The Observer 12-29-2022 E-edition

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY —

It is time to say goodbye to 2022. It has become a tradition for The Observer to share with our readers a recap of the past 12 months.

JANUARY

January 2022 started off with sadness as the city of Opelika mourned the loss of former council member Dr. Robert Lofton, who passed away on New Year’s Day. Lofton had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) prior to his passing. Lofton

served as the Opelika Ward 3 council member before stepping down due to his illness.

Also notable in January, Lee County welcomed Holly Leverette as the incoming county administrator. Point Broadband LLC donated $100,000 to the city of

Opelika as a sponsor of the new pickleball facility and Auburn saw new roundabouts at Cox and Wire roads.

Tim Aja was seated as the Opelika Ward 3 Council Member and former Opelika Council Member Patsy Jones created a legacy

See 2022, page A5

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

Odds are, if you live in Auburn, you’ve eaten at Niffer’s Place.

Keely Beasecker, owner of Niffer’s, has lived in Auburn since the '70s, when she came to Auburn University as part of the swim team.

“Got here, fell in love with it,” she said.

Now, Beasecker’s plan was originally to go back to California and work in law enforcement. But, Auburn had its way once again and she’s been living here for years.

“The restaurant business fell in my lap,” she said. “I started with Quincey’s Steakhouse here, back in the '80s, so in ’81, and was with them for eight years, and fell in love with the business. [I] thought, ‘This is what I’m going to do.’”

Now, Beasecker said she thought that if she was going to stay in the restaurant business, she’d do better to own her own place.

“We opened Niffer’s up in ’91 and that’s kind of how it’s taken off,” she said.

The irony is that Beasecker wasn’t much of a chef at the time.

“It’s funny because my mom would always die that I was in the restaurant business, because I couldn’t even boil water,” she said.

OPELIKA —

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller recently announced that two existing Opelika manufacturing companies will be expanding and creating more jobs.

CAR TECH

Car Tech will be investing more capital to build and expand its current facility.

Car Tech is a Tier 1 supplier for BMW Group and is located in Opelika’s Fox Run Business Park along the I-85 corridor. Currently, its facility has over 388,000 square feet

for stamping and assembly operations. It plans to invest $18.3 million for an additional 85,800 square feet of warehouse and production space and additional manufacturing equipment.

“Our continued growth has come from both new customers and existing

customers,” said Car Tech Plant Manager Shea Phillips. “Currently Car Tech employs 115 employees, and this expansion will create 15 new team member positions which will fill warehousing, production and technical positions within the

See OPELIKA, page A2

Of course, Beasecker said she can now boil water. She cooks quite a bit at work, given it is a restaurant, after all.

But it’s not just a restaurant, she said, but a “people business.”

“People come here to have experiences and celebrations, and sometimes they come because [they had] a bad day or whatever, and I fell in love with it, and I thought, ‘This is like a party every day,’” Beasecker said.

Niffer’s grew from one restaurant in Auburn to include one in Opelika and one at Lake Martin.

Niffers owner Keely Beasecker embraces Auburn Mayor Ron Anders after being presented with one of the city's annual Lamplighter awards.

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

Photos of the Car Tech and HL Mando manufacturing companies in Opelika which are expanding in 2023.

Local Consultant Recognized Nationally

ADEM Asks Water Customers to Stop Dripping Faucets After Freeze

CONTRIBUTED BY ADEM

ALABAMA —

Due to excessive water loss being experienced by many public water systems in the state, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management is requesting that residents and businesses discontinue dripping faucets once temperatures are above freezing.

Water utilities across the state are struggling to keep up with increased consumer demand, exacerbated by leaks from frozen pipes as they

thaw. The public can help by checking for leaks inside and outside of their homes or businesses.

If leaks are found, they should shut off the water supply until the leaks are repaired. Customers are urged to contact their local water supplier if they have a major leak and are unable to shut off their water supply or need other assistance.

As an alternative to leaving outdoor faucets dripping as a means to prevent pipes and faucets from freezing, water customers should consider

installing insulated covers that protect these fixtures during very cold weather. Insulated covers are inexpensive, easy to install and available at home improvement centers and hardware stores.

Also, if water service is not imperative at your building during this time, you are urged to turn off the water at the meter, drain the water lines at the lowest spigot on the property — leaving the faucet on — and turn the water back on after the outside temperature rises above 32 degrees.

Freezing Temperatures Result in Burst Pipes, Water Loss

company.”

Fuller expressed gratitude that Car Tech is in Opelika.

“Opelika is clearly focused on providing opportunities for our current businesses to grow and bring additional good-paying jobs to our community.”

City of Opelika Economic Development Director Lori Huguley echoed Fuller’s sentiments.

“Car Tech is a great community partner,” she said. “It is a great testament to our workforce and the business climate in Opelika that they continue to invest and grow here.”

HL MANDO

HL Mando America Corporation will be investing $11.1 million to upgrade its current facility, creating 26 new jobs in the process.

HL Mando’s Opelika operations continue to produce brake calipers and suspension systems to

support its customer base located throughout the U.S.

Mando Corporation is one of the leading automotive parts manufacturers in the world, specializing in internationally competitive state-of-the-art chassis components and systems.

Through its extensive research and development, Mando has succeeded in becoming the first manufacturer in Korea to develop advanced products such as ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), CDC (Continuous Damping Control), ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and EPS (Electric Power Steering), which serves to demonstrate Mando’s ability to respond to customer needs on a global basis.

Headquartered in South Korea, the company operates 20 manufacturing plants and 18 R&D centers in 10 countries. Mando employs over 11,700 associates worldwide.

Fuller expressed his appreciation for HL Mando’s

continued investment in Opelika.

“We are extremely honored by HL Mando’s continued confidence in Opelika and the additional investment in our area,” he said. “This company is one of our largest manufacturing employers, and we appreciate the employment opportunities for our citizens.”

For more information about either expansion, please contact John Sweatman, economic development project manager for the city of Opelika, at 334-705-5115.

“We are appreciative of HL Mando’s additional investment in Opelika,” Huguley added. “They are a valued community partner, and we are glad to support their continued growth and success.”

PUBLISHER'S NOTE:

In last week's Observer, we listed CarTech's investment as being just over $11 million and HL Mando's investment being nearly $18.5 million. We apologize for that error.

OPELIKA >> FROM A1

Top: The waterwheel located at Scott's lake off of Rocky Brook Road froze during the recent weather when temperatures dropped into the low to mid teens.

Bottom: Icicles form on a fountain in Opelika.

Dr. E. Camille F. Floyd, local diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice educational consultant, received the Dr. Alexinia Baldwin “Gifted & __ Award” from the Special Populations Network of the National Association for Gifted Children at the 2022 convention. The national award recognizes individuals who have contributed to the mission of the Special Populations Network (SPN), advanced the recognition of the talents and abilities of specific populations — while recognizing the impact of other factors on the process of talent development — and created change and had an impact among gifted children from special populations. Floyd is a former gifted education specialist for the Alabama Department of Education and director of professional learning at the National Association for Gifted Children. She and her husband, Chris Floyd, are the parents of Christopher, II (Opelika High School) and Chloe Floyd (Alabama School of Fine Arts).

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Marketing Specialist Kerissa Justice Joins United Way of Lee County

CONTRIBUTED BY UNITED WAY OF LEE COUNTY

AUBURN — Kerissa Justice has joined United Way of Lee County as marketing specialist and will focus on educating stakeholders about the ways the organization serves the community, said Executive Director Tipi Miller.

A 2020 honors graduate of Troy University with a degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in public relations, Justice joins United Way after working the past two and a half years as a technical media producer at WSFA 12 News, the NBC affiliate in Montgomery.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

“I was looking for a job that would allow me to use my creative abilities but also make a

difference in my community,” Justice said. “My greatest desire is to serve people

and I’m proud that I can do that for the residents of Lee County.”

The marketing specialist is a new position at United Way. Previously, the organization had a campaign manager and executive director. When Miller became executive director in June 2022, she assumed many of the campaign manager duties while the marketing specialist position was created.

“We welcome Kerissa with her passion for her work and her experience in the broadcast business,” Miller said. “Kerissa’s work with various television, radio and social media outlets makes her a perfect fit for marketing United Way to the

community.”

While Justice will assist with all campaign activities, marketing will be her primary role.

“I plan to bring a greater presence in the community for the United Way,” Justice said. “I want to strengthen community engagement and support through education and awareness of the work we do and the organizations we fund via means of a stronger social media presence and mutually beneficial relationships with media organizations.”

Justice became familiar with United Way’s community impact during her career in local news media. She first learned the importance of

volunteerism as part of a Girl Scout troop growing up.

“My heart is for people,” she said. “I am motivated by United Way of Lee County’s mission to increase the organized capacity of people to care for one another.”

Justice intends to use her skills in print, mobile and broadcast journalism, along with her photography, videography and design talents to expand United Way of Lee County’s media presence with the ultimate goal of generating resources for partner agencies that serve people within the organization’s emphases of education, health, crisis, families and community.

Local Historian Inks Second Part of Book Series

LEE COUNTY —

Local historian Ron Williams has recently compiled a new book, “Fieldstone Pillars,” Book 2. Like Book 1,

it continues to focus on the older communities in the southeast corner of Chambers County, Alabama: Hopewell, Berlin, Osanippa, McGinty, Bethlehem and Glass. It also crosses the county line to include

Striped Nation and Blanton, of Lee County.

Williams’ ancestors were pioneers in this area of Chambers County and he grew up in the Hopewell community, in the home built by his third-great-grandparents,

David S. and Nancy Woodall Williams, in 1839.

Growing up in the Old Williams Homeplace and listening to the stories of the older members of his family and community fostered a love of local history.

“Fieldstone Pillars” is a collection of over 30 years of research relating to the places and families of the area.

“Our history is built on fieldstone pillars,” Williams wrote. “I grew up in a house which rested on stones that had been wrestled from the ground by my pioneer ancestors. The old homeplaces and one-room schoolhouses sat on fieldstone pillars. Our ancestors worshiped in churches with fieldstone foundations. Every bite of food was cooked in a fieldstone chimney. And when they died, a single fieldstone was placed at the head and foot of their graves.”

The book is full of newspaper clippings and pictures which relate to the area as well as personal reflections of those who called the area home in the 19th and 20th centuries. It is 225 pages of memories. There is a surprise on every page.

Some special sections of the book are the memories of the late

Ernest Williams and the late Mattie Lee Hunt Wood.

Williams wrote of his childhood growing up on the Holladay farm off Ben Brown Road. He shared many colorful memories of his school days in the one-room schoolhouses of the area and of life on a farm in the early 20th century.

Wood, who was the sister of River View’s M.M. Hunt, wrote of her childhood in the late 19th century in “I Remember.”

“I do know that I was the fifth child of George

and Cynthia (“Simpy,” Papa called her) Hunt,” wrote Wood. “They were good Christian people (Baptist) but, seems to me now, very poor. Still, Papa was amongst the most prosperous farmers in Striped Nation, the name of our community.”

Memories of many other families are represented as well.

If you are interested in a copy of Fieldstone Pillars, please contact Ron Williams at 706773-5330 or email hopewellroad@yahoo. com.

SEAN DIETRICH

This story was told to me by a friend. A retired nurse.

The nurse was passing by room 202 in the pediatric oncology wing. It was late. The hospital was decorated for Chrimstmas. Tinsel on the walls. Construction-paper chainlink garland everywhere. Pictures drawn by sick kids. Stick-figure Santas, anatomically incorrect reindeer. The gentle thrum of compressors.

Mechanical beeping.

Outside room 202, a crowd was gathered around the closed door. There were maybe a few dozen doctors, nurses, techs and medical staffers congregated outside the door in silence.

“What’s going on?” said the nurse.

“Ssshhh,” said one of the doctors, pointing to the door. “Listen.”

It was singing. The nurse heard the muffled sound of singing coming

from room 202. It was a child’s voice. A little girl. The song was “Jesus Loves Me.”

The medical staffers were all smiling. Some were sniffing noses, dabbing eyes.

“What’s she singing for?” asked the nurse.

“She sings herself to sleep every night,” whispered a doctor. “We all come to listen.”

The kid knew all the verses to the classic hymn. There are multiple verses to “Jesus Loves Me.” Everyone usually just sings the first one. But there are others.

“Jesus loves me this I know,

“As he loved so long ago;

“Taking children on his knee, “Saying ‘Let them come to me.’”

This I Know

The medical staffers said the child sang almost every night.

“Jesus loves me — loves me still, “Though I'm very weak and ill;

“From his shining throne on high, “Comes to watch me where I lie.”

There was something so paralyzingly beautiful about this child’s song. Something hopeful, but also haunting.

One of the nurses in the group, listening, was a total wreck. The others were consoling the woman. Her face was pink and swollen. Her nostrils were clogged.

This nurse said the little girl had just received bad news today. “Her treatments aren’t working,” said the nurse. “The scans came back worse

than before. They say she’s probably not going to make it.”

The kid was dying. Earlier that afternoon, the little girl’s mother actually sat the child down, with the doctor, and explained it all. The mother told her child — her baby girl — that the end was nigh.

Whereupon the little girl just nodded, smiled and said, “It’ll be OK, Mom.”

“Jesus loves me — He will stay, “Close beside me all the way;

“If I love Him, when I die, “He will take me home on high.”

It sounds like a scene straight out of a saccharin Hallmark movie, but the following actually happened. By the time

Christmas Trees To Be Made into Fish Habitats at Lake Martin

CONTRIBUTED BY LAKE MARTIN TOURISM ASSOCIATION

ALEXANDER CITY —

Now that Christmas has come to pass, those Christmas trees may be able to find a new purpose.

Alabama Power, Lake Martin Resource Association and Lake Martin Tourism Association are teaming up to help create new fish habitats in Lake Martin.

From now to Jan. 8, undecorated Christmas trees can be dropped off at Lake Martin Machine Gun in Eclectic, Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City or New Water Farms in Dadeville. The trees will be collected by Alabama Power and properly turned in to fish habitats within the lake. This initiative benefits Lake Martin in many ways:

• This encourages proper recycling of trees, to keep them off of roadways and out of landfills.

• Alabama Power will be legally and properly placing the trees, making sure all safety measures are followed so that trees do not move and rise, which could damage boats and injure boaters. Alabama Power has strict processes in place that maintain the safety of boating on Lake Martin.

• This will help the aquatic ecosystem of the lake and help create new fish habitats.

• New fish habitats mean new fishing hotspots for anglers on Lake Martin. Fishing is important to the lake and local economies, and this effort helps push that even more. The specific coordinates of the new habitats will be released by this spring.

"What a great way to continue the season of giving by recycling your real Christmas tree to build fish habitats on Lake Martin,” said Jodie McGirt, President of Lake Martin Resource Association.

“Lake Martin Resource Association (LMRA) is honored to partner with Alabama Power and LMTA to progress our mission to protect, preserve and promote Lake Martin through this project.

“From an environmental focus, we are seeking to preserve the ecosystem of the fish population by building additional habitats that attract more fish, with the trunks and branches becoming a nursery for small fish that attract larger fish looking for a good meal.

“From a safety perspective, we appreciate Alabama Power experts binding and

placing these new habitats, securely submerged in safe locations to ensure boater safety throughout the year. We want to thank the community for your continued support to help LMRA protect and preserve Lake Martin for future generations."

Brandy Hastings of Lake Martin Tourism Association (LMTA) spoke to the fishing benefits of these habitats.

"Fishing is an important part of our tourism offerings on Lake Martin, and we are excited to work with Alabama Power and Lake Martin Resource Association to create new fish habitats that will help further the aquatic ecosystem for our anglers,” Hastings said. “With Alabama Power being involved in this project, we can make certain that these fish habitats are created in the proper ways. When people don't follow proper procedures, it creates the possibility of an unsafe situation when the trees become loose and become a hazard for boaters. Lake Martin Resource Association works hard all year to promote safe boating, and this is one way that we can work together with them to help further that mission and keep our boaters safe."

Alabama Power’s Michael Clelland said Alabama Power has extensive experience recycling and repurposing Christmas trees.

“We have been recycling Christmas trees and building fish habitat since 1993 and have placed over 60,000 trees in Alabama Power reservoirs all over the state, including Lake Martin,” he said. “As reservoirs age, a lot of the natural brush and fish habitat deteriorates, and this is a way of creating new habitat and enhancing older habitat to benefit fish of all species. I look forward to working with LMRA and Lake Martin Tourism on this project in 2023 and hope we can make this Christmas tree recycling program an annual effort.”

ABOUT LAKE MARTIN RESOURCE ASSOCIATION

LMRA is a nonprofit organization comprised of a working Board of Direc-

tors and active members, dedicated to promoting, preserving and protecting the Lake Martin community. Some of its key areas of focus are boater safety through the Buoy Management and Boater training program;, environmental support through its Annual Renew Our Rivers with Alabama Power and yearround local cleanup; and advocacy focused on water quality and quantity with a board member representing Lake Martin on the Alabama Water Resource Commission. If you would like to join LMRA’s efforts, or renew your annual membership, please go to https://www.lmra.info/ join-us.

ABOUT ALABAMA POWER

Our lakes and dams impound more than 157,000 acres of water and provide more than 3,500 miles of shoreline for the use and enjoyment of the public. With 14 hydro-facilities on

the little girl got to the last refrain, one of the nurses started singing along. Then a few others joined in.

