pelika Observer O Vol. 11, No. 31
Wednesday, May 08, 2019
Opelika, Alabama
“By local people, for local people.”
Family, friends of Beauregard’s Kayla Inaugural ‘Opelika Giving Grimes donate SteelSafe storm shelter Day’ a success according to By Morgan Bryce Editor organizers, participants Because of the donation of a SteelSafe Storm Shelter from friends and anonymous donors, 11-year-old Beauregard resident Kayla Grimes and her family will have a safe, secure place to go when future severe weather hits Lee County. Wayne Rogers, along with Wes and Whitney Croy of East Alabama Safe Shelters LLC, oversaw a successful installation of an in-ground shelter at Kayla’s home in Beauregard last Thursday. Kayla’s mother Michelle Gladden expressed her gratitude for the donation and said the shelter’s presence brings an “extra peace of mind.” “This shelter means everything to us. We have been blessed by the love and support shown to our family, it truly is amazing,”
By Morgan Bryce Editor
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
Gladden said. “There are truly no words to explain it.” Grimes was severely injured during the March 3 tornadoes, and lost her father Marshall, soon-to-be stepmother and best friend Taylor Thornton as a result of the storms. After a nearly three-week stay at UAB Hospital, she returned home in late March and has spent the last few weeks resting and recovering.
Rogers explained that a mutual friend of both his and Grimes’s family worked to make this donation possible. He added that he followed Grimes’s story in the days after the storm passed, and that finally meeting her in person and hearing her story was a moving experience. “When I came out here to do the site inspection, I got to talk to her and it was a very emotional day
for me. It was very eye opening to see how much devastation can happen to one person so early in life, yet have such a deep faith,” Rogers said. “I lost my dad last year and my wife the year before that so I know what loss feels like. But at (11) years old, it’s just hard to imagine.” Grimes’ spirits are still high, and Gladden noted that she will begin physical See Shelter, page A3
Opelika residents demonstrated their generosity during the inaugural “Opelika Giving Day,” which raised more than $30,000 from 200-plus individuals, according to event organizers from The Community Foundation of East Alabama. Donations were accepted before May 1, but the bulk of the donations were given during the 24-hour challenge that day. Chief Event Organizer Wendy Bonner said she believes a solid foundation has been laid for next year’s event. “It’s a great first step to building a giving culture that will continue to grow and support the community. I hope that Opelika Giving Day encourages local nonprofits to engage more fully in digital campaigns year round,” Bonner said. “For many, online fundraising tactics,
like crowdfunding and giving days, are a new concept but in today’s environment it’s an important component to a comprehensive fundraising strategy.” Ten total Opelikabased organizations were selected to be recipients in Giving Day, with one of those being the Creekline Project, headed by the husbandand-wife duo of Rocky and Shealy Langley. This project would increase the city’s connectivity and encourage a more active lifestyle through the construction of more than 13 miles of shared-use, ADA-accessible paths. “Opelika Giving Day was a huge opportunity for us, and it highlighted just how generous and forward thinking our city is. Shealy and I were so humbled to see the support come throughout the day ... it was affirmation to us that our See Giving, page A3
O Grows Farmers Market Auburn-Opelika MPO Long-Range Transportation planning for the future returns next Tuesday By Morgan Bryce Editor With the return of summer is the promise of fresh, local produce which will be available every Tuesday afternoon from 3 to 6 p.m. during the summer at the O Grows Farmer Market, which begins May 14. Held in the grassy lot across the street from the Southside Center for the Performing Arts at 1103 Glenn St., local farmers and growers will have produce rang-
By Todd Rauch For the Opelika Observer
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
ing from late-season winter greens and the youngest fruits of the tomato season ready for purchasing. “We have 10 vendors
confirmed in the first few weeks, with more probably coming as we fully enter the summer months. There will be See Market, page A3
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A12 CALENDAR..................................A14
The Auburn-Opelika Metropolitan Planning Organization (AOMPO) held two meetings on May 1 to get public input on the area’s Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). Each urbanized area with a population of more than 50,000 people that accepts federal transportation funds in required to have an MPO along with an inter-modal transportation plan with
SPORTS................................B1 LEGALS.................................B6 POLITICS.......................................B9 ENTERTAINMENT......................B12
at least a 20-year horizon, according to the Federal Highway Act of 1962. LRTP’s must be updated every five years and outlines the region’s transportation vision and lists all future projects which expect to be undertaken in the next 20 to 30 years. Neel-Schaffer Engineering Solutions, based out of Birmingham, was awarded the bid to write Auburn-Opelika’s LRTP and moderated both meetings. The first meeting was held from
1 to 3 p.m. at the Bennie Adkins Meeting Center in Opelika, a stakeholder meeting for community leaders who work with city planning, transportation, emergency services and city government. An interactive survey asked community leaders important questions about transportation priorities, potential challenges to implementing projects, and causes of congestion in areas of the community. The second meeting See Meeting, page A3
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Ascension Tattoo and Art Studio opens for business in downtown Opelika By Morgan Bryce Editor Art with a purpose and expression of self are two common themes of Ascension Tattoo and Art Studio, located at 100 N. 7th St. in downtown Opelika. The shop is owned and operated by Auburn resident Amber Kirby, who has more than 13 years of tattooing experience. In addition to providing “a caring, quality and experienced” custom tattoo experience, she offers tattoo consults and drawings, cover-ups and fix-ups, microdermals, micropigmentation and piercings, among other services. “Most people say that the best thing I have to offer is my attention to detail. I listen and I pay attention and my goal is to create what you want, not what I think looks cool or great,” Kirby said. Hailing from Williamston, Michigan, Kirby was involved in band, cheer and dance in her high school years. During that time, she also cultivated an interest in graphic design, a skill set that would pay dividends later in life. After graduating in 2000, Kirby moved to Pensacola, Florida to live with her father. She worked several different jobs and eventually apprenticed at a tattoo parlor in the city, honing her craft as a body piercer.
In 2004, deadly Hurricane Ivan wrecked Pensacola, leaving Kirby displaced by the storm. Briefly relocating to Birmingham, she tagged along with a friend to be his roommate at Auburn University the following year. Kirby continued her piercing career at Shenanigan’s Tattoo Parlor in Auburn. Nearly two years later, a conversation with her father persuaded her to make a change. “We were talking on the phone day and he asked me why I hadn’t tried tattooing … he told me that my experience would lend to being good at it and be a bigger money maker. He gave me a machine and I practiced quietly for a while before I felt confident enough to do it,” Kirby said. Thirteen years later, Kirby finds herself as one of the area’s most respected tattoo artists. Originally, owning her own shop seemed impossible, but friend and local businessman Derek Brown helped Kirby convert the long-shot dream into reality. After selecting her space last September, Kirby and her wife Aiden, Brown and others spent the next month revamping the space from its previous capacity as an insurance agency into a full-fledged tattoo parlor. Kirby celebrated the business’s grand opening
last fall but faced zoning complications with the city, forcing the shop’s closure from October to early last month. Now, with those problems alleviated and full support from the city, she said she is excited for her business’s future. “Tattooing isn’t weird now. I can cross the traditional and new boundaries in this art form … I don’t specialize, I do everything,” Kirby said. “I can’t judge what people like or want, because I know that a big, burly guy might come in but want a lily for his little girl. People like him have a story and a need to express themselves and this gives them that outlet.” In addition to the parlor, Ascension features an art gallery with representation from mostly local artists whose works represent a wide range of mediums. Soon, she will begin offering free or at-cost art classes at the shop from art experts. Kirby, mother of a son with autism, is heavily involved with Opelika resident Luanne Helms in the activity and event planning for the Autism Society of East Alabama. She said her shop will be open for meetings and gatherings where children can play and parents share their daily struggles and victories. “We want this to be an inclusive place for everyone in our local special
needs community,” Kirby said. Ascension’s walk-in hours of operation are 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Appointments can be made be made 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, but require a $50 deposit and consultation. For more information, call or text 334-221-0211, like and follow “Ascension Tattoo and Art Studio” on Facebook or visit www. ascensiontattoo334.com.
Photos special to the Opelika Observer
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pelika Observer
Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell
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Health Plus, Cancer Center of EAMC to host ‘Fit to Fight’ celebration walk; silent auction By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer Health Plus and the Cancer Center of EAMC will hold their annual Fit to Fight event on May 11, which will feature a one-mile celebration walk, a silent auction and free health-related activities. All proceeds will go to the Oncology Wellness Program, which provides supportive and holistic health services to current and former patients of the cancer center, free of charge. Event Activities At Fit to Fight, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about healthy lifestyle factors such as nutrition and exercise, as well as try out fitness programs offered by Health Plus. Rachel Carswell, who serves as an oncology exercise specialist at Health Plus Fitness Center, said that Fit to Fight will include an open house in which access to facilities and select Health Plus services will be free
to attendees, such as group fitness classes and chair massages. Skin cancer screens and information from EAMC health experts, including the Cancer Center and EAMC Nutrition Services, will also be available for the event. While diet, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle choices are important for everyone, they can be especially beneficial during times of stress and illness, such as in the case of people facing a cancer diagnosis or undergoing cancer treatment, according to the Oncology Wellness Program brochure and the American Cancer Society (https://www. cancer.org/treatment/ survivorship-duringand-after- treatment/ staying-active.html). Providing Support for Patients The Oncology Wellness Program offers support in many areas of life to patients free of charge, including one on one fitness coaching, massage, nutrition consultations and help managing
stress. “As the EAMC Cancer Center grows, we are able to help more patients that have undergone such complicated and difficult treatments,” Carswell said. “We truly help with symptom management, education, and improving overall mind-body health and wellness.” Fit to Fight is one source of revenue for the growing program. In addition to promoting physical health, the program also provides mental health support, which is crucial because of the physical and mental stress that can accompany a cancer diagnosis, according to Chelsea Kroll, who serves the Cancer Center of EAMC in the role of oncology social worker. “Myself and psychologist Dr. Peggy Howland conduct a weekly support group to cancer survivors (regardless of where treatment was received or where the person is in the treatment process),” Kroll said.
“We explore multiple topics to include mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, communication, fear of recurrence, and provide therapeutic interventions to help reduce the stressors faced while undergoing treatment and in Life after treatment.” The Pervasiveness of Cancer With the lifetime risk of developing cancer in one’s lifetime at nearly 40% according to American Cancer Society research, cancer touches most people’s lives at some point, either from contracting cancer oneself or caring for a loved one who has cancer (https:// www.cancer.org/ cancer/cancer-basics/ questions- people-askabout-cancer.html). While acknowledging the importance of healthy lifestyle choices such as a nutritious diet, exercise, and avoiding carcinogens to decreasing the risk of cancer, the American Cancer Society explains that cancer can happen to
anyone, even if a person does everything right in terms of diet, fitness, and other lifestyle factors. The Mayo Clinic says on their website, “While doctors have an idea of what may increase your risk of cancer, the majority of cancers occur in people who don’t have any known risk factors.” (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseasesconditions/cancer/ symptoms-causes/ syc-20370588). While healthy lifestyle choices may reduce the risk of some cancers, the gene mutations that can cause cancer are experienced by every human being during everyday life, as explained by the Mayo Clinic Most of the time, people’s immune systems detect and destroy cancer cells before they can multiply and cause disease; however, sometimes immune systems are unable to detect certain cancer cells due to unique characteristics of
these cells, leading to cancerous diseases. According to the brochure, the Oncology Wellness Program was created in 2010 to honor Robert and Marjorie Goodson, who started and ran Goodson’s Jewelry store, a local business that has been part of Opelika for more than 50 years. The donation for the program was the largest ever received by the foundation. As the cancer center grows to meet the needs of East Alabama residents, the need for the wellness program also increases. Individuals interested in signing up for the walk can pre-register online at www.runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Auburn/FittoFight or in person at the event from 8 until 9 a.m. The Oncology Wellness Program will accept donations during the Fit to Fight again and through their website www.runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Auburn/FittoFight.
Meeting, from A1
given surveys along with identification stickers to place on a large board to rank what they thought were the most important transportation budget priorities in the area. At the close of the meeting the two highest budget priorities were improving public transport and use of technology & new road designs to reduce traffic. The LRTP planning process can be broken
down in to five distinct phases, with public and stakeholder input being used in every phase. The AOMPO is currently in the first phase which takes the vision from community leaders and concerned citizens to implement in the LRTP. If you missed the meeting and would still like to take the survey, visit www.surveymonkey. com/r/AuburnOpelika2045.
Market, from A1
market, Forbes said they believe the market meets a critical community need and provides the public with access to top-notch produce in a more direct way than larger food suppliers can. “The thing I’m most proud of is that the market provides more accessibility for people to purchase fresh produce, particularly in that neighborhood. It’s within walking distance for a lot of folks in that immediate area,” Forbes said. “I dare any place to match the freshness of what’s
offered here. This also makes a huge impact on our local economy and is one of the few places that is a direct-to-consumer system.” By state guidelines, 70% or more of vendors are required to sell food items, but Forbes said that artisans and makers are welcome to participate. Those interested in participating can call Forbes’ wife Susan at 334-744-1191. The season will run through the end of August. For more information, like and follow the organization’s Facebook or Instagram pages.
