Opelika Observer 02-26-2020 E-edition

pelika Observer O

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020

Vol. 12, No. 21

SUNDAY, MARCH 1 ST

GOSPEL Explosion — LIVE IN CONCERT —

Le’Andria Johnson, Chee Chee Jordan & Brandon Morgan Shows Start at 2pm & 6pm 334.705.5466 BOTTLINGPLANTEVENTCENTER.COM

“By local people, for local people.”

ADEM GRANTS PUBLIC HEARING

By Morgan Bryce Editor

The Opelika Center for the Performing Arts will be the site of ADEM’s public hearing on March 31 starting at 6 p.m. for residents to voice their concerns about the proposed Creekwood quarry project.

The Florence, Alabama-based company is seeking approval for the necessary air and water permits to construct a granite quarry on Lee Road 168, just north of the Opelika city limits.

Amidst public outcry, ADEM decided to create a period of time for receiving public comments and input on the project beginning Jan. 21, and announced last Friday that it “received sufficient requests to warrant a public hearing,” thanks

Providence Baptist Church hosting 'Night of Remembrance' event on March 3

By Morgan Bryce Editor

to efforts by Mayor Gary Fuller and other city officials encouraging residents to write letters to ADEM in opposition of the project. Because of the community response, ADEM has extended the public comments deadline to April 1 at 5 p.m.

Opelika city officials shared an online copy of the letter they received

from the government agency last Tuesday confirming that a public hearing would take place.

The letter also mentioned that Creekwood is responsible for paying for an $8,450 public hearing fee tied with hosting this event.

At a recent meeting, Opelika’s city council voted to hire the local

Samford and Denson law firm along with Starnes, Davis and Florry of Birmingham to represent them in their fight against the quarry.

The meeting is expected to last through 8 p.m.

The venue is located at 1700 Lafayette Parkway.

Turn to B13 for a copy of the public notice issued by ADEM.

BigHouse Foundation announces location of organization’s future home

By Morgan Bryce Editor A piece of land and house on Anderson Road will serve as the future home of Opelika’s BigHouse Foundation, news that was announced during the organization’s sixth annual support dinner last week.

Started in 2009

by Blake and Micah Melnick to meet the needs of foster parents in Chambers, Lee, Macon, Russell and Tallapoosa counties, the organization operated out of a small space in downtown Opelika before moving to its location at 211 Sam-

Opelika, Alabama

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer ford Ave., where it remained for nearly a decade.

Last year, Micah said their landlord approached her and Blake about his decision to sell the prop-

erty, forcing them to consider where the organization’s next home should be.

“Space had been an issue at times in that location, and honestly, that con-

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14

versation was the kick we needed to get that process of moving and finding a (bigger, better) space going,” Micah said.

Along with Blake and their board of directors, Micah said they scoured the Auburn-Opelika area for the right location, eventually settling on the Anderson Road property because of its size, accessibility and home-like aesthetic.

“I can see this being a place where people gather and us host retreats and other events there that we weren’t able to do at our previous location,” Micah See BigHouse, page A3

COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS...................................B7 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B11

Providence Baptist Church is hosting a "Night of Remembrance" event on March 3 to commemorate the anniversary of the March 3, 2019 tornadoes and honor the memory of the 23 individuals in the Beauregard community who lost their lives that day.

According to a description on the church's Facebook page, the event's focus will be "(remembering) the victims, their families and (reflecting)

upon those who came from near and far to help us" and "remember how our Lord has helped us and how He will continue to hold our hand."

At 5 p.m., there will be a groundbreaking ceremony for a memorial to the victims, which will be built on Providence's West Campus. The official remembrance service will begin at 6 p.m. and include a message from Pastor Rusty Sowell.

For more information, call 334-745-4608.

The church is located at 2807 Lee Road 166.

Local nonprofit ‘Time Served’ launching community-wide project for area youth

By Sara Wilson Opelika Observer Time Served, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with felonies establish a new life, is hosting a project that will allow community children to build lemonade stands.

Once funding is obtained, a date for the project will be set. The event will occur at the Covington Recreation Center.

Children from ages 7 to 15 can participate in building a lemonade stand.

Once the stand is built, the child will have the chance to pick a boss and someone who makes

the lemonade, all while earning a profit from the lemonade sales.

The hope of this project is to teach children team-building skills, patience and positive reinforcement as well as teaching them to invest. After reaching a set amount of sales, children will have the opportunity to invest their money into a snack bar to add to the lemonade stand.

“The reason I came up with the idea was because they (business owners) were complaining about children in certain areas of Opelika stealing things from businesses. I think See Lemonade, page A3

pelika O Observer.com

Visit www.opelikaobserver.com for a sample letter to ADEM to voice your concerns about the proposed quarry.

pelika O Observer

A2 Feb. 26, 2020

Barberito’s to open new Opelika location this summer; Poke bowl/ramen restaurant POKEMEN now open in Opelika

By Will Fairless Opelika Observer

By Will Fairless Opelika Observer

Barberito’s, a fast/ casual restaurant that serves Southwest-style burritos and salads, is opening a new location in Opelika this summer. The new restaurant, which will be located by Resting Pulse Brewery at 702 First Ave. in the former home of Dorris Signs, will be the second Barberito’s in the Auburn-Opelika area.

The first Barberito’s location opened on Feb. 2, 2000, on the University of Georgia’s campus, and its menu featured salads, burritos and burrito bowls.

The menu is much the same today, and every item is made fresh in the restaurant, from hand-smashed guacamole to chicken and steak grilled daily.

Mark Weeks, the owner of the existing Auburn location, plans to take advantage of the growth downtown Opelika is experiencing.

The new restaurant will be 4,000 square feet, almost twice as many as the Auburn location.

“With all of what’s going on in downtown Opelika, the development – redevelopment, I’d say – being able to get a restaurant in that location, of that size, is a lot of room,” Weeks

POKEMEN, a restaurant serving poke bowls and ramen, opened early this February at 2701 Frederick Road in Opelika.

The menu features fresh raw fish, such as tuna and salmon, and other proteins, including tofu, chicken and octopus. Available to complement those main ingredients in a poke bowl (a Hawaiian dish comprising raw fish, rice and any of a variety of sauces and seasonings) or in ramen are vegetables, from lettuce

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer said.

The new location will feature the same burrito-centric menu as the Auburn one, but the atmosphere will be much different.

“We have these glass garage doors that are gonna open up, so you have kind of an indooroutdoor seating area.

It’s gonna be unique,” Weeks said.

Weeks was born in Atlanta, and he has been in the restaurant business for 15 years. He has owned a Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin Robbins with his brother, run the west coast division of Pizza Hut and run the northeast division of Starbucks. He said he has always wanted the opportunity to own a business on his own: “We had the opportunity to do it, to move back down south and plant some roots.” He and his wife have five kids, and he said Opelika appeals to him as

a place to plant those roots.

Weeks is excited to work with the Opelika community by catering events and doing the same fundraiser days the Auburn location does, during which a portion of the restaurant’s profits are given to the organization sponsoring the fundraiser. “There’s not too many ‘Main street, USA’s’ anymore, and I feel like downtown Opelika’s one of those,” Weeks said.

Weeks is proud of the loyalty that he’s earned from his customers in Auburn, and he anticipates the experience (in which the employees know the customers’ names, stories and usual orders) to be amplified for his patrons in Opelika.

To find out more about Barberito’s, visit barberitos.com or call the restaurant at 334887-9838.

never fried or packaged,” Shin said.

Shin said that, in addition to healthy food, one of the main draws of the restaurant is its combination of cold food (poke bowls) and hot (ramen). “People come in for the poke ... they see the ramen and come back to try that,” Shin said.

POKEMEN is a great lunch or dinner option, and customers have the option to take their meals to go or eat them in the dining area.

To learn more about POKEMEN, call the restaurant at 334-7376353.

to seaweed, fruits and toppings, like roasted garlic and fried onions.

Soo Shin, the owner of POKEMEN with her husband Jay Jang, says the restaurant offers healthier options than other establishments in the same arena.

“Everything is fresh and much healthier than fried things that you might see,” Shin said.

She is quick to dismiss the idea that the ramen they serve at POKEMEN is anything like the ramen one might get for a dime at Walmart.

“We make the noodles here, and they’re

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Highlight Permanent Makeup Great Eyebrows Don't Happen by Chance They Happen by Appointment www.highlightspa.com • 334 - 744 - 1625 Subscribe to the Opelika Observer Today!

pelika Observer

Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell

O

w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

Name: Address: City:

State:

ZIP:

Phone number: Email address: Payment Type (circle one): Check / Credit Card Visa or Master Card # Exp. Date:

/

Security Code:

Amount Paid:

CORRECTIONS

• $32 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $42 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) •

The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or

Return to: Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th St. / Opelika, AL 36801

inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.

Please do not send cash through the mail.

pelika O Observer

A3 Feb. 26, 2020

Opelika Police Department searching Opelika Lions Club for man impersonating officer hosts Micah Melnick, Special to the Opelika Observer On Feb. 18 at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Opelika Police Department responded to a call of someone impersonating a police officer. The offense occurred on Old Opelika Road with the victim being a teenage female driving alone in her car. She pulled over when a white pick-up truck got behind her. The

truck had an amber light flashing on top of it.

During the contact, the suspect, described as a white male in his midto-late forties, sexually groped the victim before allowing her to leave.

He had a gold tooth on the bottom left side of his jaw and had scruffy, patch facial hair that looked as if he had trouble growing a full beard.

The victim said the sus-

pect was wearing a blackin-color uniform without patches on the sleeve that appeared to be a baggy fit. She also described the uniform as having a badge that said Opelika Police.

This case is being vigorously investigated by the Opelika Police Department. Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact the Opelika Police Department Detective Division

founder of BigHouse Foundation, at recent meeting

at 334-705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at 334-745-7556. You may remain anonymous.

Auburn-based nonprofit ‘Women’s Hope Medical Clinic’ hosting annual race March 28 at Town Creek Park Special to the Opelika Observer Women’s Hope Medical Clinic, a local nonprofit that has been serving Lee County for more than 36 years, is holding its annual “5k + Kids Fun Run + 1-Mile Walk” on March 28 at Town Creek Park. The race will last from 8:30 to 10 a.m.

The Auburn-based clinic is a pregnancy care center that exists to bring about healthy, hope-filled families. It provides prenatal care to local women (more than 780 last year) who may be experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.

Additionally, it provides educational, relational and spiritual support to these families so they can walk through pregnancy and parenting with confidence.

Women’s Hope does not receive any government aid, so they are funded solely off of donations from individuals,

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer businesses, churches and events like the race.

“This annual event is one of the biggest ways that the Auburn and Opelika communities support the work of Women’s Hope Medical Clinic.

With your help, we can raise $30,000 to help us provide these free services to families in Lee County,” said Executive Director Daria Monroe.

“This event will be an incredible opportunity

for the community to come together to join in support of a local organization while also building and furthering relationships with each other,” said Communication Director Jeremy Walden. “Last year, over 200 people came – runners, churches, students, kids and even some of the families served by Women’s Hope – to join in the fun. The event is structured to make time

for participants to talk and have fun in a relaxed environment. And we expect even more people this year.”

For more information or to register, visit www.runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Auburn/ Walk4Life5kRace.

After the race, they will be having an afterparty that will last until 11 a.m. Town Creek Park is located at 1150 S. Gay St.

Opelika physician Dr. Joel Pittard recently recognized with statewide award Special to the Opelika Observer Joel Pittard, M.D., a hospital trustee and board chairman of East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) in Opelika, was recently honored by the Alabama Hospital Association (AlaHA) as its 2020 Trustee of the Year, an award that recognizes exemplary service to hospitals, their patients and their communities.

According to Donald Williamson, M.D., president of the Alabama Hospital Association, good trustees are critical to the success of a hospital.

“Joel Pittard is the kind of leader that changes and shapes communities,” Williamson said.

“Not only has Dr. Pittard served as a physician for more than 35 years, but he’s provided leadership to numerous statewide and national boards and organizations. He’s served EAMC in a number of areas, and we couldn’t be

more grateful for his lifelong dedication to quality health care in Alabama.”

“We are extremely proud of Dr. Pittard for being selected for this high honor from AlaHA,” added Laura Grill, president of East Alabama Medical Center.

“He is a wonderful board chair and has been a great leader in our organization for years. His commitment to the care of our patients and our community is stellar.”

Pittard served in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps before starting his career at EAMC. Since arriving at EAMC in 1980, he has served the hospital in many capacities including as chief of staff and a member of the medical executive committee.

He has been an active member of the EAMC Board of Directors for 25 years and is currently the board’s chairman. Pittard has received many prestigious awards and was inducted into EAMC’s

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Leaders of Distinction in 2016. He is currently a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Medical Association. He has served as the president of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama and the Lee County Medical Society and as a member of the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, the Southern Medical Association and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. He has also been a member of the Advisory Board Executive

Committee for Auburn University Women’s Health and the Advisory Board in the College of Sciences at Georgia Tech.

He is active in the Lee County United Way and the board of the Auburn United Methodist Church.

The Alabama Hospital Association, based in Montgomery, is a statewide trade organization that represents more than 100 hospitals and numerous other health care providers by offering membership services designed to enhance the provision of health care in Alabama.

Micah Melnick, founder and executive director of BigHouse, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club where she gave an update on her organization’s status. She announced that the facility will be moving to a new location later this year on Anderson Road. She and

Lemonade, from A1 that it is things they lack at home, and that way if they have money, they don’t have to go in and take things.

They have money to buy these things,” said Time Served founder and president Alexis Menief-

BigHouse, from A1 said. “We’ve really seen God open the doors because we had so many questions going into this ... and all of those have been answered

by Him telling us, ‘it’s going to be easier than you thought and cheaper than you thought.’”

Currently, BigHouse is operating out of a temporary space at 112 16th St. near Central Baptist Church. Per their lease, they will stay through the end of 2020 but plan on opening the other location

by Dec. 1 and soon after fully relocating to the Anderson Road property.

Once relocated, Micah said their clothes closet will be expanded and rebranded.

her husband Blake founded BigHouse 11 years ago this month with a mission of positively impacting the world of foster care by providing resources and building relationships.

She was introduced

by Lion Gayron Davis. More information on BigHouse activities and how one might help may be obtained by visiting www.ourbighouse. org. ield.

Meniefield said that they have all the tools for this project, but are still in need of some of the materials such as wood and nails.

A GoFundMe account has been set up for those who are interested in donating.

The website can be found at www. gf.me/u/xk9nfc.

Last week’s support dinner helped generate a significant amount of funding to cover the costs of purchasing their new location, but Micah said there is still a lot of fundraising left to go.

On the BigHouse Facebook page is an active fundraiser where people can donate.

Thanks to an anonymous grant, each dollar donated will be matched, and Micah said their goal is to raise $100,000 by March 31. Other fundraising events will be scheduled later in the year to help cover other expenses.

For more information, updates or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, call 334-363-2634, follow their Facebook page or send email to bighouse@ ourbighouse.org.

pelika O Opinion

A4 Feb. 26, 2020

H

e’s sixty-two.

He’s driving a Ford on the interstate. This is a big deal.

I know what you’re thinking: since when is driving on the interstate a big deal?

When the interstate is Atlanta 285.

Also, he hasn’t been behind the wheel in three years. Not since a botched surgery— which was when his life went downhill.

There were complications, which led to other complications, and recovery has taken time. He has a hard time moving his legs and feet, he uses a walker. It left him with crippling pain.

He became a bona fide shut-in. His only window to the outside world is his adult daughter—who lives all the way in Union City.

His lovely daughter helps him almost every day. And even though she has been pregnant, about to have her own family, she still labors without complaint.

Anyway, earlier this particular evening his daughter called. She had an announcement.

“Dad,” she said. “I had the baby.”

Drive

By Sean Dietrich When he heard the news, he was so overcome he couldn’t form words.

“Dad?” came her voice on the phone.

“You still there?”

No answer. He was crying.

But they weren’t happy tears, they were of self disgust. He despised himself. He hated being lame, and he hated burdening his family.

This wasn’t how it was supposed to be.

Fathers weren’t supposed to load their daughters with caregiving responsibilities.

“Dad?” she said.

“You there?”

His lips quivered, he breathed heavily. “I thought you weren’t due for two weeks,” he said.

“I wasn’t, but… Surprise.”

He choked back more tears.

