The city of Opelika announced the appointment of Johnathan Clifton as the new Chief of Police on Wednesday, Dec. 10. A decorated leader with over 26 years of dedicated service as a law enforcement officer, Clifton brings a wealth of operational expertise, military command experience and a deep commitment to community policing. Clifton will assume his new duties effective Jan. 1, 2026. Clifton has served OPD since 1999, rising through the ranks...
BY MICHELLE KEYPUBLISHER OPELIKA — With its historic neighborhoods glowing, downtown buzzing and long-standing traditions returning in full force, Opelika is embracing its role as one of East Alabama’s premier Christmas destinations. From light tours to family workshops and one-night-only celebrations, the coming weeks offer residents and visitors several ways to enjoy the season. Victorian Front Porch TourOpelika’s historic district is once...
BY KADIE TAYLORTHE OBSERVER OPELIKA — Maria Jewelers is holding its second annual First Responders Weekend Appreciation Sale from Dec. 12-13 and providing a 30% discount to all responders and their immediate family. Maria Jewelers is located at 231 S. 8th St. in Opelika — for more information, call 334-704-0009.Co-owner Cody Foote said he and his wife, co-owner Maria Foote, had the idea for the appreciation sale last year when reflecting on the...
BY HANNAH HERRERAFOR THE OBSERVER OPELIKA — The Arts Association of East Alabama is celebrating 60 years in the Auburn-Opelika community with a six-week, six-show spring performance series.Anna Coxwell, the Arts Association’s new board president, said the association is hoping to foster a festival feel with this spring series. Each performance will have a local partner, such as a restaurant or bar, as a gathering spot for attendees.The Arts...
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA After 35 years of dedicated service to the City of Opelika, Police Chief Shane Healey has announced he will retire on March 1, 2026. “Chief Healey has been a stellar leader and an exceptional public servant," said Mayor Eddie Smith. "His dedication, integrity and steady guidance have made a profound difference in the lives of countless residents and officers alike. We are deeply grateful for his years of...
BY ANN CIPPERLYFOR THE OBSERVER OPELIKA — As a kickoff for the upcoming Empty Bowls event, the Rocky Brook Potters are holding 12 Days of Christmas with handcrafted ornaments, gift baskets and other items for sale from Dec. 8 through Dec. 20, with all proceeds going to the Food Bank of East Alabama. The Denson Drive Recreation Department in Opelika is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.“The 12 Days of Christmas is a good way to...
Community
CONTRIBUTED BY THE CITY OF OPELIKA OPELIKA — Chasing Aces, an innovative golf and entertainment destination, is proud to announce the groundbreaking of its newest location in Opelika, Alabama.The development marks an exciting milestone as Chasing...
BY MICHELLE KEYPUBLISHER LEE COUNTY — Community members, farmers and local officials gathered Nov. 20 at Lazenby Farms for the annual Lee County Farm-City Banquet, an event highlighting the partnership between rural and urban communities and...
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