BY MICHELLE KEY
PUBLISHER
LEE COUNTY —
January 2025: New Milestones, Transitions and Obstacles
January opened with a milestone moment for Auburn and the state as Auburn University student Abbie Stockard, a Vestavia native and nursing major, was crowned Miss America 2025 in Orlando on Jan. 5. Stockard, who previously earned the Miss Alabama title, won a $50,000 scholarship and plans to spend her year-long reign traveling for public appearances while promoting cystic fibrosis awareness before returning to Auburn to finish her degree and pursue a future career in pediatric nurse anesthesia.
Also in January, The Observer shared a story of perseverance as an Auburn family welcomed home their long-awaited newborns. Becca and Lavarius Bryant — an ICU nurse and an Auburn police officer — brought their quadruplets home from the NICU in December 2024 after an intense medical journey that began with a high-risk pregnancy and an emergency delivery at just over 23 weeks. The “Quads of Aubs,” two girls and two boys, spent months fighting to grow stronger under NICU care before finally joining their siblings at home in time for the holidays.
January’s news cycle also included a major transition in Lee County government. At what was Probate Judge Bill English’s final Lee County Commission meeting, colleagues, citizens and county leaders reflected on his 24 years of service and the role he played in shaping county operations since taking office in 2001. English formally passed the gavel to newly elected Probate Judge Jere Colley, who prepared to assume responsibilities at the next commission meeting.
The month also brought a significant loss to Opelika’s historic landscape. A fire on Jan. 8 destroyed the 135-year-old Butler-Canon House in downtown Opelika, a home tied to longtime local history and family roots. Fire officials said the blaze began after a gas line was accidentally cut during contractor work in the basement, allowing flames to spread into roof voids that were difficult to access. No one was injured in the blaze, but the structure was expected to be a total loss, prompting community support and fundraising to assist those affected.
In sports, Auburn basketball reached a defining moment as coach Bruce Pearl became the winningest coach in Auburn men’s basketball history, earning career win No. 214 on Jan. 7 when Auburn defeated Texas. The milestone underscored Pearl’s long-stated goal of building a legacy at Auburn, with key performances from players including Johni Broome and a continued surge that kept the Tigers among the nation’s top teams.
But as excitement rose around Auburn basketball, one highly anticipated January matchup also highlighted safety concerns. On Jan. 25, a massive student turnout for ESPN’s College GameDay and Auburn’s showdown against Tennessee led to a crowd surge outside Neville Arena after officials prohibited overnight camping because of extreme cold. Students described a chaotic rush that caused injuries, ranging from cuts and bruises to swelling, while Auburn said EMS addressed minor injuries, and the university would review procedures and footage to improve crowd management at future events.
The biggest story of January across Lee County, however, was the weather. Winter Storm Enzo delivered a rare and disruptive snow event on Jan. 21, bringing two to three inches of snow and making roads impassable as ice spread across bridges, overpasses and major routes — including stretches of I-85. Emergency responders worked through the night assisting stranded motorists, transporting essential hospital staff and coordinating with state resources and local partners. Warming stations in Opelika and Auburn offered refuge for dozens of people stuck for hours, and officials credited cooperation between agencies and volunteers with helping prevent serious injury or loss of life. More than three dozen stranded motorists took refuge in The Observer & Axe Marks the Spot building for nearly 48 hours. Volunteers and community members helped provide meals, blankets and more to those stranded.
Across Auburn, the storm created a true “snow day” atmosphere — and for many students, an unforgettable first experience with snow. Auburn University shifted to remote operations from Jan. 21–23, while essential services remained open and city officials urged residents to avoid travel as roads refroze. Despite numerous wrecks and hazardous conditions, students made the most of the rare snowfall with sledding, snowball fights and spontaneous moments across campus as the city fell quiet under a winter blanket.
Finally, January closed on a note of celebration and gratitude for a life well lived. The community honored Juanita Patrick, an Opelika resident for more than 70 years, during her 100th birthday celebration. A former Lanett High basketball standout and lifelong educator, Patrick taught for decades throughout Lee County, helped launch one of the county’s earliest Head Start efforts and remained involved in civic and service work for years — including as a poll worker and longtime Pink Lady volunteer at East Alabama Medical Center. When asked her secret to longevity, Patrick credited her faith and living well — a fitting reflection of a month that highlighted both the strength and spirit of the community.
February 2025: Growth,
Community and Momentum Across Opelika and Lee County
February highlighted the strength of community investment and forward momentum across Opelika and Lee County, from downtown development and economic impact to local achievements and civic milestones. Opelika Main Street named Red Clay Brewing Company its 2024 Downtown Business of the Year, recognizing the brewery’s decade-long role as a cornerstone of the city’s revitalized downtown. Since opening in 2015, Red Clay has helped fuel the growth of Opelika’s craft beverage scene while remaining deeply involved in community events, fundraisers and Main Street initiatives.
