The Observer 12-22-2022 E-edition

EACB Stages The Nutcracker

BY JOHN HILLSMAN FOR THE OBSERVER

AUBURN —

“The Nutcracker” ballet, a production of the East Alabama Community Ballet, was presented in four performances at Auburn University’s Telfair Peet Theatre Dec. 9 through 11.

There was a special children’s performance entitled “Clara’s Tea Party” presented at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10. The cast was comprised of students from multiple dance studios in the Auburn and Opelika area.

The cast consisted of preschool dancers through high school students and included two professional dancers from the Atlanta Ballet. The production was choreographed by local dance teachers. The cast began rehearing in September.

The production is an annual event that is hosted each December by the East Alabama Community Ballet.

For more photos of the production, turn to A3.

BY KENDYL HOLLINGSWORTH KENDYLH@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

The United Way of Lee County is celebrating the holidays early with a few upgrades to its headquarters on Executive Park Drive.

According to Tipi Miller, executive director of the local United Way, the interior and exterior upgrades aim to benefit both staff and visitors to the office.

“We are thrilled with the renovations to the United Way building,” Miller said. “The building has served many United Way agencies and programs since 1997. The changes provide a welcome atmosphere for

Rep. Jeremy Gray Awarded for Transcending Political Polarization in 2022

The Millennial Action Project (MAP) announced last week the awardees of the 2022 Rising Star Awards. The Rising Star Awards recognize lawmakers who embody MAP's mission to transcend political polarization through public service.

The fifth annual Rising Star Award was presented to Alabama State Rep. Jeremy Gray (D) and Arkansas State Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R). Both representatives are co-chairs of the Future Caucus in their respective states. The Future Caucus is a bipartisan caucus that convenes young and innovative legislators from both sides of the aisle to work on the issues facing Gen Z, Millennials and future generations.

Gray represents state House District 83 in Alabama. He is the Democratic co-chair of the Alabama Future Caucus.

Through the Future Caucus, he has consistently demonstrated bipartisan leadership, working across the aisle alongside his young Republican colleagues to help pass impactful policy, including legislation that lifted the 28-year ban on yoga in Alabama’s K-12 schools. Gray serves as the Minority Whip in the Alabama House of Representatives.

Recently, he was nominated by Alabama’s Gov. Kay Ivey to serve on the Alabama Statewide Health Coordinating Council and Innovate Alabama.

The awards reception was held on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. It was an evening to remember with special guests Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT), co-chair of MAP’s Congressional Future Caucus; along with Robby Soave and Briahna Joy Gray, co-hosts of “Rising” on The Hill TV.

“We're better than where we were 50 years ago, and we're going to be in a better place 50 years from today because of the people in this

visitors and staff.”

The renovations were celebrated Dec. 15 with a

ribbon cutting ceremony, courtesy of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce.

The event was attended by United Way staff, Auburn

CONTRIBUTED BY MILLENIAL ACTION PROJECT

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

BY EAH

LANETT—

Earlier this month, Shannon Lott of Lanett visited EAMC to say a special thanks to the staff on the Progressive Care Unit (8T) for their care of his mother, Carolyn Lott, prior to her passing on Oct. 17.

“I want to say thanks to each and every employee who helped my momma,” Lott said, noting that she received great service from the nursing staff, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, dialysis, housekeeping and dietary. “Everyone treated my beautiful

room,” Pilkington said. “I’m proud to be a part of Millennial Action Project and honored to receive this recognition. The future depends on the success of these efforts that support leaders who may differ in ideology but work hard to find common ground to solve the

momma like an angel. She was here (EAMC) for 75 days and never did we have a bad experience with anyone.

issues that impact us all.”

Gray said there aren't that many people in Alabama in the legislature that are under the age of 40.

“[MAP] did a great job at engaging me, and once I understood the importance of bipartisanship among millennials, I was really on board,” Gray said. “ ... Although I get to receive this award tonight, it’s really about the

Thank you for everything you did for my momma; she is smiling down on all of you.”

Lott stated that

people back at home — my grandmother, mother, people in the community who uplifted me, voted for me and put me in the position to serve when I was told I was too young.”

Layla Zaidane, president and CEO of MAP, said that MAP is changing America.

“Through empathy and collaboration, they are not only setting an example for

his mother also received great care from her physician, Dr. John Mitchell, and Mitchell’s nurse

the future, but also for the present”, she said. “We are delighted to honor Rep. Gray with this award. He has proven himself to be an effective advocate for Millennials and young people, and a champion of bipartisanship. We are inspired by his commitment to build a better future, and we sincerely congratulate him.”

practitioner,

wife, Shain,

a

Joe Kaczynski. To further honor the efforts of the 8T staff, Lott and his

made

generous donation to the hospital’s employee assistance program called Cornerstone.

Pictured left to right: Rep. Aaron Pilkington (R-Arkansas) and Rep. Jeremy Gray (D-Alabama).

Dancers Dazzle in Nutcracker Ballet

East Alabama Community Ballet presented its annual holiday show "The Nutcracker" Dec. 9 through 11 at the Telfair B. Peet Theater in Auburn. The young dancers dazzled audiences as they brought the classic story to life.

SEAN DIETRICH

Hi. We don’t know each other. But Christmas is on the way, and I wanted to introduce myself. Then again, my name isn’t important. I’m nobody special. I just wanted you to know that I’m thinking about you. I’m even praying for you.

I know you’re going through a hard time. Someone you love died. Maybe someone you once trusted hurt you deeply. Maybe your mother is suffering. Or your children are going through a rough patch.

Your loved one died by suicide. Or maybe it was cancer. Lymphoma. Alcoholism. Heart attack. Old age. Or a car wreck.

Then again, maybe it’s you who is in distress. Maybe the doctor gave

you bad news. Maybe your life is falling apart. Maybe you’re in a godawful state. Maybe you are lying on the floor, weeping, when you accidentally picked up your phone to read this.

Please keep reading. Because you’re the person I’m writing to.

Listen, I know the whole world is happy right now. Everyone is giddy with excitement. People are getting very festive, preparing their houses for Christmas, hanging lights, installing hordes of gaudy yard art.

It’s hard to stomach all this joyousness when you yourself are stuck in agonizing pain. It’s hard to get excited about anything when your life has turned into a big pile of chicken scat.

You are disgruntled

and cynical. And you’re not wrong. This is a contradictory and hypocritical time of year.

Everyone talks of love and kindness and benevolence. And yet nobody sees the invisible hurting people. Oh, sure, some folks volunteer to help the homeless and the orphans during the Christmas seasons. But for most people, all this talk of love and munificence is basically just a load of B.S.

I’m sorry, but it’s true. And you know it.

This is the time of year when TV commercials turn into ultra sentimental saccharin. Advertisers promote charity, compassion and love. And yet, you get the impression that they’re just using buzzwords intended to sell you something.

Americans are buying hordes of pricey gifts for children who already have everything they could possibly want. People in your neighborhood are decorating their houses with expensive inflatable Yodas wearing Santa hats. And it all seems like a giant lie.

What’s the freaking

Christmas

point of Christmas? Your mother is dying. Your father is sick. The doctor said you’ll be lucky to make it through the next year. Your son is addicted to pain pills. Your daughter has melanoma. What’s the point of getting excited? There’s nothing to get excited about.

But you’re wrong. Because this is the time of year when, even though the deck is stacked against you, even though all hell is breaking loose in your life, even though experts tell you that you’re not going to win the battle, the universe is telling you that you’re not alone.

This is the time of year called Advent. The Latin word “adventus” means the “coming arrival.” It means something great is on its way. Something really freaking wonderful.

So forget the feckless holiday effluvia peppering your neighborhood. Forget the outdated Elizabeth Taylor fragrance commercials on television. Forget Tickle Me Elmo. Forget Cabbage Patch dolls and holiday

variety shows featuring idiots with tight butts who can’t sing.

This is the time of year when all humanity has a right to get excited because God is coming.

No matter which culture or religious tradition you come from, no matter what you believe or disbelieve, the entire earth, and most people-groups and cultures agree on this holiday.

Christmas.

Germany, Poland, Japan, Russia, Norway, China, Spain, Brazil, Finland, India, South Korea. Christmas is celebrated in these countries, and many more nations.

Christmas lives among whites, Blacks, Browns, Jews, Muslims, Catholics, Orthodox, Pentecostals, Baptists, Agnostics, insurance salesmen, lawyers, millworkers, blue collars, white collars, Unitarians, Buddhists, sinners, saints and everyday Joes.

You think this is a coincidence? You think it’s just a big accident that all humanity agrees on the significance of one particular holiday? There are no accidents in

this world.

Christmas is a time when God says to humankind, “I’m coming to hang out with you guys. So get ready.”

But the truth is, he doesn’t ONLY hang out with you at Christmas. God is with you year round. Especially when you don’t notice him.

God is with you when you take your chemo transfusion. He is with you when you’re lying on your bathroom floor, weeping because the physical pain is unbearable.

He is with you when you’re feeling like a godawful failure because you’re jonesing for a drink. He is with you when your own children refuse to visit you because your family is screwed up.

God is with you when you feel like you want to take your own life. God is with you when you are mourning for your infant daughter who died from SIDS. God is with you always, even until the end of the age.

And that is what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

sales, warehousing and assembly to serve the North American market.

AUBURN

A new product will soon be added to Auburn’s manufacturing base — battery-buffered fast electric charging stations. ADSTEC Energy is establishing its first U.S. location in Auburn that will include

ADS-TEC Energy plans to invest $8 million and create approximately 180 jobs.

“We’re excited to welcome yet another high-tech German company to Alabama,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “The partnership between

German engineering and Alabama manufacturing has brought many innovative products to the North American market.

“We’re excited to add ADS-TEC Energy’s battery-buffered fast charging stations to that list, serving the quickly growing electric vehicle market. Congratulations to ADS-TEC Energy’s leadership for selecting Auburn as their U.S. home.”

For more than 10 years, ADS-TEC Energy has used lithium-ion technology to create rapid electric charging stations. The company’s systems have unique battery buffers that allow for fast charging without the need to expand limited power grids.

ADS-TEC Energy’s products, like ChargeBox and ChargePost, seek to overcome installation barriers and provide additional benefits for those operating rapid electric charging stations.

Thomas Speidel, ADSTEC Energy’s founder and CEO, said the company is pleased that it can set up a sales, warehousing and assembly location in Auburn within one year of listing its shares on the NASDAQ exchange.

“This will represent a successful market presence in the USA embedded in a strong, innovation- and growth-driven economic environment,” Speidel said. “We are very grateful for the intensive support by the city of Auburn and the atate of Alabama, in particular by Gov. Kay Ivey, as well as the business-oriented local decision-makers, who continue to support us constructively.

“ADS-TEC is 'Engineered in Germany,' and we are proud to extend

our quality products to the U.S. out of America, for America.”

One of the key reasons ADS-TEC Energy chose to open its new location in Alabama is proximity to Auburn University’s acclaimed engineering program. This will allow the company to identify and nurture talented students and graduates to successfully serve the North American market.

“The city of Auburn is grateful for the trust that Mr. Speidel and his team have in our community, and we will do everything we can to support ADS-TEC Energy in establishing a successful operation in Auburn,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “The assembling and servicing of innovative equipment for the emerging electric charging infrastructure market right here in Auburn will create well-paying and clean high-tech jobs for Auburn residents.

“Welcome to the Auburn family, ADS-TEC Energy, and thank you to Gov. Ivey and her team at the Alabama Department of Commerce for their support for this project.”

ADS-TEC Energy has begun hiring for its new location.

“Alabama’s auto sector aims to play an important role in the industry’s EV revolution, so it’s great to see a company like ADSTEC Energy planning to establish a manufacturing operation in Auburn for ultra-fast charging stations that will help accelerate EV adoption across America,” said Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

“This is a win for Auburn and a win for Alabama.”

CONTRIBUTED

P H O T O C O N T R B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

Collinwood Luminaries Light the Way

and Opelika city officials and various supporters.

This is the first time the building has been renovated since it was built 25 years ago, said Kerissa Justice, marketing specialist for the United Way of Lee County. The recent renovations include repainted walls and ceilings, redone floors and exterior landscaping. In addition, canvases depicting each of the local United Way’s partner organizations line the hallways.

Justice said she believes the improved atmosphere will bolster United Way staff members’ internal operations and help them be more effective in their work.

“Your environment can really affect your desire and drive to work, and having a fresh and new space has been super beneficial for all of us and given us a fresh wind in our sails for the new year to keep working hard to help the Lee County

community,” she said.

The renovations took about two months to complete, beginning in early October this year and lasting through the end of November. According to Justice, the United Way of Lee County was able to fully fund the project from money it has saved annually over the years.

“Throughout the history of the United Way, money has been set aside yearly and allocated for ‘building updates,’ and that fund had never been tapped into until this year,” she explained.

“We were able to use those funds to pay for all the renovations to the building.”

While the upgrades have already been beneficial to the United Way staff, Justice added that she hopes the agency’s partner organizations will also take advantage of all the office has to offer.

“It is exciting to have a place that we are proud of,” she said. “We feel that these more modern updates represent the current atmo-

sphere and vision of the United Way and the goals we have for the community and our partner organizations.

“We have a large board meeting room that we hope our partner organizations can take advantage of to hold meetings, work on projects or anything else that they would have a need for. We also hope that every person who walks through our doors with a need for our services feels seen and cared for by our staff members.”

According to its website, the United Way of Lee County seeks to “increase the organized capacity” of community members and organizations to help each other. The agency aims to connect those in need in the community with necessary resources, especially when it comes to meeting basic human needs.

The United Way of Lee County’s four areas of focus include helping children and youth achieve their potential, promoting health and financial stability, aiding in times of crisis or disaster and strengthening the community as a whole. These focus areas are based on the belief that education, income and health are the “building blocks of a good life and a strong community.”

For those wishing to learn more about United Way of Lee County, the renovations or the agency’s services, Justice said anyone is welcome to stop by the office, located at 2133 Executive Park Drive in Opelika. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

More information is also available at unitedwayofleecounty.com.

