Issuu

Vol. 13, No. 33

Thursday, May 27, 2021

pelika Observer O

Opelika, Alabama

OGROW FARMERS MARKET EVERY TUESDAY FROM 3 TO 6 P.M.

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

Will Beulah see a quarry?

The 'Crazy'ness comes to Auburn PHOTO BY ABBEY CRANK

PHOTO BY HANNAH LESTER / OPELIKA OBSERVER

By Abbey Crank For the Opelika Observer

By Hannah Lester HLester@ opelikaobserver.com Will there be a quarry in Beulah? The answer is still up in the air. Over the last several weeks, the newlyformed Lee County Planning Commission has been developing Lee County Zoning

Opelika in 2020. The planning commission was granted authority to establish regulations in Beat 13 after a special-called election was held on May 18. Citizens voted for the planning commission’s authority by a vote of 431 ‘yes’ to 220 ‘no’. Following the

Regulations — especially for Beat 13. The quarry would be located in Beat 13 — specifically on West Point Parkway, east of Lee County Road 177. Creekwood Resources, LLC, is hoping to establish the quarry in Beulah after failed efforts to establish one in

O'Grows, OTC launch collaborative summer camp By Kinley Beshers For the Opelika Observer O-Grows and Opelika Theatre Company join forces to host Theatre Buds Camp on June 7-11 for children ages 5-17 at the Southside Center for the Arts. This camp is “where earth meets art” in a unique experience for children to learn more about set design, improv, acting, stage management, musical theatre, scene study, drama, art, costume

design and set building. “Garden designing, much like a theater production is experiential threedimensional, organic and always growing and changing,” said Andrew

Reynolds, O-Grows camp instructor. Children interested in theatre will have the opportunity to practice their writing, choreography, directing skills and production skills for the showcase will be held on the last day, June 11 from 6-7:30 p.m. for family and friends to attend. “Creativity and timing are essential to the actor and the gardener,” Reynolds said. “The end goal for both, is to produce an See THEATRE page A3

vote, the planning commission finalized its first official draft of regulations, which was then sent before the county commission during the Monday night Lee County Commission meeting. The county commission approved See QUARRY, page A3

Ever found a $15,000 microscope in a rummage bin only to pay $8 for it? Well, John Cassimus has. On May 21, Cassimus held a grand opening for his mega-discount store, Crazy Cazboy’s in Opelika. Hundreds of people wrapped the store hours before the opening with anticipation. Once 9 a.m. hit, customers flooded the store and grabbed shopping carts to begin their journey. “Crazy Cazboy’s is a massive liquidation store that uses a descending price model,” Cassimus said.

Each day, the price of every item in the store drops: $8 on Friday, $7 on Saturday, $4 on Sunday, $2 on Monday, $1 on Tuesday and a whopping 25 cents on Wednesdays. The store is closed on Thursdays to restock with brand new merchandise. From electronics to baby supplies, Cassimus said he sells it all. The only catch is the customer has to look for it in the countless bins throughout the store. Cassimus emphasizes this is a member-based shopping experience. To get into the store, all you need is to download the free Crazy Cazboy’s app. To buy an item, simply See DISCOUNT page A3

Opelika Main Street’s Touch-A-Truck returns June 5 Contributed by Opelika Main Street Opelika Main Street’s annual Touch-A-Truck event returns to downtown on June 5. A free family-friendly event, Touch-A-Truck features a variety of different vehicles including emergency response trucks, moving trucks and construction equipment. Attendees are able to explore the vehicles and learn more about how they operate. Additionally, the event will feature a craft station. Touch-A-Truck is a great annual event fea-

turing many unique vehicles,” said Opelika Main Street Executive Director Ken Ward. “Paired with Burger Wars later in the afternoon, it’s a great way for the entire family to spend a Saturday afternoon downtown!” For more information about Touch-A-Truck or to see how your company’s vehicle can be included, email info@ opelikamainstreet.org. 2021 sponsors include: Lifestyle Group at Prestige Properties, Auburn University Credit Union, Auburn Bank, The Denson Group, Keep Opelika

Beautiful and Opelika Power Services. About Opelika Main Street: Founded in 1987, Opelika Main Street helps assist in the revitalization of historic downtown Opelika through facade grants, beautification projects, economic development efforts, business professional development programs and various community events. To learn more about Opelika Main Street, visit by going to opelikamainstreet. org or by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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

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

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

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

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

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

COMICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A16

CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B13

June 1 at 7 p.m. Conner Lorre – Neil Diamond Tribute Show This show is guaranteed to captivate Opelika again this year.

A2 May 27, 2021

Covers & Cookies: Auburn Oil Co. Bookstore’s sweet take on youth summer reading One morning, Auburn Oil Co. Bookstore’s manager Angela Wilhite thought of a way to give its youth summer reading program a sweet twist: cookies. “I mean, who doesn’t love cookies? I know I do,” Wilhite said. Auburn Oil Co. Bookstore’s Covers & Cookies program will officially begin June 1 and finish at the end of August. Package prices range from $17 to $57 and encompass readers between the ages of 2 to 17. “What we came up with is the idea of curated books for each age group. There is a set of three books for picture readers, early readers, middle grade and young

adult," Wilhite said Not only will young readers get three books, they will also write a review upon completion. Those cards will be displayed around the store for the entire summer. “It’s like summer reading with a twist,” the bookstore manager said. “We’re going to give the kids review cards when they come and buy a package. When they finish (the books), they’ll write their review card, either with mom and dad’s help or by themselves, and bring it in for a cookie.” After being a stay-athome mom for 12 years, Wilhite thought this was a perfect way to help other stay-at-home parents. Not only are children keeping their excitement for reading, they are also practicing their handwriting devel-

pelika Observer

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

oping handwriting and critical thinking skills. “As a parent, I would be thrilled for my kids because it’s basically the whole package of reading and literacy,” Wilhite said. Auburn Oil Co. offers three types of cookies to choose from: chocolate chip, ginger molasses and a deep dark chocolate, which Wilhite said is the best with a tall glass of milk. Once summer ends, the bookstore will round up all of the review cards and draw one lucky reader to win a $25 Auburn Oil Co. gift card. For more information on Covers & Cookies and all things Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers, head over to its website www. auburnoilbooksellers.com/covers-cookies/ or check out their Instagram @ auburnoilbooksellers.

Publisher: Michelle Key Associate Sports Editor: Wil Crews Associate Editor: Hannah Lester Marketing: Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Sports Writers: Rick Lanier, D. Mark Mitchell

www.opelikaobserver.com

207 N. 3rd St. Unit B, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 207 N. 3rd St. Unit B, Opelika, AL 36801

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

PHOTOS BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

By Abbey Crank For the Opelika Observer

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A3 May 27, 2021

Opelika Chamber Hosts Business Over Breakfast - Filling the Hiring Gap Contributed by the Opelika Chamber of

Commerce

Join the Opelika Chamber at Saugahatchee Country Club for the next Business Over Breakfast on June 3 beginning at 7:30 a.m. Presented by Glynn Smith Chevrolet-Buick-GMC, three guest speakers will team up to lead attendees through utilizing work-based programs to fulfill workforce >>

FROM A1

the regulations. Zoning Regulations The zoning regulations were developed with use of the Lee County Master Plan October 2010, as specified in the regulations, which are available online in the county commission’s agenda for May 24 (http://www.leeco.us/ government/county_ commission/agenda. php). The planning commission divided the areas of Lee County that now fall under zoning regulation into two districts — RC (Rural Center District) and RU (Rural Use District). The RC district is a rural area that has “clusters of commercial activity and higher intensity development that serve the surrounding rural community in centralized locations.” The RU district is rural areas made up of homes and farms but also other miscellaneous uses, such as, “scattered institutional uses, churches and small scale businesses.” Zoning districts have to follow a set of guidelines laid out in the plan, which includes the following: - Strengthen the rural character of the community - Conserve natural features, such as streams, lakes, woodlands, wildlife habitats, etc. to the furthest extent

FROM A1

utilize your new membership. It is only $15 for a one-year membership and $5 for a daily shopping pass to experience the craziness. Both of these options can be purchased at check out. Merchandise can also be bought on their website, www.cazboy.com. Crazy Cazboy’s is located at 2510 Pepperell Parkway in Opelika right next to Surge Trampoline Park. The store is open Friday through Tuesday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Wednesdays

sored by the city of Opelika, Opelika-Auburn News, Baxter International, Max Credit Union, S & S Termite and Pest Control, Aja Financial and First South Farm Credit. Breakfast is $20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. The Small Business of the Quarter, sponsored by Metro City Bank, will also be awarded to a very deserving business at this event. Please visit www.

opelikachamber.com to register by Monday, May 31. About the Opelika Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1941, the Opelika Chamber has been serving the Opelika business community for almost 80 years. Under the leadership of Ali Rauch, the president and CEO, a staff of four work diligently to be the recognized leader and advocate of the

business community, acting as a catalyst for a thriving economic and entrepreneurial environment, collaborative community initiatives and a better quality of life for its business owners and citizens alike. We’re building economic and member vitality through partnerships, programming, education and community involvement.

- Maintain farm and timber lands as prominent land uses - Encourage residential development that reinforces rural character - Focus commercial development within carefully planned corridors and nodes - Carefully and sensitively locate heavy industrial uses within special districts that minimize adverse impacts on adjacent properties and respect the rural residential character of the community. The following uses are allowed in RC: - Agricultural and Forestry Use - Rural Residential Uses - General Institutional Uses - Light Commercial Uses - General Commercial Uses - Temporary Use for Seasonal Sales The following uses are allowed in RU: - Agricultural and Forestry Uses - Rural Residential Uses - General Institutional Uses - Temporary Use for Seasonal Sales Other uses that don’t fit the above could be defined as special exception uses and be granted approval by the planning commission. ADEM The other avenue that would prevent the quarry is the Alabama Department of Environmental Management Agency.

ADEM held a public hearing last week to hear concerns related to water and air that could be caused by the quarry. However, ADEM told those in attendance that before the hearing there was no reasonable reason for ADEM not to approve Creekwood’s permits. The aspects of the quarry that involve ADEM’s air division is the crushing, screening and conveying of granite, said ADEM’s Air Division Representative Pam Hunt. Hunt said that the dust emission caused at the quarry would be limited by wet suppression systems. “The wet suppression systems that have been proposed for installation at this facility would be capable of meeting or exceeding all federal and state requirements found under these regulations,” she said. “Based upon our review of the permit application for this facility, the department has proposed the issuance of the air permit developed in accordance with applicable state and federal requirements.” Discharges from the mine to Halawakee Creek and its unnamed tributary were considered by ADEM’s water division, said ADEM’s Water Division Representative Ange Boatwright. “Halawakee Creek and the unnamed tributary to Halawakee Creek are classified as being suitable for fish and wildlife,” Boatwright

said. “The discharges to Halawakee Creek occur upstream of Lake Harding, which is classified as being suitable for public water supply. Based upon review of the NPDES permit issuance application for this facility, the department has proposed to issue the NPDES permit which was developed in accordance with applicable state and federal requirements, which are designed to be protective of water quality.” Both representatives reminded those making comment that any other concerns not related to air or water, such as noise or traffic, would not be considered by ADEM. Some of the concerns proposed by residents related to water and air included the harmful nature of carcinogens; the harmful, unknown, long-term effects of quarries; breathing problems for those with asthma, COPD or Down’s Syndrome;

whether the water that would be reaching Lake Harding would be treated or filtered; whether there were enough air pollution devices for the 27 operators and how the water suppression systems will work when there are droughts. Written content was also encouraged and ADEM officials said that written comment would not be treated any differently than those who showed up in person. The deadline for written comment is today May 27. “The county commission … should submit a written public comment to ADEM,” said Probate Judge Bill English at the Monday night County Commission meeting. English told the commission he prepared five pages of written comment that could be submitted from the commission as a whole, which the commission voted to submit. Comments can be submitted to the

following two contacts: Ronald W. Gore, Chief ADEM-Air Division 1400 Coliseum Blvd. [Mailing address: PO Box 301463; Zip 361301463] Montgomery, Alabama 36110-2400 (334) 271-7861 airmail@adem. alabama.gov or Jeffery W. Kitchens, Chief ADEM-Water Division 1400 Coliseum Blvd. [Mailing address: PO Box 301463; Zip 361301463] Montgomery, Alabama 36110-2400 (334) 271-7823 water-permits@adem. alabama.gov ADEM will post its final decisions and responses to citizen concerns on its website (www.app.adem. alabama.gov/eFile/). So, it is still undecided whether there will be a quarry in Beulah. The outcome may reside in ADEM or Lee County’s zoning regulations.

from 9 a.m. through various closing times. For more information on Wednesday closings, check social media for details. For anyone new to this type of craziness, Cassimus offers advice. “Just be willing to deal with a little bit of chaos,” Cassimus said. “It’s about the hunt.” New items will enter the 40,000-foot showroom at any time. Each visit there will be something new hiding in the bins. For more information on deals and upcoming items, check out Crazy Cazboy’s Instagram @ crazycazboysauburn.

PHOTO BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

DISCOUNT

and available employees to fulfill their needs.” Tyler Nelson, technical education career coach for Southern Union State Community College, along with Amy Hanna, career coach with Auburn and Opelika City Schools and Jaci Lee, coordinator of vocational services for the Achievement Center – EasterSeals, will focus on ways to bridge the hiring gap. The event is spon-

PHOTO BY HANNAH LESTER / OPELIKA OBSERVER

QUARRY

needs. “With today’s limitations on workforce availability, now is the time to get creative and explore all avenues to fill the hiring gap,” said Ali Rauch, president & CEO of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. “We are bringing a trio of experts together to help business owners understand the workbased learning opportunities they can take advantage of in their business to find reliable

THEATRE

FROM A1

incredible display for others to enjoy.” Theatre Buds Camp starts each day at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. at 1103 Glenn St., in Opelika. Attendance costs $140 per child, with a 15% off discount for a second child registration. To register, send a $50 deposit through Venmo @ opelikathea trecompany1 or PayPal at opelikathea trecompany1@ gmail. com. For more information, call at 334-663-4480.

A4 May 27, 2021

Andy

arly evening. My mother-in-law (Mother Mary) and I are watching the Andy Griffith Show. We are whistling along with the opening theme song. Mother Mary is wearing hearing aids. The television volume is turned up as high as it will go, blaring so loud that pieces of the popcorn ceiling are falling into my beer. We are having an Andy Griffith Show marathon. We start with the first season, episode one. The plot is simple: Aunt Bea comes to town. Opie doesn’t like her. In the final scenes, everyone hugs. The end. Roll the credits. Mother Mary says, “TURN IT UP!” “But Mother Mary,” I say, “the television is all the way up.” “HUH?” “I SAID THE TV’S TURNED UP!” “NO! NO! TAX DAY ISN’T UNTIL MARCH FIFTEENTH!” “TAX DAY?” “HUH?”

SEAN DIETRICH voice shatters our windows and cracks one of my fillings. Even so, this is the best show on the planet. I have loved it for my whole life. As a boy, my friends always wanted to play “Army,” or “Cowboys,” or if we were in Marvin Kowalski’s basement, “Weatherman.” But I usually voted for playing “Andy Griffith.” I had the clothes for it, too. My mother bought several khaki-colored safari shirts from the thrift store. If you paired this shirt with a badge and

boots, you looked like county law enforcement. I would grease my hair with my father’s Brylcreem before going outside to play and tell everyone to call me Andy. Then, like all wholesome school children from my era, we would spend the rest of the day blowing up local mailboxes with barely-legal firecrackers. My buddy, Dale, would always play Barney Fife because he was the only one who owned a police cap. Dale played Barney differently than the Barney

on TV. Dale’s interpretation of the character included carrying a Bowie knife and driving a Mustang Shelby GT500KR. He was more like Rambo Fife on performance-enhancing drugs. We would burn up our afternoon hours playing cops and robbers until our mothers called us home for supper, or until someone sprained their leg. “TURN IT UP!” says Mother Mary. “IT’S TURNED UP AS HIGH AS IT WILL GO!” “SHE DID? WHEN DID SHE CALL?” “NOBODY CALLED, I DIDN’T SAY THAT!” “I REMEMBER GOING TO HER DAUGHTER’S WEDDING IN TUSCALOOSA!” “WHAT?” “TUSK-AH-LOOSA!” I got an email a few days ago from a man who lives in Rochester, New York. He said he was afraid the nation was forgetting about Andy Griffith and this worried him.

Well, I’m not worried. I travel to a lot of different places. Mostly, I am in these places to put people to sleep by giving speeches. And at some point during my speeches, I usually whistle the Andy Griffith theme song over a microphone. And do you know what always happens? Everyone whistles along. And I mean everyone, including small children, golden retrievers and certain breeds of fundamentalists. It’s incredible. Once in Birmingham, I whistled the Andy Griffith theme song with 600 people who were all in perfect unison. When you hear something like that, it feels like dying and going to Mayberry. A lot of people know I’m an Andy Griffith fan, so I get a lot of stories sent to me. Like the letter I got from Roger, in Sacramento. He told me that during See DIETRICH, page A5

How to Handle Life's Bad Days

ad days happen. They happen to everyone. So we need to be prepared to handle those days when everything seems to go wrong. You know what I mean. You slept late. You’re in a hurry to get to work. But you cut yourself while hurrying to shave — and it takes forever to stop the bleeding. Finally, you gulp down a piece of toast and you are walking out the door when your phone rings. It's your mother-in-law. You don’t want to talk to her but you know you must. Distracted, you walk to the car and realize you left the keys on the counter. You get Mama Dearest off the phone and rush back to the

“MOTHER MARY! TAX DAY IS IN APRIL!” “WHAT?” “I SAID, TAX DAY’S IN APRIL!” “WHY SHOULD I GIVE A RIP WHICH MONTH TAX DAY IS?” So we watch TV together. And even though we’ve both seen this episode a hundred times, we still laugh at the jokes and whistle with the credits. Episode one ends. Cue episode two: Andy and Barney catch an escaped convict. “TURN IT UP!” says Mother Mary. “I CAN’T!” “HUH?” “I SAID, I CAN’T!” “WHO DID?” “WHO DID WHAT?” “GREG!” “I DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT!” “HUH?” They can hear our television blaring from the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. Whenever Barney Fife speaks, the sound of his

t is 7:15 a.m. when I begin my fervent prayer for AC. My van is old, and it’s a crap shoot every time I crank the engine. So far I’ve been lucky – the air conditioning has held up its end of our “survival deal.” I have promised to keep the oil clean and the tires rotated if it will promise not to sputter to a stall on the interstate or billow smoke out of the tailpipe or hood. This morning the cool air flows from the vents, and I thank the heavens for the relief. As early as it is, it’s already muggy and stagnant on this day that boasts a high of 92 degrees. This is, after all, Alabama in May. As my grandmother would say, “This summer is gonna be hotter than Satan’s toenails.”

car. It won’t start. The battery is dead. Jumper cables to the rescue. Then you notice grease on your shirtsleeve. The guy with the blue light stops you for speeding. Gives you a lecture and a ticket. You are an hour late to work. Exasperated, you say to the first person who will listen, “I should have stayed in bed!” Crazy days happen to preachers, too. You come across a great story that you build your sermon around. But after church some wise guy ruins your day. One Sunday I designed my sermon around my experience of baptizing a tall man who slipped out of my grasp when I put him under the water. By the time I raised him up, he was spewing

WALTER ALBRITTON water and gasping for air. After the benediction, a wise guy walks up to me and says, “I liked your story about the baptism. I heard Robert Schuller tell that story on the Hour of Power.” My story! My experience! But Schuller gets credit for it — Bad day! A country preacher told the biblical story of

creation — with a homespun twist. God, he said, made Adam out of mud and then leaned him up against a rail fence to dry. With a wry smile, an old farmer ruined the preacher’s day: “Preacher, if Adam was the first man, who built that rail fence?” Bad day! So how can we handle life’s bad days? First, no matter what happens, never surrender to pessimism. Clint Eastwood introduced us to Toby Keith’s song, "Don't Let the Old Man In." That’s the way to combat pessimism — don’t let it in. Second, never give up on optimism. Refuse to become anxious. Be positive no matter how bad the day. When my dog Buddy dumps a load on the floor in the

Great Room, I don’t shout “Glory,” but I do say, “Lord, I thank you that Buddy did not drop two loads on the floor.” Stay optimistic! My role model for optimism is the football coach who remained optimistic even though his team kept losing every game. Asked how he kept his spirit up, he said, “Let me tell you the kind of guy I am. If I fall in a mud puddle, I get up and feel in my pockets for fish.” On bad days and good days, that’s a winning attitude in the game of life. Pessimism is a loser. Optimism is a winner. All day long. Somebody heat up the grease. I'm ready to fry some fish! Now lest you think this is merely the phi-

losophy of a country preacher, I must remind you that Jesus was the ultimate optimist — and he warned against pessimism. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus urged the disciples to not be “anxious about tomorrow.” I like the way Eugene Peterson renders Matthew 6:34 – “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” That’s the good news about bad days. Trust Christ when bad days happen because He is ready to help you — especially on the days when everything goes wrong!

Summer Camp Part I The radio is playing show tunes. Here’s my guilty secret: I know every word to every song from Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, and Les Miserables. And I can sing bass. Don’t tell anyone. My performance is interrupted by a commercial for a summer camp - Wiregrass Christian Youth Camp. And just like that, I am a ten-year-old in the “way back” of my parents station wagon headed for Enterprise, Alabama and a week of summer camp. Enterprise is a small city in southeastern Alabama which boasts a statue of a Greek woman with arms raised above her head. In her outstretched hands she holds a boll weevil.

That’s right – a boll weevil. One of the most destructive critters in southern history perches atop the marble statue in all its beetle-like glory. It is, quite possibly, the ugliest monument I’ve ever seen. But it is a testament to the resilience of the South and the genius of men who lived and died by the crops they harvested. A hundred years ago, cotton had long been king of the South, but the boll weevil was a pestilence that bankrupted many farmers all over Alabama – at least until enterprising farmers began to plant more peanuts along with potatoes and sugarcane and tobacco. Diversification was their salvation, and so it was thought appropriate to honor the insect that

WENDY HODGE forced a change on the slow southern way of life. It’s still an ugly statue. I remember driving past “The Boll Weevil” every summer we headed to camp. Once I saw it, I knew we were close. To say I was excited would not be quite correct. Don’t get me wrong, I did enjoy camp, but I honestly don’t think there is a

hotter spot on this planet than on the concrete slab surrounded by endless fields of dirt in Coffee County, Alabama that was lovingly called “Camp Wiregrass Pavilion.” How the grownups managed to say that with a straight face, I’ll never know. The concrete was cracked and appeared to be as old as that boll weevil statue. There were ant beds spaced out around the perimeter as if they had been landscaped just so. Waves of heat shimmered on the horizon. Shade was a fiction, an absolute untruth. We all knew there was an actual summer camp out there somewhere, but standing on The Pavilion, it was just about impossible to picture it. While counselors

greeted everyone, parents would pull their hatchbacks onto the concrete, and kids would pile out. Suitcases and plastic bags littered the concrete, small piles of personal belongings looking sad and limp. And then all the cars would depart as if on cue, leaving all us campers to find our cabins and claim a bunk. My first year I was assigned to the Cherokee cabin, which I was convinced my Cherokee ancestors had a hand in arranging but was actually because my last name began with an H. I had a top bunk, which I preferred. Waking up at 3 a.m. to someone standing on your head while they attempt to See HODGE, page A5

A5 May 27, 2021

Hilyer & Associates CPAs: Here’s to 50 years Hilyer & Associates certified public accountants (CPAs) is celebrating its 50th Anniversary. The accounting firm has been rooted in Opelika for nearly half a century. The firm has had four locations across the city of Opelika and now stands on 614 Second Ave., right across from where the original building stood. The firm assures clients that their accounting needs will be met no matter the size. Hilyer & Associates provide clients with a customized plan and “help clients maintain financial viability in the present, while taking a proactive approach to achieve future goals,” according to its website. Hilyer & Associates began in 1971 when Ray Henderson formed his own accounting firm under the name G. R. Henderson, CPA. Jeff Hilyer became a part of the firm in 1983 and formed a partnership with Henderson. By 1987, the firm was renamed Henderson & Hily-

DIETRICH >>

FROM A4

his childhood, televised Major League Baseball games were postponed so they wouldn’t interfere with the Andy Griffith Show on local channels. “We go crazy for Andy in California, man,” said Roger. Another woman sent me a message telling me about how her son dressed up as Gomer Pyle for a school presen-

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY HILYER AND ASSOCIATES

By Maggie Caraway For the Opelika Observer

er CPAs. Henderson retired in 1996 and the staff of Novelli, Ennis & Company, Levins & Associates and John E. Crofton CPAs, joined Hilyer and Associates, CPAs in the following years. Hilyer, a certified public accountant and attorney, was born in Opelika and earned a B.S. degree in business administration with a concentration in accounting from Auburn University. He also earned a J.D. degree from Jones School

of Law as well as an LL.M. from Alabama School of Law. He is married to Cherry McDonald Hilyer who was also born in Opelika. After spending 32 years teaching kindergarten, Cherry now works as a part-time tutor at Carver Primary School. Hilyer follows in the footsteps of his grandfather and mother who were also accountants. Accounting must be in his blood because according to Hilyer, it came naturally.

“When I was at Southern Union and took the accounting courses, I didn’t have to study. I could just sit and listen in class and ace the exams,” Hilyer said. That was not the case for all his classes, though. Hilyer remembers struggling through chemistry but breezing through the accounting courses during his first two years. However, as he advanced in his accounting studies and attended Auburn University, he admitted

tation. Her son attends community college. He is 43. A fifth-grade girl wrote me a letter about her science fair project, which was entitled: “Recipes Aunt Bea Cooked.” I met a 10-year-old boy who told me he watches three Andy Griffith episodes each night. A 10-year-old. And just yesterday, I met someone whose father knew Andy Griffith. He told me that when-

ever Andy talked about the show, he’d say, “You know, our show was all about love.” I can almost hear his voice saying that. And maybe this is why I like the show so much. Because love is hard to come by in this world. Some of us grew up feeling like we didn’t belong. Some of us still feel that way, no matter where we are. Certain childhood thoughts stick with you. But when I hear that

whistling, everything changes. “TURN IT UP!” says Mother Mary. My mother-in-law starts to whistle. I start to whistle with her. We are grinning at each other like a couple of well-fed possums. Andy does this to us. “HEY!” my motherin-law says. “I JUST REALIZED MY HEARING AIDS HAVE BEEN TURNED OFF THIS WHOLE TIME!”

that a little more effort was required to excel in his work. Hilyer has left his mark on the community by currently serving as chairman for the Opelika Utilities Board as well as previously serving as chairman for the Opelika City of Commerce. He was also involved in the Kiwanis Club for 30 years and served as president. The idea of “community” is a common theme when Hilyer looks back on his time spent work-

HODGE >>

FROM A4

find the bathroom is not my favorite thing. My friend, Lori, who I knew from back home, was unfortunate enough to get the top bunk in the middle of the cabin directly beneath the hanging light. Every night, when “lights out” echoed from cabin to cabin, Lori would reach up and pull the chain plunging the room into muted moonlight. And every night, right on cue, 45 seconds later, Lori would begin screeching as all the bugs that had been hovering around that light bulb (including what we all assumed would be at least a dozen boll wee-

ing in Opelika. “It’s important to give back to the community. I feel like the community has given a lot to us, and we need to give back,” Hilyer said. After much thought, Hilyer came up with one word to describe how he is feeling about his clients and community: blessed. Fifty years in Opelika is something to celebrate. Congratulations to Hilyer & Associates, CPAs! Here’s to another 50 years. vils) landed right on her little girl face. We all felt so bad for her, but I don’t recall a single one of us volunteering to switch with her. Every child in that cabin knew how nasty a boll weevil looked from a distance, much less right there in the bed with you. I feel bad about that to this day; so, Lori, if you’re reading this, my deepest apologies. I blame the boll weevil statue for my selfishness. But morning came every day, and we stepped out onto the Pavilion. Shielding our eyes with our hands, we squinted into the sun and broke into a run to start the day…. To Be Continued

A6 May 27, 2021

To Remember and Celebrate On the two-year anniversary of William Buechner’s death, the Auburn Police Division, the Opelika Police Department and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office held a remembrance event. The event not only honored Buechner’s life, but all those the county has lost in the line of duty. “While everyone else is oblivious to what’s going on while we’re here right now, we’re here because we’re family,” said Clarence Stewart, aassistant chief with the APD. “That’s why.” Honored fallen heroes included those from the Opelika Department, Chief Henry Hart, Lt. Britton Truitt, Sgt. Roger Motley; Lee County Sheriff William Buck-Jones and deputy James Anderson and Auburn Officer William Buechner. “That’s why we’re here, to remember them and to celebrate them,” Stewart said. APD Chief of Police, Cedric Anderson, took time to talk about the legacy that Buechner left on Auburn. “I’m humbled to be able to come before you this morning and fulfill the obligation of the Auburn Police Department which is to always remember the ultimate sacrifice made by Officer William Ray Buechner, Jr.,” he said. Buechner left behind

family, Anderson said, his father and mother, his wife and his children. “William was one of the most devoted law enforcement officers I have ever met,” Anderson said. Buechner was responding to a domestic dispute call on May 19, 2019, when he was killed in the line of duty. The incident injured two other officers. “There are a lot of things that we can remember about William,” Anderson said. “One of the things I will always remember about him is his smile ... There was something about that smile that was contagious and it would stay with you the rest of the day.” Anderson described Buechner as a “blessing” in the workplace. “He will truly be missed,” he said. “And this is not just a recognition of him and his ultimate sacrifice, but also the sacrifice that his family has made.” Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones likened Lee County’s six fallen law enforcement members to the 800,000 in the country that do their job — and do it well. “Commonality exists among those that serve their community so well,” Jones said. “The six individuals that we honor today, an attempt to make an arrest, investigation of a homicide, checking the welfare at the request of a citizen,

PHOTO BY HANNAH LESTER / OPELIKA OBSERVER

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

a traffic stop, a disturbance call — the commonality is, these individuals were just doing their job. “Doing what they wanted to do, because they care about their communities, about the people that they serve, about their families. It’s appropriate that we honor them today, and that we never forget.” While there are officers who abuse their power and positions, Jones said that the majority of law enforcement is doing a great job. Jones said that not only should Lee County’s fallen be honored — but their families. “Without those families, without ya’ll, we wouldn’t have had these fine law enforcement professionals just

simply trying to do their job and work for the community to make it a better place,” he said. “And our task at hand is here today, and always will be, never to forget their sacrifice and never to forget their families.” Commonality exists in the legacy the six left behind for current law enforcement too, said OPD Police Chief Shane Healy. “Each of the men gave their lives to help somebody, to help someone who needed something from another person to have a helping hand, to solve a problem, to quell a situation,” he said. “The legacy that they leave behind that touches us in law enforcement brings home a trait among each and every man and woman that

I see in this room, and the hundreds in this community that are out there on the streets right now and that is to help, to protect, to serve.” Dr. Nathaniel Dunlap, the speaker for the event, explained that he learned the concept of selfless service when he was preparing to join the U.S. Army, and later, law enforcement. “It then came to me that this selfless service is no different in the field of law enforcement,” he said. “It is rooted and it’s grounded in the commitment of each person, everyone on the team to go a little bit further when a citizen needs you and it’s almost time for your shift to end. Taking away time from your family as you

deal with a personal situation from a brother or sister in blue. Or enduring a little bit longer when the community doesn’t appreciate you, while at the same time balancing family life, while trying to be the best professional that you can be in this time-honored institution.” Dunlap said that opportunity exists to show appreciation for the six fallen law enforcement personnel by bestowing it on their family members. “Despite the tone and then tenor of how some people want to paint law enforcement around our nation today, we know that the overwhelmingly majority have the heart for the people that they serve,” he said.

72ND AUBURN CHAMBER ANNUAL MEETING AWARD WINNERS Contributed by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce Each year the Auburn Chamber Annual Meeting is the largest gathering of the Auburn business community and an opportunity to celebrate the successes of the past year, applaud outstanding area businesses and look forward to the year ahead. This year’s meeting, held at The Hotel at Auburn University, featured remarks by the following: Rod Carter, 2020 chair of the Auburn Chamber; Dr. Cory Smith, Auburn United Methodist Church; Stacy Williams Jordan, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate; Anna Hovey, Auburn Chamber; Mayor Ron Anders, City of Auburn; and Elliott MacIsaac, 2021 chair of the Auburn Chamber. The meeting was presented by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate and sponsored by Alabama Power, CenterState Bank, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, Prewett Pest Control and The Hotel

at Auburn University. The awards presented at this year’s Annual Meeting are as follows: Eagle Awards – Eagle Awards are presented to businesses or individuals who have made broad contributions to the Auburn community. Recipients must be members of the Auburn Chamber and in business in Auburn for no less than five years. Recipients have made an impact in our community through at least one of the following categories: educational growth for employees and community, job opportunities, charitable contributions, civic contributions or aesthetic contribution via building and landscaping. The winners are as follows:  Allstate-Prewett Insurance Group  Auburn City Schools’ Career Technical Program  Auburn United Methodist Church Volunteer Management at Vaccine Site  B&B Beverage Management  Backpack International  Bailey-Harris

Construction. Auburn Chamber & Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau Tourism Partnership Award – B&B Beverage Management This award was created to recognize a business, person or project that has been an excellent partner in tourism or instrumental in developing or driving tourism in our area. Young Business Person of the Year – Eloise Stewart, Eloise Design Co. Initiated in 1994 this award recognizes a young business person for his or her achievement early in business. Norm Caldwell Excellence in Industry Award – Aptar CSP Technologies Created in 2002, the Norm Caldwell Excellence in Industry Award recognizes and honors an invaluable leader in industry. Teague Award (Volunteer of the Year) – John Atkinson, East Alabama Medical Center The Teague Award, created in 1991, is named for Sam Teague, past chair, a chamber diplomat,

member of the board of directors and the ultimate volunteer. This award serves as the chamber’s “Volunteer of the Year” award and is presented annually to an outstanding volunteer. Diplomat of the Year (Sponsored by AuburnBank) – Alexa Cole Wiggins, Prewett-Allstate Insurance Group The Diplomats serve as the Auburn Chamber’s core group of volunteers and make everything we do possible. Our volunteers are our hosts, our helpers and our representatives. Spirit of Auburn Awards The Spirit of Auburn award was established in 2002 to honor individuals or groups for his or her special contribution to the community. The winners are as follows:  Dr. Cristen Herring, Auburn City Schools  Dr. Stan Cox, Lee-Scott Academy  Laura Grill, East Alabama Medical Center. Chairman’s Award – Bobby Abrams The Chairman’s Award is the Auburn

Chamber’s highest honor and is presented to an individual based on his/her outstanding achievement, leadership, loyalty and dedication to the Auburn community. Best of Small Business Awards In late spring, after a community-wide vote, we announced the Best of Small Business in five different categories – emerging (operating less than five years), 1-10 employees, 11-50 employees, 51-100 employees and Retailer of the Year. The winners are as follows:  Emerging: Lucy’s  1-10 employees: Hornsby Farms  11-50 employees: Tacorita  51-100 employees: Niffer’s Place and  Retailer of the Year: The Potting Shed. Customer Service Crown Each quarter of 2020, the Auburn Chamber presented individuals with Customer Service Crowns, an award that honors the hard-working service professionals who make our lives happier and easier. The win-

ners are as follows:  Sherri and Chris Manner of Simplified Transitions  Monica Townsend of Bow and Arrow  Kimberly Hyde of The Hotel at Auburn University and  Robin Heavlin of Therapy Boutique. Auburn Young Professionals Awards Presented this year by River Bank & Trust, the Auburn Young Professionals program continues to engage and develop area young leaders. Several 2020 standout members were recently honored:  Jay James of Auburn University, received the Engage Award  Ryan Roberts of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices received the Develop Award and  Marlye Lee of Build a Bride Auburn received the Connect Award. The ceremonial gavel was passed from current chair Rod Cater of Alabama Power to Elliott MacIsaac with VCOM. Congratulations to all of the winners!

Opelika E vents, Society & Food

Upcoming Events: June 5 - Touch-A-Truck June 5 - Burger Wars June 7 - 11 - Opelika Theatre Co & O Grows Summer Camp

Jennifer Lolley enjoys outdoor life working at Kreher Preserve, living at lake PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

ith a love of the outdoors, Jennifer Lolley is living her dream being the outreach administrator at the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center in Auburn. When she is not working, Jennifer savors time with her family at Lake Martin and enjoys cooking and growing vegetables, flowers and herbs in her garden. Jennifer and her husband, Mark, have a love for entertaining and feeding a crowd. They both have lots of family who enjoy visiting them at the lake. Mark has four siblings with each of them having families. When the weather is nice, they dine outdoors in the evening at a long table with clusters of

flickering candles providing a soft glow. Mark will cook on the grill, while Jennifer prepares salads, fresh vegetables from the garden and desserts. On weekends, they will make homemade ice cream and serve with fresh blueberries from bushes they planted in 1988, a year after they were married and purchased the lake house. When their children finished college, they moved to the lake house full time. They have three children and three grandchildren. Kaitlin and her husband, Will McWayne, have two children, Brooks, 4, and Anna, 2, and live in Mountain Brook. Chelsea and her husband,

Kevin Hood, reside in Power Springs, Georgia, and have a son, Adam, who is 6 months old. Jordan is a CPA with a firm in Atlanta and currently works remotely at his parents’ home. On Memorial weekend, all of their children and families will come to the lake. They will enjoy swimming, boating and plenty of good food. They will start the day with a large breakfast. Jennifer will serve Ham and Egg Casserole and Blueberry Muffins and the Patriotic Breakfast Parfaits on Memorial Day. Along with grilled burgers, Jennifer will also serve her Enchiladas over the weekend, which are a family favorite. Desserts will

The Mother-Son Picnic is “leaping” back into action! By Kinley Beshers For the Opelika Observer

The L.E.A.P.S. Academy and Mentorship Program is eager to host the annual Mother/Son Picnic on May 29 at Kiesel Park. Bring your son, a blanket or a few chairs and enjoy some fun activities, live music and yummy food from 12-3 p.m. Tickets are $20 per couple on tickettailor.com and will be available until

the day of the picnic. Extra children, including daughters, are invited as well, for $5 per extra child. The picnic will feature softball, basketball and football toss, a train for children to ride around the park and a special appearance from Auburn University mascot, Aubie the Tiger. Chick-fil-A will be available at the event with nuggets, chicken strips, waters, lemonade and tea,

as well as a KONA Ice truck. Auburn Police Department Lieutenant and L.E.A.P.S. President, Gregory Johnson, founded this event as Mother-Son Date Night a few years ago for mothers to have an event to attend with their sons, similar to a father-daughter dance. Due to COVID-19, the See MOTHER, page A11

The outreach administrator at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Jennifer Lolley, enjoys the outdoors whether she is working or at home at Lake Martin. Jennifer is sharing a variety of recipes she will be serving her family over Memorial weekend, including her BLT Chicken Salad that is good for savoring a picnic at the Preserve.

feature Blueberry Yum Yum and Kahlua Heath Bar Trifle. Jennifer received her love of cooking and entertaining from her mother. When she was growing up, Jennifer and her family lived in different areas across the country, as her father was a civilian with the military. Jennifer and Mark met when she was 16 years old, and they are both Auburn University graduates. Mark has a consulting business, while Jennifer has been

working at the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center since June 2007. The Lolleys moved to Auburn in 2006 for Mark's job and to be 40 minutes from their lake house, of course. Jennifer, who graduated from Auburn with a degree in biology, had been working at Landmark Park in Dothan. After chairing the construction of The Barnyard Playground at Landmark, she knew a playground would be a great addition to the Kreher Preserve for

families. The Nature Playground is built from natural materials, including boulders and logs. The playground was constructed among three large trees to provide shade. The picnic area and other areas throughout the Preserve are great sites for families to enjoy a picnic over Memorial weekend. One of Jennifer’s favorite spots is at an area overlooking the waterfall. If you go to the PreSee CIPPERLY, page A11

AACT Announces Open Auditions Contributed by AACT Auburn Area Community Theatre announced open auditions for “End Days,” a play by Deborah Zoe Laufer. Two women, one of whom will play a teenager, and three men, one of whom will play a teenager, are needed for this poignant and sometimes hilarious family drama. No previous experience is necessary. Auditions for this production are open to actors 15 and up

and will be held June 7 and 8 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 E Drake Ave., Auburn. Anyone wanting to audition should plan to attend either or both audition days and read from the scripts provided. Monologues are optional. Sixteen-year-old Rachel Stein is having a bad year. Her father hasn’t changed out of his pajamas since 9/11. Her mother hands out

pamphlets about the end of the world. Her new neighbor, a 16-year-old Elvis impersonator, has fallen for her hard. Not to mention, the Apocalypse is coming on Wednesday. Rachel’s only hope is that Stephen Hawking will save them all. Both poignantly redemptive and often hilariously funny, “End Days” shows a quirky dysfunctional family coming together under unexpected cirSee AACT, page A8

A8 May 27, 2021

Making the Grade: On the Road to Orange Beach, Alabama By Stacey Patton Wallace As I have stated many times, I absolutely LOVE living in Lee County. I believe if you can’t be in Heaven yet, Lee County is the best place to wait until the Good Lord calls you home. However, Mike and I hadn’t gone on a vacation since September 2019 because of the pandemic, and we had a severe case of cabin fever. Therefore, exactly two weeks after we had received our second COVID-19 vaccine shot from the wonderful people at Thomas Pharmacy in Opelika, we hit the road to our favorite beach in the world — Orange Beach, Alabama. Before the pandemic, Mike and I really enjoyed traveling, and we were blessed to see some very beautiful beaches: Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, which boast Diamond Head, an extinct volcano; Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts, where the movie, “Jaws” was filmed; Kennebunkport, Maine, which had beautiful, and unusual, charcoal gray sand, formed from volcanic rock; and Prince Edward Island in Canada, which had reddish colored sand. However, as you know, I’m an Alabama girl, and to me, nothing compares

AACT >>

FROM A7

cumstances. Character descriptions - RACHEL STEIN: 16-year-old girl. Feels angry and orphaned since 9/11, as both of her parents withdrew into their own worlds. SYLVIA STEIN: Rachel’s mother (40-60.) Newly Evangelical. ARTHUR STEIN: Rachel’s father (40-60.) Depressed. Some singing involved, as Arthur helps Nelson rehearse for his Bar Mitzvah. NELSON STEINBERG: Also 16. Their new neighbor. Passionate about science. Dresses as Elvis. Loves Rachel. JESUS and STEPHEN HAWKING: played by the same actor. Call back auditions, by

to the beaches of Alabama – Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. That deep blue Gulf water meeting the pristine, dazzlingly white sand is one of God’s most beautiful creations, in my opinion. Also, Mike and I prefer to spend our money in Sweet Home Alabama. Therefore, on May 11, we happily began our journey to the beach. Of course, the weather had been perfect the week before our vacation and was to be great on Friday, the day we were to leave. But, you guessed it: the four days we had chosen to vaction were to be cloudy and rainy. Undaunted, we rode down I-85 and then I-65, and the rain held back. However, when we reached Atmore, torrential rain pounded our car. We had a big breakfast before leaving home, so we planned to have an amazing “snack” at Burris Farm Market and Bakery in Loxley. Our family always stops at Burris on our way to the beach. They have wonderful, local produce for sale. However, my favorite part is the bakery. Big surprise. Mike chose his favorite dessert, cheesecake with strawberries. I will point out that he never offered me a bite. No matter. I chose warm, pecan cobbler with soft serve vanilla ice cream. Oh, my. It was

amazing. I was proud that I ate less than half of this delectable dessert, unselfishly offering Mike multiple bites. However, I really wasn’t being good; I just didn’t want to end up in a diabetic coma at the Baldwin County Hospital on my first day of vacation. When we arrived at our condo, the rain had finally stopped. In fact, it didn’t rain on Wednesday, as predicted, and the sun came out on Thursday. Mike, bless his heart, has chronic back pain, and he had just driven for five hours. Feeling rough, he insisted that I go down to the beach; he knew I couldn’t wait to put my feet in that water. When that cold Gulf water hit my feet, it was a shock and a thrill. I thanked God that he was letting us visit our second favorite place on earth once again. The next day, we decided to try a place that our friend William had recommended: the Ruby Slipper Café, which is located at 24151 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach. The restaurant is open for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Roy, our server, was terrific, as was Jeff, the general manager, who had only held the position for five days. They were kind, friendly and attentive. We ordered a particu-

invitation only, will be June 10. 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 AACT Artistic Director, Andrea Holliday by e-mail at AuburnAreaComTheatre@ gmail.com. Rehearsals for this show will be held on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning June 14 and performances will be Aug. 1315 and 19-21.Some actors may not be required at all rehearsals. There will be no rehearsal on July 5. For additional information, please contact AACT Artistic Director,

Andrea Holliday at 334559-0807 or by e-mail at AuburnAreaComTheatre@gmail.com. Auburn Area Community Theatre is a non-profit organization that exists to serve the Auburn/Opelika Community. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for education and participation in the world of theatre and present a quality, entertaining, and thought-provoking theatre experience. AACT is actively soliciting new members who have an interest in helping the growth of community theatre. AACT members and the community-at-large are encouraged to participate. For more information, please visit www.auburnact.org.

Piedmont Fertilizer Co. Inc. 201 2nd Ave. • Opelika, AL SINCE 1910

Nothing better for your lawn exists

larly tasty appetizer: fried green tomatoes topped with lettuce, red tomatoes, remoulade and bacon-onion jam. We would have licked the plate, but our parents taught us better. For his entrée, Mike chose the Biscuits & Gravy, which included two huge buttermilk biscuits covered in Swaggerty’s Country Sausage Gravy. The meal also included two eggs any style, fried green tomato and applewood-smoked bacon. I picked the Cinnamon Swirl Buttermilk Pancakes, which were filled with cinnamon and sugar and topped with cream cheese icing. Too. good. for. words. Thankfully, the protein in the applewood-smoked bacon blocked a carb or two. The Ruby Slipper Café will DEFINITELY be one of our regular beach restaurants. We spoke to Chris, the Ruby Slipper Café’s corporate facilities manager. He was very kind and told us that Erich, the owner of the restaurant, was an Auburn alum. I was happy to support a fellow Auburn grad and told Chris to tell Erich that he needs to open up a Ruby Slipper Café here in Lee County; it would be the fifth one in Alabama.

I will happily be their first customer. Mike and I ALWAYS eat at two places at the beach: the Original Oyster House and the Gulf Shores Diner. The Original Oyster House is our favorite seafood restaurant in Baldwin County. Mr. Rodgers (Buster) was our server, and he was a delight. As usual, Mike and I both ordered a cup of their delicious gumbo. The restaurant serves huge portions, so believe it or not, Mike and I SPLIT the Captain’s Choice; it included shrimp scampi, fried flounder, boiled shrimp and baked stuffed crab. Our two sides were French fries and cheese grits. Everything tasted great. It is customary for us to eat at the Gulf Shores Diner for breakfast on our way back home. Mike chose French toast with bacon, while I picked a ham and cheese omelet with extra crispy bacon. Protein over carbohydrates for a change; hurrah! As always, this comfort food was amazing. This trip to the Gulf Shores Diner was very special. Our server Bella was wonderful. Once again, we got to meet the restaurant’s owner, Arwa Abdelqader, who was Bella’s aunt. Arwa was originally from Jerusalem.

She was so sweet and kind. She told us she had been in the United States for 28 years, the last six in Alabama. “I love Alabama; The people are so friendly,” Arwa said. She also said that she insisted on learning English when she moved to the U.S. because she knew she would need to be able to speak to her children’s teachers, employees, customers, etc. I told her that Mike and my ancestors were also immigrants and that people like her have made our country the great nation it is. Traveling is so wonderful, not only because of the places you see but also because of the people you meet. I hope y’all have safe travels to our beautiful Alabama beaches very soon. The Ruby Slipper Café, the Original Oyster House and the Gulf Shores Diner all make the grade with A+s 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

A9 May 27, 2021

Tart and Tartan offering classic southern desserts, casseroles By Ann Cipperly Opelika Observer As the door opens at the new Tart and Tartan bakery in downtown Opelika, sweet tantalizing aromas provide a warm welcome. Freshly baked cookies, cupcakes, pies, tarts, cakes and other confections by owner Mary Kathryn Whatley bring back memories of scrumptious homemade desserts at family reunions and church dinners throughout the South. Pimento cheese and favorite southern casseroles for completing a meal fill a refrigerated display case, while warm breads and cinnamon rolls offer other delectable treats. The daughter of Debra and Alex Whatley of Opelika, Mary Kathryn grew up in a family known for being excellent cooks and offering hospitality going back for generations. It has been a tradition for the family to tailgate at Auburn games, with over 150 relatives graduating from Auburn University, the first in the family graduating from API in 1917 at age 19. Alex’s father, uncles and grandfather owned

Dairyland Farms, which was located where the Auburn Mall is now. Along with cows and a dairy, there were spacious barns where parties were held. Every fall during the football season in the 1950s, they hosted the entire Auburn team for a huge barbecue with Brunswick stew. This was the beginning of the Whatley tailgates and becoming known for offering hospitality. When Mary Kathryn and each of her three siblings were seniors at Auburn, Alex would cook a whole pig all night in a pit dug by their home for the Arkansas game. The next morning, he took the pig in a pickup truck to the tailgate site where friends helped lift the rack holding the pig, placing it on concrete blocks. They would pull the meat off and serve it with barbecue sauce made from Debra’s great-grandfather’s recipe. Mary Kathryn would help her mother bake cherished family recipes for these tailgates and other times when the family entertained in their home. To assure these favorite family

recipes would not be lost, Mary Kathryn and Debra assembled them into a cookbook for family members. After she graduated from Auburn and was working in Atlanta, Georgia, as a CPA, Mary Kathryn could hardly wait to get home at night to bake, as she found it relaxing. It was the most enjoyable part of her day. She moved back home to Opelika to be closer to family, while working remotely as a CPA for the Atlanta firm. Mary Kathryn soon realized she wanted to change careers and open a bakery to continue her family’s tradition of gathering around delicious food. She felt downtown Opelika would be the perfect location for the bakery, as it was walkable for shoppers to stop by for dessert. It would also be convenient for those having lunch downtown. It took a year and a half to find the ideal location. Mary Kathryn’s father grew up about three blocks from downtown, as well as other family members. When she was born, her parents lived about three

blocks away. Mary Kathryn wanted her family’s legacy to be reflected in the name of the bakery. She remembered the plaid shirts her father wore to work at his construction company and the red tartan slacks he wore at Christmas. “The significance of the tartan plaid in both the name and other details in the bakery,” she said, “honors all the family and friends involved in making Christmas memories.” Before the grand opening, several of Mary Kathryn’s college friends came to town for the weekend to help her prepare for the opening in March for Tart and Tartan. They took several of her father’s tartan shirts, cut a circle from the back of each and framed them. They hung them in a cluster display on one wall in the bakery. Mary Kathryn saw a picture of a hotel in Portugal with a black and white floor when she and Debra visited the country. “I knew I wanted a European feeling for the bakery,” Mary Kathryn said. “When I saw that picture, it gave me a vision for what I wanted with blue, white and black.” To achieve that look for the bakery, she hand-painted the floor in black and white squares. The paint bled requiring numerous touch ups with small brushes. A friend told her that Target was changing the tables at Starbucks in the store. Mary Kathryn was able to get the tables for the bakery. On one side of the dining room, a sink is located for those who would like to wash their hands before dining. Along with the space in the bakery, there is a courtyard with tables under black and white

umbrellas. It is a lovely area to unwind with dessert and a cup of coffee or to host a birthday party. A wide variety of desserts made from scratch are offered at the bakery. Assorted cookies, cakes, pecan pies and chocolate peanut butter pie will be offered, with some items rotated to offer a wider selection. At times she will bake lemon pies, her father’s favorite. Chocolate chip cookies and “catch all cookies” are popular, made with oatmeal, rice crispies, pecans and coconut. Mary Kathryn has experimented with some recipes and created a chocolate mint cake and cupcakes. After researching yummy brownies, she created her own. She bakes beautiful cakes for birthdays or special occasions with basic decoration. She is focusing on making desserts that taste scrumptious. During summer, she will offer blueberry cobblers, lemon cake with lemon curd filling, among others. Assorted tarts are available in a tasty pastry. A couple of years ago, Mary Kathryn and her mother took a trip to Portugal and took a class on making pastry tarts called pastal de nata. Debra has been making cream cheese pastry tarts for many years to serve at showers and teas.

Debra helps at the bakery by making casseroles, including ones for breakfast. Casseroles include poppy seed chicken, a light chicken and rice, macaroni and cheese, Alfredo chicken and broccoli, sausage rotini, among others. A delicious pimento cheese is also offered. All of these items are great for customers to pick up when heading to the lake or beach. To assure a favorite casserole is available, they can be reserved or ordered. Larger sizes are available. Mary Kathryn also caters desserts for parties. For one party, her 91-year-old grandmother, who lives with Debra, helped by putting freshly baked cookies into containers. In the fall, pumpkin bread and other autumn favorites will be added. Dips and spreads will be offered for tailgating. On a sunny afternoon as customers sit in the dining area lingering over a yummy dessert, Mary Kathryn is putting the finishing touches on a cake. She is carrying on her family’s love of serving amazing food and gathering others together to savor every sweet morsel. Tart and Tartan is located at 117 S 8th St., Suite 203, Opelika. For further information or to place an order call 334.748.9075. Check their Facebook page for weekly specials.

Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) Youth Summer Camps are ON! Contributed by AACT Registration for Auburn Area Community Theatre summer camps is open! Musical Theatre Camp, Summer Intensive I&II, Summer “Play”, Summer Intensive II and more – these camps offer theatre skills, training and games for youth ages 3–18. Love to sing, dance and act? Then join us for Musical Theatre Camp (MTC)! Experienced or not, this camp is for you. You’ll learn music, choreography and participate in character development activities for several Broadway Musical numbers. Each year, we choose different songs and musicals so you always have a fresh experience.

You will have a chance to shine on stage for family and friends at the end of the camp! The camp is for ages 3–18 and will take place from June 14–18. AACT Academy Summer Intensive is a theatre skills and techniques camp appropriate for all levels of experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced actor, you will be able to learn something new. This fun and fast-paced camp will focus on improvisation, voice and movement and scene studies. Each year, we plan different ways to present and practice theater skills, so there is always something new! A special presentation at the end gives everyone a chance to

shine on stage. This camp is for ages 3–18. The first session is June 21–25 and the second session is July 26–30. From auditions to performance, young actors ages 7–12 will be able to go through the whole process of producing a play during AACT Academy Summer “Play”. Using a children’s literature story for our base, the actors will be able to write some of their lines, develop their character, create their own set, costume and make-up design sketches. We will not actually be able to build their set designs, but we will use simple stage make-up, costumes and See AUBURN page A11

A10 May 27, 2021

Master Gardners open gardens for tours

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY JOHN BRASWELL

Auburn celebrates summer with block party at Midtown PHOTOS BY ABBEY CRANK / OPELIKA OBSERVER

A11 May 27, 2021

CIPPERLY

FROM A7

serve for a picnic, Jennifer reminds everyone to be sure to carry trash out with you when you leave. The Kreher Preserve offers hiking trails, numerous sites to visit and a wide range of events and programs. It is ideal for families to enjoy year-round, but especially during the summer months. Louise Kreher Turner, who was co-founder of the Preserve with her husband, Frank, was still living when Jennifer started to work, and she enjoyed spending time with her. Louise

RECIPES

PATRIOTIC BREAKFAST PARFAITS Family size container Greek vanilla yogurt Bag of granola (I like to use Bear Naked granola – Honey Almond) Washed and sliced strawberries Washed blueberries Use clear glasses or clear plastic cups. Place scoop of yogurt in the bottom of cup, add some strawberries and blueberries, another scoop of yogurt, more fruit and a sprinkle of granola on top. This is great when you have a crowd and can just leave out a platter of these. FRUIT SALAD WITH SURPRISE DRESSING Seasonal fruit 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt ¼ cup brown sugar or more Mix seasonal fruit to create a beautiful salad. Mix 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt with ¼ cup brown sugar or more to your taste. Mix till smooth and creamy. Fantastic way to dress up a fruit salad! BLUEBERRY YUM YUM Can of 8 biscuits or cinnamon rolls 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ cup sugar 2 cups fresh blueberries 2 Tbsp. butter Serve with vanilla ice cream Quarter each biscuit or cinnamon roll. Combine cinnamon and sugar; roll each quarter biscuit

MOTHER >>

lived to be 98 years old. The Turners felt that Auburn was losing too much of its green space. Since they didn’t have any children, in 1993 they decided to donate their 120-acre property to the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences at Auburn University. The Turners had purchased the cotton farmland in the 1940s and turned it into a cattle ranch. The land became the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, which was later renamed the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. The Preserve was established as an outreach program for people of all ages to enjoy with a

strong focus on families and children. There are many beautiful sites to explore at the Preserve. Popular sites include a learning station to view and learn about birds, a beaver lodge, the bald eagle nest, Turtle Pond, Kreher Creek waterfall, butterfly garden, Nature Playground, Homestead organic garden, alligator enclosure, Boulder Ridge bench, Turner Amphitheater, bird watching kiosk and displays, fernview, reptile rest, sensory garden, Honeybee Observation Center, Longleaf Demonstration Forest and soils demonstration area.

Six outdoor classrooms built by Eagle Scouts include the Homestead, Longleaf Forest, Green and Big Oak Outdoor, Skunk Hollow Preschool Outdoor Classroom and Mud Kitchen and Four Eagles Pond Outdoor Classroom. The Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool is Auburn’s first nature preschool, and the second in Alabama. There are 10 part-time teachers presenting programs to about 6,000 children a year. The Kreher Pond Education Pavilion is under construction by Auburn Building Science students. This large

pavilion near the pond will have a bathroom and storeroom and be supplied with solar energy. It will allow programs to continue rain or shine. When Jennifer started at the preserve, visitation was under 3,000. They now have 30,000 a year. Jennifer thinks because of COVID, there were 40,000 visitors in 2020 since being outdoors has been safe. The Preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are not allowed since it is a wildlife preserve. Bikes are also not allowed. Parking on North College is near the playground and picnic

areas and the Nature Center. Parking on the Farmville Road entrance is closer to the pond, butterfly garden and vegetable garden. For information on upcoming events and programs, go to auburn. edu/preserve. Following are Jennifer’s favorite recipes to serve family and friends. While enjoying the weekend with your family and friends, remember Memorial Day was set aside as a time to remember the men and women who have given their lives serving our country. Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com.

or cinnamon roll into cinnamon sugar. Place in greased casserole dish. Pour blueberries over the top. Dab little bits of butter over the top. Bake 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve with vanilla ice cream. This super simple dish is a summertime favorite in our family!

2 large eggs 3 cup flour 2 ½ tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1 ¼ cups milk 1 ½ tsp. vanilla Pint of blueberries rolled in 2 Tbsp. flour mixed with ½ tsp. cinnamon Cinnamon Sugar: 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ cup sugar Combine cinnamon and sugar; set aside for topping. Cream butter and margarine. Add sugar and eggs, mix well. Add remaining ingredients except blueberries and cinnamon sugar. Mix well. Wash and drain blueberries. Roll blueberries in 2 Tbsp flour mixed with ½ tsp. cinnamon. Grease muffin pan. Place one scoop of batter in bottom. Add 4 to 5 blueberries on top, then cover with batter. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar on top before baking. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or longer until golden brown. Cool few minutes before serving.

cake. This dessert is all about presentation. Use a tall glass trifle bowl. Layer the bottom of the bowl with angel food cake that has been sprinkled with Kahlua. Now add a layer of pudding, then a layer of Cool Whip and heath bar bits. Repeat 2 more times ending with Cool Whip and heath bar bits sprinkled on top.

be thicker. Place ham chunks and eggs over bottom half of crust. Pour the white sauce over the top. Sprinkle remaining crust over the top. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. This used to be a dish we would make to use up Easter leftovers, but it is such a family favorite that we do not wait for Easter any more to enjoy often!

chopped 1 tsp. minced garlic ½ cup picante sauce 1 can black beans, drained ½ cup finely chopped cilantro Juice of 1 fresh lime Sour cream, optional Bring rice, olive oil and water to a boil. Turn burner down to low and add scallions, garlic, picante sauce and beans. Cook on low until rice is cooked. Then add cilantro and lime juice. Mix well and serve. A dollop of sour cream on top adds extra flavor.

BLT CHICKEN SALAD ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup barbecue sauce 2 Tbsp. grated onion 1 Tbsp. lemon juice ½ tsp. pepper 3 chicken breasts Greek seasoning 2 large tomatoes, chopped 8 cups torn lettuce 3 grilled chicken breasts 8 slices bacon, cooked 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced Combine mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, onion, lemon juice and pepper in a bowl. Cover and chill. Sprinkle surfaces of chicken with a Greek seasoning and grill. Cool for few minutes and slice. Remove excess liquid from tomatoes by wrapping them in paper towels. Arrange lettuce on plate. Top with tomatoes and chicken. Spoon dressing over salad, top with crumbled bacon and egg slices. Serves four. BLUEBERRY MUFFINS ½ stick butter, softened 1 stick margarine, softened 2 cup sugar

AUBURN >>

FROM A7

FROM A9

event is altered this year to respect social distancing and the safety of their attendees. “We would love to have everybody come out with their sons and enjoy a good event since everything is opening up,” Johnson said. For more information, visit the L.E.A.P.S. Mentoring page on Facebook or tickettailor.com/events/ leaps.

props. Be prepared to have them raiding the closets to find what they need! The actors will be expected to practice their lines and do some character development work at home. Camp is July 12-16. Last, but not least, are you looking for an “all-day camp?” “BYO Lunch Break” and “After Hours Theater” are the bridges that will combine the

KAHLUA HEATH BAR TRIFLE Angel food cake, chopped bite size pieces ½ cup Kahlua liqueur 2 cups chocolate pudding Large tub Cool Whip Bag of Heath bar bits This recipe is a light version of a trifle so you can use low fat pudding and Cool Whip to go along with the lighter angel food

HAM AND EGG CASSEROLE Crust and Topping: 1 ½ cups flour 1 ½ tsp. salt ½ cup vegetable oil 2 Tbsp. milk Sauce: 2 Tbsp. butter 3 Tbsp. flour 2 cups milk Filling: 2 cups bite-size ham chunks 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped For the topping and crust, combine flour and salt in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Beat oil and 2 Tbsp. milk together with fork, then mix into flour mixture until evenly dampened. Press with fingers in even layer, then fork over the bottom of pan. Bake crust at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove half for the topping using a thin spatula. Leave the other half on the bottom of pan. Make a white sauce in microwave in a large measuring cup. Melt 2 Tbsp. butter, then whisk in 3 Tbsp. flour. Next add 2 cup milk. Wisk until smooth. Cook 2 minutes, stir. Cook 2 more minutes. Should

Visual Arts Workshops for Children (Provided by the Auburn Arts Association) and the AACT Summer Intensive, and Summer “Play” Camp (Provided by AACT) to provide your child with an all-day visual and performing arts experience. “BYO Lunch Break” will begin immediately after Art Camps presented by the Auburn Arts Association. Each camper must provide their own lunch. After eating, the kids will be led in group games,

both inside and outside (weather permitting). Digital devices, while not banned, will be heavily discouraged. There are no scholarships or sibling discounts available for this class. “After Hours Theater” will begin immediately after the AACT Summer Intensive Camps. The kids will participate in theater games and will have an opportunity to explore some of the theater concepts they are learning. There are no sibling

JENNY’S ENCHILADAS 4 chicken breasts 1 medium onion 1 cup medium picante sauce 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese 2 cups Mexican cheese, divided 1 bag large flour tortillas 1 jar mild enchilada sauce (red or green Boil chicken breasts. Chop or shred meat. Chop onion and sauté. Add chicken and picante sauce to onion. On low heat, mix in cream cheese and 1 cup Mexican cheese. Stir u until melted evenly. Place large spoonful in a tortilla and roll. Place in greased 9 x 13-inch pan. Once all tortillas filled and rolled, pour enchilada sauce over the top and remaining cup of cheese over the sauce. Bake at 350 for 20 to 25 minutes till hot and bubbly. Serves four to six. BLACK BEAN AND CILANTRO LIME RICE 1 cup brown rice 2 tsp. olive oil 2 cups water 2 scallions, finely discounts or scholarships available for this class. The AACT Summer “Play” Theater camp goes until 5 p.m. so there is no need for After Hours Theater that week. For “BYO Lunch Break” and “After Hours Theater”, Session I is June 22-26, Session II is July 6-10 and Session III is July 20-24. You must sign up for the Visual Arts Workshops for Children and the AACT Camps separately. You can take advantage of either

ITALIAN PEPPERONI CASSEROLE 1 lb. ground beef 1 medium onion, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Garlic salt to taste Italian seasoning to taste 1 box shell pasta 1 jar or can spaghetti sauce 2 cups Italian cheese (mozzarella) Pack of pepperoni, small, if can find ¼ cup Parmesan cheese Brown ground beef and chopped onion. Lightly season with salt, pepper, garlic salt and Italian seasoning. Cook shell pasta. Mix browned meat and onion, cooked pasta, jar of spaghetti sauce, Italian cheese and most of pepperoni, save a few to put on the top of casserole. Add the pepperoni to top of casserole and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Serve with a salad and good garlic bread. Always a crowd favorite! one or both of the extended hours programs by signing up for what you need. Please visit www. auburnact.org for specific age groups, times, and cost. Sibling discounts and need-based scholarships are available for most camps. For additional information, please contact Melanie Brown at 334.332.6834 or by e-mail at supersugarmel@gmail.com. Location: Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 E Drake Ave. in Auburn.

A12 May 27, 2021

Dream Day Foundation to host 4th annual Black Male Summit Sponsored by The Dream Day Foundation The Dream Day Foundation, in partnership with Harris Funeral Home, Kroger, Inc., McDonald’s of Auburn and Opelika and Opelika City Council will host its fourth Annual Black Male Summit on Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. This year’s summit will be hosted at Opelika High School with school guidelines put in place for COVID-19. Lunch will be provided once

again by the Good Ol’ Boys Social Club. Onsite registration opens at 8:30 a.m. or you can pre-register online at www.dreamdayblackmalesummit. com. Complete form and send! The theme for this year’s summit is “I AM: Conversations for Black Males that Matter” in which topics will be addressed pertaining to the growing movement of Black Lives Matter and issues facing young Black males. Our own Representative Jere-

Fourth Annual Opelika Fun and Fellowship Day

my Gray will give the opening address for this year’s summit as well as participate in small group sessions with other experts. Some of the topics that will be covered include Sexual Misconduct, “Thoughts Become Things”, which addresses mental health issues, The Right to Vote and others. We are excited about the role the Opelika Police Department will play in sharing some pertinent information along with a session for our driving age participants on the do’s and

Contributed by the Carolyn Morton The Samford Community Outreach Fellowship Group is inviting residents of Auburn, Opelika and surrounding areas to the Fourth Annual Opelika Youth Fun and Fellowship Day at Christian Care Ministries on June 12, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year, the theme of the event will be

“Let our young people rise up in the power of God,” hosted by Pastor Carolyn Ann Morton and the SCOF Group. Attendees can expect to see guest speaker, Mrs. Cathelean C. Steele, Special Program Director from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Atlanta. All churches and organizations are welcome to attend. Christian Care Ministries are located at 1000 Samford Court in Opelika.

along with giveaways to our participants. This year’s summit is one that no one can afford to miss. We appreciate all of our partners and sponsors and the community for its continued support and anticipate a large group of young men and parents. We also have some surprises in store! We are still accepting partnerships, sponsorships, cash donations or checks. Together we can make a difference! Ways to donate or contact Marion Sankey

at 334.663.6638: Cash app: $dream2k09 Checks made payable to Black Male Summit and mail to PO. Box 1654 Opelika, Alabama 36803 Gift cards mailed to PO. Box 1654 Opelika, 36803. Sincerely, Marion A. Sankey Founder & Executive Director The Dream Day Foundation 334.663.6638 Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’ - Rev. MLK, Jr.

Four additional concerts added to Sweetland Amphitheatre 2021 Concert Series Contributed by Sweetland Amphitheatre

STEELE

don’ts from the local court system. Our goal is to provide a platform along with information that is important for Black males to navigate through life safely and successfully. The goal also is for them to come away with a greater sense of purpose, accountability and motivation and with dreams of what their futures hold for them as responsible adult men. We are offering some great incentives during our parent session that I’m sure they would not want to miss

The hits keep on coming as Sweetland Amphitheatre announces plans to host four additional concerts during the 2021 season featuring award-winning and chart-topping performers of Rock, Pop and Christian Music. Located in the heart of historic downtown LaGrange in Boyd Park, the popular openair concert venue will feature Bethel Music, STYX, Amy Grant and The Black Jacket Symphony as part of the 2021 concert season. Tickets for these four concerts go on sale Thursday, May 27 at 10 a.m. - JULY 31: BETHEL MUSIC Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert starts at 8 p.m., box office opens at 3:30 p.m. TICKET PRICES: Pit - $59 Terrace Box - $59 Premium Reserved - $49 Reserved - $39 Lawn - $20 Bethel Music VIP package – includes Pit ticket, meet and greet, photo opportunity, early entry and preferred

seating - $79. - AUG. 8: STYX Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert starts at 8 p.m., box office opens at 3:30 p.m. TICKET PRICES: Pit - $89.50 Terrace Box - $59.50 Premium Reserved $79.50 Reserved - $59.50 Lawn - $25 Styx - VIP Tour Package – $189 Superfans of STYX can opt to purchase a VIP Tour Package, which includes one premium reserved ticket to this concert, a specially designed Styx raglan shirt (exclusive to packages only!), Styx pin set, Styx lighter, Styx cooler bag, a Limited-edition Styx VIP merchandise item, commemorative tour laminate and a commemorative ticket. STYX VIP Tour packages are extremely limited so get them while you can. - AUG. 14: AMY GRANT Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert starts at 8 p.m., box office opens at 3:30 p.m. TICKET PRICES: Pit - $89.50 Terrace Box - $69.50 Premium Reserved $69.50 Reserved - $49.50

Lawn - $25. - AUG. 20: BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY PRESENTS HOTEL CALIFORNIA Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert starts at 8 p.m., box office opens at 3:30 p.m. TICKET PRICES: Pit - $48.50 Terrace Box - $38.50 Premium Reserved $33.50 Reserved - $28.50 Lawn - $18.50 Tickets for these four concerts go on sale Thursday, May 27, at 10 a.m. Tickets are currently on sale for Travis Tritt on Friday, July 16, and Emmylou Harris on Saturday, July 24. Tickets for all concerts may be purchased online through Sweetland Amphitheatre’s website at www. sweetlandamp.com. Sweetland Amphitheatre’s 2021 concert season would not be possible without its amazing sponsors which include Kia, LaGrange Grocery, Vaughn Express, Mallory Agency, ETI, Emory Healthcare, City of LaGrange, Troup County, J. Smith Lanier, Eley Digital, Houze & Associates, Thornton & Graham, P.C., Beacon Brewery, Visit LaGrange,

Wingate by Wyndham, Courtyard by Marriott, Jackson Services and Southern Cart. Sweetland Amphitheatre will announce additional concerts for the 2021 season in the weeks ahead. For more details on upcoming shows, please visit www.sweetlandamp. com or call 706-2985434. About Sweetland Amphitheatre As the tall pines sway to the rhythm of a southern breeze, the South’s sweetest stage, Sweetland Amphitheatre welcomes music fans to experience award-winning and internationally known performers. The venue, which opened in Spring 2016, is owned and operated by the Downtown Development Authority of the City of LaGrange. Sweetland Amphitheatre is centrally located in the heart of historic downtown LaGrange, Georgia, in Boyd Park. The 2,500seat venue provides an intimate open-air concert setting for star-studded performances and community events within walking distance of restaurants, shops, hotels, and attractions.

Disabled veteran seeks to find beloved pet bird named Happy PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY MARK ANDERSON The above photo depicts what Happy would look like but are not actual photos of Happy.

By Kinsley Beshers For the Opelika Observer

Disabled veteran and Georgia resident, Mark Anderson, is in search of his previously-owned Green-Quaker Parrot in the Auburn-Opelika area. Anderson bought his bird, Happy, while living in Las Vegas in 2007. In 2008, Anderson moved to his present place of residence in Georgia. Around 2012-2013, Anderson was convinced to sell his bird to Robert Crumpton from Auburn, who then sold it around 2014 to Pets Unleashed, a pet store that has been closed down.

Robertson has DNA samples and is able to recognize a distinct feature on the bird if he sees it. The bird would be approximately 15 years old. Robertson would appreciate any and all help he can receive to find his bird. “I cry when I think I may never see my bird again,” Anderson said. “I have resolved to do everything I possibly can to find this bird.” If you know any information or have any tips to help Anderson find his bird, contact him by email at markandersonbusiness@gmail.com or phone number 678-431-6748.

A13 May 27, 2021

Mountains and Models

hen most of us see a mountain range, our eyes are instinctively drawn to the mountain tops. I’m not sure why, perhaps it’s something about what you can see—the clarity we get through the unobstructed, panoramic view. Whatever it is, I just know we tend to look up when we see a mountain. In a similar way, there’s a real value in looking up at the example certain people set for us. Let’s face it, our culture floods us with mega doses of bad news on a daily basis. Whether we want to be or not, we’re surrounded with stories of death, disease, destruction, and unend-

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

ing examples of people sadly and tragically living below what God has called them to be. If we’re not careful, if we don’t think about what we think about, it can By Bruce Green drag us down in a major Teaching Minister at 10th way. Street Church of Christ That’s why positive in Opelika examples (and we’re not talking about putting people on a pedestal), watching others and can be so helpful and then imitating them. So healthy. They show us many of the problems what we can do and being experienced in be. Someone said that our culture comes from Christ didn’t come to people choosing bad convict us of our sins, models to imitate. But but to convince us of a good model uplifts, our possibilities. Qualinspires, and provides ify that however you us with an unobstructed must, but don’t miss the view of what life can point that we are imitabe. tive beings—so much It’s clear from the of what we learn (good tone of 1 and 2 Thessaor bad), comes from

lonians that there was something special about Paul’s relationship with them. It’s all over the first three chapters of the first letter. Paul pours out his affection for them saying things like: Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. (1 2:8) or How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? (1 3:9) The clincher for me in all this, are his words in 3:7, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution

we were encouraged about you because of your faith.” Despite all his difficulties (and they were substantial), Paul found encouragement in the Thessalonians and their faith. He tells them that like a proud parent, he “boasted” about them to other churches (2 1:4). You never know how life is going to work out—God is constantly surprising us. In this case, the students kept the teacher going! They were an important part of what provided Paul with strength for his journey. 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

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. — Jeremiah 29:13 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

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D 334-758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta 334-742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy 334-749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. 334-749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. 334-745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy 334-7498676 BAPTIST Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road, Valley 334-710-2177 Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B 706-4421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. 334-444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave 334-742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. 334-745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd 334-745-4865 Central Baptist Church

Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 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

1611 2nd Ave. 334-745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. 334-745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. 334-7422008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr 334-749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. 334-887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika 314 S. 9th St. 334-745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. 334-745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E 334-741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. 334-703-3333 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. 334-7452905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 - 334-7453600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy 334-7455340 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd 334-749-2773 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. 334-745-3224

Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd 334-741-7770 CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. 334-749-8359

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Destiny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church

CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd 334-7499112 Church of God 114 17th Place 334-749-6432 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. 334-749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. 334-745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. 334-826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. 334-742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A 334-745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 334-745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 334-749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist

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 200 26th St. 334-745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. 334-745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy 334-745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 334-7418675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. 334-745-3421 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd 334-7495386 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd 334-749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. 334-745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. 334- 749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad 334-749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. 334-737-1488

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

A14 May 27, 2021

Community Vaccine Clinic to close June 14 Contributed by EAMC Monday marked the start of the Community Vaccine Clinic being open from 3 – 7 p.m. Monday – Wednesday. But it also marked the last “first” doses at the clinic. People receiving a first dose on Monday will receive their second dose on June 14, and that will be the clinic’s last day of operation. The closing is due to very low demand at the clinic—and plenty of vaccine in

Mary Augusta Powell Bankston Mary Augusta Powell Bankston was born in Ashland, Alabama on June 1, 1931. After a long and vibrant life, she passed away on May 16 at EAMC. She came to be a lady of the lake after growing up and living on Lake Martin for 70 years. She was predeceased by her husband John D. “Jay” Bankston and son Thomas Lee Bankston. She is survived by her son Jeff Bankston (Brenda); grandchildren, Dawn Herrington (Jeff), Joel Bankston, greatgrandchildren, Megan, Madison, brothers, Wallace Powell and Billy Powell. Mrs. Bankston loved Lake Martin, moving back home from Florida in 1972. Mary loved playing Bridge with her friends. But her obsession remained with gardening, bird watching, boating, Lake Martin lifestyle and family. After years of service, she retired from Pepperell Mills in Opelika. A graveside service was held at on May 21, at New Rosemere Cemetery in Opelika. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to: Lake Martin Baptist Church 9823 Co Rd 34 Dadeville, Alabama 36853. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

the community. As a result, the clinic will not be open on Saturday, June 5 as previously announced. Our call center is contacting anyone affecting by any of these changes to get them re-scheduled. “I personally want to thank our community for the support you have given us throughout this pandemic, and specifically for your support of the Community Vaccine Clinic,” stated Bruce Zartman, East

Carielena Sides Sims Carielena Sides Sims was born to loving parents, James Grady and Lena Breedlove Sides, on May 15, 1932 in Langdale, Alabama. “Carrie” was a quite the softball player and swimmer growing up and was a graduate of Valley High School. During her early adult years she worked in the “baby department” at Woolsworth Department Store, and an assembly line in a makeup factory – her favorite was the lipstick line. Later she worked in the Spinning and Spooling Department for Lanett Mill. At each job she excelled. Carielena was taught at an early age her many talents in cooking, baking, gardening and homemaking by her mother Lena and dad Grady. While working fulltime in Lanett Mill and raising a family, Mama made the decision to go back to school at night. She graduated from what was then Troup Tech with straight A’s. This led to an opportunity in the mill office at Lanett. Once again, she was a little Dynamo as a whiz with numbers. If you were out of balance, she was your “go to” gal! Mama made many wonderful friends in her life, including her work career, her children’s friends, their families

Alabama Health’s VP of Support Operations, who has been overseeing the clinic since day one. “We started giving vaccines to healthcare workers and first responders on December 15 in the EAMC Education Center. As the eligible populations for the vaccine expanded, we realized we needed a larger clinic in order to make a real impact in our efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.” Speaking to the coalition that formed quickly in late

January, Zartman had the following message: “We needed our community to help us and you absolutely responded! Thank you to the mayors of the cities of Auburn and Opelika who partnered with us and gave us the full support of their city leadership and staff. Thank you to the Lee County Emergency Management Agency, the schools of nursing at Auburn, Southern Union and Tuskegee, the Edward Via College of Osteopathic

Medicine, and to Auburn United Methodist Church for joining our coalition and making this experience as successful as it was.” In closing, Zartman had the following words for the clinic’s unpaid help. “Lastly, thank you to the 1900 community volunteers who gave of their time to support this effort. This was truly a community vaccine clinic. Our friends, families and neighbors banded together to provide

more than 89,000 vaccines for their friends, families and neighbors in the fight against this virus. This was historic and meaningful. Be proud of what you accomplished.” The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine will still be offered by the East Alabama Apothecary, whose main pharmacy is located inside EAMC. It will be available Monday – Friday, and appointments can be made by calling 334528-2293. -

and her church life. Carielena was a 50-plus years member of Lanett First Baptist Church. In later years while enduring many physical issues, she was a proud member of the volunteer auxiliary at Lanier Memorial Hospital. She enjoyed being helpful and rekindled many friendships during this time. We were told often that “Carrie’s really good at this.” The job Mama was most proud of was being Mama to five children. All five would say she excelled in this position, too. She was loving, nurturing, kind – yet she held us to high standards, which we all thank her for today. Carielena entered heaven’s gate on May 20, 2021. She met her goal for life of being with her Lord and Savior. Carielena was preceded in death by her two sons, J.R. Sims Jr., and James A Hall, Jr., her husband, Ralph Sims, her parents, siblings and their spouses, Douglas (Lala) Sides, David (Mary) Sides, Bobby (Mary) Sides, and Frances (Harold) Mason and one grandson, Tanner Longshore. Left to cherish her memory, sweet smile and welcoming arms are: daughters, Carol (Ab) Longshore, Hazel Green, Alabama, Cathy (Billy) Humphrey, Valley, and Elaine (Guy) Rhodes, Opelika, three grandchildren, Abby (Brannon) Winborn, Huntsville, Matthew Humphrey, Valley, Alabam and Merry

(Buddy) Cuervo, Fortson, Georgia and two great grands Lily and Anslie Winborn, both of Huntsville. Mama was also blessed with a much loved and cherished host of nieces, nephews, their families and many wonderful friends. A graveside service for Carielena was held at Resthaven Memorial Garden in Lanett on Sunday, May 23 at 4 p.m. Rev. Ronnie Jordan officiated. Memorials can be made to a charity of your choice. Carielena’s family welcomed friends and loved ones. From 1st Corinthians 13:13: “Now these remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, Opelika, directed.

children, Belinda Gullatt, Brannon Gullatt, and Barry Gullatt (Theresa), Jeff Gullatt (Kimberly); grandchildren, Malik Brown, Grace Gullatt, Nathan Gullatt, Mary Gullatt, Silas Gullatt; great grandchildren, Alaysia Brown; sisters, Peggy Bryce (Harrison), Bobbie Watkins (Arlie); brother, Billy Hillyer (Linda); sister-in-law, Sandra Hillyer. Visitation was held on May 20, 2021 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church with Reverend Richie Ashburn officiating. Interment followed at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

this earth in late October of 2020 and was struck by cancer shortly thereafter. John’s journey was a tough one, with many hills to climb, but he rode hard as he entered the gates of heaven. Never a quitter, he entered into eternal life with calm and peace. Known for his ability to create fun and exciting bike routes, both on and off the road, John is now in search of the most glorious route of all. He is witnessing sites that are so beautiful that we can’t even imagine. He is preparing the perfect campsite to welcome his friends and family as they enter eternal life and join him. Always the adventurist, John had other joys in life other than biking. He loved being outdoors and relishing in the beauty of God’s creation, but John’s greatest love was his wife and children. He will be greatly missed by many, but none will miss him more than his family. Graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Town Creek Cemetery. Ride on, Johnny Auburn a.k.a. Wrong Way Johnny! In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Rails-toTrails Conservancy www. railstotrails.org/support-us/ memorial-contribution/.

OBITUARIES

Helen Gullatt Helen Gullatt of Salem was born to the late Ruth and Stewart Hillyer in Opelika, Alabama on January 9, 1937 and passed away at Bethany House on May 16, 2021. She was 84 years old. She was a proud member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church of Salem, Alabama. Helen loved the Lord, enjoyed cooking, gardening, sewing and spending time with her family that she adored. Helen was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Benny L. Gullatt, her brother, Dolph Hillyer. Helen is survived by her

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“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.”

John A. Little John A. Little of Auburn, was born in Tennessee on March 3, 1970 and passed away at his home on May 21, 2021. He was 51 years old. John was preceded in death by his parents, Bobby Joe and Charlotte Overstreet Little, granddaughter, Delilah Hope Little. John is survived by his wife, Priscilla Pope Little, his children, Joshua Little, Benjamin Little and Susanna Little Mullins (Marshall Mullins), a brother, David Little (Kelly Howell Little) and in-laws, Justin Pope and Cindy Pope Dearman John took his final bikepacking adventure on

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A15 May 27, 2021

DOWNTOWN OPELIKA

SATURDAY JUNE 5th

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Show Up Hungry!!! Some Of This Year’s Grillers...

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Proceeds To Support Backpack Meals at Food Bank of East Alabama *This event is being hosted by The Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation, a 501(C)3 Organization, operating under Chapter 3, Title 10A of the Alabama Code of 1975. For the safety of our guests and volunteers, we ask that all persons entering this event comply with CDC and State mandated guidelines, including but not limited to the use of masks, and maintaining of social distancing, when possible. All persons entering this event do so voluntarily, and at their own risk. Pursuant to Act 2021-4, signed into law by Governor Ivey on Feb 12, 2021, non-profit organizations are shielded from civil liability related to COVID exposure.

A16 May 27, 2021

COMICS

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

School Board Meetings Auburn: June 8 at 6 p.m. Lee County: June 8 at 6 p.m.

INSIDE • OPELIKA SCHOOLS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • COMMUNITY SPORTS

Opelika: June 22 at 4:30 p.m.

Beulah softball falls short in state tournament PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY WRANGLER POLLARD

On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell

AHSAA names former AU football player as new executive director

lvin Briggs is the new Executive Director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association, the Central Board of Control announced Monday. Central Board of Control President, Van Phillips, introduced Briggs in a Monday morning press conference at the headquarters in Montgomery. The search committee, made up of seven members of the CBOC, received over 50 applicants to replace former Executive Director Steve Savarese after announcing his retirement in May. Briggs served as associate director the past five years after being hired by Savarese 10 years ago as head of the High School Football Coaches Association. Phillips explained that Briggs’ experience was a key factor in the decision. “He’s been through all the lawsuits with Mr. Savarese. He’s been on Goat Hill with Mr. Savarese. Every difficult decision Mr. Savarese has made through some trying times, Alvin was right there to assist him. One of the board members said Alvin was battle tested and I think that is the perfect phrase for him,” said Phillips during the press conference.

Briggs will become the fifth full time executive director of the AHSAA, following Cliff Harper (1948-1966), Bubba Scott (1966-1990), Dan Washburn (19902006) and Savarese (2006-present). Briggs started on the Greenville varsity football team as a freshman and received a scholarship to play football at Auburn University in the 80's. He helped lead the Tigers to the 1987 SEC Championship, intercepting nine passes during the season. Briggs started his coaching career as an assistant coach for North Alabama, which lasted 10 years. In 2001, he returned to his hometown to become the head football coach at Greenville High School for the next four years. Briggs left GHS to become head coach at Florence for five seasons. During the press conference, Savarese said Briggs wanted the executive director job when he interviewed him 10 years ago. “He told me his goal was to have my job in 10 years. It was his dream that came true,” said Savarese. Briggs graciously accepted the appointment See SPORTS, page B4

By Wil Crews sportscrews@ opelikaobserver.com The Beulah Bobcats varsity softball team came up short of a state title last weekend, losing on the second day of the AHSAA 3A State Tournament and

finishing fourth overall in the state in their respective classification. “You know I’m really pleased that our girls performed like they did,” said head coach Stan Pepper. “It was a tough environment heat wise and weather wise. Only having 10 or 11

girls on the roster, we had probably the smallest roster of anybody at the final eight. They gave me everything they had and we just came up a little short. Overall I’m just so happy for the girls; they did a tremendous job. I’m so proud of them.”

The Bobcats battled through intense heat, injuries and a player quarantine to win three games on the tournament’s first day, before losing 11-2 to the Houston Academy Raiders on Saturday, See BEULAH, page B2

Opelika to be represented at 2022 World Games By Wil Crews sportscrews@ opelikaobserver.com

Regional Director of H&S Commercial and Industrial Services, Raven Harvis, has been selected as an ambassador for the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama. “I’m extremely excited,” Harvis said of the honor. “To me, it’s so refreshing. Especially coming off of a pandemic year where we had so many things that divided us, made us go into our homes and not be together. Then to have the

HARVIS World Games so close to us to bring the whole world together is something I’m excited to be a

part of. “H&S has offices in Birmingham, Opelika, Mobile and two in Mississippi.

Harvis, who has served as regional director at H&S since 2008, works in Opelika but said she was selected as ambassador because of the business’s deep-rooted connections to the Iron City. “We do quite a bit of business in Birmingham and are a part of their business community as well,” Harvis said. “So, just like in Opelika, we reach out to the community and try to see how we can give back. We were identified as one of the companies that was See GAMES, page B3

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B2 May 27, 2021

Beulah softball gets proper sendoff for state

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY WRANGLER POLLARD

BEULAH >> FROM B1 officially ending their season. Beulah won its first game on Friday against Houston Academy, 7-5. The Raiders got things going in the second inning with a sacrifice bunt, scoring one run. Beulah quickly responded in the bottom of the inning with two runs to take the 2-1 lead. Two more runs in the third gave the Bobcats a 4-1 lead before the Raiders narrowed the gap with two runs in the top of the fifth. Again, Beulah responded. This time, scoring three runs

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in the bottom of the inning to take a firmer grip on the game. Houston Academy had a valiant ninth inning effort, rallying for two more runs. However, it was too little too late, and the Bobcats emerged with a 7-5 victory. “I thought we played more of a complete game than we have played all year,” Pepper said. “A lot of people were shocked – I wasn’t. Me and the coaching staff knew that was us, that was our team. And we just needed to go out and prove it to everybody else and that first game they did.” The offensive

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performance for Beulah was led by Katie Morris, who also held her own as the starting pitcher on the mound. Morris allowed 11 hits and five runs over seven innings, striking out eight; she went 2-for-2 at the plate, with a double, three runs scored and one RBI. Kassidy Kirby had a strong day at the plate, going 1-for-2 with a homerun which drove in two base runners. Anna Grey and Kyleigh Morgan both had two RBI’s of their own. Seven out of nine Beulah batters recorded hits and all nine batters reached base. “I was really pleased with the bottom half of our lineup … they really came through for us in that game and we strung a lot of hits together and got some runs on the board,” Pepper said. “We played well defensively. Then we just had to hang on in the end.” The second game of the tournament saw Beulah fall, 2-0, to the Prattville Christian Academy Panthers. The Bobcats were stifled by PCA pitcher Landyn McAnnally. McAnnally struck out 12 Beulah batters in total, allowing just two hits. “She was a very intimidating figure in the circle,” Pepper said of McAnnally. “So the girls

… it took a little while to get accustom to her.” The Panthers registered both of their two runs in the third inning. That proved to be enough as Beulah was unable to muster even a sniff of a rally. Brandy Phillips started the game on the mound for Beulah, throwing 2.1 innings to give Morris some much needed rest. Morris pitched the final 3.2 innings. “There was a couple umpire calls that changed the difference in that game,” Pepper said begrudgingly. The third game of the tournament pushed Beulah to the brink. Facing Mobile Christian, a loss would have eliminated the Bobcats from the tournament. Morris found herself on the mound again and pitched a complete game shutout. Pitching was strong on both sides, however, as Morris struck out three and Mobile Christian’s Tori Taylor struck out nine; both teams had just five hits in total. The matchup was even at zero until the top of the sixth inning when Beulah’s Savannah Clements drove in the would-be winning run with the help of an error by the Mobile Christian defense. One run was enough as Morris and

the Bobcats claimed the 1-0 victory. “Over the last three weeks I don’t know how many one nothing, two-to-one games we’ve won, but we’ve won a bunch of them,” Pepper said. “So we knew what we needed to do in those situations and we don’t fear those situations.” With the win, Beulah had secured participation in at least one more game and was slated for a rematch against Houston Academy on Saturday for a chance to play in the semifinals. The two teams met on the diamond early Saturday morning. Both teams had played a grueling three-game set the day before and now it was time to test the mental and physical endurance of both teams. Pepper admitted that his girls looked worn down in warmups. Despite that, the Bobcats looked the sharper of the two teams early, jumping out to a 1-0 lead in the first inning thanks to a Phillips single. The Raiders responded by scoring a run in each of the next two innings to take a slim 2-1 lead. Beulah tied things up in the top of the fourth and the two teams looked destined for a back and forth affair. That’s when it all went wrong.

The Houston Academy offense erupted in the bottom of the fourth. A few costly errors by the Bobcats (seven in total) and a succession of singles from the Raiders resulted in Houston Academy plating seven runs in the inning – taking the lead for good. The Raiders scored two more in the bottom of the sixth to dispatch Beulah, 11-2. Houston Academy would go on to lose to eventual 3A champion, Plainview, in the next round. The Bobcats finishes 26-17 on the year. Although they did not attain their ultimate goal of winning a state championship, Pepper appreciates the success of this team and realizes Beulah has a lot to look forward to in the future. “I don’t have any seniors,” Pepper said. “We only have two juniors so we are really still a young team. We did get a lot of experience and we came closer than I think people realized. In the end, we just came up short and wound up being the number four team in the state, so I’m happy about that, but at the same time our goal was to go win it all so we fell short of that goal. But that’s going to be our goal next year. Our goal next year will be to win the state championship.”

B3 May 27, 2021

Reflections of Summer Joys

his coming Monday, we celebrate Memorial Day, May 31. This is when we honor those who have died in the nation’s wars. Our nation stops and honors those and their families who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Even though summer does not officially start until June 20, in fact the same day as Father’s Day, we can sense that summer has truly begun! Reflections of summers past in Lee County as well as surrounding areas brings smiles of summer memories. 1. Feeling, Touch, Texture: How did people live

and survive day to day before air conditioning? When the senior adults share memories with young children about how summers use to be, it is a great intergenerational lesson. In looking at our great grandparents’ and grandparents’ homes, we can see that older homes had higher ceilings. Heat would rise so that families could enjoy the cooler spaces and rooms below. Deep eaves and porches would protect windows from the heat of the sun. Too, trees were planted around older homes to provide cool shade. Windows were also built opposite of each

other to provide a cool cross breeze. Looking at the architecture of older homes in Lee County and Alabama you can see that this pattern was followed. Folks in earlier times also sat out on porches more, rocking, swinging and playing games. Families were a lot more sociable with their neighbors when sitting out on the porch. This writer remembers like yesterday sitting out on our back porch and enjoying the coolness of a summer afternoon rain. We also had electric fans, hand held fans and attic fans to keep cool. In church I remember that we did not have air conditioning. We kept cool as a fellowship by fanning with cardboard fans. In the South we used to take afternoon naps to escape the hottest part of the day. Too, springfed pools to swim in and cool well water poured into big aluminum pans to splash in were other ways to stay cool during the summer. Touching a flower or lawn with early morning dew as well as walking barefoot through this cool grass remind us of appreciation of the touch and feel of summer. Touching shells bring memories of warm sand between

GAMES >>

represented,” she said. The World Games is an 11-day celebration held in the year following the Summer Olympic Games, representing the highest level of competition for more than 3,600 international athletes and 30 plus unique sports. “It’s going to be a lot of things that are not like typical sporting events, but I think it will be super fun to watch,” Harvis said. She and her fellow ambassadors attended their first meeting on

March 18, learning more about the ins-andouts of the games. In her role as ambassador, Harvis said she will be working in hospitality. “They broke us into committees and we were able to kind of pick our subcommittees and what we were going to focus on,” Harvis said. “I love being hospitable, so of course I wanted to work with hosting the hospitality events for the VIP’s and also helping to promote the world games throughout the state of

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

FROM B1 connected to the community in Birmingham, so they wanted to have representation, I think, of some of the people who were giving back already.” Harvis is one of just 40 to 45 ambassadors to receive the honor. “Everywhere I go I make sure to represent Opelika, and the committee is excited to have someone from east Alabama

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your toes as well as touching a smooth shell bring memories of waves crashing against the beach and shore. Beach lowercase and beach pails bring up the memories of the many afternoons at the beach or near a lake where we played games as well as built sand castles. 2. Smells: The smells of summer are gentle reminders of how delightful this season can be. The gentle fragrance of Honey Suckle or Gardenias signals that summer has arrived! The smell of suntan lotion floods me with love memories of my grandmother making sure her grandchildren didn’t get sunburnt. Smelling a summer rain, a summer, ocean or lake breeze, newly mowed lawn or someone cooking or barbecuing, floods us with sensory enrichment and appreciation of summer. 3. Tastes: All of us remember and still enjoy the quenching of thirst with fresh squeezed lemonade. The smells of barbecue, fish, hotdogs and other meats has always been a favorite summer pastime. Lee County summers bring us fresh tastes of watermelon, strawberries, peaches, blueberries, etc.

How many of us remember that shelling butterbeans or peas were a family’s responsibility especially during the summer? Shucking corn and canning and freezing vegetables were, and still are, tasks to be accomplished during the summer months. I love to ride the country roads in Lee County and see the tall cornstalks waving in the hot breezes of the evening sun. We can remember the good old homemade ice cream full of fresh fruit. Turning the handle on an old fashion ice cream churn was worth the work and wait. 4. Sounds: Going out on a summer night, one can hear crickets and cicadas, and can catch the sound of frogs croaking here and there. The sound of lawn mowers and children joyfully playing on a summer evening echo in our memories as well as being heard. As a child, I remember we children played outside more. Our parents and grandparents let us play outside more during the summer months. My grandmother had us cousins come spend many weeks with her at the old family farm. We used our imaginations more as we

played house in the shade of the pecan trees. 5. Sights: Taking time to “watch” summer can fill your day. Looking for the glow of fireflies in the evening, watching Hummingbirds get nectar from a flower or feeder, following the flight of butterflies as they dart here and there, can fill your day with enjoyment and observation. In Lee County, we have so many beautiful sunsets to enjoy! There are many parks in our area that offer shade and enjoyment for the old and young alike. 6. Safety Reminders: In order to enjoy summer, the elderly and young need to keep these health tips in mind. Just this week, the temperatures are higher than usual. Stay hydrated; stay in cool spots; don’t go out in the very heat of the day; be aware of temperature highs; wear light-colored and loose fitting clothes; protect your eyes; rub on sunscreen and wear hats. Now let’s all dive in to the joys of summer living! Look, hear, smell, taste, touch and feel what all that summer has to offer for the young and old! Classroom Observer Beth Pinyerd

Alabama.” The 2022 World Games will take place from July 7-17, 2022. The event will feature competitions in a wide range of unorthodox sports, each falling under an umbrella of either Athletic Sports, Ball Sports, Martial Arts, Precision Sports, Strength Sports and Trend Sports. From tug-of-war to sumo wrestling, the World Games brings together an eclectic group of international athletes to perform a spectacle

that anyone can enjoy. Harvis said she is looking forward to one competition in particular herself. “This is a guilty pleasure, but I have never seen anybody do artistic roller skating,” she said. “So I’m looking forward to seeing how that goes.” Overall, Harvis is grateful for the opportunity to be an ambassador and encourages everyone in Alabama to realize the scope of this event and to support it like so.

“I think the one thing I would want the public to know, when we have historic events just like when we had the Olympics in Atlanta, when we have things like this so close to us, it’s so important for us to support it and be a part of that history because we don’t know when opportunities like that will come back around again.” For tickets: www. twg2022.com/tickets/ For more information: https://twg2022. com/sports/#.

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B4 May 27, 2021

Auburn Athletics launches SPIRIT, a comprehensive name, image and likeness program Contributed by AU Athletics

Auburn Athletics has announced the launch of SPIRIT, a comprehensive Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) program designed to educate and empower student-athletes and prepare them to optimize upcoming NIL opportunities. Education and student-athlete development will be at the core of the SPIRIT program. This new initiative will fit within AuburnYOU, Auburn Athletics’ comprehensive program designed to support the total student-athlete experience. Enhanced programing with assistance from industry leading experts will be available to all student-athletes on brand management, social media best practices, time management, financial literacy, financial aid and more. Auburn Athletics will assist in the advancement of student-athlete personal brands to optimize opportunities while at Auburn, and beyond. Auburn’s social

media accounts will continue to promote student-athletes to boost their following and grow their social presence. In addition, student-athletes will be armed with social and branding best practices with assistance from industry experts. “At Auburn, we are in a relentless pursuit to be the best, while delivering outstanding experiences contributing to our student-athletes’ success,” said Director of Athletics Allen Greene. “As we embark on the new world of name, image and likeness we strive to implement bold and forward-thinking strategies to create cutting edge solutions.” This multi-tiered program will be unique to Auburn, with programming catered to best serve Auburn student-athletes in our current market. Auburn Athletics will partner with faculty in the Harbert College of Business, one of the country’s most prestigious, innovative and dynamic business schools. World-class faculty will present

curriculum tailored to student-athletes on entrepreneurship, brand management, taxes and finance. In addition, Auburn Athletics will expand its current partnership with INFLCR, the leading software company powering student-athlete brand-building. Auburn was one of the first athletic departments to partner with the Birmingham-based company. The expanded partnership includes the INFLCR Verified product suite, which will equip Auburn student-athletes and staff with the resources needed to succeed in the upcoming NIL era. Powered by flagship products like the Compliance Exchange administrator dashboard and Storyteller Playbook educational video library, INFLCR Verified enhances the student-athlete experience by offering a comprehensive solution for responsible brand-building on social media, as well as a fully compliant path to external commercial activity from NIL.

The SPIRIT NIL program is the result of extensive engagement with student-athletes, coaches, state officials, university partnerships and other entities to develop a program to fit Auburn’s needs. “We recognize that there are still many unknowns as it relates to NIL, but we will be nimble and ready to adapt to the ever-changing landscape,” added Greene. “We embrace NIL and welcome the opportunities and challenges. We fully support our student-athletes and their opportunity to utilize Auburn’s national brand to put themselves in the best position to capitalize on the benefits of NIL. Our mission remains to educate, support and develop our student-athletes at every moment to create Auburn men and women.” THE POWER OF THE AUBURN BRAND Auburn student-athletes represent one of the most recognizable and iconic brands in all of college athletics. The powerful Auburn

alumni network is represented throughout the southeast, across the nation and around the world. Auburn fans are among the most passionate fanbases in all of sports. With an emphasis on social media, Auburn Athletics has cultivated one of the strongest followings in college athletics, boosting over three million total followers across multiple teams and social platforms. AUBURNYOU AuburnYOU is Auburn Athletics’ comprehensive student-athlete experience program, committed to the holistic development of Auburn men and women through resources that promote and support personal growth, professional development, athletic success and overall well-being. www.auburntigers.com/sports/ auburnyou HARBERT COLLEGE OF BUSINESS The Harbert College of Business is a nationally ranked hub of undergraduate, graduate and continuing business education that

is inspiring the next generation of business leaders. Our worldclass faculty deliver unparalleled academic rigor in the classroom, while our research-driven scholarship advances thought leadership and best practice in emerging business disciplines. Our alumni and industry partners actively engage our faculty and students to integrate business theory with practical experience and to instill the level of proficiency and integrity demanded by employers around the globe. www.harbert. auburn.edu/ INFLCR INFLCR provides college athletic departments with the content delivery and compliance platform to assist in the management and monitoring of student-athlete Name, Image and Likeness activities. INFLCR’s Verified suite of products ensures student-athletes are provided the tools, content, education and more to participate in upcoming opportunities from NIL legislation. www.inflcr.com.

Game On

OPD to host community flag football event Contributed by OPD

The Opelika Police Department is excited to announce its Together Opelika “Game On” Flag Football event featuring current and former professional and collegiate athletes. Boys and girls ages 5 to 18 are invited to participate in a day of flag football at Opelika High School on Saturday, June 19. Special guests include

FROM B1 and asked for the help from the entire AHSAA staff. “This job requires the entire staff to work together, or we will fail. I look forward to continuing to work with this incredible staff.” Briggs will take over the job July 1. DIXIE YOUTH ALL-STARS ANNOUNCED Opelika Dixie Youth announced all-stars for the following leagues, Pee-Wee (7-8 year olds), Minors (9-10 year olds) and Ozone (11-12 year olds). Pee-Wee All Stars: Charlie Branch, Blaine Bryan, David Collier, Trent Colquitt, Jack

meet the athletes, have their photo taken and participate in a game of flag football. Registration is free and includes a t-shirt and lunch for each player. The day will conclude with a water balloon fight with the athletes and police. Parents can register their children online at www.opelikagameon. eventbrite.com. The event is open to the public with the festivities kicking off at 9

a.m. Donations will be collected at admission for the Ambassadors of Change organizations which includes the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County, The Curtis House, The Knee High Foundation, Girls S.T.E.P.S Inc. and the Dream Day Foundation. The Ambassadors of Change Council was formed as a way for citizens to come together to collaborate

Corbit, Bryce Credle, Tucker Greer, Briggs Hutto, Jaxin Johnson, Palmer Lane, Noah Peoples and Parker Risner. Manager: Brandon Hutto, Assistants: TR Risner, David Lane and Andrew Bryan. State Tournament, July 9 in Troy. Minor League All-Stars: Jack Brandon, Brady Capps, Brock Danford, Erick Fernandez, Hunter Harrelson, Cam Johnson, Ashton Keith, KJ Kyles, Jude Nicholson, Grant Speigner, Turner Underwood and Smitty Young. Manager: Manuel Stone. Assistants: Lupe Fernandez and Brandon Danford. District Tournament, June 15 in

Auburn. Ozone Major League All-Stars: Jack Branch, Will Brandon, Logan Childree, Whit Cooper, Carson HolceyBillingsly, Pat Neese,, Jacob Paterson, Caleb Peoples, Tyson Prince, Tre Stone, Troy Tidwell and Colton Woodall. Manager: Jamie Cooper. Assistants: Kurt Branch and Nicky Tidwell. District Tournament, June 18 in Auburn. D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeart Media, host of "On the Mark" on Fox Sports The Game 910-1310, Co-chair of the AuburnOpelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball State Directeor.

Pictured left to right are the Observer's D. Mark Mitchell, Briggs and Savarese, former executive director of AHSAA.

and coordinate their efforts to help affect change in the community. Local vendors will also be available for attendees to purchase food at the event. “This is a great opportunity for our officers to engage with the kids in our community in a different way,” said Police Chief Shane Healey. “We are fortunate to have some amazing athletes and

organizations coming out to help us make this event a success.” The Together Opelika “Game On” event is in partnership with Opelika High School, The city of Opelika, Opelika Fire Department, Lee County Emergency Management and the Razor Foundation. More information can be found online at www.opelika-al. gov/868/Game-OnFlag-Football.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY D. MARK MITCHELL

SPORTS >>

Tennessee Titans Linebacker Rashaan Evans, Cincinnati Bengals Cornerback Tony Brown and former Jacksonville Jaguars Running Back Corey Grant. Opelika Police officers, along with collegiate athletes from the University of Alabama, will be coaching teams of eight kids which will be divided up into four age groups. Children will have the opportunity to

B5 May 27, 2021

Auburn Tiger Golf Camp set to take place June 7-10 By Maddie Joiner For the Opelika Observer

Does your child love golf? Well, you are in luck because Auburn Golf Camps will be back this June to host its three-night 2021 Auburn Tiger Golf Camp. The camp will be June 7-10 and will be held at the Jay Key Golf teaching facility. Campers can select to be a day camper for $799 or an overnight camper for $999. Fees include housing, all meals and all instructional sessions. There are still spots remaining, but applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Enrollment will

be capped at 60 campers. The camp is open to boys and girls ages 9-18. The Auburn Tiger Golf Camp is run by the Auburn men’s golf head coach Nick Clinard, and this year he will be assisted by four Division I coaches including Corey Maggard, Auburn’s associate head coach, Chad Wilson of Georgia State, Ben Hannan of South Alabama and Mike Wilson of UAB. Clinard said having five DI coaches running the camp is very beneficial because they can give intentional instruction to campers and tell them how to play the game well and how to understand the rules.

After taking last summer off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Clinard and his staff are excited to return to the course and coach kids. “It’s great [to be back]. It’s an opportunity to help young people, help kids who want to get recruited or help beginners get introduced to the game” he said. “We’re looking forward to sharing our knowledge and hopefully one day they will be in the position to play DI sports.” Check-in for camp will be at 2:30 p.m. CST on June 7 and check-out is 1 p.m. CST on June 10. For day campers, camp will begin around 9 a.m. and they will need to be picked up

by 7 p.m. The tentative daily schedule begins with short game sessions in the morning from 9 am. to noon and then a break for lunch. The afternoon consists of playing rounds and doing full swing drills. In the evening, a lot of campers opt to go back out and hit golf balls or play fun games such as whiff le ball. Once campers have arrived at camp, they will be grouped by age and skill level to maximize their golf camp experience. There is no set skill level for campers, as there are beginner, intermediate and advanced groups. “We put them in different groups with

their different skill levels and our five Division I coaches work with them,” Clinard said. “We group by ages as well, so a 9-yearold isn’t with a 16-year-old.” Campers should show up with their golf bag, clubs, any hat or visor they may need and additional golf balls. Overnight campers should bring sheets, blankets, a pillow and towels as well. While there is no golf-related difference between a day camper and an overnight camper, Clinard said staying in an Auburn dorm is a fun experience for most campers. “When you’re 13 or 14 years old you get

to feel what it’s like to be a student-athlete or just a student at Auburn,” Clinard said. Clinard has been running this camp since he arrived at Auburn in 2009 and plans to keep growing it. “It has definitely taken off over the last decade and we plan to keep doing that,” Clinard said. “We’ve been employing more coaches and marketing it more.” For more information regarding Auburn Tigers Golf Camp visit their website www.auburngolfcamps.com. There you can find registration information, pricing, packing lists and links to any necessary forms.

A-O Tourism Partners With Atlanta Braves In “Growing The Game” Initiative Contributed by aotourism

Former Atlanta Braves players are coming to Auburn June 11-13 as part of “Growing The Game,” an initiative to spread the love of baseball to a new generation of athletes. The Atlanta Braves will be hosting a three-day Braves Country Battle for 40 to 70 plus teams, ages 6-18, for a chance to compete in

the Braves Country Championship hosted in the Greater Atlanta area July 9-11. The event is part of a partnership with AuburnOpelika Tourism. “We are thrilled to partner with the Atlanta Braves to host the Braves Country Battles,” said Anthony Terling, sports and event development manager at AuburnOpelika Tourism. “I’m thankful for the efforts of our parks

and recreation departments for the work they do to make these events successful. We look forward to welcoming the teams and their families to the Auburn-Opelika area for a great weekend of baseball.” Braves Country Battles Auburn will feature a Friday night ceremony with a skills competition and a meet-andgreet with Atlanta Braves Alumni.

The Braves Country Battles are powered by 17 Tournaments. To learn more about “Growing The Game,” visit www.mlb.com/ braves/community/ youth-baseball. “The Atlanta Braves have developed this series of youth baseball tournaments to focus on providing teams from across Braves Country with a fun, competitive and unforgettable tournament experience,

and this is just one aspect of our efforts to grow our game across the Southeast,” said Atlanta Braves President & CEO, Derek Schiller. “We look forward to our partnership with Auburn-Opelika Tourism and to bringing the Braves Country Battles to Auburn.” For more information, contact Anthony Terling, sports and event

development manager at Auburn-Opelika Tourism, at anthony@ aotourism.com or 334-203-1261. Auburn-Opelika Tourism is a non-profit service organization driving economic impact and improving the quality of life in our community through tourism and travel. To learn more about AuburnOpelika Tourism, visit www.aotourism.com.

Auburn’s Best Summer Camp Kicks Off This Week Auburn’s Ninja Summer Camp is back in action this summer and has a new name – Auburn’s Best Summer Camp. This summer, children ages 4-12 can enjoy a summer full of judo, jiu-jitsu, karate, muay thai, wrestling, water slides, field trips and more. The camp is being held by Auburn MMA and will be all summer long. “The basic concept of the summer camp is to keep kids active,” said gym owner Randall Phillips. “We want them to have a lot of fun while they are safe and disciplined in an environment that is structured.” The first session will be the week of May 24-28 and the camp is 11 weeks long, ending the week of August 2-6. Camp will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children should bring a sack lunch and water bottle every day. Campers can sign up for just one week, multiple weeks or all

11 weeks. Each session only has 30 spots available, and they are filling up fast. For one week of camp its $199 and for the whole summer it will be $1477.58. For more detailed pricing information visit https://auburnmma.com/program/ summer-camp/. This will be Phillips’s fourth year operating the camp and he decided to change the name to Auburn’s Best Summer Camp to reflect changes made to the camp. “I changed the name of it for this year because I wanted to be a little bit broader market,” Phillips said. “It’s not all martial arts, we will be taking the kids on field trips every day.” The camp plans to rent passenger vans to take campers on field trips to local areas. A few places Phillips mentioned were the Opelika Splash Park, the Raptor Center, the Arboretum, Rock-NRoll Pinball and movie theaters. The idea of doing field trips came to Phillips when he realized how hard it is to

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY RANDALL PHILLIPS

By Maddie Joiner For the Opelika Observer

keep children in one place for the whole day. “Adding field trips just adds a new dimension,” Phillips said. “What we are trying to do is create memories with these kids. Adding field trips adds more memory-making times.” The daily schedule will consist of an hour of martial arts in the morning before campers embark on the field trip of the day. On

Fridays, the children will have a presentation in front of their parents to show off the martial arts they’ve learned Monday through Thursday. Presentations will range from breaking a board to campers earning their white belt. In addition to the martial arts and field trips, the camp will also focus on anti-bullying techniques. “Our main martial

art is jiu-jitsu, which is a defensive martial art,” Phillips said. “We teach the kids to take all the proper measures before taking things into their hands. We call it tackle the giant, it’s a nonviolent way of attacking a bully.” Phillips’s goal for the summer camp is to safely allow children to return to a normal routine, while also focusing on making memories with his

campers. “This gives the child a time for them to be around their friends and be outside,” Phillips said. “We are going back to creating memories in what I feel like is a positive way.” For more information or to register for Auburn’s Best Summer Camp, call 334-887-0818 or visit their website at www. auburnbestafterschool.com.

B6 May 27, 2021

Auburn’s Bliss receives on field, off field recognition Contributed by AU Athletics

Junior Auburn shortstop Ryan Bliss has been named a semifinalist for the Brooks Wallace Shortstop of the Year Award, the College Baseball Foundation announced last Tuesday. Bliss is one of 30

semifinalist shortstops, including one of three from the Southeastern Conference. Coming off an AllAmerican campaign in the shortened 2020 season, the LaGrange, Georgia, native has turned in career-best numbers in 2021, leading the team in average (.349),

on-base percentage (.418), slugging percentage (.619), runs (43), hits (66) and total bases (117). Bliss ranks top 10 in the league in average, slugging, hits, home runs and total bases and is second in the league with 76 total bases and tied for second with 42 hits in conference play. Bliss has turned in a

.953 fielding percentage with 118 assists in 45 games this season. He leads an Auburn infield and team that ranks second in the country with 50 doubles plays, including 40 ground ball double plays. The junior has been a staple in the Auburn lineup since stepping foot on PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY JACOB TAYLOR / AU ATHLETICS

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campus prior to the 2019 College World Series season, starting in all but two games in his Auburn career. Bliss is a .320 career hitter and has totaled 165 hits in 129 games played. He has multiple hits in a SEC-best 24 games this season and 55 games in his career. The Brooks Wallace Award, sponsored by Mizuno, honors the nation's top shortstop and will be presented this summer by the College Baseball Foundation. It is named for former Texas Tech shortstop Brooks Wallace. Adding to his accomplishments, Bliss has been named to the 2021 Southeastern Conference Baseball Community Service Team, the league office announced last Wednesday. Bliss has not only become the face of the program due to his play on the field and interaction with the Auburn Family off it, but he has also pursued a number of community service projects during his time on The Plains. Bliss’ efforts in the community have been highlighted by

participating in World Read Aloud Day at local elementary schools the last three years, including virtually during COVID-19. He has volunteered with Samaritan's Purse to help clean up the damage done by the tornado that devastated East Alabama in March 2019. Additionally, he visited and uplifted patients at Children's of Alabama and participated in a baseball day camp for the Miracle League of East Alabama. In collaboration with the Hudson Family Foundation, Bliss recorded a congratulatory and encouraging video for students from Auburn City Schools, Opelika City Schools and Lee County School being inducted in the Legends Club. He has also helped the Jason Dufner Foundation stuff backpacks to be distributed to the less fortunate around the holidays. This past summer, Bliss served on Auburn Athletics’ Advisory Task Force on Inclusion and Race Relations, working with other members of Auburn Athletics to ensure a safe space for critical conversations, providing holistic education on historic and current topics and generating sustainable action items that support meaningful change. Bliss has also been named Second Team AllSEC and to the SEC AllDefensive Team, as voted on by the league’s head coaches and announced by the conference office announced Monday. It marks the second time Bliss has been recognized by the league after also being named to the SEC All-Freshman Team in 2019. He is Auburn’s second shortstop to be named AllSEC in the last three full seasons. A native of LaGrange, Georgia, Bliss finished the regular season as the only player in the conference to rank in the top five in average (.366), slugging (.664), runs (31), hits (48), doubles (nine), home runs (10), RBI (30) and total bases (87) during league games. He also ranked in the top five in the league overall in average (.362), slugging (.643), hits (75) and total bases (133). Bliss collected multiple hits in a league-best 26 of 51 games during the regular season, including 16 of 30 games in SEC play. His .362 average and 14 home runs are the most by an Auburn shortstop in the same season since Doug Gilcrease hit .386 with 17 home runs in 1982. Bliss has also been named a semifinalist for the the NCBWA Dick Howser Trophy.

Who let the Dawgs out?

May 27, 2021

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

Opelika High School held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021 last Friday at Bulldog Stadium.

B8 May 27, 2021

Bye Bye, Auburn High

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

Auburn High School held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2021 in Duck-Samford Stadium last Thursday night.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

May 27, 2021

Thursday, May 27, 2021

Inside the Statehouse Lee County may see curbside George Wallace Stories

good many of you enjoyed the George Wallace story I shared with you a few weeks ago. Allow me to reminisce and share two more funny Wallace era stories. I became acquainted with Governor Wallace when I was a young page in the legislature. I was elected to the legislature in 1982. Ironically, my district was comprised of my home county of Pike and also the portion of Barbour County that was Wallace’s home, including Clayton and Clio. Gov. Wallace thought that was the most remarkable story that he had first met me as a 12-year-old page and now 20 years later I was his representative. He would often ask me to come down to his office where he would reminisce and tell me stories. He would always begin with the remembrance of my having been a “page boy” when we first met. He had aged prematurely and was confined to a wheelchair due to having been shot running for president. Therefore, on our visits he would tell me the same stories over and over. Well, one day I was visiting, and he told me the same stories. He then stopped and got a faraway nostalgic look on his face and looked at me intently and asked, “Steve, how old are you now?” I said, “Governor, I am 32 years old. I am grown and your representative.” He replied, “Huh. I guess I’ve been governor all your life.” He had indeed been governor most of the 20 years between my 12th and 32nd birthdays. My reply was, “Yes sir. I guess you will be governor all my life.” I will share another story that I remember well with you. Since I was Gov. Wallace’s Representative, he had made me a Floor Leader. As I mentioned earlier, he had known me since I was 12 years old and a page in the Legislature during his first term as Governor. My relationship gave me access to him, so one fall day I ambled down to the Governor’s office. I walked into the office and the secretary whisked me back to his office pretty quickly. They said he would love to visit with me as he was not having a good day with his health and would like to reminisce with me about his younger days and first term. It would cheer him up. Well, he seemed to be in good spirits when I went in, and he had his ever-present cigar in the corner of his mouth. Wallace’s health had deteriorated badly from the effects of the bullet wounds he had endured, and his hearing was really bad because he had been assigned to work around airplanes during World War II. My mission that day was to get $10,000 out of his Discretionary Fund for the Pike Pioneer Museum in my district. He controlled all of the extra pork

trash pickup soon

By Hannah Lester hlester@ opelikaobserver.com

STEVE FLOWERS money we appropriated, so we had to see the Governor for our pet project money. I knew we had put money into the tourism budget for projects like my museum. After listening to his story about politics and earlier days, I got down to business. He led in by asking, “Steve, what did you want today?” I had to shout so Wallace could hear and began by selling the fact that my Pioneer Museum was located on a well-traveled, four lane highway which was a corridor and travel route for northerners traveling to the beaches for their winter escape, and that they would stop at our museum and spend tourist money in Alabama. Therefore, $10,000 of tourism funds for my museum was a wise stewardship of Alabama taxpayer money. Wallace still seemed like he did not hear me well, so I almost shouted that we were catching the snowbirds as they traveled north or south. I had just heard the term snowbird and was loudly and proudly using it. Well, Wallace had not heard the term, but he heard me and said, “Steve, what kinds of birds are y’all catching down in Pike County?” I knew he was confused so I dropped my snowbird terminology and said, “Governor, we have a lot of Yankees that come through Pike County and we want to stop them at our museum and get them to spend tourist dollars.” He looked even more puzzled and looked at me aghast and said, “Steve, what in the world are y’all doing to the Yankees down there in Pike County?” The poor fellow thought I was asking for money to set up a speed trap of some sort for unsuspecting Yankees traveling through Alabama. He finally gave me the money for the museum, but I still think he was a little concerned about how it was going to be spent. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

The Lee County Commission voted to adopt an amendment to the solid waste management plan during the Monday night meeting, allowing for curbside pickup for solid waste. The amendment reads: “The county may, in the future, elect to collect solid waste at the point of generation (curbside pickup for household waste and/ or container pickup for commercial waste). The county may elect to contract with private

haulers for collection services. If the County elects to collect solid waste at the point of generation or contract with private haulers, they may continue operating some or all of the current drop-off centers or discontinue them if so desired.” Essentially, the county has the option to collect solid waste in the future, rather than rely solely on the current collection sites. “The plan currently only allows for Lee County to handle its solid waste of the county citizens in the unincorporated areas of the county by collection at

the collection sites that we have throughout the county,” said County Engineer Justin Hardee. Over the last several weeks, citizens and commissioners have complained about trash problems and littering within the county. Collection sites are often overflowing. “Last year Lee County tipped over 36,000 tons of solid waste, which was our highest year by far, more than a third, more than 33% increase from just 10 years ago,” Hardee said. “Lee County is the last county in Alabama See TRASH, page B11

Letter to the Editor: Steve Flowers’ Fundamental Misunderstanding of the US Senate In the May 13 edition of the Observer, former state Rep. Steve Flowers argued in his statewide political column that the retirement of U.S. Senator Richard Shelby “will be nothing short of devastating” for the state of Alabama. Furthermore, Mr. Flowers claimed that whoever takes Sen. Shelby’s place in Washington “will have no real power for at least 18 years.” As a former senior policy advisor in the United States Senate, these arguments confound me. Indeed, these claims display a fundamental lack of knowledge about the U.S. Senate. A single U.S. senator wields extraordinary power regardless of his or her seniority. For a contemporary example, look no further than

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West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, who effectively controls the policy agenda of his own party in a split senate. The Senate Majority Leader cannot even make a procedural move without first ensuring he has the support of Sen. Manchin. Is this not “real power?” The notion put forth by Mr. Flowers is that the senate’s power is based on seniority and one must “wait your turn” to be a “committee chairman or player in the senate.” This is so laughably preposterous, that it boggles the mind Mr. Flowers feels so comfortable misinforming the entire state of Alabama with such nonsense. The senate’s power is based on consent, not seniority. A single

senator, regardless of seniority or committee assignment, can shut the floor of the senate down with the right procedural moves. Eight years ago, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, then in his first year of office and in the minority party, shut down the federal government for sixteen days to try to defund Obamacare and stop its implementation. Is that not “real power” to Mr. Flowers? Or how about former Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions? In his ninth year in office, he was a tour de force in organizing nationwide resistance to President Bush’s proposed amnesty for illegal aliens. Sessions was successful and built enough oppoSee LETTER, page B11

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B10 May 27, 2021

Double voting is double-cross. Many instances unintentional, but look out for the rest

n 1978, Foreigner had a massive hit with the song Double Vision. Vocalist Lou Gramm explained how the title came to him: “The New York Rangers were playing the Philadelphia Flyers and one of the big Flyers bumped into the Rangers’ all-star goalie and knocked him down. They had to take him out of the game because he was experiencing double vision.” People who keenly follow politics know that the phenomenon of “double voting,” like “double vision,” has been around awhile. Someone votes twice at the same time and place, or votes in two or more states. By contrast, “overvotes” occur when someone votes more than the maximum number of selections allowed. An example would be a person voting for two candidates in a single category where it clearly says, “Vote for not more than one.” “The Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) has only

cross-checked state's voters since the 2018 Election Cycle, so we have only been provided with voters who had potentially voted here and in another state since 2018,” said Grace Newcombe, director of communications and governmental relations, office of Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill. “While we encourage all interested and eligible Alabamians to register to vote and participate in our elections, one person is entitled to just one vote in any same or equivalent election,” Newcombe said. “This legislation protects the validity of each and every ballot cast in this state, and we are grateful to the Alabama Legislature for their work on this issue.” If done in small amounts, double voting is unlikely to have much impact. However, the more people that vote twice or more are infringing upon the coveted belief of “one man or woman (gets) one vote.” When voters read or hear

about a person’s double votes, it undermines the electoral process. President Teddy Roosevelt asserted that “A vote is like a rifle: Its usefulness depends upon the character of the user.” I am astounded that we have many citizens who don’t exercise their franchise at all. Yet, others go crazy at election precincts, voting more times and in more places than is legal. Alabama Act 2021448 recently became effective making double voting illegal in the same or equivalent election, either in this state or in another. Previously, a voter could only be prosecuted for voting twice under Alabama law in our state. “It is now illegal for a voter to cast a ballot twice either in-state or out-of-state, strengthening the integrity of our elections and increasing confidence in the process,” stated Secretary of State John Merrill. “We have worked to make it easier to vote and harder to cheat, and I applaud

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By Greg Markley Rep. Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City) and Senate Majority Leader Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) for their efforts to deter those looking to illegally influence elections.” Violators of this law would be guilty, upon conviction, of a Class A misdemeanor. Second or subsequent violations would be a Class C felony. Georgia Public Radio reported in September 2020 that Georgia's top election office said 1,000 people voted twice in the state's elections this year — but said he didn’t know whether any of them did so intentionally. Secretary of State

Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, said the thousand voters turned in absentee ballots and then voted in person in the state's June primary, but he had little information beyond that. "Every double voter will be investigated thoroughly," Raffensperger said. “A double voter knows exactly what they are doing." The department might not have had much time to sort out 1,000 cases. Remember, Raffensperger did not know whether these double votes were intentional. The potential in a “hot” campaign, competitive at the presidential and U.S. Senate levels in Georgia, for maliciousness is high. Yet historically, double votes are often attributed to mistakes and confusion. In the environment of a pandemic, a voter may have several reasons he or she could return a mail ballot and then also try to vote in person: perhaps they were scared it wouldn't arrive in time, or they

wanted to change who they voted for, or they just forgot they already sent it. The 1978 Foreigner song mentioned above includes this: “Fill my eyes with that double vision, no disguise for that double vision. When it gets through to me, it's always new to me. My double vision gets the best of me.” For those who want to vote twice or more in Alabama, or once in Alabama then go elsewhere, your “double vision” is getting blurry. If you do these things accidentally, it will be handled differently. But if you want to commit fraud like this in Alabama, the law will catch up with you. 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 10 years. gm.markley@charter.net

B11 May 27, 2021

Protection from Voter Lists Now Offered for Judges, Law Enforcement Officers, and Legislators Contributed by Office of Sec. of State

House Bill 123, sponsored by Representative David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook) and Senator Linda Coleman-Madison (D-Birmingham), has now been signed into law and made effective. Act 2021-335 allows a registered voter who is a federal or state

prosecutor, federal, state, probate or municipal judge, law enforcement officer, legislator or the spouse of, to have his or her personally identifiable information omitted from voter lists, except for those lists provided to federal and state agencies. “These brave individuals are charged with making extraordinarily

difficult decisions such as arresting, convicting, and sentencing violent offenders and writing and passing sometimes controversial laws,” said Secretary of State John H. Merrill. “After conversations with several judges, officers, and legislators, it became apparent to me that many individuals were fearful of making their home address

more easily obtainable through voter lists. We are proud to offer this protection for the individuals who work every day to protect Alabamians.” Eligible individuals may download the application online to have their personally identifiable information removed from voter lists or may receive the application from

their county board of registrars office. Upon successful application, everything but the name of the registered voter will be omitted from generally available lists of registered voters. “In recent years, we have unfortunately witnessed the targeting of these individuals in our state and across the country

CodeRED: Alabama Unveils New Emergency Alert System Contributed by the Office of Gov. Kay Ivey

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has launched a new high-speed notification system known as CodeRED, designed to notify residents of missing person alerts throughout the state. ALEA unveiled the new system on Tuesday, May 25, to highlight National Missing Children’s Day. “Our Alabama Fusion Center (AFC) will use the new stateof-the-art system to issue alerts in the event of a missing person, and it will have the capability to quickly deliver essential information to citizens throughout the state or in a targeted area, depending on the situation,” Gov. Kay Ivey said. “I encourage all Alabamians to consider enrolling in the new alert system, which will allow everyone to be vigilant and stay informed once a missing

TRASH >> FROM B9 that is running a system like this with sites that are open essentially 24/7.” Hopefully this plan would help stop some of the abuse to the collection sites, Hardee said. “My personal opinion is we don’t need to keep doing what we’re doing,” he said. “We need to improve our system, we need to make it more efficient, we need to provide more service to our citizens.” But, as Hardee and Probate Judge Bill English stressed, this does not mean that the collection sites would no longer be utilized. “We’re not stopping

LETTER >> FROM B9 sition to the plan over the August recess that both of Georgia’s senators, who were initially supportive of the plan, returned to Washington and told President Bush that amnesty was dead-on-arrival. A single senator stopped the

person alert is issued.” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “We are continuously looking for ways to improve our overall operations and efficiently serve the citizens of this state. ALEA’s Fusion Center has worked diligently to provide citizens with a new alert system that can easily be accessed. CodeRED will allow all Alabamians to quickly subscribe to alerts via a variety of methods and it will deliver time-sensitive information during high-stress situations where time is of the essence for those missing loved ones.” CodeRED gives those who want to be included an easy and secure method for inputting information. The data collected will be used only for such emergency notification purposes as when citizens are reported missing. Citizens who wish to enroll should visit www.alea.gov and click on the CodeRED logo displayed on ALEA’s homepage.

An additional easy enrollment process can be completed by texting “ALalerts” to 99411 from any mobile device. Citizens will then receive an immediate response containing the Community Notification Enrollment (CNE) link for the state. AFC Director Jay Moseley said, “Your participation in this emergency notification system will provide a direct conduit between public safety officials and your local community. CodeRED allows us to disseminate missing person alerts via phone, text, email and social media, however, citizens have the ability to select the preferred means of communication.” Citizens and partners should be advised that ALEA will cease sending emails on the existing system in the near future but will give everyone notice before doing so. Amber Alerts and Blue Alerts will continue to be relayed over the Wireless

Emergency Alerts (WEA) system, in addition to being distributed on the CodeRED platform. Missing and Endangered Persons Alerts and Emergency Missing Child Alerts will only be distributed over the CodeRED platform. The Fusion Center exists to improve Alabama’s preparedness against terrorist attacks and to deter criminal activity. It is an information-sharing organization designed to combine or “fuse” information between federal, state, tribal and local government, private sector entities, and the intelligence community. Its personnel are responsible for issuing all state alerts, including AMBER Alerts for missing children who have been abducted and are believed to be in danger of serious bodily injury or death. For further information on the AFC and alert criteria, please visit https:// www.alea.gov/sbi/ fusion-center.

one thing and starting another tonight,” Hardee said. The plan moving forward could be to keep the current collection sites open on certain days and do curbside in addition, he said. There was a public hearing about the issue, but no one came forward to speak. Other Business: The commission authorized the engagement of a professional planner, Jim Lehe, for help with the Lee County Zoning Regulations Project. The commission postponed the employee advancement program for one month. The commission adopted a supplemental

program that will provide additional compensation for certain activities of employees. The commission approved personnel policy changes that will move classified positions to employment contracts. The commission approved to end the temporary COVID-19 policies at end of day on July 2. The commission approved the final report of litigations and insolvencies for the county. The commission approved supernumerary compensation of the revenue commissioner. The commission approved the Lee County Zoning Regulations as created by the planning commission (see A1 for

more information). The commission discussed written public comment to ADEM regarding the potential Beulah quarry (see A1 for more information). The commission accepted Sentinel Hills Subdivision Phase 2 for county maintenance. The commission agreed to provide assistance to the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center for trenching. The commission approved the courthouse annex resolution which will allow the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center as a courthouse annex. The commission established a Trust Fund for other post-employment benefits (OPEB).

president’s agenda. Is that not “real power” in Mr. Flowers’ mind? Mr. Flowers apparently believes “real power” only comes from running the appropriations committee and doling out money in backroom deals to one’s political allies and friendly interest groups. Yes, that does constitute power.

But that is hardly the purpose of a senator or the extent of one’s ability to effectively fight for his or her constituents. Indeed, one can argue that Mr. Flowers’ swampy mindset, seeing senators as little more than federal money machines, is precisely why America is now $30 trillion in debt and on the

edge of fiscal calamity. Mr. Flowers may be billed as Alabama’s “premier political journalist and commentator,” but that very clearly should not extend beyond the confines of the state legislature. Stick to Montgomery politics, Steve. Drew White Opelika, Alabama

because of the decisions they are faced with making. I am grateful for the hard work of Representative Faulkner and Senators Coleman-Madison and Figures to pass this important legislation that may one day save lives,” said Merrill. Spouses were included in the bill in order to prevent the easier access of information.

Editor:

he conflicting reports concerning the proposed National Commission to investigate the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, include: Senator McConnell’s “House Democrats slanted and unbalanced proposal;” Congressman Mike Rogers’ “a partisan commission;” Alabama Congresswoman Terri Sewell’s “I am proud to join my colleagues in voting to make [the] commission a reality.” The bipartisan legislative proposal (HR 3233) to establish an independent commission was sponsored in the House by Mississippi Democrat Congressman Bennie Thompson and co-sponsored by New York Republican Congressman John Katko. According to the New York Daily News of May 19: “’This is a fair and necessary legislation,’

Katko said on the House floor before the vote. ‘I encourage all members, Republicans and Democrats alike, to put down their swords for once, just for once, and support this bill.’” According to the website of the Library of Congress (Congress.gov), Roll Call Vote #154 results were 252 “Yes” and 175 “No,” with 35 Republicans voting “Yes.” Action in the U.S. Senate is pending. In the interest of acquiring a clear understanding of this legislation, all voters should access and read the brief text of HR 3233 at Congress.gov. Each Alabama voter can also convey your comments to Alabama Senators Shelby and Tuberville. An effective and viable democracy requires informed voters who participate in the democratic process. David Newton Auburn, Alabama

ALGOP Chairman Applauds Signing of COVID Vaccine Passport Ban Contributed by the Alabama Republican Party Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl issued the following statement on the signing of the COVID Vaccine Passport Ban into law: "The COVID Vaccine Passport Ban (SB267) is now law in the state of Alabama – protecting the privacy rights of all our citizens. With this preemptive action, Alabamians will no longer have to worry about federal overreach from the Biden Administration, which has considered mandating the vaccine and requiring people to show proof they've been vaccinated – a clear violation of our civil liberties. "This piece of legislation was a priority bill for the Alabama Republican Party and I am proud of the hard

work of its sponsors: Senator Arthur Orr and Representative Paul Lee. I have presented them both with the ALGOP Chairman’s Commendation award for their outstanding service to the people of Alabama and defending the values of the ALGOP. "I would also like to thank Governor Kay Ivey for her commitment on this issue. She has long said she would not support a vaccine mandate, and she held true to her word by signing the ban into law. "The Alabama Republican Party remains committed to protecting our freedoms and standing up for the Constitution as written by our founding fathers. These aren't just Alabama values. They are American values, and we will continue to speak out on these issues."

B12 May 27, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2021-900127 HARDWOOD, LLC, Plaintiff, v. A Parcel of Real Property described as: From the Southeast corner of Section 9, Township 17 North, Range 27 East, Lee County Alabama, run thence North 00° 01’ West 1319.41 feet; thence South 88° 00’ 26” West, 382.18 feet; thence North 19° 51’ 22” West 20.6 Feet; thence North 89° 07’ 04” West 278.54 feet; thence North 02° 11’46” West 743.69 feet; thence South 74° 51’ 38” West along the Northerly margin of dirt road 367 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel of land here described and conveyed: From said point of beginning, continue thence South 74° 51’ 38” West along said margin of said road 145 feet; thence leaving said road, run North 02° 11’ 46” West, 300 feet; thence North 74° 51’ 38” East, 145 feet; thence South 02° 11’ 46” East, 300 feet to the point of beginning, containing one (1) acres more or less. And Mary Jackson, and/or the unknown heirs Of Mary Jackson, And Fictitious Defendants A, B, C, D, E, F & G, Being Persons, Individuals, Firms, Associations, Partnerships, Corporations or other Entities, Whose names are otherwise unknown to the Plaintiff, but who claim interest in and to the above-captioned parcel of land, and whose correct names and legal identities will be added by Amendment when ascertained, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 21st day of April, 2021, a Complaint to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Hardwood, LLC, as Plaintiff; A Parcel of Real Property, described below, as Defendant; and unknown persons or entities who cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described herein. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 21st day of April, 2021. /s/ Mary Roberson Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Of Counsel, Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. 324 East Magnolia Avenue Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 05/06/21, 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21 ––––––– STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE Default having been made in the terms of a mortgage executed to National Bank of Commerce by Chelsea E. Maine, single woman, on the 19th day of July, 2018, which said mortgage is recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County,

Alabama, in Mortgage Book 4405, Page 944, and said default continuing, the undersigned, CenterState Bank, Successor by merger of National Bank of Commerce, will sell at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the courthouse door of said County between the legal hours of sale, on the 3rd day of June, 2021, the following described property, to-wit:

for Adoption is pending, Adoption No 21AD-20. , and to the below-listed counsel to the adopting parents. Notice Prepared By: Christina R. Jenkins, Esq. Christina R. Jenkins LLC, 10 South Erwin Street Cartersville, GA 30120 (770) 387-7447 crj@ christinarjenkins.com Legal Run 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21

Unit E of OAKWOOD CONDOMINIUMS, as described in the Declaration of Oakwood Condominiums, a condominium filed for record on April 24, 1997 in Condo Book 4-A, at page 1, and as shown on that certain plat appearing as Exhibit “B” of the said Declaration and also of record in Town Plat Book 18, at Page 159, all in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama; including an undivided interest in the common elements of Oakwood Condominium as set out in the Declaration and on Exhibit “A” of said Declaration.

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2021-285 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of JAMES CLYDE GIBSON, JR., Deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Calvin Ted Gibson on May 12, 2021 pursuant to Sections 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 05/20/21

Said sale is for the purpose of paying the unpaid principal on said mortgage, interest and attorney’s fees as provided in said mortgage, expenses of advertising, selling, conveying, and all other costs that may have accrued. Done this the 6th day of May, 2021. CENTERSTATE BANK, Successor by merger of NATIONAL BANK OF COMMERCE /s/ Claud E. (Skip) McCoy, Jr. By: Claud E. (Skip) McCoy, Jr. Attorney for CenterState Bank 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, AL 36863 (334) 644-1171 Legal Run 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE:THE ESTATE OF EARLINE COLLINS SMITH, DECEASED. TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Brenda Alston, as Executrix of the Estate of Earline Collins, deceased, on the 6TH day of May, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. Brenda Alston, Executrix of the Estate of Earline Collins Smith, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 05/13/21 05/20/21 & 05/27/21 ––––––– NOTICE TO PUTATIVE FATHER TO: NOLES WESLEY NORNE, alleged BIOLOGICAL FATHER TO G.K.H born 2016 to DESERAY GABRIELLE HOGAN. You are hereby notified that on the 7th day of April 2021, a Petition was filed in the Superior Court of Bartow County, Georgia, Case Number 21AD-20, by Petitioners Storme Reaid and Brittany Reaid, seeking to terminate your rights in and to this child born in Whitfield County, Georgia on October 19, 2016, in order to adopt the child. Be finally advised that you will lose all rights to the child and will neither receive notice nor be entitled to object to the adoption of the child unless, within thirty (30) days of receipt of this notice you (1) file a petition to legitimate the child pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 19-7-22; and (2) file a notice of the filing of the petition to legitimate with the Superior Court of Bartow County, 135 West Cherokee Street Cartersville, GA 30120, in which the Petition

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––––––– NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASSE NO. MAVALENE LAGRONE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of MAVALENE LAGRONE, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Angela Love on May 14, 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 Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 05/20/2021 ––––––– FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Whatley Construction, LLC Contractor, has completed the Contract for (Construction) (Renovation) (Alteration) (Equipment) (Improvement) of Renovation of Covington Recreation Center at 213 Carver Ave., Opelika, AL 36801 for the State of Alabama and the (County) (City) City of Opelika, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects, P.C. 300 Chase Park South, Suite 200, Hoover, Alabama, 35244. Whatley Construction (Contractor) Post Office Box 137 Opelika, AL 36803-0137 (Business Address) NOTE:This notice must be run once a week for four successive weeks for projects exceeding $50,000.00, for projects of less than $50,000.00, run one time only. Proof of publication is required. Legal Run 05/20/21, 05/27/21, 06/03/21 & 06/10/21 ––––––– FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter I, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Whatley Construction

LLC, Contractor, has completed the Contract for Auburn University- Leach Science Center- Butler Building Addition New HVAC System & Fire Alarm System- AU Project # 19189, located at 380 Duncan Drive, Auburn, AL 36849 for the Auburn University Facilities Management, owner, and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify HHB Engineers, P.C., 104 Josie Run, Prattville, AL 36066.

a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §348-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

Whatley Construction LLC Post Office Box 137 Opelika, Alabama 368030137 Legal Run 05/20/21, 05/27/21, 06/03/21 & 06/10/21

All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/ or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

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The approximate quantities of said Project are as follows: approximately 8,800 l.f. curb and gutter and curb, 2800 s.y. concrete pavement/drives, 14,000 s.y. asphalt pavement, clearing and grubbing, roadway shoulder grading, existing pavement demolition.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA RE: IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DELAINE HAZEL BRITT, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2021-288 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY EXECUTRIX Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Mary Jennifer Crunkleton, on the 14th day of May, 2021, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate 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. BY: James E. Hall, Attorney for Executrix. Legal Run 05/20/21, 05/27/21 & 06/03/21 ––––––– IN THE ESTATE OF ANDREW C. STORY JR., DECEASED N THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-139 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of May , 2021, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JODI E. WELLS Executrix Legal Run 05/20/21, 05/27/21 & 06/03/21 ––––––– INVITATION TO BID 21018 Sealed bids for the construction of the Northpark Drive Improvements shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday June 8, 2021, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted. Bidders are required to have

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from TTL, Inc., designated as the office of the awarding authority for this purpose, located at 2890 Rice Mine Road NE. Tuscaloosa, AL 35406. The contact person for the project is Frank Summers, PE. They can be reached at 205-561-3778; fsummers@ ttlusa.com. Electronic files (PDF, CAD) will be released upon signature of an electronic release form obtained from TTL, Inc. There will be no charge for electronic files. Hard copy Plans, specifications and Contract Documents may be obtained at the above location upon the deposit of $250.00, which amount does not exceed twice the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution of each set of such documents. Deposits by prime Contractor bidders are refundable in full upon return of all documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days of bid opening. Additional sets of bid documents for prime Contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit. Such deposits will be refunded, less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, if all the documents are returned in reusable condition within ten (10) days of bid opening. The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted. A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Northpark Drive Improvements A Pre-Bid Conference is required for this Project.

The mandatory pre-bid conference will be held by the City of Opelika, Alabama, a Municipal Corporation, in the City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, at 10:00 a.m., local time on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. Any Alabama Licensed Contractor wishing to bid on this project as the prime contractor must have a company representative attend this meeting, signing the attendance sign-in-sheet with contact information. The attendance record will be issued as part of Addendum No. 1 with the meeting minutes. Failure to attend this meeting will disqualify any Contractor submitting a bid as the prime Contractor. LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 05/27/21 & 06/03/21 ––––––– IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JANET CLANTON SMITH, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-270 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 18th day of May, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of said county in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Erin Elizabeth Smith, Administrator of the Estate of Janet Clanton Smith, Deceased Legal Run 05/27/21, 06/03/21 & 06/10/21 ––––––– NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF MALCOM FRED SIMS, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021-297 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of MALCOM FRED SIMS are hereby granted to Susan Gladys Sims on the 19th day of May, 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 law or the same will be barred. Legal Run 05/27/21, 06/03/21 & 06/10/21 ––––––– STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE TO: Gregory Smith and Harold T. Smith, whose whereabouts are otherwise unknown, and any known or unknown heirs of the Esatte of Willie G. Smith, deceased. You will please take notice that on the 12th day of March, 2021 a certain paper in writing purported to be the Last Will and Testament of Willie G. Smith was filed in my office for Probate by Kenneth Roger Black and that the 24th day June, 2021 @ 10:00 a.m., CDT was appointed the day and time for the hearing thereof, at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper. Given under my hand, this the 19th day of May, 2021. BILL ENGLISH, Judge of Probate Legal Run 05/27/21, 06/03/21 & 06/10/21 –––––––

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B13 May 27, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B12 NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDINGS CASE NO. LESTER C. DAWSON IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of LESTER C. DAWSON, deceased. Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been file in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Georgia V. Dawson on May 20, 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 RAun 05/27/2021 –––––––

STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE To: Mrs. Charles Black, Mrs. Betty Bowman and Lowell Freeman, whose whereabouts are otherwise unknown, and any other known or unknown heirs of the Estate of Walter Leroy Bowman, deceased. You will please take notice that on the 19th day of May, 2021 a certain paper in writing, purported to be the Last Will and Testament of Walter Leroy Bowman was filed in my office for Probate by Edward Earl Thomas, II and that the 24th day of June, 2021 @ 11:00 a.m., CDT was appointed the day and time for the hearing thereof, at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper. Given my hand, this the 19th day of May, 2021. BILL ENGLISH, Judge of Probate Legal Run 05/27/2021, 06/03/2021 & 06/10/2021 ––––––– IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HAENRY LEWIS

SMITH, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-273 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 7th day of May, 2021, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. TIMOTHY JEFFERIES SMITH Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA GAIL HILYER, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2021-242 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration

of said deceased having been granted to Alicia Sheats, Personal Representative on the 20th day of April, 2021, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Alicia Sheats Legal Run 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21

with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 05/20/21 & 05/27/21

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IN RE:THE ESTATE OF GRACE NEWMAN POLIDORO, DECEASED. TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to William Van Polidoro, as Executor of the Estate of Grace Newman Polidoro, deceased, on the 11th day of May, 2021, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same be barred. William Van Polidoro, Executor Of the Estate of Grace Newman Polidoro, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal,

STORAGE TREASURES AUCTION ONE FACILITY – MULTIPLE UNITS Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Thursday, June 10th, 2021 at 10:00AM Pattrick sparks - Unit 202 608 North Ross St Auburn, AL 36830 pool table, atv The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made

Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 05/13/21, 05/20/21 & 05/27/21 –––––––

––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE THE ESTATE OF: LUCILE WALLIS ARMSTRONG, a/ k/ a Mittie Lucile Wallis Armstrong, Deceased. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2021-302 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 20th day of May, 2021, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are here by required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. BARBARA A. RENIE Executrix Legal Drive 05/27/2021, 06/03/2021 & 06/10/2021

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LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED Opelika Housing Development, Inc. is currently seeking highly motivated, experienced, and trustworthy candidates to fill the Full-time position of Maintenance Technician for properties in the Opelika, AL. . area. Duties will include, but not be limited to: Promptly handle unit and facility work orders Complete repairs in a consistent and correct manner Provide excellent customer service Work well with other team members Willing to clean

grounds as needed Be well organized to coordinate and perform unit and site inspections Able to complete make-ready of units proficiently Ideal candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in apartment maintenance (or similar skills). Candidates should have an understanding of and repair capabilities in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, painting, appliance repair, and/or other tasks related to maintaining the communities in excellent condition. HVAC Certification not

required, but preferred. This position will offer competitive pay and benefit package. Education: High school or equivalent (Required) License or certification: Driver’s License (Required) HVAC Certification (Not required, but preferred) To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application on-line at http://www. opelikaha.org/Default. asp?ID=123&pg=Employment+Opportunities

consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538. FOR SALE Directv Satellite Service starting at $59.99/ month! 1 Year Price Lock! 155+ Channels available. Call Now to get the Most Sports on TV! 888-404-2087. NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916. UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials!

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MISCELLANEOUS

THE OPELIKA POLICE DEPARTMENT PRESENTS

SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2021 Join the Opelika Police Department along with several current and former Professional and Collegiate athletes for a day of flag football at Opelika High School. The event is open to the public and donations will be collected at admission for five of the Ambassadors of Change organizations.

Free Registration

BOYS AND GIRLS

AGES 5-18

OPELIKA HIGH SCHOOL BULLDOG STADIUM 8:00 AM Registration Opens 9:00 AM Festivities Kick Off 9:30 AM First Games Start 12:30 PM OHS Football Senior Scrimmage 4:00 PM Water Balloon Fight

SCAN TO REGISTER OR VISIT OPELIKAPD.ORG Registration is free and includes a t-shirt and lunch for each player

HIGHLIGHTS: • Photos with Athletes • Food Vendors • Giveaways • Much More! ONLINE REGISTRATION DEADLINE Saturday, June 5, 2021 5:00 PM

B14 May 27, 2021

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku? Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

B15 May 27, 2021

'1/a.ssle hee Va.cat:on..Whj Not Ca.II Us. www.mytravelatmidtown.com

334 749 0877 3051 Frederick Road, Suite 7, Opelika -

� Circle of Excellence 2008-2011

MilhonA1r 2010 & 2011 & 2012 --------(between Sam:� Club and Tiger Town)

B16 May 27, 2021

We roast all our coﬀee in house. Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

116 S. 8th Street, Opelika

334-363-0390

www.booniehatcoffee.com

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

WE DELIVER!

• Drive Thru Only • Regular Operating Hours • Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait

334-364-9993 | 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Suite A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com Mon-Fri 8am–6pm | Sat 9am–12pm | Sunday Closed

This week’s puzzle answers: