The Observer | 03-21-2024

March 21, 2024

COCA-COLA >> from A1

a press release from the city of Auburn. “The facility will serve as a hub to distribute products to customers and communities throughout Chambers, Coosa, Elmore, Lee, Macon, Randolph, Russell and Tallapoosa counties, as well as Troup County in neighboring Georgia.”

Allen Buffington, Auburn Coca-Cola Sales Center manager, opened the groundbreaking last Tuesday.

“We are so excited,” he said. “This is a big, momentous occasion for Coke United, for the city of Auburn and for myself personally, because like I said, I was born here.”

Buffington said that the facility will strive to serve people personally.

The facility was originally supposed to be located in West Point, Georgia.

“Last March, the company’s West Point facility was impacted after a severe storm moved through the area,” the city’s press release said. “Coca-Cola UNITED was already assessing long-term needs prior to the storm and had begun looking for nearby locations to build a larger and

modern facility to serve the company’s business goals for the future.”

Buffington thanked the city for all its help in the move and transition.

“We’re not only here to celebrate this great groundbreaking but we’re really here to celebrate our associates,” said Mike Suco, Coca-Cola United president and CEO.

“You heard the story from Alan about what they’ve been through, but also to celebrate our partners and our friends who have been so gracious to allow us to come into this market and be a part of it.”

All of the employees at the West Point facility were transferred to the Auburn facility. The facility will offer 75 new jobs for area residents.

“We also believe in the long term vision, we want to be here for the next 50 years, that’s our goal, and beyond that,” Suco said.

Suco said this location will be sort of the “center” of things.

“The way we operate, is we want to be local,” he said. “So, this is the Auburn sales center and everything that needs to happen in this market is really controlled out of this facility.”

It will serve six

The new Coca-Cola facility in Auburn will service Lee County and five surrounding counties. "We want to be here for the next 50 years," said Coca-Cola UNITED president and CEO Mike Suco.

counties, not just Lee County, Suco said.

“As all of you know, Auburn is a very, very special place,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “And we take

pride in the quality of the companies that choose to come to Auburn and what it means for local jobs and our local quality of life. This Coca-Cola Center is an excellent match for the Auburn family and I’m proud to be here today to welcome all of you.”

Anders said the facility is an $18 million

AIRPORT >> from A1

recreational travelers to the Auburn-Opelika area. The airport experienced a record number of operations in 2023, second only to Birmingham International Airport in the state of Alabama. The completion of the control tower will provide oversight of air traffic and facilitate a safer airspace.

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers was instrumental in securing these funds in legislation that was signed into law on March 9, according to members of the Airport Advisory Board.

Bill Hutto, executive director of the Auburn

investment in Auburn.

P H O T O S B Y H A N N A H G O L D F N G E R T H E O B S E R V E R

University Regional Airport, said the funding will have an immense impact on the airport and the area.

“This project will significantly increase safety at the airport, which is the top priority,” Hutto said. “It also will make the airport more efficient for our many users, ranging from education to economic development. We thank Congressman Rogers for his continued support of aviation initiatives in our community.”

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, who serves as chairman of the Airport Advisory Board, agreed.

“The construction of the air traffic control tower marks a transformative moment for

PHONE:

334-749-8003 Editor@opelikaobserver.com

PUBLISHER

Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

t he airport,” Fuller said. “This investment underscores our commitment to ensure our community is served with the utmost safety. We are grateful for the support of Congressman Rogers and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our region’s aviation capabilities.”

Construction of the air traffic control tower is expected to begin later this year, and completion is expected within two years.

Auburn University Regional Airport remains dedicated to fostering the highest levels of safety, and this significant investment will enhance its commitment to that endeavor.

Central Region Vice President Ernie Merritt. Following the ceremony, the Coca-Cola United executives, the audience and city personnel shared a coke toast to mark the occasion. CORRECTIONS Exp. Date: • $40 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $50 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) •

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News from the Chambers of Commerce

March 21, 2024

Alabama Fried

Chicken & Fish

Alabama Fried Chicken and Fish held its ribbon cutting Thursday, March 14. To learn more, visit Alabama Fried Chicken and Fish's Facebook page: www.facebook. com/AlabamaFriedChickenFish.

The restaurant is located at 1625 E. University Drive, Suite 116 in Auburn.

Quail Chase

Quail Chase, a new subdivision by Michael Allen Homes and Hooper Homes sold exclusively by JL Real Estate Group, held a ribbon cutting with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, March 13. "With milestone meetings periodically throughout the construction process, we focus on making sure you understand the inner workings of your home from start to finish. And by developing a solid plan up front, we create a seamless timeline for the completion of your dream home," said a statement from the company. Visit www. quailchaseauburn.com.

Opelika Chamber seeks volunteers for Ambassadors

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber is seeking applications for Ambassadors, a group of volunteers from all industries in the community and serve as important liaisons to chamber members.

The purpose of the Ambassadors is to assist in the engagement and growth of the Opelika Chamber and to act as its official representatives to existing and new businesses in the surrounding community, Ambassadors help support the Chamber team through membership recruitment, support and retention. Serving as an ambassador begins with a one-year commitment and the key responsibilities are active engagement and attendance at Chamber events.

Among the benefits of being an Ambassador are exclusive exposure and networking opportunities, an official Ambassador name

badge, opportunities to introduce themselves and their business at every chamber ribbon cutting, free event access when committing to volunteer and the opportunity to build relationships and networks that are deep, profitable and meaningful

Each ambassador will have a specialized role with specific responsibilities. These roles include:

• VIVs (Very Important Volunteers): Focused on volunteering for events, helping with setup and breakdown prior/after events, working the registration table, etc.

• Digital Influencers: Responsible for conducting chamber remotes. Influencers will visit a business and then post about the business on social media.

• Check-In Champions: Responsible for making visits or calls to members to ensure that the Chamber has accurate information on the member account, finding out if they have any questions or

concerns and fulfilling their needs as a chamber member.

Ambassadors meet at noon on the second Tuesday of each month or at a scheduled quarterly social. All meeting times will be provided in advance. Food will be provided, as appropriate, at all meetings, which will be held in various locations. You will be informed of the location prior to the meeting. You can miss no more than two meetings per year.

Requirements:

1. Be employed by their company for a minimum 6 months.

2. Complete application/ commitment form.

3. Be an upstanding citizen and representative of the business community.

Anyone whose business is a current Chamber member is eligible to apply to be a member of the Ambassador team. Only one application will be accepted from each business. Individual members may apply for

Ambassador Committee and must remain in compliance with membership policy. Applications can be obtained from Ashley Colquitt, director of operations & engagement. The selection process is competitive, as there are

typically more applicants than available slots. Anyone not selected will be encouraged to join another Opelika Chamber committee that best suits them.

More information and applications to be an Am-

bassador, is located on the Opelika Chamber’s website: www.opelikachamber.com.

Email any questions to Ashley Colquitt, director of operations and engagement at ashley@opelikachamber. com.

Chamber also seeks board applicants

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its Board of Directors.

The board is made up of business owners and professionals who believe in the chamber’s mission: to strengthen our community as the champion for business. Board service begins with a minimum of a one-year commitment but could result in as many as six-plus years of service, including the opportunity to serve as chair.

Those interested in serving on the Opelika Chamber's Board of Directors, should complete the application located at www.opelikachamber.com by Friday, March 29.

If you have any questions, email Ali Rauch at ali@opelikachamber.com.

Hayes joins Three Sixty {Real Estate}

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY

— Three Sixty {Real Estate} announced that Luke Hayes has joined its East Alabama team. Hayes worked for the last few years as a custom home builder. He will continue that work in addition to being a realtor.

“With my custom home building background, I know what folks are looking for in a new home,” Hayes said. “I’m excited to bring my expertise to work as a trusted advisor to my clients in their home sale or purchase.”

“We are happy to welcome Luke Hayes to our growing team in Auburn,” said Nonet Parmer Reese, broker/owner. “He’s already brought a lot of knowledge to the brokerage, and we are excited to see how he grows in his career.”

LUKE

HAYES

Hayes attended Auburn University, where he earned a degree in building science. He and his wife, Taylor, got married in the AU Chapel, and after living in Fairhope and Denver for several years, they have put down roots in Auburn. They are entrepreneurs who own L.J. Hayes Construction, Auburn Inflatables and Pure Barre. The couple welcomed their daughter, Scarlett, to the family in 2022.

Stone Martin Builders names Carmack as director

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — Stone Martin Builders (SMB), a leading homebuilder across Alabama and the region, announces the appointment of Ashley Carmack as Director of Customer Experience.

In her new role, Carmack will oversee initiatives aimed at gathering and incorporating customer feedback, streamlining processes to enhance efficiency and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the customer journey.

"In response to our steadfast commitment to unparalleled service, we recognized the need to elevate our customer experience,” said John Manasco, Chief Operating Officer of Stone Martin Builders. “Ashley's demonstrated leadership and unwavering dedication to customer-centric values uniquely position her to spearhead our efforts in enhancing satisfaction across all touchpoints."

Carmack brings a wealth of

of customer

ASHLEY CARMACK

experience to her new role, having progressed through roles at Stone Martin Builders and in real estate. Starting as a Sales Training Manager, she enhanced team performance and customer satisfaction. As Market Manager, she excelled in fostering exceptional experiences and driving growth. As Director of Customer Experience, Carmack will play a

experience

pivotal role in shaping the customer journey at Stone Martin Builders. With a keen understanding of the importance of customer satisfaction, Carmack aims to elevate SMB's customer experience initiatives to new heights.

"Starting this new position as the Director of Customer Experience is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our customers," said Ashley Carmack. "I am committed to ensuring that every interaction with Stone Martin Builders exceeds expectations, leaving a lasting impression of quality, care, and professionalism."

Carmack's strategic vision for enhancing the customer experience aligns seamlessly with SMB's dedication to craftsmanship and excellence. By leveraging her expertise in customer relationship management and her profound understanding of industry best practices, she aims to implement initiatives prioritizing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

ACES to host workshop on high tunnel crop growing

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

LEE COUNTY —In the last several years there has been a growing interest in the use of high tunnels for fruit and vegetable production. High tunnels are basically unheated greenhouses used to provide a shelter over fruit or vegetable production. A high tunnel lengthens the growing season of crops and can help protect crops from rain and wind, as well as some diseases and insects.

High tunnels require additional management compared to conventional plantings, but can be very beneficial for commercial growers. Electric fans, which are commonly used for ventilation in greenhouses, are not used in high tunnels. During the cooler temperatures of Spring and Fall, the grower will roll up the sidewalls of high tunnels in the mornings and let them down in the evening to keep the plants from getting too hot or

cold. Since the cover keeps rain off of the crops, irrigation is essential. Lots of information on high tunnels can be found at www.hightunnels.org or by contacting your local County Extension Office.

On Friday, April 12, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System will host a high tunnel workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. at Tender Love & Care Veterans Farm, located at 662 Lee Road 348 in Salem. The meeting will feature Extension Specialists Camila Rodrigues and Andre da Silva, along with presentations from Regional Extension Agents Chip East and Dani Carroll. Topics to be discussed at the event include construction ideas, high tunnel management, plant selection, insect management, fertility and irrigation.

Seating is limited. Contact the Lee County Extension office at (334) 749-3353 by Wednesday, April 10, to reserve your spot.

High Tunnel Crop Production Workshop

Friday, April 12, 2024

Tender Love & Care Veterans Farm (Jean Keel’s Farm) 662 Lee Road 348, Salem, AL

From Opelika, take 280 toward Columbus, take 379 North to County Road 344 (344 is on the right at the Country Store and the Mexican Restaurant), then take a left on 348. 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

TOPICS TO BE DISCUSSED INCLUDE: FOOD SAFETY ON THE FARM, CONSTRUCTION IDEAS, HIGH TUNNEL MANAGEMENT, PLANT SELECTION, INSECT MANAGEMENT, FERTILITY, & IRRIGATION

To sign up or for more information, contact the Lee County Extension office at 334-749-3353 Seating is limited so you must call the Lee County Extension Office by Wednesday, April 10th, to reserve your spot.

TO ALL SPECIALTY CROP PRODUCERS, CROP ADVISERS, RETAILERS,

Alabama aims at ending distracted driving

New state law limits use of cell phones while operating a motor vehicle

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — A new state law seeks to drive down motor vehicle-related fatalities caused by distracted driving.

In 2022, almost 7% of all motor vehicle-related fatalities in Alabama were caused by distracted driving. The Alabama Legislature responded in 2023 by passing a law intended to slow the increasing number of people being killed by distracted drivers.

Beginning in June 2024, state and local law enforcement officers can issue tickets to anyone observed making a call while holding a cell phone or while holding a cell phone to

text, search the internet, use a video function or for other activities. In other words, cellular devices are no longer permitted in drivers’ hands, and if they are caught, they are subject to a misdemeanor traffic offense, a fine and points on their driving record.

Drivers can only use a single button or swipe of a finger to answer a call. The hands-free law was passed with a one-year grace period with written warnings until June 2024, when the grace period ends. Alabama’s new handsfree law is a secondary offense, meaning you first must be observed committing any other traffic offense to receive a citation.

“Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing safety issues on the roads today,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator for the Alabama Department of Transportation.

“Distracted drivers aren’t just a threat to themselves; they are a danger to everyone else on the road.” First offenses will

cost drivers $50 and a point on their driving record. The second offense will increase to $100 and two points if the driver violates the hands-free law within 24 months of their first offense. And if drivers haven’t learned their lesson after three citations, it will cost them $150, and three points will be

added to their driving record.

The new hands-free law was passed in memory of Leah Grace Tarvin, CiCi Lunsford and Jay Kendall, three Alabamians whose tragic deaths were concluded by investigations to be related to distracted driving.

ALDOT shares these tips on how to go hands-free:

1. Use Hands-Free Technology – Use Bluetooth devices or dashboard mounts to keep your phone accessible but out of your hands.

2. Plan Ahead – Set GPS navigation and music playlists before starting your car to minimize distractions while you are driving.

3. Silence Notifications – Turn off notifications, use a “do not disturb” setting or put your phone in airplane mode so you aren’t tempted to look at your phone while behind the wheel.

4. Pull Over if Necessary – If you must use your phone, drive to a location safely off the road, like a parking lot, before putting your phone in your hand.

5. Put Your Phone Away – The simplest way to comply with Alabama’s hands-free law is to ignore your phone. Place your phone in the glove compartment, in your purse or in the backseat. If your phone is out of sight, the road is first thing on your mind and in your sight.

Alabama Supreme Court holds session at AU

BY DAVID BELL FOR THE OBSERVER ALABAMA

— Auburn University hosted a working session of the Alabama Supreme Court on March 14 at the Gogue Performing Arts Center, offering a rare opportunity for the public to observe the Court in action outside the state judicial building in Montgomery. The proceedings were conducted before an audience of faculty, students, staff and residents of the broader Auburn and Opelika communities.

The high court heard oral arguments in a medical malpractice case involving the death of a patient at a Montgomery hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nathaniel Johnson was admitted to Jackson Hospital on Nov. 26, 2020, where he was diagnosed with COVID-19. On Dec.

6, 2020, the hospital decided to transfer him to another floor at the facility. Johnson had been receiving oxygen through a BiPap machine, but because the machine lacked filters necessary to screen the patient’s exhaled air, the hospital did not believe it would be safe for the other patients for the hospital to transfer Johnson between floors while he was connected to the BiPap machine. Therefore, the hospital decided to take him off the machine.

What happened next is in dispute. Jackson Hospital claims that Johnson’s respiratory therapists immediately replaced the BiPap machine with an OxyMask, which continued to provide him with oxygen. However, his wife, Theresa Johnson, who at the time was a patient-care technician at Jackson Hospital, claims that

she was in the room with her husband when the BiPap machine was removed and that he was never given an OxyMask or any other source of oxygen. After the respiratory therapists left the room with his equipment, Mr. Johnson went into distress. Medical personnel tried to save him but were unsuccessful.

On Sept. 10, 2021, Mrs. Johnson sued Jackson Hospital in Montgomery Circuit Court on her own behalf and as the representative of her husband’s estate, claiming medical malpractice, negligent/ wanton training and supervision, loss of consortium and wrongful death. Jackson Hospital moved for summary judgement, arguing that it was immune from suit under Gov. Kay Ivey’s emergency proclamations and the Alabama Covid Immunity Act (ACIA),

which was enacted by the state legislature on Feb. 12, 2021. Mrs. Johnson responded that the proclamations and the ACIA were unconstitutional and that, in the alternative, she had produced sufficient evidence of wantonness to invoke the ACIA’s exceptions.

The Act basically recognized the unprecedented challenges that would be facing health care providers in dealing with COVID-19 and the initial unknown factors regarding the best methods for treatment. Medical professionals were given greater latitude than the “standard” practices for combating medical emergencies, if those practices did not place patients in greater peril than the virus itself.

The Circuit Court ultimately denied Jackson Hospital’s motion, reasoning that Mrs.

Johnson had invoked one of ACIA’s exceptions.

Jackson Hospital then petitioned the Alabama Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus, a written order from a higher court to a lower court, directing the Montgomery Circuit Court to enter a summary judgement for the hospital on grounds of immunity under the ACIA.

After hearing oral arguments from all parties involved, the Alabama Supreme Court must now decide whether to let the Circuit Court’s original ruling stand or to grant Jackson Hospital’s request that the Circuit Court be directed to give the hospital immunity. Either way, the case could set the standard for future medical emergency situations.

“I would say it has implications not just for a future COVID pandemic, but a pandemic that’s never been imagined,” said

Steven Brown, Morris Savage Endowed Chair and director of AU’s Law and Justice program. “There’s going to be something else down the road, and when you have to come up with a crisis response plan, you are under pressure to act. To handcuff healthcare professionals so they can’t respond in a timely manner would seem to undermine the very thing they’re trying to do.”

“I think [Brown] is exactly right,” said Debra ArmstrongWright, instructor and coordinator of AU’s PreLaw program. “With the global society we have, this is only going to become more and more prevalent, so I think this is a very interesting and important case.”

The Alabama Supreme Court is under no specific deadline for issuing a ruling on the case.

shows, classroom teachers

Gogue Center-published learning guide containing information about the performing artist or company, the art form and grade-appropriate

tivities designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. To view the guides for 123 Andrés and Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live, as well as previous K–12 performances, go to the website www. gougecenter.auburn.edu/ education.

123 Andres, left, and Erth's Dinosaur Zoo Live are part of the Gouge Center's celebration of March as Arts Education Month in Alabama Schools.

F News vents, E

S Food ociety & News

Making the Grade

BY STACEY PATTON WALLACE

OPINION —

Back in 1990, when I was a first year English teacher in LaGrange, Georgia, money was tight, to say the least. After paying my rent, car payment, utilities, groceries, gas, etc., my wallet echoed.

My sweet parents helped me out a lot, and since I was a Mama’s girl, I went home to Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals) pretty much every weekend. As Daddy said, “Homesickness is the worst sickness of all.”

One Sunday afternoon when I was leaving to return to LaGrange, Daddy joked, “Barbara, check her bags. She’s leaving with more than she brought. See if she’s taking a lamp or my shoes with her.”

Daddy was only exaggerating a little bit. Mama would send me off with care packages to help me through the week. One Sunday, as I was driving down Scott Road, where my parents’ home was, I suddenly realized that I’d left the chili and crackers that Mama had packed for me. I immediately turned around to go get Mama’s food gift. Hey, that was a supper I didn’t have to buy or cook, after all.

Thank the Good Lord, those first lean years got better, due in part to former Governor Zell Miller’s teacher raises; we received

Easter event calendar — A12

Sabor a Mexico Mexican Grill

six percent raises four years in a row. That made my salary soar, and I was extremely grateful.

Also, throughout my life, God has greatly blessed me, so money isn’t as scarce as it was in the old days. However, since I’m older, I like to think that I’m at least a little better with money, so I do like to find a great bargain, and recently, I found one.

Awhile back, Mike and I met our good friends Jack and William at Sabor a Mexico Mexican Grill, a restaurant located at 2212 Frederick Road in Opelika in the former El Patron building.

My two years of Spanish unfortunately failed me, so I had to look up what the restaurant’s name meant in English: Flavor of Mexico. Mexico was easy, but not Sabor.

Sabor a Mexico, which opened late last year, is locally owned by Cesar Compos, who also owns El Patron. The restaurant’s interior was warm and inviting. Also, Eva, our server, was wonderful, being so helpful and patient.

Sabor a Mexico is very inexpensive and has specials on Monday-Friday. Since we dined on a Monday, Jack, William, and I chose that day’s special, fajitas for just $9.50. Also, Monday’s special comes with a free cheese dip, and it was fabulous. I tried hard to cut back on my usual dripping. This was Jack and William’s third Monday in a row to dine at the restaurant, so they really love it.

Mike decided to try the two beef burritos. Conversation slowed considerably as we dug into our meals. Oh, my two times. Everything was delicious as well as economical, which is very important in these inflationary times.

Sabor a Mexico’s rest of the week specials are as follows: Tuesday: street

tacos meal with a free sweet tea; Wednesday: nachos supreme or fajita quesadilla; Thursday: burrito California or pollo loco; Friday: wings.

Besides weekly specials, Sabor a Mexico offers diners an extensive menu of appetizers, sandwiches, pasta and salads,

nachos, burritos, tacos, enchiladas, off the grill items, seafood and Mexican dinners. Also, the restaurant has lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit Sabor a Mexico soon; you’ll be glad you did.

Sabor a Mexico Mexican Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11

a.m. to 10 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Sabor a Mexico Mexican Grill makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

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

Sabor a Mexico is Spanish for "Flavor of Mexico." The restaurant, located at 2212 Frederick Road near Tiger Town, is owned by Cesar Compos, who also owns El Patron.

'Cheese Curd' update Opelika's MasterChef Jr. salvages team challenge

BY ANITA STIEFEL ANITAS@OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — On the third installment of this season’s MasterChef Junior, which aired March 18, Opelika’s Bryson “Cheese Curd” McGlynn suffered a burn, but the 11-year-old did not flame out in the face of adversity.

In this week’s episode, the aspiring chefs were divided into red and blue teams, and the challenge was for each team to prepare a hearty and tasty meal for the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters. The twist was that one of the Globetrotters is vegan, so each team had to prepare an equally hearty and tasty plant-based meal containing no meat, eggs or dairy products.

Bryson was assigned to the red team, led by 9-year-old Lydia of Atlanta. Lydia decided the team would prepare New York strip steaks. Her teammates chimed in with ideas for sides, including mashed potatoes, mushroom gravy, asparagus and coleslaw, and, as the vegan dish, a cauliflower steak with tomato sauce and asparagus.

When it was time to divvy up the tasks, Lydia said, “Jordyn, you’re helping me with the steak, I trust you. Bryson you’re going to do the cauliflower. Alfred

BRYSON McGLYNN

you’re doing the mushroom gravy. Kristell you’re doing the coleslaw.”

The dismay showed clearly on Bryson’s face.

“Lydia assigns me the vegan dish — I’m like, what in the world?” he said, confused. “I’m not a vegan person. I do a whole bunch of barbecue and grill competitions.

“There’s a lot at stake with team challenges, because if you don’t do your part right it’s going to mess up the whole entire cook. But Lydia is the team captain, so I have to follow what she says.”

As they worked, the blue team was calm and confident, with

POETRY SERIES @ PEBBLE HILL

each member focused on a task. Meanwhile, the red team was in chaos and scrambling. World-renowned chef and host of the show, Gordon Ramsay, tried to get the youngsters back on track, telling them to focus.

“Bryson, jump on those steaks, please!” Ramsay directed. “Crank up the heat!”

“Yes, chef!” Bryson enthusiastically replied, pumping his fist.

“I’m the steak person,” he said. “I have to take over, otherwise this team’s gonna go down.”

With 10 minutes to go, Ramsay shouted that the cooks needed to start plating their dishes.

“Almost done with the steaks?” Lydia asked Bryson.

“No, because nobody is helping me — I need help,” he replied, clearly frustrated. “Time’s almost up, and Lydia is acting like she is a chicken with her head cut off.

I have one of the most important jobs, getting the steaks cooked perfectly, and no one is helping me and I’m like, dude, I need help.”

“Help! Head’s up! Hot!” he cried out to teammates as he struggled to move a heavy cast iron skillet from the oven to the stovetop.

“Ow!” he then yelled in pain, as Ramsay called for a medic to bring a cooling lidocaine salve. Once

the ointment was applied, Ramsay gave Bryson a personal pep talk.

“Look at me, listen to me: you’ve got this,” Ramsay told him. “I know you’re one of the tough kids in here, okay? Now, you cook these steaks. You take them all the way to the finish line.”

“I burned my hand, and it hurts really, really bad, but I can’t think about my hand right now,” Bryson said. “I have to push through and help my team out.”

Ramsay was impressed with the 11-year-old’s perseverance.

“Thank goodness for Bryson, by the way,” he told the other judges. “He burnt his finger and he’s still in the mix of it. What a hero, honestly.”

In the end, despite Bryson’s best efforts, the blue team won the challenge with buttermilk fried chicken with hot honey sauce, potato salad, green beans and cornbread.

“The red team’s steak, I’ll be honest, it’s cooked beautifully; medium and it’s juicy,” Ramsay said. “I just think the rest of it is a bit of an [afterthought].”

The other judges agreed, praising the steak but calling the mashed potatoes lumpy and the coleslaw flavorless.

For its vegan dish, the blue team prepared grilled eggplant and

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

The Third Thursday Poetry Series will be hosted at Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn, on Thursday, March 21, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The readings will be by Gregory Pardlo and Laura Spence-Ash.

HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION DAY

The city of Auburn's annual spring household hazardous waste collection day will be held on Saturday, March 23, at the new Environmental Services and Public Works Complex, located at 4277 Wire Road. Auburn residents may bring up to 20 pounds of material per household for disposal at no charge (bring a recent water bill to prove residency). Acceptable items include household chemicals, pesticides, paints, batteries, automobile fluids and more. Computers and electronics will be accepted for recycling, and there will be a shredder on site to safely and securely get rid of old paper documents. Participants are asked to register ahead of time online. For a list of accepted items, a link to register and more info, visit auburnalabama.org/hhw.

123 ANDRES @ GOUGE CENTER

123 Andres, the Latin Grammy-winning duo for kids, will bring their high energy, interactive concert to the Jay and Susie Gouge Performing Arts Center, located at 910 S. College St. in Auburn, on Sunday, March 24. Tickets are $10 and are available at the website goguecenter.evenue.net.

COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT

The 60-plus member East Alabama Community Band, led by Joshua Wine, will perform in concert on Monday, March

25, at 6:30 p.m. at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, located at Auburn Junior High School. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

8TH ANNUAL AZALEA FESTIVAL

Auburn University’s Donald E. Davis Arboretum will host the 8th Annual Azalea Festival on March 30 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Arboretum, a native plant museum and garden, is located at 181 Garden Drive in Auburn. The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature fun activities for all ages, including live music, local art, food trucks, the arboretum’s spring native plant sale and more.

SUNDILLA PRESENTS RUTH WYAND

The Sundilla Concert Series will feature a performance by Ruth Wyand on Thursday, March 28, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food and beverage. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 with student ID and free for children under age 12. Tickets are on sale at www.sundillamusic.com.

JONATHAN DELY JAZZ @ OPAC

Jonathan Dely with his All-Star Jazz Band will be in concert on Wednesday, April 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, located at 1700 Lafayette Parkway in Opelika. Tickets range in price from $20 to $59 and are available at www.eastalabamaarts.org/ tickets.

zucchini with tomato stack and basil pesto, which made less of an impression than the cauliflower Bryson prepared for the red team.

“The cauliflower steak — the texture, the tenderness, it was well-seasoned — this would be something I would order again at a restaurant, for sure,” the vegan judge said, jokingly asking for a to-go box.

From the losing red team, the judges sent home Lydia as well as 10-year-old Kristell in a surprise double-elimination. All of the remaining aspiring chefs move forward in the competition to be named MasterChef Junior. A teaser ad for next week revealed that the fourth episode will feature a magic theme and have a grilling challenge, which will give Bryson an opportunity to do what he does best: magic on the grill.

The Observer will provide a weekly recap of the show, which airs Mondays at 7 p.m. CT on FOX network.

On Friday, March 22, the Cheese Curd himself will demonstrate his grilling skills as the featured guest at Watson Brothers Patio and Hearth’s annual tent sale, which starts at 10 a.m. at 1799 Ogletree Road in Auburn.

POETRY @ PEBBLE HILL

A poetry reading will be hosted at Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn, on Thursday, April 4, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The readings will be by Rose McLarney and Justin Gardiner.

SUNDILLA PRESENTS SAM ROBBINS

The Sundilla Concert Series will feature a performance by Sam Robbins on Friday, April 5, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 450 E. Thach Ave. in Auburn. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food and beverage. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 with student ID and free for children under age 12. Tickets are on sale at www.sundillamusic. com.

A-DAY IS APRIL 6

Auburn's annual spring football game, A-Day, will kick off at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Tickets ($10 in advance, $12 on game day) are on sale now at AubTix.com and at the Auburn Ticket Office located at Neville Arena. The ticket office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OHS HIRING FAIR

Opelika High School will host a hiring fair on April 9 from 8:30 to 11 a.m., giving businesses an opportunity to speak with students about co-op, part-time and full-time jobs. Interested businesses must register by March 20.

BY SEAN DIETRICH

OPINION —

The following actually happened. In a major American city. A guy emailed me about it.

A young woman is in Dollar General. A mother of two. Shopping. She has her kids in tow. They are dressed in ragged clothes that look like they’ve been washed too many times.

The woman’s oldest

Sean of the South

daughter is pushing the cart. She is maybe 12. The girl says, “Mom, can’t we get a frozen pizza?”

“No, sweetie,” says Mom.

The girl is skin and bones. “Please?”

“I already told you. We can’t afford pizza.”

Mom says they have to spend money on the kinds of food that will feed a family. Cheap, bulk-item foods. Dried beans. Rice. Pasta. Tomato paste. Flour. Sugar. Frozen pizza is a bridge too far.

The mother weaves her buggy through the aisles, assembling a piecemeal shopping list, squeezing every nickel. She is constantly tapping prices

Dollar General

into a calculator before putting the item into her cart.

There are other things in the basket besides food. Other necessities. Socks. Toothbrushes. There are elastic hair bands. Shampoo. Bars of soap. It all adds up.

The boy is maybe 5. He asks his mother if she will buy him something. The boy wants, of all things, a box of crayons. He asks his mother softly. Almost too softly. As though the boy already knows what her answer will be. And it turns out, the kid is right. “Put them back,” Mom says. “We can’t buy fun stuff today.”

“Okay,” he says quietly.

“I’m sorry,” Mom says. “We don’t have money. Mommy is looking for a job, she swears.”

“But Mom, I thought you already had a job.”

“Mommy is looking for a new night job.”

The boy returns the crayons to the shelf. And he makes sure the box is sitting proud before he peels himself away from them.

The family keeps meandering through the store. They help her find all the things she needs. Mom is constantly tapping numbers into the calculator.

The oldest daughter picks up a sports bra.

The daughter whispers to her mother. Mom shakes her head. “It’ll have to wait. It’s too expensive.”

The family keeps searching through the aisles for items. There are lots of pleasantries that don’t make the cut. Such as the hot chocolate mix. The scented candle. The spray starch. The paper towels.

Soon their cart is full.

When they approach the checkout lane, the cashier has something waiting for them.

The cashier hands the young mother a few shopping bags. The bags are full of newly purchased items. “Here,”

says the cashier. The mother’s face is one of confusion. “What’s this?”

“Someone bought all this for you.”

Mom sifts through the bags of recently purchased things. Inside are three frozen pizzas. A box of crayons. A sports bra.

“Where did this come from?” asks Mom.

The cashier jerks a thumb over her shoulder. “Some guy paid for it. He left it here and told me to give it to you. Then he just left.”

“What guy?” says Mom. The cashier shrugs. “Maybe you got a guardian angel.”

Maybe.

Bark in the Park brings howling good time

Auburn Parks and Recreation and the CARE Humane Society hosted Bark in the Park, an event celebrating responsible dog ownership on March 16 at Kiesel Park.

Easter Calendar of Events

Five lucky participants will win a $25 gift card to a local business along with an Easter basket full of goodies. Winners will be drawn at random on Thursday, March 28.

OPELIKA ADULT EASTER EGG HUNT

For more information or to register visit auburnalabama. org/easter-egg-hunt.

EGGCELLENT EASTER SCAVENGER HUNT

The Fourth Annual Eggcellent Easter Scavenger Hunt starts Saturday, March 23, through Wednesday, March 27. The hunt will take place throughout the city of Auburn each day. A clue will be posted on the Auburn Parks and Rec Facebook page at 8 a.m. each morning. The first clue will lead participants to one of the city’s parks or facilities. Participants will hunt for an Easter egg and use their phones to scan the QR code on egg to find the next clue. Once they have found all the clues at that location, they will be prompted to enter their name into the drawing for a prize. Only one entry per day is allowed for each participant.

Look for clues March 25-29 to find special eggs throughout the city of Opelika. Find an egg and return it to the Opelika SportsPlex for a prize. Clues will be posted by @opelikaparks on Facebook and Instagram. This event is free and open to the public.

OPELIKA FLASHLIGHT EGG HUNT

Children in 3rd-5th grades are invited to hunt for special prizes and golden eggs in the dark during the Opelika Flashlight Egg Hunt, set for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, at the Opelika SportsPlex Amphitheater. Bring a flashlight and a basket. This event is free.

OPELIKA UNDERWATER EGG HUNT

Children ages 6-10 are invited to hunt for eggs in the Opelika SportsPlex pool from 6 to 8 p.m. on March 29. Free swim to follow. Fee is $5 per guest. Must pre-register by March 25 at

www.opelika-al.gov/913/Parks-Recreation.

EASTER ON THE SQUARE

Children in second grade and younger are invited to the largest egg hunt in the area, set to take place on the courthouse square in Opelika on Saturday, March 30. Toddlers will hunt beginning at 10 a.m., followed by four-year-olds and kindergarteners at 10:30 a.m. and first- and second-graders at 11 a.m. The event is free and open to the public.

AUBURN EASTER EGG HUNT

The city of Auburn’s 44th Annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place at the lower fields at Duck Samford Baseball Park on Saturday, March 30. Ages 0-3 will hunt at 10:30 a.m. on Field 10; ages 4-6 will hunt at 10:45 a.m. on Field 9; ages 7-8 will hunt at 11 a.m. on Field 7 and ages 9-10 will hunt at 11:15 a.m. on Field 5. There will be face painting, balloon animals, inflatables and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Admission is $5 per child for Auburn residents and $10 per child for nonresidents. Pre-registration is required (walk-ups not admitted) at auburnalabama.org/easter-egg-hunt.

UPCOMING SERVICES

LOUISE WARD RUSSELL

Friday, March 22, Visitation 2 p.m., Funeral 3 p.m.

Southern Memorial Funeral Home, Montgomery

LINUS FIELY

Wednesday. April 3,Visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home

Thursday, April 4, Funeral at 11 a.m. at St. Michael's Catholic Church

BETTIE EARNEST

Bettie Earnest, 79, of Auburn, passed away peacefully in her home on March 11, 2024. She was born in Greenville, Alabama on Christmas Eve 1944 to the late Billie Oswald, Sr. and Minnie Coleson Oswald.

She earned a music degree with voice concentration from William Carey University and then moved to Andalusia, Alabama as a newlywed to begin her career and start a family. She taught elementary school for 29 years and then preschool for seven years. As an avid reader, she began the Advanced Reading program in the Andalusia City School System and was the first educator to introduce technology into the classroom.

Through many years of faithful service, she taught first grade Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. With passion and dedication, she directed adult, youth and children’s choirs, always improving and uplifting those she instructed. She touched so many lives through her selfless teaching and love of music, her sweet demeanor, kind soul and generous spirit.

She loved to travel and went on many adventures with family and friends over the years. Some of her favorite travels were touring Europe in her twenties, cruising the Alaskan inside passage for her 40th wedding anniversary, sightseeing and shopping in New York at Christmas time, and the many annual trips with her immediate and extended family. One of her proudest moments was singing in New Yorks’ Lincoln Center with fellow choir members from First Baptist Church Opelika.

She is survived by Al Earnest, her husband of 54 years, her children and their spouses, Melodie (Jody) McDanal; Merrie (Darren) Sheridan and Terrence (Maggie) Lane and granddaughter Tillie Lane; her siblings and their spouses, Billy (Ann) Oswald; Wayne (Sue)

Oswald and Julia Parker.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Opelika with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. prior to the service.

CAROL SUE "SUSIE" JONES JUSTICE

Carol Sue (Susie) Jones Justice, age 76, went to

heaven to be with her Lord and Savior on March 12, 2024. Susie was born in Leinarts, Tennessee (Marlow Community — Anderson County) to the late parents of Sooner James Jones and Eva Madge Robbins Jones.

Susie was a humble, country girl whose life was strongly influenced by her family, the Marlow Community, and Poplar Creek Baptist Church.

Poplar Creek Baptist Church was a very important part in the development of Susie’s life. The church molded her character and most importantly oversaw her development and growth as a Christian. As a member of Poplar Creek Baptist Church, she accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her savior, she was baptized there, and also developed her musical talents there. She became such an accomplished singer and pianists that she traveled and displayed her talents at churches all around East Tennessee. Poplar Creek Church was the center of her life.

The Marlow Community was very dear to her and had a lasting influence on her life. She made lifelong friends as a member of the Marlow Community. In particular, Brock’s General Store was a favorite institution of hers. She loved to stop by and visit with Clyde Brock and Helen Brock Crawford, the owners of Brock’s General Store. Marlow

OBITUARIES

helped develop her pleasant personality and wonderful sense of humor.

She had a strong and loving relationship with all of her family members. Her grandparents, parents, siblings, husband, children, grandchildren, great granddaughter, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces were a source of joy to her. In particular, her grandmother, Martha J. Wilson Robbins, was a source of support, comfort, and friendship that she always cherished.

In addition to her parents, Susie is preceded in death by her sister, Betty Lou Jones Harrod; brother-inlaw, Byron Harrod; brother, Michael Jones; and sisterin-law, Nancy Wylam Jones.

Susie is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Ronnie Justice of Auburn; brother, Tony Jones, Sr. (wife-Dot Jones) of Fayetteville, Georgia; brother, Conrad Jones (wife-Bettyjo Jones) of Clinton, Tennessee; son, Marvin Justice (wife-Kellie Justice) of Canon, Georgia; son, Ken Justice (wifeBeth Justice) of Opelika; son, Greg Justice (wifeKim Justice) of Auburn; daughter, Paige Curry (husband-Jason Curry) of Auburn; grandchildren, Clayton Justice, Connor Justice, Katie Justice, Gage Justice, Caroline Justice, Sarah Justice, Hannah Justice, Peyton Curry, Ben Curry; and great-granddaughter, Claire Justice.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home followed by a graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, the family of Carol Sue (Susie) Jones Justice request that donations be made to Poplar Creek Baptist Church, Poplar Creek Baptist Church, 490 Marlow Circle, Clinton, TN 37716

MONICA P. KARAS

Monica P Karas, formerly of Sterling Heights, Michigan passed away in Opelika, Alabama, on March 13, 2024, at the age of 75. She was born on April 25, 1948, to Henry and Wanda Baranowski who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her beloved husband Gary whom she has been married to for 52 and 1/2 years. She was a loving mother to Jennifer and the best Grandma to her furry Granddogs Jewel and Jezebelle. She was a cherished sister and sisterin-law, Godmother, aunt, great-aunt and great-great aunt.

Monica loved cooking, crafting and gardening. She also loved all her Michigan sports but especially her hockey team the Detroit Red Wings. One of her favorite things was to head to the casino and play the slots.

A celebration of life will be held in Michigan at a later date. Visitation was held Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Jeffcoat-Trant

Funeral Home from 1 to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, Alabama for the treatment of Hemophilia in Monica’s memory.

ROBERT E. SWEETEN

Robert E Sweeten, a beloved 76 year-old father of two passed away peacefully on March 12, in Union Springs Alabama, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Born Aug. 27 1947, in Chattanooga Tennessee, Robert lived a life filled with passion and purpose. Dad was known for his love of family, Lake Martin, making friends, playing golf and his love of Auburn University. He touched the lives of countless individuals along the way.

Dad will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He leaves behind His son Michael, His daughter Bobbi and his seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will forever hold him close in their hearts. He graduated from Opelika High School, he continued his education at Auburn University where he ran track.

Dad easily made friends and carried on lifelong friendships . He loved to compete, whether in sports, cards or games. He instilled

See OBITUARIES, page A15

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

Paul Simmons is the head football coach at Harding University. In December of last year, they won their first ever Division II national championship in football. Pretty heady stuff, right? You wouldn’t know it from the press conference after the game. Here’s

some of what Coach Simmons had to say: I want my young men to be awesome daddies, I want them to come through. ... I got so many young men that come from broken homes that had fathers that weren’t even there and I’m telling them all the time, “Hey, that’s not going to be us. We’re going to come through. We’re going to have a generation of men who come through for their families. We’re not going to give in when it gets tough.”

In speaking of the game they had just won he said:

This is not tough ... this is really, really,

easy. What’s tough is when you’re 35 years old and you and your wife can’t get along. You have a kid that’s up all night crying and you got to get up and go to work in the morning. But you get it done because that’s what a man does. He comes through. He honors his wife by putting himself last. He honors his kids by putting their needs in front of everything else.

We are trying to raise a generation of Christian Warrior Father Husbands that will come through and lead. We’ve got a broken culture, and we need men. We’re trying to impact and raise up men. That

is so much important to us than a national championship. I’ve said for a long, long time if we get it done and win a national championship, but nobody modeled to you what it means to be a Christian father and a Christian husband, and nobody showed you how to lead by serving then the whole thing was a waste of time and we have failed. And we don’t want to fail.

Coach Simmons is certainly doing his part to raise a generation of men, who like Noah, will come through for God and their family.

But fathers, how do we do that? The trait I want to call your

Bible verse of the week:

attention to is this: handling hard well. I think that’s often the dividing line between coming through and not coming through. After all, Noah lived during possibly the hardest of times. He couldn’t do anything to change that, but he could handle hard well and that’s exactly what he did.

As Coach Simmons pointed out, fathers will experience difficult times. Rather than wasting time trying to get around whatever hard comes our way, we need to let God take us through it as Noah did. That is how you handle hard well.

As we do, we need

to remember the words of a recently retired coach who said, "You gotta embrace hard. Hard times make tough people. Easy times make soft people." And this final observation, "Lazy people do a little work and think they should be winning! Winners work as hard as possible and still wonder if they are being lazy!"

Let’s not shy away from the work and effort involved in handling hard well. God will bless us for it, and we will be a blessing to others.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-taste-ofgrace-with-bruce-green. com

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672

BAPTIST

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

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

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Road 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

Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108

Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika

334-745-4608

Shady Grove Baptist Church 2194 Lee Road 177, Opelika 334-476-1531

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika

334-749-0461

CHURCH OF CHRIST 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

The Opelika Church 2660 Cunninghan Dr., Opelika

University Church of Christ 449 N. Gay St., Auburn www.auchurch.com

Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika

ever! Amen. — Ephesians 3:20-21

334-745-6015

CHURCH OF GOD Lakeside Church of God 3295 Lee Rd 54, Opelika 334-749-6432

EPISCOPAL- AME

Saint Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St., Opelika 334-749-1690

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

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

Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley

334-745-4755

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Bridge Church of AL 315 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-363-0552

Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148

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

Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris, Ave., Opelika

Living Waters Ministry Center 3005 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika

Southern Plains Cowboy Church

13099 U.S. Hwy. 280 Waverly 334-401-1014

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

PRESBYTERIAN

Providence Presbyterian Church 1103 Glenn St., Opelika 256-405-8697

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

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

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

BY WALTER ALBRITTON

Iam indebted to Thomas Carruth.

When I get to heaven I plan to look Tom up and thank him for what he did for me.

It was a simple thing. He sent me a brochure that described a retreat called an “Ashram.”

Attached was a note on which he had written, “You and Dean will love this retreat and getting to know Brother Stanley.

Love, Tom.”

Though I had never heard of the Ashram movement developed by E. Stanley Jones, we took Tom’s advice and made our way to a retreat center at Silver Springs,

Altar call The secret of his prayer life

Florida. It was one of the wisest decisions we ever made. We had been married for eight years. I had been a pastor for five years. But we did not have a personal relationship with Jesus. Brother Stanley did, and we realized what we had been seeking was a dynamic relationship with the Christ I had been preaching about.

Tom was right. We loved the Ashram experience. And God used Brother Stanley’s remarkable influence to get us connected to Jesus. That week we surrendered our lives to the living Lord Jesus and began to discover what Saint Paul had experienced when he wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for

me” (Galatians 2:20).

The idea of Christ living in me captivated my thinking and led me to realize that this is the ultimate truth of the Christian faith. Christianity is not a religion; it is a lifechanging relationship to the living Christ. It’s a connection to Jesus, as real as a branch attached to a life-giving vine.

The years following that transforming experience can best be described by the Gaithers’ song that we came to love: “Since I started for his kingdom, since my life he controls, since I gave my heart to Jesus, the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows. The more that I love Him, more love He bestows. Each day is like heaven, my heart overflows, the longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.”

Indeed, the longer I serve Jesus, the more

The Dixie Echoes will be at Airview Church of God on Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m.

I realize that He is everything. As George Beverly Shea used to sing, “I’d rather have Jesus than anything this old world offers today.”

Tom was an evangelist from Mississippi when I met him. He was a gifted preacher, a saintly man of prayer, as Christlike a man as I have ever known. Recognizing his giftedness, Asbury Theological Seminary made him a professor of Prayer and Spiritual Life where he served with distinction until his death. Visiting him at the seminary, I asked Tom the secret of his devout prayer life. He replied, “If I have a secret, it is that I have read the three letters of John more than three thousand times. I read them every day. The more I read John’s words, the more I am motivated to pray, and to love people with the love of Jesus. To love and to pray is the way of the

a love of life, family and making memories. A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor at the family lake house on Lake Martin in May. Though his physical presence may be gone, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know Robert. Rest in peace, Dad. Your memory will forever be a blessing.

LOUISE WARD RUSSELL

Master.”

Tom touched many lives, including mine. He inspired me to treasure the confident faith of John, the beloved apostle. Like Tom, I am blessed every time I read John’s three letters. John lived, and wrote, with confidence. He was convinced that Jesus is the Christ, and that everyone who believes that he is, has been born of God. Eternal life is in the Son, and those who have the Son have this life.

John said those who believe may know that they have eternal life. So, a believer has assurance of salvation, with doubts and fears put to rest. This assurance enables us to sing joyously with Fanny Crosby, “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine. Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of his Spirit,

Louise Ward Russell was born March 11, 1931, and returned to Jesus’ arms March 11, 2024, on her 93rd birthday. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Lela Ward and her husband of 53 years, Isaiah Peyton “Handsome Bo” Russell. She is survived by her daughter Patty Allen (Jim), granddaughter Sarah Beth Snook (Daniel), great granddaughters Hannah and Mimi Snook, special nieces Genie Rankin (Randy), Sallie Eagerton (Greg) and special nephew, Tom Peak (Linda).

Louise graduated from Sidney Lanier High School in 1949. She worked hard all her life and was most beloved in her role as office manager at Jackson Thornton Company. Louise lived out her faith in Jesus by demonstrating sacrificial love for her family, neighbors, and friends: her first and last thought each day was of others. A devoted member of Highland Gardens

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

VFW Post 5404, 131 E. Veterans Blvd., Auburn, next to Ray's Collision off of South College Street, will be open on Wednesdays, 8 to 11 a.m. with coffee, donuts, cake and conversation about service and benefits for all veterans and spouses to stop by.

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOPS IS NOW 'MomCO'

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group meets every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional Center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month different topics are discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision.

Contact Shiquita Fulton, M.ED/Vision Rehab therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

MOPS International changed its name from MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers to MomCo to include moms of children of all ages. Auburn Opelika MomCo will meet at Pepperell Baptist Church, 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika at the following dates/ times: March 21, 5:30-7 p.m.; April 4, 9-11 a.m.; April 18, 5:30-7 p.m. Contact Rachel Elrod at (706) 244-5620 or Pastor Zac Gardner or Pastor Josh Elliott at (334) 745-3108 for further information.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. The public is invited

washed in his blood.”

When I sing those words, my heart cries, “Yes, thank you Jesus. I am a child of God, saved by grace.”

When we truly believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and trust him for salvation, God fills us with joy unspeakable, joy that enables us to persevere despite our hardships. He sends us out into the world to practice what Tom Carruth taught — to pray and love people into the Kingdom. And knowing our needs, He strengthens us when we become weary.

Yet there is more. He gives us the confidence that our joy here is but a foretaste of the joy that awaits us in heaven. So we live in the blessed assurance that eternal life is ours now and forever — because we have embraced the Son! “He who has the Son has life!” Glory!

Baptist Church, she took great joy in serving as WMU director, singing in the choir, and helping in the nursery as well as teaching Sunday School, choir, training union, GA’s and Awana.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the loving and caring staffs of Bethany House, Compassus Hospice, Dadeville Healthcare Center, Country Cottage and Angels for the Elderly for enriching these last years of her life. Please join us in celebrating Louise’s homegoing at Southern Memorial Funeral Home, Montgomery, Alabama, Friday, March 22 at 3 p.m. Visitation will be at 2 p.m prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Compassus Bethany House or to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering through First Baptist Church of Opelika.

On the Mark

Opelika High School Spring roundup

The Opelika High girls and boys golf teams swept Central at Pines Crossing, located between Opelika and Auburn. The

1.

SOCCER

Opelika's boys soccer team beat Russell County 6-0 last week. The following players scored goals for the Dogs: Rigo Ramirez, Nolen Wilson, Jake Campbell, Josh Beltran, David Cruz and Tristan Tatum.

Credit for assists goes to David Cruz (2), Freddie Vasquez (2), Angel Cruz and Josh Beltran.

Bryan McEntire earned the shutout playing keeper.

The girls soccer team beat Russell County 11-1 last week. OHS goals were scored by Karly

Phatsadavong (5), Maelee Story (3), Scarlet Posadas (2) and Skylar Harris. Earning assists were Shayla Alcantara (5), Scarlet Posadas (2), Anna Webster, Maelee Story and Karly Phatsadavong.

BASEBALL

Opelika baseball went to Gulf Shores during spring break to play several teams from out of state. The Dogs are 11-6 overall after losing three in a row to very good teams. OHS won the first game at the beach earlier in the week, beating Tushka High from Oklahoma.

The Bulldogs are preparing for next week's Area opener against Central, Wednesday April 3 at Bulldog Park with first pitch scheduled for 5 p.m. at Bulldog Park on the OHS campus.

SOFTBALL

The OHS softball team beat Area foe Smiths Station 4-3 in nine innings at West Ridge Park.

Katelyn Foley earned the win in the circle, pitching nine innings, allowing three runs on seven hits while striking out five. K.G. Soltau and Emily Birmingham led

See ON THE MARK, page B4

Congressman presents grants to Opelika, Lee County Schools

First Baptist Church of Opelika

enrolling for elementary academy

First year includes kindergarten and first grade

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA — Last week, enrollment opened for First Baptist Academy, which will begin its first school year at First Baptist Church of Opelika (FBCO) this fall.

The new elementary program, lead by headmaster Matthew Kendrick, will host two classes apiece for kindergarten and first grade in year one. Although separate programs, the elementary school is an extension of the “Bright Beginnings” pre-school program hosted by FBCO.

“We’re building a team of educators that obviously have a heart for kids, traditional instruction and being a witness to those children and their families,” Kendrick said. “We want to be a place where students can openly discuss and be taught the Bible.”

Enrollment opened to FBCO members and youngsters already attending Bright Beginnings last week. Next, it will open to everyone else. Enrollees are not required to reside in Opelika and don’t have to attend FBCO, but they do ask that “at least one parent is a believer in Jesus” and a member of a Christian church.

The academy will operate on a similar schedule to Opelika City Schools, and school days will run from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. The school will offer small class sizes — they have budgeted for roughly 18 students per class — and will have access to many of the church’s resources and classrooms.

“If it’s a kindergarten class on Sundays, it’ll be a kindergarten classroom during the week,” Kendrick said. “There’s a lot of similarities (between the kid’s church and school

setups).”

The staff will be familiar to the FBCO community. Dr. Paul Spargo will serve as the education pastor for the school, Dr. Kate Simmons, who is a former AUM professor, will serve as the board president and Jenny Sconyers will serve as the administrative assistant.

Kendrick and his staff have already begun hiring teachers, and they have settled on following the ABEKA academic curriculum, which is a comprehensive, biblically-based curriculum commonly used by homeschool and Christian school programs.

“We also want to go back to a traditional math instruction and phonics-based reading instruction,” Kendrick said. “When we say traditional, it also infuses technology. We’ll be using part of the day in an

State Rep. Jeremy Gray (D-Opelika) recently presented community service grants of $20,000 each to Lee County and Opelika school districts. Pictured accepting the grants from Gray are Ken Roberts, CFO of the Lee County Board of Education, and Dr. Ferrell Seymore, superintendent of Opelika City Schools. “Each grant is dedicated to enhancing the respective schools within District 83, representing crucial steps in enriching our students’ educational experiences and reinforcing the strength of our community,” said Gray. “Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our students and demonstrating the power of collective support and investment in education.”

New medical, engineering tracks open to high schoolers

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science offers college-level classes

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ALABAMA — Ala -

bama students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades can now pursue college-level engineering and medical pathways in high school.

Starting this school year, the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science will offer two new specialized academic tracks for its students: engineering and medical sciences.

These interdisciplinary programs will give ASMS students a head start on academic content they will later encounter if they choose an engineering major or a pre-med track in college.

These programs of study are available to motivated high school students from any of the 67 Alabama counties who enroll at ASMS.

Located in Mobile, ASMS is a public residential STEM school that offers an advanced curriculum free of charge to qualifying Alabama students in grades 10-12. Students reside on campus in residence halls, just as they would in college.

Courses at ASMS are exclusively taught at the college level, and students can earn college credit at in-state universities for many of the courses they take at the school. The school was

recently ranked the #1 Best High School for STEM in Alabama by Niche. All these factors allow ASMS to provide motivated high school students with an authentic early college experience.

As part of that experience, students may elect to specialize in academic “concentrations” such as the new engineering and medical sciences tracks being offered. Other concentrations include biology, chemistry, physics and more. A concentration is similar to a university major, but the tradition of a concentration comes from Ivy League institutions. At ASMS, students can

earn a concentration for taking many classes in a particular academic subject, and they may earn a “concentration with distinction” if they take even more. Their concentrations appear on the final transcripts and on their diplomas.

The new engineering and medical sciences tracks are interdisciplinary and give students the opportunity to take high-level electives, including molecular biology, classical genetics, principles of biophysics, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, nuclear chemistry, and data science.

“We’re able to offer classes and programs

like this because many of our faculty members hold doctorates in their areas of expertise and are former university instructors," said ASMS Academic Dean Mitch Frye. "Students who come to ASMS may enroll in courses they would not otherwise see before college or even graduate school.”

Current ninth and 10th graders who are interested in the ASMS engineering and medical sciences tracks should fill out an inquiry form to learn more about applying to ASMS for their next school year: www.asms.net/admissions/requestinformation.

ABOUT ASMS

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science is the state's only fully public and residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors pursuing advanced studies in math, science, computer science, and the humanities. ASMS is a research-focused learning community committed to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and diversity with a mission to empower motivated Alabama students to improve their community, state, and nation. Tuition, room, and board are free. Learn more at asms.net.

On

the Smiths Station varsity softball team won its game against Opelika High School by a

Girls Soccer: Lee-Scott vs. Glenwood High School

On March 12, the Lee-Scott

ON THE MARK >>

from B1

Opelika at the plate with two hits apiece, while Williams, Johnson, Harrelson, Foley and Harper added hits.

Soltau also added two RBIs.

OHS travels to Eufaula on Wednesday, April 3, at 4:30 p.m. and will host BRHS on April 4 at 5 p.m.

OHS FOOTBALL OHS Football coach Bryan Moore appeared on my radio show, "On the Mark" on FOX Sports the Game last week. The following is a summary of the conversation.

Moore is working every day. His oldest son, Parker, attends OMS while his wife and two younger sons finish the school year and wrap-up loose ends prior to moving to Opelika. Parker is playing on the tennis team

while his two younger sons are playing baseball.

Moore completed his first full parent meeting and is in the process of going through two hours per week of practice for 10 weeks without pads. The Dogs have completed five twohour practices. The new turf is being installed in Bulldog Stadium and the indoor facility. The upgrades will take six to seven weeks and should be completed by spring practice. If there is a problem, the Bulldogs may practice at Floral Park or Moore Stadium. The new Jumbotron is larger than the old one and comes in two pieces instead of 16 panels. New LED lights will be installed, including lights that will change color.

New turf in the indoor facility will allow crews to repair dents in the cement from dropping weights on the turf. Moore was very

excited about the upgrades and spending time with players.

Moore will have completed eight weeks of working with the players prior to fall. This period has helped knock the "new" off his way and the kids will have time to adjust. Four players have Division 1 offers as they head into Spring practice in early May. Currently, there are 88 players working out who do not play other sports, not including 55 incoming ninth graders. These numbers are up compared to when Moore left nine years ago.

Moore emphasized the ninth grade and JV will each play seven games, with a total of seven games at Bulldog Stadium.

Opelika Schools hired Kade McGee to be the OMS/ OHS full time strength and conditioning coach. McGee comes to Opelika from

ACA in Tuscaloosa and bring a wealth of knowledge in strength and conditioning to the Opelika program. This is an area where Moore felt was needed and pleased to have him on staff.

Opelika will end spring training with a game May 16 against Clay-Chalkville at Bulldog Stadium. The eighth and ninth grade teams will play LaGrange at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., followed by the JV against ClayChalkville at 6 p.m. and the varsity kicking off at 7 p.m.

DIXIE BOYS BASEBALL REGISTRATION OPEN FOR AGES 13-15

Opelika Dixie Boys Baseball League (DBB) is holding summer baseball registration for anyone ages 13 through 15 at the Opelika Sportsplex and online at www. opelikasportsplex.com. Cost is $45 for Opelika residents

and $50 for non-residents.

If you have questions, email League Director D. Mark Mitchell at foxonthemark@ yahoo.com.

D Mark Mitchell is the sports director at

iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1319, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

Academy varsity girls soccer team won their game against Glenwood by a score of 3-2.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES THE OBSERVER

Streaking Glenwood swipes series with Lee-Scott

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY – After an 0-4 start to the season, defending state champion Glenwood baseball is shaking off the rust, taking two of three versus Lee-Scott Academy last week.

Following a 12-2 win over Lakeside on Saturday, Glenwood moved up to 8-5 on the year, and the young team is starting to rediscover its identity. Dominant pitching paves the way for the Gators, but the lineup is beginning to come together after a lethargic start.

The series against Lee-Scott

“was the first time we’ve played good, solid fundamental baseball this season,” said head coach Tim Fanning. “It’s growing pains. It

doesn’t just happen; you have to learn how to be successful, learn to score runs and learn to win.”

The Gators are led by a talented duo of junior pitchers, right-hander Tyler Sykes and southpaw Mason McCraine. Those two turned in masterful starts in the first two games versus Lee-Scott, both earning wins before the Warriors took game three at home.

In game one, Sykes tossed a complete game while allowing just a lone first-inning run on three hits, a walk and eight strikeouts. Glenwood dominated the rest of the way in a 5-1 win in the Swamp behind a timely, two-out RBI knocks from McCraine and Carter Judah while Sykes pounded the strike zone.

The next day in game two at Lee-Scott, McCraine worked

around an error that scored two runs for the Warriors to turn in a superb, six-inning outing in a 6-3 Glenwood win. McCraine struck out nine while allowing one earned run on one hit and six walks.

Senior Levi Pinder took over and pitched a scoreless seventh inning, but Fanning said he would’ve kept McCraine on the mound if it weren’t for a high pitch count.

“(Tyler Sykes) is special, man,” Fanning said. “And I was super proud of Mason. He showed a lot of maturity from last year. He might not have pitched six innings last year when he got in trouble, and he kept his composure and battled through some mistakes by our defense.”

Despite taking a 3-0 lead in the first inning in game three – which was paired with game two as a

doubleheader at Lee-Scott – the Warriors evened the score in the third inning off of Glenwood starter Denton Denny before getting four runs off of Pinder the final two innings to win, 7-3.

Lee-Scott freshman lefty Braden Martin silenced the Gator bats while his offense rallied to the finish line. He didn’t allow a hit through 3.2 innings, while striking out four and walking two to earn the win.

Despite a disappointing finish to the series and stranding six runners after the first inning, Glenwood began to defrost and find a new identity after winning its ninth state championship in Fanning’s 20-plus years at Glenwood last May. The team lost 10 players from that team to graduation, but this team has four seniors of its own.

Seniors Jaxson Griggs, Camden White, Eli Bankston, Pinder and Denny look to anchor down a lineup consisting of strong-armed sophomore catcher Cal Lawrence, junior second baseman Logan Henderson, sophomore outfielder Hudson Campbell, sophomore third baseman Judah, sophomore DH Mac Blair and junior hurlers Sykes and McCraine.

“Just the potential for growth (is what I’m most excited to see this season),” Fanning said. “Our veteran guys on the mound, they have to continue to be good so that we have time to continue to grow as a young team. I mean, there’s plenty of talent, so it’s exciting to see if they’ll grasp onto what we’re working on and if how they’ll improve over the course of the year.”

Defending state champion Glenwood High School won two out of three games against Lee-Scott Academy last week.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES THE OBSERVER

Auburn women headed to NCAA Tournament

NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN –– Auburn

University women’s basketball is headed to its 22nd NCAA Tournament and its first under third-year head coach Johnnie Harris.

The Tigers were selected as an 11 seed to compete in a play-in match before the Round of 62 against Arizona on Thursday, March 21. The winner of the play-in will advance to face 6-seed Syracuse.

The Tigers travelled to Storrs, Connecticut, on Tuesday in preparation for their first appearance in the “Big Dance” since 2019. They will be going for their first NCAA Tournament win since 2016.

“We're excited to be in, and we'll just prepare to play that play-in game and that's just another opportunity for our team to play,” Harris said. “It's never been easy for us, so we don't ex-

pect that. I expect our team to come out ready to play.”

After making the WNIT last year, an NCAA Tournament bid marks a huge step forward for Harris and the Tigers. From year one to year three under Harris, Auburn has gone from a 10-win season to 20 wins, along with winning six more SEC games this year and notching an SEC Tournament win.

Despite getting blown out in the second round of the SEC Tournament by 2-seed LSU, Auburn defeated 10-seed Arkansas, 67-48, for its first win in the conference tournament since 2020.

It played through a cold spurt from its top scorer, Honesty Scott-Grayson.

Picking up the slack, junior Mar’Shaun Bostic stepped up against Arkansas and delivered 11 points and three steals off the bench. McKenna Eddings led the way with 15 points

against LSU, but an early 21-0 deficit was too much to overcome.

Auburn will need ScottGrayson to come to life in the NCAA Tournament after its leader shot just 5-for-17 for 10 points in the SEC Tournament.

“This is what Honesty came back for. She wanted to help this team get back to the tournament, where she felt like it should be,” Harris said. “I’m really grateful for her and for [JaMya Mingo-Young], for Carsen (McFadden) — all those [seniors] coming in and buying into a system in this program… That is why we’re here right now.”

Its first opponent, Arizona, went 17-15 this season in a tough Pac-12 conference. It was defeated in the second round of the Pac-12 Tournament by No. 3 USC, 65-62. However, it stole monumental regular-season wins over No. 4 Stanford and No. 20 Utah

that got the Wildcats their fourth consecutive NCAA Tournament bid.

Under eight-year head coach Adia Barnes, the Wildcats are 3-0 in firstround tournament games. They have exited in the second round the past two years, but Arizona made the National Championship Game in 2021 before losing to Stanford.

From the start, Auburn’s

NCAA Tournament journey won’t be easy. The opponents will only get tougher the further they go, but Harris and the Tigers are eager to accept the next challenge that comes their way.

“I like our team's resilience,” Harris said. “I think we bounce back really well. I think our team has some toughness, so we'll put all that together and take it on the road to Connecticut and

put our best foot forward."

Auburn is looking for its first win in the NCAA Tournament since 2016, but firsts don’t scare Harris and the Tigers.

The resurging program will look to notch another milestone against Arizona on Thursday at 6 p.m CST, and the winner of that game goes on to face Syracuse on either March 22 or 23.

Lee-Scott Academy boys defeated by Glenwood in varsity soccer

In varsity boys soccer action, Lee-Scott Academy fell to Glenwood High School 4-1 when the teams met on March 12..

PHOTOS

Coach Johnnie Harris and the Auburn women's basketball team have made it to the NCAA Tournament.

AU wins SEC tourney, heads to 'The Dance'

BY NOAH GRIFFITH FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN –– “Six more” was the message to Auburn fans when the team returned to Toomer’s Corner from Nashville after winning the SEC Tournament for the third time in program history.

Auburn University men’s basketball has won its last six games, and it will need to win six more to bring the program’s first ever national championship to the Plains.

Hours after winning the SEC Tournament, Auburn was selected as a 4 seed in this year’s NCAA Tournament.

On his way to SEC Tournament MVP, senior Johni Broome notched two double-doubles to help Auburn take down South Carolina, Mississippi State and Florida and sweep its way to head coach Bruce Pearl’s second SEC Tournament Championship at Auburn — the Tigers’ second in five years.

“We've won a few [SEC Tournaments]; I think this one is the most special," said head coach Bruce Pearl. "Maybe it's because it's in my 10th year here at Auburn or because the bond that this team had. I wanted it really badly for these guys. Or maybe just the fact that this league was that good.”

The senior center notched 2,000 career points while leading the team with 19 points and 11 rebounds in the title

game against Florida, and Pearl notched his 200th career win at Auburn heading into the Big Dance.

In the SEC Tournament, Auburn won each game with stellar defense. Auburn has been known to rack up points and blow teams out, with the 13th best scoring offense in the country, but the Tigers forced 10 or more turnovers in all three games and held each opponent under 70 points.

Even Florida, who ranks sixth in the nation in scoring offense, was held to 67 points on 36.4% shooting as a team. Auburn got its first win by single digits in a 7366 win over Mississippi State, and it completed a season sweep of South Carolina in an 86-55 victory.

“That's why this team is so good, — because we can adapt,” Broome said. “If y'all want to have a shootout, we can have a shootout. If your guys want to rough it up a little bit, play more physical, we can do that, too.”

Auburn will need to keep adapting to survive in the NCAA Tournament, as it is starting with a team in unfamiliar territory.

Just hours after hoisting the conference tournament trophy, Auburn learned it is going to play No. 13-seed Yale (22-9) in Spokane, Washington, on Friday, March 22. Auburn did not face an Ivy League team this season, and the closest it came to the state of Washington

was the season opener in South Dakota.

Notching an automatic bid in dramatic fashion, Yale knocked down a buzzer beater against Brown to take the Ivy League Championship, securing its third NCAA Tournament appearance out of the last four tournaments. This is the fourth time “dancing” under 24-year head coach James Jones, but the Bulldogs are 1-3 in the first round in those appearances.

Yale prides itself on defense, allowing just 66.6 points per game while owning a positive 1.5 turnover margin. It

turns the ball over just 9.5 times a game – 11th fewest turnovers in the NCAA.

Auburn will need to utilize its size advantage against a well-coached, disciplined team in Yale to advance to face the winner of San Diego State and UAB. No NCAA win comes easy, but Auburn hasn’t lost in the first round of any of four NCAA Tournament appearances under Pearl.

Auburn has exited in the second round of the NCAA Tournament the past two years, but history might be on its side.

The last time Auburn

won the SEC Tournament, in 2019, it went on a historic run to the Final Four — as a 5 seed — defeating New Mexico State, Kansas, North Carolina and Kentucky in the process. The Tigers are once again hoping for a special tournament run, but this team will do things its own way.

"We're playing for a coach, BP, the staff we have, the players that we have, the bond that we have, the chemistry that we have — it just makes it more special," Broome said.

In Pearl’s 10th tenure on the Plains, Auburn is

hoping there’s some magic left as it attempts to win two tournaments in a row. Auburn’s tournament path starts with Yale at 3:15 on Friday, and the winner advances in the East Region — which is led by the nation’s top overall seed, UConn. Auburn is playing in its 13th NCAA Tournament in program history, but the Tigers’ are expecting to go much further than they have the past two years. Broome’s message to fans made that clear.

“We’re not losing no more,” Broome said after winning the SEC Championship.

The Auburn University men's basketball team celebrates in Bridgestone Area in Nashville after defeating Mississippi State 73-66, South Carolina 86-55 and Florida 86-67 to win the SEC Tournament. They now head to the NCAA Tournament, where they will face Yale in the first round at 3:15 p.m. on Friday, March 22.

Auburn’s Dylan Cardwell (44), pictured left, and Chaney Johnson (31)pictured right, during the game between the #12 Auburn Tigers and the Florida Gators

BY BETH PINYERD

OPINION —

Baby Boomers who grew up in the community remember how Lee County celebrated Easter with children and families. My brother, Frank V. Jones, and I were recalling how Mrs. Alma Martin at Northside Elementary School in Opelika celebrated each Easter with an Easter Bonnet Parade. Irving Berlin’s song “In your Easter Bonnet with all the frills upon it ...” was the music of choice each year as first through sixth grades proudly marched across

the stage with our child-crafted Easter bonnets for girls and hats and caps for boys. Mrs. Martin made each of us feel like we were wearing the most beautiful bonnets and hats. Easter rolls in this year on Sunday, March 31.

I still remember with excitement the 200 hard boiled eggs my grandparents dyed for their grandchildren to hunt each year. We enjoyed helping to dye the eggs, too.

And the Easter lilies my grandmother and I planted when I was 10 years old birthed a tradition in my own family. The lilies burst

Classroom Observer

Our community rolls out for Easter

forth with vibrance and new life of spring. Our community is still very child-friendly in caring for children in letting them know they are loved. Easter Egg hunts at churches, parks, homes, special church services and community activities are abundant and welcome families during this very special time of year. During these weeks of celebration right before Easter, hope and faith come to our spirits.

What was it like around the tomb of our Savior as the world waited on what had been spoken? Faith is mankind’s hope, as the Son of God walked out of the tomb in total victory over death. Why faith at Easter? Why faith now? Hebrews 11:1 says we are encouraged that faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hope is synonymous with Easter as we look at 1 Peter 1:3 “Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In His great

mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Right now, we can be a reflection of God’s love in front of our children as we reach out to neighbors and others in need by giving them a call, text, prayer, and words of encouragement in times of need.

With Spring, why not savor the fun on a picnic? This is a very busy time of the year with baseball, other spring sports, recitals, graduations, and all the Spring traditions. Sometimes family times of togetherness seem to get pushed out. A quick family picnic can be put in the schedule of springtime busyness. A picnic is not hard to plan as you try to keep the family together during these busy times. Our community has many parks, streams, grassy and shaded areas that offer a perfect scene for a quick or prolonged family picnics, whatever fits your schedule.

Also, picnics can be enjoyed by grabbing a quick sandwich for family members before heading off to scheduled events.

Picnic baskets, whatever form or size, are not that expensive. Picnic baskets can be made from brown paper bags, vegetable baskets and actual picnic baskets can be purchased very inexpensively.

Ask your child what is needed in the picnic basket. Guide them to respond to the simple necessities of plates, cups, utensils, napkins and wipes to clean hands. Let your child count out the necessities that are needed for your family and friends, this is a math lesson. Have your youngest child place the items in the picnic basket. This teaches young preschoolers about sorting and patterning.

Picnics can take on the form of an inexpensive family activity that can include the youngest to the oldest children in the planning. It is

hired as the headmaster.

enrichment program where they do almost like a STEM-type program.”

The planning for the school began around two years ago after survey results from the FBCO congregation showed interest in extending an academic program for kids after pre-school. Once the results were approved by the church and the deacons, Kendrick was

A long-time member and current deacon at FBCO, Kendrick has 28 years of experience in education in Alabama. Most recently, he spent 11 years as the assistant principal at Opelika Middle School before teaching for two years at Lee-Scott Academy. He received a B.S. in Education from Auburn University and an M.S. in Educational Leadership from Troy University.

Kendrick and his staff have a long-term

so neat to dine in the Spring evenings under the sky as you listen to nature sounds unfold such as croaking frogs, birds and crickets chirping, soft sounds of the wind as your family observes different shapes of clouds or the beautiful sight of a sunset. Be sure to grab a quilt or blanket for your infant to crawl on, or bring the stroller. One thing children love to bring is their favorite stuffed toy. Also, enjoy free play with your children as they enjoy the beauty of Spring.

I hope this article helps busy families as well as families searching an inexpensive fun way to create family togetherness.

Capture the fun of spring and a picnic through the eyes of a child and simply enjoy the moments together.

Beth Pinyerd has taught many years in the early childhood classroom. She has a master’s degree in early childhood education.

vision for First Baptist Academy, with hopes of adding a grade per year, if feasible.

“We’re going to strive for excellence, and we want to build an academy where all of our teachers are certified,” Kendrick said. “We believe that will set us apart from other smaller church schools. Ultimately, our goal is to make sure this community knows Jesus.”

To learn more about First Baptist Academy and to enroll, visit www.fbo.academy.

FBCO ACADEMY >> from B1

L labama Politics ee County & A

Thursday,

March 21, 2024

Inside the State House

Runoffs set for new 2nd district congressional race

BY STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

The most interesting and paramount race on the ballot in the March 5th primaries was the one for the new open 2nd Congressional District.

This gerrymandered new district was created by the Federal Courts to implement a new Democratic/Black District in the Heart of Dixie. The Democratic nominee will be favored to win this seat in November. When the plaintiffs proposed their new district plan to the Court, they attached a chart, which illustrated that had there been a Democratic vs. Republican congressional race on the ballot the Democrat would have won in 16 of the 17 races.

Washington insiders are handicapping this race as a Democratic pickup.

However, the Republican Party is not going to give this seat up without a major fight. There will be an avalanche of campaign money flowing from Washington into this race in the fall. This seat could be the deciding factor into which party has the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

With it being an open seat, both parties had a plethora of candidates. There were seven GOP aspirants and 11 Democratic hopefuls. Many of the Democrats were legislators, who lived outside the district. The ones who had no ties to the district faired rather poorly.

From the beginning, the front runner for the Republican nomination was former Montgomery State Sen. Dick Brewbaker. He indeed led the ticket on March 5 with 39% of the vote.

He will be joined by political newcomer Caroleene Dobson, who received 27%. She ran a perfect campaign and edged State Sen. Greg Albritton out of the runoff. Albritton, who did very little campaigning got 25% of the vote, mostly from the southern part of the district.

Brewbaker got the bulk of his votes in Montgomery. He received 67% of the vote in his home county. He was a very accomplished and diligent State Representative and State Senator, and his family owned a very well-known and respected car dealership for generations. He enjoys immense name identification in the Montgomery River Region.

Caroleene Dobson is a young mother and Montgomery attorney with an undergraduate degree from Harvard and law degree from Baylor. She grew up in Monroe County, the daughter of a prominent

cattle family. She did well in the rural counties of the district, probably bolstered by her being endorsed by Alfa. She defeated Brewbaker in Mobile and the southern part of the district. She has a chance to prevail in the April 16 runoff. However, with over a 12-point lead, Brewbaker will be favored to emerge as the Republican standard bearer for the fall battle royale.

Shomari Figures emerged as the new superstar in the Democratic Party with his very impressive performance in the Democratic primary on March 5. He garnered a whopping 44% of the vote against 11 opponents, including five sitting Democratic State Legislators. The 2nd place finisher was Huntsville State Rep. Anthony Daniels who finished with 23%. Daniels is the State House of Representatives Minority Leader and began the race as the presumptive favorite.

Shomari Figures is the son of the very popular and prominent Mobile State Sen. Vivian Figures. His father, Michael Figures, was in this Mobile State Senate Seat prior to Vivian. He was a wellknown Civil Rights Leader and State Senate Leader but died early in life. Shomari benefitted from his Mobile roots. He has also had a stellar career in Washington politics, working for the Obama Administration and more recently,

Opelika Council recongizes couple as 'Citizens of Excellent Character'

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — The

Opelika City Council and the Character Council honored Dr. George and Debbie Purves as the Character Council's 'Citizens of Excellent Character' during the Tuesday night city council meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved a temporary street closure for

the Church of the Highlands Food Truck Event on March 24.

- The council approved a temporary street closure for the Foundry UMC Easter Egg Hunt on March 24.

- The council approved a bid for printer maintenance from Automated Business Machines Inc. on an as needed basis for the IT Department - The council approved expense reports from various

departments and also approved a resolution to designate city personal property as surplus and authorize its disposal.

- The council approved a quote from CDW Government LLC for the purchase of Rubrik Software and Support for the IT Department for an amount just under $93,000.

- The council approved a quote from CDW Government

See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B13

Auburn votes to restrict parking

BY STEVEN STIEFEL FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — At its March 12 meeting, the Auburn City Council approved a new No Parking zone along Tullahoma Drive. The city received multiple complaints about the impacted area and shared research from Engineering Services and Public Safety concerning vehicles parking on both sides of the road and making it problematic for school buses and emergency vehicles to safely access the roadway.

Citizens are instructed to contact the police department if a vehicle is illegally parked in the area and officers will

patrol the area, enforcing the new rule. Vehicles may be towed if they block access on the road.

The Council passed a resolution in support of the Auburn Industrial Board’s move to purchase 211.45 acres of property on Webster Road, adjacent to the Board’s existing Industrial Park in the amount of $4,651,900.

The Council also voted to amend a State Community Development Block Grant for coronavirus assistance to re-allocate $139,470.57 for utility and rental assistance to other areas where it will be applied locally to assist families who continue to struggle from food insecurity. This amendment

was requested because there are no longer valid applications for Covid-19 specific cases for utility or rental assistance. It was explained that the left-over dollars from the original Covid grant will be moved to the East Alabama Food Bank and the Boykin Food Pantry.

There was one abstention to the Council’s consent agenda.

The Council also: • discussed alcohol beverage licenses for Aramark Educational Services, LLC for events at the Martin Aquatics Center, Plainsman Park and Soccer Complex, the Country Club of Auburn,

See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B12 See

Dr. and Mrs. George Purves were recognized by the Opelika Character Council and the Opelika City Council during Tuesday night's council meeting. The Character Council trait of the month is dependability.

City of Auburn seeks public input on CompPlan 2030 updates Revisions will include zoning and land use changes since last update in 2018

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The city of Auburn will hold three public input meetings to garner input on an update to CompPlan 2030, the comprehensive plan for the city of Auburn. The meetings will be held at the Buston Education & Meeting Center, located at 161 N. Ross St., at the following dates and times: Thursday, March 21, 4-7 p.m.; Friday, March 29, 9 a.m.-noon; Wednesday, April 10, 3-6 p.m.

The public is invited to drop

FLOWERS >>

FROM B9

Attorney General Merrick Garland. He also brought a boatload of Washington insider campaign money home with him, which helped propel him to an overwhelming and probably insurmountable lead going into the April 16 Democratic runoff.

Shomari garnered nearly 50% of the vote in his native Mobile County. However, the big story is that he received 40% of the vote in the second most populous county, Montgomery. He carried Montgomery overwhelmingly despite veteran Montgomery Democratic Kingpin Joe Reed endorsing Mobile State Representative Napoleon Bracy.

Young Mr. Figures’ smashing victory in Montgomery may very well mark the political death of Joe Reed and his Alabama Democratic Conference control of Montgomery.

Poetically, Shomari’s father, Michael Figures, split with Joe Reed’s ADC 40 years ago and formed the New South

in at any point during the meetings to review the proposed changes and talk with City staff about any questions or comments they may have.

CompPlan 2030 was adopted in October 2011 and last updated in 2018. It is used largely to help guide future growth and development decision making. To ensure the plan’s continued relevance over time, it is reviewed periodically to evaluate what goals and policies have been implemented as well as to identify new goals, policies, and implementation strategies

Coalition. Shomari may have settled this score for his father.

Mobile State Representative Napoleon Bracy finished third with 15% of the vote. Most of his voters came from Mobile. Most of those votes will accrue to Shomari Figures, who will be the prohibitive favorite to win the Democratic runoff on April 16.

See you next week.

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

— such as zoning and land use changes — that may be appropriate for the upcoming five-year planning period.

While this is a five-year update, it should be noted that CompPlan 2030 is a dynamic document, and comprehensive planning is an ongoing process.

This update of CompPlan 2030 is an opportunity to incorporate incremental land use changes that have taken place over the past five years and identify planning needs for the next five years.

The five-year update Comp-

Plan 2030 document can be viewed online. The draft document shows the proposed text amendments and recommendations to the plan. A presentation from November 2023 reviewing the Future Land Use Plan and analysis generated by the Auburn Interactive Growth Model (AIGM) is also available on the CompPlan 2030 website. The AIGM is a statistics-based spatial model that uses land use and zoning data to help anticipate growth, and it is used to recommend changes to the Future Land Use

Map in the update process.

After public input is gathered, suggestions will be reviewed by the Planning staff, who will make any necessary changes. Afterward, the Auburn Planning Commission and City Council will both have an opportunity to review the document before it goes before both bodies for adoption. The public will have further opportunities to provide input during public hearings at Planning Commission and City Council meetings before any vote is conducted.

Publisher's Note: Observer columnist Greg Markley was tragically killed in a car accident while vacationing in Nevada this past weekend. He loved to travel and never met a stranger. It seems somewhat fitting that this particular column was the last one submitted, as he wrote about his experiences in the airport. We hope that the people who had the opportunity to talk with him on what turned out to be his final flight out of Atlanta took something great away from their conversation. Greg faithfully wrote for The Observer since 2011, and will be missed. Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to his family, friends and all who knew him.

BY GREG MARKLEY

OPINION —

On July 5, 1980 I took Delta Airlines from Providence, RI to Atlanta. Then I headed to Columbia, SC and Army Basic Training. That was my first-ever flight. In the years since, I would record a lot of time at this airport, living in Atlanta from 1984-1988.

In six years, I will celebrate my 50th Anniversary as a passenger at Atlanta International Airport. God willing, I will be age 74. This is my second column for The Observer about the airport and things that have happened to me there. Check out: gregmarkley@

AUBURN COUNCIL >>

FROM B9

LLC with a special events retail ABC license, and Greenawalt Hospitality, LLC (B and B Beverage Management) for AU Beard Eaves Coliseum, for Brown‐Kopel Engineering Student Achievement Center and a special events retail ABC license.

• discussed contracts with CAAM Real‐Estate LLC. Development Agreement for One Auburn ‐ Miracle Rd/Sarah Ln Townhomes and Rotolo Consultants, Inc. Exit 57 Landscape Maintenance. Landscape and Sustainability for $54,647.82.

• discussed traffic control signs and devices, establishing a "No Parking" zone along Tullahoma Drive. Unanimous consent was necessary to pass.

• discussed resolutions for Concurrence for the Webster Road property acquisition and the City of Auburn State of Alabama CDBG‐CV Grant Award Formal Amendment

• highlighted local achievements, including Auburn Firefighter Dakota Talmadge, who was chosen on the competitive television program ‘The Voice’ and three local youths who competed in the Greater East Alabama Region Science and Engineering Fair: Kevin Yan, Eddie Bough and Jack Parsons. The three became finalists for the international event. Thanks were given to the school system and educators for fostering a love of learning.

• recognized Josh Evans of the Auburn Fire Department as Employee of the Month. The Council also approved service awards for the following people: Gabby Filgo Parks & Recreation, 10 years; Rebecca Green of Human Resources, 10 years; Valerie Temple of the Auburn Public Library, 10 years; Chauncy Moore of Environmental Services, 15 years; Brandon Rowland of the Auburn Public Library, 15 years; Jimmy Butler, Jr. of the Police Department, 20 years;

Since 1980, my second home: Hartsfield-Jackson

opelikaobserver.com/ columnists This relationship brings me great memories, both on trips originating in Atlanta and on the concourses, meeting diverse people and having experiences that have stayed with me.

For example, on a trip from Boston to Atlanta, I ended up next to a college junior who told me he was a varsity baseball player, a second or third baseman. At that time, I was considering attending a political science conference in Puerto Rico. It turned out he was from the Caribbean island and I am a baseball fan. We talked for about one hour and a half, on a flight that took an hour and 45 minutes.

He had a quandary in that his father was a prominent doctor and wanted his son to go to medical school and return to Puerto Rico to help people. The son hoped to pursue his baseball career for as far as it goes. He just wanted somebody like me to bounce his ideas off.

George Creighton of the Police Department, 20 years; Cynthia Ledbetter of the Auburn Public Library, 20 years; and Jarrod Nelson of Information Technology, 20 years. They also honored retirees Riley Brice, Jr. of Engineering Services, 31 years; and Mike Daughtry of Information Technology, 16 years.

MARCH 19, 2024

BY DANIEL SCHMIDT

Athens, Georgia-based eatery Café Racer is on track to fill a long-vacant property after a slightly divided Auburn City Council voted to approve the company’s Road Service Use application during Tuesday's night city council meeting.

Once complete, the restaurant will occupy a 1,500 squarefoot building located at the intersection of Opelika Road and North Gay Street. Ward 4 Council Member Tyler Adams estimated that property has sat unoccupied for nearly 10 years due to the site’s characteristics.

Ward 6 Council Member

Bob Parsons, who supported the business “in principle” and wished it well, was the only member who voted against the application. Parsons’ opposition echoed concerns from the Auburn Planning Commission, which recommended the council deny the application due to the proposed use not being consistent with the future land use designation.

Café Racer representative

Brad Galland told the council the restaurant viewed Auburn as an ideal location to expand to based on shared characteristics with Athens, primarily being a mid-sized town filled with college students.

“I wouldn’t be standing in front of you right now if we didn’t believe very anally that this would be a great location for us, but also the community,” Galland said. “So why Auburn?

It fits the mold, it fits what our ownership is comfortable with, and again, we’re just doing our very best to be good neighbors and good stewards of the

Meanwhile, he gave me tips on visiting Puerto Rico and how to do so safely. After we said goodbye, I thought what a delight it was to talk to a “real human,” instead of reading a (long) text message. Just be careful who you speak with and how much you tell about yourself.

Even when I lived in Atlanta, when I asked people from Georgia and beyond, they knew very little about who “Hartsfield and Jackson” were. Both Hartsfield and Jackson were national figures in their heyday. It was first named for William B. Hartsfield, a mayor of Atlanta who founded the airport and was mayor for 24 years. Even in the 1950s, he was moderate on civil rights. In 1957, he defeated segregationist Lester Maddox.

Maynard Jackson Jr. was elected in 1973 at age 35 as the first black mayor of Atlanta. He served three terms and is noted for public works projects, especially with the International

community.”

Galland estimated the Auburn location would likely see a near 50-50 split between drive-thru and on-site business, similar to what the restaurant’s Athens location currently experiences. While unable to provide council members with an approximate number, Galland said he believed the restaurant could “very comfortably” seat between 40 and 50 people.

Foresite Group LLC representative Brett Basquin told the council that while developers have not yet completed a traffic study, they were confident customers could enter and exit both Opelika Road and North Gay Street. Galland said the restaurant was committed to adding as much parking as possible to avoid traffic congestion, particularly along Opelika Road.

Ward 8 Council Member

Tommy Dawson enquired about the location’s potential economic impact, specifically how many people it would employ. According to Galland, the Athens location currently employs around 40 people who earn nearly $20 per hour on average.

Ward 2 Council Member

Kelley Griswold, who opposed a previously proposed Guthrie’s franchise at that same location, supported Café Racer’s application for several reasons. Among those reasons were that the location didn’t generate any tax revenue and that denial could signal the city is biased against outside investors.

The council approved the application 6-1. Ward 7 Council Member Max Coblentz did not attend Tuesday’s meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS:

- The council approved special events retail ABC licenses for Country Club of Auburn LLC and Greenawalt Hospitality LLC doing business as Auburn Bar Services and B and B Parker Hill, respectively. Those licenses cover events at the Parker Hill Event Venue, located at 100 Carroll St., on April 5 and 6.

terminal. Ironically, he suffered a cardiac arrest at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and later died at a Virginia hospital in 2003. I met Jackson in 1985 when the Fort McPherson extension to MARTA was dedicated. He served for 12 years, from 1974-1982 and 1990-1994.

Luckily, I met someone getting on a Southwest Airlines plane once. He said from the crowd getting on a plane, “Greg”, and it was one of my cousins I hadn’t seen in maybe 17-20 years. We were taking planes in Philadelphia or Atlanta but we were both headed to our native Rhode Island. He got on the Southwest plane first and commandeered a seat for me.

If we had been flying Delta Airlines, we would have had specific seat tickets and maybe could not sit together. He traveled a lot for the auto parts company Pep Boys, working as a training officer. During the 90-minute flight, we caught

- The council appointed Celeste Norris to the Auburn Water Works Board. Norris’ six-year term begins on April 6 and ends on April 5, 2030.

- The council voted to annex Biltmore Commerce Park LLC, located at 94 Lee Road 9, and the Evans property, located at 178 Lee Road 72. Those annexations encompass 92 and 3.4 acres, respectively.

- The council voted to rezone The Estates at Arborwoods, located at 1601 Sandhill Road, and Biltmore Commerce Park LLC. Those changes apply the Conservation Overlay District designation to nearly 59.5 acres in the Rural zoning district and convert 92 acres from Rural to Industrial, respectively.

- The council renewed a franchise agreement with the Tallapoosa River Electric Cooperative. That renewal extends franchise rights for 30 years from the ordinance’s effective date. The current agreement expires on April 19.

- The council approved The Bodnar Group LLC’s conditional road service use

up on family doings and our careers.

Two things stick out from my two COVID-19 era flights. First, as the only traveler in a three-seat row, I relished how I could stretch more and not have to tell someone their reading light was in my face. Second, I was reminded of the end of the movie “Up In the Air.” In that, George Clooney stood in front of the long list of planes, their status, and their destinations. Yet during the crisis of 2020, I saw a lot of empty slots on that board listing arrivals and departures. It was surreal and surpassed only on Sept. 11, 2001, when ALL planes were sidelined.

Being a nosy journalist, I looked up the student I had talked with on a previous flight. Yes, he was listed on the Rutgers University Baseball roster. About four months later I saw that he was no longer listed, not even as “injured.” I never went to Puerto Rico but I still hope to go. Sometimes

application to redevelop a 5,000-square-foot building located at 1120 S. College St. into a restaurant with a drive‐thru. City officials declined to identify which restaurant will occupy the space during the public comment period.

The council approved Foresite Group Inc.’s Performance Residential Development application for the 250-unit ArchCo North Dean Road development located at 1397 North Dean Road.

- The council approved Pinnacle Design Group Inc.’s Performance Residential Development application to construct the Glenn Triplex at 620 E. Glenn Ave.

- The council approved RaceTrac Inc.’s Road service use application to develop a 6,000-square-foot gas station and convenience store at the southwest corner of Shelton Mill Road and U.S. Highway 280.

- The council approved The Foresite Group LLC.’s Industrial use application to expand the Auburn Center for Developing

Airport

I remember we shared an enjoyable, long chat that began at the Atlanta airport. Either of us could have turned instead to an electronic device, but why? People should free up time to commiserate with individuals of all backgrounds and personalities. Who knows? You may be talking with a future professional baseball star. Or you may be on vacation in Puerto Rico in five years and at a hospital where one of the doctors looks familiar. Ask him if he remembers a long talk you had with him half a decade before. You never know in A-Town and at its huge airport.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He earned a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from AU. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he contributed to the Observer since 2011.

Industries complex located at the 900 block of Shug Jordan Parkway.

The council approved Pinnacle Design Group Inc.’s Commercial support use application to develop a 9,000-square-foot US Security Systems warehouse and office building at 267 W. Veterans Blvd.

- The council approved resolutions providing Donaldson Company Inc. and Pyongsan America Inc. with non-educational ad valorem and sales and use tax abatements. Those companies will receive an estimated $228,000 and $202,600 in abatements, respectively.

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders reminded Auburn residents that Saturday, March 23 is Hazardous Waste Collection Day. Anders encouraged residents to dispose up to 20 pounds of paper documents, computers and other electronics for destruction or recycling. Residents may bring their waste the city’s new Environmental Services Complex, located at 4277 Wire Road, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

OPELIKA COUNCIL >>

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over $54,000 and total payments over the term of the contract in the aggregate amount of $270,741.

- The council approved a Grant Funding Agreement with ALDOT for intersection improvements at Gateway Drive and Frederick Road for a total project cost of $2 million.

- The council approved a Professional Services Agreement with Sain Associates Inc. for intersection improvement projects for the Engineering Department. The estimated compensation due to Sain under the proposal is $360,150. Intersections involved include Avenue A and South 6th Street, Rocky Brook Road and Morris Avenue and the intersection of Dunlop Drive and Waverly Parkway.

- The council approved a proposal from CDG Inc. to prepare a Solid Waste Management Plan for

Opelika Environmental Services.

- The council authorized a grant application with Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for the Opelika Fire Department.

- The council approved a special appropriation of $7,500 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama to assist with the cost of the 2024 Great Futures Gala on April 25.

- The ordinance to amend the Master Plan for the Brookstone planned unit development (PUD) remained tabled. The Brookstone PUD is a mixed residential development, consisting of six acres with up tow 48 assisted living units, six acres with up to 24 garden homes, 18 acres with 44 single-family homes and 81 acres for apartments.

- The ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to rezone 1.24 acres located at 414 N. 10th St. from R-2 to I-1 remained tabled.

- The council voted to approve an ordinance pertaining to the leasing of property located at 1103 Glenn St. to Envision Opelika Foundation Inc.

- The council voted

to reappoint Tim Moore to the Property Maintenance Board of Appeals for a new term that will expire March 16, 2027.

The council voted to reappoint Trip Garner to the Board of Parks & Recreation for a new term that will expire March 15, 2029.

The council voted to reappoint Chuck Beams to the Board of Education for a new term that will expire April 1, 2029.

During the public comment section several parents of children involved in the Opelika Power Athletics spoke regarding the news released today that the program will be closing. A press release issued by Opelika Parks and Recreation received today said that the program was temporarily closing in order for repairs to the roof at the Denson Drive Recreation Center but parents received a message via email stating that the program would be ended at the end of the spring session. More to come on this developing story at a later date.

FOR

DirecTV

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 14th day of February, 2024, 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: Hallie Jones, as Plaintiff; Charlie F. Shellman, and/or the unknown heirs of Charlie F. Shellman; and, Jessie M. Shellman, and/or the unknown heirs of Jessie M. Shellman; and, Charlotte F. Thornton, and/or the unknown heirs of Charlotte F. Thornton; and, a Wanda Chapman, a/k/a Wanda Christine Shellman, a/k/a Wanda Lloyd, and/or the unknown heirs of Wanda Chapman; and, Kristin Nichole Lloyd, and/or the unknown heirs of Kristin Nichole Lloyd; and, Zachary Taylor Lloyd, and/or the unknown heirs of Zachary Taylor Lloyd, as

Complaint. Done this the 28th day of February, 2024 /s/ Mary Roberson Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C.

724 North Dean Road,Suite 100 Auburn, AL 36830

Legal Run 03/07/24, 03/14/24, 03/21/24 & 03/28/24

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2024-900020 FAIRPOINT PROPERTIES, LLC, Plaintiff, v. A tract or parcel of land designated:

Lot 13 and a portion of Lot 12, B1ock 210, Totten's Official Real Estate Map of the City of Opelika, Alabama, 1930, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat thereof of record in Town Plat Book 2, at page 9, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, further described as follows:

Beginning at the Southwest corner of said Lot 13, thence Northeasterly along the Southeastern boundary of said Lot 13 and 12 for a distance of approximately 120 feet; thence leaving said Southeastern boundary at a right angle, Northwesterly for a distance of approximately 190 feet, perpendicular to the Southwestern boundary of said Lot 12, to the Northwestern boundary of said Lot 12; thence in a Southwesterly direction along the Northwestern boundaries of said Lot 12 and 13 for a distance of approximately 121 feet; thence along the Southwestern boundary of said Lot 13, for a distance of approximately 187 feet, to the Point of Beginning, being further described as Lee County, Alabama tax parcel 43-09-01-12-4-002069.000 And Belle Jordan, and/ or the unknown heirs of Belle Jordan, And Lillie Mae Smith , and/or the unknown heirs of Lillie Mae Smith, And Lillian Ann Smith, and/or the unknown heirs of Lillian Ann Smith, 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 16th day of January, 2024, 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: Farpoint Properties, LLC, as Plaintiff; Belle Jordan, and/or the unknown heirs of Belle Jordan; and, Lillie Mae Smith , and/or the unknown heirs of Lillie Mae Smith; and, Lillian Ann Smith, and/or the unknown heirs of Lillian Ann Smith, as Defendants, whose heirs, executors and/or administrators are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows:

Lot 13 and a portion of Lot 12, B1ock 210, Totten's Official Real Estate Map of the City of Opelika, Alabama, 1930, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat thereof of record in Town Plat Book 2, at page 9, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, further described as follows:

Beginning at the Southwest corner of said Lot 13, thence Northeasterly along the Southeastern boundary of said Lot 13 and 12 for a distance of approximately 120 feet; thence leaving said Southeastern boundary at a right angle, Northwesterly for a distance of approximately 190 feet, perpendicular to the Southwestern boundary of said Lot 12, to the Northwestern boundary of said Lot 12; thence in a Southwesterly direction along the Northwestern boundaries of said Lot 12 and 13 for a distance of approximately 121 feet; thence along the Southwestern boundary of said Lot 13, for a distance of approximately 187 feet, to the Point of Beginning, being

further described as Lee County, Alabama tax parcel 43-09-01-124-002-069.000

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 28th day of February, 2024

/s/ Mary Roberson Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Davis, Bingham, Hudson & Buckner, P.C. 724 North Dean Road, Suite 100 Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 03/7/24, 03/14/24, 03/21/24 & 03/28/24

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

PROBATE COURT

Case No.: 2022-008

State of Alabama, County of Lee

In the Matter of the Estate of Anoitia Nicole Mason, deceased. Letters of Administration on the estate of said decedent having been granted to Jason Christopher Riggs on the 10th day of January, 2022, by the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same, duly sworn to, in the Probate Court of said county within the time allowed by law or else will be forever barred.

Jason Christopher Riggs Administrator / Personal Rerpresentative of the Estate of Anoitia Nicole Mason, deceased.

Legal Run 03/07/24, 03/14/24 & 03/21/2024

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WANDA JEAN MCPHERSON f/k/a WANDA JEAN HARPER, Deceased.

Case No.: 2024- 129

NOTICE TO CREDITOR

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to La Wanda Jones, Personal Representative on the 5th day of March , 2024, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all

LaWanda Jones Legal Run 03/14/24, 3/21/24, 3/28/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARTHA LEE GRAHAM, Deceased.

CASE NO. 2024-135 NOTICE

TAKE

WADE PIKE, an incapacitated adult CASE NO.: 2024-118 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF CONSERVATOR TO HANDLE A SINGLE TRANSACTION FOR AN INCAPACITATED ADULT TO APRIL LYNN PIKE, CARSON WADE PIKE AND ANY AND ALL HEIRS OF MELVIN WADE PIKE, an incapacitated adult. You are hereby notified that on 21st day of February, 2024, Charlotte Conway filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, a petition for the appointment of conservatorship to handle a single transaction on behalf of Melvin Wake Pike. It is therefore ordered that the 29th day of April, 2024, at 10 o’clock, a.m., electronically via “ZOOM” virtual meeting website has been set and appointed as the day for the hearing of said petition, and the taking of testimony in support thereof, at which time any next of kin can appear and contest the same if you see proper. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to said hearing. Given under my hand on 5th day of March 2024.

Bill English, Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 03/14/24, 03/21/24 & 03/28/24

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF PAMELA SILVER KREPS, Deceased CASE NO.: 2023-641 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to TYLER KREPS on the 1st day of March, 2024,by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Tyler Kreps Legal Run

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 03/21/2024

STATE OF ALABAMA

LEE COUNTY PROBATE

COURT

CASE NO. 2024-144

ESTATE OF JIMMY

CHARLES THOMASTON,

DECEASED

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL

REPRESENTATIVE

Letters Testamentary of said Jimmy Charles Thomaston, deceased, having been granted to Sandra Kay Thomaston this 13th day of March 2024, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred. Sandra Kay Thomaston, Personal Representative Legal Run 03/21/24, 03/28/24 & 04/04/2024

Notice of auction of an abandoned vehicle. The Only One, Inc will be auctioning off the below mentioned vehicle on APRIL 15, 2024, This auction will be held at 3601 PEPPERELL PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions regarding this vehicle, call 334-745-2166.

VIN# JF2SJABC0JH404892–2018 Subaru Forester LEGAL RUN 03/21/24 & 03/28/24

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF HARVEY L.

SATURDAY, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 15th day of March, 2024, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given than all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand and seal this the 15th day of March, 2024.

FLOYD JAMES WATSON JR. Legal Run 03/21/24, 03/28/24 & 04/04/2024

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PAUL E. CROW, JR. Deceased Case No.: 2024-164

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Olivia P. Crow,

Sheriff swears in five new deputies

APD recognizes officer with commendation

Auburn Police Officer Ruslan Patten was recently commended for his situational awareness and proactive approach while on patrol. He was recognized for outstanding service and commitment to keeping our community safe.

Lee County, Auburn authorities report multiple arrests

LEE COUNTY — On March 16 at approximately 10:22 p.m., the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call regarding a kidnapping that occurred in the 100 block of Lee Rd. 2063 in the Salem community. A BOLO was immediately sent out to surrounding agencies giving the vehicle description and the name of the suspect. Russell County Sheriff’s Deputies observed the vehicle on U.S. Highway 80 East in Phenix City and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. A high-speed pursuit ensued, and the subject eventually wrecked in Columbus, Georgia.

Eric Deyon Shorter, 28, of Columbus was taken into custody.

An investigation revealed that Shorter kidnapped his ex-girlfriend at gunpoint and threatened to kill her and another male subject if she did not comply with his demands. Shorter then forced the female into the vehicle and drove away.

The female was able to bail out on U.S. Hwy 80 East in Russell County as the vehicle was speeding away. The female suffered from severe road rash, cuts and bruises and was transported by ETS to East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika for treatment.

Shorter remains in custody in the Muscogee County Jail and is waiting extradition to Lee and Russell counties, where he will be charged with multiple felonies including kidnapping first degree, menacing, felony attempting to elude and various other charges to be determined.

Anyone with infor-

mation about the case is asked to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 334-749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867).

AUBURN — On March 16, Auburn Police arrested Clayton Tyler McMillan, 18, of Smiths Station along with a 13-year-old juvenile from Columbus, Georgia, a 14-year-old juvenile from Colquitt, Georgia, a 16-year-old juvenile from Phenix City and a 17-yearold juvenile from Waverly Hall, Georgia. Each suspect was charged with five counts of unlawfully breaking and entering into a vehicle, theft of property second degree, theft of property third degree and three counts of theft of property fourth degree. McMillan, the 13-year-old juvenile and the 16-year-old juvenile were also charged with possession of marijuana second degree. The

14-year-old juvenile and the 17-year-old juvenile were both charged with attempting to elude a police officer.

Auburn Police received a call reporting a vehicle burglary involving multiple suspects near the 300 block of East Thach Avenue on March 16. Responding officers apprehended five suspects in the area a short time after the crime occurred. During the investigation, Police discovered evidence linking the suspects to multiple auto burglaries that occurred between Feb. 24 and March 9, resulting in additional charges.

McMillan was transported to the Lee County

This Week's Puzzle Answers

Jail and held on a $13,500 bond. The Lee County Juvenile Probation Office was contacted regarding detention of the juveniles.

The Auburn Police Department encourages citizens to lock car doors and to not store valuables inside vehicles. Criminal or suspicious activity should be reported to the Auburn Police Department by calling (334) 501-3100 for non-emergencies or 911 if the call is an emergency.

AUBURN — On March

17, Auburn Police arrested Kierra Von'Trieve Hutcherson, 25, of Opelika on a felony warrant charging her with identity theft.

Auburn Police received a report involving a fraudulent check on Jan. 31. Police met with a complainant who reported a check made out to a business was mailed to the intended recipient from a location in Auburn. While in transit, the check was

stolen, altered and deposited in a bank account associated with a suspect.

Hutcherson was developed as a suspect, and after further investigation, an arrest warrant for identity theft was obtained. Hutcherson was located by police on March 17 and was arrested in obedience to the warrant.

Hutcherson was transported to the Lee County Jail and held on a $5,000 bond.

ERIC DEYON SHORTER

Lee

CLAYTON TYLER MCMILLAN

KIERRA VONTRIEVE HUTCHERSON