Opelika, AlabamaThursday Sept. 15, 2022Vol. 14, No. 49 CONTENTS An award-winning publication created 'For local people, by local people.' Covering Lee County, Alabama FRED ERi CK-DEAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY Compassion • Integrity • Tradition 334-745-4667 On-site Crematory Coming Soon OPINION ..................... A4 ENTERTAINMENT ........... A7 RELIGION ................... A14 OBITUARIES ............... A15 COMICS ....................... A16 SPORTS ........................ B1 CLASSIFIEDS .......... B10 /14 PUBLIC NOTICES ........... B10 POLITICS ..................... B11 PUZZLES ..................... B15 See BREAKFAST, page A2 See FROZEN, page A3 See LCSO, page A2 CONTRIBUTED BY LCSO LEE COUNTY — The Lee County Sher iff’s Office needs help identifying the person shown in this sketch. On Aug. 24, 2022, at approximately 4:20 OHTS to Stage Disney's FROZEN
Bruce
to produce three
Opelika won the sole spot for the state as part of the “United States of Frozen: Love Is an Open Door” competi tion, a partnership of the Disney Theatrical Group, Educational Theatre Association and Music Theatre International.
of “Frozen: The Broadway Musical.”Winners received notice a few days before the announcement went public on Sept. 9. “On behalf of the en tire national tour of OUOOHPTSEDWITHPERMISSIN Man Sought ImpersonatingForOfficer OOUOOOHPTCNTRBTEDTTHEBSERVEROOUOOOHPTCNTRIBTEDTTHEBSERVER
BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMKENDYLH@
ries the
Pearl to Speak at First Responders Breakfast in Opelika CONTRIBUTED BY OPELIKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OPELIKA — The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is hosting an ap preciation breakfast to honor the sacrifices and courage of first responders in the area on Sept. 30, 2022, from 8 to 9 a.m.“Our first responders are essential to this communi ty,” said Opelika Chamber President and CEO Ali Rauch. “Both our businesses and our citizens rely on them for safety, security, advice and so much more. In light of the recent fire in downtown, it’s even more apparent how im portant our first responders are so we welcome the opportuni ty to celebrate them.” All first responders and community members are welcome to enjoy breakfast
Disney has opened the door for Opelika High School to become the only school in Alabama to bring the magic of “Frozen” to life on stage this school year.
—
The contest awarded a total of 51 schools across the nation and its territo rights performances
OPELIKA
FROM A1 p.m. CST, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call in reference to an individual being pulled over by someone imper sonating a police officer. Deputies responded to the 1000 block of Lee Road 183 and met with the complainant. The complainant advised that
chamber’s annual break fast,” said Opelika Police Chief Shane Healey. “We are fortunate to serve a wonderful community and truly appreciate the continuous support our officers and dispatchers receive.”Firstresponders can attend free of charge by emailing mayCommunityopelikachamber.com.mackenzie@membersattendfor$25.The
Back Row (right side):
OOOUOOOHPTCNTRIBTEDBYTHEPELIKACHAMBERFCMMERCE Pre-Need Services Available Call 334-749-8700 for an appointment Your Full-Service Funeral Home
•
The event is presented by Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones. The Gold Sponsors are Bailey-Harris Con struction; Baxter Interna tional; H&S Commercial & Industrial Supplies & Services, LLC; and Pied mont Fertilizer Company.
FROM A1
she had been pulled over on Lee Road 183 near Highway 280 East close to Dudley Lumber Company in the Salem area of Lee County.Thesuspect was a white male driving a white Dodge Ram truck, which had flashing lights mounted in the grill and the windshield of the truck. The suspect was wearing a white T-shirt with the sheriff’s logo sewn in, with Officer Walters
printed as the name. When the male heard the complainant on the phone with 911, he fled the scene. A sketch of the suspect was generated to help identify a suspect in this case. If you know the identity of this person or have any information about this case, please contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 334-749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867).
“We are looking for ward to joining other first responders and members of the community for the
• Ryan Roberts, LCAR past president LCAR is consistently the presenting sponsor each year in AOHFH’s fundraising efforts to build more homes, communities and hope. Its consistent sponsorship has helped build Habitat Homes No. 65 through 71 in the past. AOHFH said it appreciates LCAR for its partnership, as it continues to be valuable to the organization. To partner with AOHFH to help sponsor a home, join in the 2022-23 Capital Campaign Drive to help build affordable homes for partner families. AOHFH’s partner families work hard to save a down payment, volunteer 500 hours to work on other homes and their own, complete home ownership and financial classes and make a no-interest mortgage payment, which is recycled to help build more homes. For more details on becoming part of the Capital Campaign Drive, visit auburnopelikahabitat.org.
LCSO >>
A2 Sept. 15, 2022 The Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the editor at CORRECTIONS334-749-8003. LIVE LEE EDITOR: Hannah Lester MARKETING: Woody Ross PHOTOJOURNALIST: Robert Noles SPORTS EDITOR: Wil Crews SPORTS WRITERS: D. Mark Mitchell STAFF REPORTER: Kendyl Hollingsworth 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. The Observer is published weekly by Key Media LLC, 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Observer, 223-A S. 8th St.,, Opelika, AL 36801 www.opelikaobserver.com PHONE: PUBLISHER:Michelle@opelikaobserver.comeditor@opelikaobserver.com334.749.8003MichelleKey Exp. Date: • $34 for 1 year (inside Lee County) $45 for 1 year (outside of Lee County) City:Address:Name: State: ZIP: Phone number: Email address:TheObserver 223-A S. 8th St., Opelika, AL 36801 Please do not send cash through the mail. Payment Type (circle one): Check / Credit Card Visa or Master Card # Amount Paid:Security Code:/ Return to: Subscribe to The Observer today! LCAR Presents Check to Habitat for Humanity Last Thursday,Sept. 8, the Lee County Association of REALTORS (LCAR) presented Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity (AOHFH) with a check to help build more affordable homes in our community. The sponsorship donation kicked off AOHFH’s Capital Campaign Drive. • Front Row (left side): Dan Hatcher, AOHFH board vice president; Dan Mason, AOHFH board member; MC McCarthy, AOHFH board member • Back Row (left side): Jonathan Davis, AOHFH board member; Audrey Marshall, AOHFH secretary; Lee McInnis, AOHFH board member
deadline to register is Fri day, Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. No refunds will be available after the deadline, and space is limited.
•
Second Row (right side): Cathy Fincher, LCAR treasurer; Jamie Sergen, LCAR association executive; Jamie Rogers, LCAR director; Karol Kirby, LCAR director
and hear from speaker, Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl. At this breakfast, the chamber will also be awarding the Firefighter, Police Officer, Sheriff’s Deputy and Medic of the Year awards.
•
Front Row (right side): Carole Harrison, LCAR president; Carrie King, LCAR president-elect
BREAKFAST >>
Third Row (right side): Emmy Sorrells, LCAR secretary; Michelle Smith, LCAR director; Melissa Bruce, LCAR director
program.GirlScouts of South ern Alabama (GSSA) and local Girl Scouts receive a portion of the subscription fees. The fees not only support local Girls Scouts but provide programs, adult training and support for theEachcamp.$6 donation will prompt Girl Scouts to send one can of nuts or package of chocolates to Ronald McDonald House, Dothan Rescue Mission and or East Alabama Food Bank.
Lab offers fully furnished private offices, co working spaces, mail services, and more, all within the heart of Downtown Opelika Our all inclusive and contract free prices allow you to focus on the important things without worrying about any overhead costs CoLab is perfect for graphic designers, software developers, real estate agents, work from home individuals, and small teams Learn more about us and book a tour to find your best fit by visiting us on the web, or social media pages Private Furnished Offices Co Working & Mail Services COLABOPELIKA COM | (334)748 9700 |@COLABOPELIKA
"The Auburn Ideas Jam helps ideas and early-stage business
LEE COUNTY —
AUBURN — The Lowder Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurship will host the Auburn Ideas Jam, giving businesses an opportu nity to win $1,000 on Thursday Sept. 29.
es grow," states the competition's website. "This is a andsonallottedthreeEastindividualstunitystages.nessesideashelpingJamapply."stronglyand/orthatphasevidualsdeckbusinesscompetitionlow-barrierwithnoplanorsliderequired.Indistillattheideaorbusinessesarepre-revenuepre-productareencouragedtoTheAuburnIdeasisgearedtowardcultivatenewandaidingbusiintheirearlyThisopporisopentoallresidinginAlabama.Uptominuteswillbeforeachpertopitchtheiridea,completecompe
Chason said Gholston forwarded her the contest announcement just four days before the deadline.
“I am so thrilled,” said Chason, who participated in OHTS from 2011 to 2015. “I’ve been thrilled all week for them.”
In addition to the rights, winning schools will re ceive a free digital script, score, 21-piece orchestra tion, logo pack and video license.“Ithink while there are many, many schools in the state that would do an amazing job with this pro duction, I am more than confident that ours will be considered the finest,”
Chason was quick to credit both Gholston and his wife Kate, also a teacher, for encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone and helping her build 2023.stagenextdiscussresentativesmeetGholstonself-confidence.saidhewillwithDisneyrepSept.15tofurtherdetailsandsteps.TheplanistotheshowinAprilHesaidhehopesthe
FROZEN >> FROM A1
varieties of candy and nuts that range in prices from $6 to $12. Ordering or renewing subscriptionsmagazinecanalso be done through the online
WE ARE GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN ALABAMA
tition details can be found on the website below."The slate of com petitors will be divided into separate pitch booths, with several teams competing at each booth," states the wesbite. "This has the effect of jsacontactburn-ideas-jam.htmlpitch-competitions/aubert.auburn.edu/events/event,informationSept.nowbusinessforofimprovingsignificantlythechanceswinningfundingyourearly-stageidea."Registrationisopenandcloseson23.Formoreaboutthevisitwww.harorJoshuaSahibathib@auburn.edu.
said Revel Gholston, di rector of the Opelika High Theatre Society (OHTS). “I was quite overwhelmed when we found out. I wasn't sure what to do even. I didn't want to miss out or mess up. I, howev er, was having a hard time wrapping my head around it.”The big win for OHTS was due, in part, to Auburn Terry Chason, a passionate former student who submitted the application on behalf of Gholston and the school.
A3 Sept. 15, 2022
students involved will gain a love for perform ing, live theater and each other, “and most impor tantly, enough culture to share with those they come into contact with in theForfuture.”those students, Chason said the best advice she can give is to trust the “Whenprocess.youlearn to trust yourself to make decisions without inhibi tions on stage, it makes all the difference,” Cha son said. “When you learn to trust your director, too — especially someone as wise and clever as Revel — it really does make all the difference. And that’s part of what makes OHTS so wonderful and so professional, too, even for children, is that it has the ability to really just bring out the best in people. If you can let yourself just be your best and get lost in that Disney magic, then it’s going to be a wonder ful show.”
Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs in 30 counties in southern Alabama, Girl Scouts of all back grounds and abilities can be unapologetical ly themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges — whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors and millions of alumnae, girl scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most import ant to them. To join us, volunteer, reconnect or donate, visit girlscouts sa.org.
CONTRIIBUTED BY GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN ALABAMA
Lowder Center to Host Auburn Ideas Jam
Friends and family can order or renew their favorite magazine subscriptions through the online areFurthermore,program.thereseveraldelicious
‘Frozen’: a congratulationsheartfelttoall of the winning schools,” said Lauren Nicole Chapman, who plays Anna in the nationally touring stage production, in the an nouncement video. “I am so inspired by everyone who applied — for your passion, your ingenuity and for your commitment to creating inclusive spaces for young people through theater, and I am honored to welcome these 51 student productions into the ‘Frozen’ family.”
With her passion, writing skills and firsthand expe riences in the program, Gholston said he believed “[Chason’s] words may win it.” She submitted the application on July 31,
This event is an op portunity for people to pitch a business idea or a creative solution to a problem, and contes tants could win $1,000 for their business start up. Neither a formal business plan nor pitch deck is required.
Arendelle.”Buttheshow won’t just be for experienced thespians; Chason said “Frozen” contains several parts that could provide a great introduction into the theater world for new comers.“There’s a character on stage — like Sven, the reindeer — and that would be a great part for someone who doesn’t want to talk but wants that experience on stage,” she said. “It’s an oppor tunity, I think, for the theater program to grow.”
Every purchase of Munchies and Mags is an investment in girls both now and in the future and their leader ship capabilities, with 100% of the net revenue staying local. Anyone interested in purchaisng any of the items offered and haven't been visited by a Girl Scout can email their contact infor
really well, I feel like, already,” Chason said. “I was not a shy child, but I was not ready to be on stage. He really took a chance on me, and I feel like he really takes a chance on just about anyone if he just has that gut instinct, so I talked a lot about that [in the application] — about how Revel was willing to give chances to people.”
'Fall'ing for Girl Scouts Munchies and Mags
one day before the end of theThecontest.competition theme, “Love Is an Open Door,” focused on outreach and inclusion through theater programs. Applicants were asked to explain how their Revelhighgramwelcomedownreadyexperiencethanthatanddoorsrience.joineachandinancommunity.strengthenunderservedproduction“Frozen”wouldreachgroupsandtheirschoolGholstonsaid“loveisopendoor”toanyonethetheaterdepartment,thereisaplaceforstudentwhowantstointhetheaterexpe“Theateropenssomanyforitsparticipantsaudiencemembersthisthemeismorerelevanttothiswearegettingtohave,”hesaid.Chasonrecalledherexperienceofbeingintotheproasafreshmaninschool.“That’ssomethingthathasalwaysdone
CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER
mation (name, address, zip code and phone number) to localtoorcare@girlscouts-sa.orgcustomercall800-239-6636beconnectedwithatroop.
girls will develop skills in finan cial literacy and learn how to set goals, make individual and group decisions, craft their unique sales pitch, man age troop proceeds and ethically run a business. Girls will take orders from Sept. 12 through Oct. 20, with online sales ending Nov. 6.
The application also asked for references to previous shows, so Chason said she wanted to mention other Disney shows OHTS has done as well as 2015’s “Phantom of the Opera,” among others.“That was a massive undertaking, and I wanted to make it clear that not only would Opelika be ecstatic to have the oppor tunity, but they’re fully prepared to do it,” she said. “In 2015, we had a chandelier that fell from the ceiling, so I think we can make it freeze over in
The Munchies and Mags Program is an awesome opportunity for local girls to enhance their Girl Scout Leader ship experience. Much more than a money-earn ing activity, Munchies and Mags teaches Girls Scouts skills that will help them grow into leaders and prepare them for the Participatingfuture.
334-745-4618
We watch more crowds pass. People of all shapes, creeds, colors and persua sions.“You want to see a pic ture of my boys?” she says. She“Please.”removes a phone. She shows images of her kids. They are dressed in University of Georgia shirts. Smiling to beat the band. Their mother holds them closely. One boy in each arm. And I am reminded of the single mother who raisedThisme.world doesn’t do nearly enough for mothers. But it does even less for the singleWhileones.looking at a few dozen pictures of her chil dren, the bartender smiles at her photos, lost in the kinds of warm memories that only mothers hold.
A
When someone drives to a Target and waits outside for someone to rob, finally zeroing in on a woman and her child, and then they take that mother and son to an ATM and force her to hand over the cash she has worked for, all the while knowing she is terrified her child will be hurt, I have zero com passion. None.
there. He will be right at home. And then he’ll be let go after spending a small fraction of the time a judge sentenced him to. And he will walk straight back into his life of choosing evil. And people will die because of It'sit. worth mentioning that all that evil — the woman and child who were kidnapped, the shooting spree that lasted all day and the kidnapped jogger whose body was just found — all took place in Memphis. All that evil in just one city over just a few days. That’s just a drop in the bucket of evil all over the world, every single day.
“Water“I’mold.”sorry.”under the bridge. We sort of divorced for reli gious reasons, anyhow.”
“You sound like a great mother.”Acluster of high-school kids walk by. They are emit ting sine waves of hormonal energy. Trying hard to impress one another.
“I like to look for old couples,” she says. “I like to see old people who are still in love. They remind me of
“Yeah.“Really?”He thought he was God, and I didn’t.”
No Excuse
SEAN DIETRICH
“My youngest is always
“I have tried to give my boys a good life. Took them to Austin, Texas. Took them to Virginia Beach. Gatlinburg. Atlantic City. And next month, I’m going to take them to the Rocky Mountains.”
s I write this, we are 48 hours away from what has become a tradition for Tim, Tim’s parents and myself.
The Saturday after Labor Day is the annual Daylily Spectacular at Bell’s Daylily Garden in Sycamore, Georgia.
WENDY HODGE
focuses on the throngs in the lobby.“Are you a people watch er?” she asks.
A4 Sept. 15, 2022
years
many hours in the yard to prepare a brand new, beautiful bed in which to plant all the lovely lilies we will be bringing home with us.
it’s anyone else’s fault but the people who take up weapons and choose to go out and spread evil.Let’s put the blame squarely where it belongs. And let’s quit qualifying that blame.
“If only he’d had more choices,” someone will say. “It was tough with out a father in his life,” another will add. “His mother was a junkie,” the reporter will write. As if these factors have somehow made him less culpable, less respon sible for the choice he made.Meanwhile, this walk ing embodiment of evil, who is a full-grown adult fully capable of choos ing to do good rather than evil, will continue to terrorize and rape and murder because he knows we will not hold him accountable. Pris on is just another room to occupy. Drugs are there. Violence is there. Hatred and contempt are
“Those guys are from Kenya,” says the bartender. “I waited on them yesterday. Happy guys. They’re here for a wedding. They’ve got more money than Jesus.”
A small group of busi nesswomen walk by. They look like classy profession als. High heels. Skirt suits. Deathly serious faces.
“Came to Atlanta with my husband, who is now my ex-husband. He had a job here. He left me the day after my 40th birthday. He married a girl who was 22
There are restaurants, cafes, gift shops, arcades, boutiques and a glass elevator that brings to mind “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”Iamsitting at the bar, watching people wander through the lobby in clots.
T
People Watcher
I am. I’m sick to death of it. We all, every single one of us, have a choice. It’s as simple as that. At some point in our life, we all choose — good or evil. I have compassion for people who strug gle with the hand life has dealt them. But my compassion ends when someone uses a gun or a knife or his own body to hurtWhensomeone.aman decides he’s angry enough with himself that he’ll kidnap a woman while she’s jogging and do unspeak able things to her body and her heart before end ing her life, I have zero
So here we are. Both of us. The bartender and yours truly, people-watching.
compassion. None.
“Did your boys have fun?”“Does the pope go in the woods?”Isipped and nodded.
A group of young, darkskinned men walk by. They are wearing traditional Af rican garb, rolling suitcases. Long tunics. Wild colors. I can hear them talking. Their accents sound melodic.
I don’t want to hear any more lectures about discrimination or op pression. Don’t give me any more statistics about kids raised by single parents or living beneath the poverty line. I don’t want to read another word that even hints that
See HODGE, page A5
What’s weighing on me like a stone is the image I saw this morning of a man who had been ar rested in Memphis. He’d gone on a shooting spree that lasted all day, killing four people, before he was finally caught. And there was his face when I turned on the televi sion. He was grinning, baring his teeth, looking for all the world like he’d just won the lottery. It was his eyes that gave it away — there was no joy there, just evil.
When someone decides they just want to hurt people, as many people as they can, and they get in their car and begin to drive and hunt down humans as if they’re playing a video game, I have zero com passion. None.
She nods. “Me, too.”
my“Whereparents.”do your parents live?”“North Georgia. They’ve been married 52 years. Good people.”
“How did you end up in Atlanta?” I ask.
“I am familiar.” I took a sip. “How old are your kids?”“Two boys. Ten and eight. My oldest is whip-smart. He’s going places. My youngest is a typical boy. He only cares about fishing and sports. Kids need their dad, you know, but my ex never comes around. Never even calls my boys.”
But that’s not what’s on my heart today.
“Those business ladies were in here last night, too,” the bartender whispers. “Complete witches. Every thing had to be just so. You know what I mean?”
I had every intention of writing this article about the joys of plan ning and packing for this trip, of how much we have anticipated this long weekend since the moment the Spectacular ended last year and of how we have labored so
Plain, edhowdidn’tthehowthesoul-obliteratingunadulterated,evil.Peoplewilltalkindaystocomeabouthe’sablackmaninSouthandhowhehaveafather,andhewassurroundbybadrolemodels,
I nod. Because I get it. I had a father for a brief period. I had him until I was 11, then he was gone.
I watched "The Green Mile" last weekend. It’s in my top five movies of all time. And this time, when John Coffey looked at Paul Edgecomb and said in his deep, slow, southern voice, “I’m tired, boss. I’m tired of
“I took my boys to Disney this year. That’s where they wanted to go. It was tough because I work three jobs, and I had to take time off. Few of my bosses got mad about it. One boss almost fired me.”
asking me when Daddy is going to take him to a Georgia game. My sons are always texting their dad, but he won’t answer them back for weeks sometimes. Breaks my heart. So I try to be both Mom and Dad.”
and how drugs and violence are the life he has inherited, and how he was deprived of an education and how his choices were limited. I don’t want to hear any of it. Aren’t we tired, as a whole, of listening to the same roster of terrible odds that seem to be stacked in favor of becoming a criminal?
More hordes walk by. A girls soccer team. Mid westerners with shopping bags. Young men in sports coats and Guccis. A mass of older women, all wearing matching T-shirts that say, “Happy birthday, Caroline! You turned 35 twice!”
he hotel lobby is about the size of an aircraft hangar. It’s like a city unto itself. They do things big in Atlanta.
My bartender is a youngish woman with a pronounced drawl. She pronounces “dance” as “daintz.” She brings me a beer and asks how I’m doing, but my attention
As it happens, I am a longtime people watch er. You can put me in an airport, beer joint, train station, school or Holiday Inn Express, and I’m at a matinee.“Ilike watching people,” I tell the bartender.
She says, “I’d give my boys the world if I could, but I can’t afford the world. So I just give them myself, you know? I give them all of me, and I pray that’s goodYes.enough.”They’re doing just fine here in Atlanta.
wave it away with excus es. We must stand against it and hold accountable those who embrace it.
down in my soul. We will pack our suit cases and take our road trip this weekend, and we will be so grateful for the beauty of the world. There’s so much of it. But there is evil, too. We can’t turn our back on it or
115 years ago AuburnBank was founded on the principles of sound money management and putting the customer first. As we’ve opened our new home in downtown Auburn, those principles still drive everything we do. Come by and help us celebrate our most recent success, and let’s talk about helping you achieve yours. New Home Is Built on a
This is a great show for young actors to jump into the joys of theatre, letting them get their feet wet on an emailthemation.timeto8597Sept.auditionp.m.,day,4:30placehistory.mousteachesmystery-solvingaction-packedsetthatthemaboutfacharactersinliteraryAuditionswilltakeFriday,Sept.16,to7p.m.andSaturSept.17,11a.m.to1withapossibleextradateforSunday,17,1to3p.m.Callortext344-559-or344-400-9660scheduleanauditionorformoreinforSides(linesfromscript)canbesentbytoyou,oryoucan
13. Hetty Hudsonstudent14.Henry Baskervillestudent15.Lady Windsorgovernment official's wife
21.
24.
*NOTE: Roles can easily be altered to suit different genders. Ex ample: Senor Goya can easily become Senora Goya, etc.
5. Miss ButterworthHeadmistress6.Madame Lulu - the crazy psychic and fortune teller7.Larry Lestradestudent8.Sherlock Holmesstudent9.John Watson - student
3. Ruda - maid
23.
The roles of Sherlock Holmes, John Watson, Larry Lestrade, Helen Stoner, Henry Baskerville, Irene Adler, Hetty Hud son and James Moriarty can not be altered. These were all characters that grew up and factored into Sherlock Holmes later life and mysteries.
do a one-minute mono logue.Auditions are for ages 6 to 13 years old.
17. Leticia Windsor - a new18.studentRosaMedici - an other new student
HODGE >> FROM
Opelika Theatre Company to Hold Auditions for 'Young Sherlock'
Opelika Theatre Com pany is holding auditions for its next production: "YoungYoungSherlock."Sherlock takes a trip back in time when young Sherlock Holmes was a boarding student at Butterworth Academy. Two children are kid napped from the school and John Watson hopes his friend and classmate will be able to solve his first crime. Despite a psy chic — Madame Lulu — who appears on the scene and guarantees to find the students, Sherlock is also
16. Signora Mediciambassador's wife
A5 Sept. 15, 2022
10. James Moriarty -student11.Helen Stonerstudent12.Irene Adler - student
19. Madame Bonaparte - Monique's Mother Senor Goya - Car lotta's father Constable BingChief of Police
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met by a bumbling, in competent chief of police — Constable Bing and his assistant Cyril, who start their own investigation, getting things all messed up.Madame Lulu, the crazy psychic, suddenly finds the children after receiv ing a handsome ransom from their wealthy, aristo craticSherlockparents.becomes very suspicious and decides to set a trap to capture the person responsible for the kidnapping and ransom note, thus launching his career as a "great detec tive" who solves the crime even before the police can.
May we all remember those in Memphis who have lost more than words can tell. CONTRIBUTEDA4
4. Miss Klegg - the school cook
BY OPELIKA THEATRE COMPANY
Opelika Chamber Issues Quarterly Business Awards
OPELIKA —
20.
22. Cyril - Constable Bing's Deputy Duchess SimpsonWealthy Aristocrat Hortense - Duchess Simpson's daughter
people being ugly to each other. I’m tired of all the pain I hear and feel in the world every day. There’s too much of it,” I FELT it
YOUNG SHERLOCK CAST OF CHARACTERS
1. Monique - student who's abducted
Our
An Opelika Theatre Company Children's Theatre Production January 2023 Plumbing & Heating S upplies Pipes Valves Fittings 334.625.3384 800.625.3384 1975 MALL BLVD STE 106, AUBURN, ALABAMA BOTTOM: East Alabama Nutrition received the Small Business of the Quarter award, sponsored by Metro Bank, fol lowing the Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s Business Over Breakfast event Sept. 7. Chamber President and CEO Ali Rauch presented the award to Tambra Blackmon, center. The Minority Business of the Quarter award, sponsored by Alabama Power, was presented to Dani’s Cheesecake Owner Danielle Moore, center. The awards ceremony took place at the chamber’s Business Over Breakfast event Sept. 7 at Southern Union State Community College. OOOUOOOHPTCNTRIBTEDBYTHEPELIKACHAMBERFCMMERCE
2. Carlotta - student who's abducted
A6 Sept. 15, 2022
Marinated Cheese with Olive Oil, Pimento and Green Onion Topping has popular tailgate dish for Janet and Randy Bartlett. dipping bread.
“We have teenage kids, so we’re hoping to be able to help young people like them — college students especially — go and enjoy their night without drinking and driving,” he said.
emphasis on both fun and safety. The business opened last January and has been helping people have a blast in a safe environment since.“Gamel’s Magic School Bus is just a big party on wheels,” Leah said. “It can be used for a multitude of things: wedding peopleWe’veparties,bachelor/bacheloretteevents,birthdayparties.eventransportedtoconcertsand
back. It’s just a fun, safe way to transport people and have a good time.”
The business has already See MAGIC, page A11
Kiesel Park is located at 520 Chadwick Lane in Auburn.
oil. Keep this in mind if you are putting it on a flat platter, as the oil will spread.Both of these marinated cheese recipes create a
UPCOMING EVENTS SEPT. 15: DREW HOLCOMB CONCERT SEPT. 15: JASON ISBELL CONCERT AT THE GOGUE SEPT. 16: FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN OPELIKA OCT. 4 THROUGH 8: LEE COUNTY FAIR “Our Mission is Yo ur He alth” 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 BEAU REGARD DRUGS •DriveThru Only •Regular Operating Hours •Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait WE DELIVER! Piedmont Fertilizer Co. Inc. 201 2nd Ave. • Opelika, AL SINCE 1910 Nothing better for your lawn exists OBSERVERTHEFOR/DICHIARASAMBYPHOTO D
AUBURN —
Jonathon said the point of the business is to prevent drinking and driving.
A Safer Kind of Party
slices standing on edge. Pour the marinade over the cheese and refrigerate until ready to serve.
uring monthsfallin East Alabama, life for many folks revolves around Auburn Tigers’ football with plenty of good food for tailgating on game days. Since Saturday’s game against Penn State kicks off at 2:30 p.m., plan on serv ing a variety of hearty dishes for lunch. Whether tailgating on the Plains or watching the Tigers at
home with friends, relax and enjoy the party with scrumptious dishes that can be prepared ahead.
As I was looking through files this past week for appetizers,make-aheadtwocaught my attention that are unusual, as they both have sauces for marinating slices of cheese. One is Marinated Cheese with Olive Oil, Pimento and Green Onion Topping from Janet Bart
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF AUBURN
olive oil is flavored from the topping ingredients, next time I make it I may not pour all of the oil over the cheese. It will depend on the serving dish, whether it is flat or curved to contain the
lett, and the other is Julia Pipes’ Marinated Cheese with Italian Seasonings.
Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and Oct. 20. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair and a picnic dinner. The Chill Spot will be on location serving gour met hotdogs, chicken tacos, drinks, chips and frozen treats. This year’s music lineup is as•follows:Sept.22: The
S ocietyFood,& News SHouthernospitality
Ann Cipperly
OOOOHPTBYANNCPPERLYFRTHEBSERVER vents,E See CIPPERLY, page A10 Serve Make-Ahead Dishes For Tailgating On The Plains
Both these recipes use sliced cheese that is cut in a square to fit on a cracker. To save time look for packages of as sorted sliced cheeses, in cluding cheddar, Havarti, Monterey Jack or Colby. Then you can cut the slices in halves or thirds. Arrange the slices alter nately in a dish with the
been a
When serving, carefully remove the slices to a dish and pour the mari nade on top. While the
AUBURN — The fall Sundown Concert Series returns this September. Au burn Parks and Recre ation invites everyone to Kiesel Park for free music in the park. Concerts will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 22,
Sundown Concerts Return This Month
BY SAM DICHIARA FOR THE OBSERVER
It’s a familiar conun drum: How do friends go out and have a good time, as well as a few drinks, without having to worry about getting home safely?
Leah and Jonathan Gamel, co-owners of Gamel’s Magic School Bus, offer a solution: a party bus service with an
Rangers•Sept. 29: H2O • Oct. 6: Dion Haw kins and the Experi ence and • Oct. 20: C.J. Har
They also serve it during the holidays, and the marinade is good for
OBSERVERTHETOCONTRIBUTEDPHOTO
ris.Dogs are welcome on a leash. Kiesel Park is located at 520 Chad wick Lane in Auburn. For more information, call 334- 501-2930.
Making the Grade: Pizza D'Action
Pizza D’Action is a cozy, diplomatic eatery. That is, both Auburn and Alabama were represented on the wall. Also, as a re tired English teacher, I really enjoyed the play on words of the restau rant’sMikename.andI ordered the garlic cheesy bites with marinara sauce for our appetizer. While Mike ordered a small chef’s salad, I selected a small garden sal ad. We were about to order sub sandwiches when we spied a lus cious-looking (again, I love alliteration) pizza being taken to a table.
OBSERVERTHEFOR/WALLACEMIKEBYPHOTOS
lie. “A meat amore,” he said. Sold. We then ordered a medium one.
“I did,” she said. Mike asked, “Did you attend Long Cane Mid dle School?” “Yes,” she said.
A8 Sept. 15, 2022
Let me just say, if our salads were small, I couldn’t have lift ed a large one. They were HUGE, fresh and delicious. Also, our garlic cheesy bites were really great. And the meat amore? It was said,lifemuchcanofmeatamazingmouth-wateringlywithnotonlybutanabundancecheese.Andyouneverhavetoocheesebecauseisshort.AsMike“I’dgladlyeat
both Mike and I had taught Katherine 22 years ago. I knew her face, but I couldn’t re member her name out of the 3,000 to 4,000 students I’ve taught. For Mike, the num ber is about 6,000 to 7,000 since he taught different students each nine weeks. However, I do remember a sweet, smart, hardworking young girl. Kather ine told us that she is now 34 and works as a teacher at a day care center. We told her that we knew she would be fore,assemblyproductdon’tworkersdentsseeteachersmentionedsuccessful.AsI’veprobablybefore,nevergettowhattheirstubecome.UnlikeatKIA,weseethefinishedrollofftheline.Therewhenwegetto
I were writing my col umn for The Alexander City Outlook, the local paper, I’d only have my job for a month or two because of the scarcity of indeedoldmetaughtSueandBeulahCharlieupVickyrentyears.inthehelpful.welcoming,wonderful;lieMikeinatcalledreallytoldCentralfulBurdette,quiterunandStation,burn,YourantshaveCountynotThankfully,restaurants.thatisaprobleminLeebecausewenumerousrestauatwhichtodine.caneatoutinAuOpelika,SmithsBeauregardBeulahandwon’toutofplacesforawhile.Recently,JacobourwonderyouthministeratBaptistChurch,meIshouldtryagoodrestaurantPizzaD’Action8018LeeRoad379Salem.Therefore,andIhitthetrail.OurserverCharwasabsolutelyhewassopatientandCharlietoldusthatrestauranthadbeenSalemforover20Infact,thecurowners,TimandClark,livejusttheroad.WefoundoutthatattendedHighSchoolwastaughtbyLarkin,whooncewithMikeandinLaGrange.Theclichéistrue:Itisasmallworld.
PATTONSTACEYWALLACE
exander City (“Eleck” City to the locals), we didn’t have many restaurants at which to dine. We had Ce cil’s (now closed), Lake Hill Restaurant (now closed), Pizza Hut, Western Sizzlin’, Hardee’s and various other local fast food hometown,establishments.Now,Ilovemybutif
Contaminated water caused cancer and other serious health issues. Did you serve, live, work at Camp Lejeune, NC between 1953 and 1987? You may have a claim for damages. Call (256) 357-9211 Steve Morris Attorney at Law: “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.” Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Claims YOUR HEALTH YOURYOURSTATUSBEST LIFE For more information on HIV/AIDS such as testing, treatment, and services, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/hiv/testing.html For information on PrEP, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/hiv/prep.html Integrated HIV Programs for Health Departments to Support Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States 6 NU62PS924613-01-0 CFDA-93.940 Notice of Funding Opportunity PS20 2010 Camp Lejeune Toxic Water Claims If you or a loved one lived or worked at Camp LeJuene between 1953 - 1987 and suffered a serious health problem or death, you may be entitled to compensation. Chemicals found in the water supply at the base have been linked to many cancers, ALS, birth defects and other illnesses. Call now for a free case review. 1 (334)315-2859 gldavis@gregdavislaw.com No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
W
hen I upgrowingwasinAl
“What kind of pizza is that?” I asked Char
“I thought you were one of our babies,” I said. It turned out that
Pizza D’Action makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Re member, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!
Stacey Wallace,Pattonwho re tired from teaching language arts for 30 years, is a profession al diner. Her column, “Making the Grade,” will appear each week in The Observer. Sta cey may be reached er2020@gmail.com.retiredlangartsteachat
it again.” That makes two of Besidesus. our wonder ful garlic cheesy bites appetizer, the restau rant also offers diners: cheese bread, fried mushrooms, cheese sticks and bread sticks. Also, besides our amazing pizza, diners may choose from a va riety of sub sandwich es, lasagna, spaghetti, chicken Alfredo and cini minis for dessert. Make the drive to Pizza D’ Action. It is definitely worth the trip.As Mike and I were
leaving the restaurant, we had a great sur prise. Mike opened the door for a young wom an, who was carrying two takeout pizzas; we started chatting with her.The young woman looked very familiar to us. “Did you go to school in LaGrange?” I asked her.
see a former student all grown up and suc cessful, it is a special blessing to us as retired teachers.PizzaD’Action is closed on Sunday and is currently closed on Monday. The restau rant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
A9 Sept. 15, 2022
slices
SQUARESPUMPKIN
SPREAD
layer sliced cheeses in 3 rows, alternating cheddar, Jack and Colby cheeses. Slices are usually rectan gular, so I cut each one in half to make a square that will fit easily on a cracker. Once the serving dish is full, pour dressing over top of cheese. Sprin kle green onion and parsley over dressing. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Serve with a variety of crackers.
1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 to 3 Tbsp. lemon juiceGarlic salt
8 oz. cheddar cheese
1½ lb. skinned and boned chicken thighs
SLOW SLIDERSBUFFALOCOOKERCHICKEN
½ tsp. garlic pow der½ tsp. celery salt
LAYERED MEXICAN
CIPPERLY >> FROM RECIPESCIPPERLYA7>>
SAUSAGE AND CHEESE BAKED IN ROUND LOAF
the day ahead and slowly simmer all day in their sauce. These are also quickly assembled.
If you try a spread in a hollowed loaf, you can serve it with bread cubed from the loaf, Fritos or crackers.Forhearty fare, serve sliders that are easy to pick up to eat. A deli cious choice is Cherry Bruce’s Roast Beef with
Janet and her husband Randy Bartlett were the original owners of Cock of the Walk in Opelika, and Janet was a church hostess at Trinity Meth odist years ago. Randy’s sister made the marinated cheese for a tailgate, and it became popular for tail gating every fall.
“It is pretty for the holidays, too,” Janet said. “We love cheese, and the
1 ½ cups hot wing sauce, divided 1 pkg. provolo ne or Swiss cheese slices1pkg. King's Ha waiian dinner rolls
Bleu cheese dress ing or ranch dressing, optionalShredded lettuce Spray a slow cooker with nonstick spray. Place diced onion in bottom. Place chicken on top of onion. Sprinkle
1 (16-oz.) pkg. sliced variety of cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack and Colby)
Two delicious chicken sliders are Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sliders and Dr. Ellen Roya’s recipe for Slow Cook er Shredded Barbecue Chicken. Both of these recipes can be prepared
War Eagle!
PUMPKIN DIP WITH PECANS
1 Tbsp. Worcester shire sauce
Combine remaining ingredients; pour over chicken. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour. Reduce heat and cook 5 to 6 hours.
Remove chicken; shred. Return chicken to Spoonsauce. chicken and sauce onto buns if choice and top with dill pickle slices, if desired.
The popular Cock of the Walk served catfish and cornbread in an iron skillet. The servers would ask customers if they would like them to flip the cornbread. Some would try to do tricks with the cornbread and flip it across the room.
1 small jar Pace thick and chunky medium salsa
8 oz. grated sharp cheddar cheese
8 oz. grated Mon terey Jack
Lynn Hammond 1 lb. mild pork sausage8oz.pkg. cream cheese, softened 1 can Rotel, slight ly 8drainedoz.sour cream 2 – 3 cups shred ded cheddar cheese, divided1large oval or round loaf unsliced breadToasted bread slic es or corn chips Brown sausage; drain well. Add cream cheese, Rotel, sour cream and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well. Cut around the top of bread loaf and scoop out the center of bread loaf, saving
bread to use as dippers, if Pourdesired.sausage mixture into the hollowed out bread loaf and sprin kle remaining cheddar cheese on top of loaf. Place loaf on baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees until cheese melts, about 10 to 15 minutes. Serve with toasted bread slices or corn chips. Can prepare sausage and cheese mixture ahead.
SQUARESANTIPASTOTAILGATE
Ellen Canada Inspired by a recipe from Terri Neighbors 2 cans crescent rolls About ½ lb. sliced hamAbout ½ lb. sliced turkeyPepperoniSwisscheese
SLOW BARBECUESHREDDEDCOOKERCHICKEN
putting everything out at once. Watch that food doesn’t stay at room tem perature for more than two hours. Clear covers are handy for keeping insects away from food. Always pack plenty of bottled water to prevent dehydration, as fall days are still Underhot.the eye of the tiger this Saturday, invite friends to join in a festive tailgate before kickoff. When the long-standing tradition of the eagle takes flight around the stadium, it may take your breath away.
1 cup sour cream
Dr. Ellen Royal Serve on rolls.
CREAMY CHEESE AND BEEF LOAF
6-7 boneless chick en1breastsmedium size onion, diced ½ stick butter, cut in ½piecestsp.black pepper
8 oz. cold cream cheese, Havarti or Monterey Jack cheese withmarinademarinade,removeateoveredge.withnatelycheeseRepeatslicescrosswisehalfcheddartoandexceptMixCrackersallingredientscheeseinajarshakevigorouslyblend.Setaside.Cuttheblockofcheeseintolengthwise.Cutinto1/4inchtoformsquares.withcreamorothercheese.ArrangecheesealterinashallowdishslicesstandingonPourmarinadecheese.Refrigeratleast6hours.Toserve,carefullycheesefromthenpourtheontop.Servecrackers.
ROAST BEEF SPREADHORSERADISHWITHINROLLS
Cream FrostingCheese
bottom(CanthewithinbottomrefriedSpreadspring-formplacechipsBite-sizeAssortedcheesetoppingstortillaOnaservingdish,theringofapan.acanofbeansontheofthedishthesidesofspring-formpan.preparewithinpanand
1 to 2 heaping Tbsp. rollsbakeroastreadyrefrigerator.roastsauce.coolsandwiches.roastdinnernaise.saucechasedchunks.rest.oventender.30degreestemperaturehours,onlikenextover,gift,der’ssaltsidesmiddle.Placewithsecondsheetbaking350naiseTbsp.horseradishpurchasedsauce1to2heapinggoodmayonPreheatoventodegrees.Linepanwithoneoffoil.Coatsheetoffoilcookingspray.roastintheSprinkleallofroastwithandthenCavenseasoning.Wraproastlikeafoldingonesideandthentheuntilitlooksapackage.Placebakingsheet.Bakefor2½thenreduceto300andcookforminutesoruntilRemovefromandallowtoSliceintosmallCombinepurhorseradishandmayonSpreadsauceonrolls.AddbeefformakingToprepareahead,roastandmakeStorebothandsauceinWhentoserve,warminovenandrolls.Assembleasdirected.
1 pkg. Good Sea son’s Zesty Italian dressing
shallowandusingdirectedparsleyandotherGrapeBalsamicmixvinegarseedoilorsaladoil1cupgreenonionstops,thinlysliced½cupchoppedPreparedressingasonpackagebalsamicvinegargrapeseedoil.Inaservingdish,
Margaret Clark
transfer to serving dish.)Sprinkle bacon flavored chips over beans, using sparely. Next, sprinkle black olives.Mash avocados, adding lemon juice and garlic salt to taste. Spread over ol ives, and then cover with sour cream and salsa (may need to drain some of juice). Sprinkle cheese over salsa.Decorate top in a pie wedge pattern using chopped green onions, andpeppers,andtomatoeschopped(drainedseeded),greenredpeppersyellowpeppers.
marinade is also good for dipping bread.”
most spreads whether they are baked or chilled.
onnaiseHorseradish-MaySauce:
2 sheets aluminum foil5 lb. chuck roast, room temperature
1 small can sliced black olives, drained
Slice off top of a round loaf of bread and hollow out to form a shell. Com bine remaining ingre dients and place in bread. Place top back on loaf and wrap in foil. Bake 350 degrees for 1½ hours. Serve with Fritos.
MARINATED CHEESE WITH OLIVE OIL, PIMENTO AND GREEN TOPPINGONION
McCormick bacon flavored pieces
Kay Johnson gave me a recipe years ago for one that is baked with ched dar, cream cheese, a jar of dried beef and green chilies. Just remember that any spread with meat cannot be served safely after being at room tem perature for two hours.
Janet Randy’sBartlettsister made this for our tailgate, and now it is a must ev ery fall. It is pretty for the holidays too. We love cheese, and the marinade is also good for dipping bread.
½ cup olive oil ½ white wine vine gar2 oz. bottle diced pimento, drained 3 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped3Tbsp. minced green onions3cloves garlic, minced1tsp. sugar
1½ cups sour cream8oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 1 bunch green onions, chopped 2 oz. jar dried beef, torn into small pieces 4 oz. can diced green chilies 2 oz. jar chopped pimento1loaf round bread
Horseradish Spread, with the roast and sauce made a day ahead. The chuck roast is seasoned, wrapped tightly in foil and baked until tender. Then it is sliced and re frigerated until ready to assemble into Sister Shu bert’s dinner rolls. The spread is easy to prepare by mixing two ingredi ents: prepared horseradish and good mayonnaise.
Provolone cheese slices1jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped2eggsShredded Parmesan
For a touch of fall, serve Jennifer Jones’ Pumpkin Dip with pe cans, cinnamon, cloves and pumpkin pie spice. Serve it with apple slices and ginger snaps. The recipe is easy to double or triple.Ashley Herring’s Pumpkin Squares with Cream Cheese Frosting is another sweet choice with fallWhenflavors.tailgating, be sure to pack food in coolers, and it is better to replenish trays instead
A10 Sept. 15, 2022
1 Tbsp. cider vin egar1Tbsp. yellow mustard1tsp. ground red pepper½tsp. minced garlicBrown chicken on each side in oil in skillet on medi um-high heat. Place in 4-qt. slow cooker.
2 tsp. salt
Cherry Bruce
Ashley Herring 4 eggs 2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable oil 2 cups flour 1/8 tsp. salt 2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. cinnamon 15 oz. can pumpkin Mix together eggs, sugar and oil. Add sifted dry ingredients. Blend in pumpkin. Bake in a greased 12 x 18-inch pan for 25 to 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool and spread Cream Cheese Frosting on top.
3/4 tsp. dried basil ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. black pepper
cheeseUnroll 1 can crescent rolls (do not tear apart) and place in bottom of greased 9x13 pan. Place a layer of sliced ham in bottom of pan, then layer Swiss cheese, turkey, provo lone, pepperoni and thenBeatpeppers.eggswith Par mesan cheese and pour over layers. Top with second can of crescent rolls (do not tear apart). Brush remains of egg mixture on top. Bake at 350 degrees about 30 minutes. Cut into squares.
MARINATED CHEESE WITH SEASONINGSITALIAN
ner Rolls
The site of the restau rant is now where Botanic is located, which recently opened.While spreads and dips are popular, try serving them in a hollowed-out round loaf of bread. It makes it easy to carry and serve. This will work with
See CIPPERLY RECIPES, page A11
1 cup ketchup
2 Tbsp. Cavender’s AP Greek season ingSister Shubert Din
Kay Johnson 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup soft butter
tasty and easy appetizer. You will want to use the cheeses listed and not a highly flavored cheese.
Julia Pipes
Jennifer Jones Two 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, soft ened½cup light brown sugar1/4 cup pumpkin (canned pure pump kin), packed 2/3 cup toasted chopped pecans 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie1/4spicetsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground cloves1Tbsp. vanilla 2 Tbsp. marshmal lowApplecrèmeslices and ginger snaps for servingMixall ingredients except apple slices and ginger snaps. Chill tosnaps.slicesServeovernight.withappleandgingerRecipeiseasydoubleortriple.
1 pkg. dry ranch dressing mix
black pepper, garlic powder, celery salt and ranch dressing mix on chicken. Place pats of butter on chicken.Pour1 cup of the hot wing sauce over all. Reserve the other ½ cup for later. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 serveoflettuceTopandvolonetogether.overcupPouritdedandchicken1forks.andRemovehours.chickenshreditwithtwoKeepaboutcupofliquidthecookedin,placetheshredchickenbackinintheslowcooker.thereserved½ofwingsaucechickenandmixPlaceasliceofprooneachrollthenthechicken.withshreddedanddressingyourchoiceorplain.
1 can refried beans
3 large avocados
com/subscribe-today/www.opelikaobserver.$34SUBSCRIBEwww.opelikaobserver.com334-749-8003TODAYFORLEECOUNTY
“We’re based in Deats ville, but we serve the Prattville area, Birmingham, Auburn, Montgomery, Tus caloosa — anywhere within a reasonable distance,” Leah said. “We’re going to take a trip where we’ll be taking people to Bourbon Street in NewAndOrleans.”thefun isn’t only for adults. Families and kids are having a blast on the bus, too.“The bus is family friend ly,” Leah said. “We’ve had some kids’ birthday parties, but it’s mainly people who are 25 and up. Kids love this for their birthday parties. It’s becoming a trend.”
pare to other services like it around“WhatAlabama?makesus unique is that we can hold more peo ple than most party buses do,” Leah explained. “We can hold 24 people. Other party buses can only hold about 15 people.”
Another happy custom er, Jessica Sudduth Maehr, wrote, “I loved having a safe and fun ride to and from the venue with 20 of my friends... We blasted music, laughed, sang, and worked the pole to the venue... Clean vehicle and great driver. Easy pay op tions like Cash App etc... Would do this again... 10 out of 10 recommend…”
1 cup chopped wal
fromRECIPESCIPPERLY>>A10
MAGIC >> FROM A7
CONTRIBUTED BY YOUTH FOR CHRIST
East Alabama Youth for Christ is a local nonprofit that raises up lifelong followers of Jesus by reaching the youth in the community through mission work and bamayfc.org.tactorg/comedycafewww.eastalabamayfc.hostprograms.Christ-centeredTosignupasatableorsponsor,visitorconcomedy@eastala
The party bus is available for a wide array of events, including proms, balls, birthday parties, fraternity and sorority events, sporting events, bachelor and bach elorette parties and holiday trips.“We’ve done birthday parties, pub crawls, con certs, wedding rehearsal dinners, bachelor parties,” Leah said. “We’ve trans ported people to a wedding before. We teamed up with Auburn Downtown Limo and helped with the rodeo. We’ve done a lot in the short amount of time we’ve had the bus, and it’s been fun.”The business already serves a massive range of locations across Alabama.
Youth for Christ will present its 8th annual Comedy Café fundraiser on Monday, Nov. 14, and Tuesday, Nov. 15, at First Baptist Church of Opelika. Both nights are set to begin at 6:30 p.m. The event is supported by sponsors and table hosts. All guests will en joy some family-friend ly comedy by a profes sional comedian while being served desserts from Gigi’s Cupcakes and coffee from Ross House Coffee. There will also be an opportu nity to hear from those involved with Youth for Christ as they share about how the Lord has been working through theThisministry.year's event will feature Comedian Joby Saad. Saad is a clean,
“It’s an old school bus,” Jonathan said. “We gutted it, wrapped the seats, there’s a stereo, there’s 10 6-and-a-half-inch speak ers, two 12-inch subwoof ers. You’ve got karaoke. You can play YouTube music or connect your phone over Bluetooth. The bar holds like seven cases of beer. We’ve got a wine rack and a liquor rack.”
YFC Announces Comedy Café For November
nutsMix and spread over cooled pumpkin cake. Cut into squares and serve.
1 box light brown sugar2tsp. vanilla
Located in beautiful downtown Opelika 223 S. 8th St. |
share some laughs with friends and family, but it’s a rewarding opportu nity to support an orga nization that is serving our youth all around the area in our local schools and institutions,”youth-servingRush said.
The bus even provides ice and bottled water, Leah said.
1 box confectioners’ sugar8oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
The two entrepreneurs came up with the idea for Gamel’s Magic School Bus after wanting to rent a party bus for a birthday event themselves. It struck them as a good business idea, and two weeks later they bought a bus and started renovations.
“The sound system would also probably outdo any oth er bus,” Jonathan added. Leah said potential customers can find con tact information on their website, indeed.theof“That’shomeallestoftheyhauntedtoeen’sforadded.events$100aftertothat,bus,”arealsotorefundableonicschoolbus.com/,www.gamelsmagorfollowInstagramandFacebook.“Wechargea$250depositupfrontsecurethebooking,andjusttomakesuretherenodamagesdonetotheLeahexplained.“Afterit’s$150anhourforupsixhours,andeveryhourthatwedropitdowntoanhour.”“Keepaneyeoutforthisfall,”Jonathan“We’llbegearinguptherodeosoon.Hallowcomingupsowewantdopumpkinpatchesandhouserides.”Theco-ownersalsosaidaimtotreatthesafetytheirguestsastheirhighpriority.“Wewanttomakesureofourcustomersgetsafe,”Jonathansaid.thekeybehindallthis.”Allthefunwithoutsafetyrisks?Magic
So, what sets this party bus apart? How does it com
1 tsp. vanilla
“This event plays a huge part in helping us carry out our ministry efforts. We have a wonderful and enjoyable evening planned, and we can’t wait to share that with the community.”
AUBURN —
2 eggs 2 cups self-rising flour1cup chopped nuts,Preheatoptionaloven to 325 degrees. Beat butter until fluffy. Add brown sugar and vanilla; cream together. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Mix nuts with flour until coated. Add flour and nuts to batter; blend well. Pour into a greased 11 by 7 inch pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until done. Cool in pan. Cut into squares and serve. Freezes well.
A11 Sept. 15, 2022
recruited several loyal followers on social media and racked up nothing but five-star reviews along the way.One customer, Crystal Headley, raved, “This bus is absolutely amazing! A group of us used this bus on March 12 to be shuttled to and from Carl's Country and when I say it was a freaking blast it was and the driver Ryan was very nice and polite! We definitely will be using them again in the future.”
Photo above from last year's Comedy Cafe' event.
BROWNIESBUTTERSCOTCH
high-energy performer using absurdist wit, comedic physicality and audience improv. Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Saad has tak en his show all over the United States from New York City's Carolines to the Hollywood Improv, as well as overseas. Saad is eventYFCcommunitiesationreachallmunitymemberschurches,Rush,coordinator,engagementuniquealternativeClassic,settingarenacommandingcomfortableapackedtoanintimateinasmallclub.progressiveanddescribehisperformances.TheYFCcommunityandeventJanieeencourageslocalbusinessesandofthecomtoparticipate,asproceedsareusedtotheyoungergenerinthesurroundingthroughministryefforts.“Notonlyisthisafunnightoutto
2 sticks butter
OUOUOOOHPTCNTRBTEDBYYTHFRCHRST
Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children, students, and seniors. Call 334-246-1084 or visit www.auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@auburnact.org for group rate information.
VFW Post 5404, 131 E. Veterans Blvd., Auburn, next to Ray's Col lision off of South College Street, will be open on Wednesdays 8 to 11 a.m. with coffee, donuts, cake and conversation about service and benefits for all veterans and spouses to stop by.
AACT is a non-profit organization that exists to serve the Auburn/Opelika Community. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for education and participation in the world of theatre and present a quality, entertaining and thought-provoking theatre experience. AACT is thrilled to be bringing so many great shows to our area this season. This season also offers many opportunities to get involved with AACT. AACT is a non-profit volunteer organization that depends on the time and energy of many wonderful people from within the community. There’s something for everyone. Please visit www.auburnact.org to find our volunteer interest form or email info@auburnact.org to get involved. Follow AuburnACT on Facebook or keep up with us at www.AuburnACT.org for the latest information on auditions, volunteer opportunities, tickets, and more.
What's Happening in Lee County
Performed by actors from ages 5 to 12, this witty, charming and adventurous musical about courage and self-discovery is a “masterpeach” fit for the whole Performancesfamily.will take place at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on 222 E. Drake Ave., in Auburn on Oct. 6, 7, 8, 10, 13 and 14 at 6:30 p.m. with matinees on Oct. 8 and 15 at 4 p.m. Runtime is approximately 60 minutes.
Should a run-off election be necessary that election shall occur on the following date, Dec. 3, 2022, at time certain (at least one hour) via Election Buddy. Run-off elections shall be conducted no less than 10 days after the original election.
O GROWS — SATURDAYS AT THE GARDEN
CAMP HILL MARKETPLACE
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 Drive Camp Hill, (AL Hwy 50). Potential vendors contact Sharon at 256-749-5100 to apply to join.
AUBURN — Auburn Area Community Theatre (AACT) invites Roald Dahl fans of all ages to the Junior Performers show, “James and the Gi ant Peach Jr.,” a musical adaptation of this literary classic. When James is sent by his aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that grows a tremendous peach, rolls into the ocean and launches a journey of enormous proportions. James befriends a collection of singing insects that ride the giant piece of fruit across the ocean, facing hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements along the way.
You, too, can be a part of the magic of theatre.
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
NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will meet on Sept. 20. at 7 p.m. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. Meetings are held at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn.
On Oct. 27, 2022, via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. CST, there will be a report of the Nominating Committee, receipt of the Nominations by Petition, and election of the Election Supervisory Committee. All members whose memberships are current as of May 1 of the election year, whose member ships have remained continuous throughout the election process and who live and/or work within the unit’s jurisdiction may be nominated for office or an at-large members of the Executive Committee. In order to sign a nominating petition, or to be elected to the Election Supervisory Committee, a member must be current as of 30 days prior to the October meeting.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Sept. 16: Food Truck Friday in downtown Opelika
MOPS International encourages and equips moms of young children to realize their potential as mothers, women, and leaders in relationship with Jesus, and in partnership with the local church. Preschool mothers learn to take time out for motherhood during MOPS meetings around a theme and discussion. MOPS helps moms share their experiences and learn more about children’s unique needs from infants to kindergarten.
We look forward to your participation in these activities.
Auburn/Opelika MOPS meets twice a month on the first and third Thursday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. MOPS’ Autumn schedule is Sept. 15; Oct. 6, 20; Nov. 3, 17 and Dec. 1, 15.
On Nov. 29, 2022, the election of officers and at-large members of the Executive Committee will take place electronically via Election Buddy. Voting will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. CST. In order to vote in a Branch election, one must be a member in good standing of the Branch 30 days prior to the election. A unique email for you or a phone that receives text messages is required.
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.
Come out and buy your fresh produce, honey, jams and hand-crafted items at the Camp Hill Marketplace, a state-certified farmers market
COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW POST 5404
NAMI MEETING
The MOPS Theme this year is coming together as friends. You can contact Co ordinators Rachel Elrod at 706-244-5620 and Kaela Sexton at (719) 351-8093, or you can email auburnopelikamops@gmail.com
Oct. 4 through 8: Lee County Fair
Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon outside the Southside Center for the Arts located at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. Activities will include planting, storytime, crafts or art projects for children and hanging out with the goats.
A12 Sept. 15, 2022
During MOPS’meetings, a Moppets program is available for children. This program is taught and facilitated by volunteer childcare teachers. This program allows little ones to work on lessons, activities, arts, crafts, and play! While the Mothers are making friends their children are too!
Oct. 14 through 16: Opelika Songwriters Festival in downtown Opelika
On Sept. 22, 2022, via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. CST, there will be an election of the Nominating Committee (between 5 to 15 members). All members whose memberships are current as of 30 days prior to the meeting date may be elected to the Nominating Committee (not more than two being officers of the unit).
LEE COUNTY —
LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Dear Member: Please note the following General Membership meetings of the NAACP Lee County Branch, for the purpose of election of officers and at-large members of the Executive Committee.
NAACP: NOTICE OF SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER MEETINGS AND NOVEMBER ELECTIONS
AUBURN/OPELIKA MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS, MOPS, UNITE FOR A NEW YEAR!
AACT TO STAGE JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH JR. IN OCTOBER
A13 Sept. 15, 2022
Christ as his Savior. Brian would tell anyone about Jesus Christ. He has served for the last 17 years as a deacon for Philadelphia Baptist Church. He also enjoyed music, especially praise and worship music, often singing and perform ing at church.
Sam was a devoted brother, uncle, cousin, friend and a dedicated father and grandfather.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contri bution be made to: Philadelphia Baptist Church’s Mission Fund 7807 Mullins Road Smiths Station, AL #mrbrianismydad.#robersonsdontquit36877.
lika; her.belovedgreat-grandmotheringDannyLummusparents:ofinandGeorgia,mussister-in-law:allRickLummus,lika;Makaylagreat-granddaughter,LeGearofOpebrothers:Lee(Karen)BillyLummus,(Connie)LummusofCumming,Georgia;BelindaLumofPowderSprings,andseveralniecesnephews.Mrs.Dossisprecededdeathbyherhusband44years,JackC.Doss;J.C.andMarieandherbrother,Lummus.Mrs.Dosswasalovmother,MiMi,andandbyallthatknewMrs.Dosslovedher
Brian Matthew Rober son, 48, of Smiths Station, Alabama, entered the gates of Heaven where he joined his son Matthew on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022.
W. Sam Pridgen was born May 20, 1943, in Enterprise, Alabama, to parents Betty Irene Pridgen and Willie Christian Prid gen. He began his heavenly journey surrounded by his loving family on Sept. 7, 2022.Sam was a graduate of Opelika High School and the Berry Business School. He was also the owner and operator of Five Points Pla za and the Home Fashion Center for more than 50 years.Sam was committed to his family, community and his church, where he always strived to serve others. His passions in cluded family and friends, interacting with his friends in the ROMEO Club, his Sunday school class, church family and he was a faithful church usher for more years than we know. Sam enjoyed spending time on the lake, and purchasing and refurbishing real estate.
we need”. More beautiful still is the truth embodied in these three words. God has provided all we need to live the way He wants us to Wholive.says this? A man
Mrs. Doss led by example in teaching her daughters about the Lord, love, deter mination and independence, and there was never a question that she was there for anyone at any time.
called Peter. The big fisherman who had a gift for putting his foot in his mouth. The disciple whose counsel Jesus rejected so strongly that he said, “Get behind me, Satan. You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men” (Matthew 16:23). The man who turned into a coward and a liar when Jesus was being mocked and treated cruelly by Roman soldiers. The outspoken leader of the disciples who was so afraid for his own life that he denied even knowing Jesus.However, that is not the
Have you not identified, as I have, with Peter’s disgraceful foolishness and rejoiced that God can change flawed people into useful disciples? Have you not cried, as I have, “Lord, what you did for Peter, do it again for me.
A memorial service for W. Sam Pridgen was held Sept. 10, 2022, at First Baptist Church of Opelika, 301 S. 8th St. Dr. Jeff Mey ers presided.
When she passed, Mrs. Doss was surrounded in love and prayer, and her family and all that knew her will truly miss her.
Brian was very active in the Smiths Station and Ladonia communities and most knew him as being “Coach Brian.” He coached football, softball and baseball for local leagues. He enjoyed collecting Hot Wheel die-cast collect ibles and had a birth year collection for each of his children. Mr. Roberson was also known as “everyone’s Dad” as he always felt the burden to help children who did not have a father figure in their lives. Brian was especially attentive to his wife and supported her in any endeavor she became involved with. He always taught his children to overcome adversity and how to be successful in life.
She is preceded in death
family fiercely and would do anything for anyone. She loved to read, paint, quilt, and plant flowers and had many creative talents.
Think about it: everything we need! Glory.
He is survived by his children Keith (Carol)
precious promises” and that “divine power” which changes us from weaklings into strong Christ followers. Celebrate with me that it was Peter whom God chose to show us that, through Jesus, we have “everything we need” to live godly lives that reflect the glory of walking with Jesus. Using what God has provided, let’s purpose so to live that, in Peter’s words, we may “receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
A celebration of life service for Mrs. Doss is to be held at a future date.
Since God is able to redeem a man like Peter and use him in a mighty way, He can do the same with our broken lives.
of his marvelous glory and excellence. 4 And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires – 2 Peter 1:3-4 (NLT).
Take me, sorry as I am, and make me what you want me to be.”
Pridgen, Scott (Tina) Pridgen, Karen (Greg) and grandchildren Cole, Trace (Annie), Logan, Gage (Sophia), Cade, and great grandson Grant; sistersin-law: Sheila Wilson and Janice (Larry) Blakeney. He is also survived by his sister Dr. Margaret Gursel, brother Dan (Linda) Prid gen, and numerous neph ews, nieces and cousins.
end of the story of Peter. Broken and ashamed by the chilling sound of the rooster crowing, Peter wept bitter tears of remorse and yielded to the life-changing power of God’s grace. God redeemed him, changing him from cowardly liar into a brave apostle of truth. God broke the chains of Peter’s sinful past and made him an impressive leader of the Christian movement that erupted from the resurrection of Jesus. Peter’s two New Testament letters flowed out of the maturity of a dynamic ministry that helped shape the future of
WALTER ALBRITTON
A14 Sept. 15, 2022
BRIAN MATTHEW ROBERSON
W. SAM PRIDGEN
SHIRLEY ANN STRICKLANDFOSTER
Mrs. Doss never met a challenge she couldn’t overcome, which some times required a creative way to solve a task or problem, but she was determined to figure it out.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home will be directing.
Brian was born in Columbus, Georgia, the son of Sherry Roberson Jones. Though born in Columbus, Smiths Station, Alabama, has always been where he considered home.
Mr. Roberson was pre ceded in death by his son Matthew Roberson and a special grandmother Annie RuthLeftSmith.tocherish his mem ory is his wife of 24 years Ashley Shallain Roberson; daughters Kayleigh Rober son and Abigail Roberson, both of Smiths Station; sons Timothy Roberson and Jonathan Roberson, both of Smiths Station; sister Temperance West and her husband Cory of Ludowici, Georgia; brother Larry Jones and wife Tanya of Cusseta, Georgia; and father Johnny Rose of Columbus, Georgia.
Give thanks for God’s “great and
In lieu of flowers, please donate to an animal shelter of your choice.
Everything We Need
the young church. What great significance this story has for us.
Gratitude is expressed to the following: Dr. Kenneth Zouhary, Dr. Anna Zou hary, Dr. Brandon Johnson and Dr. Ben Drake. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the many professionals who cared for him at East Ala bama Medical Center and the Spencer Cancer Center. Donations can be made to First Baptist Church, Opelika, in lieu of flowers.
3 By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means
What a “everythingphrasebeautiful—
Shirley Ann Foster Strickland was born in Chambers County, Alabma, on Aug. 22, 1949. She peacefully passed away in Auburn, on Sept. 10, 2022, with family by her side. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and loved to spend her free time in the kitchen or feeding the many wild animals around her house. If she wasn’t home, she was with her beloved hair clients, helping them look their very best.
SHEILA MARIE DOSS
OBITUARIES
A funeral service was held on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, at Philadelphia Bap tist Church with the Rev. Clay Duck officiating. Interment followed at Philadelphia Baptist Church Cemetery.
RELIGION —
by her parents LaVernie Foster and Sara Royster Foster, brothers Junior, Earl, Marshall, and Hershel Foster, sisters Fannie Mae Pettus, Evelyn Phillips, Margaret Seibel and Annie GraceSheBrand.issurvived by her husband, Ronnie Strick land, son Ron (Amy) Strickland, daughter Dawn (Joe) Ficquette, grandchil dren Nicole Strickland, Kyron Wingo, Hannah Strickland, Samantha Men doza, Andrew Strickland, and Ellie Strickland, broth er Houston (Elaine) Foster and a number of nieces and nephews.Visitation was Sept.13 at at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika. The graveside services followed at Garden Hill Cemetery. Her son-in-law Joe Fic quette officiated.
Mrs. Sheila Marie Doss was born May 10, 1957, in Cumming, Georgia, and she went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at age 65. She is survived by her daughters: Cheryl Doss of McDonough, Georgia, and Mandy (Scott) Quinn of Opelika; grandchildren: Brittany Ferguson of Ope lika, Molly (James) Quinn of Canton, Georgia, and JayciMarie Quinn of Ope
Sam was preceded in death by his loving wife, Brenda Powell Pridgen, of 58 years; paternal grand parents, William and Clau die Pridgen, of Enterprise, Alabama, and maternal grandparents, Franklin and Addie Grissett, of Troy, Alabama, and his brother Jimmie E. Pridgen, of Comer, Georgia.
Above all, Mr. Roberson was a Christian who at an early age accepted Jesus
BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK
High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 334-524-8750
BRUCE GREEN
Beulah MethodistUnitedChurch 5165 Lee Road 270, 334-745-4755Valley
CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice! — Philippians 4:4
How do we do this?
Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3089 Judge Brown Rd., 334-710-2117Valley
Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, 334-749-0461Opelika
Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley
334-705-0538
CHURCH DIRECTORY
334-745-4608Opelika
St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, 334-298-4319Opelika
teaching. He said, “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45).
ChurchTrinityPRESBYTERIANPresbyterian
ChurchNON-DENOMINATIONALAtOpelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., 334-524-9148Opelika
Greater ChurchMissionaryPeaceBaptist
10th Street Church Of Christ 500 N. 10th St., 334-745-5181Opelika
“Heart” is a huge word in Proverbs
A15 Sept. 15, 2022
Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
— it is used 75 times in 31 chapters. The heart is at the center of who and what we are. It is where we process life — where attitudes are formed and actions are determined. It is the command post of our being.
As children trust their parents, we learn to trust our Father above everyone else and in everything. This is a tall order that isn’t accomplished overnight but comes as the result of a lifetime of learning how to lean into His will.
650 Jeter Ave., 334-749-9487Opelika
AFBBaptistCooperativeFellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., 334-887-8506Auburn
1010 India Road, 334-745-4889Opelika
EmmanuelEPISCOPAL Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave., 334-745-2054Opelika
AnglicanTheANGLICANGoodShepherdChurch
A significant aspect of leaning into God is practicing discernment. We live in a culture that practices little discernment. Instead, it tells us to “live your own truth” and “you do you.” While that might be good advice in certain peripheral matters (like choosing a restaurant or a color of paint for your bedroom), it is terrible and destructive counsel in the major matters of life. Ask yourself this, do you want someone managing your finances, overseeing your health care or guiding you in any significant way who is just “living their own truth?”
If we’re honest, we’ll admit we want them to follow some kind of accepted standard rather than being at the mercy of their impulses.
Proverbs also speaks of a pure heart. “One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will
The pure heart has taken up the task of loving God and others and won’t be diverted fromTrust,it. discernment and purity are all singled out in Proverbs as work of the heart that is following God. The writer has more to say about the heart, but these three qualities offer important direction for our lives.
BethesdaBAPTIST Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St., Opelika 334-745-7528
Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166,
AuburnMETHODISTUnited
Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., 334-745-3108Opelika
APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 Highland Ave., 334-749-9672Opelika
Connect Church 2015 West Point Pkwy., 334-707-3949Opelika
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, (334)Auburn749-4184
According to Proverbs, our life is a reflection of our heart (27:19). This is in harmony with Jesus’
That’s where discernment comes in. Discernment is not being held hostage by our impulses, emotions, peer pressure or anything else. It’s thinking things through to make sure they are good, right and true. In other words, is it God-approved? “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; for the ears of the wise seek it out” (18:15). The Hebrew writer will speak of those who “have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). All that glitters is not gold, and discernment recognizes that and protects the heart from things that are destructive.
Got Questions? Come Study With Us THE CHURCH OF CHRIST AT SUNDAY2660CUNNINGHAMDRIVECUNNINGHAMDR.,OPELIKABIBLESTUDY9:30A.M.SUNDAYWORSHIP10:30A.M./5P.M.WEDNESDAYBIBLESTUDY6:30P.M. tumcopelika.org (334) 745-2632 800 2nd Ave Opelika, Alabama 36801 8:30 SundayTraditionalAMService9:30AMSchoolGathering10:30AMContemporaryService10:30AMChapelServiceWorship with us on Sunday!
When purity is present, there is a singleness to their love — it isn’t compromised. See what Jesus had to say about this in Matthew 6:22-24, 33 andPurity22:34-37.protects the heart because it closes it off to all that is outside and counter to it. It brings a central, unifying purpose to life.
3015 Opelika Road, Opelika
have the king for a friend” (22:11). A pure heart isn’t a perfect heart. The person being spoken to doesn’t love perfection (they won’t achieve that), but purity.
Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., 334-742-9721Opelika
Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., 334-826-8800Auburn
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Opelika Outreach S.D.A. Church P.O. Box 386, Opelika 334-749-3151
In essence, we become what we allow into our hearts. Since it is much easier to stop something from entering your heart than to get it out once it has put down roots, we are told, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (4:23).
RELIGION —
Guarding Our Heart
Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., 334-745-6015Opelika
To begin with, we have to learn how to trust God. We come across this instruction in 3:5-6:
A16 Sept. 15, 2022
― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.”
COMICS
See AUBURN TIGERS, page B7
OPELIKA —
season.”Mostof the contest Friday was dominated by the two defenses. In to tal, Central managed 180 total yards, and Opelika struggled similarly,
Jose State, and what to look for if the Tigers are to emerge victorious in week
Excellence. Innovation. Compassion. East Alabama's "Go-To" Center For Orthopaedic Care Auburn 1800 Lakeside Circle, Auburn Opelika 18 Medical Arts Center 121 North 20th Street, Opelika www.theorthoclinic.com334-749-83031-800-327-6519
D. MARK MITCHELL
totaling just 154. The way in which both teams went about gaining those yards on offense, however, was as dichot
The Red Devils Go Down in Opelika
Lady Bulldogs Flag StartFootballStrong
AUBURN: AT 6:30
AUBURN — Auburn limped to a 24-16 win over San Jose State on Saturday. The Tigers overcame subpar quarterback play and a negative turnover differ ential to move to 2-0 on the season. Undefeated Penn State walks into Jordan-Hare Stadium this weekend and poses a staunch test for an Auburn team that has shown two faces through its first two performanc es. What we will see against the Nittany Lions Saturday can be inferred from what transpired on the gridiron last weekend.
BY WIL OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMSPORTSCREWS@CREWS
S S INSIDE B1 - B8: • AUBURN CITY SCHOOLS • AUBURN UNIVERSITY • COMMUNITY SPORTS • LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS • OPELIKA CITY SCHOOLS • SUSCC
OPELIKA: PUBLIC BUDGET
Here is what we learned from the Tigers’ week two win over San
The Auburn Tigers defeated San Jose State Saturday, Sept. 10, by a score of 24-16.
BY WIL OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMSPORTSCREWS@CREWS
What We Learned from Auburn’s Week 2 Struggle
OPELIKA —
Opelika's junior var sity team won a close game, 21-13. The Dogs scored three TD’s: Kahliya Cloud sprint ed 64 yards for a score; Cloud returned an in terception for her sec ond TD; and Bryanna Edwards caught a 10 yard pass from Cloud for the last score for Opelika.TheLady JV Panthers scored two
ON THE MARK
P.M. LEE COUNTY: OCT. 11 AT 6 P.M. OPELIKA: OCT. 25 AT 4:30 P.M.
touchdowns, but Opelika's defense held the Panthers from scoring in the fourth quarter.OnMonday, the varsity girls’ defeated Loachapoka, 40-0, to secure Opelika’s first home game win. The Bulldogs moved to 2-0. On the first drive of the game, Daniels found Kaitlyn Spoon in the end zone for a touchdown. The extra point was converted on a pass from Daniels to KayKay Dowdell. Daniels ran the ball in for a 35-yard touch down on Opelika’s second drive, and the extra point was good on a pass to Fanning. Fanning returned an interception for a touchdown on the defensive snap. To start the second half, Daniels and Spoon connected for another TD, their third and second of the game, respectively.
OBSERVERTHE/NOLESROBERTBYPHOTO
Fans storm the field following Opelika's win over Central Friday night.
SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS
three. What We Learned 1. Auburn has a good
HEARINGS: SEPT. 15 FROM 2 TO 4 P.M.
The AHSAA Class 7A No. 1-ranked Central Phenix City Red Devils went down to Opelika Friday. As the rain fell, so did the giants.Ittook overtime in Bulldog Stadium, but the visiting Central fell to region foe Opelika, 17-14.Opelika sophomore kicker Johnni Cesena kicked the game-win ning, 17-yard field goal in overtime, giving the Bulldogs the win. The victory snapped Opelika’s six-game los ing streak to Central, and handed the Red Devils their first region loss in two years.
OCT. 11
“The post-game talk to the team was, 'This can't be the end of our sea son,'” said Opelika head coach Erik Speakman. “Beating Central can’t be the highlight of our
O pelika High's girls’ footballflag teams (junior varsity and varsity) opened the season by sweep ing two games against Smiths Station. The varsity team shut out SSHS 20-0, and the JV wonLady21-13.Bulldog Ashley Hilyer caught a pass from Cherida Daniels in the first half, re sulting in the first touchdown of the var sity’s 2022 season. Z. Fanning caught a short pass from Daniels for the second score, and the defense scored the final TD after Amiya Brown returned an in terception for a score. OHS converted twoof-three extra points.
See SPORTS, page B9
See OPELIKA, page B2 OBSERVERTHE/NOLESROBERTBYPHOTO
red-zone offense So far this season,
inPhatsadavongKarlycameatQBandthrew a long pass to Jasmyaine McCloud, who ran it in for a touchdown. To end the Phatsadavonggame,found
Junior wide receiver Ean Nation led the Tigers’ offense with five catches for 101 yards; senior running back Da’Vioun Williams tallied 10 car ries for 91 yards and one
at the OpelikaDawgs.”returns to the gridiron Friday, Sept. 16, in a road matchup versus Prattville. The Lions have dropped back-to-back region games to Smiths Station and Dothan the last two weeks. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CST.
win it in regulation, our kids bounced back.”
Opelika got the final response in the extra period when a Bulldog interception from J.C. Perry set up Cesena for his second field goal at tempt of the game — this time for the win. Cesena drilled the 21-yard kick to move Opelika to a per fect 4-0 in its first season in the top class of the AHSAA.“We’ve been telling them all along all sum mer that we belong in this league,” Speakman said. “There is going to be a lot of people across the state starting to look
The Red Devils tied the game at 14 mid way through the fourth quarter and blocked a would-be game-winning field goal attempt from Opelika with 20 seconds remaining in the con test to send the teams to overtime.
touchdown; and junior Jayden Griffin caught two passes for 15 yards and one touchdown. Auburn returns to the field Friday, Sept. 16, in an away matchup ver sus region foe Lee (0-3, R0-2).
omous as yin and yang. Opelika — committed to the run as usual — totaled 115 yards on the ground compared to just 39“Wepassing.came in on Sunday and felt like we could get some good push up front and really run the ball, and I think that was evident,” Speakman said.Central, in turn, rushed for just 11 yards against the vaunted Bulldog defensive line, but found success through the air, tallying 169
“Those two guys did a great job,” Speakman said of Thornton and
The varsity Auburn High School (4-0, R30) football team held the visiting Jeff Davis Volunteers (1-3, R0-2) to -9 total yards as the Tigers moved to 4-0 following a shutout, 31-0 region win. Auburn to taled 299 total yards — 169 passing, 130 rushing — and forced two inter ceptions and one fumble.
quarterback Roman Gagliano to Cooper — in the“He’sthird.just our Swiss army knife,” Speakman said of Cooper.
“Great night by those guys and the rest of these seniors who have done a great job leading this team and having every body in that locker room believe they can do great things,” Speakman said. “It’s so hard to beat these guys so you have to enjoy it some … but we are moving on to Prattville.”
The quality start from Opelika faded as the Red Devils grew into the game. Central flipped momentum with a score in the second quarter before Opelika punched back with a touchdown — a 16-yard pass from
Senior quarterback Jackson Greer opened the scoring for Smiths with an 11-yard touch down run in the third quarter. Greer finished with 82 passing yards and one interception. Smiths Station’s sec ond touchdown came via Jamory Harris in the fourth quarter; Harris finished with six carries for 62 yards and one TD. Receiver Devyn Pearman led the pass catchers with six
Cooper. “They are two of our senior leaders, two guys we have counted on for a few years. Our running back did a fan tastic job tonight, and our offensive line was incred ible. I think when you go back and watch, we are going to have some hap py o-line coaches with that performance from those guys tonight.”
Sept. 15, 2022 B2
school sources Maxpreps.com.or
OPELIKA >> FROM B1
“We never do [quit],” Speakman said. “The game is never over until the final whistle. Even though we messed up the field goal there trying to
LEE COUNTY —
The varsity high school football teams from Auburn, Opelika, Beauregard, Loachapoka and Lee-Scott remained undefeated on the season with wins Friday night. Other local teams took another step — whether it be forwardsor back ward — along the path of their season. The fol lowing is a breakdown of how area high school football teams fared in week four of the 2022 season.Allstats were com piled firsthand, by
receptions for 35 yards. The Panthers return home this Friday, Sept. 16, for againstHomecomingregionfoe Dothan (3-1, R2-1).
TALLASSEE (2-2, R 0-2) 6
BY WIL OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMSPORTSCREWS@CREWS
to region foe Enterprise, 64-13. The Panthers allowed 33 first-quarter points — 57 in the first half — as the Wildcats (2-2, R1-2) quickly took control of the game.
Area Football Roundup: Week 4 STAY &SUBMITINFORMEDAREPORT,SOMUCHMORE SCAN THE QR CODE AND DOWNLOAD THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE APP Lee County Sheriff’s Office 1900 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36803 334-749-5651 | LeeCountySheriff.org @LeeCoSheriffAL Lee County Sheriff’sOffice is proud to supportour local athletes! PLAYERWEEKofthe Hornetseauregard JR. RB JACORI TARVER 15 CARRIES 125 YARDS, 1 TD OBSERVERTHENOLES/ROBERTBYPHOTO See ROUNDUP, page B8 Opelika defeated No. 1 Central Friday night. For more informa tion about the game, turn to B1.
SMITHS STATION 13 | ENTERPRISE (2-2, R 1-2) 64
BEAUREGARD 14 |
31 | JEFF DAVIS 0
The varsity Smiths Station football team (13, R1-2) failed to follow up last week’s victory over Prattville, falling
AUBURNAHSAA
SO. MADEJOHNNIKICKERCESENATHEGAME-WINNING,OVERTIME17-YARDFIELDGOALTOLIFTOHSOVERCENTRAL,17-14.
yards passing. Bulldogs Brenton Williams and Tyrese Pitts led the Opelika defense with eight and seven tackles, respectively.Opelikaopened the game’s scoring in the first quarter via a 6-yard touchdown run from senior running back Jakori Thornton. It was Thornton and senior run ning back Caden Cooper who picked up the slack for Opelika with starting running back Calvin Hughley missing the game due to injury.
The BeauregardvarsityHornets moved to 4-0 (R2-0) on the young season with a win over region oppo nent Tallassee (2-2, R02) Friday night. Trailing 6-0 at halftime, senior quarterback AJ Wallace led the Hornets’ come back, finishing 6-of-11 passing for 96 yards and one TD, along with 65 rushing yards. Junior Running back Jacori
Sept. 15, 2022 B3 PLAYERS OF THE WEEK FuncartsOpelikaof 618 Lee Road 334-745-0660113 CONGRATULATIONSfuncarts.opelika@gmail.com is a proud sponsor of local sports and will be drawing for a free photo shoot (one per school) at the end of the season. JR. WR EAN NATION 5 RECEPTIONS, 101 YARDS SR. QB NOAH HIGDON 93 TOTAL YARDS, 1 TD THE ENTIRE DEFENSE THE LSA WARRIORS DEFEATED MORGAN ACADEMY 48-6, COMPLETING THEIR THIRD GAME THIS SEASON WITHOUT YET ALLOWING A TD JR. RB JAMAROUN SATTERWHITE 125 RUSH YARDS, 3 TD 1 INT, 1 FUMBLE RECOVERY RETURN FOR TD Thank you to the many sponsors SR. QB DALLAS CROW 6-OF-9 PASSING, 136 YARDS, 1 TD 131 RUSH YARDS, 3 TD JR. WR/RB JAMORY HARRIS 6 CARRIES, 65 YARDS, 1 TD 1500 Frederick Road, Opelika ~ 334-749-8700
The Glenwood
Gators improved to 2-2 (R2-0) with a 34-7 win over Bessemer Academy at home Friday. For more information about the game, turn to "Area Football Roundup: Week 4" on page B2.
The Opelika Bulldogs defeated the Central Red Devils, 17-14, Friday at Bulldog Stadium. For more information about the game, read "The Red Devils Go Down in Opelika" on page B1.
Opelika Tops Central in OT
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Glenwood Gathering Momentum
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Friday night
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Hornets Continue Hot Start
Stadium. For more information about the game, turn to "Area Football Roundup: Week 4" on page B2.
The Auburn High Tigers Jeff Davis at Duck-Samford
Tallassee, 14-6, to move to 4-0 (R2-0). For more information about the game, turn to "Area Football Roundup: Week 4" on page B2.
Auburn High Dominates Region Foe JD
The Beauregard Hornets defeated
moved to 4-0 on the season with a 31-0 victory over
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The varsity Opelika volleyball team fell to 2-7 with a 3-0 loss at home against Smiths Station on Sept. 8. Opelika currently sits in last place in the area, behind Auburn, Smiths Station and Central.
Opelika Lady Bulldog varsity flag football team defeated the 2021 7A state-runner-up Smiths Station Panthers, 20-0, to open their 2022 campaign. With the loss, Smiths Station moved to 3-1. Since then, Opelika has won its second game, 40-0, over Loachapoka, and lost its third, 7-6, to Central. Smiths Station won its home game against Russell County on Tuesday to move to 4-1. For more information on OHS girls' flag football, read D. Mark Mitchell's sports column on page B1.
Opelika Flag Football Passes Over Panthers
Panthers, Bulldogs Battle for Bragging Rights
The
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2. Forcing turnovers Auburn has yet to force a turnover despite playing two “cupcake” matchups to begin its season. The lower quality of opponent has allowed the Tigers to lose the turnover differential yet still win their games. That trend won’t continue against Penn State — or most of the SEC. Look for Auburn to take care of the ball — and to take it away — with its game plan Saturday.
ABOUT DYEHARD FAN SUPPLY
AUBURN — Auburn Athletics and Dyehard Fan Supply, the premier retail solutions provider for America’s top sporting events, venues and teams, announced Sept. 7 a joint initiative to establish a broad-based name, image and like ness (NIL) merchandise program in support of Auburn student-athletes.
“At Dyehard, we felt it was important to move quickly with a partner ship-first approach to NIL, and as the official merchandise provider for top collegiate athletic de partments in the country, we are extremely proud of what we are doing with our partners,” said Dyehard Fan Supply CEO Wes Day. “NIL’s purpose is to student-athletes,supportand we saw immense value in creating an inclusive mer chandise program and are excited to have it launch with Auburn and their fan communities.”ThenewAuburn NIL apparel, merchandise and
created by sports retail providers are catered to select sports and athletes. This initiative between Dyehard and Auburn rep resents a new approach to NIL offerings and creates a much more inclusive of fering for student-athletes.
Sept. 15, 2022 B7
The Auburn Team Shop’s NIL merchandise currently includes ex clusive Under Armour replica football jerseys in addition to a broader offering of name and number T-shirts for all athletes who have opted
After losing secondary starters Roger McCreary and Smoke Monday to the draft last season, the Tigers had a sizeable production hole to fill coming into this year. Well, along with the expected Nehemiah Pritchett and Zion Puckett, new additions Keionte Scott (JUCO transfer) and D.J. James (Iowa State trans fer) have provided quality depth in the back-end of the Auburn defense. Against San Jose State, Scott fin ished fifth on the team in total tackles with four, and recorded one of Auburn’s three tackles-for-loss on the night. James stood out in coverage against the Spartans, making a key pass-break-up. James and Scott should continue to see more snaps for an Auburn defense that is still trying to force its first turnover of the season.
1. How run game/offen sive line holds up against stiffer competition
After two weeks, the Auburn offense sits at No. 9 in the SEC in total offense. The Tigers are No. 12 in passing offense, and No. 4 in rushing. Those numbers are boosted by playing in ferior opponents. Auburn’s offensive line is still devel oping — and it’s already a unit with a low ceiling. So, the first real test of the of fensive line’s quality comes
The penalty bug can get just about any team. For instance, Alabama’s 15 pen alties for 100 yards nearly shot itself in the foot enough to lose to unranked Texas. If the Tigers would have avoided just some of their nine penalties for 85 yards, Saturday’s contest may not have looked as close. Many games are lost in the margins. So, if Auburn hopes to give itself a leg up in Saturday’s contest versus Penn State, it would do well to keep the penalties to a minimum. Look for a clean game from Auburn this week.
4. A clean game
Dyehard serves as the official merchan dising partner for several other major programs, including the
Dyehard Fan Supply is a turnkey sports retail solutions provider for some of America’s top sporting events, venues and brands. With a focus on your brand, Dyehard leverages best-in-class practices to deliver a superior omni-channel buying experience to fans online, at-events and in side your brick-and-mor tar stores. Whether you’re a fan of college or pro sports, teams or individ ual events, Dyehard Fan Supply is on the forefront of customer-focused con cepts and innovative solu tions designed to grow your retail business.
into town this week with Penn State. Harsin and his staff will have a clear idea of just what this offensive unit is capable of once it competes against the histor ically stingy Nittany Lion defense from the Big 10.
adversity during Harsin’s tenure. Whether it's Georgia State or Mississippi State last season, or San Jose State last weekend, Auburn has not responded well to opponents who punch above their weight level. Could it be the Tigers were looking ahead to this week’s matchup against Penn State? Possibly. But it could be a recurring issue that sig nals issues with the team’s overall mentality. Whatever the reason, Auburn cannot afford to get flustered early when the Nittany Lions come into Jordan-Hare Stadium Saturday.
exclusive jerseys are now available on shop.auburn tigers.com.
3. This team still strug gles with adversity Call it when you see it.
162 yards. Ashford was put into the game after Auburn went three-and-out on its first possession, but prompt ly threw an interception on what would be his final pass attempt of the night. It was a subpar performance from Auburn’s quarterbacks overall, but the absence of extra snaps for Ashford — despite Finley throwing two interceptions for the second straight game — was a clear sign from Harsin that this coaching staff trusts Finley the most going forward.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
name, image and likeness is portrayed. It’s the next step in how Auburn is in novating and leading the way in the NIL space to maximize opportunities for NILThisstudent-athletes.”innovativeprogramispart of Dyehard’s larger part nership with Auburn Athletics, where the company serves as the official online, in-venue and brick and mortar re tail merchandise provider. Dyehard will manage the comprehensive NIL merchandise program that will represent stu dent-athletes with a more inclusive approach to their offerings.
into the general licens ing agreement with The Brandr Group. As the athletic season progresses, the Auburn Team Shop will continue to expand its offering of NIL products to include the addition of exclusive Under Armour replica men’s basketball jerseys later this fall. In addition, Dyehard will be looking for opportu nities to integrate NIL engagements with sister company REVELXP, also a partner of Auburn athletics.ForAuburn fans and student-athlete families, this is a completely new team merchandise offer ing. Fans now have the ability to create their own custom Auburn apparel using the preferred stu dent-athlete name and number, Auburn logos andTomore.date, the majority of NIL merchandise op portunities that have been
OBSERVERTHEFOR/NOLESROBERTBYPHOTOS FROMTIGERSAUBURN>>B1
2. Secondary has good
“This partnership be tween Auburn Athletics and Dyehard Fan Supply represents a victory for Auburn student-athletes and fans,” said Auburn Executive Associate Athletic Director Djenane Paul. “The Auburn Family will be able to purchase apparel, jerseys and merchandise of their favorite players with a portion of the revenue directly benefiting the student-athlete whose
CONTRIBUTED BY AU ATHLETICS
depth
3. Fast start Against Mercer in week one, Auburn scored on its opening two drives. Contrarily, Auburn’s first four drives Saturday went: punt, interception, punt, interception. The Auburn defense did well to turn its offense’s turnovers into just three points for the
opposition, however. And the confidence of both quar terbacks has been resilient in the first two weeks, with both Finley and Ashford improving as the games have gone along. But, the time for slow starts ended last week as the thick of Auburn’s schedule begins Saturday. Look for a quali ty, scripted start for Auburn against Penn State.
Dyehard Launches Broad-Based NIL Merchandise Program With Auburn Athletics
University of Arkansas, Auburn University, the University of North Carolina, UniversityColumbiaAthletics, the BIG EAST Conference, Rutgers University, the University of Pittsburgh, Michigan information.supply.comVisitUniversityDelaware,Austin,Volleyball,Derby,USWinston-SalemRacingBowl,FiestaAllstateofUniversity,University,AppalachianMiamiIowaWestStateUniversity,StateMississippiUniversity,theCoastConference,StateUniversity,University,StateWestVirginiaUniversityConnecticut,SugarBowl,andCactusLouCityFC,LouisvilleFC,Open,Open,KentuckyProRodeo,USAStephenF.UniversityofSyracuseandmore.www.dyehardfanformore
Auburn’s offense hasn’t been in scoring range all that often. When the Tigers have taken the ball into the red-zone, however, they are the best in the nation at con verting those chances into touchdowns. The Tigers are one of 36 teams in the nation to still post a 100% scoring mark from within the red-zone this season. Furthermore, the Tigers are one of six teams remaining in the nation to have a 100% touchdown rate when reach ing the red-zone, scoring on all eight attempts. Tank Bigsby and Jarquez Hunter can be largely credited for this success, as the duo has registered seven touch downs through two weeks. The added dimension of T.J. Finley and Robby Ashford’s dual-QB system also bodes well for Auburn’s continued red-zone offense success.
4. T.J. Finley is Auburn’s best option at QB The quarterback battle on the Plains continued into Saturday’s matchup as Finley and Ashford were listed as co-starters prior to the game. The results were far from glamorous. Finley started the game poorly, going 1-for-5 passing with one interception, but fol lowed that up by completing 12 of his final 15 passes for
Auburn has struggled with
4. Significance and Belonging: As a teacher of young children, I realize
ROUNDUP B2
in their curiosity, meet their learning needs by spending individual time with them. Success and outlook in life begin in these very early years, so we do not want to ignore the needs of a young child. Here are some basic needs of younger children:
Beth Pinyerd, Classroom Observer
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fumble recovery return for TD. Loachapoka hosts Notasulga (0-3, R0-2) Friday, Sept. 16, in a ri valry, region showdown.
| BESSEMER ACADEMY (0-3, R0-2) 7
The varsity Glenwood football team (2-2, R2-0)
children can learn to classify the different items of nature by sorting and gluing them on tagboard or paper.
some characteristics and needs of young children, then share with families a few simple autumn activities that your young child will enjoy.The early childhood years — from infant to 5 years old — are important years in a person’s life. Young chil dren are so open to learn ing in their earlier years. What an exciting time, but demanding for parents and caregivers of younger children. As children grow
until some reserve play ers began getting snaps that Morgan Academy managed to put up points, as the Warriors tallied 214 total yards on their way to the win. The Warriors next play host to their main rival Glenwood, on Friday, Sept. 16. Lee-Scott is av eraging 42 points scored per game this season, and allowing just over an av erage of two.
Welborn (2-1, R1-1), 627. The game was put out of reach by halftime as the Bobcats trailed 42-7.
won its second game in as many weeks as the Gators rolled past Bessemer Academy (0-3, R0-2), 34-7. Senior Gator quarterback Dallas Crow ran in three touchdowns and threw for another as Glenwood won its home game Thursday night.
After losing its first two games of the season in non-region games against teams from Georgia, Glenwood is undefeated in its AISA class. The Gators next travel to face rival LeeScott (3-0, R2-0), Friday, Sept. 16.
Senior quarterback Noah Higdon was responsible for the lone Beulah touch down, rushing for 93 yards and throwing for 56 in total. Despite the score line, the Bobcat defense forced two turnovers, one fumble and one intercep tion. Beulah returns to the field Friday, Sept. 23, for an away, non-region game against Prattville Christian Academy (1-2, R0-1).
went 5-for-7 in the air for 95 yards and three touchdowns. Freeman also caught a touch down from junior fullback Josiah Frick, who led the offense the previous week at Lighthouse, stacking up 364 total yards in the 26-63 loss. Fresh men Elijah Bailey, Jedd Scott and Jagger Scott all added scores through the air from Freeman. Frick had 90 yards on 14 carries for the night. Leading the defense against the Knights was Jag ger and twinafiveyardsJaggerwinweek,warriorsingthisSpringwoodPatriotsnextwillales.eachCameronsophomoreCarswell,withseventackThePatriotshaveByethisweek,butfaceSpringwoodFriday,Sept.20.ThejuniorvarsitytraveledtoearlierweekafterdefeattheLighthousetheprevious42-14.IntheovertheWarriors,rushedfor155andascoreoncarries,caught36-yardpassfrombrotherJeddfor
a score, intercepted a pass for a score and led the team in tackles with 11, including two sacks.Robbie Phinney had a big night at defensive end with four sacks and three QB hurries. Bailey and Carswell also had eight tackles each
Good relationships with caring adults and family can be a foundation for learning, adjustment and development in the early childhood years. Enjoy your young children. As autumn approaches, plan ways to celebrate your young child and the season.
GLENWOOD (2-2, R2-0) 34
for 84 yards. On the ground, the Patriots were led by Jagger for 65 yards on three car ries. Defensively, Fra zier had another picksix; Lawton Curran, Phinney and Jagger had five tackles each. The JV Patriots will face Springwood again next week at home.
Patriots Get Big Win at Home
The JamarounJuniorceptions,total79,totalLoachapoka(Hayneville)win0)teamLoachapokavarsityfootballmovedto4-0(R2-FridaywitharegionovertheCentralLions.tallied278yardstoCentral’swhileforcingfourturnovers(twointertwofumbles).runningbackSatterwhite led the victory effort over the Lions (0-3, R0-2), rushing for 125 yards and three touchdowns, along with recording one interception and one
(HAYNEVILLE) 12
8-man Springwood JV squad, Southern Chris tian added to its wins, defeating the Wild cats 42-6. Freshman QB Jackson Dooley was 5-for-7 throwing for 245 yards for the Pats. Dooley connect ed with Jagger three times for 161 yards, and Carswell twice
course, this means super vised exploring. Children in their toddler years up to 5 years old learn so very much by hands-on, visual learning. Having a variety of different materials that are safe for young hands to explore encourages younger minds to learn new concepts. Materials and adventures don’t have to be expensive, but available. Also, the parent or caregiver needs to make himself or herself available to answer questions. This need can be met in autumn by driving, walking and hiking with your little ones as you point out the birds, ducks and geese gathering in flight as they migrate to other places. I lived in Baldwin County, close to the bay, for 30 years. I saw many ducks and geese migrate over Alabama’s beautiful Mobile Bay, but I am so fascinated now in Lee County seeing birds, ducks and geese gathering in flight as they migrate to other places. Teach your young children that migration means to move to a warmer environment for the winter.
ThefocusingObserverClassroomhasbeenonour
September Rolls Out Special Days
One fun, simple excursion is to take a blanket and enjoy autumn picnics in favorable weather as you talk about what autumn means for your children. Autumn offers such beautiful, rich blue skies and breathtaking sun sets that the whole family can enjoy. It offers teachable moments of what is happen ing as the sun goes down.
early childhood population the past few weeks. Our community offers so many wonderful learning opportu nities for young children.
BEULAH 7 | WALTER WELBORN 62
The varsity Beulah Bobcats (0-4, R0-2) re mained winless Friday night when they fell to region foe Walter
>> FROM
The varsity Lee-Scott Academy Warriors de feated Morgan Academy, 48-6, last week to move to 3-0 (R2-0) on the season. The Lee-Scott first-team defense con tinued its streak of not being scored on, as the Warriors held the Senators (1-2, R0-2) to just 132 yards. It wasn’t
1. Appreciation: Younger children need people who really understand and ap preciate that they are young, with certain age and devel opmental needs. We meet their needs by providing activities and an environ ment where they can learn new concepts, apply what they have learned and be successful. It’s important for us to observe the needs of each age group, as well as individual children, in planning activities that are relevant. Also, for children with special needs, we need to carefully plan family activities where they feel included and will succeed. Young children love to take a nature walk. Point out nature items they can easily put in a bag, such as colorful autumn leaves, nuts, acorns, pinecones and other items. It is so much fun to share the nature items that you and your children find. Young
As a community, we are beginning to get glimpses of autumn with some cool breezes, leaves showing autumn colors and squirrels bustling around for nuts and acorns.First of all, I want to share
Tarver carried the ball 15 times for 125 yards and one TD, and senior receiver Chris Gamble caught one pass for 63 yards and one TD. The Hornets travel to face undefeated (3-0) Charles Henderson Friday, Sept. 16.
LEE-SCOTTAISA 48 | MORGAN ACADEMY 6
2. Secure: Younger chil dren need to feel safe and secure. Keeping young children on a predictable schedule gives them se curity; they know what to expect. The time we spend with our children gives them a base of security. Also, the way we talk and communi cate with our children shows acceptance or rejection. Young children quickly pick up on the tone of our voice and instructions. We want to encourage and not break their spirit as they begin their lives in learning, self-development and social development. A balance of instruction, discipline and praise is so important for the young child. With security, why not include your children in raking up autumn leaves as a family in the yard? Mountains of leaves and straw offer ma ny teachable and playing moments. Let their little imaginations express them selves as you maintain a safe environment.3.Explore: Younger chil dren learn by exploring. Of
The varsity South ern Christian Patriots defeated the Royal Knights of Stewart County at historic Moore Stadium in Opelika on Friday by a score of 28-14. After a tough defeat the previ ous week at the hands of ACSC powerhouse the Lighthouse War riors, the Patriots were looking for some improvement — and found it — with the Royal“TheyKnights.werea tough team, very physical, but they ran out of gas pretty quick,” said head coach Jason Scott. “We were way undersized at the line of scrimmage, so we took our shots on the edges and it worked pretty good. We do a ton of conditioning and it really paid off for our Leadingguys.”the Patriots on offense was quar terback Noah Free man. The sophomore
BETH PINYERD
firsthand how important it is for our little fellows and gals to feel important and special. As a family, assign tasks or chores that little hands can do. Include your young children in helping prepare autumn snacks, such as simple pizzas, dec orating and sprinkling fall sugar cookies and more. Guide your older children in the family to spend time with the younger children.
BY WIL OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMSPORTSCREWS@CREWS
at the game in Pin son, Alabama. Jaxon Frazier scored on a pick-six, and Carswell scored on a pass from Jedd, who completed 5-of-7 passes, racking up 95 yards and two touchdowns.Inthegame in La nett, Alabama, taking on the newly formed
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Sept. 15, 2022 B8
ty-focused school in the arts, mathematics and science. After spending each morning on robust academic coursework that exceeds state high school diploma standards, students in grades seven through 12 devote sus tained hours every day to honing their craft, flexing their creativity and devel oping their unique voices within their chosen disci pline. ASFA currently has about 350 students, and its graduates build on the cre ative habits of mind they develop at ASFA to es tablish successful careers in a wide array of fields, serving as innovative leaders, cultural champi ons and role models for future generations. From
“It’s important to know that they all work together because Dr. Seymore’s students will move up and become the students of Mr. Shackett and of Dr. Roberts, so it’s very important that we all stay
“The lessons learned in those courses are those of hard work, dedication, of opportu nities beyond high school,” he explained. “That’s what we want in all of our courses, but particularly our career-tech nical offerings — that it gives someone an interest or a skill that can lead to a better life, better employment opportu nities and that kind of thing. Certainly, our engineering
For Southern Union, Shackett explained how the Federation for youuatedFridays.Mondays,ThursdaysTheyforehiredStudentsthestudents(FAME)ManufacturingAdvancedEducationprogramishelpingbecomeleadersinmanufacturingindustry.intheprogramareintocompaniesbetheycometocampus.dedicateTuesdaysandtoclassesandworkWednesdaysand“Thelastthreethatgrad—justwatchingthem,cantellthey’regoing
D. Mark Mitchell is the sports director at iHeart Media, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 910-1310, co-chair of the
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE
Alabama School of Fine Arts Accepts Three AuburnOpelika-Area Students for 2022-23 School Year
• 23:34.05 - Joanne Smith T - 101st - Girls Varsity 5k
Goodwill Southern Rivers previously an nounced on June 15, 2022, an exciting new initiative to help stu dents in its 50-county territory who wanted to further their education. The Goodwill Round-Up Scholarship is made pos sible by the generosity of donors and shoppers who round up at the reg ister in Goodwill stores. It is designed to bridge the gap that often exists between a student’s fi nancial aid package and the total expense of at tending school, including tuition, books, equip ment, housing and more.
The Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) recently announced the addition of CreativeWilsonofstudentsAuburn-Opelika-areathreetoitsenrollmentforthe2022-23schoolyear.ThethreeAuburn-Opelika-areastudentsacceptedintotheschoolthisyearareasfollows:ChloeFloydOpelika,andLilyofAuburn,inWriting;SuzannaFriedlanderinDance.Theyareamong100newstudentsfromacrossthestatethatwereacceptedintothestate’sonlyintensivespecial
• 28:52.51 - Kaitlyn
its campus in the heart of downtown Birmingham, ASFA serves as a bound ary-pushing cultural con vener, presenting student and professional perfor mances in the state-ofthe-art Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. At ASFA, students are embraced and supported by faculty and fellow students alike with in an environment that’s inclusive and accepting of every individual. Dormi tory rooms and meals are available for students who live beyond commuting distance. To learn more about ASFA, the admis sions process and its Nov. 5 Open House for Pro spective Students, please see the school’s website at www.asfaschool.org.
Cloud for a touchdown, and Kenley Jackson in the for the extra point.
• 27:15.83 - Frida Cruz
Topics ranged from enroll ment and student preparation to cutting-edge programs and partnerships with local busi nesses and industries.
CROSS COUNTRY
• 19:26.00 - Trey White - 181st - Boys Varsity 5k
“We saw a significant
• 21:46.00 - Paola Torres
The Opelika Chamber of Commerce hosted profes sionals at a “Business Over Breakfast” event Sept. 7 to hear a panel discussion on the current state of edu cation featuring Dr. Chris Roberts, president of Auburn University; Todd Shackett, president of Southern Union; and Dr. Farrell Seymore, su perintendent of the Opelika City school system.
ABOUT GOODWILL SOUTH ERN RIVERS:
Shackett said accessibility and affordability are likely two of the biggest draws for two-year colleges. For Southern Union, enrollment was increasing in 2019 for the first time in about eight years, and after a period of decline, those numbers are once again on the rise.
• 31:59.23 - Kiley Brooks - 200th - Girls Varsity 5k
Bynum - 244th - Boys Varsity 5k
• 24:11.02 - Tripp Campbell - 84th - Boys Freshmen 5k
• 23:31.59 - Alexander Burgess - 281st - Boys Varsity 5k
Goodwill Southern Rivers Awards Over $60,000 In College Scholarships
“A lot of families have moved in over the last, really, couple years, and our enroll ment has increased, and that’s evidenced by a new school actually going up just down the street here at Fox Run,” Seymore said. “That’ll be a sixth-grade school. It’s an exciting time to be in Opelika because of the great jobs and economies, and the great schools that we offer.”
CONTRIBUTED BY GOODWILL SR
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers (GoodwillSR) is one of 156 independent, com munity-based Goodwill nonprofits across the United States and Can ada. Headquartered in
• 28:15.13 - Justin Watson - 232nd - Boys JV 5k
Local education at every level is moving in a posi tive direction, according to the leaders of Auburn University, Southern Union State Community College and Opelika City Schools.
All three leaders discussed various offerings that prepare students to contribute to their communities.Seymorehighlighted the career-technical programs at Opelika High School, particu larly the engineering program. Students work hard to hone problem-solving skills as they get a glimpse of what the field entails, but the different pro grams aren’t just for students who want to work in those fields.
Listen to the the "High School Coaches Show" on WKKR 97.7 Kicker FM every Wednesday night ( 6 to 8 p.m.) presented by the Ortho Clinic, live from Moe's Original Bar BQ. Jeff Sasser and I will interview up-to 18 local high school football coaches each week. You can listen to your favorite high school's coach on the radio, iHeartRadio App or online at kickerfm.com
Playoff begins Oct. 31
Columbus, ernIndustriesmationvices.oftointhegivingcontinuedprogramsvideweinandtoworkshopsalaccess,training,employmentGeorgia.eastcountiesGoodwillSRGeorgia,serves50throughoutAlabamaandwestWeprovidereadinesscomputereducationassistance,skillsandmorespurjobplacementeconomicstabilitythecommunitiesserve.Wecanprotheseandotherthankstodonationsofpatrons.WeuserevenuegeneratedGoodwillSRstoresfundthemajorityourcommunityserFormoreinforaboutGoodwilloftheSouthRivers,visitwww.goodwillsr.org.
- 62nd - Girls Varsity 5k
• 18:30.00 - Michael Hart - 124th - Boys Varsity 5k
• 19:11.16 - Zane Sexton - 161st - Boys Varsity 5k
• 24:45.00 - Benjamin Owens - 173rd - Boys JV 5k
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“A lot of the improvements you’re seeing have come from the input from our students,” he Auburnsaid. has also seen a significant increase in appli cants as the school’s brand and reputation have grown. This year marks 150 years since Auburn became a land-grant institution, and Roberts said part of the mission of a landgrant university is to serve the citizens of the state.
5000BOYS METER RUN
• 28:23.79 - Ellie Kendrick - 193rd - Girls Varsity 5k
Alcorn - 99th - Girls Varsity 5k
• 19:10.28 - Zalen Shaw - 159th - Boys Varsity 5k
ENROLLMENT AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
“That’s really the essence of the land-grant mission, is to make sure that we’re not only educating people, but translat ing knowledge into practice within our communities, and I do think that a lot of students are attracted to that,” he said.
At Auburn, Roberts said research is booming. Whether it’s discovering new oppor tunities in agriculture and forestry or a collaboration between engineering and psychology students to revo lutionize mental health care, Roberts said Auburn students and faculty are always aim ing to conduct their research
with the top two teams in each area. The Lady Bulldogs are in the area with LaFayette and Valley. The Lady Bulldogs and Rams have clinched playoff berths because Lafayette did not field a team this Opelikaseason.playsAuburn
On Sept. 2, 2022, 123
in Duck Samford Stadium, Sept. 20 at 5:30 p.m., and host Valley Sept. 21, with kickoff set for 5:30 p.m.
Valdez - 180th - Girls Varsity 5k
applicants from across the 50-county territo ry were awarded over $60,000 in scholarships.
CONTRIBUTED BY ASFA
• 22:28.82 - Margaret Bice - 83rd - Girls Varsity 5k
Head coach Jaclyn Button has two assistant coaches — Mike Murry and Jessica Thornton — and volunteer coach Mike Spoon.
pathway is one to do that.”
• 30:07.12 - Daylan Sanders - 244th - Boys JV 5k
Leaders Talk State of Local Education
• 27:20.30 - Carlie
• 20:59.21 - Ben Bell230th - Boys Varsity 5k
OPELIKA —
Moates - 181st - Girls Varsity 5k
Brown - 197th - Girls Varsity 5k
drop [during the pandemic], which hurt,” Shackett said. “But this year we’re up — not quite to 2019, but very, very close. I think what’s driving that is just an understanding of what we have to offer with career-based programs.”
Turnham - 1st - Boys Freshmen 5k
• 21:12.49 - Amari
director.DixiemanSportsAuburn-OpelikaCouncil,chairoftheSuper7andBoysBaseballstate SPORTS >> FROM B1 OBSERVERTHEFOR/AUSTINMATTBYPHOTOS
5000GIRLSMETER RUN
HIGH SCHOOL COACHES EACH WEDNESDAY
COLUMBUS —
BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMKENDYLH@
See EDUCATION, page B10
BIRMINGHAM —
“This initiative aligns directly with our mis sion of changing lives through the power of work,” said Goodwill Vice President of Mis sion Services theyviceswithsupportsuch,Llewellyn-Konan.Tricia“Aswestandreadytotherecipientsjobplacementserandsupportoncegraduate.”
• 16:47.46 - Chas Brewer - 21st - Boys Varsity 5k 18:04.31 - Brantley
effectively mandates to us that we have at least 60% of our freshman class as Alabama residents, and I’m really proud of that action,” he said. “It’s something that helps ensure that we’re serving our state.”
Opelika's girls’ and boys’ cross country teams traveled to Fayetteville, Georgia, to run in the "AT&T Starr's Mill Cross Country Meet”.
connected,” said moderator Tracie West, who serves on the Alabama Board of Education.
While enrollment every where took a hit with the COVID-19 pandemic, the leaders said numbers are climbing again, thanks to the good reputation of the schools and the community.
In fact, Roberts said Auburn’s reputation has caused some “growing pains.” The university received about 55,000 applications for the in coming freshman class, which had only about 5,000 slots to fill, but in-state students still make up more than half the class.“Our board of trustees
to make a difference in this community,” he said. “… [Students in the program] are the folks that are going to be leading these community in dustries for years to come.”
• 23:30.42 - Violett
Seymore noted that stu dents and families in Opelika have long been ready to em brace the return of “normal” classes and other aspects of student life, and that has been true for higher education stu dents as Southernwell.Union has placed a greater emphasis on student life with the hire of a student life coordinator to oversee several clubs and activities, Shacket said. The school started up men’s and women’s golf last year, added cross country this year and hopes to add soccer to the mix in the near future. Last year, the student center also received an upgrade and now provides games for students to enjoy betweenShackettclasses.hosts “Pizza with the President” monthly at each of the three campuses with about 10 to 12 students at a time. He holds similar lunches with faculty members. The
The following is a summary of OHS team members in the 5000 me ters run.
• 21:27.72 - Burch Harris - 44th - Boys Freshmen 5k
goal is to get to know each other and get feedback on what’s working and what could be better.
According to Roberts and Shackett, helping students succeed and make a positive impact in society are some of the most rewarding parts of the“I’vejob. seen several under dogs that thought maybe they didn’t have a place to go do incredibly big things with their lives,” Shackett said.
Shackett said many Southern Union students choose to stay in the area, partly because many are first-generation or nontradi tional students who have al ready established roots in the area, but the schools also try to keep students connected to the community through workbased learning experiences.
All three leaders touched on the importance of stay ing connected with local businesses to evaluate the community’s needs and make sure educators are preparing students to adequately fill those roles.
“I like to think that we provide our students the opportunity to dream the biggest dreams, and so I just love being part of that,” Roberts said. “That’s very motivating for me.”
EDUCATION
“We’re the envy of the state of Alabama, I think, regard ing business and industry, so making sure [students] know those opportunities are pres ent goes a long way,” he said.
FROM B9
them to potential employers.
Part of that effort includes partnering with local busi nesses and inviting them to classes and job fairs. At Auburn, Roberts said there has been a greater effort to showcase local companies at fairs to “ensure that that talent stays right here.”
“While they’re studying here, [they can] work for some of these local companies, work at the hospital, and they develop a relationship with that employer, and it’s more than natural … that they want
>>
stories. To me, that’s really at the essence of ‘if you really want it, we’re here, and we can help you get it.’”
“The fact that we were able to use technology devel oped right here in Auburn, Alabama, and to translate that into being able to save this young child’s life, and how they’re being able to implement this on other chil dren — I don’t think there’s anything more rewarding for
CONNECTING TO COMMUNITY
“We’ve talked about having a local career fair the week before the big career fair on campus, and I think those
to stay on,” he said.
Seymore said OHS offers a “Career Preparedness” course that teaches students about the cost of living and how to meet those needs. With that knowledge, he said students can better see how a career in town might provide all they need to meet those goals.
For students who are look ing to enter the workforce right out of high school, OHS also offers the “Ready to Work” program to help them gain job skills and introduce
“We inform them of that and actually take many of our stu dents on these tours so they can see what our offerings are locally.”Overall, Roberts said the transformation from a “wide-eyed freshman” to a confident graduate is always rewarding to see.
For example, researchers with Auburn’s veterinary school made a breakthrough in Tay-Sachs disease treat ment by studying how the disorder affects cats. The find ings were then used to treat a young child at Massachusetts General Hospital.
B10 with a purpose.
a faculty member at Auburn to know that the work that we’re undertaking is im proving people’s lives in that way,” Roberts said. “Those are the kinds of experiences that we want our students to taste so that they can take this knowledge that they develop on campus, a good work ethic and translate that into the communities they live in.”
While many students dream of moving away for college or a career, the leaders said they hope to alert stu dents to the many opportuni ties that await them locally.
“… There’s plenty of those
are the types of things that I’ve been challenging people with here this semester so far so that we can provide the best opportunities to our own community,” he added.
Sept. 15, 2022
“All sites will be closed by the second week of November,” he said.The commission also voted to allo cate $250,000 to the Loachapoka Park.
MondayCommissionCountyvotednighttoallocatemoreAmericanRescuePlanfundsfortheLoachapokaParkandtheEnvironmentalServicesFund.“Duringthepandemic,wenoticedanincreaseintheamountofmoneythatwasspentinthetransferstationbillsfrompeoplecleaningup,”saidCountyAdministratorHollyLeverette.“Nowwe’realsoseeingacontinuedhitonourbudgetwiththecurbsideaswell,soweareaskingforyoualltoallocateanadditional$500,000fromtheARPAfundstotheEnvironmentalServicesFund140tohelpoffsetsomeofthoseexpenses.”Thetransferstationbillsovertwoyearsincreaseddueto
Tanya Waller, Auburn 911 Communications Supervisor Hunter Walther, Auburn Fire Division Sgt. Nick Griffin and Auburn Police Division Lt. Cody Hill. They were recognized during the pregame festivities of the Auburn v. San Jose game last Saturday as part of the university's Hometown Heroes/First Responders Appreciation Day.
District Commissioner4
Inside the Statehouse
It was apparent that those of us who hailed from smaller towns and rural counties knew our constituents better and were better known by our constituents than those from urban areas.
Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading po litical columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 belegislature.16newspapers.AlabamaHeservedyearsinthestateStevemayreachedatwww.
L labama Politics ee County & A
Those of us who served a long time in the legislature have a lot of stories. I served 16 years from 1982 to 1998 from my home county of Pike. I chose not to run again in 1998; however, I missed the camaraderie and friendships of other legislators who became lifelong friends.
continue to use those properties, whether it be in possibly setting up — when the sites are large enough and can be fenced off, so you can control the hours of use — possibly setting up recycling facilities.”
Saturday night after 8 p.m. Years later, I was so glad to vote for the legislation that mandat ed that every drunken driver had to stay in jail for 24
See COMMISSION, page B13
Our name identifica tion was exponentially higher than our big-city colleagues for obvious reasons. Our folks usual ly knew us. They knew everything about us. They knew when you went to work, when you walked, when and where you ate and what ball game you attended. In essence, they knew how to find you. It was a fulltime job for a small-town legislator. The big-city boys could simply come to Montgomery and vote and go home to ano nymity. We small-town legislators were expected to go to every fish fry, barbecue, dinner on the grounds, preacher’s an niversary, homecoming and ballgame in our county.
Lee County Continues Designation of ARPA Funds
pandemic effects and have yet to come down, Leverette said.
The Decibel Level Story
Pictured above from left to right are: Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Senior Trooper Chris Williams, Lee County Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Pam Revel, Lee County Emergency Management Agency Director Rita Smith, East Alabama Medical Center EMS - Emergency Medical Technician
BY HANNAH LESTER OPELIKAOBSERVER.COMHLESTER@
However,hours.prior to that decision, I got an interesting call one Saturday night around 7 p.m. It was from a gentleman my parents’ age who was from a large family in the northern part of my county. I could tell he was in a bar because I could hear music in the background. I thought, “Here we go, he’s want ing to get either bailed out or his garbage had not been picked up on time.” He began slowly, he wasn’t quite drunk, but he was on his way because he was slurring his words. He began, “You know, Steve, I’ve known you all your life and we all voted for you up here, and I’ve known your mama and daddy all my life, we all went to school together … well, Steve, I’m out here at the Holiday Inn bar trying to have a quiet drink, and all these young people out here are playing this music too loud … when you get back to Montgomery, will you please pass a bill requiring bars to lower the decibel level for music in leastestablishments?”certainBlesshisheart,athewasaskingme for something that per tained to my job.
Leverette said that funding would come
STEVE FLOWERS
Locals Honored at AU Game
Robert Ham clarified that this means the county has been running two sys tems — the transfer stations and curbside pickup, which Leverette confirmed. He asked what the sites will be used for when the transfer stations are closed.“Aswe finish the transition from our pre vious traditional system that we’ve had in place to the curbside, along with the county-pro vided bulk pickup, Mr. McDonald and I, along with the awillsoagreedistencesitesHardee.Countythecidingdecisions,commissions’willbedewhattodowithsitesweown,”saidEngineerJustin“Abouthalfthethatwereinexwereleasedorproperties,andtheremaininghalfthenseeifthereiswayforthecountyto
LEE COUNTY — The Lee
OPINION —
My availability was exacerbated by the fact that my mama’s and dad dy’s families had been residents of my county for a long time. Many of my constituents had watched me grow up, and a good many were kin to Whenme.I got elected at age 30, my phone start ed ringing and it never stopped the entire 16 years. I still get constit uent calls today after be ing out of office 20 years. We had no congressman,residentsoIgot all of his calls. If a pressing matter was being dis cussed on the national scene, people called me because they did not distinguish a difference between a state legislator and a national legislator. In fact, they would see me on the street and ask me why I was not in Washington. Most of the congressional calls I got, however, were for lost Social Security checks. In fact, most of the calls I got were not related to my job as a state legisla tor. There were calls that pertained to why some one’s garbage had not been picked up, a neigh bor’s dog was barking all night, a road needed paving, roadside litter was not being picked up or state workers are lazy and do not work. In my first few years, a trend set in that was especially irritating — some folks thought that since you were a state politician, you could get them out of Asjail.you know, Saturday night is a honkytonking, drink ing night. Every drunk that got put in jail for drunken behavior would invariably call my house and ask me to get him out. I finally refused to answer the phone on
See you next week.
OBSERVERTHE/NOLESROBERTBYPHOTO
Ham expressed he was in favor of recycling.“Itjusthelps the landfills last longer,” he said. “People want to recycle and we need to make it easy as we can forHardeethem.”said as the transition continues, the Beauregard and south eastern corner sites will close. The Beulah site already has.
essary on a campaign?
He briefly ran for pres ident in 2020. Abbott lost significant support due to environmental and gun-control issues, and the Dobbs abortion decision. Now he leads by 46 to 39%. That is his largest margin in months; 7% over cause“runandsometimesballotsfavorthetheytions.moneyputifseat,”isdidateEvensurprisetheverseWhitemightmorewinsothers2%.followedDeSantisTrumpaferencePoliticalO’Rourke.TheConservativeActionCongaveattendeeslistof19candidates.had69%,thenwith24%,byCruzwithAbbottjoinedfiveat0%.Ifhereelectionwiththan10%,AbbottstillrunfortheHouse.Inmybook,thereof“runningupscore”wouldbeaelectionscare.thoughacanfeelsheorsheinaso-called“safetheystillactastheywilllose.TheyalotoftimeandinalltheirelecAndsometimesdolose,despiteoddsbeingintheirthenightbeforearecast.ItmightbetruethatAuburnAlabamateamsupthescore”betheyhavehigh
citement, temperature and decibels of any big game today rises instantly with someone on base. It reaches ec stasy when somebody makes a run.”
M a ny but not all Au burn and Alabama sports fans dislike “running up the score.” It occurs when a team plays to get added points al though the contest’s outcome is clearly theirs. Chasing a high er score with overkill can result in injuries to players, including team stars. Many call it poor sportsmanship at sports spendpopularwondertoscore”“Runningevents.uptheisnotalienpolitics.Didyouwhyverycandidatesmorethannec
be the speaker on Sept. 22. Vehicle Title Problem? We have a Solution! Unclaimed/Abandoned Vehicles, Mobile Homes & Surety Bonds JSE:Alabama's Vehicle Title Recovery Service ! We can help with most Titled Vehicles in Alabama, including Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RV’s & Trailers. Stop in, by phone or online! Free Phone Consultation Callwww.J1-205-267-5735 SEAL .com OBSERVERTHETOCONTRIBUTEDPHOTOS ‘Running Up the Score’ is Done in Politics as Well as Sports Opelika, Alabam 334 745 5 LEARN!YOUWHILEEARNNursingstudents at Alabama's community colleges can now apply for a nursing apprenticeship, which allows students to work in actual healthcare facilities while still studying at the college. Learn more at: www.accs.edu/healthcare 5 TO 9 P.M. EVERY DAY EXCEPT WEDNESDAY NO RESERVATION NEEDED AVAILABLEADDITIONALHOURSBYRESERVATIONCall 912-322-1699 For Reservations Come Throw With Us!
regard for their team and want to maximize the skill and talent on it. Politicians likewise have high self-regard; perhaps even egotism. Office seekers believe adding on points or election totals is OK for them. But they complain when others doAfterit. JFK’s very close 1960 election win over Richard Nix on, he told people that earlier his wealthy fa ther Joseph had asked him how many votes would be needed to be come president. “I will not pay for a landslide, son,” the patriarch said. No over-spending as a “run up the score” in JFK’s Daddy’s long view.
Sept. 15, 2022 B12
polls. He has his eyes and his rhetoric on the immediate situation, where he is likely to win in Florida, perhaps by 10 to 12%.
A poll out on Aug. 26 by YouGov showed that President Joe Biden would edge for mer President Donald Trump, 39% to 36%, if the two battled in the 2024 presidential election. But running against DeSantis, Biden may still win, but only by 1% (36 to 35%.) That result is the second focus of DeSantis’s eyes and rhetoric.“There has been an absolute explosion when it comes to jobs with jobs growth with companies moving here,” said Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. “They can thrive and they can succeed better here than in the states they cameAbbottfrom.”became gov ernor in 2015, and he is pursuing a third term.He is campaigning against U.S.2.6O’Rourkegressman.urke,nomineeDemocraticBetoO’RoaformerconIn2018,camewithinpointsofdefeatingSen.TedCruz.
former Gov. Charlie Crist, now a Democrat, in two recent Florida
GREG MARKLEY
OPINION —
In 1998, Texas Gov. George W. Bush was challenged by Garry Mauro, commissioner of the Texas General Land Office. But de spite a more than like ly win over the Demo crat, Bush worked very hard and raised exces sive campaign funds. He won with a huge 69% and became the leading candidate for the Republican presi dential nomination in 2000.“Don’t take any of this freedom for grant ed,” said Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, running for a second term in 2022. “We need to win across the board in No vember, to solidify this state as the nation’s citadel of freedom. ...We are going to be running across this state to raise the big gest Republican turn out this state has ever seen in a governor’s race.”DeSantis leads
Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has master's de grees in education and history. He taught pol itics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An charter.net.tion).(focus-HigherWritersnationalHeObserverhasandwriteraward-winningintheArmycivilianlife,hecontributedtothesince2011.isamemberoftheEducationAssociationEducagm.markley@
Kiwanis
Yes, they might be paranoid, thinking that somehow their opponent will beat predictions and win. But the main reason politicians over-cam paign and overspend is to discourage future opponents. They want the image of strong candidates in a run for higher office. “They want more runs in baseball itself,” said Herbert Hoover, U.S. president (1929-1933).
The speaker at this week's Kiwanis C was Mark Murphy. He is an editor for Inside the Auburn Tigers. For more information visit www.247sports.com/college/auburn/. Alabama Attorney
Mark Murphy Visits Opelika Club; Steve Marshall to Speak Sept. 22 General Steve Marshall will
“When you were raised on a sandlot, where the scores ran 23 to 61, you yearn for some thing more than a fiveto-two score. The ex
suffered a lost. We will never forget.
OPINION —
FROM B11
The COVID-19 pan demic brought on a series of challenges unlike any we’ve witnessed during our lifetime. Society as we knew it shut down. We forced students into online classrooms, re stricted nursing home visits and discouraged family gatherings. In short, we isolated people, and even though we have moved past most of those restrictions, many are still struggling from the lingering effects of pro longed isolation. Studies show more than half of Americans say pandem ic-related restrictions and uncertainty negatively impacted their mental health.With the increased impacts to mental health driving up rates of de pression and anxiety, rates of suicide have also increased. This crisis hits close to home here in our state, with the most recent data show ing suicide rates in Al abama are higher than the national average. Suicide impacts all age groups. It’s the sec ond leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 14 and 25 to 34, and the third leading cause of death for peo ple ages 15 to 24. In Alabama, 44,000 ad
- The resurfacingreportheardtheLicenseandapproved086.CynthiaMileapprovednight.tionparticipatethatLawsuitwaiverdiscussedcommissionsigningainanOpioidSettlementthecountydidnotin.NoacwastakenMonday-ThecommissionanAdopt-A-applicationforRogersforLR-ThecommissionaRetailBeerRetailTableWineapplicationforQuickStop.-Thecommissionanoverviewonthecounty’sprogram.
POW-MIA Day is one of six days specified by law which the black POW-MIA flag shall be flown over all federal facilities and ceme teries, post offices and military installations.
abama and across the na tion to address Post-Trau matic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), among other conditions. I introduced the HBOT Access Act to provide high-risk veterans, who have exhausted all other options, access to this treatment.Forveterans living in rural areas, accessing proper mental health care and treatment can be especially challeng ing. The 1-800-273-8255.assistCrisisaviaavailableandthewithacommunities.fromandtoTogether,versationtaldifference.screenoronemoments,VAableeransvativeActServedtoHealthcareGuaranteeingAccessPersonnelWhoAct,orGHAPS,seekstofindinnosolutionsforvetwhomaynotbetoeasilydrivetoafacility.IndifficultknowingsomeisavailableviaphonethroughacomputercouldmakealltheWhenitcomestomenhealth,justoneconcansavealife.wecanworkendthesuicidecrisispreventtragedieshappeninginourIfyouorlovedoneisstrugglingthoughtsofsuicide,988NationalSuicideCrisisLifelineis24hoursadaycallortext.Ifyouareveteran,theVeteransLineisavailableto24hoursadayat
OPINION —
OTHER BUSINESS:
There is a ceremony that can be presented by any veterans service organization. This is called the Missing Man Table Ceremony. If any group or organization is interested in this presentation, please contact a group in our area. This would in clude American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, disabled veterans and their auxiliaries.
izens to recognize and remember two special days in the month of September. The first date is September 11. This day is known as PatriotTwenty-oneDay. years ago on this day America was under attack.
STORM SHELTERS
“Some of you will remember after the 03-03-19 tornadoes that we were eligible for a hazard mitigation grant through FEMA for individual storm shelters or individual safe rooms,” said EMA Director Rita Smith. “This process should take less than a year.”
allocated $250,000) the park can be completed.
EMA received $32,207 back in man agement cost, which the organization put into a special fund. In total, the county was only out $3,393.
to 118 citizens that ac tually applied for this grant.”Twenty-six more then withdrew, Smith said. In total, 92 applied and completed the process. The total cost to the county was $35,600.
VeteranwantOrganizationsServiceallcit
However, the process has been delayed due to the pandemic.
“Well, the good news is it did not,” she said. “If you do the breakdown, we had 156 citizens that we briefed and expressed interest in applying. So we told them all A to Z, no shovel to dirt until you’re approved, what you have to do, it’s a 75/25% split, you have to pay it all up front if approved, file a reimbursement of 75% — and so that dropped
We must pause and remember all those who perished in that attack on the Twin Towers and honor all family members who may have
from the $10 million fund that has less re strictions on how it is spent.Loachapoka has roughly $300,000 in the park fund, and the additional $250,000 will give a rough total of“Ryan$550,000.has expressed an interest in not de pleting all of those funds because the rec association will need some of that money for rec uses as well,” Leverette said.
Of that $550,000, Leverette said the county was considering using $250,000.
Letter to the Editor
Raising Awareness About Mental Health
The second date is POW-MIA Recognition Day. This is always the third Friday in September. This is a commitment and sacrifice made by our nation's prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action.
CONTRIBUTED BY SEN. TOMMY TUBERVILLE
Sept. 15, 2022 B13 HEALTH Opelika SportsPlex W e w o u l d l o v e f o r y o u t o m e e t t h e l e a d e r s i n s e n i o r s e r v i c e s a t o u r a n n u a l h e a l t h & r e s o u r c e f a i r ! FAIR Tuesday, October 4, 2022 O p e l i k a S p o r t s P l e x G y m 8 : 0 0 a m N o o n Get Free Screenings & Information C h o l e s t e r o l B l o o d P r e s s u r e V i s i o n S c r e e n i n g H e a r i n g T e s t s B o d y C o m p o s i t i o n F l u S h o t sFor more information: 334 705 2493 or VWhite@opelika al gov
The brave men and wom en who proudly donned our nation’s uniform are not exempt from battles with mental health. Sui cide is the leading cause of death for female vet erans, and the second leading cause for male veterans. We lose an average of 18 veterans a day to suicide, with four times as many veter ans taking their own life than dying in combat.
Sherry Jiles, President VEW AuxiliaryOpelika5732
In 2020, when Smith first presented the in formation, the project looked to be about $45,000 to $46,000.
olescents between the ages of 12 to 17 battle depression. I commend Gov. Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Mental Health for their work to expand access to mental health facili ties across our state, and hope more people will take advantage of these resources.September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness about mental health and contin ue our efforts to let those who are struggling know that they are not alone. In particular, we should use this time to support America’s veterans.
COMMISSION >>
Part of my work since assuming office has fo cused on highlighting and expanding resources and treatments already available to combat the veteran suicide epidemic. Hyperbaric Oxygen Ther apy, or HBOT, is one such resource largely sup ported by veterans in Al
The pavilion the county wants to con struct, however, may be cheaper than expect ed, which was quoted at Leverette$187,000. said this is more elaborate than the county wants and believes with $500,000 (the $250,000 from the budget and the extra
14.requested.Apublic hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Michael T. Johnson (Holland Homes, Inc), authorized representative for Rodney C and Laurie S Jones, property owners, to zone 204.3 acres annexed into the City limits accessed at 3200 block Columbus Road to a PUD (Planned Unit development) zoning district.
ELAINE HEARD Legal Run 09/08/2022, 09/15/22 & 09/22/2022
A. Preliminary and Final – Public
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. in the Meeting Chamber at Opelika Municipal Court located at 300 MLK Boulevard, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session will be held at 2:45 pm before the regular meeting. The purpose of the pub lic hearings is to receive public comment on the following:
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The Planning Commission re serves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations ac cordingly to the City Council.
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E. Master Plan Revisions, Major Amendment and Preliminary Plat – Public Hearing
9. A public hearing on a request by John Perry Knight, Jr., autho rized representative for The John Perry Knight, Sr. Irrevocable Trust, property owners, for a ma jor revision to the Wyndham PUD (Planning Unit Development)
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II. Approval of Minutes
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE CaseAMANDATHEINALABAMACOUNTY,THEMATTEROFESTATEOFLAURANOLEN,deceasedNo.:2022-421
1994 Pontiac Firebird - Green Date Of Sale : 12/16/2022 Time 8:00 a.m. at Whitts Auto Service Center Inc. 461 Opelika Rd Auburn, AL 36830 Legal Run 09/15/22 & 09/22/22
13. An agenda item to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Rodney C and Laurie S Jones, property owners, to annex 204.3 acres into the City limits accessed from the 3200 block Columbus Parkway (Hwy 280). A PUD zoning district is
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ESTATE OF SUSAN JORDAN PILGREEN, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE CASECOUNTYNO. 2022-489
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT
11b. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Brett C. Basquin, Foresite Group, LLC,
Norman T. Pilgreen Jr. Legal Run 09/08/22, 09/15/22 & 09/22/22
12a. An agenda item related to a rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 8.6 acres accessed at 1531 First Avenue (former Leshner Mills property) from a general commercial land use cat egory to a mixed-use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the 8.6 acre and Council approves the rezoning, then the said amend ments to the Future Land Use map to a mixed-use category will be 12b.approved.Apublic hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Christian Dagg, Hinson-Dagg Architects LLC, authorized representative of Roy W. Granger Regeneration, LLC, property owners, to rezone 8.6 acres at 1531 First Avenue (former Leshner Mills property) from M-1 to PUD.
15.G.FinalBusinessPlatArequestby
F. Annexation and RezoningPublic Hearing
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D. Master Plan Revisions, Minor Amendment – Public Hearing
PUBLIC NOTICES
(noted below). Individuals are limited to one 5-minute comment period per public hearing.
approval of Cannon Gate Phase 3B subdivision consisting of 60 lots accessed from Cannon Gate Drive. (Tabled at August 23rd PC
Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Christi Nolen Ingrum, Personal Representative on the 29th day of August, 2022 by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are here by required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS
1.AHearingpublic hearing on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for Jordan’s Gate, LTD, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Jordan’s Gate subdivision consisting of 2 lots ac cessed from Jordan’s Gate Drive.
Master Plan POD 10 accessed from Gateway Drive. Master Plan amendments are to replace apart ments with 200 townhome units; density of the 200 townhomes on 40 acres is 7.2 dwellings per acre. Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission will consider a recommendation to the City Council.
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF SUSAN JORDAN PILGREEN, DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE CASECOUNTYNO. 2022-489
Letters of Administration with Will Annexed of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of September, 2022, by the Hon. 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 law or the same will be barred.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC VIN:AUTCION2G2FS22S7R2223733
.PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 09/15/2022
ESTATE OF WILLIE RUTH BEDELL, PROBATEDeceasedCOURT OF LEE COUNTY CASE NO.: 2022-401
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AUTOMOTIVE
III. Update on Previous Planning Commission Cases
Blind individual seeking assistance with transpor tation on a limited basis in the Auburn-Opelika area. Contact Terry Corona at 256-493-9393 for more information.
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H.meeting.)Conditional Use – Public Hearing
authorized representative of Keith B. Norman, Electra Estates, prop erty owners, to rezone 229.2 acres accessed from Anderson Road from R-1 to PUD.
Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to pres ent the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
3. A request by Mark Strozier, authorized representative for Wyndham Gateway LLC, prop erty owners, for final approval of the Wyndham Village Phase 2 Section 2 subdivision consisting of 60 lots accessed from Wymond
16.meeting.)Arequest by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for SMB Land, LLC, property owners, for final
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8 A public hearing on a request by David Brady, authorized represen tative of Michael Epperson, MGE Properties Three, LLC, property owners to consider a minor amendment to the Executive Hills PUD (Planned Unit Development) townhomes located at 2003 Executive Park Drive. The amendment concerns the layout of the townhomes: The amendment replaces four groups of four-unit townhomes with eight groups of two-unit townhomes. The total number of townhomes (16 units) and density remains the same. The Planning Commission will con sider the request and vote.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Take Notice that lawentestatepersonsNoticeCountyJudgebyongrantedPILGREEN,EstateTESTAMENTARYLETTERSoftheofSUSANJORDANdeceased,areherebytoNormanT.PilgreenJr.the22nddayofAugust,2022,theHonorableBillEnglish,oftheProbateCourtofLeeAlabama.isherebygiventhatallhavingclaimsagainstsaidareherebyrequiredtopresthesamewithtimeallowedbyorthesamewillbebarred.
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2.A request by Brian Lee, au thorized representative for SP Opelika Ventures, LLC, property owners, for final approval of The Villages of Opelika Phase 1 sub division consisting of 50 lots ac cessed from 3000 Hi Pack Drive.
10.A public hearing on a re quest by John Perry Knight, Jr., authorized representative for The John Perry Knight, Sr. Irrevocable Trust, property own ers for preliminary plat approval of the Wyndham gates POD 10 subdivision consisting of 200 lots accessed from Gateway Drive.
IV. New Business
17. A public hearing on a request by Scott Harris, Harris-Gray, LLC, authorized representative for G.A. Properties, LLC, proper ty owners, to expand the outside display area of RV Roadway of Opelika (Recreational Vehicle sales lot) and future construction of a 11,250 square foot service building in the C-3, GC-P zoning district at 1201 South Fox Run Parkway. (Tabled at August 23rd PC meeting.)
6. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., authorized representative for JD Real Properties, LLC, prop erty owners, for conditional use approval for an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) sales lot and mainte nance shop in the C-3, GC-P zoning district accessed at 4800 Birmingham Highway (NW cor ner of Birmingham Hwy & Grand National Parkway).
LETTERS ADMINISTRATIONOF WITH THE WILL ANNEXED of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 8th day of September, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama.
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I.Some items at this meeting will have a designated public hearing
C. Conditional Use – Public
7. A public hearing on a request by Victor Vance (Interstate Properties LLC), property owner, to allow the Elks Lodge, a private social club, to relocate at the USA Town Center in a C-2, GC-P zoning district at 1220 Fox Run Avenue, Suite 207.
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Please contact the Planning de partment at 334-705-5156 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special ac commodations due to a disability.
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11a. An agenda item related to a rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for 229.2 acres accessed from Anderson Road from a low-density residential land use category to a mixed-use category. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommenda tion to the City Council to rezone the 229.2 acres and Council ap proves the rezoning, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map will be approved.
5.HearingApublic hearing on a request by R. Temple Anderson, proper ty owner, to use parking lot for automobile sales in a M-1 zoning district at 1212 First Avenue.
Doug Ransom, authorized representative for Opelika Gateway Properties, LLC, property owners, for final approval of Wyndham Gates Pod 3, Phase 1 subdivision consisting of 10 lots accessed from Emory Lane. (Tabled at August 23rd PC
SERVICES
F. Rezoning – Public Hearing
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HELP WANTED
All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hear ings and be heard. Written com ments concerning the above mat ters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/public hearings.
CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF INTERESTEDANDTHEPROPERTYTO:ANDCOMMISSIONPLANNINGMEETINGPUBLICHEARINGSRESIDENTSANDOWNERSOFCITYOFOPELIKAALLOTHERCITIZENS
4.Drive.Arequest by Blake Rice, Barrett-Simpson, Inc., autho rized representative for Opelika Equities, LLC, property owners, for final approval of The Ballfields Plat No. 3 subdivision consisting of one lot accessed from Pepperell Parkway and 30th Street.
Sept. 15, 2022 B14
B. Final Plat
FOR SALE
Christi Nolen Ingrum Legal run 09/01/22, 09/08/22 & 09/15/22
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