The Observer 12-14-2023 by OpelikaObserver

See Christmas event photos inside

2022 — APA DIVISION D GENERAL EXCELLENCE DESIGNATION — 2023 COVERING LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Vol. 16, No. 10 Opelika, Alabama Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023 Your local publication created 'for local people, by local people.'

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Collinwood luminaries set to glow this weekend BY ANN CIPPERLY FOR THE OBSERVER

Along sloping streets in the Collinwood neighborhood, more than 1,200 flickering candles will glow for the 56th annual luminaries from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15 (or on the rain date, Saturday, Dec. 16). The popular Opelika holiday tradition will highlight four scenes along the path with live animals. At the end of the path, a nativity scene resonates the message of Christmas, featuring the youth group from First Methodist Church of Opelika. Signs with scriptures will remain in the neighborhood during

the month of December. “The community is invited to drive through the luminaries as many times as they like to enjoy the scenes,” said Ruth Torbert, chairman of the event. Admission is free. Those driving through the path of candles will receive a program at the entrance with a QR code to scan with their phone camera that allows them to listen to the recording of the Bible’s Christmas Story from Luke 2:1-20. “The neighborhood has always seen the luminaries as its gift to the community,” said Martha Hill, a Collinwood resident who has participated from the beginning, when

the first candles were lit in 1967. “It makes Christmas special for children.” Hill, who served as chairman several times over the years, said she feels the event keeps people of the neighborhood close. Torbert said she agrees. “This annual event would be impossible without the support of all the neighbors assisting alongside me,” Torbert said. “It is a joy to see this Christmas tradition continue.” Since 1982, Youth Pastor Rick Lane of First Methodist Church has worked with youth to provide live scenes for the nativity. Live animals

Opelika council member among delegation visiting China BY MICHELLE KEY, PUBLISHER

OPELIKA — Todd Rauch of Opelika was recently selected by the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL) for a bipartisan delegation visit to China. It’s the first time the organization has taken a group to China. ACYPL chose seven emerging leaders for this special trip to China. In addition to Rauch, who represents Ward 5 on the Opelika City Council, the delegation includes Ashton Clemons of the North Carolina House of Representatives;

TODD RAUCH

Ryan Pearson the state Senate Majority Leader of Rhode Island; Tommy Preson, vice president of ethics for the Boeing Company; Ashley Sisca Klingensmith, state director of Americans for Prosperity; Stephanie Moreno, judicial education

program manager for the Texas Association of Counties; and Arlie Ziskend, director of External Relations for ACYPL. The trip kicked off last week with an overnight stop in Washington D.C. for briefings with the U.S. State Department and the Chinese Embassy. The following day, the delegation embarked on its 27-hour journey to Beijing, China. Since arriving in Beijing, the group has visited the Yonghe Lama Temple, the China Youth See CHINA page A2

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PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

The 56th annual neighborhood tradition will feature 1,200 candles

Collinwood luminaries will include a nativity scene by youth from First Methodist Church of Opelika.

are included in the nativity scene. The neighborhood and its gift of the luminaries event has an interesting history woven with community leaders over the years. The history of the

Collinwood neighborhood began many years earlier when there was one house known as the Collins’ plantation. A fancy gate that opened and closed automatically for carriages once led the way to the Collins’

plantation, nestled on the edge of 160 wooded acres. At “Collins’ woods,” school teachers took children for picnics, Boy Scouts camped out and Shriners held barbeSee LUMINARIES page A2

Groundbreaking held for The Taylor in Opelika

Downtown luxury apartments projected to be completed by late summer 2024 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Taylor, the first luxury multifamily development in Opelika’s historic downtown, officially broke ground on construction on Wednesday, Dec. 13. The opening date is currently projected for August 2024. The desirable location in the heart of the historic downtown will offer a sophisticated living option for residents

who prefer a walkable community at their front door. Located at 411 S. 10th St., there will be 198 one-, two- and three-bedroom units available. “Our team lives and works in small-town communities so we are very familiar with the need for preservation at the intersection of growth,” said Travis Griffith of Argus Eyed Partners. “With Opelika, we saw a real demand

for a modern multi-family option that retains the feel of an adaptive reuse building. We are thrilled with the interest not only from locals but also from those in nearby markets who are interested in refined living in the heart of a historic downtown.” The building is inspired by adaptive reuse and is being brought to life by architect firm Geheber Lewis Associates | Atlanta and interior See TAYLOR page A2

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A2 Dec. 14, 2023

FROM A1 design firm Focus Design Interiors. “Being involved in a community-shaping project like The Taylor is a designer's dream,” said Mel Esser, COO of Geheber Lewis Associates. “The architectural design, carefully considering Opelika's history, is set to become a landmark for the community's future growth. GLA is honored to be part of the design team, and we look forward to witnessing all the positive impact it will have in the community.” The amenity space is intentionally designed

FROM A1 cues. Helen Collins remembered moving to the plantation as a child when her father, Robert Henry Collins, purchased the house built in the style of a New England country home by a man named Du Val. While no one knows the exact date, it is believed to have been constructed around 1881. A unique feature of the house is a coffin door that lifted up on the side of the house, which was the custom for New England homes at that time. Helen remembered that the Shepherd family lived in the house before them. They would come back to the house to reminisce and tell stories. Helen said she had wonderful memories of growing up at the plantation. When Collins’ woods was just country, the closest house was the McCall house, located across from the Church of Christ on Tenth Street. School teachers who boarded at the Collins’ home would leave their good shoes at the McCall house. It was a long walk to the school, Palmers’ Hall, the present site of Opelika City Hall. Helen’s father was a farmer who also ran a trucking business. He married Maud Sanders, and they had four children. One of those children was T.S. (Frosty) Collins. Helen taught school and was a librarian at the junior high school. While some people would not want to see

from the railroad system, an integral part of Opelika's history, we included subtle nods to trains in our design with artwork, wood details and iron features. The Taylor was ultimately designed to feel classic and timeless with modern elements. We look forward to seeing our design come to life and become part of the Opelika community and history.” The Taylor is being developed by Sierra Development, which specializes in lifestyle-rich, mixed-use developments throughout the Southeast. For more information, visit the website TheTayloratOpelika.com.

their family homeland turned into a subdivision, Helen said she was pleased and named the neighborhood “Collinwood” when it began in 1950. “I think we have some of the loveliest people in town living here,” she said. In the beginning, parties were held in homes and everyone in the neighborhood would be invited. This tradition and friendliness led to the neighborhood offering the luminaries as a gift to the town. Except for the Collins’ house and the tree where Boy Scouts carved their names, there are no other signs of Collins’ woods. Homemade gas lanterns and water tanks are long gone, and the fish pond is covered in ivy. Helen would still be proud of the neighborhood today, as the residents prepare to offer the tradition of their event to the community. At the first Collinwood Luminaries, there we only a few houses on East Collinwood. In 1966, Mrs. J.R. Fuller of the Twilight Garden Club suggested the idea to the club after seeing luminaries in Europe. The holiday tradition of luminaries originated over 400 years ago in Mexico. The following year, with 15 families in the neighborhood at the time, the residents undertook the project. Aileen Samford and Lucy Salter were instrumental in organizing the event. Salter received information on the details of luminaries from friends in St. Simons

Island, Georgia. During the first few years, the residents of East Collinwood used an assortment of bags and candles. After West Collinwood Circle and Colinwood Street were added to the subdivision, the event became more organized. Paper bags and candles were ordered to be consistent throughout the pathway. The preparation in setting up the candles involves the entire family. Yards are raked and neatly groomed. Children in the neighborhood assist older residents. A few days before the event, sand is delivered to several locations around the neighborhood. Three to four inches of sand is placed into a plastic bag, then into a paper bag, with the top folded down. More than 1,200 bags are placed evenly for uniformity. City sanitation and power employees assist in getting ready for the event by cleaning streets and turning off street lights. The Collinwood tour is also supported by the Opelika mayor and city council, the Public Works Department of Opelika (ESG), Opelika Power Services, the Opelika Police Department and Boy Scout Troop 858. The luminaries begin at Tenth Street and Collinwood Street. Motorists turn off headlights and use amber lights only as they slowly drive one way through the neighborhood.

The Taylor, a luxury apartment complex, held a ground-breaking ceremony, Wednesday, Dec. 13. The apartments are expected to be open late summer 2024 with 198 one, two and three bedroom apartment homes.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LUMINARIES >>

to provide comfort and privacy to residents. There will also be an entertaining area for resident events, as well as a private co-work area and fitness gym. Each unit offers upgraded features and black and wood accents with fresh and bright finishes. “The design inspiration for The Taylor came from Opelika’s rich history of the land and community that surrounds it,” said Lauren Lee and Reagan Kelshaw with Focus Design Interiors. “With that in mind, we wanted potential residents to walk in and feel as though it was something old made anew. Drawing inspiration

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

TAYLOR >>

Opelika City Council Member Todd Rauch is pictured above, far left, with a bipartisan delegation sent to China by the American Council of Young Political Leaders. At right, Rauch and the other participants met with Chinese citizens and visited a number of tourist sites.

CHINA >> FROM A1 Daily, the All China Youth Federation, the Palace Museum, Jingshan Park, Meituan Headquarters and the Great Wall of China. Rauch has been sharing his experience on his Opelika Ward 5 Facebook page. In one post he said he has been sharing items from Opelika with some of the local children he has met. “Many of these Chinese citizens, especially children, have

never met an American before,” Rauch wrote. “I was proud to pass along an Opelika Fire Department and Opelika Police Department coin to a few of the kids I met, and I hope they remember the experience. I know I won’t forget it.”

ABOUT ACYPL: Since being founded in 1966, the American Council of Young Political Leaders has given elected officials and policy experts a global perspective through our international

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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. 14, 2023

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ATLANTA — Mallory Agency, a best-inclass, privately-held insurance broker with a national reach and strong roots in Georgia, announces the opening of a new office in Auburn. The expansion marks a strategic move to enhance the agency’s presence in critical markets and capitalize on emerging opportunities, now operating out of Atlanta, LaGrange, Charleston and Auburn. With its logistical proximity to Atlanta and vibrant atmosphere fueled by a major Division I SEC school, Auburn has been on the agency’s radar for

years. The agency sees tremendous potential in this community, and the strategic move aligns with the firm’s unique approach to doing business. Mallory Agency is ready to hit the ground running and poised for success in the dynamic Auburn market, with Forrest Burch already in place as the market leader, reporting directly to Matt Mallory, CEO and managing principal of Mallory Agency, on strategy and business development. Auburn’s office will hone in on the construction, development and real estate areas of the market. ABOUT THE MALLORY AGENCY:

The Mallory Agency

is a property and casualty insurance broker serving clients throughout the United States.With a national reach and strong roots in Georgia, Mallory provides insurance, risk management, claims and proactive services to clients who seek Mallory for its commitment to service, advocacy and relationships. For 115 years, Mallory’s unwavering dedication to bringing clients results has catapulted them into an expert position in the insurance industry. To learn more about Mallory Agency, visit www. malloryagency.com.

Bark Bowl Bash, Mini-Golf Tourney raise over $183K for humane society

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

'Empty Bowls' on sale now Mallory Agency expands, opens new office in Auburn

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Opelika Parks & Recreation's Pottery Studio, located at 1102 Denson Drive, is pre-selling The Empty Bowls and tickets for next spring's soup fundraising event. Bowls are $15 each, with every penny going to support the Food Bank of East Alabama. Also on sale will be assorted pottery items and holiday gift baskets. The studio, located at 1102 Denson Drive, is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stone Martin Builders collected hundreds of gifts for Toys for Tots PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CARE Humane Society hosted its annual Bark Bowl Bash on Nov. 11 at Botanic, followed by the Bark Bowl Mini-Golf Tournament on Nov. 18 at Tiger Town Sports. The fundraising events aided the CARE Humane Society and the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter in raising $183,922, nearly doubling its goal of $100,000.

As part of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots campaign, employees and residents of Stone Martin Builders generously gifted 375 brand-new presents to local families.

A4 Dec. 14, 2023

Opelika hosts annual Christmas in a Railroad Town

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

Opelika's annual Christmas in a Railroad Town was held in historic downtown on Friday, Dec. 8, featuring crafts, pictures with Santa, a petting zoo, train rides, pony rides, live music and more.

