Column Articles

On the Mark | 100th career win for Opelika coach

BY D MARK MITCHELL OPINION — In a game packed with momentum swings, clutch plays and playoff-caliber intensity, the Opelika Bulldogs dug deep and delivered a dramatic 24–22 win over Pike Road Friday night at Bulldog Stadium.The defining moment came with just 4:28 left...

Making the Grade | On the Road to Slocomb, Alabama

BY STACEY WALLACE OPINION — When I was growing up in Alexander City (“Eleck” City to the locals), Tom Patton, my sweet Daddy, grew the best tomatoes in his garden. He used Better Boy and Celebrity plants, and they produced the reddest, ripest tomatoes I’ve ever eaten....

Sean of the South | The morning news

BY SEAN DIETRICH OPINION — I woke up looking for God. I always look for Him in the mornings. Sometimes, however, He’s hard to find. Sometimes He hides.I went through my morning routine. I made the coffee. Let the dogs out to pee.I turned on the TV news.The TV...

Southern Hospitality | Penny Varner cooks with southwestern flavors

BY ANN CIPPERLY On a recent sunny morning, Penney Varner was in her spacious kitchen in the Northside Historic District preparing a pot of green chili to serve with hominy and pinto beans that were simmering on the stove. Penney and her husband, John, both enjoy...
A Taste of Grace | Oct. 24, 2024

A Taste of Grace | Oct. 24, 2024

What is God saying to us?OPINION — We’re doing a study of Luke’s gospel on Wednesday nights. Our goal is to interact with the text in such a way...

read more
On the Mark | Oct. 31, 2024

On the Mark | Oct. 31, 2024

Opelika finishes 8-2, heads to post-season OPINION — In their last regular season game, the Opelika High School Bulldogs (8-2) lost to Carver 44-35...

read more
Making the Grade | Oct. 31, 2024

Making the Grade | Oct. 31, 2024

El Jefe Mexican Restaurant & Grill OPINION — What was your favorite age to be? When you’re young, you want to be older; when you’re older, you...

read more
Sean of the South | Oct. 24, 2024

Sean of the South | Oct. 31, 2024

Dear Kid OPINION — Dear Kid,Don’t grow up. Don’t turn into an adult. That’s my advice. Resist adulthood. Be a kid forever.Right now, a lot of adults...

read more
Alter Call | Oct. 31, 2024

Alter Call | Oct. 31, 2024

Facing the unpredictable OPINION —When I was 40, Bruce Larson was one of my favorite authors. His book, The Emerging Church, affirmed for me the...

read more