WEEK OF OCT. 27 – MEETINGS, EVENTS & UPDATES:

OCT 30 = DEADLINE TO REQUEST ABSENTEE BALLOT
Application form available from the circuit clerk’s office (334-737-3543/ 334-737-3635 in Lee County).  Note: The completed ballot must be mailed in time to reach the circuit clerk by noon, Nov. 4 or hand delivered by the voter by 5 p.m. Nov. 3.

NON-PARTISAN INFO ON THE ALABAMA JUDICIAL RACES: http://www.lwval.org/election2008/voterguide.

POLLING LOCATION INFO: Polling Location Information Available Online

GROUPS TO DETERMINE HOW TO MEASURE WATER FOOTPRINT
Read full story at: http://www.wwn-online.com/articles/68755
Seven global groups, including the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, joined forces to set up the Water Footprint Network, with the aim of working toward a common approach to water footprint measurement, accounting, and reporting. Globally, per capita availability of freshwater is steadily decreasing.  Membership of the Water Footprint Network is open to those working on water resources management: academic institutions, government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, public utilities, and UN organizations. Partner registration will start in a few weeks’ time and will be announced on the network’s Web site. The public launch of the network will be in December.

FIND INFO ABOUT YOUR WATERSHED
Use the EPA’s “Surf Your Watershed” at http://cfpub.epa.gov/surf/locate/index.cfm to find information about your watershed.  Also, people and organizations can post EPA’s “Find Your Watershed” widget (http://epa.gov/widgets/#watershed) on their own Web sites. By advertising this widget, partners can help drive traffic to EPA’s Surf Your Watershed database, which helps people find their watershed, learn about its health, and connects them with organizations at work in their watershed.

TOOMER’S CORNER OAK SEEDLINGS ON SALE
The School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences will sell Toomer’s Corner oak trees Saturday, Nov. 8, at the school during its homecoming. The seedling trees sell for $60 each and are direct descendents of the two oaks at Toomer’s Corner. The trees come with a certificate of authenticity, which tells the history of the Toomer’s Corner oak trees, planting instructions and a roll of Auburn toilet paper. Proceeds from the trees are divided among the Forestry Club, The Wildlife Society and the Toomer’s Oak Leadership Endowment for scholarships. You may also purchase a Toomer’s Corner Oak online by logging on to www.TigerRags.com or by calling 844-1001.

CITY OF AUBURN / CONSTRUCTION PROJECT STATUS REPORTS (updated weekly)
PUBLIC WORKS: www.auburnalabama.org/pw/status.asp
WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: www.auburnalabama.org/wrm/status.asp

THROUGH NOV. 20  — BEAT BAMA FOOD DRIVE KICK-OFF
The Beat Bama Food Drive will kick off on the Samford Hall lawn and run through Nov. 20. Drop-off locations for canned goods will be set up around campus and there is a Web site (http://www.beatbamafooddrive.com) in which money can be donated. The drive will benefit the East Alabama Food Bank. Please help Auburn University and the Student Government Association reach their goal of 250,000 pounds to feed the hungry of East Alabama and beat Bama. For more information, contact Ashley Nichols at agn0001@auburn.edu.

== == == == == == ==

MONDAY, OCT. 27 — LEE COUNTY COMMISSION   www.leeco.us
4:00 pm — work session / 6:00 pm — regular session
Held in the commission chambers, Opelika Courthouse, 215 S. 9th Ave, Opelika. Open to all.
Agenda includes:
6. Reports from Staff:
a. November 4th General Election – Judge English
b. Legislative Meeting Update – Wendy Swann
7. CONSENT AGENDA:
a. Minutes of Commission Meeting October 14, 2008
b. Ratify and Approve Claims
c. First Reading of the EA Mental Health Board & the Lee-Chambers Utilities District
8. OLD BUSINESS:
a. First Reading of the Cemetery Preservation Committee – Commissioner Holt
9. NEW BUSINESS:
a. Proposed 40 Acre Land Purchase for Beulah Recreation – Jerry Southwell
a. Smiths Senior Center Usage Agreement with City of Smiths Station – Judge English
b. Agreement for Records Management System for Sheriff’s Office-Roger Rendleman
c. Procurement Card Proposal – Roger Rendleman
d. Educational Reimbursement – Roger Rendleman
10. Discussion Items. 11. Adjourn

MONDAY, OCT. 27, 7:00 PM — LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF EAST ALABAMA
Topic:  Carbon Footprints/Sustainability   Speakers;  Matt Williams & Dr Lindy Biggs/ AU Sustainability Initiative
Held at the East Alabama Health Resources Center, Pepperell Parkway, Opelika.  Open to all.
Dr. Lindy Biggs and Matt Williams will share with LWV their work at AU’s Sustainability Initiative. The mission of the Initiative is “To educate about sustainability, to promote sustainability practices both on and off campus, and to provide resources and support for people who wish to incorporate sustainability practices into their work and life.” By sustainability is meant meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Dr. Biggs, Director of the center, has a PhD from MIT in History of Technology and Environmental History. Matt Williams, the Project Coordinator, has a BS and MS in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from Univ of FL plus graduate work at Auburn in geotropically ecology and conservation. He joined the center summer, 2006. These speakers provide an opportunity for becoming familiar not only with the work of the Sustainability Initiative but what each of us can do toward that end.

TUESDAY, OCT. 28 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info:  Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 28, 10:00 AM — PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in room 123, House Judiciary Committee Room, Alabama State House, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600

TUESDAY, OCT 28, 3:00 pm — OPELIKA PLANNING COMMISSION
Held at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika Public Works bldg. Open to all.  www.opelika.org
Agenda includes:
A. PLATS (preliminary and prel & final) – Public Hearing
1. The Willows S/D, 4 lots, Lee Road 730, Kevin J Sexton, P/F approval.
2. John W. Harris S/D, 4 lots, Lee Road 146,  John W. Harris, P/F approval.
3.  Gateway Park S/D, 2 lots, Columbus Parkway, J Newell Floyd et al, P/F approval.
4.  Capps-Palmer S/D, 1^st Addition, 7^th revision, 2 lots, Gateway Drive, Stephen Benson, P/F approval.
5.  The Cottages at Fieldstone S/D, Phase III, 60 lots, Cobblestone Drive, DRI Fieldstone LLC, P/F approval.
B. ADMINISTRATIVE PLATS (RATIFY)
6. Tiger Town S/D, 2 lots, Interstate Drive, Tiger Town LTD, Ratify.
C. CONDITIONAL USE
7. J Newell Floyd, 1700 block Columbus Parkway, C-3, GC-2, Construction Equipment Rental (Tabled at Sept 23^rd PC meeting)
D.   REZONING-PUBLIC HEARING
8.  Margaret Thomas, 716 Powledge Avenue,from R-3 to R-4M
9.   Dudley Holdings & Investments LLC, 214 North 10th Street, from R-2 to C-2
10.  Pine Lake Property LLC, Anderson Road, from PUD to R-1
11.  Amend Opelika Zoning map adding GC-2 (Gateway Corridor Overlay – 2) zoning district on Society Hill Road from the Interstate 85 bridge to Gateway Drive and adding GC-2 on Gateway Drive from Society Hill Road to Highway 51  E.   ZONING ORDINACE TEXT AMENDMENTS (Public Hearing)
12.  (a) Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 6.4 Purpose and Intent of Zoning Districts – add new district: Office Limited (O-L) zoning district.
(b)   Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 6.1 Districts – add Office Limited (O-L) district.
(c)   Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 7.3 Specific District Regulations, Paragraph A District Regulation add yard and area requirements for Office Limited District and Paragraph C Use categories- add allowed/conditional/prohibited land uses in the Office Limited District
(d)   Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 9.7 General Business Signs- add sign regulations for the Office-Limited District
13.   Amend Public Works Manual-Section 4.5.3.  Street Name Signs.
14.   Amend Subdivision Ordinance-Section 4.4 Final Plat Approval, Subsection B. Improvements and Subsection D. Final Plat Requirements to include language on street name signs and time extension on infrastructure improvements

TUESDAY, OCT. 28, 7:00 PM — ENVIRONMENTAL MOVIE: KING CORN
Held at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (AUUF) Hall,450 E. Thach Ave. Free & open to all.
In King Corn (88 min.), two college students go on a quest to find out where America’s food comes from. By planting an acre of corn they follow its fate from seed to harvest and beyond. They learn how genetically modified seeds perfectly match up with specific herbicides. Biting into a corn ear, fresh from their field, they are surprised that it does not taste very good. Eventually they discover that it is not meant to be for human consumption, and the term “corn-fed beef” gets a whole new meaning. Then they turn their kitchen into a chemistry lab and produce high-fructose corn syrup. Are you reading the label of ingredients on the food you serve for dinner? Did you notice how limited your choices are in the grocery store if you try to stay away from corn syrup? Don’t miss the movie. It is excellent! You can read more and watch a segment on: http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/kingcorn/film.html.

TUESDAY,  OCT. 28 , 7:00 pm – AUBURN BIKE COMMITTEE  www.auburnalabama.org/cycle/
Held in the conference room, Development Services Bldg, 171 N. Ross St. Open to all.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29, 8:00 – 10:00 am — AUBURN-OPELIKA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION BOARD MEETING
Held in the LRCOG Conference Room, 2207 Gateway Drive, Opelika. Ph: 334-749-5264.  Open to all. More info: Suzanne.Burnette@adss.alabama.gov. www.lrcog.com

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29, 2:00 – 5:00 pm – JCSM FILM SERIES: FORTY YEARS LATER: 1968 / Film: Under the Pavement Lies the Strand
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, auditorium. Free & open to everyone.
This fall, faculty at Auburn University will present a fall film series, “Forty Years Later: 1968,” with three films that explore key political, scientific and artistic innovations of the year 1968.  Sponsored by AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, College of Liberal Arts, College of Sciences and Mathematics and the Departments of English, Foreign Languages, History and Political Science.  (Note:  Nov. 19 film showing — 2001: A Space Odyssey)

THURSDAY, OCT. 30 — LAST DAY TO OBTAIN AN ABSENTEE BALLOT

THURSDAY, OCT. 30 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info:  Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 30, noon – ART MUSEUM / A LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. Free & open to all.
Enjoy lunch in the museum café on Thursdays while the lovely sounds of local musicians echo through the museum. Sponsored by the Auburn Chamber Museum Society.

THURSDAY, OCT. 30, 6:00 – 8:00 PM – CITY OF AUBURN DOWNTOWN TRICK-OR-TREAT
City of Auburn’s Downtown Trick-or-Treat to be held Oct. 30

FRIDAY, OCT. 31,  9:00 – 4:00 —- WAR EAGLE NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts.  Free & open to all.
 Celebrates the history and culture of Southeastern indigenous peoples with traditional singers, musicians, dancers, artisans, food, and living campsites. The festival is a great educational opportunity for children. More info: Amanda Carr
Phone: 334-844-2976; E-mail: carrama@auburn.edu.

FRIDAY, OCT. 31, 10:00 AM — PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / BIOFUELS AND ALTERNATIVE ENGERGY SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in the Alabama State House, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600

FRIDAY, OCT. 31, 7:30 pm — GNU’S BREW
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay Street, Auburn. Free & open to all. www.thegnusroom.com
The Gnu Brew for October is actually a GNU BOO! since it falls on Halloween this year. In honor of this, we welcome actor/director/storyteller Belinda Clayton. Belinda is a cum laude graduate of Auburn University with a major in Business Ed and a minor in theatre. As a student she worked extensively with the Forensics team competing in events such as Poetry and Prose Interpretation, and Reader’s Theatre. She has traveled from New Hampshire to California working with local community theaters, and she presently takes part in acting and directing with the Auburn Area Community Theatre. She will be presenting some spooky stories from Alabama and beyond, all performed by candlelight. Please feel free to come wearing a costume and get in the “spirit” of the evening!

SATURDAY, NOV. 1, 8:30 – 3:00 PM —- ALABAMA WATER WATCH / WATER CHEMISTRY  MONITORING WORKSHOP
Held at AU’s Upchurch Hall, room 246. Workshop Contact Phone: 888-844-4785.  https://aww.auburn.edu/
Trainer(s) Sergio S. Ruiz-Córdova & Jayme Oates.