UNITED >> FROM A1

For the 55th year, the Collinwood neighborhood continued its Christmas gift to the community with the annual Collinwood Luminaries event held Friday, Dec. 9, from 5 to 9 p.m. Residents illuminated the path and volunteers recreated scenes from the Biblical Christmas story told in Luke 2 as visitors drove through.

Top: Front, from left to right: United Way Executive Director Tipi Miller, United Way Board President Leigh Krehling, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders converse during the ribbon cutting ceremony. Middle: Fuller cuts the ribbon to celebrate the United Way of Lee County's building renovations. Bottom: Photos of United Way's local partners line the hallways.

Eagle Awareness Weekends Planned for 2023 at Lake Guntersville State Park

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA STATE PARKS

GUNTERSVILLE —

One of the most popula r programs offered by Alabama State Parks is back for its 37th year.

Lake Guntersville State Park will host the 37th annual Eagle Awareness Weekends in January and February 2023. The three weekends — Jan. 20 to 22, Jan. 27 to 29 and Feb. 3 to 5 — will feature live bird demonstrations, programs delivered by notable speakers and guided safari trips to view eagles in their natural habitat while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the mountains and Lake Guntersville.

“The Eagle Awareness Weekends showcase one of Alabama’s most beautiful parks and gives people the chance to learn about an iconic species that captivates our imagination,” said Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein. “Our lodge, campground and chalets often fill up quickly for these weekends, so we encourage people to make

reservations and join us at Lake Guntersville State Park for what we believe will be another amazing year of Eagle Awareness Weekends.”

The Eagle Awareness Weekends began in 1985 to coincide with a bald eagle restoration program in Alabama.

A loss of habitat, pesticide use and poaching throughout the nation had pushed eagle populations to the brink of extinction. The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries’ Nongame Wildlife Program began Alabama’s restoration project in 1984.

From 1985 through 1991, 91 bald eagles were released throughout the state. Today, bald eagles are a more common sight in Alabama than in decades past.

Each weekend will start on Friday evening with a social and wine tasting, followed by an educational session on eagles in Alabama and a presentation by an Alabama State Park Naturalist. The Saturday agenda includes more sessions by noted conservation

experts, guided field trips to look for eagles, raptors and waterfowl in the wild and ends with a dinner buffet in the Pinecrest Dining Room. Sunday wraps up the weekend with more guided field trips, an educational program and a photo opportunity with live birds.

Packages are available that include overnight accommodations, breakfast buffet, group dinner on Saturday night and other activities. Attendance is limited to package holders and tickets will be sold for Saturday (programs only) as space allows.

For more information about the event schedules or Eagle Awareness Weekend packages, or to make reservations, visit www. alapark.com/lake-guntersville-state-park, call 256-571-5440 or email indya.guthrie@dcnr. alabama.gov.

ABOUT ALABAMA’S STATE PARKS SYSTEM

The Alabama State Parks is a division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and maintains 21 state parks encompassing

sic

to fund the majority of their operations.

Make reservations at www.alapark.com/online-reservations and learn more at www. alapark.com. Partners Pay the Way.

more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama. The parks range from Gulf Coast beaches to the Appalachian Mountains and provide opportunities and facilities from ba -

day-use activities to resort convention lodging, restaurants and golfing areas. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities

P

O C O N T R I B U T E D T O T H E O B S E R V E R

NOW THROUGH DEC. 24: SANTA AT THE AUBURN MALL

NOW THROUGH DEC. 31: OPELIKA'S VERY MERRY STROLL

NOW THROUGH JAN. 1: AUBURN GINGERBREAD VILLAGE AT THE AU HOTEL

DEC. 23: CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON AT OPELIKA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Ann Cipperly

SHouthernospitality

estled on Sanders Creek where family farmed generations earlier, the home of Anne and Sheldon Whittelsey is decked with festive décor to welcome family for Christmas. Special ornaments adorning the tree, stockings hanging from the mantel, a

decorative Santa and angels on the sideboard provide a celebratory setting. On the lawn, large letters of “Joy” describe how the family feels at Christmas this year with a five-month-old granddaughter and another grand-baby on the way in the spring.

Anne and Sheldon

have three grown sons. Whit and his wife Nan, with baby Clella, live in Opelika; William and his wife Katie, who are expecting in the spring, also reside in Opelika; and John is in Fairhope.

While Sheldon grew up in Opelika, Anne is from Coral Gables, Florida, and is one of

six girls in her family. Her favorite Christmas memories growing up include driving around with her family to view holiday lights and the candlelight service at her church on Christmas Eve. Anne and her sisters would walk out

Girl Scout Cookies Are On the Way

of the church holding their candles as the traffic was going by on the street.

Her mother was a wonderful cook. Anne and her sisters would spend time in the kitchen watching her cook and helping sometimes.

“She was a great baker and made everything look easy,” Anne recalled. “She wasn’t a fancy cook, and everything was basic.”

After Anne and Sheldon married, they lived

Rane Center’s 1856

Holiday Specials

CONTRIBUTED BY GSSA

LEE COUTNY

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama will be starting its annual Cookie Season next year on Jan. 1, 2023. Stock up on all of your favorite Girl Scout cookies and power unique and amazing experiences for girls with every purchase.

This year, iconic favorites such as Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-si-dos, Adventurefuls and Trefoils will be back, as well as the newest addition to the Girl

Scout cookie line-up, the Raspberry Rally. Also new to customers in southern Alabama this year: Lemon-Ups, Girl Scout S’mores and gluten-free Toffee-tastics.

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the nation’s largest girlled business and the leading financial literacy program for girls. Through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls learn five essential skills for leadership: goal setting, decision-making, money management, people skills and business

ethics.

There are many ways to buy Girl Scout cookies. Girl Scouts will sell cookies doorto-door, at cookie booths and online.

On Jan. 6, 2023, Girl Scouts will begin selling door-to-door during the annual Cookie Walkabout Weekend. On Jan. 13, 2023, Girl Scouts will begin selling cookies at cookie booths in their area.

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama will also be hosting cookie drive-thrus on Jan. 13, 2023, at its Montgom-

ery and Mobile offices.

The Raspberry Rally will be sold exclusively online, starting Feb. 27. The 2023 Girl Scout Cookie Program will end on March 5.

The more cookies girls sell, the more earnings they have to power impactful community projects and personal enrichment experiences, such as STEM activities and traveling. Every purchase of Girl Scout Cookies is an investment in girls both now and in the future —

AUBURN —

With Christmas and New Year festivities just around the corner, The Rane Center’s 1856 restaurant is offering a couple of special tasting menu experiences to

celebrate.

On Christmas Eve, from 2 to 7 p.m., 1856 chefs will offer a special seven-course tasting menu experience featuring Mushroom Wellington, Squid Ink Bucatini with Lobster, Salmon

Christmas is special this year for Anne and Sheldon Whittelsey as they celebrate with family and a new granddaughter, Clella. Pictured in front are, from left, Katie Whittelsey, Anne Whittelsey holding Clella and Nan Whittelsey.

Chefs of 1856 prepare dishes inside The Rane Center. CONTRIBUTED BY THE RANE CENTER

Making the Grade: Venucci's in LaGrange

STACEY PATTON WALLACE

Amelia has been my dear friend since we started Avondale kindergarten together in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals) back in September of 1968. She turned the big 6-0 this past Nov. 3. Amelia is one month and 16 days older than I am; this fact has brought me much joy over the years. However, Leigh Ann, our mutual dear friend, doesn’t celebrate her birthday until July. Therefore, she is probably laughing at both of us.

Since Amelia still chooses to work (I don’t understand her, but I love her anyway.), we had to celebrate with her on Dec. 2, almost a full month late. As the birthday girl, Amelia got to choose where we had lunch.

She had spent the night in LaGrange, Georgia, with her daughter Emma, who is the archivist in charge of records at the Troup County Historical Society and Archives. Therefore, she asked Leigh Ann and me to come to LaGrange to celebrate her belated birthday.

I offered to drive Scarlett, my new Nissan Rogue, which I mentioned in an earlier column. I picked up Leigh Ann, and we journeyed up I-85. This was my first time driving Scarlett out of state. I really need to learn how to set my cruise control because I tend to have a lead foot. Also, Scarlett rides so smoothly, I’m speeding before I know it.

Although we’ve had Scarlett since late Septem-

ber, she has less than 1,000 miles on her. As I believe I mentioned previously, my husband Mike said, “Scarlett is an expensive garage ornament.” I wouldn’t go that far. I’m just particular about where Scarlett is allowed to travel. I don’t want her around too many other cars; she could get bumped in a full parking lot. Therefore, when Leigh Ann and I arrived at Emma’s house, I requested that we drive Amelia’s car to the restaurant. After all, I didn’t want to park Scarlett on the street by other cars. Mike laughs whenever we buy a new car because he says that I insist on parking it in the middle of nowhere.

However, I digress. I was very happy with Amelia’s choice of restaurant:

Venucci’s at 129 Main St. in LaGrange. As I’ve mentioned before, Italian food is my second favorite, coming just behind Southern cooking. Venucci’s serves wonderful Italian food; it was one of my favorite restaurants when we lived in LaGrange.

Chef Tulla White, the owner of Venucci’s, is a well-respected culinary arts professional in the area and owns another restaurant across the street. I love the cozy atmosphere of Venucci’s, as well as the distressed brick wall of the building’s interior.

Paola and Amanda shared the duty of being our servers. Both were sweet, helpful and patient.

The warm bread served

with olive oil was a really delicious way to begin our lunch. Also, our salads were served with three outstanding house-made dressings: white balsamic, dark balsamic and tricolor peppercorn ranch.

For her entrée, Amelia chose the shrimp Alfredo, which was sautéed shrimp over fettuccine with a creamy Alfredo sauce.

Leigh Ann selected the Papagalo: “Tulla’s Favorite,” which was a spicy tomato sauce and creamy Alfredo tossed with Cajun sausage, lightly battered chicken tenders, jalapeno peppers and linguine pasta.

Last, I ordered the chicken marsala, which consisted of lightly battered chicken tossed in sweet & dry

Boy, it was great to be back at Venucci’s. The food was really amazing. To top off our great meals, we split a slice of Oreo cheesecake. It was slap-your-grandmatwice delicious. All desserts at Venucci’s are made in-house by the restaurant’s pastry chef. Believe me, I could tell.

Venucci’s serves a variety of salads, sandwiches, wraps and Not the Norm Burgers. Besides our tasty pasta dishes, Venucci’s also serves diners blackened shrimp and Andou-

ille, shrimp and scallops Fra Diavolo, chicken Fra Diavolo, chicken fettuccine Alfredo and chicken tortellini carbonara. Trust me, run and do not walk to Venucci’s.

Amelia, this review was for you. May God bless you with many more happy birthdays. Love you bunches.

Venucci’s is open on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 to 9:30 p.m.; on Saturday from 5 to 9:30

p.m. *Please note: all times are Eastern.

Venucci’s makes the grade with an A+ from this retired English teacher. Remember, “Pooh-sized” people NEVER lie about food. Enjoy!

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

Stacey may be reached at retiredlangartsteacher2020@gmail.com.

From The Live Well Kitchen: One-Pot Chili Mac

CONTRIBUTED BY ACES

BY DUSTIN DUNCAN

LEE COUNTY —

This one-pot meal can be ready to feed the family in less than 30 minutes. Live Well Alabama’s One-Pot Chili Mac takes a traditional favorite and adds more vegetables for flavor. Look for Alabama-grown bell peppers for this recipe to make it even better.

"This recipe is a great way to use up any vegetables that may be left over in the fridge, which helps cut back on food waste,” said Sofia Sanchez, Alabama Cooperative Extension System specialist and registered dietitian Ingredients

• ½ pound ground beef

• One medium onion, finely chopped

• One can tomato sauce, 8 ounces

• One can tomato puree, 15 ounces

• 1 cup dry elbow macaroni

• ½ cup green pepper, finely chopped

• ¼ cup water

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded PRO TIPS

Tomato products like sauce and puree are good sources of vitamins A and C. Also, try wholegrain noodles in this recipe for a heart-healthy spin.

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain fat.

2. Stir in the tomato

sauce, tomato puree, uncooked macaroni, pepper, water, chili powder and garlic salt.

3. Bring to boil then reduce to medium-low heat.

4. Cook for 20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender, stirring often.

5. Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle with cheese.

6. Let cheese melt and serve.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Step-by-step instructions for the One-Pot Chili Mac recipe and an instructional video are available at LiveWellAlabama.com.

LIVE WELL ALABAMA

Live Well Alabama is a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) initiative developed by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System

at Auburn University. This initiative reaches residents across the state with research-based education.

“Our recipes are great for getting kids to help in the kitchen,” said Katie Funderburk, Alabama Extension's SNAP-Ed coordinator. “Kids are more likely to try new foods when they helped make them.”

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Live Well Alabama provides numerous recipes that are simple and budget friendly.

For more information about Live Well Alabama and to find more Live Well Alabama recipes, visit www.LiveWellAlabama.com. Also, check out more Live Well Alabama tips and recipes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

PHOTOS BY MIKE WALLACE / FOR THE OBSERVER

Lombardo marsala wine mushroom sauce over fettuccine.

From Dec. 9 through 13, about 60 homes transformed for Opelika's Victorian Front Porch Tour. Visitors took a step back in time as they drove, biked or walked more than 10 city blocks to experience a classical Christmas — complete with Victorian Santas, carolers, carousel horses and more.

in Atlanta, Georgia, where their sons were born. At Christmas, they would visit her parents, who had retired and moved from Florida to Rome, Georgia. All of Anne’s five sisters and their families would be there.

“At Christmas, I always think the more the merrier,” she said.

During the Christmas season, the family would also come to Opelika to spend a few days with Sheldon’s parents, Sue and the late Whit Whittelsey.

While Whit’s grandfather farmed the land, his father was an attorney, opening a law office in 1918 in Opelika after returning home from serving in World War I. Sue and Whit met at the University of Alabama. Whit became an attorney and opened his law firm in downtown Opelika in 1958.

While Sheldon, a real estate developer, and Anne lived in Atlanta, he worked with his father to develop family land into Sanders Creek. It was named in honor of Whit’s sister Beverly Collins’ son, who died in an airplane crash in 1982. He flew with the Alabama National Guard.

When Anne and Sheldon moved to Opelika in 2004, they built their home overlooking the lake that was

created in the Sanders Creek development. Their lovely home has been the setting for many Christmas traditions for the family.

“Gift giving is not my love language,” Anne said. “I love the traditions.”

One tradition is being with Anne’s family, the Kimbrells, in Atlanta on Dec. 23 with around 50 gathering to celebrate Christmas. Every year features a different theme.

“On Christmas Eve evening, it is our tradition to attend the candlelight service at First United Methodist Church,” Anne said. “We will come back home for dinner with roast beef tenderloin, potato casserole and green bean bundles.”

On Christmas Day, Anne prepares traditional brunch dishes that will include a breakfast casserole, cheese grits, fruit and cinnamon rolls. Sheldon’s mother, Sue Whittelsey, also attends along with any of their children who are in town.

A longtime tradition for Christmas night has been dining at Waffle House and then attending a movie.

“By that time, we are all tired of cooking,” Anne said.

Nan and Whit, with baby Clella, will be with Anne and Sheldon on Christmas Eve and with her family at the lake on Christmas Day.

Garnish: green onion slices

Thin wheat crackers

They moved to Opelika from Atlanta six months ago, and Clella was born July 3. Whit works at Marsh, formerly J. Smith Lanier, while Nan will begin working as a nurse in the emergency room at East Alabama Health in January.

Nan grew up in Birmingham as one of six kids. Her mom was a good cook and prepared hearty dishes such as lasagna to feed the large family.

Nan helped her mom bake cookies, as well as make chocolate fondue.

“Christmas was always a joyous time getting everyone together,” she said. “Sometimes we would spend Christmas at the beach or we were surprised with a trip to Disney World. One year our family went to London for Christmas.”

Nan enjoys baking like her mother. Since she is busy with the baby, she uses a slow cooker often for easy meals. One of their favorite dishes is beef tips and rice.

Whit and Nan are both excited to celebrate the first Christmas with Clella and to be with both families.

William and Katie will also spend time at Christmas with both of their families. They met in Atlanta and were married during COVID in front of William’s grandmother Sue Whittelsey’s home,

where they now live.

When Katie was growing up in LaGrange, Georgia, her parents hosted Christmas Eve brunch for about a hundred guests. Katie would help her mom with entertaining.

“I was my mom’s sidekick,” she said. “My mom loved to entertain and still does.”

At night on Christmas Eve, they attended the candlelight service at their church. When they returned home, her mother cooked a formal dinner, and her stepfather made whipped eggnog. While their mother was cooking, Katie and her siblings opened one gift, which was always matching Christmas pajamas.

“On Christmas morning, every gift under the tree was wrapped and food was served all day long,” Katie said.

She is sharing several of her mother’s favorite recipes for entertaining. Katie said she enjoys entertaining like her mother, and so does her brother, who hosts a large Christmas Eve party every year.

While pursuing his MBA, William and Katie lived in London, England. They decided they wanted to make Opelika their home and moved here a few months ago. Katie said she has a heart for nonprofits, and her background is impressive, including starting a school in West Africa

eight years ago.

Katie is the new president of the Community Foundation of East Alabama.

“I am so excited to be part of the foundation,” she said. “I wanted to join because I know a stronger Lee County in East Alabama means it is going to be stronger for all of us, our grandchildren and future grandchildren. I am thrilled to be here and grow with others.

“It is exciting to embrace new family traditions, too,” she added. “I am excited for the family to have Clella this Christmas and our baby next Christmas. The holidays bring so much joy.”

Anne said she also has a love for nonprofits and does a great deal of volunteering in the community.

This Christmas is especially meaningful for Anne and Sheldon with two of their sons and their families now living in Opelika. Their son John will also visit during Christmas.

Anne, who has a gift for hospitality like her

mother, is looking forward to preparing her traditional dishes for the family.

“I love that both my girls also have a gift of hospitality and they express it in different ways,” she said. “Nan has it in a subdued, low-key way that welcomes everyone and makes them feel warm and welcome. Katie’s love language is that she likes to entertain, pull out her nice dishes and makes everyone feel comfortable.

“Besides the birth of our Lord and Savior, Christmas to me means it is all about family, the traditions and love. I am so excited about our little granddaughter and to see all the new traditions. Christmas means family, and it is hope. Every time I look at the precious babies with so much trouble in the world, I thank God for giving us hope. I think Christ coming into the world is the greatest gift ever. Christmas makes me thankful and happy, and I love all things about the season.”

HOT CRANBERRY/ PINEAPPLE PUNCH

Katie Whittelsey

6 cups pineapple juice, unsweetened 6 cups cranberry cocktail

3 cups water

2/3 cup brown sugar

1/8 tsp. salt

3 tsp. whole cloves

2-3 cinnamon sticks

Combine liquids, sugar and salt in large saucepan. Put cloves and cinnamon sticks in metal tea ball (or cheesecloth bag). Heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove tea ball. Serve hot. Makes 20 six-oz. cups.

Alternate Method: Combine cold ingredients in party percolator, putting cloves and cinnamon sticks in percolator basket. Run through normal percolator cycle. Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. Can be frozen and reheated.

CHRISTMAS EVE DIP

Katie Whittelsey

2 (10.5-oz.) jars red pepper jelly

1½ cups chopped pecans

¾ cup thinly sliced green onions

3 cups (12 oz.) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (I always shred my own.)

Stir together first 4 ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Cover and chill. Make the day ahead for best results.

Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with thin wheat crackers. This will keep in the refrigerator for about a week!

APPETIZER CHEESE STRAWS

Katie Whittelsey

Easy to freeze and then heat when unexpected company drops in!

½ lb. cheddar cheese, grated 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 small onion, diced

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 cup mayonnaise

½ cup almonds, slivered

1 loaf Pepperidge Farm thin-sliced white bread

Combine cheese, bacon, onion, Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise. Mix well. Spread on bread and top with almonds. Place under broiler until cheese is bubbly and almonds are slightly brown. Cut in halves or quarters.

This freezes well.

Place on a cookie sheet and freeze after you spread the cheese mixture on top. Store in a zip-lock plastic bag after they freeze on the cookie sheet. Remove from freezer and heat when company drops in. Serves 10 to 12.

DATE NUT BALLS

Anne Whittelsey

Two 8-oz. pkg. dates

2 cups brown sugar

1½ cups butter

2 cups chopped pecans

5 cups Rice Krispies

Powdered sugar

Boil dates, butter and sugar for 6 minutes. Remove and add nuts and Rice Krispies. Pour on wax paper and cool. Roll into small (3/4 inch) balls and roll in powdered sugar. Makes 6 dozen.

CHI O BREAKFAST

CASSEROLE

Anne Whittelsey

2 lbs. bulk sausage (1 hot, 1 mild)

2 ½ cups bread cubes

2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

4 eggs, beaten ¾ tsp. dry mustard 1 can mushroom soup

1 ½ cups milk

In a medium skillet, cook sausage and drain. In an oblong baking dish, layer

bread cubes, sausage and cheese. In a medium bowl, combine eggs, mustard, soup and milk. Pour over casserole and refrigerate 8-12 hours.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Serves 12.

JALAPENO CHEESE GRITS

Anne Whittelsey

2 Tbsp. butter

2 jalapeno peppers, minced 2 cups water 2 cups milk

1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup old-fashioned grits

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Black pepper Melt butter over medium-high heat in a medium saucepan. Add jalapeno and cook for 2 minutes to soften.

Add water, milk and salt and bring to a boil.

Turn heat to low and gradually whisk in the grits.

Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in cheddar cheese and black pepper to taste.

Add extra salt, if desired.

SAUSAGE AND HASH BROWN CASSEROLE

Nan Whittelsey

This savory southern casserole contains all the fixings for a classic breakfast of eggs, sausage and hash browns in a single dish, which makes it great for feeding a crowd on Christmas morning.

Vegetable oil spray

1 lb. loose breakfast sausage

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, or as needed

1 small white onion, cut into ½-inch dice

1 32 oz. container frozen diced hash brown potatoes

8 large eggs

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup milk

1 tsp. garlic powder

¾ tsp. sweet paprika Pinch of ground sage

1 tsp. kosher salt

¼ tsp. ground white pepper

2 cups (about 8 oz.) grated sharp cheddar cheese

¼ cup minced chives, optional

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.

Line a plate with paper towels. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it up with the side of a spoon. Use a slotted spoon to transfer sausage to paper towels. If there

is very little oil left behind in pan, add some olive oil.

Sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in hash brown potatoes and cook until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Stir in reserved sausage. Remove pan from heat.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, garlic powder, paprika, sage, salt and white pepper. Whisk in cheddar. Stir in sausage/hash browns mixture.

Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake until the top is browned, and the center is set, about 45 minutes. Cover the baking dish with foil if the top begins to brown before center is set.

Remove from oven and sprinkle chives on top before serving.

The casserole is best served the same day it is baked. Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Makes 12 servings.

SPINACH TOPPED TOMATOES

Katie Whittelsey

These are a great side dish for entertaining because you can do most of the work ahead of time.

Two 10-oz. pkg. fro-

COOKIES >>

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RECIPES >>

FROM A10

zen, chopped spinach, thawed and drained

1 Tbsp. minced garlic cloves, sautéed 2 onions, chopped and sautéed 4 eggs

¼ cup mayonnaise ¾ cup butter or margarine, melted ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese ¼ tsp. thyme ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper 20 very thick slices of tomatoes Combine all ingredients except tomato slices, mixing well. Spoon about ¼ cup of mixture at a time onto a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper. Freeze toppings and transfer to sealed, plastic Ziploc bag for storage.

When ready to serve, place spinach topping on tomato slice. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Serves 10.

SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE CASSEROLE

Katie Whittelsey

Four 10-oz. pkg. chopped, frozen spinach

11 oz. cream cheese, softened 5 Tbsp. melted butter Juice of one lemon Salt, pepper and seasoned salt, to taste Several dashes of nutmeg

2 1 lb. cans artichoke hearts, drained Cook spinach only until completely thawed. Drain thoroughly. Blend softened cheese and melted butter until smooth. Add lemon juice and combine with spinach. Stir in seasonings. Place artichoke hearts pointed side up in large baking dish. Spoon spinach over artichoke hearts. Cover with aluminium foil. Punch a few holes in foil and bake in 350-degree oven for 30 minutes. May be prepared ahead.

Serves 8 to 10.

CHRISTMAS FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Katie Whittelsey

If you want to make this extra special start with a thinly sliced layer of Granny Smith apples as the bottom layer! Cut up 1 loaf French bread, ¾ inch thick slices. Set aside.

Melt together: 1 cup brown sugar, packed ½ cup butter 2 Tbsp. Karo corn syrup ½ tsp. cinnamon ½ to 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans (optional)

Sprinkle over bread: ½ tsp. cinnamon ¼-1/3 cup brown sugar

Blend together: 5 eggs, beaten 1½ cups milk

2 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla ½ tsp. cinnamon

Optional: Granny Smith apples as your first layer!

Place melted mixture in a greased 7 ½ inch x 11 ¾ inch baking dish. Arrange bread slices tightly together over mixture and sprinkle the ½ tsp. of cinnamon and ¼ cup brown sugar over top of the bread, then pour liquid evenly over bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Uncover and bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 25 minutes or until puffed and light brown.

BANANA NUT BREAD

Nan Whittelsey

1/2 cup margarine or butter, room temperature

1 cup sugar

2 eggs 4 bananas, mashed 2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. soda

1 pinch salt

1 cup chopped nuts

Combine margarine and sugar; mix until well blended. Add eggs and mix. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour.

CROCK-POT BEEF TIPS AND RICE

Nan Whittelsey

1 lb. lean beef tips

Flour Oil

1 can golden mushroom soup

1 envelope Lipton golden onion soup mix

Cooked rice

Roll beef tips in flour and lightly brown in oil. Put the beef tips in crock-pot. Mix both soup mixes with the beef tips. Add a 1/4 to a half of can of water.

Cook on low for 4 hours. Serve over rice.

GRILLED LAMB CHOPS WITH MINT OIL

Katie Whittelsey

We love lamb chops at Christmas time, and the mint oil adds a special touch!

Lamb chops Fresh garlic Salt

1 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Prepare lamb chops for Green Egg (or any grill) by rubbing them all over with fresh garlic. Combine remaining ingredients to make the mint oil.

Grill lamb to desired temperature (we prefer medium rare, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side). Brush chops with mint oil and sprinkle with fresh mint. Serve remaining mint oil in a small bowl with a silver spoon for an extra special touch on the table.

PLAINS SPECIAL CHEESE RING

Katie Whittelsey

We put rosemary around the edges in the shape of a wreath! This recipe was made popular by Rosalynn Carter.

1 lb. grated sharp cheese

1 cup finely chopped nuts

Black pepper Dash cayenne

1 cup mayonnaise

1 small onion, finely grated

Strawberry preserves, optional Combine all ingredients, except preserves, season to taste with pepper. Mix well and place in a 5- or 6-cup lightly greased ring mold. To serve, unmold cheese spread and, if desired, fill center with strawberry preserves, or serve plain with crackers.

Roulade and Pork Tenderloin. Price is set at $120 per person, with optional beverage pairings for $80.

To view the full menu, visit www. sprouthouseagency.app. box.com/s/2atxxctquf45pv8xwp1emdjcj8kyvo40/. Reservations can be made via Tock at www.exploretock. com/1856/.

On New Year’s Eve, the special seven-course tasting menu experience will include raw bar offerings, such as king crab, oysters, scallop ceviche and caviar; Foie Gras; Loup de Mer; Short Rib Ragu; Lamb Chops; and Baked Alaska. The price is also $120 per person, with optional

beverage pairings for $100. Various reservation times are available at www.exploretock. com/1856/. To view the menu, visit www. sprouthouseagency.app. box.com/s/8xbdueffr3yf4vdygoc0lf5rqdgcnco1/.

In addition, the Laurel Hotel & Spa is offering a New Year’s Eve Elevation package consisting of the 1856 New Year’s Eve dinner for two, a hotel room reservation, a rooftop reception with a champagne toast and a New Year’s Day brunch. For more information, visit www.laurelhotelandspa. com/auburn-al-hoteldeals/.

The Rane Center, currently housing 1856 and other restaurants, is located at 205 S. College St. in Auburn.

CHICKEN SPAGHETTI

Sue Whittelsey’s favorite dish

1 hen

1 stick butter

1 clove garlic

1 large can tomatoes

3 tsp. flour

2 medium onions

1 large can pimento

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

1/4 tsp. red pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

24 oz. spaghetti Half cover hen with water; add one onion. Simmer until tender. Remove hen from stock and take meat off bones.

Melt butter in skillet, add flour and brown; add tomatoes, milk, onions, pimentos, celery, salt and pepper to taste. Add 1 cup stock. Cook slowly, 30 to 40 minutes. Then add chicken and set aside. Cook spaghetti and drain; add to chicken.

Add broth to moisten. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbling. This can be made the day before and may be reheated. A little cream of mushroom soup can be added in place of stock, if desired.

CHERRY SALAD

Sue Whittelsey

1 can pitted, sour pie cherries, canned in water

5 Tbsp. sugar, divided 1 pkg. cherry gelatin 1 cup chopped pecans 1 orange rind, grated 1 lemon rind, grated 1 small can crushed pineapple Drain juice from cherries and add 2 Tbsp. sugar to juice. Heat juice and add gelatin. Add 3 Tbsp. sugar to drained cherries. Add pineapple, nuts and grated rinds. Add to gelatin mixture and pour into a mold. Place in refrigerator. Serves 8.

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RELIGION —

Well, it's that time of year when the Christmas cliches are taken out of their boxes, dusted off and put back into circulation. Jesus (not the risen Lord but the less imposing perpetual baby) is brought out for brief appearances in Christmas pageants and plays. Everyone from movie makers to

beer companies use His birth to push their products. It is the height of irony that such commercialism is tied in with the birth of One who had no place to lay His head.

Disciples certainly aren't immune from the "faith" that is six weeks long and an inch deep. Many of us spend too much of our time being offended by decisions to disallow nativity scenes on public property, people saying "Happy Holidays" and other failures to meet our standards of piety.

Maybe it's time for all of us to go back to Bethlehem.

It was a weary world into which the Christ came, one worn down by the grind of the centuries. Diseased, dying and desperate for some kind of help

and any semblance of hope, it found little of either in its plethora of religions which too often crushed the very spirits of those it should have lifted. Judaism was so corrupt that it was blind to its own Messiah, while the amoral and arbitrary Greco-Roman deities offered nothing in the way of refuge or comfort.

Socrates, Plato and Aristotle had all come and gone, and for a moment a busy world had paused, lifted their heads, perked up their ears and opened their minds. But in the end, they found more shadow than substance, more questions than answers and more speculation than revelation.

The Macedonian, Alexander, stepped

onto the world's stage followed by his non-sogreat successors. Then came the Caesars of the Eternal City and the Pax Romana. But a beaten down world longed for a better peace.

Winter had set in on man's soul. The embers which had glowed so brightly launching the dancing flames of dreams, aspirations and hopes, had flickered, and died. All that remained were the ashes of disappointment and disillusionment. It was cold. It was bleak. It was dark. If ever man needed a Savior, now was the time. Into this world came the Christ. He came not just at the right time; He came for all time.

Jesus is the reason for the season? Well, yes, if you can get past the triteness there's

BIBLE VERSE OF THE WEEK

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ANGLICAN

The Good Shepherd Anglican Church 3015 Opelika Road, Opelika

APOSTOLIC HOLINESS

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

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

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

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

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

Greater Peace Missionary

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

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

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

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

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

Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika

10th Street Church Of

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

Church Of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy., Opelika 334-742-9721

Southside Church Of Christ 405 Carver Ave., Opelika 334-745-6015

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

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

Beulah United Methodist Church 5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika

some truth worth telling there. But doesn't the risen Lord deserve more than a slogan that has a shelf life of six weeks? Is His universal reign limited to just a single season of the year? Jesus is, in fact, the reason for all of the seasons.

Don't reduce Christ to a seasonal ornament. He is honored most not by our gift-wrapped presents or our giftwrapped houses and yards, but by giftwrapped hearts that quietly serve Him and others daily.

And speaking of gifts, remember the real gift we need is not under the tree, it's on the tree.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: a-tasteof-grace-with-brucegreen.com.

1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148

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

St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319

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

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

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

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

Mary said, "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.... The Mighty One has done great things for me — holy is his name." — Luke 1:46

WALTER ALBRITTON

RELIGION —

Though the birth of Jesus is not celebrated by everyone, it remains true that what God did at “Christmas” was for the whole world. The Bible is clear on this. In his Gospel, John says God sent his Son into the world that “the world” might be saved. In Luke’s Gospel, the angel tells the shepherds that the good news of Jesus’ birth was for “all the people.” So the birth of Jesus was God’s gift to everyone, and therefore the best of all Christmas gifts.

This means that each of us is equally loved by God. None of us is excluded from the love God offers all people everywhere. When I reflect on this, joy floods my soul. The God who made me loves me. He knows my

The Best Christmas Gift

name. I am a person, made in the image of a Person who is the Creator of all things. And that Person loves me, even me! That, beloved, is reason to rejoice.

A miserable feeling, like a dark cloud, descends upon us when we are excluded. It hurts to be shunned, ignored or rejected, and most of us have memories of such pain. You may remember one of these painful occasions:

When captains on the playground were choosing players for their teams, you were the last one chosen.

You were an orphan, in an orphanage, praying for a family to adopt you, and nobody wanted you.

You wanted to eat in a certain restaurant, but you were not allowed in because of your skin color.

You wished to a cheerleader, but they said you were too heavy.

You had to turn around because the sign on the door read, “Members Only.”

The list is endless.

Painful exclusion, however, is not the end of your story, nor mine. Because God loves you, hopefully you have experienced the joy of being included. The angels spoke

to the humble shepherds about the “great joy” God would give them when they saw the baby Jesus. And so great was their joy that they returned home praising God for what they had seen.

Great joy is ours when we are accepted, affirmed and included. Few things beat the thrill of knowing you “belong” to a family, a team or a fellowship. To be denied the joy of belonging is devastating.

I arrived late for a speaking engagement in the huge ballroom of a hotel in Dallas, Texas.

Once I stepped inside, I was stunned by the sight of 500 pastors and their wives seated at round tables. I knew none of them personally. No one welcomed me or offered to help me find a seat. Feeling quite uncomfortable, I saw a table with an empty seat and dared to ask if the seat was taken. “Oh yes, that seat belongs to my wife,” a man said curtly with a look on his face that meant “Move on, Buddy.”

I went to another table with an empty chair and asked if it was available. The reply was less than welcoming — “Yeah, sure;

help yourself.” Neither of the men I sat between introduced himself to me; both ignored me and resumed chatting with their friends. I began eating a salad while being ignored by seven other people who were acquainted. An understandable situation — but painful nonetheless.

Then something wonderful happened. I felt two hands on my shoulders. Someone was standing behind me. I recognized the voice of my friend, Professor Elton Trueblood, as he interrupted the conversations at the table with these unforgettable words: “Please excuse me, dear friends; I want you to meet my friend Walter Albritton from Alabama. Do get to know Walter; you will like him.” After greeting me, the good doctor walked back to the head table. He left me a bit embarrassed but filled with the great joy of being affirmed, accepted and included! His gracious affirmation created for me the joy of belonging. Such joy is what Christmas is all about — the joy of feeling God’s hands on your shoulders, making you aware that despite your

sins He accepts you and loves you. It is the joy of knowing you are included in his offer of redeeming love to the whole world. It is indeed wondrous news — that God’s love excludes no one and embraces “all people”!

For many years the Hebrews had felt excluded from God’s love. Their disobedience had brought on the wrath of God’s judgment — bondage in a strange land. The prophets gave them hope — the promise of a Messiah who would come and save them.

Finally, “in the fullness of time,” the Messiah came! Jesus was born as promised! The God whose name is Immanuel, “God with us,” arrived, born of all places in a cow’s stall. And the best news of all — the “gift” of Jesus was for all people!

Especially good news for those who know the misery of not belonging.

The lowly shepherds must have felt unworthy of God’s favor, having no reason to suppose they were included in the Creator’s love. The “important” people would have greeted the angel’s good news with skepticism. But the shepherds received

it with great joy.

Some brilliant people are reluctant to embrace the simple truth of the biblical account of the birth of Jesus. To them the story is a lovely myth. Each of us must decide — is it a myth or good news for everyone?

I pushed my doubts aside and chose to side with the shepherds. So for me the essential meaning of Christmas is that the great plan of God became a reality when Christ was born. God made salvation available to all people through the birth of Mary’s baby.

The birth of Jesus then is the best of all Christmas gifts, a gift of accepting love that all who receive it can share it with others.

All around us are people who feel excluded from God’s favor. They wait to be shown they belong to God’s family. They are looking for more than a toy under a tree; they long to be embraced as brothers and sisters who are included in the Father’s family.

Put your hands on someone’s shoulders this Christmas, and experience the joy of sharing the best Christmas gift with someone longing to belong.

for 42 years.

Casimira Dasko Voelkel, of Opelika, died Dec. 12, 2022. She was born in Koblenz, Germany, on March 4, 1947, to Laura and John Dasko of Poland.

At the age of 4, her family moved to Maryland, entering the country through Ellis Island.

Casi grew up in Baltimore and attended Notre Dame of Maryland University, where she received her undergraduate degree. While a student, she met her future husband, Paul Voelkel, a medical student at the University of Maryland, and they were married Oct. 11, 1969.

While her husband was finishing medical training in Atlanta, Casi attended and graduated from Emory University with a master's degree in library science. From there, she and Paul moved to Opelika, where Paul accepted a position at Lee County Hospital. They loved the community of Opelika, and its proximity to larger cities, and lived here

While married to Paul and raising two children, she worked at Lewis Cooper Memorial Library and as a local school librarian. Later, the decline of her husband’s health required her to be home full time.

Caring for her family was a top priority in Casi’s life. She was proud to be the mother of two loving children, Valerie Bennett (Wade) of Auburn and JohnPaul Voelkel (Christina) of Huntsville. She is survived by her children and their spouses and five wonderful grandchildren: Paul and JJ Bennett and Valyn, Ian and Avery Voelkel. They lovingly called her “Mimi,” as chosen by her first granddaughter, Valyn.

Casi was a longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was an avid gardener with an enviable green thumb, enjoyed cooking and collecting cookbooks, and traveling to the West Coast, Lake Martin and the Gulf. Her French Bulldog,

Margot, was an affectionate companion as was her English Springer Spaniel, Scruffy, her adored pet for 18 years. She also loved pugs, who she came across through friends and family.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Dr. Paul Brown Voelkel.

A service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Saturday, Dec. 17, at 2 p.m., following a visitation from 1 to 2 p.m.. A final private family burial was held after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Opelika or St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Auburn.

SHARON AARON NEWMAN

Sharon Aaron Newman, 71, of Opelika, passed away Dec. 12, 2022, at EAMC. Mrs. Newman is survived by her husband David Newman; children: Tara (Shane) Campbell, Amanda (Sean) Hudson,

Tyler (Megan) Newman; brother Buddy Aaron; grandchildren: Zachary Hudson, Johnathan Fuller; and several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Newman was a native of Chambers County and lived in Opelika since 1983. She was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church where she was a member of the Larry Keeble Sunday School Class. She loved going to the beach and mountains and loved her family very much.

A memorial service was held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2022, at Lakeview Baptist Church with the Revs. Cliff Knight and Blake Lockhart officiating.

NANCY JANE BOOTH KILLIAN

Nancy Jane Booth Killian, 87, went home to her Lord and Savior on Monday, Dec. 12, 2022.

She was the loving and supportive wife for 61 years of Albert F Killian Sr. She is survived by sons, Albert

Floyd Killian Jr. (Freddie) and James Alex Killian (Marsha) and daughters, Jane Ann Killian Fleming (Ed) and Molly Kathryn Killian Frederick (Mike); four grandchildren, Tiffany Killian, Matthew Riley Frederick (Leah), Martha (Marti) Killian Frederick Harris (Wade), and Jane Killian Bunting (Lucas); and three great-grandchildren, RileyKate, Cruze and Ensley Frederick; siblings Jamie Booth, Kathryn Booth and Jerry Booth.

She was born in Childress, Texas, on Feb. 21, 1935, to Herschel Alexander Booth and Vesta Coleman Booth.

Nancy attended schools in Opelika, graduating from Clift High School and receiving bachelor's and master's degrees from Auburn University where she taught Freshman English for several years.

While living in Auburn for over 35 years, Nancy was an active member of Lakeview Baptist Church. Nancy and Albert moved back to their hometown

of Opelika in 2002 and joined First Baptist Church, Opelika where they served for many years teaching Sunday School for their peers. Nancy was a faithful member of the church choir and had a lifetime of welcoming friends, neighbors, church and family members into her home to benefit from her gift of hospitality.

Nancy spent many years volunteering at Lee County Humane Society with Albert and together they fostered over 60 dogs in their home from 1999 to 2012.

Visitation was held in the Chapel at First Baptist Opelika on Dec. 19 followed by a celebration service with Dr. Mike King officiating. The family respectfully declines the gift of flowers and asks any memorial donations or gifts be directed to First Baptist Church - Opelika www. fbcopelika.com or The Lee County Humane Society www.leecountyhumane.org supporting No More Wasted Lives.

CASIMIRA DASKO VOELKEL

What's Happening in Lee County

2023 CITY MARKET VENDOR APPLICATIONS OPEN

Are you a local grower or artisan wanting to share your products with those in the community? Apply to be a vendor at Auburn Parks and Recreation's 2023 City Market. City Market vendor applications opened Nov. 14. City Market will be held Saturdays from May 20 through Aug. 26 at Town Creek Park from 8 to 11 a.m., with vendor setup beginning at 7 a.m.