A5 Dec. 14, 2023

Tips on how to 'sleigh' your holiday cards this year CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

AUBURN UNIVERSITY — The holiday card season is here. Soon, mailboxes will be filled with greetings and warm wishes. When it comes to making a holiday card, there are several things that can go wrong. From blurry pictures to misspellings, your card can quickly find its way onto the naughty list. To keep your card in Santa’s good graces, there are several things to keep in mind. THE APOSTROPHE Holiday cards are often the bane of an English teacher’s existence. Why? Because they often include grammatical errors. Glenda Freeman, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System com-munications editor, said one of the most common mistakes in holiday cards is misusing the apostrophe. People will often use an apostrophe trying to make their last name plural. For example, people may write

from the Whitehead’s. However, Freeman said an apostrophe shows possession, not plurality. “As a rule of thumb, add ‘es’ to last names that end in s, x, z, ch and sh to make them plural,” Freeman said. “For names that end in all other letters, simply add an ‘s’ to the end.” Last names are not often seen in their plural forms, so it may look odd to some people. Another option is to sign your card from The Adams Family. The apostrophe is also often omitted where it is needed. For example, in the expres-sion season’s greetings, the apostrophe is needed because the greetings are of the season. GRAMMAR & WRITING TIPS • Use words correctly. Use the word that correlates with your intended meaning. Common mistakes include your/you’re, its/it’s and they’re/their/there. • Watch for stray punctuation. If you want

to wish someone a happy holiday enthusiastical-ly, one exclamation mark will adequately express that feeling. Also, watch for stray commas and periods. • Be concise. Space is limited on holiday cards. The more text you include, the smaller the font size needs to be. Small text may be difficult to read. • Send warm wishes. Make your card personal by tailoring the message to the recipient. Express your gratitude for their presence and extend hopes for the upcoming year. • Respect the traditions and beliefs of others. • Spread joy and positivity. Include happy moments from your life the past year. You can also add lighthearted humor when appropriate. • Sign off in a unique way. "Embracing the holiday season provides an excellent opportunity to reestablish connections with loved ones,” Freeman said. “Whether through traditional mailed cards

or digital greetings, accompany your heartfelt wishes with a message free of spelling errors, typos and grammatical mistakes.” TAKING THE PERFECT PHOTO Photos are great to include on holiday cards. However, there are a few things to remember when choosing the photo. Margaret Barse, an Alabama Extension multimedia producer, said photos should be fun. “Family life isn't perfect, and your photos can reflect that,” Barse said. “However, if you only use one picture for your holiday card, you may want to think a little more about the framing and how to put your best foot forward.” PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS • Planning. Think about the time you are trying to take the photo. Are the children hungry? Does someone need to hit the road? Planning can help you choose a time when no one feels rushed,

hungry, etc. • Lighting. Make sure the main light source is facing the subject of the photo. When a photo is backlit, it creates shadows and details are lost. • Framing. Look at the shot, and make sure there are no objects (such as branches or fence posts) coming out of people’s heads or ears. A clean background makes the people in your photo pop out. To give a different mood to your photo, experiment with both wide and close-up framing as well. • Selfies. A selfie's angle is often awkward and unflattering. It is always better to have someone else take your photo. • Body positions. Are you posing in a stiff or awkward way? Make sure that everyone looks comfortable in the photo. Look for odd body positions where one person’s arm or leg seems to be attached to someone else’s body. Is everyone's pose the same? A great

photo has dimension and varying heights. Mix things up by letting the children stand in the back and the adults sit on the floor. • Cropping. Use your phone’s cropping tool to remove any stray objects. This turns the photo’s focus to the main subject. This can make all the difference in a holiday card. “I know it's easier said than done but keep trying to get the photo where there are no closed eyes and pets and children are looking forward,” Barse said. “The best thing is that with today’s cell phones and digital cameras, you can keep filming until you get it right, unlike my childhood of using rolls of film.” MORE INFORMATION By following these tips and tricks, you are sure to sleigh your holiday card this year. For more information on other holiday-related topics, visit www.aces.edu.

HOLIDAY CALENDAR 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 two Saturdays, Dec. 16 and 23, ready to listen to wish lists and pose for photos. OPELIKA PUBLIC LIBRARY Winter Wonder Workshop is coming to the Opelika Public Library on Saturday, Dec. 16, featuring crafts, games, hot cocoa and a chance to meet Santa Claus. HOLIDAY TEA @ 1856 – CULINARY RESIDENCE On Sunday, Dec. 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. 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 Saturdays, Dec. 16 and 23. ICE SKATING Located on the Hey Day Market greenspace, the iceskating 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 at

Want help spreading the word about your event? We can help! editor@opelikaobserver.com (334) 749-8003 * Deadline is noon on Tuesdays

2910 Lee Road 145 in Salem, featuring 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 Friday, Dec. 15, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 16, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 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. 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 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 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.

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Opelika hosts 30th annual Victorian Front Porch Christmas tour

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER Pictured top left is Jane Jones, creator of the Victorian front porch 30 years ago, who now lives in south Alabama. She is pictured with the merry-go-round she made 30 yrs ago that is in John Denson's yard. Pictured bottom right is Sadie Denson, who served hot chocolate from her cart during the tour. Entertainment was provided by a number of local performers, as well as dancers from Brenna Ballet Institute.

A7 Dec. 14, 2023

Eradicating pests

BY COLE SIKES, ACES

AUBURN — Moderate fall temperatures are quickly turning into frigid days and nights in Alabama. Record lows and freeze watches are driving people, as well as bugs, inside homes and structures to stay warm. However, most people don’t take kindly to these unwanted guests. Like them or not, Alabama Cooperative Extension System home grounds, gardens and home pest experts say this time of year is prime time for home invaders. CREATURE COMFORTS

AUGMENTING THE ENVIRONMENT

According to Shrader, augmenting your environment is one of the best defenses for home invaders. “I try to tell people that there's not necessarily a spray or anything that will prevent them from getting in your home,” Shrader said. “It's more of an environmental step that you have to take to augmenting your environment to make it less habitable for them.” Preventative changes like sealing cracks in house sidings, fixing door sweeps and replacing worn weather stripping can create a no-fly zone to keep bugs away. The pest solution directly relates to the problem insect species. “I’m all for sprays,” Shrader said. “I think sprays are another tool in your toolkit. However, because of the price tag of some products, some sweat equity is your best first line of defense.” POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION

Not all insecticides have the same effect. Some products aim to treat a specific species. So, simply spraying directly on bugs or areas where there are bugs may not accomplish the task. Shrader said it is critical for anyone with an insect problem to first submit a specimen to the AU lab or visit their county Extension office for identification. If someone doesn't identify a pest, then a proper plan of treatment will be difficult to implement. “You go out and spend $50 on some-

thing, spray it and then find out a week or two later — when you still have the issue — that the product wasn't effective, so now you have to go and get something else,” Shrader said. “So, now you’re at $100 when you could have could have stopped it or cut it off a little sooner by getting an identification and then a proper product.” It is also not ideal to wage an all-out war on certain insects that are not worth the expense. A person must decide whether it is necessary to eradicate a species, such as ants, who are resilient and could come back in a short amount of time. “People want to get rid of everything and it just becomes, ‘Well, how many hours a week are you going to invest in trying to get rid of these ants or pavement ants that are, you know, harmless?,’” Shrader said. “Or how much money do you want to spend on trying to get rid of the ants that'll be back in two weeks?” She also said as soon as insects get inside a home, it becomes necessary to eliminate the pest. However, risks and cost should always be the deciding factor when choosing to address a cool-month pest problem. CONTACT EXTENSION

The best solution to kicking out home invaders this winter is utilizing science-based resources from Alabama Extension. Reach out to your local Extension office to learn more about your invaders and the best ways to prevent them from moving in permanently. Contact the Auburn University Plant Diagnostics Laboratory to inquire about positive pest identification. ABOUT ACES:

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System takes the expertise of Auburn University and Alabama A&M University to the people. Our educators in all 67 counties are community partners bringing practical ways to better our homes, farms, people and the world around us. Our research extends knowledge and improves lives.

Residents in Loachapoka will soon be able to enjoy their own community park after a ground-breaking ceremony was held on Monday, Dec. 4. Estimated to be completed in May 2024, the project will include a renovated walking trail, a 1,500-square-foot covered pavilion with rest rooms, a paved parking lot and green space. First announced in May 2022, the 4.5-acre Community Park is a joint project between the town of Loachapoka, the Lee County Commission and the Lee County Parks and Recreation Board.

Auburn celebrates expansion of Wire Road Soccer Complex PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Meredith Shrader, an Alabama Extension entomologist and lead diagnostician at the Auburn University Plant Diagnostics Laboratory, said people and insects share a trait or two. “Like you and I like a cozy environment, they (insects) too are seeking shelter for the winter,” Shrader said in a recent episode of Alabama Extension’s From the Ground Up! podcast. “They don’t want to be left out in the cold like we don’t, so they’re trying to find an environment where they can hunker down, go to sleep and get through the worst of it.” Many times, these sanctuaries are people’s homes. Shrader said the big three of the most common pests that she receives reports of are the Asian multicolored ladybug, brown marmorated stink bug and kudzu bug. Insects see structures as a beacon for survival, therefore making every nook and cranny appealing. Stacking firewood against a home is also an attractive landing spot for bugs and may promote the transfer

of unwanted species, such as termites. Consider the placement of portable structures or insulated materials, as they may serve as a temporary home for other creatures as well.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ACES offers tips for getting rid of bugs during winter

Loachapoka breaks ground on new Community Park

The city of Auburn Parks & Recreation commemorated recent additions to the Wire Road Soccer Complex with a plaque ceremony on Dec. 11. Expansions to the complex were completed this fall, including a new indoor facility with a 160-by-350-foot in-door multipurpose court. The court is lined for futsal, basketball and volleyball and can also be used for events such as the upcoming Daddy Daughter Date Night. The project also included the addition of three outdoor artificial turf fields and one natural sod practice field, new rest room facilities, a pavilion, expanded parking, pedestrian trails and picnic shelters. The facility is located at 2340 Wire Road. The expansion project is one of many projects to come out of the city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Master Plan. To learn more about the expansion project, visit auburnalabama.org/cip.

John Rice The Rice School of Real Estate begins new session on January 9, 2024. Call Rebecca to schedule. 334-705-0800

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A8 Dec. 14, 2023

Sheriff's Office hosts 'Donuts with Deputies' event PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER Lee County Deputies met with citizens at the Donuts with Deputies event on Dec. 1 at the Twin City FOP Lodge #21 in Opelika. The event featured sweet treats, coloring activities and more, including a special mailbox to send off letters to Santa.

Deputies graduate from academy

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER | THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Piedmont Columbus Regional names Lee Co. Deputy as First Friday Hero

The mother of the toddler that Deputy Jacob Cook saved during the "First Friday Hero" event where he was honored recently.

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM LEE COUNTY — On Tuesday morning, Dec. 12, Piedmont Columbus Regional honored Lee County Deputy Jacob Cook during one of its “First Friday Hero” ceremonies. Despite the event not being held on the first Friday of the month, the honor was still awarded for Cook’s actions recently to save the life of a child. “Deputy Cook responded to a call about an unresponsive baby,” said a press release from Piedmont Columbus Regional. "As seen on body-cam footage, he cleared the little girl’s airway and began stimulating the baby while reassuring the mother everything was going to be okay. EMS arrived and transported the toddler to Piedmont Columbus Regional’s Pediatric Emergency Department for further care. The toddler has since been released from the hospital and is

back at home with her parents. Additionally, we’d like to thank Smiths Station Fire and Rescue for working together with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office to keep the citizens of Lee County safe.” The First Friday Hero program was created in 2016 by Piedmont. “Piedmont Columbus Regional was looking for a way to take the stories of the first responders in the area and draw them to the public eye,” said Andrew Knight, manager of Piedmont Public Safety. “There are so many things that our first responders do, that they do every day, that are amazing, miraculous, heroic stories but they don’t always get brought to the light of the public where the public can see them and honor them and so this is what we try to do with this program.” Knight and Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones honored Cook in front of the baby’s (Sunshine) family, the

public and media. “We’re here for a very special occasion today,” Jones said. “It’s in regards to recognition of one of our deputy sheriff’s, that we’re always glad to have opportunities to recognize the very positive aspect of outcomes that we respond to.” Cook went above and beyond said the Sunshine’s mother. He not only saved her life but came back to check on her the next day. “Today is pretty much a reminder and celebration of the life of Sunshine here,” Cook said. “She’s a true light in my heart after 13 years of service. I can’t remember anything that was as amazing as meeting the family. I even came to her birthday, which was something I needed in my heart.” The mother spoke, too, crying as she shared her gratitude to Cook. “To stand here today, holding my baby girl, along with Jacob, I See DEPUTY, page A10

Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, left, congratulated Deputies Pope, Patrick and Spencer upon their recent graduation from a 14-week training program at the NE Alabama Law Enforcement Academy at Jacksonville State University.

Opelika police report traffic fatality CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — On Wednesday, Dec. 6, at approximately 7:23 p.m., Opelika police and fire departments responded to a multiple-vehicle crash with injuries on Veterans Parkway near Birmingham Hwy. According to a press release, upon arrival, officers located a Toyota 4Runner on its side in the roadway and a Hyundai

Sonata near the wood line. The 65-year-old driver of the Sonata was deceased at the scene. Opelika Fire Department was able to extract the driver and passengers from the 4Runner. Two occupants were transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital, and one occupant was transported to East Alabama Medical Center for treatment. One remains in critical condition.

The case remains under investigation by the Opelika Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Investigation team. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Opelika Police Department at (334) 705-5200 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 745-8665. Tips can be submitted through the Opelika Police Mobile App. You may wish to remain anonymous.

Inmate found deceased in jail Authorities do not suspect foul play CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — On Dec. 6 at approximately 6:30 a.m., Lee County corrections deputies discovered an inmate, Kevin Bradley Winslett, 51, from the Salem community of Lee County deceased in his jail cell. According to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office, Winslett was suffering from a life-threatening medical condition before his arrest. Winslett was alone in his cell and no signs of foul play were indicated. Winslett was arrested on Nov. 22 and

placed in the Lee County jail. He was being held without bond on numerous charges, including one count each of unlawful possession of a pistol, failure to register as a sex offender, possession of drug paraphernalia and second-degree domestic violence, as well as two counts each of first-degree robbery, first-degree kidnapping and third-degree domestic violence. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office will investigate the circumstances of the death, in line with Lee County Sheriff’s Office policy to provide an independent investigation.

