Opelika Observer 07-22-2021 E-edition

Vol. 13, No. 41

Thursday, July 22, 2021

pelika Observer O

Opelika, Alabama

Kate Larkin was honored with the "Spirit of Opelika Award" — See A1 and A6 for more information and photos.

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

Remembering The Tallapoosa County Girls’ Ranch Victims PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM A little over a month ago, a tragedy took eight lives from the Tallapoosa

County Girls’ Ranch.

Last week, hundreds gathered at Church of the Highlands East Campus in Auburn to remember their names, share stories and worship together.

“We’re here to celebrate the lives of eight young people that are no longer with us here on earth,” said Michael Smith, CEO of the Alabama Sheriffs Youth

Ranch. “But we know where they are.”

Four ranch girls lost their lives, along with Director Candice Gulley’s two children and two nephews.

Opelika to Participate in National Night Out PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA You are invited to join over 38 million neighbors across the nation as we celebrate safety in Opelika at National Night Out. On Tuesday, Aug. 3, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Courthouse Square. There will be free food, entertainment, educational fun and games provided by local first responders and community organizations.

Attendees can also help us CRAM the CRUISER. First responders will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Food

Bank of East Alabama.

Opelika’s National Night Out started several years ago with See NIGHT OUT, page A3

Gulley was the only survivor of the van involved in the accident.

Despite the pain of losing her two children, two nephews and four of the girls she worked with,

Gulley spoke Thursday to the gathered community.

“Everyone of these children I have had the pleasure of worshipping See TALLAPOOSA, page A3

Opelika Chamber Honors Members at 80th Annual Meeting MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER The Opelika Chamber of Commerce held its 80th Annual Meeting Luncheon last Friday.

The event was held at the Opelika High School indoor practice facility at 11:30 a.m.

The presenting sponsor of the event was H & S Commercial & Industrial Supplies & Services.

The Opelika Chamber is proud to have hosted such a successful meeting with more than 400 people in attendance.

The Auburn University Hotel & Dixon Conference Center provided the meal while attendees observed a presentation on the highlights of the chamber’s 80th year in service.

The Opelika

Chamber achieved a five-start accreditation this year for the first time in its history.

This level of accreditation puts the Opelika Chamber in the top 3% of all chambers of commerce across the country. Only 128 other chambers have achieved the five-star accreditation status.

Many awards were presented to See CHAMBER, page A3

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

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

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . A7

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

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

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

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

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

July 27: James Brown Trio

The James Brown Trio is a Southern Gospel group that will have your toes tapping and heart stirring to songs from the past as well as current tunes that are soon to be classics.

A2 July 22, 2021

Opelika, Auburn Chambers of Commerce Stay Busy With Ribbon Cuttings

The Opelika Chamber held a ribbon cutting for Expert Cleaning Concepts recently.

The business is locally owned and specializes in top notch house and office cleaning services. You can find it at 3900 Pepperell Parkway, Suite 105 in Opelika.

The Grazer Co. recently joined the Opelika Chamber and held its ribbon-cutting ceremony last week. Located in The Southerly Warehouse,The Grazier Co. team offers artfully-designed charcuterie arrangements for every occasion and personalized experiences in-store. Grab a friend or two, and try out their next workshop or get them to cater your event with a spread that tastes as good as it looks.

Mayor Ron Anders cut the commemorative ribbon for Eye Center South, specializing in the treatment of cataracts, glaucoma, retina disorders and ocular plastic surgery.

Conveniently located at 890 N. Dean Road, Suite 300.

The Auburn Chamber of Commerce joined the Opelika Chamber of Commerce to celebrate Bacheler Technologies at the ribbon cutting for its Opelika location at 2002 Executive Park Dr., Suite B. Founded in Montgomery in 2008, Bacheler Technologies takes a proactive approach to IT management and network solutions, ensuring your network is running safely, efficiently and effectively.

Sunshine Pediatrics offers a unique, multidisciplinary wellness experience and seeks to understand and honor each child’s unique needs in the key domains of wellness. Located at 197 E. University Dr. in Auburn.

pelika Observer

O

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

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

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A3 July 22, 2021

Machen McChesney Announces Promotions

TAUNTON

DURAN

CHESNUTT

Taunton received his Masters of Accountancy and his B.S. in Accounting from Auburn University.

Austin Duran, CPA Machen McChesney announced the promotion of Austin Duran, CPA, to supervisor.

Duran has been employed with Machen

McChesney since 2018.

Austin’s principal areas of practice include business taxation and auditing.

Duran received his Master of Accountancy in 2018 and his B.S. in Accounting in 2017 from Auburn University.

Michael Chesnutt

Machen McChesney announced the promotion of Michael Chesnutt to the firm’s leadership team. He has been employed with Machen McChesney since 2018. Chesnutt is responsible for the management, strategy and execution of the I.T. infrastructure, as well

as implementing the delivery of networks, development and disaster recovery systems and processes. He is committed to constantly improving the I.T. processes at Machen McChesney.

Chesnutt received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (Information Systems) from Auburn University-Montgomery in 2003.

About Machen McChesney: Machen McChesney is a business advisory firm with a history of returning value to its individual and business clients through proactive accounting, audit and assurance, business tax and advisory, business valuation, family and

My Stay, along with the songs Amazing Grace and Waymaker.

One of Church of the Highlands Pastors, Wren Aaron, shared a message about grief with those gathered and referenced Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.”

Following the service, eight doves were released on the lawn, in front of an American flag, suspended from an Auburn fire truck – one dove for each of the lives lost.

“The legacy of those young people that we lost will go on living forever at the Alabama Sheriff’s Youth Ranch helping more children and young people than ever,” Smith said.

Despite the pain, there was a common theme of hope in the room.

“As we reflect on the devastating tragedy that brings us here today, we are filled with hope as we remember the lives of our family members who left us all too soon,” said Greg Copeland, a volunteer at the Ranch and member of the Living Stones Community. “We are filled with hope as we carefully watch how God has used, and will use, their early departure to bring many sons and daughters into this kingdom.”

A few of the girls’ houseparents, volunteers and family friends shared encouraging words and stories about the children.

Hayley was a teenager who loved to care for others, care for animals and take on all kinds of projects.

“She had a big personality, a big imagination and best of all, a big heart,” said Ruth Neuhoff, who was one of Hayley’s houseparents. “… Hayley had a beautiful prayer life and always prayed for others ... We know that Hayley is in paradise with Jesus and we will be with her again.”

Ben and Bella were Gulley’s children who both had hearts for service and hearts for God, Copeland said.

“I’m excited to share with family gathered here that Bella and Ben were pleasing God physically, mentally, emotionally and most important, spiritually, immediately before they went home to be with their heavenly family,” Copeland said.

Gulley also lost her

two nephews, Josiah and Nicholas in the accident.

The day of the service, July 15, would have been Josiah’s birthday. “[He] was such a bright light with a smile that would light up a room, light up a dark room,” said another speaker.

Nicholas was the baby of the family who loved video games and dogs.

“Nicholas would come to visit at the ranch, however, it could only be for a really short period of time because he aways needed to get home to his mom,” the speaker said.

“He was a true momma’s boy.”

Makenzie, Dana and Tia’s house parents, Eric and Stephanie Strong, also served as Hayley’s other house parents.

“I saw these girls grow in their walk with the

CONTRIBUTED BY MACHEN MCCHESNEY Machen McChesney, a leading CPA and Business Advisory firm, announced the promotion of Stephen Taunton to manager, Austin Duran to supervisor and Michael Chesnutt to the firm’s leadership team.

Stephen Taunton, CPA Machen McChesney announced the promotion of Stephen Taunton, CPA, to manager. Taunton has been employed with Machen McChesney since 2015.

His areas of expertise include tax compliance and planning. He specializes in individual, business and trust and estate tax.

TALLAPOOSA >>

FROM A1

beside,” she said. “I have had the honor to stand back in the back of the room, whether it was at the chapel, at the ranch, or in our learning center, or in the gym or in the sanctuary; I have had the pleasure to stand back and listen to their voices lift up to the heavens. It was like heaven on earth to hear my children worship and praise God. “I have had people come up to me and hug my neck and say, 'You're such a strong woman.’

No honey, I’m not strong, my God is.”

The ranch played a slideshow with pictures of the young lives and those gathered worshipped to a song that was special to the girls,

NIGHT OUT

>>

FROM A1

Mattie Clark and Oscar Penn, founders of the Concerned Citizens of Opelika. Valestine Penn soon became the chair of the event and has hosted NNO at Covington Center the past few years.

This year, the Concerned Citizens of Opelika have partnered with the city of Opelika to bring National Night Out to courthouse square with more community involvement in an effort to expand the event.

“I am thankful for community members like National Night Out Chair Valestine Penn who are passionate about making our city a safer place," said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. " She invited the city to participate in the planning process this year and I look forward to seeing neighbors at Opelika’s National Night Out in its new event space – courthouse square.”

According to the national foundation, National Night Out is an annual community-

building campaign that promotes strong policecommunity partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work. Together, we are making that happen.

National Night Out is nationally sponsored by NATW, Ring, New York Life, Starbucks, Associa, AT&T, Academy Sports & Outdoors and cosponsored locally by Concerned Citizens of Opelika and the city of Opelika.

“Opelika’s Night Out is about our community coming together to say we will not tolerate crime in Opelika and give us a chance to educate and inform residents about local resources," said Opelika Chief of Police Shane Healey.

"I would like to thank the local businesses and organizations who have agreed to sponsor and support our vision for National Night Out 2021.”

For more information, visit www.opelika-al. gov or the Facebook event page – Opelika’s National Night Out.

CHAMBER

>>

FROM A1

deserving businesses and members of the Opelika community.

The award winners are as follows: • Spirit of Opelika, sponsored by the Opelika Observer – Kate Larkin Larken stated in a Facebook post that she was completely surprised to win this award.

"I have never been so surprised in my whole life! Seriously ... never. Ever. I am still in shock," Larkin wrote.

Chamber President Ai Rauch said "This was my favorite moment from Friday.

The only question I asked was 'Why did it take so long for her to win this?' Kate, you are a joy and Opelika is lucky to have you."

"I know [and or] knew all the previous year's recipients and I am so very humbled and honored for my name to even be mentioned among them," Larkin said.

• Distinguished Service – City Council President Eddie Smith • Visionary Award – State Representative Jeremy Gray • Legendary Award – Samford & Denson • Ambassador of the Year – Billy Plummer S & S Termite Control • Community Partner – Opelika City Schools • Service Champion – Tori Mejia, Spa Eleve • Young Professional of the Year – Melissa Munford • Small Business

of the Year – Angel’s Antiques & Flea Mall • Large Business of the Year – Baxter International • Diamond Award – East Alabama Health • Chairman’s Award – Chuck Beams In addition a few community partners presented awards: • Keep Opelika Beautiful – Mary Barnes Newman • Opelika Main Street – Whistle Stop Bottle & Brew • Auburn Opelika

elder care, individual tax planning and consulting and outsourced bookkeeping services.

From its headquarters in Auburn, Alabama, the firm is committed to returning value to its clients throughout Alabama and the United States. Machen McChesney is part of a family of services, including FocusPay Solutions (focuspaysolutions.com) and Wealth Management Services, and is a member of the BDO Alliance USA, a nationwide association of independently owned, high-quality local and regional accounting firms. Learn more at machenmcchesney. com.

Lord, which is definitely the most important thing,” Eric said. “In May, Tia and Hayley were both baptized right there at the ranch.”

Tia loved hard-work and lived with a repentant heart. Dana was a musician. She played instruments, enjoyed music and wrote songs.

“She was very unselfish, very giving,” Stephanie said.

Makenzie cared for others and gave her time to the other girls and had an artistic spirit.

“My children, whether they shared my blood or they didn’t, they were my children,” Gulley said. “… They’ve been in the presence of the King.

They are worshiping Him face to face right now.”

Tourism – Opelika Auburn Pickleball Club.

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.

PUBLISHERS NOTE: Turn to A6 for photos from the event.

A4 July 22, 2021

WORDS

SEAN DIETRICH

“D

on’t kiss a girl without being prepared to give her your last name.”

My granny said that.

My father gave me this one: “If you so much as touch a cigarette, you might as well tear up half your paychecks from now on.”

My mother’s axiom, however, is my alltime favorite: “It’ll be okay.”

It might sound like a simple phrase, but my mother said this often.

Whenever things were

running off the rails.

Whenever a girl broke my heart. Whenever I lost my job. Whenever I cried. Whenever I had a common cold that I believed to be, for example, tuberculosis, she said these words. I needed her to say them.

She also said: “Cleaning your plate means ‘I love you.’”

And this is why I was an overweight child.

I could keep going all day.

“Don’t answer the phone when you got company over,” my

uncle once said. “It’s just flat rude.”

This one is from my elderly friend, Mister Boots: “That smartphone is making you stupid.”

My grandfather said: “Anything worth doing is worth waiting until next week to do.” Then he’d crack open another cold one.

My wife’s mother once said: “Always carry deodorant in your truck. You don’t want to smell like you’ve been out roping billy goats when you bump into the pastor.”

Said the man named Bill Bonners, in a nursing home, from his wheelchair during an interview: “I never wanted to be a husband, I really didn’t want that. But I just couldn’t breathe without her around me.”

Mister Bill died only four days after his wife passed.

And one childhood evening, I was on a

porch with my friend’s father, Mister Allen James who was whittling a stick, and he said: “Boys, if you marry ‘up,’ you’ll have to attend a lotta parties you don’t wanna go to.

You wanna be happy, marry someone who knows her way around a supermarket.” I never forgot it.

On the day of my father’s funeral, a preacher came through the visitation line and said: “No man ever truly dies. Not really.”

I’ve said this at a few funerals myself because I believe it.

Said the seventh-grade teacher named Miss Rhonda, who was passing around a basket for students to place cellphones into during an presentation I was doing at a public school: “Playing on your phone in public is like peeing in a parking garage; unless it’s a life-or-death emergen-

cy, it’s gross.”

From my pal’s father, Mister Jimmy: “When you’ve loved a good woman, all poetry starts to make sense.”

From my father: “A man is ugliest when he’s jealous.”

My uncle said: “Don’t fall in love with her hair-color, eye-color or figure. Fall in love with her mama, her brother, and her sisters.”

And I love this one, from my uncle, the Missionary Baptist preacher. “The secret to happiness is to not want anything.”

And this one: “When you’re older, you’ll realize that being right ain’t nearly as fun as getting along is.”

Elderly Mister Tommy said that while we were fishing.

My father’s friend, Dale, once said: “Don’t ever make the mistake of being 72. Nobody forgives you for that.

Go straight to being 73.

instead.”

Said my friend Louis: “I like cats better than dogs. Dogs don’t judge you, or hold things against you. A guy can be a real jerk and still be a dog guy. But if you’re not nice to a cat, he’ll burn your house down while you sleep.”

My aunt’s immortal words: “I can tolerate a lot of things, but ignorance ain’t one of them.”

And my friend, the hospital chaplain, who died last year: “I never met a man who was dying that wasn’t at peace with it. There’s something mysterious that happens, I can’t explain it. That’s why, even if I were an atheist, I’d still have to believe in Heaven.

Not because I’ve seen it myself, but because I’ve seen the people who’ve seen it.”

And my friend, the author, who once told

had Type 1 diabetes; she was beautiful and spoke of her desire to work in hospitality for Cuba. As she spoke to me over a tiny cup of espresso, I saw the angst in her mother’s eyes across the kitchen. I saw clear concern for her child’s food supply to keep her well along with prescription medicines.

Will she be able to purchase the fruits at market that day to help her daughter?

Will the local pharmacy carry enough medicine for her child?

As simple as these

ideas are, they are not so simple for the people of Cuba. They are taken care of, they are educated, they do work, yet basic everyday necessities are not guaranteed.

I was in Cuba close to two years ago and today the food and medical supply is even less.

Next I will tell you about Enrique. He was once a doctor in Cuba and loved his job, but as he grew older and had a desire to teach others about Christ, he realized that his

See DIETRICH, page A5

CUBA

BRADLEY ROBERTSON

I

t was the week of my 39th birthday, November, when I boarded a plane with my husband and in two hours I had the

privilege of stepping foot on Cuban soil. I could not contain my joy for this grand adventure as the serious gentlemen checked my passport in the Havana airport.

My demeanor and grand smile clearly said to him, “I’m a foreigner, but oh my goodness, I am more than delighted to be in your homeland.”

Isaac had gladly agreed to join me for a writing project and mission trip in this mysterious and lovely country. We had no clue what we

were in for, but what we received from the Cuban people was beyond any expectation.

I will never forget this experience and the things I learned and saw are still large and relevant to Cuba’s unrest today.

What takes place in foreign countries is just too foreign for us to even consider. We cannot know or even think of their situations until we set foot on their ground; until we sit in their homes, eat food at their tables and listen. This we did, Isaac and I together, and so here

we are, sharing what we saw as to serve you with a bird’s eye view.

I hope to lead you into a simple understanding, that you may consider something new. I hope you slip into their shoes for just a moment and ponder, what if it were you?

What if it were me?

I’ll begin with the story by our host AirBnb family; a father, a mother and 16-yearold daughter. The father spoke lovely, fluent English and the daughter was learning very well too. She

See ROBERTSON, page A5

The Death Of The Abide

WENDY HODGE

M

y very first apartment, when I was a freshman in college, was sparsely decorated in what my roommate and I referred to as “up-scaled curbside/Goodwill treasures.” It was eclectic, which is polite for tacky.

But it was ours. We worked hard to pay the rent while going to school. And we loved it! The first piece of “art” that I bought was a framed Ralph Waldo Emerson quote that I got for $2.99 at a thrift store. It made

my heart happy just seeing it every day as I walked through our living room. The frame was a sapphire blue, and the quote was written in black script - “Earth endures. Stars abide.”

That same freshman year, I took a British literature course as an elective for the sole reason that Canterbury Tales was on the syllabus, and I had a copy of the book that I actually bought IN CANTERBURY on my trip to Europe after high school graduation. The trip was a gift my sister and her husband worked and saved for so that I could get a taste of the world beyond our small Alabama town. They were as proud to take me as I was to go.

In that literature class, before we ever cracked open Canterbury Tales,

we read some old English poetry. Our professor was a small woman who had immigrated from Sweden and had become an American citizen the year before. She didn’t speak English very well, which made the study of old English phrases interesting at best. We did a lot of charades to try to understand each other. A few weeks into the term, the professor decided to take a break from Lord Byron and Tennyson and shared with us that her favorite poet was Ralph Waldo Emerson. “He is not British. He is American, like us,” she said. And then she wrote that same quote on the board – “Earth endures. Stars abide.”

I still have the notes from that class in a folder. Here are her words about the

word ABIDE. “It is a strong word,” she said. “It means you work and you wait and you plan and you STAY. And if you do those things, you are rewarded. It is what the love these poets wrote about really means. When you love, you abide. It is what America means to someone like me.

It is why I live here.

I abide here.”

My grandmother had an old family Bible with a list on the inside front page of men and women who came before us and are gone from the world. Their names are written in a spidery script using an actual fountain pen dipped in ink and with much love in each letter.

Every single one of those people love what it means to abide. They married.

They worked their farm. They grew

their crops. They raised their children.

They fed them all.

They laughed and cried and, when the time came, they buried the dead.

And through it all, they abided. Their reward was a table that was always full.

Their reward was a family that stood together when things were good and when things were bad, without question or hesitation. Their reward was a good name and respect to and for each other.

Their reward was watching their children grow up with the ability to abide.

I saw a commercial last night that I can’t quite shake off.

What the ad was for I have no idea. The screen was filled with image after image of teenagers from different countries around the world, each saying the same phrase in

their own native tongue as closed captions scrolled across the bottom.

“We deserve better.”

These kids weren’t from third world countries. They weren’t homeless or displaced refugees. They were well dressed; some rode bikes while other were sitting in a sports car. One young boy even stood on the balcony of a luxury house overlooking the ocean. But without exception, they were angry, sullen and defiant with cold eyes and lips that looked as if they hadn’t smiled in an aeon or two.

As the words continued to scroll, a narrator explained (in a voice that suggested that their anger was a reasonable and justified thing) that their mantra, See HODGE, page A5

A5 July 22, 2021

Loachapoka has a Walking Trail, 30 Years In The Making

FROM A4

"We deserve better," was directed toward just about everyone.

They were angry at the government for not making the world a better place.

They were angry at their forefathers for not establishing a better country to begin with. They were angry with the “warmongers” from every country who had participated in world wars in years past. They were angry with the police for not keeping them safe while simultaneously being angry that the police existed at all. They were angry with their parents for not doing something about global warming and the “downward spiral of our very planet.”

As my grandmother would say, “Well I’ll be dipped and rolled in cracker crumbs.” And then she would shake her

DIETRICH >>

FROM A4

me: “To be a writer is to be a homeless guy who can type really fast.”

My friend, Lyle: “Don’t try to hit a home run, just sit down, eat a hotdog and let someone else strike out.”

From my old boss: “When you’re a kid, you wanna be an adult so bad you can taste it. But when you’re an adult, all you are is fat.”

A deacon once told me: “Biloxi, Mississippi, was invented

by Episcopalians for Baptists.”

plus years with the financial assistance from the Alabama Historical Commission, Vulcan Materials, Adams Construction, Superior Lawn and Sign World. The trail has exercise head in puzzlement and say, “Bless ya’ll’s heart. What has happened since I left?”

And I would have to answer with this: We no longer abide.

We have been so busy building a better life for our kids that we forgot to grow better kids.

They’ve learned through all forms of media, as well as in the classroom and in the home, that the following is the politically correct (and therefore healthy) frame of mind: We want what we want right now. We want maximum income with minimum output. We want no discomfort. We want no inconvenience.

We want no hint of any differences between any orientation, but we want everything exactly to our preference. We want inclusion, but we want perfection.

We want freedom of speech, but we want My granddaddy once spoke about choosing friends: “Don’t ever go fishing with anyone who you wouldn’t let marry your sister.”

And this one’s from me: I hope you never forget the people who made you the person you are today. I hope their words stick with you. And may I forever remember my mother’s gentle wisdom, no matter how bad life seems, no matter what kind of sadness surrounds me.

“It’ll be okay.”

Because I believe it will.

stations for simple exercises to complement the walking. Additionally, it highlights Loachapoka’s rich and diverse history during the past 240 years and how its people impacted the area. to hear only what we agree with. We want justice, but we want our demands met. We want peace, but we enjoy being angry.

Not everyone is like this ... not by a long shot. But I fear this is the rule rather than the exception.

So when you met a teenager who is happy and well-adjusted, shake their hand and look them in the eye and know they are the hope for our future as a country and as a people. When you see a couple who have stayed married and raised a family, celebrate them. They are the key to our survival. When you gather with friends who have stuck with you and who give and receive respect, hug them close. They are what will get us through. And when a baby is born into your family, promise that child that you will abide and that you will teach them to do the same.

ROBERTSON >>

FROM A4

low income of being a doctor might as well turn into that of a pastor. Enrique’ made several attempts over a few years to get a Visa to visit the United States. This doctor/pastor was denied every time.

Why deny a good man, a physician, a preacher the right to visit their neighboring country?

There is no reason, no reason at all. But this is Cuba, not only are very few things let in, very, very few people are allowed out.

“Elizabeth and I started Red Wolf in the Fall of 2019,” said Coach Dude, who is co-owner of the business alongside his wife. “We wanted to create a community of people who support each other through martial arts as well as bring awareness to the North American Red Wolf, which is critically endangered. Since then, our mission has grown to include providing self-defense instruction to the folks who need it most.”

Coach Dude holds a 1st Dan Black Belt

in Shinsei Hapkido, a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and is a Nak Muay in Khanontom Muay Thai. Each of these is taught at Red Wolf School of Martial Arts (SMA) – Khanontom Muay Thai (the Art of 8 Limbs), Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (the Gentle Art) and Shinsei Hapkido (focusing on Evade, Invade, Control).

This will be the group’s first ever garage sale. Coach Dude said they polled the student body, and the idea arose; a garage sale. Students and families have been the primary contributors to the sale, but Red Wolf will gladly accept any donations to the sale on the day of the event.

“We wanted to sponsor a Red Wolf for wolf conserva-

These are just two simple stories of everyday people in their everyday world, and drastically different than you and me. I could go on and on with story after story and maybe I will another day, but I’ll leave you with this.

An American Cuban once met my husband and said this, “America is great and people don’t realize it. All you have to do is work hard and you can have anything you want.”

The truth is so real. If we put in the hard work, we can do anything.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY RED WOLF SMA

HODGE >>

Currently, Red Wolf SMA has three students on scholarship.

This provides each student with a full year’s worth of martial arts training, at no cost. Coach Dude said they call this a “Scholarship of Recommendation.” The garage sale should be able to

BY EMERY LAY FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY PAT CONOVER On July 1, the Loachapoka Town Council dedicated the Loachapoka Heritage Fitness and Walking Trail to Loise Pace Weathers. Mayor Ricky Holder, former Mayor James Grout, Lee County Commissioners Richard S. LaGrand, Sr. and Doug Cannon together with other members of the council congratulated Weathers for her service as a council member beginning Aug. 1, 1988. She tirelessly sought a walking trail for the community to use until Loise and her husband, Charlie Weathers, moved to Opelika about five years ago.

Councilman Rex Dunham was finally able make the dream come true after 30

Red Wolf SMA to Hold First Ever Garage Sale Fundraiser

tion, fund two scholarships we recently offered to the community and help offset some of the costs of travel for our competition team,” Coach Dude said. “The Wolf Conservation Center allows symbolic adoption of their Red Wolves to help with Red Wolf Conservation. With the funds we hope to adopt to the level of Friend, Sponsor, Guardian or Steward.”

fund scholarships as Red Wolf SMA looks forward to another year.

Red Wolf SMA additionally offers free self-defense events throughout the year to certain women’s groups. One partner it has joined in the part is Auburn University’s fitness group, CHAARG. For more information about Red Wolf SMA, their mission or their upcoming garage sale, visit www. redwolfschoolofmartialarts.com.

“We want to further our goal of giving self-defense to the people who need it most," Coach Dude said.

“If you are reading this and want to train, please contact us and we’ll put together a plan that can get you to your goals be they self-defense, fitness or overall better quality of life.”

The Red Wolf School of Martial Arts (SMA) will be hosting a garage sale fundraiser on July 24, at 2900 Wyndham Industrial Dr., Suite G, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cuba does not have our luxury. May this thought God speed us to serve one another better and live well is this American dream

we do have.

We love you Cuba and may God continue to bless you.

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

A6 July 22, 2021

Opelika Chamber of Commerce Recognizes 2021 Award Winners

CHAIRMAN'S AWARD - CHUCK BEAMS

COMMUNITY PARTNER - OPELIKA HIGH SCHOOL

DIAMOND AWARD - EAST ALABAMA HEALTH

DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN - OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT EDDIE SMITH

LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR - BAXTER INTERNATIONAL

LEGENDARY AWARD - SAMFORD AND DENSON

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR - ANGEL'S ANTIQUES AND FLEA MALL

SPIRIT OF OPELIKA - KATE LARKIN

VISIONARY AWARD - JEREMY GRAY - PICTURED IS GRAY'S MOTHER

VISIONARY AWARD - JEREMY GRAY

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL - MELISSA MUNFORD

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR - BILLY PLUMMER

Opelika E vents, Society & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS: July 24: Junior Disc Golf Championship at Opelika SportsPlex July 24: Dawg Pound Summer Bowl July 29: Boys & Club Gala July 30: Cheers on the Corner

Serve Seasonal Fresh Fruit in a Variety of Ways PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

F

resh fruit is delicious by itself, or it can be used in making breads, pies, cakes, jellies and jams, as well as adding a fresh, sweet taste to salads. Try several recipes while fresh fruit is at its peak of flavor. The season will be ending soon for some fruits and just beginning for fresh figs and muscadines.

The best dessert I have eaten with muscadines was Virginia Callaway’s Muscadine Pie. The pie is probably still served at Callaway Gardens.

A great deal has changed at Callaway Gardens over the years, and some of it is sad to see with the Sibley Horticultural Center and the vegetable garden gone. At one time, the

television show, Victory Garden South was filmed at Callaway’s vegetable garden.

Years ago, I was invited to attend an endof-season taping of Victory Garden at Callaway and to stay for the cast party afterward. Virginia Callaway’s Muscadine Pie was served with whipped cream. It was perfectly baked and tasted delicious.

The vegetables and fruits at the garden were once served in the restaurants at Callaway.

Our favorite restaurant for years was the Georgia Room, which was located at the inn. The Plantation Room was the largest restaurant, while the Georgia Room was tucked to one side of the inn and was fine dining.

We went for every occasion and anytime we could. First, we could stop by the Vintage Green at the entrance of the inn. Steve Hollis was at the piano, and the servers would break out singing as they were serving.

We would listen to the music until it was time for our reservation at the Georgia Room. Hector Gizi was the food service director at that time, and his influence could be seen on the menu. Hector was once the personal chef for Winston Churchill.

The Georgia Room was elegant with white table cloths and a rose or other flowers arranged in the center of the table. Once we were seated, the server would bring their cheese

Fresh fruit tart or pie can be made with a pie crust or cookie crust and has a creamy filling with fresh fruit on top. It can be served with or without the glaze. Along with fresh fruit recipes, this week’s column looks back at the muscadine pie and other foods served at Callaway Gardens.

spread and cracker bread to the table to snack on as we looked over the menu.

The menu at the Georgia Room was prix price, and the dinner was served in courses with choices for the appetizer, entrée and dessert.

For an appetizer, the choices were seafood crepes or chilled citrus fruit cup. We always ordered the crepes filled with an assortment of seafood in a cream sauce. They were superb.

Champagne sherbet

was served as the intermezzo before the entrée to cleanse the palette.

Among the entrée choices, the filet mignon with goose liver Rossini was our favorite.

A bouguetiere of fresh vegetables from the garden was served as the sides. In the European tradition, a green salad tossed in a light lemon dressing was served after the entrée.

Dessert choices included cakes, fresh fruits and cheese plates.

At the end of the meal, ladies were presented

with a long-stemmed rose.

All of the dishes were first-rate. Director Gizi’s menu was a tradition of the prestigious international gourmet food society, la Chaine des Rotisseurs, that Callaway was a member of at that time.

We have many wonderful memories of Callaway over the years. While the Georgia Room is gone, maybe we will ride over to Callaway soon and see if Virginia Callaway’s Muscadine Pie is See CIPPERLY, page A9

Cookin’ Up Curry with Mohammad Azad Curry To Go is the newest authentic Indian restaurant in town.

Located on 234 W. Magnolia Ave. in Suite A, Curry To Go offers a variety of Indian dishes, alongside selling vape options.

Mohammad Azad is the owner, hailing

from his home country of Bangladesh. Sadly, due to political upheaval, Azad said he felt the need to leave his country and move to the United States, where he landed in New York. Azad said he has has not been able to go back to visit his home in Bangladesh for over five years.

During his 23 years in New York, Azad

Visit Boonie Hat and try the new line of Artisan Pops.

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

PHOTO BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY EMERY LAY FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

opened up his first restaurant, the original Curry To Go. The original was not only a restaurant but also a place that offered a grocery and convenience section filled with Indian goods. In 2020, Azad and his wife decided to leave New York and move to Alabama to be closer to family.

“When the pandemic hit, it was hard,” Azad

said. “And my wife’s family wanted us to be here.”

As soon as they moved, Azad and his wife began looking for quality, authentic Indian food. Azad said that, much to his dismay, he could not find somewhere that reminded him of his beloved Bangladeshi food.

See COOKIN, page A8

Lee County Humane Society Presents: Kitten PawStar Baseball Tournament

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM Are you looking for the ‘purrrfect’ forever friend? Do you like to collect baseball cards?

If either of these statements apply to you, be sure to stop by the Lee County Humane Society (LCHS) on Saturday, July 24, for its first-ever Kitten PawStar Baseball Tournament.

The Kitten PawStar Baseball Tournament will take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Four ‘paw-some’ teams will go headto-head in this crazy kitten tournament.

“While one of our

goals for this event is certainly to provide our community with a couple of thrilling, paw-some, family-friendly kitten baseball games, our primary goal is to get some kittens adopted,” reads a press release

from LCHS. The shelter will have more than 30 kittens available for adoption at discounted prices.

If they are already spayed or neutered, the kittens will just be $5. Unaltered pets See PAWSTAR, page A8

A8 July 22, 2021

Making the Grade: The Juicy Seafood

In all my 58 years, I have lived in small towns. For the first 27 years of my life, I lived in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals). From ages 27 to 52, I resided in LaGrange, Georgia.

Then, in November 2015, my husband Mike and I moved to Auburn. While we live in Auburn, we worship in Opelika at Central Baptist. When we moved to Lee County, we immediately learned about the rivalry between the two cities. It’s much like the rivalry between Alexander City and Dadeville in Tallapoosa County. However, since I graduated from Benjamin Russell High School, and Mike graduated from West Point High School, we don’t have a dog in the fight.

We LOVE both Auburn and Opelika. Again, Lee County is the best place to live while you wait to go to Heaven.

I feel kind of sorry for the other 66 counties in Alabama.

Mike and I support all schools and teams in Auburn, Opelika and Lee County. In fact,

PAWSTAR

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FROM A7

will be $55. The event is only for kittens under six months of age. If spectators see a kitten they would like to meet,

>>

FROM A7

“I said, ‘You know what, let’s give Auburn something,’” Azad recalled. “For the people of Auburn and Opelika, they didn’t taste Indian food yet – price-wise, taste-wise … And in a student-based town, students need support, too. So, I said, if I find a spot somewhere close to the university, I will think about it.”

After living in Auburn for a while, Azad decided to open up his second Curry To Go shop. He said he is lucky to have such a great landlord to talk to and was able to easily move into his space on Magnolia Avenue.

When choosing the space and furnishing it, Azad arranged the restaurant like his New York space.

wear that?” You see, our LCMS Cougars play Opelika Middle School in football and basketball every year. However, I pointed out to my friend and colleague that my t-shirt was for the high school; she could live with that.

Anyway, Mike and I loved growing up and living in small towns.

You couldn’t pay us to move to a big city such as Atlanta. The traffic alone would give me heart palpitations.

However, as a smalltown girl, I have learned an important lesson about new restaurants.

Don’t go to them when

Malik, our waiter at the Juicy Seafood, was an absolute delight. He was so sweet, well mannered and patient. Mike and I have met so many wonderful young people in our county.

They are a credit to their parents and grandparents. Also, this really warms our retired teacher hearts.

We both ordered a cup of their New England clam chowder; it was delicious. Mike said, “This isn’t from a can. It’s very close to what we actually had in New England.” There you go.

Our entrée was pre

sented to us in a unique fashion: It was in a big bag, having been cooked in it. We had ordered what I would call a low country boil: shrimp, scallops, little red potatoes and corn on the cob.

Mike, who is braver than I, picked up the bag of food, which had a lot of juice (hence, the name), and carefully poured it in a pan. We also were given plastic bibs, gloves and a bucket for discarding our trash.

We laughed as we tied on the bibs, but let me say that they were a great idea because our food was really juicy.

Also, as I’ve said before, I am a dripper. My parents taught me to use good table manners, but dripping on my blouse remains a problem for me and brings forth a lot of laughter from my husband. However, I personally think that all restaurants should hand out tie-on bibs. It would save hours of stain removal in my house.

Our meal was

delicious. I loved the seasoning for our dinner.

For the first time in my life, I didn’t request tartar or cocktail sauce.

They simply weren’t needed; our seafood was great without them.

For dessert, Mike and I shared a piece of cheesecake drizzled with chocolate. It was excellent. Other desserts included: coconut, red velvet, molten chocolate cakes and xango.

The Juicy Seafood also offers a large variety of appetizers including: hushpuppies, fried cheesesticks, onion rings, fried calamari, raw or steamed oysters, chicken wings and Juicy Special wings.

The restaurant’s fried entrees include: shrimp, tilapia, catfish, oysters and chicken tenders. In addition, diners may order a seafood combo from the following: blue crab (seasonal), shrimp (no head), snow-crab legs, crawfish, shrimp (heads on), clams, green or black mussels, scal-

lops, baby octopus and sausage. Sides include: corn on the cob, potatoes, Cajun fries, sweet potato fries, French fries, steamed rice, sausage and boiled egg.

The Juicy Seafood is located at 1463 Opelika Road in Auburn.

The restaurant is open on Sunday from noon until 9 p.m.; on Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.; on Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 10:30 p.m.

The Juicy Seafood makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher.

Remember, “Poohsized” 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

they can sign up to meet one of the “players” in a dugout. If a “player” is adopted, the new owners will receive a trading card with their new kitten’s face on it as a memento. These cards

will only be available at this event.

“We have so many wonderful furbabies looking for a home, and we cannot wait to share their cuteness with the public at this event,” the

release said. “Many of these kittens have been waiting patiently in their foster homes, so to have them all in the shelter and able to be viewed by potential adopters will absolutely call for an

exciting, and hopefully, very successful event!”

The ticket to get into this event is simply an approved adoption application. Fill one out at www.leecountyhumane. org/adopt if you are

interested.

The Lee County Humane Society is located at 1140 Ware Dr. in Auburn.

Missing this event would be a ‘cat-astrophe’!

“This is a New Yorkstyle setup,” Azad said.

“It’s very little, but I try to do it this way. Because it’s not (only) for the student, but also for the people who work here.”

Curry To Go offers biryani and curries with different meats, as well as butter chicken, shahi chicken, goat nihari, dal tadka and lamb rogan joss. Of these, Azad said he loves beef curry, butter chicken and chicken tandoori — which he chalks up to becoming “old”.

The spice level of each dish is adapted to a typical American pallet — where a “high” spice content on the Curry To Go menu would simply be a 2.5 on a scale of 1 to 10 in Bangladesh or India.

However, Azad said spices are always ready and waiting to be added to the dishes to reach

the desired spice level of each customer.

Curry To Go also offers meal boxes for just $10. Each box includes rice and two curry from its broad selection. Azad said this was created in mind for students who are on the go.

When Azad left Bangladesh, he was a student himself. He knew not only what it was like to be a student on the move, but also specifically what it was like to be an Indian student missing the food of his home country.

He said he was surprised to find such a large community of Indian students at Auburn. Azad recalls even meeting a professor at the university who said since she had left London 25 years ago, she had not had Indian food.

“So far, the response

is good, and they are very happy,” Azad said.

For dessert at his restaurant, it offers Gulab Jamun, fluffy bread-like balls made of milk solids, flour and a leavening agent, soaked in rose-flavored sugar syrup. Additionally, Curry To Go offers specialty beverages such as Masala tea and Mango Lassi. Azad ac-

knowledges that Mango Lassi can stay fresh for up to three days, but Curry To Go insists on making it fresh every morning.

Today, Azad’s business is still running in New York. Here in Auburn, he is starting “small”, but given a good response, he hopes to one day to expand.

Curry To Go’s

hours of operation are Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. until midnight. For more information, visit their website at www. curry-to-go.business. site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral, or call 334-2091171.

PHOTO BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

COOKIN

they first open because they’re way too crowded. I forgot this lesson a few months ago and went to a restaurant during its first week of being open. Big mistake.

The line to order eventually went to the door.

Also, when we ordered before 6 p.m., they had already run out of my entrée. Therefore, lesson relearned.

With that in mind, Mike and I chose to dine at the Juicy Seafood in Auburn almost two months after it opened.

This proved to be a good decision.

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

back in 2016, we bought long-sleeved t-shirts when Beauregard High School won the state 5A Championship. Also, we bought red and black t-shirts that said, “We are Opelika,” when Opelika High School played in the state 6A Championship that same year.

Because I was so excited for Opelika, I wore the shirt one Friday where I taught at Long Cane Middle School in LaGrange. Our then girls’ P.E. coach was horrified when she saw my shirt. She said, “Mrs. Wallace, how could you

A9 July 22, 2021

CIPPERLY

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FROM A7

still being served at the restaurant in the Country Store.

The founder of Callaway Gardens, Cason Callaway, was an industrialist who built an empire in textiles. Cason and his wife, Virginia, spent weekends at a log cabin in Blue Springs, near Hamilton, Georgia.

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> VIRGINIA CALLAWAY’S MUSCADINE PIE 9-inch pie shell and extra pastry for lattice topping ½ gallon ripe muscadines Mash muscadines.

Separate hulls from pulp. Strain to remove juice, leaving pulp and seed. Cook hulls in juice until tender, adding a little water, if needed.

Let the mixture simmer, then add: Juice from ½ lemon ¼ cup flour 2 to 2 ½ cups sugar Dots of butter Put this mixture in a 9 inch unbaked pie shell and place lattice crust across top. Bake in a 400 degree oven for approximately 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 375 degrees and bake for another 30 minutes. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Callaway Gardens Cheese Spread and Cracker Bread For many years, the Georgia Room at Callaway Gardens was our favorite restaurant. When you were seated, they served this wonderful cracker bread and cheese spread.

This would be good served with fresh fruit, especially figs. You can serve the Cheese Spread with purchased crackers rather than making your own.

Cheese Spread 2 lb. cheddar cheese, finely grated 1 tsp. horseradish 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. sherry Pepper to taste 6 oz. cream cheese, softened Combine all ingredients and mix until smooth and spreading consistency. Correct seasonings. Serve with Cracker Bread.

CRACKER BREAD 4 pkg. yeast 1 qt. water 1 tsp. salt 8 cups flour, about Melted butter Sesame seeds and/ or grated Parmesan cheese Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add salt

While at Blue Springs, Cason discovered a shrub with red-orange blossoms.

When he learned it was a rare Azalea Prunifolia, the plum leaf azalea that grows within a 100 mile radius of Blue Springs, he purchased the land to preserve the plants.

Cason turned over the textile business to his younger brother and spent more time at

Blue Springs. He began building what would become Callaway Gardens. When Virginia asked her husband for a magnolia tree for her birthday, he surprised her with 5,000 trees!

At one time Cason thought of selling lots for his friends to build homes, but he realized it was too beautiful to share with just a few people. The idea of a

public garden began to grow. He dreamed of a place where families could come to enjoy the beauty of nature and have fun together.

Originally called Ida Cason Gardens, Callaway Gardens opened in 1952. The following year, Robin Lake Beach opened. Every year 10,000 to 20,000 plants were planted.

Cason built the chapel

and flour to liquid until dough is suitable for rolling. Roll out paper thin and place on a sheet pan.

Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.

Remove from oven and brush dough with melted butter.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and Parmesan cheese. Return to oven and bake 10 minutes longer or until golden brown.

To store, cool, then wrap sheets in plastic wrap. Stack and store in a dry place.

1 cup sour cream Whip cream; add sugar. Fold in sour cream. Spread over cooled crust. Chill.

Cookie crust can be prepared two days ahead.

Topping: Select just one of your favorite fruits such as peaches, blueberries or raspberries or decorate the top with a variety of fresh fruits.

Arrange fresh fruit over filling.

Serve as is or brush on glaze. The glaze adds sweetness and a glossy look to the fruit.

Fruit Glaze: (optional) 1/2 cup sugar 2 Tbsp. cornstarch 3/4 cup orange juice 2 Tbsp. lemon juice Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cool. Brush over fruit.

350 degrees. Combine all ingredients and press into the bottom of a 9-inch spring foam pan.

Bake for 18 minutes.

Cheesecake Layer 24 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla In an electric mixer, beat cream cheese with remaining ingredients until smooth, about five minutes; pour over crust. Bake for 40 minutes or until set.

Pour sour cream layer over top.

Sour Cream Layer 1 cup sour cream 2 Tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla Combine all ingredients and spread over cheesecake.

Bake for 5 minutes.

Cool; top with Blueberry Glaze.

Blueberry Glaze 3 Tbsp. cold water 1 Tbsp. cornstarch 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries Combine water and cornstarch, mixing until smooth.

Add blueberries and cook until thick.

Cool. Spread glaze over cheesecake.

Chill until ready to serve

FIGS WITH GOAT CHEESE AND HONEY ½ French baguette, sliced Olive oil 4 oz. soft goat cheese (chevre) 1 pint fresh figs, sliced 2 Tbsp. honey Brush bread slices with olive oil. Place under the broiler for a few minutes, just until bread starts to toast.

Spread goat cheese on toasts and top with a few slices of figs, then drizzle with honey.

Place back under the broiler for a minute or two until the honey is just starting to bubble, being careful not to burn.

Serve.

FRESH FRUIT TART OR PIE You can use just one fruit for the topping or a variety.

Use a baked pie crust or make the cookie crust.

Cookie Crust: 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup sugar 2 egg yolks 2 cups all-purpose flour Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar; add egg yolks.

Slowly mix in flour.

Pat dough into the bottom of a tart pan or pie plate that has been coated with nonstick spray. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool. Crust can be made a day ahead.

Filling: 2 cups whipping cream ½ cup sugar

SOUTHERN FRUIT COBBLER After trying several recipes, this one is the best. It is easy and always taste good.

1 stick butter 1 cup self-rising flour 1 cup sugar 1 cup milk 4 cups blueberries, blackberries, peaches or other fruit, sweeten, if desired Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, optional In 11 x 9 x 2-inch pan melt butter. In a medium sized bowl, add milk, sugar and flour; mix thoroughly. Add to melted margarine and stir.

Pour fresh fruit over this mixture but do not stir.

Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.

Good served plain or with ice cream or whipped cream.

BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE WITH PECAN CRUST Pecan Crust 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 butter 1/2 cup chopped pecans Preheat oven to

PEACH POUND CAKE 3 cups flour 1 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 2 sticks butter, softened 2 cups sugar 4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 2 cups chopped fresh peaches Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease 10-inch Bundt pan with butter and sprinkle with sugar, shaking out the excess. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in bowl. Cream butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in vanilla and beat well.

Add flour mixture gradually, beating constantly until blended. Fold peaches into the batter.

Spoon into prepared pan. Bake 60 to 70 minutes or until golden brown. And a wooden pick insert-

as a memorial to his mother, but he never saw it completed. He died in the spring of 1961. Virginia continued to live at Blue Springs until her passing in 1995.

Callaway Gardens grew to become one of the top resorts in the country. It is still a beautiful, peaceful place to visit with family.

There is a lot to see

ed near the center comes out clean.

Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack to cool.

PEACHES AND CREAM SHORTCAKE ½ cup unsalted butter, softened ½ cup sugar 1 egg 1½ cups all-purpose flour 1½ tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. vanilla 4 cups sliced fresh peaches Filling 16 oz. container sour cream 2 egg yolks ½ cup sugar ½ tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. vanilla Topping 1½ cups heavy cream ¼ cup powdered sugar Fresh peach slices for garnish To make the cake, cream butter and sugar; add egg, beating well.

Combine flour and baking powder; add to creamed mixture, beating until just mixed. Stir in vanilla.

Pat mixture into a greased 9-inch spring form pan.

Arrange peach slices on top.

Combine filling ingredients; pour over peaches.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 5055 minutes or until edges are lightly brown. Cool and then chill.

Remove from pan.

Whip cream and add sugar. Spoon whipped cream over top. Garnish with fresh peach slices.

PAT’S BLUEBERRY CREAM PIE ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup cornstarch ½ tsp. salt 2 ½ cups milk 3 egg yolks 1 tsp. margarine 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries 1 tsp. vanilla 9-inch baked pie shell 1 cup whipping cream ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar Mix sugar, cornstarch and salt in saucepan. Beat egg yolks; add milk.

with the Day Butterfly Center, Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center, Robin Lake Beach, pioneer cabin and restaurants.

As muscadines come into season, you might just find a delicious southern pie to savor.

Meanwhile, look for muscadines at the farmer's market and bake Virginia Callaway’s Muscadine Pie at home.

Pour milk mixture into sugar mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick. Remove from heat; add margarine and vanilla.

Add blueberries. Cool, stirring occasionally.

Pour into pie shell.

Whip cream; add confectioner’s sugar.

Spread over pie; chill.

BLUEBERRY POPPY SEED BRUNCH CAKE A Winner of the Pillsbury Bakeoff Cake: 2/3 cup sugar ½ cup butter or margarine, softened 2 tsp. grated lemon peel 1 egg 1½ cups all-purpose or unbleached flour 2 Tbsp. poppy seeds ½ tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. salt ½ cup sour cream Filling: 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed, drained on paper towels 1/3 cup sugar 2 tsp. flour ¼ tsp. nutmeg Glaze: 1/3 cup powdered sugar 1 to 2 tsp. milk Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour bottom and sides of a 9 or 10 inch springform pan. In a large bowl, beat 2/3 cup sugar and butter until light and fluffy.

Add lemon peel and egg; beat 2 minutes at medium speed. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. In medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups flour, poppy seeds, baking soda and salt; add to batter mixture alternately with sour cream.

Spread batter over bottom and 1 inch up sides of greased and floured pan, making sure batter on side is ¼ inch thick.

In medium bowl, add filling ingredients; spoon over batter.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Cool slightly.

Remove sides of pan.

Glaze: In small bowl, combine powdered sugar and enough milk until glaze is of drizzling consistency; blend until smooth. Drizzle over top of warm cake.

Serve warm or cool.

Makes 8 servings.

A10 July 22, 2021

Sweetland Amphitheatre To Host Iconic R&B, Award-Winning Country Performers CONTRIBUTED BY PREMIER EVENTS The 2021 Sweetland Amphitheatre concert season kicked off on Friday, July 16, with a sold out show featuring Travis Tritt and Pryor & Lee. The venue is announcing plans for two more shows for the 2021 season featuring multi-award-winning performers in R&B and country music genres.

Located in the heart of historic downtown LaGrange in Boyd Park, the popular open-air concert venue will feature Boyz II Men on Sunday, Sept. 19, and Kip Moore on Friday, Oct. 8.

Boyz II Men remains one of the most iconic R&B groups in music history. They redefined popular R&B music with timeless hits and created some of the most celebrated classic

songs of the past two decades, including “End of the Road”, “I’ll Make Love to You”, “One Sweet Day”, “Motownphilly”. Throughout their 25-year career, Boyz II Men have won four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, three Billboard Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and more. The trio holds the distinction of being the best-selling R&B group of all time, with an astounding 64 million albums sold. For the past two decades, Boyz II Men have given fans a rich catalog of hits filled with smooth harmonies and enduring themes, their signature soulful multi-octave sound and incredible vocals. Ask any successful pop or R&B superstar which artists have inspired them – chances are Boyz II

Men will be at the top.

From Justin Timberlake and Usher, to Justin Bieber and Beyonce, the most successful stars in the industry look to Boyz II Men as their idols.

• Sept. 19 - Boyz II Men Gates open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Box office open at 4:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: Pit $89.50; Terrace Box - $79.50; Premium Reserved - $69.50; Reserved - $69.50; Lawn - $37.50.

Kip Moore splashed into the mainstream with the double-Platinum “Somethin’ ‘Bout a Truck” in 2012. He then followed up with three more bestselling No. 1 songs (“Hey Pretty Girl,” “Beer Money” and “More Girls Like You”), a trio of ambitious, critically acclaimed albums and

MOORE

BOYZ II MEN two gritty EPs. He tours the world headlining his own shows, earning acclaim and a fierce following as an all-in performer in each setting. The Georgia native has won three American Country Awards, one CMT Award and was the 2014 Country Music Association New Artist of the Year Award winner.

• Oct. 8 - Kip Moore Gates open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Box office open at 4:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: Pit $62; Terrace Box - $62; Premium Reserved $52; Reserved - $42; Lawn - $32.

Tickets for these two concerts go on sale Friday, July 23 at 10 a.m. through Sweetland Amphitheatre’s website at www.sweetlandamp.com. Tickets are currently on sale for additional shows for the 2021 Sweetland Amphitheatre concert season, including:

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN The Auburn Arts Association is currently presenting the Summer Show: Deja Vous at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC) through July 30. The 42 works were previ-

wanted to bring her love of DIY projects to create a community of like-minded individuals and novices to the crafting world in Lee County.

Additionally, she seeks to provide a place for people to express themselves through hand-crafted works.

“I’ve always been into crafts and art projects,” she said.

“So, it’s a passion that’s been inside See WORKSHOP, page A11

ously shown in past invitationals, juried and special exhibitions in the Art Gallery. A number of works were selected to compliment art activities, especially the Visual Arts Workshops and Art for Young Children sessions that are held at the JDCAC.

The Art Gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the JDCAC and upcoming exhibitions, you can follow the Auburn Art Association on Facebook and visit www.auburnalabama.org/arts.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

Do you have the urge to create while making memories with like-minded, creative people? AR Workshop Auburn is the place in Lee County that will foster your inhibitions.

AR Workshop Auburn is a doit-yourself (DIY) workshop located at Ogletree Village in Auburn. The workshop specializes in working with and supplying

raw materials for people to create their own home décor, according to AR Workshop Auburn Owner Kimeran Keahey.

“It’s a franchise based out of North Carolina and there’s about 150 workshops nationwide now,” she said. “We’re proud to able to bring it to Auburn because it’s such a fun place.”

Keahey started the shop in the winter of 2020 because she

please visit www. sweetlandamp.com or call 706-298-5434.

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 2,500 seat venue provides an intimate open-air concert setting for star-studded performances and community events within walking distance of restaurants, shops, hotels and attractions.

Jan Dempsey Arts Center Presents: Deja Vous

Work it out at

BY LOFTON WHEELES FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

• July 24 - Emmylou Harris with special guest Garrett Lee • July 31 Bethel Music • Aug. 8 - Styx • Aug. 14 - Amy Grant • Aug. 20 - Black Jacket Symphony Presents Hotel California • Aug. 28 - Steve Earle & The Dukes And Los Lobos.

Sweetland Amphitheatre’s 2021 concert season would not be possible without our amazing sponsors which include Kia, LaGrange Grocery, Vaughan Express, Mallory Agency, ETI, Wellstar, Emory Healthcare, city of LaGrange, Troup County, Bill Parr, Eley Digital, Houze & Associates, Thornton & Graham, P.C., Beacon Brewery, Visit LaGrange, Wingate by Wyndham, Courtyard by Marriott, Jackson Services and Southern Cart.

For more details on upcoming shows,

A11 July 22, 2021

Emergency Funds for Citizens Impacted by COVID-19 Emergency Housing, Utility Assistance Program Launched for Unincorporated Lee County CONTRIBUTED BY ARM The Lee County Commission and Alabama Rural Ministry (ARM) are excited to announce the launch of an Emergency Housing and Utility Assistance Program — a new program that will provide rental, mortgage and utility assistance to those citizens affected

by COVID-19. The official launch date for the Emergency Housing and Utility Assistance Pro-

WORKSHOP >>

FROM A10

me— I’ve just done it all my life. It’s kind of a fun way to be able to get together with community and to share that passion.

“I’m a creative person myself and it’s fun to share that, but it’s nice to have something in common with people … Our hands stay busy, and we really get to use them a lot. It’s a great place for community to come together.”

Community is a force that is necessary in the human experience and it is a big part of running a place like AR Workshop Auburn. It is also a big part of why Keahey said she does what she does.

“My favorite thing [about AR Workshop Auburn] is probably the people I get to meet,”

gram is July 26, 2021.

The Emergency Housing and Utility Assistance Program will provide income-eligible households rental, mortgage and utility payment assistance. The inability to cover these costs may result in an eviction of residence or the disconnection of utilities, leaving the individual(s) without housing, power, water or gas. The total maximum award will not exceed

$1,500 and can cover up to three months past due expenses.

Alabama Rural Ministry is a local non-profit focused on affordable housing, home repair and children’s ministry. ARM coordinates home repair efforts and children’s day camps in rural areas of Alabama. ARM is a faithbased organization with a mission to extend love to all.

Funding for the

program was provided to the Lee County Commission by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs COVID-19 Grant Program.

For more information, application and eligibility requirements, please visit us at www.arm-al. org/ covidassistance, or contact Lawton Vallely at 334-501-4276 extension 500 or lawton@arm-al. org.

she said. “It’s very personable and I feel like I’m having friends coming over to my house — to my space.

And we just make it very personal. So, it’s not so much work or a job as it is just getting to communicate with other people.”

However, there is something that made finding community challenging for many people across the country—the COVID-19 pandemic.

AR Workshop Auburn faced the impact that many local businesses had to go through because of the pandemic. However, AR Workshop Auburn is getting back to making a place for people to come together and craft.

“It’s been a big challenge to get people to come out to the

workshop because we opened right before COVID hit,” Keahey said. “It’s been slow trying to get people to come in, but people are getting vaccinated.

It’s nice to see people finally getting out more — so that helps.”

When looking at AR Workshop Auburn’s Facebook page, it is evident that the workshop gives people the opportunity to create many homemade products to make their living space feel more like a home. From blankets to a variety of wooden projects, AR Workshop Auburn will help you make it all.

“The blankets are a lot of fun to make, but probably my favorite are the wood projects because there are so many different ways you can personalize

them,” she said. “We have signs and trays and door hangers and porch signs and all kinds of different ways to use wood for home décor. That’s probably my favorite way to utilize all the raw materials because we can really personalize it to anybody.”

While the shop opened in the winter of last year, Keahey still envisions the workshop to be a place that gives the Lee County community a place to try something new in the form of crafting projects while making friends and finding a sense of community.

She said she also wants to spread the word about the workshop and branch out into the area so it reaches that potential.

“I’d like to get

more involved in [the] community,” she said.

“We have our projects — our projects are friendly for kids and adults and I’d love to be able to take some projects to some more festivals and community events to provide some entertainment for some people that might not

be able to come to AR Workshop Auburn. So, I’d love to be able to offer that to people who wouldn’t typically get to come in.”

To get more information about AR Workshop Auburn, visit the Facebook page, facebook.com/ arworkshopauburn.

Downtown Happenings July 22 — Live Music at La Cantina July 22 — at 5:30 p.m. — Cocktails & Conversations at John Emerald Distilling Company July 22 — at 5:30 p.m. — Fork & Pint Night at Red Clay Brewing Company July 23 — Caleb Gamble at Resting Pulse Brewing Company July 23 — Live Music at La Cantina July 24 — Kasey Kaschak at Resting Pulse Brewing Company July 24 — at 7 p.m. — Win a Box AFR - Sealed Event at Gear Gaming Opelika

A12 July 22, 2021

Habitat for Humanity Dedicates Family Home

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN-OPELIKA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Last Saturday, Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity dedicated home #70 to the Harris family.

Thank you to all of the sponsors and community partners that came out to welcome this family into their new home.

During the ceremony, both Angela and Venice Harris were rewarded with the keys to their brand new home!

Habitat homes are not simply given, they are wellearned. Our partner families work very hard to save a down payment, volunteer 500 hours to work on other homes and

their own, complete home ownership and financial classes and make a no-interest mortgage payment which is recycled to help build more homes. The Harris family has volunteered countless hours on their home and others. Angela and Venice also completed all of the interior and exterior paint jobs on their home. Painting a house usually takes hundreds of hours to do the interior and exterior, and requires the hands of several volunteers, but Angela, Venice and family friends painted everything on their home. This family has worked very hard to earn the title of homeowners

and we are excited for them to begin building equity towards stable futures.

Thank you Bishop Nolan Torbert of True Deliverance Holiness Church for sharing a word and offering the blessing over this home and this family during the ceremony. We are confident that God will continue to watch over them as they embark on this new journey.

Thank you Mayor Ron Anders and Habitat Board President Karen Turner for presenting the keys to this family and sharing the importance of partnership during this event.

We appreciate the

relationship that we have built with you and the city of Auburn government over the years.

This partnership has helped us to secure 11 lots in the Auburn Westview subdivision, which will allow us to continue to build 11 affordable homes in Auburn soon. Also, thank you Ward 1 Council Member Connie Taylor for your support during this event. We are truly grateful for all that the city of Auburn consistently does for Habitat.

The city of Auburn has helped us secure these lots, provide infrastructure to lots and consistently helps us in the building and permit

process. Together, we build affordable homes, community and hope.

Thank you to all of the sponsors who helped us build home #70. With your support, we were able to provide another home for another hardworking family.

We are truly thankful for each of our sponsors. Also, thank you to all of those who volunteered their time to build this home. It is a blessing to have such strong support from our community of volunteers and Habitat is very appreciative for each hand that has helped build this home.

We are grateful to be able to make an impact in our

community and we surely appreciate everyone who helped us as we built this home.

Thank you Board President Karen Turner for sharing the gift of the Holy Bible from our board with the Harris family.

Thank you Board Vice-President John Jones for sharing the housewarming gift on behalf of Auburn First Baptist Church.

Stay tuned to see all of the sponsors that were recognized during this dedication ceremony.

Also, be sure to stay connected with us by following our Facebook page, as we continue to strengthen our community.

A13 July 22, 2021

Blessed Are the Refreshers of Acts, where he was in a rented quarters receiving visits from everyone, this incarceration was much more severe and ominous. He was squirreled away in a remote location and BRUCE GREEN Teaching Minister at 10th only Onesiphorus had been successful in findStreet Church of Christ ing him (1:17). Of him, in Opelika Paul says, “he was not ashamed of my chains” aul’s second letter (v. 16). to Timothy was All of this tells us probably written that Rome (Nero) now no more than a couple regarded Paul as danof years after his first. gerous and was doing While Timothy was everything it could to still laboring away at Ephesus, Paul’s circum- limit his influence and cut off his communicastances had changed tion with others. He had quite dramatically. He was no longer in Mace- been through a preliminary hearing (4:16) and donia, but in prison was now awaiting trial. at Rome for a second His words make it clear time. And unlike his he didn’t expect it to turn house-arrest at the end out well (4:6ff).

P

With this as a backdrop, Paul writes 2 Timothy. He isn’t very far along before he speaks of Onesiphorus. In the midst of the suffering he is experiencing, he nonetheless wanted to tell Timothy about someone they both knew (Onesiphorus was from Ephesus – 4:19), who had served him above and beyond the call of duty.

It takes a person of great grace to be sensitive to something like this under the circumstances Paul was, and the apostle was up to it.

He speaks of how he was often refreshed by Onesiphorus. To be refreshed can be a contextual sort of thing.

If we’ve been through a long spell of dry, hot weather, then we’re refreshed by rain. If

we’ve been drenched for a week, we’re refreshed by sunshine. If we’ve worked hard, we’re refreshed by time off, and if we’ve had too much time off, work is refreshing. For Paul to have been refreshed often by Onesiphorus might mean that he was one of those attentive, intuitive people who knew what someone needed and acted on it.

If this was the case, he would have been as some would say, a breath of fresh air.

But there are other ways we can be refreshed. If we’ve reached the point of weariness in something and someone arrives as a reinforcement—that can certainly be refreshing. Or it can be as simple as someone doing something special for us (Philemon 20).

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN Whatever the case, God bless the refreshers!

We’ve known people like Onesiphorus and have been richly blessed by them, haven’t we?

Maybe they can read us like a book. They know what we need more than we do—and they can provide it. Or maybe they reinvigorated us by providing new passion and energy—or they just did something thoughtful. Whatever it was specifically—what a gift it was for Paul in such dire straits to have someone minister to him in this manner.

Blessed are the refreshers!

You can find more of Bruce's writings at his website: www.atasteofgracewithbrucegreen. com/Home/about-bruce.

CHURCH CALENDAR

Bible Verse of the Week

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.

"Do not say, 'I'll pay you back for this wrong!'

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

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

Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you." — Proverbs 20:22

CHURCH DIRECTORY APOSTOLIC HOLINESS Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance Inc. 28 Sanford Ave., Opelika 334-745-0210 God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528 Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley

334-710-2117 Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487 Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika

10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Destiny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

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

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

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

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley

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

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OPELIKA The following are held in-person and online on Sundays: Traditional Service in The Worship Center at 8:30 and 11 a.m.

Contemporary Service in The 3:16 Center at 9:45 a.m.

Evening Service in The Worship Center at 6 p.m.

Watch services online at fbcopelika.com.

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Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

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

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

A14 July 22, 2021

Any Rope Burns On Your Hands?

WALTER ALBRITTON

B

efore he met Jesus, Saul was a brilliant pharisee living in Jerusalem. After the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, Saul believed the growing number of people who called themselves followers of Jesus were a threat to Judaism. So alarmed was Saul that he became, in his own words, a persecutor of Christians, and began

arresting these dangerous Christians and putting them in jail.

That was Saul’s mission when he met the risen Christ on his way to Damascus.

Stunned by a bright light “from heaven,” Saul was led, blind and helpless, into Damascus. There a disciple named Ananias prayed for him; his eyesight was restored and he was “filled with the Holy Spirit.” Saul was baptized as he embraced the faith and his new mission – to proclaim the Gospel to the Gentiles. Nurtured by the small band of believers in Damascus, he began preaching in the synagogues that the Christ was the Son of God. But he had no

idea that his preaching would soon lead to humiliation.

The Jews became so angry with Saul’s preaching that they decided to kill him.

Luke, in the Acts of the Apostles, explains it this way: “Now, after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. But their plot became known to Saul.

And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.”

Suddenly, the proud scholar was a basket case! Knowing his former friends, the Jews, planned to kill him, he fears for his life. His new friends come up

with a plan of escape; they will put Saul in a large basket and in the dead of night lower it with ropes over the wall. Imagine how Saul felt. Questions filled his mind. Are the ropes strong? And who is going to hold the rope and make sure he does not fall to his death? His future was dependent upon a few nameless disciples who would hold the rope that held that basket.

How humiliating!

Fortunately for the Christian movement, Saul did escape and with a new life and a new name, he fulfilled the mission Christ gave him as the great Apostle Paul.

Paul’s basket is a symbol of what often

happens to those who follow Christ. There are occasions when each of us is a basket case needing the help of Christian friends. At other times each of us is called upon to hold the rope for others.

This lesson is clear: if you belong to Christ, you belong also to the others who belong to Christ, and you will often have rope burns on your hands! If you never have rope burns, as a result of holding the rope for others, then you do not truly belong to that fellowship known as the Body of Christ.

I have been a basket case more than once.

I know what it is like to be humiliated by

circumstances beyond my control. And I know the unspeakable joy of having friends get rope burns on their hands holding the rope for me until I recovered. The love of such friends prompts me to be available when someone in trouble needs me.

Take a good look at your hands. If you do not find some fresh rope burns on your hands, it may not be too late to offer your help to some hurting friend. Believe me, you will never be ashamed to see rope burns on your hand because you went out of your way to help a friend. Surely the cry of every heart is the same: When I am in the basket, please don’t let go of the rope!

M. Powell, and Deanna F. E. Marshall as family. For 23 years, we spent holidays, family events, the births of five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild together as a family.

Sam was known for his sarcasm (he had a Ph.D. in it), his odd sense of humor, mumbling under his breath and his collection of quirky treasures and keepsakes (mostly junk and things someone “might need”).

Every piece had a story. He could tell you where he got it, what he paid for it, what it was worth and why it was special to him (and likely nobody else).

Sam meant a lot to my mother. They fought and carried on like an old married couple.

Sam was always available to carry groceries inside, and all of my mom's "amazing" yard sale finds (while rolling his eyes and complaining under his breath). He also cared for Mom's dog, Ryder.

Sam "hated" that dog, but he always made sure Ryder was ok. Sam didn’t like hospitals, so when Mom was sick, he would stay home, watch Ryder, bring in the mail, and call Mom 100 times about every detail. Sam wasn’t

overly affectionate, but we knew he loved us.

He had to love us to put up with us.

Sam is survived by his beloved Delilah, her daughters, Liberty M. (Anthony) Powell, Deanna (Keri) Marshall. Five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; & brother, James Massingill, Jr. He also leaves behind many friends at the VFW 5404 and the Opelika American Legion Post 18. Max J. Marshall was so supportive and helpful during Sam's illness; we couldn't have gotten it all done without his help.

Sam enjoyed one last Coors Light on Thursday morning at 10 a.m. (it's 5 o'clock somewhere?). He told me it was "the best beer ever." When Sam gets to heaven, please tell him not to argue with Marilyn, to go smoke a cigarette, and have a cold beer. Sam was loved and appreciated more than we told him; I genuinely hope he knew it.

In lieu of flowers, if you feel so led, donate to The American Cancer Society, the VFW 5404, or the American Legion Post 18.

OBITUARIES –––––––

Shirley Faye Stough A funeral service for Shirley Faye Stough, 82, of Opelika, was held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 17, 2021, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with visitation one hour prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Senior Pastor Larry Doster is officiating. Interment was at Reeltown Cemetery at 1 p.m.

Mrs. Stough passed away Tuesday, July 13, 2021 in Auburn.

Shirley was a proud cosmetologist for over 40 years. She was a member of Central Baptist Church in Opelika and was blessed with many friends and neighbors.

She loved sharing God’s Word with children, was an avid artist, and enjoyed many afternoons with her coffee club girls.

Mrs. Stough is preceded in death by her husband Frank E. Stough, Jr., three sisters: Geneva Abercrombie, Margaret Bond and Brenda Sue Blackmon and two brothers: Bud Blackmon and Willie Blackmon.

She is survived by

two daughters: Connie Stough Baker (Tony) of Opelika and Tanya Stough Alongi (Robert, Jr.) of Huntsville, Alabama, four grandchildren: James Baker (Mechelle), Lauren, Robert III and Courtney Alongi, three great-grandchildren: Eli, Raylan and Kaitelyn Baker, two brothers: Bobby Blackmon (Pat) and Jerry Blackmo and many loved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice Angels Foundation in Auburn, or to the Alzheimer’s Association (Alabama Chapter).

–––––––

Sarahelen (Stain) Lindemann Born Jan. 21, 1931 in Long Island, New York, Daughter of Agnes Bartholomew Ingram Stain and Ray Washington Stain.

Survived by her daughter, Karin Elizabeth Lindemann of Opelika, her son, Ray Charles Lindemann and his wife, Vera C. Lindemann, granddaughters: Anastasia Marie,

Arianna Rhae and Anthea Sarah of Cleveland, Ohio, her sister, Elizabeth-Lee Gass and three nieces, grand-nieces and numerous cousins in Lee, Russell and Macon Counties.

Sarahelen graduated from the University of Montevallo in 1952 with a Bachelors Degree in Education.

She taught two years in Sylacauga, Alabama, two years in Rockland Lake, New York and five years in Cleveland, Ohio.

Sarahelen was a member of the Eastern Star Oglethorpe Chapter 122 of Sandy Springs, Georgia. She also was a member of the Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church in Atlanta. Sarahelen also frequented the Marvyn United Methodist Church.

Sarahelen passed peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones July 13, 2021.

Visitation was held at the Marvyn United Methodist Church on Friday July 16, 2021, at 1 p.m. and the service followed at 2 p.m. The service was followed by a graveside service at Ingram Family Cemetery located at 15106 SR-51 in

Opelika.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Lee County Humane Society or Compassus Hospice of Opelika, Alabama would be appreciated.

–––––––

Samuel Aaron Massingill Samuel Aaron Massingill was born Oct. 19, 1952, in El Paso, Texas. He died at his home in Opelika, after a brief illness on Friday, July 16, 2021, surrounded by his beloved family.

Sam was laid to rest in Rosemere Cemetery on July 17, 2021, surrounded by family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James H. Massingill Sr., and Martha Plant Massingill, and his brother, Byron “Breck” Massingill.

Having grown up in Opelika and attended Marion Institute for high school, Sam retired after 22 years of Army National Guard service. In addition to serving in the US, he served in Germany, Honduras, and Desert Storm. Sam thought of Delilah Marshall and her daughters, Liberty

1 OUT OF 10

ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING:

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

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

HELP STOP THE ABUSE

IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

Thereʼs no excuse for

ELDER ABUSE

“This project was supported by Subgrant #18-VA-VS-050 #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

A15 July 22, 2021

EAST ALABAMA HEALTH WELCOMES

EAST ALABAMA HEALTH WELCOMES

Brad Peden, M.D.

Chelsea Zimmerman, M.D.

CARDIOLOGY

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Brad Peden, M.D. recently joined the team at Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates. Dr. Peden earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and completed his residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He also completed a fellowship at UAB.

Chelsea Zimmerman, M.D. recently joined the team at Endocrinology and Metabolism of East Alabama. Dr. Zimmerman earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, and completed both her residency and pediatric endocrinology fellowship at the University of Florida.

Dr. Peden’s medical interests include cardiac CT and coronary calcium scoring. He chose to practice in the Auburn/Opelika area because while it is a growing community, it still has a small-town feel.

Dr. Zimmerman has received several awards, including the Audrey Lincourt Schiebler Award for Excellence in Child Advocacy and the Children’s Miracle Network Research Award. She has also participated in research on diabetes technology, trained school nurses and staff to care for children with diabetes, and volunteered at multiple camps for children with diabetes.

Dr. Peden and his wife, Lindsey, have two children, Henry and Harrison. In his spare time, Dr. Peden enjoys running, weight lifting, and doing Bible study with his family.

Dr. Peden is practicing at the Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates locations in both Opelika and Valley.

PINNACLE CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES 2601 VILLAGE PROFESSIONAL DRIVE

Dr. Zimmerman has been married to her husband, Arthur, for eight years. They have two children, Samuel and Hazel. In her spare time, Dr. Zimmerman enjoys hiking, baking, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Zimmerman is board certified in pediatrics and board eligible for pediatric endocrinology.

ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM

OPELIKA, AL 36801 334-528-5400

OF EAST ALABAMA 2420 VILLAGE PROFESSIONAL DR. OPELIKA, AL 36801 334-528-7270

PINNACLE CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES 1701 48TH STREET VALLEY, ALABAMA 36854 334-756-8425

eamc.org

eamc.org

A16 July 22, 2021

COMICS

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

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AHSAA Celebrates All-Star Week in Montgomery

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as assistant director.

Briggs could announce one or two more moves before having his staff completed.

The AHSAA mandates this as a "dead week", allowing teams to workout and condition, but restricting use a football or the holding of team drills. Most schools start fall practice Aug 2.

KICKOFF CLASSIC The AHSAA announced the four teams appearing in the 16th annual Kickoff Classic, at the Crampton Bowl in Montgomery. Last year's 4A State Champion Handley will battle Guntersville Thursday, Aug. 19, and Dothan will play Bob Jones, Friday Aug 20. The classic is played the first week of games and is the "official" start to the high school football season.

DIXIE BASEBALL SUMMARY All three Opelika Dixie Youth teams – Pee Wee, Minor and Ozone — were eliminated in their respective state tournament last week. All three fell in walk-off, one-run losses. The following are game results from district tournaments and stats tournaments.

See SPORTS, page B4

Auburn: Aug. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Opelika boys’ soccer player Ethan Neman and Opelika boys’ soccer coach Derek Hovell represented the Bulldogs at the 2021 AHSAA North-South All-Star soccer game in Montgomery on July 21.

Neman, a 5-foot10-inch rising senior, was selected for the All-Star South soccer squad when teams were announced on May 25 by Director of the Alabama High School Athletic Directors & Coaches Association (AHSADCA), Jamie Lee. “I’m really excited for this opportunity and really look forward to this game,” Neman said.

Hovell was recently selected to be a part of the three-man South coaching squad as a replacement for a coach who will be unable to

attend the event.

“I got a call from the director of all the coaches and stuff and he said he had heard my name tossed around and wondered if I could be a replacement for him,” Hovell said. “I said, ‘absolutely’. It’s a great honor.”

The opportunity to coach an all-star game is a first for Hovell; the fact that Neman was already named to the team made it an even easier thing to say yes to, he said.

“It makes it even better knowing you have one of your players on the team. It’s a little more personal that way.”

Neman, the fourth Bulldog to make the all-star game under Hovell, helped lead Opelika to a 11-5-2 overall record in 2021.

As one of only two returning Bulldog defenders who had varsity level experience

HOVELL

NEMAN

coming into the season, Neman contributed to seven team shutouts and was named defensive MVP at the end of the year.

“Ethan was the anchor of the defense this year,” Hovell said.

“To be able to step up in that role, in a defense that after the 2020 COVID year was depleted … him being the center defender in front of the goalkeeper, he really helped out in keeping all those clean sheets. He was able to play some offense

and score a few goals as well. He’s just a well-rounded player; a great kid, with a good attitude, who deserves to be on the team.”

All All-Star Week matches will be livestreamed over the NFHS Network and AHSAA TV Network with Tim Loreman and the Central-Phenix City High School NFHS School Broadcast Program producing the events and WOTM TV’s Vince Earley serving as executive producer.

Local Gymnasts Take National Stage

BY MADDIE JOINER FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER Opelika Power Athletics sent three young gymnasts to compete at nationals in Sandy, Utah last week. Olivia Battle, Ka’Liyah Hughley and Haiden Hamilton qualified for nationals and represented Opelika at the Stars and Stripes Championships for trampoline and tumbling.

All three gymnasts qualified for nationals after winning state titles and then placing

in their age division at regionals, where seven other states were competing.

Battle competed in the 9 and 10 age group,

while Hughley and Hamilton competed in the 11 and 12 group.

All three athletes placed in their flights at nationals, with a single PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY TIFFANY CHANDLER

he Alabama High School Athletic Department is hosting its annual "All-Star Week" in Montgomery this week. Each sanctioned sport will have a match, game or contest this week. The city of Montgomery hosts allstar week, including providing venues for each sporting event.

The AHSAA hosts numerous coaches meetings, clinics and guest speakers designed to educate coaches.

The week ends with the "Championship Banquet" and awards.

Each team to win a State Championship will be announced and receive a plaque as a memento for winning a state title.

This is the first official event for new Executive Director Alvin Briggs, who took over July 1.

Briggs restructured the staff at the AHSAA including the following: naming Kim Vickers as associate executive director, promoting Jamey Lee as assistant director, moving Brandon Dean to lead the High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association, hiring Devin Booth as assistant director /AHSADCA and hired Jeff Seegers

Lee County: Aug. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

INSIDE • OPELIKA SCHOOLS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • COMMUNITY SPORTS

PHOTOS CONTRIBTUED BY DEREK HOVELL

D. MARK MITCHELL

Opelika: July 27 at 4:30 p.m.

Opelika Soccer Represents at NorthSouth All-Star Game

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

ON THE MARK

School Board Meetings

flight being around 10 to 15 athletes. Hamilton medaled and took sixth place out of 20 competing in the male division. Battle and Hughley placed around the halfway point of 70 female athletes, with Battle finishing No. 38 and Hughley finishing No. 34.

Opelika Power Athletics director Tiffany Chandler is beyond proud of her young athletes and what they accomplished at the national level.

“It’s phenomenal,” See GYMNASTS, page B2

Excellence. Innovation. Compassion.

East Alabama's "Go-To" Center For Orthopaedic Care Auburn 1800 Lakeside Circle, Auburn Opelika 18 Medical Arts Center 121 North 20th Street, Opelika

www.theorthoclinic.com

334-749-8303 1-800-327-6519

B2 July 22, 2021

Register for Youth Fall Sports in Opelika-Auburn

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM Registration for a number of fall youth sports and sporting events in OpelikaAuburn is now open.

Opelika Midget/Youth football registration began on July 12 and is open until Aug. 13. Contact

Patrice Lipscomb (Plipscomb@opelika-al.gov) for more information.

Flag Football registration is open until Aug. 14. Contact Bobby Nix (bnix@ opelika-al.gov) for more information.

Fall soccer registration for children age 3 through seventh grade begins on Aug. 2 and runs until Aug.

16. Contact Missy Martin (mmartin@ opelika-al.gov) for more information.

Midget cheerleading for fourth through seventh graders is open now until Aug. 14. Contact Pam Drive (pdriver@opelika-al.gov) for more information.

SportsPlex Kids Triathlon & Small Fry Triathlon registration

is open for children ages 6 to 15. The event is going to be held on Aug. 7 at the Opelika SportsPlex & Aquatics center.

Registration can be completed here: www.sportsplextriforkids.com/?fbclid=IwAR27wbMEwU8P0Fe90MhIKIQh51IRE-GQ9R1Qb7h_egPi-p3sCV3dENwlUh.

Auburn Fall soccer registration for children ages 4 to 18 is open now until July 29. Link to register: www.auburnalabama.org/soccer/ youth.

Youth f lag and tackle football registration is open until July 29. The tackle football league is open for children 8 to 12 years old. The

f lag football league is open for children 6 to 12 years old. For more information, visit: www.auburnalabama.org/football/.

Cheerleading for youth in first through fourth grade is open until July 29. For more information, visit: www.auburnalabama.org/athletics/youth-sports/ cheerleading/.

Opelika DB Stinson Decommits From AU PHOTO BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The smallest SEC recruiting class of 2022 got even smaller last week.

Opelika’s Jarrell Stinson, a 2022 defensive back prospect – the first prospect to commit to Auburn in the 2022 class – announced he was decommiting form Auburn and reopening his recruitment process.

Stinson declared his intentions to sign with the Tigers on Dec. 14 of last year, before Bryan Harsin and his staff were hired.

The 5-foot-10, 160-pound rising senior is rated a 3-star prospect by 247Sports Composite rankings. They list him as the 20th best recruit in Alabama and 45th best corner overall in 2022 class.

In his junior season, Stinson was a defensive leader who helped the Bulldogs

Stinson (No. 2) and the Opelika defense celebrate a touchdown against Wetumpka in the first round of the AHSAA 6A football playoffs.

reach the third round of the playoffs before ultimately losing to Saraland, 46-27.

With his 95 tackles and one interception, Stinson was a big part of an Opelika defense that allowed an average of just 15

points per game to its opponents in 202021. Furthermore, Stinson showcased his versatility and playmaking ability with two punt returns for touchdowns over the course of the season. Stinson was

Auburn’s Nix to Host Family Football Camp

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM Auburn Quarterback Bo Nix is using the NCAA’s new name, image and likeness rules to his benefit once again.

The rising junior quarterback recently announced that he, his dad, his brother and his grandfather will be hosting a QB skills camp later this month. Quarterbacks from the third through 12th grades can sign up to participate in this one-day camp on Wednesday, July 28, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Pinson Valley High School, Nix’s alma mater.

“I’m extremely excited to announce the 1st ever QB Eleveate by Nix skills and development camp!” Nix said in an Instagram post on July 15.

According to the “QB Elevate by Nix” website “campers will learn QB technique and fundamentals through drills and video as well as character, leadership and mental preparation for the QB position.”

Nix is not the first Tiger to take advantage of the NCAA’s new NIL rules in the form of a football camp.

Earlier in July, Auburn linebacker Owen Pappoe, safety Smoke Monday, running back Shaun Shivers and LSU transfer quarterback TJ Finley (and presumed backup for Nix) announced their own intentions to hold football camps on July 24 in Montgomery, and July 31 in Birmingham.

However, Nix’s camp is a rare opportunity for local footballers to learn under the tutelage of an entire family of quarterbacks.

Bo is a two-time state champion at the high school level, and has started every game at Auburn over the past two years.

His father, Patrick Nix, played for the Tigers from 199295, and was recently named the eighth best quarterback in Auburn history according to bleacherreport.com.

Since then, he has gone on to join the elite ranks of high school coaching in Alabama, finding great success at Pinson Valley and now Central High School in Phenix City.

Conrad Nix (grandad), was a high school coach for almost four decades (1971-2009), earning 299 career wins and two state titles in a career that spanned across six schools in Alabama and Georgia.

Caleb Nix (brother) See NIX, page B3

later named firstteam All-Area by the OA News and made first-team All-State.

Outside of football, Stinson is also a track & field athlete for the thriving Opelika program. He won the

GYMNASTS >> FROM B1 Chandler said. “It shows what our youth can do today at such a young age. It shows the younger athletes in our facility what they are capable of and that dreams do come true.”

All three athletes put in almost two months of additional practices to prepare for nationals, as regionals finished back in May. The rest of the athletes at Opelika Power Athletics were finished for the season, but Battle, Hughley and Hamilton spent their time perfecting routines and cleaning up their form.

“It shows the discipline and the commitment to everyone, not even just inside the gym, but also outside the gym; the discipline and commitment that they have for their sport.

I think that’s something that our world today needs more of,” Chandler said.

About Opelika Power Athletics: Opelika Power Athletics is an Opelika Parks and Rec facility

Alabama 6A outdoor 100-meter (10.52), 200-meter (21.22) and 400-meter (47.74) championships in May of 2021; the 6A indoor 60-meter (6.94), and indoor 400-meter (48.85) championships in

for gymnastics, cheer and tumbling. They offer recreational programs as well as competitive programs starting as soon as a child can walk to 18 years old.

The gym houses around 350 athletes, with around 260 of them being recreational. The recreational programs are set up in eight-week sessions, with athletes coming in one day a week for an hour. Recreation classes range from beginner to advanced.

Once an athlete reaches a more advanced level, the gym encourages them to move to the competitive side of the gym. The competitive side is a year-long commitment, with athletes signing

February of 2021.

Now that Stinson is no longer tied to the Tigers, teams will be ramping up their recruiting efforts.

Some possible places to keep an eye on are UCF and Florida. Gus Malzahn, the coach at Auburn when Stinson originally committed, is now at UCF; Wesley McGriff, the defensive backs coach at Auburn at the time of Stinson’s commitment, is now at Florida. Stinson has already been busy this summer with official visits to both schools in June.

All told, Stinson has racked up 14 scholarship offers from various school across the country.

Stinson’s brother, Jaylen Stinson, is a sophomore safety at Duke and was a three-time allarea and two-time all-state selection during his time with Opelika.

contracts before joining a team. Since the competitive side is more advanced, athletes must have prior trampoline or tumbling training.

Registration for the fall sessions at Opelika Power Athletics opens July 26, with the session starting August 9. All information regarding classes offered, times and prices can be found on the Opelika Parks and Rec website at www.opelika-al. gov/341/Parks-Recreation. There, you will find the Park Bench Activity guide that has all the Opelika Power Athletics' classes listed.

If you have any additional questions, you can also email Tiffany Chandler at tchandler@ opelika-al.gov.

B3 July 22, 2021

Auburn Football: Anticipation, Excitement and Something New Try and picture it.

Your alarm goes off bright and early on Saturday morning. The ringing is loud and annoying but your excitement for what the day brings is enough to make you jump out of bed. It’s September. It’s Saturday.

It’s game day. It’s time for Auburn Football.

As your flip through the TV channels, you get dressed; in your Auburn jersey with your gameday buttons. With your orange and blue shaker in hand, you walk out the door towards Toomer’s corner.

“War Eagle” is all you hear from strangers as nobody can contain their excitement for kickoff.

After a year of no tailgating, no watch parties, only students in the stands, no band on the field and no Auburn family filling The Plains, Tiger fans are ready. Ready for kick-off. Ready to see their Tigers from the bleachers of Jordan-Hare.

Ready to see the eagle fly.

Ready for Bodda Getta and the fight song. Ready for a new era under Bryan Harsin.

Last year was, as

everyone has said, “unlike any other”. But as the world returns to normalcy, so does Auburn.

Toomer’s Corner will finally be filled with waves of orange and blue. The green space will once again be filled with so many white tents that you can no longer see grass. Fans will be able to see their favorite players in the famous Tiger Walk. The trees of Toomer’s will (hopefully) be covered in toilet paper. Jordan-Hare will be rocking.

Game day anywhere is fun; Game days in Auburn are unlike any other. The Auburn family welcomes everyone with a strong "War Eagle" and it makes Auburn feel like home. It’s hard not to smile as you approach Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Walking through the concourse, then out of the tunnel to see the green field and bright sunshine is as good as Christmas morning, maybe better.

September is hot and you’re bound to get sweaty, but after a year of watching from home, no one will care about that.

Everyone is just happy to be back.

As fans start to pack

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

BY MADDIE JOINER FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

Bryan Harsin watches on at Auburn's 2021 A-Day spring football game.

the stands, everyone’s excitement grows.

The best part of game day is about to happen — the eagle flight.

She circles the field, and the crowd shouts a loud “WAAAAARRR EAGLE HEY!” It’s officially game time.

The hype videos start playing and the band takes the field — finally.

Out of everything we missed last year, the Auburn Marching Band not taking the field was

near the top of my list of things to be upset about.

Nothing compares to the feeling when the fight song starts playing.

The stadium announcer shouts, “This is the Auburn University Marching Band!” and the stadium roars at a deafening pitch. You can’t hear a thing. Fans wave their orange and blue shakers and scream so loud their throats will hate them the next day — if not for the next week.

The Tigers take the field for kickoff and finally, after what felt like eons, Auburn football and the Auburn game day experience reach its zenith.

After a year of no game-day festivities, Auburn fans should be excited for Sept. 4.

Excited to be back in Jordan-Hare and back to a real game-day experience. Excited to watch their Tigers play a 12-game season. Excited

to see all the things we didn’t see last year.

This year will be different — but in all the right ways. After an almost empty Jordan-Hare last year, a packed one will be so loud that you’ll need earplugs. The team feeds off fan energy and crowd noise, and there will be plenty of it this year.

Tailgates will be everywhere. Bathroom lines will be insane. Parking will be nonexistent. This is different than last year – but better.

Adding to the difference is the arrival of firstyear head coach Bryan Harsin.

Change can be scary, but Auburn needed change. Harsin brings a breath of fresh air to The Plains. With a new coaching staff, playing scheme and recruiting tactics, the Harsin era is something to be excited about. It’s something new and it’s something different. But get excited Auburn fans because football is almost here.

They always say, “better the devil you know than the devil you don’t”, but I’m excited to get to know this one.

Jordan-Hare, see you soon.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / OPELIKA OBSERVER

NIX

>> FROM B2 is a rising senior at Central High School. Caleb started at QB for most of last season and currently holds five collegiate offers.

The cost is $80 per participant and students can be signed up for the camp at qbelevatebynix.com.

Spots are limited and registration must be paid in advance.

Nix fakes a handoff in Auburn’s spring A-Day football scrimmage.

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B4 July 22, 2021

Dr. Moisés A. Bernal to Talk on Fish Populations and Global Warming CONTRIBUTED BY SHAWNEE MCKEE / OLLI Dr. Moisés A. Bernal, Auburn University Biological Sciences assistant professor, will present “How Do Marine Fishes Respond to Global Warming: Perspectives for Upcoming Decades” at an OLLI at Auburn Brown Bag on Wednesday, July 28. His presentation will be streamed live on OLLI at Auburn’s Facebook page at noon (CST).

Bernal’s lab focuses on understanding the

ecological and evolutionary traits that determine how fish populations respond to natural and human-induced stressors.

Key questions the lab addresses are: 1) What are the metabolic drawbacks associated with ocean warming in marine fishes? 2) What is the acclimation capacity of marine fishes to projected climate change scenarios and what epigenetic mechanisms are involved?

3) What is the influence of environmental history on the response of

fishes to fluctuating conditions? The lab’s ultimate goal is to increase understanding of the future of marine fish populations in a changing planet.

Bernal, a native of Panama, is an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University. He holds a B.S. in Environmental Biology

from the University of Panama, and a Ph. D. in Marine Science from the University of Texas at Austin. Bernal held postdoctoral appointments at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia (two years), and later at State University of New York at Buffalo (one year). His special interests

are associated with understanding the effects of environmental fluctuations on marine fishes, especially climate change.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) hosts its live Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series from noon to 1 p.m. on OLLI at Auburn’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ OLLIatAuburn. The free program is open to the public.

OLLI at Auburn is a program of the Office

of the Vice President for University Outreach.

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

For more information or to learn about becoming a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service assistant or sponsor, contact Shawnee McKee, OLLI administrative support, at 334-844-3146, olli@ auburn.edu, or visit the website at www.olliatauburn.org.

RJG Partners with SUSCC CONTRIBUTED BY RJG RJG is excited and honored to partner with Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) to bring RJG's injection molding training to the Center for Integrated Manufacturing.

SUSCC offers a newly updated classroom and lab space, so RJG can provide students with the latest in hands-on training technology.

There are currently three fully equipped RJG injection molding machines in the facility along with a large variety of auxiliary equipment and robotics.

Courses taught in this facility include

SPORTS

>>

FROM B1 Ozone All-Stars (11-12 year-olds): Opelika swept Auburn in the District 10 tournament played at Duck Samford Park in Auburn. Opelika won the first game 10-6, the second 10-0. In the state tournament, Opelika finished 2-2. Opelika won the first game against East Tuscaloosa, winning 15-1.

They then lost 3-2 to Troy, before beating Rogersville 8-3. Opelika was eliminated by Gordo in the next game, losing 9-8.

Fundamentals of Systematic Injection Molding, DECOUPLED MOLDING® Workshop, Master Molder® I and II, Advanced eDART® Training and more.

Courses are led in person by experienced RJG instructors.

"We are thrilled to have this opportunity to work with such a prestigious center for continued manufacturing education," said Shane Vandekerkhof, director of Training and Consulting at RJG. "We always strive to offer our students positive environments equipped with the latest technology to promote growth and learning that they can

immediately put to use.

We strongly believe that SUSCC offers just that."

renowned as the premier Systematic Injection Molding company in

"We are very excited to partner with a company as highly regarded as RJG," said Southern Union President Todd Shackett. "They are

Minor All-Stars (9-12 year olds): Opelika split two games with Auburn in the District 10 tournament at Duck Samford park. Opelika won the first game over Auburn Blue, 22-9. Auburn Orange got revenge in the next game, beating Opelika 11-8. The Minor All-Stars then went 1-2 in state. Opelika lost the first game to Andalusia 22-9.

They then bounced back with a dominant 16-0 win over Gordo. TaylorRehobeth ended Opelika’s season with a 3-2, seven-inning win.

Pee Wee All-Stars (7-8 year olds): The Pee Wee All-Stars played in the state tournament hosted

by Greenville. Opelika finished 3-2, losing on a walk-off single in the elimination game.

Opelika first won, 5-3, against Mobile Municipal American. They then lost 16-9 against AUM Green.

The following game was a 3-1 win over Clanton; That was followed by a 6-4 victory over Hueytown. Opelika was eliminated by losing 8-7 in seven innings to Troy.

OPELIKA

the industry and their expertise will help bring our program to the next level. In my past manufacturing roles, I have utilized their programs

for further developing injection molding engineers and technicians and now I am looking forward to seeing our students and industrial partners benefit from this opportunity."

Courses are available now. Visit RJG's website to see the full schedule.

About Southern Union State Community College: Southern Union State Community College, an open admission, public two-year college and member of the Alabama Community College System, provides quality and relevant teaching and learning in academic, technical and health science programs that are affordable,

accessible, equitable and responsive to the diverse needs of their students, community, business, industry and government.

About RJG: RJG offers custom, end-to-end injection molding solutions to help organizations transform their operations through increasing efficiency, reducing waste and producing higher quality products faster. RJG's deep passion and knowledge of plastic allows them to provide unmatched customer experience and success through a unique combination of training, technology and consulting.

BASEBALL CAMP OHS baseball coach Zach Blatt, s hosting a youth baseball camp July 26-28 at OHS baseball field. The cost of the three-day camp is $75.

Each participant receives a cap and t-shirt and will have snacks and drinks during the four hours each day. You can pre-register for the baseball camp by going to twitter @baseballopelika. You can pay the entree fee in cash or check.

HIGH SCHOOL MEDIA DAYS Twenty high school football teams will be

on hand for the fourth annual "FOX Sports the Game High School Media Days" presented by the Orthopedic Clinic, at the Event Center Bottling Plant in downtown Opelika.

AHSAA Executive Director Alvin Briggs will lead off Tuesday morning while AISA Athletic Director Roddy Beck starts Wednesday.

Teams include, Opelika, Auburn, Lee-Scott, Beauregard, Smiths Station, Loachapoka, Beulah, Springwood, Valley, Lanett, LaFayette

and many other schools within a 90-mile radius.

Fans can listen on FOX Sorts the Game 910-1310 am, online at foxsportsthegame.com and can be seen LIVE on WOTM TV (Channel 80 on Charter).

Media Days start at 8 a.m. each day.

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

B5 July 22, 2021

A Teacher’s Teacher in Celebrating Children She made you feel that you were the only student in her class as she addressed our ideas and learning needs. What a wonderful foundation she provided for each teacher and the future of each classroom of children that this teacher would teach. Her humble enthusiasm for learning, positive encouragement, as well as time spent with each of her students no matter what age was a teacher’s dream of an education professor.

She encouraged her stu“There is a time for everything, and a season for dents to apply what they every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1. were learning by doing age-appropriate lesson plans, creating and imstudent teachers, but no, y mother was proving playgrounds, as it was her professor, Dr. in her 50’s well as celebrating the Jane Moore. She said when she went lives of the children we back to school at Auburn Jane was such a good teach. listener and was her best University in order to We do have a few cheerleader in her educa- weeks before school renew her teaching cerstarts that we as families tificate in the Department tion studies. of Education. This was I too became an educa- can spend time celebratthe 1970s, and being an tion student of Moore’s. ing our children. Like older student, she needLike my mother, I was the old saying goes, so encouraged as a “Take time to smell the ed encouragement that teacher learning what roses”. We as adults can she would make it with young children needed take time to celebrate her younger colleagues. in motor development our children. Why wait After about three weeks and learning to move. till your child or your for my “golden eagle” As a student, Dr. Moore children have their birthmother, I constantly celebrated who you are heard the name Jane day? Celebrate their life as a student teacher and as her favorite friend. every day in little ways listened closely to each I thought that maybe it and you will be surprised student teacher’s ideas. was one of the younger at what a joyful journey

M

you will take through the eyes of your child.

Usually in the summer, our lives have slow down quite a bit – the children aren’t in school. T-I-M-E spells love to your child or children.

Time spent with your young child or children is something that they will always remember. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or plan so many activities in their lives to keep them happy. Having mom, dad or any other important adult in their life is really all a child’s heart desires. Too, time spent with your child contributes to healthy growth, teaches them to positively interact with others and gives them a sense of feeling special and secure. I have listed a few of tried and true ways to celebrate the life of your child. I hope these help.

With young children, those brightly crayoned colored pictures done at school or at home are your child’s treasure from their hands and heart for you to “ooh” and “ahhh” over. If you can’t make it out with a ton of wet glue or scribbling – rave a lot of positive comments over this because this is their

masterpiece to you. What a conversation maker to discuss every little detail of their picture. It doesn’t take that long – just a focused eye and ear is all your child needs to feel like they are your little queen or king. When you spend that special quality time with your child, just not half-listening, but focusing and celebrating them, it makes your child feel so very, very special. Notice the green leaves or small flowers your child clutches tight in order to give to you.

In my interactions with young children they delight in giving something special which is straight from their hands and hearts to we adults.

Too a simple hug from mom or dad can crown your child with joy, happiness and security. The poem “Here comes a Hug”, author unknown, has a lot of good children's advice when it says “A hug can soothe a small child’s pain, and bring a rainbow after the rain. So stretch those arms without delay and give your child a hug today.” What a simple gesture of celebrating your child!

If you have more than one child, set a day in a

week where that child celebrates his/her day with mom and dad. It doesn’t have to take long at all. It can simply be a walk in the park or around the house just you and that child. It can simply be to go get an ice cream cone with the child who is celebrating their day or even to have a special seat next to mom or dad at the dinner table or in the car. Taking your child to a special lunch just you and them will bring a beaming smile to your child. Your child will look forward to their day week after week. Read their favorite story at bedtime. They can fall off to sleep feeling so very, very special.

With your older children celebrate their day by listening and engaging in activities they enjoy like ball, board games, looking at cars, building model cars, clothes shopping, etc. And really just listening and positively receiving their ideas and giving them your full undivided attention will be the best celebration of all.

Last but not least, express to your child from your heart how they have truly made a difference See PINYERD, page B6

Last Call for AU Day STEM Camps

BY WIL CREWS SPORTSCREWS@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM Auburn University Day School’s Summer STEM camps for children age 3-8 are coming to a close.

However, two camps are still scheduled to take place as the summer winds down: STEM Cooking Camp, from July 26-29 and STEM Fables & Fairy Tales Camp, from Aug. 2-5.

Each of these threeday camps cost $159, run from 12:15 to 3:30 p.m., include all materials and healthy snacks. There is also a picnic and play lunch option (11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.) that is

available for an extra $20 per week.

These camps offer a unique opportunity for children of a young age to experience concept-based, process-oriented and scaffolded learning.

Auburn Day School also offers STEM camp-in-a-box, which its website describes as “the perfect gift for hands-on learning.”

Two boxes are available for purchase for $41.28: STEM cooking box and STEM fables and fairy tales box (for ages 3-8). According to its website, upon ordering, boxes will ship within three business days or can be picked up for free at Auburn Day School (1199 S.

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To learn more, visit: www.auburndayschool. com/#/.

To register your child for a camp, visit: www.docs. google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLSc50ul0jwoIcYROyjpaUh1stYbFIsysIX86Zdn8x02c7EnitA/ viewform.

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B6 July 22, 2021

Auburn Student Named DYW of Lee County CONTRIBUTED BY THE LCDYW The 2022 Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County Awards Program was held on Saturday, at Parkway Baptist Church in Auburn.

High school senior girls from across the county joined together to participate and compete for college scholarships as well as the opportunity to represent Lee County at the Alabama Distinguished Young Woman Program in January of 2022.

The nine young women competing were evaluated by a panel of five judges in the following categories: Scholastics (25%), Interview (25%), Talent (20%), Fitness (15%) and Self-Expression (15%). Participants have been practicing and preparing at Nix Dance Studio with choreographer, Kasey Shepherd, for the group

PINYERD

>>

FROM B5 in your life. Express to them no matter how young they are by note or verbally how they have brought happiness to you and others. Yes, these children are your child but they are separate, unique individuals. Helen Keller’s quote is so true, (keep in mind she was blind, deaf and at one time could not speak), “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows.” With the child’s song – “Look all the world over, there’s no one like you, no one

routines. Interview and talent workshops were held in over the last month as well.

All workshops and events focus on the “Be Your Best Self” program which includes: Be Healthy, Be Ambitious, Be Involved, Be Responsible, Be Studious.

The 2022 winner was Anslee Tatum, daughter of Crawford and Charmoin Tatum, from Auburn High School. First Runner-up was Caroline Erickson from Auburn High School and second runner-up was Erin Kim from Lee-Scott Academy.

Category Winners included were: Be Your Best Self Essay Winner – Clara Ragan Spirit Award Winner voted on by participants – Sophie Marino Interview Winners – Anslee Tatum and Caroline Erickson Scholastics Winners – Erin Kim and Clara Ragan

LEFT, MARY HELEN MILLER (LEE COUNTY DYW 2021 AND AL DYW 2021), RIGHT, ANSLEE TATUM (NEW LEE COUNTY DYW 2022)

LEFT TO RIGHT, CAROLINE ERICKSON (1ST RUNNER UP), MARY HELEN MILLER (DYW 2021), ANSLEE TATUM (WINNER DYW 2022), ERIN KIM (2ND RUNNER UP)

Talent Winners – Anslee Tatum and Caroline Erickson Fitness Winners – Breckin Gould and

Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun,

Caroline Erickson Self Expression Winners – Erin Kim and Anslee Tatum.

The Distinguished

transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments.

like you”, is so very true. Encourage your child to be uniquely who they are. Cherish and celebrate each day and on their special day celebrate what makes them unique. Start early and your child will be your friend for life. I want to thank the late Dr. Jane Moore for making such a big difference in so many of we teachers’ lives in knowing that we have learned so much in celebrating the future of young childrens’ lives by her model of how to reach out and teach!

Beth Pinyerd Classroom Observer

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B7 July 22, 2021

O

Back 2 School Celebration

n July 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County and The Knee High Foundation came together to throw its “Back 2 School” celebration. Kids were able to get bookbags, a haircut and grub out on lots of food. Right now, the Boys and Girls Club hopes to raise money for new, high-tech equipment. Donate to bgcleeco.org and help equip kids for a brighter future.

PHOTOS BY ABBEY CRANK / FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

B8 July 22, 2021

CONTRIBUTED BY LEE COUNTY LITERACY COALITION

Lee County Literacy Coalition Announces New Learning Project

Illiteracy in today’s children is tied to their parent’s literacy experiences.

Lee County Literacy Coalition’s (LCLC) Legacy Learning Project will engage families with activities and instruction to improve overall literacy. The goal is to empower parents with tools to improve their literacy; share activities to be incorporated in daily practices and engage and bond with their child to promote reading.

This project will

share available resources in the community to further literacy goals for the family. Breakout sessions will be facilitated on-site and grouped by grade and/or reading level. Literacy coaches will connect with individual families one-on-one, as needed. Through consistent engagement, parents will gain educational support, parenting tools and activities to improve their child’s learning experience.

This free project begins on Thursday,

July 22, at 6 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center located a 213 Carver

Ave. in Opelika.

Dinner will be provided. Monthly sessions will be

full of activities, resources and so much fun. Families completing the program will be gifted a starter library for their homes. This project is funded by a grant received from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation.

Other partners include the City of Opelika Parks and Recreation and the Carbon Academy.

Let’s build a better future together! For more information or to register call 334705-0001 or email info@leecountyliteracy.org.

About the Lee County Literacy

Coalition: LCLC is a non-profit agency dedicated to helping adults learn to read, write and use mathematics and computers at a level necessary to succeed and thrive. free services include one-to-one tutoring for reading, writing, math, computer and GED preparation for adults in the Lee County and surrounding areas.

Workshops in financial, health, and digital/workplace literacy are also offered. Learn more at www.leecountyliteracy.org.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

July 22, 2021

Thursday, July 22, 2021

Inside the Statehouse Bibb Graves the Education Governor

M

STEVE FLOWERS

ost states have one General Fund Budget. We are only one of five states that have two.

Some of you have asked why we have two budgets — one for the General Fund and one for Education. Here is why.

During the era of the Great Depression and even afterward, education in Alabama was woefully underfunded and that is really being generous to simply say underfunded. Our schools were similar to a third-world country. We had two separate systems, one for white students and one for black students. Many rural schools were one-room shanties like folks used in the 1800’s, like Blab schools, no air condition, wood-burning stoves for heat. There were no buses to transport children, so they really did walk to school, barefooted, many times miles to and from. This was for the white schools. You can only imagine what an abysmal education was afforded black kids. Many times teachers were not even being paid. They were given script notes in hopes of getting paid in the future.

We had a governor come along named Bibb Graves that made it his mission to make education a priority in Alabama.

He and the Legislature created the Special Education Trust Fund Budget.

They earmarked two tax revenues to be used for the new Education Budget.

Education was to be the recipient of the state sales tax and the state income tax, which was a new tax system idea just created by the federal government.

Little did Graves know that today, these two revenue streams would be the largest source of revenue for the state. That little Special Education Fund Budget now dwarfs the General Fund by over a two-to-one amount.

When I was first elected to the Legislature in 1982, the General Fund and Education budgets were 50/50 dead even. Today, the budgets the Legislature will pass are at least 75% Education and around 25% General Fund.

Graves built an indelible legacy as the Education Governor. His efforts also

enhanced higher education in the state.

He established teacher’s colleges at Troy, Florence, Jacksonville and Livingston, along with enhancing funding at the State’s two flagship institutions.

The University of Alabama and, at the time, the Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now Auburn University, were recipients of new education dollars.

Every university in the State has a primary building usually in the center of the campus named after Graves. That is quite appropriate because Graves left an education legacy as governor.

He may very well be Alabama’s greatest Governor. In fact, he was our only two-term governor between 1901 and 1954. Alabama law did not allow governors to succeed themselves. Therefore, they would have to wait out four years to run again. Graves was governor from 1927 to 1931 and again 1935 to 1939.

The only other two-term governor in the no succession era was James E. “Big Jim” Folsom. He also had an indelible legacy.

Many of the rural roads in the state were dirt and impassable when the rains would come. Most folks in the state farmed for a living. When the roads washed out they could not get their crops to the market, so their year-long work was washed out. Big Jim knew the plight of these farmers, he was the little man’s and rural man’s big friend. Big Jim paved almost every rural road in the state with his legendary Farmto-Market Road Program. Ole Big Jim has a legacy as Governor.

His son, Jim Folsom, Jr., has a legacy as governor. Even though he was only Governor for two years, he brought Mercedes to Alabama. The German company now builds more of their luxury automobiles at their Vance-Tuscaloosa plant than anywhere in the world. This initial Mercedes coupe by Folsom was the impetus for Hyundai, Honda and now Toyota-Mazda making Alabama the home of automobile manufacturing.

With these facilities come major spin-off accessory manufacturing plants. We are now the second-largest automobile manufacturing state in America and are poised to supersede Michigan and become number one in the next few years.

Some Governors have left a legacy.

Bibb Graves, “Big Jim” Folsom, and Jim Folsom, Jr. are three that have left their mark on Alabama history. Graves has a legacy as Alabama’s Education Governor.

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.

Citizens Speak Out Against Proposed Rental Registration Ordinance

BY MICHELLE KEY PUBLISHER Several Opelika residents and business owners spoke out against the city of Opelika's proposed rental registration ordinance that was introduced during Tuesday night's city council meeting.

The ordinance woud create a registry of rental properties within Opelika city limits, requiring all rental properties to undergo an inspection and register in order to be eligible to be rented.

when operating costs Jimmy Hurst was [increase]? They are the first citizen and passed on right?" landlord to address He ended his pubthe council regarding the proposed ordilic comments with what he called a nance, and he expressed his concerns "hard question."

"Is this ordinance about the legislation. a way to run low-in"This ordinance that is proposed by come people out of the city, the council, Opelika?" if you really look at Businessman, Kurt it, is probably going Hayley, owner of to hurt the people Hayley Management that you think its Company, also spoke going to help," Hurst about the proposed said. ordinance.

He spoke about Hayley questioned how it is likely to how the city would increase costs and be prepared to hanhow those costs will dle the volume of be passed on to the inspections that this tenants.

"What happens See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B10

Auburn City Council Approves Plainsman Lake Development Agreement

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM The Auburn City Council approved a development agreement with Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc. for the Plainsman Lake development, but were presented with requests by citizens regarding safety in the neighborhood.

The council had originally postponed the item from the last council meeting after citizens requested more time to review the information.

Following the twoweek postponement, citizens attended

NOW OPEN

Tuesday’s meeting to express concern with the development agreement and for safety moving forward.

“This Development Agreement for Plainsman Lake (Development) represents the collaborative efforts of the city of Auburn (City) and Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc. (Developer) which began in early 2020 for a new mixed-use residential development,” reads the city of Auburn e-packet.

“The proposed Development includes a collector street on the City’s

major street master plan which could allow the City to leverage work being proposed by the Developer to offset some of the costs of the Richland Connector.

“The Richland Connector is proposed to provide an alternate route for residents to access homes, public schools and parks facilities along Richland Road. The Richland Connector is proposed to connect to Richland Road near the westmost entrance/ exit for Creekside Elementary School then meander south See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B10

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 July 22, 2021

OPELIKA COUNCIL>> FROM B9 ordinance would require as well as the timing considering how small businesses have already been affected by COVID. "Small businesses have been affected

by COVID-19 more than ever; the eviction moratorium still stands. I have owners that are allowing tenants to live in their houses who have not paid rent for a year and they are communicating that they have no rights."

Hayley spoke about the landlord-tenant relationship and how he feels that it is not the job of the council to manage those relationships.

"People back there [referring to another landlord] rent stuff for $195, not for money, it's relationship. We feel like that what y'all are doing is, y'all are managing our relationships and that is not what a city is supposed to do," he said.

"This is not the time after COVID-19 to introduce this; we should be recovering, restoring our people and restoring our businesses."

Business owners, Bill Brown and Emily Key also

spoke out against the ordinance.

The proposed ordinance is scheduled to be voted on at the next scheduled meeting of the city council.

Other Business - The council held public hearings for several weed abatements and later voted to approve those abatements. The properties are listed below: - 301 S. 3rd St. - 309 S. 4th St. - 411 S. 4th St - 504 S. 4th St. - 209 N. 16th St. - 3307 Arnold Ave. - 10 Ave. A - 120 Chester Ave. - 814 Donald Ave. - 2300 Dorsey St. - 310 Pleasant Dr. - 915 York Ave. - The council approved two requests for a refund of occupational license fees.

- The council approved a resolution to amend the Organizational Chart for the Information Technology Department.

- The council voted to approve a lease agreement with Petrina Properties, LLC. - The council approved a resolution to designate bank depositories and official signers on city bank accounts.

- The council

approved an ordinance to amend the zoning ordinance and master plan for 3.91 acres of land located on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

- The council voted to approve a one-year extension of various tax abatements for West Fraser, Inc. - The council voted to approve a contract for the purchase of coverings for the additional 12 pickleball courts located at the Opelika SportsPlex.

- The council approved the appointment of Sidney James Nakhjavan to the Lee County Youth Development Center Board for an existing term which will expire on Oct. 1, 2021.

- The council approved the appointment of Mike Shannon to the Celebrate Alabama Improvement District Board for an existing term which will expire on Aug. 5, 2025.

- The council approved the reappointment of Kelly Davidson to the Celebrate Alabama Improvement District Board for a new term which will expire on Aug. 5, 2027.

The next meeting will be on Aug. 3 at 7 p.m.

AUBURN COUNCIL >> FROM B9 to Martin Luther King Drive (near Webster Road).”

One citizen, Steven Farrington, said that he and his neighbors do not oppose Plainsman Lakes, just have concerns.

“We are here again to ask the city of Auburn to protect the safety, purity, serenity and integrity of our established neighborhood as the city of Auburn and the developer enter into this agreement on the Richland Road Connector,” he said.

Farrington asked the council to consider rewriting the development agreement.

One of the main citizen concerns was the traffic surrounding the area and what will happen to the traffic once work begins on Plainsman Lake.

“What some are asking for tonight, should an affirmative vote be decided on the development, is the council’s full development to the elements that would provide some relief to the increase in traffic this development will contribute to,” said Chris Cyr, Solamere HOA president. “This includes approval of the city’s portion of

the connector road and funding required to complete it, as well as future funding of traffic signals when the conditions are warranted.”

Other residents expressed concern with football traffic, how long the construction will take and detours.

Ward 2 Council Member Kelley Griswold said that while he understands residents’ concerns, the council has no reason not to approve the developer’s agreement.

“I really do not see anything in the agreement that needs to change but I do encourage the community, the homeowners association, as well as the residents to continue their work with the developer to resolve the outstanding issues,” he said.

The council also approved a resolution for the performance residential development for the townhomes at Plainsman Lake.

Other Business: - The council approved a tax abatement for ID Plastics LP for the Auburn Industrial Park.

- The council approved a contract with Axon Enterprise Inc. for an integrated camera system for the Public Safety

Division.

- The council approved the annexation of three properties.

- The council approved the rezoning of 9.99 acres for Donahue Ridge, Phase 8 rezoning.

- The council amended Ordinance Number 3190 related to the Planned Development District Designation for the property on Miracle Road/Lee Road 83 that will serve as commercial space, cottage housing, townhomes and single-family detached units.

- The council approved a resolution for the expansion of office use in the ACDI Business Center.

- The council approved industrial use for the property on Riley Street for Project A by the Auburn Industrial Development Board.

- The council approved commercial support use for Sign World’s expansion.

- The council approved institutional, road service, nursery, commercial support and commercial and entertainment uses for the Woodward Oaks Commercial property.

The next meeting will be held on Aug. 3.

B11 July 22, 2021

B12

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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

HOUSING AUTHORITY of the CITY OF OPELIKA 1706 TOOMER STREET P.O. Box 786 OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36803-0786 (334) 745-4171

   

HELP WANTED Opelika Housing Development, Inc. is currently seeking highly motivated, experienced, and trustworthy candidates to fill the Fulltime 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

JOB OPENING NOTICE DATE: May 12, 2021 1)

CLASSIFICATION:

Staff or Senior Accountant

2)

SALARY:

Depending on Qualifications

3)

RESPONSIBILITIES:

See Attached or go to www.opelikaha.org for job description and application

4)

PERSONS INTERESTED:

Submit resume and application with qualifications in writing to: opelikaha@opelikaha.org or via mail: Human Resources Opelika Housing Authority P.O. Box 786 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0786

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL POSITION IS FILLED (Please No Telephone Calls)

THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE AGAINST ANY EMPLOYEE OR APPLICANT FOR EMPLOYMENT BECAUSE OF RACE, COLOR, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION OR HANDICAP.

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA ELIZABETH MARTINDOWDELL V. GARNARD DOWDELL 43-DR-2020-000194.00 NOTICE TO: Garnard Dowdell must answer the Bill of Complaint for divorce filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, AL, within thirty (30) days from the last date of Publication of this notice with the Circuit Clerk located at 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, AL 36801 and with Hon. Russell K. Bush (334)7373733 or thereafter a final judgment may be rendered in the Circuit Court of Lee County, AL, for Final Judgment of Divorce.

Legal run 7/1/21, 7/8/21, 7/15/21 &7/22/21 ––––––– IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA JUVENILE DIVISION S.D.F.W. a minor child (DOB: 09/22/2020), Case No. JU2020-243.02 NOTICE OF PETITION & SERVICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: William Henry, putative father, and any unknown putative father of S.D.F.W. a minor child, born at The East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, Lee County, Alabama on 09//22/2020 to Cynthia Walker. 'The legal Custody of S.D.F.W. was vested in the Lee County Department of

Human Resources on September 23, 2020.

William Henry and any unknown putative father must answer the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights of William Henry and any unknown putative father filed in the Juvenile Court of Lee County, Alabama within fourteen (14) days from the last date of Publication of this notice with the Clerk of Court located at the Lee County Justice Center, 231l Gateway Drive, Opelika, AL 36801, or thereafter, a final judgment may be entered in Case JU 2020-243.02 terminating his parental rights and placing the child for adoption.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Hon. Harold S. Patrick Attorney for Lee County DHR 2108-D Gateway Drive Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 741-0809 Legal Run 07/01/21, 07/08/21, 07/15/21 & 07/22/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF HORACE R. HAYES, DECEASED. TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Deborah Black Hightower, as Executrix of the Estate of Horace R. Hayes, deceased, on the 28th day of June, 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.

Deborah Black Hightower, Executrix Of the Estate of Horace R. Hayes, Deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033 Legal Run 07/08/21, 07/15/21, & 07/22/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF DAVID ROGERS SCUDDER and HANNAH RODGERS SCUDDER CASE NO.: 2021-356 PUBLICATION NOTICE TO: Unknown Father, address unknown Please take notice that a petition for adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by David Rogers Scudder and Hannah Rodgers Scudder on June 23, 2021, for the adoption of N.R.A.E. born on March 25, 2021 in Opelika, Alabama to Angel Echols.

A hearing has been set for the 4th day of October, 2021 at 10 0'clock am Central time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, AL 36801.

Should you intend to

contest this adoption you must file a written response with the attorney for the petitioner, Hon. Ross Kinder, 1400 2 1 st Way South, Birmingham, AL 35205 and with the Clerk of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days from the last day this notice is published, or appear on the date of the hearing as set above to contest said Petition.

Dated on this the 24th day of June HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 7/8/21, 7/15/21, 7/22/21, & 7/29/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA RE: IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARVIN EDWARD PARKER A/K/A MARVIN PARKER CASE NO.: 2021-366 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED BY EXECUTRIX Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to DENISE PARKER DIAL, on the 28th day of June, 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 07/08/21, 07/15/21, 07/22/21 –––––––

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA ARMETTA JOHNSON, Plaintiff, V. CV-2021-900182.00 A Parcel of Land Lying in Lee County, Alabama, to wit:Lots 4 through 9, inclusive, in Block A of the Realty Investment Corporation, as shown on the Plat of Survey opf the said Realty Investment Corporation, which appears of record in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Plat Book 1 at Page 24., and MARY L. ROSS, THURDELL DRAKE, ZOLA LITTLETON, WILLIAM COOPER, and Unknown heirs or assigns of Arthur Cooper and Ida Mae Cooper, 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 2nd day of June 2021, a Bill to Quiet Title was filed

in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: Lots 4 through 9, inclusive, in Block A of the Realty Investment Corporation, as shown on the Plat of Survey of the said Realty Investment Corporation, which appears of record in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Plat Book 1 at Page 24.

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 1st day of July, 2021.

Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334749-6999 Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com Legal Run 07/08/21, 07/15/21, 07/22/21 & 07/29/21 –––––––

See PUBLIC NOTICES, page B13

B13 July 22, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES 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, August 5, 2021 at 10:00AM Mark Brumbeloe - Unit 255 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga, AL 36866 Books and boxes Mark Brumbeloe - Unit 256 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga, AL 36866 Books and boxes Gloria Ann Williams - Unit D69 1095 Princeton Place Auburn, AL 36830 Storing Boxes, crafts Cory Adams - Unit Q291 521 S Antioch Cir B Opelika, AL 36801 Boxes, bed frame and mattress Shadae Robinson - Unit S336 30 Stow Rd Boston, MA 02126 Dorm furniture and boxes Latonya Bennett - Unit S341 625 bedell Ave Auburn, AL 36832 dresser,mirror,bags,boxes Jerlicia Tarbert - Unit S345 745 Clark Ave Auburn, AL 36832 TVs, misc Sherreka Brooks - Unit X392 2106 Waverly PKWY 1G Opelika, AL 36801 Bed and bed frame, freezer Mallory Wilson - Unit Y410 666 Shawee St Auburn, AL 36830 boxes and small furniture Jason Pope - Unit Z412 464 Schaffer Rd Boone, NC 28607 Household furniture, boxes, etc Crystal Young - Unit Z416 853 Freeman Dr Dadeville, AL 36853 twin bed, washer dryer, totes The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com.

Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 07/15/21 & 07/22/2021 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF: CURTIS LEVERNE SCOTT, Deceased.

CASENO.: 20 21 - 259 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS Letters of Testamentary of the estate of Curtis Leverne Scott, deceased, having been granted to Marsha Baxley Scott, Personal Representative on the 7TH day of July, 2021 by the Judge of Probate of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate, are hereby required to present the same within six months after the grant of letters or within five months from the date of the first publication of this not ice, which is the later to occur, or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand this the 7th day of July, 2021.

BILL ENGLISH, JUDGE OF PROBATE Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/21 & 07/29/21 ––––––– IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ALICE PAXSON WILLIAMS, DECEASED. Case No: 2021-384 IN THE PROBATE

COURT OF LEE COUNTY ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 9th day of July, 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.

ROBERT CLAYTON WILLIAMS, Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/21 & 07/29/21 ––––––– IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2017-C-071 COUNTY OF LEE IN RE: The Matter of JIMMIE LOU BAKER ORDER SETTING HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Petition to Approve Partial Settlement of thexConservatorship Estate of JIMMIE LOU BAKER has been filed by the Conservator, BelindaxPink. A hearing has been set for the 18th day of August, 2021 at 10xa.m. Central Time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street,xOpelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this partial settlement, you must appear on thexdate of the hearing as set above.

Bill English Judge of Probate Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/2021 & 07/29/21 ––––––– IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. : CV-2021900166.00 MARSH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS, LLC, Plaintiff, v.

A Parcel of Land Lying in Lee County, Alabama More Particularly Described in Deed Book 2355 at Page 400 and Unknown Persons, Defendants.

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

You are hereby notified that on the 18th day of May 2021, a Bill to Quiet Title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, regarding the following described real property: Lot No. 2 in Block A of the Byrd Lands according to and as shown by Totten’s Real Estate Map of Opelika, Alabama 1930, and more particularly described as follows: Commence at the intersection of the Northeasterly margin of Fourth Street with the Northwesterly margin of Avenue A, in the City of Opelika, Alabama, and run thence in a Northeasterly direction, along the Northwesterly margin of Avenue A, 100 feet to the point of Beginning of the lot here to be described and conveyed; from said Point of Beginning run thence in a Northwesterly direction parallel to Fourth Street, 200 feet; thence in a Northeasterly direction, parallel to Avenue A , 85 feet; thence in a Southeasterly direction, parallel to Fourth Street, 200 feet to the Northwesterly margin of Avenue A; thence in a Southwesterly direction, along the Northwesterly margin of Avenue A, 85

feet to the said Point of Beginning; together with all improvements thereon and all appurtenances thereunto appertaining.

Said property is further described as being the identical property conveyed by Mrs. Esther S. Blanton, et als to Roy W. Odom and Eva D. Odom by deed dated September 24, 1949 of record in Deed book 322 on Page 68 in the Office of Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Done this the 6th day of July 2021.

Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County Benjamin H. Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 Telephone Number: 334749-6999 Fax: 334-203-1875 ben@benparrlaw.com Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/21, 07/29/21 & 08/05/21 ––––––– NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF CLAUDIA W. EVANS, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 15th day o f July, 2021, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby giben that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness our hands, and dated this the 15th day of July, 2021.

FORSON EVAN, JR. Legal Run 07/22/21, 07/29/21 & 08/05/21 ––––––– NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL August 17, 2021 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate a portion of an unnamed street lying between Lots 5, 6 and 8A of a subdivision plat entitled “Revision of Lots 3,4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 18, a re-subdivision of Lots 4 and 7 of Fox Run Industrial Park, First Revision First Addition”, according to and as shown on plat of said subdivision of record in Plat Book 20 at Page 89 in the Office of the Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama.

All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views. Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City Clerk prior to the time of the hearing.

The portion of said unnamed street proposed to be vacated

is more particularly described as follows: LOTS 8A AND 9A, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF REVISION OF LOTS 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 18 A RE-SUBDIVISION OF LOTS 4 & 7 FOXRUN INDUSTRIAL PARK, FIRST ADDITION, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN PLAT BOOK 20, PAGE 89. BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGIN AT A 1/2" REBAR (CAPPED "15722") FOUND AT THE SW CORNER OF LOT 8A OF SAID PLAT, SAID REBAR ALSO LYING ON THE EAST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF AN UNNAMED ROAD (60 FEET INWIDTH RIGHT OF WAY); THENCE RUN NORTHERLY AND NORTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE THE FOLLOWING THREE (3) COURSES: 1.)

N00°05'40"W, A DISTANCE OF 205.58 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR (CAPPED "15722") FOUND; 2.) ALONG A CURVE TO THE RIGHT (RADIUS= 150.00 FEET) A CHORD BEARING AND DISTANCE OF N28°34'21"E, 143.76 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR (CAPPED "15722") FOUND; 3.) N57°12'47"E, A DISTANCE OF 160.39 FEET TO A 6" x 6" CONCRETE MONUMENT FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF SAID EAST RIGHT OF WAY LINE AND THE SOUTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF FOX RUN PARKWAY (U.S. HIGHWAY 431) (ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT NO. OLB-041000-001) (RIGHT OF WAY WIDTH VARIES); THENCE RUN SOUTHEASTERLY ALONG SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE THE FOLLOWING THREE (3) COURSES: 1.) S32°49'21"E, A DISTANCE OF 171.84 FEET TO A 6" x 6" CONCRETE MONUMENT FOUND AT A RIGHT OF WAY FLARE; 2.) S44°08'51"E, ALONG SAID FLARE, A DISTANCE OF 101.65 FEET TO A 6" x 6" CONCRETE MONUMENT FOUND; 3.) S32°48'55"E, A DISTANCE OF 388.00 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR FOUND AT THE INTERSECTION OF SAID WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE AND THE NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF GREATER PEACE DRIVE (60 FEET IN-WIDTH RIGHT OF WAY); THENCE RUN S57°12'45"W, ALONG SAID NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE, A DISTANCE OF 262.95 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR FOUND; THENCE RUN SOUTHWESTER ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE AND A CURVE TO THE RIGHT (RADIUS= 270.00 FEET) A CHORD BEARING AND DISTANCE OF S62°25'37"W, A DISTANCE OF 47.92 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR (CAPPED "11282") FOUND; THENCE LEAVING SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE RUN N31°32'31"W, A DISTANCE OF 339.52 FEET TO A 1/2" REBAR FOUND; THENCE RUN S89°58'51"W, A DISTANCE OF 136.31 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND LIES IN THE SW 1/4 OF THE

SE 1/4 OF SECTION 5, T19N, R27E, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, AND CONTAINS 4.79 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.

(h) The proposed amended Development Plan for National Village will increase single-family homes in Village 8 from 26 to 51.

A copy of the Petition to Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 1st Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-7052083 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

DATED this the 22nd day of July, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones RUSSELL A. JONES, CITY CLERK Legal Run 07/22/21, 07/29/21, 08/05/21 & 08/12/21

(i) The proposed Amendment will not significantly change the overall density for National Village PUD.

––––––– ORDINANCE NO. 014-21 ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (NATIONAL VILLAGE PUD) BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The City Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: (a) The Employees’ Retirement System of Alabama and the Teacher’s Retirement System of Alabama (collectively “RSA”) heretofore submitted to the City a Development Plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) entitled National Village consisting of approximately five hundred eighty-nine (589) acres. (b) Pursuant to Ordinance No. 129-06 the City Council approved said Development Plan for National Village and amended the official Zoning Map of the City to designate the zoning classification of Planned Unit Development (PUD) for approximately five hundred eighty-nine (589) acres located adjacent to the Grand National Golf facilities and the Lodge and Conference Center at Grand National. (c) In 2008, the City Council amended the PUD for National Village by adding approximately ninety-four (94) acres to the original PUD.

(j) The Planning Commission of the City of Opelika heretofore conducted a public hearing on the proposed amended Development Plan. (k) The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amended Development Plan for National Village PUD. (l) The Planning Commission further recommended rezoning the new 3.91-acre parcel from R-3 District (LowDensity Residential) to PUD (Planned Unit Development. (m) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and the public interest that the amended Development Plan be approved. (n) It is advisable that the 3.91-acre parcel be rezoned from R-3 District (LowDensity Residential) to PUD (Planned Unit Development.

Section 2.

DESIGNATION OF PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT. The Official Zoning Map of the City of Opelika is hereby amended and the zoning classification for the following parcel of land shall be changed from a R-3 District (Low Density Residential) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) on the Official Zoning Map: Commence at an iron pin at the southeast corner of Lot 4, Sunset Heights Subdivision, Plat Book 24, Page 123, Lee County, Alabama; thence run N 89°03’08” E 30.94’ to an iron pin and the POINT OF BEGINNING of the property herein to be described; from said POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run N 0°46’24” W 411.22’ to an iron pin on the southerly margin of Robert Trent Jones Trail; thence run S 89°52’50” E 416.32’ along said margin to an iron pin; thence leaving said margin, run S 0°55’22” E 407.65’ to an iron pin; thence run S 89°35’14” W 388.29’ to an iron pin; thence run N 89°50’10” W 29.05’ to an iron pin and the original POINT OF BEGINNING. The above-described property is located in Section 27 and 24, T-20-N, R-26-E, in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, contains 3.92 acres, more or less, and is subject to all easements of record.

(d) The entire development, with inclusion of said ninetyfour (94) acres, consists in the aggregate of six hundred and eighty-three (683) acres.

Section 3. APPROVAL OF AMENDED DEVELOPMENT PLAN. The amended Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and confirmed as required

by Section 8.1 8(n) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City.

(e) In 2018, the City Council amended the PUD for National Village by adding nineteen (19) courtyard homes within a 7.2-acre parcel located in Village 6 of the Master Plan, or more commonly referred to as the “Town Center”.

Section 4. RETENTION OF COPIES OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Copies of the amended Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer, and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

(f) RSA has heretofore submitted to the City a request to amend the Development Plan for National Village by adding approximately 3.91 acres.

Section 5. REPEALER. That any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

(g) The entire development, with inclusion of said 3.91 acres, consists of an aggregate of approximately six hundred eighty-seven (687) acres.

Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 7. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in

B14 July 22, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 20th day of July, 2021. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 21st day of July, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 21st day of July, 2021. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK Legal Run 07/22/2021 ––––––– SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Opelika Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows: From a R-1 District (Rural District) to a C-3 District (General Commercial District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Lots 1, 2 and 3, HEWITT SUBDIVISION, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat thereof of record in Town Plat Book 15 at Page 4 in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

The above-described property contains 26,780 square feet, more or less, and is located near Columbus Parkway and adjacent to Anand Street.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on July 15, 2021, in the Opelika Observer.

This notice is given pursuant to Section 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975).

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-7052083 two (2) working days prior to the meeting

if you require special accommodations due to any disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 22nd day of July, 2021. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 07/22/2021 ––––––– IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2021900126 JOHN L. BELFANCE, II and TINA L. BELFANCE, Plaintiffs, v.

Parcels of Real Property described as: Lee County, Alabama Tax Parcels 43-12-08-28-0-000002.031 and 43-12-08-28-0-000002.044, said parcels being legally described according to the Legal Descriptions included herein, And Jewel V. Meeks, and/or the unknown heirs Of Jewel V. Meeks, And David L. Allmond, and/or the unknown heirs Of David L. Allmond, 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: John L. Belfance, II and Tina L. Belfance, as Plaintiffs; Jewell V. Meeks and/or the heirs of Jewell V. Meeks, and David L. Allmond and/ or the heirs of David L. Allmond, and A Parcel of Real Property, described below, as Defendants; 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 as follows: PARCEL ONE: That certain lot, tract or parcel of land containing

16.439 acres located in Section 28, Township 19 North, Range 29 East, Lee County Alabama, more particularly described as follows: Commence at an iron pin marking the Southeast corner of said Section 28 and run North 01 degree 05 minutes West along the East line of said Section 28 a distance of 2298.4 feet to iron pin found located on North right of way line of Lee Road 250 (f/k/a Bleecker-Riverview Road); thence run along the northerly margin of said Lee Road 250 as follows, to-wit: South 65 degrees 05 minutes West 209.6 feet to a concrete right of way monument (P.C.138+18.3); thence South 63 degrees 28 minutes West 40.2 feet to a concrete right of way monument (P.C. 138+40.6); thence South 61 degrees 22 minutes West 483.6 feet to a point; thence South 57 degrees 15 minutes West 409.8 feet to a point; thence South 53 degrees 45 minutes West 455.5 feet to the intersection of the East right of way line of Lee Road 435 and the North right of way line of Lee Road 2 50; thence continue southwesterly along the North right-ofway line of Lee Road 250 a distance of 60 feet, more or less, to its intersection with the West right of way line of Lee Road 435; thence leaving the right of way line of Lee Road 250 run North 21 degrees 15 minutes West along the West right-ofway line of Lee Road 435 a distance of 3796.3 feet to the iron pin marking the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes West 1960.0 feet to an iron pin located on an old abandoned road; thence run North 43 degrees 00 minutes West along said abandoned road 870.0 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 00 degrees 16 minutes East 257.7 feet to an iron pin on the Southeast margin of the former Chattahoochee Valley Railroad; thence run North 42 degrees 50 minutes East along said railroad margin 176.0 feet to a point located at the centerline of Wacoochee Creek; thence run along the centerline of Wacoochee Creek as follows, to-wit: South 35 degrees 19 minutes East 209.2 feet to a point; thence South 19 degrees 45 minutes East 531.0 feet to a point; thence South 45 degrees 15 minutes East 364.0 feet to a point; thence North 26 degrees 45 minutes East 506.0 feet to a point; thence North 83 degrees 13 minutes East 231.0 feet to a point; thence North 59 degrees 21 minutes East 102.0 feet to a point; thence North 78 degrees 49 minutes East 266.2 feet to a point; thence leaving the centerline of Wacoochee Creek run North 15 degrees 37 minutes West 59.7 feet to an iron pin;

thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes West 888.0 feet to an iron pin located on the West right of way line of Lee Road 435; thence run South 21 degrees 15 minutes East along said right-of-way line 250.0 feet to the iron pin marking the POINT OF BEGINNING. SAVE AND EXCEPT THEREFROM: That portion of the above described property containing 3.09 acres, more or less, being more particularly described as follows; Commence at the intersection of the North right of way line of Lee Road 250 and the West right of way line of Lee Road 435 and run North 21 degrees 15 minutes West 3796.30 feet to an iron pin; thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds West 285.59 feet to the iron pin marking the Point of Beginning; thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds West 597.41 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 21 degrees 15 minutes West 224.92 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 68 degrees 45 minutes East 597.41feet to an iron pin; thence run South 21 degrees 15 minutes East 224.97 feet to the iron pin marking the Point of Beginning. Together with a perpetual, nonexclusive easement for ingress, egress and utilities running along the northernmost boundary of the above-described property to the West right-of-way line of Lee Road 435 as same is described in that certain deed dated December 11, 2001 recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama in Deed Book 2215, Page 896. The description of this, save and except portion together with the easement for ingress, egress and utilities, is based on a survey prepared by Jack B. Shay, R.L.S., dated November 12, 2001.

Subject to easements and restrictions of record.

PARCEL TWO:

That certain lot, tract or parcel of land containing 3.09 acres located in Section 28, Township 19 North, Range 29 East, Lee County Alabama, more particularly described as follows: Commence at the intersection of the North right of way line of Lee Road 250 and the West right of way line of Lee Road 435 and run North 21 degrees 15 minutes West 3796.30 feet to an iron pin; thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds West 285.59 feet to the iron pin marking the Point of Beginning; thence run South 68 degrees 45 minutes 19 seconds West 597.41 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 21 degrees 15 minutes West 224.92 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 68

degrees 45 minutes East 597.41feet to an iron pin; thence run South 21 degrees 15 minutes East 224.97 feet to the iron pin marking the Point of Beginning. Together with a perpetual, nonexclusive easement for ingress, egress and utilities running along the northernmost boundary of the abovedescribed property to the West right-of-way line of Lee Road 435 as same is described in that certain deed dated December 11, 2001 recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama in Deed Book 2215, Page 896. The description of this, save and except portion together with the easement for ingress, egress and utilities, is based on a survey prepared by Jack B. Shay, R.L.S., dated November 12, 2001.

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 12th day of July, 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 07/22/21, 07/29/21, 08/05/21 & 08/12/21 ––––––– CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE CO., AL FAMILY-JUNVENILE COURT IN THE MATTER OF: J.M.B & J.A.B.-minor children NOTICE TO: any unknown fathers of J.M.B. born 9/7/2005 & J.A.B. born 10/21/04 to Andrea Lynn Bearden at Southern Regional Medical Center in Riverdale, Clayton Co., GA. Custody of the minor children was vested with Lee County DHR on 2/16/2019.

Any unknown fathers must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights filed in the Family Court of Lee County, AL

by Lee County DHR, within fourteen (14) days from the last date of publication of this notice, or a final judgment may be rendered in Cases JU2018-504.02/505.02 in the Family Court of Lee Co.,

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AL terminating all parental rights to the minor child.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Lee County Justice Center 2311 Gateway Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR P.O. Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/21, 07/29/21 & 08/05/21 ________ CASE No.: 2020-214 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID SCOTT DARNELL, DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION have been granted to Jill R. Darnell on the 24th day of June , 2020 by the Honorable Bill English.

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.

JILL R DARNELL Legal Run 07/08/21, 07/15/21, & 07/22/21 ––––––– NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: JEREMY BROWN gives Notice of intent to sell these vehicles at 1418 2nd Ave., Opelika AL, 36801 on July 25, 2021 at 1 P.M pursuant to subsection 32-13-3 of the Alabama Statutes. JEREMY BROWN reserves the right to accept or reject any and/ or all bids.

Black 2007 Dodge Dakota SLT - VIN#1D7HE4­ 8P87S211352 Black 2008 HarleyDavidson Sportster - VIN#1HD1CZ31 58K417455 Legal Run 07/08/21, 07/15/21 & 07/22/21 ––––––– NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF BARBARA D. CRUM, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2021-269 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of BARBARA D. CRUM are hereby granted to Edward C. Crum on the 28th day of June, 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.

Edward Crum Legal Run 07/08/21, 07/15/21 & 07/22/21 ––––––– IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MURIEL NELLA BLACK a.k.a. MURIEL N. BLACK, Deceased CASE NO. 2021-327 PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of MURIEL NELLA BLACK A.K.A MURIEL N. BLACK, deceased having been granted to ALEXANDER MCDONALD BLACK, on the 18th day of June, 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 the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Alexander McDonald Legal Run 07/15/21, 07/22/21, & 07/29/21

B15 July 22, 2021

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