Giving, from A1
of the total amounts donated to each organization: - Creekline Project $15,670 - Arts Association of East Alabama - $4,640 - Way 2 Serve $1,930 - Haddie’s Home $1,650 - O Grows Community Garden - $1,605 - Circles of Opelika $1,555 - Southside Center for the Performing Arts $1,100
- Harvest Evangelism - $985 - Exodus Ranch $825 - East Alabama Youth for Christ - $400 Looking to next year, Bonner said she hopes the event will continue to shine a light on the good going on in the community. For more information, like and follow the “Opelika Giving Day” Facebook page or visit www.cfeastalabama.org.
that day was held from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Lee-Russell Council of Governments Building, was open to the public and designed for brainstorming and public information sharing about future transportation needs in the Auburn-Opelika area. Everyone was
tomatoes, typical summertime crops, baked goods, jams, jellies and the plants that our kids help us raise at the community garden,” said O Grows Executive Director Dr. Sean Forbes. Most of the produce is locally sourced, though some farmers from surrounding counties participate, according to Forbes. Entering their fourth year operating the
Photos by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
Shelter, from A1
therapy in the coming
weeks as she continues the path toward a full recovery. To learn more about the full list of products and services
offered by Rogers’s company, call 334610-1646 or like and follow “East Alabama Safe Shelters LLC” on Facebook.
citizens really want to make this dream a reality,” Rocky said. “Each dollar raised during Opelika Giving Day represents citizen support for the Creekline, and we expect that $15,670 worth of support will increase buy-in from potential funders.” Following is a list
pelika O Opinion Holding Hands Religion and kudzu,
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May 08, 2019
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ort Saint Joe - it’s early morning. It’s dark outside. And it’s cold enough in our room to hang meat. This is my wife’s doing. She cranked the AC to -18 degrees. I can see my breath. We’ve been on the road for weeks now, and my wife has enjoyed sub-arctic conditions in various hotel rooms across the Southeast. My nose is about to develop frostbite. Funny. I remember when my father got frostbite on his ears when I was a kid. He’d been welding outside one January day. He came home in bad shape, the tips of his ears were black. He wore bandages over his ears for a week. “Why do you have to work outside?” I asked Daddy. “Because I love you,” he said. “That’s why.” “You must REALLY love me.” “I do.” “How much?” “Oh, s’pose you take the stars in the sky, multiply them times a billion, then wrap them in sunshine… That’s not even CLOSE to how much.” I don’t know why good men die so young. So, this morning I’m writing you—because I don’t know what else to do while my wife slumbers in this icy, artificial climate. I can’t feel my toes. This woman. She and I have gone through several phases of life together. We’ve changed careers a dozen times. I laid tile; she worked in a hospital cafeteria. I hung gutters; she taught preschool. I worked landscaping; she was a nanny. I worked nights, playing guitar at an
T
here’s a vacant lot on Marvyn Parkway that sits between a busy road and a business complex. It is neglected and lonely, easy to overlook, but as powerful a spot to me as any on this green earth. I’ve driven by it thousands of times, literally. Sometimes it lets me pass without much pause. And sometimes, it reaches out like a hand from my childhood and stops me cold. Today was one of those days. It wasn’t always a vacant lot. A house once stood there – brick, small, and just as sad and lonely as the bare ground it left behind. Of course, that was more than 40 years ago. Life seemed slower, and Opelika felt both vast and very small all at once. The borders of the city were far flung to my six-year-old eyes, but my world was small and distinct.
By Sean Dietrich
all-you-can-eat-crableg joint; she babysat weekends. Years went by, and my Great Career Ferris Wheel kept spinning. Then, I got laid off. It was quite a blow. We didn’t know what to do. So we did what all half-broke couples do. We took a lavish vacation. Well, it wasn’t exactly lavish. We went camping in Indian Pass, Florida—a sleepy North Floridian beach with one seafood shack. We made camp at the water’s edge. We built campfires. We looked at stars. During sunsets, we would wade into the Gulf with floating beer koozies. Once, we waded too far from shore. We drifted where the water was too deep to stand. And to this day, I don’t know what on earth we were thinking. We held hands while treading water. We got pulled farther from shore by a gentle current. It was all happening so fast and so easy. We didn’t speak, we were too busy moving against the water, flapping our limbs to keep from sinking. The sunset was probably beautiful, but we missed it. We were too busy trying not to drown. “I think we’re in trouble,” my wife said. “Yep.” “What're we gonna do?” I squeezed my grip on
her. “Keep swimming.” “Don’t let go of my hand.” “Don’t let go of my beer.” We held hands in the water. We worked our way back to waistdeep water. We held each other. I was out of breath. She was out of breath. I felt stupid for swimming that far from land. But then, we had made it. We survived. Together. Sometimes, I wonder if maybe success has nothing to do with careers and bank accounts. Maybe success is simply not dying. You see, I’m not sure how life works. But I know that just being with a person who holds your hand can make ordinary things become poetry. My wife is stirring in the bed beside me. Hark, the polar beauty awakes. “Morning,” she says. “Morning,” I say. “You been up long?” “Yeah. Just writing.” “What’re you writing about?” Oh, I’m writing about how a man could take all the stars in the sky, then multiply them times a billion, wrap them in sunshine, and still not get close to how much I love you. Thank you for holding my hand, darling. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m turning on the heater. Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.
a sign of the times
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eligion and kudzu, a sign of the times I had not planned to write about again, but I’m gonna. Nor had I planned to write about religion again, well . . . I think it was Billy Joe Shaver who wrote “the first time the Devil made me do it. The next time I done it on my own.” Here I go, writing about both. And Kingston, North Carolina. Let me explain. The other day I got an e-mail from my buddy Jerry with a link to an interesting article. Jerry grew up near me in South Alabama. He left there and went on and got educated at a Southeastern Conference school better known for academics than football – bet you can guess which, since there ain’t but one. Then he taught for a while at a Southeastern Conference school better known for football than academics, which could be any of the others. After that he spent some time at a Big Sky Conference school that claims to be the “Harvard of the West.” At last, he returned South to settle in the mountains of North Carolina, write a book and find articles like the one he sent me. The headline read: “Holy kudzu! Vine said to resemble Jesus.” Now a utility pole swaddled in kudzu is not anything to write home about. I can show you two or three along most any rural road in Dixie, but the one just outside Kings-
By Hardy Jackson
ton, North Carolina was something special. Kent Hardison noticed it right off. Driving on his way to work at Ma’s Hotdog House, he saw how the vine was growing up the pole and out on the line, in both directions. And being a concerned citizen, he figured it was his civic duty to do a good deed and “blast it with Roundup.” Then he took a closer look and like Saul’s Damascus experience, the scales fell from his eyes, “he received sight forthwith,” and what he saw was not kudzu on a pole but Jesus on the cross. Realizing “you can’t spray Jesus with Roundup,” Hardison had his “sense from God” moment and set out to spread the word that the “kudzu Christ” was a sign that the Lord was “watching over the region.” Now, we all know that Southerners are big on communicating with the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. We pray a lot and we expect prayers to be answered. So, when someone says they got the “sense from God” to do what they did, who are we to say they didn’t. We never have put much stock in the notion that when prayers are answered they cease to be prayers and be-
In Memoriam
As a first-grader at Carver Elementary, I passed that dark little house on the corner every day without really seeing it. Carver was a typical southern elementary school in the 1970s, and my class was a typical group of 6-year-olds, complete with two very loud, very large bullies whose names were Bubba and Junior (I wish I was making that up.) They teased and tormented, and I avoided them at all costs. There was also one very singular classmate – a boy so quiet and folded into himself that he was almost invisible. His clothes were faded and so thin they appeared to float around his bony arms and legs. His shoes were held together with electrical tape. It was the shoes that broke my heart the most. It was early one morning as I rode to
By Wendy Hodge
school staring out the window at the falling leaves that I saw that sad boy coming out of the dark little house. I sat straight up in the passenger’s seat of the old Nova – that’s who lives there. I paid attention that day, finally seeing him as more than a shadow. As I watched from my desk across the room, as we sounded out words, and struggled with spelling our teacher’s name (Mrs. Stejskal, sounds like Stay-Skull,) he never even looked in my direction. The morning passed, and the lunch bell rang. From my table in the cafeteria where I sat with a group of little girls
very much like me, I continued to watch. His lunch was practically non-existent, and he sat alone. It hurt me to see him there, and it wasn’t five minutes into the lunch period before I just couldn’t bear it anymore. Among the chatter and the controlled chaos that is a school cafeteria, I rose and walked to his table. He looked up at me like a startled animal. I wanted to wipe the smudge from his cheek, but I held my right hand with my left to stop that impulse. “What’s your name?” I asked. All these weeks of sharing the orbit of Mrs. Stejskal’s first grade classroom, and I didn’t even know his name. “Keith,” he whispered. His voice was faint, like it was as afraid as he was. “I’m Wendy,” I said and sat without being
invited. His sandwich was one piece of bread folded in half with a dollop of some unknown substance in the middle to glue it together. And that was it. Not one bite more, nothing to drink. I felt a wave of pity so strong I could barely swallow. And something else, too. A dawning realization that the world is not always fair. Some children are hungry or embarrassed or lonely… or all three. My Wonder Woman lunchbox suddenly seemed like an affront with its matching thermos full of KoolAid, a turkey sandwich, potato chips, and a homemade Rice Krispy treat. When I opened it, it looked like Thanksgiving dinner spilling onto the table. “I’m not very hungry. Wanna share?” I asked quietly, instinctively knowing this
come correspondence. Everybody likes to get a letter. We are also big into “signs” -- as in the “Church of God with Signs Following” and its non-Trinitarian neighbor the “Church of Jesus with Signs Following.” So Hardison’s observation that Christ on the Cross in kudzu may be “a sign of the times” made sense to many. Besides, Hardison added, some sorta sign was surely needed ‘cause “there’s been a lot going on in this area.” Around here to. Which is why I have been looking for something similar, sign-wise. Haven’t found it yet. Meanwhile Hardison, who has the soul and sensibilities of a theologian, found nothing odd about kudzu being a good way for Jesus, who once said that He was “the true vine,” to send a message to the faithful in Dixie. As Hardison observed, “it doesn’t matter what you do, it (Kudzu) is going to be around.” Then he added, “ain’t that a lot like Jesus?” Well, I never thought of it that way, but I guess it is. So, put away the Roundup and let it grow. There may be a message in it. Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.
could be dangerous ground. He looked at me without blinking, long enough that I wanted to fidget, but I held still and returned the stare. I will never know what silent bargain he made with himself, but he decided I was friend and not foe because he finally blinked and said, “Thank you.” I scooted my sandwich in front of him and put the chips between us. He ate quickly and quietly. I poured some KoolAid into the top of my thermos and handed him the rest. He drank without stopping, leaving a purple KoolAid mustache on his upper lip. The bell rang, and I knew I’d be sitting right there the next day. And I was. This did not go unnoticed by Junior and Bubba. “Wendy See Hodge, page A6
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Envision Opelika, Opelika Kiwanis Club create character award program By Morgan Bryce Editor A new initiative through Envision Opelika’s Character Council and the Opelika Kiwanis Club is seeking to recognize individuals from across Lee County who are unselfishly lending or using their talents to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Last month, Opelika resident Michael Melnick was the first-ever recipient of the monthly Opelika Character Award, receiving a “Kiwanis Character” cake, recognition at the club’s weekly Thursday meeting and a plaque bearing his name and the Opelika Character Creed.
“People deserving of this recognition (like Melnick) are individuals who are making a difference in the community because of the high character they represent,” said club and council member Rusty Sheehan. Those interested in nominating an individual must submit twoparagraph, story-form description of that person by email to envisionopelika@myops. net, detailing how that person “has exhibited exceptional character in their lives.” The award is broken down into two categories of eligibility, with one dedicated to individuals whose full-time jobs is dedicated to bettering the commu-
nity and the other for individuals who freely choose to use their time and resources to give back. Entry is open to all Lee County residents, regardless of affiliation status with Envision Opelika or the Opelika Kiwanis Club. Initiatives like the character award and the Opelika City Schools’ “Character Word of the Month” are ways to spotlight the ongoing good of the community, Sheehan added. For more information about the award or other organizational initiatives conducted by the two entities, visit www.envisionoSpecial to the Opelika Observer pelika.com or www. Anthony Terling (Kiwanian), Michael Melnick (Character Award recipiopelikakiwanis.org. ent), Ellen Melnick (Michael’s wife) and Rusty Sheehan (Kiwanian).
Opelika Kiwanis Club welcomes new members, speaker Roger Rendleman last week
Special to the Opelika Observer Club President Bob Harris welcomes new members Todd Rauch, Todd Shackett, Anthony Terling and Billy Plummer.
Brian Crowe speaks at recent Opelika Lions meeting
Special to the Opelika Observer Brian Crowe, director of a recently established Fine Arts Academy at the First Baptist Church of Opelika, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. The Academy offers private lessons in the areas of piano, voice, guitar, band and orchestra instruments. Details regarding scheduling, registration and fee options may be found at www.fbcopelika.com/ fine-arts-academy. He was introduced by Lion Brooka Stokes, left.
Special to the Opelika Observer Roger Rendleman, Lee County Administrator, spoke to the club last week about recent renovations to the county courthouse. Pictured below, Joanne Camp, Roger Rendleman and Club president Bob Harris.
Hodge,
from A4 has a boyfriend!” they chanted at every opportunity. I told them both if they didn’t shut up I’d “bring my killer dog to school to bite your butt!” (I didn’t have a dog and may have been a little too big for my britches…) Days passed, and autumn became winter. I’d like to say that Keith and I became close friends, that he told me about his life and that we grew up and stayed in touch…. But I learned very little about Keith. He preferred ham sandwiches to turkey and purple Kool-Aid to orange; he liked to read; and his shoes were handed down from his brother who got them from a cousin. We did not become best friends, and Keith did not grow up. “Your boyfriend died,” Bubba called out one December
morning as I walked into the classroom. “Yeah,” Junior added. “Completely died.” In a flash, Mrs. Stejskal was there bending down to put her arm around me and lead me into the hallway. “Wendy, honey, I didn’t want you to hear it like that. There was a fire last night in their house. Keith and his whole family were killed.” I don’t remember what I said or how I got through the rest of the school day. I do remember riding home from school and seeing the still smoking pile of rubble on the corner lot, the police tape, and the city workers. All that was left was the remains of a chimney. How had I missed it that morning on the way to school? I guess I’ll never know. I do know that Keith and the way he died haunted me as a child. I dreamed of fire and yellow police tape and ancient shoes. But, in the way we do with
people who are no longer here, Keith has become a silent friend. I carry him in the quiet part of myself. There is no monument for Keith on that vacant lot – nothing marks that spot – because that’s the way the world is. We hurry on, we rush past, we move forward. So I’ll leave these words that have risen from that corner of my heart as a memorial for the boy who let me sit with him. Wendy Hodge is an Opelika native, an empty nester and lover of all things Opelika. She previously had a column titled A Word or Ten, which was featured in the Tennessee Star Journal and is currently awaiting release of her first novel with Harper Collins Publishing Company. Editor’s Note: This column ran in the May 23, 2018 edition of the Observer and is being rerun. Hodge’s next, new column is scheduled to run in the May 22, 2019 edition.