SATURDAY, NOV. 1, 9:00 – 4:00 —- WAR EAGLE NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts.  Free & open to all.
 Celebrates the history and culture of Southeastern indigenous peoples with traditional singers, musicians, dancers, artisans, food, and living campsites. The festival is a great educational opportunity for children. More info: Amanda Carr
Phone: 334-844-2976; E-mail: carrama@auburn.edu

SATURDAY, NOV. 1, 3:00 – 5:30 PM —- ALABAMA WATER WATCH / BACTERIA MONITORING WORKSHOP
Held at Upchurch Hall, AU. Workshop Contact Phone: 888-844-4785.  https://aww.auburn.edu/
Trainer(s) Sergio S. Ruiz-Córdova & Jayme Oates.

SATURDAY, NOV. 1, 6:30 – 9:30 PM — AUBURN ARTS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP “PICASSO” PARTY
Held at Greystone Mansion, 434 E. Magnolia Ave.  Public is invited  to renew membership or join.
Picasso-style attire encouraged. Event includes wine-tasting with wines from Fine Wines and Beer by Gus. http://www.auburnarts.org/

SATURDAY, NOV. 1, 7:00 pm – THE GNU’S ROOM / WORDS CAFÉ LIVE
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay Street. Ph: 334-821-5550. Free & open to all.
Words Café Live offers an open-mic opportunity for anyone who would like to participate. You do not have to be published to share your thoughts and words with those in attendance.  Or simply be surrounded by words as you absorb what is shared by poets, literary artists, spoken word artists and storytellers from Auburn and beyond.

== == == == == == ==

Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 27, 2008

Comments Off

CORRECTIONS & ADDITIONS:

DATE CHANGE
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 7:00 PM – GNU’S ROOM / AUTHOR READING
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay St, Auburn. Free & open to all. www.thegnusroom.com
Featuring: Wes Wood, fiction writer and Keith Cummins, poet.

ADDITIONAL EVENT
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 — CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY DAY
Join people on campuses around the country tomorrow as they celebrate Campus Sustainability Day.
Noon: AU Green Lunch, in the new Student Center, room 2216. Dr. Conner Bailey will be discussing “Rednecks, Radicals, and Cautious Souls: Multiple Voices of Alabama’s Environmental Movement”.
— Check out the Sustainability Initiative’s website.
Tips for living sustainably. http://www.auburn.edu/projects/sustainability/studentresources.php
— Work out your carbon footprint. http://www.myfootprint.org/en/
— See what is happening at AASHE—everyone in Auburn University is a member. http://www.aashe.org/index.php

ADDITIONAL EVENT
THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 8:30 AM — SMART DESIGN – STUDY OF BIOMIMICRY / RESPECTING THE FUTURE
Held at the AU Hotel & Dixon Conference Center auditorium. Free & open to the public.
David Oakey, designer for InterfaceFlor, will present a lecture: “Respecting the Future”. Oakey leads global efforts in sustainable or “smart design” by learning from nature, the study of biomimicry. His talk will be the keynote address for the Southern Region Interior Design Educator’s Council annual meeting at Auburn Oct. 22-25. Oakey’s presentation is open to the public with special encouragement for participation by Auburn students and faculty. “Respecting the Future” is the conscious choice of systems thinking, recognizing how design impacts the world during and after its life cycle. Oakey challenges industrial designers, architects, teachers and students to take action and impact change today. Sustainable design must be innovative utilizing efficient use of materials, seeking smart products, and eliminating waste in the process. Oakey and his philosophies have been featured in Business Week, Fast Company, Interior Design Magazine, New York Times Science, Green Futures Magazine, I.D. Magazine, and The Smithsonian Magazine. He has received more than 60 national and international awards for his innovative designs.
CORRECTION TO PROGRAM DETAILS
THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 6:30 PM – CHEWUP / FRIENDS OF CHEWACLA CREEK AND THR UPHAPEE WATERSHED
Held in the City of Auburn meeting room, 122 Tichenor Ave. Open to all.
Program: John Curry with Hydro Engineering will report on the Inundation (flood) study he did for the Water Works Board along Chewacla Creek from Ogletree Dam to Sand Hill Road.

CORRECTION TO WEBSITE LINK
NON-PARTISAN INFO ON THE ALABAMA JUDICIAL RACES: http://www.lwval.org/election2008/voterguide.

ADDITIONAL INFO
CITY OF AUBURN — WATER TANK TO BE DRAINED — AWWB to Drain Northwest Water Tank October 27 – November 7

ADDITIONAL INFO courtesy of BEN – Bama Environmental News www.BamaNews.com
LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS — 2008 ANNUAL ENVIRONMENTAL VOTING SCORECARD
The League of Conservation Voters Release their 2008 Scorecard - With the end of the second session of the 110th Congress occurring this month, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) has released it’s annual national environmental scorecard. Here is how the Alabama delegation scored:
SENATORS:
Senator Richard Shelby – 18%
Senator Jeff Sessions – 18%
REPRESENTATIVES:
Rep. Jo Bonner – 0%
Rep. Terry Everett – 0%
Rep. Mike Rogers – 31%
Rep. Robert Aderholt – 0%
Rep. Bud Cramer – 77%
Rep. Spencer Bachus – 15%
Rep. Artur Davis – 92%
To access the entire scorecard, including descriptions of the environmental “votes” to determine the scores, visit http://www.lcv.org/scorecard.

== == == == == == == ==
Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 21, 2008

Comments Off

LISA BROUILLETTE COLUMN / MISSING CAMPAIGN SIGNS AN ISSUE
First published Oct. 17, 2008 in the Opelika-Auburn News.
http://placeforum.org/blog/2008/10/20/lisa-brouillette-column-missing-campaign-signs-an-issue-oct-17-2008/

RAILS TO TRAILS CONSERVANCY — New Report: ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION FOR AMERICA
Active transportation is bicycling and walking as an everyday transportation choice. “Active Transportation for America” makes the case and quantifies the national benefits for the first time that increased federal funding in bicycling and walking infrastructure would provide tens of billions of dollars in benefits to all Americans. By making active transportation a viable option for everyday travel, we will cost-effectively reduce oil dependence, climate pollution and obesity rates while providing more and better choices for getting around town. Some may view active transportation as marginal, but bicycling and walking account for 10 percent of trips in the nation. Half of the trips in America are within a 20-minute bike ride and a quarter of trips are within a 20-minute walk, yet most are taken by automobile. Read the report to learn more about how adequate federal investment in bicycling and walking will create healthier places for healthier people. Read more about the report, and download your free copy now: www.railstotrails.org/ATFA.

Auburn Community Garden – at the Research Station off Woodfield Drive, Auburn
Volunteers Needed on Wednesdays, 5pm or whenever you have spare time
Auburn Community Garden is looking for volunteers to help grow food for the Food Bank of East Alabama. Beginners and experienced gardeners, families, church groups and student groups are all welcome. The community garden gives people the opportunity to gain experience in growing a vegetable garden while serving the community, and it gets fresh local produce into the diets of Food Bank beneficiaries. Volunteers meet at the garden every Wednesday from 5-6pm with garden manager Mike Mulvaney to help plant, thin, weed and harvest. Volunteers are also welcome to visit the garden at their convenience and do what work they can. If you wish to volunteer, turn up any Wednesday at 5pm, or contact Mike at mulvamj@auburn.edu.

Auburn University establishes Center for Ethical Organizational Cultures

City of Auburn’s Downtown Trick-or-Treat to be held Oct. 30

ELECTION DEADLINES: OCT. 24 = DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE FOR GENERAL ELECTION
Voter registration forms available from:
– boards of registrars: Lee County Courthouse – 737-3635, Chambers County – 864-4313, Russell County – 298-1443
– at Auburn City Hall, and
– online at http://www.alabamavotes.gov
OCT 30 = DEADLINE TO REQUEST ABSENTEE BALLOT
Application form available from the circuit clerk’s office (737-3543 in Lee County).
Note: The completed ballot must be mailed in time to reach the circuit clerk by noon, Nov. 4 or hand delivered by the voter by 5 p.m. Nov. 3.

ELECTION RESOURCES:
TO CHECK CAMPAIGN ADVERTISING CLAIMS: http://www.factcheck.org.
NON-PARTISAN INFO ON THE ALABAMA JUDICIAL RACES: http://www.lwval.org/election2008/voterguide.

CITY OF AUBURN / CONSTRUCTION PROJECT STATUS REPORTS (updated weekly)
PUBLIC WORKS: www.auburnalabama.org/pw/status.asp
WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: www.auburnalabama.org/wrm/status.asp

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

MONDAY, OCT. 20, 5:00 PM — Beat Bama Food Drive kick-off
The Beat Bama Food Drive will kick off on the Samford Hall lawn and run through Nov. 20. Drop-off locations for canned goods will be set up around campus and there is a Web site (http://www.beatbamafooddrive.com) in which money can be donated. The drive will benefit the East Alabama Food Bank. Please help Auburn University and the Student Government Association reach their goal of 250,000 pounds to feed the hungry of East Alabama and beat Bama. For more information, contact Ashley Nichols at agn0001@auburn.edu.

MONDAY, OCT. 20, 5:15 PM – ITALIAN DOCUMENTARIES
Held in AU’s Haley Center room 3195. Free & open to all. Q&A after films.
To honor National Italian American Heritage Month and the Sicilian Anti-Mafia Movement,the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures/Italian Studies has invited Anthony Fragola to present his documentaries, “Another Corleone, Another Sicily” and “A Beautiful Memory: A Mother and Her Sons Against the Mafia,” as well as to introduce the internationally acclaimed “I cento passi” by M.T. Giordana. Fragola is a professor of broadcasting and cinema at the
University of North Carolina at Greensboro. A question-and-answer session will be offered at the end of each film screening. Fragola will also read some of his short stories and translations of short stories on Oct. 21, following his documentary. Complete program and Fragola’s biography: (http://media.cla.auburn.edu/forlang/events/FRAGOLA.pdf).

TUESDAY, OCT. 21 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info: Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21, 10:00 am — PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in room 123, House Judiciary Committee Room, Alabama State House, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600

TUESDAY, OCT, 21, NOON — ART TALK: KATIE HANSON / AUDUBON’S BIRDS OF AMERICA
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Free & open to all.
A free 30-minute gallery talk Tuesday, Oct. 21, at noon about the museum’s exhibition of prints in the Louise Hauss and David Brent Miller Audubon Galleries. This permanent collection includes almost 100 prints from the first edition of John James Audubon’s monumental “Birds of America,” a set of four large folios published between 1827 and 1838. Auburn senior history student Katie Hanson, whose studies concentrate on art history and visual culture, will give the talk. Hanson is serving an academic internship at the museum and has curated its Audubon exhibition around a central theme of taxonomy and nomenclature. She has also written and recorded an audio tour providing museum guests with the calls of the birds represented in the Audubon prints on display.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21, 1:OO PM — PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / INFRASTRUCTURE AND EXPANSION SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in room 123, House Judiciary Committee Room, Alabama State House, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600

TUESDAY, OCT. 21, 4:30 PM – ITALIAN DOCUMENTARIES
Held in AU’s Haley Center room 3195. Free & open to all. Q&A after films.
To honor National Italian American Heritage Month and the Sicilian Anti-Mafia Movement,the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures/Italian Studies has invited Anthony Fragola to present his documentaries, “Another Corleone, Another Sicily” and “A Beautiful Memory: A Mother and Her Sons Against the Mafia,” as well as to introduce the internationally acclaimed “I cento passi” by M.T. Giordana. Fragola is a professor of broadcasting and cinema at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. A question-and-answer session will be offered at the end of each film screening. Fragola will also read some of his short stories and translations of short stories, following his documentary. Complete program and Fragola’s biography: (http://media.cla.auburn.edu/forlang/events/FRAGOLA.pdf ).

TUESDAY, OCT. 21, 5:30 PM — MOCK ELECTION TO DEMONSTRATE ELECTRONIC VOTING SYSTEM
Held in AU’s Lowder Business Building, room 113A; doors will open at 5:00 pm.
The university community is invited to attend this event. Chick-fil-A will provide refreshments.
State party leaders will discuss their parties’ views and electronic voting system Prime III will be available during the fall convocation and mock. First, Mike Hubbard, Alabama Republican Party chairman, and Joe Turnham, Alabama Democratic Party chairman, will explain their candidate’s positions on key issues in the 2008 presidential election. Following remarks from Christa Slaton, faculty member in political science, and Juan Gilbert, faculty member in computer science, attendees will have the opportunity to vote in a mock election using the Prime III electronic voting system. Developed by Gilbert’s research group, Prime III is a secure, multimodal electronic voting system that allows persons who might have trouble voting due to a disability to be able to vote through a secure process. The mock election is sponsored by Auburn University’s Honors College, Human Centered Computing Lab, Office of the Dean of Students and Chick-fil-A. For more information, contact Sarah Teague at teagusa@auburn.edu.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21 – BUFFET & FILM COUNTING BACKWARDS
Buffet: 6:00 pm / Film: 7:30 pm
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.
JCSM is presenting the original, fictional film “Counting Backwards (http://www.countingbackwardsthemovie.com )” as part of the Southern Arts Federation’s Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. “Counting Backwards” is a quirky, romantic drama that reminds viewers the things in life worth fighting for still must be fought for. Following the screening, director Aprill Winney will engage the audience in a discussion about the film. Buffet dinner catered by Ursula Higgins, served in Museum Café — reservations required, call 844-7016 . Dinner: $15 plus gratuity/per person.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21 – AUBURN CITY COUNCIL
Committee of the Whole: 6:55 pm / Regular meeting: 7:00 pm
Held in the council chambers, 141 N. Ross St.. Open to all. Agenda & full packet: www.auburnalabama.org/agenda/
Committee of the Whole agenda includes:
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD. One Vacancy. Incumbent: Paul F. Parks (resignation). Unexpired Term Ends October 9, 2013. Nominations.
Regular meeting agenda includes:
7. CITIZENS’ COMMUNICATIONS.
8. CITY MANAGER’S COMMUNICATIONS. City Manager Duggan.
a. Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Two Positions. Four-Year Terms Expire November 30, 2012. Appointments at the November 18, 2008 Meeting.
9. ORDINANCES.
a. Annexation. Thomas M. Hayley. Property Located at 2082 U. S. Highway 29 South (South College Street). 1.01 Acres. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
b. Zoning. Thomas M. Hayley. Terry Holdridge (Authorized Representative). Property Located at 2082 U. S. Highway 29 South (South College Street). Rezone from Rural (R), pending annexation to Comprehensive Development District (CDD). 1.01 Acres. Planning Commission Recommendation. Public Hearing Required. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
c. Traffic Control Signs and Devices. Establish “No Parking” Zone. North side of Magnolia Avenue from Hemlock Drive to Wire Road. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
10. RESOLUTIONS.
a. Conditional Use Approvals. Planning Commission Recommendations. Public Hearings Required.
(1) Thomas M. Hayley and C & C Builders & Developers. Terry Holdridge (Authorized Representative). Commercial and Entertainment Use (hotel) in the Comprehensive Development District (CDD) Zoning District pending annexation and rezoning to CDD. Property Located at 2082 U. S. Highway 29 South (South College Street).
(2) Industrial Development Board and Briggs and Stratton. Phillip Dunlap (Authorized Representative). Industrial Use (Project Storm) in the Industrial (I) Zoning District (amendment). Property Located at 150 Technology Parkway.
b. Auburn Chamber of Commerce. Annual Christmas Parade. Temporarily Close City Streets. December 4, 2008.
c. Industrial Development Board. Tax Abatements. Excludes Education, Hospital, and Children’s Home Ad Valorem and Sales and Use Taxes.
(1) Aluminum Technology Schmid North America, Inc. and Detroit Diesel Corporation. 2410 West Tech Lane.
(2) Borbet Alabama, Inc. and East Main Alabama, Inc. f/k/a ATS Light Alloy Wheels Alabama, Inc. 979 West Veterans Boulevard. Assignment of Tax Abatement.
(3) Capitol Vial of Alabama, Inc. 2039 McMillan Street. Extend and Amend Tax Abatement.
d. Drainage and Utility Easements. Acceptance and Payment for Value Lost.
(1) Drainage and Utility Improvements. Construction and Maintenance.
(a) Jedd Land Company, LLC. Ellington Place Subdivision.
(b) Auburn University Federal Credit Union. 1290 South Donahue Drive.
(2) John Mullins. 842 South College Street. South College Street and Woodfield Drive Traffic Signal. Utility Easement and Compensation.
e. Industrial Development Board. One Position. Unexpired Term Ends October 9, 2013. Appointment.
11. OTHER BUSINESS. 12. ADJOURNMENT.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21 — OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL
6:25 pm – work session / 7:00 pm – regular meeting
Held in the council chambers, 204 South 7^th Street, Opelika. Open to all.
Agenda: www.opelika.org/
Work session agenda includes:
(1) - a. Resolution, contract for advertising with Auburn Network for the L&P department.
b. Resolution, fill position of Electrical Distribution
(2) - a. Resolution, amend existing contract with Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood to upgrade sewer life station at Saugahatchee County Club
(4) - a. Resolution, reclassify two positions to Assistant Director P & G
(5) - a. General updates
(6) - Discuss/review CM agenda items of 10/21/08
a. Remarks by Mayor; b. General business; c. Bids; d. Resolutions; e. Ordinances; f. Board Appointments;
(7) - Discussion — a. New / Old Business; b. Board appointments; c. Other City business.
Regular session agenda includes:
6) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7) REMARKS BY THE MAYOR — a. Employee service awards.
CITIZENS COMMUNICATIONS – (Limit comments to five minutes or less)
9) REPORT OF DISBURSEMENTS
10) COMMITTEE REPORTS
11) GENERAL BUSINESS – Bob Shuman
1. Public hearing, fix assessment for removal of building at 1813 Ridge Street.
2. Public hearing, fix assessment for removal of building at 308 Brannon Avenue.
3. Public hearing, fix assessment for removal of building at 315 South 2nd Street.
4. Public hearing, fix assessment for removal of building at 1402 West Street.
5. Public hearing, fix assessment for removal of building at 1602 4th Avenue
12) AWARDING OF BIDS – (By Resolution) - Shirley Washington
1. Two new 2009 unmarked Dodge Chargers for OPD.
2. One new Ford F-250 pickup truck for P/W.
3. 332 Landis+Gyr meters for L&P.
4, 330 TWACS meter modules for L&P.
13) RESOLUTIONS - Guy Gunter
1. Contract, annual appropriation, Storybook Farm.
2. Contract, annual appropriation, Envision Opelika.
3. Contract, annual appropriation, Chamber of Commerce.
4. Contract, annual appropriation, Boys & Girls Clubs.
5. Contract, annual appropriation, Sickle Cell Foundation.
6. Contract, annual appropriation, EASE.
7. Amend existing contract, GMC, upgrade sewer lift station.
8. Special appropriation by Ward 2, Opelika Learning Center.
9. Special appropriation by Ward 3, various Opelika organizations
10. Fix amount of assessment, demolition at 1813 Ridge Street.
11. Fix amount of assessment, demolition at 308 Brannon Avenue.
12. Fix amount of assessment, demolition at 315 South 2nd Street.
13. Fix amount of assessment, demolition at 1402 West Street.
14. Fix amount of assessment, demolition at 1602 4th Avenue.
15. Designated City personal property as surplus & authorize disposal.
14) ORDINANCES
1. Amend the City Code of Ordinances, add Article V to Chapter 28, Identify Theft Prevention Program.
15) APPOINTMENTS. 16) ADJOURN.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 11:30 am — 2008 Alabama Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Conference
Held at the Marriott Prattville at Capitol , Mont.
Conference details at: https://www.energyservicescoalition.org/chapters/AL/conference/2008/index.html

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 12:00 PM — GREEN LUNCH SERIES: DR. CONNER BAILEY / REDNECKS, RADICALS AND CAUTIOUS SOULS: MULTIPLE VOICES OF ALABAMA’S ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENT
Held in AU’s New Student Union, Room 2216. Free & open to all.
Bring your lunch and join us as Dr. Conner Bailey, professor of Rural Sociology, discusses “Rednecks, Radicals, and Cautious Souls: Multiple Voices of Alabamas Environmental Movement.”

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 4:00 PM — ART HISTORY LECTURE: DR. KIMBERLY CLEVELAND / ART FROM THE PERIPHERY: AFRICA, BRAZIL AND AFRO-BRAZILIAN ART
Held in AU’s Biggin Hall, room 005. Free & open to all.
The College of Liberal Arts Department of Art is pleased to announce an art history lecture, “Art from the Periphery: Africa, Brazil, and Afro-Brazilian Art,” presented by Dr. Kimberly Cleveland, Assistant Professor of Art History at Georgia State University. Dr. Cleveland, a Fulbright scholar who received her Ph.D. from the University of Iowa, will discuss how Afro-Brazilian art serves as a tool for understanding relationships between Brazil and African countries at the national and individual levels in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. To date, American art historians have almost exclusively focused their studies on Afro-Brazilian religious artwork and a historically-based flow of influence from West Africa to Brazil. Dr. Cleveland will demonstrate how expanding the discourse to include secular artwork not only provides a better perspective on the connections between Afro-Brazilian art and national politics, but also the variety of ways that Brazilian artists have incorporated African-influenced forms and subjects in their paintings, prints, sculptures, and photographs.
For more information contact Dr. Joyce de Vries, Assistant Professor of Art History, 844-3483.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 5:00 – 7:00 PM – HISPANIC FILM SERIES / ROJO AMANECER (RED DAWN)
Held in AU’s Haley Center, room 3034. Free & open to all.
AU’s Dept of Foreign Languages and Literatures, College of Liberal Arts, presents Rojo Amanecer (Red Dawn)* Mexico, 1989 (NO subtitles) -drama/thriller- http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098214/ .

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 7:00 PM – GNU’S ROOM / AUTHOR READING – NOTE DATE CHANGE
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay St, Auburn. Free & open to all. www.thegnusroom.com
Featuring: Wes Wood, fiction writer & Keith Cummins, poet

THURSDAY, OCT. 23 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info: Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT 23 , 10:00 am – ALABAMA HOME BUILDERS LICENSURE BOARD
Held at 445 Herron Street, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-2230
Agenda: The Board will meet to approve minutes from the previous month’s meeting, to approve applications for licensure, and to conduct the general business of the Board.

THURSDAY, OCT. 23, noon – ART MUSEUM / A LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. Free & open to all.
Enjoy lunch in the museum café on Thursdays while the lovely sounds of local musicians echo through the museum. Sponsored by the Auburn Chamber Museum Society.

NOTE NEW MEETING DATE
THURSDAY, OCT.23, 4:00 pm – AUBURN WATER WORKS BOARD
Held in the Water Resource Management Conference Room, 1501 West Samford Avenue (Shug Jordan and West Samford). Info: 501-3060. The Board now meets on the 1^st Thursday after the 3^rd Tuesday of each month.

THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 4:00 pm — OPELIKA PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION
Held in the Public Works Facility, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika. Open to all.
Note: The regular Opelika Planning Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 3:00 pm, same location as above.
Agenda includes:
A. PLATS (preliminary and prel & final) – Public Hearing
1. The Willows S/D, 4 lots, Lee Road 730, Kevin J Sexton, P/F approval.
2. John W. Harris S/D, 4 lots, Lee Road 146, John W. Harris, P/F approval.
3. Gateway Park S/D, 2 lots, Columbus Parkway, J Newell Floyd et al, P/F approval.
4. Capps-Palmer S/D, 1^st Addition, 7^th revision, 2 lots, Gateway Drive, Stephen Benson, P/F approval.
5. The Cottages at Fieldstone S/D, Phase III, 60 lots, Cobblestone Drive, DRI Fieldstone LLC, P/F approval.
B. ADMINISTRATIVE PLATS (RATIFY)
6. Tiger Town S/D, 2 lots, Interstate Drive, Tiger Town LTD, Ratify.
C. CONDITIONAL USE
7. J Newell Floyd, 1700 block Columbus Parkway, C-3, GC-2, Construction Equipment Rental (Tabled at Sept 23^rd PC meeting)
D. REZONING-PUBLICHEARING
8. Margaret Thomas,716 Powledge Avenue,from R-3 to R-4M
9. Dudley Holdings &Investments LLC, 214North 10th Street, from R-2 to C-2
10. Pine Lake Property LLC, Anderson Road,from PUD to R-1
11. Amend OpelikaZoning map addingGC-2 (Gateway CorridorOverlay – 2) zoningdistrict on Society Hill Road from theInterstate 85 bridge toGateway Drive andadding GC-2 onGateway Drive fromSociety Hill Road toHighway 51 E. ZONING ORDINACETEXT AMENDMENTS(Public Hearing)
12. (a) Amend ZoningOrdinance Section 6.4Purpose and Intent of Zoning Districts – add new district: Office Limited (O-L) zoning district.
(b) Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 6.1 Districts – add Office Limited (O-L) district.
(c) Amend ZoningOrdinance Section 7.3Specific District Regulations, Paragraph A District Regulation add yard and area requirements for Office Limited District and Paragraph C Use categories- add allowed/conditional/prohibited land uses in the Office Limited District
(d) Amend Zoning Ordinance Section 9.7 General Business Signs- add sign regulations for the Office-Limited District
13. Amend Public Works Manual-Section 4.5.3. Street Name Signs.
14. Amend Subdivision Ordinance-Section 4.4 Final Plat Approval, Subsection B. Improvements and Subsection D. Final Plat Requirements to include language on street name signs and time extension on infrastructure improvements

THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 5:30 pm – SAVE OUR SAUGAHATCHEE (SOS)
Held in the City of Auburn meeting room. Open to all.
Agenda: Potluck supper and plans for Syrup Soppin’, receive training on two different Enviroscapes and a brief update on the late summer bacteria blitz from Cliff Webber.

THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 6:30 PM – CHEWUP / FRIENDS OF CHEWACLA CREEK AND THE UPHAPEE WATERSHED
Held in the City of Auburn meeting room, 122 Tichenor Ave. Open to all.
Program: John Curry with Hydro Engineering will report on the Inundation (flood) study he did for the Water Works Board along Chewacla Creek from Ogletree Dam to Sand Hill Road.

FRIDAY, October 24 — Last day to register for November election

FRIDAY, OCT. 24, 5:00 – 9:00 PM — AU GROUP IN ECOLOGY PICNIC
Held in AU’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences Pavilion
The AU Group in Ecology will hold its first annual fall picnic on Friday, 24 October 2008, starting at 5 pm at the beautiful School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences pavilion and indoor hall (special thanks to Kathryn Flynn!). Grills, utensils, plates, coolers with ice, and some tables and chairs will be provided. Please plan to bring something to eat and drink for yourself and to share with others. This event is designed for AU ecologists to get to know each other and to brainstorm ideas for future events.

FRIDAY, OCT. 24, 7:30 pm – SUNDILLA CONCERT FEATURING RED MOLLY
Held at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall (AUUF), 450 E. Thach. www.sundilla.org
Admission: $10; with student ID $8; children under 12 free (and welcomed; play area provided). Light refreshments provided free of charge; you may also bring your own food or beverage (beer/wine allowed). For more info, and to hear music clips of Red Molly, go to www.sundilla.org.

SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 7:00 AM – LOACHAPOKA SYRUP SOPPIN’ FESTIVAL
Held in Loachapoka Park. Free admission. More info: www.soppin.org
Note: Loachapoka Park is located in downtown Loachapoka, just 7 miles west of Auburn down Hwy 14.
Join us for this all-day festival celebrating the historical method of cane syrup development. Arts & crafts, entertainment, and great food round out this family event.

SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 8:30 AM — AU BIKE PATH OPENING / BIKE RIDES http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/550
Held at South Donahue Drive & Woodfield Drive, by the solar house. All are invited to attend. Refreshments provided.
Auburn University will celebrate the official opening of its recently completed bike path with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event is a collaboration of Auburn University and the City of Auburn. This summer, AU completed the campus’s first dedicated off-road multi-use path, extending from South College Street to Samford Avenue along Donahue Drive. The construction of the path is part of the university’s master plan to transform Auburn into a greener and healthier pedestrian- and bike-friendly campus. Following the ribbon cutting there will be a 9 a.m. five-mile fun ride, and, for the more experienced riders, the annual Chris Hinds Memorial Ride organized by Friends of Chris Hinds and the Auburn Flyers. Food and snacks will be provided for those who attend the ceremony and for those who take part in the rides. Aubie and other special guests will visit the event. There will be drinks and snacks for everyone at the ceremony and those who take part in the rides.
Registration for the Chris Hinds Memorial Ride is from 7:30 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. prior to the 9 a.m. event on Oct. 25. The fee for this ride is $30 with proceeds going to Auburn Flyers and Storybook Farm. There is no charge to participate in the five-mile fun ride.
For more information on the ribbon cutting ceremony and the free fun ride contact: Emma Mulvaney (334) 844-7777 (mulvaet@auburn.edu). For more information on the Chris Hinds Memorial Ride go to www.chrishindsride.com or email JC Gillespie at gillejc@mac.com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 5:00 PM — GNU’S ROOM / AUTHOR READING
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay St, Auburn. Free & open to all. www.thegnusroom.com
Featuring: Charles Rose, published short story writer and author of In the Midst of Life.

SATURDAY, OCT. 25, 7:00 – 9:00 PM — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE FALL WINE & CHEESE HIKE
Held at AU’s Forest Ecology Preserve; meet at the pavilion. Tickets: $20 for Preserve members; $25 for nonmembers.
Tickets limited to 30. All preserves go to support the Preserve. Ticket info: Jennifer Lolley, 707-6512.
The Forest Ecology Preserve will host a Fall Wine and Cheese Hike. Attendees will meet at the pavilion and easily hike to the pond where Gus Clark of Gus’s Fine Wine and Beer will serve as host. Music will be provided by John and D’Wayne.

== == == == == == == ==

Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 20, 2008

Comments Off

Missing campaign signs an issue

column By Lisa Brouillette
First published October 17, 2008 in the Opelika-Auburn News.

Has an Obama-Biden campaign sign been stolen from your yard? Dozens of local signs have been snatched —including ours, which was taken along with others on our street at 4:15 Thursday afternoon by someone driving a silver SUV.

This week the Democratic and Republication campaign headquarters, and the police, received reports of multiple thefts. In some cases a single street was hit. In others, the thieves took signs from a multi-block grid of adjacent streets. The number of signs stolen and the different neighborhoods affected paints this criminal activity as not merely a prank, but a coordinated effort.

What must be acknowledged are the more serious aspects of these thefts: their overt racism (Obama signs taken, but not Segall or other signs in the same yards) and their attempt to censor free speech.

Speaking of criminal activities, recent articles in this paper noted increases in burglaries and other crimes, citing the deteriorating economy and drug abuse as underlying reasons. Equally important is our burgeoning population.

Auburn’s previous city manager, David Watkins, designed a plan to address this population growth by strengthening our police and fire departments. The number of full-time police officers was to increase, in line with other similarly sized college towns. Part-time, student firefighter positions were to be replaced with ones for full-time career firefighters.

A particularly good aspect of the plan specified that budget monies be set aside exclusively for equipment replacement. Basically, this earmarked funds to ensure consistent and protected funding for the equipment.

That equipment reserve plan, though approved by the city council in office at the time, was never implemented. The following administration set aside the idea, noting the limits such earmarking places on budgetary flexibility.

However, specific earmarks can protect vital services’ funding from being raided for other purposes. The city council can amend the budget and adjust allocations at their discretion.
Non-earmarked monies are more easily moved from one budget line to cover shortfalls in another.

Such shifting of funds is particularly likely when the economy is weak and budgets are tight, as is the case now. In light of this, perhaps the use of earmarks should be reconsidered.
We must make sure funding keeps pace with our needs for expanded fire and police protection, no matter the economic climate.

Speaking of local growth, particularly as regards infrastructure, it has slowed but not stopped. An example is the recent approval of $2 million-plus in city bonds earmarked to fund work on the Samford Avenue. Extension. As noted in my Jan. 19, 2007 column, that project benefits a number of landowners with whom Mayor Bill Ham has business partnerships. Interestingly, the project costs have substantially increased from original estimates.

Lisa Brouillette is a community activist, editor, and writer. Contact her at placeforum@gmail.com or visit her Web site http://placeforum.org.

Comments Off

Comments(0)

MEETINGS, EVENTS & UPDATES THIS WEEK

TUESDAY, OCT. 14 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info: Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14, 9:00 am — OPELIKA ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Held at the Public Works Facility, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika. Open to all.
Agenda: A. VARIANCES: 1. Manish Desai, 1705 Columbus Parkway, interpretation of height for sign regulation in Section 7.3 of the zoning ordinance in the C-3, GC-2 zoning district.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14, 11:30 am – AUBURN GREENSPACE ADVISORY BOARD
Held in the city of Auburn meeting room, 122 Tichenor Ave. Open to all.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14, noon — AUBURN COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY / CDA - called meeting
Held in the conference room, Auburn City Hall, 144 Tichenor Ave. Open to all.
Agenda: called meeting

TUESDAY, OCT. 14 – LEE COUNTY COMMISSION www.leeco.us
4:00 pm – work session / 6:00 pm – regular session
Held in the commission chambers, historic courthouse building, 215 S. Ninth St, Opelika. Open to all.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14, 4:00 pm – AUBURN HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Held in the Development Services Bldg, 171 N. Ross St. Open to all. www.auburnalabama.org/hpc/agenda.asp

TUESDAY, OCT 14, 6:00 pm – AUBURN BOARD OF EDUCATION www.auburnschools.org
Held in the Auburn High School multi-media room, 405 S. Dean Rd. Open to all.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14 – LEE COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY UNITY AND HONORS BANQUET – Featuring U.S. Congressman Artur Davis
6:00 pm – reception / 7:00 pm — dinner
Held at the Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center. Cost: $75 per attendee, Tables $750; checks payable to The Lee County Democratic Executive Committee, c/o Patsy Boyd Parker, 2504 Frederick Road, Opelika.
Speaker: Alabama 7th District Congressman Artur Davis
The Lee County Democratic Party is sponsoring this fundraising banquet, which will honor outstanding local, state, and national Democrats, as well as Democratic candidates
Congressman Artur Davis: After two terms in Congress, Alabama 7th District U.S. Representative Artur Davis has earned recognition as a productive and effective legislator who has set a new standard of service for his constituents. As Congressman Davis begins his third term, he is rapidly developing a national reputation as a thoughtful leader who is poised to influence the national debate. In the 110th Congress, Davis has been appointed to one of the most prestigious committees in the House, the Ways and Means Committee. This committee oversees economic policy in a wide array of areas, including tax law, trade policy, and health care, as well as the Social Security and Medicare programs. Davis is only the tenth Alabamian to serve on this important committee in 188 years. Davis also holds a slot on the Judiciary Committee, which covers areas ranging from constitutional law to immigration to the criminal and civil justice systems. He has effectively used this committee to investigate politicization of the judiciary, including the prosecution of former Governor Siegelman. Info: Patsy Parker at 334-745-2591 or Pat1Bill2@aol.com.

