Issuu

Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021

Vol. 13, No. 48

pelika Observer O

Opelika, Alabama

O GROWS FARMERS MARKET SATURDAY - SEPT. 11 FROM 9 A.M. TO NOON

“An award-winning publication for local people, by local people.”

Susan Jackson Remembers Serving At Ground Zero PHOTOS BY ANN CIPPERLY

BY ANN CIPPERLY OPELIKA OBSERVER

On Sept. 11, 2001, Susan Jackson was watching television at her loft apartment in downtown Opelika when the jets flew into the World Trade Center towers. Like everyone else in America, Jackson was horrified that such an attack could occur. She had just finished her requirements for Red Cross disaster training. When a call came across the country for volunteers, Jackson See JACKSON, page A3

Jackson has two helmets from her time at Ground Zero. One signed by the fire department and another from the police department along with two stuffed bears. She has many pins from 9/11. The FBI agents also wrote thank you on the helmets as they were not allowed to sign their names.

Opelika Chamber Opens Annual Total Resource Campaign Sales

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is launching its annual sponsorship drive, the Total Resource Campaign, on Sept. 1, 2021. The campaign will run through Oct. 1, 2021 and will be the one time of year that members are able to secure sponsorships for the 2022 Chamber program of work. Sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Total Resource Campaign provides local businesses — both small and large — with avenues to reach diverse and targeted customer groups to grow their businesses by utilizing targeted branding opportunities the Chamber provides. A volunteer sales team works together every Fall to

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CONTRIBUTED BY THE OPELIKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

make this happen. “As a former marketing executive who utilized our Total Resource Campaign to reach our marketing goals at Chicken Salad Chick, I encourage businesses to connect

with our sales team to find the right fit for their business,” said President & CEO of the Opelika Chamber Ali Rauch. “Our goal is to help you turn contacts, into contracts, and with See CAMPAIGN, page A2

Opelika Rotarians Offering Help in Louisiana BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Hurricane Ida ripped through communities, homes and people’s lives, leaving devastation in the wake. But — there are those who want to help. The Opelika Rotary Club is preparing to spend the upcoming weekend providing relief effort in Louisiana, through both man power and monetary donations. Jericho Wilson said

that relief efforts are not new for the club. In 2019, the rotary and local district was able to raise enough money to fund a house through MEND for victims of the 2019 Beauregard tornados. Wilson serves as the district chair for the Rotary District 6880, Disaster Relief Committee, which was formed following the tornados. “We are actually going to go down [to See LOUISIANA, page A2

CARES Act Funds to Be Allocated For Nursing Shortage CONTRIBUTED BY THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday reallocated $12.3 million of the Coronavirus Relief Fund to secure qualified, out-of-state, travel nurses to work in Alabama hospitals in a temporary capacity. “I’m pleased to see more folks getting vaccinated, but we are still in the thick of COVID-19 and our hospitals are overwhelmed,” Ivey said. “In consideration of the current surge of the virus and the strain on our dedicated healthcare professionals, I have directed the $12.3 million of CARES Act funding be reallocated to recruit more trained staff to our nursing corps. Until our vaccination rates rise and our COVID-19 hospitalization rates fall, we will need the extra support

Contents OPINION.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A4 OPINION

SPORTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

POLITICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B9

RELIGION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A13

CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B12

COMICS.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A15 COMICS

PUBLIC NOTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . B12

these nurses provide.” In consultation with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris designated the nursing shortage Alabama’s most urgent need. ADPH will work with the Alabama Hospital Association to develop a process to recruit these travel nurses. “ADPH would like to express its gratitude to Gov. Ivey and State Finance Director Poole for providing this support to Alabama hospitals, which are seeing unprecedented numbers of patients infected with COVID-19” Harris said. “This funding comes at a crucial time and will make a tremendous difference in increasing the nursing workforce in our state.” The $12.3 million reallocation is from CARES Act funds that were previous-

ly obligated but not reimbursed among the various approved expenditures. The Alabama Legislative Leadership, House Speaker Mac McCutcheon and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Reed, also support Alabama hospitals thru the reallocation of CARES Act funding. “The on-going coronavirus pandemic has presented struggles for many across the state, but perhaps no group has faced as many challenges or stood taller than the frontline medical workers in hospitals, clinics and physicians’ offices across the state,” McCutcheon said. “Our nurses are forced to set aside concerns and worries about their own health as they tend to the patients who are fighting a highSee CARES, page A3

A2 Sept. 9, 2021

Come Throw with the Heroes

A new axe throwing business has entered the Opelika scene and will be having its first big event this weekend. “Axe Marks the Spot” will be hosting its inaugural Hero Throw Event on Sept. 11, 2021, beginning at 11:30 am. This event is being held to honor and celebrate our communities’ first responders. “I wanted to host an event that would honor our first responders and felt like the 20th anniversary of 9/11 would be a good time to do it,” said Emily Key, owner of Axe Marks the Spot.

PHOTO BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY MEGAN MANN FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

“These men and women are truly heroes every day.” A friendly competition between local first responders will kick off the event. During the main

tournament, each competitor will have 10 throws and will accumulate points from each throw. People ages 7 and up are invited to come participate in the

fun-filled day. Anyone who registers for the event prior will pay $15 as opposed to the $20 fee on the day of the event. This excludes all first responders and military

CAMPAIGN

options that range from $50 to $5000, the Total Resource Campaign can do just that.” Nathan Kastner with Smith-Kastner Wealth Management said, “As a business owner, the Total Resource Campaign gives me the opportunity to design a custom sponsorship and advertisement strategy that best fit my business goals. And as an added benefit, it allows me to support the local Chamber of Commerce that does so much to bolster area businesses. The 2021 TRC Sales Team is listed below: Barbi Agricola | James Bush | Laurel Callaway | Lindsay Crosby | John-Mark Davis | Stephanie Graham | John Gwin | Bob Harris | Antione Harvis | Blake Henry | Janataka Holmes | Brooke Kastner | Leigh Krehling | Stacey Lucas | Wanda McCaghren | Rosanna McGinnis | Elizabeth Milner | Billy Plummer | Emily White If a business would like to connect with one of the volunteers, email Mackenzie at mackenzie@opelikachamber.com. For a one-on-one marketing consultation to find the right fit for your business, contact Ali at ali@opelikachamber.com.

members, who will only have to pay $10. There will be a $150 cash prize for the winner of the event. Come out and support your local business as well as our local heroes at the Hero Throw Event, you won’t want to miss it. “It will be a fun and exciting community event to honor our local heroes,” Key said. For more information on the event or to make your reservations text or call, 912-322-1699. Axe Marks the Spot is located at 223 South St. in Opelika. You can stay up to date with their events by following their Facebook page, Axe Marks the Spot.

Let's Clean Up, Opelika National Clean-Up Day to be held Sept. 18 CONTRIBUTED TO THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

A National CleanUp Day event will be held at Municipal Park located on Park Road in Opelika on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon.

LOUISIANA

FROM A1

Louisiana] and partner up with the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Department,” Wilson said. “That whole parish was just demolished and their resources are so strained, they can’t even get the roads open for citizens to get out and if there was anywhere to go, they can’t go anywhere. No power, no water, no nothing. … We’re going to go down and our first operation is going to be to link up with the sheriff’s department and clear out St. Charles Parish and try to get the roads open.” Club members and volunteers will leave Opelika Thursday, head to Fairhope and from there, Louisiana. Wilson said that if, over

Participants will be cleaning up litter in the park and surrounding areas. Water and trash bags will be provided. It is recommended that volunteers wear closed-toe shoes, gloves and insect repellent. Long pants may be desirable if

the weekend, they are able to open the roads up, the next task will be to move onto another parish, or continue helping in St. Charles, however may be necessary — such as removing trees from homes. “We just ask for volunteers to come out and work with us, and rotary’s been generous enough to donate the funds to get two trailers, fully equip them with everything that we need, so now we’re just raising money to buy more equipment, help out more people,” Wilson said. The area the group is traveling to does not have a disaster relief team, Wilson said, so they will help train roughly 100 volunteers waiting to help. Wilson said that some of the needs include tarps and camp stoves, for boiling water.

pelika Observer

Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

retrieving trash from overgrown areas. Volunteers may sign up at www. eventbrite.com/e/ national-cleanup-day-opelikaal- registration169887182135?aff=e bdssbdestsearch. Participants are asked to check in at

“Since you don’t have power, you can’t turn on your stove, you can’t boil water, you can’t do anything and they’re all under a water boil advisory,” he said. Anyone who chooses to come and volunteer will find that this is all-expense paid. “Rotarians are going to house us as their own homes in Slidell which I guess still has power and is still in good shape,” Wilson said. Food and equipment is also covered. “We’ll leave Fairhope, get to Slidell … then head over to St. Charles Parish Friday afternoon, my goal is to be boots on the ground ready to operate by 1 o’clock. We’ll just work until we can’t work any more Friday. Then we’ll work all day Saturday, all day Sunday. And we may or may not make the

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the Municipal Park stage at 10 a.m. Volunteers aged 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. COVID POLICY: All participants are encouraged to be vaccinated. Masks must be worn in the check-in area, but

may be removed during the actual clean up due to the inherent distancing of the process. This event is made possible by the generous support of University Ace Hardware (Auburn) and Almost Anything (Opelika).

rotary6880.org). "Thank you to Dozier Smith T as Smith T hardware for great deals on tarps, propane tanks, gloves and more," Wilson said. "I also wanted to thank the folks at University Ace for such a great deal on three brand new Stihl chainsaws. All these items were purchased via donations to Rotary, so 'thank you' to everyone that donated as well." The group is still in need of donations, though. “The cool thing about donating to rotary and not just disaster relief, but rotary as a whole, is you think about an organization like the Red Cross where you’ve got a CEO collecting a fat salary, you’ve got other paid employees, so if you give them a $1, maybe 60, 70 cents is going to the community but with rotary,

first half of Monday a work day.” Wilson said that they are willing to accept as many volunteers as may want to help. “The more the merrier,” he said. “… The one thing a lot of people think about is, ‘Oh, I’m not in good enough health to run a chain saw. I can’t move a log. I’m not going to go.’ Well, there’s limbs to be picked up, or there’s meals to prepare or water to distribute. There’s definitely lot’s of work that needs to be done.” Wilson said that anyone interested in volunteering can reach out through the rotary website (opelikarotaryclub. com) or attend a meeting (Wednesdays at 12 p.m. at Saugahatchee or Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Resting Pulse). Donations can also be made online (foundation.

FROM A1

we have no overhead,” Wilson said. “We pay all of our own expenses out of our own personal pockets. So every dollar you give us is going to go straight back into the community.” Wilson encouraged people to think of this disaster the way they did the Beauregard tornadoes — and think of those who are still hurting. “I live my life by the golden rule, you know, treat other people the way you want to be treated and I know good and well that if I had a storm land on top of me, I would love to have somebody offer me a hand,” he said. “I may or may not take it but I would at least want somebody to come by and offer that and that’s why I like to pay it forward. “… Freedom isn’t free. You have to serve your country in order for your country to serve you.”

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A3 Sept. 9, 2021

EAH Participates in Statewide Moment of Silence BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

All across the state of Alabama Tuesday, hospitals planned a moment of silence at noon to honor those who lost their lives to COVID-19. East Alabama Health joined in, but opened with few words from Chaplain Laura Eason. “Today is a somber day in the state of Alabama as we pause and remember all of the lives lost to COVID-19, their families, their friends,” she said. “As of 10:15 this

JACKSON

FROM A1

signed up. After filling out paperwork at Red Cross headquarters, she was told she would be going to ground zero immediately before registering at her hotel. Before Jackson realized what was happening, she found herself in a taxi with the FBI and OSHA speeding through abandoned streets in New York City. Jackson told them she had just finished training and did not feel qualified. Jackson said she didn't know at the time that in order to volunteer at ground zero, nurses needed a passport. So, she was one of few. She had gotten a passport to go to the Holy Land with her church in Opelika, never realizing it would change her life forever. A passport was required at ground zero since it was a crime scene. As the taxi drew closer, Jackson noticed empty taxis lined up along the streets. New York was a ghost town. She didn’t see anyone or another car. The trees were covered with debris and millions of pieces of paper. Up ahead was a dark cloud. The hair on the back of her neck began to stand up as a chill ran through her body. She had seen the planes fly into the towers on television, but she was not prepared. The closer they got, the dirtier the air became, the wind was blowing and trees were full of debris and paper. When Jackson

CARES >>

FROM A1

ly-contagious virus that has already taken so many from us. It seems altogether fitting that Alabama is devoting a portion of its CARES Act dollars to a group that has demonstrated it cares the most — the nurses who provide aid to the sick and injured in the most remote rural communities and

morning, there have been 12,420 deaths due to COVID throughout the state.” Of that number, 273 died at East Alabama Health due to COVID-19. On the other hand, however, there have been 1,813 who survived COVID-19 and were discharged, as well as 2,843 who were treated with monoclonal antibody infusion therapy, Eason said. “I also want it to be a day of hope for all of the lives saved,” she said. “Because of the incredible work, hard, hard work of our physicians, nurses and therapists,

EASON

and our entire staff, here have been 1,813 people hospitalized at East Alabama Health that survived and were discharged to recover at home. That’s amazing. “… [Infusion Therapy] has been a game changer and helped tremendously in keeping those people out of the hospital and gave them a huge jumpstart on their healing process.” Eason quoted Philippians 4: “The Lord is near, don’t be anxious about anything, rather bring all your requests to God in prayer and petitions, along with giving

thanks, and the peace of God, that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and mind safe in Jesus Christ.” She closed the ceremony with a prayer before dismissing the gathered hospital staff, doctors and nurses. “We appreciate the Alabama Hospital Association coordinating this moment of silence across the state today,” said East Alabama Health President and CEO Laura Grill in a media update. “With hospitals unSee COVID, page A5

arrived at ground zero, there were pieces of metal sticking up, no concrete, no furniture, no computers, no paper, nothing. All that was left was metal. “The air was oily and scented with burned flesh,” she remembered. “You felt so dirty because it stuck to you.” She was handed boots to wear and given instructions on what she was to do. A walking path went around hundreds of small flags with numbers where human remains had been picked up and marked. In her role at ground zero, Jackson watched firemen to see if they were becoming exhausted or overwhelmed. She would tell them to leave and rest. The dogs had to be watched to be sure their boots were not burned or that they were not becoming dehydrated. At times workers would break down and cry. Jackson had a circle of chairs where she would listen and cry along with them. There was a great deal of praying. When anyone left ground zero, they went through five checkpoints to have their boots washed to be sure any cells remained in honor of those who had lost their lives. What Jackson saw at ground zero never made it to television. She took pictures until they were forbidden. Some were printed in newspapers. “The first three weeks I was there we walked around with white gallon buckets picking

up human remains that were dehydrated,” she said. “The machines continued to dig up things.” While Jackson said she did not originally wear a mask, she began to wear it all the time when she realized air quality reports were inconsistent. Jackson said her most emotional day was when she found a tightly closed hand and felt it was important. “The hand was wrapped up and tightly closed. I felt it was significant.” She put a flag with a number where it was found. She took it to the mortuary. “I told the coroner I felt it was something special. He looked at it and put it on a metal tray with a light over it. He got a scraper and gently peeled the fingers back. “They were holding on to a child’s hand with a tie on it that had melted into the skin. On the plane the terrorists had tied people’s hands together in flight. I knew the terrorists had severed the hands because it was a clean cut. “I looked it up, and there was a lady with a two-year-old daughter who had flown. That was my most emotional time. I can’t see a white paint bucket now without thinking about that.” Being the nurse at ground zero would haunt her, Jackson said. In meetings that she can’t reveal, Jackson said she heard so many details that she began to picture the scene on the planes before the crash. She began to feel that she was on a plane headed for the towers. Images

flashed during the day and in dreams. She was on 12-hour shifts from 9 p.m. until 9 a.m. and in meetings from 9 to 11 a.m. Jackson was told the World Trade Centers were built to be earthquake proof with rubber dams going around the buildings. Manhattan was built on a landfill. When the fuel hit the buildings, it ran down the buildings to underground floors igniting methane gas. With fires burning underground, the ground remained hot. Water from pumpers would hit where the buildings were and go straight down. “You would look up in the sky and see images of the towers from the steam,” Jackson remembered. “It was just a very eerie thing. Up to two and three months later you could still see the images of the twin towers because the methane gas was still burning underground. “People would report seeing ghosts. They were seeing the steam hitting the methane gas that was on fire. The steam went straight up and made it look like a tall block where the buildings had been standing. “One of the many reasons they had such tight security was there was evidence for grand juries and the FBI, and the nation’s gold was stored there along with banks’ money.” Although they were told it was hopeless, the workers were intent to find someone alive in the underground floors. Jackson became close to the families who had lost loved ones. She

went to 83 funerals on her off time. She was interviewed in the New York Times and other papers across the country. She was on the nightly news. Jackson met many famous people. She had been in the news so frequently that her face was recognized around New York. After weeks of eating in the cafeteria set up for workers, one Sunday afternoon she decided to go to the Russian Tearoom for a change. She sat in the restaurant with an expensive house salad and cup of tea trying to find a moment of living a normal life. Michael Douglas and his wife were at the next table. He came over, touched her on the shoulder and asked her if she was a nurse at ground zero. He asked if she would mind having dinner with them. She sat with them and chatted all evening. Their photo ran in the newspaper. Jackson began working on fundraisers to assist victims’ families. She arranged for “This Old House” television show to redo a house for one of the families. Jackson stayed at ground zero for three months. She never took a day off. She was presented with two helmets, one signed by the fire department and the other from the police department. The FBI wrote “thank you,” as they could not sign their names. She has many pins and Care Bears of firemen and policemen. Jackson returned home to Opelika in

January 2002. She said went through a time of depression. In 2003, she underwent surgery for a mass on one of her lungs. She has a mass in the other lung that is being watched. She now has asthma. When the anniversary of 9/11 rolls around Jackson said gets sick at her stomach. Red Cross would send letters asking if she needed support. “It was more than working with the firefighters, police and FBI. I have memories from many people.” Jackson received the Volunteer of the Year award from the local Red Cross. The following year she received Nurse of the Year on a national level. For a long time, Jackson couldn’t talk about her experiences. “It was something that changed my entire life. I relived much of it in bad dreams and scenes.” After returning to Opelika, she volunteered to help with the California wild fires and during Hurricane Katrina. She is one of 41 nurse managers in the country and ready to help regardless of the disaster. “I do what I can to help people,” she said. “I think that is what I am supposed to do.” Jackson later moved from Opelika to North Carolina. After the memorial was built, she said, “There was a beam like a cross that was part of the trade center after the building fell. It was a sign from God for those that believed, and it stood over ground zero until the end.”

the largest urban centers alike.” “The coronavirus pandemic has created an unprecedented need for quality nurses at hospitals across our state,” Reed said. “Alabama’s nurses, working on the front lines to save lives and care for those struggling with this virus, have been nothing short of heroic throughout this pandemic. I have heard from leaders across

our state — especially from those in harder hit areas — that this is a critical, much-needed resource. I am glad that these relief dollars will go towards alleviating some of the stress put on our hospital system and provide hospitalized Alabamians with the care they need.” Alabama received approximately $1.9 billion of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act

(CARES Act) funding to respond to and mitigate COVID-19. Alabama Act 2020-199 designated: $300 million to reimburse state agencies for expenses directly related to the coronavirus outbreak $250 million to reimburse counties and cities for coronavirus expenses $250 million to deliver health care and related services to

residents; $300 million to support citizens, businesses and non-profit and faith-based organizations impacted by the coronavirus pandemic $53 million for remote work and public access expenses incurred by state government, including the Legislature $300 million for technology and infrastructure expenses related to remote

learning $200 million for reimbursement of costs to the Department of Corrections incurred because of the outbreak $10 million to the reimbursement of costs to ensure access to courts during the pandemic and $5 million to reimburse the State General Fund for supplemental appropriations to the Alabama Department of Public Health.

A4 Sept. 9, 2021

RISE

SEAN DIETRICH

am on the beach alone. I am watching the sun lift itself high above the horizon, driving the dark away. The blue-purple morning becomes a sudden electric orange. I remove my phone and start texting someone. Long ago, my mother used to force me to watch the sunrise whenever her fretful little boy was feeling anxious. Because a sunup is one of those things that beats away anxiety, even if only for a few merciful minutes. All mothers know this. I needed all the help I could get in the anxiety

department. I was a worrying child. I was one of those annoying kids who always needed his Mama. And Mama was always there to ease his worries, touch his hair or place her mouth upon his little belly and blow flatulence noises. When I was nine years old my mother gave me a dog named Goldie. She selected this particular high-spirited animal because our family was going through hard times and I developed a stomach ulcer, and she knew her fearful son needed a friend. I would never again sleep in a bed that was

not covered in hair. Then there was the time I was taking a math class in college, and not doing so hot. Mama helped me there, too. I was an adult, and I was borderline failing the course. All I did was worry about passing that dumb class. My mother was the one who finally told me, “Whenever you start to worry about college, Sean, think about it like this: you’re paying for your own college. That makes you the professor’s employer.” Mama knew exactly what to say to ease my anxiety. I looked at my teacher in a new light after that. And it worked. I quit worrying about everything. That semester, after not worrying one iota about math class, do you know what happened? That’s right. I got an F. But my point is it was a fun F. And I’d rather earn a fun F than an ulcer-causing A. As it happens, I took that same class again

several years later. This time I was even more nervous than before. But when the final exam came, if you can believe it, after months of hard work and preparation, I got another F. So I took the class a third time. This time, I was exponentially more anxious than I’d ever been in my life. I was 30 this time. Things get harder when you’re older, and I needed this confernal class to earn my degree. But this time I had a secret tool: I was married. My brainiac wife tutored me in math every night. I learned theorems, theories, formulas and terms no sane person would possibly care about. “Hypotenuse” is only one example. I took the exam for the third and final time and got a high C. I felt like I had earned my PhD in astrophysical engineering. When I came strutting out of that campus building, my wife was

seated on the hood of my truck, waiting. When she saw the smile, she threw her arms around me and I swung her around in circles until I nearly herniated my L4, L5 and S1. To this day, whenever I think about that stupid math class it makes me remember that I have a long history of somehow “passing” through the most feared moments of my life without dying. I’ve always known this was true on some level. I’ve always known the human spirit is resilient. After all, I’ve been through a lot of hard times in my life, and I’ve still got a pulse. Mostly. But if I’m being honest, sometimes when life really gets lousy, I lose hope and I worry too much. It’s just how I was made. I freely admit it. I’m not a fighter, I’m not scrappy. I’m more of a Chili Cheese Fritos guy. After all we’re not kids anymore. At this

FOLLOW ME

WENDY HODGE

y dad’s bedroom is quiet most of the time. The hum of the hospital bed is the only constant sound, and it’s barely audible. Talking has become harder for him. Words are barely recognizable and are always cut short by harsh coughing fits. Sitting there, watching him breathe, is too much and not enough. On the dresser across the room sits a cluster of old framed photos — a black and white his-

tory of a life well lived. Laughing babies, happy couples, old folks long gone from this earth … and in the middle is a picture of my dad in his dress blues. He was a 17-year old Marine about to be dropped into the middle of World War II as far away from home as a person can possibly be and still be on Earth. I’ve seen that picture since I was a kid, and for the life of me I cannot imagine what he must have been thinking. To leave a “picture show” on a Saturday afternoon in the summer of 1943 and be compelled to risk your life in a war that had already wreaked so much havoc on so many. But compelled he was — enough so that he got his mom to put her signature on the enlistment forms and send him off to

face battle. It’s a scene I struggle to reconcile with in my own role as a mom. That was 78 years ago … more than the average lifespan of an American male. And the world is a different place. I’m not sure my dad would recognize his country anymore if he were able to watch the news. What would his reaction be to the state of the union? Or to the state of the world, for that matter? I fear that when my dad is gone the world will have lost the type of man who made America the greatest country in the world. His passing will be the end of those who have a calling of the spirit, a drive of the mind, a duty of the heart to protect the freedom that we in America are born taking for granted. I am afraid

that we will never be what we once were. But… The news is streaming on my phone. I rarely watch the news, and I have no idea why I decided to focus on it now. But I’m glad I did. A Marine is wearing his dress blues, and he’s pleading with the camera. “Please, Mr. President, send us back. Let us get the ones we left behind. It is what we MUST do.” I glance up at the picture of my dad and back down again at my phone, and they look identical. Both young, fiercely proud of their country and compelled by a calling of the spirit to go. We do not have a shortage of men like my dad. They are there. They’ve always been there and always will be. What we don’t have

is a leader, and these men are begging for one. We need a commander-in-chief who will lead them, not send them. We need a President who will unite us, not divide us. And we need to join together to follow. No matter your political views or opinions about America or the world around us, we are standing in the rubble of bad decisions left behind by weak decision makers and self-centered factions who stir up thunderstorms and then complain because it’s raining. We’ve become the land of the bitter and the home of neighbors who hate neighbors. And the rest of the world is watching. I have friends in Australia and South Africa who message me occasionally asking if we’re

age, we know too much about life to be idiotically optimistic. We have a lot to worry about. Our joints hurt, we have a mortgage, our loved ones die, human bodies fail, the world spins out of control, and Mama isn’t around to buy us a doggie. Sometimes you can be so keenly aware of the bad in life that it will make your cardiac tissue bleed. Sometimes you can get so hopeless that you don’t even want to hope anymore because what’s the point? But then, by some fluke, you wake up early one morning. You walk outside with a hot mug in your hand, and you watch the sunrise. And something about this moment reminds you about someone special. So you whip out your phone and you text her through blurred vision. Your mother immediately texts three one-syllable words back. Then you wipe your eyes and write this.

okay. They’re actually worried about our safety because the America they see on the news is a chaotic mess with a target on its back. They fear for their American friend. What would my dad say to that, I wonder? If you pray at all, pray today for someone who has a soldier’s heart to take the reigns and lead us back to the country my dad risked his life for on the island of Saipan in 1943. Pray for all the men and women who put on their uniform every single day and follow that drive of the spirit. Pray that they are safe, but also pray that they are led and not just sent. And pray for my dad. His days are few, and he fought for us all. Pray that he dies knowing it was not in vain.

Collagen 101: Top 10 Things to Know

BRADLEY ROBERTSON

started seeing Dr. Ron Herring in Opelika back in early spring for shoulder pain I had been having. Dr. Herring is a chiropractor and has been taking care of our community since

1981. He began assisting my husband years ago and I figured he could help me out too. I have been a runner since my teen years and just like every day walking, the impact over time is taking its toll on my joints. As helpful as Dr. Herring has been to restore my shoulder, he has also given me bits of knowledge along the way on daily health and body care. Dr. Herring asked me one day, “have you heard of collagen?” Of which I responded, “I’ve heard of it, but tell me about it.” He proceeded to tell me all about joint health and the loss of collagen after the age of 40. And since

I turned 40 just last year, it was worth the effort to deep dive into the subject for the sake of this one, good body I have. I have done a little investigation for you dear readers. One that began with the wise words of Dr. Herring and one I hope you bring into your own daily life to help you care for your one, good body too. Here are is my top 10 on collagen and why it’s important to know about it. 1. Collagen is a protein and helps support skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and muscles. 2. Collagen is also found in blood vessels, as well as your cornea and

teeth. 3. Collagen comes from the Greek word “kolla” which means glue. It is this “glue” factor that keeps joints healthy as well as good elasticity in the skin. 4. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, as well as a lower quality collagen, causing joints to become less stable and skin to become wrinkled and aged. 5. Loss of collagen translates into loss of tissue structure and our entire bodies are made of tissues. 6. Some lifestyle behaviors destroy collagen, such as excess sun exposure, smoking and eating too much sugar

or refined carbs. 7. At some point, it’s best to replenish our collagen to maintain overall health in our body systems. 8. The best way to replenish collagen is through supplements. 9. Collagen supplements can come in a pill, a powder (to mix into drinks or food) or a drink form. 10. Choosing a collagen supplement helps to maintain healthy and younger looking skin and keeps joints strong, flexible and possibly free of pain. Once I learned all this new information, I began taking a collagen supplement daily. I have

the powder form that I add into my coffee or oatmeal, and I have a drink form that I can take daily as well. I soon realized that I was focused on the visual aspects of aging and not the internal. If we don’t care for our bodies from the inside out, then the outside won’t be much help to us. Maintaining our health today is so very important. I hope to continue this series to inspire you to keep a check on your body during this fall and winter COVID season. Where does your health stand and what’s one thing you can alter today to better care for you?

A5 Sept. 9, 2021

Fast-Growing Hotel Brand Celebrates Upcoming 40th Property Milestone in Auburn IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has unveiled a new, dual-branded prototype, combining the fast-growing avid hotels brand and industry-leading, extended stay brand Candlewood Suites. The release of the new prototype, targeted for select markets, offers a design that builds on the expansion and popularity of avid hotels since its launch in 2017. Currently, there are 180+ properties in the avid hotels pipeline and the 40th hotel — avid hotel Auburn University Area — will open soon. Candlewood Suites is one of the most wellknown extended stay brands in the industry, with nearly 360 hotels open in North America. This new dual-branded prototype combines the two exceptional IHG brands, which serve complementary demand segments, within

COVID >>

FROM A3

der so much pressure right now, it was nice to be able to have a brief time to reflect. “… Many of these recent lives lost could have been prevented by simply being vaccinated. It’s extremely unsettling that we still have so many people who are will-

one footprint. With integrated public and back-of-house areas, shared staffing and a smaller footprint, this design provides a cost efficient and right-sized method to capture both transient and extended-stay demand in select markets. These dual-branded properties will share an entrance and, once guests enter the hotel, they will notice elements from both brands integrated throughout the public areas, including a free, grab-and-go breakfast from avid hotels and a well-stocked retail market modeled on the Candlewood Cupboard. Guest rooms will follow the prototypical avid hotels and Candlewood Suites designs. Jennifer Gribble, senior vice president, Global Marketing, Mainstream Brands, IHG, commented: “Nearly half of all avid hotels opened in 2020, undeniably the most challenging year

for the hotel industry, which is a true testament to the strength of this brand. The avid hotels brand continues to grow and resonate with guests who are looking for the basics done exceptionally well at a fair price, while Candlewood Suites is a beloved brand for extended stays with an established audience of loyal guests. This dual-branded offering is another example of how we’re listening to our owners and adapting our brands to offer the right fit in the right markets.” The 40th avid hotel in North America is set to open soon in Auburn, Alabama, and is owned by Paragon Hotel Company. Located near Auburn University, this property is ideal for college sports fans and families of students who are visiting the city for spectator events and activities at the school. In celebration of this brand milestone, IHG Rewards members can earn 4X points for every

ing to risk their very lives rather than to accept a free vaccine that basically assures them of a less-severe illness from the virus. It’s especially hard for our employees and physicians to continually hear the voices of regret from patients and families when they know they must face the reality of a possible death.” As COVID cases

continue to climb, East Alabama Health announced Monday that over the weekend, the hospital hit a new all-time high for COVID hospitalizations and patients on ventilators. On Sept. 4, the hospital had 93 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 23 patients on ventilators.On Tuesday, the ventilator patients

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

CONTRIBUTED BY IHG

qualifying stay at avid hotels from Aug. 2, 2021, through Nov. 30, 2021. Guests enjoy the hotel experience avid provides and, with additional openings every month, more and more consumers are trying and loving avid hotels for the first time. Mitesh Patel, president of Paragon Hotel Company, owner of avid hotel Auburn University Area, member of the avid hotels Owner Advisory Board, com-

mented: “We are excited to celebrate this brand’s 40th hotel milestone and open Paragon Hotel Company’s first avid hotels property. As a member of the brand’s Owner Advisory Board, I take great pride and ownership in the growth and momentum of this brand and what the future holds. Auburn is an energetic college town, attracting visitors from across the country yearround, and I believe the avid hotels brand will be

very popular with travelers seeking a high-quality and affordable stay in this market.” Additional, recently opened avid hotels properties include: guest-centric hallmarks such as best-in-class room design for sound sleeping, seamless technology with 55” smart TVs and access to streaming services, a complimentary, grab-and-go breakfast and backed by the IHG Clean Promise.

remained stable at 23, while hospitalizations came down to 85. “The number we report each day reflects the number of COVID patients who are already in an inpatient bed at a specific moment in time, typically around 9 a.m.,” said John Atkinson, East Alabama Health spokesman, in the media update. “However, that does

not include COVIDpositive patients who are waiting in the Emergency Department for a bed assignment, either on a regular COVID floor or to an ICU bed. “… At one point on Saturday, we actually had 94 COVID patients hospitalized and had several more waiting in the Emergency Department for a bed to become

available. In the past couple of weeks, we’ve had some patients — both COVID and non-COVID — have to wait 24 hours or more in the ER before being able to be placed in a bed on a nursing unit. It’s a pretty surreal situation at this point with little reason to believe it will get better in the immediate future.”

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY EAH

A6 Sept. 9, 2021

Blending and Brewing: Melanin Cafe Pours History In Every Cup A new coffee shop has opened in Opelika, full of flavor and history. Melanin Cafe made its grand debut on Sept. 3 with a wide selection of coffees and treats. Catrice Hixon owns the cafe, alongside her co-owner husband, Jay. Catrice, Opelika born and raised, has loved coffee since she was a child. During her college years, Catrice was an avid coffee drinker. As she worked to receive her bachelor’s degree in biology from UAB, Catrice took up a job at Joe Muggs as a barista. This fueled her love for the craft of coffee and further strengthened her skills in the art of making a good brew. Catrice said she is a big list-keeper, always writing down her next goals for life or any ideas she has. However, she admitted her list often goes unchecked. Well, 2020 marked the year that she finally decided to do something about one particular item on her list: opening a coffee shop. “It was always a thought and I finally just acted on it,” Catrice said. “I’m a person who writes down everything … I found this way back and I said, ‘Okay, I’m actually going to do something instead of just writing it down and just leaving it there.’” Operating the small business as safely as possible amidst COVID restrictions, Catrice began by doing coffee catering. As she moved along, she hired a business coach to help her establish funds, advertisement and equipment. “The process is … very tedious, very long,” Catrice said. “It’s really hard, honestly, to start a business.” Later, in February, Melanin Cafe joined other businesses for Black History Month Pop-Up Shops. The shops were hosted in the J.W. Darden House. The house was once home to J.W. Darden — the first black doctor in the Opelika area. There, he operated a normal business with a full clinic for his patients. Catrice said that having the popups there was a perfect blend of “celebration and education.” This mimics the model the Hixons hope Melanin Cafe will follow: an environment for understanding one another. “I want people — not only in the South but everywhere in the United States — to know that if you take the word ‘African’ out of African American, you still get Ameri-

can,” Jay said. “African American history is still American history. And we want people of all colors, of all nationalities, to hear this, as well. We just want you to accept us. We are Americans as well as you are.” The purpose of Melanin Cafe, the Hixons said they hope, is to bring both great brews and historical awareness to the area. Each of the drinks offered at the shop will be named after someone who played a significant role in history, but has been given underwhelming recognition.

— without the support of her family and her co-barista and husband, Jay. In 2007, Jay and Catrice met during their freshman year of college through mutual friends, even though they went to different schools — Alabama A&M and UAB, respectively. “I kind of ignored him when we first met but later that day we started talking, exchanged numbers and haven’t stopped talking since,” Catrice said. “This year it will be nine years that we’ve been married.”

PHOTOS BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY EMERY LAY FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER/LIVE LEE

with Melanin Cafe and continually “keep building.” Melanin Cafe might be a small step for Catrice, but it is a grand step for the community of Auburn-Opelika. The café’s slogan is: “Doing it for the culture … and the coffee.” “I just want our shop to be like a bridge,” Jay said. “Between cultures, of people, of society in general; Where people come to learn, to socialize … So, that’s one of the “When we’re learning in school, we get the main people — Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks,” Catrice said. “So, we learn about them, but there’s always other people who are (in) the background … I wanted to bring them in the forefront.” For example, Henrietta Lacks. Lacks died at age 51 from cancer in John Hopkins Hospital. However, her life extended beyond her death when her cancer cells were used for research and later developed into the HeLa cell line. This line was the first immortalized human cell line and one of the most important in medical research. Sadly, the cells were taken without Lacks’ permission and the researchers were still able to monetize their findings. Another example is Ella Baker, lovingly deemed the “mother of civil rights.” She was on the front lines of starting the NAACP (The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and SCLC (Southern Christian Leadership Conference). “It’s just so we can have that education — So we can learn about them and what they’ve done,” Catrice said. “That way, if we can understand each other, then we can coexist together.” Catrice said she could not have accomplished opening a coffee shop — while balancing school and motherhood

The Hixons had their first child, a girl, in 2013, followed by their son in 2014. Jay graduated from A&M with a bachelor ’s in mechanical engineering, but enjoys martial arts, anime and being with his children in his spare time. Besides a simple cup with his wife in the morning, Jay is not much of a coffee fiend, but he gives Catrice his full love and support. Apart from her husband, Catrice has also garnered the support of her sister, Crystal Slaughter. Though Slaughter has a family of her own, in addition to a job as an assistant preschool teacher, she will be the baker for the café. There is an additional opportunity for the community to support Melanin Cafe through its GoFundMe, which can be found on the website tab “crowd funding campaign”. At one point in time, Catrice simply wanted to use the funds for a coffee cart. Yet, now that she has the shop, she hopes any money gathered will help establish the café and maybe lend them a presence in Auburn one day. Catrice laughed and said she hopes to have her face — the logo of the storefront — everywhere. Moving forward, Catrice will continue to work on her PhD in biology and one day hopes to even open her own research lab. She said she wanted to “start off small”

bottom lines for the café: to get together and to learn, to explore and to accept.” The Hixons looks to the future with expectant passion. Hand in hand, their shop will serve as a place to link arms with other members of the community to create a tight and intimate bond of unity. “I just wanna have something here … Something for the community, and also something that I can leave as a legacy for my kids,” Catrice said

Opelika E vents, Society & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS • SEPT. 11 - HERO THROW AT AXE MARKS THE SPOT • SEPT 12 - CHEWACLA 5K/10K TRAIL RACE • SEPT. 17 - MEAN MARY AT SUNDILLA

Women's Group Shares Recipes to Honor 100th Year of AFLA PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

e rely on Alabama farmers for fresh, nutritious food for our families. This year the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA) is celebrating its 100th anniversary. To honor this milestone event, members of the Women’s Leadership Committee, a division of ALFA, are sharing their favorite recipes. All of the women are married to farmers or were involved in farming at one time. The Alabama Farmers Federation was formed in 1921, and the members represent every commodity produced in the state. It is the largest farm organization in the state with more than 350,000 members. The federation is actively involved in educational programs. Ann Whatley has been actively involved in the Women’s Leadership Committee over the years. She and her husband, Charles, owned a dairy farm for many years. Every

spring, they have a large garden and share vegetables with those in need and others in the community. “We enjoy the fact that Mitch Lazenby alternates planting different crops on our land,” Ann said. “This year he is growing cotton. In other years, he has grown corn.” The Whatley family has been involved in farming in Lee County for well over a hundred years. Charles and his brother, Ernest, are now involved in forestry, and Charles serves on the state forestry committee. Currently serving as secretary of the committee, Ann has enjoyed being the member at large and covers the entire state. “I am honored to get to represent Lee County and also represent every county in the state since I am the at large member on the committee,” she said. “I feel like I know farmers all over the state. The women on the committee are won-

derful and supportive of each other.” The committee visits farms around the state. It works closely with the Ronald McDonald Houses in Alabama by promoting the Pop Tab Program. The pop tabs are sold for recycling, and the funds go to the house to help families. Ann shared several recipes that are family favorites. She won the annual recipe contest sponsored by the Women’s Leadership Committee many times. Kathy Gordon, chairman of the committee, grew up on a small farm in Grady, Alabama, and then married into a dairy and row crop farm operation. Her husband’s family also owned and operated a commercial hunting preserve. In 1978, Kathy and her husband, Monty, were named Outstanding Young Farm Family. They were dairy farmers and operated two farms. They also started raising quail and had the first quail reserve in the state.

AACT To Hold Open Auditions

Members of the Women’s Leadership Committee, a division of the Alabama Farmers Federation, are sharing their family’s favorite recipes, along with other members of the committee. The Alabama Farmers Federation is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Pictured is, from left, Ann Whatley, secretary and member at large for the state; Kathy Gordon, chair of the committee and JoAnn Laney, past chair.

They are now retired and help their son, who has a farm. Kathy has been involved in the Women’s Leadership Committee for over 40 years. “It has been an honor to be on this committee,” she said. “This is my fourth year to help represent our farmers. We can do a lot of things to help our husbands with the farm, and we all work together.” Kathy entered her recipe for English Toffee Pie in the ALFA cooking contest in the early 1990s, and it received second place. The judges said she would have won, but the topping had become too soft while traveling to the

contest. Kathy makes the pie for her family during the holidays. JoAnn Laney, past chairman and vice chairman, along with her husband, Larry, run a successful horse boarding business, raise Angus beef cattle and grow hay. They also have chickens, donkeys and goats. Serving her fifth year on the committee, JoAnn is sharing her family’s favorite Sweet Pound Cake recipe. Debbie Roberts, another member of the committee, and her husband, Joe, have a poultry farm in Fayette County. One of her most requested recipes is for Pineapple Pudding.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

one performance. Some numbers may involve light choreography, but there will not be a dance portion of the audition. Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. COVID-19 has affected the livelihood of so many theaters, so MTI is providing the opportunity for schools and theatres

worldwide to locally produce and perform an exclusive musical revue featuring 15 songs from MTI’s beloved shows as a way to fundraise. To date, there are more than 3,800 theaters participating in 36 countries and territories. Those interested in auditioning should visit www.AuburnACT.org to sign up for a time slot on either Sept. 14 or 16. Be prepared with a song 2-4 minutes in length to sing for the directors. Please bring a music source, See THEATRE, page A8

See CIPPERLY, page A10

Kenny G Concert Rescheduled for March 2022

CONTRIBUTED BY AACT

Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) will hold open auditions for Musical Theatre International’s “All Together Now!: A Global Event Celebrating Local Theatre.” Auditions for this musical revue will be held in timed slots from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 14 and Thursday, Sept. 16 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, located at 222 E. Drake Ave. in Auburn. No previous experience necessary. Auditions for this production are open to performers 16 and older. Auditions will be casting for solo performances and ensemble performances, with the possibility of being cast for more than

Member Regina Carnes and her husband also have a poultry farm and were recently named the Alabama Poultry Farm Family of the Year. Regina is sharing her recipe for Chocolate Fudge. Committee member Debra Dunn is sharing her youngest son’s favorite cake, Blueberry Stack Cake, recipe. He would ask for it anytime they had a get together such as birthdays, holidays or vacations. The Dunn farm is located in Geneva county with adjoining property in Walton County, Florida. “My husband, my son and myself manage a

CONTRIBUTED BY THE JAY AND SUSIE GOGUE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

The Kenny G performance previously scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, has been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at 7:30 p.m. Kenny G has issued the following statement regarding the postponement of his tour dates:

"Because of the evolving risk surrounding the COVID-19 Delta variant and with an abundance of caution and concern for the health and safety of the fans, venue staff and my touring family, we feel the right decision is to postpone the following dates. It is with each passing day it’s becoming more appar-

ent we are not at the place where we can give you the show experience you deserve. We are grateful for your patience and understanding as we look forward to seeing you real soon." Tickets issued for the Oct. 2 performance date will be honored at the rescheduled performance on March 29, 2022.

A8 Sept. 9, 2021

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

Awhile back, Mike and I traveled to Roanoke, Alabama, for two reasons: 1. to visit his sister and brother’s graves and 2. to eat at Gedney’s Restaurant & Grill, a wonderful place where we enjoy dining. Mike’s parents, Ralph and Eva Wallace, were wonderful Christian people who raised my husband to be the best man I have ever known. Sadly, Mike was their fifth and only child, who lived to adulthood. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace lost two children, Paula and Gary, shortly after they were born, and Mrs. Wallace had two miscarriages between them. In 1967, when Mike was in second grade, his parents tried to adopt a little boy named Van, who was a kindergartner. Mike told me that he really enjoyed having a little brother. Mike and his parents grew to love Van, and the little boy loved his new, stable family. Van lived with them for six months. Unfortunately, in those days, adoptive parents had no legal rights. Van’s mother

THEATRE >>

FROM A7

as there will not be a pianist to accompany you, or you may sing acapella. Call back auditions, by invitation only, will be Tuesday, Sept. 21. AACT is also seeking set construction, props, tech and other volunteers for this production. Those interested in those positions are also welcome to come to auditions, or contact the director, Terry Kelley by e-mail at auditions@auburnact.org. First rehearsal will be Sept. 27. Remaining rehearsals will be Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. starting on Sept. 28 and ending on Nov. 10. Performances will be Nov. 12 to 14. Vocalists will not be required to attend every rehearsal but should expect to rehearse with the musi-

had lost him because she was a drug addict. However, she briefly became sober, and the court gave Van back to her, devastating the Wallaces. The mother began doing drugs once more, and Mike’s parents were told that they could try to adopt Van again, but they declined because one heartbreak was sufficient. Mike and I married fairly late in life, so we weren’t blessed with children. However, my heart hurts for his parents because I could never imagine the enormous pain of losing five children. Because of their loss, they loved and chercal director(s) one to two times each week. AACT is thrilled to be bringing so many great shows to our area this season. This season also offers many opportunities to get involved with AACT. AACT is a volunteer organization that depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community. There’s something for everyone. Please visit www.auburnact.org to find our volunteer interest form or email info@ auburnact.org to get involved. Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up with us at www.AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets and more. Come be a part of the magic of theatre, we can’t wait to meet you.

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ished Mike. I didn’t know Mr. and Mrs. Wallace very well. We married after they had gone on to be with the Lord. I really wish I could have known them; I know I would have loved them dearly. In fact, I’ve looked at their picture on our fireplace and thanked them for giving me such an amazing husband. Mike’s Mama was from Roanoke, and his parents lived there from 1946-58; therefore, we went to visit his older siblings’ graves. Earlier in our marriage, Mike and I went to Roanoke to the Rock

Springs Congregational Christian Church Cemetery, where his maternal grandparents were buried so that we could place flowers on their grave. This old country church was south of NOWHERE. In fact, Big Foot would have found it too remote. Also, it was late afternoon, just a little before sun down. Now, I am a “Pooh-sized” coward, so I informed my husband that it was time to leave. No way was I going to be in a cemetery at night. As a Christian, I know that the souls of the people buried there had departed, but I

wasn’t taking any chances that a hand might come out of the earth and grab me by the ankle. I know; too many horror movies growing up. When we arrived at Gedney’s Restaurant & Grill at 4753 US431 in Roanoke, we once again loved the homey, rural atmosphere. On the way to the ladies’ room, I saw a cute little girl. I said, “Hi, Cutie.” Her Daddy said, “Hi. How are you?” which made me laugh. I told him he was a cutie, too. I do so love living back home in Alabama. Our people are just the BEST. Kelley, our wait-

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE

Making the Grade: On the Road to Roanoke, Alabama

ress, was the epitome of the perfect Southern waitress. She was sweet, kind and friendly. I loved the Bible verses on the menu; only in the South, folks. Also, Gedney’s earned extra points for serving Diet Dr. Pepper, my very favorite drink. Kelley brought me a big, 16.9-ounce bottle. As I’ve said before, I’m glad my doctor and dentist couldn’t see me. Mike ordered the Boneless Honey Barbecue Wings. Sweet Kelley gave him extra wings because she thought they were See WALLACE, page A11

A9 Sept. 9, 2021

Make Your Way to The Alleyway Café The Alleyway Café is a new, family-run breakfast joint that just opened its doors to the Opelika community. With lots of character and a delicious menu, the business officially opened on Aug. 20. The Alleway Café is a child and student friendly restaurant offering plenty of space, food and, importantly, free wifi. “I just wanted to have a good wholesome and healthy place for the community to come and enjoy the atmosphere," said the Owner Sarah Pritchard. "We’re open to everybody. The unique restaurant was developed from Pritchard’s vision. “I drew a sketch on a little yellow piece of paper, almost like a little kid drawing of what I wanted our logo to look like and from there I designed and did most of the construction myself with help from family and friends”. Pritchard has lived in Opelika since 1987 but grew up in Missouri. She spent many years working in the manufacturing industry but is no stranger to cooking. “I started cooking for the family when I was

PHOTO BY MEGAN MANN / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY MEGAN MANN FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

about 14,” she said. “I had a restaurant about 20 years ago in Arkansas, my dad owned a restaurant, my aunt had a restaurant, so food is kind of in our families’ genes. Pritchard wants to offer a healthier version of a good, home-cooked breakfast for her customers. One of her biggest hits is her chaffles, which is her version of a waffle.

Each morning, Pritchard makes chaffles, fresh gravy and other homemade dishes to serve to her customers. “We were raised on it,” Pritchard said, referring to her homemade chocolate gravy that she pairs with a warm, buttery biscuit. “The chaffles have no bread or anything processed it is strictly egg white and almond flower with cheese and whatever

vegetable or fruit I put into it. They are all natural and very dense, so it fills you up." The chaffles come in many different flavors including but not limited to, blueberry and her personal favorite Jalapeno popper. Within the upcoming weeks, Alleyway Café will be expanding its menu and hours to include lunch. This new menu will

contain healthy and fresh meat-and-green options and the choices will be changing daily. Pritchard is also always working on her breakfast menu constantly. “I’ll be adding more healthy options; I am always testing out new recipes,” she said. “There will be low carb, low sugar, as well as gluten-free options.” On Sept. 11 they will

be providing a voucher for 11% off lunch with the purchase of breakfast. Alleyway Café is open from 6 to 10:30 a.m. on weekdays, 7 to 11 a.m. on Saturday and is closed on Sundays. It is located on 1801 Market St. Opelika. To stay up to date with what is going on at The Alleyway Café follow them on Instagram @the_alleyway_café.

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A10 Sept. 9, 2021

CIPPERLY

FROM A7

cow/calf operation where we raise beef cattle, born on our property, for market,” Debra said. “We have Black Angus bulls, some Black Angus females and a mixed variety of breeder cows. These herds are grass fed throughout the summer months and fed hay, rye grass, clover and Mix 30

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> ENGLISH TOFFEE PIE Kathy Gordon 2 cups powdered sugar 2 Tbsp. cocoa 1 stick butter, melted ½ cup finely chopped pecans 2 Tbsp. butter 2 egg whites 1 tsp. vanilla Baked pie crust Whipped cream for topping Cream powdered sugar, cocoa and butter together. Toast pecans in 2 Tbsp. butter, cool and add to the sugar mixture. Beat egg whites until stiff. Add vanilla. Fold into the sugar mixture. Pour into the cooled baked pie shell and chill the pie. Before serving, top with sweetened whipped cream. SWEET CREAM POUND CAKE JoAnn Laney 2 sticks butter, room temperature 3 cups sugar 6 large eggs 1 Tbsp. vanilla 3 cups sifted cake flour 8 oz. heavy whipping cream Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time mixing well. Add vanilla. Starting with the flour alternating cream, mix into the creamed mixture. ending with flour. Put into an oiled and floured tube pan. (I use Bakers Choice) Bake at 300 degrees for an hour and a half. Until pick inserted comes out clean. Remove from oven when done, and let cool on rack for at least 15 minutes. Invert onto cake plate and enjoy. EVELYN SAMFORD’S BAKED CHICKEN Ann Whatley Recipe came from an old copy of First United Methodist Church cookbook and has been a favorite over the years. 8 boneless and skinless chicken breasts 8 slices bacon 10½ oz. can cream of mushroom soup 1 cup sour cream Salt and pepper to taste* Grease 10 by 12 by 2 inch casserole dish.

liquid feed throughout the winter months. “My husband also helps his 94-year-old mother manage and maintain her herd of pure bred Black Angus on her farm in Sandfield, Alabama. He row cropped for many years growing corn, cotton, soybeans and peanuts. As stewards of the land we are always seeking the best ways to maintain and improve

our farm. We strive for sustainable improvements that will stand the test of time. “The longer you farm the more you realize that the farm becomes a part of you. It’s hard to break away from it and all the responsibilities that come with it, but when you do have to leave and then return, it’s like reuniting with an old friend. “I love to see the black

cows grazing on the green grass hillside. Their babies running around like rabbits on a crisp, spring days. The sunsets saying good night at the end of a long day. The momma cows calling for their babies, and their babies answering back. There is a peace on this land that cannot be bought, bottled or duplicated. If there is a heaven on earth, this is surely the place.”

The Women’s Leadership Committee provides an opportunity for women to actively participate in policymaking and policy execution activities. The committee is structured as an “arm of the board,” acting as liaison between ALFA’s board and membership and helping to implement programs. At the annual Women’s Leadership Conference, they work to

Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon. Place in prepared casserole dish. Mix soup, sour, salt, and pepper; pour over chicken. Bake uncovered for three hours at 275 degrees F. *I do not add any salt and pepper, letting my diners add salt and pepper as they wish.

1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 cup sour cream 2 cups shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomato sauce. Remove from the heat. Drain pasta. Combine soup and sour cream. In 13 by 9 dish, layer half of the meat sauce, pasta, soup mixture and cheese. Repeat layers. Bake at 350 degrees for 55-65 minutes or until cheese is melted.

350 degree oven for eight to 10 minutes. Let cool completely. For the frosting: 8 oz. cream cheese softened to room temperature 1 ½ cups powdered sugar 9 oz. Cool Whip 1 can blueberry pie filling Blend powdered sugar and cream cheese together until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread the frosting between each cake layer. Add several teaspoons of Blueberry Pie filling on top of each frosting layer as you build. Once layers are frosted, thin out the frosting on the top layer, pushing the frosting to the outer edge of your cake forming a bowl making a shallow center. Then pour remaining Blueberry Pie filling on the top. Blueberry filling will be mounted up on the top of your cake. Some pie mixture may tumble down the sides. Refrigerate overnight.

2 eggs 2 cups sugar Group Two: 2 cups Wesson oil 1 cup buttermilk 2 tsp. cocoa Group 3: Add these ingredients one at a time, 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. vanilla 1 tsp. vinegar 2 5/8 oz. red food coloring Combine group one in a large bowl. Combine group two and mix. Add ingredients in group three one at a time. Pour into greased and floured layer pans or 9 by 13-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes, testing to see if cake is cooked. Combine frosting ingredients and spread on cooled cake. Frosting: 1 stick margarine, room temperature 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 1 box powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup chopped nuts Cream margarine and cream cheese. Gradually add powdered sugar and blend well. Add vanilla and nuts.

ORANGE SLICE COOKIES Delle Bean 1 box yellow cake mix ½ cup oil 10 oz. pkg. candied orange slices, cut in small pieces 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped 2 eggs Mix all ingredients and drop by tablespoons onto cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 12 minutes. Makes about 48 cookies. I use two large cookie sheets. CANDIED BACON Kimberly Earwood Kimberly is the women’s leadership director. ¼ cup packed light brown sugar 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar 2 Tbsp. maple syrup Ground black pepper to taste (I use ½-1 tsp.) 1 lb. thick cut bacon Preheat oven to 350 degrees Mix brown sugar, rice vinegar, maple syrup and black pepper in a small bowl. Place bacon slices on cooling rack set over a backing sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes, turn slices and bake another 5 minutes. Remove bacon and brush both sides with brown sugar mixture. Return bacon to oven and bake another 5 minutes. Repeat basting every 5 minutes until bacon is brown and crisp, about 40 minutes. BEEF SPAGHETTI BAKE Debbie Freeland 1 pkg. (16 oz.) angel hair pasta 1 ½ lbs. ground beef 1 jar (26 oz.) spaghetti sauce 2 cans (8 oz. each) tomato sauce

PINEAPPLE PUDDING Debbie Roberts 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk 1 (5 oz.) box instant vanilla pudding mix 1 large can crushed pineapple (do not drain) 8 oz. Cool Whip, thawed 1 pkg. mini vanilla wafers In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Beat in condensed milk, add crushed pineapple (with juice), add pudding mi. Fold in 2/3 of Cool Whip. Line the bottom of the dish with vanilla wafers. Layer pudding mixture and wafers. Top with remaining whipped topping. Chill. BLUEBERRY STACK CAKE Debra Dunn For the cake: 4 eggs at room temperature 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2/3 cup milk 1 box butter yellow cake mix Mix all ingredients together for two minutes with hand mixer. Pour 2/3 cup of cake mixture into 6 to 8 inch cake pans. Prepare your cake pans by buttering the sides and bottom then lightly dusted with flour. I also put parchment paper in the bottom to help with handling. The layers are thin and fragile. Place the cake into

CHOCOLATE FUDGE Regina Carnes 2 cups sugar ½ cup cocoa ½ cup butter ½ cup milk Dash of salt ½ cup milk Vanilla flavoring Mix sugar and cocoa together in a heavy saucepan. Then stir in milk and butter. Place on stove. Bring to a rolling boil. Boil two minutes for fudge and one minute for icing. Take off stove and add a heaping tablespoon of peanut butter and vanilla flavoring to taste. I stir the peanut butter into the fudge mixture as I set my pan of fudge into cool water and as it begins to harden. I pour the fudge mixture into an 8 inch by 8 inch pan that I have lined with parchment paper. When cool lift the parchment paper out and cut into bite size pieces. RED VELVET CAKE Lydia Haynes Group One: 1 tsp. soda 1 tsp. salt