“I’m sending Danny,” his daughter went on. “He’s coming to

pick you up in a few minutes.”

“No!” he shouted.

“Don’t bother!”

“What?” she said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I said don’t bother!” he spat at her, “I don’t wanna come!” Then he slammed the phone.

He couldn’t explain why he was so angry.

The man sidled his walker toward his recliner and collapsed into a puddle of snot and saltwater. He swore at the ceiling. He threw things. A plastic coffee mug, jars of medication, his Parade Magazine from the Sunday paper.

And that’s when it happened.

It happened so fast it didn’t even occur to him what he was doing.

He stood onto his feet, without his walker, and stormed into his bathroom on his own.

Soon, he realized what he’d done. His tantrum had given his legs some kind of superhuman strength. But how?

That’s when the idea hit him: If he could walk, maybe he could drive.

In a few moments, he See Dietrich, page A6

‘The Good-Hard Life’: Jay and Katherine Wolf Speak at Lakeview Baptist in Auburn

T

here are a thousand reasons why living in East Alabama is a treat, but one idea I’ve watched grow and evolve since my own childhood is the community and support for families with special needs children and adults.

With our area growing in size and people, the need for services as well as support for these families is necessary and good.

Churches are becoming more accommodating for special needs families; the city schools do their part well in serving all children in our area, and conversations are more open today on seeing and valuing all human life as beautiful and important.

Last Friday, my husband and I had the opportunity to serve as greeters at Lakeview Baptist church in Auburn for their annual event, Near His Heart.

The mission of this event is to “celebrate and honor families and loved ones with disabilities.” Their focus is, “to encourage and uplift parents and caregivers through offering them a night of dinner and an encouraging message while their children enjoy a special event just for them.”

As part of the service and heart behind the

By Bradley Robertson project, the event is free to all attendees.

This year, the guest speakers were a husband and wife team who live daily in the world of disability, Katherine and Jay Wolf. They are well known across the country for their story and gift of hope to all people through their mission, Hope Heals.

More than 10 years ago, while living in Los Angeles, Katherine, at 26 years old and with a new baby boy, experienced a sudden stroke in her home. Luckily, her husband Jay was stopping by to grab some items for school and Katherine was rushed to the hospital.

Katherine miraculously survived the surgery and underwent years of rehab to learn to speak and walk and live all over again in her new, disabled body.

Katherine writes in their original book Hope Heals, “What has happened to me is extreme; however, it is not that different from what everyone

deals with. I am a sort of microcosm for what we all feel. I can barely walk…but who feels free even if they can?

My face is paralyzed, but who feels beautiful even when they look normal?...I am tired almost all the time now, but who always feels energized to engage fully in their life?...I have double vision, but who sees everything clearly even if they can see normally? My future is uncertain, but whose isn’t?”

Katherine and Jay took the stage following a dinner served by volunteers and worship music played by a handful of locals within in the community.

They received a standing ovation upon entrance, Jay Wolf pushing his wife towards the front of the room in her wheelchair, smiles and joy seen across their faces.

Moments later, Jay sat down with a sigh of relief, his wife beside him, and within minutes Jay remarked, “It’s been a hard day.”

What makes this couple so unique in the way they teach and lead others, is their voice to profess the reality of living in hard times but that goodness is present and the two can go together, hand in hand.

Katherine spoke to the audience saySee Robertson, page A6

Things-to-do for travel: focus on what captivates you, eliminate distractors

T

his is the second of a twopart series of travel tips designed to help students and other readers who will be journeying soon. Muhammad Ali, in his great boxing career, did a lot of traveling. In fact, he said: “I’m so fast that last night I turned off the light switch in my hotel room and was in bed before the room was dark.”

In 2016, I developed a Trip Advisor rating system for one of my many car trips.

I will use the example of my evaluation of attractions available that I did for a trip thru Nevada.

Elko, a gold mining and gambling town in northeast Nevada, had approximately 20,000 residents as of 2018. (Opelika, for general reference, beats Elko by 6,000 or so in population.)

I rated 10 ThingsTo-Do in Elko. Of that, I gave positive number grades to four attractions. I never give a score below 90 percent; I simply write “No” because I will probably only have time for the items with number grades. Receiving “Nos” were Western Folklife Center, Wild Horse

O

By Greg Markley Reservoir Recreation Area and the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum. All over the West, there are similar places so I could visit those tomorrow, and keep on schedule today.

The three I dispensed with were Sherman Station Visitors Center (I saw the video and found the place too small); Rolling Rock Gallery (It was not a true art gallery) and Elko Cinema 6 (I seldom see movies anyway). I do hope to visit J.M. Capriola Co., Saddlemakers, which has been open since 1929, a national forest nearby and two interesting Nevada museums.

Believe it or not, an excellent choice for an attraction to visit on vacation is a university.

What, are you saying, is he crazy?

No, and you don’t need to be prospecting for a new job or

graduate school to want to visit it. There are five reasons I enjoy spending three to four hours at a university when on a long trip; I have done so for 18 years.

First, I love the architecture and the historic buildings.

Second, I love walking thru the well-manicured pathways.

Third, I like the free tours of the campus for anyone interested.

Fourth, I enjoy talking to people on campuses; they can give me insights into the school, “just for fun.”

Fifth, I enjoy reading in libraries new to me as a change of pace. Odd, right?

Other places which offer fun and walks thru history are military bases. Some allow access after they scan your driver’s license. Florida has 38 military museums or ones with major national defense exhibits. The National Infantry Museum, just outside Fort Benning, Georgia, is less than an hour from Opelika and Auburn.

Louis Brandeis, associate justice of the US Supreme Court See Markley, page A6

No, no-nude playboy

n occasion, I have written about efforts by preachers and politicians to predict a coming catastrophe that will destroy us all.

Each time one of these pronouncements appears I am reminded of what Mark Twain said on the subject.

“I don’t worry about predictions of the end of the world,” Twain wrote. “In my experience, less than half of them come true.”

What a relief.

Then in 2015, there came to me a sign that could mean that “THE END” was indeed nigh.

Word got out that Playboy would no longer include pictures of nude women in its magazine.

The reaction was immediate.

“So what?”

Apparently, folks who want to see nudity go to the internet where, by the way, you can also find Playboy.

So I am told.

Now let’s give credit where it is due.

Historians consider Playboy a leader in a cultural shift that

By Hardy Jackson

began after World War II, and in some quarters, continues today. The magazine introduced men of Baby Boom to the wonders of the female form. The soda fountain in my little town had a magazine rack, but the owner kept Playboy behind the counter, out of sight but within the purchasing of those he felt old enough to appreciate the magazine’s literary quality.

“I don’t look at the pictures,” buyers said.

“I read the articles.”

Yeah, right.

I had a boyhood friend who hid copies of Playboy under his mattress. One day he came home from school to find the bedding sunning in the yard.

“I think you’ll sleep better now,” was all his mother said.

It was a setback for many. The magazines were purchased collectively and destined to be passed around

for weeks.

Of course, the impact of Playboy and the influence of its founder, Hugh Hefner, went far beyond the posed, airbrushed, and provocatively photographed women that boys such as I could never hope to meet.

In the ‘60s, Hefner’s “Playboy Philosophy” helped fire the “sexual revolution” and his libertarian social leanings were embraced by many.

At the same time, Playboy published leading authors as well as rising literary stars, and the “Playboy Interview” attracted people you would never expect to be interviewed in a “girly” magazine – John Lennon, Martin Luther King Jr, and Jimmy Carter who admitted that he “lusted in his heart” for women other than his wife.

At the height of its popularity, Playboy was more than fuel for teenage boy fantasies. It became the how-to guide for the self-absorbed adult male who dreamed of “mixing up cocktails See Jackson, page A6

pelika O Observer

A5 Feb. 26, 2020

Lee County Commissioner Robert Ham spoke at luncheon for One Voice Shelter Coalition supporters, volunteers

Photos and report submitted by Robert Noles The One Voice Shelter Coalition gathered for a luncheon Thursday to show appreciation to their current supporters and future supporters. The program consisted of a lunch and remarks from District 3 Lee County Commissioner Robert Ham. Ham thanked those who have been on the Northridge Committee and those who made the Northridge Project happen.

In January 2019, Jean Causey said Lee County had 80 home-

less individuals.

This January, one year later, that number has increased to 110.

These numbers were gathered by the number of applications for those wanting to live in the homeless shelter.

Why do we have homeless people?

In Lee County, some have jobs but do not make enough to pay for a home or affordable housing. Others may have lost their job, not finished their education or made bad financial decisions.

Some of these people sleep in their cars, in alleys, between building, at friends’ homes.

During his talk, Ham said the group’s philosophy on this issue will be: “A Hand Up Not A Hand Out.” The Beulah-based Friends of the Community group bought the 10,000 square foot building for the Northridge Project for $390,000. The group then gave the building to the One Voice Shelter Coalition.

However, the 501c3 organization will need funding to help run the facility.

The building will house 14 working women with no drug or alcohol problems and a counselor. During their stay, the women will

be screened by a professional and assessed on how they can be helped. Some partners in this initiative include Southern Union State Community College, Mercer Medical, and many volunteers.

Life skills that will be shared with the women include filling out job applications, creating a resume, making a budget and balancing their money.

A woman’s average stay at the home will be six months in length. They must make a payment to stay there and these funds will used to help them cover deposits and other costs tied

with housing once they leave. This program is only open to Lee County women.

The shelter’s ultimate goal is for working people in Lee County to help them get back on their feet. The shelter will provide one meal a day and each people in additional to the classes to help them, will also be required to do chores around the shelter.

There will be a follow-up program to help stay in touch with them and provide counseling services.

The 16-room shelter is nearly ready. Two of the rooms will be used

for counselors. The operating budget will be $10,000 a month with $4,500 already committed. However, they cannot open until the $10,000 is committed.

For more information or to contribute, contact Jean Causey by calling 334-749-5264 or sending email to jcausey@lrco.com or Selena Daniel at 334750-8741 and email at danielw1@mindspring. com.

One can also donate by visiting www. ovscleecounty.org, going to the bottom of the page and clicking the “Donate Today!” button.

Lee County Humane Society American Cancer Society to ‘egg’ local yards for hosting benefit event in Easter morning fun Notasulga on March 19 Special to the Opelika Observer Representatives of the Lee County Humane Society will be hosting their “Shrimpin’ for the Shelter” fundraising event March 19 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Auburn Oaks Farm in Notasulga.

Low country boil will be the food of choice that evening.

Local country musician Blane Rudd will provide live entertainment, and there will be a silent auction following.

Those who would like to donate silent auction items are asked to do so via www.leecountyhumane.org. To become a business sponsor, send email to Sidney Hancock at outreachanddevelop@ leecountyhumane. org.

Following is a current list of individuals and sponsors helping make this event possible: -Auburn Oaks Farm -Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine

Special to the Opelika Observer

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer -Scott Bridge Company -Steve and Sara Gosser and -Yum Yum’s.

For more information, call 334-8213222. The venue is located at 230 County Road 57.

Be a hero for patients: donate blood during ‘Red Cross Month’ on Auburn University’s Student Center on March 4 Special to the Opelika Observer The American Red Cross urges the public to join its lifesaving mission by giving blood or platelets this March in celebration of Red Cross Month.

Donors of all blood types, especially type

O, are urgently needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring.

Every day, thousands of patients depend on blood donations to help save their lives.

Following are the coming blood donation opportunities for Lee County:

Upcoming blood donation opportunity for Lee County: March 4: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Auburn University Student Center, 255 Heisman Drive.

For more information, visit www. redcrossblood.org.

About The Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.

The American Cancer Society and the Easter Bunny are partnering this spring to “egg” houses in the Auburn-Opelika area to support the fight against cancer.

On April 11, the night before Easter, American Cancer Society volunteers will deliver plastic, candyfilled eggs to homes that participate in the Egg My House fundraiser.

All proceeds benefit Relay For Life of Auburn University, an annual charity walk honoring people who have been affected by cancer.

“We’re so excited to bring this event to the community for the first time,” said Kalyn Frederick, community development manager with the American Cancer Society.

“What’s more fun than surprising kids with a yard full of Easter eggs while giving back to our friends and neighbors?”

Residents can purchase 40 eggs for $20, 80 eggs for $40 or 120 eggs for $80 by emailing Kalyn.Frederick@Cancer.org. Orders must be placed by March 31 to ensure delivery.

Contact Frederick at Kalyn.Frederick@Cancer. org for more details about how to get involved.

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING PROGRAM LETS YOU EARN WHILE YOU LEARN!

Visit your local Career Center and ask about the On-the-Job Training Program!

Increase your skills and earn higher wages

JOBLINK.ALABAMA.GOV Funding provided by the USDOL, ETA, Federal WIOA. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.

Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

pelika O Opinion

A6 Feb. 26, 2020

Tax code favors homeowners

T

he real estate market continues to be incredibly hot, with Lee County placing second only behind Baldwin County for the fastest growing county in Alabama during 2019 (Auburn was the sixth-fastest growing city).

As more people move into the area, home prices strengthen and the opportunity to build wealth through real estate sales continues to be attractive. Home ownership is one of the greatest wealth-building investments in America.

Mortgage Interest and Mortgage Insurance Premiums The deduction for mortgage insurance premiums (also known as private mortgage insurance, or PMI) is back and is currently available through 2020 as an itemized deduction along with mortgage interest.

Mortgage interest generally remains deductible on the first $750,000 of debt for loans taken out after Dec. 16, 2017, and second loans on your home are only deductible if they were used to build, buy or substantially improve your home (effectively removing the benefit for using home equity to buy other assets such as vehicles).

Gains on Sale of Primary Residence Can Be Tax Free Congress has provided homeowners with one of the best tax benefits ever devised with the primary residence home gain exclusion.

Federal law permits single taxpayers to exclude up to $250,000 in profit ($500,000 for

Dietrich, from A4 was digging for an ancient set of car keys.

He wandered into his garage, he lifted the automatic door.

He tried his Ford, but it wouldn’t crank.

So, he removed jumper cables from a toolbox, hooked them to a riding lawn mower battery, and his car roared to life.

“This is crazy,” he told himself.

And maybe it was.

He tossed his walker into the backseat, slid into his vehicle, and muttered a prayer.

And now here he is, going the speed-limit on the interstate.

If you can believe it, he isn’t even nervous.

And why should he be?

He’s driven thousands of miles in his lifetime.

What’s a few more?

He sees the hospital sign in the distance.

He flips the turn signal.

The car veers into the turn lane.

Now he’s waiting for the green arrow.

He turns on the ra-

Justin Smith married taxpayers) on the sale of their primary residence, and Alabama follows this law.

Profit is broadly defined as the realized gain (sales price, less costs of sale such as commissions, less your basis in the home). You typically must have lived in the home for at least two of the previous five years.

The exclusion provides taxpayers with an outstanding opportunity to shelter substantial profits from tax.

The best part is you can take advantage of this benefit multiple times – as long as you own and live in a home as your primary residence for the minimum required time. As with most tax benefits, there are exceptions and nuances (such as waiving the two-year requirement for active servicemembers who relocate due to military orders).

Gameday Rentals Can Be Tax Free Companies such as Airbnb and VRBO make it easier than ever to rent your home or even a bedroom on a short-term basis. Savvy homeowners can command attractive rental rates during football weekends, graduations or other events in which the demand for shortterm lodging exceeds dio, flips the dial. He listens to soft rock.

“Hey,” he thinks to himself. “Is it just me, or do Seals and Croft sound better than usual tonight?”

He wheels into a space for the handicapped. He glances into the rearview mirror at himself. He’s crying again.

“I did it,” he whispers.

Yes he did. Three years is behind him.

The rest of his life is staring at him.

He steps out of his car. He stands on weak legs. He is in pain, but only on the outside. Inside, he is nothing but confetti and late 70s soft rock.

He decides to leave the walker in the car.

Right foot. Left foot. He’s on a roll.

Across the pavement he walks.

“Summer breeze,” he sings, “makes me feel fine…”

He reaches the front desk.

“The maternity ward, please,” he says to the receptionist.

“Third floor,” she says.

He grits his teeth.

the supply.

The best part is that under the current tax law, homeowners can rent out their home for fewer than 15 days during the year, and take all the profits tax free.

You cannot deduct the expenses related to the short-term rental, but you don’t have to report any of the income.

That’s a great way to pocket free money.

Rental Income for Landlords Is Complicated Taxpayers who own rental property can face complicated tax situations and should consider depreciation, cost segregation, and passive activity losses.