Farmers, growers and artists who are interested in participating in the City Market must fill out an online application or apply in person at the Harris Center (425 Perry St.).

For more information, including a link to vendor applications and the City Market handbook, please visit www.auburnalabama.org/citymarket or contact Sarah Cook, market coordinator, at scook@auburnalabama.org.

NAMI MEETING

NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will not meet in December. The next meeting will be in January 2023.

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.

O GROWS — SATURDAYS AT THE GARDEN

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.

AUBURN/OPELIKA MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS

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.

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.

Auburn/Opelika MOPS meets twice a month on the first and third Thursday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at Pepperell Baptist Church at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika. MOPS’ autumn schedule is Sept. 15; Oct. 6, 20; Nov. 3, 17 and Dec. 1 and 15.

The MOPS theme this year is "coming together as friends." You can contact Coordinators Rachel Elrod at 706-244-5620 and Kaela Sexton at 719-351-8093, or you can email auburnopelikamops@gmail.com.

LEE/RUSSELL COUNTY LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP

The group will meet every month on the third Wednesday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The meeting will be held at the AIDB-Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind Opelika Regional center on 355 Dunlop Drive in Opelika. Every month there will be different topics discussed to make life more manageable living with low vision. Contact Shiquita Fulton, M. ED/Vision Rehab Therapist for additional details at 334-705-2024, or Melody Wilson, case manager for the blind, at 256-368-3258.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION WITH VFW

POST 5404

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

(MOPS) UNITE FOR A NEW YEAR!

Camp War Eagle Helps Students Feel At Home

BY D. MARK MITCHELL

OHS Lady Bulldogs Split Games

OPELIKA —

The OHS Lady Bulldog basketball team (6-7) split two games last week, losing to Lanett (45-13) and beating Benjamin Russell (40-25).

Head coach Blake Smalley was at a loss for words after watching his team score a season-low 13 points while allowing 45 points, saying, "It was just one of those nights, but I know we will bounce back.”

The girls bounced back two days later, beating BRHS 40-25 in the Mainstreet gym inside OHS. Leading scorers included Tyra Pitts, who scored 8 points, and Naomi Whack and Cherdi Daniels, who added 7 points each. Smalley played 13 freshman over 5 minutes apiece in the win over the Lady Wildcats. No question, the more they play the more each improves.

The Lady Dawgs played in a Christmas tournament at Eufaula High School, Wednesday and Thursday. Results were not available at press time.

The Opelika boys’ basketball team (55) is in the middle of a three-game win streak, beating Russell

County (60-52), Lanett (74-42) and Benjamin Russell (69-64).

Last Thursday, OHS beat Benjamin Russell behind Mekhiron Brocks's double-double, 18 points and 17 rebounds. DJ Harris followed with 14 points, Isaiah Knight scored 12 points and Trindon Manior added 8 points.

OHS girls and boys return to the court Jan. 3 at Lanett, Jan. 6 at Smiths Station, Jan. 10 at home versus Central and at home hosting Auburn Jan. 13.

WRESTLING

The Opelika wrestling team participated in a tri-match at Phenix City. The following are OHS wrestlers and results: 120 pounds - J. Ambrocio (won), 122 pounds - 132 poundsB. Wilson (won), 138 pounds - D. Anderson (won) and T. Gaither 152 pounds (won).

The OHS grapplers competed in the Swede Umbach Invitational at Auburn High last weekend. Opelika's Brady Campbell won the 145-pound weight class with a perfect 3-0 record.

SPORTS WRITERS ALL-STATE

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN — Mark Armstrong was recognized for his work in November as one of Auburn Mayor Ron Ander’s Lamplighter award winners.

Every year, Anders acknowledges the work of a few Auburn residents during his State of the City address.

Typically, these awards are presented as a surprise to the recipients, who have no idea the real reason they are at the state of the city.

This year, Anders awarded six Lamplighter awards. Armstrong was one of these.

Armstrong serves as the executive director

of academic partnerships but said most people would probably know him better as the director of Camp War Eagle.

He said that is actually how he became familiar with Anders. Back when Anders and his family were still running Anders Bookstore, Armstrong said they were involved with Camp War Eagle.

Armstrong’s relationship with Auburn dates back to his graduate school days in 1994 when he came to Auburn as a graduate student and worked with orientation.

“I just finished my 25th year as being the director of our orientation programs,” he said.

Ironically, Armstrong said he didn't have any plans

to stay in Auburn after graduation, but like many others in this city, found he couldn’t resist the call of the plains.

“Auburn just — it has this way, I guess,” he said. “I like to tell people Auburn had the foresight to hire me as part of the staff when I finished my master's [degree], but in reality, it was the first and best opportunity that came along so I took it and now here I am, nearly 30 years later.”

While Camp War Eagle, during the summer, is the busiest season, Armstrong said the whole year is busy and has lots going on.

“Camp really has grown to the point that really, it’s a 12-montha-year venture,” he said.

Student leaders/ counselors have to

be hired and trained, meetings must be held with campus partners, plus there is transfer orientation throughout the year.

When Armstrong attended the State of the City this year, he thought he was doing so in support of his wife. Little did he know, they had been planning the surprise well in advance.

“It wasn’t until I was on the stage and saw my parents were there, my in-laws, all of my coworkers — a whole pile of current and former student employees were also there — it wasn't until then, really, that I was like, ‘Oh this has been known for a while,’" he said.

Armstrong said his wife had to trick him into attending.

ALABAMA

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Camp War Eagle Director Mark Armstrong, center, poses with his Lamplighter award, with his wife Sarah (left) and daughter Turn (right), following Auburn Mayor Ron Anders' State of the City address. Armstrong was one of six Lamplighter honorees this year.

'Poka Girls Take First in Lee County Holiday Classic

PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN / FOR THE OBSERVER

Loachapoka girls' basketball team took first place in the Holiday Classic held in Smiths Station Dec. 15 and 16. Smiths Stations Panthers took second place.

Panthers Finish Second at Boys Holiday Classic

Russell County boys' basketball earned the top honors during the recent Holiday Classic hosted by Smiths Station, while the Panthers came in second.

PHOTOS BY MATT AUSTIN FOR THE OBSERVER

FOOTBALL PLAYERS

The ASWA released the 2022 All-State football players for the AHSAA and AISA. The players are chosen by position in each classification. The following local athletes earned All-State.

AHSAA Class 7A first team: WR - Ean Nation, OL - Brayden Joiner, DL - Benton Williams, LB - Klark Cleveland. Second team: LB - Coleman Grandbarry.

Class 5A: Beauregard DB - Kyan Maloy. Honorable mention: RB - Jacori Tarver. Class 1A: Loachapoka RBJamaroun Satterwhite, DB - Jamari Payne.

Pedaling Through The Christmas Cheer

AISA Lee-Scott dominated Class 3A. Head coach Buster Daniel earned "Coach of the Year" honors after guiding the Warriors to a 12-0 season and winning the Class 3A Championship. The Warriors have several players on the first team All-State despite dominating opponents so bad, six teams decided to speed up the game in the second half by not stopping the game clock.

LSA players: Senior running back George Meyers led the offense with over 1,100 total yards despite only playing in 10 games and rushing only six to eight times a game. Senior linebacker Dalan Bush earned his

second straight AllState honors by leading the team in tackles. Senior DB Pete Lanier, junior athlete Andrew Hahn and athlete Jake "Nashville" White.

Placekicker Matt Rolader was named to the second team, and senior DB Quinn

Denson was MVP of the All-Star game. Congratulations to all of the All-State recipients.

MERRY CHRISTMAS I want to wish all my readers "MERRY CHRISTMAS" and a Happy New Year. Please remember

JESUS is the reason we celebrate Christmas. Reach out to someone in need and brighten their life.

The Bulldogs are also playing at Eufaula this week, but results were not available at press time.

D. Mark Mitchell is

the sports director at iHeartMedia, host of “On the Mark” Fox Sports the Game 9101310, co-chair of the Auburn-Opelika Sports Council, chairman of the Super 7 and Dixie Boys Baseball state director.

PHOTOS BY ROBERT NOLES / THE OBSERVER

Cyclists enjoy a daytime tour of the downtown homes participating in Opelika's Victorian Front Porch Bike Tour on Dec. 10.

Beauregard Bowlers Roll to Top of Board

ARMSTRONG >>

FROM B1

She told him that all local principals needed to be at the State of the City, and she asked Armstrong to attend with her.

While he had a previous engagement that night that he coordinated at their church — Operation Christmas Child— he agreed.

Armstrong said the wheels started turning when he heard Anders talking about Camp War Eagle and its leadership.

“I don’t do my job to win awards or with recognition in mind, I do it to help our incoming students and their families feel comfortable and confident about the decision to come to Auburn at a time that could be tense and stressful for

them,” he said.

“So it was very kind of Mayor Anders to think of me for this and I’m certainly deeply appreciative of that, but the real lamplighters have been the students that work for us as orientation leaders over the last 25 or 30 years. And when I was standing on the stage, that’s who I was thinking about, actually.”

Students Advance With Black Stripes

Camp War Eagle is about helping incoming students and their families feel at home, he said.

“At the end of each orientation session, it's incredible how many people will just come up to me or to a member of my staff and really express a deep amount of thanks and gratitude,” Armstrong said. “They came in, they

were nervous, they were concerned, they weren't sure, they just had all these insecurities about Auburn and two days later, they leave and they're so anxious for fall to get here. They’re ready to go.”

While Armstrong said he never planned to stay in Auburn originally, he said he now loves living in Auburn.

“One thing that hasn't

changed in that time is that the people who live here love the city of Auburn,” he said. “And they may not always agree on what's the best thing for the city, but everyone has the city's best interests at heart. And I think that's what makes Auburn such a special place, is everybody wants the best for the city.”

At AuburnBank, we hope you and your family experience the joy and wonder of the Holiday Season. And may the coming year be filled with promise and prosperity. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Beauregard High School Bowling is rolling straight to the top. The team traveled to Elmore County for a tournament and the boys won the 6A-7A tournament. Bo Young made the all-tournament team and was the third top scorer.

On Nov. 5, the students of Auburn Jiu Jitsu and Auburn Mixed Martial Arts were promoted to their next level belts. Students were also awarded their black stripes and certificates. Classses included children, youth, teens and adults. "Our students have worked very hard all year and it was well deserved," said Auburn Jiu Jitsu and Auburn Mixed Martial Arts. "Congratulations to all of our awesome students."

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

Trinity Christian Holds Christmas Concerts

Auburn University Receives Multi-Million-Dollar Grant to Meet Rural Challenges

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

AUBURN —

Auburn University is one of three universities sharing a $28 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, or NIFA, to establish an Institute for Rural Partnership to research the causes and conditions of challenges facing rural areas.

Auburn University’s project is an interdisciplinary effort involving the College of Agriculture, the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering and the McCrary Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security.

“This project will allow researchers from

agriculture to leverage the manufacturing and cybersecurity expertise in engineering to advance some of Alabama’s most important agricultural and natural resources sectors,” said Paul Patterson, dean of Auburn’s College of Agriculture and director of the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station.

“This is a great opportunity for the two founding colleges at Auburn University to deepen their collaborative work to advance Alabama’s economy. In addition, faculty members in Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology will be investigating alternative enterprises that offer potential for additional growth for the agricultural sector and rural Alabama.”

Auburn’s share of the grant — $9.3 million — is for a four-year period. Others receiving funding include the University of Vermont and the University of Wisconsin.

“As part of the landgrant mission to improve the lives of the people of our state, this institute is the perfect intersection of what both our colleges do best,” said Steve Taylor, interim dean of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, who previously served as associate dean for research for the college and as head of the Department of Biosystems Engineering. “It’s only fitting on this 150th anniversary of our two colleges at Auburn that we boldly move forward, together, through this partnership.”

The goal of Auburn’s

project is to leverage modern technologies to advance rural Alabama through poultry production and forest products, said Oladiran Fasina, department head and alumni professor for the College of Agriculture’s Department of Biosystems Engineering. Fasina also is a co-lead principal investigator for the project along with Greg Harris, professor and chair of engineering’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering.

Other principal investigators include Bill Dozier, professor and head, Department of Poultry Science; Mykel Taylor, associate professor and ALFA Eminent Scholar, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology;

Gregory Prudy, assistant professor, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering; and Marc Sachs, McCrary Institute.

Alabama, Fasina said, is a global leader in the poultry and forest products agricultural industry sectors, with a $43 billion contribution from both industries to Alabama’s economy. Also, a significant percentage of the 210,000 jobs created in the state by these two industries are in rural Alabama.

“Our interdisciplinary approach will develop technology solutions that will assist producers and processors of poultry and forest products to improve their competitiveness and sustainability while addressing cyber-physical vulnerabilities due to use/

adoption of modern technologies,” Fasina said.

The project also aims to reduce the pollution of bodies of water in rural Alabama by developing systems that manage and upcycle waste streams from agricultural processing facilities.

“Ultimately, we will develop case studies that showcase new technologies and opportunities for agricultural and forest production in the rural South,” Fasina said. “We will develop and deliver project findings that summarize and evaluate project impacts on rural Alabama to target stakeholders and the public.”

The distribution of funding for the project will be 85% research, 10% Extension and 5% education.

Auburn University Launches Multi-Institutional Effort to Promote STEM Education

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY/BY MIKE JERNIGAN

AUBURN —

More than 60 participants from academia, government, industry and the local community convened on the Auburn University campus recently for the inaugural meeting and symposium of the Institute for Strengthening Pathways and Research Knowledge in STEM, or SPARK STEM Institute. The institute, which consists of two separate, but cooperating centers, falls under Auburn’s

Office for Special Projects and Initiatives.

According to Overtoun Jenda, Auburn’s assistant provost for special projects and initiatives and SPARK STEM director, the institute was inspired by a new $10 million grant from the National Science Foundation, or NSF, and several other broadening programs already housed in the office. The institute is a multi-institutional effort to lead and coordinate national and international programs promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics education through

two coordinating centers — one for underrepresented and underserved populations and a second for persons with disabilities.

Currently, more than 80 affiliate institutions and organizations are collaborating with the institute on various ongoing projects and initiatives.

“Participants networked and attended breakout sessions to discuss priority areas for the institute to focus on in its initial five years,” Jenda said at the inaugural meeting. “Over the life of the institute, our overarching goal is to

increase college and workforce readiness and the number of associate, undergraduate

and graduate degrees in STEM disciplines among our targeted groups. Our core effort

is to provide mentorship and guidance to encourage and support student

Participants gather for the inaugural meeting and symposium of the SPARK STEM Institute.

Trinity Christian School held its Christmas chorale and band concerts earlier this month at Lakeview Baptist Church.

"Skills for Success"

Rapid, No-Cost Training for Jobs in Alabama’s Construction Industry Available Across State

CONTRIBUTED BY ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM

MONTGOMERY —

Alabama’s construction industry has thousands of job openings, and now free training to operate bulldozers and skid steers is available through the Skills for Success program of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS).

A unique feature of Skills for Success training is how quickly it can be completed.

Part of the training is offered online, with interactive learning that is self-paced. Upon completing the online portion of the course, students then complete 16 hours of hands-on training with qualified instructors at any of the 24 community and technical colleges around the state.

The training is developed by the ACCS Innovation Center in partnership with Alabama businesses and industries.

“The No. 1 challenge for most businesses right now is finding and retaining a skilled workforce,” said Chris Stricklin, chief technology officer for Dunn Companies. “Skills for Success training, developed through partnership with industry partners, is the most innovative in the nation. We are working together for a better tomorrow for our individuals, companies, industries,

communities, our state and our nation. Together this will revolutionize our social dialogue and develop career routes with progression pathways.”

The Alabama Community College System started the Skills for Success rapid training program earlier this year. Since its launch, more than 1,500 Alabamians have registered for training for in-demand jobs in industries such as construction, food and beverage and trucking. The training is offered at no cost.

“Alabama is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers,” said Keith Phillips, vice chancellor of workforce and ecnoomic development for the Alabama Community College System. “By delivering rapid training, Skills for Success quickly provides the trained workforce employers need to fill in-demand jobs. Our community colleges have partnered with Alabama’s businesses and industries to develop these courses, so they provide job-specific training that leads to employment right away.”

Participants who complete training also earn an ACCS Credential, which signals to businesses that the individual has mastered the skills taught in the program and is immediately ready for employment. The ACCS Credential can

also be used as a foundation for additional classes and training at Alabama community colleges.

Brian Haynes, who took the Skills for Success bulldozer course said the rapid training “allows us to get the essential training that we need to enter the job market and we can hit the ground running. In today's market, these kind of skills are lacking and there's a great need to fill them.”

To learn more about Skills for Success and to register for training, visit the ACCS Innovation Center’s website: innovation. accs.edu.

ABOUT SKILLS FOR SUCCESS Skills for Success is the Alabama Community College System’s rapid workforce training program launched earlier this year. It was developed in partnership with the state’s businesses and industries so the training is aligned with the skills employers say workers need to fill available jobs. Skills for Success training is offered at no cost to participants. The Innovation Center is a division of the Alabama Community College System that brings together the state’s community colleges, business and industry and community partners to deliver Skills for Success training. Visit innovation.accs.edu for more information.

Auburn Baseball Announces Third-Straight Season Ticket Sellout

BY AU ATHLETICS

AUBURN —

Auburn baseball has sold out of season tickets for the 2023 season, eclipsing the 2022 season for a record number of season tickets sold and marking the program’s third straight season ticket sellout.

Fans who missed the chance to purchase season tickets this year will be able to join the Tigers Unlimited Billy Hitchcock Ticket Priority Program wait list for the chance to purchase season tickets next season starting in August 2023.

Additional ticket options for the 2023 season will include single-game tickets, eight-game mini packs and flex plans and will go on sale to the public in mid-January. Visit aubtix.com or

contact the ticket office at 855-282-2010 (ext. 1) for more information.

Auburn set a single-season attendance record of 127,947 in 2022, surpassing the previous record set in 2004 by more than 16,000.

Coming off the program’s second trip to the College World

Series in the last three seasons, the Tigers and eighth-year head coach Butch Thompson open the 2023 season with a three-game series against Indiana beginning Friday, Feb. 17. The team’s complete schedule can be found here: www. auburntigers.com/sports/ baseball/schedule.

Auburn University to Add Electric Bikes, Scooters to Campus

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN UNIVERSITY

AUBURN — Auburn University is partnering with Spin, a leading micromobility company, to offer electric bike and scooter transportation for students, faculty, staff and visitors on campus starting Jan. 16.

The new modes of transportation offer an eco-friendly option for traversing campus, and they incorporate such safety features as “no ride zones” and “slow ride zones” at various locations. The zones are visible within a Spin mobile phone app that is used to book and pay for the use of the e-bike or e-scooter and that can slow or redirect the e-bike or e-scooter involving “no ride” or “slow ride” zones.

Auburn’s agreement with Spin is for a minimum of three years and will launch Jan. 16 with an initial fleet of 100 e-bikes and 100 e-scooters that will be available for operation from 5 a.m. to midnight daily. Specific locations will be designated for where the devices should be parked on campus.

“We are very excited to announce this partnership with Spin,” said Arishna Lastinger, Auburn’s associate director of Parking Services. “During the last couple of years, we have been busy trying to find and develop a micromobility program that would best serve our campus. This program with Spin will not only include electronic assist bicycles, but it will also come with electronic scooters. Due to the nature of these new devices, we have also worked diligently to ensure that this new program is safe and beneficial to our students as well as our faculty and staff.”

Spin e-bikes will reach a top speed of 20 mph, while Spin e-scooters will have a top speed of 15 mph. The e-bikes and e-scooters will be

STEM >> FROM B6

success.”

“This will be achieved and sustained by leveraging funding sources, conducting impactful service, involving exceptional and engaged faculty and mentors and developing creative and transformative research-based models for improving academic performance and social integration in STEM disciplines.”

The two-day event included multiple

deployed at designated locations across Auburn’s campus and will be discoverable in the Spin app.

“SGA is thrilled to partner with Spin to bring e-bikes and e-scooter rentals to our campus,” said John David Matthews, executive vice president of initiatives for Auburn’s Student Government Association, or SGA.

“This is something that our students have consistently expressed interest in having on our campus. This addition to our campus is a tangible reminder of how Auburn strives to offer the best student experience in the country.”

The cost to ride will be $1 to unlock the e-scooter or e-bike plus a charge of 30 cents per minute of use. An additional pricing option offers a monthly $5.99 fee with no cost to unlock the e-scooter or e-bike plus the 30 cents per minute of use cost. There also will be a 24-hour Spin pass that will be priced at a total of $14.99 per day.

"The campus footprint of Auburn University offers an excellent use case for micromobility," said Derek Stehlin, manager for Campus and Government Partnerships at Spin. "We're thrilled about the opportunity to bring a safe, equitable and sustainable transportation solution to

breakout sessions led by representatives from academia, industry, community and government. The keynote speaker was Fay Cobb Payton, professor emeritus of Information/ Technology Systems at North Carolina State University. Foundation representatives also attended to give updates on NSF programs, and attendees also included representatives from a number of partners, including the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the Alabama Department

the campus community in partnership with the university."

Headquartered in San Francisco, Spin is a leading micromobility company that operates shared e-scooter and e-bike progams in partnership with universities and cities across North America.

To download the Spin app www.spin. app/.

ABOUT AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Auburn University is a nationally ranked land grant institution recognized for its commitment to world-class scholarship, interdisciplinary research with an elite, top-tier Carnegie R1 classification, life-changing outreach with Carnegie’s Community Engagement designation and an undergraduate education experience second to none. Auburn is home to more than 30,000 students, and its faculty and research partners collaborate to develop and deliver meaningful scholarship, science and technology-based advancements that meet pressing regional, national and global needs. Auburn’s commitment to active student engagement, professional success and public/private partnership drives a growing reputation for outreach and extension that delivers broad economic, health and societal impact.

of Rehabilitation Services, Southern Company and Southwest Airlines.

Cooperating universities in the multi-institutional effort were also well represented. Mohammed Qazi, associate dean and professor of mathematics at Tuskegee University, welcomed the guests to a working dinner, while Carl Pettis, provost and vice president of academic affairs and professor of mathematics at Alabama State University, delivered the symposium’s closing remarks.

CONTRIBUTED

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED TO THE OBSERVER

PHOTO BY ZACH BLAND / AU ATHLETICS

Auburn baseball players during a game in October.

The Opelika Kiwanis Club hosted the Lee-Scott Academy Jazz Band last week and said that it was "truly a great way to end an amazing year."

PHOTO

Club member Karen Hopkins delivered dictionaries to the third grade class at Creekside Elementary in Auburn. The smiles on the children's faces say it all. All third graders at each elementary school in Auburn received the books from the Auburn Rotary Club, which continues striving to make a difference in the community.

L

labama Politics ee County & A

Inside the Statehouse

The McMillans of Baldwin County

Alabama was even a state, their ancestors settled in the Stockton community near Bay Minette, which is where they call home. Their family is in the timber business.

STEVE FLOWERS

OPINION —

Alabama has a treasured history of famous political families. Many of the legacies are of father-and-son dynasties, the most prominent being the famous and powerful Bankheads of Jasper, which included a U.S. senator, John Hollis Bankhead, and sons, Sen. John H. Bankhead and Speaker of the U.S. House William Bankhead.

There is a long line of fathers and sons who both served in the state senate. We have had one father-son governor legacy. James E. “Big Jim” Folsom was governor in the 1940s and 1950s. His son, Jim Folsom Jr., was governor in the 1990s. “Little Jim” was literally born in the Governor’s Mansion during his daddy Big Jim’s first term as governor, 1946 to 1950.

During this generation, there are two brothers from Baldwin County who have made history. John and Steve McMillan have left a mark on Alabama political history. Decades from now, people will look at these twin brothers and say they have contributed a lot to Alabama. Yes, John and Steve are twins, both born on July 6, 1941.

The McMillans have deep family roots in Baldwin County. Before

Steve represented his home area in the Alabama House of Representatives for 43 years. The Baldwin County we see today as the fastest growing suburban county in the state was not the same Baldwin County they were born into 81 years ago. It was a large, sparsely populated, agricultural county.

As fourth-graders, we would read that it was the potato growing county of the state.

John said he remembers getting out of school for almost a month in the fall to help harvest potatoes when he was in high school.

John and Steve’s ancestors were not only the early leaders of Baldwin County but also of the state. Their great-grandfather, John Murphy, was governor of Alabama. John was named for him.

John M. McMillan Sr., John and Steve’s father, was an outstanding civic and church leader and also served 30 years on the Baldwin County school board.

Our current John Murphy McMillan graduated from high school in Bay Minette, then went to Rhodes College in Memphis, where he graduated with honors.

John was serving as county commissioner when he was elected to the state legislature in 1974. He was reelected in 1978. However, two years later, Gov. Fob James chose John to serve in the governor’s cabinet as Alabama’s

commissioner of conservation and natural resources. It was under his watch that the state created the Alabama Trust Fund, a plan that saved all revenues from leases on offshore oil operations. This fund has grown from the original investment of just over $400 million to a sum approaching $4 billion.

In 1985, John McMillan became the chief executive officer of the Alabama Forestry Association. He served as head of that powerful statewide association for 20 years. In 2010, John was elected the 29th state agriculture commissioner. He was reelected overwhelmingly in 2014, thus serving eight successful years from 2011 to 2019 in this very important statewide office.

In 2018, he was elected Alabama state treasurer. He served successfully in this post through late 2021, when he left to become the head of the newly created Cannabis Commission.

Steve McMillan, being John’s twin brother, had pretty much the same childhood as John. They grew up together in Stockton and worked on their uncle’s farm and family sawmill. Steve went on to Auburn University, where he graduated with honors. He came back home and started a real estate business, along with overseeing their family timberland.

When John became conservation director, Steve was elected to the House seat John vacated. Steve served in that seat for 43 years.

Opelika City Council Approves Tax Abatements

BY MICHELLE KEY MICHELLE@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

OPELIKA —

The Opelika City Council approved tax abatements for Car Tech LLC, HL Mando America Corporation and approved

extensions of previously approved abatements for AGS America Incorporated and Golden State Foods.

The Mando project is expected to cost nearly $18.5 million, and the Car Tech project is valued at a little over $11 million. The

extensions will extend the construction deadlines to December 2023.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

• The council approved a request from DBMC Restaurants of Opelika, AL LLC doing business

Auburn Discusses Business License Revocations

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

AUBURN —

During the Auburn City Council Committee of the Whole, the council heard a presentation on an amendment to the Business License Ordinance.

City Manager Megan Crouch gave the presentation after the amendment was tabled back in October.

“Businesses, along with our citizens, are the lifeblood of our community and there would never be an attempt by the city staff — never — to harm business in any way, shape or form,” Crouch said.

“Sometimes our goals are different, sometimes we need to do things and one of the No. 1 things we’re trying to do here is be sure that we’re being equitable in the treatment of all businesses.”

The presentation looked

at why a change might be necessary, what the change would entail and allowed the council to ask questions.

Crouch said that 90 other cities in Alabama leave business license revocations in the hands of the city council.

“Certainly what we’re trying to do here is a proposal to put all of the authority for the final enforcement actions in the elected governing body’s hands, which is you, the nine-elected member body by the citizens of Auburn,” Crouch said.

Allison Edge, finance director for the city of Auburn, said that business license revocation discussions have been happening for some time. For instance, one question Edge said the finance department has heard is why the council can’t revoke licenses if it is the body granting them.

One problem the depart-

ment sees is businesses that aren’t paying their taxes but are still allowed to operate.