E vents,Food & SocietyNews

Making the Grade

Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso

s I’ve mentioned many times in this column, I am the “Queen of the Klutzes.” When I go anywhere, I’m apt to drip, slip or trip. In an earlier column, I wrote about a time when my lack of gracefulness was really on display as I dined with my friends Judy, Nancy and Kim. During that meal, I managed to toss my salad bowl while attempting to put away my cell phone, which I had been using to take pictures. Thankfully, my friends, who are very kind, were willing to go out in public with me again after that food fiasco. (Remember, I love alliteration.) Recently, we traveled to Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso, located at 1015 Mayberry St. in Waverly. I was eager to eat lunch there because several of my friends had heard great things about it. They heard correctly. Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is located in the Standard Deluxe building in Waverly. The Standard Deluxe has live music, and you can go to www.standarddeluxe.com for information and tickets. Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is a cozy, quaint place. I love that it’s located on Mayberry Street because it reminded me of “The Andy Griffith Show,” where everyone was

dered the turkey and cheddar on sourdough focaccia, while Kim selected the rosemary chicken soup. I, being the hardest eater of the group, ordered both the soup and sandwich. Everything was amazing. The soup was warm and savory, and the sandwich was delicious. Their homemade bread is simply the best. Nancy also ordered a ham, fig and brie croissant and a chocolate croissant to go. She said that she and her husband would enjoy it for breakfast the next day. Judy ordered a cranberry and rosemary muffin for the same reason. Also, Judy ordered an enormous cheesecake with fresh strawberries, which she kindly shared with everyone. It was slap-your-Grandma-twice good. Judy insisted that I take my husband Mike the remaining section. “And make sure that Mike eats it,” she said. My sweet friends try to help me behave since I’m a diabetic. It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it.

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE | FOR THE OBSERVER

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

welcome. Howard and Sarah Jones, the owners, were so kind. They opened the business in Waverly in April of this year. Previously, Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso had been in Grove Station in Tallassee. The variety of luscious-looking baked goods was incredible. The aroma alone raised my blood sugar. Also, diners may enjoy a selection of coffee and tea. Howard said, “Everything, breads and pastries, are baked fresh in house every day.” Howard said that they offer two different lunch options: a sandwich, soup, wrap or salad. You can check on the website to see what is being served each day. When we dined there, Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso offered diners Rosemary chicken soup with a sourdough slice, turkey & cheddar on sourdough Focaccia with chips and a pesto chicken wrap with chips. Judy and Nancy or-

Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is a charming lunch spot located on Mayberry Street in Waverly.

I’m happy to report that I didn’t toss anything this time. Thankfully, salad wasn’t on the menu that day. All I did was drop a morsel or two in my lap; that’s not bad for me. Trust me, run and do not walk to Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso. It is such a special place. Also, if you haven’t visited downtown Waverly, you should. My friends and I enjoyed looking at beautiful vintage items in several

shops. Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is closed on Sunday and Monday. As Sarah said, “We’re closed on Sunday for the Lord’s day and on Monday for prep day.” There you go. Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is open Tuesday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso makes the grade with an A+ from

this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people never lie about food. Enjoy! Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear every other week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com.

Wild Flour Bakery & Espresso is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

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Sean of the South

DEPUTY >>

Christmas Prayers

SEAN DIETRICH

he side-of-thehighway café was decorated for Christmas. Plastic balsam trees on formica tables. Beside the napkin dispenser, a nutcracker soldier with a Sharpie graphic drawn on his unmentionables, lending new meaning to the unfortunate soldier’s station in life. There was a nun at the counter. Black skirt. Modest veil. New Balances. Her hands were vascular roadmaps, clasped in prayer. She hadn’t moved in several minutes. “Ma’am,” a young waitress finally intervened. “Are you okay?” The Sister lifted her head and ceased praying over her pancakes. “I’m alright,” the nun replied. “I just have a

lot to pray for today.” “Oh,” said the waitress. “Sorry to bother you.” “You’re not bothering me. Is there anything YOU need prayer for, sweetie?” The waitress must have been 18 years old. “Me?” “Yes, you. We can ask God for anything, and he’ll hear us.” The waitress shrugged. “Can you pray that I earn enough money to get my daughter a new iPhone? She really wants one, and I don’t know how I’m going to swing it this year. It’s important.” The Sister smiled. Then, the old woman looked at the guy sitting next to her. He wore a trucker hat. “What about you?” she asked. “Do you need anything from God?” He nodded. “Can you pray that my loan goes through? I just made a down payment on a new house, if I don’t get this loan we’ll be stuck in a rental house forever, and my wife just can’t live that way anymore.” The old woman turned to look at the cook. A middle-

aged guy. Chopping onions. “How about you, sweetie?” The cook wore a serious face. “My wife’s sister is flying in town this week for Christmas, to stay at our house.” The Sister nodded. “What do you want me to pray for?” “Pray that the airline goes on strike.” Other people began chiming in. Everyone, it turned out, had a list of pressing needs requiring attention from On High. A man in a nice suit said, “I need my son to get a full scholarship, or else I can’t afford to send him to college.” “I need a new car,” added a woman. “Mine gets terrible mileage, I can’t afford to keep fixing it.” “I really need my boss to give me a raise,” said another. Finally, a bus boy came from the kitchen. His white uniform was stained in a rainbow of grease. He was the only one who hadn’t added a request to the burgeoning list. “What about you, dear?”

the nun asked. The boy said nothing. A nearby waitress explained that nobody in the restaurant could communicate with this boy because he only spoke Spanish. So the nun conversed in fluent Español. Whereupon the boy came alive. He smiled as he told her his story. It was the most animated anyone in the restaurant had ever seen him. And evidently, he had a lot to say. Everyone became very curious about what he was telling the old vowess. “What’d he say?” asked the waitress. The nun explained that the boy’s father had been murdered, his mother had diabetes, his older brother was recovering from a construction accident with a broken neck and his little sister was Deaf. The boy was raising five siblings on his own, working multiple jobs to keep everyone fed. The family got their clothes from Salvation Army bins. They got extra food from a dumpster

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behind a supermarket. Everyone in the family who was able, worked fulltime. Nobody had time for anything besides work. Let alone Christmas. And yet, even in such poverty, the family was still together this year. Somehow they were surviving. Somehow, they still had each other for the Advent season. “Wait,” the waitress said. “But what did he ask you to pray for?” The nun shook her head. “He didn’t. He asked me to deliver a message to heaven on his behalf.” “What was the message?” said the trucker. “He wanted to tell God thank you.” 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.

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

don’t have the words,” she said. “Jacob, I don’t have the words. On behalf of her father, in his absence, we don’t have enough gratitude, appreciation, admiration, we don’t have enough to thank you for what you did. I thank you from the bottom, top and center of my heart and I promise you for the rest of my life I’m going to make sure you know that.” Jones said that Cook represented the many deputies and officers part of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. “We are very proud of Jacob, we’re very proud of the family and want to just emphasize the fact that this is who we are, this is what we do and this is what our goal always will be to ensure that our public is safe, and anything that we can do at any time to be of assistance to anyone then we’re going to be there and we always will be,” Jones said.

A11 Dec. 14, 2023

Exodus Ranch seeking community's assistance Help needed to care for 14 children CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER OPELIKA — The Exodus Ranch needs your help. It currently has 14 children and, as always, needs help with food, clothing, medical care and providing the children with more than just the essentials. Eight downtown businesses have agreed to collect donations on their counters. Exodus Ranch Matriarch Shelly Tufts said that the donations will be put to good use. “We are very thankful to the community for any help they feel

led to provide,” she said.”We love doing what God has called of us to do. Your gifts can help us meet the needs of the children God brings to our door.” Donation boxes can be found at Rock ‘N Roll Pinball, The Gallery on Railroad, Market Street Coffee Shop, Smith T’s Hardware, Fringe, Chuck's BarB-Que, Resting Pulse Brewing Company and The Surcie Shoppe. “This is the season of giving, and here’s a great way for you to give to a great local cause and see 100% of your donations put to

good use,” said Ernie, Rains, a sponsor of this project. ABOUT EXODUS RANCH: The Exodus Ranch is a nonprofit charity (501)(c)(3) that is focused on providing a home for local children in need. Shelly and husband Joe have been inspired to help children that are in difficult life situations. As declared in the mission statement, the Exodus Ranch is a place for children to receive the love of a Christian family, and to come to understand the unconditional, unwavering

love of Jesus. It strives to provide everything needed to encourage the children to become well rounded adults, who are strong, self-reliant and keen to help others. The home is often a temporary last resort for homeless, local chil-dren. Because of financial hardships in the community, the ranch is seeing more of a need to help families temporarily due to homelessness and recovery. For more info and online donations visit www.theexodusranch.com. Look for donation boxes at eight downtown Opelika businesses or donate online at www.theexodusranch.com.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Moving Forward Methodist Church will present a Christmas concert featuring internationally renowned Dutch pianist and composer Jan (Ian) Mulder performing with the Festival Orchestra on Sunday, Dec. 17, at 3 p.m. at historic Trinity Church in Opelika. Mulder, who in May was featured in the Coronation Prom at Royal Albert Hall in Great Britain on the evening

of King Charles’s Coronation, was born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. He studied piano and composition at the Rotterdam and Utrecht Conservatories. His albums, recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, can be heard daily on SiriusXM and other stations. Mulder and his orchestra have appeared more than 400 times on PBS Television. His inspirational CD series

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

World-renowned pianist Jan Mulder to perform at historic Trinity Church Love Divine, recorded at Abbey Road Studios and AIR Studios in London, are bestsellers in more than 20 countries and have achieved gold and platinum status. Moving Forward Methodist, a new and rapidly growing family of faith, offers this performance as a gift to the community. All are welcome to attend. There is no admission charge, however, a Love Offering will be received. Dutch pianist and composer Jan Mulder is coming to Opelika Dec. 17.

Springer Theatre announces last performance of 'A Tuna Christmas' PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

COLUMBUS, GA — The curtains are about to close on "A Tuna Christmas," one of the Springer Theatre's mostloved holiday traditions. Its quirky characters and hilarious plot lines, consistent crowd-pleasers for more than 20 years, will bid farewell to the Springer forever just before the end of the year. However, there's something very special about this production: Paul Pierce returns to the stage in his farewell "A Tuna Christmas" performance. The show runs Dec. 14-23 in the Springer's Dot McClure Theatre. A fast-paced, quick-change comedy set in the fictional town of Tuna, Texas, has entertained more than 60,000 people over the years. "We've generated over a million dollars in ticket sales, and this is in our smallest the-

atre," Pierce said. Although other Christmas shows have been scheduled and performed on the same stage, none were as popular. Out of the 21 Springer productions of "A Tuna Christmas," Pierce has performed in 18, most notably with the late Ron Anderson, former associate artistic director and friend. He has called those years performing with his then-colleague the "greatest joy of my life." This year, Ned Bridges takes on the roles Anderson played. "Ned and I have been doing comedy together since 1975,” Pierce said. "Ned is Jim Carrey before there was a Jim Carrey. He's a fabulously brilliant comic actor, a fine man and I'm looking forward to being on stage with him." Set in the early 1980s, the play takes place in the third smallest town in the Lonestar State. The comedic chaos

begins with the town's annual Christmas yard display contest, a highly competitive event regularly vandalized by the Christmas Phantom. The colorful characters, each with their quirks and peculiarities, add layers of humor to the story. From Bertha Bumiller, the beleaguered mother with a knack for disaster, to radio hosts and town gossips Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie, to Aunt Pearl, who has a penchant for the unusual — particularly her belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena — the citizens of Tuna are as diverse as they are entertaining. "A Tuna Christmas" opens at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Springer. Tickets are available via the website at springeroperahouse. org, by phone at (706) 3273688 or by visiting the box office in person at 103 10th Street in Columbus.

Get gifts wrapped and pet a pup CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Big Valley Animal Rescue will host its annual gift-wrapping event on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Red Clay Brewing Company in downtown Opelika. Bring gifts you need wrapped for donations of any amount. While waiting for gifts to be wrapped, pet adorable pups up for

adoption. Feel free to bring your own fourlegged friends.

Panda Cares Center of Hope to hold grand opening at Boys & Girls Clubs on Dec. 15 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — In partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Panda Express will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newest Panda Cares Center of Hope at the Potter-Daniel Clubhouse. The ribbon-cutting and grand opening will take place on Friday, Dec. 15, at 2:30 p.m. at the clubhouse, is located at 1610 Toomer St. in Opelika. Panda Cares Center of Hope is a newly renovated space designed to deliver more joy, education and critical social-emotional development to local communities. Rooted in social & emotional de-

velopment, this program is based on research showing that students do better in school when they spend their non-school hours engaged in fun and academically beneficial activities. The Panda Cares Center of Hope was designed to meet the needs of our Club members and includes collaboration station, library area, learning area, technology, multiple seating areas and additional storage, plus spaces for them to learn, engage and grow. To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama programs, please visit www.bgceastal.org or call 334502-1311.

A12 Dec. 14, 2023

Church of the Highlands “Giving Hope” helps more than 10,000 children PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Volunteers from Church of the Highlands provided Christmas gifts to families in Alabama and Georgia.

CONTRIBUTED BY CHURCH OF THE HIGHLANDS AUBURN —Nearly 7,000 volunteers across 26 campuses of Church of the Highlands in Alabama and Georgia provided Christmas gifts to families on Dec. 9 in the 10th annual “Giving Hope.” “Giving Hope is more than helping put a gift under the Christmas tree,” said Church of the Highlands Senior Pastor Chris Hodges. “By meeting practical needs of children and families in the name of Jesus, we are giving the lifelong gift of hope.” Families are given the opportunity to select gifts for their children in an experience that resembles shopping in a mall. This year, more than 3,700 parents were able to shop for their children, choosing gifts from an array of over 50,000 gift donations that

benefited approximately 10,000 children. Each of Highlands’ 26 campuses hosted an event for local families. While parents shopped and gifts were wrapped by volunteers, children participated in fun age-appropriate activities and left without knowing their parents had gotten new gifts for them at the event. Participants were invited through partner community organizations, which helped identify those in need. The first Giving Hope event was held in 2014, and it continues to grow throughout communities where Highlands is located. Highlands invites community members to upcoming Christmas services held multiple times at each of its campuses. Learn more about Christmas at Highlands here. There is no cost to attend, but reservations for free

seats are encouraged to plan for a great in-person experience. ABOUT CHURCH OF THE HIGHLANDS: Church of the Highlands is a welcoming community of faith, where people of all backgrounds and beliefs can experience a fresh, enjoyable connection to God and one another. With a simple and impactful focus, everything the church does is aimed at helping every person live the full life for which God created them. At Church of the Highlands, the emphasis is on developing a personal relationship with God rather than merely practicing religion. The weekend services offer a safe and engaging environment where both newcomers to faith and seasoned Christ followers can learn more about what it means to know God and grow closer to Him.