Typically, home rental income and expenses are reportable on your taxes, and items such as depreciation on the home and improvements (land is never depreciated), property taxes, HOA dues, insurance and repairs must be considered. Mortgage interest is deductible, but the principal payments are not. When you sell the home, capital gains taxes must be considered along with depreciation recapture.

Landlords should engage a professional tax preparer as complications arise quickly.

Overall, owning real estate can be an excellent wealth-building tool.

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.

He limps across half a hospital, rides an elevator, and winces the whole way.

In a few minutes, he is holding a newborn against his chest, and he is realizing things.

Big things.

And years after this particular evening, this man will one day write to a redheaded author.

It will be after a taxing physical therapy session.

He will write: “I know it’s probably not your kind of story... I mean, big deal, it’s not like I climbed Lookout Mountain or anything.”

And well, I have to agree with him on that.

He didn’t climb Lookout Mountain. Not even close.

It was Everest.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.

Robertson, from A4 ing, “Yes, we have struggle and limitation, but we have to change the way we think and the way we tell our stories…

Often, we are so obsessed with our lives, we can’t even see the good.”

Jay and Katherine brought a fresh sense of hope and healing to all the families present. They do not try to dismiss their daily reality of living in a disabled world, but they steward what has been set before them in laughter and perseverance to show others that they can do the same.

The couple brings a sense of peace into their surroundings with their authenticity and charm. For at one time during their speaking, one

Markley, from A4 (1916 to 1939), said “The most important political office is that of the private citizen.” Now I have an unusual suggestion for a travel attraction.

If there is a government building near your tourist spot, look up when a meeting is and attend it for an hour. You may be shocked by the differences in agenda and the conduct of meetings there, as opposed to where you live. Might be better than C-SPAN! Mark Wolters is a business professor at University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign. He is best known as a travel video creator on YouTube. In a video he describes

Jackson, from A4 and an hors d’oeuvre or two, putting a little mood music on the phonograph, and inviting in a female acquaintance for a quiet discussion on Picasso, Nietzsche, jazz, and sex” just like Hefner said he did.

But that was then.

After taking a hard look at how the magazine “objectified” women, a Playboy editor went to the boss with an idea for redesigning the magazine and dropping nudity.

Hefner agreed. With real porn available at the click of a button (even in Alabama), Playboy no longer had the shock value and the cultural relevance they once had. On Dec. 11, 2015, the last nude issue of Playboy hit the stands.

Not that it made any difference to the bottom line.

of them took the other’s speaking part and they played it off well, joking and picking at each other, as most married couples do.

Katherine even made a comical remark that when she was testifying for a disabled mom recently, she commented at the end of the trial saying, “I’d like to make a final statement,” not knowing that only attorneys can actually make a final statement within a state trial.

The Wolf’s are everyday family people, trying to make the absolute best of what God has placed before them.

They are examples that each of us have the ability to “Suffer Strong.” They are a visual of hope for people everywhere, whether disabled or not.

Following their speaking, the Wolf’s

joined together outside the Fellowship Hall to sign their new book Suffer Strong, of which each family in the audience received a copy.

Upon getting my copy signed, I gave them both a hug and told them thank you.

“Thank you for serving our community.

Thank you for reaching out to everyone that desperately needs your message of hope.”

You may find out more about Jay and Katherine Wolf on their website: www. hopeheals.com.

Bradley Robertson is a local mother, wife and creative.

She’s an Auburn University graduate, loves good food and getting outside with her family. Bradley enjoys feature writing, as well as southern culture and lifestyle writing.

five negatives of traveling alone, and five positives. I travel solo 85 percent of the time, I love it for the independence.

“The first thing you will love about traveling with yourself is the independence,” Wolters said.

“You get to do what you want, when you want, with no one saying I want to go to this museum when you don’t want to go. That’s one of the great things about it-- you’re free to do what you want to do.”

One disadvantage is that going alone is “not the safest way.”

My answer to the safety concern is that I don’t drink liquor, beer or wine and that keeps me in control of most situations.

I don’t go out at night alone; that’s

when most mischief happens. Women are often advised to not travel much alone. By taking precautions, women can go solo so long as they are alert.

People wonder why individuals like me prefer to be independent while traveling. For me, it’s having “me” time and discovering new cities, states, and people one-on-one.

I am on my own for several days or a week because I love adventure and remain as curious as a cat.

Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An awardwinning journalist, he has master’s desgrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.

Though the magazine had been losing money, the folks handling the business end of the organization consider this a marketing expense. To them Playboy is just one part of a company that “makes most of its money from licensing its ubiquitous brand and logo across the world.”

So, what was left?

Well Playboy promised more in-depth interviews, more fiction. There would still be beautiful girls, but the pictures will be PG-13.

All of this was being done to shift Playboy’s focus to a new target audience -“young men who live in cities” and “have a job.”

Although the editor who proposed the plan observed, “the 12-year-old me is very disappointed in current me,” the no-nude Playboy was launched.

The experiment

lasted one year.

Admitting that the way nudity had previously portrayed was “dated,” Cooper Hefner (Hugh’s son) announced that “removing it entirely was a mistake.”

Apparently, there weren’t enough young men who read Nietzsche, listen to jazz, and bought the magazine for the articles and interviews, to keep the project going.

Meanwhile, I suspect that the editor who worried that by supporting the no-nude Playboy the “12-yearold me is very disappointed in current me” can breath a sigh of relief.

As for the 12-yearold boy, he is on the internet, and not looking up Nietzsche.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is professor emeritus of history at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone. net.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Feb. 29 - AO Discover Auburn-Opelika Children’s Hands-on Science Center Pop-Up at the Auburn Public Library March 16 - Sean Dietrich book-signing event at Books-A-Million Tiger Town March 26 - Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at the Gogue Performing Arts Center March 27 to 29 - 2nd Annual Opelika Songwriter’s Festival

Frances Haupt Blackburn preserving recipes from German heritage Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

F

rances Haupt Blackburn grew up in a small German community called Elberta, located near Foley in Baldwin County, that was settled by German immigrants in 1904. Now that she and her husband Art have grown children and are retired, Frances is reviving and preserving the recipes and cuisine of her heritage.

“My Haupt grandparents were from Tattlingen, German, and immigrated to America in 1905,” Frances said.

“My father, John Haupt, was born in New Jersey

and was a baby when the family moved to Alabama.”

German was spoken in their home. Until the mid-1970s, the church Frances and her family attended had two services, one in English and another in German.

Frances’ parents met while they were students at Auburn University, which was API at the time. Her mother was from Ashland, and she learned to cook German dishes to please Frances’ father.

“When I was growing up, my mother was trying to fit into the

German community,” Frances said. “It was common in the grocery store to hear people Photo by Ann Cipperly conversing in German.

Frances Haupt Blackburn is sharing her family’s German recipes. Many of the specialties have been cooked As a child, I took it for by her family for hundreds of years. Frances is pictured with a plate of Springerle cookies that are made granted, as it was just using carved rolling pins or blocks embossed with decorative designs. the way it was.”

Frances and Art “Art is from Wadley, a seafood dish at least During the summer Georgia. He wanted me married after graduonce a week. months, Frances would to learn to cook like his ation from Auburn Her mother made help her mother, who and moved to Albany, grandmother. He was bread once a week until was a former home ecowhere he worked for not interested in eating she was almost 80 years nomics teacher, freeze Firestone, and she the German foods at of age.

Frances’ Gerand can vegetables. taught home economics. that time.

My mother man grandmother was “She was an excellent In 1982, Art accepted a learned to be a great also an excellent cook. baker and cook,” Franposition with Ampex, German cook and left Frances and Art met ces said. “I spent lots of and they moved to Opebehind her southern in high school and attime in the kitchen with lika. Art became plant cooking with cornbread tended Auburn Univerher baking, cooking manager at Ampex. and peas.

The southern sity.

“I grew up with and preserving foods.”

Frances worked for cooking would have Since seafood was plen- these German foods suited Art just fine.” tiful, her mother served and married a southern See Recipes, page A11 boy,” Frances said.

Traveling comedy tour ‘Killer Beaz’ and guests performing at the Bottling Plant Event Center on March 20

Molavi

Beasley

Whitehurst

‘Killer Beaz’ Comedy Tour Special to the Opelika Observer Enjoy a night of laughs with Killer Beaz, Moody Molavi and Dan Whitehurst at The Bottling Plant Event Center on March 20 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Killer Beaz, whose real name is Truett Beasley Jr., is currently touring the country, performing on the high seas and starring in his second season of “Moonshiners” on Discovery Channel.

With many thousands of radio, television and stage appearances, Beasley has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. He delivers a high-energy, edgy and “everyman-style” humor that appeals to any audience.

Based in Nashville, Molavi is of Iranian descent and is a proud

Southern baptist. According to a reviewer who attended one of Molavi’s shows, his performances are “big, animated and high energy.”

Whitehurst, a fellow Nashvillian, has a background in law enforcement. To escape from the daily grind

of his job, he turned to humor, earning himself the title of being “The World’s Funniest Cop.” He has appeared on Comedy Central.

Advance tickets are $25 each and can be purchased via www. showclix.com. Day-of tickets will be $30 at See Comedy, page A8

HAPPY HOUR Monday through Friday 3pm to 6pm Select

$2 Domestics $5 Appetizers

Local cover group ‘Established’ to perform at the Bottling Plant Event Center on March 7 Special to the Opelika Observer Local cover group “Established” will perform at the Bottling Plant Event Center in downtown Opelika on March 7. This is a makeup date for the Jan. 17 show, which was canceled because of a death in one of the band members’ families.

Also known as

Established “The 12 Person Band,” the group is known for its energetic performances

DAILY SPECIALS

and covers of songs from a myriad of See Established, page A8

pelika O Observer Comedy, Check Out Our from A7 New Tiger Town Location

A8

Feb. 26, 2020

the door.

A limited number of reserved tables will

Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers

Established, from A7 musical genres.

Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show will begin promptly at 8 p.m.

Advance tickets can

be available, with tables of four costing $150 and tables for eight costing $300. To reserve a table, call 334-705-5466 Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show will start

at 7 p.m.

For more information, visit www.bottlingplanteventcenter. com.

The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

be purchased until March 6 at 11:30 p.m., and cost $10 plus tax. After that date and on the day of the show, tickets will cost $15 plus tax.

Tables can be reserved for groups of four or eight individuals for $75 and $150

plus tax.

For more information, to purchase tickets or make reservations, call 334-7055466 or visit www. bottlingplanteventcenter.com.

The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

Avoid common mistakes the average investor makes

AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night

• Do you have a written market downturn plan?

deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,

Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT

• Have your investments been run through and passed a stress test?

certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services.

We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch.

ICK RD.

FREDER

Tiger Town

Serving Retirees • families • small business Owners • Nonprofits • Individuals

Financial Planning Services for today, for tomorrow, for life.

Lowe’s

R.

YD WA

TE GA

Kroger

Our New Location

Visit us here: www.auburnbank.com MEMBER FDIC

I-85

1851 Frederick Road Opelika

Equal Housing Lender

334-275-9600

Elliott & Associates Insurance Agency Opelika - (334)745-0888 elliottinsuranceagents.com

208 South 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 www.investopelika.com Securities and advisory services offered though LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

Owners, RIG BLAKE HENRY LAUREL CALLAWAY Financial Advisors, LPL Financial Office - 334-748-9999 Fax - 334-748-9998

Call us today to discuss your charitable giving strategy

pelika O Opinion

A9 Feb. 26, 2020

Girl Scouts organization celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment Special to the Opelika Observer The 19th Amendment in the United States Constitution was ratified in 1920, guaranteeing and protecting women's constitutional right to vote. In honor of the 100th Anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, the Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA)

celebrated by hosting a Women's Suffrage event.

Girl Scouts of all ages gathered together at Auburn University's Pebble Hill on Feb. 15 to learn about the women's suffrage movement. Together girls participated in engaging activities to learn about the history and envision how they can be leaders for justice. The focus of

the event was to allow the girls to think about what justice means to them, how the Women’s Rights Movement is a part of their lives today and encourage them to make advocacy a part of their lives.

During the morning session, Girl Scout Daisies-Cadettes (2nd to 8th grade) participated in activities like drawing, playwriting and poster-making. In the afternoon, girls in grades 7 to 12 joined

together for an open Q&A about women in politics lead by Auburn University Women's history professor and local Troop Leader Melissa Blair.

"The heart of Girl Scouts is civic engagement, where girls feel inspired, prepared, and mobilized to lead positive change in our world," said GSSA CEO, Karlyn Edmonds. "We teach our girls to advocate for what they believe in,

& Flea Mall

so honoring the Women's Rights Movement is something we're very passionate about."

The Girl Scout's mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. With one voice, one movement, Girl Scouts are here to change the world.

About Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama: Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama serves more than 5,000 girls, ages 5 to 17 and 2,500 adults who believe

in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) to change the world. They are the preeminent leadership development organization for girls and have been for more than 100 years and a recent recipient of the Montgomery Impact Maker Award. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. To volunteer, reconnect, donate or join, call 800-2396636 or visit www. girlscoutssa.org.

Grab a Gift Certificate for Your Sweetheart for Valentine’s Day!

ANGEL’S ANTIQUE & FLEA MALL IT’S HUGE

GIFT CERTIFICATE

Gift Certificates Available in any Denomination!

334-745-3221 • ANGELSANTIQUEANDFLEAMALL.COM 900 COLUMBUS PKWY • OPEN EVERYDAY 10-7 • SUN 1-5

“Our Mission is Your Health”

Beauregard Drugs We do wellness screenings for local & state employees.

Call 334-364-9993 for details p 334-364-9993 | f 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Ste. A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com

334-528-6191

www.eamcfoundation.org

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info

A10 Feb. 26, 2020

pelika Observer O

the jay and susie gogue performing arts center at auburn university

Tickets available now!

334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU

pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 East Alabama Mental Health for a number of years until she received her master’s in school counseling. She then worked in Phenix City and Lee County schools as a counselor for eight years.

In 2003, the Blackburns quit their jobs and moved to Ecuador where Art was the administrator of a mission hospital. Frances had many challenges cooking in a different culture, as the ingredients were different.

They returned to Opelika in 2008. Frances became a counselor at Horseshoe Bend High School, while Art worked with Manage-

Recipes Cinnamon Stars/ Zimtsterne 5 egg whites 1 lb. powdered sugar 1 Tbsp. cinnamon 1 1/2 lbs. shredded pecans or almonds Beat egg whites until frothy with an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar and beat until it will stand in soft peaks. Fold in pecans and cinnamon.

Chill 1 hour or more.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto parchment paper lined cookie sheets.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until firm.

Allow to cool on pan for 5 minutes before removing to cooling rack.

Store in air-tight container.

Jager Schnitzel 4-6 pork or chicken cutlets, tenderized ¼ cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. paprika 1 egg 2 Tbsp. milk Salt to taste 1 sleeve Ritz cracker crumbs 3 plus Tbsp. oil Sprinkle both sides of cutlets with salt.

Whisk egg and milk together.

Mix flour and paprika in a shallow pie plate.

Set up an assembly line with flour mixture, egg mixture and Ritz crumbs.

Coat each cutlet with flour, dip into egg mixture and roll in crumbs pressing them on.

Working in small batches, fry each side 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

Drain on paper towels and serve hot over noodles with gravy.

Hunter’s Gravy 2 pkgs. dry mushroom gravy mix 1 lb. fresh mushrooms, coarsely chopped Prepare gravy mix according to package directions. Stir in mushrooms and cook with gravy.

Serve pork over noodles and smother with gravy. Serves 4-6.

German Potato Salad 2 lbs. red, new or fingerling potatoes 6 strips bacon ¼ cup minced onion 2-3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 2-3 Tbsp. sugar 3-4 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar

ment Recruiters, Inc. Since they retired, the Blackburns spend time between living at Lake Martin and Wolf Bay at Orange Beach, but they consider Opelika home.

The Blackburns have three children. Daughter Jessica and her husband, Seth Ruff, who both grew up in Opelika, have a 16-monthold son, Tucker. They moved to Panama City last year.

Frances and Art’s oldest son, Ben, is an officer at the Opelika Police Department, and his wife, Amy, teaches at Southview Elementary. They have two sons, Paxton, 11, and Barrett, 9, who attend Opelika City Schools. Son John and his wife, SarahAnne, live in Auburn.