“Here we are, and we’re still having issues with some businesses as it relates to failure to pay their taxes,” Edge said. “So, the ordinance is being introduced now so that we can make that process reduce the amount of time that businesses are allowed to operate in violation of city code.”

Edge said the Finance Department never wants to close a business. However, taxes must be paid, she said.

LaTrice Mose, revenue manager for the city of Auburn, explained the current process for dealing with businesses in violation.

There is a delinquent list held by the city that is thoroughly analyzed to make sure all businesses on that list actually need to be

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA

Aerial view of the HL Mando America Corporation.

Who Makes Sure My Doctor is Competent?

CONTRIBUTED BY MARK H. LEQUIRE, M.D.

OPINION —

Who ensures the competency of my doctor? It’s an excellent question, and a recent U.S. Supreme Court case of two physicians convicted of overprescribing pain medications makes it even more important.

In Alabama, this duty is fulfilled by the Board of Medical Examiners and Medical Licensure Commission. Both the board and commission exist to protect patients from unprofessional, unethical and improperly trained physicians.

This is an incredibly valuable public service, but one that is often overlooked and sometimes misunderstood. A diverse group of 23 physicians with more than 640 years of medical experience,

plus one non-physician member, serve on these two regulatory bodies. They take this responsibility seriously, recognizing that physician incompetence and unethical conduct can be harmful not only to patients but also to the public’s confidence in the profession.

The right to practice medicine is a privilege granted by the state, and no one can legally practice medicine in Alabama without a license. The work to protect patients in Alabama begins when the Board of Medical Examiners evaluates the qualifications of a license applicant. The board reviews the applicant’s medical education, medical examination results, work history and personal character. Ultimately, it assesses the applicant’s ability to safely and effectively care for patients

a business is delinquent to the court process.

and meet recognized standards of professional conduct.

The Board of Medical Examiners then certifies to the Licensure Commission those applicants who meet the requirements, and the commission issues a license granting the physician the privilege of practicing medicine in Alabama.

But the effort to protect patients doesn’t stop there. The board and commission continue to monitor and evaluate physicians to ensure that they maintain necessary standards, ethics and professional conduct. When a physician breaches these standards, it is up to the board and commission to determine whether a physician should be disciplined, up to and including revoking their license.

As part of this ongoing evaluation, complaints from patients and others play

a major role. The board receives and investigates all complaints against physicians and physician assistants from patients, patient surrogates, other healthcare providers, law enforcement and members of the public. When the board receives a complaint about a physician, it has the power to investigate, hold hearings and issue subpoenas.

After the investigation is complete, the commission determines whether the conduct rose to the level of terminating the physician’s ability to practice in Alabama or whether some other measure is more appropriate.

With a focus on protecting patients, these regulatory agencies have a strong record of holding physicians accountable. In the last year alone, for example, they have formally disciplined

over 50 physicians for offenses such as providing inadequate care, inappropriate prescribing and engaging in unprofessional conduct — including sexual misconduct and other boundary issues. In addition, the board has taken 26 administrative actions relating to prescribing deficiencies.

The board and commission are also engaged in ongoing, cooperative efforts to share licensure and disciplinary information with all other states and territories. This information is contained in a comprehensive, national database with information about all actively licensed physicians in the United States, as well as disciplinary actions dating back more than 50 years. This information is continuously updated since many physicians

hold licenses to practice medicine in more than one state.

So, despite the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Ruan and Kahn that set a higher bar for prosecuting doctors and that might inhibit some criminal prosecutions by the federal government, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and the Medical Licensure Commission of Alabama continue their important work unhindered. Thanks to these two important agencies, Alabamians can be assured that only qualified doctors are licensed to practice medicine in Alabama and that those doctors are held to the highest standards of patient care.

Mark H. LeQuire, M.D. Chairman, Alabama Board of Medical Examiners

on the list, Mose said.

Then a notice is sent to the businesses, a notice of delinquency, which she said is similar to a reminder.

“A majority of our issues are resolved with that initial notice,” she said.

If the issues are still not resolved, then the staff further looks at the list to make sure that the businesses are open, addresses are correct, etc., Mose said. A second notice is then sent.

Personal contact is made if businesses remain delinquent — meaning in-person visits if necessary.

If the issues remain unresolved, businesses are brought to municipal court, Mose said.

“Now they have to explain to the judge why they’re delinquent,” she said.

Auburn Mayor Ron Anders asked how long this process may take, which Mose said may be three months from noting

Sometimes it can take another five months or so after that, due to leniency from a judge, payment plans, etc.

If necessary, the department can ask the council to seek an injunction to close the business or find another way to receive the taxes.

The change would essentially put the power in the council's hands. Rather than appear before the council for permission to take the business to court with an injunction, the council could rule to close the business, or offer more time or a payment plan.

“We avoid the cost of court with this kind of ordinance, we avoid time, so the additional taxes don't add up and we, hopefully, will come up with a fair decision that’s presumed here,” said Ward 5 Council Member Sonny Moremon.

Crouch said that back in 2007 there was a statewide business license reform act that the city of Auburn did not participate in because a municipal judge at that

time thought that the municipal court would have the authority to revoke licenses in the city. However, without this provision, that's not the case, Crouch said.

There are businesses operating in Auburn without licenses that haven't been renewed and aren't paying their taxes; Mose said this is why the department would like this change made.

Under health, safety and wellness policy provisions, Crouch reassured the council and citizens that what this refers to is serious concerns, such as a business spewing waste or selling drugs from the business, not a minor zoning violation.

The proposed ordinance will appear before the council on Jan. 17 to be voted on.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

- The council approved the purchase of equipment for the soccer complex expansion for over $72,500.

- The council approved the purchase of a FARO 3D Laser Scanner for the

Police Department for FARO Technologies Inc. for over $47,000.

- The council approved the purchase of 22 H&K MP7A1 rifles and magazines from Gulf States Distributors for the Police Department for over $49,600.

- The council approved the purchase of an Accurint Virtual Crime Center from LexisNexis Risk Solutions for the Police Department for over $44,300.

- The council approved the annual renewal of the customer support fee for the Case Management, Computer Automated Dispatch System, Narcotics Management System and Mapping Display System from Southern Software Inc. for the Police Department for over $19,700.

- The council approved the purchase of a 2023 Ford Explorer from Stivers Ford Lincoln for the Public Safety Administration for over $37,400.

- The council approved the expansion of a sanitary sewer easement for Clayton Properties Group Inc. for

144 Yarbrough Farms.

- The council accepted public rights-of-way, drainage and utility easements for Sandhill Acres Development LLC for a property at the north side of Sandhill Road, west of Wrights Mill Road at Hunter’s Hill.

- The council accepted the expansion of an existing sanitary sewer easement for P and T Properties LLC for lot 177 Yarbrough Farms.

- The council approved a board appointment to the Board of Education for a term ending May 31, 2026.

- The council approved a board appointment to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a term ending Nov. 30, 2026.

- The council approved the city of Auburn Public Safety Training Center annexation of 9.16 acres at 7384 U.S. Highway 280 W.

- The council approved the Davis annexation of 6.08 acres for 311 Lee Road 26 for Chase and Kimberley Davis.

- The council approved the Little Brown Dog LLC and PKG Holdings LLC

Annexation for 36.46 acres of property on the north side of Shell Toomer Parkway, between Automotive Boulevard and Canary Drive for Little Brown Dog LLC and PKG Holdings LLC. The council then rezoned the land from rural to large lot residential district.

- The council declared property surplus and authorized the sale of the property at the Indian Pines Golf Course for Auburn University. The council then approved a lease agreement with Auburn University for the property.

- The council approved a conditional use approval for a performance residential use at 861 E. Magnolia Ave. for Kurt Hayley, Hayley Management Company.

- The council approved a tax abatement for ADS-Tec Energy Inc. in the Auburn Industrial Park at 229 Teague Court.

- The council allocated budgeted funds for industrial land acquisition for the Industrial Development Board of the city of Auburn.

to Taxpayers

CONTRIBUTED BY DREW WHITE

OPINION —

In the wee hours of Tuesday morning, Senate appropriators finally released the text of a gargantuan 4,155-page omnibus spending bill in a lastminute bid to gouge taxpayers, reward K Street allies and further expand the reach of our increasingly woke and weaponized federal government before a new House majority takes hold in January. The cost of this craptacular legislation is at least $1.7 trillion, with some estimates expected to show the true cost closer to $2 trillion with the inclusion of supplemental spending.

The bill includes explicit prohibitions on funding to secure the border despite record apprehensions and fentanyl deaths; no efforts to constrain rogue agencies like the FBI; increases funding to the CDC despite its persistent health misinformation; includes $16 billion in corrupt earmarks, including a $3 million funding stream for a

gay pride museum in New York City; and doubles-down on green energy climate dogma that is a key driver of our skyrocketing energy costs.

One of the key architects of the legislation is outgoing Alabama Sen. Richard Shelby, the ranking member on the appropriations committee. This, of course, will come as no surprise to people who have followed Shelby and his lessthan-illustrious career feasting on hardworking taxpayers as both a Democrat and a Republican.

In a recent interview with Beltway insider rag Politico, our esteemed senior Senator proudly offered a cliché-riddled quip that, “You can’t be against everything. I’m pretty conservative in a lot of ways, but I’m not against everything.”

And indeed, based on the substance of the last-minute taxpayer trough-feeding, one may rightly conclude that Shelby isn’t against anything. Like the dealmaking mercenary he has always been, Shelby supports pretty much all of it — especially

FROM B9

as Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, for a restaurant retail liquor and beer on premise license.

• The council approved a bid from Survey Equipment for the engineering department. The purchasing-revenue manager is hereby authorized to issue a purchase order to Earl Dudley LLC in the amount of $15,300.

• The council approved a change order request for purchase order No. 2300434 for the purchase of ammunition. The change order is being requested to change the brand originally ordered to the Hornady brand that was in stock; the total change order request is $1,300.

• The council approved the purchase of 96 Toter 64 gallon and 528 Toter 96 Gallon EVR II Universal/ Nestable Carts in the amount of $38,663.

• The council approved the purchase of Envirosight Inspection Crawler Camera Sansom Equipment Co. as a sole source purchase not to exceed $282,291.80.

• The council approved the purchase of a LiveAction Software and Maintenance 3-year contract to be awarded to CDW Government Inc. for the amounts listed below:

- Year one payment due 30 days from invoice No. 1: $93,025.05

- Year two due 30 days from invoice No. 2: $93,025.05

- Year three due 30 days from invoice No. 3: $96,541.95. The total invoice amount will be

renaming the FBI facility at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, which will soon be known as the “Richard Shelby Center for Innovation & Advanced Training.”

Shelby likes to say that monuments are for “pigeons and dogs,” but he certainly has no qualms about using our hard-earned money to rename or build his own personal Towers of Babel.

However, it’s not merely the substance contained within the omnibus — or Shelby’s ravenous corruption — that is objectionable. It is the fact that this lastminute, jam-it-throughbefore-Christmas deal, which will be less wellreceived than Clark Griswold’s membership in the Jelly-of-theMonth club, removes the ability for the incoming House Republican majority to roll back the Biden administration’s destructive policies until at least September of next year.

Spending bills are the primary legislative vehicles that Congress can use as leverage against a tyrannical executive branch.

Shelby not only doesn’t

$282,592.05.

• The council approved the purchase of a Varonis Software & Maintenance 3-year Contract for the Information Technology Department to renew the contract for a total cost of nearly $297,900 to be paid annually to SHI International Corp (“SHI”).

• The council approved a resolution for the execution of an Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement with Indian Pines Recreation Authority and to authorize prepayment of the special appropriation to Indian Pines Recreation Authority in the amount of $230,200.

• The council approved a request for a special use permit with AT&T at 2000 Steel St.

• The council approved a request for a special

care about giving the incoming House majority an opportunity to secure the border, fight inflation, lower energy costs and defang woke bureaucracies, he bragged that he is doing conservatives — and I suppose by extension all of us — a huge favor.

“If we’re successful, we’ll have probably done them a favor,” Shelby bragged to Politico. “There probably won’t be much thanks for it.”

On that, there is agreement.

There won’t be much thanks for it. There won’t be much thanks from the struggling Alabama families who dip further into their savings as lame duck losers like Shelby spend away their hard-earned money. There won’t be much thanks from Alabama employers who face mounting interest rates, tightening labor markets and an emboldened IRS dedicated to targeting and harassing the “right” people to feed the federal beast. And there sure as hell won’t be much thanks from the Alabama parents who will bury their sons and daughters from

use permit with Verizon Wireless at 2404 Frederick Road.

• The council approved a request for an extension of special use permit with Dish Wireless at 54 Reeder Road.

• The council approved an annual appropriation contract for FY2023 with American Red Cross: East Alabama Chapter in the amount of $8,500.

• The council approved an annual appropriation for FY2023 with AO Discover! in the amount of $6,000.

• The council approved an annual appropriation for FY2023 with Twin Cedars Child Advocacy Center in the amount of $5,000.

• The council voted to approve a quote from CDW Government for the renewal of the Google Workspace Enterprise

fentanyl poisonings.

The best Shelby can hope for is a few onefinger salutes from the working people who he happily screwed over in his decades-long career cutting backroom deals for his corporate friends. The only silver lining is that Shelby will soon be ancient history — just a six-letter name associated with several four-letter words written on too many buildings around our beautiful state.

One of the running jokes on Capitol Hill is that there are three parties: Republicans, Democrats and appropriators. And appropriators are the most corrupt. Shelby has been all three.

The most disturbing aspect of Shelby’s legacy, however, is that we are now stuck with his hand-picked protégé — incoming Sen. Katie Britt — who will assuredly follow in his footsteps as she admittedly seeks a seat on the appropriations committee. Britt is signaling that she will spend all our money, cut every deal she can, reward her wellconnected friends, supercharge a woke

Plus subscription in the amount of nearly $110,000.

• The ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance & Map for 8.928 acres located at 1531 and 1617 1st Ave. from M-1 to a planned unit development (PUD) remained on the table at the request of the landowner.

• The council voted to amend the City Code of Ordinances for a speed limit change on Waverly Parkway and Hamilton Road.

• The council voted to remove the ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance & Map to rezone 209.71 acres of land located at 3200 Columbus Parkway at the owner's request.

• The council voted to remove the ordinance for the annexation petition

bureaucracy dedicated to its progressive religion and come home every six years behind a smile and a silver cross to convince voters she is truly one of us.

Alabama voters must demand actual conservative representation and stop prioritizing the “Well, she seems like such a nice person” schlock or we will continue to elect people who fleece us, and we will continue to reap a corrupt and weaponized federal government.

Electing Republicans is simply not good enough. In fact, it’s arguable that it ever has been. We need real conservatives who are committed to fighting and defeating an increasingly radicalized Democrat party. And we needed them yesterday.

Alabamans cannot let Britt get away with continuing Shelby’s corrupt legacy. Alabama — and America — cannot afford another 36 years of Richard Shelby 2.0.

Drew White is a public policy consultant and former U.S. Senate staffer. He lives in Auburn with his wife and two children.

by Rodney and Laurie Jones to annex 209.71 acres of land located at 3200 Columbus Parkway (U.S. Highway 280) at the owner's request.

• The council voted to appoint Patricia A. "Patsy" Jones to the Opelika Utilities Board for a term that will expire May 4, 2026.

• The council voted to appoint Jamie Lowe to the Lee Russell Council of Governments MPO Citizen Advisory Committee for a term that will expire Jan. 1, 2025.

• The council voted to reappoint Ken Ridley to the Lee Russell Council of Governments

MPO Citizen Advisory Committee for a term that will expire Jan. 1, 2025.

The next city council meeting will be on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, at 6 p.m.

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Facing Setbacks in Politics? Copy AU’s Rowdy

days before Sen. Raphael Warnock won reelection over Republican Herschel Walker. New to politics, the 1982 winner of a Heisman Trophy was encouraged to run by former President Donald Trump.

OPINION —

In 1998, Republican leaders in Lee County saw a great opportunity to defeat longtime Democratic state Sen. Ted Little.

Rowdy Gaines, age 39, was a hero after winning three gold medals in the 1984 Summer Olympics. He was well-spoken, intelligent and solidly conservative. Yet he had a problem — he had not lived in the 27th District for at least three years (as required).

“That’s right, I have not lived here for at least three years, Greg,

so there goes my campaign,” he verified to me, then.

He continued as a swimming analyst for NBC. He has covered swimming at the Olympics since 1992. It began when Gaines received a swimming scholarship to Auburn University. He became a five-time NCAA champion due to the tutelage of head coach Richard Quick.

“The only way to explain this (lack of) candidate quality,” commented Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan a few

Walker lowered the bar for U.S. Senate candidates: Family members said they were abused and neglected, he opposed all abortions unless he paid for them himself and he lied about having a college degree and serving in the military. He did not even know what pronouns are — simple words like he, she, they and us.

To lower expectations for a debate, Walker admitted that “I am not smart.”

Based on his campaign missteps, I was not surprised. Warnock, too, had a domestic dispute. His wife called him “a great actor (who is) phenomenal at putting on a really good show.” Warnock denied allegations that he deliberately ran over her foot in a car. No charges were filed, though.

For Walker, it was found out he declared himself a Texas resident. But while with Gaines 24

years before, it was early enough to cancel the entry, Walker’s efforts done late in the stages. He had much unfavorable news and the race was close. If Walker had won, would he be disqualified as a non-voter in Georgia? Would he need to refund the thousands he received as a “resident of Texas,” because he is truly not a Texan?

Meanwhile, Mehmet Oz, an American–Turkish television host and professor, ran for public office for the first time. He lost the 2022 U.S. election in Pennsylvania to Democrat John Fetterman, lieutenant governor. He was criticized for promoting pseudoscience. In medical journals, his views on alternative medicine and the paranormal left many voters unsettled.

The Republican’s ties to Pennsylvania were considered weak by most observers. In 1986, Oz received a medical degree and master’s in business from the University of Pennsylvania; the medical school is highly regarded, and Wharton School is very respectable.

PUBLIC NOTICES

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MINNIE WILDER, DECEASED.

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2022-589

TO: LATOYA CANTRELL MICHAEL WILDER NIALAH PORTER CHERISH WILDER SHANNA WILDER MARILYN CLAYTON

DRED WILDER, JR. BRIDGETTE WILDER BEASLEY

NOTICE: On the 11th day of October, 2022, a certain writing, purporting to be the Will of MINNIE WILDER was filed in my office for probate by FRED WESTERN and EDDIE MILLER and the 9th day of January, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. was appointed a day for hearing thereof at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper.

Given under my hand, the 1st day of December, 2022.

BILL ENGLISH, JUDGE OF PROBATE

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 3683-2345 (334) 745-3504

Legal Run 12/8/22, 12/15/22 & 12/22/22 ---------------

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

ESTATE OF JUANITA J. WILLIAMS, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of December, 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.

Witness our hands, and dated this the 2nd day of December, 2022.

ROBERT WILLIAMS Legal Run 12/08/22, 12/15/22 & 12/22/22

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

ESTATE OF MARTHA R. BEASLEY, DECEASED COURT OF PROBATE

LEE COUNTY

Letters Testamentary of said deceased having

been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of December, 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.

Witness our hands, and dated this the 2nd day of December, 2022.

FRANK M. BEASLEY Legal Run 12/08/22, 12/15/22 & 12/22/22

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EULA MAE PETERS, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2021-671 Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of December, 2022, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

DEMETRA A. JACKSON Administrator

Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 12/8/22, 12/15/22 & 12/22/22

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR THE RENEWAL AND CONTINUATION OF THE LEVY OF AN 11 MILL AD VALOREM TAX FOR THE SUPPORT AND FURTHERANCE OF EDUCATION IN THE CITY OF OPELIKA (Amendment No. 8, Constitution of Alabama of 1901)

Notice is hereby given thata special municipal election will be held in the City of Opelika in the State of Alabama on Tuesday, the 28th day of February, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Central Time, at which there will be submitted to the qualified electors of the said City,

for their determination by ballot, the following proposition: Shall the City of Opelika be authorized to continue to levy and collect at the excess rate of one and one-tenths percent (or 11 mills) of the assessed value of taxable property in the City the special annual ad valorem tax now being levied at the excess rate of 11 mills, said tax to be levied and the net proceeds thereof to be used exclusively for the support and furtherance of education, commencing with the tax year for which taxes become due and payable on October 1, 2025, and continuing thereafter until and including the tax year for which taxes become due and payable on October 1, 2052, which levy shall represent a renewal and continuation of the said tax and shall not operate to increase the rate of taxation for public school purposes now being levied in the City?

The said election shall be held at the following voting places established by the City at which shall be cast the ballots of the electors customarily voting at the said respective places:

WARD NO.

LOCATION OF VOTING PLACE

1 - Covington Community Center - 213 Carver Avenue

2 - Opelika Learning Center (formerly Old Jeter School) - 214 Jeter Avenue

3 - Opelika Community Center - 1102 Denson Drive

4 - East Alabama Medical Center - Education Center2027 Pepperell Parkway

5 - Opelika Sportsplex1001 Andrews Road

Absentee Ballot Box

City Clerk’s Office Municipal Building 204 South 7th Street By order of the City Council.

/s/ Gary Fuller GARY FULLER MAYOR OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA

Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 & 01/05/2023

---------------

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Phoenix Fabricators and Erectors, LLC has completed its work on the Proposed Alabama Highway 169 – 300,000 Gallon Elevated Water

Storage Tank/ GMC Project No. CMGM190165(1) for the Smiths Water & Sewer Authority. Any person(s) having a claim against the project should notify Wheeler Crook, P.E., Goodwyn Mills Cawood, LLC, 2660 EastChase Lane, Suite 200, Montgomery, AL 36117. All claims should be filed within 30 days of the first publication of this notice.

Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 & 01/05/2022

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

In the Matter of the Estate of RALPH WILLIAMS, Deceased Case No. 2022-379

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take notice the LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to Leslie Voncile Daniels on the21st day of November, 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required .to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Done this 21st day of November, 2022.

LESLIE VONCILE DANIELS

Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022 & 12/29/2022

INVITATION TO BID

23005

Sealed bids for the construction of the Crawlspace Encapsulation and Ventilation Installation at Southside Performing Arts Center shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Monday, January 9, 2023, and then publicly opened and read aloud. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. The successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing "General Contractors" as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et. seq. (1975) and rules and

The fact he was calling himself a Pennsylvanian based on attending U. Penn 36 years ago handled Fetterman a source to ridicule. Dr. Oz was another candidate pushed onto the Republicans so the former president could have people in debt to himself. To Oz’s credit, he did concede instead of claiming that fraud was being committed.

Nicholas Kristof is an American journalist who empathizes with forgotten human rights violations and social justice. He won two Pulitzers Prizes for The New York Times. He grew up on his parents’ farm and lived there until college. Although he visited the farm irregularly as a New Yorker, Kristof stated he has lived there at his “primary place of residence” since 2018.

Upon learning that the current Oregon governor was term-limited, he declared he was a Democratic candidate, in late 2021. Kristof left his longtime “dream job” at The Times. However, Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan said he did not meet the state’s residency requirements. Kristof challenged that,

but the state Supreme Court upheld Fagan. Why? Kristof voted in New York in 2020; he did not have status as an Oregon voter for at least three years, as required.

Kristof at age 63 will have the chance to run for office again so long as he meets Oregon residency and all other requirements. As inspiration, I remind him that Gaines, after the 1980 Olympics boycott by the U.S., was quite upset. Soon he prepared for four more years, for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. He won three gold medals, bringing attention and honor to Auburn University, to the state of Alabama and to the United States.

Greg Markley moved to Lee County in 1996. He has a master’s in education from AUM and a master’s in history from Auburn University. He taught politics as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama. An award-winning writer in the Army and civilian life, he has contributed to The Observer since 2011. He writes on politics, education and books. gm.markley@charter.net.

regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor's license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor's current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/ or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

Bid documents may be obtained from the office of the city Inspection Department Director located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. Documents may also be obtained from the City of Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7th St., Opelika, Alabama, Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M., or downloaded from the City's website at https://www.opelika-al.gov/Bids.aspx.

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

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Crawlspace Encapsulation and Ventilation Installation at Southside Performing Arts Center LILLIE FINLEYPURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120

Legal Run 12/15/2022 & 12/22/2022

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STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2022-656

ESTATE OF JANICE C. HENDERSON, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Janice C. Henderson, deceased, having been granted to Jan Mathews Ennis, James Enoch Mathews, and Carol Mathews Perdue this 12th day of December 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Jan Mathews Ennis, James Enoch Mathews, and Carol Mathews Perdue, Personal Representatives Legal Run 12/15/2022, 12/22/2022 & 12/29/2022 ---------------

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under The Self Service Storage Act. The undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on Thursday the 12th day of January, 2023 at 10:00 AM on Lockerfox. com. Said property is iStorage, 501 North 26th St, Opelika, AL, 36801 Mwema, Tabeph 3097 TV, Appliance, bags suitcase box . Donald Fuller III 1064 Totes Cases misc goods . Jones, DeMarcus 3049 Bed frame mini refrigerator piano. Purchases must be paid for at the time of purchase by cash only. All purchased items are sold as is, where is, and must be removed within 48 hours of the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party.

Legal Run 12/22/2022

GREG MARKLEY

Changes To Lee County Trash Fee Billing

BY HANNAH LESTER HLESTER@ OPELIKAOBSERVER.COM

LEE COUNTY —

There are changes coming to the Lee County Garbage Fee Billing system according to a press release from the Lee County Environmental Services Department.

"The property tax bills that were sent out by the Revenue Commissioner in October 2022 did not include a garbage fee,” said a notice from Lee County. “Circumstances beyond our control are forcing us to implement a more flexible billing system.”

Citizens shouldn’t fear — there is no increase in the amount of the bills. Garbage fees cost citizens $220 a year, which has been the case since 2020, the county said.

“The Lee County Commission has been and remains committed to implementing the curbside cart system with NO CHANGE in the amount of the garbage

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fee for a period of at least two years,” the notice said.

Bills can be paid in full or quarterly at $55.50. They can be paid with walk-in cash, check, money order, e-check, debit card or credit card. There is a $3 service fee for e-checks, debit cards and credit cards.

Cash will only be accepted through walk-ins.

To pay online, visit www. leeco.us. In person visits can be made from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.

“With these changes, the Environmental Services Office is anticipating a very high call volume over the next several weeks,” the county said. “If you call and are unable to get through, please leave a message during our normal business hours or try your call again later. Calls will be returned in the order they are received. We greatly appreciate everyone’s patience during this time.”

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IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The estate of Robert David Niesen, Deceasased Case No.2022-683

TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration having been granted to David Matthew Niesen as Administrator of the Estate of Robert David Niesen,

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

DAVID MATTHEW NIESEN, Administrator of the Estate of Robert David Niesen, deceased Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, PC PO Box 308 Opelika, AL 36803 334-745-7033

legislator. He was extremely conservative and was always on the side of the business community. He was dignified, but if you got to know him, very witty. He was not flamboyant and would seldom go to the well and

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURTA CASE NO. 2022-617 ESTATE OF HAZEL S. PLUMMER, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Hazel S. Plummer, deceased,

speak. Yet, when he did, people listened. He exuded class and epitomized the term “gentleman.”

The McMillan brothers of Baldwin County have made their mark on Alabama political history.

See you next week.

having been granted to William Charles Plummer this 19th day of December 2022, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

William Charles Plummer, Personal Representative Legal Run 12/22/2022, 12/29/2022 and 01/05/2022

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

Flowers served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

BRING YOU GOOD NEWS

Imagine... News that could turn fear into joy, for every person on the planet. With the chaos of the season, it's easy to forget that at Christmas, we remember that there is good news – so good that it can turn our fear into joy.

At Christmas, we celebrate the fact that Immanuel came to be "God with us," turning our fear into joy, and that is Good News for all people.

From your friends at Point Broadband, Merry Christmas!

Be not afraid, for behold,

I

OF GREAT JOY which will come to all people.