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • May 8 - Noon Tunes • May 9 - Five Fifty Fifty Run • May 10 - Southside Speakeasy • May 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 - Auburn Area Community Theatre • May 14 - Summer Swing • May 18 - 45th Annual Old Car Show • May 24-26 - Opelika Songwriter’s Festival
Busy working mom sets priority for family time, meals together Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
B
rilliant red geraniums fill window boxes at the home of Stacey and Andy Jordan. The well decorated home is a reflection of Stacey’s business as a designer. Last October, she moved her shop Oliver Henry, named after their sons, from Auburn to downtown Opelika where she offers specialty candles the entire family helps to create. Stacey has adjusted her working schedule to take her sons to sports and allow the family to enjoy dinner together.
Sitting at the antique table in the kitchen where her family dines, Stacey talks about being the mother of two active boys, Oliver, nine, and Henry, six, and how she prepares quick and easy meals. Both boys play soccer and basketball, as well as take karate classes. With growing sons who are active in sports, Stacey has changed how she works. “I used to be in clients’ homes at 8:30 or 9 at night finishing up projects,” she
said. “It is not like that anymore.” “We used to have a nanny that helped take care of the boys,” she added. “When Henry started kindergarten, I began getting off work at 2:30 to pick up the boys. Sometimes I go back to the conference room at the shop if I really need to get something done, but I have made it a priority that now I am the one picking them up from school, going to soccer and basketball games and picking them up at karate.”
Photo by Ann Cipperly Stacey Jordan opened her shop, Oliver Henry, named after her two sons, in downtown Opelika last October. The successful designer keeps her family a priority and no longer works late nights. She takes her sons, Henry, left, and Oliver to sports and karate classes and prepares quick and easy dinners for them to enjoy around the kitchen table.
When the boys are playing soccer, Stacey has the slow cookers going, with the pot roast her favorite. Other quick meal standbys include all-in-one spaghetti, macaroni and cheese, and mini chicken pot pies. She will make enough for two nights, so when they come home from soccer, there are leftovers to warm up quickly for dinner. During the week, she cooks every other
Auburn’s HealthPlus Fitness Center organizing fundraiser for EAMC’s Oncology Wellness Program Special to the Opelika Observer HealthPlus Fitness Center is organizing a onemile walk called "Fit to Fight" to raise money for the Oncology Wellness Program at East Alabama Medical Center on May 11 from 8 a.m. to noon. In addition to the celebration walk, there will be a silent auction, open house of HealthPlus, free chair massages, group fitness classes and skin cancer screenings,
representatives from the hospital's newly opened cancer center and nutrition services department and more. All profits made from the Fit to Fight fundraiser help support this wonderful program by the staff and training costs of HealthPlus Fitness Center. The Oncology Wellness Program is a collaboration of services provided by East Alabama Medical Center and is open to current cancer
center patients before, during and after treatment. The program provides a complimentary 12-week membership to HealthPlus where the patient receives an orientation by a Certified Cancer Exercise Specialist, an individual exercise plan based on their individual needs and goals and orientation to the facility. The Oncology Wellness Program also includes massage therapy, nutritional counseling and stress management.
The walk will start at 9 a.m and go around the center's beautiful pond and outdoor track. Registration will be held at HealthPlus Fitness Center, and there will be pre-registration on May 11 from 8 to 9 a.m. and is available online at www. runsignup.com. Those who register by May 3 will be guaranteed to receive an event T-shirt. For more information, call 334-887-5666. The center is located at 1171 Gatewood Drive.
night. They eat at the kitchen table every night. The meals that take the longest to prepare are served on weekends. When Stacey was growing up in Eclectic, her mother’s side of the family enjoyed getting together for birthdays and holidays to share large meals, while her father’s mother cooked Sunday dinners after church. An aunt was a
caterer, and Stacey’s mother was a southern cook, preparing dishes such as fried pork chops and mashed potatoes. Since her mother worked, Stacey would help her prepare dinner when she got home. She has always enjoyed being creative. In high school, she would help her teachers decorate for Christmas. Stacey Cipperly, page A9
‘Five Fifty Fifty Run/Walk For Mental Health’ to be held May 9 By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer The national mental health organization Five Fifty Fifty chose Auburn as the location of its Alabama 5K run/walk in part of a nationwide, fifty state 5K series to raise awareness of mental health concerns and the importance of access to behavioral health services. The run will be held on the evening of May 9 at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center.
Five Fifty Fifty is a mental health advocacy organization that has embarked on its second year of 5K races, holding one race in each of the 50 states over a period of 50 days. 12 other races have already been held over the past few weeks, and after the Alabama race, they will quickly move on to the next state. Chris Ponteri, who serves as the executive director for Five Fifty Fifty and its parent organization the Adel See Run, page A9
Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM
pelika Observer O
A8 May 08, 2019
1
The quiet gift that truly counts
Corinthians 13:13 - “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” Mama, mom, mommy, mother spells love to our ears and hearts. When we are given the title of mom, mother, etc. it changes our lives forever. As a teacher, when my young students call me “mama” by mistake as they are caught up in their work or activities, I know they are referring to me as caregiver which is such an honor of love for me as a teacher.
There are so many female role models that have touched my life in their actions of teaching, nurturing, guiding and sharing, that even though they may not have had children, their touch on my life has been like a mother. I know many of you and many of our children are touched by women who love and care for them from the heart, and that is the way the Classroom Observer looks at this when I say “Happy Mother’s Day.” I mean it as a heart issue of someone who has
By Beth Pinyerd
shown love and care to me from their heart. Our young children feel the same way. This Sunday, we celebrate the lives of those we call mother. Whoever you refer to as mother holds a special place in our hearts. In the United States, Miss
Anna Jarvis at Andrew’s Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia where her mother had served as a Sunday School teacher for more than 20 years, celebrated the first Mother’s Day. This was in honor of her late mother, Mrs. Jarvis, who had held “Mother’s Friendship Day,” to heal the pain of the Civil War. Anna Jarvis’ steady campaign moved President Woodrow Wilson to declare that Mother’s Day should be celebrated as a national holiday on the second
Sunday in May. One central truth about mothers is “that mothering matters.” Mothering not only affects children and families, but it affects communities, towns and the world. As a teacher of young children, early childhood is such a critical time in a child’s life of bonding, learning, the molding of a child’s personality, learning how to adjust, socially interacting with other children, as well as adults. Not only does a child’s ability to learn happen at an early age,
but their ability to love is a need at an early age. A mother’s nurturing love and those people who touch your child’s life at an early age builds the foundation of the child’s ability to adjust to his or her environment. The bonding that happens with folks who love them affects a child’s entire self structure, who they are, and identity. What a huge responsibility we mothers have in raising young children in today’s busy world. But in order to meet the See Pinyerd, page A10
Bottling Plant Event Center to host ‘Music for Moms’ May 12 By Morgan Bryce Editor Looking for a fun Mother’s Day outing for the mother in your life? Look no further than “Music for Mom’s,” a food-andmusic event scheduled for May 12 at downtown Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center. Performances by The Clef and The Satin Soul Band will provide upbeat dance music and there will be a buffet-style meal featuring baby back
ribs, chicken, corn casserole, mashed potatoes and gravy, Southern-style green beans, dessert and drinks. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased in advance only by calling 334-705-5466 or 334-332-8283. No tickets will be available at the door. For more information, like and follow the event center’s social media pages or visit www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly,
from A7
feels her creativity has been inherited from generations. Her grandmother owned a ceramics shop and painted ceramics. Now, her mother teaches ceramics in community centers in Montgomery. Stacey met Andy, who is from Prattville, in high school. She attended Auburn University, while Andy went to Troy University. They were married after Andy graduated and she was a junior. While she also studied accounting, Andy encouraged her to follow her
Run,
from A7 Korkor Foundation, said that the primary objectives of the 5K series are twofold. “We feel that mental health is a nationwide issue, not just in one state or area,” Ponteri said. “Secondly, there are great needs and urgencies; doing the
A9 May 08, 2019
heart’s desire to work in a creative field. She graduated with a degree in interior design. After graduating, Andy accepted a position at an accounting firm in Prattville, and they lived in Wetumpka. Since they were always coming back to Auburn for football and basketball games, they decided it would be a great place to raise a family. Andy is now a portfolio manager for Regions. Stacey started her interior practice in 2001. She was a buyer for a furniture store for a few years and then became strictly an interior designer. Five years ago, she opened Oliver Henry in Auburn and then moved the
shop to Opelika last fall. She named it after her sons because she wanted to make it family based. Andy is a portfolio manager for Regions. The giraffe in the Oliver Henry logo comes from when she was decorating the nursery for Oliver. “Andy came home with a five-foot giraffe that had nothing to do with the décor,” she said. “It became a joke with us that you stay in your lane with financials and I will do the decorating. That was part of making it a family business with the giraffe being a joke between us.” The candles for her shop are made by the family. At first, they had someone pour them, but the quality
began going downhill. They decided they could do it, but it took more than a year in development to get it just right. The boys help by putting wicks in the jars, and Andy does the pouring, while she does the packaging. They also sell the candles to other gift shops, with Rhode Island being the furthest. Stacey enjoys having the shop in downtown Opelika. “The downtown community and other businesses surrounding us are so supportive,” she said. “We reach a new group of people than when we were tucked away in Auburn. Now we are more visible and have new people coming in the shop.
We still get clients that knew us in Auburn, and everyone loves going downtown.” The Jordans are members of First United Methodist Church of Opelika. “I pray daily to be a good mother,” says Stacey. “I don’t know how I would walk without guidance and praying for Andy, the boys and myself.” “Having advice from my Christian mother friends is a safe community that helps,” she added. “It is not only believing in the Lord and following the path He has set before us, but reading about Him and knowing what He wants us to do. Being surrounded with other mothers
who are equally faith based and being able to call on them is part of what gets us through as moms.” On Mother’s Day, Andy has arranged to take the family to a local restaurant for brunch, and then they will go visit both of their mothers. “Being a mother is a busy, treasured time,” Stacey said. “I see it going by so quickly. Juggling work and family can be done. I learned that from my mother. I learned from her that a mother’s priority is taking care of her family.” Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@cipperly.com
races in 50 days shows that there is [a high level of] urgency with these issues.” Throughout the country, Five Fifty Fifty has been partnering with communities and civic groups to coordinate their efforts locally and spread the word. Ponteri said that the AuburnOpelika Tourism Bureau and the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center management have both been helpful in organizing
the race. “They’ve been instrumental, and we wouldn’t be going to the Kreher preserve without their help,” Ponteri said. The founder and namesake of the foundation, Dr. Adel Korkor, is a physician who retired more than a year ago and started the foundation and the race series to raise awareness of mental health needs, which Korkor has found in his experience not to have parity with the attention
given to physical health issues. Korkor has been running in each of the races since the beginning of the first race series. The race will take place at Kreher Nature Preserve on May 9 at 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is recommended, but participants can sign up at the event. Packets can be picked up between 5 to 6 p.m. To sign up, visit www.raceroster.com/ events/2019/21156/au-
burn-al-2019-runwalkfor-mental-health-5k-50states-50-days. More information is
available on the Five Fifty Fifty website at https://fivefiftyfifty. com/.
See Recipes, page A11
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pelika Observer O
A10 May 08, 2019
Three new homes being built for Beauregard residents nearing completion
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Chattahoochee Fuller Center and East Alabama Medical Center’s Cornerstone Foundation collaborated and joined forces to construct three homes for Beauregard families displaced by the March 3 tornadoes. “Our focus area is here in Lannett, Valley and West Point, and where we worked with the foundation previously. But, after seeing and hearing of the damage in the Beauregard community, we knew we had to go down there and do something to help,” said CFCP Executive Director Kim Roberts. Local volunteers, organization representatives and athletes from Auburn University and the University of Alabama came together on April 27 at Providence Baptist Church to begin construction of the homes. CFCC Executive Director Kim Roberts said in an interview with the Observer that her organizations plans to return in the fall to construct at least eight more homes for Beauregard residents. For more information on the organizations, visit www. eacmfoundation.org and www.fullercenter.org.
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
1951 John Deere tractor returns to Lee County after restoration By Robert Noles Opelika Observer On the last Saturday in April, friends and family of Opelika native Steve Sasser gathered at Lambert Transfer and Storage awaiting the homecoming of a 1951 John Deere Model B tractor. Sasser had been waiting five years for this day. His eyes gleamed with joy as he reminisced about his boyhood days spent on the tractor bush hogging at the farm with friends Carlton Huntley and Craig Mangham. Sasser believes his father and grandmother purchased the tractor in Tuskegee. Following his grandmother’s passing years ago, Sasser inherited the tractor. In March 2014, Sasser said he knew it was time to do something with the tractor and was
Mothers,
from A8
needs of our young children and families, we also have to take care of ourselves, in being able to do the duties that mothering requires. This is not a selfish way of looking at this need, but a survival way of looking at this need when you are in the years of raising young children. It is important for young moms to understand and meet their own needs for the sake of their children and families. In asking moms of children I teach, as well as the needs I remembered and recognized in raising my only child, the two that stand out the most are hope and perspective. With hope, even though I may have had a bad day with my only child, there is a new tomorrow! We moms are only human, we cannot do it all. Believe it or not, young children are the most forgiving little
individuals who forget if you had a bad day and are ready to start anew with a bunch of hugs, kisses, and “let’s meet the new day” kind of attitude if the day before has not been a good one. Our children are our best cheerleaders in the challenges of mothering. Perspective is another big need. You may have one child still bottle feeding, another that needs to be potty trained, and another who needs mom’s help with homework. Too, for the working mom she has to have an extra measure of grace extended to her in order to accomplish everything needed to be done. In talking to young moms in a Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) group, they have said they just want to know how to hang in there when everything gets so confusing and unpredictable. All of us who mother children or care for them realize that we just have to flex, delegate and know this is just normal as we are
caring for children. I had a room mother who had six children who were stair-steps in age. I asked her how she coped. She laughed as she responded to me, saying that when she had her first child if a boiled egg fell on the floor she would take extra time to make sure it was washed off properly before feeding her only child at that time. She said after their home tent increased to six, when an egg fell on the floor due to the demands of the other children, she would just “blow off the egg” and give it to her child to eat. She said as of yet all her children were healthy, wealthy, wise! This is a mom who understood perspective; you have to do what you got to do. In raising children, moms so many times self impose standards that are not necessary. For example, making sure your home is thoroughly immaculate, everything perfect, vacuum cleaner in hand all the time. Who cares if your home is perfect?