BOW TIES WITH SUN-DRIED TOMATO AND SCALLION CREAM Ann Whatley 5 scallions, white and light-green parts only 6 Tbsp. chopped oil packed sun dried tomato halves (about 12 halves) 1 cup light cream or half-and-half 1 lb. bow ties pasta 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. freshground pepper 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley In a blender or food processor, puree the scallions and sun dried tomatoes with ½ cup of the cream. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook bow ties until just done, about 15 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and toss with the puree, the remaining 1/2 cup cream, 1/3 cup of the reserved pasta water, salt, pepper and parsley. If the

educate participants about timely agricultural issues and programs. They work closely with the Alabama Ag to help educate teachers about agriculture each year. Following are recipes from those serving on the Women’s Leadership Committee. Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com. sauce seems to be thick, thin by adding more of the reserved pasta water. Variation: An equal quantity of chopped fresh basil or chives or 2 Tbsp. tarragon would be a good alternative or addition to the parsley. OVEN ROASTED BEEF BRISKET Ann Whatley An easy and delicious recipe 6 large Vidalia onions, thinly sliced and divided 2 Tbsp. kosher salt 1 Tbsp. garlic powder 1 Tbsp. onion powder 1 Tbsp. firmly packed brown sugar 1 Tbsp. ground black pepper 1 (3 1/2- to 4-lb.) beef brisket, trimmed 2 cups beef broth Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Line a roasting pan with a long piece of aluminum foil, letting foil hang over edges of pan. Place half of onion slices on foil. Set aside. In a small bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and pepper. Rub mixture on both sides of brisket. Place brisket in prepared pan on top of onions. Spread remaining onions on top of brisket. Pour broth over brisket. Fold and crimp overhanging edges of foil sealing brisket in foil packet. Bake until tender, six to eight hours. To serve, cut across grain. Makes eight to 10 servings. PEANUT BUTTER TOFFEE DIP Brandi Stamp Laney 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 cup light brown sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup toffee bits (plain or chocolate) Apple wedges, or vanilla wafer cookies, or celery for dipping Place softened cream cheese in a medium bowl and whip with hand-held mixer until smooth. Add brown sugar, peanut butter and vanilla and beat again until creamy. Fold in the toffee bits, reserving some to sprinkle over the top as a garnish. Serve dip immediately with sliced apples, vanilla wafers or celery, or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

A11 Sept. 9, 2021

Opelika Theatre Company Hosts Auditions, Classes BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Opelika Theatre Company (OTC) has wrapped up Descendants and is preparing for the "Together Now” performance event. This global event is being hosted by Music Theatre International. Auditions will be held

virtually by sending in video of a 30 to 60 second song choice and/ or 30 to 60 second dance video. The deadline to submit the audition videos is Sept. 15. OTC said it needs singers, dancers, soloists and ensemble for the fundraising event. This global performance will take place on Nov. 12 - 14

and will include both children ten and up and adults. This will also be a fundraiser performance for OTC. Auditions can be sent by mp4 or YouTube to opelikatheatrecompany1 @gmail.com. For more information, call 334663-4480. Opelika Theatre Company also has

opportunities for children to improve their acting and improv skills through classes. THEATRE CLASSES

The O-ACTS classes are held for children ages 6 through 10 and also for children 11 through 17 on both Mondays and Tuesdays. Classes include acting, improve, scene

students and musical theatre dance. Classes for children 6 to 10 will be held on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. and cost $40 a month. For children 11 through 17, classes are held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and cost $55 a month. Families who register

more than one children can receive a 20% discount, but each family must pay a $25 registration fee. For information or to inquire about classes for homeschool students, call 334-6634480. That number can also be used to register, or register online at www.opelikatheatre. company.com. PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

Mean Mary to Perform at Sundilla Sept. 17 CONTRIBUTED BY JAMESWRITERS.COM

International touring musician Mean Mary is on her 2021 tour! She will appear at the Sundilla Concert Series and Radio Hour on Sept. 17, Friday in Auburn. This special performance will include songs from her new albums plus a lot of old favorites as well. Mean Mary could read music before she could read words and wrote original songs at age 5. By age 7 she was

proficient on vocals, guitar, banjo and violin, and her life became one long road show of events, venues, TV, radio and film. Today Mary plays 11 instruments and tours internationally. She is also an award winning song writer, book author and recently her original banjo song, Iron Horse, (the story of Native American maiden and her horse racing against a train) received the IMA’s Vox Populi award for best Americana song (and has been viewed

almost 9 million times on YouTube). Her special show takes place at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 advance and $20 at door. All ages are welcome. The venue is located at Pebble Hill (Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities, also known as the ScottYarbrough House), 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn. She promises a fun preview of new songs plus a lot of her old favorites as well. Yes,

she will bring her banjo, guitar, fiddle, percussion and any other of her 11 instruments that she can fit into her vehicle. And yes, there are some really, really, fast songs. Known internationally for her lightningfast fingers and raw, unmistakable vocal sound (The Amplifier calls it “sexy, vulnerable and yet as powerful as any man’s.”), Mean Mary’s songs travel the genres of roots, bluegrass, blues and folk rock — story songs, fast songs, sad songs, songs

to make your feet tap. All of her albums, books and other merchandise will be available at the live show. Two recent music videos on YouTube from

Mean Mary albums: Dark Woods: wwwyoutu.be/ uANjXCT-qHE Friend I Never Had: www.youtu. be/3Uhua174DkY

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN DOWNTOWN OPELIKA

WALLACE >>

FROM A8

small. Mike said the wings were really tasty. I chose the Southwest Grilled Chicken, which had a zesty sauce, mushrooms, grilled onions and peppers. It came with REAL homemade French fries (the best kind) and grilled veggies. Everything was delicious. Gedney’s advertises on their menu that they have the “best steaks and catfish in town.” We’ll have to try them next time. Gedney’s Restaurant & Grill has an extensive menu. Believe me, they have something for EVEVERYONE. They have

a great selection of appetizers, or as they call them, “Saddle Up.” Some of them include: Aussie Onion, Corn Nuggets, Jalapenos & Monterey Jack Texas Cheese Fries and Southwest Chicken Quesadilla Wraps. In “Grazing the Trail,” diners may choose from a large selection of Salads, Soup and Chili. They also have 22 different Hamburgers and Sandwiches for you to enjoy. Gedney’s “Wagon Wheel Classics” include delicious baby back ribs, hamburger steak, chicken dishes and wings. Diners may also choose pasta and wraps. In addition, “From the Ranch,” offers a large variety of

steaks. If you’re in the mood for seafood, try “Lost at Sea,” which includes catfish, crab legs, shrimp, oysters, tilapia and scallops. Finally, “Finishing the Trail,” has a mouthwatering selection of desserts. When my A1C (blood sugar average) drops to a respectable level, I plan to jump on their hot fudge cake. Oh, my two times. It looked so delicious, I almost licked the menu. Just kidding; my parents taught me better. Run, do not walk to Gedney’s if you travel to Roanoke; it’s worth the trip. Gedney’s Restaurant & Grill is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed on Monday; Tues-

day-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday from 4 to 9 p.m. Mike, Darlin,’ this one was for you. Love you bunches. Gedney’s Restaurant & Grill makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-Sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy! Stacey Patton Wallace, who retired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a professional diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in the Observer. Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@ gmail.com

• Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. — Trivia with Caroline in The Jailhouse, “Friends" at Rock 'N Roll Pinball • Sept. 10 — Calab Gamble at Resting Pulse Brewing Company • Sept. 11 at 8 p.m. — American Whiskey (classic and contemporary rock ‘n roll) performs in the Jailhouse at Rock 'N Roll Pinball • Sept. 11 — Dallas Dorsey at Resting Pulse Brewing Company

A12 Sept. 9, 2021

OBITUARIES ALBERTA HUSTON Alberta Huston, 84 of Opelika passed away Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021 after a lengthy illness from Alzheimer’s. Alberta was born Oct. 3, 1936, in Goodwater, Alabama, to John and Leona Haynes. She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings: Excelle Talton, Mae Richardson, Hilda Gardner, Sara Hughes and Martha McDaniel, William Haynes and Clanton Haynes. Alberta is survived by her loving husband of 66 years Alvin Huston; children: Sharon (Terry) Lee, Al (Renee) Huston; grandchildren: Trey (Dana) Lee, Garrett Huston, Keely Huston; great grandchildren: Alyssa Lee, Alyson Lee, Robert Tyson; special nieces and nephews: Pat (John) Blythe, Sherri (Kelley) Griswold, Wayne Talton; siblings: Sheila Stephens, John Haynes, Jr., Frances Haynes and Clinton Haynes. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to The Harbor at Opelika Memory Care Facility. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed. ––––––– CECIL CLYDE HENDERSON Funeral service for Cecil Clyde Henderson of Opelika, Alabama, was held on Saturday, Sept. 4, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. The burial will be at Garden Hill Cemetery. Dr. Rusty Sowell officiated. Mr. Henderson, who passed away Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021 at home, was born on May 15, 1939, in Opelika. Cecil served in the United States Navy as a young man. When he returned, he began his career with West Point Stevens where he retired. He was a devoted and loving husband for 55 years to Betty Ford Henderson who preceded him in death in 2016. He is also preceded in death by his mother Mary Lou Norrell, father William Nathan Henderson and brothers, William Jr., Richard

(Buddy), Jim Frank (Pete), Woodrow Henderson and one sister, Mary Nell May. He is survived by his brother Kenneth (Phoebe) Henderson; sister, Fannie Mae Grayson; children, Chris Henderson, Velinda (Michael) Hardy; grandchildren, Nicholas (Kayla) Wheeles, Kristen (Jonathan) Sutton, Hannah Henderson, Lofton Wheeles, and Mary Grayson Henderson; greatgrandchildren Cora and Eli Wheeles, Abigail and Jackson Sutton; daughter-in-law, Cindy Henderson; son-in-law, Donny Wheeles; very special sister-in-law, Marie Ford; as well as a host of nieces and nephews and other family members. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed. ––––––– MARTHA A. KNUTSON Martha A. Knutson, was born to the late Tommy and Martha Blanton Templeton on Dec. 3, 1955, and passed away peacefully at her home in Opelika, Alabama, on Sept. 3, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. She was 65 years old. She was preceded in death by her sister Dorothy Marie Dubois and her brother Billy Templeton. She is survived by her loving husband of 22 years, David Knutson Sr. of Opelika; children, Barbie Thomas, Linda (Robert) Steele, David (Becky) Knutson Jr., Lavelle Thomas, 17 grandchildren and 1 on the way great-grandchild. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary (Don) Stroud, Tommie Gail (Cora) Templeton, Amanda (Phil) Clark; her brother, Randy (Angela) Templeton; her sisters-inlaw, Debbie Templeton, Susan (Paul) Blanton, Joy (Jim) Henry and her brothers-in-law Frank (Sharon) Knutson and Bob (Brenda) Knutson. Visitation was held Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 5 until 7 p.m..

Protect with 3! ✔ Tdap ✔ HPV ✔ MCV4 Protect your patients against vaccine preventable diseases.

As healthcare professionals, it is up to you to ensure your patients remain up to date with their vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) recommend the following vaccines for adolescents: • • • •

Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis Human papillomavirus Meningococcal disease Influenza

For more information, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/imm

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, at 1 p.m. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery in Opelika. Brother Russell DeLee officiated. ––––––– DR. JENNIFER WILLIAMSON STONE Dr. Jennifer Williamson Stone, was born to Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Williamson in Selma, Alabama on Oct. 22, 1973 and passed away at her home in Opelika, Alabama, on Sept. 2, 2021, after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 47 years old. After graduating from Morgan Academy in Selma, Jennifer came to Auburn in 1992 as an undergraduate Math major. She remained in Auburn for graduate studies completing her masters and PhD in Topology. She returned as a lecturer in 2013 and was promoted to senior lecturer in 2019. She was later appointed as GTA director and course supervisor for the department. Jennifer’s impact on the department’s instructional programs was enormous and resulted in her winning Auburn University’s Alumni Undergraduate Teaching Excellence Award in 2020, which will now be known as the Dr. Jennifer Stone Award for Excellence in Teaching in her honor. Prior to returning to Auburn University, she taught math at Lee-Scott Academy from 20082013. She touched the lives of hundreds of students while teaching Algebra 2, Pre-calculus and ACT Math prep courses. Being a “Distinguished Young Women” (DYW) award recipient, Jennifer loved to support the DYW program in Lee County. She enjoyed her years as the Lee County DYW chairperson, helping young women to “Be Their Best Selves!” The “Dr. Jennifer Stone Be Your Best Self” essay award is given in her honor. Jennifer is survived

by her husband Russ; son Nicholas (Yvette) Stone; daughter Emily Stone; grandchild Foy Stone; her parents Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Williamson (Selma); sister Kim (Colin) McCown; brother Brian (LaDayne) Williamson and numerous nieces and nephews. A private graveside service with her family was held Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. All are welcome to join in a celebration of life ceremony at her home church, Trinity Presbyterian Church, on Sept. 12, 2021, at 2 p.m. ––––––– STELLA MOREMAN PATTERSON Stella Moreman Patterson of Opelika, Alabama was born in Key West, Florida, on Aug. 3, 1939, and passed away at Bethany House on Sept. 1, 2021. She was 82 years old. She attended Central Baptist Church. Stella took care of her family, her yard, and enjoyed watchin Auburn football and going to the games. She was preceded in death by her husband, R.P. Patterson; parents, Mary C. and George W. Moreman. Stella is survived by her children, James W. Patterson, George L. Patterson and Regina A. Patterson (Hugh); grandchildren, Tabatha Lunsford (Brad), Nikki Patterson and six great grandchildren. ––––––– DAVID E. PAYNE David E. Payne of Opelika, Alabama, was born to the late James Ocie and Mary Johnson Payne on Jan. 28, 1951, and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Aug. 31, 2021. He was 70 years old. He worked for over 40 years with AMCO where he became a foreman and was well-known in the community for his plumbing business. He was a member of Union Christian Church in Little Texas, Alabama. He was a devoted husband, father, Pawpaw, brother and Alabama fan.

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

Thereʼs no excuse for

ELDER ABUSE

“This project was supported by Subgrant #18-VA-VS-050 #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.”

David is survived by his wife of 31 years, Wanda J. Payne; children, Kecia Lewis, Mandy Blankenship, Brittney Payne (Travis), Courtney Payne; eight grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy Tally, Barbara McDonald; brothers, Ronnie Payne (Meri), Mark Payne (Wanda); special family friend, Margaret Smith as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. Visitation was held Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m. The graveside service was held at Little Texas Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, at 3 p.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. ––––––– SANDRA J. KING Sandra J. King of Opelika was born to the late Grover and Vesta Hanna Coleman on June 28, 1946, and passed away on Aug. 30, 2021. She was 75 years old. Sandra enjoyed the time she spent operating the hair salon at Monarch Estates. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family as well as her church family. She also loved her two dogs. Sandra is survived by her husband of 59 years, James W. “Jim” King; children, Michelle King Adams, Chris King (Mona), and Jeremy King (Faith); grandchildren, Sydney Carter (Mack), Marshall King (Alex), Claire King, and Jane Ellen King; great grandchildren, Truly and Triston; brother, Donald Coleman, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members. Visitation was held Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 10:30 a.m. until noon. A funeral service was held at noon on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home with Pastor Vance McCollum officiating. –––––––

FRED THOMAS DUKE, JR. Fred Thomas Duke, Jr. of Opelika was born to the late Fred Thomas Duke, Sr. and Nonie Ermon Bell Duke on June 23, 1923, and passed away at EAMC on Aug. 30, 2021. He was 98 years old. Fred proudly served his country during WWII and was a 30-year retiree from Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in Marietta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie Nellene Duke. Fred is survived by his children, Joey Duke (Deborah) of Opelika, Dale Bruner of Harriman, Tennessee, Ronnie Bruner (Jan) of Long Beach, Mississippi, and Anne Varner of Auburn; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; sisters, Jean Mullens and Nona Flagg. A private Graveside was held at Auburn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to the East Alabama Humane Society in Phenix City, former home of his faithful companion, Bitsy. ––––––– CONNIE M. MADDOX Connie M. Maddox of Opelika, was born on Aug. 28, 1956, and passed away on Aug. 28, 2021. She was 65 years old. Connie was preceded in death by her father, Roland Sevigny. Connie is survived by her husband of 25 years, Bobby Maddox; daughter, Leah King (Chris); son, Todd Morgan (Sabrina Yu); grandchildren, Dean Gladden, Christopher King, and Caleb King; mother, Janette LaPan; sister, Debbie Jones; nephews, Matthew Jones, B.J. Jones and Nathan Jones. A Memorial service will be held at Eastside Emanuel Holiness Church with Reverend Jackie Prickett officiating at a later date.

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.”

A13 Sept. 9, 2021

The “No” That is a “Yes!”

God, grace and, and salvation, we are saying “No” to sin. Not, “Maybe,” or “Possibly,” or “Check back tomorrow." "No!" That is our full and final answer. It not only is this way, it has to be this way. BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th Grace would not be grace if it allowed us to Street Church of Christ crawl right back into our in Opelika pigpens of sin. God loves n Titus 2:11-14, Paul is us too much to let us die discussing the grace of in our sins and He loves us too much to let us live God that has appeared in them. He wants us to and offers salvation to all. get into Christ, and then Of course, it has “apHe wants Christ to get peared” in the person and into us. work of Jesus Christ. This All of that is why the appearance changed hisgrace that saves us is tory, split time in two, and the grace that teaches continues to transform the us to say “No” to sin. world — one person at a The grace that brings time. But not only has the salvation, teaches grace of God appeared — Paul goes on to tell us that sanctification (holiness/ this grace teaches us to say wholeness). The grace that saves the believer, “No,” to ungodliness and commits him to a certain worldly passions. behavior. Anyone who In saying “Yes” to

CHURCH CALENDAR CHURCH OF CHRIST The church at Cunningham Drive are meeting at their building at 9:30 a.m. for Bible class, 10:30 a.m. for worship, 5 p.m. for evening worship and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. ST. MARYS CATHOLIC CHURCH/ ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH SMCC is having Daily Mass on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 8 a.m. and on weekends they are distributing holy Communion on Sundays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. A Mass is also held on Sundays at 12:30 p.m. at St. Michael's Church over in Auburn. For more information people can call the office at 334-749-8359 or go to the parish website: stmarysopelika.org. UNION GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH In-person gathering with social distancing. Masks are available. Sunday worship is at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday worship is at 6:30 p.m. Services are streamed live on Facebook — the page is UGBChurch

claims to have tasted God’s grace but is not pursuing sanctification, has not understood the grace of God (Hebrews 12:14). "Yes" to God and His grace is a “No” to Satan and sin. It is a yes to the good life. It is a yes to God’s life. It is a yes to self-controlled, upright, and godly living. It is a yes to a lifestyle that has its own rewards. Isn’t it wonderful to wake up in the morning and not be ashamed of yesterday’s behavior? Isn’t it nice to see time, money and energy once invested in lesser things, now given over to good? Isn’t it great to say, as John Newton did, “I am not what I hope to be or what I should be but by the grace of God, I am not what I used to be?” “No” to Satan and sin is a “Yes” to the blessed

hope He has for us. It is a yes to the glorious appearing of Jesus. Last, but not least, it is a yes to: ... our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good. In the end, isn’t that what we need? We need something to live for that is bigger than we are. We need something to live for that is higher and holier than our ways. We need deliverance not only from the sinfulness of our lives, but also from the smallness of them. We are born, grow up, marry, raise a family, retire, and die. Mark Twain said death is “the only unpoisoned gift earth ever had” because it put an end to man’s mean-

inglessness. Bertrand Russell spoke in a similar way when he said, “only on the firm foundation of unyielding despair, can the soul’s habitation be safely built.” Thank God they were wrong! Living for Jesus not only rescues us from hell, but it also injects eternal purpose and meaning into previously empty lives. By His grace we are a people who now are His possession. Consequently, we are people with a purpose. We are people whose “Yes” to God is a “No” to Satan and sin. We are people whose “No” to Satan and sin is a “Yes” to the rest of life. It is a yes to the best of life. It is a yes to Jesus, the Lord of life. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-ofgrace-with-bruce-green. com.

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

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

Bible Verse of the Week "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for." Hebrews 11: 1-2:

CHURCH DIRECTORY APOSTOLIC HOLINESS Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Inc. 28 Sanford Ave., Opelika 334-745-0210 God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528 Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270,

Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 High Hope Baptist Church

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OPELIKA The following are held in-person and online on Sundays: Traditional Service in The Worship Center at 8:30 and 11 a.m. Contemporary Service in The 3:16 Center at 9:45 a.m. Evening Service in The Worship Center at 6 p.m. Watch services online at fbcopelika.com.