The door to room 202 swung open, and a gaggle of medical professionals, singing the lyrics to a children’s hymn that predates the Civil War, accompanied the little girl in ethereal melody. Someone was even singing harmony.

“Yes, Jesus loves me, “Yes, Jesus loves me…”

There were no more tears in this room.

Everyone was smiling. And when they finished, the girl smiled and said, “Let’s sing it one more time.” And so they did. And in case you were wondering, that little girl is a 29-year-old woman today.

the Coosa, Tallapoosa and Black Warrior rivers, Alabama Power strives to meet the needs of lake-goers and property owners who enjoy the recreation these lakes provide. They work to protect the many species and ecosystems that depend on their habitat, and they provide the state with lowcost renewable energy while supporting the local economies these lakes sustain. Lake Martin encompasses over 41,000 acres and 880 miles of shoreline.

ABOUT LAKE MARTIN TOURISM ASSOCIATION

LMTA is a legally registered 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization located in Alexander City, Alabama. The LMTA is an economic enhancement tool for Alexander City and the immediate communities surrounding Lake Martin, and it is administered by a Board of Directors made up of professionals who are impacted by tourism.

Beasecker was a recent recipient of one of Auburn Mayor Ron Anders’ Lamplighter awards. Each year Anders acknowledges the work of a few Auburn residents during his State of the City address. Typically, these awards are presented as a surprise to the recipients, who have no idea of the real reason they are at the State of the City address.

This year, Anders awarded six Lamplighter awards. Beasecker received one of these. Beasecker said that

her partner, Deena, invited her to the State of the City, saying she had to attend since she was on a city board and asking Beasecker to go with her.

Beasecker said it’s a good thing she didn’t know about the award beforehand or she might not have attended adding that she isn’t big on that kind of attention.

“It was a very nice award and I’m glad that I went, now,” she said. “… It was a very nice honor to receive that.”

Beasecker said that her mom, who has passed, was her best friend, and she knew she was looking down on

her, proudly.

There have been challenges over the 31 years of business, Beasecker said, such as COVID or staffing challenges now. However, there is always room to grow and continue plugging ahead.

“We have a goal in our restaurant, and with my management team ... if we improve 1% every day, we’re all right,” she said.

Niffer’s in Auburn is located at 1151 Opelika Road in Auburn, at 917 S. Railroad Ave., in Opelika and at Lake Martin, 7500 AL-49 in Dadeville.

CONTRIBUTED BY JUSTIN SMITH, CPA

ALABAMA —

With 2022 quickly coming to an end, the time has come to prepare for the upcoming tax filing season and consider any last-minute moves to help put you in the best position possible. April 18, 2023, is the tax filing deadline. It can be extended through Oct. 15, but extending your filing deadline does not extend your payment deadline.

This year hasn’t seen as much tax legislation as prior years, but there are still several key changes that will likely impact you.

First, all the 2020-21

FROM A1

scholarship. AO Tourism won Tourism Organization of the Year, and Bonnie Plants opened its headquarters in Opelika.

Iconic Heritage Gifts and Gourmet closed its doors in downtown Opelika after being in business 28 years, and Auburn University’s campus experienced “Pearlville.”

FEBRUARY Opelika City Schools Superintendent Mark Neighbors announced his retirement in February and Food Truck Fridays rolled out the first Friday night of February. The historic mural at the Museum of East Alabama was started by Christoph Johnson, and Creekline Trails started its trail building work. Also in February, the competition arena at Auburn University was renamed the Neville Arena and Chris Roberts was named AU’s 21st president.

The Glenwood girls’ basketball team took top honors and earned the state championship title. Ross Morris was sworn in as the District 2 Lee County Commissioner.

MARCH March 3 will forever be remembered as the day of the Lee County tornadoes that took the lives of 23 community members, including four children in 2019. March 3, 2022, marked the third anniversary of the storms. Dr. Linda Farmer, nicknamed Lee County’s Wonder Woman, passed away after her battle with cancer. Farmer was a beloved oncologist that helped thousands of patients in their own fights with the disease.

Creekwood Resources held its groundbreaking event at the site of the quarry located in Beulah. Southern Union State Community College celebrated its 100th year of service to the area.

The annual Whatley Stew and BBQ hosted its 114th event, and longtime Opelika resident, Addie Elizabeth Abercrombie, celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Jim Bob’s of downtown announced its plans to

2022 Year-End Tax Planning

stimulus payments, Advance Child Tax Credit payments and expanded Dependent Care Credits have expired. While there is some discussion of extension in the congressional lameduck session, the Child Tax Credit returns to $2,000 per child under 17, and $500 for other dependent credits.

The Dependent Care Credit returns to its pre-COVID amount of 20% to 35% (depending on income) of up to $3,000 in qualifying expenses for one child, or up to $6,000 in expenses for two or more children. No Child Tax Credit payments were made during 2022, so you should receive the full benefit on your tax

rebrand and reopened as The Next Level Café. A proposed apartment complex — The Taylor — also announced its plans, creating a firestorm of debate and public comments for months.

Niagara Bottling LLC announced its plans to open a production facility in Opelika.

The Smiths Station Community Band held its first concert and former Loachapoka football coach Larry Dichiara and Auburn High School track coach Wayne Murphy were inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame.

APRIL

Dr. Farrell Seymore was named superintended of Opelika City Schools(OCS); Kelli Fischer became Opelika High School (OHS) principal; and Opelika’s Orrin “Boody” Brown turned 102. The mural at the East Alabama Museum was completed and a second mural was installed at the museum by Auburn University’s Department of Art and Art History.

MAY

Kendyl Hollingsworth joined The Observer the first week of May, and Cyberzone reopened after a nearly yearlong closure due to catastrophic water damage to its facility.

Channing Torbert and Vera Smith T were crowned Mr. and Miss OHS, and SUSCC awarded its inaugural Chris Mitchum Memorial Scholarship to Nathaniel Smitherman.

Auburn’s Ward 4 Council Member Brett Smith resigned from his position, and the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind Resource Center Opelika opened. Shinwa announced plans for a 400,000-square-foot facility in Auburn.

May also brought contested election results with Jay Hovey outing incumbent Tom Whatley by a single vote in the primary race for Alabama State Senate District 27 seat. Whatley eventually conceded the primary race to Hovey.

JUNE

Executive Director of Keep Opelika Beautiful (KOB) Tipi Miller

return this year. Next, a significant change will be in 1099K payment thresholds. Previously, taxpay -

resigned and took the executive director position of United Way in June.

Priscilla Blythe was named executive director of KOB. Glynn Smith Chevrolet Buick GMC celebrated its 30th year, and the Point Broadband Pickleball Facility at the Opelika Sportsplex held its grand opening.

Dozier Smith T was honored by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce with the Spirit of Opelika award, and Auburn’s inclusive playground at Town Creek Park opened to the public.

June brought the news that a local man, Winston Hagans, was found guilty of criminal littering for leaving flower boxes at the gravesite of his fiancée, Hannah Ford. The news of his arrest and the charges filed against him by Ford’s father made the international news circuit.

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce announced its Forward Opelika campaign — an effort to raise more than $5 million to renovate the former Lewis Cooper Memorial Library building and turn it into a visitor center, office spaces and a business incubator.

Tony Langley won the primary election for District 4 county commission seat in a runoff election against incumbent Robert Ham. Opelika’s Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio won national recognition at the Platinum National Dance Competition. Leroy Burrell became Auburn High School’s Track and Field coach. Longtime Opelika community leader and educator William Parker Sr. passed away, as did Lee County’s Coroner Bill Harris. Harris had served as coroner for more than 30 years.

The Observer announced that it took top honors — First Place General Excellence, First Place Most Improved, plus 13 additional first place awards — in the annual Alabama Press Association Best Media contest in June.

JULY

July brought Fuzzy Tacos to Auburn and Tee-Time Golf Studio to Opelika. AuburnBank

ers received a Form 1099-K from payment processors (such as Stripe or Venmo, or for doing business on sites

opened its newest location in downtown Auburn on North Gay Street, but it also saw the destruction of Opelika’s Maffia’s Italian restaurant from an early morning fire that ravaged the building.

Cecil Rogers, longtime employee at Smith T’s Hardware, was honored for his 50th year with the company, and 8-year-old Della J. Morgan took her shaved ice business to the World Games in Birmingham.

AUGUST

The city of Auburn was named a winner of the ETC Institute's Leading the Way award, and Tim Hudson was named Lee-Scott Academy’s baseball coach. Smiths Station got a new varsity boys’ basketball coach — Armon Ingersall.

“We’ll Meet Again,” a musical production based on the life of Opelikian Henry Stern, was performed at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, and Opelika Theatre Company staged “Newsies” to sold out crowds at the Southside Center for the Arts in Opelika.

East Alabama Health’s Dr. Njideka Obikwe performed her 1,000th robotic-assisted surgery, becoming only the third obstetrician-gynecologist in Alabama to do so.

Bitty and Beau’s Coffee shop opened in Auburn, and both Southern Crossing and The Gallery reopened in temporary locations following the fire on Railroad Avenue in downtown Opelika in July.

SEPTEMBER

September brought arrests to a 22-year-old cold case in Opelika when two individuals were charged with murder. Opelika saw an uptick in violence, not only in September but through the spring and summer. The Observer sat down with Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey and Captain Jonathan Clifton to discuss the situation.

The Hey Day Market on Auburn’s campus opened, and the long-awaited Botanic also opened in Opelika. Wickles Pickles announced its Pickle Beer collaboration. The city of Smiths Station held a 9/11 Heroes Run: A Run

such as eBay) if they received more than $20,000 with 200 transactions in a year. The threshold has now been lowered to $600, but the IRS announced late this month that it will delay implementation until 2023. Congress is considering potential changes to the law, but this will be a big change for taxpayers and will need to be reported and handled on your tax return to avoid IRS notices.

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act provided $80 billion in funding to the Internal Revenue Service to hire 87,000 new employees over 10 years. While only some will be hired for enforcement (i.e., audits),

to Remember, honoring the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

Robyn Bridges and Tiffany Gibson were selected for the "Focus Empowered" 40 Over 40 Awards and Opelika’s Angela George released her first children’s book, "Monkey Tales."

District 7 Lee County Board of Education Member Brian Roberson passed away on Sept. 7, 2022, and was honored by the board during its monthly meeting. Shana Johnson was named Smiths Station’s athletic director and Opelika’s Erik Speakman was named AllStar Football game coach.

Beloved Opelika community member Lorna Roberts passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 30.

OHS senior Alexandria Torbert was selected as the secretary for the National Future Business Leaders of America, and Opelika’s theatre society was selected as the only Alabama school to have the opportunity to stage Disney’s "Frozen: The Broadway Musical." Only one school from each of the 50 states was selected for this opportunity.

OCTOBER

Sam DiChiara and Garrett Martinez joined The Observer and launched its new podcast, the Lee County Listener. Local business owner Molly Anderson, and her family appeared on "Family Feud."

A little less than a year after it went into effect, Opelika repealed its rental registration ordinance. Opelika’s Neighborhood Wellness Mobile Clinic was completed and declared ready to hit the road to serve area citizens. Napoleon Stringer was named as the new District 7 Lee County Board of Education member. Auburn Area Community Theatre staged "James and the Giant Peach."

NOVEMBER The fall air of November saw the opening of the new Archery Park at Spring Villa and Opelika Main Street moved into its new office space in the former Heritage Gifts building.

Lee-Scott Academy won its state championship football game and Bryan

the expectation is that the ~0.5% audit rate on taxpayers making less than $400,000 will increase to approximately 1.5% to 2% over the next several years.

The act also provides for more generous energy efficient credits for homeowners, such as for solar electric, solar hot water, fuel cell, geothermal and biomass fuel. Federal tax credits for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars also remain available.

Moving forward, consider deferring bonuses and other income into 2023 if possible. The additional income this year may push

Harsin was fired as Auburn University’s head football coach. Cornell “Cadillac” Williams was named as the interim coach to finish out the season. His hire ignited a firestorm of community support.

Opelika’s own Adam Hood made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry; Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller earned the prestigious CMO Emeritus Designation.

A. J. Harris was named the director of operations for the Boys and Girls Clubs of East Alabama and Melissa MunfordMcCurdy became the interim director of Opelika Main Street.

Ibraheem Yazeed was indicted on three counts of murder for the death of Southern Union student Aniah Blanchard.

DECEMBER

Huge Freeze was hired as Auburn University’s new head football coach.

Auburn High School's Lady Tigers flag football team won the state championship. Smiths Station head football coach Mike Glisson announced that he was stepping down as the Panthers' coach.

Katie Whittelsey was named the president of the Community Foundation of East Alabama. Christie Hill State Farm Insurance of Opelika was named Alabama’s Small Business of the Year in the 1 to 10 employees category.

Businesses along First Avenue in downtown Opelika experienced detrimental flooding during a heavy rain event, prompting the city of Opelika to consider ways to resolve the drainage issue that has plagued the businesses even after the streetscape project was completed.

Sgt. First Class Raymond Penland was awarded a bronze star by the Army 72 years after he was killed in action in North Korea.

The Observer would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for its continued support. It is our goal to continue to serve the community by providing local news and information to all. Without you, we would not be able to do what we love doing.

JUSTIN SMITH

Farmers Elected To State Commodity Committees During Alabama Farmers Federation Annual Meeting

CONTRIBUTED BY ALFA/MAGGIE EDWARDS

MONTGOMERY —

For the second year, Alabama Farmers Federation voting delegates elected grassroots commodity committee leaders during the organization’s annual meeting. Elections were held Dec. 4 in Montgomery.

State committee members put boots on the ground in their respective communities and commodities, said Mitt Walker, Governmental and Agricultural Programs Department director.

“They know the issues their industries are facing,” Walker said. “We depend on these leaders to give us advice on policy matters, which then directs our work and our organization’s future.”

State committee members also host commodity-specific educational programs throughout the year.

Serving statewide is a time commitment (each term is three years) but is worth the sacrifice, said State Wheat & Feed Grain Committee member Jeremy Wilson of Talladega County.

“As farmers, we’re always looking to increase yields and increase sales,”

Wilson said. “One way to do that is by serving on a commodity committee. It gives you a chance to provide direction on how checkoff dollars are spent. We need representation from all across the state.

Farmers have different needs in different areas of the state. If you’re not on a committee to bring up needs from your area, no one may be aware of it.”

Charlie Thompson of Lauderdale County, who serves on the State Sheep & Goat Committee, echoed Wilson.

“I get to meet people that I otherwise never would have crossed paths with in my life,” Thompson said. “I’m glad we have more younger people who’ve been elected to the committee and that there were so many interested in serving. That’s a good thing. A lot of folks in Alabama raise sheep and goats, but they aren’t always aware of the federation and what they could have access to through this group.”

With help from the committees, the federation dives deep into individual policies and issues that impact each of the federation’s 17 commodities — bee & honey; beef; catfish; cotton; dairy; equine; forestry; greenhouse,

nursery & sod; hay & forage; fruit & vegetables; peanuts; pork; poultry; sheep & goat; soybean; wheat & feed grain; and wildlife.

In addition to annual meeting elections, State Catfish Committee members will be elected during the annual Catfish Industry Update Meeting in Greensboro Jan. 10.

The federation’s affiliated organizations — the Ala-

bama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association and Alabama Peanut Producers Association — will elect leaders in February during respective conferences in Gulf Shores and Dothan, with the Alabama TREASURE Forest Association electing leaders in January. Learn more at AFVGA.org, AlPeanuts. com and TREASUREForest.org.

State commodity com-

mittee members who rotated off their respective committee were honored Dec. 5 for serving the maximum nine years.

They are:

• Beef – Billy Hixon of Pike County

• Hay & Forage – Winford Parmer of Autauga County

• Equine – Tina Hammons of Lowndes County and Amy Hegeman of Calhoun County

• Sheep & Goat – Kirk Smith of Blount County

• Pork – Joe Bradley of Randolph County and Roland St. John of St. Clair County

• Poultry – Greg Edwards of Russell County and Chris Upchurch of Clay County

• Cotton – Ricky Wiggins of Covington County

• Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod – Jason Powell of Chilton County.

Young Farmer Champions from Lee, Morgan, Calhoun Counties Reap Rewards of Hard Work

CONTRIBUTED BY ALFA/MARLEE MOORE

LEE COUNTY —

Young Farmers from three Alabama counties left the Alabama Farmers Federation's 101st annual meeting Dec. 5 with extensive prize packages, courtesy of generous sponsors.

After an intense Final Four round of competition, Discussion Meet winner Garrett Dixon of Lee County received a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. Discussion Meet simulates a committee meeting where contestants discuss pressing agricultural issues. Dixon is a row crop and cattle farmer.

Other finalists, named during the Federation’s Farm & Land Expo this summer, were Landon

of

you into a higher tax bracket and increase your tax bill. Inflation has increased the standard deductions and tax brackets significant for 2023, so deferring income into next year will help save on taxes.

Accelerate deductions if you plan to itemize this year. Typical deductions will include medical expenses, mortgage interest, charitable contributions (make sure they are le -

gitimate organizations) and state and local taxes capped at $10,000 (including property taxes and automobile ad valorem taxes). Make sure to obtain receipts and statements for your deductions to help ensure you take advantage of them.

If you cannot itemize, the standard deduction for 2022 is $25,900 for married taxpayers, $19,400 for heads of household and $12,950 for single filers. Those numbers are increasing significantly to $27,700

(married), $20,800 (head of household) and $13,850 (single) for 2023.