Frances has been teaching Jessica to prepare the German

recipes. She is teaching Jessica to make Springerle cookies that have been made by Frances’ family for hundreds of years.

The traditional German cookie traces back more than 700 years.

Frances has baked a couple of batches every Christmas since she and Art married 45 years ago. She uses specialty carved rolling pins or blocks embossed with decorative designs.

They can also be turned into works of art with food paints.

Frances is enjoying making her family’s recipes and trying to modernize them. She is experimenting cooking some of the recipes in a crock-pot or instant pot rather than simmering on the stove top for half a day.

Frances’ mother

Boil potatoes until tender, Drain, cool and cut into ¼ inch slices.

Fry bacon and remove from skillet to drain. Crumble into small pieces. Remove all but 3 Tbsp. bacon drippings. Add onions to skillet and sauté.

Stir in sugar, flour, vinegar and make pale brown roux.

Add water, if necessary, to make sauce.

Add potatoes and chopped up bacon to skillet and stir gently to coat well. Salt and pepper to taste.

Cover and heat throughout.

Garnish with green onions or crumbled bacon.

1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. vanilla 1 egg white, whipped until frothy Sprinkles, if desired Sift the flour and baking powder and set aside. Cream the butter and sugar with a heavy-duty mixer. Add yolks one at a time and mix well. Add the flour mixture ½ cup at a time until all is added.

Stir in the vanilla.

Cover bowl and chill at least 1 hour.

Roll between 2 sheets of waxed paper to a thickness of ¼ of an inch. Cut in desired shape.

(My grandmother cut the dough into 2 inch strips by ½ inch wide and curved each into an S shape.) Place carefully on lightly greased baking sheet.

Brush with whipped egg white and add sprinkles, if desired.

Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool on wire rack.

Store cookies in an airtight container.

Springerle 4 eggs 2 cups sugar 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1 Tbsp. anise seeds, crushed 4 plus cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking powder or ½ tsp. ammonium bicarbonate Place eggs in bowl of a stand mixer and beat until frothy.

Gradually add the sugar and beat until it is pale lemon colored – 10 minutes.

Add the remaining ingredients slowly and when dough becomes thick, mix with wooden spoon. Add flour until you have dough which is stiff enough to roll.

Place 1/3 of dough on floured surface and roll until it is 3/8 inch thick. Roll again with springerle rolling pin. Cut and place on parchment paper covered baking sheet.

Continue working in small batches until all the dough is used.

Cover baking sheets with towel and let rest for 12-18 hours.

Preheat oven to 325-350 degrees. Bake cookies 10-12 minutes or until firm. Cool on wire rack and store in air-tight container.

(These keep well. My mother baked them right after Thanksgiving for the Christmas season.) Makes 4-5 dozen.

Grandma’s Butter S’s 2 sticks real butter 1 cup sugar 5 egg yolks 4 cup flour

Ring-A-Lings 2 pkgs. dry yeast ¼ cup water 1/3 cup butter ¾ cup scalded milk 1/3 cup sugar 2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. grated orange peel 2 eggs 4 to 4 ½ cups allpurpose flour Filling: Mix the following 3 ingredients: 1/3 cup butter 1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup ground nuts Glaze: ¼ cup orange juice 3 Tbsp. sugar Soften yeast in warm water for 5 minutes.

Combine butter, and milk in large bowl.

Cool to lukewarm.

Add sugar, salt, grated orange rind, eggs and yeast mixture.

Gradually add flour until it is a stiff dough.

Cover and let stand in a warm place until it doubles in bulk – about 30 minutes.

Roll out on flowered board to about 22 inch x 12 inch rectangle.

Spread filling along half of the long side.approximately 22 inch x 6 inch. Fold over the other half.

Cut into 1 inch by

baked homemade bread, and Frances remembers that the house would smell wonderful.

Frances changed using bacon fat to olive oil in the recipe. She makes a version of the bread and kneads it with her KitchenAid mixer.

Her mother’s recipe for Ring-A-Lings can be made the night before, stored covered in the refrigerator and baked the next morning for breakfast.

Frances researched this recipe and discovered it won the 7th Pillsbury Bakeoff in 1955, and the recipe was printed on the back of Pillsbury flour.

The Cinnamon Stars cookie, a light macaroon type confection, is a family favorite. When Frances was 12 to 14 years old, she entered the cookies in the Bald6 inch strips. Twist each 4 or 5 times.

Turn into folded buns and place 2 inches apart on parchment covered baking sheet.

Cover and let rise until doubled in bulk.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Brush with orange juice and sugar glaze while warm. Makes 1824 rolls Rouladen Serves 8 8 slices top round beef, about 4 inch x 6 inch and ¼ inch thick 1/3 cup spicy mustard 8 dill pickles, sliced lengthwise, optional 1 medium yellow onion Salt and pepper For gravy: 1 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. cooking oil 1 medium onion 1 clove garlic, minced 1 large carrot, chopped 1 large celery stalk, chopped 1 cup dry red wine 2 cups beef broth 1 Tbsp. tomato paste Prepare the roulade by spreading each beef slice with mustard and sprinkle a little salt and pepper overall.

Place the pickles and chopped onions on each beef slice. Toll up the beef slices, tucking in the sides and securing the rolls with toothpicks or cooking twine.

Heat the butter and oil in a heavy Dutch oven or pot, Brown the roulade on each side and then set them aside on a plate.

Add the remaining onions to the pan and add more oil, if necessary. Stir and add garlic and cook a minute longer.

Add the remaining vegetables and cook another 5 minutes.

Pour in the wine, bring to a rapid boil for 1 minute, reduce heat to medium and continue simmering 3 minutes.

Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf and salt and pepper, as desired.

Nestle the beef roulade in the pot.

Oven or stovetop: Cook covered until fork tender, about 90 minutes.

Crock pot: Cook on low 4-6 hours.

Serve with noodles or

A11 Feb. 26, 2020 win County Fair several times and won blue ribbons each time.

Her Grandma’s Butter S’s cookies are rich, buttery shortbread type cookies. This popular cookie recipe was also passed down in the family.

“Many German foods combine sweet and sour flavors like Red Cabbage Rotkhohl, potato salad and sauerbraten,” Frances said. “Sauerkraut Dinner is a typical German dish featuring smoked sausages.”

The Jager Schnitzel can be prepared with or without the gravy and is served with egg noodles. When Art and Frances visited Israel last year, they enjoyed dining on chicken schnitzel several times.

Frances is planning on putting together a family cookbook with mashed potatoes.

Sauerkraut Dinner 1/2 lb. bacon 2 large onions, chopped fine 1 qt. tomato juice 1 large can sauerkraut ¼ cup brown sugar 1-2 lbs. smoked sausage Cook bacon and drain, Cut into one inch pieces. Brown onions in bacon drippings.

Cut sausage into serving pieces.

Place all ingredients into slow cooker and cook for 6- 8 hours on low. Serves 12.

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) 2 Tbsp. butter 5 cups shredded red cabbage 1 cup sliced green apples 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar 3 Tbsp. water ¼ cup white sugar 2 tsp. salt ¼ tsp. black pepper ¼ tsp. ground cloves Place all ingredients into slow cooker on low until cabbage is tender.

May also cook using an Instant Pot. Serves 12.

German Cucumber Salad 2 English or 8 medium cucumbers ½ cup sour cream 1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1 tsp. sugar 1 Tbsp. dill ½ tsp. salt Black pepper, to taste

the German recipes to preserve for future generations. Getting the recipes together has brought back wonderful memories of her childhood and the women in her family who were great cooks.

The Blackburns enjoy going back to Elberta when the town celebrates its German heritage with a sausage festival the last weekend in October and last weekend in March. “It attracts thousands of people,” Frances said.

“They offer delicious German baked goods and filled cabbage, as well as other entrees.”

Look over Frances’ recipes and add a touch of German heritage to your menus this coming week.

Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com.

Thinly slice cucumbers and place in large salad bowl lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt. Allow to sit 30 minutes.

In medium bowl whisk together the remaining ingredients.

Squeeze the cucumbers in the paper towels and return to bowl.

Pour dressing over salad and chill several hours before serving.

Serves 8.

Easy Homemade Bread Makes 2 loaves.

1 pkg. dry yeast 1 Tbsp. sugar ¼ cup warm water Combine these 3 ingredients and let yeast proof for 10 minutes.

Add: ¼ cup olive oil ¼ cup honey 2 tsp. salt 1 ½ cups water 6 cups bread flour (Gold Medal) Mix well by hand or with stand mixer using dough hook. Scrape the sides of the bowl. It’s better to add flour one cup at a time. Knead 5-6 minutes then cover bowl and let sit in a warm area about an hour or until doubled in bulk.

Punch down dough and separate into 2 loaves. Place in greased pans and cover again.

Let rise until doubled again, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Bake loaves 20 minutes or until desired brownness is reached.

Turn out onto cooling rack. Tap bottom of loaf and if you hear a hollow sound, it’s perfect!

Food Ratings Capps Sausage 555 Lee Road 100 Opelika Score: 100 AFC Sushi 2450 Enterprise Drive Opelika Score: 99 Taco Bell 2400 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 99 Subway 2101 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 99 Burger King 415 2nd Ave. Opelika

Score: 99 Highway 80 Barn Restaurant 25250 U.S. Highway 80, Opelika Score: 96 Best Wingz and Thingz 1515 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 90 Brick Oven Pizza 2520 Enterprise Drive Opelika Score: 84 Fiesta Supermarket (Restaurant) 1904 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 78

pelika O Observer

A12 Feb. 26, 2020

Bottling Plant Event Center to host ‘Gospel Explosion’ event on March 1 which will include performances from Grammy winning songwriter and Opelika native Brandon Morgan Special to the Opelika Observer Le’andria Johnson, winner of BET’s Sunday Best singing competition and cowriter of a Grammy Award-winning track, will headline the “Gospel Explosion” event on March 1 at the Bottling

Plant Event Center.

The day will feature two shows, one from 2 to 4 p.m. and the other from 6 to 8 p.m.

Among those joining Johnson performing at this event will be Chee Chee Jordan, Pathfinder Mime Ministry, MC Sylvester McPherson

and Opelika native Brandon Morgan.

Online ticket sales end Feb. 29. Tickets cost $30 each and can be purchased by calling 334-7055466 or by visiting the venue’s website, www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

Johnson

OBITUARIES Clifford Van Burt Clifford Van Burt of Opelika, Alabama was born in Columbus, Georgia on June 5, 1949, and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on February 16, 2020.

He was 70 years old.

He attended Providence Baptist Church.

He was a member of the American Redneck Society, American Legion Post 18 and a Vietnam Veteran having served in the Army. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

He loved racing, and was a crew member of Hancock Performance Racing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Louise Burt; brother, Jeffery Burt.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Donna M. Burt; children, Barry Steven Burt (Michelle),

Cherie Brown (Troy), Cliff Burt (Claudia), Scott Morgan (Stephanie), Chad Morgan; 14 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren; brothers, Larry Burt (Merry), Terry Holloway; sisters, Cindy Luangkhot (Pon), Brenda Pottinger as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

Visitation was held in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Wednesday, February 19, 2020, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home Thursday, February 20, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating.

Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Rosemary Feese Tennant Rosemary Feese Tennant, age 83, passed away on February 15, 2020, in Auburn.

Rosemary was born on March 8, 1936, to the late Louis Hickman Rodgers Feese and Nell James Feese. She graduated from Richmond Professional Institute of the College of William and Mary in Richmond, VA in 1957. She worked at the Easter Seal Center in Augusta, GA and as an occupational therapist at the Veterans Administration Hospital and University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS, where she became OT department head and retired after 30+ years of service.

While in Jackson she was a member of Christ United Methodist Church and Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church where she served the church as a children’s Sunday school teacher, a Stephen Minister, a Lamplighter, and sang in

the choir. In Auburn she was a member of Auburn United Methodist Church and the Joel McDavid Sunday School Class.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Everett W. (Bill) Tennant and brother, Louis Hickman Rogers Feese II. She is survived by her children, Grace Elizabeth, Louis Everett, Andy (Claudette) and Madrid Olivia Poultney (Chris), grandchildren, Sylvia Rosemarie, Margaret Lee, and William Claude Tennant, and Ruth Grace Poultney, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held at Auburn United Methodist Church on Saturday, February 22, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. with service to follow in the Founder’s Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Auburn United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 3135, Auburn, AL 36831-3135.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Allene Strong Allene Strong was born May 7, 1937, in Hoschtion, Georgia to the late Harvey Wilson Roberts and Edna Roberts.

She passed away at Arbor Springs on February 19, 2020.

She attended Gwinnett County Schools. She was a member of Liberty Baptist Church at Lilburn, Georgia where she attended the Baptist Training Union. After high school she worked for the Georgia Department of Labor in the Benefits Section.

A blind date provided Ms. Strong with the opportunity to meet and later marry, Milford Strong.

They settled in Lee County, Alabama She was preceded in death by her former husband, Milford Strong; daughter, Cynthia Strong; grandson,

C.J. Strong; great grandson, Jackson Cagle, 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

She is survived by her children, Christopher Strong (Lynn), Dale Strong, Carla Baxley (Kenny), Sheree Strong; grandchildren, Christa Strong, Benjamin Strong (Kacie), Karen Cagle, Kelly Burgess, and James Brannon; great grandchildren, Brynleigh Strong, Creed Strong, Elizabeth Burgess; 1 brother and 2 sisters, as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family friends.

A memorial service was held in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home Tuesday, February 25, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Holly Woodall officiating. Visitation followed the service.

Jack Brantley, Jr. Jack Brantley, Jr. of Opelika was born at Drake Infirmary in Auburn, Alabama on March 7, 1949, to Jack Brantley, Sr. and Ellen Belcher Brantley. Jack passed away at his home on February 15, 2020. He was 70 years old.

Jack lived his whole life in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama.

Jack loved and was devoted to his beloved family and friends. He graduated from Auburn High School, Class of ‘68. He then graduated from Southern Union Junior College in Wadley, Alabama afterwards he attended Auburn University for one and a half years where he studied business and criminal justice. Jack loved the friends he made and still kept up

with them throughout his life. He took great pride and loved all the years he spent being a Police Officer in Auburn. He also took great pride his jobs at Uniroyal, Diversified Products, Shape South and Briggs and Stratton. Jack loved meeting and talking to people and never met a stranger. Jack and Nancy’s love of Auburn University Football was quickly passed on to their 4 grandchildren. Growing up in Auburn, Jack was a Member of Lakeview Baptist Church. After he and Nancy married, he moved his Membership to her church, Pepperell Baptist Church in Opelika.

Jack was preceded in death by his father, Jack Brantley, Sr. in July of 1969 and his

mother, Ellen Pate on August 31, 2015, and his step-father, George Pate on November 24, 2015, and his sister Betty Pierce on April 13, 2016.

Aunts and uncles Floy Dyer of Louisiana, Doris Robinson of Opelika, Alabama, Bernice Ferguson of Decatur, Alabama, Wilson Belcher of Opelika, William (Bill) Belcher of West Palm Beach, Florida, Milton Leo Belcher of Auburn, Gordon Belcher of Opelika, and Florence Henderson of Manassas, Virginia.

Jack is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Nancy; son, Jason (Kristin) Brantley of Huntsville, Alabama; 4 grandchildren, Josh of Birmingham, Alabama, and Jake,

Addie, Peyton all of Huntsville, Alabama; sisters, Mary Eder (Tony), Lisa Tomlinson (David); brother, Richard Brantley (Jeanne) 3 nieces, Toni, Ginny, and Tamra; 5 nephews, Clanton, Gary, John, Scott, and Ricky and their families. he is also survived by their sweet and very energetic fur baby, a Min Pin named Lillie.

Nancy, Jason, Kristin, and Jack’s sister Mary, along with the whole family wish to express sincere appreciation to everyone at the Opelika Police Department, Opelika Fire Department, and to the 911 Operators and Paramedics.

Sincere appreciation to Opelika Police Officer, Lamar Baker who spent time and talked with Nancy

To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003

and who reached out to their friends and family who immediately came to their home to be with Nancy until Jason and Kristin could arrive from Huntsville.

Special appreciation to Reverend Thad Endicott for being here and spending time with Nancy on Saturday. A special thanks to Opelika Police Officer Chase Higgins who was the last to leave after spending time with and talking with Nancy. Sincere thanks also to Coro-

ner, Bill Harris and to Frederick-Dean Funeral Home for spending time and talking with Nancy.