227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Destiny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., Opelika 334-745-2054 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151 Place your ad here!

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

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

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

A14 Sept. 9, 2021

Extending Hospitality to Strangers

WALTER ALBRITTON

t was a strange request from our son Matt. “Dad, our friends Alfred and Muumbe Kalembo from Zambia have no place to go for Christmas. Would you and Mom like to invite them to spend Christmas week with you at the Cabin?” He was calling from Asbury Seminary in Kentucky where he and Alfred were third-year students. “And, by the way,” Matt added, “They have five children and the youngest are two-yearold twin girls.” After getting the green light from Dean, I said, “Yes, son, we would love to have your friends spend Christmas with us.” A few minutes later, Dean and I were gasping for breath. What had

invited perfect strangers with five children to spend a week with us in a cabin that had only three beds. And we did not even know if they could speak English. It never occurred to us that we were obeying the Biblical instruction found in Hebrews 13:1-3. This is how J.B. Phillips translates it: “Never let your brotherly love fail, nor refuse to extend your hospitality to strangers — sometimes men have entertained angels unawares. Think constantly of those in prison as if you were prisoners at their side. Think too of all who suffer as if you shared their pain.” Had I read the passage back then, I would have laughed at the idea that we were extending hospitality to angels. To us, Matt’s friends were simply a poor family from Africa that had no place to go for Christmas and Dean and I were meeting their need. Our apprehension turned to joy as we shared that week with the Kalembo family. Their gracious presence was like a sweet fragrance in

our home. They loved Jesus. They loved life. They loved us. Within days it seemed like we had known Alfred and Muumbe all our lives. Before the week was over, we had decided to “adopt” each other. We were more than brothers and sisters in Christ; we were family. And for twenty years now, the “ties that bind” have only grown stronger. When we shared Christmas with them 20 years ago, we had no idea that “poor boy” born in a remote African village would return home and become a leadership giant in his country. Not only did he become a bishop in his church, he served two terms as president of the Council of Churches of Zambia. He was even called upon to preach the eulogy at the funeral of the president of Zambia. God used the voice of that poor boy to comfort his nation when their president died. In these days, Alfred and Muumbe are back at the Cabin with me and we are celebrating the publishing of his autobiography, BREAKING BARRIERS. His inspir-

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ing book is now available from Amazon in paperback or on Kindle. Few children born in remote African villages are able to obtain even a high school education, though Alfred, by God’s grace, secured a Doctor of Ministry degree. His Pilgrim Wesleyan Church has but one bishop, and he is that bishop. Driven by compassion for his people, Alfred has inspired the drilling of hundreds of wells that now provide fresh water for thousands of Zambians. Muumbe has established several schools that now provide education for the poorest of the poor. Are Alfred and Muumbe angels? I don’t know. I do know that they are authentic servants of Christ. I do know I love them and they love me. They are family to me. And without a doubt, one of the wisest decisions Dean and I ever made was to open our home to them during an unforgettable Christmas week. Read Alfred’s book; I think it will convince you that God will bless you for extending hospitality to strangers.

NAMI East Alabama to Hold Monthly Meeting Sept. 21 CONTRIBUTED BY NAMI OF EAST ALABAMA NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 21, at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce which is located at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited.

Solutions for Financial Problems Gary A. Hudgins Attorney at Law For your FREE REPORT on Stopping Garnishments, Foreclosures, Lawsuits Creditor Calls and Evictions, email Hudginslaw @gmail.com or call for an appointment.

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A15 Sept. 9, 2021

COMICS

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

A16 Sept. 9, 2021

LEE COUNTY FAIR

D O

Kid’s Night on Tuesday Gate Opens at 4 p.m.

$5 - Adults $4 Under 12 $2 Seniors, Military, First Responders

R I D E S

MISS LEE COUNTY FAIR PAGENT

$1 Night on Thursday Gate Opens at 6 p.m.

Sept. 28 - Oct. 2 Lee County Fairgrounds Highway 431, Opelika

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS OPELIKA: SEPT. 14 AT 4:30 P.M. INSIDE • OPELIKA/AUBURN SCHOOLS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • COMMUNITY SPORTS

LEE COUNTY: SEPT. 14 AT 6 P.M. AUBURN: SEPT. 14 AT 6 P.M.

McKelvey, Warriors Shock Rival Glenwood PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

ON THE MARK D. MARK MITCHELL

DOGS BEAT POETS FOR FIRST WIN

35-yard TD for the final score of the game. Gagliano added the PAT, making the final score 24-7. Throughout the game, neither team was able to get their offense consistently clicking. OHS tallied 224 total yards, 134 rushing yards and 90 passing yards, while Lanier managed to gain 121 total yards, 41 rushing yards and 80 passing yards. Bulldog starting QB Jackson Bates struggled, accounting for two interceptions compared to four Poet turnovers. In light of Bates’ struggles (he finished 7-of-10 for -3 yards), McArdle earned some extra playing time and ended the night 9-of-13 for 90 yards. John Thomas led the Dogs rushing attack with 53 yards on 12 attempts. Cooper accounted for 99 yards of offense — 51 yards receiving and 48 yards rushing. Unfortunately, Stinson injured his shoulder and will be out two to four weeks, depending on how quickly he heals. Next week, the Dogs return home to play region foe Eufaula (1-2) in their second Region game of the season. See SPORTS, page B4

Lee-Scott QB No. 9 Tate McKelvey celebrates a first down in Friday's win over Glenwood. BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Entering Friday night, the seniors on

the varsity Lee-Scott football team were winless against region rival and AISA powerhouse Glenwood. “They are very

talented,” said LeeScott head coach Buster Daniel of Glenwood. “They have athletes all over the field.”

When the clock hit double zero, however, the student section had stormed the field and the Warriors had See LSA, page B4

Harsin’s First Game Raises Expectations for the Tigers PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

he OHS football team (1-2, R 1-0) beat Lanier 247 in Montgomery’s Crampton Bowl last Thursday night. Following a 0-2 start, the win was the first regular season and region win for Opelika. Opelika’s reserve quarterback JT McArdle threw a 45-yard TD pass to Kaden Cooper for the first score of the game with 6:19 left in the opening quarter. (Gagliano made the PAT, 7-0). Lanier answered with a 37-yard touchdown pass from Braylon Jones to Cory Haigler less than three minutes later. (PAT good 7-7). Both offenses struggled to find a rhythm, however, Charles Gagliano nailed a 32-yard field goal with six minutes left in the first half, giving OHS a 10-7 lead at halftime. In the second half, Cooper added his second score of the game, running for a 1-yard touchdown with 5:39 left in the third quarter. (Gagliano added his second PAT, making it 17-7). Jayden Stinson ended any thoughts of a Lanier win, returning an interception

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

Bryan Harsin’s Auburn Tigers took the field for the first time Saturday as heavy favorites over the Akron Zips. Few, however, expected to see the 60-10 shellacking that Auburn fans inside Jordan-Hare Stadium witnessed that evening. “I thought our guys came out ready to play, did a lot of See HARSIN, page B5

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B2 September 9, 2021

Glenwood School

PLAYERS OF Red Devils Too Much to Handle for Visiting Panthers

13 receptions for 168 yards

of the

Week Congratulations from

Lee Co. Revenue Commissioner Oline Price Opelika 215 S. 9th St. Opelika 334-737-3655

Smiths Station 2366 LR 430 Ste. 140 Smiths Station 334-664-0296

Auburn 1266 Mall Pkwy Auburn 334-737-7298

PLAYER OF THE WEEK The City of Opelika is proud to sponsor the Opelika High School Player of the Week. We applaud you for your HARD WORK and DEDICATION on and off the football field.

WR KADEN COOPER 51 yards receiving, 48 yards rushing and 1 TD catch

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

GO DAWGS!

PHOTO BY HARRISON TARR

SENIOR WR NAVELLE DEAN

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

When Smiths Station took the field in Phenix City on Friday evening, positive plays and points were tough to come by. Between a standout performance from Central High School quarterback Caleb Nix, a stingy Red Devil defense and the black and silvers’ inability to capitalize on momentum swings, Mike Glisson’s squad was unable to stay in a game which eventually showed 56-0 on the scoreboard when the clock hit double zeros. Simply put, it just wasn’t the Panthers’ night. From opening kickoff on, it was all Central all night. The Red Devils opened the contest with a long touchdown run on their opening drive and never looked back. On the other side of the field, Glisson’s squad struggled to gain any early momentum. Despite an attempt to establish the run game, Smiths Station was forced into a pair of three-and-outs on its first two possessions. Both drives netted negative yards and featured a sack. Glisson attributes his teams’ inability to string anything together to their struggles in the trenches. “We didn’t block very well tonight,” Glisson said. “I know they’ve got some very big D-lineman but we didn’t block very good.” Glisson’s Panthers trailed 14-0 at the conclusion of the first period of play. To the disappointment of Panther fans, the second quarter brought more of the same results. Smiths Station found a way to

Smiths Station head coach Mike Glisson drive down to inside its opponents 20; however, an interception off the arm of Jackson Greer effectively killed any momentum the black and silver had built. The Panthers’ fourthyear head coach was disappointed in his team’s inability to move the ball across the plain. “I remember one of them was route miscommunication,” Glisson said. “So it wasn’t all the quarterback’s fault. But yeah, they hurt. We had a chance to put some points on the board and we didn’t.” Nix and the Red Devils capitalized on every opportunity presented to them. By the end of the first half, Central had posted 21 additional points via a pair of passing touchdowns and a 92-yard touchdown rush from senior running back Jordan Moultrie. Smiths Station trailed 35-0 heading into the locker room. Little surprise to most, the tale of the second half proved to be nearly identical to the first. Central continued to keep its foot on the gas and picked up right where it left off. After a pair of traded possessions, Nix tossed his fourth touchdown pass nine minutes into the third quarter. From there, the Red Devils poured it on with a pair of rushing

SOPHOMORE RB JACORI TARVER

18 carries for 183 yards, 2 TD, 3 receptions for 30 yards

#myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer

touchdowns in the fourth quarter, pushing their lead to 56 points, a score which would hold until the conclusion of the game. The leader of the black and silver spoke songs of praise for his opponents following the defeat, claiming that his team simply got outplayed. “They won,” Glisson said. “It wasn’t that Smiths Station lost, they won and we’ve got to focus on us. We’ve got to get better and get back to work on Sunday.” The head coach also noted that the talent on the Red Devils’ roster poses a threat to any squad in the state. “Central — from what I’ve seen this year — they’re the best team in the state,” Glisson said. “I don’t see any doubt. They are loaded.” With the loss now behind them, the Panthers now direct their attention to next week’s opponent: Prattville. “We got to focus on us,” Glisson said. “We’ve got to get better, focus and get ready for Prattville next week. Smiths Station will travel to Prattville (21, with a 20-14 loss to Auburn last week) on Friday, Sept. 10, when the Lions play host to the now 1-2 Panthers. Kickoff between the regional foes is set for 7 p.m. CST.

B3 September 9, 2021

THE WEEK Hornets Tame Tigers 37-20 BY RICK LANIER FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

Following a 1-1 start to the season, Beauregard’s coaching staff had some questions to be answered as the Hornets made their first road trip of the season Friday, traveling to Talladega to take on the Tigers in the opener of 5A Region 4 play. The most pressing question for first-year Beauregard head coach Justin Jones would be how his team responded to being away from the hornet nest, in hostile territory? In the end, the main question would be answered, because despite a rash of penalties and miscues, the Hornets managed to play well enough to outlast the Tigers 37-20. During his post-game interview, Jones expressed relief by the victory. “The struggle was real with the penalties (12 total),” he said. “[But] when we had a chance to finish it, we finished it, and that’s the important thing for our team.” The night started well for the Hornets as they received the opening kickoff and began moving the ball at-will against Talladega. Then, a series of three false start penalties put the Hornets behind the chains, and when QB Trent Moulton’s fourthand-13 pass fluttered to the ground, the promising drive had stalled. Talladega mounted an impressive first drive as well, complimented by a completed pass on third and long to extend the drive, and then an 18-yard run for a touchdown to take an early 6-0 lead (PAT was blocked). Beauregard senior receiver CJ Reese promptly put the Hornet’s back in business returning the ensuing kickoff to the Talladega 20. The next play was a perfectly

executed receiver reverse for an apparent touchdown, but another Hornet penalty took the points off the board. Two consecutive false start penalties followed, and the Hornets soon wasted the scoring opportunity by turning the ball over on downs. Despite surrendering a score early, the Hornet defense regrouped and began to play with a purpose. Led by linebacker Jacob Clark, the defense pushed Talladega back to their own 12-yard line on the next drive and forced the Tigers to punt the ball away. Back and forth, each team traded possessions. That was until Clark sacked the Tiger quarterback twice in one drive to force another Talladega punt from deep in its own territory. A bad snap out of the back of the end-zone resulted in a Hornet safety, making the score 6-2 in favor Talladega. Beauregard’s receiver Chris Gamble took the ensuing Tiger free-kick at his own 40-yard line, cut left and returned it to Talladega’s 35-yard line, setting the Hornets up with good field position again. Running back Qua Barnes scampered to the end zone on the next play — but another penalty took the points off the board. Two more penalties backed the Hornets up to the Tiger’s 30; but Moulton took a QB-keeper to the oneyard line two plays later. The progress was futile, however, as the Hornets fumbled on the doorstep to turn the ball back over to the Tigers with 2:19 to play

in the first half. Less than a minute later, on fourth-and-3 on their own 25 yard-line, the Tigers called for a fake punt which resulted in a 75-yard touchdown, extending the Talladega lead to 13-2. With little time before the break, Beauregard returned the ensuing kickoff deep into Tiger territory again. This time, the Hornets put together two big running plays resulting in a Z.J. Grady touchdown. One successful two-point conversion later, and the Hornets had closed the gap and trailed by only three points at halftime. The second half of actions featured similar momentum ebb-and-flows of first half. After narrowly avoiding what could have been a disastrous kickoff fumble, however, the Hornets offense began to click. The Beauregard rushing attack began to dominate time of possession, and touchdown runs of 15 and 20 yards by Grady and Kyan Malloy, respectively, reflected the Hornet’s success against a tiring Tiger defense. Well into the fourth quarter, with the score 23-13 Beauregard, the Tigers put together a long touchdown drive to close the gap to 23-20. On the ensuing kickoff, however, Malloy took it 75 yards to the house, and the game was pretty much in hand for the Hornets. A stingy Hornet defense, coupled with another score by Barnes made the final score 37-20 in favor of Beauregard. The victory improved the Hornets record to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in region play. The Hornets are back home this Friday, Sept. 10, as they take on the 3-1 (10) Bulldogs from Holtville at 7 p.m. CST. Beauregard High School is located at 7343 Alabama Highway 51, in Opelika.

Beauregard High School JUNIOR LB JACOB CLARK Multiple sacks

of the

Week Congratulations From the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Download the app today

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SMITHS STATION PANTHERS

Serving Lee County since 2006

SOPHOMORE PUNTER AUBRE WIMBERLY 3 punts netting over 50 yards, pinning the opponent inside their own 10-yard-line twice

Serving Lee County since 2006

SENIOR QB TATE MCKELVEY

107 rush yards 1 TD, 48 pass yards 1 TD and 31 receiving yards

B4 September 9, 2021

Bulldogs at the Next Level The wait is officially over for fans of college football. This past weekend there was tailgating, marching bands, stadiums packed to the brim and — most importantly — a full slate of teams doing battle on the gridiron. For fans of the game in Opelika, Alabama, last weekend’s return of football meant new opportunities for a slew of Opelika High School alumni. Nine former Bulldogs look to establish themselves as serious factors for their respective schools in 2021-22.

JAKE BENTLEY: SOUTH ALABAMA

The quarterback for the Bulldogs from 2014 until 2016, Bentley’s football career has been journey. After posting 28 touchdowns and 2,834 yards in the air as a junior at Opelika, the then-four-star elected to forgo his senior year of high school and enroll at the University of South Carolina. Bentley spent four years as part of the Gamecock quarterback room before transferring to Utah for his fifth season. Upon the conclusion of his 2020 campaign, the quarterback announced

SPORTS

FROM B1 The Tigers opened the season with a 40-8 win over Carroll, but have lost two in a row. Central shut out the Tigers 33-0 and RE Lee beat them 17-10 in their region opener. Historically, EHS has won 22 of the 32 games against OHS. The Bulldogs have won three straight, however, including a 28-21 victory last

LSA >>

FROM B1

stunned the No. 3 Gators with a statement 23-22 victory. The Warriors were spurred to victory in large part by quarterback-turned-Swissarmy-knife Tate McKevley. By game’s end, the senior led the team in rushing, had 31 receiving yards and was responsible for two touchdowns — one on the ground and one passing. “Tate was a leader last year, as far as just how he plays the game,” Daniel said. “He transformed into a leader with his mouth and his actions, and just the whole nine yards now as a senior. He’s filling that role extremely well for us right now.” Mid-way through the fourth quarter — after taking the lead early and then losing it — the Warriors trailed 17-22. McKelvey, who

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY USA

BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

University of South Alabma (USA) QB Jake Bentley played for Opelika from 2014 to 2016 and led the Jags to a 31-7 win over Southern Mississpii on Saturday.

mention for All-Conference USA in both 2019 and 2020. The former bulldog posted a pair of solo tackles in the team’s win last Wednesday night. CADE BLACKMAN: SAMFORD

An OHS graduate in 2019, Blackman continued the tradition of Bulldog quarterback’s playing at the next level. After posting 1,498 yards and 13 touchdowns through the air as a senior in 2018, Blackman decided to take his talents to Samford. The former Bulldog saw no playing time in 2019; he did, however, take snaps in the team’s win over the Citadel in 2020. Blackman did not take any snaps in the Bulldogs 52-14 win over Tennessee Tech on Thursday.

self as a senior in what many speculate to be one of Auburn’s most improved secondaries in some time after producing a solo tackle in the Tigers 60-10 beat down of Akron on Saturday. JAYLEN STINSON: DUKE

A former Rivals consensus three-star athlete, Stinson’s career at Opelika was certainly one worth remembering. The defensive back compiled 221 tackles, four interceptions, eight touchdowns, two forced fumbles and two blocked field goals in his final three years as a Bulldog. Since his arrival at Duke in 2020, Stinson has seen action in all 11 contests involving the Blue Devils, posting 12 tackles and one touchdown. The former Bulldog picked up where he left off on Saturday, recording three punt returns netting 66 yards and a pair of tackles in the Blue Devils’ 28-31 loss to the Charlotte 49ers.

record for pancake blocks with 143 during his four years and was named first team All-Area three consecutive years. Dawson saw just two games worth of action for the Owls in 2019; however, did record his first collegiate start against Dixie State on March 20. The offensive lineman continued his work in the trenches when the Owls downed Reinhardt 35-25 on Thursday.

KYLE FOURTENBARY: NORTHERN IOWA

his decision to transfer to South Alabama where he will spend his final year of eligibility helping the Jaguars improve upon a 4-8 season in 2020. Bentley went 17-for22 for 269 yards and 2 TD's in Satruday's week one win over Southern Miss.

stats during his time as a Mountaineer. Now a redshirt senior, Benton joins the Blazers in hopes to help his squad repeat as C-USA champions for the third time in four years. He did not record any stats in the team’s season opening win over Jacksonville State last Wednesday.

