Column Articles

On the Mark | Nov. 27, 2024

OPINION — The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) held the 61st Swimming and Diving Championship last weekend at the Huntsville Aquatics Center. GIRLS SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPWestminster Christian Academy girls team won the 1A-5A State Swimming Championship...

A Taste of Grace | Nov. 27, 2024

A great place to be OPINION — Scott Macaulay lives in Melrose, Massachusetts, where he runs Macaulay’s House of Vacuum Cleaners. But that’s not what he’s known for—Scott is known for Thanksgiving.It started in 1985, when Scott was 24. His parents were getting divorced...

Sean of the South | Nov. 21, 2024

First Dates OPINION — One of the first official dates with my wife took place at her parents’ house. That night, her extremely nosy parents promised not to eavesdrop, nor bother us, nor hide behind the sofa and wait for us to kiss.Her parents agreed to let us have the...

Southern Hospitality | Nov. 21, 2024

Washburns celebrate Thanksgiving with family traditions |OPINION — At the home of Shirlene and Dan Washburn in Opelika, photos of their beloved family mingle with awards from Dan’s distinguished career, including several hall of fame honors. Thanksgiving is the one...
On the Mark | Sept. 19, 2024

On the Mark | Sept. 19, 2024

BY D. MARK MITCHELL OPINION — Opelika (3-1, R 1-1) beat J.A.G. (0-4, R 0-2) 52-6 last Friday night at Bulldog Stadium. The Bulldogs did exactly as I...

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Alter Call

Alter Call

That trembling in my soul OPINION — Were You There” is a haunting phrase in the old spiritual, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” The...

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Inside the Statehouse | Sept. 26, 2024

Inside the Statehouse

Jimmy Rane: An Alabama legend OPINION — Abbeville’s Jimmy Rane has been heralded as the richest man in Alabama. Indeed, his wealth status has been...

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Making the Grade

Making the Grade

At home with Chef Jim OPINION — As I have mentioned numerous times in this column, I love to eat, but I really dislike cooking.My attitude about...

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Southern Hospitality | Sept. 12

Southern Hospitality | Sept. 12

Love of baking leads to customized confection business BY ANN CIPPERLY After having interesting careers around the country, Jan and Joel Martin...

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