charter.net.

A15 Dec. 7, 2023

A16 Dec. 7, 2023

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Schools & Sports

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING JAN 23 AT 4:30 P.M. • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 12 AT 6 P.M. • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING DEC. 12 AT 4 P.M. Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023

Going 'bowling' in Nashville

Auburn to face Maryland in Music City Bowl CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY SPORTS

On the Mark

Swimming, basketball and coaching search

AHSAA SWIMMING AND DIVING CHAMPIONSHIP

The Alabama High School Athletic Association held the 64th Swimming and Diving Championships at Auburn University's Martin Aquatics Center last weekend in Auburn.

Huntsville High won its eighth consecutive boys swimming title in the 6A/7A division, while Bob Jones High won the girls 6A/7A class. Whitesburg Christian won the 1A/5A girls championship, while the boys 1A/5A Class was won

by Arab.

The OHS Swim Team had a good showing at the state meet. Sarah Bush, Presley Mullins, Mylee Bordeaux and Grace Nelson won the 200-yard freestyle relay for the second year in a row.

Sarah Bush won the 50-yard freestyle and placed second in 100-yard freestyle.

Sarah Bush, Presley Mullins, Aniston McGhee and Grace Nelson placed third in the 200-yard medley relay. Brian McEntire placed sixth in both 100yard freestyle and 100-yard backstroke. Presley Mullins came in sixth for 200-yard freestyle. Aniston McGhee placed seventh for 100-yard breaststroke, and Grace Nelson placed 10th in 50-yard freestyle.

CONGRATULATIONS! The OHS Lady Bulldog

Basketball team went 2-1 last week, beating Benjamin Russell 53-27 and Sylacauga 49-45. Stanhope Elmore beat OHS 57-47 for the only loss of the week.

Naomi Whack scored a game high 19 points in a 53-27 win against Benjamin Russell last Friday. K.K. Dowell scored 12 points, and Tyra Pitts scored 10 points.

Whack led the Lady Dogs with 15 points in a 5747 loss to Stanhope Elmore.

Mya Pearson added 12 points in the loss.

Opelika varsity boys team beat Stanhope Elmore 71-45 last week. J.T. Holloway and Brady McNally scored 12 points each to lead the Dogs. Eli McNally and Jaxson Freeman scored 13 and 12 points, respectively.

OHS FOOTBALL COACH SEARCH

Opelika City School Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore shared with me some tidbits concerning the search for a head football coach.

In an email exchange last week, Dr. Seymore shared the following information: The job will be posted for a minimum of two weeks which is required by law.

Interviews are not expected until "...after the AHSAA football season ends."

A committee comprised of school personnel and community members will See ON THE MARK, page B2

AUBURN — Auburn University will play the Maryland Terrapins of the Big Ten Conference in the 26th edition of the TransPerfect Music City Bowl this Dec. 30 at 1 p.m. CST, bowl officials announced.

The highly anticipated matchup will take place inside Nissan Stadium in downtown Nashville and will be televised nationally on ABC and simulcast on ESPN+.

“On behalf of President Dr. Chris Roberts and the Auburn Family, we’d like to thank President and CEO Scott Ramsey and the TransPerfect Music Bowl for an incredible opportunity in Nashville, Tennessee on Dec. 30,” said Auburn Athletics Director John Cohen.

“We look forward to being in Nashville and

can’t wait to compete against a quality Big Ten opponent.”

Auburn will be making its 47th bowl appearance all-time and third in Music City Bowl. Auburn's history in the Music City Bowl includes two victories in 2003 and 2018 against Wisconsin (2814) and Purdue (63-14), respectively.

“The entire Auburn football program is excited to accept an invitation to the TransPerfect Music City Bowl in Nashville,” said Auburn first-year

head coach Hugh Freeze.

“Nashville is a great destination, and the TransPerfect Music City Bowl is a great way to end our first season at Auburn.

We have the best fans in college football and can’t wait for the Auburn Family to travel to Nashville and take over Broadway.

We are thrilled for our players to have another opportunity to compete against a very good Maryland opponent.”

Auburn enters the bowl game with a 6-6 record under Freeze, who

will coach in his second Music City Bowl, having coached Ole Miss to a win in Nashville in 2013.

Maryland was 7-5 this season, including a 4-5 mark in conference play.

"We're thrilled to welcome Auburn and Maryland to our game this year,” said Scott Ramsey, President & CEO of the TransPerfect Music City Bowl. “As we look forward to the unique matchup, we hope it will become another memoraSee BOWL, page B6

The 'final four' of college football playoffs

BY BRANDON HUGHES FOR THE OBSERVER

OPINION — New Year’s Day will mark the tenth iteration of the four-team College Football Playoff as the SEC champion and four-seed Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) takes on the top-seeded Big Ten champion Michigan Wolverines (13-0) in the Rose Bowl, while the second-seed Pac-12 champion Washington Huskies (13-0) will face the three-seed and Big XII champion Texas Longhorns (12-1) in the Sugar Bowl. The teams will battle it out for a chance to play for it all in the national championship game the following week at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

This is the final season of the four-team playoff at the FBS level of college football — the playoffs expand to 12 teams next season — and it is also the most controversial. For the first time since the College Football Playoff began in 2014, an undefeated Power Five conference champion will not be among the four finalists with a shot to play for it all. FSU joins the 2004 Auburn Tigers as the only other undefeated Power Five team to be denied an opportunity to play for the championship since the BCS/CFP era began 25 years ago.

Did the CFP Committee get it right when it chose to include Alabama over FSU? I believe they did.

The directive of the com-

mittee is to, among other things, assign the top four teams to the playoff semifinal sites. Does that mean the best four teams or the most deserving four teams?

When selecting the top four teams, the CFP bylaws state, "The CFP Committee will consider four criteria when teams are deemed comparable: championships won, strength of schedule, head-to-head competition, and comparative outcomes of common opponents." The Committee then works within those parameters to carry out its assignment.

Taking those criteria alone, both Alabama and Florida State won their respective conference championships. As for strength of schedule, Alabama’s

schedule ranked as the fifth most difficult, while FSU’s was ranked 55th. More schedule context: the SEC has three teams in the other NY6 bowls. The ACC has one. The SEC runner-up is No. 6 in the final ranking.

The ACC runner-up is No. 15. The SEC has five teams in the top 13. The ACC has one team in the top 14. FSU had two victories over ranked teams, while Alabama had four. FSU likes to mention it was 2-0 versus the SEC…but Alabama went 9-0.

The teams did not face one another during the season but did share a common opponent: LSU. Florida State beat the Tigers by 21 on the road, See PLAYOFFS, page B5

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B2 Dec. 7, 2023

coach is not hired before

ON THE MARK>> Christmas break.

FROM B1

focus on hiring the "BEST" person for the job. Salary will depend on experience and is expected to be very competitive.

I asked if the new coach will have the ability to make staff changes. Seymore explained, “Once the new person is selected, he will have the opportunity to review the needs of the program and make recommendations as we move ahead.” There was no timeline given but I will be shocked if a new

Another important fact about prior head football coaching searches is that evey football coach hired

by Opelika since 1982 was "targeted" by OCS prior to hiring a coach. In every instance since 1982, a "person/coach of interest" was in the forefront of every search.

The following coaches were all "people of interest" by OCS prior to being hired: Doug Barfield, Spence McCracken, Brian Blackmon, Caleb Ross and Erik Speakman. All

of the coaches were men that were targeted by the superintendent and others in the immediate circle. These coaches were interviewed and earned the respect of the OPS board of Education.

As we continue waiting on a new coach to be named, does Dr. Farrell Seymore have a "person of interest" and/or is he watching the mail for applications? Like I wrote last week, Opelika is the best job open in Alabama.