A linebacker and OHS graduate in 2016 who served as a key aspect to the Bulldog defense in its 2015 12-1 campaign, Benton’s collegiate journey has lead him back to his home state of Alabama. After redshirting at Butler Community College (Kan.) in 2016, the linebacker transferred to West Virginia for two years and saw just six games worth of action. He recorded no

Despite playing just two full seasons for the Bulldogs, Boler’s career has likely captivated the interest of most all OHS fans. A standout safety during his time at Opelika, the 6’0” DB has made a noteworthy impact on the UAB secondary. After redshirting as a true freshman in 2017, Boler went to work; he has appeared in all 36 games for the JSU Blazers since 2018 and earned honorable

Following his graduation from Opelika in 2016, Guice enrolled at Auburn University and walked on to then-head coach Gus Malzahn’s team in his first semester on The Plains. Despite recording 49 solo tackles, two interceptions and nine passbreak-ups (PBU) as a senior at OHS, the defensive back has yet to see a season in which he recorded more than two game appearances. He will seek to prove him-

season. This is another winnable game for OHS, as EHS appears to be struggling to find consistency on both sides. The Dogs may be without several players Friday night due to injuries and a few players deciding to quit the team. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium on the OHS campus. Tickets can be purchased at Bubba’s Medicine

Shop and Victory design. Bulldog Stadium ticket office opens at 5:30 p.m. Friday. FRESHMAN TEAM WINS OPENER The Ninth grade football team blew out Benjamin Russell, 450, in the season opener last week at Bulldog Stadium. Jamari Miller, scored one of his three TD’s on the opening kickoff. Miller returned a punt for a touchdown and

caught a pass for his third TD. Calvin Hughley and Tommie Johnson Jr. scored rushing touchdowns. Malik Autrey scored a TD after blocking a punt and scooping it up and returning for a TD. The Dog defenses added two safeties, securing the victory for the freshman team. The ninth graders host Valley Sept. 13 at 5 p.m. RIP MR FRED WOODS

A few weeks ago, Fred Woods passed away. Mr. Fred, as I was told to call him, was one of the managing partners for the group that formed the Opelika Observer. I had the privilege of knowing Mr. Fred and his sister Ellen Strozier for many years. Both were fine people and are now resting in heaven. I wanted to express my gratitude and love for Fred Woods! He

was very good to me and I consider him a close friend. God Bless Mr. Fred, Rest in Peace! I love you. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and the Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

played like a man with a personal vendetta against the swamps and all things alligator, was looking at one more opportunity to earn his team the upset win. Lee-Scott began on its own 30-yard line. Together with junior backup quarterback Ryan Dearing (who took snaps when McKelvey played receiver), McKelvey led the Warriors down the field in rapid succession. Five-yard rush; three-yard rush; four-yard rush; 11-yard rush, etc. … the Warriors methodically moved the chains against the vaunted Glenwood defense. With 2:43 remaining in the game, the Warriors faced a goal-to-go situation. McKelvey handed the ball off to sophomore running back JJ Meyers who plunged through a crowd of Gator defenders and into the end zone.

Lee-Scott would attempt and fail the twopoint conversion, but had taken a 23-22 lead. The Glenwood offense — which had been inconsistent for most of the night — took the field with one more chance to retake the lead. A field goal would be enough to win the game. It looked as if the Gators would respond quickly after picking up a first down, however, near the 50-yard line, with time ticking down, the Lee-Scott defense rose to the occasion. On fourth-and-one with less than a minute remaining in the game, junior Lee-Scott defensive end Joseph Horne broke through the backfield and swatted Gator quarterback Dallas Crows’ pass to the ground, forcing a turnover on downs and giving the ball back to Lee-Scott. The Warriors took the field one more time in victory formation,

delivering the seniors, fans and coaches their first win of the season and their first win over their rival in four years. “You always talk about getting better from week to week,” Daniel said. “That’s how you win football games; you can’t really beat yourself.” Overall, Lee-Scott played like a much different team from the one which lost 41-3 to Chambers Academy in week one. The mentality shift was apparent from the coin toss where the Warriors elected to receive the ball in an attempt to put their mark on the game before Glenwood even had the chance. The attempt failed, but the Warriors still found some success, picking up the 30 yards and connecting on a chunk play, 28-yard reception to McKelvey. Following the punt to Glenwood, the

Warriors immediately forced the Gators to punt the ball back. Glenwood hurt itself throughout the night with sloppy and untimely penalties, which only lent to Lee-Scott’s confidence and success. The Warriors were the first team to break the scoring deadlock with a 39-yard field goal from Matthew Rolader. From there, the Warriors took a 10-0 lead with a back-foot touchdown pass from McKelvey to junior Alex Cash. Momentum began to flip in the second quarter, however, as Glenwood responded with two touchdowns and a two-point conversion to take a 15-10 halftime lead. The second half featured an uptick in performance from the Lee-Scott defensive line and a feverous commitment to the ground game from the offense. McKelvey put the Warriors back

on top, 17-15, with a 5-yard rushing touchdown. Glenwood retook the lead, 22-17, on the next drive with a 1-yard Crow rushing touchdown. Crow also passed for 255 yards and one TD as the Gator rushing attack was limited for most of the night. The Warriors tallied 256 yards on the night, with 141 rushing and 115 passing. McKelvey accounted for 107 of the ground yards and Cash had the lone receiving touchdown. Defensively, Dearing led the team with six tackles. They say “throw out the record book” when rivals face off. That may be true, but Lee-Scott is going to remember this one for a long time. Lee-Scott (1-1) is back in action Friday as they host another rival and region foe, Pike Liberal Arts (2-1) at 7 p.m.

CHARLIE BENTON: UAB

WILL BOLER III: UAB

DEVIN GUICE: AUBURN

JAMES DAWSON: KENNESAW STATE

Dawson’s work in the trenches at Opelika is a career that likely goes unnoticed; his work at right guard, however, was worth writing home about. The former Bulldog started 48 consecutive games at right guard, holds the school

A recipient of Alabama Offensive AllState Second Team honors from USA Today in 2015, Fourtenbary tallied 472 yards and six touchdowns on 28 receptions as a senior on the 12-1 OHS state-quarterfinal team. Despite redshirting as a freshman in 2016, the tight end’s impact on the Panther offense has been noteworthy. Fourtenbary has started in every game for UNI dating back to 2018, has recorded over 360 yards in the same time and has posted a pair of touchdowns to boot. The OHS alumni saw playing time in his team’s 16-10 loss to No. 7 Iowa State on Saturday; however, recorded no receptions.

B5 September 9, 2021

Opelika Cross County Brings Home the Gold PHOTOS BY MAGGIE COOPER

Connor Mullins, Breckin Gould, Joann Smith T, Mary Evans Cooper medaled at the AT&T Starrs Mill Panther Cross Country Meet in Fayetteville,Georgia this past Saturday.

OHS won first place in the Freshman Girls Race.

All Gas No Brakes: What Auburn Fans Should Expect for Tigers in Week 2 BY HARRISON TARR FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

For most power-five coaches, a 60-10 win over a low-caliber non-conference opponent is nothing to write home about. For most coaches, the expectation is for their team to take care of business and deliver a sound thumping in what some refer to as a “cupcake” game; however,

for first-year head coach Bryan Harsin, the Auburn Tigers’ trampling of the Akron Zips on Saturday meant more than securing an expected win. For Harsin, the victory was a strong first step in proving himself to an entire fan base. His debut in Jordan-Hare stadium was a solid foothold to continue on a climb which is sure to be a season-long

feat. With his first win at Auburn now behind him, Harsin must focus on the next step in his journey: delivering a win over Alabama State in the same fashion which his team took care of the Zips on Saturday. When analyzing what Harsin must accomplish on Saturday morning, it is imperative to keep

in mind that the point of focus is not if his team wins, rather the manner in which they do so. Here’s what Auburn fans should be paying the most attention to when the Tigers host ASU at 11 a.m. this Saturday. 1. TAKE CARE OF NIX. Junior quarterback — and third-year starter — Bo Nix enters the contest following the best

statistical game of his career. Making sure that he is just as comfortable in the pocket this week as last week should be priority number one. Nobody is expecting back-to-back 275 yard, 3-touchdown performances; they can be expect, however, more consistency from game-to-game. 2. GIVE FINLEY MEANINGFUL SNAPS.

If and when the Tigers get up big, backup quarterback T.J. Finley must see time with the first-team offense in a way that compliments his role in the third quarter of last week’s contest. Fans are curious about the LSU transfer’s potential. A decision to delegate some snaps to true freshman Demetrius Davis See AUBURN, page B8

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

Tank Bigsby celebrates scoring a rushing touchdown Saturday against Akron.

HARSIN

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work, a lot of focus on what they had to do the last nine months to prepare, and today was an example of what we’re capable of doing when we go out there and play good football,” Harsin said in his post-game press conference. Now, let us all remember to avoid overreaction Monday … This team still has many question marks. But at the same time, following Saturday’s performance, you would be hard pressed to find a reason not to raise your expectations for the orange-and-blue in 2021. And rightfully so. Auburn was cerebral in every facet of the game. The Tigers were balanced — 316 yards rushing and 297 passing. The Tigers were disciplined — committing only three penalties. The Tigers

were efficient — averaging 10.4 yards per play. The Tigers were dominant — registering six sacks, converting four red zone trips into four touchdowns, committing zero turnovers, allowing zero sacks and scoring 60 points. “That’s been the message for a while, just play good ball, take care of it, do things in situational football, hard things where we execute,” Harsin said. “We did that in the red zone, we did that on third downs.” Offensively, junior quarterback Bo Nix, who has more than his fair share of doubters, played the best (statistical) game of his career. The third-year starter posted the program’s highest in-game completion percentage ever (min. 20 attempts), finding seven different receivers on 20-for-22 passing, 275 yards and three touchdowns.

Bo Nix and running back Shaun Shivers celebrate after a touchdown against the Zips.

“What I got to see was his presence, leadership in the huddle, his poise on the two-minute drive to get us into field-goal range and get points at the end of the half,” Harsin said of Nix. “Overall, at that position, the decision-making, he was accurate with his throws, he did a good job on the sideline of getting adjustments with coach Bobo and getting that explained with the wide receivers, the tailbacks, the tight ends, amongst the players when he needed to. Now we can build from that going to the next game and hopefully continue with that decision-making and that type of execution.” Additionally, the offensive line, one of the few position groups scrutinized more frequently than Nix, did everything a coach could ask as they paved the way for a 9.9 yard-perrush average and kept

Nix from going down in the backfield. “You could just feel those guys wanting to go out there and have a really good performance,” Harsin said. “It was important to them to play well today, and I thought they did that.” Furthermore, the Tigers offense saw promising performances from a number of relatively low expectation guys like receiver Shedrick Jackson (led the team with 79 yards on five receptions), tight end John Samuel Shenker (played a majority of first-team snaps in various positions and caught five passes) and third string freshman running back Jarquez Hunter (110 yards rushing on nine carries). Defensively, there was also little to scrutinize. The one negative could be that the Tigers failed to force a turnover. Akron put the ball on the turf four times, however, the Tigers

Defensive lineman Derrick Hall poses after registering a sack in the Tigers' week one game.

were just unable to recover. “We were f lying around,” Harsin said of his defense. “We tackled well. I thought we were relentless in our pursuit to get to the ball.” Entering the game, Auburn fans (and the entire SEC, really) would admit that the Tigers boast a formidable secondary and linebacker unit. The questions were mostly schematic (with it being defensive coordinator Derrick Mason’s first year) and on the defensive line (things just have not been the same since Derrick Brown and Marlon Davidson departed for the NFL two years ago). One name that stood out Saturday amongst the defensive linemen was senior T.D. Moultry. The edge rusher tied Zakoby McClain for a team-high seven tackles, three of which were for loss, and registered one sack. “He’s got that motor

that I think we saw that tonight, and I think he was able to go out there and make plays,” Harsin said. Furthermore, senior defensive tackle Marquis Burks (who transferred in last year and registered just one sack all season) led the team with two sacks. The emergence of Moultry and Burks could mean the Tigers have top-notch units at all three levels of the defense. Generally speaking, Auburn did what it was expected to do — and then some — against the Zips. As a result, expectations have already begun to climb. Auburn’s No. 25 ranking in this week’s AP Poll — and the fact that Nix’s Heisman odds jumped from +10,000 to +6,000 — is a perfect ref lection of that. If you need more proof of the potential residing on The Plains this season … two words that haven’t even made this story yet … Tank Bigsby.

B6 September 9, 2021

Lee-Scott Win Rivalry Thriller PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

B7 September 9, 2021

Auburn Professors, Doctoral Fellow Lead Groundbreaking Climate Research on Threat of Increasing Global Aridity BY TERRI GREENE AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Breakthrough climate research led by Auburn University researchers was published this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, or PNAS. Professors Hanqin Tian and Susan Pan of Auburn’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, and Hao Shi, a postdoctoral fellow in the school’s International Center for Climate and Global Change Research, worked with a group of international climate scientists to focus on a predictive understanding of how increasing global aridity velocity impacts species range. “This study was inspired by animal and human behaviors in response to water deficits,” Tian, who also directs the center, said. “Just as nomadic people throughout history have migrated long distances or warred with farming neighbors to survive long-term drying, animals continue to migrate to find food and water in dry seasons.” The study, “Terrestrial biodiversity threatened by increasing global aridity velocity under high level warming,” was published in PNAS on Aug. 30. “For the first time, this study investigated the global aridity velocity in the past decades and in the future,” Pan, director of the GIS and Remote Sensing Labo-

ratory in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, said. The researchers analyzed changes in the speed and direction of global aridity and the corresponding distributions of terrestrial vertebrates and plants in the past — from 1979 to 2016 — and the future, specifically from 2050 to 2099. They also used satellite imagery to calculate spatial shifts in vegetation greenness from 1982 to 1986 and from 2011 to 2015. The study found that both agricultural and urban areas showed a mean drying velocity in history that is increasingly affecting humans’ food production system and living space. Researchers pointed out that by the middle of the 21st century, the global average rate of aridity could reach 0.75 kilometers per year and in some areas of serious aridity exceed 8 kilometers per year. That means all affected plants and animals worldwide may need to move an average of 37.5 kilometers between 2050 and 2099. In highly arid regions, species migration of more than 400 kilometers, about the length of New York state, would be required to adapt to droughts, leaving some species, especially amphibians, unable to adapt quickly enough. Amphibians will suffer the largest aridification speed against plants, birds and mammals, the study found. “The majority of

Professors Hanqin Tian, right, and Susan Pan, center, of the Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, and Hao Shi, left, a postdoctoral fellow in the International Center for Climate and Global Change Research at Auburn, led a breakthrough climate research study published this week in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, or PNAS. the globe is projected to experience drying, especially in the Amazon region, which is the Earth’s biodiversity champion,” Shi said. “Some hotspots of the southeastern U.S., Europe and tropical Asia, which generally receive substantial precipitation and are considered water-rich, likely would experience increasingly extreme droughts and other hotspots in arid areas such as southern Africa and North America may get drier in the future.” Overall, changes in aridity velocity are more variable than shifts in temperature velocity. Study co-author Christopher Reyer of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research emphasized this significant difference. “Past studies have painted the image that species have to be

‘running to stand still’ to remain in a suitable climate under future temperature changes,” Reyer said. “Here, we show that the speed of aridity changes expected under climate change requires species to ‘run faster and into different directions’ than expected from temperature changes alone.” The migration patterns of vegetation greenness tracked changes in aridity velocity in multiple regions. Among terrestrial animals, amphibians are projected to be most negatively impacted by future changes in global aridity velocity compared to historical values. This research has broad significance on several levels. “These findings can inform the design of protected area networks to avoid those areas

exposed to high drying speed,” said co-author Bojie Fu, a member of both the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. “In those agricultural regions facing a higher drying speed, breeding and management should be improved to correspond to water stress,” Pan added. “For cities that would experience long-term drying, infrastructure for water supply to both humans and urban vegetation should be well equipped, and water-saving policies should be implemented.” School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences Dean Janaki Alavalapati said this Auburn-led research is a significant addition to the ever-growing body of knowledge on climate change.

“Climate change is likely to become one of the most significant drivers of biodiversity loss in the second half of the 21st century, and this Auburn-led research presents a stark picture of what is to come, as well as what actions need to be taken,” Alavalapati said. “Conserving and sustainably managing biodiversity are essential components of natural climate solutions.” Tian emphasized the need for action. “This study underscores that strong and immediate greenhouse gas mitigation is required to avoid climate threats to biodiversity, agriculture and cities that provide people with essential goods and services,” Tian said. The Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences is a flagship institution for natural resources-based degrees including natural resource management, geospatial and environmental informatics and sustainable biomaterials and packaging. The school serves as the backbone for Alabama’s $30 billion-plus forest, wildlife and natural resources-related enterprises. Its mission is to create next-generation professionals and leaders, to develop new knowledge and disseminate science-based solutions to our clientele to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being of citizens in Alabama and beyond.

Auburn University Teams With Tuskegee University for STEM Student Research Opportunities BY TERRI GREENE AUBURN UNIVERSITY A new collaboration between Auburn University and Tuskegee University aims to provide opportunities for Tuskegee students to explore new educational and career paths through STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — research mentorships with Auburn graduate students and faculty. Maria Soledad Peresin, associate professor

of forest biomaterials in Auburn’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, established the collaboration with Michael Curry, chemistry and mechanical engineering professor at Tuskegee. The partnership is part of Peresin’s National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development, or NSF CAREER, Award for which she was selected earlier this year. The award supports early-career faculty who

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have the potential to serve as academic role models in research and education. Curry, who was recently awarded the 2021 HBCU — or historically black colleges and universities — Pioneering Award from the National Organization for Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, is excited about the prospects of this joint effort. “This collaboraSee STEM, page B8

Fifteen Tuskegee University students recently took part in a daylong collaborative event as part of a new partnership with Auburn University’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences to create a STEM research mentorship program with Auburn graduate students and faculty. The photo was taken in July prior to Auburn’s current indoor mask policy.

B8 September 9, 2021

Happy Grandparents Day I can remember like it was yesterday that my grandfather would take off work to come pick me up from kindergarten and walk me just across the street to our duplex apartment and have lunch with his granddaughter. When I am in the classroom, I love to see children’s eyes light up when grandparents are there to pick them up. When distance in miles separates grandchildren from grandparents, there are older people in the community or churches who might just love to help a young family in this way. You just have to ask for this help as a young family. I did just that when my family lived in South Alabama away from grandparents and family. My neighbors played grandparent role for my son in helping me. They attended school programs, special award programs, gifted him with their time and love. This made a lasting impression for my son. Too, children can FaceTime with their grandparents. Families can plan to eat meals together

with FaceTime. Grandparents can enjoy watching their grandchildren do different projects and watch them growing up virtually. Children can prepare special mail package surprises to send to their grandparents of pictures they have colored, crafts they have completed and photos of daily activities they have done at school or home. Grandparents love to be included in the lives of their grandchildren. Grandparents bring so much history and experience into a relationship with a grandchild. Because of life’s experiences, its ups and downs, grandparents can provide a strong physical, emotional and loving support. Grandchildren love to hear stories of when their parents or grandparents were young and growing up. They love to hear stories of the “good old days”. Grandparents can share a lot of wisdom of life experiences that worked for them and what didn’t work for them. Time spent with a grandchild or grandchildren spells LOVE!

They can share family history with their grandchild in giving them a sense of belonging. They understand the importance of doing activities with grandchildren such as reading a favorite book, drawing pictures together, putting a puzzle together, playing “pretend”, putting together model cars or planes. As a classroom teacher, I invited grandparents to help on field trips, class parties, read books to the class or engage in holiday crafts with their grandchildren. As a teacher, I was deeply touched when many of these grandparents would even f lex their work schedules because they knew how important it was for them to be available for their grandchildren. The wonderful truth about being a grandparent is that we truly love our role. Grandchildren can bring pure happiness and joy to grandparents. Cherish this Sunday, Sept. 12 as young grandchildren outreach to their grandparents. Beth Pinyerd Classroom Observer

towards making a final decision. “The advice I would give others would be to always take the opportunity to collaborate, because it opens new doors that could place you on the right path where you are destined to be.” Another Tuskegee student, Johnathan Mitchell, said the collaboration has been especially impactful in his experience. “Prior to this collaboration, I planned to pursue a career in the industry with my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and my master’s degree in chemistry, but after seeing so much interesting research and talking to so many amazing people, I plan to continue my education at Tuskegee with

a Ph.D. in material science engineering. I hope to attend the next collaboration event and those to come. I am grateful for this opportunity,” Mitchell said. As a follow-up to these joint activities, Curry and Peresin are co-organizing symposia for the American Chemical Society at its November regional meeting in Birmingham and its national meeting in spring 2022 in San Diego. The two also are working on a proposal for an NSF Research Experiences for Teachers site that would increase science and literacy in the state’s Black Belt region regarding the sustainable use and processing of materials.

in all kinds of forms and ways. We might be a biological grandparent, a foster child grandparent, a god grandparent, a person in the community who reaches out to children as a grandparent or like me, my son has two dogs and he claims me right now to be a “Grand Dog Mother”. We can thank Marian McQuade for beginning a campaign to establish a national day to honor grandparents. President Jimmy Carter declared the

STEM >>

development, organic chemistry and applied engineering concepts,” she said. “This will increase their expertise and preparedness for a better transition into the job market.” Curry and his team visited Peresin and her team July 13 at the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences for a daylong collaborative meeting. As part of the event, 15 students displayed posters about their research and delivered three-minute speeches to the group. The day also included networking activities and a tour of Peresin’s lab. The collaboration was sparked earlier this year when Curry invited Peresin to speak to the American Chemical Society student chapter at Tuskegee. Through that

event, chemistry major Jermya Hollins became the first Tuskegee student to join Peresin’s lab. Hollins is training in analytical techniques such as atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering, among other subjects. She is now beginning independent studies under the co-supervision of Curry and Peresin. Joining Curry and Peresin’s teams at the July event were Scott Enebak, the Auburn School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences associate dean for academic affairs; Michelle Cole, advisor of the Auburn chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, or MANRRS; and Ja’lia Taylor, coordinator of the Auburn Young Professionals in Training

program. “I thought the chemistry between all these people gave the meeting a great spin,” Peresin said. “It ended up not only being about our common research interest, but about the big picture.” Tuskegee students participating in the collaboration said the opportunity had given them a new outlook on their studies and research work. “Because of this event, my group was able to construct new research ideas and work on new collaborations, which opened doors for new students to join,” said student Morgan Fair. “I was recently on the fence of deciding if I wanted to continue my studies at the Ph.D. level and, after attending, I gained more confidence

RUNNING BACK ROOM. Tank Bigsby most definitely needs touches; it is imperative, however, that the all-SEC back maintains his health as Penn State — and conference play — draws nearer. Not to mention, the running back room drew a significant amount of attention in the season opener. Freshman Jarquez Hunter put on a show with 110 yards on nine touches and senior Shaun Shivers averaged 12 yards per carry. Letting those two build upon solid performances while simultaneously feeding Bigsby will prove

fruitful to the running back room’s depth and confidence. 5. BEAT THE BRAKES OFF ALABAMA STATE. As mentioned previously, the emphasis of the week must be to absolutely manhandle the Hornets. Harsin needs to leave no room for doubt within the Tiger fan base and — more importantly — ride into Happy Valley with momentum. The Tigers will do battle with Alabama State on Saturday, Sept. 11 at JordanHare Stadium. Toe meets leather at 11 a.m. CST on SEC Network.

Auburn junior linebacker Owen Pappoe chases down an Akron rusher.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

FROM B7

tion will create new opportunities for joint research projects and lab exchanges that will strengthen research outcomes for both labs. Specifically, I am especially excited that this research effort includes a significant boost for early-career STEM research opportunities for Tuskegee undergraduates.” Peresin said the new program’s frame enables students to integrate research activities within their studies through a tier-mentorship program with graduate students. “During these internships, students will acquire hands-on experience in the field of surface chemistry, material design and

AUBURN >>

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could also prove favorable for Harsin. 3. KEEP MIXING UP PLAY CALLS. In week one’s contest, Harsin brought the Auburn fan base something it had been longing for dating back to before firing Malzahn was a serious conversation: balanced play calling. The Tiger offense was a balanced attack against the Zips last week and continuing to spread touches among all offensive weapons will bode well for the new head coach. 4. SHOW OFF THE

PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

his past year the pandemic has brought an awareness for us that family and friends’ relationships are all that truly matter. We experienced and endured the pandemic together, connecting us inter-generationally. So from the hearts of parents, children and the community we want to say Happy Grandparents’ Day. This Sunday, Sept. 12 is declared as “National Grandparents Day!” Grandparents come

first day after Labor Day to be “National Grandparents Day”. The official f lower is the Forget-MeNot and the song is Johnny Prill’s “A Song for Grandma and Grandpa”. To serve in the grandparent role in any capacity is such a blessing. From Classroom Observer’s heart, my grandparents were like “frosting on the cake to me”. Memories of how they spent time listening to me, talking to me and unconditionally loving me has enriched my life in warm memories. Our world and the demands to make a living, raise a family and to carry on with all our daily responsibilities can be overwhelming. This is where grandparents can help so much in spending time with their grandchildren and give them a sense of security. Young children feel such true love from their grandparents. This relationship emerges into a friendship. Children feel more confident and secure when grandparents spend time with them.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

September 9, 2021

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Inside the Statehouse 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

his week marks the 20th Anniversary of the infamous 9/11 terrorist attacks on our nation. It was a day in your life where you remember where you were and what you were doing when you first heard of the attacks on the New York World Trade Center and Pentagon. It changed our world. Like most people, I thought the first plane that flew into the towering Trade Center, was an accident. However, when the second plane hit you knew it was not pilot error. It was traumatic and terrifying. I asked several of our state leaders their memories of that fateful day. Allow me to share some of their experiences. Today, only two members of our current congressional delegation were in Congress at the time: Senator Richard Shelby and Congressman Robert Aderholt. Our senior senator, Richard Shelby, was actually chairman of the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee. He was immediately briefed by the CIA, however, amazingly, he was not placed in a protective bunker. He quietly sat in his office with his staff and watched the day unfold on television. Congressman Robert Aderholt, who was a brand new 33-year old congressman recalls he and his wife, Caroline, were taking their daughter to her first day of school while all the 9/11 events were unfolding. That daughter, Mary Elliott, is now a senior at Auburn. PSC President Twinkle Cavanaugh had just left Washington and was back home in Alabama getting ready for a conference call. The call was cancelled, and she sat in shock all day. Gov. Kay Ivey shared her memory. She said it was a typical September morning. She was attending a conference and learned

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

STEVE FLOWERS

of the first plane flying into the tower while getting coffee. At first, the news did not seem too alarming. However, a few minutes later, when news of the second plane hit and videos appeared showing the large plane crashing into the World Trade Center, an awful feeling started to sink in for everyone as they realized our world was changing in front of their eyes. The Governor’s Chief of Staff, Jo Bonner, at that time was chief of staff to Congressman Sonny Callahan and later took that seat in Congress. Bonner was also at a legislative meeting in Montgomery. He was having breakfast at the Embassy Suites, and he watched the planes fly into the tower. Gov. Ivey’s new State Finance Director Bill Poole had recently moved back from D.C. a few weeks prior to enrolling in the University of Alabama Law School. He was in class and was concerned about young friends he had left behind in D.C. Ozark State Representative, Steve Clouse, was a young legislator and was in Montgomery eating breakfast at the Madison Hotel. State Senator Clay Scofield was a junior at Auburn University. He watched on televisions and recalls feeling sad, angry and extremely patriotic. Lt. Governor, Will Ainsworth, was also a student at Auburn. He was in his apartment getting ready to go to class. Pardons and Parole Director and former State Senator, Cam Ward, was on a plane headed to Washington, D.C., while the events were unfolding. They were diverted to West Virginia to land and then informed of what had happened. State Senator Greg Reed was in his home office preparing for a business trip to Baltimore, Maryland. His wife, Mitzi, ran into his office a little after 9 p.m. and told him to come watch what was unfolding in New York. Needless to say, his trip was cancelled. State Senator Clyde Chambliss was in an Autauga County Leadership meeting. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle was eating breakfast at a local restaurant in the Rocket City. State Treasurer

Opelika City Council Puts Forth Revised Rental Ordinance; Will Vote Sept. 21

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER

Mayor Gary Fuller presented "Attaboy Awards" to Lieutenant Ben Blackburn and officer Calvin New from the Opelika Police Department during the Tuesday night city council meeting. These officers went

above and beyond the call of duty and helped provide needed services for a resident in need. "One of the things that we've been working on at the police department is trying to do things better, making [Opelika] a better place," said Police Chief Shane Healy. "We know what

our normal job is — policing — we want to step outside of that. You guys are the epitome of that." RENTAL ORDINANCE One month after tabling a proposed registration and inspection program for residential real estate, the Opelika See OPELIKA, page B11

Auburn Adopts Highway 280 Focus Area Study Plan BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

The Auburn City Council adopted the U.S. Highway 280 Focus Area Study Plan Tuesday night during the council meeting, which included the amendment of the CompPlan 2030. The CompPlan 2030 is the city’s planning and guide for growth in Auburn. “The United States Highway (US) 280 Corridor Focus area was created as part of the February 2018 five‐year update to

See FLOWERS, page B11

NOW OPEN

CompPlan 2030,” the city’s e-packet said. “This area has had increased development interest since 2011 as a result of the City of Auburn’s population growth.” Ward 2 Council Member Kelley Griswold proposed an amendment to Study Plan, however. He proposed that a parcel on Peach Road AL 147 be changed from limited residential development zone to rural zone. Additionally, he proposed that a second parcel on Shelton Mill Road be switched from

a Master Plan Mixed Use Zone to a Low Density Residential Zone. Griswold said his reasoning for changing the limited residential back to rural has to do with acreage sized allowed. Under Limited Residential Development, oneacre plots are allowed, rather than 3-acre plots under rural. This would increase the traffic in the area and three residents all spoke up during the public meeting in favor of keeping the zoning See COUNCIL, page B11

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 September 9, 2021

TV’s ‘Lou Grant’ Hated Spunk, but People Can Use it to Get a Job

GREG MARKLEY

ersatile actor Ed Asner died on Aug. 29 at age 91. He won seven Emmy Awards for playing the same character — a crusty boss named Lou Grant with a less-seen sympathetic side. In the Mary Tyler Moore Show in the early 1970s, Moore starred as a timid associate producer for a TV station in Minneapolis, Minnesota. At one point, Mary Richards (Moore) challenges Grant, impressing him. He says: “You got a lotta spunk.” She replies: “Why thank you, Mr. Grant.” His

response is: “I HATE spunk.” Although Alabama’s and the U.S.’s economy are doing well, they would improve with more jobs filled, by spunk or for subsistence. It was announced recently that Alabama’s preliminary, seasonally adjusted July 2021 unemployment rate is 3.2%, down from June’s rate of 3.3%. Alabama remains below the July national rate of 5.4%. Opelika had 13,761 employed and 521 unemployed in July. Lee County had 72,761 employed, 2,111 unemployed. “The Alabama Career Center System continues to connect employers and job seekers through local and regional job fairs,” explained state Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington. “Collaborative community events are targeting industry sectors that still need employees and job seekers looking for new or

better opportunities.” He added that the average weekly wage for the private sector was up a colossal $64.16 over the year. But there are still situations where employers cannot hire enough workers to maintain their momentum or even their businesses. At Mrs. Story’s Dairy Bar, an Opelika institution, a lack of employees and the threat caused by COVID led it to close. Owners said they would decide whether to open again, or close for good. The McDonald’s on Magnolia Avenue is open inside sometimes, and at other times, only Drive Thru is accepted. This is not the fault of the dedicated employees who do show up to work, but to others who quit in the first week or two for a better job. I was there the other day at 6 a.m. for breakfast; my car was at home. Thank goodness this McDonald’s has outdoor seating; I must have looked funny,

though, surrounded by cars when ordering my meal, without a car! Able-bodied persons who make things difficult for small and large businesses by not participating in the workforce may not realize their own role. Not only do all these non-workers hurt America’s economy, in a macro sense; if duplicated in other countries they contribute to global economic problems. Growth in the OpelikaAuburn axis continues, but it could grow faster if employees were hired sooner rather than later. Individuals mostly take jobs out of necessity, but they often look ahead to find a job that better fits their personality, skills and education. It’s not just the money — they want a recognized role, whether as the reliable barista at Starbucks or as the delightful Uber driver. Companies must find new employees by combining a decent salary with benefits and opportunities for career

and personal growth. A key reason young people are not searching for a job right now is fear of getting Covid or its Delta Variant. This is a genuine concern when working in areas such as fast food where everyone works close-by. Or, as I often see, as a day wears on, employees’ move their masks down because of the human need for fresh air. I hope that getting vaccinated will build people’s confidence in getting a job. Another reason people may not feel they need to work right now is government largesse. The American Rescue Plan provided further relief, following on a previous Act, to help people with costs of not working during the lockdowns or who had other emergency needs related to Covid-19. That money has run out for most people, and bills for evictions are coming due soon. In a classic scene in Ghostbusters (1984), company secretary

Janice Melnitz (Annie Potts) interviews Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) for a job. He is asked whether he believes in many supernatural occurrences and beings (such as UFOs and the Loch Ness Monster). His answer: “If there’s a steady paycheck in it, I’ll believe anything you say.” He got the job and Hudson will continue his Ghostbusters work in 2021. If any readers are hesitant to apply for a job, jump into employment anyway. The world of work is waiting. Just beware of a boss like Lou Grant who hated spunk. Greg Markley first moved to Lee County in 1996. He has Masters’ in education and history. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer for 11 years. gm.markley@charter. net

H.R.4: An Unjustifiable Federal Power Grab

CONTIBUTED BY SEC. OF STATE JOHN MERRILL

arlier this month, H.R.4 was introduced by Representative Terri Sewell who represents Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. H.R.4 is the latest attempt by Washington Democrats to nationalize our federal electoral system. In reality, H.R.4 is a solution in search of a problem. H.R.4’s advocates refuse to acknowledge the substantial progress our nation has made since the enactment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The legislation extends the practice of preclearance, the federal approval of any state’s election administration changes, to every state in the union and threatens to overturn many popular election integrity laws, such as Voter ID

laws. What justifies this federal takeover of elections? The answer is nothing. It has never been easier to vote in America than it is today. Washington Democrats are attempting to manufacture a crisis in order to justify their unconstitutional power grab. At the Constitutional Convention, the framers were careful to ensure that each state retained its right to administer its own elections. However, today’s Congressional Democrats assert that the Elections Clause of the U.S. Constitution grants them the authority to enact H.R.4, but many disagree with that assertion. The Elections Clause is a constitutional fail safe, which is only applicable if a state is unwilling or unable to conduct their own federal elections.

Many Federalists, like Alexander Hamilton, worried that the federal government could not survive if a portion of the states either refused to hold elections or were unable to hold elections due to war. In Arizona v InterTribal Council of Arizona Inc., the Supreme Court confirmed that the Elections Clause was “the Framer’s insurance against the possibility that a state would refuse to provide for the election of representatives to the Federal Congress.” It is important to note that the Voting Rights Act has historically been justified by the 14th and 15th Amendments, but after a string of unfavorable court decisions, Congressional Democrats have resorted to this approach. H.R.4 not only lacks

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proper legal standing, but current conditions do not justify the extraordinary measures that H.R.4 would implement nationwide. When examining the VRA’s coverage formula in their landmark decision, Shelby County, Alabama v. Holder, the Supreme Court stated, “The question is whether the Act’s extraordinary measures … continue to satisfy constitutional requirements. As we put it a short time ago, ‘the Act imposes current burdens and must be justified by current needs.”’ In Shelby, SCOTUS ruled that Section 4 of the VRA was unconstitutional because its “extraordinary” measures were no longer justified by current needs, and similarly, the burdensome measures proposed by H.R.4 are not justified by the conditions of 2021. It has never been easier to vote than it is today in Alabama and the rest of the nation. Since the beginning of my term as Secretary of State in 2015, we have registered 1,902,057 new voters, and we have a total of 3,602,266 registered voters. Since 2016, we have set records for voter participation in every primary and general election. In Alabama, 96% of AfricanAmericans, 91% of White-Americans and 94% of all eligible residents are registered to vote. Our office works hard

each and every day to ensure that every Alabamian is able to register to vote and has access to some form of government-issued photo ID. It is beyond foolish to pretend as if we still live in the Alabama of 1965. I completely agree with Chief Justice John Robert’s observation that “no one can fairly say [the record] shows anything approaching the ‘pervasive,’ ‘flagrant,’ ‘widespread’ and ‘rampant’ discrimination that clearly distinguished the covered jurisdictions from the rest of the nation in 1965.” If H.R.4 is enacted, then every state in the Union will be treated as if they were the “covered jurisdictions” of 1965 and placed under the authority of unelected federal bureaucrats. In fact, H.R.4 goes beyond the requirements of the original preclearance regime by requiring that all states seek approval from the Justice Department for certain voting practices regardless of whether they are discriminatory or if the state has met any other criteria for preclearance coverage. The goal of “practice-based preclearance” is obvious. Congressional Democrats want to cater to their far-left base by overturning current state election laws and stop any state from enacting future election integrity legislation in the future. H.R.4 is an attempt to outlaw Voter ID laws and other similar

election security measures. Despite the fact that ID laws maintain widespread public support, the Democrats continue to claim that ID laws are discriminatory against minorities. However, the public disagrees. According to Rasmussen, 69% of African-Americans support voter ID laws, and the Atlanta Journal Constitution also found that two-thirds of Georgia voters support voter ID laws. As John Adams famously said, “Facts are stubborn things,” but it does not appear that any amount of factual evidence will stop the Congressional Democrats’ attempt to manufacture a crisis for their partisan agenda. Democrats continued to push this narrative despite the fact that Alabama increased participation in every primary and general election since 2016. The disparities of 1965 are not the realities of 2021, and Congressional Democrats should stop refusing to acknowledge that fact. I encourage every concerned Alabamian to reach out to Sen. Richard Shelby and Sen. Tommy Tuberville and ask them to stop this unconstitutional federal takeover of our electoral system by Congressional Democrats. If you would like to make your voice heard, please call Sen. Shelby’s office at (202) 224-5744 or Sen. Tuberville’s office at (202) 224-4124.

B11 September 9, 2021

OPELIKA

FROM B9

City Council introduced a new revised ordinance. Susan Bolt, a landlord in Opelika, voiced her concerns over the lack of communication between the council and the landlords of the area. "Note that I contacted each of the council members and asked to be involved in the solution," Bolt said. "There were two council members that did not even acknowledge my email, so one has to wonder if people really want to include the citizenry in a solution." She asked why there has been little to no transparency during the process of drafting the rental ordinance. "Why won't the council involve more people in a solution?" Bolt asked. "One can only draw the conclusion that it matters not what the citizens feel about this." Bolt pleaded with the council to open up the discussion and include those that desire to help find a solution to the issues at hand. "Again, I ask this council to put a pause on this ordinance ... Do your due diligence and include those of us that want to be involved." The council is expected to vote on this ordinance during the next meeting. OTHER BUSINESS: • The council approved a request by Opelika Main Street for the annual Johnny Ray Classic Event on Oct. 2. • The council approved a request for the annual Life Chain Event on Oct. 17. • The council approved an application for a beer and wine off-premises license for Murphy Oil USA Inc., dba Murphy USA 7794. • The council held a public hearing for the amending of the zoning ordinance and map to rezone 1.26 acres of land located in the 500 Block

FLOWERS >>

FROM B9

John McMillan was head of the Alabama Forestry Association. They were at their annual meeting at the Perdido Beach Resort. Troy University

of Rustic Street. • The council held a public hearing for a weed abatement assessment for the property located at 313 S. 3rd St. The council later voted to approved the abatement. • The council approved a bid for a new police department training facility. • The council approved a bid for the replacement of a bridge located on CR-63 - North Uniroyal Road over Halawakee Creek. • The council approved expense reports from various departments. • The council approved a resolution to designate city personal property as surplus and to authorize the disposal of the items. • The council approved a resolution to approve the fiscal year 2022 city budget. The total budget is for $147,974,022. • The council approved a resolution to approve a proposal from Fieldturf for West Ridge Park. • The council approved a resolution for the purchase of Synthetic Turf for two West Ridge Softball Fields. • The council approved a resolution for the purchase of MedTronic Lifepak mechanical CPR devices. • The council approved a resolution for the purchase of an AED Sentinel. • The council approved a resolution for the purchase of VRF heat and outdoor air systems, phase II. • The council approved a resolution for the purchase of monitoring services for the VRF heat and outdoor systems. • The council approved a resolution to approve a lease agreement with Opelika Housing Authority. • The council approved a resolution to authorize the annual excess loss insurance contract with Lloyds Insurance Company. Chancellor Jack Hawkins, a decorated Veteran of Vietnam, had just departed campus enroute to Luverne on a communities tour. By the time they reached Montgomery, he said, “It was clear that America had been

• The council approved a resolution to authorize the non-participant services contract with Electric Cities of Georgia, Inc. • The council approved a resolution to approve a proposal from iHeart Media for Radio advertising services. • The council approved a resolution for a special appropriation to 3D Youth Development Academy, Inc. for $500. • The council approved a resolution for a special appropriation to the Chamber of Commerce for the 20 Under Forty program for $2,500. • The council approved a resolution for a special appropriation to the Chamber of Commerce for the Lee County Young Leaders program for $2,500. • The council approved a resolution for a special appropriation in the amount of $3,000 to the Opelika Parks and Rec. Sportsplex for the annual Health Fair to be held Oct. 5. • The council approved an ordinance to amend the zoning ordinance and map to rezone 27,680 square feet of land located at 1109 Columbus Parkway. • The council approved an ordinance to amend the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manuel to Designate Juneteenth a paid holiday for city employees. • The council introduced an ordinance to approve a Lease Agreement with East Central Alabama Highway Safety Office for the first reading. • The council introduced an ordinance to approve the rezoning of 1.26 acres of land located in the 500 block of Rustic Street from R-1 to R-3 for the first reading. The next city council meeting will be held on Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. with a work session held prior to the regular meeting. All meetings are open to the public and are held at 300 Martin Luther King Blvd. in Opelika. attacked. What began as a day of celebration concluded in Prattville as a day of mourning and patriotism.” Attorney General Steve Marshall had been serving as the district attorney for Marshall County for

COUNCIL >>

FROM B9

rural. The city did take comment from citizens leading up to the Focus Area Study Plan approval. Citizens gave input on everything from the desire for more sidewalks, development of Saugahatchee Creek as a blueway/greenway system or putting in a kayak put-in, landscaping and more. “Outside of these specific points of discussion, residents recognize that the city is growing and development will continue to occur in the area, but were appreciative that the city is pro-actively developing a plan and that a second open house was held,” the city’s e-packet said. CITY CODE: The city of Auburn amended the city code Tuesday night to adopt the 2021 Editions of International Building Code and International Fire Code. "This ordinance with amendments will establish the International Building Codes, Building, Residential, Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, Existing Building and Electrical as the model building codes for new construction, additions, alterations and life safety in the city of Auburn,” said the city’s e-packet. The city’s International Building Codes were adopted in 2015 and revised in 2016 and 2018. "The city of Auburn (City) Inspection Services Department routinely researches and evaluates changes in codes that protect the health, safety and welfare of our residents,” said a memorandum from Scott Cummings, executive director of developmental services to City Manager Megan Crouch. just over a month. He watched the events unfold on televisions in underground offices. It was his daughter’s 11th birthday, but his family did little celebrating on that day. Former Congressman Bradley

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Cummings said that inspection services met with stakeholders to determine the best course of action for the codes. The codes will take effect on Jan. 1, 2022. “Following adoption staff plans to engage stakeholders further to promote additional education and outreach concerning these proposed changes prior to the implementation thereof,” Cummings said. “It is our desire to be able to contribute to the progress the city has experienced through the years and provide for the longevity, flexibility and enjoyment of the use of all structures built in the city. These recommendations support the strategy established with our zoning regulations and elevate the quality even further for new construction in Auburn.” The council also amended the code in Chapter 12, Article X Section 12-247 on sidewalk sales. “In the City Code, Sidewalk Sales are authorized around city holidays, with a specific list of holidays included,” the city’s e-packet said. “Rather than add Juneteenth to this list of official City holidays during which sales are allowed, this ordinance updates City Code to remove the list and instead refer to official city holidays, which now include Juneteenth. Should the list of holidays change in the future, the sidewalk sales section of the code will now remain accurate without amendment.” OTHER BUSINESS: •The council approved an alcohol beverage license for Dobbel Hospitality LLC, for Louie’s Chicken. • The council approved an alcohol beverage license for MHI Auburn TOPCO, LLC for TownPlace Suites. Byrne was practicing law in Mobile. His law offices were in the same building as the FBI. They got their fully automatic rifles out and were guarding the building all day. See you next week. Steve Flowers is

• The council approved an alcohol beverage license for Orange and Blue Hotels, LLC, Staybridge Suites, Auburn. • The council approved an alcohol beverage license for Seafood Auburn, LLC for The Juicy Seafood Restaurant. • The council approved the purchase of a Stivers Ford 2021 Police Interceptor Unit for over $37,000 for the Public Safety Department. • The council approved the purchase of 18 Dell VxRail capacity drives for over $19,000. • The council approved a contract with Timmons Group for the customer support and maintenance of the Permit Portal and Cityworks PLL for $24,000. • The council approved customer support renewal through Southern Software, Inc. for over $20,000 for the Public Safety Department. • The council authorized emergency expenditure with Hall’s Tree Service for over $24,700. • The coucil approved the FY21 Community Development Block Grant Resurfacing Project with D&J Enterprises for over $279,000. • The council approved the AL 15/US 29/CR 764 intersection improvements project for over $385,000. • The council accepted drainage, utility and sanitary sewer easements for 1025 N. College St.. • The council approved a board appointment to the Lee County Youth Development Center. • The council approved the establishment of two stops signs in Camden West. The next meeting will be held on Sept. 21. 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.

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HELP WANTED DIRECTOR OF MODERNIZATION & DEVELOPMENT KIND OF WORK: This is administrative work in directing & managing activities of modernization, construction, rehabilitation and maintenance projects & initiatives for the Opelika Housing Authority. EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks, which may be found in positions of this class.) Manages and directs all phases of construction,

renovation, revitalization, rehabilitation, modernization and work order initiatives; Plans, budgets, schedules, and coordinates projects and work order initiatives; Prepares materials and equipment specifications; Prepares specifications to acquire architectural, engineering, and related professional services; Prepares specifications for contract work; Ability to perform the procurement requirements and functions for services needed; Supervises work of contractors; Supervises the inspection of substandard housing and prepares reports for scope

 of work and cost estimates for repair; Performs related work as required. ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE WORK: Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of multi and single family housing design, development and building construction methods, practices and materials; Comprehensive knowledge of principles and practices of construction, maintenance, and project management; thorough knowledge of labor and materials costs related to construction and repair;

thorough knowledge of building codes, ordinances, regulations and standards governing construction and maintenance of residential housing; thorough knowledge of federal and state public bid laws and Section 3 requirements; working knowledge of public housing development, modernization and maintenance programs desirable; thorough knowledge of the principles, methods and practices of administration and management; ability to plan, manage and direct multiple projects and initiatives; ability to plan and supervise the work of

professional and technical subordinates; ability to prepare comprehensive and accurate reports and records; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with professional and technical personnel, contractors, government and public officials, other employees and the general public. MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Attainment of a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university in business or public administration, civil engineering or a related field and a minimum of five years’ progressively

responsible managerial and administrative experience in the housing development, construction, rehabilitation or maintenance industry; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to these requirements. HELP WANTED LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT LOOKING FOR PART-TIME HELP. FLEXIBLE HOURS. MUST HAVE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS, ORGANIZED AND COMPUTER SKILLS. SEND RESUME TO FLBONDURANT@ WOODMENLIFE.ORG.

PUBLIC NOTICES STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-461 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF MARION S. MANN, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Marion S. Mann, deceased, having been granted to George A. Moore this 19th day of August 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred. George A. Moore, Personal Representative Legal Run 8/26/21, 9/2/21, & 9/9/21 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH (JOE) BARRY WILLIAMSON, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2021TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Leigh Warren as Executrix of the Estate of Joseph (Joe) Barry Williamson, deceased, on the 13td day of August, 2021 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Personal Representative of the Estate of Joseph (Joe) Barry Williamson Legal Run 08/26/21, 09/02/21 & 09/09/21 -------------

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: THE ESTATE OF ALMA FLORENCE NEVELS, deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS CaseNo.:2021- 455 Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Elizabeth Nevels Eaton, Personal Representative on the 17th day of August, 2021 by the Honorable Bill English , Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Elizabeth Nevels Eaton Legal Run 08/26/21, 09/02/21, & 09/09/21 ------------STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021-478 RE: ESTATE OF JAMES M. NEWTON, DECEASED: NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 24th day of August, 2021, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Gwen S. Newton, Executor Gwen S. Newton, Executor Claud E. (Skip) McCoy, Jr., Esq. Attorney for Executor

Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 (334) 644-1171 Legal Run 09/02/21, 09/09/21 & 09/16/21 ------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY STATE OF ALABAMA TAMICHA A. DAVIS and SALLYE MAE FRAZIER DAVIS, PLAINTIFFS, VS. CIVIL ACTION NO.: CV 2021-900125.00 TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND IN LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Tax Parcel # 43-02-0515-0-000-006.000 Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 15, Township 20 North, Range 28 East, Lee County, Alabama; thence in a Westerly direction along the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272 for a distance of 519.2 feet to a ½” rebar on the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272 and the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said POINT OF BEGINNING thence leaving said right of way South 00 degrees 56 minutes 20 seconds East a distance of 221.13 feet to a Prior White survey pin; thence South 01 degrees 00 minutes 36 seconds East a distance of 199.66 feet to a 3/4" open top pipe; thence South 88 degrees 10 minutes 11 seconds West a distance of 58.62 feet to a 1/4" iron bar; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes

48 seconds West a distance of 98.38 feet to an iron pin set; thence North 00 degrees 58 minutes 04 seconds West a distance of 417.78 feet to an iron pin set on the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272; thence along said right of way North 87 degrees 41 minutes 39 seconds East a distance of 157.00 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said property containing 1.512 acres, more or less, and being located in Section 15, Township 20 North, Range 28 East, Lee County, Alabama. AND MATTIE EILAND HINKLE; her heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns; AND FICTITIOUS PARTIES A, B, C, D, E, AND F; and all persons, individuals, firms, associations, partnerships, corporations or other entities whose names are otherwise unknown to the Plaintiff but who are the persons, individuals, firms, associations, partnerships, corporations, or other entities claiming any present interest, mortgage, security interest or lien in and to the abovecaptioned parcel of land, and including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in the above-described real property and whose correct names and legal identities will be added by amendment when ascertained, DEFENDANTS. NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: DEFENDANT REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN; and, DEFENDANT

FICTITIOUS PARTIES A, B, C, D, E, and F, being any and all persons, individuals, firms, associations, partnerships, corporations or other entities who may claim any present interest, mortgage, security interest or lien in and to the abovecaptioned parcel of land, including any persons claiming any future, contingent, reversionary, remainder or other interest therein who may claim any interest in the above-described real property. Take notice that a Verified Complaint to Quiet Title has been filed to have determined any interest you may have in the below described real property and to have the title to said real property quieted and vested in the name of Tamicha A. Davis and Sallye Mae Frazier Davis. The real property that is the subject of this cause, lying situate and being in Lee County, Alabama, is described as follows: PARCEL OF REAL PROPERTY: Parcel # 43-02-05-150-000-006.000 Commencing at the Northeast corner of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 15, Township 20 North, Range 28 East, Lee County, Alabama; thence in a Westerly direction along the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272 for a distance of 519.2 feet to a ½” rebar on the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272 and the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said POINT OF BEGINNING thence

leaving said right of way South 00 degrees 56 minutes 20 seconds East a distance of 221.13 feet to a Prior White survey pin; thence South 01 degrees 00 minutes 36 seconds East a distance of 199.66 feet to a 3/4" open top pipe; thence South 88 degrees 10 minutes 11 seconds West a distance of 58.62 feet to a 1/4" iron bar; thence South 89 degrees 09 minutes 48 seconds West a distance of 98.38 feet to an iron pin set; thence North 00 degrees 58 minutes 04 seconds West a distance of 417.78 feet to an iron pin set on the Southerly right of way of Lee County Road No. 272; thence along said right of way North 87 degrees 41 minutes 39 seconds East a distance of 157.00 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said property containing 1.512 acres, more or less, and being located in Section 15, Township 20 North, Range 28 East, Lee County, Alabama. You must file any answer to said Complaint on or before the thirtieth (30th) day of the last publication date or a default judgment will be taken against you. Your answer must be filed with: Jacob J. (Jake) Key, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiffs Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 and also with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, Lee County Courthouse, Opelika, Alabama 36801. /s/Mary B. Roberson CIRCUIT COURT CLERK Legal Run 09/02/21, 09/09/21, 09/16/21 & 09/23/21 -------------

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B13 September 9, 2021

Auburn Students Receive Character in Action Awards PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS

Pictured L-R: Andrew Lee, Caleb Farris, Judge Fellows (back) Mason Spratlin, Joy Ahn. CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS

Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows honored four Auburn City Schools students earlier this month. The first was Mason Spratlin, a seventh-grader at East Samford School ESS. He was honored for keeping up with all his schoolwork while at home for an extended absence. According

PUBLIC NOTICES >>

FROM B12

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage (the “Mortgage”) dated April 16th. 2021 executed by David A. May (the “Mortgagor”) in favor of John & Julia Smith (the “Mortgagees”), said Mortgage being recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama in RLPY 4720, at Page 798; and WHEREAS, John & Julia Smith, as Mortgagees and holders of the Mortgage, by reason of such default having declared all of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage due and payable, and such default continuing, notice is hereby given that, acting under the power of sale contained in the Mortgage, holder will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Lee County Courthouse located at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 on Thursday, September, 30, 2021 between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., the following described property, commonly known as: 533 Lee Road 57, Lot 44, Auburn, situated in Lee County, Alabama, to wit: Commence at the Southwest corner of Section 16, Township 20 North, Range 28 East, Lee County, Alabama, and thence run North 1°-25’ East, along the

to one of his teachers, Pam Gaylor, Mason took the initiative to locate, learn and complete his assignments. Still, upon returning to the classroom, he noticed another student struggling with math and offered to help tutor this student with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. “His character shines brightly in the classroom,” Gaylor said. Next up was Joy Ahn, also a

West boundary line of said Section 16; for a distance of 270 feet to the intersection of the West boundary line of said Section 16 with the Southeasterly margin of U.S. Highway #29; thence run North 44°0’ East, along the Southeasterly margin of said Highway #29, for a distance of 375 feet; thence run North 48°-7’ East, along said margin of said Highway #29, for a distance of 678 feet to a point, which point is the point of beginning of the real property to be herein described and conveyed: From said point of beginning, thence run North 48°-7’ East, along the margin of said Highway #29, for a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence run South 41°-53’ east for a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence run South 48°7’ West for a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence run North 41°-53’ West for a distance of 210 feet to the said point of beginning. Containing 1 acre, more or less. Also being part of the property conveyed in that certain deed from R.W. Thompson and Mary Thompson, who are now both deceased, to Hila Mae McKemie, who is the same person as Hilda Mae McKemie, dated September 24, 1952, and is of record in Deed Book 383, at page 445, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. Being the same property conveyed in that certain deed from Hila Mae McKemie and Ralph C. McKemie, wife

seventh-grader at ESS, for never hesitating to help someone in need. One day recently, Joy bought an ice cream sandwich at school and gave it to East Samford’s School Resource Officer, Officer Fanning, on her way out of the cafeteria. “She didn’t have to do that, but she did,” said Kathy Placek, a science teacher at ESS. “She is so kind and generous.”

and husband, to Robert Kenneth McKemie, John Marcus Smith and Julia Karen Smith, dated December 3, 1982, and is of record in Deed Book 1136, at Page 744, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS-IS”, “WHERE IS” BASIS AND WITH ALL FAULTS. THIS PROPERTY WILL ALSO BE SOLD SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, LEASES, ENCUMBRANCES, RESERVATIONS AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND ALL MATTERS CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO TITLE, USE AND/ OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Payment terms are cash or cashier’s check (United States Dollars in immediately available funds) made payable to the Mortgagees on the date of the public sale. Mortgagees reserve the right to bid for and purchase the aforementioned property and to credit its bid against the expenses of sale and

Another ESS seventh-grader, Andrew Lee, was recognized for stepping up to help a particular student that does not speak English as a first language. According to one of his teachers, Kelbi Pozun, Andrew has become like a second teacher in the classroom for this student. “Andrew walks this student to different locations on campus, translates

the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. The public sale is subject to postponement or cancellation; contact Benjamin H. Parr at (334) 749-6999 prior to attendance. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage as well as the expenses of collection and foreclosure. JOHN & JULIA SMITH Mortgagees ATTORNEY FOR MORTGAGEES: Benjamin H. Parr, Esquire Benjamin H. Parr, P.C. 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 (334) 749-6999 LEGAL RUN 09/09/21, 09/16/21, & 09/23/21 ------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2021-497 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution IN THE ESTATE OF DEBRA A. EDWARDS, DECEASED Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Donald L. Edwards on September 2, 2021, pursuant to Sections 43-2-690m Code of

assignments,” Pozun said. “Not only has he helped his classmate, but he is also an exemplary student.” Last but not least, Caleb Farris, a kindergartener at Cary Woods Elementary School, was recognized for going above and beyond each and every day. At the beginning of kindergarten, a lot of time is spent on building a classroom community while learning

expectations and procedures. “From the very first day, Caleb blew me away with his kindness and loving heart for others,” said Meaghan Kimbrell, kindergarten teacher at CWES. “When a friend spilled their milk, Caleb was the first one there to help clean it up, and when another friend dropped their school supplies, he was the first to help pick them up.”

Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of the decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 09/09/21

CREDITORS Take Notice that Letters Testamentary of the Estate of RICHARD E. MARLIN, deceased, having been granted to KEVIN E. MARLIN on the 7th 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 such claims within the time allowed by law, or the same will be forever barred. Legal Run 08/26/21, 09/02/21 & 09/09/21

------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of FELICITA VELAZQUEZ PESCIA, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by James Pescia on September 3, 2021, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 09/09/2021 ------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICHARD E. MARLIN, DECEASED. Case No.: 20 20-041 NOTICE TO

------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2021-483 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of RAYMOND POGUE, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Wendell Love on August 26, 2021 pursuant to Section 432-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing the Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 09/09/2021 -------------

B14 September 9, 2021

HERO THROW SEPT. 11, 2021

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B15 September 9, 2021

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B16 September 9, 2021

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