Economic growth was also in focus as Southern Union State Community College released a study showing the institution contributed $162.6 million to the regional economy in fiscal year 2023-24. The college supports nearly 2,800 jobs across its service area and delivers strong returns for both students and taxpayers, reinforcing its role as a critical workforce and economic driver in East Alabama.
City leadership made headlines with a historic decision to reduce Opelika’s occupational tax from 1.5% to 1%, effective April 1, marking the first reduction in more than three decades. Officials cited the city’s strong financial position, debt-free infrastructure investments and long-term planning as factors that made the move possible, returning millions of dollars annually to residents while maintaining essential services.
February also brought celebration and transition in the business and civic landscape. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce and Auburn-Opelika Tourism unveiled their new shared headquarters in the renovated former Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library, offering expanded meeting space, business resources and an interactive visitor experience designed to support economic development and tourism. Outdoors and recreation were also highlighted when 5-year-old Jacks Benton of Lee County won a statewide Big Buck Photo contest, capturing attention with a family hunting tradition that spanned generations.
Together, February’s stories reflected a community balancing tradition and growth — honoring local success, investing in education and infrastructure as well as continuing to build a strong foundation for the future.
March 2025: Growth, Investment and Regional Recognition
March spotlighted East Alabama’s continued economic momentum and creative success. Opelika-based manufacturer Pharmavite announced a $13 million expansion of its local facility, reinforcing a long-term commitment that now totals more than $173 million in investment and supports over 600 jobs. City officials praised the expansion as a reflection of Opelika’s strong workforce and business-friendly environment, noting the company’s role as a leader in wellness-focused manufacturing.
The region also celebrated success in the creative sector as Here Molly Girl earned Advertising Agency of the Year honors at the Montgomery ADDY Awards. The Opelika-based firm claimed multiple accolades, including Copywriter of the Year and Account Manager of the Year, with award-winning work advancing to district-level competition. The recognition highlighted the growing influence of Auburn-Opelika’s marketing and design professionals on a statewide stage.
April 2025: Community Action, Transitions and Public Service
April brought a mix of reopening, public advocacy and leadership transitions across the area. The Springwood Hotel partially reopened following months of repairs after a state-mandated closure, allowing limited occupancy while additional renovations continue. The reopening marked a step forward for displaced residents and the surrounding community.
Civic engagement was also on display as hundreds gathered in downtown Opelika for a peaceful “Hands Off!” protest, part of a nationwide movement addressing federal policy concerns. The demonstration drew participants of all ages and emphasized the community’s commitment to exercising First Amendment rights and calling for political accountability.
April also marked significant milestones in community care and public safety. Ground was broken on the Food Bank of East Alabama’s new Community Market building, a project aimed at expanding access to fresh, healthy food for families throughout Lee County. In Auburn, Fire Chief John Lankford retired after three decades of service, leaving a legacy of growth and modernization within the department. He was succeeded by longtime Auburn firefighter Matt Cain, who assumed the role with a focus on continuing progress, training excellence and community-centered service.
May 2025: Community Voices, Athletic Excellence and Stories of Sacrifice
May was marked by powerful conversations, remarkable achievements and deeply personal stories that resonated across East Alabama. One of the most impactful developments came with the passage of Alabama’s new hemp law, which local business owners and consumers warned could devastate small businesses and restrict access to therapeutic CBD products. Store owners in Auburn and Opelika voiced concerns about economic fallout, personal hardship and what they described as an overreach in regulation, igniting an ongoing debate about public health, commerce and consumer choice.
The month also brought moments of celebration and pride. Auburn’s 13-year-old ElliReese Niday captured national attention by winning first place at the Senior USA Diving National Championship, becoming the youngest competitor to top the field and signaling a bright future on the national stage. In public safety, the Lee County SWAT Team earned national recognition by taking first place at the prestigious Snipercraft Challenge in Florida, showcasing elite training, teamwork and skill among regional law enforcement agencies.
May also highlighted stories of extraordinary courage and compassion. Former Auburn and Major League Baseball pitcher Steven Register prepared for a life-saving liver transplant made possible by a former classmate who stepped forward as a living donor after more than two decades apart. The story of faith, sacrifice and community support underscored the deeply human connections that continue to define the Auburn-Opelika area.
June 2025: Transition, Civic Expression and New Leadership
June brought moments of transition and reflection across the Auburn–Opelika area, highlighting both change and civic engagement. One of downtown Opelika’s most beloved venues, The Bottling Plant, entered a new chapter as longtime owner Lisa Ditchkoff passed the reins to Scott and Julie Brown of Whistle Stop Bottle & Brew. The transition marked both an expansion and a preservation of the historic former Coca-Cola bottling facility, with plans to maintain its character while growing its role as a community gathering space for private and public events.