The only problem is, every day that goes by another job opens. Pinson

Valley became the latest school looking for a new head football coach.

"On the Mark" has learned a coach with multiple state championships on his resume applied for the OHS job.

AHSAA SUPER 7

The AHSAA Super 7 football championship, held at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, kicked off Wednesday, as Montgomery Catholic played Wenonah in the 1A/5A Flag Football Championship. Central and Vestavia played in the 6A/7A Championship

Flag Football game, and Thompson battled Central in the 7A championship game. None of these games were completed by press time.

Thursday’s championship schedule includes 3A Mobile Christian v.

Montgomery Academy at 11 a.m., 1A Leroy v. Coosa Christian at 3 p.m. and 5A Gulf Shores v. Ramsey at 7 p.m.

Friday’s championship schedule includes 4A Montgomery Catholic v.

Cherokee County at 11 a.m., 2A Reeltown v. Fyffe at 3 p.m. and 6A Saraland

v Clay Chalkville at 7 p.m.

Listen to all seven championship games on FOX Sports the Game 910-1310, presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic.

Listen online at foxsportsthegame.com and on the iHeartRadio app.

D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1319, co-chair of the AuburnOpelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

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Local swimmers show strong at AHSAA State Championship meet PHOTO BY D. MARK MITCHELL | THE OBSERVER

Auburn High School swimmers placed second overall in Class 6A/7A Girls.

in the 50-yard freestyle race, 100 freestyle race and the 100 butterfly.

Boaz won its third state boys’ title and second in a row with 235 points in Class 1A/5A. Gulf Shores was second with 214.

Bob Jones outscored Auburn 298 to 248.5 to claim the Lady Patriots’ second Class 6A/7A championship in a row.

Several state records fell Saturday.Final Team scores and race results are available at www. ahsaa.com/Sports/Fall/ Swimming-Diving.

TOP 5 TEAM SCORING Class 1A/5A GIRLS 1. Whitesburg Christian 272

2. UMS-Wright 264 3. Arab 168 4. Gulf Shores 138 5. Scottsboro 109 Class 6A/7A GIRLS 1. Bob Jones 298 2. Auburn 248.50 3. Huntsville 208.50 4. James Clemens 202.50 5. Grissom 173 Class 1A/5A BOYS 1. Boaz 235 2. Gulf Shores 214 3. LAMP 194 4. Scottsboro 155 5. UMS-Wright 148 Class 6A/7A BOYS 1. Huntsville 348 2. Vestavia Hills 252 3. James Clemens 221 4. Bob Jones 174 5. Grissom 165 PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES THE OBSERVER

Opelika High School's Grace Nelson, Mylee Bordeaux, Grace Nelson and Presley Mullins won the 200yard freestyle relay for the second year in a row.

AUBURN — Huntsville High School posted 348 points to capture its eighth consecutive AHSAA Class 6A/7A State Swimming Championship as the 64th state swim meet concluded Saturday at the James E. Martin Aquatics Center at Auburn University.

HHS outscored runner-up Vestavia Hills (252) by 96 points, thanks to several recordsetting performances including new marks in the 200-yard medley relay, 200 freestyle relay and 400 freestyle relay. Luke Bedsole and Bradford Johnson also set new 6A/7A records

B4 Dec. 7, 2023

Opelika varsity basketball teams take on Ben Russell High PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES THE OBSERVER

The Opelika varsity boys basketball team lost its game against Benjamin Russell 66-61 on Nov. 30.

The team also suffered a 57-52 loss on Dec. 1 to Sylacauga bringing them to an 3-4 record for the season.

The score from the Dec. 5 game against Lanett was not available.

The varsity girls team won its game against Benjamin Russell 52-27, and defeated Sylacauga 49-45. It lost 42-31 to Lanett on Dec. 5.

Photos above are from the Nov. 30 games against Benjamin Russell.

The boys teams will face off against Chilton County on Dec. 8 and both teams are scheduled to play Stanhope Elmore on Dec. 12.

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HUGHES >>

FROM B1

and Alabama beat them by 14 at home.

Beyond those explicit criteria lies the question of whether the Committee should take the best team or the most deserving team.

Many times, those two are one and the same, but sometimes they are not.

Florida State went undefeated in a Power Five conference, which is no small feat; however, the team’s starting quarterback, Jordan Travis, one of the most dynamic players in college football and FSU’s alltime leader in total yards, suffered a season-ending injury in its next to last game of the regular season.

With an injury to FSU’s best offensive player, its quarterback, and undeniable leader, the arguably more deserving team cannot be considered the best team in determining the final spot in the playoffs.

Alabama, though it lost in week two at home against Texas, has won 11 straight games, culminating in an SEC championship by beating two-time defending national champion and consensus number one Georgia Bulldogs. Given the current station of the two teams, the Committee clearly believed that Alabama was the better team right now and opted to put them into the playoffs instead of the ACC champion Seminoles.

It is important to note that the CFP Committee is

allowed to consider “other relevant factors such as key injuries that may have affected a team's performance during the season or likely will affect its postseason performance.”

“Florida State is a different team than they were through the first 11 weeks,” CFP Committee chair and North Carolina State athletic director Boo Corrigan said on ESPN. “An incredible season, but if you look at who they are as a team right now, without Jordan Travis, without the offensive dynamic that he brings to it, they are a different team.”

Corrigan went on to say, “Player availability is very important. I think someone said, ‘You can lose a running back, you can lose a wide receiver, but a quarterback as dynamic as Jordan Travis, it changes their offense entirely.’ And that was a big factor.”

As much as the College Football Playoff appeared destined to produce great matchups and classic contests upon its inception, the results have not borne that out. There have been 18 semifinal games under the current college football playoff setup, and the average margin of victory in these games has been 19 points — hardly compelling football. In 12 of the 18 games, the game was decided by more than three scores, with a third of those 12 being decided by 30+ points. Half of all the semifinal games were decided by 20 points or more,

with only five of the 18 ending in a one-score game.

There has been at least one blowout in every CFP semifinal save for last season.

I believe the Committee’s focus was on creating the best game possible within the boundaries of its process, and they determined that a full-strength Alabama squad would be a more compelling matchup and produce a better game with Michigan than a Florida State team starting a backup quarterback.

THE MATCHUPS The first semifinal game will be played between the two winningest college football programs in the country: Alabama vs.

Michigan.

A Big Ten team has made the CFP eight times, going 2-6 in the semifinals, losing by an average of 17.5 points in the six losses. Against the SEC in the CFP, the Big Ten is 1-3, losing by an average of 20.6 points.

Michigan is 0-2, losing by an average of 11.5 points.

The Big Ten has produced one national champion in the CFP era — Ohio State (2014).

The SEC has been represented 11 times in the CFP, going 10-1 in the semifinals with an average margin of victory of 15.2 points. Alabama is 6-1 in the semifinals with an average margin of victory of more than 20 points per game. The SEC has produced six national champions in the CFP era—Alabama (2015, 2017, 2020), Georgia (2021, 2022), and LSU (2019).

The second playoff game involves Washington and Texas, representing two conferences that have had very little success in the CFP. This will be Washington’s second appearance (0-1) and only the Pac 12’s third overall appearance, having gone 1-1 in the semifinals. Texas will be making its CFP debut and is the Big XII’s fifth participant in the CFP. The Big XII is 1-4 in the semifinals, garnering its first victory last season when TCU defeated Michigan in the Fiesta Bowl. Neither conference has produced a national champion during the CFP era.

MY PREDICTIONS Alabama vs. Michigan.

There has been little to no parity in the Big Ten over the last decade, with the Big Ten Western Division going 0-10 in the conference championship game.