TUESDAY, OCT. 14, 6:30 pm – LEE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION / ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
Held at the Lee County Emergency Management Office. Open to all.
Agenda: organizational meeting

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 15, 6:00 pm – LEE COUNTY DEMOCRATIC CLUB
Held at the Elks Club, 1944 Opelika Road.
6:00 pm — buffet dinner ($9.00; tax and tip included)
6:50 pm – Program: Dr. Kieke Okma, international health care expert.
Dr. Kieke Okma is an internationally recognized expert on health care systems around the world. She has her PhD from the medical faculty at the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands in 1997. Currently a Visiting Professor at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, she has taught and worked in health care policy at numerous universities and centers in the US, Canada, and Europe. She is a sought-after advisor and consultant and she has worked in various levels of government in the Netherlands and the World Bank since 1980.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16 , 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info: Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 10:00 am – PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / RENEWABLE POWER & ELECTRIC GENERATION SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in room 123, House Judiciary Committee Room, Alabama State House, Mont. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600
Agenda includes: discussion of 2008 legislation and ideas for new legislation for the 2009 Regular Session.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, noon – ART MUSEUM / A LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. Free & open to all.
Enjoy lunch in the museum café on Thursdays while the lovely sounds of local musicians echo through the museum. Sponsored by the Auburn Chamber Museum Society.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 1:30 pm – PERMANENT JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY / EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION SUBCOMMITTEE
Held in Room 123, House Judiciary committee room, Alabama State House. Open to all. Ph: 334-242-7600
This is the second subcommittee meeting.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 3:00 pm — DR. THOMAS VAUGHN / HISTORY OF THE HORSE THROUGHOUT HISTORY
Held in the Special Collections & Archives, AU’s RBD Library. Free & open to all.
Part of the Discover Auburn Lecture Series sponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities and the AU Libraries.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 8:00 PM —ALABAMA PUBLIC TV BROADCAST / LIQUID ASSETS
America’s infrastructure is failing. When a bridge collapses—such as the tragic example in Minnesota last year—it makes the national news. But the country’s crumbling infrastructure is also happening out of sight with our drinking water and wastewater systems. In fact, the American Society of Civil Engineers has given these systems a grade of “D -” in their latest Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. How can we, as a society, make the massive investment needed to upgrade our aging and overused water infrastructure? One of the first steps is to educate people about the value of water and wastewater systems. Staff members from the National Environmental Services Center’s communications and technical assistance units have been working with Penn State Public Broadcasting on Liquid Assets, a public awareness initiative about the condition of the nation’s water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. Liquid Assets includes a 90-minute documentary for national public television, combined with outreach materials designed to inspire community engagement. Exploring the history, engineering challenges, and political and economic realities, the documentary—slated for broadcast in Fall 2008—provides an understanding of the hidden assets that support our way of life. Visit the Liquid Assets Web site at http://www.liquidassets.psu.edu to learn more about this project.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 5:30 – 8:00 PM – LEE COUNTY LITERACY COALITION / TUTOR ORIENTATION
If you’d like to become a literacy tutor, come to this tutor orientation. A light supper will be served. For directions & more info, contact Debby at 705-0001.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 5:00 pm – ART LECTURE: KATHRYN BRAUND / LEADING MEN: THE 1826 TREATY DELEGATES
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art (http://jcsm.auburn.edu/index.php ). Open to the public.
Braund’s research focuses on the ethno-history of the Creek and Seminole Indians in the 18th and early 19th centuries. The lecture is presented in conjunction with The Indian Gallery of Henry Inman, an exhibition of paintings, prints and artifacts that focus on Southeastern Creek and Cherokee leaders and warriors of the early 19th century. The exhibit presents more than a dozen original oil paintings by artist Henry Inman (1801-1846), who gained renown as an exacting chronicler of American Western history, primarily through his replicas of a series of North American Indian portraits. The exhibition is made possible through the support of Tom and Ann Cousins.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 6:00 – 7:30 pm — SUNDOWN AT KIESEL CONCERT SERIES / NOISY DIERDRE
Held under the pavilion at Kiesel Park, Auburn. Free & open to all.
Final concert in the City of Auburn’s annual Sundown at Kiesel Concert Series. Bring a picnic supper and lawn chairs. Dogs welcome. For additional information, please contact the Dean Road Recreation Center at 501-2930.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 8:00 pm – SUN BELT READING SERIES, PART 1
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay St, Auburn. Free & open to all. www.thegnusroom.com Featuring: Rafael Alvarez, Chantel Acevedo & Anna Schachner

FRIDAY, OCT. 17 — STUDENTS TO LEAD 60-MILE MARCH FOR HUNGER AWARENESS
A group of Auburn students and concerned citizens will embark on a 60-mile Hunger March from the campus to the steps of the state capitol in Montgomery to raise awareness about the issue of world hunger. Marchers will set out from the Auburn University Medical Clinic and travel southeast on College Street until it becomes U.S. Highway 29. They will continue on to Alabama Highway 81 and conclude on the first day in Tuskegee. On day two, Saturday, Oct. 18, the walk will follow U.S. Highway 80 to Montgomery and finish Sunday, Oct. 19, at 600 Dexter Ave. on the steps of the state capitol. The Hunger March is the finale to Auburn’s Hunger Awareness Week, Oct. 13-19. Throughout the week, an oversized red cup will be available for donations of nonperishable items for the East Alabama Food Bank and also spare change for global hunger relief in the “Fill the Cup” initiative. Another highlight of the week will feature Aubie on a “Tiger Prowl” around campus to help collect donations. The march is designed for walkers only. Relay teams are welcome. To sponsor a participant, call 844-3790. To learn more about the Hunger March and the partnership between Auburn and the United Nations World Food Programme, go to this link (http://www.auburn.edu/event/hunger/publish.php?doc_id=1 ).

FRIDAY, OCT. 17, 10:00 am – ALABAMA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION / Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee
Held at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM Building), Alabama Room (Main Hearing Room), 1400 Coliseum Boulevard Montgomery. Ph: 334-271-7706.
Agenda includes:
1. Consideration of minutes of meeting of the Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee held on June 27, 2008**
2. Status report and discussion of the strategic planning process
3. Discussion of potential rules to memorialize the strategic planning process
4. Other business
* The Agenda for this meeting will be available on the ADEM website, www.adem.alabama.gov, under EMC Information and Calendar of Events.
** The minutes for this meeting will be available on the ADEM website under EMC Information.

FRIDAY, OCT. 17, 11:00 am – ALABAMA ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION
Held at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM Building), Alabama Room (Main Hearing Room), 1400 Coliseum Boulevard Montgomery. Ph: 334-271-7706.
Agenda includes:
1. ELECTIONS The Commission will hold elections for Commission Chair and Vice Chair and Committee Chairs and memberships.
2. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD ON AUGUST 22, 2008
3. REPORT FROM THE DIRECTOR
4. REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION CHAIR
5. REPORT FROM THE STRATEGIC PLANNING AD HOC COMMITTEE
6. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE DIVISION 6 – WATER QUALITY REGULATIONS (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will consider proposed amendments to the Division 6 – Water Quality Regulations. The Department proposes to amend rule 335-6-10-.07, Toxic Pollutant Criteria Applicable to State Waters, Appendix A to revise the reference doses for acrolein and phenol to be consistent with the values in the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). The Department held a public hearing on the proposed amendments on September 4, 2008.
7. UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF ANDALUSIA V. ADEM, EMC DOCKET NO. 08-06 (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will consider a “Joint Motion to Continue of the Utilities Board of the City of Andalusia and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management” in this appeal concerning the Utilities Board of the City of Andalusia, Andalusia Riverside Wastewater Treatment Facility, NPDES Permit AL0055417, Covington County.
8. VALLEY BROOK ESTATES, LLC V. ADEM, EMC DOCKET NO. 08-05 (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will consider the “Request for Oral Argument” filed with the “Petitioner’s Rule 335-2-1-.28 Objection to Hearing Officer’s Recommendation to Grant Department’s Motion to Dismiss.” The Commission will also consider the Administrative Law Judge’s (ALJ’s) “Order on Motion to Dismiss” and the ALJ’s Recommendation in said Order that the Commission grant Respondent ADEM’s “Motion to Strike and Motion to Dismiss” in this appeal concerning ADEM Administrative Order 08-182-MNPS issued on July 28, 2008, to Valley Brook Estates, Irondale, Jefferson County, NPDES ALR167329.
9. FRIENDS OF HURRICANE CREEK AND ALABAMA RIVERS ALLIANCE, INC. V. ADEM, AND TUSCALOOSA RESOURCES, INC., INTERVENOR, EMC DOCKET NO. 08-01 (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will consider Petitioners Friends of Hurricane Creek and Alabama Rivers Alliance, Inc.’s “Request for Oral Argument” filed with their “Objections to Hearing Officer’s Recommendation.” The Commission will also consider the “Recommendation of the Administrative Law Judge on Motion to Dismiss” in this appeal concerning ADEM’s reissuance of Tuscaloosa Resources, Inc., Panther Mine No. 3, NPDES Permit No. 0074012, Tuscaloosa County, effective October 2, 2007.
10.TUSCALOOSA RESOURCES, INC. V. ADEM, EMC DOCKET NO. 08-08 (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will consider Alabama River Alliance, Inc. and Friends of Hurricane Creek, Inc.’s “Request for Oral Argument” and their “Emergency Motion for Intervention.” The Commission will also consider Petitioner Tuscaloosa Resources, Inc.’s (TRI’s) “Amendment of Motion to Stay Action Pending Issuance of Order” and “Motion to Stay Pending Issuance of Order” in this appeal concerning ADEM’s revocation of TRI, Panther Mine No. 3, NPDES Permit No. 0074012, Tuscaloosa County, effective August 28, 2008, and reissuance of a new NPDES Permit to TRI also denoted as Permit No. AL0074012 having different discharge limits, terms, and conditions. TRI is requesting that the effective date of the Reissued Permit AL0074012 be stayed pending issuance of a final order by the Commission in this appeal and that they be allowed to continue to operate under the Previous Permit AL0074012 issued October 6, 2007.
11. TUSCALOOSA RESOURCES, INC. V. ADEM, EMC DOCKET NO. 08-09 (NPDES-RELATED MATTER)
The Commission will note for the record Petitioner Tuscaloosa Resources, Inc.’s (TRI’s)withdrawal of the request for hearing in this matter concerning ADEM’s inclusion of certain discharge limitations, terms, and conditions in TRI, East Brookwood Mine, NPDES Permit No. AL0074349, Tuscaloosa County. The issuance date for this permit shown in the request for hearing is August 28, 2008. Since ADEM had not issued this permit yet, TRI has withdrawn this request for hearing.
12. OTHER BUSINESS
13. FUTURE BUSINESS SESSION
* The Agenda for this meeting will be available on the ADEM website, www.adem.alabama.gov, under EMC Information and Calendar of Events.
** The Minutes for this meeting will be available on the ADEM website under EMC Information.

FRIDAY, OCT. 17 , 5:00 pm — IRAQ MORATORIUM VIGIL
Held at Toomer’s Corner. All are invited to participate.
Sponsored by Alliance for Peace and Justice. Bring candles, signs (some will be provided). Join thousands nationwide wearing black armbands or ribbons on the 3rd Friday of each month. See www.iraqmoratorium.com and www.peaceeagle.org.

FRIDAY, OCT. 17, 6:00 pm – midnight — OPELIKA 6TH ANNUAL ON THE TRACKS /Food, Wine & Music event
Held along Railroad Avenue, in Historic Downtown Opelika. Info: www.onthetracks.org
Outdoor wine tasting event held in the heart of downtown Opelika along historic Railroad Avenue. The area’s finest restauranteurs offer a delicious selection of dinner entrees and over 20 selections of eclectic wines. Live music sets the perfect backdrop for a delightful fall evening while the Mainstreet merchants remain open for your shopping enjoyment.

FRIDAY, OCT. 17, 7:30 – 9:00 PM — KAZANETTI STRING QUARTET
Held in AU’s Goodwin Recital Hall.

FRIDAY, OCT. 17, 8:00 pm – SUN BELT READING SERIES Part II
Held at the Gnu’s Room, 414 S. Gay Street. Ph: 334-821-5550. Free & open to all.
Featuring: Rusty Spell, Suzanne Samples, Giovanna Summerfield & Johnny Summerfield

SATURDAY, OCT. 18, 8:00 am – noon —- PLANT SALE / SPONSORED BY AUBURN BEAUTIFICATION COUNCIL
Held in the Auburn Chamber of Commerce parking lot, 714 E. Glenn Ave. [near Hastings & AC Fitness] Mums and pansies for sale. Info: call the Chamber at 887-7011 or the ABC at 887-6778.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

ELECTION DEADLINES:CT. 24 = DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE FOR GENERAL ELECTION
Voter registration forms available from:
– boards of registrars: Lee County Courthouse – 737-3635, Chambers County – 864-4313, Russell County – 298-1443
– at Auburn City Hall, and
– online at http://www.alabamavotes.gov
OCT 30 = DEADLINE TO REQUEST ABSENTEE BALLOT
Application form available from the circuit clerk’s office (737-3543 in Lee County).
Note: The completed ballot must be mailed in time to reach the circuit clerk by noon, Nov. 4 or hand delivered by the voter by 5 p.m. Nov. 3.

ELECTION RESOURCES:
TO CHECK CAMPAIGN ADVERTISING CLAIMS: http://www.factcheck.org.
NON-PARTISAN INFO ON THE ALABAMA JUDICIAL RACES: http://www.lwval.org/elections2008/votrerguide.

= = = = = = = =

JOSH SEGALL FOR CONGRESS CAMPAIGN / Volunteers needed
Volunteers requested to come in and help make calls, stuff envelopes, canvass neighborhoods, and to help on Election Day. In Opelika, contact John Haffner; 334-745-5146; john@segall2008.com. See Josh’s first debate with Rogers here and the new TV ad here.

TOXIC DOLLARS? / Rogers campaign donation
In August, the Anniston Star ran a piece about Compound 1080, and its link to a PAC run by Rep. Mike Rogers. Compound 1080, also known as sodium fluoroacetate, was banned by the EPA in the 1970s, but allowed again for limited use in the 1980s. Tull Chemical, located in Oxford, is the only U.S. manufacturer of Compound 1080. The chemical has been used to kill predators and opossums in the American West and New Zealand, and it has been blamed for 16 human deaths in the U.S. The owner of Tull Chemical, Charles Wigley, has donated $1,500 to Rep. Rogers American Security PAC. At the same time, there is a bill before Congress that would ban the production and distribution of Compound 1080. Hopefully these toxic dollars won’t keep Rep. Mike Rogers from doing the right thing and voting to protect the citizens of Oxford by banning Compound 1080.
Info courtesy of Alabama Conservationist e-newsletter – www.conservationalabama.org.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

EPA DESIGNATES AUBURN UNIVERSITY AS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FOR WATERSHED MANAGEMENT
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency yesterday designated Auburn University as a Center of Excellence for Watershed Management, enhancing Auburn’s efforts to address water quality and availability issues in Alabama and the region. This is only the fourth Center of Excellence to be designated in the Southeast and the first in the state of Alabama.
Auburn President Jay Gogue and officials from the EPA and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize the partnership. The EPA program works with colleges and universities to provide communities with hands-on, practical products and services to solve watershed problems, such as pollution control and water availability. Some of the benefits of being a recognized Center of Excellence include receipt of EPA technical assistance and EPA letters of support for grant opportunities. To read the news release, see this link (http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/524).

EPA PERCHLORATE DECISION: EPA CALLS FOR COMMENTS; EARTHJUSTICE PLANS TO FILE LAWSUIT
For full article, go to Water & Wastewater News http://www.wwn-online.com/articles/68325
Comment period: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking comment on its preliminary determination not to regulate perchlorate in drinking water at a national level. EPA will make a final determination for perchlorate after considering information provided in the 30-day public comment period, according to an Oct. 3 press release.
Earthjustice lawsuit proposed: Nonprofit environmental law firm Earthjustice said it plans to sue EPA over its refusal to set limits for perchlorate in drinking water. The firm would be representing the Environmental Working Group and other organizations concerned about the health effects of perchlorate. A primary ingredient in rocket fuel, munitions, and explosives, perchlorate has been linked to thyroid problems in pregnant women, newborns and young children nationwide. An Earthjustice press release described the decision to not regulate perchlorate as a victory for the Department of Defense and military contractors.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

CITY OF AUBURN – BOARD & COMMISSION VACANCIES
Tree Commission — Three vacancies will be filled at the Nov. 4 city council meeting.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board — Two vacancies will be filled at the Nov. 18 city council meeting.
Citizens interested in serving are encouraged to contact the City Council and/or the City Manager. Info about the Boards & Commissions available at www.auburnalabama.org/boards/.

CITY OF AUBURN / CONSTRUCTION PROJECT STATUS REPORTS (updated weekly)
PUBLIC WORKS: www.auburnalabama.org/pw/status.asp
WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: www.auburnalabama.org/wrm/status.asp

== == == == == == == ==

Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 13, 2008

Comments Off

WEEK OF OCT. 6, 2008 — MEETINGS, EVENTS & UPDATES
OCTOBER IS NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY MONTH
Cybersecurity is a high priority at Auburn University. In October the Office of Information Technology and campus technology providers will give weekly tips on how to stay safe online. Topics include phishing, safe surfing and social networking, copyright infringement, and mobile data security. Details are updated each week at http://keepitsafe.auburn.edu.  Starting with the basics is easy. First, use anti-virus software. Second, keep Windows Updates current. Third, regularly backup your data. Visit the Web site (http://keepitsafe.auburn.edu ) during the month of October for more cybersecurity tips.

WAR ON HUNGER COMMITTEE OF 19 / DONATIONS TO WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
During pre-game ceremonies at the Auburn versus Tennessee football game, the War on Hunger Committee of 19 donated $11,000 to the United Nations World Food Programme to help the organization in its efforts to feed hungry school children in the developing world. This latest donation brings the total raised by Auburn students for World
Food Programme to $30,000. Accepting on behalf of World Food Programme was Douglas Coutts, senior staff member of the organization and distinguished visiting professor in Auburn’s Department of Nutrition and Food Science. Begun in 2004, the War on Hunger is a dynamic partnership between Auburn and the World Food Programme, the largest humanitarian organization in the world. The Committee of 19 is the student leadership arm of the initiative representing every school, college and major organization on campus.

ELECTION DEADLINES: 
Absentee ballots — The last day to request an absentee ballot is Thursday, October 30 by 5 PM.  See or call (737-3526) the Circuit Clerk’s Office. 
Register to vote — The last day to register to vote for the November election is Friday, October 24.

ALABAMA APPELLATE COURT VOTER GUIDE AVAILABLE   www.lwval.org/election2008/voterguide/
The Alabama Appellate Courts Voter Guide, sponsored by the LWVAL Education Fund, is online! This nonpartisan Voter Guide provides nonpartisan information about the Alabama Appellate Courts – the Supreme Court, the Court of Civil Appeals, and the Court of Criminal Appeals – and information about the candidates running for election to those courts in 2008 as supplied by the candidates.  The Voter Guide is posted at: www.lwval.org/election2008/voterguide/
The Voter Guide lists the eight candidates in the order they will appear on the general election ballot.
“Qualified judges who fairly and impartially interpret and enforce the law are essential for the protection of citizens’ rights and property,” said League President Mary Lynn Bates, “If judges are selected in partisan elections as in Alabama, the people must have more information about the candidates than can be learned from brief, slick political ads.  Wise voting is informed voting.”
The judicial candidates were asked about the attributes of a judge, judicial philosophy and independence, needs of the Alabama justice system, and the role of personal opinion and personal beliefs in decision-making. In addition, candidates provided biographical and campaign contact information. Each candidate was limited to 250 words per answer and was asked not to make comparisons with any other candidate. Responses were printed as submitted by the candidate and not edited by the League. Note: The League of Women Voters Education Fund, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and works to increase the understanding of major public policy issues.

== == == == == ==

OCT. 6 – 31 – CELLPHONE DONATION PROGRAM / DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH EVENTS
Oct. 8 – Silent Witness Display – Held on AU’s Thach concourse
Safe Harbor, the Women’s Resource Center and Verizon Wireless are partnering in a HopeLine Program to increase public awareness about domestic violence. Boxes will be placed around campus Oct. 6-31 for the collection of no-longer-used cell phones. They will be located in the new Student Center, Auburn University Bookstore, Cater Hall and other locations around campus. Phones that can be refurbished will be distributed or sold for reuse and those without value will be disposed of in an environmentally sound way. Verizon has collected five million phones, awarded $5 million in cash grants to domestic violence agencies, distributed 60,000 phones with 180 million minutes of free wireless service to be used by victims of domestic violence and has properly disposed of more than one million no-longer-used phones. Also, on Oct. 8 a Silent Witness display will be set up on the Thach concourse. The Silent Witnesses are a visual memorial of cardboard or wooden life-sized silhouettes telling stories of men, women or children who were victims of domestic or sexual violence. On Oct. 15, a variety of groups will set up on Thach concourse to distribute information about domestic violence. For more information, contact Julia James at jamesjb@auburn.edu or 844-4452.

MONDAY, OCT. 6, noon  — AUBURN PLANNING COMMISSION PACKET MEETING (AGENDA DISCUSSION)
Held in the conference room, Development Services Bldg, 171 N. Ross St. Open to all.
Agenda & full packet: www.auburnalabama.org/pc/agenda.asp
Agenda includes:
CITIZENS’ COMMUNICATION
OLD BUSINESS
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Cary Creek Annexation PL-2008-00651
Applicant: Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Outside of the City limits
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for annexation of 225.42 acres
2. Stonewood Farm PL-2008-00664
Applicant: Jones and Minear Homebuilders, LLC
General Location: East of North College Street and north of East Farmville Road
Zoning District: Development District Housing (DDH)
Action Requested: Amended final plat approval for a 48-lot conventional residential subdivision
NEW BUSINESS
3. The Shoppes at Cary Creek PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00649
Applicant: Foresite Group, Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Rural (R) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2007-00651])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for rezoning of approximately 27.14 acres from Rural (R) to Comprehensive Development District (CDD)
4. The Shoppes at Cary Creek PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00650
Applicant: Foresite Group, Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Comprehensive Development District (CDD) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651] and rezoning [Case PL-2008-00649])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council to apply the Planned Development District (PDD) designation to approximately 27.14 acres
5. The Shoppes at Cary Creek PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00674
Applicant: Foresite Group Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Planned Development District (PDD) (pending rezoning [Case PL-2008-00654]) with underlying Comprehensive Development District (CDD) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651] and rezoning [Case PL-2008-00653]) and Development District Housing (DDH) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651] and rezoning [Case PL-2008-00652])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for conditional use approval for institutional uses, including day care center, private libraries and museums, church, aquariums, and private schools; for indoor recreational uses, including community recreation center, skating rink (roller & ice), bowling alleys, billiards, gymnasium, and indoor athletic facilities; for commercial and entertainment uses, including building material sales, commercial or trade schools, hotel/motel/condotel, package store, veterinary office/kennel, banks, and theaters/indoor auditoriums; road service uses, including ATM’s, car wash/detailing shop, convenience stores/small grocery, gasoline service station, bank w/drive thru, fast food restaurant w/ drive thru, and vehicle rentals; public service uses, including municipal office/facility; a nursery use, specifically retail; and for a community shopping center use
6. Cary Creek Development PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00652
Applicant: Foresite Group, Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Rural (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for rezoning of approximately 145.68 acres from Rural (R) to Development District Housing (DDH)
7. Cary Creek Development PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00653
Applicant: Foresite Group, Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Rural (R) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for rezoning of approximately 52.64 acres from Rural (R) to Comprehensive Development District (CDD)
8. Cary Creek Planned Development District PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00654
Applicant: Foresite Group, Inc. for Charles C. Pick
General Location: Northeast corner of East University Drive and North College Street
Zoning District: Comprehensive Development District (CDD) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651] and rezoning [Case PL-2008-00653]) and Development District Housing (DDH) (pending annexation into the City limits [Case PL-2008-00651] and rezoning [Case PL-2008-00652])
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council to apply the Planned Development District (PDD) designation to approximately 299.04 acres
9. Project Storm PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00665
Applicant: Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn
General Location: 150 Technology Parkway
Zoning District: Industrial (I)
Action Requested: Recommendation to City Council for amended conditional use approval for expansion of an existing industrial use
10. Project Storm PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00698
Applicant: Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn
General Location: 150 Technology Parkway
Zoning District: Industrial (I)
Action Requested: Waiver to Section 433.05A of the Corridor Overlay Area Regulations to allow the use of metal panels on the exterior façade
11. Project Storm PUBLIC HEARING PL-2008-00699
Applicant: Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn
General Location: 150 Technology Parkway
Zoning District: Industrial (I)
Action Requested: Waiver to Section 433.06A of the Corridor Overlay Area Regulations to allow a change in the plant materials in the thoroughfare frontage bufferyard
OTHER BUSINESS. CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATION. STAFF COMMUNICATION. ADJOURNMENT. 

MONDAY,OCT. 6, 4:00 pm – AUBURN CEMETERIES ADVISORY BOARD
Held at the Dean Road Rec Center. Open to all.

MONDAY, OCT. 6, 4:00 pm – LITTLETON-FRANKLIN LECTURE: RICHARD LEAKEY / The Sixth Extinction: Patterns of Life and the Future of Mankind
http://www.auburn.edu/littleton-franklin/leakey.html
Held in AU’s Sciences Center Auditorium, Roosevelt Drive.  Free & open to all.
Richard Leakey Richard Leakey has been making international headlines for more than 30 years as a global thinker, influential environmentalist, and the world’s best-known paleoanthropologist. Currently a Visiting Professor of Anthropology at Stony Brook University, Leakey, one of the foremost authorities on wildlife and nature conservation, continues to educate others about the dangers of environmental degradation. He established the Stony Brook World Environmental Forum to focus attention on global environmental problems and to mobilize resources for conservation. He also established the Annual Human Evolution Symposium, bringing together international scientists from many disciplines to try to obtain a clearer understanding of the major forces and events that shaped the root of the human lineage. Leakey is the author of over 100 articles and books, including Origins, The Sixth Extinction, and his memoir, Wildlife Wars: My Fight to Save Africa’s Natural Treasures. He has been profiled on 60 Minutes and was named one of TIME’s 100 Greatest Minds of the 20th Century.
Auburn’s Littleton-Franklin Lectures are sponsored by AU’s College of Sciences and Mathematics; Merchant Capital, Montgomery, Ala.; Yetta and Mary Samford, Opelika, Ala.; and funds from the John and Mary Franklin Foundation of Atlanta. The series in its name recognizes the services of Mosley Professor Emeritus Taylor D. Littleton.
PARKING: Parking areas nearest the auditorium are the lot in front of Comer Hall on the corner of Roosevelt and College Streets, and the Library parking deck off Roosevelt. Tiger Transit buses (Charcoal Line) run between the Jules-Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts and campus regularly until 6:00 pm weekdays. Persons parking in the Museum lot should be at a bus stop by about 5:30 in order to be sure to catch the last bus back to their car. The nearest bus stop to the COS Auditorium is on Mell Street at Roosevelt.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain.  https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info:  Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 9:00 AM — PUBLIC MEETING WITH CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS
Held at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 E. Glenn Ave. The public is invited. Limited seating available.
The City of Auburn and the Auburn Chamber of Commerce will host a public meeting with officials from Charter Communications. Representatives from Charter Communications will be on hand to address concerns regarding Charter Communications and its service in the Auburn area. Info: Auburn City Hall at 501-7260.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 4:00 pm  – AUBURN INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD (IDB)
Held in the City Manager’s Conference Room, Auburn City Hall, 144 Tichenor Ave. Open to all.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 5:00 – 7:00 PM — 2008 HISPANIC FILM SERIES
Held in AU’s Haley Center, room 3212. Free & open to all.
Sponsored by AU’s Dept of Foreign Languages and Literatures, College of Liberal Arts.
FILM:  El Orfanato (The Orphanage) Spain, 2007 (subtitled) -horror- http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0464141/

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 5:15 pm – AUBURN PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD
Held at the Dean Road Rec Center. Open to all.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 6:00 pm – PRESENTATION: IT’S A BIG BOOK
Held at the Santa Fe Cattle Company. Free & open to all.
Presentation by Mark Berte, Alabama Citizens for Constitutional Reform, on proposed reform of Alabama’s 1901 Constitution.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7  – OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL
6:15 pm – work session  / 7:00 pm – regular meeting
Held at 204 S. 7th St, Opelika. Open to all.
Agenda:  www.opelika.org
Work session includes:
 (1) -  a.  Update on Envision activities downtown ……………..Barbara Patton
 (2) -  a.  Resolution, one time lump sum payment for City retired employees
 (3) -  a.  Amend zoning, Four Seasons Credit Union on Pepperell Parkway, from FC to C2, GC2.
  b.  Amend PUD Master Plan, Village Highland Hills, from commercial to residential.                  
*** BOTH ITEMS ARE FOR ADVERTISING ONLY.
 (4) -  a.  Resolution, contract with Barrett-Simpson Inc. to develop renovation of the OPD facilities
 (5) -  a.  Resolution, contract with Engineering Service Assoc. Inc. for procurement of solid waste services.
         b.  General updates
(6) -  Discuss/review CM agenda items of 10/07/08
a.   Remarks by Mayor;  b.    General business;  c.   Bids; d.   Resolutions; e.  Ordinances; f.  Board Appointments
(7) -  Discussion –a. New / Old Business;  b. Board appointments;  c. Other City business.
Regular session agenda includes:
6)   UNFINISHED BUSINESS  -
7)   REMARKS BY THE MAYOR -  Gary Fuller:  a.  Building Inspection report for the month of September and YTD report.
8)   CITIZENS COMMUNICATIONS – (Limit comments to five minutes or less)
9)   REPORT OF DISBURSEMENTS
10) COMMITTEE REPORTS
11) GENERAL BUSINESS –   Bob Shuman
1.  Request from Opelika Mainstreet for a special events retail license.
2.  Request from Opelika Mainstreet for their 3rd annual Howl’oween event.
3.  Request for the annual Victorian Front Porch Tour,  Dec. 10th -14th.
12) AWARDING OF BIDS – (By Resolution) –  Shirley Washington
13)  RESOLUTIONS –  Guy Gunter
1.  Refund of occupational license fees.
2.  Refund of occupational license fees.
3.  Lease agreement for certain property – L&P.
4.  Create new & reclassify positions for new SportsPlex & Aquatic Center.
5.  Contract with Wilhite Enterprises, Inc to up-grade sewer lift station.
6.  Annual appropriation contract with OIDA.
7.  Annual appropriation contract with East Al. Healthcare Authority.
8.  Annual appropriation contract with Lee Cty. Youth Development Center.
9.  Annual appropriation contract with Valley Haven Schoo.
10.  Special appropriation to the Greater Peace CDC.
11.  Special appropriation to the Opelika School System.
12.  Create new reserve for correcting drainage/ditch problem.
13.  Special appropriation to Envision Opelika for the Brown Center.
14)  ORDINANCES –    Guy Gunter
1.   Amend zoning ordinance for certain property, from C2 to C1. – 2nd Reading.
2.   Amend zoning ordinance for certain property, from R5M, M1, I1 to C3. – 2nd Reading.
3.   Amend zoning ordinance for certain property, from C2 to C3. – 2nd  Reading.
4.   Amend City’s Personnel Policy & Procedure Manual, Section 11.13 – Other Pay Supplements for eligible Police and Fire employees. – H/R – 2nd Reading.
15)  APPOINTMENTS.  16)  ADJOURN

TUESDAY, OCT. 7 — AUBURN CITY COUNCIL
6:55 pm — Committee of the Whole /  7:00 pm – Regular meeting
Held in the council chambers, 141 N. Ross St. Open to all.
Agenda & full packet:  www.auburnalabama.org/agenda
Committee of the Whole agenda includes:
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BOARD. Nominations for two vacancies of six year terms ending Oct. 9, 2014. Incumbents: Dave DeBaets (has served one full term) and John Heilman (has served one Full term).
Regular meeting agenda includes:
7. CITIZENS’ COMMUNICATIONS.
8. CITY MANAGER’S COMMUNICATIONS. City Manager Duggan.
a. Alcoholic Beverage Licenses.
(1) Young Oil, Inc. dba/Grub Mart #22 Package Store. 186 North Gay Street. Lounge Retail Liquor – Class II – (Package). Consideration.
(2) Pelle Alvin Jolanda Dugucci dba/Overtime Sports Bar and Grill. Restaurant Retail Liquor. 2450 Highway 14 West. Police Jurisdiction.
b. Tree Commission. Three Positions. Three-Year Terms Expire November 4, 2011. Appointments at the November 4, 2008 Meeting.
9. ORDINANCES.
a. Annexations.
(1) Donahue Land, LLC. Tom Hayley (Authorized Representative). Donahue Ridge. Property located off North Donahue Drive, east of Camden Ridge Subdivision and south of West Farmville Road. 13.61 Acres. TABLED FROM SEPTEMBER 16, 2008 MEETING.
(2) Ruth M. Blessing. Property located at 2696 Alabama Highway 147 (North College Street). 3.67 Acres. Planning Commission Recommendation. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
b. Zoning.
(1) Donahue Land, LLC. Terry Holdridge (Authorized Representative). Donahue Ridge. Property located off North Donahue Drive, east of Camden Ridge Subdivision and south of West Farmville Road. Rezone from Rural (R) to Development District Housing (DDH). 13.61 Acres. SECOND READING.
(2) Charter Bank. Brent Gladden (Authorized Representative). Hamilton Place. Property located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Hamilton Road and Moores Mill Road. Rezone from Limited Development District (LDD) with a portion in the Conservation Overlay District (COD) to LDD and COD with an overlay of the Planned Development District (PDD) designation. 11.775 Acres. SECOND READING.
c. Traffic Control Signs and Devices. Establish “No Parking” Zones. North side of Hare Avenue from Payne Street through Lot 415, east and west sides of Armstrong Street from current termini to East Thach Avenue, and west and south sides of Warrior Court from Bragg Avenue through a point across from the parking lot of Lot 307. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
d. Issue General Obligation Warrant. Compass Bank. $2,031,270. East Samford Avenue Extension Project. Unanimous Consent Necessary.
10. RESOLUTIONS.
a. Conditional Use Approvals. Planning Commission Recommendations. Public Hearings Required.
(1) Charter Bank. Brent Gladden (Authorized Representative). Hamilton Place. Neighborhood Shopping Center Use, Indoor Recreational Use, and Road Service Use in the Limited Development District (LDD) with a portion in the Conservation Overlay District (COD) pending an overlay of the Planned Development District (PDD) designation. Property located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Hamilton Road and Moores Mill Road. 11.775 Acres. TABLED FROM SEPTEMBER 16, 2008 MEETING. PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED.
(2) CPSW Investments, LLC. David Crum (Authorized Representative). Amend Performance Residential Development Use-Multiple Family Development, Office Use, and Commercial and Entertainment Use (City Walk Plaza) in the Urban Core (UC) Zoning District. Property located at 230 East Glenn Avenue.
(3) Brian Young. Commercial and Entertainment Use (Package Store) in Urban Core (UC) Zoning District. Grub Mart #22. Property located at 186 North Gay Street.
(4) DDK In Line, L.L.C. and KGCG In Line, L.L.C. Gregory Forthofer (Authorized Representative). Road Service Use. Fast Food Restaurant w/Drive Thru (Bruno’s In Line Shops) in the Comprehensive Development (CDD) Zoning District. Property located at 1530 East Glenn Avenue.
b. Auburn City Schools. Wrights Mill Road Elementary School. 2008 No Child Left Behind – Blue Ribbon School. Recognition.
c. Traffic Calming Devices. Install Two Traffic Circles. Brookwood Drive at Auburn Drive and at Bowden Drive. Consideration.
d. Development Agreements and Professional Services Agreement. Authorize Mayor and City Manager to Sign.
(1) Development Agreements.
(a) Donahue Ridge, LLC. Donahue Ridge. East side of North Donahue Drive, south of intersection of Farmville Road.
TABLED FROM SEPTEMBER 16, 2008 MEETING.
(b) Michael V. Shannon. Hamilton Place, LLC. Hamilton Place. Northeast corner of intersection of Hamilton Road and
Moores Mill Road. TABLED FROM SEPTEMBER 16, 2008 MEETING.
(2) Water Resource Management Department. Mall Outfall Sewer-CCTV, Cleaning, Rehabilitation, and Root Control Project. Compliance EnviroSystems, LLC. $60,275. Professional Services Agreement.
e. Drainage and Utility Easements, Rights-of-Way, and Sanitary Sewer Easements. Acceptance.
(1) Drainage and Utility Easements and Rights of Way.
(a) Dunlop Development, Inc. Claire Downs Subdivision. Property located at the southerly terminus of Letohatchee Drive.
(b) Dilworth Development, Inc. Tutton Hill Subdivision. Property located in the 2300 block of Hamilton Road, north of Moores Mill Road.
(2) Sewer Easements. Extend Sanitary Sewer Service. Tutton Hill Subdivision. 2300 block of Hamilton Hill Road, north of Moores Mill Road.
(a) Fay M. Burns. 2624 Moores Mill Road.
(b) Larry E. Thorne. 2780 Hamilton Road.
f. Industrial Development Board. Two Positions. Six Year Terms Expire October 10, 2014. Appointment.
11. OTHER BUSINESS. 12. ADJOURNMENT.

