Column Articles

A Taste of Grace | Dec. 19, 2024

A Thrill of Hope OPINION — It’s one of those old Hallmark commercials — the kind that were two minutes plus and shown only during Hallmark Hall of Fame presentations. I’ve long since forgotten what the presentation was, but I haven’t forgotten the commercial. It’s...

Inside the Statehouse | Dec. 12, 2024

The Bright Star — an Alabama institution OPINION — By far the most legendary restaurant in Alabama is The Bright Star in Bessemer. The famous establishment is iconic not only for its fabulous food but also for its hospitality.It is a Landmark of Alabama history. The...

Sean of the South | Dec. 12, 2024

Santa OPINION — I almost didn’t write this because I swore I’d never tell anyone what I’m about to tell you. But I have to.A few weeks ago I received a letter postmarked from Nunavut, Canada. An invitation said that I had been selected along with a few other writers...

Southern Hospitality | Around the table with The Observer

Staff, writers, photographers offer favorite holiday recipes BY ANN CIPPERLYFOR THE OBSERVER As Christmas approaches, Observer columnists are finishing up their holiday articles, and photographers are working on one more special shot as the full time staff looks over...
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...

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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...

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Sean of the South | Oct. 31, 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...

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A Taste of Grace | Oct. 31, 2024

A Taste of Grace | Oct. 31, 2024

From groaning to glory, part one OPINION — Romans 8:18-25 is one of the lesser-known passages in Paul’s letter to the disciples at Rome. But...

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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...

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On the Mark | Oct. 31, 2024

On the Mark | Oct. 24, 2024

Opelika defeats Central-Phenix City BY D. MARK MITCHELL OPINION — Opelika (8-1, R 5-1) beat the Central-Phenix City Red Devils (6-2, R 4-2) 23-14,...

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Alter Call | Oct. 31, 2024

Alter Call | Oct. 24, 2024

An appointment with God OPINION — Spending time in prayer, alone with God, has been one of the wisest decisions I have ever made. As I look back, my...

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