Visitation was held Saturday, February 22, 2020, in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home Sunday, February 23, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Thad Endicott. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

START YOUR CAREER IN CONSTRUCTION

GOBUILDALABAMA.COM

Opelika

A13

Family & Religion Place your ad here!

Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” hese words from Peter come on the heels of his call for us to humble ourselves (1 Peter 5:5-7). In doing so, we submit to God and place ourselves under “His mighty hand.” We commit ourselves to looking at life from His perspective rather than from our own limited and fallible point of view.

As a result, we begin to see things as they really are rather than simply as we are.

This doesn’t mean we become omniscient because we have other limitations that are in play, but it does mean we are able to see many things in a way that we were incapable of be-

T

He cares for you

fore. It’s something like being in an observatory.

The skylight opens and with our unaided eye we can see a sky full of stars and planets. On a clear night, we can point out constellations, satellites and meteors. But when we look through the telescope, we see things at a completely different magnitude. Everything is clearer while some things that were previously unseen are now seen. We are also able to understand to an even greater degree than before how spectacular and breathtakingly unfathomable the universe is. I think this is something of what happens as we humble ourselves before God. Peter connects this mindset with placing the entirety of our burdens

By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

upon our caring Father.

The disturbing thing about most of our troubles, worries and anxieties is the element of the unknown. We can’t see how, or even if, things are going to work out.

But what we can do is take a good, long, detailed look at the love of God. We can zoom in on the birds of the air or the flowers of the field and note His care for them (Matthew 6:26ff).

We can read the words

Calendar of Church Events

Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.

Feb. 26, 2020

Pepperell Baptist Church features traditional worship and song. Sunday School starts at 9:45 a.m. and there are two worship services, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday’s prayer service begins at 6 p.m.

The church is located at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika.

• Feb. 28 - People of all faiths are invited to a morning of prayer, reflection and discussion on “Practicing Forgiveness” at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Social Hall located at 1000 4th Ave. in Opelika. The program will be held Feb. 28, from 8:45 until 12 noon. The presenter will be Carol Whatley, CSD. There is no charge for the program, and all are invited to come early to 8 a.m. Mass. For more information or to preregister, contact Marie Rug-

giero at marieruggiero@ gmail.com or 334-7043125. Preregistration is appreciated but not required.

• March - 4 - 6 - Mt. Zion AME Church, located at 5058 US Highway 29 N. in Opelika, is sponsoring a “Hymns in The Church Appreciation and Variation Workshop” March 4 to 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. each evening. The guest clinician is Dr. John W. Roberts, Ed.D., director of music at Lee Chapel AME Church in Auburn. The workshop is open to all choir members, musicians and congregation members. For mor information, contact Gwendolyn Jones, Mt. Zion’s music director, at 706-304-5890 or gjon53@aol.com.

• March 20 and 21 First Baptist Church of Opelika will be hosting a

“Making Disciples of Oral Learners Workshop” on March 20 and 21 to reach people for Christ who are unable to read through art, drama or music. For more information or to register for the event, call Ben Cohen at 804-3806979 or send email to benc@fbcopelika.com.

The church is located at 301 S. 8th St. • April 30 - First Baptist Church of Opelika’s Men’s and Women’s Ministries are hosting Dr. David Jeremiah at Auburn Arena on April 30, starting at 7 p.m. Charles Billingsley will serve as the worship leader for this event. Tickets cost $15 each and can be purchased online at www. fbcopelika.com. For more information, call 334-7455715.

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika

314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238

CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist

of a man imprisoned for Jesus as he tells his recipients, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

When humility looks at the love of God, powerful things happen!

I heard a man (I believe it was Ted Kell) say that ultimately there are two things we need to know in life. The first is that someone cares for us, and the second is that someone is in control. He went on to note how the cross tells us God loves us and the resurrection shows

us that the One who loves us in control. As we humble ourselves under His mighty hand and zoom our telescope in on the cross and the empty tomb, these truths becomes as clear as day.

When we spend too much time looking at ourselves, others or our problems, we lose sight of this and anxiety gets the best of us. That’s why we are to place ourselves under the mighty hand of God and then give Him our burdens. It doesn’t work any other way.

Humble yourself and you can place all your burdens on Him because you will see how great His care for you is.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

Verse of the Week “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

1 Peter 1:3 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922 Family Life Christian Center

601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770

Place your ad here!

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, Opelika, ALAL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun12pm 12pm-6pm Sun - 6pm

Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

pelika Observer O

A14 Feb. 26, 2020

Opelika Main Street hosting ‘5th Saturday Sale’ event on Feb. 29 Special to the Opelika Observer Downtown Opelika merchants will be offering major discounts during the “5th Saturday Sale” on Feb. 29.

Hosted by Opelika Main Street, this event will feature discounts from a variety of different stores and restaurants located in the historic downtown area.

Occurring during normal business hours, visitors are encouraged to explore the various different local shops and restaurants.

“This is a great way to shop small while saving big,” said Opelika Main Street Executive Director Ken Ward.

“Downtown has a variety of different shopping and dining options so there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy!”

Many of the sales and specials will only be available during the special Saturday event.

For more information about this and other downtown events, visit opelikamainstreet.org or follow Opelika Main Street on Facebook,

Twitter and Instagram.

About Opelika Main Street: Opelika Main Street helps Opelika thrive by promoting small businesses through exciting events, projects and social media engagement.

Founded in 1987, Main Street has helped assist in the revitalization of historic downtown Opelika through facade grants, beatification projects and various community events. Learn more about the organization by visiting opelikamainstreet.org.

Community Calendar: Events around town

• March 3 - Municipal Court Ribbon Cutting • March 12 - Railroad Investment Group Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m.

• April 9 - Thalama Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m.

• April 24 - Food Bank of East Alabama Ribbon Cutting • May 1 - Opelika Armory Ribbon Cutting Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

• The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee.

The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided.

Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256307-1449.

Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Bap-

tist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome.

For more information, call 826-1899 or 5020216.

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture

crops and many more.

To view the full schedule, please visit www. aces.edu/anr/beginningfarms/webinars.php.

Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu.

For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu.

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika SportsPlex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320.

• The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required.

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard.

The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 Alabama Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling

Downtown Opelika will be site of ‘5th Saturday Sale’

By Ken Ward Special to the Opelika Observer Downtown Opelika is a special place not just because of the historic small-town charm, but in large part because of the many unique shops and restaurants that call this place home.

Supporting our local merchants, restaurants and service businesses

helps provide benefits throughout our community. Recent studies show that over 60 percent of money spent with local businesses stays in the community.

While shopping local is something you can do any day of the year, this Saturday is a great opportunity to enjoy amazing savings while supporting your local neighbors.

Opelika Main Street will be hosting our ‘5th Saturday Sale’ this Saturday, giving downtown shoppers a chance to get great deals while also supporting the Opelika economy.

Over a dozen different downtown businesses will be offering a wide array of sales and specials as part of the event. Browsing is encouraged!

Come on out to downtown Opelika this Saturday and enjoy the savings!

Ward is the executive director of Opelika Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing downtown Opelika. Find more information about Opelika Main Street and downtown by visiting opelikamainstreet.org.

the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved.

The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School.

For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.

• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m.

Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika.

Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

• Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika.

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes.

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 850-212-5364. or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334528-1076 for more information.

Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Upcoming Events • March 1 - GRIEFSHARE, a 13-week course, is for people grieving the death of a family member or friend. The first session will take place on March 1 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Individuals may start attending group meetings at any point during the session. GriefShare uses the Bible, an easy-tofollow workbook, video of trained Christian pastors and counselors and support from fel-

low members. Contact Melinda Jackson at 334745-2632.

• March 28 - 30 - The Friends of the Auburn Public Library will hold their ‘Big Book Sale’ at the library on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 29 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and March 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This sale is open to the public, and hundreds of gently used books will be available for purchase, including bestsellers, classics, fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books.

A16 Feb. 26, 2020

pelika Observer O

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

Opelika Schools ports &S Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

School Board Meeting Schedule • March 10 - Lee County School Board Meeting - 2410 Society Hill Road • March 26 - Opelika City School Board Meeting - 300 Simmons St.

Matthew Johnson and Jailyn Dixon recently named 2020 Mr. and Miss OHS Special to the Opelika Observer

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika Lady Bulldogs to play in Final 56 game against Hazel Green

T

he Opelika Lady Bulldogs (26-7) earned a spot in the AHSAA State Finals after beating Dothan 67-51 in the regional finals last Wednesday at Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum.

This is Opelika’s third straight trip to the state finals under Coach Devin Booth.

The Lady Bulldogs tip-off at 9 a.m. on Feb. 26 against defending 6A Champion Hazel Green (31-2) in the BJCC Legacy Arena.

Opelika played Hazel Green twice in 2019, a 51-31 loss in the state finals in March and a 45-26 road loss in November.

You can listen to Opelika v. Hazel Green on FOX Sports The Game 910 and 1310 AM and online at foxsportsthegame. com.

The winner advances to the 6A Championship game on Feb. 29 at 12:30 p.m.

REGIONAL CHAMPS Opelika won the regional championship last Wednesday

Congratulations to Mr. and Miss Opelika High School, Matthew Johnson and Jailyn Dixon. Fellow seniors Jaylon Rowland and Julia Bush were named Mr. and Miss OHS First Runner-Up. India Brooks was named

Best Dressed and Steven Harvey won Best Interview. Congratulations also to the class winners: Miss Junior Class -Mackenzie Ford; Miss Sophomore Class - Sabrina Hansen and Miss Freshman Class Susannah Couey.

Pictured right are Johnson and Dixon.

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

in Montgomery with a 67-51 victory over Dothan. Despite being tied after three quarters, Opelika outscored the Wolves by 16 points in the fourth quarter. Haley Sanders led the team with 30 points and 17 rebounds while Kaitlyn Bryant and Ananda Hughley scored 12 and 10 points, respectively.

Sanders was voted the tournament’s MVP, while Bryant and Hughley were named to the AllTournament team.

Congratulations!

Best wishes, ladies!

RAIN CAUSING HAVOC FOR SPRING SPORTS The rainy weather forced many spring sport teams to postpone or cancel games during the last two weeks. Depending on the sport and day, some were able to play while others could not.

The softball team was scheduled to play in a 48-team tournament in Phenix City during the weekend.

Unfortunately, Central reduced the tournament to 12 teams last

Opelika youth participated in international all-star football game Valentine’s Day weekend

See Sports, page B5

See Renfroe, page B5

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter Twelve-year-old Skylan Holstick of Opelika was recently invited to play football on Team USA v. Team Mexico in a competition hosted in Monterrey, Mexico during Valentine’s Day weekend. Holstick is a sixth grader at Opelika Middle School and currently plays for the Opelika Dawg Pound travel team.

While children from 17 states were invited to the competition in Mexico, HolPhoto submitted to the Opelika Observer

See Holstick, page B5

Opelika Middle School student invited to attend next year’s Presidential Inauguration ceremonies

By Morgan Bryce Editor Earlier this month, 13-year-old Opelika Middle School student Harrison Renfroe received a letter offering him the chance to travel to Washington D.C. and attend next year’s Presidential

Inauguration ceremonies.

Because of a nomination from a teacher at his previous school in Motgomery and his “A honor roll” status at OMS, Harrison was inducted into the National Youth Leadership Forum’s Pathways to STEM program three years ago, which

connected him with this opportunity. “(Receiving this letter) meant a lot because it showed me that my hard work was being recognized at a high level,” Harrison said.

A.J., Harrison’s father, lives on a singlehousehold income and is

needing to raise between $3,200 and $3,400 to help cover his son’s costs and travel expenses. Those who wish to assist can donate through the Facebook fundraiser “Harrison’s Invitation to the 59th Presidential Inauguration”

pelika Observer O

B2 Feb. 26, 2020

Lee County Special Olympics hosting annual bowling tournament in Auburn on March 3, 4 Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Special Olympics will host the annual “Lee County Area Bowling Tournament” at AMF Auburn Lanes on March 3 and 4. Tuesday’s opening ceremonies will begin at 9 a.m. with the tournament beginning at 9:15 a.m., and a second round of tournament play will begin at 12:30 p.m.

The tournament will feature more than 200 athletes from Lee, Macon, Russell and Tallapoosa coun-

ties. Athletes who earn a first-place ribbon will be eligible to be selected to attend the Special Olympics Alabama Summer Games in May 2020.

The tournament is a free event and is open to the public. Spectators and fans are welcome and encouraged to attend.

For more information, like and follow the Lee County Special Olympics Facebook page or visit www.auburnalabama.org/ special-olympics/.

The bowling alley is located at 719 Opelika Road.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika High School’s baseball team wins first home game of the season 4-1 last Saturday against Beauregard

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

pelika Observer O

B3 Feb. 26, 2020

A Child’s Place in the Family

Beth Pinyerd

I

was raised in a family of siblings (two brothers), but as a mom, I raised an only child. I’m so grateful for both family situations, but as a teacher and parent, there are differences that I need to take into account when teaching and relating to children as well as a parent raising children.

I have pondered and reflected on both family situations that I have actually experienced and I would like to share a few general tips that I hope will benefit the readers.

Our best teacher is to share, glean and learn from others who have parented only children as well as children with siblings.

Tips for parenting an only child: 1) Connecting with other children. This can be difficult in our busy world of jobs and activities, but parents of only children can be creative in connecting their only children with other children.

As a mom and teacher, I fell into the neatest situation in helping other moms with their children and my own. As a teacher, I would take three to four children home with my son and me after school till their moms got off from work. We would have a snack, play, then do homework together.

This provided friends for my son in a home setting. Social skills

such as appropriate interaction with others, sharing with friends and listening to others’ thoughts, ideas and opinions benefit an only child so much!

2) Another blessing that came our way with an only child was a close friend of our son’s had the same birthday. Each year, we came together as families to plan their birthdays together.

The boys shared their ideas and theme wishes according to a budget. Over-giving to one child was kept in check. Other families appreciated just having to be able to go to one birthday party on the same day instead of two.

3) Play dates at the park and other places with other families and children is good for an only child to learn to make friends with other children. The Lee County community is child/family friendly in offering opportunities and activities for onlychildren in a family to meet others.

4) As a parent, you have to consciously set aside time to play with your only child.

My husband would do

brotherly roughhousing with our son by playing “Boom.” They rolled on the floor in the evenings tickling each other, wrestling and laughing. As parents, we have to model and set an example of playing games. Model sharing, listening, compromising and understanding each other are good social skills for your only child to learn and apply in getting along with other children.

5) With an only child, a parent wants to guide them to be independent and not too dependent on their mother and father to do everything for them.

To accomplish this, assign specific chores for them to do.

6) As parents of an only child, our focus is on this one child. We have to remind ourselves as parents not to control every thought and action of an only child, but give them freedom to express themselves as a unique individual.

A Child’s Place with Siblings: One thing I vividly remember back in the 1960s is being raised in a home with two

brothers. We were different, but we had a close bond. When we were elementary and adolescent age, we three may have disagreed and argued all day long over what games we would play, television shows we watched, grabbing our favorite piece of chicken at the dinner table, who got to sit in the front seat of the car, etc. But at night, as we were all going to bed in our own rooms we were like the Walton family shouting “good night” and “I love you” to each other. This was a nightly ritual and a warm memory of a loving siblinghood.

In parenting siblings of different ages, choosing activities that siblings all enjoy promotes unity. Siblings choose a movie they enjoy, a favorite board game, cooking their favorite foods together, etc. are a few examples of shared activities. Playing outside together, safely roughhousing to work off energy, doing fun family projects and hobbies are ways to promote family bonding. As parents,

oversee safety of their play, but try to be an observer of siblings bonding together.

Siblings need to feel unity with each other.

As parents, guide them to encourage and nurture each other.

We see this with older siblings taking care of younger siblings in helping them learn new skills. Don’t let siblings side against each other. This can cause such unnecessary stress in a family. Guide children to immediately talk out the problems they have with each other. Have them listen to each other and work out the conflict. Practice POP - Positive, Optimistic, Peacemaker in building up the family team spirit!

Each child is a gift from God, whether born in an only-child family or a family with multiple siblings.

All types of families will have their good and not-so-good days, but the main thing to remember is that relationships are the main thing to put to heart and cherish for life. I hope this article has been a light and helpful source for you.

Opelika’s quiz bowl teams turn in strong showing at state competition

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Special to the Opelika Observer The quiz bowl teams competed last week at the Alabama Scholastic Competition Association State Championship at Hoover High School.

The Opelika Middle School Team (seventh and eighth grades) finished fifth in the state.

The team beat Smiths Station, Berry (Hoover), and Cullman before losing in the Quarterfinals to Monrovia. The elementary team (sixth grade) finished second in the state, beating West Smiths Station, East Elementary (Cullman), and Northside (Opelika) before losing in the finals to Discovery Middle (Bob Jones).

Northside also competed in their very first tournament ever and finished third in the state. The

team beat Arab, St. Paul and Williams Middle (Huntsville), losing to Opelika in the semifinals and beating East Lawrence Middle in the

consolation match. Anna Wood (Opelika) and Lucas Duncan (Northside) made the all state team as the No. 2 and 3 scorers in the state.

1 OUT OF 10

ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING:

Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

HELP STOP THE ABUSE

IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

Lee County Strong is a magazine being published by the Opelika Observer. This special publication is dedicated to honoring the victims and survivors of the March 3, 2019 tornadoes that claimed 23 lives.

We are taking pre-orders now and anticipate a March 1, 2020 release date. To order your copy, complete the order form below and send it to the Observer at 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801.

Online ordering is also available on the Observer’s website, www.opelikaobserver.com. re Proceeds from this publication will be used to help the recovery efforts in Beauregard and Smiths Station.

Name:__________________________________ Address:_________________________________ ______________________________________ _____Pickup in office - $6.53 (includes tax) _____Mail delivery - $10 (includes tax, shipping & handling) _____Check ______Credit Card ______Exp. _____CCV

Thereʼs no excuse for

ELDER ABUSE

“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

CC #________________________________

pelika O Observer

B4 Feb. 26, 2020

Opelika High School’s junior varsity baseball team slipped by Central-Phenix City 5-4 last week

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Lee County Remembrance Project co-founders Ashley Brown and Olivia Nichols to speak at March 4 ‘OLLI Brown Bag Lecture’ Special to the Opelika Observer Ashley Brown and Olivia Nichols, co-founders of the Lee County Remembrance Project, will present “Confronting Racial Terror in Lee County: A Community Remembrance Project” at OLLI’s Alabama Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series. Their presentation will be at the Boykin Community Center on March 4.

The project is a community initiative working to reconcile the racial terror, violence and trauma that occurred in Lee County.

Using the Equal Justice Initiative’s truth and reconciliation model, the project addresses the urgent need to discuss the lynchings and racial terror that oc-

curred in Lee County and to engage in reconciliation practices to overcome Lee County’s persistent legacy of violence and terrorism.

As of March 2020, the project research team has compiled more than 500 newspaper reports, legal documents and various records of four lynchings in Lee County between 1877 and 1950, and numerous “legal executions” that occurred during the same time frame. The project’s goals include (1) installing historical markers and memorials to honor and remember the victims of racial terror, (2) providing educational materials and opportunities for community members to learn about the legacy of racial terror, and (3) advocating for

racial justice and equity.

Brown, a Montgomery native, attended Auburn University, earning a bachelor of arts degree in psychology, with a minor in human development of family studies and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in clinical mental health counseling. She is a nationally certified counselor, and she is currently a doctoral student in Auburn’s Counselor Education Program.

Nichols, a Wisconsin native, is a doctoral student in Human Development and Family Studies at Auburn University. She received her master’s degree from Auburn with a focus on early childhood development and her bachelor’s

degree in psychology and at-risk child youth care from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. In her current role, she is the lab manager for the Health Equity Research Lab under Dr. Thomas FullerRowell and examines the developmental origins of health disparities.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) hosts its Alabama Bicentennial Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Boykin Community Center, located at 400 Boykin St. in Auburn. The bring-your-own-lunch begins at 11:45 a.m., and complementary coffee, tea and water will be provided. The program begins

at 12:15 p.m. The series is cosponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities and City of Auburn’s Boykin Community Center. The program is open to the public at no charge.

OLLI at Auburn is a program of the Office of the Vice President for University Outreach at Auburn University. OLLI administrative offices and

select classes are located at the historic Sunny Slope property, 1031 S. College St. in Auburn.

For more information regarding this event or to learn about becoming a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service assistant or sponsor, contact Shawnee McKee, OLLI Administrative Support, at 334-844-3146, olli@ auburn.edu, or by visiting www.olliatauburn.org.

pelika O Observer Renfroe, from B1 or by calling A.J. at 334-235-5311. As of Feb. 25, more than $700 has been donated through the Facebook fundraiser.

According to the letter Harrison received, the trip would consist of five days

Sports, from B1 weekend because of wet fields. Opelika was not one of the 12, based on the system implemented by Central to pick the teams.

The boys and girls soccer teams have not played since the opening match. The teams play home matches at the W. James Stamford Soccer Complex at the Opelika Sportsplex. Parents of soccer players and supporters have asked to play matches at Bulldog Stadium if rain continues to cause postpone games.

Bulldog Stadium, once the home of OHS Soccer, has synthetic turf with a top notch drainage system. The field could

B5 Feb. 26, 2020

Holstick, from B1

spent touring and sightseeing in the nation’s capitol, including a visit to the Smithsonian. He would also have the chance to go to the National Mall to attend the inaugural ceremonies.

In addition to his success in the classroom, Harrison excels in baseball and football, is involved with the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes

chapter and is a volunteer with the Miracle League of East Alabama. “(I would like to attend because) my goal is to serve on a national level.

I want to see the event because of its importance to our country,” Harrison said. “I ultimately hope to serve as President of the United States (someday).”

Harrison

easily be transformed to play soccer games.

Soccer lines would need to be painted with turf paint and bring in two soccer soccer goals.

OHS BASEBALL SITTING AT .500 Opelika baseball team (3-3) played three games last week, losing 5-4 to Charles Henderson while beating Beauregard 4-1 and Handley 10-0.

Charles Henderson 5 - OHS 4 The Bulldogs fell to Charles Henderson 5-4 after a walk-off single in the seventh inning.

Opelika outhit Charles Henderson 7-6. Offensively for the Bulldogs, Jace Rhodes and Andrew Parr collected two hits apiece while Brayden Thomas, Julian Duke and Kory McCoy added singles.

Brantley Davis, relieved starter Rhodes after 2 and 2/3 innings and threw three scoreless innings.

Opelika 4 Beauregard 1 Opelika broke up a scoreless game with three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Rhodes led with two hits while teammates Latrell Gullate and Jackson Harris added singles.

JT McArdle started on the mound for the Bulldogs, pitching four innings allowing a hit and a single run.

Opelika 10 Handley 0 The Bulldogs mercy ruled Handley 10-0 after five innings.

Harris led offensively with three hits, while Brooks Bryan, Duke and Parr added two hits apiece. Gullatte Xander Grilliot added singles. Parr earned

the win, pitching four innings, allowed three hits while striking out five batters.

Dozier Smith T pitched one scoreless inning in relief.

OHS TENNIS The OHS boys and girls teams managed to play two matches during the last two weeks.

The Bulldog Netters lost matches to Auburn and Columbus. Winning matches against Auburn and Columbus were: Grey Walker won a single match whiel Walker teamed with Parker McKay to win a doubles match. The girls’ doubles team with Hope Bearden and Laura Tyson Daffin beat Auburn’s number two team. Both teams have matches his week; weather permitting.

stick was the only one invited from Alabama.

Team USA won the match against Mexico 40-0. According to Holstick’s mother, Tianna Summers, Holstick,“has been asked to try out for the USA Nationals Team, which will lead him CONGRATS RAEDEN GAGLIANO OHS senior Readen Gagliano signed a volleyball scholarship with a Southern Union State Community College during a

all the way to Canada and other international places. He also will be receiving invites for New Orleans, Chicago and Ohio this summer.”

The competition was hosted by Primetime Events whose “goal is to create events where top athletes from across the nation can come together for an event and showcase their talents at a competitive level.” ceremony held at the high school last week.

D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.

BAXLEY | JACKSON LAW FIRM

300 Vestavia Parkway, Ste. 3200 Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216

(205) 290-5262

bill@baxleyjackson.com

Bill Baxley, who served as Alabama’s Attorney General and Lt. Governor, announces the relocation of his law practice.

Baxley | Jackson Law Firm “I’ve tried cases in every county across this state, representing both individuals and businesses.”

Personal Injury - Business Litigation Criminal Law - Administrative Law -

www.baxleyjackson.com “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

HEY OPELIKA. THERE’S A NEW HERO IN TOWN AND HE’S READY TO SAVE OUR CITY. ONE HOUSE AT A TIME. Meet Captain R2O. He’s strong enough to take on stinky garbage, determined enough to teach you how to recycle, powerful enough to persuade citizens to GO GREEN and handsome enough to win your heart.

If you recycle now, then you are already part of our fantastical League of Environmental Champions. If you do not, no worries. You can sign up for Curbside Recycling or fly over to one of our convenient recycling centers.

Recycling unleashes the super hero in all of us. Join Captain R2O today in his fight to Recycle Right Opelika. And remember, when in doubt, throw it out. For more information on how you can help save our city, visit www.opelika-al.gov.

700 Fox Trail • Opelika, AL 36801 334.705.5480 • www.opelika-al.gov

pelika Observer O

B6 Feb. 26, 2020

Here Come the Big Mules Opelika High School’s Raeden

I

t was bound to happen.

“It” being a campaign fueled by mega bucks from some of the state’s major political action committees in an effort to pass Amendment One. The Alabama Farmers Federation organized “Yes For The Best Education” effort. They kicked things off with a $100,000 contribution. Manufacture Alabama kicked in $50,000, as did the Alabama Association of Realtors. The Alabama Forestry Association gave $25,000.

I have no clue what this campaign will entail. But I am willing to bet it will not be telling people that a YES vote means they are giving up their right to vote or that if Amendment One passes, Alabama will be the ONLY state in the nation where the state senate controls public education.

And here is the real tragedy in all of this.

Larry Lee Who among the groups that claim to represent education, the ones who get hundreds of thousands of dollars from local school systems for membership dues, is working hard to defeat Amendment One? Larry Lee is an Auburn University graduate who started his career in journalism and finished it in economic and community development. He is especially interested in rural development and co-authored three

publications about rural Alabama and rural schools.

He retired in 2011 and today spends most of his time as an advocate for public education. He is a former member of the Montgomery County school board.

He writes a blog that receives 200,000 views a year. (www.larryeducation.com) He was recognized by the Council for Leaders in Alabama schools with the Dr. James Street award as an advocate for public schools. In addition, he was recognized by the Associated Press for having the best radio commentary in Alabama in 2013 and was recently recognized by the Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities as Media Person of the Year.

Lee is a board member of the national Rural Schools Collaborative.

Gagliano signs volleyball scholarship with Southern Union

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

s l o o h c S y t i C 0 2 a 0 k i 2 l l e l p a O F ming o C • Pre-K

• Pre-registration will open February 3, 2020 at Opelika High School (Media Center Entrance) • Selected by Lottery System • Must reside in the City of Opelika • Required information: 2 current proofs of residency (water, power, gas) and original birth certificate • No registration or enrollment fees • Students must be four years-old on or before September 2, 2020 • Hours will be Monday-Friday from 8:15 a.m. 2:45 p.m.

• Classrooms located at Opelika High School • For more details, visit www.opelikaschools.org or call 334.741-5623

Opelika City Schools

in partnership with the

City of Opelika

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020

Inside the Statehouse Opelika City Council unveils a new sign in Primaries are next week memory of Clarence Harris, Jr.

F

olks, our primaries are next week!

On the Democratic side, the Presidential Preference Primary will be the big show and will be interesting to watch. On the right, the Republican Primary for the US Senate Seat will be the marquee event.

In addition to the Senate race, you have two open Republican Congressional Seats in the First and Second districts.

You also have some important statewide Supreme Court and Appellate Court races on the ballot.

Incumbent Supreme Court Justice Greg Shaw and Shelby County State Sen. Cam Ward are both running to be the Republican nominee for the Associate Justice

By Steve Flowers of the Supreme Court, place number one.

Shaw is one of the most introverted, dignified people who ever ran for statewide office. He takes his role as a monk-like, nontalking judge to heart. He has not and will not campaign. He thinks it is beneath the jurist to talk to people, much less campaign or shake hands.

On the other hand, Ward is the ultimate people person and

campaigner. Ward has worked the state from one end to the other, campaigning in every nook and cranny and county.

He has outworked Shaw 20 to 1. However, ultimately in today’s statewide politics, it all boils down to money.

Ninety-five percent of the people who vote next Tuesday will not decide or think about who they are going to vote for until next week. Then after they vote and elect one of them, they will not be able to tell you who they voted for or for that matter who is on the Supreme Court. This one will be interesting and probably close. Whoever gets the most votes Tuesday will be sworn in See Flowers, page B16

Rogers issues statement on housing Americans exposed to Coronavirus Special to the Opelika Observer Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) would be used as a quarantine center for some Americans exposed to Coronavirus (COVID-19).

“Earlier this evening [Saturday], I spoke with President Trump. He agreed with me that the decision by the Department of Health and Human Services to house

those Americans exposed to Coronavirus at the Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston is the wrong decision.

President Trump had no advanced notice and these individuals were brought to the continental United States without his consent. I will continue to work with President Trump and HHS to find the best facilities that meet the needs for those Americans that have been exposed to this dangerous virus. The CDP is not that place,” Rogers said.

On Tuesday Rogers released the following: “This current version of Coronavirus,

COVID-19, represents a potential health and economic threat to our homeland. Congress must act now to provide the additional resources requested by President Trump to prepare for and respond to any outbreak here in the United States.

I urge passage of a clean supplemental without any extraneous provisions.

We cannot play politics with the health and safety of Americans.”

Rogers serves as a ranking member on the Committee on Homeland Security and is a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter During the Opelika City Council meeting held last Tuesday, Mayor Gary Fuller honored the life of Clarence Harris, Jr., who served four terms as Ward 2’s councilman.

Fuller recalled one of their last conversations being held in regard to the safety of drivers on Anderson Road.

Per Harris’ request, the city added a four-way stop and later included a

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer flashing sign.

The new sign, which will be placed on Ander-

son Road, reads: “Harris See Council, page B10

Rita Smith named next director of the Lee County Emergency Management Agency

By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter The Lee County Commission voted 4-1 on Monday night to name Rita Smith as the next director of the Lee County Emergency Management Agency. District 3 Commissioner Gary Long was the only nay vote.

Since joining the organization in 2008, Smith has held multiple titles, including emergency and grant management specialist and public information officer. As director, she plans on prioritizing the improvement of customer service and working more with the public.

“I am deeply humbled to have the opportunity to serve the citizens, first responders and the Lee County Commission,” Smith said in a statement. “Lee

NOW OPEN

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer County welcomed me with open arms when I moved here in 2008.

It has always felt like home.”

Lee County EMA’s director position opened in November following longtime director Kathy Carson’s resignation. She turned in her resigna-

tion to the commission after her mishandling of grant funding used to purchase an allterrain vehicle which was not properly bid out by state laws.

For more information about Lee County EMA, call 334-7498161 or visit leecoema.com.

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

pelika Observer O

B8 Feb. 26, 2020

Two Republicans vying to become Lee County Commission’s First District nominee in March 3 primaries

Brock

By Morgan Bryce Editor Relying on his business background and knowledge of the area, Butch Brock is one of two Republican candidates vying for the nomination to run in the fall election for the Lee County Commission’s First District seat.

Last summer, after learning that Sheila Eckman was stepping down from her position on the commission after this term, Brock said he decided it was time to throw his hat in the ring for local politics.

“If she had run, I wouldn’t have run against her. She’s done a good job in representing her constituents,” Brock said.

Born and raised in Montgomery, Brock attended Jacksonville State University, where he majored in crimi-

nal justice. Originally considering a career in law enforcement, he started in sales after college but shortly transitioned to the technology world, working for companies including Cellular One, Alltel and most recently, Point Broadband, where he serves as the vice president of corporate development.

Brock moved to Auburn nearly two decades ago, and his daughter Amelia grew up in the Auburn City School system. He said he has strived to be an involved community member, serving two terms on the Auburn Parks and Recreation Board (one as chairman), spending several years on the Auburn Water Works Board (including time as the board’s vice chairman) and is an active member of the local Citi-

zen’s Advisory Committee for the NPO. “I’ve been involved in such a number of community and governmental affairs, so hopefully being elected commissioner later this year would be just another step for me,” Brock said.