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.

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Send it to editor@opelikaobserver.com

A13 Dec. 14, 2023

Altar Call

WALTER ALBRITTON

OPINION — obert Frost famously said, “The reason worry kills more people than work is that more people worry than work.” So, if worrying can kill us, it will not be a waste of time to reflect on the nature of worry and decide to stop worrying before it kills us. Worry is a waste of time. It’s like a rocking chair — it gives you something to do but gets

Stop worrying before it kills you

you nowhere. Nothing is changed by worrying about it. Worrying depletes your energy because it’s hard work. It uses energy that could be spent serving others. You have just so much energy on any given day; why waste it worrying about things that may never happen? Worrying can make you sick and ruin your health. It can make you nauseous and miserable. If worrying is of no real value, it makes no sense to worry at the expense of your health. Mahatma Gandhi said it best: “There is nothing that wastes the body like worry, and one who has

any faith in God should be ashamed to worry about anything whatsoever.” Worry never stops bad things from happening. If an asteroid is going to hit you, it will hit you. Worry will not change its path. And anyway, how many people do you know who have been hit by an asteroid? Worry robs you of today’s joy while you fret about the troubles of yesterday or tomorrow. Wor-rying about what happened yesterday will not change anything. Put your mistakes and heartaches to rest. Move on. Live in today’s sunshine not yesterday’s shadows.

Worry will not change what you said or what other people said. Criticism hurts. Treat your wounds and walk on. Stupid remarks cause lingering regret. Forgive yourself. So you screwed up yesterday. So what? Everybody screws up now and then. Why waste time bemoaning the fact that you are a human being? Make amends with people you have hurt, if you can. If you cannot, then you tried. You have no control over what other people choose to think or do. If you give them a chance to be at peace with you, then you have done all you can.

Worry prevents living one day at a time. “One day at a time, sweet Jesus” — that song says it all. Enjoy today, every waking minute. Squeeze the joy out of every day like you were squeezing an orange. Don’t leave a drop. Anyone recovering from alcohol or drug addiction knows that the only hope for sobriety is to stay with the program one day at a time. That formula works for all of life. It is futile to live in the past; it is impossible to live in tomorrow. All you have is today. Savor its sweetness. Yesterday is gone; tomorrow may

never come. Seize the day. Worry is a sin, so stop sinning. To worry is to refuse to have faith in God. Jesus said it plainly: “Do not worry.” He warns us not to worry about our life, clothes or food. Live to please God and trust your heavenly Father to meet your needs. He cares and knows what you need. George Burns lived to be 100. He said, “If you ask me what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension. And if you didn’t ask me, I’d still have to say it.”

for the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering at Auburn University. He was passionate about his career, worked hard and was very successful. Mike enjoyed working on his property at home as well, which he had cultivated and created. He took great joy in maintaining it on his tractors, mowers, and with lots of elbow grease. He had vision and created what he dreamed. He loved sports; he loved playing and watching them. He encouraged all four of his children to be athletes. He had high expectations but was always there to motivate and support. He also loved to cook and try out new recipes. Mike was a fantastic neighbor. His neighbors were his friends; he was always there for them to lend a hand or to share with them something he had cooked. He was preceded in death by his first wife of 55 years, Nancy. He is survived by his second wife, MaryAnn Nellis of Auburn; four children: Jon (Ivy) Palmer of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, Scott Palmer of Fairhope, Jill (Clint) Adams of Auburn and Mark (Ryan) Palmer of Auburn; and six grandchildren, Jaxon and Rosco Palmer, Lucy and Scarlet Adams and Presley and Eden Palmer. REBECCA DENTON BLACK RICHARDSON Rebecca (Becki) Denton Black Richardson, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away on Dec. 3, 2023, at the age of 72 in Opelika. Born on Aug. 29, 1951, in Tuscaloosa, Rebecca was a loving and compassionate person who dedicated herself to spreading joy and making

others smile. She had a heart for travel and adventure, ensuring that her children and grandchildren experienced the beauty our country had to offer. Rebecca was also an avid animal lover, always ready to lend a helping hand to our furry friends. Rebecca is survived by her husband, Steve Richardson, and sons, David Richardson and Stewart (Brandi) Black, all of Auburn. She will be also be remembered by her three adoring grandchildren, Hailey, Peyton and Bradley Black, all of Auburn, and her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. William Denton of Birmingham. Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, William Denton and Rebecca Ann Denton. A memorial service to celebrate Rebecca's life was held Dec. 9 in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home & Crematory in Opelika. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Rebecca's honor.

OBITUARIES DAVID BLANTON KUYKENDALL David Blanton Kuykendall passed away on Dec 3, 2023 at the age of 80. He was born in Gordo, Alabama, but moved to Carrollton at age 5. When he was 12, the family moved to Clayton, as his dad became Superintendent of Education for Barbour County. He graduated from Eufaula High School in the class of 1960. He graduated from Auburn Univeresity with his DVM degree in 1968. While at Auburn he met the love of his life, Patricia Bailey. They were married in Dec 1967 and had 55 years of marriage. After graduation, they moved to Birmingham where he joined Center Point Animal Clinic to practice with Dr. Marcus F. Martin. They became the longest practicing veterinary partnership in Alabama until David retired in 2010. David and Pat had two children, Chip and Karen. They both shared their love of the outdoors with their dad. This continued with his three grandchildren, Ana, Aaron and David at an early age. In addition to his numerous outdoor pursuits — hunting (especially turkeys), bird dogs and field trials (he co-owned National Champion Native Tango, fishing and arrowhead hunting — David enjoyed Auburn football, travel, playing bridge and reading. He was predeceased by his parents, Ira and Velma Kuykendall, and his brother, Dan Kuykendall. He is survived by his wife, Pat; children Chip (Joan Kuykendall) and Karen (Keith Smith); three grandchildren, Ana (Anderson Givhan), Aaron (Paige Kuykendall) and David

III (fiancé Abbey McDanal) ; great-grandchild, Charlotte Givhan; sister-in-law, Liz Kuykendall; niece, Kathy Elrod (Johnny), nephew, Danny Kuykendall (Meredith); and several great and great-great nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at Liberty Baptist Church. located at 11050 Chelsea Rd. in Chelsea, Alabama, on Dec. 15 at 11 a.m. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:45 a.m. A graveside service at Garden Hill Cemetery, 1218 Frederick Rd. in Opelika, will follow at 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial gift to the Support the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine through the Auburn University Foundation (auburngiving.org). CHARLES (BUDDY) BLUE Charles (Buddy) W. Blue peacefully passed away at his home on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. Buddy was a one-of-a-kind individual who touched the lives of all who knew him. No one who met him ever forgot his larger-than-life personality and his passion for his family and his friends. Buddy was a genuine example of how to love, serve, and live life fully. He was also a patriot in the truest sense of the word. Born on April 23, 1936, to Dawson and Elvie Blue in Pepperell, Alabama, Buddy grew up in Pepperell Mill Village where he attended Pepperell School. He went on to attend Clift High School in Opelika where he played football and baseball and was involved in ROTC. Buddy also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout during his youth. As a Master Mason, he achieved the

32° in the Scottish Rite and was also a member of the Alcazar Shrine. Buddy joined the military in 1959, later going into the 11th Special Forces Group. He then transferred to the 20th Special Forces Group. He founded their military freefall program and led the Demonstration Parachute Team. He built an impressive military career over the years that included many years of service in the Alabama National Guard. He retired as a Command Sergeant Major. In addition to his military service, Buddy completed his undergraduate degree at Athens State and his Master’s degree at Troy University which enabled him to teach air conditioning and refrigeration courses at Opelika Trade School (later to become Southern Union State Community College) for 28 years. Buddy was also an experienced pilot and expert parachutist. As a major figure in the Cotton Belt Parachute Council and PCA/USPA, he promoted the sport at every opportunity. His impact on the area’s parachuting community was extensive, starting clubs in Opelika and Auburn, as well as his own business, Skydive Opelika. He trained generations of skydiving enthusiasts and military personnel alike, many of whom would go on to become a part of the Army’s Golden Knights. After more than 10,000 jumps, Buddy fully retired from the sport in 2017. Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Dawson and Elvie Blue, sisters Nan Marie B. Weldon (Jim) and Jean B. Phillips (Bobby), brother, Robert Blue, and infant daughter, Nanette Blue.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diane Blue, brother, John (BoBo) Blue, children Charles (Chuck) Blue II, Ami (Steve Sandlin), and Kim (Morris Smith), and his grandchildren, Tucker Sandlin, Riley Sandlin, Foster Hulsey, Elvie Smith, Kelsey Hamby and Taylor Hamby. Visitation will be Friday, Dec. 15, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., followed by a memorial service at p.m. at Providence Baptist Church, 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika. Suggested memorials may be made to Providence Baptist Church Building Fund or the charity of your choice. YONG SO Yong So, 65, of Opelika passed away on Dec. 6, 2023. He was born on May 20, 1958, in South Korea. A visitation was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home of Opelika on Dec. 9 for family and friends to come together and pay their respects to Yong So. MICHAEL JON PALMER Michael, known to most by Mike or Mickey, of Auburn passed away on Nov. 26, 2023. He was born at Station Hospital, Stewart Field, in Newburgh, New York. His parents, both deceased, were John Albert Palmer and Elaine Quackenbush Palmer, both of Walden, New York. Mike lived in Walden with his wife, Nancy, and their four children until he moved to Auburn in 1995. He worked as an electrical engineer at IBM in Yorktown Heights, New York, for 32 years until he retired and moved to Auburn, where he worked for another 25 years

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

JOHN WILLIAM EVEREST John William Everest, PhD, a longtime resident of Auburn, passed away Dec. 3, 2023, at EAMC. John graduated from Sydney Lanier High School in Montgomery. He earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Alabama. He received his doctorate degree in agronomy from Auburn University, where he was a professor for many years. Dr. Everest was preceded

See OBITUARIES, page A14

A14 Dec. 14, 2023

Daniel 8 and Hannukah

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

OPINION — aniel receives his vision of chapter 8 in 550 B.C. In his vision, he is in the “citadel of Susa” — the capital of the Medo-Persian kingdom (see Esther 1:1-3). He sees a ram with two horns, with one horn longer than the other. He is told later the ram represents the kingdom of Medo-Persia (v.

20). The horn that becomes longer is the Persian element of the kingdom which would become dominant. The Medo-Persian kingdom was powerful and held world domin-ion for about 200 years (v. 4). Daniel is contemplating the significance of what he has seen when “a goat with a prominent horn between its eyes comes from the west, crossing the earth without touching the ground” (v. 5). The goat attacks the ram and shat-ters its two horns, leaving it powerless. This is the Greek empire that rapidly rose to power under Alexander the Great (v. 21). He defeated the Persians in 330 B.C. By the age of 30, his kingdom stretched from Greece to India. By the age of 33, he is dead from a fever and alcohol poisoning.

The man who conquered the world couldn’t conquer himself. His kingdom is divided among his four generals (v. 22), who are known collectively as the Diadochi. They are the “four prominent horns” of v. 8. From one of those horns, comes another horn that starts out small but grows in power (v. 9). It sets up against the people of God (v. 10, 12-13), and “It took away the daily sacrifice from the Lord, and His sanctuary was thrown down” (v. 11). God allows all this this to happen because of the “rebellion” (v. 12) of His people (see also v. 13, 19, 23). The little horn that starts out small but grows in power is Antiochus IV Epiphanes. He came to power in 175 B.C. and

in 170 B.C. he began an unprecedented campaign of persecution against the Jewish people. In 167 B.C., he desecrated the temple by sacrificing a pig on the altar of burnt offerings and made the priests and other people eat the pig’s flesh. He extinguished the menorah and made possessing a copy of the Torah, or circumcising some-one, crimes punishable by death. He instituted the worship of Zeus at the temple and turned the temple chambers into brothels. This led to the Macca-bean revolt and the rededication of the temple in 164 B.C. and is commemo-rated by Hanukkah/The Feast of Dedication (John 10:22ff). Daniel proclaimed history ahead of time. He wasn’t doing it for the sake of novelty or sensationalism —

he wanted Israel (and us) to understand it is only possible because God is sovereign and in control. Because this is true, we know that no matter what appearances might look like, God’s purposes will ultimately prevail. For the Jewish people of Daniel’s time, this meant that even though they were in exile with no descendant of David on the throne, God was faithful and would keep His promise He had made to them. He would send a descendant through whom He would rule forever (see Psalm 89). And in Jesus Christ, that’s exactly what He did. Find more of Green’s writings at his website: a-taste-of-grace-with-brucegreen.com

Bible verse of the week:

Be joyful always. — 1 Thessalonians 5:16

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road Valley 334-710-2117

OBITUARIES >>

FOM A13

in death by his parents, Paul and Peggy Everest, and his sister, Carol Everest Kenney. He is survived by his sister, Margaret Everest Cummins (Manley); nephews Paul Malcolm Lightfoot and Manley Lafayette Cummins, IV; niece Sarah Kenney Acuff (Austin); two great-nephews, two greatnieces and many cousins. A memorial service will be held later. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to an organization of your choice. DOROTHY LEE MITCHAM Dorothy “Dot” Lee Mitcham passed away peacefully on Dec. 4, 2023, at the age of 93. A memorial service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Dec. 9, with Dr. George Mathison officiating. Interment followed at Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery. Dot was born on April 3, 1930, in Randolph County to Leila Carden and Jerry Walker Lee. She was married to her husband, the late Cecil Wayne

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika Mitcham, for 69 years and had been a resident of Auburn for over 60 years. She and Wayne were dedicated members of Auburn First Baptist Church and spent more than 25 years as secretary to Rev. John H. Jeffers. She was an enthusiastic member of the Mary Martha Sunday School class and served as the Outreach Leader for young adults. She designed and maintained a lovely garden at Auburn Baptist to honor her friend and church member, Mr. Marvin Waller. Dot and Wayne spent the later years of their lives as faithful members of Auburn United Methodist Church. She was a member of the McGehee-Lacy Bible Class. Dot was a breast cancer survivor who advocated for and supported other survivors. Dot and Wayne enjoyed square dancing and were members of the Village Squares Club. They loved to entertain family and friends in their backyard. Her lawn and flowers received Auburn’s Beautification Award several times. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne, and

ADD YOUR CHURCH Add your church to the directory for only $75 a year. Email editor@opelikaobserver. com or call (334) 749-8003.