The month also saw significant civic engagement, as hundreds gathered at Toomer’s Corner for the “No Kings” demonstration, part of a nationwide protest opposing President Donald Trump’s policies. Organizers estimated roughly 700 participants, making it one of the largest local demonstrations in recent memory. The peaceful rally reflected a range of concerns, from civil liberties and immigration to healthcare and government accountability, underscoring the community’s willingness to engage publicly on national issues.
In education, Opelika City Schools announced new leadership with the appointment of Dr. Kevin Davis as superintendent. A veteran educator and administrator, Davis was selected to succeed Dr. Ferrell Seymore following two decades of service. Emphasizing community involvement, fiscal responsibility and student-centered leadership, Davis signaled continuity and collaboration as he prepares to guide the school system into its next chapter.
July 2025: High-Profile Raids, Historic Wins and All-Star Highlights
July opened with major developments across East Alabama, from athletics to public safety. Federal agents executed multiple search warrants in Lee County and surrounding areas as part of a sweeping fraud-and-drug investigation focused largely on several Mexican restaurants. Authorities said the case centers on a federal indictment against Cesar Campos Reyes and includes allegations tied to PPP loan fraud, along with drug, weapons and harboring-related components. During the operation, officials reported the seizure of large quantities of narcotics, firearms and cash, and said more than 40 undocumented individuals were detained and placed in ICE custody. A press conference at the Auburn Police Department drew both official statements about public safety and vocal concern from community members who gathered afterward.
On a much brighter note, Auburn University’s Power Wheelchair Soccer team delivered a landmark moment for adaptive athletics, winning the U.S. Power Soccer Association’s Champions Conference Cup in just the program’s second season. The Tigers capped a near-perfect year with a title victory and earned promotion to the Premier Conference, with players and coaches emphasizing both competitive success and the larger mission of building community and opportunity for students with disabilities.
Youth sports also shined in July, as Opelika’s Diamond Youth All-Stars made a strong showing at the state level. The 10U Minor All-Stars posted a 3-2 tournament record behind a disciplined offense and standout pitching performances, while the 12U team stormed to a 6-0 run to capture the state championship and earn a berth in the World Series in Lexington, South Carolina. Opelika also prepared to welcome teams from across the region as the city hosted the DBB Junior World Series later in the month at West Ridge Park.
August 2025: Election Results, Community Crisis and Business Fallout
August marked a pivotal month in Opelika and the surrounding area, beginning with sweeping local election results. Eddie Smith was elected mayor of Opelika with 56% of the vote, capping years of service on the Opelika City Council, where he served as president. The municipal election also brought changes and continuity across the city council, with incumbents retaining seats in several wards while new voices emerged in others. Nearby in Smiths Station, Mayor Richard Cooley narrowly secured a full term. The results set the stage for new leadership and priorities heading into the fall.
The month also highlighted urgent challenges facing local nonprofits and small businesses. Woof Ave., a longtime no-kill animal rescue in Auburn-Opelika, was given less than 60 days to vacate its longtime location after its lease was not renewed, prompting an emergency push for adoptions, donations and a new facility to house dozens of animals with medical and behavioral needs.
At the same time, Alabama’s newly enacted restrictions on hemp- and CBD-derived products sent shockwaves through the local economy. Retailers reported massive losses, layoffs and store closures following the July 1 enforcement date, with business owners warning that the law has devastated livelihoods, reduced local tax revenue and cut off therapeutic options for veterans, cancer patients and others who relied on legal hemp products. Together, these stories underscored a month defined by transition, uncertainty and deep community impact across East Alabama.
September 2025: Civic Transitions, Community Honors and a Landmark Rivalry Month
Opelika marked major civic milestones in September with longtime City Attorney Guy F. Gunter III announcing his retirement after 50 years of service, reflecting on decades of growth and change — from Opelika’s heavy-industry era to its modern business expansion. City leaders also honored former mayor and longtime community advocate Barbara H. Patton by renaming the Southside Center for the Arts in her honor, recognizing her role in shaping Opelika’s development and her longstanding commitment to arts, historic preservation and civic leadership.
September also brought intense community focus on public safety and local sports tradition. Auburn Police investigated the homicide of retired Auburn University professor Dr. Julie Schnuelle after she was found deceased at Kiesel Park on Sept. 6; an arrest was made the next day, and the suspect faced two capital murder charges tied to alleged kidnapping and robbery. On the sports side, the Auburn-Opelika football rivalry reached its 100th meeting on Sept. 4, with Auburn High earning a 17–10 win in a game defined by defense, special teams swings and late-game drama. The month also spotlighted the behind-the-scenes support of The Orthopaedic Clinic, which marked 45 years providing sports medicine coverage for Auburn and Opelika athletes, and included a separate highlight of Opelika coach Bryan Moore earning his 100th career head coaching win in a 24–22 victory over Pike Road.
October 2025: Business Honors, a Mayor’s Farewell and B&B Ordinance Debate
October brought recognition, reflection and policy debate in Opelika. Stinson Breads owners Matthew and Anna Claire Stinson were honored with the Alabama Retail Association’s 2025 Emerging Retailer of the Year “Gee” Award, recognizing the bakery’s rapid growth from a home-based sourdough operation to a thriving downtown business with strong local partnerships. The Stinsons credited their employees and community support for the success and announced plans for a major expansion that would increase production capacity, broaden their market reach and add new jobs in the coming years.
The month also marked the close of an era at Opelika City Hall, as Mayor Gary Fuller delivered his final address after 21 years in office. Fuller reflected on economic growth, job creation and major investments in infrastructure, education, recreation and public safety achieved during his tenure, emphasizing that the city accomplished much of its progress without taking on debt. He thanked city staff, council members and citizens for their collaboration and expressed confidence in Mayor-elect Eddie Smith as Opelika’s next leader.
In city government, the Opelika City Council voted against two proposed amendments to the city’s bed-and-breakfast ordinance. Both a more restrictive and a less restrictive version were rejected following public opposition from local bed-and-breakfast owners, who raised concerns about added regulations and potential impacts on existing and future businesses. The council ultimately declined to change the ordinance, leaving current rules in place.
November 2025: Change on the Sidelines, Glory on the Water
November was a month of major change and notable achievements in Auburn and across Lee County sports. Auburn University football underwent a leadership shakeup following a disappointing home loss to Kentucky, as head coach Hugh Freeze was dismissed midseason. Athletic Director John Cohen named defensive coordinator DJ Durkin interim head coach while the program regrouped for the final stretch of the season. Just weeks later, Auburn announced a new era with the hiring of Alex Golesh as the Tigers’ next head coach. Golesh, known nationally for his explosive offensive systems and rapid rebuilds at South Florida and previously at Tennessee, arrived with a track record of winning, player development and championship ambition, signaling a fresh direction for Auburn football.
At the high school level, Auburn High School head coach Keith Etheredge reached a rare milestone, earning his 200th career win following a dramatic playoff comeback victory. The achievement placed Etheredge among an elite group of Alabama coaches, highlighting two decades of consistent success, postseason appearances and player development. Etheredge credited his family, coaching mentors, staff and players, emphasizing that relationships and character-building matter more than wins alone.
November also delivered international and regional sports highlights. Lee County anglers Logan Parks and Kyle Welcher helped Team USA claim gold at the Black Bass World Championships in South Africa, overcoming an early deficit to secure the title in dramatic fashion. The victory marked a proud moment for the local fishing community and underscored the global reach of a sport deeply rooted in East Alabama. Together, the month reflected transition, resilience and achievement — from collegiate sidelines to high school fields and international waters.
December 2025: Enforcement, Entrepreneurship and Leadership Change
December closed the year with major law enforcement developments and significant leadership transitions across Lee County. A sweeping, multi-agency investigation known as Operation Gang Shield resulted in the arrest of 22 individuals connected to the Sex, Money, Murder faction of the Bloods, marking one of the most extensive gang-related crackdowns in recent local history. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, underscoring a continued focus on disrupting organized criminal activity and protecting community safety.
At the same time, Opelika experienced pivotal changes in public safety leadership. Police Chief Shane Healey announced his intent to retire in 2026 after 35 years of service, leaving behind a legacy of community policing, transparency and departmental stability. Shortly afterward, the city named longtime Opelika Police Department leader and U.S. Army veteran Johnathan Clifton as its next chief, signaling a commitment to continuity, experience and community-focused law enforcement.
Beyond public safety, December also highlighted stories of resilience and growth within the local business community. Grandma Val’s Lemonade and More reached a major milestone with the launch of bottled beverages, transforming a home-based operation into a growing, multi-generational business. The expansion reflected both entrepreneurial perseverance and a mission rooted in faith, family and community connection — a fitting note to close the year in the Opelika-Auburn area.
East Alabama Health celebrated the opening of EAMC North, a new freestanding mental health facility designed to expand access to inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care across the region. Community leaders and health officials marked the milestone with a ribbon cutting and tour, highlighting the facility’s focus on dignity, privacy and comprehensive care. EAMC North includes adult and child inpatient units, Alabama’s only long-term adolescent psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral health services and a new psychiatry residency program aimed at strengthening the region’s mental health workforce, representing a significant investment in community wellness.