If elected, Brock said he would like to work with Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones and make sure that his department needs are met as well as better prepare the district’s infrastructure to accommodate its rapid growth.

“Currently, we’re on a 50-year resurfacing schedule, and ideally, that should be 25 and at maximum 30. That’s something that I would definitely like to help address,” Brock said.

As a commissioner, Brock said he would make himself as available as possible to help meet constituents needs or answer their questions.

“You gotta be available. If somebody needs, they can call me,” Brock said. “An elected official that can’t be reached is of no use to his constituents. I want to be involved and visible to the community.”

For more information or updates on Brock’s campaign, like and follow “Butch Brock for Lee County Commission” on Facebook.

By Morgan Bryce Editor Giving back to the community he has called home for the last 55 years was the main inspiration for Doug Cannon to run for a spot on the Lee County Commission.

After learning that longtime District 1 Commissioner Sheila Eckman was leaving at the end of her second term this fall, Cannon said he saw this as the perfect time to pursue his chance to become a public servant.

“I have thought about running for local office for several years. Lee County has given me so many opportunities over the last 55 years and now that I am semi-retired, I want to give back to my community,” Cannon said.

At 10 years old, Cannon remembers working for Dupree’s Grocery and in high school, filled in on occasion as a school bus driver. After graduating from Beauregard High School in 1982, he worked for a stint with the Lee County Engineering Department measuring asphalt on newly paved roads.

Cannon and his wife Amanda have been married for 36 years, and together, they raised three children in Auburn.

Cannon’s career background includes

Cannon 13 years spent with Michelin, a custom home business he has operated for the last 35 years and ownership of a small chain of local restaurants.

In regards to his community outreach, Cannon cited experience coaching Little League sports and recreational/school teams, helping provide Christmas banquet meals for the Auburn Police Department and creating job opportunities through his businesses. He said he also personally supports the Diabetes and Nutrition Center at East Alabama Medical Center, Exceptional Foundation, Tallapoosa County Girl’s Ranch and Woof Avenue Animal Rescue.

Cannon’s platforms in his run for public office are varied but concentrated based on

needs he has identified in his district: competitive salaries and sufficient equipment/ funding for local first responder and law enforcement agencies, fiscal responsibility and greater “accessibility to public services” that matches Lee County’s growth.

“As a county commissioner, I will meet my constituents where the issues are. If someone has an issue, I won’t sit behind a desk,” Cannon said.

“I will get in my truck and meet them personally and try to find a solution. I will work hard for the people of Lee County to make a difference.”

For more information or updates on Cannon’s campaign, like and follow “Doug Cannon for Lee County Commission” on Facebook.

Lee County GOP Executive Committee hosted ‘2020 HarlanHurst Event’ Monday night at the Bottling Plant Event Center

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Hundreds of people attended the “2020 Harlan-Hurst Event” Monday night at the Bottling Plant Event Center, which was hosted by the Lee County GOP Executive Committee. Former Alabama State Representative and political columnist Steve Flowers was the event’s guest speaker. The event was also open to both statewide and local candidates and included attendees like US Senate candidate Tommy Tuberville and District 27 State Sen. Tom Whatley, who are pictured bottom right.

pelika O Observer

B9 Feb. 26, 2020

Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts named member of national council

By Morgan Bryce Editor After being named to the National League of Cities’ Board of Directors in December, Opelika’s Ward 2 Councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts has been appointed to be a member of the organization’s Council on Youth, Education and Families for 2020.

Gibson-Pitts shared her appointment letter in a Facebook post earlier this month with the caption: “God always sends me

what I need whenever I question my purpose! This letter is confirmation that I’m doing just what He wants me to do.”

According to information provided in the letter, the council will be cochaired by Mayor Rosalynn Bliss of Grand Rapids, Michigan and Mayor Melvin Carter of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Mayor Frank Scott of Little Rock and Sacramento Councilmember Eric Guerra will serve as the council’s vice chairs.

This council will “over-

see and support” the work of the NLC’s Institute for Youth, Education and Families (YEF Institute).

Per the NLC website, the institute is “the go-to place for city leaders seeking to improve outcomes for children and families and “reaches cities of all sizes and brings together local leaders to develop strategies via technical assistance projects, peer learning networks, leadership academies, and Mayors’ Institutes.”

For more information, visit www.nlc.org.

Gibson-Pitts

Loachapoka polling location changed because of structural damage to community center; will be moved to Town Hall for March 3 primaries

By Michelle Key Publisher Probate Judge Bill English, Chairman of the Lee County Commission, announced during Monday night’s commission meeting that the Loachapoka Community Center, which is the registered polling site for that area, has been deemed unsafe for public use

by Charles E. Whitley, P.E., of Engineering Design & Testing Corp.

(EDT).

In a letter to Joel Hubbard, Whitley detailed findings of structural damage to the building. Damage including broken floor joists, timbers and framing members was observed in all areas of the facility with the greatest concentration being near its center. Many of the members have small holes throughout them, indicating that wooddestroying organisms are either currently present or have been present, causing damage to the interior of the wood structures.

Because of this development, the polling place for the March 3 primary election has been moved to the Loachapoka Town Hall. English stated that postcards were mailed out to all registered voters notifying them

of the change in polling location.

During the public comment period, Opelika resident Fred Woods and Coroner Bill Harris both addressed the commission regarding the Lee County Emergency Management Agency director’s position. Both Woods and Harris spoke in favor of the commission offering the position to EMA’s Public Information Officer Rita Smith.

“Do the right thing, do the smart thing and do what we elected you to do. Name the qualified person that you already have to the job and be done with it and don’t waste the taxpayer’s money,” Woods said.

“Eventually the top candidate y’all chose decided not to take the job.

I think in all fairness, that your second candidate that you had in the top two should be given a fair chance to prove herself in the position...

We have worked very closely with Rita over the past years and [have] had no issues whatsoever. She is very smart and knows the job well... I would recommend that you appoint her as EMA Director,” Harris said.

In other business, the commission: • voted to approve the minutes of Feb. 10 commission meeting • voted to ratify and

approve claims • heard from Calvin Bellamy on the conditions of the dirt portion of Lee Road 246 • approved the annual Lodging Tax Revenue Administration Agreement • voted to approve amendments to the Subdivision Regulations – the changes that were approved will effectively require that no more than two lots will be able to share a common non-county maintained driveway, and any subdivision of three to 10 lots will have to build a road that meets the amended standards, which are less restrictive than those for subdivisions with greater than 10 lots, but will still allow for the county to accept the roads for permanent maintenance.

The amendments to these regulations will go into effect 30 days from the date of the approval • approved a request from the Lee County Board of Education for the highway department to provide assistance with improving baseball fields near the Smiths Station Junior High School. Materials to improve the fields have been donated, and the county will provide the transportation of the materials.

• approved a request from John McDonald,

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer the Environmental Services Director, pertaining to the county’s participation in the Alabama Recycling Fund Grant Program. McDonald requested that the commission grant approval for the chairman and Deputy Administrator Alice McCall to sign a resolution allowing the county to participate in the program. Lee County partners with the cities of Auburn and Opelika as well as Auburn University in securing the grant funds to further recycling efforts so as to divert materials from the landfill and to protect the environment.

• approved a request from Joel Hubbard, Chief Building Official and NFIP Floodplain Administrator to approve updates to the Flood Damage Prevention Plan. FEMA required all entities participating in the National

Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to revise or update their resolution.

County Commission meetings are held at 5 p.m. on the second and last Monday nights of every month. Meetings

are held in the commission chambers which are located on the second floor of the courthouse annex.

The courthouse is located at 215 S. 9th St. in downtown Opelika.

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS If you began working in a Textile Mill, Tire Plant, Paper Mill, Steel Mill or any other industrial setting before 1980: You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.

Call now for your free evaluation.

1-(888)432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law ARPC 7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

pelika Observer O

B10 Feb. 26, 2020

Council, from B7 Crossroads: In Memory of Clarence Harris, Jr.” The council also recognized the success of the “Empty Bowls” event held earlier this month with a check rep-

resentation to the Food Bank of East Alabama for $21,000.

The Opelika School Teachers of the Year were also recognized at Tuesday’s meeting by local principals and Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors.

In other business, the council:

- approved a request for the ACS’ annual Relay for Life event on April 17 - awarded a bid for right-of-way vegetation management - approved emergency repairs and upgrades for a transformer in Substation 6 - approved the purchases of two drones

for the Opelika Police Department, software and maintenance and one freightliner - granted an application with ADEM for the Recycling Fund Grant Program - approved special appropriation to “Keep Opelika Beautiful” - reappointed David Scott, Steve Bordeaux

and Steve Chapman to the Opelika Industrial Development Authority board until March 8, 2024 and - reappointed Brent Poteet to the Property Maintenance Board of Appeals until March 16, 2023.

The Opelika City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday

SAMPLE BALLOT - FRONT -

of each month, with work sessions normally starting between 6 to 6:45 p.m. followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m. Beginning on March 3, city council meetings will be moved to the new Opelika Municipal Court facility at 501 S. 10th St. For more information, visit www. opelika-al.gov.

pelika O Observer

B11 Feb. 26, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES INVITATION TO BID 20014 Sealed bids for the construction of the RENOVATION TO COVINGTON RECREATION CENTER shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Monday March 16, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud.

All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At such time and place, the bids will be opened and read. Bids that are received via mail and not presented at the bid opening are to be considered non-responsive. It is the responsibility of the bidder to assure that bids are presented at the time of the bid. Contractors must notify the Awarding Authority if a bid is to be received by mail.

At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.

Prior to issuance of plans and specifications, all Contractors must provide evidence that they are properly licensed for the classification of work for this project.

Evidence shall be in the form of

a copy of current license clearly indicating all classifications, or sub-classifications, bid limits, license number; and expiration date. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to The City of Opelika in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the proposal, but in no event more than $10,000.00, must accompany the bidder’s proposal for each project. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance as required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.

Drawings and specifications for the project may be examined at the Office of Lathan Associates Architects, P.C., 300 Chase Park South, Suite 200, Hoover, AL 35244, and at the Digital Plan Room at Alabama Graphics (http://dpr.algraphics.com).

Password is lathan.

MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING SHALL BE HELD AT THE PROJECT SITE AT 10:00 A.M. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2020 Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave, Opelika, Alabama. ANY POTENTIAL BIDDERS MUST ATTEND THIS MEETING General Contractor Bidders may obtain two (2) sets of hard copy drawings and specifications from

the Architect upon receipt of deposit check in the amount of $150.00 per set made payable to Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. General Contractors will then be placed on Official Bidders List. Deposit will be refunded in full on the first two sets issued to each General Contractor Bidder upon the return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after receipt of bids. Additional sets of drawings/ specifications and digital copies will be available to General Contractors for purchase directly from the documents printer: Alabama Graphics. Addenda and other proposal information will be issued only to holders of drawings and specifications distributed by the Architect and on the Official Bidders List.

Release of contract documents to the bidder does not imply acceptance of the bidder’s qualifications by the Owner or Architect.

General Contractors who obtain drawings and wish to withdraw from the Bidders List must do so in writing to the office of the Architect prior to bid date, otherwise deposit will be forfeited.

Deposit will be refunded in full on sets issued to each General Contractor Bidder submitting a bonafide bid, upon the return of documents in good, reusable condition within ten (10) days after receipt of proposals.

Bids received from General

Contractors who are not on the Official Bidders List may not be accepted or opened. Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. makes no guarantee for plans and specifications obtained by Contractors and Vendors from sources other than the printed contract documents provided by their firm.

Contractors and Vendors who base their pricing from contract documents obtained from other electronic sources, either in part or whole, do so at their own risk.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof, issued either with the original contract documents or by addendum. General Contractors shall not use Proposal Forms other than those provided in the contract documents.

All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975. The Bidder must display current General Contractor’s License Number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered, or it will not be considered by the Architect or Owner. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgment, the best interests of the Owner

will thereby be promoted.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof, issued either with the original contract documents or by addendum. General Contractors shall not use Proposal Forms other than those provided in the contract documents.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: RENOVATION TO COVINGTON RECREATION CENTER LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/2020

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Probate Court, Lee County Estate of: Debra Jean Obert a/k/a Debra Moi Obert, deceased ) Case No: 2020-018 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS

TESTMENTARY of Debra Jean Obert a/k/a Debra Moi Obert deceased having been granted to Abigail Newman Layfield on the 17th day of January, 2020 , by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Abigail Newman Layfield James M. Ivins Attorney for Abigail Newman Layfield 1408 Broad Street Phenix City, AL 36867 Phone: 334-298-0607 Legal Run 02/12/2020, 02/19/2020 & 02/26/2020

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1242 North Dean Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on 3/11/2020 1:30 PM John Toney Jr Unit# 47 820 N. Gay Street Auburn, AL,36830 king bed, couch, recline, household items, TV, dresser Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 02/19/20 & 02/26/2020

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FAY McCLENDON NEWELL, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of February, 2020, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

HERBERT ESLEY NEWELL, JR. FAY NEWELL NEWTON CHARLES TIMOTHY NEWELL DAWN SHEREE NEWELL AND BLISS QUINTINA NEWELL, Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/20

SAMPLE BALLOT - BACK

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1412 Opelika Road Auburn, AL 36830 on 3/11/2020 2:00pm.

Rashaun Hoskey Unit# G98 429 Dale Rd Eufala,AL,36027 Furniture boxes Brianne Laureen Atkinson Unit# B25 420 N Dean Rd Apt 106 Auburn,AL,36830 Paintings and small furniture, boxes Brian D Davis Unit# A3 608 Hoaward P Carter Dr Tuskegee,AL,36083 Charlesa Adams Unit# W381 521 S Antioch Cir Apt B Opelika,AL,36801 queen bed clothes boxes Patricia Felton Unit# S335 932 Pleasant Ave. Auburn,AL,36830 household items Tanekqua Weaver Unit# T352 159 County Rd 79 Apt 205 Roanoke,AL,36274 couch,kitchen table,few boxes Lakeshia Farrow Unit# R319 324 Pleasant Cir Apt F Opelika,AL,36801 Small furniture and boxes Danielle Jolly unit# E78 701 Baker Blvd Tuscumbia,AL,35674 3 bedroom home Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 02/19/20 & 02/26/2020

pelika Observer O

B12 Feb. 26, 2020

Lee County Coroner Bill Harris traveled to Washington D.C. earlier this month to attend national conference to Emergency Support Function 8 (ESF 8) of the National Response Network as they relate to capability gaps between core functions to include patient care, patient movement, medical surge and mass fatality management in relationship to the Department of Defense’s framework.

Discussion regarding the needs of the Coroner/ME community during hurricane re-

Special to the Opelika Observer

Lee County Coroner Bill Harris represented Alabama coroners at the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Stakeholder Engagement event in Washington, D.C. on Feb. 19 and 20. Participants discussed issues related

sponse and concerns regarding coronavirus response were addressed and reviewed in order to identify gaps in operation, training, funding, logistics and more.

Coroner representatives from Alabama, Mississippi and South Carolina participated along with 50 other subject matter experts regarding these public health and emergency management situations.

SAMPLE BALLOT Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured from left to right: Bobbi Jo O’Neal, Chief Deputy Coroner for Charleston, South Carolina and President-Elect of the IACME; Sharon Grisham-Stewart, Coroner for Hinds County, Mississippi; Chad Hrdina, director of the Division of Requirements for the ASPR; Harris, Lee County coroner and George Rice, deputy coroner for the Richland County (South Carolina) Coroner’s Office.

SAMPLE BALLOT ABSENTEE OFFICIAL BALLOT D-1

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY AND CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ELECTION LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA MARCH 3, 2020

INSTRUCTIONS TO THE VOTER TO VOTE YOU MUST BLACKEN THE OVAL COMPLETELY! IF YOU SPOIL YOUR BALLOT, DO NOT ERASE, BUT ASK FOR A NEW BALLOT. CANDIDATE OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY FOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES (Vote for One) MICHAEL BENNET JOSEPH R. BIDEN MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG CORY BOOKER PETE BUTTIGIEG JULIÁN CASTRO JOHN K. DELANEY TULSI GABBARD AMY KLOBUCHAR BERNIE SANDERS TOM STEYER

After selecting your Presidential candidate, vote for not more than four (4) delegate candidates pledged to that candidate.