334-745-5181

334-826-8800

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

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

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

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

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

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

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn

Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika

brother, Jerry Donald Lee. She is survived by her daughter, Donna (Kyle) Mitcham Johnson of Lake Martin; sons Cecil Wayne Mitcham Jr. of Beauregard and Jeffrey (Donna) Lee Mitcham of Auburn; grandchildren, Shelley (Baylor) Wood, Lori (David) Bailey, Mary (David) Goodson, Laura (Ryan) Vinson, David (Mary Duncan) Johnson, Jacob Mitcham and Debbie (Taylor) Sims; 10 great-grandchildren; niece Lisa Fain and nephew, Jerry (Dana) Lee. The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to either the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, NY 10036 or the charity of your choice. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

by many names: Daddy, Grandaddy, G-Dada and Holder, but he will undoubtedly be remembered as humble, selfless, funny, and kindhearted. He loved his family with such unwavering passion and loyalty and was always there to help, even if it was just to listen. Jimmy spent the happiest of his days in his garden, riding the tractor or golf cart with great grandkids in tow, “piddling,” porch sitting and telling stories about his glory days racing his '57 Chevy on the back roads in McDonough. Jimmy is survived by his devoted wife JoAnn Holder; sister, Hazel Wall; daughters Pam Nichols and Nancy (Steve) Winslett; daughterin-law, Sharie (Shane) Holder; step-daughter, Elaine (Terry) Triplett; and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Shane Holder, who he called his “little buddy”. A funeral service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Dec. 9.

JIMMY LEE HOLDER Jimmy Lee Holder of Beauregard passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on Dec. 4, 2023. He was born in 1939 to Dewey Lee Holder and Corinne Evans Holder in McDonough, Georgia. Jimmy was known

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

JOANN HOLDER JoAnn Holder passed away peacefully on Dec. 10, 2023, at the age of 86. She was born to William D. Jones and Mary Lou Jones in Clay County, Alabama. JoAnn worked many years until retiring from Briggs and Stratton Auburn. She had a smile that made you warm inside. JoAnn loved working in her flowerbeds and garden. She was always up for a family trip to the beach and mountains. Preceding her in death are her beloved husband, Jimmy L. Holder; daughter, Deborah Baker; son, Kenneth Culligan; and her parents. JoAnn is survived by her brother, David Jones and daughter Elaine (Terry) Triplett; daughter-in-law Tammy Culligan; stepdaughters, Pam Nichols and Nancy (Steve) Winslett; daughter-in-law, Sharie Holder; and 21 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Monday, Dec. 18, at 3 p.m.

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

A15 Dec. 14, 2023

A16 Dec. 14, 2023

New Years Eve - Dec. 31, 2023

New Year's Eve at Auburn Marriott Opelika

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Schools & Sports

INSIDE SCHOOL & SPORTS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING JAN. 9 AT 6 P.M. • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING JAN. 9 AT 6 P.M. • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS | BOARD MEETING JAN 23 AT 4:30 P.M. Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Holiday Hoopsgiving

Auburn blows out Indiana 104-76

On the Mark

Roundup of this week's high school sports

BY D. MARK MITCHELL OPINION —

BASKETBALL OHS Lady Bulldog basketball team lost to Lanett 43-31 last week. coach Blake Smalley said his girls played the best three quarters of the year but could not hold on for the win. Opelika led 14-5 after the first quarter, 21-17 at halftime and 31-30 after three quarters. Unfortunately, Opelika did not score in the fourth quarter. Naomi Whack led OHS with 12 points. The Bulldog boys basketball team is 5-4 overall after beating the Chilton County Tigers 74-27 and beating Lanett 66-43 last week. Appearing on the “On the Mark” radio show on Monday, head coach Wesley Button said, "We are playing good basketball at the moment. ... We are getting to the meat of the schedule when we go to North Alabama to play in the Pepsi Classic. We are playing Bob Jones and See ON THE MARK, page B2

Pictured above, graduate senior forward Jaylin Williams was named SEC Player of the Week, and, pictured below, Aden Holloway was named SEC Player of the Week for the second time this season. The two scored 24 points apiece, leading the Tigers to a 104-76 victory over Indiana, one of college basketball’s blue blood basketball programs, as part of Holiday Hoopsgiving on Dec. 9 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND | AUBURN TIGERS

WRESTLING Opelika's wrestling team participated in the Swede Umbach Wrestling Tournament at Auburn High School last weekend. OHS finished third, behind Hewett-Trussville and Tallassee. The following are the weight classes, names, grades and records in the Swede Umbach Tournament. Brady Campbell won the meet with 14-0. 106 - Ramos Howell, Adolfo, 9th grade, 0-0 126 - Hoyett, Derrick, 12th grade, 10-5 132 - Decker, Evan, 10th grade, 4-6 138 - Wilson, Brayden, 12th grade, 12-4 144 - Anderson, Denarvious, 11th grade, 11-3 150 - Gaither, Thomas, 12th grade, 6-0 157 - Campbell, Brady, 11th grade, 14-0 165 - Johnson, Tommie, 11th grade, 4-3 175 - Howell, Recavien, 12th grade, 5-2 190 - Ingersoll, Daquan, 12th grade, 8-7 215 - Fenn, Thomas, 12th grade, 10-5 285 - Epperson, Kyle, 11th grade, 9-2 BOWLING Opelika High started

bowling this year, and the school has both girls and boys teams for the first time. Although both teams are 0-4, the student-athletes are having a good time bowling and being a part of history at OHS. Both teams lost to Benjamin Russell. The girls lost 801-660 and the boys lost 1146-828.

ATLANTA — A return to State Farm Arena was kind to Auburn University Men’s Basketball (6-2), as it recorded its best 3-point shooting performance in two years in a 104-76 drumming of Indiana in the third annual Holiday Hoopsgiving event on Saturday. After going 5-for43 on 3-point shooting the week prior, Auburn made a season-high 14 threes in Atlanta to bounce back from a loss to Appalachian State last Sunday. The last time the Tigers made 14 threes in a game was also in State Farm Arena, at Holiday Hoopsgiving in December of 2021 versus Nebraska. Offensively, Auburn notched its best performance of the season. The Tigers’ 48.6% shooting from the floor, 48.3% on 3-pointers and 87% from the free-throw line were all team highs thus far this year. A 12-3 lead in turnovers also led to 15 points off turnovers and 20 fast break points — twice as many as the Hoosiers. Leading the offensive explosion, starters Aden Holloway and Jaylin Williams put up 24 points a piece to help Auburn reach 100 points for the first time since Feb. 1, 2022, against Alabama. Surprisingly, the team’s leading scorer was one of few who couldn’t get going offensively. Coming off 51 points in his last two games, Johni Broome was held to just two points, but his teammates covered up his quiet showing.

PHOTO BY JAMIE HOLT | AUBURN TIGERS

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

Holloway splashed five 3-pointers, and Williams shot 8-for-14 from the floor in a career game along with seven assists and six rebounds. Williams’ 24 matched his career high that he set in the 2020-21 season versus Ole Miss. He

hadn’t scored 20 points in a game since January against Mississippi State. In the return to his hometown, senior K.D. Johnson was a sparkplug off the bench and helped solidify the win. The senior scored 14 points and buried a contested three

in the second half, giving Auburn a 19-point lead with 13:24 remaining on the clock. A slight advantage inside also ensured Auburn’s second-largest win of the season See AU MEN BB, page B2

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B2 Dec. 14, 2023

Auburn women win defensive battle at Little Rock LITTLE ROCK, AR — Auburn put together a strong defensive effort and held off a late Little Rock run to earn a 58-45 win on the road Sunday afternoon at the Jack Stephens Center. The Tigers (7-2) used a big second quarter to build a 16-point halftime lead, then overcame a foul-heavy fourth quarter to hold on for their third road victory of the season and fourth straight win overall. “My message to the team going into the fourth quarter was that they (Little Rock) are not going to quit,” said Auburn head coach Johnnie Harris. “They started driving, getting some fouls, but we hung in there and hung tough. We started not finishing our shots, but down the stretch, I put the ball in Honesty’s hands and she came through.” More than 100 supporters of Harris and freshman Savannah Scott — both Arkansas natives — filled the corner of the arena near the Tigers’ bench as the two made their return to their home state. “Lots of family and friends,” Harris said. “Scottie had her family and

her high school team, her church, my church, so just a lot. It was great.” JaMya Mingo-Young, making her first Auburn start, had a big day with 11 points, six rebounds and four assists. She was 3-for-5 from the field and a perfect 5-of-5 at the freethrow line. Honesty ScottGrayson led the Tigers with 12 points along with two steals and a pair of assists. “I thought (Mingo-Young) did a good job of running our team, getting the ball where it needed to be,” Harris said. “Just played her heart out. And Honesty’s just special. She got knocked around there a little bit, but I was glad to see her finish. And she finished with some toughness.” Taylen Collins was the Tigers’ top rebounder with eight; she also had six points. Sydney Shaw added eight points with six coming on back-to-back 3-pointers late in the first half. And Scott pulled down six rebounds along with six points in front of her hometown fans. Auburn led 32-16 at halftime after outscoring Little Rock 20-7 in the second quarter; the Tigers were 80% from the field

AU MEN BB >>

FROM B1

against Indiana, who falls to 7-2. Led by eight rebounds from Cardwell, Auburn outrebounded the Hoosiers, 39-35, and outscored them in the paint, 32-30. A lot of that had was due to

would start after the football

James Clemmons, both very good teams. These types of games will help us when we play in the Area tournament." It appears Opelika girls' and boys' basketball teams are improving each game. That is important because area play begins in January. OHS COACHING SEARCH Opelika City School Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore said interviews for head football coach

In her first Auburn start, JaMya Mingo-Young had a big day with 11 points, six rebounds and four assists.

the pressure that Broome and company applied on Indiana 7-foot center and the team’s leading scorer, Kel’el Ware. Ware was held to 13 points on 2-for-8 shooting from the floor, his fewest attempts since the season opener. Despite being limited to 21 minutes on the floor due to committing four personal

ON THE MARK>> season was over. The

FROM B1

and a perfect 4-of-4 from 3-point range in that second period. The Tigers’ lead would swell to as much as 23 early in the third as Auburn opened on a 7-0 run, and the lead was 20 after three quarters at 48-28. But Little Rock would claw its way back, cutting the deficit to single digits midway through the final quarter at 50-41 after opening the period on a 13-2 run. However, the Trojans’ best player on the day, guard Jaiyah Harris-Smith, would foul out with 3:00 to play, and Little Rock would make just one more field goal the rest of the way. Auburn shot 41.5 percent (22-53) while Little Rock was slightly better at 43.9 percent (18-41). The Tigers used their defense to create offense, turning 19 turnovers into 20 points while outscoring the Trojans on the fast break 12-1. Harris-Smith led the Trojans with 16 points. Auburn returns home for its next five games, beginning with a visit from I-85 rival Alabama State Wednesday, Dec. 13. Game time is 7 p.m. CT at Neville Arena.

AHSAA Super 7 football championship ended Friday night in Tuscaloosa, therefore ending the high school football season. According to someone with close connections who spoke on the condition of anonymity, interviews are scheduled and will start this week. At least two current assistant coaches on the OHS staff have applied, along with a few other coaches that were once assistants at Opelika. Opelika High has been without a head football

PHOTO BY CONNOR PUTMAN | AU ATHLETICS

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN ATHLETICS

fouls, Broome was key to Auburn’s solid defensive showing. He contained Ware and hauled in seven rebounds with two blocks and two steals. Breaking things open for Auburn, the Tiger bench entered the game and kept the pressure on the Hoosiers. K.D. Johnson, Chaney Johnson and Tre Donaldson all tallied

for over a month. The administration fired coach Erik Speakman on Nov. 2, which makes me think there was plan in the works prior to his termination. CHANGES TO AHSAA SUPER 7 CHAMPIONSHIP The 2023 AHSAA Super 7 Football Championship was played at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa last week. The three-day event drew more than 43,000 fans to Tuscaloosa. This was the last Super 7 Championship that will be played in Tuscaloosa for a while. The new

double-digits in points as the bench scored 40 points — its third time scoring 40 or more this season and sixth time scoring 30 or more. Oppositely, Indiana’s bench put up 21 points, and it utilized 10 players in the contest. Auburn used 14 players, staying healthy and rested in its sole game of final exam week at

CFP playoffs caused the University of Alabama and Auburn University to reevaluate hosting Super 7 in early December. Alabama and Auburn could host a first round playoff in their home stadium Dec. 20, two weeks after playing seven high school football championship games. Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox told me last week at Super 7 in Tuscaloosa, "This is our last one. Thanks D.Mark, we have enjoyed the partnership," as we talked outside the suites in the Zone. I serve as co-chairman of

Auburn University. The Tigers, including a new graduate in Cardwell, returned to action on Wednesday night versus UNC Asheville. Results were unavailable at press time. Men's basketball will return home for the first time in December to face Bronny James and the USC Trojans on Sunday, Dec. 17 at noon CST.

the Auburn-Opelika Super 7 committee along with my friend, Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. The two of us have had many conversations about the day Super 7 ends in Auburn-Opelika. That day has not arrived, but it appears to be becoming a reality. There has been no official statement from the AHSAA, the city of Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama, the cities of Auburn and Opelika, Auburn University nor AU Athletics. It is evident CFP has changed the landscape of football from college to

high school. There is no urgent need for the decision to be made in the next 12 months. The AHSAA Super 7 Championship is under contract to play at Protective Stadium in Birmingham in 2024. Stay tuned for more info. 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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Frozen Fun tennis tourney Johnson's football picks coming to Auburn Dec. 30 earn him Grand Trophy

AUBURN — Tennis enthusiasts, mark your calendars. The Frozen Fun half-day tennis tournament will be held on Saturday, Dec. 30. The tournament will begin at 8 a.m. at the indoor courts of the Yarbrough Tennis Center, located at 1717 Richland Rd in Auburn. All matches

are expected to finish by noon. The tournament will be held as a USTA World Tennis Number (WTN) tournament with players separated into skill levels of 1-24 and 24-40. Players can sign up for women's doubles, men's doubles, mixed doubles or co-ed doubles in their skill group. The entry fee is $40, and all players will

receive a T-shirt and free lunch. Those who have played any USTA event as a junior or adult have a WTN. Players can look up their WTN by searching their name online at www. usta.com/en/home/play/ player-search.html. Once players have their WTN, they can register for the tourna-ment online at www.usta.com.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Tip-off time changed for AU men's BB vs. Chattanooga CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN – To accommodate fans traveling the Music City Bowl to cheer on Auburn Football in Nashville, Auburn’s home game scheduled against

Chattanooga on Saturday, Dec. 30, will now tipoff at 8 p.m. CT instead of 4 p.m. CT at Neville Arena. The game will still be televised on SEC Network and the Auburn Sports Network.

Each week of SEC football games, residents of Monarch Estates in Auburn picked their choice of winners. The resident who picked the most winners for the week received a trophy, and the resident with the most trophies at the end of the season won the Grand Trophy. Pictured above is Donna Allain, right, life engage coordinator at Monarch Estates, presenting the Grand Trophy to this year's champion prognosticator, Bobby Johnson, left. The second place winners were Fred Moore and Norman Milner. Monarch Estates is a Holiday by Atria independent senior living facility.

Former AU Tiger works to help future student-athletes BY EVA BIANCO FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The sound of little boys laughing filled the streets of Macon, Georgia, as Jeff Whitaker Jr. and his friends played a game of street football. This was Whitaker’s first experience playing the game of football. Little did he know, it would change his life forever. According to NCAA recruiting facts, less than 2% of collegiate athletes go on to play at the professional level. To put that into perspective, in 2014, 460,000 student-athletes were registered within the NCAA and only 9,200 of them took the field as a pro. So, what do the other 98% of student-athletes do post-graduation? Whitaker, a former Auburn University defensive lineman, has used his athletic experience in a unique way. From 2010-2014, Whitaker got to experience some of the most iconic moments in Auburn University football history, including a national championship, the kick six and the infamous miracle at Jordan-Hare.

However, it was his offthe-field experiences that carried him further. Whitaker’s mother, Qwendolyn Brown, tragically passed away when Whitaker was 13 years old. He was burdened with the loss of someone who meant so much to him, which led him to begin playing organized football as an outlet. “It was a stress reliever,” Whitaker said. “It was something I could channel all my energy and my anger and put it into this sport.” He also leaned on his faith, which was instilled in him by his mother, to never give up on himself or the people he cares about. “My faith is my foundation because we didn’t have a lot, but we had love and faith. As I got old-er, I realized, I really had everything, because I had love and faith,” Whitaker said. Although his childhood wasn’t filled with football pads and eyeblack to start, Whitaker’s first high school football season proved successful, and he realized that he was “gonna be all right at this.” After spring and summer

training, Whitaker was determined to get a starting spot. “I remember my brother and his friend would just laugh at me. They would go, ‘Nah man, you gotta work hard, you can just go in there,’” he said. Whitaker’s brother, Lorenzo Brown, also played for their high school team, and gave Jeff the motivation to create his own name for himself. “I always tried to instill in him this attitude of perseverance,” Brown said. “He was always different. I just didn’t understand it at the time.” Whitaker wanted to get out of his brother’s shadow and become his own man. After the conclusion of his first season, he bounced around but eventually landed on his feet by moving in with his aunt and uncle. As a result of the move, he transferred to his now-alma mater, Warner Robins High School. “After my mom passed, I moved around to different homes,” he said. “I called myself a village kid. A lot of different people have been able to help me out.”

His sophomore year of high school is when offers from colleges started to roll in. As exciting as this was for Whitaker, college ball wasn’t on the forefront of his mind. “I was more of a Brett Favre fan than a college football fan,” Whitaker explained. After considering all the other offers he received, Whitaker decided to continue his football career by playing at the Loveliest Village on the Plains. Although the “home away from home” feeling Auburn gave the young football star drew him closer to becoming a Tiger, it was his recruiters that sealed the deal for Whitaker. Tracy Rocker, a former Auburn defensive lineman who is now the defensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, was the key to Whitaker’s college football jour-

ney. Rocker played for Auburn in the Bo Jackson era and was the first SEC player to receive both the Outland Trophy and Lombardi Award in the same season in 1988. During Whitaker’s recruiting process and start with the team, Rocker became a father figure and role model Whitaker could lean on for strength. Alongside Rocker, former Auburn Head Coach Gene Chizik also helped mold Whitaker into the man he is today. Unfortunately, another curveball hit Whitaker as he underwent a major meniscus injury that took him off the field for 20 games during his Auburn career. At this point, Whitaker knew his only option was to grow off the field into the man and leader he knew he could become. “I ran from leadership, and then I got hurt and had to embrace

leadership,” he said. Whitaker’s brother also expressed that Jeff was never a follower, and that his worth wasn’t defined within 100 yards. “I’ve always told him, you’re bigger than football,” Brown said. During the time of surgery and recovery, Brown did his best to fill the big shoes of a parent and to support Whitaker in his journey of leadership. Whitaker graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in social work. Although Auburn set Whitaker up with a degree, he didn’t feel as prepared as he had hoped for a life without the game of football. “I think it’s a moral obligation for the university to empower its student-athletes by positioning them and in every step to let them See WHITAKER, page B7

B4 Dec. 14, 2023

Glenwood High School varsity basketball rides over Calvary PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN | THE OBSERVER

The Glenwood High School boys and girls varsity basketball teams won against Calvary Christian High School in non-conference games on Dec. 11. The boys won by a score of 65-42, and the girls won by a score of 61-39.

B5 Dec. 14, 2023

Gingerbread Village on display at AU's Rane Center

PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS | THE OBSERVER

The Gingerbread Villiage is on display at Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center at Auburn University now through the end of the year.

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B6 Dec. 14, 2023

A passion for fashion and giving back

AU student entrepreneur's business supports refugees AUBURN — A senior at Auburn University is making history. The student, an apparel merchandising major, has not only started her own business but has also used her platform to support an amazing cause. Abby Taylor owns an online clothing boutique called Nameless. Nameless sells clothing items, jewelry and accessories. One of her items is the “T” bag, a green tote bag released in support of “T,” a 17-year-old Afghan refugee living just two hours away from Auburn. “Her story is absolutely incredible,” Taylor said. “She came to the United States by herself at 15 and has had to support herself since then. I wanted to find a way to support her, so I created the ‘T’ bag. All the proceeds of that bag go directly toward supporting her.” One day, Abby met a young Afghan refugee while volunteering at Peace of Thread, a clothing store that employs and supports refugee women. Abby refers to her as “T” to protect her identity due to the dangerous environment in Afghanistan. T told her story, and they instantly connected. Since coming to the United States, T’s life

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY OLIVIA RIEMENSCHNEIDER FOR THE OBSERVER

Abby Taylor, pictured above, is an AU student and business owner who donates part of her profits to help refugees. Pictured above at right is the "T" Bag she designed, proceeds of which go directly to a 17-year-old Afghan refugee living near Auburn. has been far from luxurious. She lives with her uncle, who enforces demanding rules. T explained that he says things like, “Follow the rules, or get out of my house,” or “Watch my kids or get out.” She is responsible for cooking, cleaning and babysitting her uncle’s children on top of supporting her family back in Afghanistan. “I am paying for my family, for the rent of their house, for their food, for my mom’s health,” T said. Each month, T sends $500 to her family to help them

with these bills. A common misconception is that refugees who flee to countries such as the United States have an increased quality of life as soon as they arrive. As seen in T’s situation, being a young woman in an unfamiliar place has been far from easy. She sits next to students in class whose biggest worries are an upcoming homework assignment or test, while she has other responsibilities on her plate. “They are often struggling to gain a foothold in a new land,

straining to pay their bills as assistance from the government and resettlement agencies starts to run out, stuck in temporary housing and trying to figure out how to apply for asylum,” according to an article published by PBS. Programs and organizations have been created to help refugees find their way once they arrive in the United States. In the state of Alabama, the Refugee Resettlement Program (RRP) provides services to refugees and other eligible populations

arriving in the state, according to the Refugee Council USA (RCUSA), a non-profit organization supporting and advocating for refugees. Primary program services include cash and medical assistance, access to English language classes and vocational and employment assistance. Between organizations like this and people like Taylor, refugees can receive the support they need to begin their new life. Taylor’s passion for supporting refugees began at a young age. Her parents were missionaries to refugees in Clarkston, Georgia, a city that is known for refugee resettlement. “I grew up the only American in our apartment complex, so every single one of my friends were international,” Taylor said. “I grew up seeing how refugees struggled to live in a new country, so I have always had a large heart for the refugee community.” As an apparel merchandising major, Taylor knew her interests were in clothing and fashion. However, she said she wanted to create something bigger than just an online boutique — she wanted to make a difference in her community.

“I knew I wanted to go into fashion, but I also knew I wanted to work with refugees,” she said. “Nameless was a way for me to bring the two together.” Taylor started Nameless just under two years ago in March 2022. However, she is still a full-time student with responsibilities of her own. Each day, she balances her classes, extracurriculars, a parttime job and owning her own business. “It’s hard, I’m not going to lie,” she said. “Until I graduate, school comes first, so I’ve just been working on Nameless when I have the time.” Taylor said she has big plans for the future of Nameless. Currently, it’s just a hobby she works on when she has time in her busy schedule. However, once she graduates, she said she hopes to expand her business. “Right now, Nameless is just a small boutique that caters to mostly women ages 18-24,” she said. “I want to expand my market to reach a larger age range. My long-term goal would be to employ refugee women and to work with designers to create clothing lines/collections inspired by different countries.”

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B7 Dec. 14, 2023

Classroom Observer

Carol in the holiday season

BETH PINYERD OPINION —

ver the past few weeks in preschools throughout the community, children have been joyfully singing in the Christmas season. I know personally in reading to preschoolers, who have been in this world for just a few months or a few years, they seem to quickly catch on singing “Jingle Bells,” “Away in a Manger,” “Joy to the World,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” etc. They love to sing, dance, play instruments and clap. As I look into their young

eyes and faces, there seems to be a look of wonder as they quickly learn the traditional Christmas and holiday songs. As an intergenerational volunteer in the preschools, I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of their Christmas singing programs. Children love to practice the songs as they get ready to sing for their families and friends. It becomes part of their young holiday spirit. Even newborn babies are very aware of and sensitive to the rhythm, intonation and tempo of music. I love hearing early childhood teachers in the infant room

in preschool or church rocking and singing to the babies in their care. To hear mommies and daddies singing to their babies brings such joy to all who hear. I love to see a young baby recognize the singing voices of their mommies and daddies with a smile and excitement. When teaching toddlers, one learns quickly that they are great imitators. Toddlers love songs that involve motions with their hands, arms and feet. Older preschoolers just love music for music. It does not matter at all if they are on pitch or even singing the right words. It is wonderful to hear preschoolers hum and sing as they play and do their jobs, such as picking up toys and putting them back where they belong. Early childhood teachers sing songs to children as they go through the transitions of subjects or centers. Children respond happily to music directions. We early childhood teachers on many days put on soft music at the beginning of our teaching days to set a calm mood in

our classrooms as children come in and engage in center play. Playing music in your car or home is thoroughly enjoyed by your young child and can set the mood for your child to have a good day. Wake up your child with soft, cheerful songs. When children take afternoon naps or go to sleep at night, sweet lullabies help them drift off to sleep. Softly singing a story is a wonderful bedtime music activity. There are so many Christmas stories that can be put to music and familiar tunes. Children love to do moving exercises with music. Children love to dance, skip, run and jump to different rhythms. Seasonal holiday songs provide a lot of opportunities to exercise with music such as “Frosty the Snowman,” written by Walter “Jack” Rollins and Steve Nelson. Children truly love to imitate this delightful holiday song. We want our upcoming holiday to be merry and bright by following good health tips. The following

simple suggestions have been shared from health specialists to teachers and parents. 1. Handwashing is so important in reducing the spread of germs. Use lukewarm water and soap to wash hands and fingernails for at least 20 seconds, then rinse and dry them thoroughly. Remind your child to wash their hands after going to the bathroom, coming in from outside play and other activities, right before meals, etc. 2. Make sure the nutritional needs of your child are met. Eating healthy meals helps your child to better fight colds. Eating vegetables, fruits and well-balanced meals can be modeled by parents and adults by eating the right foods in front of your children. Also during this holiday season, cookies, candy and cakes are seasonal delights, but simple oversight of how many sweets your children are consuming will keep them from getting sick. 3. Make sure your children get adequate rest. Rest is such good medicine

for young, growing bodies. Make it a point to have your child on a routine bedtime each night. Your child and family may want to take a “cat nap” or small rest to feel their best during this busy holiday season. 4. Encourage children to play outside and get plenty of fresh air during the holidays. Make sure it is a reasonable temperature as you bundle up your children to play outside when temperatures are cold. Children love free play. Being able to run, skip and explore encourages not only muscle development but also language development and good social interaction. As we get out of schools this week and embark on our winter vacation, I pray that you and your family have a happy, joyful and healthy holiday. Take time to enjoy your children and grandchildren. Beth Pinyerd has taught in the Early Childhood Classroom for many years. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education.

OHTS thespians win big at Trumbauer Theatre Festival

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Pictured above, the Opelika High School's Theatre Society (OHTS) won "Best in Show" at the 2023 Trumbauer Theatre Festival held Dec. 1-2 at the University of North Alabama in Florence. OHTS performed "Quilt, A Musical Celebration" for the one-act competition and will now advance to the Southeastern Theatre Conference in Mobile in March 2024. The Quilt was directed by Revel Gholston, with Music Director Dean Jones and Technical Director Tracy Tidwell. Three individual members of the Quilt cast were named as All-Stars: Drue Gagliano, Clayton McBurney and Atticus O'Banner. Pictured at right is Patrick Seymore, who won first place in Puppet Design-Varsity Division for his work on "Sven" from the OHTS performance of Disney's Frozen. Pictured far right is Makiah Paschal, who won first place in Dramatic Monologue (1910-1980)-Intermediate Division.

WHITAKER >>

FROM B3

know what they can do,” he said. He got an offer to play in the Canadian Football League, but he declined and decided to try his luck in Arena 1 Football in Arizona. Once again, Whitaker felt like he could do more. “I would describe

when I first got out of college as just figuring it out and not afraid to jump,” he said. Whether it was working for FedEx, in real estate or funding for small films, Whitaker tried it all. It wasn’t until he got a taste of managing athletes and helping troubled youth that he realized his time at Auburn

wasn’t complete. Whitaker, now 31, is currently back in college to further his education, and he plans to make his mark within Auburn University's NIL (name, image and likeness) initiative, which allows collegiate athletes to be compensated for their brand within an athletic program. Whitaker plans

on taking his love of Auburn, two bachelor’s degrees and his student-athlete experiences to represent athletes within the NIL and emphasize how they can market themselves well. Whitaker said his main goal is to expose athletes to ideas and how those athletes can capitalize on their personality to not only bring more attention

to themselves, but also the university. “My personal belief is the NIL can help an athlete tremendously,” he said. “It’s a moral obligation by the NCAA to equip these athletes with people who have helped establish athletes’ careers.” Although Whitaker didn’t use his athletic experiences to become

a professional, he has applied what he learned in the classroom and on the field to become part of the next college football movement. This outside-the-box thinking provides potential for the 98% of college athletes who don’t end up playing professionally to use their skills for the betterment of their respective sports nationwide.

B8 Dec. 14, 2023

ASMS launches free online ACT prep

Locals among UGA graduates ATHENS, Georgia — Sarah Livant of Auburn and Romie Ingram of Salem are among more than 2,900 candidates for

graduation in the Class of 2023 at the University of Georgia. Fall commencement will take place Friday, Dec. 15.

Area students named to Troy's 'The 87' TROY — Troy University has recognized students who were named members of "The 87," formerly Who's Who, which juniors, seniors and graduate students who have excelled CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ALABMA — In November, ACT Inc. reported that the national average ACT composite score dropped to 19.5 out of a maximum score of 36 for the Class of 2023. According to data released by the testing organization, that is the lowest average score in 30 years. To help Alabama students raise their ACT scores and improve their college admissions outcomes, the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science has created a new program called ACT Prep with ASMS, which will offer free standardized test prep to qualifying juniors. Online sessions led by a standardized testing expert will begin on Jan. 9, 2024, and conclude right before the state administration of the ACT exam in March. ASMS hopes that this program will serve juniors who may not otherwise have access to ACT prep opportunities. Interested students and families can apply at asms.net/ outreach/act. “A low ACT score can prevent a student from gaining admission to the college or university of their choice,” said ASMS Academic Dean Mitch Frye. “A high score increases their chances of admission and of earning valuable scholarship

dollars. At many in-state institutions, a strong ACT score can earn an applicant as much as the full monetary value of their tuition in four-year renewable scholarships.” ASMS said it hopes that its free program will help correct some of these preparedness deficits at the state level and offer new opportunities for deserving students. ABOUT ASMS:

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science is the state’s

in campus leadership. Local students who were named to "The 87" include Danielle Nichols of Opelika, Willam Pruitt and Katy Chandler of Auburn and Sydney Stringfellow of Salem.

only fully public and residential high school for sophomores, juniors and seniors pursuing advanced studies in math, science, computer science and the humanities. ASMS is a research-focused learning community commit-ted to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and diversity with a mission to empower motivated Alabama students to improve their community, state and nation. Tuition, room and board are free. Learn more at asms.net.

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L ee County & A labama Politics

Dec. 14, 2023

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Inside the State House

The legend of Sen. John Sparkman

STEVE FLOWERS OPINION —

n my 2015 book, Of Goats and Governors: Six Decades of Colorful Alabama Political Stories, I have a chapter entitled “Alabama’s Three Greatest Senators.” I chronicle the lives and accomplishments of Richard Shelby, Lister Hill and John Sparkman. Last week we gave you the history of Hill. This week we will give you a brief story of the legacy of the great Sparkman. Hill and Sparkman served as a tandem in Washington for more than 20 years and were respected giants on Capitol Hill. Our Hill-Sparkman team was unsurpassed in power and prestige from 1946 to 1970. They were admired, not only in Alabama and the South, but throughout the nation. They were powerful and extremely effective for our state, but also portrayed a good image as erudite southern gentlemen. Sparkman served an amazing 32 years in the United States Senate from 1946 through 1978. He served 12 years in the U.S. Congress from Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley, prior to being elected to the Senate. He made his presence known as chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, which at the time oversaw housing for America. Furthermore, he was the

Democratic nominee for vice president in 1952. Sparkman is the Father of the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. His legacy lives on today with the growth and aerospace prominence of our Rocket City. Our fastest growing and most economically prosperous metropolitan area began its presence in the 1960s because of Sparkman. In fact, the city should probably be referred to as Sparkmanville rather than Huntsville. Sparkman was not born into privilege like Hill. Sparkman was born and raised on an unpretentious tenant farm near Hartselle in Morgan County. He had 10 brothers and sisters. In 1917, by making a cotton crop and netting $75 he was able to enroll in the University of Alabama. At Alabama, he was editor of the “Crimson and White” and, like Hill, he was elected president of the student body at the Capstone. At the same time, he worked his way through school shoveling coal and feeding furnaces. After graduation from the University of Alabama School of Law, he practiced law in Huntsville for 12 years before being elected to Congress in 1936. Like Hill, he supported President Roosevelt’s New Deal. The passage of the Tennessee Valley Authority (“TVA”) Act was a tremendous boost for his North Alabama Tennessee Valley district. The TVA Act transformed North Alabama. In 1946, he had served his North Alabama congressional district well for over a decade and was elected to the U.S. Senate. Sen. John Bankhead had died in office and Sparkman won the seat handily with strong

backing of labor unions who were in their heyday in Alabama politics. Sparkman rose to power and prominence in the Senate. He made his mark as the father of federal housing for the poor. He became chairman of the very powerful Senate Banking Committee, as well as its Housing Subcommittee. Sparkman was the author of practically every major housing bill since World War II, and is also known as the father of the Small Business Administration. He was also the ranking majority member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. For more than two decades, Sparkman and Hill served together as a team, the most powerful and respected tandem in Washington. While some Southern senators were making racist speeches on the floor of the U.S. Senate, Hill and Sparkman refused to race bait. They preferred to quietly bring home the bacon to Alabama with dignity. They had a team approach to helping Alabama and their voting records on major issues, which faced the nation, were identical. Sparkman was a giant in the United States Senate and an icon in Alabama political history. 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.

Commission discusses Non-maintained roads BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Commission discussed several items released to non-county maintained paved roads during its regular commission meeting Monday night. County Engineer Justin Hardee gave an update on the non-county maintained paved roads in the area after citizens have made requests and asked questions about their own non-maintained roads. “At a previous commission meeting, the Highway Department presented information about some non-county maintained,”

Harder said. “These were paved paved roads in the different commission districts where public right of way did exist for the commission to consider — these particular subdivisions were constructed prior to our regulations going in in 2008 requiring certain requirements for how the roads should be built and what the developers need to do to do so to conform with them. And so, over the years, several of the residents in these subdivisions have called the highway department, they’ve called various commissioners, trying to get their roads maintained. In that we have not accepted them, the commission has not

accepted them, we do not maintain them. Commissioner Long had brought up the concern and asking is it’s something we could look at.” Hardee said essentially that current regulations wouldn’t allow for roads like this to be constructed. Since that previous commission meeting the Highway Department has been evaluating the condition of the roadways to see how they would fit in with roads the county already maintains. District 1 Commissioner Doug Cannon suggested all of the commissioners drive the roads to check out their conditions. District 3 ComSee COMMISSION, page B11

Report: In 2023, Alabama lawmakers prioritized prison pipeline legislation CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER MONTGOMERY — One out of every six bills the Alabama State Legislature considered in the 2023 Legislative Session were prison pipeline bills, according to a new report released today by the ACLU of Alabama. In the 2023 regular session, state lawmakers introduced 876 bills. Of those, according to the ACLU

of Alabama’s 2023 Statehouse to Prison Pipeline Report, 141 sought to increase penalties for individual behaviors, demand longer sentencing or make it more difficult for Alabamians who served their time to be released from prison. Seventy-six of these bills were signed by Gov. Kay Ivey into law. “Alabamians deserve a legislature that passes bills to fund our public schools,

expand access to quality healthcare and improve their lives,” said JaTune Bosby Gilchrist, executive director of the ACLU of Alabama. “Not a legislature focused on funneling them into overcrowded and deadly prisons.” This is the third year that the ACLU of Alabama has conducted this analysis. It defined a bill as a prison pipeline bill if it: · Criminalized a See PIPELINE page B11

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B10 Dec. 14, 2023

Rightside Way

PHIL WILLIAMS OPINION —

ports has always brought out a fevered pitch reaction from fans. Sporting events create great memories, great lessons and can serve as a great unifier. Sports can also rally beleaguered people out of their despair and malaise. Sports is about inspiration, and challenge. More than just wins and losses, sports can teach us about the ability to win with class and lose with grace. History gives us so many examples. In WWII, many of America’s athletes went to war. The owners of several major league baseball teams decided to form the “All American Girls Professional Baseball League”. Initially created as a moneymaker, the league soon became incredibly popular as it gave the country something to cheer for during a time of war. The league became so popular it

played on for nine years after the war ended. There have been times when individual athletes inspired people to do more, be more or overcome more. Boxer James J. Braddock did just that at the height of the great depression. In 1934, Braddock was down on his luck as a fighter, striving desperately to feed his family and forced to take government welfare. He earned a chance to get back in the ring and began to make a name for himself as a heavyweight. In mid-1935, as a 10-1 underdog, Braddock was tapped to fight heavyweight champ Max Baer. It was heralded as the fight of the common man against the times and capstoned in the locker room scene of his biographical movie when his wife told him, “You just remember who you are. You’re the Bulldog of Bergen, and the pride of New Jersey. You’re everybody’s hope, and you’re the champion of my heart.”

Depression-era Americans everywhere were inspired when Braddock gave more than he got and won a unanimous decision to become the “Cinderella Man”. Even more so when Braddock took some of his winnings and repaid the welfare department for the money he had drawn during his down days. Sports moments can also show us when an athlete that we already admire for their skill on the field, is actually far more than an athlete. One of those moments occurred in August, 1982, when a line drive foul hit a four-year-old boy named Jonathan Keane in the head at Fenway Park. Future Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Rice was in the Red Sox dugout that day. When he saw the incident, Rice knew that it was a desperate moment and jumped into the crowd. Rice carried the bloody child back to the dugout and urged the Red Sox medical team to treat him. Rice finished the game in a blood-stained uniform. Doctors later said that Rice's actions saved the boy's life. But after visiting the family in the hospital he realized they were not well off and had the boy’s medical bills sent to him. Rice and Keane were reunited recently. Young Jonathan grew up

Good Sports

healthy and strong and claims that, even though his memory of the event is gone, that he owes his life to Jim Rice. But sometimes, in and around sports, things just get a bit on the stupid side. Perhaps one of the most ridiculous moments in modern history came recently when a young nineyear-old fan of the Kansas City Chiefs was accused of being racist by a sports podcast called “Deadspin”. The young boy was decked out at a recent game in full Chiefs regalia, with a jersey, feathered headdress and facepaint. His image has already become iconic. But the fella’s at Deadspin thought that they could use the magic crutch of racism to get some click bait, and accused the boy of being a white supremacist for wearing what they called “black face”. The kids face was, in fact, painted black ... on one side. Half black, and half red, because those are the colors of the Kansas City Chiefs. I don’t know what the haters are going to use now. Did anyone really believe that a nine-yearold would head out to a public venue with the intent of putting on a racist presentation. The truth is that he was there for the magical moment that kids dream of when they get to

dress up to support their team, wear their favorite jersey, paint their face, eat junk food and yell and carry on at the allAmerican pastime. We need for sports to be sports, pure, simple and unadulterated. Good times under the lights, with cool breezes, popcorn and the highs and lows of winning and losing. Sports is the great unifier. It is the great distraction from all of the junk of the regular world. Sports is a place where super people do mythical things and fans call out their names loudly and cheer wildly. Sports should always be what Terrance Mann, James Earl Jones’ character in the movie “Field of Dreams” described in his perfect baritone: “they'll walk out to the bleachers; sit in shirtsleeves on a perfect afternoon. They'll find they have reserved seats somewhere along one of the baselines, where they sat when they were children and cheered their heroes. And they'll watch the game and it will be as if they dipped themselves in magic waters. The memories will be so thick they will have to brush them away from their faces. People will come, Ray. The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of

steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it's a part of our past, Ray. It reminds us of all that once was good and it could be again. Oh ... people will come Ray. People will most definitely come.” Let sports be sports. We need it. Play Ball. Phil Williams is a former state senator, retired army colonel and combat veteran, and a practicing attorney. He previously served with the leadership of the Alabama Policy Institute in Birmingham. Williams currently hosts the conservative news/ talkshow Rightside Radio Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. on multiple channels throughout north Alabama. (WVNN 92.5FM/770AMHuntsville/Athens; WXJC 101.FM and WYDE 850AM – Birmingham/Cullman.) His column appears weekly throughout Alabama. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of this news source. To contact Williams or request him for a speaking engagement go to www. rightsideradio.org.