Additionally, retirees may wish to contribute any remaining Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from their retirement accounts directly to charity. This avoids claiming the income while simultaneously taking advantage of tax benefits for charitable deductions.

You may also increase contributions to your retirement account such as an Individual

Retirement Account with a $6,500 limit (plus another $1,000 if you are over 50) or 401(k) or 403(b) through your employer with a $20,500 limit (plus another $6,500 if you are over 50) to boost your savings and reduce your taxable income.

Consider prepaying college tuition if you are eligible to take advantage of benefits such as the American Opportunity Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit.

packages during the annual meeting.

Outstanding Young Farm Family (OYFF) winners Daniel and Carla Trantham of Calhoun County received $40,000 toward a Ford truck, courtesy of Alfa Insurance; a John Deere Gator from Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit; and a year’s lease on a John Deere tractor from SunSouth and TriGreen.

The Tranthams have five children: Davis, Sadie, Anna Kate, Sawyer and Callie. In addition to raising cattle and row crops, their family owns a feed company and a trucking business, which services poultry integrators across the Southeast.

OYFF competitors must have half their income subject to production risk

You may also wish to sell stock investments that have realized significant losses, especially if you have capital gains that you’d like to shelter from tax. While federal tax law limits capital losses to $3,000 per year for married filers ($1,500 for singles), they can be carried forward to future years or used to offset gains. Alabama does not limit such losses, so that is an added benefit.

Reach out to a tax professional with

and compete through an application, interview and on-farm judging.

As the Excellence in Agriculture contest winner, Morgan County’s Josh Melson received a zero-turn lawnmower from Corteva Agriscience. Melson is an agriscience teacher and won the contest based on an application and presentation.

Excellence in Agriculture competitors receive less than half their income from production agriculture.

Dixon, Melson and the Tranthams also received a Blackstone Griddle Package, courtesy of the federation.

The trio of competitors will represent Alabama nationally during American Farm Bureau Federation contests in Puerto Rico in January.

questions or concerns regarding specific questions, and keep in mind that nearly everyone’s situation is unique, so what works for some taxpayers may not work for others.

Justin Smith is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Opelika, specializing in individual and small business tax and accounting. He can be contacted at 334-400-9234 or Justin@JSmithCPA.net. His Web site is www. jsmithcpa.net.

Jeff Lassiter of Choctaw County, Jack Robertson of Chambers County, Mahlon Richburg of Lee County and Steve Stroud of Pike County were elected to the State Hay & Forage Committee Dec. 4. Elections were held during the Alabama Farmers Federation 101st annual meeting in Montgomery.State commodity committee members help direct policy for the state’s largest farm organization, allocate research dollars and coordinate educational sessions for fellow farmers. From left are Federation Hay & Forage Division Director Chris Prevatt, Lassiter, Robertson, Richburg and Stroud.

Marks of Cherokee County, Shelby Windham

Dale County and Chapman

Bodiford of Limestone County.

Additional Young Farm-

ers contest winners named during the Farm & Land Expo also received prize

Lee County’s Garrett Dixon triumphed in the Alabama Farmers Federation Discussion Meet Final Four Dec. 5 during the Alabama Farmers Federation’s 101st annual meeting in Montgomery. He received a four-wheeler from First South Farm Credit. From left are First South Farm Credit’s Keith McCurdy, Dixon, Federation President Jimmy Parnell and First South Farm Credit’s John Sport.

ince Caroline Cannon was 4 years old, her grandmother, Lucinda Samford Cannon, has honored her with a Mother-Daughter Tea every year during the Christmas season. Now that she is a senior in high school, this year’s tea on Dec. 19 was especially meaningful. The tea has evolved over the years with the menu and activi-

ociety

Ann Cipperly

SHouthernospitality

ties. Caroline, daughter of Heather and Race Cannon, and her grandmother reminisce about the teas over the past 13 years.

Growing up on Ninth Street in Opelika, Lucinda remembers when her mother, Evlyn Samford, hosted teas for her friends. Memories of those fun events led Lucinda to host a tea for Caroline and to have an opportunity to meet her

friends and their mothers. The tea has been a popular event, and in the early years, the younger sisters and their grandmothers also attended. Caroline, Heather and Lucinda have enjoyed looking at pictures of the teas over the years.

Reminiscing over the years, Lucinda remembers at the first couple of teas Caroline and her friends would wear tights and party

dresses. Being at a tea was a little more than they could handle, so they ended up playing in the yard climbing trees.

“The first year,” she said, “I remember telling Caroline about the cookies we

2023 Polar Plunge Set for Jan. 28

would have and the punch. Then Caroline said, ‘What is punch?’”

Every year Lucinda serves punch from her paternal grandmother’s beautiful antique porcelain punch bowl. This was

probably a wedding gift when she married in 1899.

“People ask me if I am worried the punch bowl will get broken or chipped,” she said. “I don’t want that to happen, but I think

Apple Cider Is the Perfect Winter Drink

BY

CITY OF AUBURN / BY ELIZABETH KAUFMAN

AUBURN —

The 11th annual Auburn Polar Plunge will be held Saturday, Jan. 28, at Samford Pool beginning at 9 a.m.

The community is invited to help raise financial support for the brave athletes

of the Lee County Special Olympics by registering to take the frigid plunge into the pool. This year’s theme is Superheroes, and participants are encouraged to dress in their best superhero costumes.

In 2022, over $12,000 was raised for Special Olympics athletes. The goal in 2023

is to surpass last year’s pledges. Once a participant registers, the goal is to get as many people as possible to “sponsor” the plunge. There will be prizes for people who raise the most money, as well as prizes for the winners of the costume contest. All participants are encouraged to dress in costume, jump in and

join in for a fun frigid day in support of a worthy cause.

To register online, visit auburnalabama. org/parks/register and create a MyRec account to sign up. Participants are asked to bring their donations the day of the Polar Plunge. Participants who register by Friday, Jan. 13, will be guaranteed a T-shirt.

BY TAKE THEM A MEAL / KELLI NAPOTNIK

ALABAMA —

There's nothing that says Happy Holidays to me more than the smell

of warm spices and a steaming warm mug cupped in my hands.

I found this delicious recipe when I was looking for something to

During the Christmas season, Lucinda Samford Cannon honored her granddaughter Caroline Cannon with an annual Mother-Daughter Tea. The special occasion has been held every year since Caroline was 4 years old. Over the years, the tea has created cherished memories for Caroline and her friends. Pictured at this year’s tea on Dec. 19 are, from left, Heather Cannon, Caroline’s mother; Caroline Cannon and Lucinda Samford Cannon.

CONTRIBUTED

CONTRIBUTED

THE

Hot apple cider is a popular fall and winter beverage.

Participants take a plunge into frigid waters at a previous Polar Plunge event.

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

Although I’m a woman of many faults, I’d have to say that two of my worst are my lack of punctuality and my rotten sense of direction. My lack of punctuality is possibly genetic because Barbara Patton (not the former mayor of Opelika), my sweet Mama, suffered from the same tendency. Years ago when we lived and taught in LaGrange, Georgia, Mike and I would sometimes spend the weekend with my parents in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals).

On Sunday morning, Tom Patton, my hilarious Daddy, would complain because Mama always ran late for Sunday school.

“There are 168 hours in a week, and 9:30 a.m. on Sunday comes at the same time, but we’re still late,” Daddy would say. And Mike and I would try to laugh quietly.

Now, my husband is a stickler about being on time, and my tardiness has often driven him crazy. Once we were married, Mike told me that he would NOT be late for work. He had to be on the bus landing by 6:20 a.m. Central Time. He warned me that if he had to leave without me, he would. Thankfully, we had a second car because two or three times in LaGrange, I was left.

Mike now concedes that my punctuality has significantly improved. This was especially necessary when we

Making the Grade: Bow & Arrow

moved to Auburn in November of 2015. It was really tough leaving the house by 5:50 a.m.

Central Time back then.

Many times, Mike would angrily fly up I-85 and barely make it to his post on the bus landing because of me. However, at least I didn’t get left in Auburn, having to ride up dark I-85 on my own.

Unfortunately, I was born with a terrible sense of direction, and that hasn’t improved at all.

In fact, on a scale of 0 to 10, I’d score a -50 where directions are concerned. Since I’m so bad with directions, I write them down when I go to a new place before going there.

Recently, on a Sunday

afternoon, Mike drove while I wrote down the directions to a restaurant I planned to review.

Scarlett, my car, doesn’t have GPS; I prefer handwritten directions anyway. Apparently, I was talking too much during our drive and not paying attention. (That’s two other faults of mine.) Mike told me to turn left onto Frederick Road in front of Lakeview Baptist Church, so I wrote down what he said, not looking at the road sign.

Then the following Wednesday, I hopped into Scarlett, directions in hand. I was running late (surprise, surprise) and was meeting my friend Leslie at Bow & Arrow at 1977 E. Samford Ave. in Auburn. I

had texted Leslie that I was running late, and she was waiting for a table.

While following the directions I had written, I never saw Frederick Road but kept driving. Eventually, I had to admit I was lost and drove to University Drive to pull over and call Leslie for directions. I love University Drive so much; it is a lifeline to directions-challenged people such as myself because it runs all around Auburn. If I can find University, I can find my way home.

Leslie was so sweet and wasn’t angry with me at all, calmly giving me directions. I was so embarrassed and figured she’d think she was dining with an idiot.

When I finally

reached the parking lot at Bow & Arrow, it was packed; I drove around twice looking for a spot. Desperate, I pulled into the parking lot of Sherry’s Orthodontics; there were signs warning people that they’d be towed if they didn’t belong there. I went in and asked the young lady behind the counter if I could please park there because I was 30 minutes late in meeting my friend, and I wanted to write a review of Bow & Arrow for The Observer.

The sweet lady gave me permission to park there and promised that she wouldn’t have my car towed. I sincerely thanked her and said that if I had had children

with crooked teeth, I’d have brought them to Sherry’s Orthodontics.

When I finally saw Leslie, I apologized profusely for being so late and for getting lost. Again, she was so compassionate and understanding about it.

Henry, our server, was an absolute delight, being so attentive, kind and helpful. Also, Henry shared the history of the restaurant with us. Bow & Arrow opened in 2018 and is locally owned by Chef David Bancroft, who also owns Acre. Henry said that Bow & Arrow was originally a cafeteria-style restaurant, which mostly served barbecue. Now, the restau-

rant also serves Mexican food; the tortillas are even homemade.

For her lunch, Leslie ordered shrimp fajita soft tacos, which she substituted with corn tacos; this included wood grilled shrimp, pineapple pico, guacamole and chili-lime sauce. Leslie told me that Bow & Arrow is allergy-aware for diners, so they get bonus points for that.

I chose the chicken fajitas, which consisted of a wood-grilled chicken breast, sautéed poblanos and onions; the dish came with sweet corn rice and borracho beans.

Everything was really

Fresh Start: Getting Off on the Right Foot in the New Year

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

BY DUSTIN DUNCAN

LEE COUNTY —

Looking for a fresh start in the new year?

For those making New Year’s resolutions to be more active, make better food choices or just be healthier overall, Live Well Alabama has a few tips to help start the new year on the right foot.

Being more physically active each day doesn’t have to include an expensive gym membership. Small and simple changes can increase daily physical activity without disrupting too much of a daily routine.

Such changes could be parking further away from work or taking the stairs instead of an ele -

vator.

OTHER DAILY EXERCISES

COULD BE:

• Take a walk with a partner, friend, coworker or pet.

• Clean the house.

• Wash your car.

• Mow the lawn with a push mower.

• Plant a vegetable or flower garden.

• Play tag, Simon Says or hopscotch with the children.

• Turn on some fun music and dance.

BENEFITS OF MOVING

MORE

Daily exercise can improve blood pressure and cholesterol, improve mood, increase energy levels, improve self-image and reduce stress.

“Everyone can benefit

from exercise regardless of age or ability," said Alabama Extension Community Health Specialist Erin Reznicek.

"Movement is a great start to being happier and healthier. The immediate benefits, like boosting energy and mood, should be reason enough to get moving.”

BETTER THAN NOTHING

Any physical activity is better than nothing, and the best exercises are the ones that somebody is motivated to perform.

Overall health and fitness can be improved with regular physical activity. One goal for a fresh start is to be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days during the week. Small

amounts of physical activity can add up.

“It is important to make the time for yourself and keep it flexible," Reznicek said. "Find a convenient time and place to do activ -

ities, then make it a habit. Add your family, coworkers and friends into the mix. Having accountability with a friend is a great way to keep going.”

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about Live Well Alabama, visit www. livewellalabama.com or check out Live Well Alabama on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Local children joined the Lee County sheriff and deputies for the “festive and fun” Donuts with Deputies event, held Dec. 16 at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. The event entailed plenty of activities, coloring, sweet treats and letters to Santa — as well as coffee for the grown-ups.

CIPPERLY

FROM A7

my grandmother would be pleased that her punch bowl is being used at her great-great-granddaughter’s tea parties.”

In the early years there were many punch spills. One year, Lucinda also served hot tea, but the girls didn’t like it much. They preferred the punch with pineapple juice and ginger ale. Lucinda always has an ice ring in the punch to keep it chilled.

The food is different now than the early tea parties. “It used to be about how many M & M’s I could have,” Lucinda said, as she figured out over the years what the girls would eat.

Through trial and error she developed a menu that the girls would enjoy. Cookies and sweets were mostly served in the early years, along with chunks of cheese. Lucinda made peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in Christmas shapes. She would also roll up slices of ham and turkey with cream cheese in bitesized pieces.

Now, Caroline’s friends are interested in healthier food and having a protein to balance the sweets. Cucum-

CIPPERLY RECIPES

CAROLINE’S

ber with dill sandwiches and pimento cheese sandwiches were on the menu, along with roasted pecans, Chex mix snacks, cheese straws, petit fours and an assortment of cookies.

Caroline considered serving scones this year, but thought there was already enough on the menu.

Caroline enjoys cooking and has helped prepare food for the teas over the years. In addition, she has helped to polish the silver and set the table. During this process, she has learned a great deal about preparing dishes with her mother and grandmother. She will try new recipes to see if she thinks

paper.

they will work for the tea. Caroline now has a more sophisticated palate from the countries she has visited. She recently returned from traveling to Paris with her mother.

Over the years, Caroline has learned to prepare dishes ahead and offer hospitality. This year she arranged the flowers for the centerpiece.

Planning for the tea begins in October. The first thing is selecting a date, which has become more difficult as the girls became teenagers with busy schedules. This year, being high school seniors, not only did they have to work around

>>

MERINGUE COOKIES

2 egg whites

1/8 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. cream of tartar

¾ cup sugar 1 tsp. peppermint extract

3 Tbsp. peppermint candy, crushed Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two or more baking sheets with parchment paper. Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites until foamy.

Add salt and cream of tartar; beat until soft peaks form. Add sugar 1 Tbsp. at a time and continue beating until meringue is stiff. Fold in peppermint extract. Add candy a little at a time.

Drop by teaspoonfuls ½ inch apart on prepared cookie sheets. Put in oven and turn oven off.

Leave in oven 2 hours or overnight. Makes about 4 dozen.

MAMMA’S ICE BOX

COOKIES

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs, beaten 4 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Beat butter and sugars until creamy. Add eggs and mix well. Gradually add flour, baking soda, salt and vanilla. Mix well. Stir in pecans.

Shape dough into logs and wrap with plastic wrap or freezer

Chill in refrigerator (at least an hour) or freeze.

Slice thinly and bake in a 350-dgeree pre-heated oven for 10 minutes.

CHURCH WINDOWS

1 stick butter 12 oz. chocolate chips

1 tsp. vanilla 12 oz. colored mini marshmallows

1 cup pecans, minced

Melt butter in large saucepan and add chocolate chips. Stir constantly over low heat. Add vanilla, pecans and marshmallows. Mix well. Place on wax paper. Makes 4 logs. Refrigerate. When ready to serve, slice rolls about ¼-inch thick.

RIBBON PIMENTO CHEESE SANDWICHES

2 cups shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

8 oz. whipped cream cheese

½ cup mayonnaise

4 oz. jar diced pimento, drained ¼ tsp. garlic powder

½ tsp. cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Thin sliced white bread, whole wheat bread

Mix cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, pimento, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper in a large bowl until thoroughly mixed.

Using thin sliced white bread and whole wheat bread,

spread mayonnaise on one side of the bread. On that same side, spread the pimento cheese.

Put the white piece of bread, pimento cheese, whole wheat bread, pimento cheese and white bread together. Cut off the edges. Slice into three small slices.

CHICKEN SALAD

1/2-2/3 cups mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. lemon juice

2 cups cooked chicken (I use rotisserie chicken), finely chopped)

Salt and pepper to tase

1 stalk celery, finely chopped

1/2 onion, finely chopped

Mix mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add chicken, celery and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

CUCUMBER SANDWICHES

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 packet ranch dressing mix

1/2 cup mayonnaise

Fresh dill, (enough for flavor), finely chopped

2 English cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced

Combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, chopped dill and mayonnaise. Cover and refrigerate for an hour or overnight.

With a biscuit cutter, cut each slice of bread into rounds. Spread rounds with cream cheese mixture and top with a cucumber slice.

finals but also the Nutcracker production since some of the girls were dancing. Dec. 19 was chosen as the date since school was dismissed for the Christmas break.