This has perhaps given fans and pundits a false sense of just how good the Big Ten champion really is, and it has shown up in the CFP. This Michigan team, though, is perhaps the Big Ten’s most complete team it has ever sent to the CFP, while Alabama may well be sending its worst playoff team.

Michigan boasts the nation’s second-ranked defensive unit in yards allowed and leads the nation in scoring defense, allowing only 14 TDs all season and giving up just over 9 points per game. Alabama, though not to that level, brings in the 18th-ranked defense and

allows just over 18 points per game. But what about context?

The Big Ten has four of the nation's top five defenses in terms of yards allowed per game. Is it because these defenses are great, or have they feasted on poor Big Ten offenses? The highest-ranked Big Ten offense is Ohio State at 36th and the conference has the nation’s worst offense (Iowa) and five teams with offenses ranked 116th or worse.

As a comparison, the SEC has five teams ranked in the top 25 offensively.

I have seen this movie too may times. A Big Ten team runs roughshod through its conference only to run into a more athletic team from the SEC, ACC, or Big XII and look quite pedestrian. This game has all the makings of an all-time great post-season game and one of the best semifinal games the CFP has produced. Expect a hotly contested defensive battle from these two teams, with Alabama defeating Michigan.

Texas vs. Washington.

Washington and Texas bring in two of the nation's most prolific offenses guided by two of college football’s best signal callers.

Texas ranks ninth in total offense, running up 475 yards per game, and Washington is just behind at 469 yards per game. Washington puts the ball in the end zone more often, averaging almost a touchdown more per game. The Huskies are the 10th highest-scoring of-

fense in the country at 37.7 points per game, but Texas is right there, averaging 36 points scored.

The difference in this one could very well be defense.

Texas ranks 23rd in total defense, while Washington is 90th. Texas is allowing just two touchdowns per game compared to Washington, which gives up over a touchdown more per contest. The Longhorns hold its opponents to just 17.5 points per game, whereas The Huskies give up almost a touchdown more at 23.6 points per game.

Whereas the Rose Bowl could be a great game because of defense, I believe the Sugar Bowl could be equally exciting because of offense. I believe this year’s CFP semifinal matchups will deliver the same excitement and drama equal to what we saw last year. I like Texas to defeat Washington.

Alabama vs. Texas.

These teams have played once already this season and twice in two years.

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian was Nick Saban’s offensive coordinator for two seasons. In short, these teams know one another.

There will be NFL athletes all over the field for this one on both sides of the ball.

The Alabama offense hasn’t been great this season and ranks 53rd nationally.

Texas’ offense is absolutely rolling right now and playing with a ton of confidence and I believe that will be the difference. Give me the Longhorns to be the 2023 FBS national champions.

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B6 Dec. 7, 2023

Broome keeps cooking as AU men split pair of games AUBURN — This week of Auburn University men’s basketball was full of odd game times and an up-and-down roller coaster of emotions, as it split a pair of non-conference games to move to 5-2.

Meanwhile, junior Johni Broome recorded double-doubles in both contests and carried the team through a pair of forgettable shooting performances.

Broome, Auburn’s leading scorer with 17.8 points per game, now has four double-doubles on the season with 51 points over the pair of games. He tallied the most single-game points in his Auburn career with 30 in a 74-57 win at home over Virginia Tech before leading the team with 21 in Sunday’s 69-64 loss to Appalachian State. “[Broome] played like a first-team all-conference player tonight,” said head coach Bruce Pearl after the win over Virginia Tech on Wednesday, Nov. 29.

“Not only did he score and rebound, he played great defense. He defended physically without fouling, and he protected the rim … You can do that sometimes and not get rewarded, but he got rewarded tonight.”

Following Broome’s lead, Auburn controlled the paint in both games, but cold shooting came back to bite the Tigers on Sunday.

Going a combined 5-for-43 on 3-point attempts after shooting 38.9% from beyond the arch in the first four games, the Tigers struggled to make hustle count on the

scoreboard.

The turnover battle and free-throw shooting was the difference from a 17-point defeat of the Hokies and a five-point loss at Appalachian State as the Tigers struggled to put the ball through the hoop.

GAME 1 VS. VIRGINIA TECH WEDNESDAY, NOV. 29

Despite being outrebounded for the first time this season, Auburn controlled the game from start to finish to defeat Virginia Tech (6-3) in the ACC/SEC Challenge, 74-57.

According to Pearl, this was a huge win over a team that competes in one of the top divisions in college basketball. Although the Hokies finished in the bottom half of the ACC last season, they went 8-12 in the conference and finished 19-15 overall.

“This one matters double,” Pearl said. “If we’re going to establish Auburn as one of the better teams in the SEC, you’ve got to be able to be trusted against [the ACC].”

Auburn sustained defensive pressure throughout the game, winning the turnover battle, 21-8 and holding the Hokies to 27.5% shooting from the field. Despite 22 fouls as a team, Auburn benefitted from 25 Virginia Tech fouls by going to the free-throw line 36 times.

Although Auburn only converted on 24-of-36 of those shots, Broome and junior Chad Baker-Mazara helped Auburn run the paint and score efficiently from the floor. Auburn only made two 3-pointers, but Broome’s 30 points came on 11-for-19 shooting, while

Baker-Mazara also tallied his career-high in points at Auburn with 15 on 5-of-10 from the floor.

While starters Aden Holloway, who averages 11 points a game, and Chris Moore went scoreless, the bench picked them up with 33 combined points. Following Baker-Mazara’s charge, Tre Donaldson put up nine points and three assists off the bench.

In addition to leading the team in scoring with career bests in an Auburn uniform, Broome and Baker-Mazara made their presences felt in several phases of the game. Broome also hauled in 13 rebounds along with three blocks and a steal, and Baker-Mazara hauled in four rebounds with three assists, two steals, a block and a missed, while gnarly, putback dunk attempt.

However, the missed dunk ricocheted directly to Donaldson for a 3-point jumper that ignited Neville Arena.

GAME 2 VS APPALACHIAN STATE SUNDAY, DEC. 3

Auburn’s latest challenge came at 11 a.m. CST on Sunday in the mountains of Appalachian State, ending in its second loss of the season, 69-64.

Where Auburn dominated the Hokies, it got outmatched by Appalachian State. The Mountaineers won the turnover battle, 10-7, and Auburn only made 9-of-19 free-throw attempts.

Oppositely, Auburn won the rebound battle, 48-32, but those opportunities were outweighed by Appalachian State shooting 43.1% from the floor with eight 3-point-

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND | AUBURN TIGERS

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

Junior Johni Broome recorded double-doubles in both games.

ers.

Auburn fought, but Appalachian State maintained the lead for 26:46 of the game, including the eNtire second half. Auburn didn’t go down easily, though.

Despite starting slow, Auburn pulled within three on two separate Donaldson 3-pointers with four minutes in the game and then again with 18 seconds on the clock.

The Mountaineers answered with a pair of free throws before Broome missed both of his opportunities from the line. Still, Auburn got the offensive rebound to stay alive but missed a 3-pointer

as the clock expired.

While Broome kept Auburn in the game yet again, only Donaldson joined him in double figures in scoring.

Donaldson pushed Appalachian State to the limit with 12 points off the bench and a pair of timely threes.

Outside of Broome, however, Auburn starters continued to struggle. Moore, Jaylin Williams and Denver Jones combined for eight points. Holloway bounced back from his scoreless outing with eight points, but he went 2-for-10 from the floor and 0-for-6 on 3-pointers.

Auburn’s size advantage

allowed it to outscore the Mountaineers by 20 points in the paint along with the advantage on the board, but Appalachian’s hot shooting performance led to Mountaineer fans storming the court as it improved to 6-2 with the win.

After a week filled with peaks and valleys, Auburn will look to reheat in Atlanta during Holiday Hoopsgiving on Saturday, Dec. 9, when it takes on Indiana (6-1). State Farm Arena has been good to Auburn, who will try to prolong its two-year win streak since its first Holiday Hoopsgiving game in 2021.

Auburn High JROTC receive high marks on inspection PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

At attention with ties tied and shoes shined, Auburn High School’s Tiger Battalion underwent an inspection for their accreditation process and scored a 99/100. In an evaluation led by Alabama’s Chief Operation Training Specialist Jerome Gates and a team of Army and National Guard inspectors and recruiters, JROTC cadets at Auburn High School were assessed on stance, uniform, understanding of commands and marching formations. This accreditation is required every three years for the program to adhere to AdvancED’s Standards for Quality. Following the inspection, a debriefing session was held with the commanding officers of Tiger Battalion to better prepare them for competitions. Gates praised 1SG (Ret.) John Audaine and the battalion for its excellence during the inspection. This process confirms that Auburn High has a comprehensive JRTOC program emphasizing continuous improvement in teaching and learning.

BOWL >>

FROM B1

ble chapter in the history of our bowl game and for Nashville as a whole, as we welcome back Auburn and introduce Maryland and its fans to our great city.”

The matchup will mark Maryland’s first TransPerfect Music City Bowl appearance and be the first meeting between both schools since 1983.

Auburn holds a 2-1 advantage in the series overall.

TICKET INFORMATION AND VIP PACKAGES

Tickets are on sale now at the Auburn Ticket Office. The only way to guarantee you'll be sitting

with the Auburn Family is by purchasing directly through the Auburn Ticket Office.

Ticket orders will be allocated in Tigers Unlimited Football priority order.

WAR EAGLE FROM BROADWAY

Auburn will be hosting a ticketed bowl event in partnership with On To Victory in downtown Nashville on Friday night, Dec. 29, at 6:30 p.m. CT. Tickets will go on sale in the coming days. The Music City Bowl edition of Tiger Talk will be broadcast live from the event. Admission to the event will also include a food buffet, drink tickets, a live band, line dancing, a pep rally and more.

More information including location and and

how to purchase tickets will be coming soon.

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B7 Dec. 7, 2023

Classroom Observer

Children reflect the wonder of the season

BETH PINYERD OPINION —

I

n putting up Christmas and holiday bulletin boards, reading Christ-mas stories, singing Christmas songs, lights, decorations everywhere, the magic and love of this season is shining everywhere.

As a child growing up in Opelika, the beautiful lights and decorations of our railroad town always seemed to take my breath away as I remember squinting, running and being so excited about this special season. When I returned home five years ago as a Baby Boomer, our railroad town beautifully

decorated with beautiful music playing downtown gave me hope and love as I reflected back on the many fun activities and memories of the season in our town where the citizens of our area spend time and love in making children remember this special season. We are so fortunate to have parades, Victorian Front Porch Christmas tours, holiday movie showings, Christmas band concerts, parks decorated in the Christmas spirit, neighborhoods coming together to spread Christmas cheer, churches, schools, libraries having special events, etc.

Doing simple acts of kindness for others are a great way to help children make Christmas memories. Children love to make and create gifts from their own little hands for others. Our preschools and schools are so good in including crafts and gift making in their seasonal lesson plans and schedules. Families can come together and decide what thoughtful gifts they would like to make and give to neighbors, friends and families.

As families begin to mail Christmas cards, include children. Let them look at pictures on the cards, draw pictures on cards, draw marks or sign their names on the cards and let them help you to put them in envelopes as well as help you to put on the stamps. Our local post offices are so friendly to children and families, so take your children with you when you go mail letters or packages.

As you begin decorating your home for the holiday season, include your

SUSCC faculty and staff win 2023 Chancellor's Awards

child’s decorations to put throughout the house.

These build memories for your child. Also remember to be safety conscious when including your children in doing decorations.

We are surrounded by so many lights during the Christmas season. The Bible records in Psalm 76:4, “You are resplendent with light more majestic than mountains rich with game.” Also, John 8:12 reads, “Then Jesus spoke again to them saying, ‘I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’”

Children love to sing and clap at an early age.

With toddlers this past week, we love to sing Jingle bells over and over.

Too, “Silver Bells” is a favorite as it announces Christmas time in the city. Bells are rung during Christmas to proclaim the arrival of the season and to announce the birth of Jesus. At Christmas why do we have the colors red and green? The color red is used at Christmas to represent the blood of Jesus when He died on the cross. The color green signifies everlasting light and life.

Our traditional Christmas cane started

out as a pacifier for children. It was a stick of white candy that babies and toddlers could lick and suck on when they started to cry or got fussy.

A nameless German choirmaster came up with teaching lessons of bending the candy into the shape of a staff that a shepherd would carry in guiding his sheep. This reflects that Jesus is the good shepherd. The red stripes on the candy cane represent the blood Jesus shed in love for us as He died for us on the cross.

The white part of the candy cane represents his purity.

Beautiful round shape Christmas wreaths that we see everywhere demonstrate that the eternal love of God never ends.

Gifts tied with bows remind us of the gifts that the wise men brought to Jesus. The ribbon that is tied around gifts symbolizes that all people should be tied in bonds of love and unity during the holiday season.

Christmas trees are usually the very center of a home and community’s celebrations. Children love to hear about the origin of the lights on the Christmas tree, which is attributed to Martin

Luther, the leader of the Reformation in the 1500s.

It is said that on Christmas Eve, Luther was walking through the wooded forest near his home. He was awestruck by the snowcovered branches of the tree shining brightly in the moonlight. He wanted to recreate this beautiful scene for his family who were waiting for him at home. He cut down the tree, set it up in his home and decorated it with candles. We can all imagine just how beautiful this was.

Poinsettias are seen everywhere during Christmas. The poinsettia is a native plant of Mexico and is called “Star Flower.”

The star-shaped leaves remind us of the star of Bethlehem and Christ who is called the “bright morning star.” Lighted stars and candles reflect the Bethlehem star which guided the wise men to the baby Jesus.

I hope these few beginning suggestions for families and children begin to make your Christmas merry and bright!

Beth Pinyerd has taught in the Early Childhood Classroom for many years. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Beulah student wins reading contest

Pictured with SUSCC President Todd Shackett, center, are, from left, Carol Gudauskas, Tyler Laye, Anthony Caldwell and Johnnie Jones, winners of the 2023 Chancellor’s Awards.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Southern Union State Community College announced the winners of the 2023 Chancellor’s Awards, which honor those who have made a significant impact on the college in the past year.

Winners were named in four categories: administration, academic faculty, technical faculty and support staff.

Tyler Laye, director of academic programs, was named Outstanding Administrator. Carol Gudauskas, who teaches mathematics, was named Outstanding Faculty Member and Anthony Caldwell of the EMS faculty was named Outstanding Technical Faculty Member.

Johnnie Jones of campus maintenance was named Outstanding Support Staff.

“It is hard to choose just one person in each category to represent Southern Union,” said

SUSCC President Todd Shackett. “We have so many employees who really make a difference in the lives and experiences of our students. We are very proud of the accomplishments of this year’s Chancellor’s Award winners.”

With campuses in

Wadley, Opelika and Valley, Southern Union State Community College is the second oldest community college in the state and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees.

BEING JOBLESS IS DIFFICULT ENOUGH. Getting help to bridge the gap shouldn’t be.

Go to Labor.Alabama.gov to locate a center near you and bridge the gap of unemployment.