Smiths Station appoints, swears in new council member SMITHS STATION — The Smiths Station City Council officially appointed Place 4 Member Dwayne Peterson during its meeting Tuesday night. The council had previously nominated

Peterson during a speciallycalled meeting last week on Feb. 5. The council’s former Place 4 Member Richard Cooley is now Smiths Station mayor following the death of former Mayor Bubba Copeland. Peterson is a retired first sergeant of the U.S. Army, originally from

New Orleans, Louisiana. He has served on the Board of Directors for the Smiths Station Fire Protection District and as vice-chairman on the Smiths Station Planning Commission. Peterson was sworn in by Lee County Judge Jeff Tickal Tuesday night.

PHOTO BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER | THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH GOLDFINGER HGOLDFINGER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

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Dwayne Peterson was sworn in by Lee County Judge Jeff Tickal as the Smiths Station Place 4 Council Member during Tuesday night's council meeting.

B11 Dec. 14, 2023 “to provide COMMISSION >> $100,000 mental health services

FROM B9

missioner Gary Long also requested to set a work session related to dirt road paving in the county as well so that the county could discuss it further. ARPA FUNDS: The county approved American Rescue Plan Act Funds related to three separate organizations Monday night. Firstly, the county approved ARPA funds for the Lee County Youth Development Center. The commission approved an allocation of up to

PIPELINE >>

FROM B9

behavior or action. · Increased penalties for a behavior or action. · Increased spending or the budget of a carceral institution. · Relied on an unsubstantiated or disproven reform effort. · Developed unique protections or special privileges for law enforcement officers. · Targeted or more acutely impact economically insecure Alabamians. · Expanded the reach of police into

in the community.” “This money is going to be specifically allocated for family-based intervention services, for things like in-home crisis intervention, coaching, counseling, mediation types and support,” Leverette said. Secondly, the commission approved American Rescue Plan Funds to the East Alabama HealthCare Authority for a mental health facility. This was a previously approved item that the hospital brought before the commission. A

Alabamians’ everyday lives. Or, · Civil penalties were enacted for the behavior or actions. Ninety-Four House bills and 47 Senate bills met the ACLU’s prison pipeline definition this year. The ACLU highlighted five of those bills in its report — the Gang/"Criminal Enterprise" Bill (HB 191/SB 143) introduced by Rep. Allen Treadway (HD-51) and Senator Will Barfoot (SD-25); the Loitering Bill (HB 24) introduced by Rep. Reed Ingram (HD-75); the Good Time Bill (SB

OTHER BUSINESS: - The commission heard an update on the Loachapoka Broadband ARPA Project from County Administrator Holly Leverette - The commission heard an update on the county’s free disposal

days from Environmental Services Director John McDonald. - The commission heard the first reading for the second opening on the Smiths Station Fire Protection District Board. - The commission approved an ABC Application for Retail Beer & Table Wine License for Country Market 368 (D4). - The commission approved the Lee Rd. 394 Right-of-Way vacation. - The commission voted to extend the County Benefit to Appointed Board of Registrars.

1) introduced by Sen. April Weaver (SD14); the Parole Denied Bill (HB 131/Senate Bill 97) introduced by Rep. Wes Kitchens (HD-27) and Sen. Sam Givhan (HD-7); and the Absentee Ballot Assistance Bill (HB 209) introduced by Rep. Jamie Kiel (HD18). The Absentee Ballot Assistance Bill was the only piece of legislation highlighted by the ACLU this year that was not enacted. It passed the State House of Representatives but not the Senate. “For each of the prison pipeline bills we highlighted in our

report, we included examples of the unintended consequences, blatant hypocrisy and selective targeting inherent in lawmakers’ approach,” Gilchrist said. “For example, the Statehouse to Prison Pipeline report points out that college sororities meet the legal definition of a ‘criminal enterprise’ established by the legislature this year.” Meanwhile, the 2023 Statehouse to Prison Pipeline report notes that the legislature did not pass a single bill that authorized meaningful criminal legal reform.

free-standing mental health facility will be constructed. The commission voted to allocate up to $4 million. Finally, the commission voted to approve the allocation of up to $206,383 for the work on the Beauregard Park to construct a new access road, roundabout and safety fencing.

The 2023 Statehouse to Prison Pipeline report highlighted two bills introduced by Rep. Chris England (HD-70) that the ACLU believed would have decreased the prison population, minimized negative interactions between the police and community and helped provide proactive care for Alabamians. House Bill 14 proposed requiring a unanimous jury to impose a death sentence and commuting the sentence of those currently on death row who did not have unanimous verdicts at their trials. House Bill 16 pro-

posed the creation of a Criminal Justice Policy Development Council to strengthen oversight of the Alabama Board of Pardon and Paroles (read the ACLU of Alabama’s recent report investigating Parole Board hearings). Neither bill made it out of committee. ABOUT THE ACLU: The ACLU of Alabama works to preserve and protect the civil liberties and civil rights guaranteed by the U. S. Constitution, especially the principles contained in the Bill of Rights. Learn more at aclualabama.org.

B12 Dec. 14, 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 ---------------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 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 DR2023-900271.00 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. Answer must be filed at: Lee

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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 Attorney 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 --------------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.

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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 here-by 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 --------------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, Alabama. 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 --------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of JOSEPH WILLIAM LEONARD, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by RITA LEONARD DAUBER on December 6, 2023, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 12/14/2023 --------------Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, December 21, 2023 @ 10:00 AM Unit A8 Unit H108 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. LEGAL RUN 12/14/2023

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B8

B13 Dec. 14, 2023

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES | THE OBSERVER

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2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B14 Dec. 14, 2023

Kiwanis Club of Opelika welcomes new member

estate are hereby required PUBLIC NOTICES >> said to present the same within time

FROM B12

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Last week, the Kiwanis Club of Opelika welcomed new member Kinsley Hammons. The speaker during the meeting was Michelle Sultz with Baby Steps. She came and spoke on the mission and how it is benefiting young women. For more information please visit www.babysteps.org/our-story.

Rotary Club members donate time to ring Salvation Army bells PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The Auburn Rotary Club continues its annual tradition of ringing bells in December to raise money for the Salvation Army. Thanks to members who took time out of their Saturday to raise money for a great cause.

CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: I. Some items at the meeting will have a designated public hearing (noted below). Individuals are limited to 5-minute comment period per public hearing. II. Approval of Minutes III. Update on Previous PC Cases IV. New Business A. Plat (Preliminary only) – Public Hearing 1. A public hearing on a request by David Slocum, authorized representative for Wayne Gentry, property owner, for preliminary approval of the McCoy Street Townhomes subdivision consisting of 27 lots accessed from South Fox Run Parkway and McCoy Street. B. Final Plat 2.A request by Doug Ransom, authorized representative for DRB Group Alabama, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of the Wyndham Gates Pod 3, Phase 5 subdivision consisting of 9 lots accessed from Alana Court and Raiden Circle. C. Conditional Use – Public Hearing 3.A public hearing on a request by Joshua O’Neal, authorized representative of Viking Sun, Inc., property owner, for conditional use approval for a lounge in a C-1 zoning district at 909 South Railroad Avenue. D. Master Plan Revisions, Major Amendment – Public Hearing 4.A public hearing on a request by Weston Brasell, Holland Homes, authorized representative for the Opelika IDA, property owner, for a major revision to the Brookstone PUD (Planned Unit Development) master plan at 1001 Fox Run Parkway. The amendment adds 43 single family homes, 90 twin homes, and 7 acres of open space. The Planning Commission will consider a recommendation to the City Council. V. Old Business E. Conditional Use - Public Hearing 5. A public hearing on a request by Matthew Hall, authorized representative for Phil Moody and Shree Summerlin, property owners, for conditional use approval for a mixed use commercial and residential development on a 13,500 sf lot in a C-2 zoning district accessed at 508 South 8th Street. This item was tabled at the November 28th PC meeting. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact the Planning department at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 12/14/2023 --------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY ESTATE OF JAMES PARK CHANCE, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-608 Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of Decem-ber, 2023, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against

allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness our hands, and dated this the 5th day of December, 2023. JOHNNY HARRISON Legal Run 12/14/23, 12/21/23 & 12/28/23 ---------------

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION Extra Space Storage (Life Storage) will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 3951 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika Al 36801 Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 10:00AM Unit A21 Unit C33 Unit C100 The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Run Date Dec. 14, 2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY JEAN PHILLIPS, DECEASED * Case No. 2023-580 TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to James G. Phillips and Kenneth E. Phillips, as Co-Executors of the Estate of Dorothy Jean Phillips, deceased, on the 8th day of December, 2023, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. James G. Phillips, Co-Executor Of the Estate of Dorothy Jean Phillips, Deceased Kenneth E. Phillips, CoExecutor Of the Estate of Dorothy Jean Phillips, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 12/14/23, 12/21/23 & 12/28/23 --------------Notice of Public Auction Mini Mall Storage-Opelika We will be holding a public auction online at SelfStorageAuction.com Date: December 19, 2023, Time: 10:00am The payment methods we accept for this are cash, debit, Visa, Mastercard and Amex. All sales are final: The bidder must place a $100 cash deposit, make payment and clear out the unit within 48 hours from the time the auction closes. Once the unit has been inspected, the $100 cash deposit will be returned to the bidder. We currently have 1 unit: Unit-# B27 – Cabinet, dresser, box springs, chaise lounges, desk, chair #L07 – appliances, baby items, fridge, clothes, boxes Legal Run 12-14-2023 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: LARRY D. PARKS, Deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Joyce Lee Howell Parks, Personal Representative on the 6th day of December, 2023, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JOYCE LEE HOWELL PARKS Legal 12/14/2023, 12/21/2023 & 12/28/2023 -------------Construction of Right Turn Lane and Roadway Improvements for Andrews Road ALDOT Project No. IAR-041-000-020 ADVERTISMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE FOR BID #23003 In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Robinson Paving Company, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for The Construction of Right

Turn Lane and Roadway Improvements for Andrews Road, AL for the city of Opelika/ALDOT, owner, and have made request for final settlement of said contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Jeffrey Robinson, 5425 Schatulga Rd, Columbus, GA 31907, in writing. Legal Run 12/14/23, 12/21/23 & 12/28/23 --------------NOTICE OF CUSTODY ACTION LEE COUNTY ALABAMA JUVENILE COURT TO KYLIE SONICKSEN AND THE PUTATIVE FATHER OF: R.S., AKA R.C., DATE OF BIRTH, 9-07-2020 R.S., DATE OF BIRTH, 7-23-21 Take Notice that a Complaint For Modification of Custody has been filed in the Lee County Juvenile Court by Angela Rene Sanders and Rodney Paul Sanders. The parents of the above minors have 14 days from the date of last publication to answer or otherwise defend said action or a default judgment may be entered. Legal Run 12/14/21, 12/21/23, 12/28/23 & 01/04/2024 --------------SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE 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 Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows: From a R-3, GC-P District (Low Density Residential, Gateway Corridor Primary District) 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 described 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 Frederick 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. Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on December 7, 2023, in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Sections 11-52-78 and 11-52-85, Code of Alabama (1975). At said public hearing, all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to said ordinance. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing. Please contact Brian Weiss, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5134 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability. THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 14th day of December, 2023. /s/Russell A. Jones, CMC CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 12/14/2023

B15 Dec. 14, 2023

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B16 Dec. 14, 2023

City of Opelika taking applications for emergency home repairs & homeownership loans CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA OPELIKA — The city of Opelika Community Development office is now taking applications for its Emergency Home Repairs and Homeownership Loan Programs. Assistance is provided through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant funding to assist Low-Moderate Income (LMI) households. Eligibility is as follows:

- Emergency home repairs - Address health and safety conditions of home - Property must be inside Opelika city limits and occupied by home owner. Proof of ownership (deed) is required. - Meet HUD income guidelines for LMI. Household income must be 80% below the median income for Opelika. - Mobile and modular homes do not apply Homeownership Loan - Provide up to 50% of lender required down payment and

closing cost up to $6,000 - Must be first time home buyer purchasing inside Opelika city limits - Meet HUD income guidelines for LMI - Mobile and modular homes do not apply - Additional documentation is required during the review process. For more information, contact Lisa Thrift, Community Development Administrator, at 334-705-5155 or lthrift@ opelika-al.gov.

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