The girls were so excited to see each other when they arrived. While there is a core group of six or seven friends who have attended the tea over the years, Caroline’s circle of friends from Opelika High School, Auburn High School and LeeScott Academy has continued to grow. Her childhood friends enjoy mingling with new friends every year.

“It has really meant a lot to see my friends from childhood at the tea,”

TOMATO SANDWICHES

Bag of bacon bits 2 cups mayonnaise Finely chopped scallions, optional Roma tomatoes Salt and pepper to taste

White bread Pour a bag of bacon bits into mayonnaise (can add finely chopped scallions). Let this marry overnight.

Slice a Roma tomato into very thin slices and drain on paper towels. Spread mayonnaise mixture on bread and top with a tomato. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Note: Can use white bread and cut into rounds with a biscuit cutter or an empty small can of tomato paste.

HAM OR TURKEY ROLLS

Take each ham/ turkey slice and spread it with soften cream cheese. Roll up along the long side. Put in refrigerator to chill. Just before the party, slice each roll into bitesize pieces. Place on a tray showing the circular slice.

HOLIDAY CHEX

MIX

3 cups Rice Chex

3 cups Corn Chex

2 cups stick pretzels

12 oz. bag plain M&M candies

12 oz. white chocolate morsels

Spread all ingredients out on wax paper except white chocolate. Melt white chocolate and pour over mix,

Caroline said. “In the future it will be hard to stay connected with them now since we will not be in each other’s life every day.”

During the tea, Mary Slaton played Lucinda’s baby grand piano that belonged to her great aunt, Caroline Samford Giles, who lived 1880 to 1984.

Mrs. Giles was well known for her beautiful piano music. The girls gathered around the piano to sing Christmas carols. They used a booklet that has Caroline’s favorite songs for the Christmas season.

Among the many different kinds of cookies served at this year's mother-daughter tea, the meringue cookies are Caroline’s favorite, and the church windows cookies have also been fun for her to make in years past.

The ice box cookies bring back childhood memories to Lucinda. It was a cookie that her mother always had on hand. “My brother and I would slice the roll when we got home from school,” she said. “Having them on hand, Mamma was always ready for someone to stop by to see her or for friends to come see us.”

trying to coat everything. When it cools, break apart into bite size pieces. Store in airtight container.

TEA PARTY PUNCH

1 cup sugar

3 cups water Boil and cool. Add the following.

7.5 oz. frozen lemon juice 6 oz. frozen orange juice 48 oz. pineapple juice

2 liters ginger ale, cold Can freeze for slushy drink. Makes 5 quarts. Ice Ring Make punch recipe without ginger ale. Pour into a circular mold and freeze.

RICE CRISPY TREATS

3 Tbsp. butter 4 cups miniature marshmallows

6 cups Rice Crispies cereal

In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat. Add cereal. Stir until well coated.

Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Using buttered spatula evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.

THUMB PRINTS

2½ cups all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1 cup butter, at room temperature

3/4 cup sugar 1 large egg

After enjoying cookies, tea sandwiches and punch, the girls went into the living room where they played “Dirty Santa” with gifts under the tree.

“It has been so much fun watching these girls grow up,” said Lucinda. “I remember one year most of the girls had their two front teeth missing. I am so happy to be part of their memory, too. Having a son, I never had the opportunity to have teas. This tea has brought me great pleasure to be able to do girl things with my granddaughter. It is so rewarding. It is very special to meet Caroline’s friends. They are so sweet and caring.”

“The tea is a fun and festive way to celebrate Christmas and have a special connection to these friends,” Caroline said.

“I am happy we had the chance to be together at the tea before we all part ways going to different colleges. We will be meeting new friends and studying new subjects.”

The following recipes feature Caroline’s favorite dishes served over the years at her special tea, as well as other favorites she enjoys making for her brothers and parents.

1 tsp. vanilla Jam or jelly With a mixer, beat butter and sugar until smooth. Add egg and beat until fluffy. Beat in vanilla. On low speed, gradually add flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated (dough will be stiff). Shape into balls about the size of a tablespoon. Make a well in the center of each ball. Fill with jam or jelly. Grease the cookie sheet or use parchment baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes (until just beginning to brown). Cool slightly and transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Makes about 3½ dozen.

ESKIMO OATMEAL

COOKIES

2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup sugar

3 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

1 Tbsp. water 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 cup butter, softened

1 cup confectioners' sugar Combine oats, sugar and cocoa. With clean hands, mix in water, vanilla and butter. Roll dough into teaspoon size balls. Roll in confectioner’s sugar. Chill for 30 minutes. Makes 2 dozen.

EASY PEPPERMINT COOKIES WITH VARIATIONS

1 box yellow cake mix with pudding or super moist type 1 tsp. baking powder

P H O T O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

Auburn Public Library to Host Kopper Kettle Presentation, Exhibit

BY THE CITY OF AUBURN

AUBURN —

The Auburn Public Library last week announced that it will host Auburn University alumnus James Patterson, who will present "Explosions in My Life" at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 17, at the

RECIPES

FROM A10

2 eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

1 cup crushed peppermint

Mix dry ingredients together. Add eggs and oil. Mix until blended. Stir in crushed peppermint. Drop by teaspoon onto cookie sheet. Bake 8 minutes at 350 degrees. Allow cookies to cool a few minutes on cookie sheets before moving to wire racks.

Variations

Can make the cookies with chocolate cake mix; add chocolate chips and chopped pecans. You could add M&M’s, chocolate chips, cinnamon or walnuts etc. Don’t add too much of the extras because the dough will break apart. Makes 2 dozen.

The following recipes are Caroline’s favorites to cook for her brothers and parents.

STUFFED MUSHROOMS

24 large mushrooms (small enough to be one or two bites)

1 lb. sausage

1 onion, diced

Boykin Community Center, located at 400 Boykin St. in Auburn.

Patterson's talk will overview his experiences with two historic explosions, as a student eyewitness to the 1978 Kopper Kettle explosion in downtown Auburn and as a U.S. diplomat in Washington, D.C.,

4 oz. grated Parmesan cheese, divided ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs 1 tsp. minced garlic

during 9/11.

The “Explosions in My Life” presentation and photo exhibit will commemorate the 45th anniversary of the Kopper Kettle explosion that occurred in downtown Auburn on Jan. 15, 1978. The photo exhibit will be on display at the presentation, as well as

at the Auburn Public Library throughout the month of January.

The Auburn Public Library is located at 749 E. Thach Ave.

The public is invited to share their memories, stories and photographs by emailing them to libraryevents@auburnalabama.org.

1 pkg. English Muffins

Cook sausage and drain well. Stir together sausage, butter, cheese spread and chilies.

make on the stove quickly for my children to enjoy while we work on our homeschool together.

This season's chilly, and sometimes overcast weather calls for a warm drink to sip on at the table. You could make this for a dinner party or gathering, or even chill and store in the fridge to serve over ice. For us, the delicious fragrance that wafted into our dining room (where we sit for school) was enough to lift all our spirits and make us feel cozy.

I love natural and wholesome ingredients, and this recipe uses maple syrup as a sweetner. Whole allspice berries are also an ingredient, but if you can't find them, the cider would still taste wonderful if you need to omit them. I was able to find them at my local grocery store.

Homemade Hot Apple Cider Recipe

Source: Allrecipes

*I doubled this recipe to

place over bananas. Spread edges of ice cream slices to cover banana and form a smooth layer. Sprinkle with nuts. Cover and freeze until firm.

serve 7 adults and 9 kids.

• 6 cups apple cider

• 1/4 cup real maple syrup

• 6 whole cloves

• 6 whole allspice berries

• 1 orange peel, cut into strips

• 1 lemon peel, cut into strips

DIRECTIONS

Step 1. Pour the apple cider into a large saucepan

Step 2. Place cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange peels and lemon peels in a clean, washed cheesecloth. Wrap and tie so it forms a "tea bag" for simmering. Drop the bundle into the cider mixture.

Step 3. Gently simmer over moderate heat for 5 to 10 minutes. Discard the spice bundle. Serve in cups or mugs and add a cinnamon stick as a garnish if desired.

That's it.

This cider was a big hit in my house. I think you will enjoy the scent of cinnamon and orange peel equally as much as you will enjoy sipping it and sharing it with your loved ones. I hope it will warm your spirits this season.

Crush Butterfinger and crumble on top. Keep in freezer until ten minutes before serving. Cut in squares. Serves 10 to 12.

1 tsp. chopped fresh parsley 8 oz. cream cheese Cook sausage, onion and mushroom scraping (stems) until sausage is done. Drain and discard grease. Return sausage mixture to the skillet.

Stir 3 oz. Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, cream cheese and parsley into sausage mixture. Cook and stir until heated through.

Stuff mixture into mushrooms. Bake stuffed mushrooms at 350 degrees for 12 minutes.

Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over mushrooms and bake about 3 minutes more.

E NGLISH MUFFINS WITH SAUSAGE

1 lb. sausage, cooked

½ stick of butter

2 jars Old English cheese spread

1 can small green chiles, chopped

Split muffins and spread with cheese and sausage mixture.

Bake 350 degrees until bubbly. These can be frozen on a cookie sheet and stored until you are ready to bake and serve. Serves 6.

BANANA SPLIT DESSERT

3½ cups graham cracker crumbs

2/3 cup butter, melted 4 to 5 medium bananas

½ gallon Neapolitan ice cream (block carton)

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup chocolate syrup

½ cup butter

1 pint Cool Whip

In a small bowl, combine crumbs and melted butter. Set aside ½ cup; press remaining crumbs into a 9x13 dish. Slice bananas widthwise and layer over crust. Cut ice cream widthwise into ten slices;

Pour chocolate syrup over ice cream; freeze until firm.

Spread Cool Whip over top of chocolate. Top with reserved crumbs. Store in freezer (will keep for several weeks). Remove from freezer about 10 minutes before serving. Yield: 20 servings.

ICE CREAM SANDWICH PIE

8 ice cream sandwiches

1 medium Cool Whip Chocolate syrup

2 Butterfinger candy bars

Unwrap ice cream sandwiches and place in a 9 x 13 baking dish. Cover with Cool Whip. Squeeze chocolate syrup around on the top.

SLOW COOKER ROAST

¼ cup water 3 lb. chuck roast 1 oz. pkg. dry ranch seasoning 1 oz. pkg. dry au jus gravy mix

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter 5-6 pepperoncini (in a jar)

Add ¼ cup water into the insert of your slow cooker and place chuck roast on top. Sprinkle dry ranch seasoning mix on top of the chuck roast, then sprinkle the dry au jus mix on top. Place 6 tablespoons butter on top of roast and 5-6 pep -

peroncini around the roast.

Cook on low for 8 hours. Shred and serve with gravy. You can add vegetables to the slow cooker, if desired.

CHICKEN AND RICE

8 chicken breasts 2 cups white rice, uncooked 3 cups water 2 pkg. onion soup mix 20 oz. cream of mushroom soup Spray 9 x 13 inch dish. Add chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Pour uncooked rice over chicken. Sprinkle with onion soup mix.

Combine mushroom soup and water. Pour over chicken.

Cover and bake for one hour and 15 minutes until rice is tender.

delicious. Although it took me awhile to get to Bow & Arrow, the trip was DEFINITELY worth it.

Bow & Arrow offers diners a great selection of appetizers, some of which include:queso blanco, chili con queso, goat cheese guacamole, Helotes street fries and “cool ranch” tater tots.

Besides our tasty dishes, Bow & Arrow also has a large selection of salads, sandwiches, BBQ plates, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and scratch-made sides.

By the way, I told Mike I had gotten lost on the way to meet Leslie. Also, it turns out that I should have turned left onto Glenn Avenue and not Frederick Road.

Mike thought I knew that Fredrick Road in Opelika turned into Glenn Avenue in Auburn; I did not. Therefore, of course, I placed some of my getting lost on him. Next time, I’ll pay better attention when writing down directions. Also, I really shouldn’t have missed a big church like Lakeview Baptist. But I digress. Bow & Arrow is open on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; is

closed on Monday; is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Bow & Arrow makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in The Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com

Located in beautiful downtown Opelika 223 S. 8th St. | 334-749-8003 www.opelikaobserver.com SUBSCRIBE

CONTRIBUTED

RELIGION —

Moses was a great servant

of God, but passion for God doesn’t mean immunity from struggles — whether we’re talking about Moses, Noah, Esther, David or anyone else. And there’s no hesitancy on the part of biblical writers to call out mistakes, flaws or weaknesses of the

people they write about, and that’s one reason we love the scripture. It was “real” and “authentic” long before those were fashionable concepts.

Stephen tells us about Moses’ presumptiveness in Acts 7:23-29. Moses wrote about his own hesitancy to respond to God’s call in Exodus 3:1ff, 4:1-17, and then there are his words to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 3:26 that “the Lord was angry with me because of you and would not listen to me.”

It’s healthy to want to go the extra mile with people like Moses and give them the benefit of every doubt. In the case of these words, I’ve wondered if we could take them to mean something

to the effect of “God was angry with me because (I was being too harsh with) you.”

Or “because of you (i.e., God protecting you), He was angry with me.” I suppose these are possible, but they don’t seem very likely. Daniel Block suggests we understand Moses to be saying that if the Israelites hadn’t rebelled against God at Kadesh Barnea (Numbers 13), then Moses would never have been in the situation he was in. Sigh… In the end, the most natural meaning of the words seems to be that Moses was trying to shift responsibility away from himself and onto Israel.

It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly when the events of Numbers

20 took place, but it doesn’t appear that much time had elapsed between Moses’ stumbling and his request of God, and then his report of it in Deuteronomy 3. That needs to be factored in as we try to put his denial in context. Then, too, Moses’ desire to complete his ministry by leading Israel into the promised land was so strong and his disappointment at not being able to do so was so keen that it probably warped his perspective on his own behavior.

The truth is, none of these things are difficult for us to understand because for most of us, most of the time, being confronted with sin — or even having it politely pointed out — will knock the

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

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

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

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

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

Greater Peace Missionary

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

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

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

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 Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika

10th Street Church Of

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

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

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

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800

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

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika

wind out of our sails. Being defensive or minimizing it are close to reflexive behaviors. It usually takes some prayer and processing before we are able to see our sin for what it is.

I think this is where Moses is when he speaks the words, “the Lord was angry with me because of you.” That reaffirms that he was not some glossy, twodimensional character that we really have nothing in common with, but struggled as we do, didn’t always succeed and then had trouble on the backside owning everything. That is someone we can relate to, isn’t it?

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-tasteof-grace-with-brucegreen.com

1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148

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

St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319

PENTECOSTAL Gateway Pentecostal Sanctuary 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn 334-745-6926

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

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

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

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." — John 14:6

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Christmas morning!

There’s no morning like it. Excitement abounds. Unlike most mornings, little children bounce eagerly out of bed, and often before sunrise! Mom and Dad are usually not bright-eyed like the kids. Many times, my wife and I stayed up past midnight, playing Santa, only to have our young boys wake us before 6 a.m. They could not wait to show us what Santa had left them under

the tree! Bleary-eyed, we begged for mercy. But the kids were merciless. Sleep another hour? Heavens no! Christmas day had begun!

The time had come to stagger out of bed, put on some coffee and hope for a nap in the afternoon. Cruel it would be to force eager children to wait any longer. There were exciting discoveries to be made as our family gathered around the tree to share the awe and wonder of another Christmas morning.

What precious memories I have of those mornings when our boys were growing up. I can still recall the amazed look in their eyes as they examined each gift. All the while Mom and I were praying they would be pleased with the inexpensive things we were able to buy them.

Rarely were we able to give them some of the

JEAN WHEELER CHAPMAN

Jean Wheeler Chapman, 90, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2022, at the Arbor Springs Health and Rehab Facility.

Services were held graveside in Lanett, Alabama, at Oakwood Cemetery on Dec. 27. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Louie J. Chapman and Louie Charles Chapman Memorial Endowment Scholarship at Auburn University.

Jean was born on Aug. 12, 1932, to the late Alvin and Suzie Wheeler in Lanett. In her grade school years, Jean was given the nickname “brains” and with that went on to graduate as valedictorian from Lanett High School in 1950. Following graduation Jean attended college at the University of Montevallo where she studied home economics. Upon completing her studies and earning her bachelor's degree in 1954, she went to work for the Bibb County Board of Education teaching home economics. As Jean progressed in her career she moved into a supervisor role, overseeing the Lee County lunch programs.

Jean moved to Auburn after marrying the love of her life, Louie J. Chapman, on July 1, 1973. Although they did not share any biological children, together they loved

and cared for the five children between them. Jean was an active member at Auburn United Methodist for over 30 years. She loved cheering on the Auburn Tigers, watching Law & Order and working Sudoku puzzles. Her baking was unmatched and so was her style.

Jean was predeceased by her parents Alvin and Suzie Wheeler, husband Louie J. Chapman and his two children Charles Chapman and Debbie Chapman, son Stanley Clark, daughter Jennifer Araguel, grandson IV Holt and her two brothers Charles and Cooper Wheeler. She is survived by her son George Clark, granddaughter Jade Lusk and three greatgrandchildren, as well as her brother Paul Wheeler.

Thank you to Dr. Keith Fuller, the staff at Arbor Springs and Southern Care Hospice for their care of Jean during her last few months. To Nancy Flurry, you have been a rock for Jean, and I do not know what we would have done without you and your support. Thank you for loving her as your own.

JOAN RITA DEANE

Joan Rita Deane passed away peacefully at EAMC on Dec. 19, 2022. She was born in Rochester, New York, and was a graduate of

No Morning Like It

expensive things they wished for — like a "Go Cart" with a gasoline engine. Whenever I saw a child with a nice Go Cart, I remembered how my boys wanted one. They were disappointed, but so was I. It was difficult to explain to them why our budget would not stretch that far.

I remember wanting things when I was a boy that my parents could not afford. And I recall my joy when one Christmas my folks were able to give me my first bicycle. Before that the gift that had thrilled me the most was my Daisy Red Ryder BB-Gun. It had been cleverly hidden inside the Christmas tree so that I did not notice it until all the other gifts had been opened.

The wonder of it all is that most children are somehow able to accept happily what

they do receive. I never remember a child sulking on Christmas day because a particular gift was not under the tree. Nor did I. One of our traditions was to hang stockings over the fireplace. The stockings had our names inscribed on them. It was fun to dump out the small items in the stocking, things like gum, candy, apples, oranges, nuts, socks, knives, nail clippers and sometimes a dollar or two.

When we were small, my mother always left some fruit cake and milk for Santa. And Santa must have eaten it; the plate was always empty on Christmas morning. I never questioned how jolly old Saint Nick got down our chimney. Mysteries did not concern me back then.

Christmas morning is different now. Just my

John Marshall High School. Following high school, she worked in the bond department at the Lincoln Rochester Trust Company, until her marriage to Howard Deane, also of Rochester, in 1956. She is survived by her five children: Bob Deane, Joan N. Deane, Nancy Williams, Pamela Romines and Mary Toombs.

Joan was a meek and gentle servant who left a legacy of goodness for all who knew her. She demonstrated her love of others through acts of hospitality, shaped by a passion for cooking and baking. In her spare time, Joan volunteered for the Red Cross and worked as an assistant to the school nurse. She was a talented artist, and her creative endeavors included painting and sewing quilts. She had a heart for animals, particularly longhaired cats.

Joan fostered a warm and loving environment that blessed everyone who entered her home. The daily example she set for her children instilled in them respect and compassion for others. She was truly the heart of her family. She will be missed every day for the rest of our lives.

Visitation was held on Dec. 28, 2022, at St. Michael Archangel Parish in Auburn. This was followed by a

funeral mass. Joan was buried in Town Creek Cemetery.

The family respectfully declines flowers and recommends instead memorials be directed to St. Michael the Archangel Church, 1100 College St. Auburn, AL 36830.

CALLAHAN

CAROLYN COSBY

Carolyn Cosby Callahan (MeMe), age 70, passed away Dec. 20, 2022, at the Columbus Specialty Hospital in Columbus, Georgia, after an extended illness.

She was preceded in death by her parents Tom and Essie Ree Cosby, and a special lady who became like her second mother, Margeurite Martin of Montgomery.

She is survived by her sister, Luann (Larry) McQueen, Auburn; niece, Mary Margaret (Eric) Bowles, Northport; great nephew, Jackson Bowles, Northport; and numerous cousins.

Carolyn grew up in East Tallassee, and attended the Tallassee City Schools. She graduated from Tallassee High School in 1970. She chose to continue her education at Alexander City State Junior College and graduated in 1972. From there she attended AUM and Faulkner University.

Carolyn started her career working in 1972 with the

little dog Buddy and me. I have given up trying to teach him to talk. Decided instead to take up barking. So when I bark at him, he barks back. I guess it’s dog talk, but I enjoy it. Dean is in heaven now. It comforts me to believe she is cheering me on to do my best until I join her. A few tears? Sure, but that’s just part of being a normal human being. Tears remind me that my Jesus is the Water of Life.

No little children get me up early anymore. And some of our children have grandchildren, so the traditions begun in our home are but memories for them also. But I have not lost the memories of those joyous moments when we found surprises under the tree. I still put up a tree, and kind Karen decorated it for me. Dear old aging Santa will still find his way to my house

to leave a gift or two. And my eyes will sparkle as I recall the days when Dean was with me — because there is simply nothing like Christmas morning. What makes it special, of course, is the joy of sharing it with people you love.

Belonging to a family that forgives you and supports you — that’s what makes Christmas morning awesome.

When you wake up Christmas morning, rejoice that you are alive to greet another dawn. And remember: The best part of waking up on Christmas morning is not the coffee in your cup, but the love that's in your heart! Thank God that you have lived to enjoy another morning like no other! If you live alone, don’t you dare feel sorry for yourself. Call somebody and bless them with those cheerful words: Merry Christmas!

Elmore County Department of Pensions and Security in Wetumpka assisting social workers. This experience led to a position as an insurance clerk at the Community Hospital in East Tallassee from 1973 to 1979. From there she went to work for Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in Montgomery as a provider relations representative from 1979 to 1988. There she was promoted to electronic claims coordinator and served in that position from 1988 to 1994. She left EDS to assume the position of internal manager for T&A Medical Supply in Montgomery from 1994 to 1996. Her last position was with the Montgomery Cancer Center as a medical coder and then as a patient account representative from 1999 until her retirement in 2012.

Carolyn grew up in the East Tallassee Church of Christ and was baptized at an early age. She last attended the Macedonia Christian Church in Tallassee.

Carolyn developed many lasting friendships over her life. She loved to talk so she did not meet a stranger. She liked to meet people and get to know them. She remained in close contact with special friends and school classmates, Joan, Vickie Sue and Phyllis. She enjoyed attending the THS Class of

1970 monthly luncheons. She also remained in close contact with former co-worker MJ, who nicknamed her Sally, because she had a sister named Carolyn. So to keep them straight she nicknamed Carolyn Callahan, Sally.

Carolyn moved to Auburn from Montgomery in 2015. She loved living in Auburn and she dearly loved her neighborhood. Her deck was the gathering place in the late afternoons for neighbors to come, sit and talk. During football season she enjoyed the fellowship of the tailgate gatherings at the neighbor’s house and cheering for the AU Tigers. Many special friendships developed over this time.

Visitation will be at Frederick Dean Funeral Home in Opelika on Thursday, Dec. 29, from 10 to 11 a.m. and a graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. in Carrville Cemetery located at 420 N. McKenzie St. in Tallassee. The Rev. David Hooks will be conducting the service.

Honorary pallbearers will be the THS Class of 1970.

Carolyn loved flowers and would often buy herself a bouquet of flowers to enjoy at home. If you prefer, a donation may be made to your favorite charity in Carolyn’s memory.

Frederick-Dean will be handling all arrangements.

What's Happening in Lee County

2023 CITY MARKET VENDOR APPLICATIONS OPEN

Are you a local grower or artisan wanting to share your products with those in the community? Apply to be a vendor at Auburn Parks and Recreation's 2023 City Market. City Market vendor applications opened Nov. 14. City Market will be held Saturdays from May 20 through Aug. 26 at Town Creek Park from 8 to 11 a.m., with vendor setup beginning at 7 a.m.

Farmers, growers and artists who are interested in participating in the City Market must fill out an online application or apply in person at the Harris Center (425 Perry St.).

For more information, including a link to vendor applications and the City Market handbook, please visit www.auburnalabama.org/citymarket or contact Sarah Cook, market coordinator, at scook@auburnalabama.org.

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 in January 2023.

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.

O GROWS — SATURDAYS AT THE GARDEN

Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon outside the Southside Center for the Arts, located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. Activities will include planting, storytime, crafts or art projects for children and hanging out with the goats.

DOWNTOWN AUBURN PARKING

Downtown parking will be free during Auburn University's winter break from Dec. 9 to Jan. 10. Free parking includes on-street parking, the Gay Street Parking Lot and the ground floor of the Municipal Parking Deck.

On-street parking is available along Magnolia Avenue, College Street, Gay Street, Tichenor Avenue and Wright Street. Additionally, more than 200 off-street parking spaces are available in the Gay Street Parking Lot, on the ground floor of the Municipal Parking Deck and in the Tichenor Avenue Lot behind City Hall. Visit the city's parking application to find open spots in the Gay Street parking lot and Municipal Parking Deck. Take advantage of the free parking as you shop, dine and explore downtown Auburn.

Parking in the Wright Street Parking Deck will remain $1 an hour with a limit of $15 per 24-hour period. Find more information about downtown parking on the city's website.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group will meet every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month there will be different topics 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 PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOST JOB FAIR ON JAN. 11

AUBURN — The Auburn Public Library is partnering with the Goodwill Career Center to host a hiring event on Wednesday, Jan. 11.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the Auburn Public Library, located at 749 E. Thach Ave. More than 14 employers will be in attendance.

Job seekers should bring multiple copies of their resume and be ready to interview on the spot. The Goodwill Career Center at 3740 Pepperell Parkway in Opelika offers assistance for those who may need to refresh their resume or those who are interested in taking a free career readiness workshop before the event.

For more information, email Library Events at libraryevents@auburnalabama.org or contact the Goodwill Career Center at 334-275-4815.

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OPELIKA —

The Alabama Sports Writers Association (ASWA) last week announced three finalists in each classification for "Back of Year" and "Lineman of Year" in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA).

Locally, Lee-Scott's (LSA) George Meyers (senior) was named a finalist for AISA "Back of the Year" after leading the Warriors to their first state championship since 1994. Meyers started the season playing linebacker and running back, and returned kicks and punted for LSA. During the middle of the season, Meyers became ill, which included being hospitalized and resulted in missing two games.

After Meyers returned, LSA head coach Buster Daniel decided to only play George on offensive and special teams for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs, resting while on defense.

The decision paid off, as Meyers had more carries in the final four games than he did the first eight games, and gained more yards — including multiple touchdowns in the playoffs.

Meyers gained over

1,300 all-purpose yards in 10 games, averaged 42.5 yards a punt, scored 22 touchdowns and was voted offensive MVP by his teammates. Most of his yards were gained in the first half of games. LeeScott dominated its opponents so well, six teams decided to play the second half with a running game clock in an effort to speed up the game.

The winners of the Alabama Sports Writers Association awards will be announced at the ASWA Banquet in Montgomery Jan. 12. Congratulations George Meyers!

OHS BASKETBALL

Opelika's varsity girls’ basketball team lost two games in the Eufaula Holiday Tournament last week at the Eufaula High School gymnasium.

The Lady Bulldogs lost the opening game, 28-62, to Park Crossing.

The Thunderbirds played great on offense, hitting most of their shots to score 62 points. Opelika’s offense struggled from the field, only scoring 28 total points in four quarters. Tyra Pitts scored 10 points to lead Opelika in scoring.

In game two, Pike Road squeaked by Opelika,

LEE COUNTY: JAN. 10 AT 6 P.M.

AUBURN: JAN. 10 AT 6 P.M.

OPELIKA: JAN. 24 AT 4:30 P.M.

Auburn’s Early 2023 Class Gives Freeze Chance of Success

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

Is that Jack Frost nipping at your nose? No? Then it might be Hugh Freeze reviving the Auburn football program.

The newly hired head coach discussed the completion of his first signing class on The Plains last Wednesday, Dec. 21, after weeks of recruiting like a Tiger who was at risk of losing its stripes.

“We’re really not through anywhere,” Freeze said as he addressed reporters on the early National Signing Day. “We still have some big targets out there that hopefully we can close on now or in that second wave when we hit the road in January. There’s still a lot of targets out there and some needs we have.”

It is no secret that Auburn’s recruiting See FREEZE, page B7

SU Foundation Receives Grant from West Fraser

CONTRIBUTED

BY SOUTHERN UNION

OPELIKA —

The Southern Union State Community College Foundation recently received a $150,000 donation from West Fraser Timber. The funds will go toward

scholarships to ensure a skilled and prepared workforce for east Alabama.

The donation stems from a longtime partnership between the two entities.

“At West Fraser, we value our relationship with Southern Union

Community College and recognize the important role it plays in developing people, providing skilled graduates and building a successful community by offering programs that are accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of students, business and

the region,” said Chester Fort, vice president of U.S. Lumber, West Fraser.

In recognition of the gift, Southern Union plans to rename the TEAM meeting room in the Center for Integrated

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY SUSCC

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller with a group representing Southern Union State Community College and West Fraser Timber. West Fraser donated $150,000 to the Southern Union Foundation.

PHOTO BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

Auburn University head football coach Hugh Freeze at his early National Signing Day press conference Dec. 21.

Opelika's Williams Signs with Auburn

season.

50-45. The Lady Dogs played better on offensive and defense in keeping the game close. Naomi Whack recorded a double-double, scoring 13 points and grabbing 11 rebounds to lead OHS.

Opelika's varsity boys basketball team (5-4) took Christmas week off after winning four of the last six games. The Dogs traveled to LaGrange on Wednesday and Thursday to play Harris County and McIntosh in the annual tournament at LaGrange High School. There were no results available at press time.

The two varsity teams host area foes Central (Jan. 10) and Auburn (Jan. 13) at Mainstreet Gym on the OHS campus. The varsity girls start at 5:45 p.m. with boys following around 7 p.m.

Fans can listen to these four games (girls’ and boys’) on radio at FOX Sports the Game 910AM1310AM, on the iHeartRadio app or online at foxsportsthegame.com. Van Riggs will begin pre-game prior to the girls’ game. The broadcast is presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic.

You can purchase tickets online at gofan.co, or you can pay at the gate.

SMITHS STATION FOOTBALL

The Lee County Board of Education will post an opening for head football coach at Smiths Station High School (SSHS). Former head coach Mike Glisson’s resignation was accepted by Lee County board members this month. Glisson, appearing on “On the Mark" radio show, told listeners he wanted to keep coaching and thanked SSHS.

"I appreciate Smiths Station High School for giving me an opportunity to be head football coach,” Glisson said. “We did not win enough games but made a positive impact. I want to keep coaching ... I will be assistant line coach (as he chuckled) … I just want to keep coaching in this area."

WEST RIDGE

New scoreboards have been installed at West Ridge Park in Opelika. The city of Opelika ordered the new scoreboards for all the youth fields a year ago, but shipping delays caused the scoreboards to arrive almost 12 months after ordering. The good news: The scoreboards should be ready for the 2023 baseball/softball

ESG “Team Opelika” crews are in the process of replacing playground equipment connected to the Billy Hitchcock Miracle League Field. The old equipment and surface was removed and will be replaced with state-ofthe-art equipment. The new playground is another example of the city of Opelika improving recreation facilities.

Crews continue to work on the "All-Purpose" synthetic turf fields at Floral Park. The lower end of the facility where softball fields one and two were located has been cleared and appears to be ready for workers to install the turf. When completed, turf will cover most of the lower section and will have ample room to play football, soccer, baseball and softball without having to worry about wet grass.

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, appearing on "On the Mark" radio show, talked about the projects the city planned to renovate and upgrade.

The fifth-term mayor said "Denson Drive Rec, the Bill Calhoun Tennis Center, Covington pool and splash park, outside competition pool at the Sportsplex all need

Loachapoka's Hart Signs for Tigers

J.C. Hart,

Uni-

two sacks and two interceptions as a junior, and was named a member to the 2022 Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game and the 2022 Alabama Sports Writers Assocation first-team.

SUSCC >>

FROM B1

Manufacturing to the West Fraser TEAM room.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of West Fraser and for their willingness to invest in the future of our students,” said Southern Union President Todd Shackett. “We look forward to many more years of working with them.”

ABOUT WEST FRASER

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than

renovations, and the city has plans to completely finish renovations at Floral Park.”

It appears Fuller is trying to complete a list of projects before leaving office. Opelika has seen remarkable and unprecedented growth during Fuller's tenure. The good part: Fuller has three years left on this term.

60 facilities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe. From responsibly sourced and sustainably managed forest resources, the company produces lumber, engineered wood (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, particleboard) and other products including pulp, newsprint, wood chips and renewable energy. West Fraser’s products are used in home construction, repair and remodeling, industrial applications, papers, tissue and box materials.

ABOUT SOUTHERN UNION

TRINITY

Trinity Christian School has made a major commitment to its athletic program. Trinity School purchased land behind Opelika Middle School with the purpose of building the school’s athletic facilities such as a gym and baseball/softball fields, among other plans. This will be a huge addition for

FOUNDATION

The Southern Union Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was established to support and foster the educational and service programs and activities of SUSCC. The foundation increases educational access for students through financial support and enables the college to initiate innovative projects to enhance the quality of education.

For more information on the SUSCC Foundation, please contact Shondae Brown at sbrown@suscc.edu.

Trinity Christian School's student-athletes.

Happy New Year! D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

GAME

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY OHS TO THE OBSERVER

Brenton Williams, a 3-star edge from Opelika, committed to Auburn University Dec. 21 on early National Signing Day. Williams, a 6-foot-4-inch senior, is ranked the No. 101 defensive lineman nationally and No. 33 in the state of Alabama, according to On3 sports. Williams was initially committed to Coastal Carolina but reopened his recruitment on Nov. 17. The Tigers offered Williams the same day. As a senior, Williams tallied 55 tackles, 10 takcles for loss and four sacks for the Bulldogs.

PHOTO BY RJ JOHNSON FOR THE OBSERVER

a 3-star cornerback from Loachapoka, committed to Auburn

versity to play football Dec. 21 on early National Signing Day. Hart, a 6-foot2-inch, 175-pound senior is ranked the No. 64 defensive back in the country, and No. 28 in the state of Alabama, according to On3 sports. Hart committed to former Auburn head football coach Bryan Harsin on Aug. 12, and had received an offer from USC the week prior to early National Signing Day. Hart registered 63 tackles,

Bulldogs See Mixed Results Against Lanett

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

The Opelika girls and boys varsity basketball teams faced off against Lanett before the Christmas Break on Dec. 13. The boys defeated the Panthers, 74-42, while the girls fell, 45-13, according to Maxpreps.com. The Lady Bulldogs' record now sits at 6-9, according to Maxpreps.com; the boys' record sits at 5-4. For more information about Opelika basketball's seasons, read D. Mark Mitchell's column on page B1.

Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2023

Auburn’s Karlos Dansby Recognized

CONTRIBUTED BY ASHOF

AUBURN —

The Board of Directors of the State of Alabama Sports Hall of Fame recently announced the Class of 2023 to be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame on May 13, 2023. The class was selected by ballot through a statewide selection committee; votes were tabulated by the accounting firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers.

The newly elected inductees for the Class of 2023 are as follows:

- Karen Mayson

Bahnsen

- Karlos Dansby

- Roman Harper

- Larry Kenon

- Theo Ratliff

- Jackie Sherrill

- Gerald Wallace

- Roddy White

Starting with the first class in 1969, this will

be the 55th Class inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

The eight newly elected inductees will bring the total number of inductees to 393.

The 55th annual Induction Banquet and Ceremony will be held in the Birmingham Ballroom, at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, on May 13, 2023. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame Museum at 205-323-6665

CLASS OF 2023

BIOGRAPHIES: KARLOS DANSBY / FOOTBALL

Born Nov. 3, 1981, in Birmingham, Alabama, Dansby was an All-State linebacker and wide receiver at Woodlawn High School and played football at Auburn University from

2000-2003. During his career at Auburn, he was a First-Team AllAmerican and Butkus Award semi-finalist. Dansby was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft.

During his 14-year NFL career, he spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals. When Dansby signed with the Dolphins in 2010, his $43 million contract made him the highest paid inside linebacker in NFL history at that time. He finished his career with 1,422 tackles, 43 sacks and 20 interceptions.

For more information about the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, or to view a full list of honorees, visit www. ashof.org.

Bald Eagle Spotted in Opelika

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY HASKEL PATTERSON

This Bald Eagle was spotted by Betsy Gore and was photographed by Haskel Patterson. It was seen on Terracewood Drive in Opelika just a few days before Christmas.

Anders Carlson Three-Time Academic All-America

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN — Auburn kicker Anders Carlson earned CSC first team Academic All-America honors for the 2022 season, announced the College Sports Communicators (formerly CoSIDA) last Tuesday

Carlson, who also earned first team Academic All-America honors in 2020 and 2021, is the first threetime honoree in Auburn football history in the prestigious program, which recognizes the nation’s top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field or court and in the classroom.

Carlson was the only FBS player this year selected as a member of the National Football Foundation scholar-athlete class and the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team for community service. He was also a member of the SEC community service team and is a finalist for the Coach Wooden Citizenship Cup.

Carlson, Auburn’s placekicker for the past five seasons, graduated in December 2020 with a 3.92 GPA in professional flight management and completed his MBA at Auburn with a 4.0 GPA.

Carlson, a second-team All-American in 2020, finished his career with the Tigers ranked

second in Auburn career scoring with 410 points (fifth in SEC records), third in career PAT (173) and second with 79 career field goals made.

Previous first team Auburn football Academic All-America honorees include Jimmy “Red” Phillips (1957), Nick Brahms (2021), Jackie Burkett (1959), Ed Dyas (1960), Bill Cody (1965), Buddy McClinton (1969), Pat Sullivan (1971), Bobby Davis (1974), Chuck Fletcher (1975), Chris Vacarella (1976), Jim Skuthan (1980), Gregg Carr (1984), Matt Hawkins (1984-85), Dontarrious Thomas (2003) and Tyler Stovall (2017).

It Takes a Village... of Gingerbread!

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND / AU ATHLETICS

Auburn kicker Anders Carlson (No. 26).

PHOTOS BY HANNAH

LESTER THE OBSERVER

The largest Gingerbread Village in East Alabama is located in the conference center of the Hotel at Auburn University. Over 10 Gingerbread buildings have been on display since Dec. 4 in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. The Gingerbread Village was unveiled right after the Auburn Christmas Parade and remains on display until Jan. 1.

Auburn Diamond Club Preseason Banquet Scheduled for Feb. 4

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

The 21st annual Auburn Diamond Club Preseason Banquet will be held Saturday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m. CT at Neville Arena. An autograph session with the Auburn baseball team will precede the event at 5:30 p.m.

Headlining this year’s banquet is guest speaker and former Auburn AllAmerican pitcher Casey Mize, who was selected by the Detroit Tigers with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft.

Mize was a three-year letterwinner for the Tigers from 2016 to 2018 and became the second twotime All-American in program history following his junior season. The right-hander was named the NCBWA District 3 Co-Player of the Year, a consensus All-American and a finalist for both the Golden Spikes Award and Dick Howser Trophy after

FREEZE

FROM B1

suffered under former head coach Bryan Harsin; the 2023 class ranked in the low 50s nationally just a couple months ago. When Freeze was announced as the 31st head football coach in Auburn’s history in late November, the football program would have been more aptly named the Cougars, due to the massive mountain that needed climbing in order to quickly change the Tigers’ outlook for the future.

“It was a wild two weeks for us,” Freeze said “We came into this considerably behind what I think Auburn should be in recruiting.”

When the smoke of the early signing period cleared last week, the Tigers finished with the No. 19 class in the nation according to 247sports composite rankings. The steep climb up the national rankings can be attributed to nothing less than a feverish recruiting effort from Freeze, secondary coach Zac Etheridge and associate head coach Cadillac Williams — among others — over the past couple of weeks.

“But those guys never gave up on trying to hold onto some relationships that had been formed throughout the previous years, along with the people in the building, and they deserve a ton of credit for hanging us in the fight until we could get what these families appear to have some stability and some direction and vision for our program,” Freeze said. “So I’m thankful for those guys; they were faithful to the Auburn Family and held us in there with a lot of guys.”

By all accounts, the early National Signing Day was

recording 10 wins and leading the Southeastern Conference with 156 strikeouts in his final season in an Auburn uniform.

Following his Auburn career, Mize started just 26 games in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut with the Tigers on Aug. 19, 2020. He collected seven wins and logged a 3.71 ERA in 30 starts as a rookie in 2021.

Along with an autograph session and Mize’s segment as a guest speaker, the banquet will include dinner, player and staff introductions and more.

Banquet tickets are on sale now and cost $75 for adults and $40 for children 12 and under. VIP tables with space for six guests are also available for purchase. To reserve your spot at the banquet, join the Auburn Diamond Club or gather more information about the club, visit auburndiamondclub.com.

Coming off the program’s second trip to the College World Series in the last three seasons, Auburn and eighthyear head coach Butch Thompson open the 2023 season with a three-game series against Indiana beginning Friday, Feb. 17.

Having sold a record number of season tickets a year ago — and already selling out of season tickets for the 2023 season — fans interested in tickets are encouraged to join the Tigers Unlimited Billy Hitchcock Ticket Priority Program for best access to season tickets for next year. While season tickets are sold out, other ticket options are still available.

Additional ticket options for the 2023 season will include single-game tickets, eight-game mini packs and flex plans and will go on sale to the public in mid-January. Visit aubtix. com or contact the ticket office at 855-282-2010 (ext. 1) for more information.

a success for Freeze and Auburn. The Tigers entered the day needing to bolster depth — and quality — at almost every position. And for the most part, Auburn achieved that.

The most notable area of concern that needed addressing for the Tigers was the offensive line. Before Wednesday, the last time Auburn had signed three high school offensive linemen was in 2017; and the position suffered the past few years because of that.

On early National Signing Day, the Tigers inked commitments from four high schoolers at the position, and earned a commitment from the No. 4-ranked junior college (JUCO) offensive lineman Izavion Miller. With those guys, and the potential for more reinforcements through the transfer portal, Auburn has a legitimate shot at signing one of the best offensive line classes in the country.

Furthermore, while the Tigers got “their guy” often and early last Wednesday, Freeze and company were also busy working on players who were previously committed to other schools. The result was a very merry “Flipmas” as Auburn was able to lure a couple key players to The Plains.

The premier contributors to the Flipmas were fourstars Keldric Faulk and Kayin Lee.

Faulk, a defensive lineman, was committed to Florida State before choosing the Tigers on Wednesday. He will now come to The Plains as the highest-rated recruit of the 2023 class.

“Man, what a battle,” Freeze said of recruiting Faulk. “Probably spent more time on this one than any. I love this kid, love this family. So thrilled that

they decided to entrust this vision.”

Lee, a cornerback, was a gem of the Ohio State 2023 class before flipping to the Tigers, and is rated as the third-best freshman in Freeze’s first class.

Locally, Freeze and his staff reaped the benefits of a talented high school football region. Auburn High School offensive lineman Bradyn Joiner, Opelika defensive lineman Brenton Williams and Loachapoka athlete J.C. Hart all held true to their commitments to the Tigers.

Moreover, Freeze and his staff earned transfer commitments from edge Elijah McAllister and tight end Rivaldo Fairweather last week. McAllister comes in as a two-time team captain at his former school Vanderbilt, and will provide immediate help along the Tigers’ defensive line.

“A two-time team captain in this conference at another school … excited to have him,” Freeze said of McAllister. “I think he’s going to bring some maturity to that side of the ball, some leadership for these young guys who I think are incredibly talented.”

In total, Auburn signed 16 freshmen, two JUCO and two transfer players on early National Signing Day. That amounts to eight four-star and 12 three-star recruits, according to 247.

2023 Gymnastics TV Schedule Announced

CONTRIBTUED BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

Six regular-season Auburn gymnastics meets will be televised live nationally, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and ESPN recently announced.

Three home contests will be broadcast from Neville Arena, while three road meets will also be televised.

Auburn’s first SEC contest will be at defending conference champion Florida on Jan. 13 and will be

televised on ESPN2 at 6:30 p.m. CT. The team’s home opener against Arkansas is set for Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. CT on SEC Network.

All four of Auburn’s meets in February will be broadcast on SEC Network starting with the team’s meet at rival Alabama. The two squads will go head-to-head Friday, Feb. 3, at 6:30 p.m. CT. The Tigers return home for a 7:30 p.m. CT meet against LSU on Feb. 10.

Auburn’s meet on the road at Missouri was moved to Sunday, Feb. 19, and will be at 5 p.m.

CT on SEC Network.

The team’s final televised meet is set for Feb. 24 as the Tigers host Georgia at 6:30 p.m. CT in Neville Arena.

The 2023 edition of the SEC Gymnastics Championship will air exclusively on SEC Network. Coverage of the afternoon session will start at 2:30 p.m. CT with the evening session beginning at 7 p.m. CT.

As always, every meet on ESPN networks is available via the ESPN app on smartphones, tablets, connected streaming devices or espn.com/ watch.

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

Our New Home Is Built on a Solid Foundation... Just Like Our Bank.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS

As part of Wreaths Across America's national initiative, Wreaths Across America Day, members of the Opelika community traveled to Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery in Russell County on Dec. 16 to lay wreaths on the gravestones of fallen veterans. Every year, Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath laying at more than 3,700 locations across the U.S., at sea and abroad. Lee Co. Sheriff's office provided an escort to Ft. Mitchell.

L labama Politics ee County & A

Inside the Statehouse Richard Shelby Coming Home

Many of them are familiar with the fact that we are also friends. We have, indeed, been political friends and confidantes for close to four decades. This does not take away from the fact that in my humble opinion, he is Alabama’s greatest senator. The facts speak for themselves.

OPINION —

Our iconic senior United States senator, Richard Shelby, will walk out of the Senate chambers in Washington, D.C., next week and come home to retirement in Tuscaloosa. History will reveal Shelby as Alabama’s greatest U.S. senator, especially when it comes to bringing home the bacon to the Heart of Dixie. To say Shelby is the greatest is saying a mouthful, because we have had some great ones. Shelby will rest along with the likes of John Bankhead, John Sparkman, Lister Hill and Howell Heflin. He has served longer in the Senate than any Alabamian in state history — 36 years. He served eight years in Congress before beginning his Senate tenure in 1986.

Many of you have perceived, and correctly so, that I admire and appreciate the accomplishments of Shelby. A good many of you will be glad to see me stop writing such glowing things about him. Over the years, many of you have accused me of actually being his press secretary. My favorite restaurant is the historic Bright Star in Bessemer. A good many Tuscaloosans — especially older ones, Shelby’s contemporaries and friends and neighbors — drive up to eat at the Bright Star. Invariably, they will ask me to come over to their table to visit. They always say, “You sure do like Richard Shelby.”

In Washington, Shelby is considered royalty with omnipotent power. He is treated like a king. Shelby has served in the Senate alongside eight different presidents. He has been more powerful than the last three. He has controlled the federal purse strings. Therefore, national political pundits know the political golden rule: “Those that have the gold make the rules.” Presidents, congressional leaders and especially powerful lobbyists treat Shelby with deference akin to royalty. When he enters a room, people stare and stand up. This is especially true when he enters any famous Washington restaurant. The maître d’ has assigned him the best table. When he enters the fine dining establishment, every head turns to see which million-dollar-ayear lobbyist has been bestowed the honor of dining and visiting with the king, Richard Shelby. Other lobbyists will reserve a table next to him to simply be able to say they sat next to him.

However, when Shelby comes home to Tuscaloosa next month to the home he and his wife Annette have shared in the Druid City for over 50 years, his peers and neighbors will just call him Dick Shelby. “A setting sun sets off very little heat,” and a “prophet is not recognized in his own country,” “familiarity breeds contempt” and “Alabama is just a big front porch” — all of these admonitions will ring true for ol’ Shelby. However,

I do not think he will mind. Even though he has lived his life as a public person — eight years in the state senate, eight years in Congress and 36 years in the U.S. Senate — he is a private person and really enjoys his time with Annette. He will very much enjoy his anonymity.

This coming home to rest in obscurity has played out throughout the years with our Washington giants. Old timers in Jackson County say that the legendary, powerful, Tennessee Valley Congressman Bob Jones, in his retirement, would go into a restaurant to eat in Scottsboro by himself and nobody would hardly know him.

I was friends with Sen. Howell Heflin, who we all called “Judge.” After 18 years in the Senate, Judge came home to the Quad Cities. He would ask me to come up to visit with him and talk politics, which I gladly did. We would go to breakfast or early lunch at a downtown restaurant, which doubled as a coffee club gathering place in Tuscumbia. We would walk in, and they would nod, and he would speak, but they would not make a fuss over the former powerful U.S. senator. In fact, I am not sure some of them even knew who he was. Tuscaloosa is a bigger place than Scottsboro or Tuscumbia, so Shelby will be private.

In the meantime, Alabamians will soon begin to realize what immense power Shelby had in Washington.

See you next week.

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

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

SMITHS STATION —

Smiths Station City Council had a busy month.

The mayor and council members appointed two new city officials, approved annexations and rezones and commemorated the anniversary of the

nearby 1 On 1 Technical College, among other business.

The Dec. 13 meeting saw the appointment of a new Fire Protection District board member and a new city attorney.

Dwayne Peterson will fill the Place 5 seat on the Fire Protection District Board, which Cecil Martin vacated after moving outside the Smiths Station city

limits. Peterson’s term is set to expire April 1, 2024.

In addition, Allen Martin was appointed as Smiths Station’s third city attorney.

Martin comes to the position following the departure of Melissa Thomas, who served as the city attorney for about six months during

Leadership Alabama Announces the 2022 - 23 Alabama Leadership Initiative Class

CONTRIBUTED BY REP. JEREMY GRAY

BIRMINGHAM — Leadership Alabama, a statewide program of Alabama leaders engaged in creating a network for positive change, recently announced the 2022 - 23 class of the Alabama Leadership Initiative (ALI).

The program, which was originally introduced in 1995, is for emerging leaders, and it complements Leadership Alabama’s existing leadership networks and programs. ALI class members submitted applications and were chosen through a competitive process conducted by previous

members of the initiative.

In order to offer young professionals the opportunity to develop personal leadership skills and establish ongoing relationships with other young leaders, ALI was expanded in 2017 to a six-month program comprised of three two-day retreats.

“The initiative exposes young professionals to decision-makers in Alabama who are sensitive to the challenges we face as a state, and it provides the participants with the unique opportunity to step inside the circle of decision-makers and problemsolvers who mold the future of

our state,” said Ashley Kaplan, director of operations and engagement.

During the upcoming program year, ALI Class V members will meet in Montgomery, Birmingham and Mobile/Baldwin County. Presentations and group discussions will encourage members to make a critical examination of preconceptions about their state, their communities and themselves.

According to Leadership Alabama Executive Director Kate Cotton, the program has three goals: education,

STEVE FLOWERS

Jeremy Gray, left, was recently named to the 2022-23 ALI class. The class met in Honolulu, Hawaii.

CONTRIBUTED BY HANNAH EDDINS DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY FOR SEN. TOMMY TUBERVILLE

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R–AL) released the following update on his work for Alabamians as his second year in office comes to a close.

“By building on the foundation we established during our first year in office, we were able to secure more wins for Alabama’s priorities this year, including getting the Supporting Families of the Fallen Act passed and signed into law,” Tuberville said. “I’m proud of our team’s work to find new ways to be accessible for Alabamians, promote national security, support our veterans and military families, empower rural communities and defend traditional conservative values. We will continue to serve the people of Alabama each day and work as hard as possible for our country in the new Congress.”

Tuberville’s first piece of standalone legislation was signed into law in October — a huge accomplishment for a freshman senator in the minority party. Because of this legislation, the maximum life insurance coverage available to veterans and service members will be raised for the first time in two decades. This long overdue change offers greater financial security and peaceof-mind to service members and their families.

Tuberville focused on issues that matter most to his constituents: promoting quality educational opportunities, bolstering national security, improving the quality of care for veterans, defending traditional conservative values and pushing back against Chinese influence in America. In his critical oversight role, Tuberville stood up to the Biden administration’s proposed

rule to allow biological males to compete in women’s sports, sought accountability for the allocation of billions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds and pushed back against proposals which would vastly expand taxpayer-funded abortions at the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. Tuberville also fought against repeated attempts to delay and potentially reverse the U.S. Air Force’s decision to make Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, the permanent home of U.S. Space Command, one of his many efforts to promote Alabamians’ best interests and national security.

FOCUSING ON ALABAMIANS

Remaining Responsive: Members of Tuberville’s team held more than 2,500 constituent meetings across the state, visited all 67 counties every quarter and secured more than $176 million in federal grants for constituents. Additionally, Tuberville’s team held satellite office hours in rural communities across Alabama every quarter to assist constituents who may not live near a permanent office location. In addition to providing the office’s full range of constituent services, the senator’s team hosted two satellite offices specifically focused on veterans’ casework and the federal grants processes.

Keeping Constituents Informed: Tuberville reached more than 2.5 million homes in Alabama through regular interviews with print, television and radio outlets in the state.

Preserving Alabama’s History: Tuberville introduced legislation to reauthorize the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area (MSNHA), impacting seven counties in northwest Alabama, and to establish the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area, impacting 19 counties in central and southern Alabama. National

Heritage Areas (NHAs) are partnerships between the National Park Service, states and local entities to protect and support conservation and public access. These partnerships create a diverse, community-driven approach to increase heritage, conservation, economic development, recreation and tourism.

Listening to Constituents: In response to hearing about the problems caused by annual time changes from a large amount of constituents, Tuberville championed the Sunshine Protection Act to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, which passed the U.S. Senate earlier this year with unanimous support.

BOLSTERING NATIONAL SECURITY AND MILITARY READINESS

Prioritizing Military Needs in the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (FY23 NDAA): In his second year on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Tuberville focused on five priorities while crafting this year’s NDAA:

• Risk Taking — Having been the world’s dominant power for decades, the United States has lost much of its innovative drive.

Tuberville continues to support U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) officials and leaders who push their departments to take strategic and calculated risks.

• Lethality — Much of the DoD budget is concentrated in areas that do not contribute directly to the defense of the nation. Tuberville has pushed the department to be a “killing machine,” and believes that functions that do not enhance the lethality of the force should be dropped or moved to other areas of the government.

• Securing the Indo-Pacific — The United States is a Pacific nation, and much of our country’s commerce and future lie within reach of the Pacific Ocean. With the economic rise of China and

its dramatic military buildup, the United States faces its first peer adversary since the 19th century. Tuberville believes the United States must focus on securing our territory and interests in the region.

• Space — Tuberville believes the United States has fallen behind in space and cyber warfare and our nation needs to catch up. Whether it's in space exploration, missile defense, hypersonic missiles, GPS or artificial intelligence, Tuberville supports provisions that promote American dominance in this domain.

• Capacity — Tuberville is concerned our strategic stockpiles are low, our prime contractors are dwindling, our shipyards are drying up, our critical resources are being offshored and our manufacturing base is weak. The United States must foster the resource and industrial capacity to sustain our military might.

Streamlining Requests: Tuberville developed a new, streamlined submission process to make it easier to submit NDAA requests. Tuberville and his team participated in more than 60 hearings and held more than 365 meetings with government officials, industry leaders, think tanks and key stakeholders in preparation for the FY23 NDAA markups.

Boosting Military Spending: Tuberville pushed to increase the overall military budget by $45 billion above President Joe Biden’s proposal. This increase will fund improvements for Alabama’s military bases and additional weapons research, development and production in Alabama.

Securing Wins for Alabama’s Installations: Tuberville secured funding for upgrades, new construction, research and other vital programs at military installations across Alabama. The NDAA

authorizes funding for:

• a new gate inspection area at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery,

• the extension of a pilot program that allows service members who work at Maxwell — but live off-base — to send their children to the base school,

• additional resources — including funding for a physics lab and the Missile and Space Intelligence Center — for Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville,

• the construction of a new FBI warehouse at Redstone Arsenal,

• additional support for the Security Services Training Facility at the Sumpter-Smith Air National Guard Base in Birmingham

• and additional resources to bolster America’s missile defense stockpile, expanding the number of Alabamians supporting our military’s lethal force.

Fighting for SPACECOM’s Relocation to Huntsville: Tuberville fought against attempts to derail the U.S. Air Force’s (USAF) decision to permanently locate U.S. Space Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville during Senate Armed Services Committee hearings, and urged his colleagues to support the USAF’s decision.

Investing in Cybersecurity: Tuberville helped reauthorize the National Computer Forensics Institute in Hoover, Alabama, and provided resources to expand its capability to train federal law enforcement officers. This institute is the only of its kind in the nation and provides innovative training for law enforcement officials on how to combat cybercrimes.

Promoting Clean, Safe Nuclear Energy: Tuberville introduced the Thorium Energy Security Act to stop the destruction of Uranium 233 (U-233), a critical element used to produce clean energy. He also secured a provision requiring the DoD to study ways that

thorium can be used to fuel U.S. military bases and space vehicles. China currently invests in U-233 by building advanced aircraft carriers and nuclear reactors powered by that element.

Tuberville’s statement following the Senate’s passage of the FY23 NDAA can be seen here. A full list of wins for Alabama and provisions supported by Tuberville can be found in Coach Tuberville’s Defense Playbook.

LOOKING OUT FOR VETERAN AND MILITARY FAMILIES

Making Targeted

but

Meaningful Changes: Tuberville worked to identify targeted changes that would improve how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs delivers care and benefits to veterans and their dependents. Those changes — no matter how small they may seem — positively affect the lives of our veterans and their families. For example, after learning of a seemingly insignificant, but consequential, error on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Defense forms that makes it difficult for dependents to receive Post-9/11 GI

Bill benefits, Tuberville introduced legislation to correct this error.

Supporting Families of the Fallen Act: Tuberville’s first piece of standalone legislation, the Supporting Families of the Fallen Act, became law — passing both chambers of Congress without opposition. The bill provided the first increase of maximum coverage amounts under the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance since 2005 — updating the amount from $400,000 to $500,000.

Protecting Veterans from Predatory Lawyers: Tuberville cosponsored legislation to cap fees that trial lawyers can charge

the transition period after Rick Chancey left the position to become the district attorney of Russell County.

“I’d like to give thanks first and foremost to our city attorney for 20 years, Mr. Rick Chancey, who is now DA of Russell County, and then Ms. Melissa Thomas representing us for six months during the transition,” said Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland.

“… After much talking and much praying and much counsel with Mr. [Allen] Martin, who has represented us on the IGSA program for Fort Benning and several IGSAs, and has been very diligent … I like people that work as hard as we do.”

The council also deemed two mowers surplus and authorized the disposal of them.

Copeland explained that the city has another mower that can perform all needed work, so the city plans to sell the other two for a total of $15,000.

At the Dec. 27 meeting, Copeland signed a proclamation recognizing 1 On 1 Technical College’s three-year anniversary. He presented the proclamation to the school’s chancellor, Shakea Miller.

The two-year postsecondary institution opened its Phenix City location in 2019. There are other locations

in Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, Troy, Tuscaloosa and Valley.

The college provides technical training in several health care fields.

Earlier in the meeting, per recommendation from the Planning Commission, the council addressed annexation petitions and requests for two properties to be annexed into Smiths Station. It also approved rezone requests for two other properties from R-1 (Residential Single Family) to R-3 (High Density Single Family District).

The council held open public hearings for each of those four properties at the meeting, though there were no public comments. The council then voted to suspend the rules of ordinances and resolutions to move forward with the voting without a second reading.

All four items were approved — the annexation of properties on Cummings Road and Deer Trail Drive, as well as rezoning of properties on Panther Parkway and Francis Place.

Rezoning the properties from R-1 to R-3 would allow the lot owners to build more than one residential unit on the lot.

“What these people are wanting to do is, instead of having one home on one lot, they’re wanting to put three smaller homes that are more affordable … for people with lower

income that may not be able to afford to build on this property,” Copeland explained.

Both Copeland and Place 2 Council Member Morris Jackson expressed excitement for the annexations.

“The most joyful time in serving on this council is when we see people annex into the city,” “It’s a privilege for us to have that happen, and we invite everybody out there that’s not inside the city that can become a member of this great city of Smiths Station — annex in.”

Following the approvals, the council heard a positive financial report for the month of November.

According to City Clerk Morgan Bryce, the city’s net income totaled over $9,700. Copeland added that the city has now seen a grand total of nearly $102,000 for the last two month.

With Dec. 27 being the last regular city council meeting of the year, Copeland also expressed gratitude and optimism as the city prepares to usher in the new year.

“We look forward to the future,” he said. “The future’s very bright for Smiths Station.”

Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. Eastern Time at the city government building, located at 2336 Panther Parkway (Lee Road 430). A public work session is held 30 minutes prior.

connections and personal development.

“Leadership Alabama is thrilled to bring together emerging leaders from across Alabama,” she said. “With personal and professional training components, alongside exposure to the challenges and opportunities we face as a state, ALI participants are well equipped to contribute to efforts to move Alabama forward.

2022 - 2023 ALI

CLASS V Janelle Adams: Outokumpu Stainless USA, Mobile

Bishop Alexander: University of North Alabama, Florence

Jennifer Amos: The Foundation for Marshall Medical Centers, Guntersville

Emmanuel Bankston: Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts, Headland

Olivia Bradford: Shoals Chamber of Commerce, Tuscumbia

Susan Carothers: SC Events & Communications, Montgomery

Nicole Carpenter: Jones Valley Teaching Farm, Birmingham

Caitlin Cobb: Capell & Howard, P.C., Montgomery

Betsy Compton: The University of West Alabama, Livingston

Candace Cooksey: City of Mobile, Mobile Dayne Cutrell: Maynard, Cooper, and Gale PC, Birmingham

Kevin Ferguson: Starlight

Haven, Fairfield

Katricia Flowers: Recidiviz Birmingham

Adam Fox: Pryor Field Airport Authority, Decatur

Miriam Fry: Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Atmore Austin Gaines: The Starke Agency, Montgomery

Lucy Gafford: Mobile Arts Council, Mobile

Danielle Gibson: Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Decatur

Caleb Goodwyn: PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, Montgomery

Julia Gordon: Teach For America Alabama.

Birmingham

Jeremy Gray: Alabama House of Representatives, Opelika

Richmond Gunter: Muncie & Mattson, P.C. Auburn

Rachel Hamm: Protective Life Corporation, Birmingham Courtnie HarrisAnderson: Sheppard Harris & Associates P.C., Birmingham

Meghan Ann Hellenga Woodlawn United, Birmingham

Randa Hovater: North Alabama Medical Center, Sheffield

Abigail Jackson: The Lollar Group, Homewood

Ashley Johnson: JAMM Resources, Montgomery Crystal Johnson: Alfa Insurance , Wetumpka

Tevin Jones: City of Birmingham, Birmingham

Haley Kendrick: gener8tor, Birmingham

Abi Kulshreshtha: Southern Research,

Birmingham Jacob Ladner: Thirdmark Capital, Decatur

Silvia Laxson: ¡HICA! Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama, Birmingham

Mary Meadows: Livingston Abeona Wealth, Homewood

Kelsi Long: Balch & Bingham LLP, Birmingham

Allen Mayer: Regions, Birmingham

Lindsey McAdory: CBG Strategies LLC, Birmingham

Hunter McBrayer: Alabama Farmers Federation, Deatsville

Corinn O'Brien: A+ Education Partnership, Vestavia Hills

Jessica Odom: The Arc of Southwest Alabama, Chatom

Vimal PatelL L&D Hotels Inc., Dothan

Jessica Payne: PNC Bank, Trussville

Jason Perry: University of Montevallo, Alabaster

Trey Pilkington: NobleBank & Trust Oxford

Andrew Pinyan: Alabama Farm Credit, Holly Pond

Stevi Price: The Decatur City Schools Foundation, Decatur

Mauri Robinson: i3 Academy, Birmingham

Mitchell Thorn: Southeast Gas, Andalusia

Katie Voss: Brasfield & Gorrie, Birmingham

Samantha Williams: Birmingham Promise, Birmingham

Shakeyta Williams: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Birmingham Suntrease WilliamsMaynard: Adams and Reese, Mobile

Smiths Station Mayor Bubba Copeland presents 1 On 1 Technical College Chancellor Shakea Miller with a proclamation recognizing the school's three-year anniversary in Phenix City.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Members of the ALI Class V gather in Hawaii. Jeremy Gray was named to the class this year.

'Goblin Mode' and More Words of the Year 2022: Part One

homes more frequently, the phrase seemed a useful way to represent the general attitude,” the publisher explained. “(This attitude) was of rebellion against the notion of going back to their pre-pandemic lives, or against unrealistic beauty standards and unsustainable lifestyles promoted on social media.”

I give this 92% as it seems popular; I expect it to fizzle out in a few years.

OPINION —

Bryan Garner, editor of Black’s Law Dictionary, writes about words in National Review. Pamela Paul, editor of NYT Book Review, is surrounded by words to read by deadline. Even actor and comedian Will Ferrell has a good quote on words.

“Sometimes, I use big words I don’t always fully understand,” he said. “I do it in an effort to make myself sound more photosynthesis.”

This year, for the first time, the Oxford

University Press Word of the Year was selected by respondents, not the editors. Approximately 300,000 people voted, choosing between “goblin mode,” “metaverse” and “#IStandWith.” Goblin mode won; this term was seen on Twitter in 2019, then spread widely in February 2022. It is slang for self-indulgent, sluggish or greedy behavior. People under the spell of goblins are “in goblin mode” or “going into goblin mode.”

“When COVID-19 lockdown rules loosened and people began leaving their

Metaverse came in second place. Oxford Press said the word began its popularity in 2021, but I heard it used a few years earlier. This word refers to a virtual reality environment of user interactions with avatars and surroundings in an immersive way. Some people hope it can be an extension or replacement of the internet, web, etc. I give this term 96% as it sounds wonky, and as meta- is already a popular compound name — as in meta-analysis and meta-physics.

In third place is #IStandWith, which Oxford traces to the 14th century, not word-by-word but the idea of standing

with someone in support or taking their side. (Of course, the hashtag, a metadata tag, was not even thought about in the 14th century.) The hashtag we know developed around 2009, when there were controversies, wars or other difficulties with people seeking solidarity. It is a simple phrase, but a powerful one. I give it 97%.

Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Year is “gaslighting.” As a multiplier of disorientation and distrust, gaslighting is defined as “the act of grossly misleading someone especially for one’s own advantage.” In 2022, there was a 1,740% increase in lookups for gaslighting, consistent throughout the year.

“Its origins are colorful: the term comes from the title of a 1938 play,” notes publisher Merriam. “In the movie and the original play, the plot involves a man attempting to make his wife believe she is going insane. His mysterious activities in the attic cause the house’s gas lights to dim, but he insists to his wife that the lights are not dimming and that she can’t trust her own

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE RENEWAL AND CONTINUATION OF THE LEVY OF AN 11 MILL AD VALOREM TAX FOR THE SUPPORT AND FURTHERANCE OF EDUCATION IN THE CITY OF OPELIKA

(Amendment No. 8, Constitution of Alabama of 1901)

Notice is hereby given thata special municipal election will be held in the City of Opelika in the State of Alabama on Tuesday, the 28th day of February, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Central Time, at which there will be submitted to the qualified electors of the said City, for their determination by ballot, the following proposition: Shall the City of Opelika be authorized to continue to levy and collect at the excess rate of one and one-tenths percent (or 11 mills) of the assessed value of taxable property in the City the special annual ad valorem tax now being levied at the excess rate of 11 mills, said tax to be levied and the net proceeds thereof to be used exclusively for the support and furtherance of education, commencing with the tax year for which taxes become due and payable on October 1, 2025, and continuing thereafter until and including the tax year for which taxes become due and payable on October 1, 2052, which levy shall represent a renewal and continuation of the said tax and shall not operate to increase the rate of taxation for public school purposes now being levied in the City? The said election shall be held at the following voting places established by the City at which shall be cast the ballots of the electors customarily voting at the said respective places:

WARD NO.

LOCATION OF VOTING

PLACE

1

12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 & 01/05/2023 ---------------

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Phoenix Fabricators and Erectors, LLC has completed its work on the Proposed Alabama Highway 169 –300,000 Gallon Elevated Water Storage Tank/ GMC Project No. CMGM190165(1) for the Smiths Water & Sewer Authority. Any person(s) having a claim against the project should notify Wheeler Crook, P.E., Goodwyn Mills Cawood, LLC, 2660 EastChase Lane, Suite 200, Montgomery, AL 36117. All claims should be filed within 30 days of the first publication of this notice.

Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 & 01/05/2022

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

In the Matter of the Estate of RALPH WILLIAMS, Deceased Case No. 2022-379

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take notice the LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to Leslie Voncile Daniels on the21st day of November, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required .to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Done this 21st day of November, 2022.

LESLIE VONCILE DANIELS

Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022 & 12/29/2022 ---------------

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.

Jan Mathews Ennis, James Enoch Mathews, and Carol Mathews Perdue, Personal Representatives Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022 & 12/29/2022

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The estate of Robert David Niesen, Deceasased Case No.2022-683

TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to David Matthew Niesen as Administrator of the Estate of Robert David Niesen, deceased, on the 13th day of December, 2022.

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

DAVID MATTHEW NIESEN, Administrator of the Estate of Robert David Niesen, deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033

Legal Run 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 & 01/05/2023 ---------------

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF DELILAH FAYE MARSHALL, DECEASED Case No. 2022-689

TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Liberty Marshall Powell and Deanna Faith Ethridge Marshall, as CoExecutrices of the Estate of Delilah Faye Marshall, deceased, on the 20th day of December, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English.

01/05/2023 & 01/12/2023 ---------------

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA HARDWOOD, LLC, Plaintiff v. Case No.: CV-2022-900402.00

perceptions.”

Are all politicians immune from using “psychological manipulation over a long time that causes the victim to question the validity of their own thoughts”? No, but some take advantage in this era of 24-hour advertising and polarization. The extent that gaslighting affects someone depends; sometimes it is worse.

Do a number of salesmen take advantage of victims’ confusion, loss of confidence and dependency? Yes. Recently, Oxford press said the term gaslighting applies to “the act of grossly misleading someone, especially for a personal advantage.” The term gaslighting earns 95% for its accuracy and wide use.

The fifth and last term this week is “Queen Consort.” When Prince Charles became king, after Queen Elizabeth II died, his wife Camilla became Queen Consort. She is the king’s wife, but not in the line of succession. Prince Philip, as the husband of the reigning queen, was addressed as “Prince Consort.”

Camilla was on track to be called consort but

not queen consort, after Diana died and people knew she was an interloper in that marriage. But her 18 years of marriage to Charles, and her keen charity work, earned her a place as Queen Consort. The term Queen Consort seems a little clunky, but it gets 93%.

Part Two of my Words of the Year 2022 series will appear next week. I will assess another five words. Be careful in your use of insulting or “cuss” words.

“Words are free. It’s how you use them, that may cost you.”

Don’t use them wrongly; it’s better when they elevate people, not hurt them.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from Auburn University. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to The Observer since 2011. He writes on politics, education and books. gm.markley@charter.net

- Covington Community Center - 213 Carver Avenue

2 - Opelika Learning Center (formerly Old Jeter School)

- 214 Jeter Avenue

3 - Opelika Community Center

- 1102 Denson Drive

4 - East Alabama Medical Center - Education Center2027 Pepperell Parkway

5 - Opelika Sportsplex - 1001 Andrews Road Absentee Ballot Box City Clerk’s Office Municipal Building 204 South 7th Street

By order of the City Council.

/s/ Gary Fuller

GARY FULLER MAYOR OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA

Legal Run 12/15/2022,

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2022-656 ESTATE OF JANICE C. HENDERSON, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Letters Testamentary of said Janice C. Henderson, deceased, having been granted to Jan Mathews Ennis, James Enoch Mathews, and Carol Mathews Perdue this 12th day of December 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given

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.

Liberty Marshall Powell, Co-Executrix Of the Estate of Delilah Faye Marshall, Deceased Deanna Faith Ethridge Marshall, Co-Executrix Of the Estate of Delilah Faye Marshall, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 12/29/2022,

A tract or parcel of land designated as: Lot 9, Lower Acres Estates Subdivision, being More particularly described as follows, to wit: Commence at the Southwest corner of Section 8, Township 17 North, Range 27 East, in Lee County, Alabama; thence run North 88 degrees 50 minutes 49 seconds East, 485.92 feet; thence run North 01 degrees 09 minutes 11 seconds West, 240.00 feet; thence run North 03 degrees 11 minutes 43 seconds East, 55.03 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the parcel to be described herein: FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run South 89 degrees 02 minutes 07 seconds West, 208.31 feet to a point on the east margin of Alabama Highway No. 51; thence run in a northerly direction along said margin of said highway on the arc of a curve to the right having a radius of 5,013.20 feet for an arc length of 120.0 feet; thence run South 89 degrees 35 minutes 36 seconds East, 215.29 feet; thence run South 03 degrees 11 minutes 43 seconds West, 115.14 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 0.572 acres, +/-. And Howard J. McNally, and/or the unknown heirs Of Howard J. McNally, And Linda J. McNally, and/or the unknown heirs Of Linda J. McNally, And Fictitious Defendants A, B, C, D, E, F & G, Being Persons, Individuals, Firms, Associations, Partnerships, Corporations or other Entities, Whose names are otherwise unknown to the Plaintiff, but who claim interest in and to the above-captioned parcel of land, and whose correct names and legal identities will be added by Amendment when ascertained, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION

To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 18th day of November, 2022, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Hardwood, LLC, as Plaintiff; Howard J. McNally, Linda J. McNally, and/or the unknown

heirs for Howard J. McNally and/or Linda J. McNally, as Defendants, whose additional heirs, executors and/or administrators are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows:

Lot 9, Lower Acres Estates Subdivision, being more particularly described as follows, to wit: Commence at the Southwest corner of Section 8, Township 17 North, Range 27 East, in Lee County, Alabama; thence run North 88 degrees 50 minutes 49 seconds East, 485.92 feet; thence run North 01 degrees 09 minutes 11 seconds West, 240.00 feet; thence run North 03 degrees 11 minutes 43 seconds East, 55.03 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the parcel to be described herein: FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run South 89 degrees 02 minutes 07 seconds West, 208.31 feet to a point on the east margin of Alabama Highway No. 51; thence run in a northerly direction along said margin of said highway on the arc of a curve to the right having a radius of 5,013.20 feet for an arc length of 120.0 feet; thence run South 89 degrees 35 minutes 36 seconds East, 215.29 feet; thence run South 03 degrees 11 minutes 43 seconds West, 115.14 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 0.572 acres, +/-. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 19th day of December, 2022 /s/ Mary Roberson Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. 724 North Dean Road, Suite 100 Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 12/29/2022, 01/05/2023, 01/12/2023 & 01/29/2023

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA JOE R. COFIELD,

JR, Plaintiff, v. No.: CV-2022-900417

A Parcel of Real Property described as: Tract A: Commencing at a 1 1/2" open top pipe at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4, of Section 19, T -20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama (purported); thence North 1 Degree 57' 00 West, a distance of 210.91 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, North 1 degree 57' 00" West, a distance of 290.00 feet to a 3/4" crimped top pipe on the Southerly right of way of Lee Road 270; thence along said right of way, North 86 degrees 30' 25'' East, a distance of 109.54 feet to a 1/2 inch iron bar; thence leaving said right of way, South 3 degrees 25' 49" East, a distance of 290.00 feet; thence South 86 degrees 33' 30" West, a distance of 117.03 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

Containing 0.754 Acre, located in Section 19, T-20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama.

Tract B: Commencing at a 1 1/2" open top pipe at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4, of Section 19, T-20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama (purported), said point also being the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said POINT OF BEGINNING, North 1 degree 57' 00" West, a distance of 210.91 feet; thence North 86 degree 33' 33" East, a distance of 117.03 feet; thence South 3 degrees 25' 49" East, a distance of 251.31 feet; thence South 68 degrees 58' 19" West, a distance of 130.73 feet; thence North 1 degree 54' 00" West, a distance of 80.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

Containing 0.750 Acre, located in Section 19, T-20-N. R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama.

And Ken Belton, and/or the unknown heirs Of Ken Belton, And Capital One Bank (USA), N.A.

And Fictitious Defendants A, B, C, D, E, F & G, Being Persons, Individuals, Firms, Associations, Partnerships, Corporations or other Entities, Whose names are otherwise unknown to the Plaintiff, but who claim interest in and to the above-captioned parcel of land, and whose correct names and legal identities will be added by Amendment when ascertained, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION

To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence.

You are hereby notified that on

GREG MARKLEY

SERVICES SSELLING a RV, Tractor or Golf Cart? ADVERTISE

STATEWIDE or by region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

BATH & SHOWER

UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

TUBERVILLE

FROM B10

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America's Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534

EDUCATION ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans &

ALASCAN CLASSIFIEDS

Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828.

FOR SALE

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free

Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top qualityMade in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most

advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005

GENERAC Standby Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-323-5516

AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST

FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943

VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538.

>>

in cases representing Marines and other individuals impacted by water contamination at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.

Tuberville joined this effort to combat potential abuse by attorneys charging exorbitant fees to represent these victims.

Improving Health Care Access: Tuberville advocated for veterans’ access to primary, specialty and mental health care outside of their respective Veteran Integrated Service Networks and non-Veterans Affairs facilities to cut wait times for those who have served. He also pushed the DoD for answers regarding its contract change with Express Scripts that will limit TRICARE beneficiaries’ ability to maintain access to local pharmacies.

SECURING THE SOUTHERN BORDER

Seeing the Crisis

Firsthand: Tuberville visited the Del Rio sector of our southern border in Eagle Pass, Texas, where he met with federal law enforcement on the frontlines of the border crisis. During the visit, Tuberville observed firsthand the crisis created by Biden’s policies and listened to officials describe the resources they need to secure the border.

Pushing Back on Attempts to Dismantle Our Legal Immigration Process: Tuberville joined efforts to overturn the Biden administration’s disastrous rule to allow illegal immigrants at the southern border to be granted expedited asylum status.

COUNTERING CHINESE AGGRESSION AND ECONOMIC INFLUENCE

Protecting American

PUBLIC NOTICES

FROM

the 1st day of December, 2022, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Hardwood, LLC, as Plaintiff; Ken Belton, and/or the unknown heirs of Ken Belton, as Defendant, whose additional heirs, executors and/or administrators are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows:

Tract A: Commencing at a 1 1/2" open top pipe at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4, of Section 19, T -20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama (purported); thence North 1 Degree 57' 00 West, a distance of 210.91 feet to the

Farmland: Tuberville introduced legislation to prohibit members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from purchasing land in the United States.

Chinese investors’ holdings of U.S. agricultural land has surged in the last decade. These investments can provide the CCP with access to sensitive information critical to America’s national security and undue leverage over U.S. supply chains.

Alabama has the thirdhighest amount of foreignowned agricultural land in the United States.

Curbing U.S. Investment in China: Tuberville continued pushing back against investment of Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) funds in Chinese companies by placing a hold on nominees to the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board until the nominees provided clarification regarding foreign investment policies. His efforts forced the nominees to commit to opposing TSP investment in China.

Looking Out for U.S. Investors: Tuberville led the call for an investigation into Webull Financial, LLC and Moomoo Inc. — two Chinese-owned stock trading apps operating in the United States that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Both apps are widely used by American investors and freely collect and store sensitive information about users, including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses and sensitive financial account data.

Tuberville also pushed for Biden to ban Russian companies from the U.S. financial system to ensure American investors are not inadvertently funding

POINT OF BEGINNING, North 1 degree 57' 00" West, a distance of 290.00 feet to a 3/4" crimped top pipe on the Southerly right of way of Lee Road 270; thence along said right of way, North 86 degrees 30' 25'' East, a distance of 109.54 feet to a 1/2 inch iron bar; thence leaving said right of way, South 3 degrees 25' 49" East, a distance of 290.00 feet; thence South 86 degrees 33' 30" West, a distance of 117.03 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

Containing 0.754 Acre, located in Section 19, T-20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama.

Tract B: Commencing at a 1 1/2" open top pipe at the Southwest corner of the Northwest 1/4, of Section 19, T-20-N, R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama (purported), said point also being the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said POINT OF BEGINNING, North 1 degree 57' 00" West, a distance of 210.91 feet; thence North 86 degree 33' 33" East, a

Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Safeguarding American Interests: Tuberville pushed to ban all 93 million members of the CCP from obtaining B-1 and B-2 visas for business and vacation in the United States. The CCP is responsible for trillions of dollars of intellectual property theft each year from Americans.

SUPPORTING FAMILY FARMS AND RURAL COMMUNITIES

Listening to Needs of Agriculture Community: Tuberville began listening sessions and roundtables with farmers and industry leaders in advance of the upcoming Farm Bill reauthorization. In considering this legislative process, which will stretch into next year, Tuberville has chosen to take a listenfirst approach in order to directly advocate for the interests of Alabama’s farmers.

Standing up for Agricultural Producers: Tuberville pushed back against the SEC’s proposed rule that would place unworkable climate disclosure regulations on farmers, ranchers and agriculture producers, and urged the United States Trade Representative’s chief agricultural negotiator to seek trade agreements in support of America’s agricultural producers. Additionally, Tuberville encouraged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to maintain an exemption of air emission from animal waste at farms under the Emergency Planning Community Right-to-Know Act.

Removing Trade Barriers for Peanut Farmers: Tuberville led bipartisan efforts to reduce trade barriers and expand market access for peanut exports to promote increased opportunities for domestic

distance of 117.03 feet; thence South 3 degrees 25' 49" East, a distance of 251.31 feet; thence South 68 degrees 58' 19" West, a distance of 130.73 feet; thence North 1 degree 54' 00" West, a distance of 80.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING.

Containing 0.750 Acre, located in Section 19, T-20-N. R-29-E, Lee County, Alabama.

All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.

Done this the 19th day of December, 2022 /s/ Mary Roberson

peanut farmers and processors.

Preserving Red Snapper Season in the Gulf: Tuberville pushed back against the U.S. Department of Commerce’s proposed rule requiring all state fisheries data to be converted into a single, less accurate federal system, which would result in decreased overfishing limits for red snappers.

Cutting Red Tape for Local Governments: Tuberville introduced the Simplifying Grants Act to make the federal grant process easier for local governments and bridge discrepancies between funding awarded to larger local governments and smaller local governments who may not have the resources to complete complex applications.

PROTECTING STUDENTS AND ATHLETES AND PRESERVING COLLEGE SPORTS

Sounding the Alarm About Biden Administration’s Title IX Proposal: As a former coach, Tuberville is passionate about preserving a level playing field for male and female athletes. He fought against the U.S. Department of Education’s proposed rule to force institutions to allow biological males to participate in women’s sports and urged Secretary Miguel Cardona to extend the public comment period for the proposal. Tuberville also led his colleagues in recognizing the positive impacts of Title IX on women’s sports in honor of the 50th anniversary of its enaction.

Protecting StudentAthletes and Scholastic Competition: As a former college football coach, Tuberville wants to ensure student-athletes are protected and college sports are preserved following a

Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. 724 North Dean Road, Suite 100 Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 12/29/2022, 01/05/2023, 01/12/2023 & 01/29/2023

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2022-617 ESTATE OF HAZEL S. PLUMMER, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Hazel S. Plummer, deceased, having been granted to William Charles Plummer this 19th day of December 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby

U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing student-athletes receiving compensation for the use of their name, image and likeness (NIL). Tuberville teamed up with Sen. Joe Manchin (D–WV) to solicit feedback from stakeholders that will be used to draft bipartisan NIL legislation next year.

Protecting School Choice: Tuberville urged the U.S. Department of Education to reconsider proposed rules that would impose severe limitations on the bipartisan federal Charter Schools Program (CSP) and limit school options for parents and children. Additionally, he helped introduce a resolution in support of National School Choice Week.

Advocating for Mental Health: Tuberville advocated for students’ mental health during U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearings while highlighting the role that career readiness has in mental health. He is committed to ensuring students feel empowered for their next career steps, whether it be enlisting in the military, completing a technical training program or attending a four-year university.

HOLDING THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNTABLE Accounting for COVIDRelief Funding: Tuberville pressed Biden and other senior officials for detailed accounts of how the billions of dollars in COVID-19 relief funds were spent. He requested the Health and Human Services inspector general conduct an audit of the department’s $10 billion COVID-vaccine public education campaign and joined the probe into canceled contracts for ambiguous COVID-19 relief efforts. Additionally, Tuberville pushed to

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.

William Charles Plummer, Personal Representative Legal Run 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 and 01/05/2022

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF MARK A. RAY, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of December, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness our hands, and dated

require any new World Health Organization convention agreement to be approved by the U.S. Senate.

Calling Out Hypocritical Leftist Climate Policies: Tuberville blasted the Biden administration’s war on fossil fuels that is creating a surge in energy prices for American families. He also introduced legislation to restore American energy production and decrease reliance on foreign energy sources. Tuberville urged U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to quickly issue permits required to bring additional production online from existing offshore federal oil and gas leases.

Stopping TaxpayerSubsidized Abortions: Tuberville uncovered the DoD’s plan to pay for time off, travel and other related expenses for servicemembers and their dependents seeking an abortion. The senator pressed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin for clarification on the department’s plans to implement a policy that subsidizes abortions using federal taxpayer dollars and pledged to place a hold on future DoD civilian and general/flag officer nominations if the DoD implements this policy.

Standing up for Financial Freedom: Tuberville championed legislation prohibiting retirement plan financial advisors from investing the savings of Americans based on woke, non-financial environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs and HELP committees.

this the 20th day of December, 2022.

WENDY C. RAY Legal Run 12/29/2022, 01/05/2023 & 01/12/2022

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF WILLIE TAYLOR, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 15th day of December, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

GLENN TAYLOR

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Legal Run 12/29/2022, 01/05/2023 & 01/12/2022

& Flea

FROM EVERYONE AT