Funding provided by USDOL. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Alysa Hatchett, a fifth grader at Beulah Elementary School, was surprised by the Alabama Education Association (AEA) and Aubie as the winner of this year's Be a Champion and Read Contest. Out of more than 37,000 student entries who read at least six books, Alysa was randomly selected to cheer on Auburn at this year's Iron Bowl.

B8 Dec. 7, 2023

Share a taste of the holidays — literally Hosts needed for AU's international students AUBURN — Every December, Auburn’s campus gets very quiet as students, faculty and staff leave for a welldeserved winter break.

However, not everyone can go home.

“During the semester, international students can engage in a lot of campus activities and cultural groups’ celebrations, but the holidays can be lonely,” said Laura Fuller, coordinator of the Graduate School’s InterConnect program.

There are more than 1,200 international graduate students studying at Auburn.

The goals of InterConnect are to welcome those students to campus and give them opportunities to experience American culture. The program sponsors community outings, support groups and seminars that cover topics ranging from how to get around town to Auburn football and traditions.

One of the most popular initiatives is Holiday Hosts, a program where students are invited to dinner at a community member’s home to get a literal taste of the holidays.

Some students get to attend a traditional Thanksgiving meal, while those staying in the States through the new year can experience a festive gathering through late December.

Layli Miron, associate director of Auburn’s Office of University Writing, and her husband, Sergey, served as Holiday Hosts last year, and they truly enjoyed sharing a meal with both old and new friends.

“My husband, Sergey, and I are members of the Bahá’í Faith, so bringing people of diverse backgrounds

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Auburn alumni JD and Tucker Pearson and their children hosted international students for Thanksgiving.

together is important to us,” Miron said.

“Our guests were both international students and local immigrant friends from places including Nigeria, Mexico, China, Iran, Burkina Faso and Nepal, and they told us about wintertime holidays like Yalda Night and the Chinese New Year, in addition to various traditions for the Gregorian New Year. We immensely enjoyed learning about celebrations from the participants’ home countries.”

While many Holiday Hosts are Auburn faculty and staff, some come from the outside organization Friends of Internationals (FOI).

This local nonprofit has been in existence for years and has recently rebooted its operations, organizing volunteers to pick up international students at the Atlanta airport and holding a furniture drive to help furnish their apartments.

“We want international students to feel they are welcome, and we want members of the community to know we have students here from all over the world,” Fuller said.

“They have a chance to experience crosscultural exchanges with people from other countries, and it just enhances life for both

sides.”

Fuller pulls double duty as the InterConnect coordinator and a leader of FOI. She spends her days working with students on campus and her evenings and weekends organizing FOI volunteers and events.

“InterConnect is a way for students to be aware of resources available in the community,” she said. “Through InterConnect, I’m able to set up a system for students to register for holiday hosts’ dinners and help coordinate transportation,” she said. “Sometimes it gets confusing for the students, but I try to explain I have a dual role where I work on campus and I just happen to volunteer my time with something I feel is valuable.”

Fuller has dozens of students interested in having dinner at a host’s home but hasn’t had quite as much response from potential hosts as she did last year.

“We had some larger events at Thanksgiving where we could extend an invitation for 20 to 40 guests, but we only had a few of the in-home hosts, and we need more for late December,” she said. “It’s a festive time for most people

in the community, and I would love to have more students experience that.”

To volunteer as a Holiday Host, please contact Laura Fuller at laura.fuller@auburn. edu.

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L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

B9

Dec. 7, 2023

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023

Inside the State House

STEVE FLOWERS OPINION—

W

e had a very distinguished congressional delegation from Alabama during the 30-year span of 19341964. The congressmen from the Heart of Dixie appeared to be born to serve in congress.

Their pedigrees were all similar. They had pretty much been born and raised in the town that they would eventually represent in congress.

Almost all had gone to the University of Alabama, and most had graduated from Alabama’s Law School.

While at the Capstone, most had been members of Greek fraternities.

In addition to their Greek fraternal affiliation, they were politically active at the Capstone and also belonged to a mystic political fraternity known as “The Machine.” This group was basically a political party that was made up of the fraternities on campus. It was well organized with secret endorsements made up of the fraternity candidates and the endorsements were only revealed the day before the election. The fraternity candidates rarely lost. It is a legendary political training ground and almost every member of Congress during this era was a product of “The Machine.”

After college and law school, these men served a stint in the military.

Service in a World War and then membership in the VFW seemed to be a necessity for a political career. Alabamians have always had an affinity for folks who served their country and came home after the war to begin a perfunctory law practice that

occupied them until the congressional seat they had been preparing for came open.

Once they were elected, they planned on staying there. After all, they figured that a congressional career was what they were born for. They adhered to the adage attributed to many a southern congressman. It was said many times by the solons from the south as they played poker in the cloakroom of the House or Senate, “I love being in Congress and the only way I will leave will be by the ballot box or in a pine box,” and usually it was the latter.

The person, who most perfectly epitomized this prototypical congressman and senator of this era, was the legendary Lister Hill of Montgomery. He was both a congressman and a senator. He was elected to Congress at age 28 and served 16 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. He was then elected to the U.S. Senate in 1938, where he served Alabama with distinction for 30 years.

Hill had been born into privilege. He was the son of Dr. Luther Hill. His father was one of the first American surgeons to successfully suture the human heart. Hoping that their son would follow his father into medicine, the parents named him Joseph Lister after the famous European physician, who was the first doctor to advocate and practice use of antiseptics.

Young Hill decided one day, after watching his father operate, that he would not be a doctor. He actually fainted from the sight of blood.

The Hill family was very prominent politically in Montgomery. In fact, at this time there were two political families who were like political parties. You had to run in Montgomery as either a candidate of the Hill family or the Gunter family.

He set his sights on politics at an early age, probably dreamed of and maybe expected to

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be a U.S. senator. He entered the University of Alabama at age 16 and became the first student government president at the University. He also was the founder of the aforementioned “Machine.” He was elected to Congress at 28 and served with distinction. He served in the U.S. House for 16 years and rose to be chairman of the House Military Affairs Committee. He was instrumental in getting the Maxwell-Gunter military complex in Montgomery.

Hill had a hand in most major national legislation from 1938 to 1968. However, his greatest legacy was in the field of public health.

The great medical center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is because of Hill.

Probably the best-known legislation he was known for was the HillBurton Act. Through this 1946 Act, most of the rural hospitals in America and Alabama were built.

Hill is without question one of our state’s greatest U.S. senators.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at: www. steveflowers.us.

PHOTO FROM CITY AGENDA PACKET

Lister Hill, a great Alabama senator

Opelika City Council considers rezoning

An architectural rendering of the proposed KageFit training facility.

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER OPELIKA — During Tuesday night’s Opelika City Council meeting, the council

held a public hearing on an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to rezone 14.22 acres of land in the 3500 block of Waverly Parkway

from a R-5, high-density residential zone to a C2, GC-P, light commercial, gateway corridor primary overly district — primary See OPELIKA, page B11

Auburn Council approves monthly items at meeting

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM AUBURN — In one of the shorter meetings of the year, the Auburn City Council approved board appointments, ABC licenses and construction easements.

Tuesday, the council approved a three‐year contract extension to manage CityCare with Symbol Health Solutions, LLC. “Since 2017, the city has contracted with Symbol Health Solutions to provide

acute care services to our employees at the healthcare clinic known as CityCare,” said the city’s e-packet.

So, now the contract is approved for 2024-2027.

“Symbol Health Solutions plays an integral role in providing services that increase the wellness of employees and that bring a financial benefit to the city’s health insurance fund,” the e-packet said.

OTHER BUSINESS - The council voted to appoint two members to the Board of

Zoning Adjustment.