If you selected uncommitted, vote for not more than four (4) uncommitted delegate candidates.

Votes for delegate candidates pledged to someone other than your Presidential selection ARE NOT ALLOWED UNDER DEMOCRATIC PARTY RULES. FOR DELEGATES TO THE 2020 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION, 3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT JOSEPH R. BIDEN DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four)

ELIZABETH WARREN

LINDSEY BICKERSTAFF

MARIANNE WILLIAMSON

ZACK BUCKNER

ANDREW YANG

DOLORES (Dee) CRUMLY

UNCOMMITTED

LAMAR CRUMLY

FOR PRESIDENT, PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION (Vote for One) FOR PRESI DENT, PUBL IC SERVI CE COM M I SSION

UNCOMMITTED DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four)

DELEGATE SELECTION INSTRUCTIONS

KAY KING DAVIS JOHNNY FORD

LAURA CASEY

SHEILA DEGAN GILBERT

ROBERT L. MARDIS, III

HARRY GILLIAM JEREMY GRAY R. JAIME LOWE REBECCA MARION CORY BOOKER DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) AL ALLENBACK

TERRY D. ADAMSON JR JOANNE SHUM RONALD MARVIN SHUM DONALD J. WILLIAMS MARY E. WILLIAMS ”Shall the following Amendments to the Constitution of Alabama be adopted?”

STATEWIDE AM ENDM ENT NUM BER ONE

PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO APPEAR ON THE BALLOT STATEWIDE PROPOSED STATEWIDE AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to change the name of the State Board of Education to the Alabama Commission on Elementary and Secondary Education; to provide for the appointment of the members of the commission by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Senate; to change the name of the State Superintendent of Education to the Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education; to provide for the appointment of the secretary by the commission, subject to confirmation by the Senate; and to authorize the Governor to appoint a team of local educators and other officials to advise the commission on matters relating to the functioning and duties of the State Department of Education. (Proposed by Act 2019-345) YES NO

PETE BUTTIGIEG DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) GLENN L. ALLEN

END OF BALLOT

MICHELLE CELY AARON FOX GRANT GARBER MARY LYNN HIGGINS ELI O'CONNOR GRACE O'CONNOR MICHAEL SHELTON DONNA YOUNG AMY KLOBUCHAR DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) ADAM JORTNER BERNIE SANDERS DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) CARLA SMITH JESSE T. SMITH DANIEL STOREY TOM STEYER DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) "By casting this ballot, I do pledge myself to abide by the result of this Primary Election and to aid and support all the Nominees thereof in the ensuing General Election."

ROBERT E. HERGENROEDER ELIZABETH WARREN DELEGATES (Vote for no more than Four) TERRI CHAPMAN KRISTINA MICHEL SAMANTHA SMOOT

Typ:01 Seq:0001 Spl:01

pelika O Observer Lee County Voters League to meet March 2 Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Voters League meeting will be held on March 2 at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church, which is located at 201 S. 4th St. in Opelika.

Rep. Jeremy Gray, as Voters League president, will continue their Voter's Education/Call for Action efforts introducing Kynesha Brown

Notices, from B11 In the Matter of the Estate of Angela Ingram Barreto, Deceased In the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Case No. 2019-C-102 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 16th day of January, 2020 by the Honorable Bill English Judge of Probate Court for Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Jeffery L. Ingram

to give her presentation on the process of record expungement to restore voting rights.

Adoption of constitution/by-laws, increased social media presence and location change will be addressed; there will also be a brief update on efforts to reactivate the Lee County branch of the NAACP which reached the 50-plus member threshold to move forward.

B13 Feb. 26, 2020

Legal Run 02/19/20, 02/26/20 & 03/04/20

3. If you need special assistance please call Mr. Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at (334) 705-2083.

Legal Run 02/26/2020

City of Opelika ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT March 10, 2020 9:00 A.M. MEETING CHAMBER at OPELIKA MUNICIPAL COURT 300 MLK BOULEVARD OPELIKA, AL 36801 A. VARIANCE 1. Barrett-Simpson Inc., representative for Stone Martin Builders, 1069 Hampstead Lane, Requesting a 1.7-foot side yard setback variance from the 6 foot minimum side yard setback requirement in The Estates PUD zoning district NOTE: 1. The City of Opelika complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts.

2. The City of Opelika meeting facilities are accessible.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF BARBARA W. SMITH COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 19th day of February, 2020, 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 my hand, and dated this the 19th day of February, 2020.

LAWRENCE WADE SMITH Legal Run 02/26/20, 03/04/20 & 03/11/2020

STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-076 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF LISA HARRY NATHAN, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR Letters of Administration of the Estate of Lisa Harry Nathan, deceased having been granted to Alexander Adlai Dashner Nathan this 21st day of February, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Alexander Adlai Dashner Nathan, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer 334-745-2564 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, AL 36803-0030 Legal Run 02/26/20, 03/04/20 & 03/11/20

PUBLIC NOTICE (ADEM) PUBLIC NOTICE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES) PERMIT AND AIR PERMIT AND REQUEST FOR COMMENTS LEE COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at 6:00 p.m., at the Opelika Performing Arts Center at Opelika High School located at 1700 Bulldog Pkwy, Opelika, AL 36801, concerning the

proposed issuance of air and water permits to Creekwood Resources, LLC for a proposed granite quarry to be located 0.6 miles from the intersection of Lee County Road 168 and US Highway 431, south of Lee County Road 168, Opelika, AL 36801.

Creekwood Resources, LLC has applied for issuance of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit, NPDES Permit Number AL0084018, for proposed discharges of treated drainage from a wet and dry preparation granite quarry and associated areas to Groundwater and to unnamed tributaries to Sougahatchee Creek (Sougahatchee Lake) and an

unnamed tributary to Sougahatchee Creek, classified as Fish and Wildlife in the Tallapoosa River Basin. The Department has tentatively determined that the proposed actions described in this notice are consistent with the Water Quality Rules including the Department’s Anti-degradation Rules.

Creekwood Resources, LLC, Inc. has also applied for an Air Permit, Facility No. 206-0050, which would authorize the construction and operation of a granite crushing, screening, and conveying operation. Emissions of particulate matter would be minimized by the use of wet suppression. The Department has determined that the equipment/operations

We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes and racks around Lee County

• Better Bodies Massage Institute • Interim HomeCare • Opelika Theatre Company • Three Keys Properties, LLC

proposed by the company should be able to meet State and federal air pollution control requirements.

Pursuant to applicable regulations, the Department issued a public notice of a 30-day public comment period on January 21, 2020, on the Department’s website during which any interested person could submit written comments on the permit applications or draft permits. During this comment period, the Department received sufficient requests to warrant a public hearing.

Therefore, the Department is announcing a public hearing, and is extending the public comment period until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2020.

Copies of the complete project file are available for public inspection electronically via http://www.adem. alabama.gov/newsEvents/ pubHearings.cnt, and at the following location MondayFriday, except legal holidays, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. A nominal fee for copying and /or mailing may be charged. Arrangements for copying should be made

in advance.

Russell A. Kelly, Chief Permits and Services Division ADEM 1400 Coliseum Blvd.

[Mailing address: P. O. Box 301463-1463] Montgomery, AL 361102400 (334) 271-7714 permitsmail@adem. alabama.gov The purpose of the public hearing will be for interested parties to make oral and written comments into the public hearing record.

Those wishing to make oral comments at the public hearing are also encouraged to submit those comments in writing. All comments must address the conditions of the proposed permits; the Department’s adherence to the applicable environmental laws, rules, and regulations in development of the proposed permits; or issues that have an impact on the applicant’s ability to meet applicable environmental laws, rules, and regulations to affect the final permit decision.

Any person wishing to

AUCTIONS THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 10 A.M. CST

6,232+/- Sq. Ft. Restaurant/Commercial Bldg. & 3.06+/- Acre Lot Former Home of Country’s Bar-B-Q, also selling Personal Property (Montgomery, AL)

THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2 P.M. CST

4,962+/- Sq. Ft. Restaurant/Commercial Bldg., Former Home of Country’s Bar-B-Q, also selling Personal Property 4,415 +/- Sq. Ft. Restaurant/Commercial Bldg., Former Home of Buck’s Place, also selling Personal Property Lot adjoining Country’s BBQ & Buck’s Place in (Prattville, AL)

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 10 A.M. CST

BANK ORDERED Prime Commercial Lot (Montgomery, AL)

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 12 P.M. CST

To have your company’s logo placed on a box email us at editor@opelikaobserver.com

1+/- Acre Lot (Prattville, AL)

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2 P.M. CST

BANK ORDERED .88+/- Acres Commercial Lot (Clanton, AL)

SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 11 a.m. CST

3,150+/- Sq. Ft. Custom Built Cypress & Rock Exterior Home, also selling Personal Property, 3 BR, 2 BA on 115+/- Acres (Pike Rd., AL)

American Auctioneers | Rebel Auction Co. Keith Baldwin, CAI AL 1416

Call 1-866-789-5169 American-auctioneers.com | Rebelauction.net

participate in this hearing who needs special accommodations should contact the ADEM Permits and Services Division at (334) 271-7714 at least three working days prior to the hearing.

Attendance at the public hearing is not necessary in order to have comments included in the public hearing record. Written comments received prior to the close of the public comment period will also be considered and entered into the public hearing record. Written comments should be submitted to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), Attention: Mr. Russell A. Kelly, at the above Montgomery address.

After consideration of all oral and written comments and consideration of the requirements of the Alabama Air Pollution Control Act, the federal Clean Air Act, the Alabama Water Pollution Control Act, the federal Water Pollution Control Act, and all other applicable regulations, the Department will make a final determination. The Department will develop a response to comments which will be posted to the Department’s website at http://app.adem. alabama.gov/eFile/. To find the response to comments and final permit determination, you may search by the permit or facility number listed in this notice.

The Department maintains a list of interested individuals who are emailed legal notices regarding proposed permits. If you wish to receive such notices, please sign up here by entering your email address on the left side of the page and clicking the submit button.

This notice is hereby given on this 20th day of February, 2020 by authorization of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

Lance R. LeFleur Director Nondiscrimination Statement: The Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in the administration of its programs.

ALASCAN CLASSIFIEDS AUCTIONS AUCTION SATURDAY, March 7th -9:00 A.M -10513 Hwy. 84 West, Dothan, AL.Construction & Farm Equipment. Dennis Burton AL # 578. 1-334692-3955 www.burtonauction.com ANNOUNCEMENTS SPONSOR AN Exchange student! Enjoy another culture from the comfort of your own home. Make a difference in your community.

Change a student’s life!

1-678-745-8081 SERVICES BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year price Guarantee! $59.99/mo. with 190 Channels and 3 months free premium movie channels!

Free next day installation!

Call 1-855-943-1314 PLACE STATEWIDE Ads 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 Alascan newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide!

INSTRUCTION ONLINE PHARMACY Technician Training New Students Only. Call & Press 1. Financial Aid Available for those who qualify. 100% Online Courses. Call 1-844359-2283.

INSURANCE AUTO INSURANCE Starting at $49/month! Call for your Free rate comparison to see how much you can save! Call: 1-855-408-7970.

LOWEST PRICES on Health Insurance. We have the best rates from top companies! See how much

you can save, Call Now! 1-844-335-8693.

SAVE BIG on Home Insurance! Compare 20 A-rated insurance companies. Let us do the shopping & save you time & money. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/year! Call 1-888-674-0779. (M-F 8am8pm Central).

HEALTH/BEAUTY A PLACE For Mom has helped over a million families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call 1-205-855-2004 ATTENTION: VIAGRA and Cialis Users! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special-$99 + Free Shipping! 100% guaranteed. Call Now: 1-855382-4115.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

FOR SALE -Well maintained Mobile Home Park.

21 mobile homes plus a 2,600 square foot home.

Plus equipment. Located in Dale County, Alabama.

Call 1-334-701-6069.

FINANCIAL SERVICES DONATE YOUR Car to Charity. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details.

1-844-810-1257.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY 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: 1-888-283-4780.

AUTOMOTIVE 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 FARM CLASSIFIEDS GOT LAND? Our Hunters will pay Top Dollar to hunt your land. Call for a Free

Information Packet & quote 1-866-309-1507. www.

BaseCampLeasing.com FOR SALE BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. Easy, One Day updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers.

Call for free in-home consultation: 1-877-730-3876

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS MANUFACTURED HOME FOR SALE: 3-Year old Manufactured home for sale, $60,000 MUST BE MOVED 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms - House has a mudroom, large master bathroom, 3 spacious walk-in closets and laundry room.

Wheelchair ramp and screened in front porch included with the property.

Contact Maxine Smith at 256-896-2619 - Answering service is available. Please leave a message.

B14 Feb. 26, 2020

pelika O Observer

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

PROVEN

PROVEN LEADERSHIP FOR AMERICA

Election Day in Alabama is Tuesday, March 3rd.

As Mayor of New York City, Mike Bloomberg helped expand health care coverage to 700,000 New Yorkers.

As President, he’ll lower costs, increase access, ban surprise medical bills and lower drug prices.

mikebloomberg.com Paid for by Mike Bloomberg 2020

pelika O Observer

B16 Feb. 26, 2020

Flowers, from B7 for a six-year term in January. Winning the GOP nomination for a judgeship in Alabama is tantamount to election in the Heart of Dixie.

Two Jefferson/Shelby metro candidates are vying for a seat on the Court of Civil Appeals. State Reps.

Matt Fridy and Phillip Bahakel are vying for Place Number 2 on the Civil Appeals Court.

The presiding judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals, Mary Windom, should waltz to re-election.

However, Criminal Appeals Judge Beth Kellum, who has done an excellent job, could have a tougher race with two opponents.

PSC President Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh has an alsoran liberal candidate in her race.

The winners of the March 3 GOP Primary or runoff on March 31 will win the 1st and 2nd Congressional districts and go to Washington for two years.

The fist district Mobile/Baldwin race is the best and most up in the air. It is a three- man race between former State Sen. Bill Hightower,

Mobile County Commissioner Jerry Carl and Mobile State Rep. Chris Pringle. It will be interesting to see which two make the March 31 runoff.

Dothan businessman Jeff Coleman is the frontrunner to win the open 2nd Congressional District seat. The question is can he win without a runoff. It may be difficult with seven people in the race. He will ultimately win.

As earlier stated, the GOP contest for the US Senate is the marquee event on the scene next week. Jeff Sessions is the favorite to win back his seat. However, it will not be a cakewalk. It

is doubtful he can win without a runoff. It is a spirited and close race between Coach Tommy Tuberville and Congressman Bradley Byrne to get into the runoff with Sessions. Former Chief Justice Roy Moore has done very little campaigning and will probably get less than 10 percent of the vote.

All indications point to former Vice President Joe Biden winning our Democratic Presidential Primary.

More than 75 percent of the votes cast in our Alabama Democratic Primary will be

by African American voters, and Biden has received overwhelm-

ing endorsements from almost all of the African American hierarchy and leadership groups in the state. In addition, the two leading African American Democratic Leaders, Congresswoman Terri Sewell and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin have endorsed Biden.

However, Joe Reed’s powerful Alabama Democratic Conference has endorsed former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg. It will be interesting to see how Bloomberg fares in Alabama next Tuesday. He has spent a lot of money.

You will see an

initiative on the ballot that will ask you if you want to make the State School Board appointed rather than elected. Gov. Kay Ivey is promoting a “yes” vote. She believes an appointed board is better for education. She would appoint the State School Board, if approved.

Y’all don’t forget to vote.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

He served 16 years in the state legislature.

Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers. us.

OPELIKA CITIZEN’S POLICE ACADEMY THURSDAYS APRIL 2 - MAY 21, 2020 6 - 8 P.M. EACH EVENING FIRST MEETING WILL BE HELD AT THE OPELIKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

Opelika citizens are invited. Eight weeks of hands on learning to educate the public on the various aspects of police work within the City of Opelika. The department will be taking up to 20 applicants. If you are interested, contact Lt. Ben Blackburn at OPDjobs@opelika-al.gov and request an application.

Please include “CPA” in subject line of email. You will then receive an application to fill out and send back to Lt. Blackburn. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on March 9. For more information, visit www.opelika.-al.gov or call Lt. Blackburn at 334.705.5258.

2020 OA CPA ad

This week’s puzzle answers: