The Observer 07-21-2022

Vol. 14, No. 41

Thursday July 21, 2022

Opelika, Alabama

FRED ERi CK-DEAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY

Covering Lee County, Alabama

Compassion • Integrity • Tradition

An award-winning publication created 'For local people, by local people.'

334-745-4667 On-site Crematory Coming Soon

LEE COUNTY — The Lee County NAACP Branch #5038 is coming up on its twoyear anniversary.

Actually, the branch was only “re-started” two years ago.

“The branch had been around for years, however, it went defunct several years ago,” said President of the branch Billy Allen. “… But in 2019, a reorganization committee was formed.”

At that time, seven members of the Lee County Voters League joined with Allen, Irene Dowdell, who was

Local Harpist Ends Summer on a High Note PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Lee County NAACP Celebrates Second Anniversary

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — For Opelika native Margaret Anne Gunter, music is much more than a hobby.

It’s a way of life.

“I just enjoy living and breathing music,” she said.

See NAACP, page A3

See GUNTER, page A4

Smiths Station Reaches Intergovernmental Agreement PHOTO BY THE CITY OF SMITHS STATION

Opelika Aquatics Upgrades Could Make a Splash by Summer 2024

The young harpist recently returned from her first Sewanee Summer Music Festival experience, a four-week endeavor that entailed opportunities to hone her skills with other musicians. Despite being a first-timer at the festival, she also made it through a pre-screening and two judged performances to be declared a winner of the Jacqueline Avent Concerto Competition. Of more than 50 musicians to make it through the pre-screening, only six were declared winners after the final round.

As a winner, Gunter performed “Concertstück”

by Gabriel Piernè with an orchestra behind her during

Opelika Plans Aquatics Improvements

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF OPELIKA

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — By summer 2024, Ope-

lika residents and visitors might have more to enjoy at the city’s aquatics facilities.

The city of Opelika has partnered with Counsilman-Hunsaker, a national

planning and design firm that specializes in aquatics, to plan improvements for the Opelika Sportsplex See SPLASH, page A2

6 2 y l u J . m . p 7 at

s ' a th r a M ble Trou

SMITHS STATION — The city of Smiths Station hosted an Intergovernmental Support Agreement signing ceremony with its Public Services Provider ESG Operations Inc. and Fort Benning on July 12 at the Smiths Station Government Center.

Representatives from the city included Mayor F. L. “Bubba” Copeland and City Council, ESG stakeholders and top officials from Fort Benning. This agreement includes the placement of sanitary facilities and cleaning of all sanitary vaults at Fort Benning and Dahlonega bearing both the city’s and ESG’s logos on them. This IGSA will benefit the city of Smiths Station financially for a period of 10 years under the current agreement. Turn to A3 for more photos of the event.

CONTENTS

OPINION ..................... A4 ENTERTAINMENT ........... A7 RELIGION ................... A12 OBITUARIES ............... A13 COMICS ....................... A16 SPORTS ........................ B1 POLITICS ...................... B9 PUBLIC NOTICES ........... B12 CLASSIFIEDS ................ B14 PUZZLES ..................... B15

A2 July 21, 2022

Auburn Bank Opens New Location PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

AUBURN — The new main office for AuburnBank is open at 100 N. Gay St., in Auburn. AuburnBank hosted a ribbon cutting with representatives from Auburn and Opelika last week to mark the the opening. AuburnBank broke ground on its new downtown headquarters in November 2020. Four stories tall and around 91,000 square feet, the building will house retail and banking operations under one roof.

SPLASH >>

FROM A1

and Covington Recreation Center.

Back in early March 2022, several residents provided feedback and input on what the future of aquatics could look like in Opelika.

That feedback helped shape the plans.

Tyler McGill, head swim coach for the city of Opelika, shared the results of a feasibility study at a work session held before the July 5 Opelika City Council meeting. The study aimed to determine how the current plans would meet the needs of patrons and how practical it would be for the city to implement the upgrades.

“There’s about six to eight lanes of lap space that’s available at our pools now,” McGill said.

But with more and more people using the facilities, McGill said the current offerings aren’t ideal for the growing userbase.

The upgrades would aim to solve that space issue and make the aquatics facilities more enjoyable for residents and visitors.

“We wanted to make sure we looked at both rec centers, so we started with Covington,” McGill said at the meeting. “In terms of the feedback that we got there, it’s just this idea of ultimate family fun — somewhere where families can go and spend hours at the pool where they can learn to swim, where there’s recreational activities, where they feel like it’s really safe for younger kids who are still learning to swim can be there.”

McGill said the plans for Covington include an outdoor multipurpose pool, a separate 1,200-square-foot “spraypad” and the addition of a lifeguard office, rental pavilion and mechanical room. Several shaded areas would be placed around the pool and the play area. The placement of the amenities would also allow for easy

access to the locker rooms.

The 4,000-square-foot pool would include two 25yard lap lanes, a zero-depth sloped entry, a children’s play unit, a single waterslide tower, an open recreational area and a programmable area. The pool would not exceed a depth of 4 feet.

According to McGill, the spraypad would be a wet deck with no standing water.

It would also include several vertical and ground features and spray devices.

“I think that Covington Rec obviously needs an upgrade with their pool, and I think it’s amazing,” said Ward 5 Opelika City Council Member Todd Rauch.

For the Sportsplex, McGill said the goal was to first meet the needs of the community and then make sure the improvements would be compatible with the needs of the city’s swim team. But McGill said it’s important to note the Sportsplex also serves more than just the city’s population.

“It’s not just Opelika,” he

said. “There’s lots of people from surrounding areas that come and use this, and so if you look at the expanded area, there’s over 100,000 people that reach out and use the Sportsplex and our aquatics facilities, and our swim team has grown up to over 200 people. The reality is with those needs, you’re looking at a much larger need in terms of what this city could provide.”

McGill said some of the feedback included requests for more lap lane availability in the afternoon and evening. To address that, the plans include more lap space in the outdoor pool: up to 24 25-yard lanes and eight 50-meter lanes. The 15,800-square-foot pool is about the size of an Olympic pool, McGill said. It would range from 3.5 to 7 feet deep and include two 6-foot, movable bulkheads. The bulkheads would allow the pool to be sectioned off into spaces for lap swimming and recreational swimming.

Off to the side, shaded

ming pool, the Sportsplex would offer a new spraypad: a “splashtacular” children’s play unit with an elevated play structure and plenty of water features, such as dump buckets and spray devices.

A new entry building for the Sportsplex is also included in the plans. It would have a check-in area, office space and restrooms.

There is still “significant planning” to be done, McGill said, but the goal is to have the improvements in place in about two years.

The next step will be to address any remaining concerns as architects spend the next few months designing a more specific layout.

Covington Recreation Center is located at 213 Carver Ave. and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 24 hours on Saturday.

It is closed on Sunday. The Opelika Sportsplex is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

bleachers would allow for spectators to watch more comfortably on hot, sunny days.

The goal with the new plans is to provide a better balance of recreational and competitive swimming space, according to the study.

“We want to be able to increase our ability to have more regional meets, and then the potential for larger meets as well,” McGill said.

Bigger swim meets would mean more visitors from across the southeast, which would bring in more revenue for the city. McGill said Counsilman-Hunsaker estimated the new-and-improved pool would bring a value of about $1.8 million to $2 million per year starting out, with the potential for increase in the future.

“I think this is great, and I think this is one thing that Opelika truly needs to pull people in from surrounding areas to hopefully come to this,” Rauch said.

In addition to the swim-

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY CITY OF OPELIKA

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

PUBLISHER: Michelle Key

LIVE LEE EDITOR: Hannah Lester MARKETING: Woody Ross, Rená Smith PHOTOJOURNALIST: Robert Noles SPORTS EDITOR: Wil Crews SPORTS WRITERS: Rick Lanier, D. Mark Mitchell, Harrison Tarr STAFF REPORTER: Kendyl Hollingsworth

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A3 July 21, 2022

Focus Announces 2nd Annual 40/40 Awards for Women in Alabama Honoring and Celebrating 40 Women Over 40

CONTRIBUTED BY FOCUS

ALABAMA A — Focus, a non-partisan women’s organization based in Mobile, Alabama, is proud to announce the second annual 40/40 Awards to honor and celebrate 40 women over 40 who have made a mark professionally and impacted their community in a positive way.

The 40/40 Awards seeks to highlight women across Alabama that are making waves and achieving greatness after the age of 40. In 2021, the 40 honorees represented a variety of industries and roles including state and local government, financial services, education, nonprofits, real estate and more.

“Our goal for Focus has always been to encourage and empower women across the state to change their world,” said Devin Ford, founder of

Focus. “The 40/40 Awards celebrate the incredible Alabama women over 40 years old making an impact in their industry or community. There are countless awards and honors that celebrate achievements of those under the age of 40 or 30, but we are proud to honor the women that bring even more personal and professional experience to their circles. Turning 40 isn’t the beginning of the end –– it’s just the beginning.”

Nominations for the 2022 class are accepted through the Focus website and close on Aug. 10. Selected honorees will be celebrated at the 40/40 Awards reception on Sept. 28 at the Daphne Civic Center. Tickets to the 40/40 Awards are available for purchase at focuswc.com/ tickets/.

In addition to the 40/40 Awards, Focus hosts annual See WOMEN, page A4

Walmart Host Community Wellness Day July 23

BY ASHLEY WHITTLE TIEDT ON BEHALF OF WALMART

LEE COUNTY — Walmart invites communities to get healthy ahead of a new school year at Walmart Wellness Day on Saturday, July 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where customers can receive free glucose, cholesterol, BMI and blood pressure screenings as well as affordable immunizations like tetanus, hepatitis, HPV, COVID-19 and more at pharmacies nationwide.

Walmart Wellness Day encourages families to get healthy and stay on a healthy track by helping them

know their numbers and then seek care to improve their healthy lifestyles. Knowing your numbers is just a start but additional, helpful information allows you to make decisions and track your health improvement.

Walmart Wellness Day is also a great time for customers to learn about our health and wellness offerings and solutions.

More than 4,600 Walmart pharmacies across the country will host Walmart Wellness Day events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time on July 23.

Select stores will also feature vision screenings to make it even easier for customers to

rubella (MMR), varicella (chicken pox/ shingles), whooping cough (TDAP), Hep A & B as well as other vaccines • No cost to patient COVID-19 vaccines • Wellness resources and an opportunity to talk with pharmacists.

“An exciting time of the year is approaching fast, and we look forward to offering these health and wellness resources for families as they gear up for school,” said Kevin Host,

Walmart’s senior vice president of pharmacy. “Wellness Day allows us to continue helping our communities live better and healthier through free screenings, affordable immunizations and other solutions.

The back-to-school season is a busy one, and these are ways we hope to provide some easy, convenient options for our customers. Healthcare delivery is something we’re always innovating through not just

we are a volunteer-based, community-driven initiative working to reconcile the racial violence that occurred in Lee County, Alabama,” said the Lee County Remembrance Project website. “Using a truth and reconciliation framework, we work to confront our history of racial terror in Lee County and engage in the discussions necessary to overcome its persistent legacy.”

One of the projects the Lee County Remembrance Project completed was a historical marker sharing information about lynching in Lee County that was erected at Courthouse

Square in Opelika.

Lee County NAACP Branch #5038 hopes to raise $5,000 for the Remembrance Project’s scholarship, Allen said.

Over the last two years, the branch has been involved in projects, such as helping the Remembrance Project; working on redistricting in the cities of Auburn, Opelika and in Lee County; advocating for the needs of the underserved in regards to the Opelika Carver-Jeter plan; providing COVID-19 testing; and more.

“Our goal, as the Lee County NAACP branch, is to carry out the mission

of the NAACP, which is to advocate for the underserved, the unspoken people and citizens of Lee County,” Allen said.

“And we want to fight for equality, equity and justice educationally, socially, politically and economically. And that’s our overall goal.”

To continue branching out, the Lee County Branch also restarted the student-branch on Auburn University’s campus.

All of these goals are far from finished, however, such as COVID-19 awareness and seeing what can be done to stop gun violence in the county,

PHOTOS BY THE CITY OF SMITHS STATION

access the resources they need. Walmart Wellness Day events will feature the following health resources, administered by qualified pharmacy and Vision Center teams: • Free health screenings, including glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index and vision screenings (select locations) • Affordable immunizations, including pneumonia, tetanus, HPV, measles, mumps,

SMITHS >>

FROM A1

NAACP >>

FROM A1

elected secretary; and John Andrew Harris, who was named treasurer; to re-form the chapter.

The National NAACP at the time said that in order to form a chapter, Lee County’s branch would need 100 members.

“We worked and we worked until we got 100 members,” Allen said. “We submitted our reactivation, reinstatement papers to the state conference and to the national. And we were reinstated, reactivated on July 25, 2020.”

The branch will cele-

our pharmacies but also through Walmart Health Virtual Care and Walmart Health Centers. Our goal is to offer care for our customers when and where they need it.”

Since 2014, Walmart pharmacies have hosted Walmart Wellness Days, contributing more than 4.7 million free health screenings for customers. More than 4,000 Walmart stores are in medically underserved areas, which means Walmart is often the first stop for health care in these rural and underserved communities.

To find a free event in your neighborhood, visit Walmart.com/ wellnesshub.

brate its birthday on Saturday, July 30, at Covington Recreation Center’s outdoor picnic area. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the group will celebrate but will also be hoping to recruit new members.

“We’re going to be recruiting new members, we’re going to be asking present members to renew their membership and we’re going to raise money for our scholarship fund,” Allen said.

The group works with the Lee County Remembrance Project to raise scholarship funds.

“Following the call from the Equal Justice Initiative,

Allen said.

Over the next two years, Allen said the group hopes to add members, continue working toward their goals and working with local government agencies.

The group currently has about 170 members.

“We want the cities in Lee County to be the best they possibly can for all the residents of the county and the cities,” Allen said. “… We’re here to stay, and we’re here to stay because we want the municipalities in Lee County to be the best in the state of Alabama in terms of serving and providing for the people that live in those areas."

A4 July 21, 2022

Dear God

A

SEAN DIETRICH

potluck. A little church in the sticks. There were maybe 50 people at the covered-dish social.

Attendees were of all ages. All classes. They represented all creeds, income brackets and SEC football allegiances.

The casserole dishes were steaming, aligned on red-and-white gingham tablecloths. The dessert table was about to buckle from the combined weight of so many refined carbohydrates. The tea was sweet enough to power a residential lawn mower.

Before anyone ate, the

old preacher shuffled to the center of the room and called for everyone’s attention. He walked with a pronounced limp.

His face was half paralyzed.

The room fell silent.

When the old man spoke, few could understand his slurred words and thick tongue. It almost sounded like the old pulpiteer had been drinking. But liquor wasn’t the culprit here. It was thrombosis.

After his recent stroke, the old man’s small motor functions have been inhibited. This affected

his speech. Which is why he no longer preaches or prays publicly anymore.

Nobody can understand him.

But the old man still attends church here. Every Sunday. He is supportive and enthusiastic about the church’s new preacher.

He still comes to every social event. He can still eat his weight in squash casserole.

And he can still write.

Which he does. Every day. And sometimes he writes out his prayers for others to read aloud.

Like the one he wrote this afternoon.

Everyone bowed heads and joined hands to form a human chain. Some closed their eyes. Some didn’t.

A gaggle of children walked forward, gathering around the old man before the prayer. They were kids of all ages. Big and small. They all held index cards.

Visitors were wondering what was happening here. What were all these

kids doing before the prayer?

The old man hoisted a little girl onto his hip. He gave her the go-ahead, and she began to read aloud from her index card.

“Dear God,” the girl recited slowly and carefully. “Thank you for your goodness, and for the food you have graciously given.”

She paused and pronounced a few words privately before reading the next line.

“Please,” she went on, “be with the hurting people in Chicago, and with the families who lost loved ones in the mass shooting yesterday. Help us, God.” Another little boy spoke. He, too, read aloud from the notecard.

“Be with all the moms and dads and the kids.

Help the injured. Help the policemen and all the doctors.”

Another kid said, “Please wrap your arms around all the suffering

families, and wipe away tears. Hold them, each one, like a mama holds a baby.”

A teenage girl with dental braces recited from her card.

“And may this tragedy motivate us to show more love to others, and to help all people however we can. Even the people we don’t like.”

The girl finished reading and looked to the old preacher for approval.

The old man gave her a smile and a thumbs up.

The next kid to read was a redhead, God love him. His face had so many freckles it looked like someone had rolled him in paprika. “Teach us to be kind, God.” A girl with pigtails.

“Help us to be gentle and humble of heart.”

Another child. “And to listen more than we talk.”

And another. “Show us how to listen to our moms and dads. And sometimes, help our moms and dads to be open enough to learn

from us, too.”

“Please help us to strive for peace, not victory,” said a kid.

“And help us to never be selfish or proud, or foolish enough to believe we alone have all the answers.”

Said a boy wearing a WWE wrestling T-shirt, “Thank you for this delicious food, and thank you for the hands that prepared it, thank you for this beautiful day. Thank you for our lives.”

A girl wearing an electronic surgical implant behind her ear went next.

“You are a really good God, even when we are not really good people.

Help us to treat our friends, our family and most of all, our enemies, with respect and generosity. Show us how to love.”

A 4-year-old girl with her hair in ribbons practically shouted her line.

“And all God’s people said?”

Well. You know the rest.

in a Walmart parking lot.

“All I want,” he said, “is to cook for folks who are hungry like he me.” And now, he does just that.

A dog who wandered away from his home in Georgia during a Fourth of July fireworks celebration, was found over 900 miles away.

He was scared, but he was healthy. When his owner was reunited with him, the dog wagged his tail and barked. And he smiled ... an actual, ear-to-ear smile that was captured on video.

I have watched that video several dozen times and cried every single time.

And here, in our own city, there are people who give of their time, their money, their skills and their hearts. They give anonymously, and they give with no expectation of receiving anything in return.

If I could design a Utopia, there would be no homeless people or stray animals. There would be no house fires or bullies.

Every child would be born with two arms and two legs and two parents who love them. We would never lose anything ... not purses or pets or sweethearts. Every table would be weighed down with everyone’s favorite foods, and we’d all be welcome in each other’s homes.

In my ideal world, each city would need several newspapers to document all the sweet and genuinely good things that happen every day.

With names like ‘The Daily Good’ and ‘Today’s Good Deeds,’ there would be no stories of murder or war or hatred.

Only stories of kindness to strangers, stories of worldwide generosity and stories of love, and friendship and compassion would be printed.

Opelika would have nothing but lovely stories of its own, and I would sit, just me, and my old Remington and a dog at my feet, and tell them all.

with orchestra musicians, composers and conductors. Gunter recalled being constantly challenged and “pushed really hard to do things that you didn’t think were possible.” The result, however, was a wealth of knowledge and experiences under her belt she can build on as she continues her musical journey.

“It is a great joy as a parent to see Margaret Anne’s success and watch her hard work pay off,” said her mother, Julia Gunter.

“The concerto performance was amazing, and we are so proud of her.”

Winners of the concerto competition earn a scholarship to return to the festival the following year, which Gunter said she plans to do.

But she will remain open to other opportunities, too.

One of her biggest aspirations is to be a harpist in one

of the U.S. Armed Forces bands, something she was alerted to through a mentor who played French horn in “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band for more than 30 years.

While she plans to continue in her studies, Gunter said she will also take advantage of any rare opportunities to audition for orchestras or military bands.

For now, Gunter said she is grateful for her experience at the Sewanee Summer Music Festival.

“It was a dream come true, and I’m really thankful that I got that experience, and it’s something that I’ll definitely carry with me and continue to learn from,” she said. “Hopefully I’ll have the opportunity again to perform with orchestra someday, so I’m just thankful that I had that opportunity.”

Headlines

WENDY HODGE

T

here’s been a shooting at a mall in Indiana.

A Nascar driver was stabbed to death while getting gas at a filling station. Someone with a gun interrupted a stand-up comedy show in Philadelphia. A bomb threat cleared out a government building in San Antonio. And there’s a serial rapist on the loose in California.

It took me only three minutes to absorb today’s headlines. Three minutes to take in carnage and agony that will alter lives from today until the end of time.

And it happens every

WOMEN >>

FROM A3

summits for women across the state, including a oneday Women’s Conference and a two-day Teen Conference. In March 2022, Focus hosted over 350 attendees for the Women’s Conference in Mobile, Alabama, to encourage, educate and empower attendees through a full day of speakers, panels and breakout sessions.

The events encourage women to develop relationships and provide the tools, knowledge and network to economically empower themselves, encourage them to live their best life and impact their community in positive ways.

For more information on Focus or the 40/40 Awards, please contact Lillian Brand at lillian@kcprojects.net.

single day.

In college, I read sections of ‘Utopia’ by Thomas More, and I remember thinking how amazing it would be if the world could actually function that way. No greed, no poverty, no wars or crime. And, just as quickly, I dismissed the notion that it would ever work. People are people. We fight and hurt each other, we lie and steal. The only constant about humanity is that it is imperfect.

And yet ...

There are more things happening in our world than those bold-print headlines would lead us to believe.

A teenager in Des Moines found a purse with $17,000 cash in it.

And he returned it! The little old lady who’d lost her life savings was so thrilled, she gave him half the cash and a job in her family business.

Three motorcyclists happened to stop on a bridge to admire the view of a lake in Utah and

GUNTER >>

FROM A1

the last week of the festival.

“I was really honored,” she said. “After I performed in the final round, I got to watch most of the other participants … and I was just honored to be sharing the stage with them. I never expected to move on to become a winner, but it was really, really humbling and really fulfilling.”

According to Gunter, the backing orchestra comprised festival faculty and some students from the University of Sewanee.

“It’s just — there’s nothing like sitting up there and hearing the orchestra behind you playing your piece,” she said. “And especially, the orchestra we got to play our concerti with … it’s the most incredible group of musicians that I’ve ever

heard the distant cries of a puppy stuck in a drainage ditch. They scrambled down and rescued it. And one of the men nursed it back to health and gave to a girl in his neighborhood who’d always wanted a dog.

A man walking home from his third-shift rotation at a factory in Wisconsin noticed smoke coming from someone’s upstairs window. Doorbell camera footage caught him racing to the front door and letting himself in — not to rob the place, but to climb the stairs and rescue the sleeping female and her two children. Turns out, the woman worked first shift at the same factory as her rescuer. They were neighbors and co-workers who may have never crossed paths if not for his selfless act of bravery.

A child prodigy, born with one arm, stepped up to bat in Cooperstown this past week and hit not one homerun, but two — straight out of the park!

He was quoted as saying, gotten to play with, and it was a really, really special performance.”

Gunter’s interest in the harp began just over a decade ago when she began taking piano lessons from Donna Kemp. She was 8 years old at the time and said she remembers being intrigued by Kemp’s harp in another room.

“I would be sitting at the piano taking piano lessons, and I would see the harp in the other room, and I just thought it looked really cool,” Gunter recalled. “I had never heard anyone play the harp that I could remember, but I just saw the instrument in the other room and thought it was really cool.”

It took a couple years to convince her parents to buy her one of her own, but by the time she was 11, Gunter was hooked on the harp.

“I just love baseball.

I’m so grateful to get to play.”

A sixth-grader in Colorado, who has struggled with bullying for several years, brought home his yearbook. When his family saw that there were no signatures, they turned to social media to bring light to their boy’s struggles. An eleventh-grader saw the post and decided she wouldn’t rest until she did what she could to bring some compassion to this stranger. With her help, people all over the world have read this brave young boy’s story.

He’s received thousands of encouraging messages ... some from celebrities, most from ordinary people who’ve been bullied like he has.

Thanks to a TikTok video, a man in New Jersey went from homeless to food-truck owner in just 10 days. An organization whose mission is to help fund the business dreams of those with no means of their own, discovered a homeless man Now 19 years old, Gunter just completed her freshman year at the University of North Texas. UNT is known for its well-respected College of Music — the nation’s largest public university music program. As a student in harp performance, Gunter is part of a harp studio with access to accomplished professors, mentors and a network of other talented young musicians.

“What’s really neat is that of the six of us (winners), three of us were from North Texas,” she said. “It was really neat, and I hadn’t met any of the other people from UNT before because it’s such a big music school, but it was cool to connect at the festival.”

Gunter said the festival was “very intense, but really fulfilling.” She and the other attending musicians were able to work and perform

A5 July 21, 2022

Children Chill With OPD During 'Pops With Cops' Events

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER BY OPD Opelika Police Department members recently visited Church of the Highland's Serve Day at Kings Trailer Park, giving out popsicles to locals and allowing children to explore the patrol car. Officers also spent time with Esperanza House, First Baptist Church of Opelika, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County and Summer Swing to play games, dance and provide community members and children with cold treats.

A6 July 21, 2022

PfmanceSies 2 0 2 2 - 2 0 2 3

WE’LL MEET AGAIN

MARIACHI HERENCIA DE MĖXICO

KYIV CITY BALLET Swan Lake

AUGUST 30, 2022

OCTOBER 5, 2022

OCTOBER 20, 2022

As Julius Hagedorn, a Jewish merchant in Opelika, Alabama, began to see the storm clouds of World War II gathering over Europe in the 1930s, he set about helping the family of his young nephew, Henry Stern, escape the Holocaust just in time for a new life in America. We’ll Meet Again celebrates Henry’s growing up in a small and welcoming Southern town on a journey through life that held surprises at every turn!

Cesar Maldonado’s Mariachi Heritage Foundation has created music education programs for over 2,100 students throughout Chicago, culminating in the now acclaimed, Latin Grammy-nominated youth ensemble, Mariachi Herencia de México.

Joined by Lupita Infante, granddaughter of Mexican icon Pedro Infante, Mariachi Herencia de México honors the legacy they inherited with an unforgettable experience of Mexican music and culture.

Kyiv City Ballet came to international attention having arrived in Paris for a tour just as Russia commenced its invasion of Uk Ukraine. With the company stranded and unable to return home, the City of Paris, in collaboration with the Théâtre du Châtelet, arranged pr to provide lodging and rehearsal space for the dancers for as long as they remain in exile. In September, the Kyiv City Ballet will embark on its premiere tour of the United States, showcasing its llavish new production of Swan Lake.

LVIV NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA OF UKRAINE

ORPHEUS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

CHANTICLEER An Orchestra of Voices

GENTRI The Gentlemen Trio

JANUARY 21, 2023

FEBRUARY 23, 2023

MARCH 2, 2023

MARCH 30, 2023

From the Medieval city of Lviv on Ukraine’s western border with Poland, an orchestra dares to do the unthinkable: carry a message of hope across the world during a period of war and instability.

Led by the dynamic Ukrainian-American conductor Theodore Kuchar, and joined by Ukrainian pianist Stanislav Kristenko, this will surely be a concert to inspire and a night to remember!

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra is a radical experiment in musical democracy, proving what happens when exceptional artists, generally performing without a conductor, gather with total trust in each other and faith in the creative process. At home for its annual seasons at Carnegie Hall, Orpheus is touring the nation in celebration of its 50th Anniversary, joined by Italian pianist, Alessio Bax.

The Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer has been hailed as the “world’s reigning male chorus” by The New Yorker, and is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for its wideranging repertoire and dazzling virtuosi virtuosity. Founded in San Francisco in 1978, Chanticleer quickly took its place as one of the most prolific recording and touring ensembles in the world, selling over one million recordings and performing thousands of live concerts to audiences around the world.

Gentri features three h dynamic tenors who have pioneered a signature sound they term “Cinematic Pop”, infused with lush orchestrations and three-part harmonies, all composed by the group’s producer and directo Stephen musical director, Nelson. Their acclaimed music videos have amassed over 200 million views on YouTube and Facebook, and they have shared the stage with world-renowned talent including Tony Award-winning stars Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel.

James R. Harris

RANKY TANKY GULLAH MUSIC OF THE CAROLINA COAST

NOVEMBER 14, 2022 This Grammy Award-winning, Charleston, SC-based quintet performs timeless music born from the Gullah culture of the southeastern Sea Islands. Playful game songs, ecstatic shouts, and heartbreaking spirituals can all be found on their latest release Good Time, which also offers the group’s first original songs inspired by Gullah tradition.

Mark Hayes

Theodore Kuchar, Principal Conductor

Stanislav Kristenko, Pianist

Alessio Bax, Pianist

FOR TICKET INFORMATION CALL (334) 749.8105 O R V I S I T W W W. E A S TA L A B A M A A R T S. O R G

E vents, Food, & SocietyNews

UPCOMING EVENTS: JULY 22: NATIONAL ATHLETES WELCOME HOME PICNIC, KIESEL PARK, 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M. JULY 23 - BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH AT COVINGTON REC. 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. JULY 24: PRIDE ON THE PLAINS FAMILY FUN DAY, 414 S. GAY ST., 3 TO 5 P.M. AUG. 5 THROUGH 14: AACT PRESENTS "HANDS ON A HARD BODY" AUG. 5 THROUGH 14: OTC PRESENTS "NEWSIES"

Assorted Chicken Salads Ideal For Summer Lunch, Supper PHOTO BY ANN CIPPERLY

Ann Cipperly

Southern W

hen the temperature soars in July, chicken salad is refreshing for lunch or a light supper. Try an assortment of chicken salads to keep in the refrigerator for serving in sandwiches piled high with lettuce and slices of tomato, as an entrée with fresh summer vegetables or a green salad and fresh fruit.

Chicken salad is popular anytime but especially on hot days. It is easy to prepare by simply boiling or roasting a whole chicken, chicken

Hospitality

breasts or tenders or picking up a rotisserie chicken at the grocery store.

Classic recipes start with finely chopped celery. From there, add your personal favorites of chopped pecans or walnuts, dried cranberries, pickle relish, chopped apple, chopped boiled eggs, etc. Duke’s or Hellman’s mayonnaise are popular choices for chicken salads.

To reduce fat, substitute Greek yogurt or low fat sour cream for a portion of the mayonnaise.

At a recent lunch with family and friends

at Smith Lake, Sherry Davis took her favorite chicken salad prepared with Zucchini Relish.

I tried a scoop to savor on the patio overlooking the lake. The salad was so good I went back for more to find the bowl was empty on the buffet table. Apparently, everyone else liked it too.

Sherry and her sister Pat both make chicken salad with Zucchini Relish. Sherry said she had used her last jar from a batch she made in 2020 and was going to prepare more this summer. The recipe is really fairly easy to

On the hottest days, serve chicken salad for a refreshing lunch or supper with a green salad and fresh fruit. Pictured is Southern Hospitality Chicken Salad, which can be made from a wide selection of additions for creating your own signature version. make, and it makes a good gift.

Sherry and Pat add the relish to chicken salad with finely chopped celery and onion, and sometimes add chopped boiled eggs.

Another favorite chicken salad has been Ursula Higgins’ recipe with tarragon vinegar that she served years ago at the Greenhouse Restaurant in Opelika.

When Ursula was serv-

ing chicken salad at the Jule Collins Smith Museum Café, she adapted the recipe. I found three recipes in my files, but the one I am sharing has been preferred.

Sherry Freeman is sharing the Neiman Marcus Chicken Salad recipe that her aunt in Dallas always served when they visited. The recipe was created by Helen Corbitt for the cafés at Neiman Marcus

in the 1950s and was served for decades. I am not sure if it is still on the menu at their Zodiac Restaurant.

The chicken salad was one of my favorites to order at the Neiman’s Zodiac restaurants, and I was able to collect the recipe as well. When Don traveled on business trips, I would have the opportunity to go See CIPPERLY, page A10

Standing Rock to Host Next Fish Fry This Fall

Applebee’s Locations Raise Money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

STANDING ROCK — Downtown Standing Rock, Alabama, was busier than usual on

Saturday, May 14. For the first time ever, the Standing Rock Fish Fry and Bake Sale was held at the old Community Center on Chambers County Road 278 in

downtown Standing Rock. It was a perfect, blue sky, sunny day for the Fish Fry. Traffic on Chambers County Road 278 was a little congestSee FISH, page A9

CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

LEE COUNTY — Starting today, Applebee’s restaurants across the country have transformed into “lemonade stands,”

in celebration of Applebee’s annual fundraising campaign with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research and family support

programs. Now through Aug. 21, Applebee’s invites guests to join in the fight to end pediatric cancer.

Since 2005, Applebee’s restaurants across the See LEMONADE, page A9

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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

Nothing better for your lawn exists

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

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

A8 July 21, 2022

Making the Grade: Birdie’s Cup and Saucer PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE / FOR THE OBSERVER

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

I

’ve mentioned Tanya Simms, my dear friend, several times in my column.

She taught for 26 years in the great state of Alabama, retired and then taught for 11 years at Long Cane Middle School in LaGrange, Georgia. I was blessed to teach on the same team with her for 10 years.

Before Tanya retired in 2016, I had a great idea for her, I thought.

Tanya is a marvelous cook; she even LOVES to cook. Therefore, I told her that after she retired, she should open up “Tanya’s To Go” in Valley, where she lived.

Tanya could prepare delicious dishes, which working mothers with children could come and pick up. That way, the women could serve wonderful, homemade meals to their families without the time and energy needed to prepare them. Also, Tanya could feed certain “Pooh-sized” friends who hated cooking but loved to eat.

Unfortunately, Tanya passed on my great idea. Instead, she moved to Huntsville to be near her family. I couldn’t blame her; Mike and I moved to Auburn from LaGrange for the same reason.

However, I’m thrilled to say that last week, Mike and I found a wonderful place to feed us those delicious, homemade meals that I don’t have to cook.

Also, Mike won’t have to wash any dishes.

Recently, Mike and I

were busy working at Vacation Bible School at our church, Central Baptist of Opelika.

We had a great time, and it was a blessing.

However, we didn’t have time to cook supper or eat out anywhere.

It was Birdie’s Cup and Saucer to the rescue. This delightful establishment is located at 555 Opelika Road, #4 in Auburn.

When we walked into Birdie’s Cup and Saucer, we were met by tantalizing smells of homemade food. Ann Price Bishop, a sweet, young woman who is a student in Auburn University’s Culinary Arts Program, waited on us.

Ann is currently doing an internship with Birdie Jones, who bought the original Cup and Saucer last December.

Mike and I chose a large poppy seed chicken casserole and a large Mandarin house salad.

In addition, Ann brought us out a sample tray of goodies, all of which were homemade: bread, cheese and onion firecrackers and Rosemary parmesan cheesebread, a freshly baked shortbread. Oh, my two times. It was all amazingly delicious.

Mike and I raved over the cheesebread; it was addictive. In fact, we came back the next day and bought some. I thought to myself, “Oh, no. Just what I need as a diabetic ... another wonderful carbohydrate."

When Mike and I

came home, we baked the casserole for 90 minutes. It was really great, as was the salad. Birdie’s Cup and Saucer now has two more permanent customers. I love their motto: “We cook so you don’t have to.” There you go.

I didn’t have to cook, and Mike didn’t have to wash dishes, a win-win situation. Also, we had plenty for two suppers, which was great in these inflationary times. Last, what we paid for those two suppers was less than what we usually pay for one night at a restaurant. Cha-ching!

Mike and I came back the next day because we wanted to meet Birdie. Also, we bought a Buffalo chicken cheese dip that was “slap your grandma” good. Again, I’m just kidding; I would NEVER have slapped Grandma Patton or Mother Mac, my sweet grandmothers. Mike and I agreed that was some of the best dip we’d ever had. Now I know

SUMMER SWING - EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT

July 26 - Martha's Trouble Concerts are held at Municipal Park at 7 p.m.

Hamburgers and hotdogs provided by Opelika Band Boosters and lemonade provided by SouthState Bank will be available from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.

Camp Hill Marketplace

Come out and buy your fresh produce, honey, jams and hand-crafted items at the Camp Hill Marketplace, a state-certified farmers market Every Thursday, 8 to 11 a.m., June 2 through Oct. 20, rain or shine, at Mount Lovely Baptist Church at 21900 Senator Claude Pepper Dr., Camp Hill, (AL Hwy 50). Potential vendors contact Sharon at 256-749-5100 to apply to join.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404

VFW Post 5404, 131 E. Veterans Blvd., Auburn (next to Ray's Collision off of S. College St.) will be open on Wednesdays 0800 - 1100 with coffee, donuts, cake and conversation about service and benefits for all veterans and spouses to stop by.

what I’ll be serving for company and Auburn away games when we’re watching at home.

Meeting Birdie, who is originally from a small village called Kingsbury, England (20 miles from Birmingham, England), was an absolute joy. She sat and chatted with us as if she had all day, and I could have listened to her delightful British accent for hours.

Birdie moved to Auburn with her thenhusband because he worked for Milliken and had been asked to transfer to a plant in America; they had three boys. In 2018, Birdie officially became an American citizen.

“I cried and creid," Birdie said. "I love America more than anything. I’ll never leave here."

Besides being talented in the culinary arts, Birdie also paints.

She has paintings and signs for sale in her shop. My favorite sign reads: “The more you weigh, the harder you are to kidnap. Stay safe and eat cake.” Also, she

taught art part time at Auburn Classical Academy for four years. Now she is a licensed official Auburn University artist.

Eventually she and her family moved to Arkansas because of her husband’s new job.

In 2020, she and her husband divorced. She decided to move back to Auburn with her boys.

A friend encouraged her to buy The Cup and Saucer, so she took out her 401k and bought it.

Birdie is passionate about cooking.

“I put love in the food. I want to be Mom to everyone,” she said.

Birdie and her staff cook mostly from scratch. They use block cheese, real eggs, milk, potatoes, mushrooms, etc. Fresh ingredients and no powdered foods.

“We call this a ministry,” Birdie said.

For instance, a woman in Atlanta orders five meals a week for her elderly mother; this has allowed the mother to stay in her own home and have homemade meals. Also, Birdie has the meals delivered to this customer.

In addition, Birdie’s

Cup and Saucer, as I mentioned previously, is very affordable.

For example, a single person can purchase five meals for around $75.00.

When entering Birdie’s Cup and Saucer, you will immediately notice the camaraderie of Birdie and her staff; they are family.

“Birdie has been the best mentor," Ann said.

"She's taught me every aspect of the business.

I’m learning more than my friends who work at other restaurants."

Jana Gilmore, another employee of Birdie’s, said, “It’s a great place to work. Birdie is wonderful. She has a great vision. I’m looking forward to the future.”

One vision of Birdie’s is to help people in her community. Once when she was alone at Christmas with just her See WALLACE, page A9

THE MARKET AT AG HERITAGE PARK Every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. at AG Heritage Park located at 620-A S. Donahue Dr. in Auburn O GROWS FARMERS MARKET Every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. outside the Southside Center for the Arts located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

will meet 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 Dr. in Opelika. Every month there will be different topics discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision.

“Alone we can do so little: together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller Contact: Shiquita Fulton, M. ED/Vision Rehab Therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, Melody Wilson, Case manager for the blind at (256)-368-3258

A9 July 21, 2022

LEMONADE >>

FROM A7

country have collectively raised more than $13.2 million for ALSF and its mission and look to make a bigger impact this year with the help of the neighborhood.

Guests can support the cause in a variety of ways, including purchasing a digital lemon in increments of $1 and $5 on Applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app, making an online donation when purchasing a gift card on Applebees. com or by celebrating National Lemonade Day with Applebee’s.

On National Lemonade Day, Aug. 20, guests can purchase a lemonade or fruit flavored lemonade at a neighborhood Applebee’s, and 25 cents from each lemonade will be donated to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

Contact your local restaurant to learn more.

“We’re honored to continue our long-standing partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to help in the fight against pediatric cancer,”

WALLACE >>

FROM A8

dog Buddy for company because her boys were with their Dad, she made a promise to God. Birdie said, “God, please get me through this Christmas, and when I get back on my feet, I will help other people.”

Therefore, at a future Christmas, Birdie plans

FISH >>

FROM A7

ed with cars arriving and leaving the Fish Fry. As 18-wheelers rolled slowly through town, truck drivers waved their hand hello out the window and blew their air horns.

A continuous line of vehicles and even an

said John Cywinski, Applebee’s President. “Over the past 18 years, together with our restaurant partners and guests, we’ve raised more than $13 million – but we know the fight continues, and we hope to raise even more in 2022.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation was established in 2005 to continue the mission of 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott.

While fighting her own battle against cancer, Scott set up a lemonade stand in her front yard to raise money for “doctors to find a cure” for all pediatric cancers. One in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer by the time they turn 20 and yet pediatric cancer research is vastly and consistently underfunded.

“After 18 years, Applebee’s continues to be a loyal partner who has shown tremendous support of our core mission,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and co-executive director of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

“After all these years, the fight continues, and we’re excited to give Applebee’s

restaurants and customers even more opportunities to help kids fighting cancer. We are so grateful to be a part of a community that comes together in support of these families.”

For more than 40 years, Applebee’s restaurants remain committed to Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood. Local restaurants make a positive impact on the communities around them throughout the year by hosting hundreds of events or fundraisers in their restaurants, whether to help local heroes and military, support children and schools, raise funds for local charities that help neighbors or even to help their own team members who may be in need.

In addition to these local efforts, for the past 14 years, Applebee’s and its franchisees have thanked veterans and active military on Veterans Day by serving nearly 11 million free meals. Together, Applebee’s donates millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours to Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood each year.

Participating Applebee’s locations owned and oper-

ated by Flynn Restaurant Group include: Alabama, California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and West Virginia.

ABOUT APPLE AMERICAN GROUP Apple American Group LLC owns and operates over 441 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in 23 states. With annualized sales of over $1.1B and over 21,000 employees, Apple American is the largest franchisee in the Applebee’s system, the largest U.S. casual dining franchisee, and the second largest franchisee of any concept in the U.S. More information is available at AppleAmerican.com.

ABOUT APPLEBEE'S® As one of the world’s largest casual dining brands, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar serves as America’s kitchen table, offering guests a lively dining experience that combines

simple, craveable American fare with classic drinks and local drafts.

Applebee’s makes it easy for family and friends to connect with one another, whether it’s in a dining room or in the comfort of a living room, Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood™ is a familiar and affordable escape from the everyday.

Applebee's restaurants are owned and operated by entrepreneurs dedicated to more than serving great food, but also building up the communities that we call home. From raising money for local charities to hosting community fundraisers, Applebee’s is always Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood®.

Applebee’s franchise and company-operated operations consisted of 1,676 Applebee’s restaurants in the United States, two U.S. territories and 11 countries outside the United States as of March 31, 2022. This number does not include two domestic Applebee’s ghost kitchens (small kitchens with no store-front presence, used to fill off-premise orders) and eight Applebee’s international ghost

kitchens. Applebee's is franchised by subsidiaries of Dine Brands Global Inc. [NYSE: DIN], which is one of the world's largest full-service restaurant companies.

ABOUT ALEX’S LEMONADE STAND FOUNDATION Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million.

Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement.

Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada raising more than $250 million so far, funding over 1,000 research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. For more information, visit AlexsLemonade.org.

to have her staff cook dinners for people who are alone; they will then deliver the dinners on Christmas Eve, telling the recipients that someone in the community loves them.

“I’m not wanting to make a profit," she said. "It's not about me.

When I make a promise to God, I’d better keep it. This place is Godgiven, and I’m happier

than I’ve ever been."

Besides our delectable casserole, Birdie’s Cup and Saucer offers customers others such as chicken broccoli Divan, cheesy broccoli chicken and brown rice (gluten free) and beef stroganoff bake, among others.

Customers may also choose from warm-andserve dinner entrees, side dishes, fresh salads

and cheesebreads, take-and-bake appetizers, sweet breads and yummies. For a full list of Birdie’s menu for the week, just scan the QR code on your phone; Birdie even showed me how. Also, Birdie’s has a dine-in lunch which includes a sandwich on homemade bread with chips, a small salad, drink and dessert. Trust me, run and do not walk

to Birdie’s Cup and Saucer. Mike and I will see you there.

Birdie’s Cup and Saucer is closed on Saturday and Sunday. The shop is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Birdie’s Cup and Saucer makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher.

Remember, “Poohsized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

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

ice-cream truck circled around the Standing Rock Methodist Church picking up fish plates to go. As always, a variety of delectable cakes and pies were on display for bidding inside the old Community Center.

Round tables were set up in the old Community Center for those

who chose to eat indoors where it was nice and cool. Others sat on the grass and near cemetery tombstones as local musicians performed and sang underneath an old water oak tree. Conversations, laughter, music and memories entertained all the souls resting in the Standing Rock Ceme-

tery from the 1860s to present.

The next Fish Fry in downtown Standing Rock is slated for the fall.

The Standing Rock Community Center Building Project Committee was formed in 2017 to raise money to build a new Community Center in Standing Rock. The com-

mittee has thus far held nine fundraisers.

The committee welcomes all volunteers and donations for the building project. For more information on how you can help, or how to make a donation, contact a committee member: Benji and Margie Johnson, Sharon and Bubba

Spriggs, Beth and Billy Joe Pike, George Wilder, Randy Hudson, Rick, Suzanne and Shannon Dewberry, Nannette Brooks, Dr. Walter Stewart, Brandon and Laura Christie, Arnold and Barbara Janney, Fred Johnson and Marie A. Leak.

AUBURN AREA COMMUNITY THEATRE PROUDLY PRESENTS

AUGUST 5-14, 2022 6 SAT AUG

JAN DEMPSEY COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER TICKETS $15/$12 STUDENTS & SENIORS (334) 246-1084 OR AUBURNACT.ORG

HANDS ON A HARDBODY IS PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CONCORD THEATRICALS. WWW.CONCORDTHEATRICALS.COM

A10 July 21, 2022

CIPPERLY >>

FROM A7

sometimes. He would often drop me off at a shopping center to spend the day while he worked.

I could always count on a good lunch at Neiman’s Zodiac Restau-

CIPPERLY RECIPES >> CHICKEN SALAD WITH ZUCCHINI RELISH Sherry Davis Chopped cooked chicken Duke mayonnaise Finely chopped celery Finely chopped onion Zucchini Relish, recipe follows Combine all ingredients to taste in a large bowl. Chill until ready to serve.

ZUCCHINI RELISH Can half recipe for a small batch.

10 cups ground or grated zucchini 4 cups ground or grated onions 5 Tbsp. salt 2 ½ cups vinegar 5 cups sugar 1 Tbsp. dry mustard 2 Tbsp. celery seed 2 Tbsp. cornstarch ¼ tsp. pepper 1 Tbsp. nutmeg 1 Tbsp. turmeric Place zucchini and onions in a large bowl and add salt. Let stand overnight. Drain; rinse thoroughly. Drain through cloth.

Place zucchini mixture in a large kettle.

Add remaining ingredients. Mix together and bring to a boil.

Cook for 20 minutes.

Place into hot, sterilized jars and seal.

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY CHICKEN SALAD Start with the chicken, celery and mayonnaise, then select from favorite additions to create your own special salad.

3 cups chopped cooked chicken Salt to taste ½ to ¾ finely chopped celery ¾ cup Duke or other quality mayonnaise (adjust less or more according to taste) Select from these additions: chopped pecans, walnuts or toasted almonds, diced apples, halved red or green grapes, dried cranberries, chopped boiled egg, drained crushed pineapple, sweet or dill pickle relish, finely chopped onion, mandarin oranges Season chopped cooked chicken with salt to taste. Mix in celery and then mayonnaise. Select from the additions and stir into chicken mixture.

Chill until ready to serve.

Serve on lettuce garnished with fresh

rant. The restaurant was generally filled with ladies who had been busy shopping, and many of them were ordering this special chicken salad. I enjoyed dining on the salad at the restaurants in Atlanta, San Francisco and Houston.

The chicken salad fruit or spread on bread, croissant or crescent rolls. Stuff in a hollowed tomato or present in a pineapple halve for a festive luncheon.

TALLAHASSEE CHICKEN SALAD Jennifer Jones 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped in small pieces 20 oz. can pineapple chunks, drained 1 bunch white seedless grapes 1 pkg. toasted almonds ½ cup diced celery ¼ cup sesame seeds ¾ cup mayonnaise ½ Tbsp. lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste ½ to 1 cup whipping cream, whipped Grated coconut, optional Combine all ingredients, folding in whipped cream last. Sprinkle with coconut if desired.

Makes a lovely luncheon dish when served in a pineapple boat or melon ring.

Serve with assorted crackers or hot rolls.

Serves 6 to 8.

WALDORF STYLE CHICKEN SALAD WITH HONEY MUSTARD SAUCE Carol Southern 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 3 cups chopped cooked chicken 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved 1 large Gala apple, diced 1 cup diced celery 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup honey mustard (store bought or Carol’s recipe) Salt and pepper to taste Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake walnuts in a single layer in a shallow pan 6 to 8 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through.

Stir together chicken, next 5 ingredients and walnuts. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Makes 6 servings.

CAROL’S HONEY MUSTARD 1/8 cup yellow mustard 1/8 cup Dijon mustard 1/8 cup mayonnaise 1/8 cup honey Combine ingredients.

was served with an orange souffle mold with mandarin oranges.

When I made the orange souffle at home, I adapted the recipe and omitted the egg yolks in the original recipe. I put the “souffle” gelatin mixture in a Bundt pan to chill.

Once it was set, the

NEIMAN MARCUS CHICKEN SALAD Famed Texas cook Helen Corbitt created this rich chicken salad recipe for the cafe menu at Neiman Marcus department stores in the 1950’s. It is delicious on toasted multigrain bread with lettuce and tomato or simply served on a lettuce leaf. My aunt in Dallas always served this when we visited her. She did not add the grapes.

Sherry Freeman 1 lb. roasted chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch cubes 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup thinly sliced celery 1 cup halved purple seedless grapes (optional) 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted lightly 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley 1 tsp. sea salt or to taste 1/2 cup whipped cream Freshly ground pepper to taste Combine everything but the whipped cream in a bowl. Fold in the cream, which has been whipped.

Toasting the sliced almonds is important.

Walnuts or pecans may be substituted, but the original recipe uses almonds.

(I prefer Duke’s mayonnaise in all recipes.)

NEIMAN MARCUS ORANGE SOUFFLÉ RING FOR CHICKEN SALAD For a while Neiman Marcus restaurant served their chicken salad with an individual mold of this Orange Souffle. The original recipe called for two egg yolks, which have been dropped.

2 (1/4 oz.) envelopes unflavored gelatin 2 cups sugar 2 cups orange juice, divided 2 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 can mandarin oranges, drained 2 cups heavy cream, whipped Fresh strawberries, mint leaves for garnish Thoroughly mix gelatin and sugar in saucepan; add 1 cup orange juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, just until mixture comes to a boil.

Stir in remaining orange juice and lemon juice. Chill until mixture mounds when dropped from a spoon; stir in orang-

souffle was unmolded onto a lettuce lined platter and the center filled with chicken salad. The salad was garnished with toasted almonds, and the mold surrounded with grapes, strawberries and fresh mint. The mixture can be chilled in individual molds and would be

lovely for a summer luncheon.

A wide selection of chicken salads are featured in the recipes from good local cooks.

I created Southern Hospitality Chicken Salad a few years ago to give to a family member who requested my favorite.

I couldn’t decide on

es. Fold in whipped cream. Pour into a 2-quart mold or individual molds; chill until set.

Unmold on lettuce and serve with chicken salad. Garnish edges of ring with grapes, strawberries and mint leaves.

CHICKEN SALAD 2 cups ground cooked chicken 3 boiled eggs, shredded ½ cup celery, cut very fine ¼ cup pickle relish Mayonnaise to mix Salt and pepper to taste Combine all ingredients. This type of chicken salad is good for sandwiches.

CHICKEN CURRY SALAD Cathy Dozier ½ tsp. salt ½ cup mayonnaise (low fat if you want to substitute) 2 tsp. curry powder 1 Tbsp. grated onion 20 oz. drained, chopped chunks pineapple 3 cups cubed chicken 1 ½ cups apple, chopped 1 ½ cup green grapes, sliced in halves ¼ cup chopped green pepper ½ cup whipping cream, whipped Mix the chunky ingredients. Fold into the sauce ingredients. Chill two hours before serving.

GREENHOUSE CHICKEN SALAD Ursula Higgins 12 whole chicken breasts 2 Tbsp. salt 1 onion, quartered Bring chicken breasts, salt and onion to a boil. Cover and simmer until tender, about 30-40 minutes. Cool in broth. Remove skin and bones. Chop or shred.

1 cup oil 1/3 cup tarragon vinegar 3 green onions, diced 2 tsp. salt Combine above ingredients and marinate chicken overnight in refrigerator.

6 cups chopped chicken 1 ½ cups Hellman’s mayonnaise 1 cup sour cream 1 Tbsp. salt (or to taste) 1 tsp. white pepper The next day combine ingredients.

Serve in sandwiches or on a lettuce-lined luncheon plate with four slices of cantaloupe with chicken salad in the center.

Surround with wedges of watermelon, fresh pineapple, grapes and strawberries.

NADINE KNOWLES’

LOLLIE’S CHICKEN SALAD Laurie Gilbert 2 ½ lbs. frozen chicken tenders, thawed (prefers Sam’s) 3 or 4 ribs celery Water to cover Add: kosher salt, ground pepper, Nature’s Seasonings.

Bring to slow boil on medium; cook until no longer pink; turn off heat, cover. Let sit for 30 minutes until cooled.

When cool, finely chop chicken in food processor. Add about ½ cup finely diced celery chopped with knife, not in processor. Set chicken and celery aside.

In food processor, add about half a jar of Hellman’s mayonnaise (or to taste), juice of 1 lemon, generous amount of white pepper and kosher salt. Blend and add to chicken and celery.

Good as is or add ¼ cup drained Wickles pickle relish for more zest.

CHICKEN SALAD WITH FRESH FRUIT ½ cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp. milk 1 Tbsp. cider vinegar 2 tsp. grated onion 1 tsp. salt 2 cups cooked, diced chicken 1 green pear, diced 1 red apple, diced 1 cup finely chopped celery Combine first five ingredients in a large bowl. Add remaining ingredients and gently toss until well blended. Chill.

CURRIED CHICKEN SALAD Duffy Stewart 4 cups chicken, cooked and cubed (I use a rotisserie chicken) 8 oz. can water chestnuts, sliced, optional 1 lb. seedless grapes 1 cup celery, sliced 1/4 cup almonds, sliced 1 cup mayonnaise

one, so included all the choices.

Look over the following recipes for chicken salads and prepare a couple this week for a light entrée. When served chilled from the refrigerator, it will be a welcomed treat on the hottest dog days of summer.

1-2 Tbsp. curry powder 1 Tbsp. soy sauce Juice of 1 lemon Combine all ingredients and refrigerate.

Serve on lettuce leaves.

CHICKEN SALAD SURPRISE Judy Dickinson 3 cups chopped white chicken 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup Craisins 10-12 oz. pkg. fresh baby spinach Toss the above ingredients. Before serving, mix together: 1 cup mayonnaise ½ cup honey Pour over salad mixture. Toss and serve.

GREEK YOGURT CHICKEN SALAD WITH GRAPES AND PECANS Monica Mitchell 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken 1 cup halved red seedless grapes 1/3 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt 1/4 cup chopped cucumber 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise 1 Tbsp. lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste To cook chicken, season with salt and pepper and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes on each side for a total of 30 minutes, or panfry chicken in a skillet until cooked.

Shred or chop chicken and combine with grapes and pecans in a medium sized bowl.

Set aside.

In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, celery, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add to chicken mixture. Stir to combine.

Chill until ready to serve. Makes about 4 cups.

CURRY CHICKEN AND RICE SALAD Sherri Rowton 3 cups cooked rice 3 cups cooked, diced chicken 3/4 cup roasted pecans, chopped 1/3 cup minced green onions 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 Tbsp. curry powder 1 Tbsp. garlic vinegar Combine salad ingredients. Mix dressing ingredients, blending well. Toss dressing with chicken and rice.

Chill thoroughly.

A11 July 21, 2022

A 'Greater Peace' of Comedy Lee County Roasts Chette Williams During Annual Event

PHOTOS BY ALLIE FOX / FOR THE OBSERVER The Greater Peace Community Development Corporation (GPCDC) hosted the Taste of Lee County and Community Comedy Roast Saturday, July 16 at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church Family Life Center at 650 Jeter Ave. in Opelika. Auburn University Football Chaplain Chette Williams was the honorary guest of the night and was roasted by a number of his peers. Former Auburn University head football coach Gus Malzahn and former AU football players Jason Campbell and Ronnie Brown were in attendance, along with several other special guests. In addition, local vendors were on site providing samples of their most popular menu items. Founded in 2000 by the Rev. Clifford E. Jones, the GPCDC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that focuses on improving the quality of life for East Alabama residents by providing affordable housing, childcare, educational programs, training and resources.

Opelika Theatre Company is proud to present

y e n s Di

NEWSIES

August 5th, 6th & 7th

August 12th, 13th & 14th

at the Southside Center for the Arts 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika, AL, 36801

tickets available at - www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

A12 July 21, 2022

Keeping Hope Alive

WALTER ALBRITTON RELIGION — here are bewildering questions for which I have no answers. Why do men suffer? If God is good, why does He allow us to suffer? If there is a reason for our suffering, what is it? To these tough questions, I must say, I don’t know.

I do know that as much as anyone in the Bible, Saint Paul helps me grapple with these questions.

His eighth chapter of Romans is one of the greatest passages in the Bible. Paul speaks of “groaning” in the pain of life but reminds us that we “were given hope when we were saved.”

Paul explains that we were created to worship, love and serve God. But we have worshipped created things rather than God. Our disobedience has separated us from God. God in his mercy sent his Son to die on the cross for our sins. When we surrender to Jesus, we are given hope.

Paul describes all

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creation as waiting on the tiptoe of expectation for God to rescue us from death and decay. As Christians, we hope for the new bodies God has promised us. We know what Paul means when he says we are “groaning.” Groaning in the misery of suffering and pain is a common human experience.

In his book, “The Problem of Pain”, C. S. Lewis presents one of the most bewildering questions of the ages: “If God were good, He would wish to make His creatures perfectly happy, and if God were almighty He would be able to do what he wished. But the creatures are not happy. Therefore God lacks either goodness, or power, or both.’ This is the problem of pain in its simplest form.”

Lewis insists suffering is necessary. He explains why God allows suffering: “God is conforming us into the image of His Son — and that requires suffering.” That makes sense to me. I believe it helps, when we are suffering, to remember that our Lord Jesus suffered also, willingly dying on the Cross so our sins could be forgiven.

While I have no brilliant answers to questions about suffering and death, I do know we can choose either despair or hope. God has

given us the freedom to live in despair or live in hope, and I choose to live in hope. When my heart is heavy because my friends are suffering, I go to this eighth chapter of Romans and choose to believe with Paul that nothing can separate us from the love of God which we find in Christ Jesus our Lord.

If we choose hope, how do we keep it alive? One thing that helps is to remember who God is. Paul tells us that while God has many names, one of His wonderful names is “the God of hope” — “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

That is a verse worth memorizing.

What is the evidence that God is the God of hope? Two stories in the Bible beautifully affirm this: 1) the Father running to embrace the prodigal son; and 2) Jesus offering breakfast to Peter on the beach. Both these stories are overflowing with hope.

THe God of hope can fill us so full of joy and peace that we too may overflow with hope. What makes that happen? The power of the Holy Spirit.

How does God fill us with overflowing hope?

He blesses us with persons

of hope. Think of persons God has placed in your life who are persons of hope.

Give thanks for them.

When he was a young boy, the great painter Benjamin West decided to paint a picture of his sister while his mother was not at home. He got out the bottles of ink and started, but soon had an awful mess. His mother eventually returned and saw the mess. Instead of scolding him, she picked up the portrait and declared, “What a beautiful picture of your sister.”

Then she kissed him.

Later in life, he said, “With that kiss, I became a painter.” No doubt you are aware of the great power of a loving word of encouragement. You have been blessed more than once by such a word from persons of hope in your life.

God loves us so much that He gives us the freedom to discover new persons of hope. We can choose to live around persons of hope. Spend time with people who say, “Well done;” not, “You could have done better,” or “You will never amount to anything.”

Negative people, negative words, influence us greatly. But we can choose not to spend much time in the presence of those who put us down. We can

choose to discover new persons of hope. We can.

We must. You can. You must. You will. Right?

God has put wonderful persons of hope in my life.

One is Coralie McDavid, who at 85 had a back that was “killing her.” She could hardly walk. But she refused to live in despair.

Swimming relieved the pain in her back. Soon she got back into the business of serving others and, living in hope, has celebrated her 95th birthday. She is a servant of Jesus who is overflowing with hope.

God invites us to be persons of hope. To do so we must give up anger, resentment, guilt, complaining and worry. The way to overcome despair and disappointment is to live in hope. Living in despair is going against the grain of the universe. To live in hope is to be aligned with the grain of the universe.

If we are to keep hope alive, we must rid our hearts of anger, guilt, resentment and despair.

Jesus is alive. You can reach out to Jesus and ask him to cleanse your mind of destructive attitudes and then fill you with joy and peace so that you can overflow with hope. You can claim fresh, new hope from the God of hope.

He invites us to come to Jesus and let our hope be grounded in the assurance

of our salvation. My first son David died in my arms, a few weeks after his third birthday. All these years since his death I have longed to hold him again in my arms. And I cling to the hope that a loving God will give me that joy one day. If I as a father have such a longing, surely our heavenly Father has an even greater longing to gather all his children in his arms in that house not made with hands.

At the time I was angry with God for allowing a precious 3-year-old boy to suffer and die. I was ready to drink from the fountain of despair. But God sent a man who saved me from that, a man who told me, “God hurts when you hurt.” That piercing thought gave me hope that God was indeed a Father who suffered with his children and would give folks who were suffering hope for the future.

You will be wise to surrender to Jesus, acknowledge him as your Lord and Savior, love him and serve him as long as you have breath, and live in hope that beyond this vale of tears there is eternal joy and peace reserved for all believers. Putting your life daily in the hands of Jesus is the ultimate way to keep hope alive!

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A13 July 21, 2022

OBITUARIES RONNIE JOE NEWELL Ronnie Joe Newell, 73 of Opelika, passed away July 13, 2022, at EAMC. Mr. Newell was born July 13, 1949 to Arche and Janice Williams Newell. He spent most of his life in Florida but lived the last nine years in Opelika.

Mr. Newell was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jerry Newell. He is survived by his wife Ellen G. Newell; children: Ronnie Joe Newell, Jr., Sabrina Gilbert; grandchildren: Raleigh Phelps, Dylan Newell, Jace Newell; siblings: Archie Newell, Annette Newell and Shirley Whildon.

Visitation was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Tuesday, July 19, 2022, from 9 to 11 a.m. with funeral services at 11 a.m. in the chapel.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

JAMES EDWARD GORHAM James Edward Gorham of Opelika, was born to the late Ernest and Ferol Brodnax Gorham on Oct. 28, 1947, and passed away on July 17, 2022. He was 74 years old.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Marjorie Horne and Ernestine Boley.

He is survived by his children, Jennifer Perkins (Hal), James Ernest Gorham, Nikki Matthews (Jack); grandchildren, Josh Perkins, Kierstin Stull, Kaity Reach (Daniel), Shelby Gorham, and Jaxson Matthews; great grandchildren, Abel Stull, Mitzi, Ezra, and Zeplin Reach; mother of his children, Rebecca Lauderdale; siblings, Dan

Gorham, Sandra (Billy) Allen, and Roxyeann Chambers, as well as a host of other family members.

Visitation was held in the parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Wednesday, July 20, 2022, from 4 to 5 p.m.

Graveside service followed the visitation at Shady Grove Community Cemetery.

BOBBY JOE GRIGGS Bobby Joe Griggs of Opelika was born Jan. 10, 1964, and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on July 12, 2022. He was 58 years old.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bobby Forrest Griggs; brother, Jeff Griggs.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Lamb Griggs; children, Ashley Griggs, and Brian Griggs; grandchildren, Cayden Allen, Anthony Griggs, and Jon Griggs; mother, Eleanor Griggs; brothers, Kenneth Griggs and Daryl Griggs.

A graveside service was held Friday, July 15, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Garden Hills Cemetery with Pastor Clint Capps officiating.

CARA MARIE COLEMAN

On Sunday, July 17, 2022, Cara Marie Coleman, age 14, of Phenix City, Alabama, was called home to be with the Lord.

The family will receive

Pre-Need Services Available Call 334-749-8700 for an appointment.

Your Full-Service Funeral Home

friends from 5 to 8 p.m.

EST Friday, July 22, for a remembrance of Cara’s life at Vance Brooks Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. EST on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at the funeral home, with Rev. David Bradshaw officiating, followed by a graveside service and interment at Lakeview Memory Gardens in Phenix City.

Cara was born in Austin, Texas, the daughter of John D. Coleman and Laura E. Coleman.

Even though Cara’s life was short, she left an impact on every life she touched. She loved her family, friends and fellow students at Smiths Station Junior High School. Cara excelled academically and was an “A” Honor Roll Student. She also loved the arts and demonstrated her talent through drawing and music. Cara was a member of the school band where she played trumpet, xylophone and piano. She enjoyed going to the beach, swimming and loved her video games. In addition to her family, Cara loved her cat, Jasmine.

In addition to her parents, Cara is survived by her sisters Kaylan Hart, Caylee and Chloe Coleman of Phenix City, Alabama and cousin Ryan Coleman of Austin, Texas.

She is also survived by great aunt Joan Bryant of Lanett, Alabama, grandparents Hal and Karola Alley of Lawton, Oklahoma, and Debbie Alley of Phenix City, uncle and aunt Scott Coleman and Brandi Chionsini of Austin, cousins David Coleman, Dylan Guy and Maddie Guy of Austin.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to The Power of Will founda-

tion supporting patients and families facing sarcoma, at thepowerofwill.org.

ALLIE CAROLYN (BOOTIE) WILLIAMS COOK SMITHERMAN

Surrounded by her family, Bootie passed away on July 13, 2022, at East Alabama Medical Center. She was born Jan. 14, 1931, at Thompson Station to Louise Graham Williams and Charles Bryan Williams. She attended public schools in Union Springs and was the Valedictorian of the Union Springs High School Class of 1948.

She attended Huntingdon College for a year before transferring to Auburn University where she was affiliated with Kappa Delta Sorority. After marrying Alfred Foy (Pap) Cook and starting their family, she returned to Huntingdon and graduated with a BS degree in Commercial Education and English. Later she returned to Auburn University and received her master’s degree in education majoring in Library Science.

Bootie taught school for 23 years at: Hurtsboro High School, Union Springs Elementary School (where she developed the library and the media center for Bullock County), Bullock Memorial School and Macon Academy in Tuskegee.

Bootie was an active member of the Union Springs Presbyterian Church. She was known for her written letters, notes, and cards that continually provided words of support, encouragement, comfort and love.

Her acts of kindness and generosity over her lifetime touched many.

Bootie was known as an exceptional hostess.

Her parties, Auburn tailgates and especially her Field Trial Social activities were legendary.

She was known as one of the “Field Trial Queens”.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Louise Graham Williams; father, Charles Bryan Williams; sister, Rebecca Elizabeth Hall; husband, Alfred Foy Cook; husband, Col. Julian E. Smitherman; and son, William Charles Cook.

She is survived by her son, Alfred Foy Cook, Jr. (Dudley); daughter, Allie Carmen (Cammie) O’Connor (Tom); step daughter, Junith Koon (John); stepson, Dr. Richard Smitherman (Angie); granddaughter, Kelly O’Connor Mejia (Andrew); grandson, Thomas Graham O’Connor; step grandchildren, Elizabeth Mingus (Dennis); Meghan Martiniere (Frances Walsh) and Adam Smitherman; great grandchildren, James Andrew Mejia and Allie O’Connor Mejia; step

grandchild, Aidan Smith; niece, Dr. Rebecca E. Hall; and nephew, Daniel D. Hall, Jr. Visitation was at Gray Funeral Home on Saturday, July 16 from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Graveside services were at Oak Hill Cemetery at 1:30, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Union Springs Country Club from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to her loyal and faithful caregivers: Annie Pearl Holmes, Jean Ellis, Irene Ross, and the nurses and staff of Oak Park Nursing Facility, most especially Rebecca Freeman.

Pallbearers were Doug Borom, Danny Hall, Charles Klinck, Joe Moorer, Tommy O’Connor, Jim Smith, Tim Sullivan and Joe Varner.

Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Bassett, Becke Blanton, Sherrod Hixon, Louis Rutland, Sandra Smith, Dr. Willie Smith and members of the Birthday Lunch Bunch.

Contributions in her memory can be made to the Union Springs Public Library 103 Prairie St. N. Union Springs, AL 36089 or The Red Door Theater, TCBC P.O. Box 5236 Union Springs, AL 36089.

A14 July 21, 2022

Something We Should Value

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

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RELIGION — he word “discipline” is used 16 times in the book of Proverbs.

That’s more than in any other book of the Bible and accounts for about 25% of its total occurrences in the Scripture. Obviously, then, Proverbs has some important things to say about discipline.

Discipline is an important part of human development — no one can move to

maturity without it. What is discipline? In short, it is the ability to give up the lesser (and in some cases the detrimental) in order to achieve something greater.

Someone goes into training for a 5K race. They wake up earlier than usual to get in a training run. They cut back on certain foods.

They spend more than they wanted to for a nice pair of running shoes that will give their feet the support they need. Why do they do these things? Because they view competing in the race as more important than a few extra dollars, some extra food or extra sleep.

Discipline can be learned and practiced at almost any age. Children learn to pick up their toys, eat their vegetables, brush their teeth and help around the house — despite the fact that they would rather be playing. As

they make their way through school, they learn to put homework and studying ahead of other activities.

These kinds of practices continue and become one of the signs of maturity; they have the ability to give up the lesser to achieve the greater.

In Proverbs 5, the writer is warning about being seduced by the smooth speech of an adulterous woman. “For the lips of an adulterous woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword” (v. 3-4). In other words, all that glitters isn’t gold.

The writer goes on to consider someone who gives in to her ways not once or twice, but as a way of life.

“At the end of your life you will groan, when your

flesh and body are spent.

You will say, ‘How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction!’ I would not obey my teachers or turn my ear to my instructors.’” (v. 11-13) Where there is no discipline, life becomes disheveled and unravels. It is not a pretty sight. This is why we’re told, “The Lord disciplines those He loves, as a father the son he delights in” (3:12). When it’s practiced correctly, discipline is always an action that springs from love.

When our three children were growing up, there were times when they wanted to participate in some activity we didn’t think they were ready for or was just not a good thing for them to be involved in. As parents, it was our job to step in and try to explain to them why

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN

that wasn’t a good idea. As any parent can tell you, we were more successful on some occasions than others.

Sometimes in response, they would say something to the effect that if we really loved them, we would allow them to do what they wanted. We would adjust that misapprehension by reminding them that if we didn’t love them, we wouldn’t care what they did.

It was because their mother and I loved them deeply that we exercised preventive discipline.

Discipline (which like anything else can be abused), tends to get a bad rap. True discipline springs from love and leads to life. I would say that makes it something we should value, wouldn’t you?

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

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

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

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

(Jesus said) “If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.” — John 15:10

CHURCH DIRECTORY

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

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

334-887-8506 Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., Valley 334-710-2117

334-749-0461 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika

BAPTIST Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528

Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave., Opelika 334-749-9487

10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181

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

Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184

AFB - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn

Got Questions?

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THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT CUNNINGHAM DRIVE 2660 CUNNINGHAM DR., OPELIKA SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY 9:30 A.M. SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30 A.M. / 5 P.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 6:30 P.M.

High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750

Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721 Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015

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

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Good Sheperd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St.,

Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., Opelika 334-707-3949 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151

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A15 July 21, 2022

Uptown Columbus Announces Holly Jolly Holiday Market CONTRIBUTED BY UPTOWN COLUMBUS

COLUMBUS — Uptown Columbus announced last week its Holly Jolly Market will come this December.

Guests will be able to shop for the holiday season, partake in festive activities and visit with Santa.

Uptown hosts the annual Market Days on Broadway from April through November and is now offering this additional one-day holiday market to kick off the holiday season. The Holly Jolly Market will be a one-day holiday market on Broadway open to all vendor types. The market will be held

on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon along the 1000-1200 blocks of Broadway.

The Uptown Holly Jolly Market is $50 for a 10-by-10 booth space or $75 for a 20-by-20 space.

Vendor spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

It’s the perfect opportunity to shop for holiday-inspired items and local baked goods or find Santa strolling through Uptown. Guests may pose for a picture with him (or give him their wish lists).

“Why not take the challenge to only shop locally this year by shopping at our Holiday Market or at one of our local

boutiques, jewelers, specialty stores or one of our numerous fine dining restaurants?” said Tracey Green, director of communications and marketing for Uptown Columbus.

“Gift cards make wonderful stocking stuffers. With live holiday music and a visit with Santa, the Holly Jolly Market will have a little bit of everything for everyone to enjoy.”

To learn more about Uptown’s Holly Jolly Market or to apply as a vendor, contact Uptown Columbus at info@uptowncolumbusga.com or visit www.alwaysuptown. com/holly-jolly-market-vendor-application.

Prepping for the Future

Located in beautiful downtown Opelika

223 S. 8th St. | 334-749-8003 www.opelikaobserver.com

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Crossroad Missionary Baptist Church recently held a youth-and-fun day and a back-to-school supplies giveaway event. The Rev. Johnny Green is the pastor of the church and Marquenta Barnett is president of Quent Sharing And Caring Uplift Outreach who supplied the school supplies.

Many thanks to members of the church and members of the Eastern Star chapter that helped during the event.

A16 July 21, 2022

COMICS

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

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INSIDE B1 - B8:

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• AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS • AUBURN UNIVERSITY • COMMUNITY SPORTS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS • SUSCC

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS OPELIKA: JULY 28 AT 4:30 P.M. LEE COUNTY: AUGUST 9 AT 6:30 P.M. AUBURN: AUGUST 9 AT 6:30 P.M.

Opelika Dawg Pound’s Inaugural Girls' Flag Football Team Preparing for Championship Game PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

ON THE MARK D. MARK MITCHELL

All-Stars & Media Days

BY JUSTIN TRAUSCH FOR THE OPELIKA OBSERVER

OPELIKA — As the summer

starts to come to an end, and children prepare to head back

to school next month, See FLAG FOOTBALL, page B5

National Athletes Welcome Home Picnic Set for July 22 PHOTO BY ED SIKORA / FOR THE OBSERVER

OPELIKA –– The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) is hosting "AllStar" week in Montgomery, July 18 through 22. Along with mandatory meetings for athletic directors and/or principals, student-athletes from across Alabama were chosen by coaches to represent the North or South in the all-star game this week. All events are held in the city of Montgomery.

All-Star week ends after Friday's championship banquet. All head coaches winning a state championship will be recognized along with the seven Making A Difference Award winners: Pat Thompson (Class 1A,

Sweet Water athletic director), John Hadder (Class 2A, Vincent boys basketball coach), Steve Reaves (Class 3A, Winfield High girls and boys track coach), Jazmin Mitchell (Class 4A, Sumter Central athletic director), Van Phillips (Class 5A, Center Point High principal), Linda Moore (Class 6A, Athens High athletic director) and Debra Broome (Class 7A, Vestavia Hills girls rowing, golf and basketball coach).

The Making a Difference Award was started in 2011 by the AHSAA’s High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association in order to recognize See SPORTS, page B3

The Lee County Special Olympics team was ushered to the National Games in Orlando, Florida, in June with a community-wide sendoff at the Auburn Municipal Court.

CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN AUBURN — Join the city of Auburn for a Welcome Home Picnic to celebrate the

accomplishments of the five Lee County Special Olympics athletes who competed in the National Games in Orlando, Florida. The picnic will be held Friday, July 22, at

the Kiesel Park pavilion from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The athletes spent 10 days competing in powerlifting, bowling and track and field. All five local athletes medaled

in their sport. For more information on Special Olympics or the event, please contact Elizabeth Kaufman at 334-501-2939 or ekaufman@auburnalabama.org.

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B2 July 21, 2022

Drew Fabianich Named Auburn Football General Manager, Director of Scouting and Development CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS AUBURN — The Auburn football program is hiring longtime National Football League scout Drew Fabianich as its general manager and director of scouting and development, Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin announced Thursday. Fabianich spent the past 18-plus years with the Dallas Cowboys, including the last 14 as a national scout for the organization.

In his role with Auburn, Fabianich will utilize his extensive scouting background to bolster Auburn’s identification and evaluation of prospects, while working with all phases of the Auburn football player personnel and recruiting areas. He will also provide development support for current players, utilizing his two decades of NFL experience.

“Drew brings two decades of scouting and

player development at the highest level of this game, along with a dozen years of college coaching experience,” Harsin said. “The combination of his coaching track record, as well as the player personnel and scouting background, makes Drew a great fit as we look at every angle of recruiting top talent and then continuing to develop our guys during their time here at Auburn.

Drew knows what it takes to get to this level and then the next level in this game, and that’s a skill set which will help our players, coaches and nextlevel recruiting process.”

Fabianich joined the Cowboys in 2003 as a Southeast and Midwest scout until his promotion in 2005 as a national scout. In that role, Fabianich was responsible for scouting, evaluating and grading national prospects. Over the last 10-plus years while Fabianich was with the organization, Dallas had one of the

highest percentages of Pro Bowlers drafted in the NFL. “It’s a pleasure and honor to be working with one of the premier programs in the country, and to be back in the SEC,” he said. “I have known Coach Harsin for a number of years and have been impressed with his player development and vision. The opportunity to work with him and help build a championship roster here at Auburn is something I can’t wait to get going on.”

Before joining the professional ranks, Fabianich spent 18 years coaching in the college and high school ranks. He began his coaching career in 1986 at his alma mater, Mesa State (Colorado.)

University, as a quarterbacks, wide receivers and passing game coordinator for two years before serving as a defensive graduate assistant at Baylor.

Fabianich was a defensive line coach at the University of Tennessee

from 1990-93 before being named defensive coordinator at UT-Martin.

After a three-year stint at UT-Martin, Fabianich spent three years as defensive coordinator at Louisiana Monroe and two in the same capacity at WT White High School in Dallas before joining the Cowboys in 2003.

A native of Longmont, Colorado, Fabianich was a quarterback and receiver at Mesa State from 1982-86.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT DREW FABIANICH “GREAT hire by Auburn! You recruited an expert on all aspects of football, and my experiences with his evaluation of talent, and of people is second to none,” said Charles Davis, analyst, NFL on CBS NFL Network. “I will miss talking with him on the NFL level, but the college game, the SEC and, of course, the Auburn Tigers gained a jewel.”

“Fantastic hire,” said Jason Garrett, NBC

sports analyst, former Dallas Cowboys head coach. “I had the great fortune of working with Drew throughout my time coaching in Dallas and he was an invaluable resource to me and our whole organization as we built our teams throughout the years.

“Drew has extensive experience as both a coach and as a scout and that helped him immensely as a talent evaluator in our draft process. He not only knew players and what it takes to succeed in the NFL, but he knew how players fit into a team and an organization.

As a national scout for many years, he contributed to the evaluations of all players at all positions and was an integral part of the decision-making process in our personnel department. I’m really excited for Drew and for Auburn. It’s a perfect fit.”

“Drew has a unique ability to evaluate a player and envision what they can become,” said Dan

Quinn, defensive coordinator, Dallas Cowboys, former Atlanta Falcons head coach. “He has that sense to identify their skill set and knowing how to feature or utilize a player to be at their best for the team. Drew will positively impact Auburn football for years to come.”

“I’ve had the pleasure to see Drew work in the NFL environment,” said Daryl Johnston, executive vice president, USFL, Fox NFL analyst, former Dallas Cowboys fullback.

“The day-to-day grind and also preparing and presenting in the Draft Room. He is very meticulous in his evaluation and one of the reasons the Cowboys have had success in the draft the last decade. Not only will Dallas miss his evaluation skills but the energy and personality he brings to the job every day. What a great get by the Auburn Tigers!”

Auburn Men’s Golf Roundup, Carson Bacha Wins 63rd Porter Cup CONTIRBTUED BY AU ATHLETICS

Bacha’s victory comes after clinching his spot in this year’s U.S. Amateur with a

month will be rising junior J.M. Butler and rising sophomores Evan Vo and Frankie Harris.

while Harris also finished atop his qualifier with a 136 (-8) at Lago Mar Country Club in

my own, staying patient and waiting.”

The York, Pennsylvania native shot 70-66-70-68 to clear the path to victory.

Throughout the event, he matched one double bogey with an eagle and nine bogeys with 15 birdies.

136 (-4) in the qualifier hosted by Clustered Springs Golf Club in Frederick, Maryland.

He claimed his first victory of the summer slate with a 266 (-22) at the Dogwood Invitational in June.

Also heading to the U.S. Amateur next

Butler has already received exemption status for this year’s event while Vo and Harris earned their way through respective qualifiers. Vo punched his ticket by winning with a 133 (-11) at Riverhill Country Club in Kerrville, Texas,

Plantation, Florida.

Both rising senior Alex Vogelsong and incoming freshman Reed Lotter will attempt to qualify for the U.S. Amateur on Monday and Tuesday. Vogelsong will be playing to make his third career U.S. Am at St. Johns Golf

PHOTO COURTESY OF PORTER CUP

AUBURN –– Auburn men’s golf rising junior Carson Bacha captured his second amateur title of the summer with a 274 (-6) over the weekend at the Porter Cup hosted by Niagara Falls Country Club in Lewiston, New York.

Bacha becomes the first Tiger to be named medalist of the Porter Cup and joins a list of past winners that includes Gary Nicklaus, Jay Sigel and Phil Mickelson.

After four rounds of play, Bacha held a share of the lead with Oklahoma sophomore Garrett Engle. Bacha made par on the first hole of a playoff to earn the tournament crown.

“I told my mom coming up 17, ‘This is what I practice for,’” Bacha

said. “When you’re in contention, that’s when the fun really begins. It was a fun day, holding

CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS AUBURN — Auburn track & field senior Dontavious Hill has been named to the Team USA roster for the 2022 North American, Central American and Caribbean Open Championship next month, Aug. 19 to 21, in the Bahamas.

Hill will compete at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex in

Freeport against athletes from a total of 35 nations. He previously represented the United States at the U20 Pan American Games in the summer of 2019 where he finished fifth overall.

At the 2022 USA Track & Field Championships, Hill finished third overall with a top clearance of 2.22m.

The Mobile, Alabama, product is coming off a stellar collegiate

campaign, finishing in the top three of his event at both NCAA Indoors and NCAA Outdoors, the only male high jumper to do so this season and the first Auburn high jumper to do so since Donald Thomas in 2007.

This past year, Hill recorded new career bests for both indoor (2.21m) and outdoor (2.23m). Additionally, he captured bronze at both SEC Championship meets.

Auburn’s Burkhalter Drafted 76th Overall by Braves CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY AUBURN — Junior right-handed pitcher Blake Burkhalter was selected by the Atlanta Braves with the 76th overall pick in the second round of the 2022 Major League Baseball Draft Sunday night.

Burkhalter becomes Auburn’s highest drafted relief pitcher since Scott Sullivan was selected with the 62nd overall pick in the 1993 MLB Draft and the third-highest-drafted relief pitcher in program history

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAYSON BELANGER/AUBURN ATHLETICS

Dontavious Hill to Represent United States at NACAC Open Championships

& Country Club in St. Augustine, Florida, while Lotter will compete in Statesboro, Georgia, at the Georgia Southern University Golf Course. Upcoming junior Ryan Eshleman will vie for his spot at Seminole Legacy Golf Club in Tallahassee, Florida July 25 and 26.

In other news, program alum Blayne Barber continued to play well on the Korn Ferry Tour, finishing tied for ninth over the weekend at the Memorial Health Championship. Barber carded four consecutive below-par rounds, including back-to-back 7-unders, to tally a 265 (-19).

Playing on the Rolling Red Pro Golf Tour, 2021 graduate Graysen Huff also picked up a championship title, shooting 134 (10) at the Valdosta Classic.

behind Sullivan and Gregg Olson, who was selected fourth overall in 1988.

His selection marks

the 48th consecutive season dating back to 1975 where Auburn See BURKHALTER, page B3

B3 July 21, 2022

Tigers’ Preseason Games In Israel To Be Televised On SEC Network Auburn takes part in inaugural “Birthright for College Basketball” Tour CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS AUBURN –– Auburn men’s basketball will be the first Power 5 conference school to take a preseason foreign trip to Israel as part of the inaugural “Birthright for College Basketball” Tour from July 31 to Aug. 10.

The reigning SEC regular-season champion Tigers will compete in three games against Israel’s top teams over the course of the 10-day trip.

In front of traveling and local fans, Auburn will play the Israel U-20 National Team on Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Malha Arena in Jerusalem and back-toback games against the Israel All-Star Select Team on Sunday, Aug. 7, and Israel National Team on Monday, Aug. 8, at Sport Palace Tel Aviv Yafo in Tel Aviv.

The Tigers will play four quarters in each contest using FIBA rules.

All games will be televised live at 1 p.m.

(ET) / Noon (CT) on SEC Network. ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas will call the action live alongside play-by-play announcer Roxy Bernstein.

SPORTS>> FROM B1 individuals who go beyond their normal duties to make a positive impact on the school and community.

I was blessed to win the Class 6A Making a Difference Award in 2019, for my many years of service to Opelika Athletics and schools. iHEARTRADIO HIGH SCHOOL MEDIA DAYS PRESENTED BY ORTHOPAEDIC CLINIC The 2022 iHeartRadio High School Media Days presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic is set for July 26 and 27 at the Bottling Plant Event Center.

The two-day media blitz features over 20 high school head football coaches and up to three senior players per team. The show will air LIVE on WOTM, the

“Grateful to Auburn University and the NCAA for allowing us to take these foreign trips every four years,” said head coach Bruce Pearl. “This experience both academically, historically and religiously, will have a forever effect on our student-athletes. As a Jewish-American college basketball coach, I am honored and blessed to share this experience with our Auburn Basketball Family.

Birthright for College Basketball in Israel will become one of the most sought after and impactful foreign trips in the future.”

Auburn is just the second school to have its foreign tour aired on SEC Network next to Kentucky (2014 and 2018). Kansas and several other Division I schools have had its foreign tours streamed online.

Previously the only three known NCAA Division I, II or III schools to travel to the Holy Land for a preseason foreign tour –– UConn Men’s Basketball in 1998, Toledo Women’s Basketball in 2011 and Wheaton (Ill.) College Men’s Basketball in 2016. UConn would

go on to win its first national championship title in men’s basketball following their foreign tour to Israel in 1998-99.

The NCAA allows teams to make an international trip every four years. The Tigers previously traveled to Italy in the summer of 2017.

They return 11 letterwinners including three of last year’s starters in senior Allen Flanigan (6.3 ppg), graduate senior Zep Jasper (5.1 ppg) and junior K.D. Johnson (12.3 ppg).

Four newcomers will travel and participate in their first games in an Auburn uniform – sophomore transfer Johni Broome, freshman Tre Donaldson, freshman Chance Westry and freshman Yohan Traore.

Off the court, Auburn will visit Bethlehem, Yad Vashem ¬¬–– the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, City of David, the Dead Sea, the Old City and the Sea of Galilee.

The Tigers’ travel and international competition have been a collaboration between Pearl, Complete Sports Management, the Israeli Basketball Association and Athletes for Israel.

All parties hope this is the start of annual

AHSAA TV network (channel 80 on Charter Spectrum) and on WZMG FOX Sports 910-1310 the Game.

Media Days begin at 8 a.m. with AHSAA Executive Director Alvin Briggs. AISA Athletic Director Roddie Beck kicks off day two (Wednesday, July 27).

DIXIE BOYS BASEBALL All Opelika Dixie Baseball (DBB) all-star teams have finished the 2022 season. The Ozone all-stars (11 and 12 year olds), junior DBB (13 and 14 year olds) and DBB all-star teams (13 and 14) were eliminated in their respective state tournaments.

Opelika's Ozone allstar team opened with a 11-1 win over Troy, beat Rogersville 10-0 in game two, lost to AUM (6-7) in game three, beat Enterprise (5-4) and was eliminated by Montgomery Southeastern

(6-7) in the semi-finals.

This was another good year for spring/summer baseball in Opelika. Opelika Dixie Youth (6 through 12) and Dixie Boys (13 through 15) showed an increase in the number of children playing for the second straight year.

The two programs serve children from Opelika, Lee County and surrounding areas. If you live inside the Opelika city limits, it is cheaper to play compared to living outside of Opelika.

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

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preseason foreign tours to Israel for Division I men’s basketball programs.

"We believe this trip will be the start of a longstanding relationship with college basketball and Israel,” said Lea Miller-Tooley, CEO of Complete Sports Management. “Coach Pearl’s vision coupled with SEC Network’s coverage will make for an unprecedented trip. Complete Sports Management is proud to be part of history in the making.”

AUBURN MEN’S BASKETBALL ISRAEL 2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 2 – Auburn vs.

Israel U-20 National Team | Malha Arena | Jerusalem, Israel Aug. 7 – Auburn vs.

Israel All-Star Select Team | Sport Palace Tel Aviv Yafo | Tel Aviv, Israel Aug. 8 – Auburn vs.

Israel National Team | Sport Palace Tel Aviv Yafo | Tel Aviv, Israel ABOUT COMPLETE SPORTS MANAGEMENT CSM specializes in running the most prestigious Men’s and Women’s International Tours highlighting the educational, cultural and team bonding aspects of travel abroad.

BURKHALTER >> FROM B2 has had at least one player selected in the MLB Draft – tied for the longest streak in the Southeastern Conference. It also marks the seventh straight season Auburn has had a topfive-round pick, which is two years longer than the previous record of five straight top-five-round picks from 1997-2001.

Burkhalter ranked second in the country with 16 saves this year, tied for the second most in program history, and went on to be named Second Team All-America by the American Baseball Coaches Association, College Baseball

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Top Prospect Kaitlyn Carnicella Joins Auburn Women’s Tennis CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS AUBURN –– Auburn women’s tennis will add one of the nation’s top prospects to its 2022-23 roster as Kaitlyn Carnicella has signed with the Tigers, head coach Caroline Lilley announced today.

Carnicella, from Whippany, New Jersey, is a Blue Chip recruit and ranked No. 3 in her class according to TennisRecruiting. net. In the USTA U18 rankings, she is currently ranked No. 7 nationally and has been as high as No. 3.

“From our very first call with Kaitlyn we knew she had a special combination of qualities that differentiates her from her peers,” Lilley said. “Her desire to be great is obvious, and her commitment to finding solutions while competing is a testament to her character. She holds herself to the highest standard in everything she does, both on the court and in the classroom, and she constantly seeks out Foundation and National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, Second Team All-SEC and a finalist for the NCBWA Stopper of the Year Award.

The junior righty recorded the final six outs of Auburn’s regional championship against UCLA and notched a pair of saves in the Corvallis Super Regional against Oregon State, retiring all eight batters he faced in the decisive game three against the Beavers. Burkhalter then recorded the last seven out of Auburn’s College World Series win against Samford to record his 16th save.

Burkhalter posted a 4-2 record with a 3.89 ERA and struck

opportunities to learn.

“Kaitlyn’s understanding of the game of tennis is well beyond her years and serves as a sound foundation for her growth and development here at Auburn.

Her tennis will add value, that’s obvious, but even more importantly, she will be an integral part of our program because of who she is as a person. We are humbled and blessed to have her joining our family and cannot wait to be a part of her journey!”

As one of the most decorated juniors in the country, Carnicella has earned two USTA Gold Balls and competed in the Les Petits As world championships. She was a finalist in doubles at National Hard Courts, and she has won countless national tournaments in both doubles and singles.

“I am never looking to be perfect, just to be better than I was yesterday,” Carnicella said. “I believe that Auburn’s relentless drive to be the best will not only make See TENNIS, page B4

out 71 batters to go along with issuing only seven walks in 46.1 innings. Had he logged enough innings to quality, Burkhalter would’ve led the SEC in strikeouts per 9.0 innings (13.8), walks per 9.0 innings (1.36) and strikeout-to-walk ratio (10.14).

A native of Dothan, Alabama, Burkhalter earned three saves in as many appearances during the team’s sweep of South Carolina in April, becoming the first player in program history and the first in the league since 2017 to accomplish the feat.

In 51 career relief appearances, Burkhalter turned in a 3.01 ERA and struck out 104 batters in 71.2 innings.

B4 July 21, 2022

Opelika Youth Learns from Auburn Greats

PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

Stovall Athletics held its second annual Speed & Agility camp at Opelika High School last weekend. Tyler Stovall, former Auburn University holder for the football team and staff member on the baseball team, runs the camps. He enlisted the help of Auburn legends Sammie Coates, Corey Grant and others to instruct campers through drills and film breakdown.

B5 July 21, 2022

Auburn Club Meets Cadillac PHOTOS BY JERRY BALLAS / FOR THE OBSERVER

The Auburn Club of Elmore County hosted Auburn Univeristy running backs coach Carnell "Cadillac" Williams for its annual banquet. To find your alumni club, visit: www.alumni.auburn.edu/clubs/.

FLAG FOOTBALL >> FROM B1 so too comes the end of the first All-Girls NFL Flag Football League’s season in Columbus and Phenix City.

Representing Lee County in the competition is Opelika’s very own Dawg Pound. Along with the four youth boys' teams

that have been operating since 2017, this year marked the first time that the Dawg Pound has a competitive girls' f lag football team.

Head coach Michelle Vann took a chance with the newly founded team and has already found great success with them.

“My son actually plays for Dawg Pound football for the boys,”

Vann said. “He started playing for them last year and I saw them ask about [a girls' f lag football coach.]

They were needing coaches for it, and I’ve coached for over 10 years now, specifically mostly with girls in all kinds of sports.

I thought it was neat and volunteered to be head coach.”

The team had a solid turnout back in March

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN LOOKING FOR HOMESCHOOL VOLLEYBALL, FOOTBALL PLAYERS Southern Christian Athletics still has some room for junior varsity and varsity players for this year’s eightman football program and volleyball team. Southern Christian provides athletic opportunities for homeschool students and students attending private schools without sports teams. Girls’ volleyball is also currently having tryouts, and the winter will feature both boys’ and girls’ basketball. The varsity’s first football game is against Lafayette Christian on Aug. 19 at Moore Stadium in Opelika. Practices for both teams are held at Providence Baptist Church, 2807 Lee County Road 166, Opelika, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Please call (334) 750-2794 for further information.

with 15 girls joining the squad. They quickly won their first 14-and-under tournament in Montgomery a few months later, going undefeated in the process.

The team then had to split into two separate squads to compete in the Columbus/ Phenix City League.

Monday was the semifinal game between both Dawg Pound

TENNIS >> FROM B3 be a better player, but also make me a better person throughout this new experience.”

Carnicella will join fellow freshman DJ Bennett as newcomers to an Auburn squad that returns five letterwinners from the 2021-22 season. Last year, the Tigers finished 22-6 overall –– 11-2 in the SEC ¬–– and advanced to the NCAA Super Regional.

For the latest on Auburn women’s tennis, follow @ AuburnWTennis on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

teams, but Vann’s side came out victorious.

“Girls' football, f lag football, is coming up,” Vann said. “It’s kind of like girls' wrestling — its exploding. It’s really exciting.”

The Columbus Lions, of the National Arena League, and Phenix City Parks and Recreation have been partnering to host games since

early June. The championship game is set to be played on Saturday, July 23 at the Columbus Civic Center, Home of the Lions. The game will start at 2:15 p.m. CST. “It’s going to be a great game,” Vann said. “As one of the top two teams in the league, we’ve been battling each other all season long. It should be exciting.”

B6 July 21, 2022

Alabama 4-H Announces Ambassadors CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SYSTEM

AUBURN — As another school year approaches, another talented group of Alabama 4-H members has been selected to serve the organization statewide.

Thirty members from 19 different counties were selected to serve on the 2022-2023 team of 4-H state ambassadors.

Those selected as an ambassador serve as representatives of the organization, leading

and assisting statewide with 4-H clubs and youth council meetings throughout the club year.

Joy Scott, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System 4-H leadership and citizenship specialist, serves as the advisor to the state ambassadors.

She said throughout their year of service, these members will have the opportunity to develop their skills in leadership, citizenship, public relations and team building.

“Working with the ambassadors each year

is an extremely exciting part of my job,” Scott said. “I get to witness firsthand the outstanding impact these members have on their communities and the state as a whole.”

STATE 4-H AMBASSADORS The following 4-H members will serve as state 4-H ambassadors for the upcoming program year:  Luke Stephens – Clarke County (president)  Gavin Yocom – Shelby County (vice

president)  Abbeigh Jo Gibson – Washington County (secretary)  Breanna Black – Marshall County (assistant secretary)  Abbi Kate Ogilvie – Randolph County  Aiden MacKenzie – Limestone County  Alana New – Etowah County  AnaKatherine Whisnant – Marion County  Ashley McCollum – Clay County  Audrey Perry

– Walker County  Blankeney Rice – Tuscaloosa County  Cooper Naylor – Lawrence County  Corey Naylor – Lawrence County  Delaney Dixon – Marengo County  Jade Gartman – Washington County  Jalon Hunt – Clarke County  Jeremy Speros – Pike County  Kalen Alexander – Russell County  Karlee Kirkland – Houston County

 Katie Rasbury – Tallapoosa County  Lauren Clardy – Elmore County  Madeleine Yocom – Shelby County  Nash Gilbert – Limestone County  Olevia Rice – Tuscaloosa County  Rachel Allen – Elmore County  Rachel Webb – Barbour County  Rebecca Rasbury – Tallapoosa County  Sarah Sloughfy – Calhoun County

Clardy Looks to Advance Alabama Extension, Strengthen Brand, Expand Reach CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA 4H

BY KATIE NICHOLS LEE COUNTY — After a lifetime of counting on Extension for help in the yard, garden and around the home, Mike Clardy is taking a front-seat approach as the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s new director of communications, strategic marketing and client relations (CSMCR).

Clardy began his role as head of the CSMCR department July 18.

Mike Phillips, Alabama Extension director, said Clardy is a veteran in the communications field and is

well-known throughout the industry.

“Mike possesses a tremendous amount of talent, expertise and leadership,” Phillips said. “He understands what we do in Extension: extending knowledge and improving lives. His leadership, coupled with a team of highly talented individuals, will allow us to extend our credible, science-based information in many avenues — including print and virtual delivery, as well as utilizing our partners in the communications industry.”

FAMILIAR WITH EXTENSION’S MISSION Clardy has spent the last 24 years of his

career in the Auburn University Office of Communications and Marketing. There, he worked as a video producer, webmaster, media relations director and, eventually, department head.

Prior to his time at Auburn, he was a news anchor in south Texas.

Clardy said his days as a reporter in the early '90s were his introduction to the value of Extension’s information.

“County agents in Texas were excellent subject-matter experts for my stories,” Clardy said.

“They were also a great resource when my fatherin-law and I introduced gamefish into the ponds

on the family ranch near Laredo.”

Clardy’s move to Alabama in 1998 led him to continue conversations with Extension agents, but this time in Alabama.

“I had countless conversations with the Alabama Extension team,” Clardy said.

“Topics ranged from helping turfgrass survive the summer, to growing a better garden. As someone who has counted on Extension in the ways I have in the past, I’m excited to get a front-row seat to how it serves the state and region."

VISION FOR THE FUTURE Clardy is filling a role that is new to Extension.

While he will oversee

continued operations of the communications and marketing team, he will also work to add the new client relations element.

“I am excited about the opportunity to help advance Alabama Extension’s mission and elevate the brand by sharing stories about people and programs that truly make an impact on the lives of those in our state and beyond,” he said.

He also plans to spend much of his time listening to stakeholders — both internal and external — to see where Extension can add the most value. In addition to the broader outlook, Clardy said the CSMCR will be a trusted,

strategic partner for colleagues.

“I am looking forward to getting to know the organization better and telling Extension’s story,” Clardy said.

MORE INFORMATION Alabama Extension is the primary outreach organization for the land grant mission of Alabama A&M and Auburn universities. Its educational programs grow from these two land-grant university campuses to serve the people of Alabama.

Extension delivers science-based educational programs that enable people to improve their quality of life and economic well-being. Learn more at www.aces.edu.

SportsPlex Hosting ARPA State Swim Meet This Weekend crowded and will affect some amenity availability.

Parking will be very limited until 4 p.m.; there will be no group fitness classes on Friday and Saturday; the pool/splash park will be closed Thursday through Saturday; and the basketball gym will be closed Wednesday at 12 p.m. through Saturday.

CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA PARKS & REC OPELIKA –– The Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center is hosting the ARPA State Swim Meet on Friday, July 22 and Saturday, July 23. Nine-hundredplus swimmers and their families from around the state of Alabama will be visiting Opelika to compete in this meet. This will make the SportsPlex very

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www.accs.edu/healthcare

B7 July 21, 2022

Opelika's Municipal Park To Get New Playground Structure

Opelika citizens arriving at the municipal park earlier this week were surprised to find out that part of the playground equipment had been removed. The city of Opelika announced on its Facebook page that a new structure is in the works. A rendering of the proposed play structure is pictured above. The replacement is estimated to take approximately three to four weeks.

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B8 July 21, 2022

This Ain’t What You Want CONTRIBUTED BY WILLIE SPEARS

OPINION –– Several hip-hop artists and some professional athletes brag about their immaturity as youths.

Puff Daddy admitted he doesn’t act on his emotions as he used to in his 20s. Retired NBA player Stephen Jackson made the same statement on his podcast.

This enlightenment is not exclusive to celebrities. I have known many people who have made illogical or irrational decisions and years later asked themselves the question, “What was I thinking?”

People who don’t comply with the police, scream and curse for no reason, fight in public or live an illegal lifestyle are not thinking logically.

Your brain receives messages through your spinal cord. This message is designed to go through two more areas of your brain before taking action. The message could come from touch, smell, sound, taste or something you’ve seen.

The second area of the brain to analyze this message is your limbic system. The limbic system is the part of the brain involved in your behavioral and emotional responses, especially regarding behaviors you need for survival:

feeding, reproduction and caring for your young, and fight or flight responses.

When people make dumb decisions, they usually act on their feelings. They may not have learned to manage their emotions. When they are angry, they express anger. When they are hurt or disappointed, they feel the need to hurt or disappoint others. These impulsive actions have led to an introduction to the criminal justice system for some.

Have you ever seen someone in a hostile situation that escalated quickly because of how those involved responded? If these individuals had allowed the message they received to go through the limbic system to the frontal lobe, things could have been different.

The frontal lobe is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as memory, emotions, impulse control, problem-solving, social interaction and motor function. The frontal lobe is also your emotional control center and home to your personality.

After talking to individuals who are incarcerated, some say, “I don’t know what happened; it’s not like me to do something like that.” The frontal lobe never got the message;

therefore, their true personality was never notified. They acted out of emotion and not logic.

Your best response comes when all three parts of your brain process the message. These messages go from the back of your head, around your neck area and spinal cord through

and their behavior can be very dramatic, emotional and even illogical. The undeveloped frontal lobe may be the reason you made terrible decisions as a teenager.

What happens if the front lobe or the reasoning and logical part of your brain are still

making it highly responsive to experience and stimulation.

Enriching environments will support healthy brain development, but exposure to stress and adverse childhood experiences can change the brain and impact behavior and learning capacity. This causes the

the middle part of your brain, the limbic system before it reaches its destination, the frontal lobe near your forehead.

The prefrontal cortex or frontal lobe is undeveloped in adolescents,

not developed in your 20s? What hinders this development?

How does the environment affect a child’s brain development?

The developing brain is easily molded,

decision-making part of the brain to develop later than it was supposed to. Compounding this slow development is the use of marijuana at a young age.

According to an

article written by Dennis Tompson for CBS, marijuana hinders the development of your frontal lobe. Francesca Filbey is the director of Cognitive Neuroscience Research in Addictive Disorders from the Center for Brain Health at The University of Texas at Dallas. Her research shows the use of marijuana at a young age hinders brain development. Dr. David Agus said marijuana use deteriorates part of the frontal lobe.

Studies show people who use marijuana have a smaller frontal lobe.

When you combine the use of marijuana at a young age with the lack of knowledge in managing emotions, you end up with a person more susceptible to entering the criminal justice system.

Many people are incarcerated because no one trained them to manage their emotions.

Undeveloped brains due to drug abuse and culture cause the limbic system to override the frontal lobe when the brain receives messages. This causes you to act on your feelings instead of logic.

“This Ain’t What You Want” is a series of opinion articles written by author and keynote speaker Willie Spears.

Learn more at www. williespears.com.

ESSENTIAL CONTENT | WATCHDOG JOURNALISM Local news organizations are under pressure.

Local news strengthens our community, but local papers across the country are under threat. Big Tech takes advantage of the news and information created by local publishers, but they won’t pay for it.

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L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

Nov. 24, 2021

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Inside the Statehouse Auburn to Mail Voter Cards State Legislature will Remain Republican Supermajority

STEVE FLOWERS

T

OPINION — he Alabama Legislature will remain a Republican supermajority for the next quadrennium. As the dust settles from the May/ June party primaries, there have been negligible, if any, party changes.

There has been some shuffling on the deck of the GOP boat, but it has all been intraparty struggles.

By and large, both the House of Representatives and the Alabama Senate have remained safe havens for incumbents.

The Senate especially returns essentially intact. The entire leadership of the Republican-led Senate will stay the same. The leaders of the State Senate, including Greg Reed, Jabo Waggoner, Clay Scofield, Arthur Orr, Greg Albritton, Clyde Chambliss and Steve Livingston, will all be back in their same leadership posts. The sterling freshman class of senators will be sophomores.

This class of leaders includes Dan Roberts, Tom Butler, Sam Givhan, Will Barfoot, Garlan Gudger, April Weaver, Donnie Chesteen, Andrew Jones, Chris Elliott, Jack Williams and David Sessions. The Democratic leaders also return in entirety, including powers Bobby Singleton, Rodger Smitherman, Vivian Figures and Billy Beasley.

There seems to be a more harmonious working relationship among the Republicans and Democrats in the Senate that has not existed in past years. This body is poised to provide leadership for the state for the next four years.

The State House of Representatives will remain essentially the same, also; however, there has been more reshuffling in this chamber, especially in the GOP ranks. The supermajority Republican control will definitely

continue to exist with at least 78 of the 105 seats remaining in the grasp of the Republicans. The House is probably more conservative than the Senate, although they are both pretty right-wing.

The leadership of the House of Representatives will change.

House Speaker Mac McCutcheon (R-Madison) and Speaker Pro Tem Victor Gaston (R-Mobile) are not seeking reelection. There has been an internal jockeying for speaker between Steve Clouse (R-Dale) and Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-DeKalb) going on for almost a year. It will continue until November when the Republican caucus makes their choice. The contest between Ledbetter and Clouse has been gentlemanly without discord or acrimony. Most House members hate to make a choice because both men are so well liked and respected. There will be harmony when it is decided; they will work together, and both will remain in a leadership position.

There is a cadre of Republican leadership returning to the House, including Clouse and Ledbetter.

Republican leaders returning are Danny Garrett, Terri Collins, Ginny Shaver, Jim Hill, Paul Lee, Randall Shedd, Kyle South, Tracey Estes, David Standridge, Steve Hurst, Randy Wood, Jim Carns, David Faulkner, Reed Ingram, Rhett Marquis, Jeff Sorrells, Chris Sells, Chris Blackshear, Joe Lovvorn, Chip Brown and Chris Pringle.

House Democratic leaders returning are Chris England, Anthony Daniels, Peb Warren, Laura Hill, John Rogers, Mary Moore, Thomas Jackson, Sam Jones, Berry Forte, Dexter Grimsley and Barbara Boyd.

Incumbency is a potent, powerful, inherent advantage, especially in legislative races. There were a couple of incumbents taken out in the House within the Republican ranks. They were beaten by female future superstars. Indeed, this was a very good year for female Republican legislative candidates all over the state.

There are several new female legislators that are superstars and worth watching as leaders. Cynthia Almond of Tuscaloosa leads the list, although she actually has a session under her belt. She won her seat without See FLOWERS, page B10

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — Auburn’s municipal election is coming up soon — Aug. 23. The city of Auburn voted Tuesday night to approve a contract for mailing information cards to citizens.

The Auburn City Council voted to enter into a contract with Craft Master Printers for over $17,800 to mail postcards to citizens that contains their ward and polling location.

Auburn completed its redistricting process earlier in the year, which means that many voters will now vote in a new location and for a new council member.

“[I will] just encourhe said. age our community, OTHER BUSINESS: we’ve been talking about - The council approved this, really since the an alcohol beverage beginning of the year,” license for the Rusty said Auburn Mayor Barrell, Inc. d/b/a Ron Anders. “Some of Liquour Locker at 200 you will have changes W. Glenn Ave., Suite in where you vote, and 500. some of your wards - The council approved have changed and so it’s a tax abatement for very important, we’ve Seohan Auto USA got about a month to go Corporation in the before the election, that Auburn Technology you pay close attention Park West. to this.”

- The council approved Anders also encoura contract with Dell aged residents to reach Marketing LP C/O Dell out to their council USA LP for Dell VxRail members, city hall or support renewal for over himself with questions, $48,200. or check the city’s web- The council approved a site: www.auburnalacontract with Gonzalezbama.org/elections/.

Strength & Associates, “We just want to make Inc. to executive the sure you know where to amendment No. 2 for go on the 23rd so you can cast your vote,” See AUBURN COUNCIL, page B11

NAACP Presents Alternate Redistricting Map to Opelika City Council

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA — Laticia Smith and Elizabeth Hill, members of the local NAACP chapter, presented an alternative redistricting map to the Opelika City Council during its work session on Tuesday night.

The map was developed after the NAACP reviewed the proposed map presented by Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller (referred to as The Mayor's Map). The Mayor's Map was tabled from the meeting agenda but will go into effect on Sept. 13, 2022, should any other options not be approved by the council before that date.

NOW OPEN

The NAACP collected and received input during the ward meetings conducted by the council at the request of the NAACP. The memo created

by Opelika Planning Director Matt Mosley following the five ward meetings noted five areas of concern that were raised by citizens. The NAACP identified three additional areas of concern upon review.

Mapmaker Tabitha Isner was hired by the NAACP to make adjustments to The Mayor's Map, not only addressing the group's concerns with the map, but also to make sure all legal requirements were met.

Isner created a map that accommodated

five out of the eight areas of concern with one additional area changed to meet the requests and legal requirements.

The areas of concern are labeled on the proposed alternative map as Areas A through I. Area A: West End Subdivision — Area was moved from Ward 1 to Ward 3 and the NAACP map accommodated this request from citizens in this area.

Area B: Gateway Drive, Airport Road and Frederick Road — an area was moved from Ward 4 to Ward 1 and the NAACP map accommodated the request from citizens in this area.

Area C: Foxrun Parkway, Jeter Drive See OPELIKA COUNCIL, page B13

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 July 21, 2022

Channeling Chuck Norris: Finding Ideas for Columns and Assignment

GREG MARKLEY

L

OPINION — ast year in mid-December, I awoke in the middle of the night and yelled, “Chuck Norris.” My wife asked what the heck I was talking about this time. No, I was not planning to take on the martial arts champion and star of action films. Neither was I asking for a role in a remake of “Walker, Texas Ranger”.

He is 16 years older than me, but he’s still strong.

I had interviewed Jessica Taylor, then a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate.

She told me Ted Nugent, rock star and fierce gun control opponent, endorsed her. I wondered how to handle that in a column and remembered that former GOP presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee ran a humorous TV ad with Norris.

So I wrote “Nugent is Taylor’s Chuck Norris.” Meaning, Nugent is living proof that she is a firm Second Amendment supporter, just like Mr. Norris.

This is part one of a twopart series on how a writer can get ideas for columns on politics and higher education — my focus. Learning the principles can help you locate ideas for a college paper, master’s thesis, even a dissertation (although much academic literature search is crucial for a Ph.D).

In an article on imaginationsoup.net, Samantha Clark wrote that idea-seekers must first be curious. Use “What if?” questions as sparks for creativity in seeking ideas.

There is a reverse to this, according to how I operate. It is the phrase “So what.” An idea might appeal to you, but

you should check if anyone else has used it, or if the idea seems like its shelf life will be short.

Clark says idea seekers should “go for a wonder;” that suggests a long walk or inserting yourself among groups, even crowds of people, to get ideas. She also regards “researching your passions” as a good tool. With college and university students, they might bring forth original ideas about sports, music or art that they care for and will pursue those until successful.

I can relate to Clark’s other two points: Mine your past, and mix and match different ideas or previous stories.

Readers here know that I try to relate some of the minutiae of politics and higher education. Using personal stories and reflections makes for more gratifying reading. Taking ideas that are not usually associated with each other is often most productive.

In Inc. magazine, entrepreneur and author Kevin Daum wrote about “7 Ways to Generate Great Ideas.”

The seven ideas that can break conventional thinking are: Engage in observation lessons, socialize outside your normal circles, randomly search the web (for no more than two hours a week), keep a regular journal, meditate, use structured exercises and read more books.

“Books are wonderful for creating new thoughts

and stimulating great ideas,” Daum wrote. “For a long time, I didn’t read much. But several years ago, I started again reading fiction and histories. These stories really got me out of my daily headspace and activated my idea generator. Even if you can’t make the time for a novel, go hunt down a bookstore and spend an hour browsing.”

Combining public personalities in a column interests readers. That happened for our June 8 paper as Herschel Walker struggled in the U.S. Senate race in Georgia. I said

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Walker should reconnect with his old UGA friend and spokesman Mike Hubbard, former speaker of the Alabama House. That may be tough to do, as Hubbard is jailed for ethics violations.

I got the idea for Herschel and Mike reuniting when it was announced Hubbard could again produce radio advertisements because his felonies were not directly related to that work. First, I thought (correctly), that no one else would take that “tongue-in-cheek” approach to the serious issues of a

FLOWERS >> FROM B9 opposition last year.

Almost every list includes Susan Dubose of Shelby County.

She beat an incumbent, even though her district was distorted to help him win. She won the old-fashioned way. She worked hard.

She started early and stayed late.

Ultra-Republican Baldwin County elected all females to represent them in the House of Representatives.

Jennifer Fidler, Frances Holk-Jones and Carla Knight Maddox will make up the Baldwin

Senate campaign and a fallen politician. Second, I was just letting people realize that Hubbard helped Walker be selected for the Heisman Trophy.

The May 18 column, “A Mayor, a Mentor and the ‘First Food Truck in America’ was a long time in genesis. I thought I might write about the Haven Brothers food truck, but the time wasn’t appropriate. Yet after I read about the Food Truck Fridays in Opelika and Auburn, I desired to write about the truck in Providence, Rhode Island.

As a political writer, I added a political aspect (the colorful mayor) as well as a brief look at what my newspaper mentor meant to me.

In part two on July 28, I study how to handle confusing or controversial issues and how to affect an equilibrium among readers. Also, some guidance on writing political columns. If you cannot unite people in any writing you do, I will call in Chuck Norris. Or even Ted Nugent.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has master’s degrees in education and history. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to the Observer since 2011. He is a member of the national Education Writers Association (focus-Higher Education). gm. markley@charter.net delegation.

Lee Hulsey of Helena from District 15 in Jefferson/Shelby counties will be a quick study in the House.

It was not just the year of the woman in statewide races; the ladies have made a significant move in the Alabama House of Representatives.

See you next week.

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

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B11 July 21, 2022

APD Announces Promotions CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN AUBURN — The Auburn Police Department is proud to announce the following promotions to the rank of sergeant, effective July 1, 2022.

Darrell Catchings has been promoted to the rank of sergeant.

He served as a police officer with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Police Department from 2011 to 2017. He studied pre-engineering and mathematics at the University of Montevallo and

received a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice with a minor in mathematics from UAB in 2011. Sgt. Catchings has obtained the following certifications: Law Enforcement Bicycle Association (LEBA) Basic Class A, LEBA National Instructor Certificate, Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Basic Physical Defense Instructor Certificate, RAD Replicating Adverse Dynamics Instructor, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Basic Certificate, OC and Less Lethal Instructor

Certificate and LEBA Master Instructor Certificate. Sgt. Catchings was hired as a police officer with the Auburn Police Department in March 2017.

Patrick O’Hara has been promoted to the rank of sergeant. Prior to his career as a police officer, he served in the U.S. Army from 1992 to 2018, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

He received numerous military awards and has military training in advanced leadership and development and specialized training in

CATCHINGS

risk management, conf lict resolution, combat operations, urban warfare, counterterrorism and unconventional warfare. He received a Bachelor of Science in finance from Auburn University in 1990, an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1991, a Master of Science in Defense Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2008 and a Master of Strategic Studies from Air University in 2016.

Sgt. O’Hara joined the Auburn Police Department in July 2019 and has advanced

O'HARA

training in peer counseling, mountain bike patrolling, field training, advanced active shooter response, community policing, conf lict resolution and police tactics.

William Schallock has been promoted to the rank of sergeant.

Sgt. Schallock received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Auburn University, cum laude in 1999.

He served in the U.S. Army Military Police from 1992 to 1995. He started with the City of Auburn in 1998 as a student public safety specialist and

joined the Auburn Police Division as a police officer in 1999. During his career with the Auburn Police Department, he has served as a patrol officer, a narcotics officer, a narcotics K9 handler and a school resource officer. Sgt. Schallock is currently a public safety diver, patrol officer and field training officer. He and his wife, Sasha, have two children; Emily, a rising senior at the University of Montevallo and Liam, a rising sophomore at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

SCHALLOCK

CORRECTION: In July 14 issue of The Observer, we erroneously listed the date for the fifth annual O-Day in the Village as Aug. 4. The event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 6. We apologize for this error and any inconvenience that it may have caused.

AUBURN COUNCIL >> FROM B9

Qua

Heart Transplant Survivor

The journey to mend Qua’s heart, led him Qua was born with tricuspid atresia that required a series of open heart surgeries as an infant. But as a teen, his health took a dramatic turn. Qua’s pediatrician and cardiologist recognized something wasn’t right with his heart and sent him to Children’s of Alabama.

Our team was standing by when he arrived by helicopter, and within two weeks he received a new heart. He rebounded quickly and was back at home a few weeks later, thanks to the expert heart team here at Children’s of Alabama.

a professional services agreement for the Auburn Soccer Complex for more than $118,000.

- The council approved a contract with The Frazer Lanier Company for general obligation warrants by the city for public capital improvement projects.

- The council approved right-of-way, drainage and utility easements for Dilworth Development, Inc. for a property in the Farmville Lakes, Phase 7.

- The council approved a drainage and unity easement for the Woodland Pines Elementary School Project.

- The council approved two board appointments to the Greenspace Advisory Board and

two for the Planning Commission.

- The council approved a 22.87 acre annexation for the Glenwood Farm Annexation.

- The council approved a 6.82 acre annexation for the Tiger’s Shadow Annexation.

- The council approved a 7.27 acre annexation for the intersection of Health Road and Ensminger Road.

- The council rezoned 2.27 acres from Industrial to Comprehensive Development District for property at 3942 and 3957 Masters Court.

- The council rezoned 6.82 acres from Rural to Comprehensive Development District for property at 1945 Wire Road.

- The council approved a conditional use approval for Hydro Engineering Solutions

on behalf of Greystone of Auburn, LLC, for a mini-warehouse/ storage facility for the Greystone Commercial Development.

- The council approved a conditional use approval for Brett Basquin on behalf of Christopher Terrell for a multi-unit development for the Harper Avenue Triplex.

- The council approved a conditional use approval for Allen Harris on behalf of Tiger’s Shadow, LLC, for a multi-unit development for the Tiger’s Shadow Residential.

- The council approved a vacation for Core Auburn Glenn, LLC, for a drainage, utility and sidewalk easement at 366 Genelda Ave. They then approved the easements for the easement revisions of Hub on Campus on West Glenn.

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B12 July 21, 2022

Opelika Kiwanis Club Learns About Auburn University Programs PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

The speakers during the July 7 Opelika Kiwanis meeting were Dr. Jordan Roberts and Jackson Blanks (pictured left). Roberts is over various different racing programs at Auburn University and Jackson is a student and driver of the race cars. They came and spoke on the different programs and the impact is has on the work experience these students received. They also brought one of the outdoor race cars.

The speaker during last week's meeting was Jeremy Roberts (pictured above).

He is the associate director of Auburn Athletics and discussed the process behind getting ready for gamedays.

PUBLIC NOTICES Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

BEST 4 LESS will be auctioning off The below mentioned vehicles on AUGUST 17, 2022. This Auction will be held at 2509 LAFAYETTE PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334-705-0000.

VIN# 1N6AD0ER6DN733935 – 2013 NISSAN FRONTIER 3A8FY48B08T125474 – 2008 CHEVROLET PT CRUISER Legal Run 07/21/2022 & 07/28/22 --------------IN RE. ESTATE OF GEORGE OMAR MENDEZ NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Michelle Aviles on the 7th day of July, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

(Lee Co. Probate Case No. 2022-328) Legal Run 07/14/22, 7/21/22 & 7/28/22 --------------NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF GERALD L. POUNCEY, SR., DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 7th day of July, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby

required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand and seal this 7th day of July, 2022.

SANDRA R. POUNCEY Legal Run 07/14/22, 07/21/22 & 07/28/22 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE THAT Letters of Testamentary were granted to Lauren Ashley Chambers as Executor of the Estate of Henri F. Davidson deceased, on the 21st day of June, 2022. Bythe Hon. Bill English.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN tat all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Alston E. Lyle Morgan & Lyle P.C. P.O. Box 2056 Columbus, GA 31902 Legal Run 07/14/22, 07/21/22 & 07/28/22 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STANLEY AUSTIN MULLINS, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2022-294 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of July, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

RUSSELL A. MULLINS Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 07/14/22, 07/21/22

& 07/28/22 --------------STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY DOCKET NO. 2022-367 RE: ESTATE OF CAROLE ANN MCLAUGHLIN, DECEASED: NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of July, 2022, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Gerald J. McLaughlin, Jr. Gerald J. McLaughlin Jr., Executor Attorney for Executor: Jacob J. (Jake) Key, Esq. Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 (334) 644-1171 Legal Run 7/14/22, 7/21/22 & 7/28/22 --------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF ARTHUR HODGE METCALF, II DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-290 PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of ARTHUR HODGE METCALF 11 are hereby granted to Jean Hughes Metcalf on the 22 nd day of June, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Jean Hughes Metcalf

Legal Run 07/14/22, 07/21/22 & 07/28/22 -------------------ESTATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT - CASE NO. 2022-361 ESTATE OF JANICE B. WIGGINS, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Janice B. Wiggins, deceased, having been granted to J. Frank Wiggins this 30th day of June 2022, 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.

J. Frank Wiggins, Personal Representative Legal Run 07/07/22, 07/14/22 & 07/21/22 --------------STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF AIKEN IN THE FAMILY COURT SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Case No. 22-DR-02-54 South Carolina Department of Social Services, Plaintiff Vs. Keith Bishop, Defendants.

SUMMONS, NOTICE AND PETITION FOR CENTRAL REGISTRY ENTRY TO: Keith Bishop YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Summons, Notice an Petition for Central Registry in this action, the original of which has been filed in the Aiken County Office of the Clerk of Court at 109 Park Ave., Aiken, SC 29801, on February 17,2022, a copy of which will be delivered to you upon request; and to serve a copy of your answer to the complaint upon the attorney, Susanna M. Ringler, for the Plaintiff at Post Office

Drawer 1268 , Aiken,SC 29801, within thirty (30) days following the date of service upon you, exclusive of the day of such service; and if you fail to answer the complaint within the time stated, the Plaintiff will apply for judgment by default against the Defendant for the relief demanded in the complaint.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that you have the right to be present and represented by an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint an attorney to represent you. It is your responsibility to contact the Aiken County Clerk of Court’s Office, 109 Park Ave., Aiken, SC 29801, to apply for appointment of an attorney to represent you if you cannot afford an attorney (take all of these papers with you if you apply). YOU MUST APPLY FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY. IF YOU DO NOT APPLY FOR AN ATTORNEY WITHIN THIRTY DAYS OF RECEIPT OF THE COMPLAINT, AN ATTORNEY WILL NOT BE APPOINTED FOR YOU. YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that a hearing will be held in this matter on August 16, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.. at the Aiken County Courthouse located at 109 Park Ave., Aiken, SC 29801.

You should attend this hearing. If you do not attend, the relief sought may be granted in your absence.

Legal Run 06/30/22, 07/07/22, 07/14/22 & 07/21/22 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF WANDA SZOSTAK CASE NO: 2016-A-168 NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that an Annual Accounting for

Partial Settlement for the Conservatorship of Wanda Szostak has been filed. A hearing has been set for the 3rd day of August 2022 at 9:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”.

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing.

Bill English Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 07/07/22, 07/14/22 & 07/21/22 --------------INVITATION TO BID 22028 Sealed bids for the construction of the City of Opelika Fire Station #5 shall be received at the 2nd Floor Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday August 2, 2022, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §348-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

There will be a Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference on Tuesday July 26, 2022, at 2PM CST at 204 S. 7th St., 2nd Floor Conference Room, Opelika, Alabama 36801.

Any potential bidders must attend this mandatory prebid conference meeting.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License. All bidders must submit with

B13 July 21, 2022

OPELIKA COUNCIL >> FROM B9 — Area was moved from Ward 5 to Ward 2, and the NAACP map accommodated this request from citizens in this area.

Area D: Commanche Drive — Area moved from Ward 2 to Ward 5, and the NAACP map agrees with the proposed Mayor's Map on this move.

Area E: Downtown — Area moved from Ward 1 to Ward 2, and the NAACP map is in agreement with the Mayor's Map proposal on this move.

Area F: Oak Bowery, Morris — Area moved

PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B11 their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number.

Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

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

Options for obtaining Bid Documents are as follows: Hardcopy: Contact Auburn Reprographics, 660 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL 36830; (334) 501-8235; Attn: Greg Sellers; (E-mail greg@ auburnrepro.com) to obtain bid documents. Hardcopy sets are non-refundable.

Bidders may view bidding document on the Auburn Reprographics digital plan room without charge. All bidding General Contractors must register with John Randall Wilson, Architect and Auburn Reprographics to receive updated bidding information including but not limited to potential Addenda, RFI’s and Changes to Bid Date.

Electronic (CD): Make check payable to Auburn Reprographics & Supply in the amount of $25. This amount is non-refundable. Shipping arrangements shall be made by the Contractor.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid- refer also to Instructions to Bidders.

Performance and Payment

from Ward 3 to Ward 4, with the NAACP map accommodating this request.

Area G: Town Lakes — Area moved from Ward 2 to Ward 5, with the NAACP map accommodating this request from concerned citizens.

Area H: Cedar Creek — Area moved from Ward 4 to Ward , and the NAACP map is in agreement with The Mayor's Map for this move.

Area I: Spring Hill — The NAACP added a move of this area from Ward 4 into Ward 3, in order to keep the population totals within the wards within the correct deviation as allowed by law.

The Mayor's Map had an allowed population

deviation of 4.15% whereas the NAACP Map reduced that deviation to 1.82%.

Should it choose, the council can vote to introduce an ordinance pertaining to the proposed NAACP for first reading at the next city council meeting which will be on Aug. 3.

IN OTHER BUSINESS: • The council approved a street closure request from Opelika Main Street for the Main Street Alabama LAB Reception Event to be held on Aug. 17.

• The council approved a street closure request from Opelika Main Street for the Annual Songwriters Festival to be held on Oct. 15.

• The council approved

a bid for the purchase of 17 archery targets for the new archery range at Spring Villa.

• The council approved a bid for upgrades to the sidewalks and drainage systems on South Long Street.

• The council approved a bid for the construction of grade, drain, base and paving for Opelika's North Park Industrial Access Road project.

• The council approved a resolution to purchase 40 disc golf targets for the parks and recreation department.

• The council approved a resolution to purchase licensing and maintenance software for the Salesforce Platform for the IT department.

• The council approved a resolution to purchase a John Deere 5090E Cab Tractor FT4 for the public works department.

• The council approved a resolution to accept the public infrastructure and utilities in several new subdivisions.

• The council approved a resolution to accept the quote for a Webex Calling Plan from Cisco for the IT department.

• The council approved a resolution to accept a quote fromAdapToSolve for various purchases for the IT department.

• The council approved a resolution for the service agreement with APHISWS for wildlife damage management.

• The council approved

a resolution to authorize the city of Opelika to join the state of Alabama and other local governements as participants in both current and future opioid settlements.

• The council approved a resolution for a special appropriation to the Opelika Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association.

• A motion to remove the plan for the redistricting of the council districts within the city of Opelika was not passed and the item remains on the table at this time.

• The council approved an ordinance to amend the City Code of Ordinances: Adopting an Electronic Meeting Policy for City Council Meetings.

Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

As a condition for award, the business entity and its subcontractors shall not knowingly employ or hire an unauthorized alien within the State of Alabama. The awarded business entity must provide documentation of enrollment in the E-Verify program. The business must participate in the E-Verify program for the length of the contract.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope¬li¬ka, Alabama 36803-0390. Attn: Opelika Fire Station #5 LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET 36801 (Delivery) POST OFFICE BOX 390 36803-0390 (Mail) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 07/07/22, 07/14/22 & 07/21/22 --------------INVITATION TO BID 22030 Sealed bids for the construction of the City-Wide ADA Improvements Project shall be received at the Opelika City Hall 2nd Floor Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on day, August 9, 2022, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor.

The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §348-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules

and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”.

All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

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

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-7055450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of ten thousand ($10,000) dollars made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for one million ($1,000,000) will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley,

Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Ope-li¬ka, Alabama, 36803-0390.

Attn: City-Wide ADA Improvements Project LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 07/14/22, 07/21/22 & 07/28/22 ---------------

at 11:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”.

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Probate of Will of the Estate of Peggy L. Adams.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 07/14/2022, 07/21/2022 & 07/28/2022 ---------------

43-3-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 07/21/2022 ---------------

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA - THE ESTATE OF DERRICK LEROY YOUNG DECEASED NOTICE OF HEARING TO: Rodney Adams, Brittney Young, Derrick Young Jr., and Marques Young Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution for the Estate of Derrick Leroy Young. A hearing has been set for the 28th day of July 2022 at 9:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”. Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-7373670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Summary Distribution for the Estate of Derrick Leroy Young.

BILL ENGLISH Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 07/07/22, 07/14/22 & 07/21/22 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of PEGGY L. ADAMS Case No. 2022-278 NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Probate of Will for the Estate of Peggy L. Adams has been filed.

A hearing has been set for the 11th day of August 2022

NOTICE Elmer Hernandez, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Dorcas Domingo's Complaint and Summons. Said Answer must be filed on or before 09/10/2022 or thereafter a judgment of default may be entered against him in Case No: DR-2022- 900123.00 in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Done this 13th day of July, 2022.

Mary B. Roberson Clerk of Circuit Court Lee County, Alabama OF COUNSEL: Ben C. Hand 114 North 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 334-741-4077 Legal Run 07/21/2022, 07/28/22, 08/04/22 & 08/11/2022 l lQ) JUL 1 3 2022 IN OFFICE MARY B. ROBERSON CIRCUIT CLERK --------------NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of STEVEN P. CARSON, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Christine Whitlow Carson and Phillip Dean Garrett on July 12, 2022, pursuant to Section

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF GEHUGH STITT, JR CASE NO. 2022-084 NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Probate of Will for the Estate of Gehugh Stitt, Jr. has been filed. A hearing has been set for the 30th day of August 2022 at 11:00 a.m. central time, electronically via “ZOOM”.

Please contact the Lee County Probate Court at 334-737-3670 for access to the electronic hearing should you intend to take part in the hearing of the Petition for Probate of Will of the Estate of Gehugh Stitt, Jr. Bill English, Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 07/21/2022, 07/28/2022 & 08/04/2022 --------------Notice of auction of abandoned vehicles.

BEST 4 LESS will be auctioning off The below mentioned vehicles on AUGUST 23, 2022. This Auction will be held at 2509 LAFAYETTE PARKWAY, OPELIKA, ALABAMA, 36801 at 10:00 a.m. If you have any questions in regards to either of the vehicles please give call at 334-705-0000.

VIN# 1GNEC13Z83J210686 - 2003 CHEVROLET TAHOE 1GNDS13S422228726 2002 CHEVROLET TRAIL BLAZER 1G8AJ55TX7ZLZ0237 2007 SATURN ION 2J4FY19P8NJ551730- 1992 JEEP WRANGLER Legal Run 07/21/2022 & 07/28/22

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Please run Alabama Press Association for the week of July 10th to 16st.

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THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE ANSWERS:

Thank you for reading The Observer — Winner of the 2022 Alabama Press Association General Excellence Award