Certainly not your little ones. They would rather have “Mommy time,” which spells love, rather than the mommy being preoccupied with cleaning. Children only go through life once, savor each day because they do grow up quick. Other needs that moms have said is the need for identity, growth, and relationships. With identity, we must realize that we are all made different with certain gifts, traits, talents, and we don’t want to absolutely lose while giving our all to others. Mothers take time to keep your interests up. It may be limited right now during this season of child raising, but don’t forget that you are a person too. Children love and appreciate who their mommies are. Growth is so important as we mother children. Learning new things, taking time to learn a new skill. Giving yourself space as a mother is not only a need for mothers, but also your family needs you to develop yourself. There are
able to contact Pat Terry of Selma, North Carolina, who restores old tractors to their former glory. This model tractor was built from 1935 to 1952 and was one of that era’s most popular tractors, because of their design and durability. One of the tractor’s unique features is gravity feed fuel system. It was equipped with two gas fuel tanks, one with high octane to start the tractor and a large regular gas tank to help it run. Instead of a distributor, it had a magneto to help make a spark. The eight-hour trip took longer than expected, but once it did, everyone was all smiles. Mangham tried out the tractor seat and Sasser and Terry inspected the tractor and discussed continued care of the tractor.
so many opportunities in Opelika and surrounding areas where childcare is provided while a mother is trying to learn a new talent, exercise at the gym, or take a decorating class. Mothers need to have relationships in our families, with other moms, and friends. Moms need to connect with others in a helpful and meaningful way in managing the life of motherhood. In moving to an area where family is not near, friends become your family. As I conclude, I hope all you ladies who are identified as moms will benefit from this article in one way or the other. Too, for people in our community, we can see that mothering affects not only families, but communities and the world. On this upcoming Mother’s Day, be sure to wish those who have influenced your lives in wonderful ways, a happy Mother’s Day! This will be the greatest gift they may receive.
Pinyerd has taught young children in the early childhood classroom for 34 years as well as outreaching to the elderly in intergenerational settings. She has taught and outreached in the schools in Opelika and Baldwin County. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd who has taught her so much about learning. Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools, and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@ att.net.
pelika O Observer Recipes,
from A9 Slow Cooker Pot Roast Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 8 hours. 1 (about 3 lbs.) chuck roast Worcestershire sauce Mrs. Dash 2 cups baby carrots 2 lbs. potatoes, washed, peeled (optional) and cut into large chunks Place roast in the bottom of a 6 quart slow cooker. Coat with Worcestershire sauce on all sides. Sprinkle with Mrs. Dash. Place carrots and potatoes around the roast. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. All in One Spaghetti 1 lb. ground beef or sausage 1 onion, diced 2 Tbsp. garlic, minced 1 3/4 cups chicken broth 3 1/4 cups spaghetti sauce 1/2 cup water 8 oz. spaghetti, whole or broken into pieces 1/4 cup grated Parmesan In a large pot, brown meat with onion. Drain. Add garlic and let cook about one minute. Add broth, spaghetti sauce and water. Bring to a boil. Add spaghetti and reduce heat. Cook covered 17-20 minutes, or until noodles are soft, stirring occasionally. Add more water, if needed. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Mini Chicken Pot Pies 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced (I use canned chicken breast) 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 cup frozen mixed veggies 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 Tbsp. dried thyme 1/2 Tbsp. dried basil 1 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. garlic salt 2 (10 oz.) cans Pillsbury biscuits Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, frozen veggies, cheese, herbs and spices. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin and place Pillsbury biscuits into each cup, pressing into the bottom and up the sides. Evenly spoon pot pie mixture into each biscuit cup. Slide into oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Check at the 12 minute mark. Let rest for about 3 minutes and dig in!
Macaroni and Cheese 1 cup macaroni, uncooked 2 eggs 1 cup milk ½ stick margarine Salt and pepper to taste ½ lb. grated sharp cheddar cheese Cook macaroni according to directions on box and drain. Add margarine and cheese to cooked macaroni. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and add milk, salt and pepper. Pour egg mixture over macaroni and place in an 8 x 8 baking dish. Cover with grated cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes or until browned. Baked Chicken Chimichangas 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 8 oz. pepper jack cheese, shredded 1 1/2 Tbsp. taco seasoning 1 lb. cooked chicken, shredded 8 flour tortillas Cooking spray Shredded cheddar cheese Green onions, for garnish Sour cream Salsa Stir together cream cheese, pepper jack cheese and taco seasoning. Fold in chicken. Divide among flour tortillas. Tuck in sides, and roll up each tortilla. Lay seam side down in a sprayed 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Spray tops of tortillas with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Turn chimichangas over and bake an additional 15 minutes. Serve with cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream and salsa. Meatloaf 1 1/2 to 2 lbs. ground beef 1 small onion or half of a larger onion, chopped 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (I used Italian for extra flavor) 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup parsley, chopped 1/4 cup milk 1 Tbsp. garlic, minced (optional) 2 eggs, beaten Salt and pepper For the Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup 2 Tbsp. brown sugar 1 Tbsp. mustard Dash of Worcestershire sauce Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place all of the meatloaf ingredients into a bowl, and using your (very clean) hands,
combine all of the ingredients. Then, in a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the glaze. Remove meat mixture from bowl and form into a loaf on a pan or baking dish. Spread about 1/3 of the glaze over the loaf. Place loaf in oven and bake for 45 minutes. Add about another 1/3 of the glaze after 45 minutes, and then cook for an additional 15 minutes. Once the loaf is done (internal temperature of the meat should be 155 degrees and/ or no longer pink), remove from oven. You can either top with the additional glaze or save it for serving, which is what I like to do. Slice it up, serve warm with the extra glaze, and enjoy! Baby Arugula, Cranberry, Pecan and Feta Salad 1/4 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. finely minced shallot 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil Freshly ground pepper, to taste 12 oz. baby arugula, rinsed 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/2 cup crumbled feta In a small bowl, whisk salt, shallot, balsamic vinegar and pepper well. Add olive oil in a steady stream and whisk until emulsified. In a larger bowl, combine arugula, pecans and cranberries. Top with vinaigrette and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with feta and serve. Baked Beans 2 large cans Bushes baked beans original 1 1/2 Tbsp. yellow mustard 2 Tbsp. Aunt Jemima Syrup 1 1/2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 3/4 bottle Sweet Baby Rays Original Barbecue Sauce (18 oz. bottle) 1 pack Conecuh sausage, diced, uncooked Brown 1/2 lb. hamburger meat with 1/2 of small yellow onion, diced (drain meat). Pour all ingredients into large mixing bowl and mix until well blended. Pour into 9x13 Pyrex dish and bake in oven for 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Sausage and Potatoes Small bag baking potatoes, diced 3 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. smoked paprika
1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 1/2 white onion, diced 1 pack Conecuh sausage, diced, uncooked 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese Put potatoes, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper and onion into a bowl and mix. Spray baking sheet with nonstick. Bake for 40 minutes at 375 degrees until potatoes are done. Remove potatoes and place sausage on top of potatoes. Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, spread shredded mild cheddar on top, put back in oven for 2 minutes (until cheese is melted). Breakfast Muffins 6 eggs 2 cups half and half ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper 1 cup Bisquick Grated cheddar cheese 2 pkg. Bacon Bits In a large bowl mix together eggs, half and half, salt and pepper. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle a thin layer of bacon bits in each muffin cup, fill 2/3 with mixture, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees. Makes 18 muffins. Poppyseed Chicken Casserole 1 lb. cooked chicken, diced (about 2-3 cups) I use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken 1 (8 oz.) container sour cream 1 (10.75 oz.) can cream of chicken soup ½ shredded Parmesan cheese 2 tsp. poppy seeds 1 sleeve buttery round crackers, about 1 cup crushed (like Ritz) ½ cup butter melted Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, add cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded Parmesan cheese and poppyseeds. Mix until incorporated. Spread along the bottom of a 2 quart casserole or 9x9 inch pan. Crush Ritz cracker and add melted butter and toss to coat in the butter. Sprinkle on top of the chicken mixture. Bake for 2530 minutes or until bubbly. Serves 4-5. 3-2-1 Sausage Balls 3 cups Bisquick 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 lb. sausage Mix all ingredi-
A11 May 08, 2019 ents together with hands in a large bowl. Roll in small balls, cook for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Green Beans 6 slices bacon 2 lbs. rinsed and trimmed fresh green beans or canned green beans 1/2 cup diced yellow onion 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water Salt and pepper to taste (I usually don’t add salt because the bacon is plenty salty.) Cook bacon over medium heat in a heavy 3 qt. saucepan until the bacon is fully rendered. Do not remove any of the bacon grease - it’s what makes these green beans so amazing! Add onions and sauté with bacon until transparent. Add green beans and pepper and stir, making sure bacon drippings are getting mixed in well. Add chicken broth and reduce heat to low. Cover and continue cooking the green beans for 30 minutes for canned beans and up to two hours for fresh, stirring occasionally. Make sure there is liquid in the bottom of pot so the beans don’t get scorched. Check for seasoning levels and add salt and pepper if necessary. Banana Bread 2 cups flour 1 tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. salt 1 egg 1⅛ cup sugar ½ cup vegetable or canola oil 2 Tbsp. buttermilk or milk ½ tsp. vanilla 3 bananas, mashed very well ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional) Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Add flour, baking soda and salt to a small bowl and set aside. Mix egg, sugar and oil and stir until well combined. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir well. The mixture will be thick and dry. Next add milk, vanilla and bananas and stir until incorporated. Mix in walnuts and pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake 50-75 minutes, checking regularly until a knife comes out clean.
Pumpkin Spice Waffles 1/2 cup coconut
oil 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 15 oz. pure pumpkin puree 2 eggs, separated 1/2 cup whole milk 1 tsp. McCormick Pumpkin Pie Spice Extract 1 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (optional) Preheat waffle iron according to directions. In a large bowl, whisk the coconut oil (in liquid form), both kinds of sugar, pumpkin puree, egg yolks and milk together until smooth. Add pumpkin pie spice extract and vanilla extract and stir. In a separate bowl mix flour, baking powder, and salt together. Stir flour mixture into pumpkin mixture, just until combined. In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk egg whites until they are white and fluffy with soft peaks. Carefully and gently fold egg whites into batter. Scoop about 3/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook (batter will be thick). Top with butter and syrup.
Food Ratings Firehouse Subs 1907 S. College St. Auburn Score: 97 Momma Goldberg’s 217 E. Thach Ave. Auburn Score: 97 Philly Connection 2328 S. College St. Auburn Score: 97 Backwater BBQ 5330 Lee Road 379 Salem Score: 96 Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint 339 S. College St. Auburn Score: 96 Tailgate Grille 3050 Highway 14 West Auburn Score: 96 Pizza D’Action 2368 Lee Road 430 Smiths Station Score: 95 Sushi Hero, LLC 1642 S. College St. Auburn Score: 83
Opelika
A12
Family & Religion
May 08, 2019
Learning about love C Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706
onnie is my wife’s mother. She is 95 and has been in a memory loss unit of the assisted living home for a number of years. As with most people with dementia, she has days that are good and days that aren’t. This past Christmas was our turn in the rotation, which as any self-respecting parent with married children knows, meant that they and their families would be traveling from North Carolina, Arkansas and Tennessee to spend Christmas with us. Our son and his family (the Arkansas contingent) stopped in Huntsville to spend some time with Connie before heading our way.
She has a book that her daughter and granddaughter put together. It is a book of memories that consists of pictures and simple narrative in regard to the significant people and events of her life. There are pictures of brothers and sisters, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even those of us who were grafted into the family tree have a spot in the book. The person who owns the pre-eminent place in the book is her husband Reed. They were married for 72 years before he passed away. On this day, Connie is doing well. Maybe it’s the three great-grandsons five years and younger
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
that have sparked her. (They definitely have a sparking capability). Maybe it has something to do with the fact that the oldest of those boys is named Reed. Who can say? I suppose if you could, we would be well on the way to figuring out what causes this terrible disease that unravels people like thread off a spool.
Church calendar • Pepperell Baptist is continuing to offer a Wednesday evening program from 6 to 7 p.m. for preschool and elementary children called WOW-Worship on Wednesdays. The evening program of Bible messages for children, crafts, fun activities, and snack is ongoing throughout the year. The youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study, and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones if you need more information at 334-745-3108. • Registration for Farmville Baptist Church’s First Steps Preschool program for fall 2019 is now open to the public. For more information or to register, call 334-887-7361 or visit them
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
at 3607 Alabama Highway 147 N. in Auburn. • May 18 - Watoola United Methodist Church Annual BBQ is scheduled for Saturday, May 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1370 Lee Road 38 in Opelika. Chicken or pork plates will cost $9 and baked goods will also be available for purchase Please come out and help us raise funds to rebuild our church sanctuary and to help out the community around us that was so greatly impacted by the March 3 tornadoes. • Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate Pastor Anthony and First Lady Catina Pogue’s Third Pastoral Anniversary May 19 at 2 p.m. Our special guests will be Rev. Bradley Gibson and the Mt. Zion Missionary Church, New Site, Alabama.
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!
603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, AL Opelika, AL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun 12pm-6pm Sun 12pm - 6pm
Our son notices that she is reading every word in the book. No stumbles, mispronunciations or omitted words. This is highly unusual. When they are almost to the end of the book, they come to a passage of Scripture—1 Corinthians 13. Most people refer to it as the love passage. Connie continues her reading in an unbroken voice. But here she deviates from the text for the first time. Instead of the familiar, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” she reads, “Reed is patient, Reed is kind. He does not envy, he does not boast, he is not proud.”
All of us have questions as to why God leaves people like Connie on the earth to sit in a memory loss unit of an assisted living home for years upon end. And if you are looking for any kind of a definitive answer here, you have come to the wrong place. But this I know, people like Connie have plenty of things to teach those of us who are hydroplaning through life if we will only slow down long enough to listen and learn. We’re listening Connie. Bruce has written an entry level book on Revelation called The Thrill of Hope. It is available through Amazon.
Verse of the Week “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance...”