- The council approved a restaurant retail liquor ABC beverage license for Auburn Fare and Libations LLC doing business as Il Forno and Halftime Bar and Grill at 154 and 156 N. College St. - The council approved a retail beer (on or off premises) and retail table wine (on or off premises) ABC Licenses for KNJ Enterprises Inc. doing business as Peppertree Steaks and Wine Auburn for property located at 2459 E See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B11

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B10 Dec. 7, 2023

Remembering Rosalynn Carter

GREG MARKLEY

conscious consumerism in fashion.”

On Nov. 28, Rosalynn was honored at Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church in Atlanta by more than 1,000 attendees. These included political leaders and their spouses, ex-politicians and their spouses and a mix of famous and ordinary admirers of the former first lady, who died on Nov. 20 at age 96. President Joe Biden was there, as well as former President Bill Clinton. The five living first ladies — Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, Melania Trump and Jill Biden were present.

At Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, home of Carter's legendary Sunday study lessons, another service occurred on Wednesday, Nov. 29. This was attended mostly by family friends or residents of Plains and Sumter County. Just as in Atlanta earlier in the week, Carter attended his wife’s funeral.

He was in a wheelchair and under hospice, but he did not miss the funeral of his wife of 77 years in their beloved city.

“Her family, her friends, her neighbors all knew her to be someone who did not

R

OPINION — osalynn Carter had a harsh reckoning after she wore the same gown at the 1977 presidential inauguration of her husband Jimmy as she did at several balls. She wore a caftan-like, highneck, gold-embroidered blue chiffon dress. Critics recalled that she wore that same dress at Jimmy's 1971 inauguration as governor of Georgia. Many people, especially in the fashion industry, were horrified by this breach of sartorial custom.

“But Mrs. Carter came from a poor family, has worked most of her life, and finds it difficult to part with, say, $170 for a dress when there are equally respectable dresses at $70,” wrote Marcy Clancey, for SheKnows.com. “She showed that elegance does not necessitate extravagance, a message that resonates with today’s values of sustainability and

think of herself but rather others and others' needs,” said Maranatha’s Pastor Tony Lowden in an eulogy.

“Her care and concern for those around her defined her and left the most remarkable impression upon our hearts and memories."

Lowden directly called on the congregation and visitors to put action behind their pledges of service.

"She'll tell you don't stop. There's still too many homeless people in the world,” Lowden said. “There's too many people that still don't have equal rights. There's still too many people who suffer from mental illness.

There's still too many people that look at the color of her skin. She'll tell you don't stop.”

In a noticeable development, the former president wore a red lei, as did his family members.

This was because Rosalynn loved her time as a Navy spouse in Hawaii. Also, she was photographed wearing carnation leis on critical days of her husband’s 1976 presidential campaign.

After former President Gerald Ford died in 2006, members of the press asked President Carter

what his plans were for his own funeral. He said that he would be interred in Plains, outside his home.

Rosalynn, was buried there on Nov. 29 and awaits her husband, who is in home hospice.

Since January 1973, when former President Lyndon Johnson was interred in his much-loved “Hills of Texas,” all later deceased presidents are buried at their presidential centers. Johnson was buried in Stonewall, near his forebears which he always was happy to return to.

“Gradually, as we recovered from the exhaustion from our last months in Washington and settled in at home, we began to feel that life in Plains might turn out to be satisfying,” wrote Rosalynn in the 1987 book “Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life.”

“We became confident we would find significant outside activities while living in the quiet environs of our youth,” she said.

“We enjoyed walking through the woods and fields for miles without seeing a single house; or rarely meeting a car while bicycling or jogging alone

on the back roads. We would stop along to visit the farm families who had been our friends and customers before we entered politics, and we rapidly became reinvolved in the life of our community.”

Rosalynn is among the Southern women who have earned the nickname “Steel Magnolia.” Undoubtedly, the press attacking her choice of dresses early on was hurtful. But she, like her husband, endured and eventually, most people came around to salute their durability and laterin-life accomplishments.

She also laid the way for First Ladies who follow; by being independent, involved and incredible.

May she rest in peace.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996.

He has a master’s degree in education from AUM and a master’s degree in history from Auburn University. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.

An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer since 2011.

He writes on politics, education and history.

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AlaParks accepting nominees for Eagle Awards MONTGOMERY – The Alabama State Parks Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is now accepting nominations for the prestigious Eagle Awards, which recognize special contributors to the parks.

Nominations are open online at www.alapark. com/eagle-awards-2024, with awards presented in five categories The deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, Dec. 22.

Winners will be honored on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at Lake Guntersville State Park.

Nominations are open to the public in the following Eagle Award categories: Elected Official: This award honors an elected official who has worked to support and fulfill the mission of Alabama State Parks in preserving natural areas, operating recreational facilities and extending public knowledge of the state's natural environment.

Community Partner: Honoring government organizations, chambers of commerce, tourism organizations and local businesses who help parks succeed through collaboration and community support, this award celebrates community partners. Community partners share the vision of successful parks fostering increasingly successful communities.

Park Partner: This award honors organizations working to ensure the creation and ongoing maintenance of vital park amenities such as hiking and biking trails. The nominee is a partnering organization that sees a need and collaborates with the leaders of Alabama State Parks to fill it.

Volunteer in Parks: This award honors Volunteers in Parks (VIPs) who serve to make Alabama State Parks destinations of excellence.

Whether contributing physical labor at a single park or strategically planning for the parks system, VIP nominees are service-oriented individuals who keep park maintenance and growth at the forefront of all efforts.

Youth: Honoring K5 – 12th grade student award recipients, this award highlights students who have made extraordinary contributions to a single state park or the system of Alabama State Parks through community service organizations or individual service efforts.

The Alabama State Parks maintains 21 state parks encompassing more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Appalachian mountains.. Learn more at www.alapark. com.

B11 Dec. 7, 2023

OPELIKA >>

FROM B9

zone.

KageFit, a fitness and martial arts training center, is one of the proposed developments for the proposed rezoned area. KageFit would develop and use a two-acre area with access from Waverly Parkway. According to the proposed ordinance, KageFit has been at 3613 Pepperell Parkway for the last 10 years; currently has 200 members and has outgrown the Pepperell Parkway location.

The proposed fitness center and martial arts building is 10,000 square feet and would include a parking lot, outside playground and walking trail within the two-acre parcel.

All fitness and training programs will be held inside the building.

The development of the remaining parcel is reserved for future determination.

Later in the meeting, the council introduced the ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to rezone the property for its first reading.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved a bid for one 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 truck from Glynn

Smith Chevrolet for the Opelika Fire Department in the amount of just under $43,400.

- The council approved a bid for the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of State Road 51 and Gateway Drive.

The cost of the project is $228,746 and is 100% federally funded by Alabama Department of Transportation with the city being reimbursed.

- The council approved expense reports from various departments.

- The council authorized the mayor to designate city personal property surplus and authorize its disposal.

- The council approved agreements with AVENU Insights & Analytics LLC for the Revenue Department. The purpose of these agreements is for the review of the remittance, processing, discovery and recovery services with respect to lodging taxes, sales and use taxes and rental taxes.

- The council approved a Google Workspace Enterprise Agreement with CDW Government. The annual charge for the subscription based service is just under $106,000.

- The council approved the purchase of one Altec AT40-G with

Chassis and Unit Body using the Sourcewell Contract No. 062320ALT for Opelika Power Services in the amount of $154,410.

- The council voted to accept a grant from the Daniel Foundation of Alabama in the amount of $10,000 to help defray the cost of the Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen traveling exhibition that will be the Opelika Public Library next year.

- The council voted to amend the Community Development Board Grant (CDBG) Program Year (PY) 2022 Action Plan. This amendment moves $37,000 from PY2022 to the PY2023 action plan budget to the Emergency Home Repairs Program.

- The council approved certain tax abatements and exemptions for Golden State Foods Corp. The company has announced plans for an addition to its facility located at 4801 Northpark Drive in Opelika with a capital investment of approximately $2.6 million.

- The council approved a project development agreement with Miele Manufacturing Inc. Read the article on A1 for more detailed information.

- The council approved an employment

contract with John Sweatman hiring him as the new director of the Economic Development department for the city of Opelika following the retirement of current Director Lori Hughley on Jan. 31, 2024.

- The council approved an agreement with NRC Inc. for arborist services. Fees for the services of NRC Inc. shall not exceed $114,000 for each oneyear period for a total contract amount not to exceed $456,000.

- The council approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with GBGC LLC doing business as Gulf Coast Gunbusters for the Opelika Police Department for disposal of seized or surrendered firearms as deemed necessary. No money will be exchanged or reimbursed as a result of the destruction of the firearms.

- The council approved a resolution to establish compensation of the presiding municipal judge in the amount of $2,700 per month, municipal judge in the amount of $2,500 per month, assistant city prosecutors in the amount of $165 per hour for professional services and public defenders in the amount of $2,500 per month.

- The resolution for

the fiscal year 2024 annual appropriation contract with Arts Association of East Alabama remained tabled.

- The council introduced an ordinance to amend Section 2-162 of the City Code of Ordinances: Relating to Order of Business and Citizen Communications for its first reading.

According to the porposed ordinance some of the changes in the order of business and citizens comments would include three options: • Public hearings, prior to council vote (comments must be related to the topic of the public hearing) • Agenda-related public comments, prior to council vote. (Comments must be related to specific items on the meeting agenda.)

• Second roster of public comments on non-agenda items, at the conclusion of the meeting. (Comments are limited to city business or issues which the city council would have authority to act if brought forth as an agenda item.)

Other changes address the order, decorum and entry policies.

All of the proposed changes can be found on the city website at www.opelika-al.gov.

AUBURN >>

FROM B9

Glenn Ave. - The council changed the meeting date on March 5 to March 12, 2024.

- The council approved the purchase of one 2023 Ford F150 pickup truck for the Auburn Fire Department from Stivers Ford Lincoln for $41,881.

- The council approved a temporary construction easement for Dash Express Auburn LLC, for the North Dean Road and East University Drive Intersection Improvements Project.

- The council approved a temporary construction easement for the Terrell Land Company, LLC for the North Dean Road and East University Drive Intersection Improvements Project.

- The council approved three positions for the Tree Commission.

- The council approved the Pink Annexation for approximately 3.13 acres for property located south of Lee Road 72 (East Farmville Road).

B12 Dec. 7, 2023

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PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF CIVIL ACTION Zichao Huang, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Montavious Finley's Complaint for personal injury and property damage and other relief by January 22, 2024, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Civil Action No. 43-CV2023-900105.00, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. Done this the 29th day of September, 2023.

Mary Roberson Clerk, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama This Document Prepared By: JAMES R. BOWLES, ESQ. Law Offices of James R. Bowles 2 South Dubois Avenue P. 0. Box 780397 Tallassee, Alabama 36078 (334) 283-6548 (Email) JamesRBowles@ aol.com Legal Run 11/30/23, 12/7/23, 12/14/2023 & 12/21/2023 ---------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: CV-2022-900316 M&T BANK, Plaintiff v.

MYONG C. YIM, Defendant NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: MYONG C. YIM You are hereby notified that the above-styled breach of contract action seeking monies due the Plaintiff in an amount of $79,706.73, plus interest and fees, has been filed against you in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and that by reason of an order for service of summons by publication entered by the Court, you are hereby commanded and required to file with the clerk of the court and to serve upon Plaintiff’s attorney, Jason R. Watkins, 4317-A Midmost Drive, Mobile, Alabama 36609, an answer to the Complaint within thirty (30) days after the last publication of this Notice or default judgment will be entered against you.

Dated this 17TH day of November, 2023.

Mary Roberson Clerk of Court, Lee County, Alabama T.K. Davis Justice Center| 2311 Gateway Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 737-352 Legal Run: 12/7/23, 12/14/23, 12/21/23, & 12/28/23 ----------------

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IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CAMERON MICHAEL MCHARGUE, Deceased CASE NO.: 2023-283 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to DANA MCHARGUE, as Administrator of the Estate of CAMERONMICHAEL MCHARGUE, deceased, on the 28th day of November, 2023, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH, Judge of Probate.

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

DANA MCHARGUE Administrator of the Estate of CAMERON MICHAEL MCHARGUE, deceased.

Law Office of Gregory A. McKay 2105 S. Broad Avenue, Suite B Lanett, Alabama 36863 334-623-0263 greg@gregmckaylaw.com Legal Run 11/30/2023, 12/7/2023 & 12/14/2023 ---------------Notice of Completion McElhenney Construction Company, LLC. hereby gives notice of completion of contract with The Alabama Department of Transportation for construction of Project Number ATRP2-41-2022-456 in Lee County, AL. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning on Nov. 30, 2023, and ending on Dec. 21, 2023. All claims should be filed at P.O. Box 1409 Theodore, AL 36590 during this period.

Legal Run 11/30/23, 12/7/23, 12/14/23 & 12/21/23 --------------IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF MERIWETHER COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA In Re: Petition of ERIC ANTHONY MINIX, ADOPTION NO. 2023-CA0006 FOR THE ADOPTION OF ANNALEE SUE LEDBETTER. NOTICE OF SUMMONS TO: WILLIAM STEVEN LEDBETTER

ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF

ADULT HUMAN RESOURCES 1-800-458-7214 FOSTER dhr.alabama.gov/AFC CARE Provider

This ad is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,686,987 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

“Love Never Ages”

Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption by Stepparent and Termination of your Parental Rights as against ERIC ANTHONY MINIX in the adoption of said child by ANNALEE SUE LEDBETTER was filed in the Superior Court of Meriwether County, Georgia on the 27th day of September, 2023. You are hereby commanded and required to appear before the presiding judge of the Superior Court of Meriwether County, Georgia, on the 7th day of February, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. The hearing is for the purpose of determining whether or not your parental rights should be terminated and for a final hearing for adoption of said child. Please be advised that this is a serious proceeding and if the Petition is granted by the Superior Court, the Court's order will be without limit as to duration and will terminate all your rights and obligations with respect to said child and all rights and obligations of the child to you arising from your parental relationship, including rights of inheritance. Unless an Objection and Notice of the Filing of the Objection are filed, you will not thereafter be entitled to object to said adoption or otherwise to participate in the proceedings.

You are hereby summoned and required to file with the Clerk of said court and serve upon Petitioner's attorney whose name and address is Megan E. Wallin, 5 East Broad Street, Newnan, Georgia, 30263, a response to the Petition. Notice shall be deemed the date of last publication. If you fail to do so, Judgment by Default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

WITNESS, THE HONORABLE JACK KIRBY, SENIOR JUDGE, MERIWETHER COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT, THIS 28TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2023.

Legal Notice 11/30/23, 12/7/23 & 12/14/23 ---------------To: Bryan Lopez IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION DR-2023-900271.00 IN RE: CHLOE LOPEZ V. BRYAN LOPEZ NOTICE OF DIVORCE FILED AND SERVICE BY PUBLICATION Notice to: Bryan Lopez: BRYAN LOPEZ must answer

the Complaint for Divorce filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, on September 14, 2023, by the Honorable Katherine M. Hoyt for the Plaintiff Chloe Lopez within thirty (30) days from the last date of Publication of this notice or a final judgment may be rendered in Case Number DR-2023-900271.00 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. Answer must be filed at: Lee County Judicial Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Alabama 36801.