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive #745-6377 CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460
Psalm 32:7 Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com. Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922
Family Life Christian Center 601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770
pelika O Observer
A13 May 08, 2019
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The 68th National Day of Prayer event was held last Thuesday at Courthouse Square located in downtown Opelika. The non-denominational prayer and worship event drew hundreds of people celebrating the message and theme which comes from John 13:34 that states “Love one another. Just as I have loved you.” The event was also live broadcasted on Hallelujah 910 AM. According to the National Day of Prayer website, the event was “created in 1952 and signed into law by then-U.S. President Harry Truman. For more information, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.
OBITUARIES Toby James Mr. Toby James, 83 of Opelika, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 3, 2019 in Opelika. Funeral services was held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 6, 2019 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Visitation was held Monday, May 6, 2019 beginning at 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Mr. James is predeceased by his loving wife Martha Pearline James; parents, Ethel Laura James and Homer Blanton James; sister, Doris Patterson; brother, Frank James. Mr. James is surEric S. Lawler Eric S. Lawler of Opelika, was born in the Lee County Hospital on November 17, 1971 and passed away in an automobile accident on I-85 on April 25, 2019. He was 47 years old. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church.
vived by his sister Evelyn Kiker; grandniece, Charlotte Patterson; step sons: Clarence Murphy, Larry (Jan) Murphy, and Cleve (Teresa) Murphy, along with a host of numerous step grandchildren, step great grandchildren, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Mr. James was best known from his career running Swan’s Restaurant. He was also known for managing the Lazy-B. Mr. James was also the Co-Owner of the Tiger Express. Mr. James was a member of Pepperell Baptist Church. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elva and Joe Roan; nephew Drew Nuffer. He is survived by his mother, Nancy Gail Strickland; sister, Vanessa Nuffer, and brother, Gary Wayne Warren (Toni Gail); aunt, Mellisa Roan, and uncle Charles Roan
David Clyde Ray David Clyde Ray was born on April 5th, 1938 in Opelika. He attended Cliff High School and entered the U.S. Air Force at the age of 16 in July, 1954 but was discharged a few months later when it was discovered he was too young. This didn’t deter him though because just a year later, he volunteered and was accepted to the US Air Force at the age of 17 and spent the next four years as a fire fighter on a crash crew at Lackland, AFB until his discharge in 1959. He served on the Opelika Police Department and Lee County Sheriff’s office after serving in the Korean conflict. He moved on to work with Telecable of Lee County and Davis-Dyar Electrical Company. Soon afterwards,
(Desi); nieces, Lacy George (David) and Mary Nuffer; nephew, Josh Alvis, the Clark family as well as numerous cousins, extended family, and friends. Visitation was held Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at Beulah Baptist Church from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. CDT.
he established City Electric with two of his brothers, Winfield and Donald Ray. After Winfield’s death in 1995, the name changed to D. Ray Electric Company with his Brother Donald. Clyde retired in 2008. Clyde was preceded in death by his parents, James Cleveland Ray and Nellie Smith Ray and brother, James Winfield Ray. Clyde is survived by his wife, Daisy S. Ray; son, Kenneth Clyde Ray (Carole); daughter, Dody Ray Cadenhead (Mark), StepDaughter Billie Sue Scurnopoli; Brothers Wayne Ray and Donald C. Ray; Grandchildren, Logan Chance Ray, Bryant Kennon Ray, Hannah Ray Cadenhead, Shannon Ray, Braden Dubose (Liz), Caitlin Dubose (Kody Mathes), Ashton Scurnopoli, Abby and Anna
Funeral service was held Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Chapel at 1:00 p.m. CDT. with brother, Scottie Faulkner officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
Hester; Great-Grandchildren, Declan Dubose and Heidi Kate Mathes, one aunt and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Pallbearers are Logan Ray, Bryant Ray, Jeremiah Ray, Danny Skutack, Mike Davis, Braden DuBose, and Ashton Scurnopoli. Visitation was held on Thursday, May 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Funeral service was held on Friday, May 3rd at 2:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we are requesting donations in our Father’s name to Kindred Hospice and to Flags for Vets. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.
Tommy J. Fincher Tommy J. Fincher of Opelika, Alabama was born to the late James and Melcie Lawson Fincher on August 20, 1953 and passed away at Baptist Health on April 27, 2019. He was 65 years old. He survived by his children, Justin Fincher, and Danielle
Tremblay (Ricky); granddaughter, Lydia Tremblay; brother, Jimmy Fincher; sister, Sandra J. Polk, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members. Family received family and friends at Danielle’s residence Wednesday, May 1, 2019 from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m.
pelika Observer O
A14 May 08, 2019
Community Calendar: Events around town
• May 14 - Ground breaking for Chicken Salad Chick at Tiger Town - 10 a.m. • May 17 - Ribbon Cutting - Hometown Furniture & Appliance Grand Opening - 3:30 p.m. • May 17 - Application Deadline for Fall 2019 20 Under 40 Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.” • The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256-307-1449. Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th Street, Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn
New • May 10 - Southside Speakeasy • May 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 - Auburn Area Community Theatre’s production of ‘Last Round-up of the Guacamole Queens • May 11 - Second Saturday at Pioneer Park will feature representatives of the Poarch Creek indians from Atmore. They will be demonstrating some traditional arts and crafts such as pottery, copper tooling, shell carving and basketry, story telling and pow-wow dancing. For more information, call 334-887-3007. The park is located at 6500 Stage Road. • May 21 - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will meet at 7 p.m. at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 East Glenn Ave. • May 24-26 - Opelika Songwriters Festival
High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m. For more information, call 297-5581 or visit www.nonukesforiran.org. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 8261899 or 502-0216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584. • The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m. • The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for pro-
ducers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website. Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops, and many more. To view the full schedule, please visit www.aces. edu/anr/beginningfarms/ webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn. edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@ auburn.edu. Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Mon-
arch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by nonvoting work sessions that typically begin about 6:30 to 6:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.
Aspen Dental Day of Service Special to the Opelika Observer Aspen Dental is offering free dental care for local veterans as part of its Healthy Mouth Movement and Day of Service on June 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Achieving oral health is especially challenging for the majority of U.S. veterans as they are not eligible for dental benefits through the Veterans Administration unless they are 100% disabled, have a servicerelated mouth injury or were a prisoner of war. Day of Service is all about thanking veterans for their service in the best way that we at
Aspen Dental know how and helping to empower them with the gift of a healthier mouth. This year, we expect to give free dental care to approximately 5,000 veterans that day. Since launching the Healthy Mouth Movement in 2014, dentists and their teams from Aspen Dental-branded offices across the country have donated more than $15 million in dentistry to over 22,000 veterans and people in need through their volunteer efforts. Aspen Dental will also look to build on the success of last year’s Day of Service campaign, in which more than 4,300 veterans across
the country received free dental care at 426 participating Aspen Dental locations. About the Healthy Mouth Movement The Healthy Mouth Movement is a community giving initiative launched by Aspen Dental in 2014 to deliver free dental care and oral health education to people in need across the United States. Since then, nearly 10,000 Aspen Dental team members volunteered their time and talents to deliver more than $10 million in free dental care to over 17,000 patients in need. For more information, visit www. HealthyMouthMovement.com.
• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meet the 4th Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@gmail. com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of
the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information. •After School Art Classes for Children & Youth Weekly Studio Classes featuring Drawing, Painting & More.. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 •Afternoon Art Classes for Adults featuring Studio Drawing, Painting & More.. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided Thursdays at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Evening Art Classes for Adults Fundamental Drawing Studio - Every Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Portrait Drawing Studio - portrait drawing classes for beginners, Every Wednesday 2 p.m. EST *all fine art supplies are provided The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 • Senior Studio Art Classes Every Wednesday 11 a.m. EST *beginners are welcome *all fine art supplies are always provided - Enroll Today- 334-480-2008 Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
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14th annual Garden in the park held Saturday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Keep Opelika Beautiful’s 14th annual “Garden in the Park” event was held last Saturday at Municipal Park. Hundreds of people attended the event, which featured arts and crafts, entertainment for children and adults, food and live music.
Taste of the Town entertains, provides food for great cause
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The seventh annual “Taste of the Town” event was held April 23 at the Museum of East Alabama in downtown Opelika. Area restaurants, breweries and wineries showcased their products. Proceeds from the event are donated for the museum’s upkeep and repair. According to Director Glenn Buxton, visitors from around the globe travel to the museum to view its more than 5,000 artifacts from Lee and surrounding counties.
An Annual Affair
 Memorial Day Weekend
 May 24 - 26, 2019 Downtown Opelika, Alabama
opelikasongwritersfestival.com
Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports
Turn to B4 for photos from Opelika High School’s academic signing days
Opelika students celebrate state’s bicentennial
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
OHS track and field team posts solid results at state
T
he AHSAA held the 2019 Track and Field State Meet last weekend in Gulf Shores. The Opelika boys and girls teams participated in the threeday meet. The Bulldog boys placed third with 69 points, behind champion Homewood and runnerup Northridge. -100 meters – Brantan Barnett 5th and Jaylen Stinson 6th - 110-meter hurdles Daniel Kindred 3rd and Justin Shorter 5th - 300-meter hurdlesJarell Stinson 8th - 400-meter hurdlesJarell Stinson 2nd and Jaylen Stinson 3rd - 300-meter hurdlesEric Watts 5th - 4 x 100-meter Relay - team finished 2nd - High jump- Caleb Phillips 8th - Long Jump - Eric Watts 2nd and Omar Holloway 5th - Javelin - Jaylen Stinson 1st - Shot put - Blake Landers 10th The Lady Bulldogs finished 12th in the state meet with 12 athletes qualifying for the meet. Trinity Love placed the highest of any Lady Bulldog with a fourth place in the shot put.
- Haley Sanders was 8th in the 100 meters and 5th in the 200 meters - Breckin Gould was 9th in 3,200-meter run - Ansley Jackson finished 10th in the high jump - Jackson finished 7th and Sequoia Williams 9th in the triple jump - A’Nyiah Hughley was 5th Trinity Love 9th in the discus - Lauren White finished 10th in the javelin - Love was 4th and Hughley 6th in the shot put. Opelika Coach Jimmy Johnson and his team performed well at the state meet. The Bulldogs continue to qualify and make noise in the state meets under he and his staff’s leadership and training. SOFTBALL OHS softball Coach Tina Deese guided her team to another birth in the state playoffs. The Lady Bulldogs finished second in last week’s area tournament in Alexander City. Opelika will travel to Oxford on May 9 for a 10:30 a.m. game against Hillcrest Tuscaloosa. The winner and loser play a second game at 6
Photo special to the Opelika Observer Civic leaders, community leaders, families, teachers and students were all on hand to celebrate Opelika's Bicentennial festivities last week.
See Sports, page B7
See SUSCC, page B2
Special to the Opelika Observer Nearly 400 schools in the state of Alabama applied to the Bicentennial Grant, with 200 of those being selected, including Opelika City Schools system members Carver Primary School and West Forest Intermediate School. Each school was provided $2,000 through the grant, with monies being used to create outdoor classrooms at the two schools.
"Sweet Home Opelika" is the theme of the Bicentennial Civic Community involvement part of this grant program. This has been enriched and promoted in the schools by lessons which included using an Opelika Theme Book and "Color Me Opelika" coloring book in counseling classes, children creating Opelika and Alabama related art in art classes, and involving civic leaders and parents in four programs throughout the year to teach the students more about the
community they live in. First, a "Sweet Home Opelika" program where Mayor Gary Fuller, Councilwoman Patsy Jones, Community Relations Director Leigh Krehling, Dinah Motley from the Chamber of Commerce, Rosanna McGinnis from Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library, along with Glenn Buxton, Kathy Penton and Jean Heath from the Museum of East Alabama shared about these city organizations and how they serve the commu-
nity. Second, an "Acts of Kindness" program where Tipi Miller of Keep Opelika Beautiful, McGinnis and Tim Cooper from the library, and Officers Burdette, Whaley and Williams of the Opelika Police Department and numerous Opelika Fire Department reperesentatives shared about their organizations and how they serve as community helpers. The children created trash bags to collect litter, book marks to give out to patrons of the librar See Bicentennial, page B2
Adult education open house held at SUSCC to raise awareness of free educational services By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer Southern Union State Community College held an open house event on April 30, showcasing the free services that their adult education department offers to members of the community with the goal of promoting ca-
reer success. At the event, instructors set up booths with brochures explaining the various options. Several of the college’s administrators and adult education specialists gave presentations on adult education topics to the audience, which filled up the seating in the student union building. Derika Griffin, who
serves as director of the adult education department at Southern Union State Community College, shared her vision for the Adult Education Program in an email conversation about the program’s goals. “I want the Southern Union Adult Education Program to become the main source of help for
individuals who left high school prior to graduation,” Griffin said. “I want us to become the “go to” for our high school counselors and administrators, individuals who just want to do better for themselves and their families, and employers who need their employees to
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Christian Women’s Job Corps of Lee County holds 24th Pinning Ceremony Special to the Opelika Observer On May 3, five local women were honored in a pinning ceremony held at the Epworth Center of Auburn United Methodist Church. The event marked the completion of 24 sessions and 140 graduates of Christian Women’s Job Corps of Lee County. This session’s graduates included Soonyoung An, Brandi Davison, Nydia Gipson, Nhung Le (Amy) and Young Jae Lee. The five participants were “guided” by community volunteers Sandy Poe, Colleen Alsobrook, Amory Scott, Brenda Ramage and Jane Huntley. Guides worked with their mentees weekly on making “Action Boards” where they established and monitored personal and career goals identifying specific steps or “actions”
they would take as they worked toward reaching those goals. The theme for this session was taken from Ecclesiastes 4:12, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Those attending the ceremony viewed a DVD presentation of highlights of the 10 week session. Nine weeks included classes such as Computers, Communications, Budgeting, Health and Wholeness, Leadership Fundamentals, I Can, I Will, I Did, Living from the Inside Out, Career Direction, Money Smart, Bible Study and more. During week 10, internships were provided by Arbor Springs, Auburn City School Transportation Department, Auburn Jr. High School and City of Auburn Community Development. During the pinning ceremony, Director of Lee
County CWJC Neeley Caldwell challenged the graduates to live in community supporting each other as they exemplify the three stands of a strong cord “not quickly broken.” Each graduate identified her “three strands” naming her own effort and support system as the first strand. The second strand included instructors, CWJC volunteers, and Guides. God’s power, love, and presence in their lives makes the essential third strand to forge a rope-like cord. “I have completed my resume, cover letter and my application,” said one graduate about their experiences at CWJC. “CWJC also gave me knowledge of interview tips and mock interview practices, which helped my understanding more about what to say and not to say at an interview… I believe that I am ready to start my career with all the
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
confidence and skills I have gained at CWJC. I hope I can be successful and be a great role model for my children.” Following participant speeches, pinning, and presentation of certificates, all in attendance were invited
Bicentennial, from B1 and made Christmas cards for the OPD and OFD to show acts of kindness themselves. Third, each school had a Career Day where community members and parents Adria Staton, Brittany Avery, Kayla Southard, Dorcas Woody and Tony Norton shared about their respective careers in the community and children dressed up in outfits suitable for their desired future careers.And fourth, each school had a Multicultural Day where community members Photo special to the Opelika Observer and parents shared their
SUSCC,
from B1
have better basic skills.” During the open house, Dr. Linda North, who serves Southern Union as the Dean of Academics, asked for every person in attendance to tell others about the adult education program so that instructors can further fill their classrooms and help more people. “My challenge to you is to tell two people tonight what you heard because there are so many people that do not know, even on our campus here, that we offer English as a Second Language,” North said. “They do not know about the [nontraditional] high school [diploma] option.” The nontraditional diploma gives those who qualify an opportunity to receive a high school diploma from the last high school attended. A Variety of Courses and Career Paths With a range of courses in GED preparation, general education, and certifications in multiple indemand career paths, the courses offered by Southern Union are designed to meet the needs of adult learners, who often have family and work obliga-
tions in addition to seeking education. Courses are offered in the morning, afternoon, evening, and even online, to provide the flexibility needed for those who work and have families. Adult education instructors meet each student where they are and provide individualized lesson plans based on each student’s situation. The adult education program offers GED exams and preparation for the GED, as well as a nontraditional high school diploma option for those who have earned enough high school credits to qualify. The coursework also extends into preparation for specific careers, including machine tech, that includes machine tech, business administration, digital literacy, and healthcare. Adult education students who obtain their GED or diploma can continue to receive the academic support of the adult education department as they begin to earn official credits toward their associate’s degree. North emphasized the English as a Second Language program as one that has grown significantly in the past few years. Second language learners can begin classes at any time during the year and the ESL/ELL program
meets the needs of learners anywhere from the beginner level, in which basic skills can help them to navigate a world in which most signs, brochures and product packages are written in English. Advanced learners can further hone their fluency and advance their careers through continued practice. Workforce Development for Today’s Labor Market In addition to helping individual students to complete their education, the program aims to meet the growing workforce needs in East Alabama communities. Griffin explained the strategy behind the career development programs emphasized by the program. “According to the most up-to-date labor market information, Lee County’s highest demand occupations include home health aides, registered nurses, medical assistants, nursing assistants, industrial machinery mechanics, laborers and material movers, truck drivers, welders, software application developers, computer user support specialists, medical secretaries, and management analysts,” Griffin said Griffin emphasized the degree to which helping
to a reception honoring the graduates. For more information on becoming a participant, volunteer, or supporter of Christian Women’s Job Corps® of Lee County, contact Neeley Caldwell at 334-8210591, 334-524-5529, or
respective cultures to learn about the diversity that exists in our wonderful schools and community. Event organizers expressed gratitude to Oslyn Rodriguez of Backpacks International, Shane Mills of Kage Fit, Arturo and Krystal Reyes of Laredo's and all of the school system’s amazing parents for their contributions to the multicultural programs. The Bicentennial programs will culminate with "Sweet Home Opelika" Field Trips where 20-Under-40 participants will serve as tour guides for the students as they visit many of the landmarks and historic places in Opelika they have learned about this
year. Carver Primary will have their field trip on May 26 and West Forest will have their field trip on May 29 touring Southside and Northside Opelika while making stops at the Museum of East Alabama, Lee County Courthouse and Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library. Parents, teachers and students have participated in two outdoor classroom work days, one in the fall and one in the spring to clean up the campus, build benches and canopy areas, hang bird houses and feeders and plant vegetables and flowers in the gardens. A "Sweet Home Opelika" T-shirt design contest was held in
neeley@cwjclc.com. The Fall Session will begin in September. Graduates in photo: Soonyoung An, Nydia Gipson, Brandi Davison, Nhung Le (Amy) and Young Jae Lee.
February at each school. A panel of teachers, parents and community leaders voted on the designs to choose a winner for each school. Victory Designs, Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council have graciously provided T-shirts for staff and students to wear on their field trips with the winning design for each school. A dedication of the outdoor classroom was held at West Forest last week and at Carver on Friday, starting at 1 p.m. Of the 200 schools that were given grants, 21 schools will be chosen as Alabama Bicentennial Schools of Excellence in the fall.
in further career trainfoundation, parents may adults with families to ing, more people can be succeed is good for every- find it difficult to find the served. In addition, Griffin one, enabling all members time to help their chilgave some additional dren with homework and of society to truly thrive ways to help. “We always other activities requiring and reach their potential, need event sponsors. academic skills. (https:// starting with learners and Interested individuals extending to their families. www2.ed.gov/about/of“From there it becomes fices/list/ovae/pi/AdultEd/ can contact our Outreach Coordinator Jan Busby f14.html). a ripple effect,” Griffin at jbusby@suscc.edu for How to Get Involved said. “When individuals a sponsorship packet. The presenters stressed succeed, families succeed, There’s always an opthe community succeeds.” the importance of raising portunity for professionals Beyond just impacts on awareness of the adult to serve as guest speakthe careers of individuals, education program, as ers and mentors for our awareness is necessary families are also affected Career Pathways program. people connect with by adult education. The Lee Countyfor Dr. James “Mac” McCoy Board of Education Hill Road Interested individuals Superintendent courses and services Coalition on Adult Basic2410 Societythe 334-705-6000 Opelika, AL 36804-4830 Fax: 334-745-9822 should contact Ms.TollJune that are right for them. Education states on their Free: 1-800-652-9770 By asking people in one’s Abercrombie at juneaberwebsite that literacy and A Tradition of Excellence – A Vision for Tomorrow crombie@suscc.edu.” life if they are interested career skills are crucial to success in a job market that increasingly requires computer skills and education - www.coabe.org/ why-it-matters . However, disparities Notice is hereby given to all are present that hold many people back from reaching citizens, press, and any interested parties that their full potential. According to the NaLee County Board of Education tional Center for Children in Poverty, many parents will meet with low levels of education face challenges. For Tuesday, May 14, 2019 example, they may need to work long hours at low 6:00 P.M. CT at the Central Office paying jobs to put food on the table, which can make 2410 Society Hill Road it very challenging to Opelika, AL 36804-4830 help children with school and other areas which are important to child development (http://www. nccp.org/publications/ This notice is posted on May 3, 2019 pub_786.html ). Withby Dr. James E. McCoy, Superintendent of Lee County Schools out a strong educational
BOARD MEETING NOTICE
All Schools Accredited by SACS CASI
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Refresh
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liminating the noise, finger swipes across glass; return to home screen, folded case, closed. Uncorked Pinot poured o’er berries, brandy and ice. Citrus, basil and melon are immersed in one of my preferred white wines. Sangria sparkles in the sunlight. Fluid crystals drip down the side of the carafe. Balmy fragrances of lavender and mint drifts through the air. Before dinner is plated, I return to the garden, remove a few weeds and thin out overgrown lemon thyme. I transplant it, alongside other bordering plants with perfumes that will enchant my outdoor reading at dusky light. Flora that will billow and sway from elevated containers are now planted. Pale colors are paired with those of deeper textures and hues. Magenta and Spanish Yellow near Periwinkle and my favorite, Rosemary Tuscan Blue. A floral pattern linen is spread over the rustic farmyard table. A white platter of melon, berries and citrus is served with a simple salad of fresh greens, marinated olives and herbs and mozzarella. Sangria is poured, first white then red, reflecting the midspring sunset. The white is pleasant and bright, ideal for a luncheon one
YOUR DESTINATION for CONTINUED FINE ARTS EDUCATION STUDIO CLASSES | DRAWING, PAINTING & MORE for ALL AGES www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com By Sarah West early afternoon. I prefer the red, marvelous with all the complex elegance of a bouquet in hues of crimson and violet, accompanied by excellent dark chocolate. The light tapers with leisure sips, as books are opened, pages flip, and experiences are shared. Compelled to write a thought down, I untie the strap wrapped ‘round my journal, and pen the thought then another. Moments like this, perhaps should be written and shared. In length beyond that of newsfeed, I find it best to think on this, write the thought, and experience it rather than scrolling passed it. Sun-like streams of honey, then pale pink and purple; the trees
are laced in early greens of sage casting shadows until twilight. Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose. She is a preservation, and conservation advocate, activist, and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on Regional Narrative Painting. She is founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, Smiths Station, Alabama’s premier fine arts destination. She is the appointed Official Artist to the City of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndicated columnist, the director of her art center’s Cultural
Arts Outreach Initiative which partners with local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the City of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smith Station Historic Commission. She is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Board- Cary Center, Auburn University College of Human Science. She is an elected member of the Society of Illustrators- NYC. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station, Alabama. To learn more about her work and activism visit, www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com.
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
Home is where the heart is
Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer
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y son called home from Grand Rapids, Michigan. “Mom I am flying home for Mother’s Day!” Needless to say my heart leaped for JOY! Home has so many meanings to so many different people in families, individuals and cultures. For some right now, home may bring on happy thoughts and for some it may bring on sad thoughts. World travelers have witnessed many different kinds of homes from living in tents, mud huts, open aired homes, homes up on stilts, chalets, or even living on an open savanna in Africa under the stars. Even around our surrounding area of Lee county we see mobile homes, boat homes, apartments, condos, brick homes, wood homes, log cabins., etc. Some of us live in the country, city, or suburban areas. Even animals are provided homes like nests for birds, (Psalm 84:3 says even the sparrow has found a home), dens
for bears, forests for all kinds of animals, lakes, bays, oceans for our water animals, beds of soil for ants, holes for moles, a web reflecting the morning dew for spiders. Sometimes we land in temporary homes like shelters when there are natural disasters. Hospitals become our homes when we become sick. In Deuteronomy 6:7 the Lord guides us in teaching out children all the time about His truth in the Word of God at home. “Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Normally, our homes provide a place of refuge, security and peace where we can let down and sense love and acceptance of who we are. You’ve heard the expression “home is where the heart is.” This expression means so much to a child’s growth, development and life. Home is a place where a child can
learn, grow and experience many different lessons to prepare them to live in a bigger home, our world. Following is list of ways that a home can prepare a child emotionally, teach new skills appropriate for their age, learn rules of discipline which lead to a well-adjusted life and respect for others, as well as helping them recognize their gifts and talents. 1. Emotionally: Children are moldable and bendable by the words we say to them. Young children need clear lines of rules and boundaries but yet they need words of encouragement in order to learn, grow and just believe and know how special they are. One of my favorite centers in the classroom is the Play-Doh center because I can mold, roll and pat Play-Doh. Play-Doh is just plain old fun to make different kinds of things. Like Play-Doh, children can be shaped into objects they don’t desire to be or into objects that radiate like the bright colors of Play-Doh by the words, actions, and time we spend with our children. The home is the perfect environment where words of encouragement and time spent with our children are the essential building blocks in their adjustment, well being, and good self esteem. Too, getting off the very busy routine at home and letting your child
just unwind is very important. 2. Learning new skills: There are so many readiness and academic lessons to be learned at home through household chores that truthfully aid in your child’s developmental learning. Sorting laundry into piles like the family’s dirty or clean clothes, they can sort what belongs to mom, dad, brother , or sister. Sorting silverware to set the table for a family meal emphasizes groups or sets. Too, children have to count and remember how many family members to set the table which is one to one correspondence. In the kitchen having preschool children read food labels by looking at the pictures on the jars or cans contributes to reading readiness. Measurement of quantities, fractions or comparison of sizes can be taught as children help mom or dad in the kitchen. Social skills can be taught as you interact with your child. Too, role-playing is an excellent way to teach a child the wrong and right way. Siblings can be a part of role playing what is right and what is wrong. Discovery skills in science can be taught by having your child observe his/her surroundings. Reading together a favorite book is an excellent way to wind down the day while at the same time teaching your preschool child new words and
concepts. 3. Discipline: As a parent, it is our responsibility to discipline our children. Home provides the environment in helping a child learn to get along with his or her family as well as his or her friends. Children are born with the desire for we parents or caregivers to set boundaries for their health and safety. We have rules for driving on the road, being careful, as well as respecting the lives of others. As I tell my students in my classroom, “ I set up rules for you to follow because I do care and love you.” Rules differ for each family according to their needs and lifestyles as well as cultures. We use the example if we have no rules in our classroom, we cannot learn because we would have no direction. It is the same with children at home. They remember and follow the rules you consistently set down and expect
them to follow. 4. Gift and Talents: What better environment can a child realize that they have certain gifts, talents, and unique personalities than in the safety of their homes. Celebrating the life of your child is so very important! Set special days within your home to spend time one on one with each of your children. You don’t have to wait till their birthdays. Stay in tune to what your child likes to do such as drawing, reading, music, science, puzzles, blocks, etc. Spend time with your child at home. Time spent with your child spells love. They are little people too whose young lives can be molded within the home. A home well lived in is where a young child can feel love, safe, and happy and to take this wonderful foundation into the world. Yes, home is where the heart is!