ATTORNEY: Honorable Katherine M. Hoyt 114 North 9th Street Opelika, Alabama 36801 kat@alsolaw.com (334) 737.3718 Legal Run 11/30/23, 12/7/23, 12/14/23 -------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA JUVENILE DIVISION P.R. a minor child (DOB: 11/23/2011), Case No. JU 2016-167.04 NOTICE OF PETITION & SERVICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: Christina Thrasher, mother of P. R.,who was born on 11/23/2011 and whose custody was vested in the Lee County Department of Human Resources on June 3, 2022. Christina Thrasher must answer the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights filed regarding this child in the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama within four-teen (14) days from the last date of publication of this notice with the Clerk of Court located at the lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Suite 104, Opelika, AL 36801, or thereafter, a final judgment may be entered in Case JU 2016-167.04 terminating her paren-tal rights and placing the child for adoption.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Hon. Harold S. Patrick At-torney for Lee County DHR 2108-D Gateway Drive Opelika, AL 36801.

Legal run 12/7/23, 12/14/23, 12/21/23 & 12/28/23 --------------NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA,

ALABAMA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a meeting of the board of directors of The Utilities Board of the City of Opelika will be held on December 18, 2023 beginning at 11:30 AM, in the board room of the Administrative Building located in the W. Warner Williams Water Resource Park, 4055 Water Street, Opelika, Alabama. The meeting agenda will be posted as specified in State law.

The regularly scheduled meeting on December 25, 2023, has been cancelled.

DATED this the 23rd day of October, 2023.

SECRETARY OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 12/07/2023 --------------R. V. OUTLET, INC. NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given that R. V. Outlet, Inc. (an Alabama corporation) was dissolved on December 1, 2023, with said Articles of Dissolution filed in the Office of the Alabama Secretary of State.

Persons with claims against R.V. Outlet, Inc. are requested to present such claims to R. V. Outlet, Inc., c/o Marshall E. Blount, 186 Lee Road 989, Opelika, Alabama 36804. Included in such claim should be any and all documentation to determine the amount of and the validity of the claim. A claim against R. V. Outlet, Inc. will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce the claim is com-menced within two years after the publication of this notice pursuant to Code of Alabama Section 10A-1-9.22.

Legal Run 12/7/2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RONALD VANCE BECK, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-582 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to JO ANN W. BECK as Executor of the Estate of RONALD VANCE BECK, deceased, on the 28th day of November 2023, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby

re-quired to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Bradley R. Coppedge, Attorney for the Estate of RONALD VANCE BECK LEGAL RUN 12/7/23, 12/14/23 & 12/21/23 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of GLORIA JUNE PERKINS, Deceased.

Case No. 2023-422 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Gary Wayne Perkins, Jr., as Administratrix of the Estate of Gloria June Perkins, deceased, on the10th day of October, 2023, 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.

Gary Wayne Perkins, Jr. Administrator Of the Estate of Gloria June Perkins, deceased.

Legal Run 12/7/23, 12/14/23 & 12/21/23 --------------STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO: 2023-606 ESTATE OF MICHAEL EDWARD HOGAN, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Michael Edward Hogan, deceased, having been granted to Karen A. Hogan this 4th day of December 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Karen A. Hogan , Personal Representative Legal Run 12/7/23, 12/14/23 & 12/21/2023 ---------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B8

B13 Dec. 7, 2023

UMC Women raise funds for missions at annual Christmas market PHOTOS BY STEVEN STIEFEL / FOR THE OBSERVER For more than 50 years, the United Women in Faith (formerly UMW) at Auburn United Methodist Church have hosted the annual Christmas Market, with all proceeds going to local missions. Along with baked goods, frozen casseroles and other food items, more than 40 area artists, crafters and others were on hand to sell handmade art and items.

Cookie Walk benefits Habitat for Humanity

PHOTOS BY STEVEN STIEFEL / FOR THE OBSERVER

PHOTOS BY STEVEN STIEFEL / FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn Toys for Tots receives hundreds of drive-thru donations

PR Specialist Sidney Hancock, pictured top, said the drive-thru event was a success. Toys from the drive will distributed to 406 local children.

The 28th Annual Cookie Walk featured live music, a visit by Santa and thousands of cookies. The annual event, which raises money for Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity, is sponsored annually by the WeHelp Coalition of Churches. This year's walk was held at True Deliverance Holiness Church on Donahue Drive in Auburn.

Indoor shooting

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B14 Dec. 7, 2023

Kiwanis Club welcomes ballet

Density Residential, PUBLIC NOTICES >> (Low Gateway Corridor Primary

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Opelika Kiwanis Club welcomed Allie Dyleski and Madeline Stallworth Ward of East Alabama Community Ballet to discuss the upcoming performances of the Nutcracker.

Lions Club donates to BigHouse PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Micah Melnick, center, executive director of BigHouse Foundation, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. BigHouse Foundation supports the needs of foster and adoptive families in the community by providing resources, building relationships and meeting needs. More information on BigHouse may be found at www.ourbighouse.org. Melnick was introduced by Lion Gayron Davis, left, and received a club donation from Lions President Glenn Stokes, right.

FROM B12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Mu-nicipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. ________ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Ala-bama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. That Ordinance 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika provided for and referred to therein, as previously amended and/or modified, be and the same is hereby amended by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter in this section described, so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district as follows, to-wit: From a R-3, GC-P District

Dis-trict) to a C-2, GC-P District (Office/Retail, Gateway Corridor Primary District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Commence at the Southeast corner of Section 13, Township 19 North, Range 26 East, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama; thence North in the right of way for Long Street for 676.1 feet to a point; thence South 89°45’ West, 414.9 feet to the Southeast corner of 1016 Alabama Avenue, said point being the Point Of Beginning of the parcels de-scribed herein: from this POINT OF BEGINNING, thence Continue along Alabama Avenue South 89°42’39” West, 58.52 feet to the Southeast corner of 1100 Alabama Avenue; thence South 89°42’39” West, 143.95 feet to a flare intersection with Freder-ick Road; thence along said flare North 13°28’23” West, 56.38 feet to the Southeast Right Of Way for Frederick Road; thence along a chord of said Frederick Road Right Of Way, North 39°50’37” East, 37.41; thence continue along said Right Of Way on a chord of North 44°01’38” East, 94.72 feet to the Northwest corner of 1100 Alabama Avenue; thence North 89°45’35” East, 65.91 feet to the Northwest corner of 1016 Alabama Avenue; thence North 89°45’31” East, 58.72 feet to the Northeast corner of 1016 Alabama Avenue; thence South 00°26’47” East, 147.06 feet to the point of beginning.

The above-described property contains 27,966 square feet, more or less, and is located at 1018 and 1016 Alabama Avenue, Opelika, Alabama.

Section 2. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby

repealed.

Section 3. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written com-ments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

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

WITNESS my hand this the 7th day of December, 2023. /s/ Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 12/7/2023 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SAM S. BAILEY, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.2023-607 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Sam S. Bailey, Jr., on the 4th day of December, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Ala-bama.

Notice is hereby given that all person having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Sam S. Bailey, Jr. Executor Legal Run 12/7/2023, 12/14/2023 & 12/21/2023

Auburn holds holiday market; opens ice skating rink PHOTOS BY JJERRY BALLAS | THE OBSERVER

The ice skating rink is open at the greenspace at the Hey Day Market. Reservations are required. The holiday market offered local goods to attendees.

B15 Dec. 7, 2023

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B16 Dec. 7, 2023

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Returns Dec. 8 to Historic Downtown Opelika!

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