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Opelika holds academic
Gus Bell Walker Beams Kristen Blanton Southern Union State Community College Southern Union State Community College Southern Union State Community College
Carlia Boyd University of Alabama Birmingham
Martavia Burditte Auburn University at Montgomery
Taviyor Burnett Alabama A&M
Adam Cason Samford University
DeAndre Dowdell Alabama A&M
Zariyah Greathouse Auburn University at Montgomery
Kaylan Gunn University of Alabama
Rachel Hamilton University of Alabama
Ayrika Harris Southern Union State Community College
Caroline Hawkins Auburn University
Wesley Herring Auburn University
Alexandria Jones Southern Union State Community College
Whitley Jones Southern Union State Community College
Whitt Krehling Auburn University
Blake Landers University of Alabama
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scholarship signing day
Ethan Lindsey Southern Union State Community College
Justin Love Jacksonville State University
Lauryn Marshall Southern Union State Community College
Jamiya McDougald University of Alabama
Kennedy Norris University of Alabama Birmingham
Corban Nunn Auburn University at Montgomery
Clayton Oh University of Alabama
Khaliya Reynolds Tuskegee University
Hunter Rider University of West Florida
Patrick Royal Auburn University
Davis Samuels Southern Union State Community College
Grant Sasser William Carey University
Camryn Smith University of Alabama
Justin Smith Southern Union State Community College
Cameron Torbert Auburn University at Montgomery
Jacob Walker Auburn University
Lauren White SUSCC
Houston Woods Auburn University
Kalyn Yountz Troy University
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LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-A-172 IN RE: The Estate of PHYLLIS MOORE McCAIN, Deceased TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Jack Lamar McCain, as Personal Representaive/ Executor of the Estate of Phyllis Moore McCain, deceased on the 10th day of April, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. s/ Jack Lamar McCain Jack Lamar McCain Personal Representative/Executor of the Estate of Phyllis Moore McCain, deceased. Legal Run 4/24, 5/1 and 5/8/2019.
IN RE:THE ESTATE OF GAYLE M. PRATHER, Deceased. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-A-177 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 11th day of April, 2019, by Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. BYRON JACK PRATHER, JR. Executor Legal Notice 4/24, 5/1 and 5/8/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TERESA ANN ROBINSON, Also known as Treasia Robinson, Deceased. Case No.: 2019-A-183 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin H. Parr on the 19th day of April, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby
required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Benjamin H. Parr OF COUNSEL Legal Run 4/24, 5/1 and 5/8/2019
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Under and by virtue of an Execution issued out of the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, Court Action Number CV2018900086, on a Judgment rendered therein, in which PREFERRED CONTRACTORS, LLC is the Plaintiff and KYLE INGALLS is the Defendant, I, Jay M. Jones, as Sheriff of Lee County, Alabama, will sell to the highest, best and last bidder for cash at public outcry whatever equity the Defendant may possess in and to the real estate described below: DEED BOOK 2268, PAGE 5, PARCEL NO. 43 09 03 07 0 001 072.000 ADDRESS COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 226 ASHETON LANE, AUBURN, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA 36830 Said sale to be held at 12:00 Noon on the 20th day of MAY 2019, at the Lee County Courthouse in the City of Opelika, State of Alabama. Said sale to be subject to all lawful liens and encumbrances, if any, against said property. Done this 12TH day of APRIL, 2019. /s/ Jay M. Jones SHERIFF OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 4/24, 5/1 & 5/8/19
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Under and by virtue of an Execution issued out of the Circuit Court of Tallapoosa County, Alabama, Court Action Number CV2009-64, on a Judgment rendered therein, in which SLOAN J. HARPER is the Plaintiff and ERIC M. NOVELLI, ET AL. is the Defendant, I, Jay M. Jones, as Sheriff of Lee County, Alabama, will sell to the highest, best and last bidder for cash at public outcry whatever equity the Defendant may possess in and to the real estate described below: LOT NUMBER FIFTEEN (#15) OF BRENT CREEK SUBDIVISION, HERITAGE SECTION, IN OPELIKA, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA,
TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS
ACCORDING TO AND AS SHOWNBY PLAT OF SURVEY THEREOFMADE BY T.RICHARD FULLER, LICENSED SURVEYOR, ALABAMA REGISTRATION NO. 7384, RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 9, AT PAGE 83. (DEED BOOK 2244 PAGE 146) PROPERTY IS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 3906 HAMILTON ROAD, OPELIKA, LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA 36804. Said sale to be held at 12:00 NOON CST on the 20TH day of MAY 2019, at the Lee County Courthouse in the City of Opelika, State of Alabama. Sale is subject to all lawful liens and encumbrances, if any, against said property. Done this 4TH day of APRIL, 2019. /s/ Jay M. Jones SHERIFF OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 4/24, 5/1 & 5/8/2019
Notice to General Contractors Bids for the Lee County Courthouse Renovations Opelika, Alabama The Lee County Courthouse Renovations will be located on the first floor of the 1898 original courthouse at 215 South 9th Street in downtown Opelika. The 14,100 sf first story renovation will be primarily interior work. Work generally includes minor reconfiguring of offices and replacement or re-finishing of all floors, ceilings and walls. Replacement of all lighting fixtures to LED. Replacement of some HVAC units and all ductwork. Reconfiguring or Replacement of sprinkler heads. The building will be partially occupied by the client and work shall be performed in three phases. There will be a Pre-Bid Conference on Thursday May 30th, 2019 at 2PM CST. Meet on site at the Courthouse entrance steps. All bidders should attend and inspect existing conditions. Consideration of existing conditions is crucial in submitting a responsible bid. Sealed bids must be received in the Lee County Commission
Office in the County Courthouse at 215 South 9 th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 by 2:00 PM CST on Tuesday June 11th, 2019. Bid documents will be available for review in the Lee County Commission Office or can be obtained from Auburn Reprographics starting Monday May 6th, 2019. (Bidders have the option to purchase a CD in pdf format to read or print the drawings and specifications. Adobe Acrobat reader software is required to read and print electronic bid documents). Bid Documents may be viewed online by going to: www.auburnrepro. com and selecting Digital Plan Room. Options for obtaining Bid Documents are as follows: Electronic (CD): Make check payable to Auburn Reprographics & Supply in the amount of $25. This amount is nonrefundable. Shipping arrangements shall be by the Contractor. Hardcopy: Contact Auburn Reprographics, 660 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL 36830; (334) 501-8235; Attn: Greg Sellers; (E-mail greg@auburnrepro.com) to obtain bid documents. Hardcopy sets are non-refundable. A Bid Bond of 5% of the bid up to $10,000. in accordance with the laws of the State of Alabama will be required with submission of the bid. A Performance Bond of 100% and Payment Bond of 50% will be required from the successful bidder in accordance with the laws of the State of Alabama. As a condition for award, the business entity and its subcontractors shall not knowingly employ or hire an unauthorized alien within the State of Alabama. The awarded business entity must provide documentation of enrollment in the EVerify program. The business must participate in the E-Verify program for the length of the contract. Lee County Commission Roger H Rendleman County Administrator Architect: John Randall Wilson, Architect (334) 826-0103 Legal Run 5/8 & 5/15/19
1 OUT OF 10 ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING: Abused, Neglected or Exploited
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF HORRIS CARSON JACKSON COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of May 2019, 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 barried. Witness myhand, and dated this the 1st day of May 2019. CARSON BUDDY JACKSON Legal Notice Run 05/08, 05/15 & 05/22/2019
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARTHA ANN T. BAKER, DECEASED TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Compass Bank, as Executor of the Estate of MARTHA ANN T. BAKER, deceased, on the 29th day of April, 2019, by the Honroable BILL ENGLISH. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Compass Bank By Ray Black Investment Services Head of Estate Settlement Petitioner Houston Plaza 2200 Post Oak Blvd. Suite 1800 Houston, TX 77056 Legal Notice Run 05/08, 05/15 & 05/22/2019
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRANDON SINNIGER, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2017-B-197 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Benjamin H. Parr, Conservator of the Estate of BRANDON SINNIGER has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, a Petition for a Final Settlement of the Estate of BRANDON SINNIGER. A hearing has been set for the 6th day of June, 2019 at 9 o’clock a.m. central time in the Court
Room of the Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Done this the 30th day of April, 2019. Judge of Probate Legal Run 5/8, 5/15 & 5/22/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GARY EDWARD MCCONNELL, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 2nd day of May, 2019, 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. CYNTHIA P. MCCONNELL Administrator N. Riley Murphy Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Notice Run 05/08, 05/15 & 05/22/2019
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF SUSIE MAE OLIVER COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamenetary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 3rd day of May, 2019, 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 my hand, and dated this the 3rd day of May, 2019. QUINTON SMITH Legal Notice Run 05/08, 05/15 & 05/22/2019
NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Friday, June 7, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. KMHDU46D17U230684 2007 HYUNDAI ELANTRA 1G8JU52F8YY681328 - 2000 SATURN LS1 Legal Run 5/8 & 5/15/19
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B7 May 08, 2019
OHS track team participates in ‘Dawg Walk’ before departing for state championships last week
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Sports,
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p.m. This is a double elimination tournament. The winner advances to the state tournament. FOOTBALL The Bulldog football team hit the field last Tuesday for the first day of spring train-
ing. During a segment last week on my radio show, “On the Mark,” Coach Erik Speakman said more than 120 players were expected to participate in spring training. The quarterback position is one of many positions that’s open because of graduation. Special teams will be limited during the spring. The Bulldogs
return kickers Marshall Meyers and Baker Rowton. The quarterback position is a battle between rising senior Brody Davis and rising junior Malik Finley. Opelika will conclude spring drills May 16 with a practice game against Valley 6:30 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium. Softball is the last
sport left in the playoffs. When spring football concludes, athletes will have a few weeks off prior to summer workouts. D.Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
Public Notice and Public Hearing NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY AND APPLICATION
The City of Opelika announces anticipated funding availability under the CDBG Program Year 2019 an estimated $255,632 of Federal grant funds for activities such as Commercial Revitalization, Housing Rehabilitation and Neighborhood Revitalization projects. A portion of this funding is planned for sub-recipients such as community groups and non-profits. Applications for funding are available at the Public Works Facility, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika or by contacting the Community Development office at (334) 705-5155. Applications are due at the Community Development Office by 4:00 p.m., Thursday, May 23, 2019.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT The City of Opelika invites public comment on actions to be taken with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program funding. Your ideas and suggestions for projects are welcome. This meeting is an opportunity for staff, citizens, and non-profit organizations to express community needs prior to setting the PY2019 budget. A public hearing will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2019 @ 4:00 p.m. in the Public Works/Planning chamber at 700 Fox Trail. Public comment and questions are invited either in writing or in person and will be accepted until June 23, 2019. Comments may be sent to: Lisa Thrift CDBG Administrator P.O. Box 390 Opelika, AL 36803 or lthrift@opelika-al.gov If special accommodations are needed to participate at the hearing by persons with disabilities please contact Lisa McLeod, the City’s ADA Coordinator at 705-5131 at least forty-eight hours in advance.
Opelika native Taylor Watson initiated into Phi Kappa Phi Society Special to the Opelika Observer Taylor Watson of Opelika was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Watson is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Science at Troy University. Watson is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top-10 percent of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of
the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction. Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States and the Philippines. Its mission is “to recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”
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B8 May 08, 2019
Spring training underway for Opelika Bulldogs
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Pictured are moments from a spring practice session last week. Opelika is gearing up for a spring jamboree game v. Valley on May 16.
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LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED Maintenance Mechanic Essential Job Functions include but are not limited to general Apartment Maintenance functions. Perform technical repairs to plumbing, electrical, appliances and HVAC system as well as other miscellaneous repairs or replacements as needed. Performs vacant unit preparation. Must be available serve as Emergency Maintenance On Call • Serving in an emergency on call rotation. Maintain company provided equipment and must have a valid
Driving License; Ability to be insured under the Authority’s vehicle policy. Please visit our website to apply: www.opelikaha.org
Receptionist/ Housing Clerk Ability to professionally greet visitors and undertake all receptionist and clerical duties at the desk main office. This person will serve as the “face” of the agency for all visitors to our office and will be responsible for the first impression we make. The ideal candidate will have a friendly and easy-going
personality while also being very perceptive and disciplined. This person will also serve in an assisting capacity to Property Management staff as well. Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED certification plus two years of experience in dealing with the general public and must have a Valid Driving License; Ability to be insured under the Authority’s vehicle policy. Please visit our website to apply: www.opelikaha.org
Director of Housing Operations
Ability to successfully oversee the Agency’s Housing Choice Voucher and the Multi-Family Property Management Programs of the Authority. Be able to Establish divisional priorities, goals and provide direction and leadership to accomplish divisional goals. Coordinate the development of departmental budget, and the preparation and maintenance of records and reports. Promote full utilization of vouchers and facilitate landlord/tenant relations. Supervise a group of property managers who are responsible for the day to day management, security, and maintenance of assigned properties, including
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collection of rent, property inspection, annual re-certification, and maintenance of associated records. Maintain files and records. Review files and records to assure that standards are met. Assist in the formulation of plans and programs, evaluation of existing programs, and establishment of organizational goals. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in management, business administration, public administration, or related field, years of progressively responsible experience in public housing,
HCVP, Property Management or an equivalent combination of education and experience; Valid Driving License; ability to be insured under the Authority’s vehicle policy; ability to travel as needed Please visit our website to apply:www.opelikaha.org For more info and to submit resume and application with qualifications in writing to: ravery@opelikaha.org or via mail: Human Resources Opelika Housing Authority P.O. Box 786 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0786
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Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, May 08, 2019
Inside the Statehouse State Senate approves largest education Sen. Richard Shelby turns 85 this week; he is an Alabama treasure with legendary prowess at unlocking the U.S. Treasury for Alabama
O
ur Senior U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby turns 85 this week. In March, he reached another milestone – he surpassed Sen. John Sparkman as the longest serving U.S. Senator in Alabama history at 32-plus years. Alabama has a treasure in Richard Shelby. He is not only the longest serving U.S. senator in Alabama history, he is also the most successful U.S. senator in Alabama history. During his illustrious tenure, Senator Shelby has chaired the Senate Banking Committee, Intelligence Committee and Rules Committee. However, his current perch as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee is unparalleled. He has brought home the bacon during his five six-year terms like no one else in history.
By Steve Flowers However, in his sixth six-year term, it’s Katie bar the door. In addition to chairing the Appropriations Committee, he also retained the Chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Defense Appropriations. It is through this channel that he has pumped immense federal money into the Heart of Dixie in last year’s budget alone. It is staggering. It is almost unimaginable. However, get this. In the Fort Rucker budget alone, Senator Shelby carved out an
additional $95 million for future vertical lift research, which will help accelerate development of helicopters flown at Fort Rucker; $10 million to up-grade Navy MH-60 Seahawk helicopters; $1 billion for THAAD missiles: $111 million for long range anti-ship missiles; $306 million for JAG missiles; $484 million for Hellfire missiles, which are made in Troy and used for training at Fort Rucker; $254 million for Javelin missiles for the Army and Marine Corps and $663 million for Joint Air-Surface Standoff missiles, which recently made their debut in strikes on Syria in response to their use of chemical weapons. Senator Shelby has bestowed a largess of grants on UAB for medical research over See Flowers, page B9
budget in Alabama’s history, along with a 4% pay raise for educators Special to the Opelika Observer Last week, by a 28-2 vote, the Alabama Senate approved a $7.1 billion Education Trust Fund for Fiscal Year 2020, which starts October 1 and a 4% pay raise for Alabama’s teachers and education support personnel, which follows a 2.5% pay raise last year. It is the largest education budget in Alabama’s history. “This education budget, the largest in Alabama’s history, is a historic investment in the success of Alabama’s schools and colleges,” said Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur), Chairman of the Senate Finance and Taxation Education Committee. “We have made progress, but I don’t think anyone, from teachers to parents to legislators, is satisfied with where we are in national educational rankings. This budget invests a 4% pay raise in our teachers, because the people leading the classrooms can help accomplish posi-
tive outcomes better than anyone else in the school system, and we need to make sure that they have every resource that they need to be successful.” The FY20 education budget includes a $27 million increase for First Class, Alabama’s nationally-recognized, volunteer pre-kindergarten program. This year, the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) ranked First Class as the highestquality Pre-K program in the nation, for the 13th year in a row. The Senate’s education budget includes the 4% pay raise for all K-12 and two-year college education employees, a $39 million increase for the Community College System, a $6 million increase for workforce development programs administered by the Department of Commerce, and an additional $900,000 for career tech initiatives in the K-12 system. “This is a banner day for education in Alabama. Thanks to a growing
economy and the fiscal discipline that Republicans have had for the past several years, we now have the largest education budget in the history of our state,” Senate Majority Leader Greg Reed (R-Jasper) said. “A strong educational system is the foundation of a thriving state, and the 4% pay raise represents the Legislature’s commitment to rewarding teachers and ensuring that Alabama is competitive in recruiting the best teachers we can to lead Alabama’s classrooms.” Alabama’s largest education budget in history also includes a $1.5 million increase for dual enrollment scholarships, an additional $10 million for the Alabama Reading Initiative, and a $500,000 increase for school-based mental health programs. The FY20 education budget now goes to the House of Representatives. Last Thursday concluded the 15th of 30 possible legislative days in the 2019 regular session.
The Arc of Alabama responds to Rep. John Rogers’ Use of the ‘R’ Word Special to the Opelika Observer Today The Arc of Alabama is responding to Representative John Rogers (D-Birmingham) use of the offensive and outdated word “retarded” to debase President Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr. “The “R word” is offensive, outdated and has no place in our state’s political
arena. The Arc of Alabama hopes Representative Rogers will apologize for his use of the “R word” and engage in the national dialogue about why this word is offensive to people with disabilities across the country, especially here in Alabama. We need help from Representative Rogers and other members of State government to make sure this word
is removed from our society,” said Gena D. Richardson, Executive Director, The Arc of Alabama. The Arc of Alabama is a part of the “Spread the Word to End the Word” campaign along with other organizations to raise awareness of the effects of the “Rword.” The Arc has also been involved in efforts to remove the word from federal
health, education and labor statutes, supporting Rosa’s Law in 2010. The Arc advocates
for and serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including Down syn-
drome, autism, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, cerebral palsy and other diagnoses. The Arc has a network of over 630 chapters across the country, including 31 in Alabama. The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with I/DD and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
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Report from Washington: Fixing the Border Crisis Special to the Opelika Observer As the humanitarian and national security crisis continues unabated at our southern border, Democrats refuse to acknowledge what is really happening. Unfortunately, this is becoming a pattern for them. They even go as far to say it is a manufactured crisis by the Trump Administration. Before President Trump took office, those same folks that are completely against solving the crisis now, were in favor of helping solve it then. Numbers don’t lie. Just in March, border apprehensions were up 450% compared with March of 2017. 450%! In the first six and a
Flowers,
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the years. However, he recognizes the possibility of explosive growth in the Huntsville area. The Redstone Arsenal is reaping the rewards of Senator Shelby’s prowess and influence. The amount of money our
half months of this fiscal year, more migrants – totaling 414,000 - than all of last fiscal year have already been apprehended. These numbers prove that we have a true crisis on our hands. And if that’s not enough, we are also having to deal with these individuals abusing the asylum system. In order to try and deal with this crisis, President Trump announced that his administration will impose new regulations on the United States asylum system. As it is set up now, criminals, drug smugglers, human traffickers and terrorists use the flaws in the system to their advantage. This is just plain dangerous. We must only
protect those individuals with legitimate asylum claims. I applaud President Trump on taking this step to help secure our border and make our country safer. Besides these rule changes, we all know the importance and urgency of building the wall. Just a couple of weeks ago, I traveled on Air Force One with President Trump and a few of my colleagues to California to see firsthand the barriers being used on our southwest border. These barriers are an important part of the wall system in addition to technology and manpower. They were impressive to see in person and I will say it again: Walls work.
President Trump will continue to have my unwavering support as we work together to secure our southwest border and end the national security and humanitarian crises that have gone on far too long. As always, I want to hear from you on this or any issue. Please sign up for my e-newsletter and the Rogers’ Roundup by visiting www.mikerogers.house.gov. To stay up to date, you can also like me on Facebook at facebook. com/CongressmanMikeDRogers, follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle RepMikeRogersAL, and subscribe to my YouTube page at youtube. com/MikeRogersAL03.
senior senator is putting into North Alabama is mind boggling: in Army research, $11 billion for instruments in transformational technologies to address future Army needs; $10.4 billion for missile defense; $664 million for hypersonic research; $184 million for Directed Energy; $306 million for Cyber Research and $200 million for Space Launch vehicles.
Of all the things that Senator Shelby has procured for Alabama, specifically the Huntsville area, his hallmark legacy may be securing the placement of one of the largest FBI facilities in America. Huntsville will eventually be second only to Washington D.C. for the FBI. The FBI’s investment in Huntsville could reach $1 billion.
Initially, 1,350 jobs will be transferred from Washington to North Alabama. The Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville already includes a U.S. Army Base as well as NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Folks, these 1,350 to 1,500 federal FBI jobs all pay more than the average Alabama salary. The Huntsville metro area is poised to grow more size wise and economically than any area of America in the next decade in no small part to Senator Richard Shelby. He has almost four years left on his 6th term, 44 months to be exact. He is in excellent health, physically and
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ADOR Honored by Federation of Tax administrators for innovation Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Department of Revenue has been awarded a 2019 Federation of Tax Administrators (FTA) Award for the department’s innovative Electronic Voluntary Disclosure Agreement Process, which launched October 2018. “The department is honored to receive this recognition from our peers across the country,” said Revenue Commissioner Vernon Barnett. “We will continue to implement the latest technologies that help us serve Alabama taxpayers in the most efficient and effective manner possible.” Alabama’s Electronic Voluntary Disclosure Agreement Process is an
online portal (https://vda. revenue.alabama.gov/) through which Voluntary Disclosure Agreements are submitted and managed. The portal improves efficiency, provides tracking and speeds up the process for taxpayers and ADOR alike. FTA judges were particularly impressed with the fact that the automated, electronic approach allows anonymous applications, which has led to greater participation. One judge said, “I wish I had thought of this one.” FTA Award winners are programs or ideas that demonstrate “that special something.” Winners were selected by a panel of retired FTA Board of Trustee presidents. ADOR will be honored at the 2019 FTA Annual Meeting June 23 to 26 in Indianapolis.
mentally. Most Alabamians hope and pray he runs again in 2022. However, he will be 88. If Senator Shelby does not run, who might follow him? He might be involved in picking his successor. He is convinced that someone young should be his heir. He realizes the importance of youth and how it predicates future seniority. First on most lists is State Rep. Bill Poole, who like Shelby hails from Tuscaloosa. He is only 42 years old but has served in the legislature for nine years, most of his time as Chairman of the House Education Budget Committee. He is the most respected
member of the House. His adroit handling of the Infrastructure Package had many longtime Statehouse observers labeling him as having future governor or senator written all over him. Another name to remember is 37-year old Katie Boyd Britt. She is Shelby’s former Chief of Staff and current CEO of the Business Council of Alabama. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.
Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers
AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,
Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT
certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services. We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch. ICK RD.
FREDER
Tiger Town
Lowe’s
R.
D AY TEW GA
Kroger
Our New Location
Visit us here: www.auburnbank.com MEMBER FDIC
I-85
1851 Frederick Road Opelika
Equal Housing Lender
334-275-9600
Elliott & Associates Insurance Agency Opelika - (334)745-0888 elliottinsuranceagents.com
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“COMEDRESSED DRESSEDAS AS “COME ROYALAS ASYOU YOUWISH!” WISH!” ROYAL ___________ !
PRE-REGISTER: PRE-REGISTER BY 4/20: 5K-$25 / 1M-$10 5K-$25 / 1M-$15 DAY OF EVENT: 5K-$30 / 1M-$15 DAY OF EVENT: 5K- $30 / 1M- $20 ___________ REGISTRATION START TIME: REGISTRATION 6:30AM START TIME: 6:15 AM ___________ RACE START TIME: 5K START @ 8:00AM RACE TIME: 1M @ 9:15AM 5K @ 7:30 AM 1M @ 9:00 AM ___________ MULTIPLE AWARDS CATEGORIES FOR MULTIPLE EACH AGEAWARDS GROUP! CATEGORIES AND & BEST DRESSED BESTAWARD! DRESSED AWARD! !
May 11, 2019 5K & 1-Mile Run JUNE 6,Fun2015
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Please join us for our 5th annual event!
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5K & 1-MILE FUN RUN
Make Your Move Performing Arts Competition Teams and the "Alabama Sherriff's Girls Ranch". Please&join&us&for&this&inaugural&event!& The “MYM Dynasty” consists of 70 talented girls and boys, ages 5-18! This!race!is!to!benefit!the!! These dedicated youth entertain, perform and compete Make!Your!Move!Performing!Arts!Competition!Teams!!!
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Queen Sponsor: The!“MYM!Dynasty”!is!made!up!of!75!talented!!
girls!and!boys,!ages!5D18!!!! These!dedicated!youth!entertain,!perform!and!compete! locally!and!throughout!the!Southeast!Region.! !
Princess Sponsors: All!participants!that!preDregister!by!May!18!will!receive!a!race!
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tDshirt.!!Adult!and!youth!sizes!available.!!Tech!shirt!for!5K! participants;!cotton!shirt!for!1Dmile!runners.!!! *Late!registrants!are!NOT!guaranteed!a!tDshirt.!
USA!Town!Center! 1220!Fox!Run!Ave,!Suite!212! Opelika,!AL!36801! 334D705D0205!
Online registration available at: Online®istration&available&at:& https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Opelika/RoyaltyRun
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MAKE YOUR MOVE
Questions????! Email!us!at! mymroyaltyrun@gmail.com!
https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Opelika/RoyaltyRun& All participants that pre-register by April 20th will receive a race tee-shirt. Adult and youth sizes available. ! *Late registrants are NOT guaranteed a t-shirt. !
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Last week’s answers:
05-02 Scramblers Answers: 1.Suitor, 2.Flare, 3. Endow, 4. Drain Solution: REFUND
pelika O Observer
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Grid experts decry ‘EMP-Deniers’ Special to the Opelika Observer Last week in what amounts to a lobbying arm of the utilities industry, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) released a so-called “scientific study” that misleadingly and dangerously low-balls the threat posed to the U.S. electric “grid” from enemy-induced or naturally occurring electromagnetic pulses (EMP). Fortunately, a number of America’s actual experts on the subject—including a former CIA director, experienced engineers and national security
practitioners—have stepped forward to debunk the EPRI report as what has been accurately described as “junk science,” reminiscent of past tobacco industry-underwritten efforts to have putatively independent “scientists” dis-inform the public about the actual dangers of smoking. This message was powerfully conveyed in a press conference held last week on the steps of the State Capitol of Alabama in Montgomery. The event was cosponsored by the Save the Grid Coalition and the EMP Task Force on Homeland and
National Security and moderated by Frank J. Gaffney, executive chairman of the Center for Security Policy, which sponsors the coalition. The press conference participants were welcomed by Lt. Gen. Steven Kwast, USAF, the host of a four-day meeting at Maxwell Air Force Base of the Electromagnetic Defense Task Force, which drew them and several hundred other leaders to address EMP and other electronic spectrum threats— and President Donald Trump’s executive order directing the military and relevant civilian agencies to
mitigate them. The press conference speakers critiqued the EPRI study based on that organization’s previous, discrediting track-record of advocacy, rather than objective research and on a sneak-preview of the document. They were: former Clinton Director of Central Intelligence, R. James Woolsey; former staff director of the congressionally mandated EMP Threat Commission, Dr. Peter Vincent Pry; former Director of the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization, Amb. Henry Cooper; chairman of the Foundation for Resilient Societies,
Thomas Popik; author and grid-down consultant, Jonathan Hollerman; executive director of the Alabama chapter of Eagle Forum, Becky Gerritson and chairman of Eagle Forum’s Terrorism Committee, Commander Theresa Hubbard, USCG (Ret.). Video of the press conference is available at www.SecuretheGrid. com, and its co-sponsors issued a statement offering several specific critiques of the defective EPRI report including, notably, its: - faulty assumptions about the amount of damage nuclear weapon-generated or severe solar storm-induced EMP would cause to
transformers, SCADAS and other control systems: - reliance on computer modeling, unsupported by experimentation - ignoring abundant data derived by the Pentagon, civilian agencies and government-sponsored studies, including much of it based on such experimentation; and - the ominous evidence that enemies of this country have doctrines and capabilities that make EMP attacks anything but the “lowprobability” threat that underpinned the EPRI report’s don’t-worry, be-happy effort to minimize it.
Financing Available Now serving Tallapoosa County
Real Estate Needs? Residential, Commercial, Land, Lots, Farms, Recreational Properties Steve Alberts is the Full-Time Real Estate Professional for you! 25+ Years of Multistate Experience Peer Recognized “Lifetime Award of Excellence” And, if you need help in downsizing or move management my associates can handle everything from sorting and packing to trash removal and estate sales. We make it easy for you! Call or Text Steve Alberts. 615-969-0913 Stevesells4c21koullas@gmail.com
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COMICS
A good laugh heals a lot of hurts. — Madeleine L’Engle