TUESDAY, OCT. 7, 7:00 – 8:30 pm — ALLIANCE FOR PEACE & JUSTICE (APF)   www.peaceeagle.org
Held at the Busch Center, behind the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 450 E. Thatch Ave. Open to all.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 8 & THURSDAY, OCT. 9 — ALABAMA COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE / Engaged Leaders, Better Communities
Held at the Auburn Hotel & Dixon Conference Center.  www.acln.info/conference.htm
A wide range of speakers, including U.S. Rep Artur Davis (Alabama 7^th District), will speak to community leaders, state & local officials, economic and community developers, Chamber of Commerce members, nonprofit executives, community health specialists and other individuals.  More info: www.acln.info/conference.htm ; or contact Arturo S. Menefee, Leadership Development Specialist, Economic & Community Development Institute, Auburn Univ, 210 Extension Hall, Auburn, AL 36849; Phone: 334-844-2307; E-mail: menefas@auburn.edu.

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 8:30 am — FOREST ECOLOGY PRESERVE AUTUMN WALKS
Held at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve (North College Street just past the Auburn fish ponds on the right). Meet at the Pavilion. Free & open to all; no reservations required. Cancelled if rain. https://fp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Autumn walks will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve at 8:30 a.m. Walks are geared toward exercise and enjoying the preserve’s fall beauty. Walks will last approximately one hour. Info:  Jennifer Lolley at 707-6512. The preserve is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 9:00 – 11:00 am —- TOUR: SAUGAHATCHEE CREEK STREAM & FLOODPLAIN RESTORATION PROJECT
No fee, but registration required: contact Eve Brantley at brantef@auburn.edu.
The project is a structural BMP that is restoring a section of a tributary of Saugahatchee Creek near Asheton Park.  A morning seminar describing restoration principles and a project description will be followed by field tours and the opportunity for hands-on participation. There is no registration fee.  However, you must register to participate.
To register and receive tour details, contact Eve Brantley at brantef@auburn.edu
Tentative agenda
9-10 am – Introduction to Stream Restoration and the Saugahatchee Restoration Project
10-11 am – Field site visit
- Stream Design Concepts
- Stream Restoration Erosion and Sediment Control
- Stream Surveying and Layout Design
- Stream Construction and Implementation 
Project Partners include Saugahatchee Watershed Management Plan (SWaMP), Goodwyn, Mills, and Cawood, Inc., Conner Brothers Construction Company, Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, and Auburn University.

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, noon – ART MUSEUM / A LITTLE LIGHT MUSIC
Held at AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. Free & open to all.
Enjoy lunch in the museum café on Thursdays while the lovely sounds of local musicians echo through the museum. Sponsored by the Auburn Chamber Museum Society.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1:00 pm – ALABAMA BOARD OF LICENSURE FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND LAND SURVEYORS / regular meeting
Held at 100 N Union Street # 382, Mont., ph: 334-242-5568
Agenda includes:
I.  MINUTES
A. Review Agenda and Approval of Minutes
1. Review Meeting Agenda
2. Approve Meeting Minutes
3. Action items from Board meeting
II. HEARINGS
B. Public Hearings 
C. Formal Hearings
III. COMMITTEE REPORTS
D.  Applications –
1.  Without personal appearance
2.  With personal appearance
E.  Law Enforcement Committee
1.  Complaints/Investigations
F.  Certificates of Authorization
1.  Engineering and Land Surveying Certificates of Authorizations
2.  Engineering and Land Surveying Certificates of Authorization with Exceptions
G. Communications and Publications
H.  Legislative 
I.   Continuing Professional Competency
J.  Finance/Personnel
K.  Land Surveying – Education & Examinations
L.  Engineering – Education & Examination
III. OTHER REPORTS
M. Chair’s Report
N.  Executive Director’s Report
IV. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND CORRESPONDENCE
O.  Unfinished Business
P.  Correspondence – action required
Q.  Information only – no action required
V.  NEW BUSINESS
R.
VI. OPEN FORUM – Time during which anyone who may be attending meeting as a member of the public can ask questions or make comments.)
iii. CLOSING REMARKS – Review of Calendar

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 4:30 pm – OPELIKA HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
Held in the Planning Chambers, Opelika Public Works Bldg, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika. Open to all.

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 5:00 pm – AUBURN PLANNING COMMISSION
Held in the council chambers, 141 N. Ross St. Open to all.
Agenda & full packet:  www.auburnalabama.org/pc/agenda.asp  (See details above, Monday, noon, Oct. 6,, PC packet meeting)

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 6:00 – 7:30 pm — SUNDOWN AT KIESEL CONCERT SERIES / DAVE POTTS
Held under the pavilion at Kiesel Park, Auburn. Free & open to all.
The City of Auburn’s annual Sundown at Kiesel Concert Series kicks off this Thursday at Kiesel Park.  Bring a picnic supper and lawn chairs. Dogs welcome. For additional information, please contact the Dean Road Recreation Center at 501-2930.  Future concerts in this series:  October 16: Noisy Deirdre

THURSDAY, OCT. 9, 7:00 pm — East Alabama Cycling Club /EACC
Held at the Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, in Opelika, diagonally across from the East Alabama Medical Center. EACC meetings are held at 7 pm on the second Thursday of the month at the For more information about EACC, please visit their website at http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/groups/EACycling.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 8:00 am – ALABAMA BOARD OF LICENSURE FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND LAND SURVEYORS / regular meeting
Held at 100 N Union Street # 382, Mont., ph: 334-242-5568
Agenda includes:
I.             MINUTES
A.           Review Agenda and Approval of Minutes
1.            Review Meeting Agenda
2.            Approve Meeting Minutes
3.            Action items from Board meeting
II.           HEARINGS
B.           Public Hearings 
C.           Formal Hearings
III.          COMMITTEE REPORTS
D.           Applications –
1.            Without personal appearance
2.            With personal appearance
E.            Law Enforcement Committee
1.           Complaints/Investigations
F.            Certificates of Authorization
1.            Engineering and Land Surveying Certificates of Authorizations
2.            Engineering and Land Surveying Certificates of Authorization with Exceptions
G.           Communications and Publications
H.           Legislative 
I.             Continuing Professional Competency
J.            Finance/Personnel
K.            Land Surveying – Education & Examinations
L.            Engineering – Education & Examination
III.          OTHER REPORTS
M.          Chair’s Report
N.           Executive Director’s Report
V.          UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND CORRESPONDENCE
O.           Unfinished Business
P.            Correspondence – action required
Q.           Information only – no action required
ii.           
V.           NEW BUSINESS
R.
VI.          OPEN FORUM – Time during which anyone who may be attending meeting as a member of the public can ask questions or make comments.)
iii.           CLOSING REMARKS
               Review of Calendar

SATURDAY, OCT. 11, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM — FREE WORKSHOP: COOPERATIVE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Held at the Federation of Southern Cooperatives, Rural Training and Research Center, 575 Federation Road, Epes, AL. RSVP required by Oct 7th to 205-652-9676.
Free & open to all.  One hour Lunch break at 12:00 noon (lunch will be provided).
The Federation of Southern Cooperatives/LAF is hosting a free CO-OP 101: Introduction to Cooperative Business Training, a free one-day workshop. This training is designed to provide participants with information on understanding the Cooperative Model and developing and managing a cooperative business.  Attendees will be trained on: Achieving Financial Independence, IDAs, Understanding Credit, The Cooperative Model, How to Start a Cooperative, Managing a Co-operative etc. Come learn how to start your own cooperative business, how cooperative businesses operate, and the financial resources needed to start your business.

SATURDAY, OCT. 11, 4:00 pm – AU HOME FOOTBALL GAME V. ARKANSAS

== == == == == == ==

THROUGH OCT. 10  – ART EXHIBIT / GLASS WORKS BY JIYONG LEE AND BRIAN FRUS
Held in AU’s Biggin Gallery, room 101 Biggin Hall. (Biggin Hall is located at Toomer’s Corner.)  Free & open to all.
The College of Liberal Arts Dept of Art’s Biggin Gallery announces an exhibition of glass art works by Jiyong Lee and Brian Frus. The exhibition gallery hours are 8:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or by appointment. Contact Barb Bondy, exhibitions and lectures coordinator at 844-3483 or bondybj@auburn.edu. The exhibition will run through October 10. Artist Talk by Jiyong Lee: Friday, October 10 at Noon in Room 005 Biggin; a closing reception will follow from 1:00 p.m. through 3:00 p.m.. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

THROUGH SATURDAY, NOV. 8  – ART MUSEUM / NATIVE AMERICAN EXHIBITION
Held at the Chi-Omega Gallery, AU’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art (http://jcsm.auburn.edu/index.php). Open to the public.
The Indian Gallery of Henry Inman, an exhibition of paintings, prints and artifacts that focus on Southeastern Creek and Cherokee leaders and warriors of the early 19th century. The exhibit will present more than a dozen original oil paintings by artist Henry Inman (1801-1846), who gained renown as an exacting chronicler of American Western history, primarily through his replicas of a series of North American Indian portraits. The exhibition is made possible through the support of Tom and Ann Cousins. In conjunction with the exhibition, Auburn history professor Kathryn Braund will present the lecture, “Leading Men: The 1826 Treaty Delegates,” at 5 p.m. Oct. 16. Braund’s research focuses on the ethno-history of the Creek and Seminole Indians in the 18th and early 19th centuries.

THROUGH NOV. 14 — AUBURN PRESERVATION LEAGUE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION
Held at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Gallery. Free & open to the public. Hours: M-F, 8 am – 5 pm.
Info:  501-2963.  The Auburn Preservation League sponsored a photography contest with the assistance of Auburn Arts Association and Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. The photographs feature images of historic sites in Auburn including existing, endangered, and no longer existing sites and/or buildings within Auburns city limits, excluding Auburn University property.

== ==  ==  ==  ==  ==  ==

CITY OF AUBURN – BOARD & COMMISSION VACANCIES
Industrial Development Board — Two vacancies to be filled at the Oct. 7 city council meeting.
Tree Commission — Three vacancies will be filled at the Nov. 4 city council meeting.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board — Two vacancies will be filled at the Nov. 18 city council meeting.
Citizens interested in serving are encouraged to contact the City Council and/or the City Manager. Info about the Boards & Commissions available at www.auburnalabama.org/boards/.

CITY OF AUBURN / CONSTRUCTION PROJECT STATUS REPORTS (updated weekly)
PUBLIC WORKS: www.auburnalabama.org/pw/status.asp
WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: www.auburnalabama.org/wrm/status.asp

== == == == == == == ==

Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 6, 2008

Comments Off

ADDITIONAL EVENTS THIS WEEK

THURSDAY, OCT. 2, 3:00 pm — AUBURN DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION
Held at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce conference room, 714 E. Glenn Ave. Open to all.

THURSDAY, OCT. 2, 3:00 pm – JAMES BRAY /  AN ENGINEERING VISION FOR SPACE EXPLORATION
Held in room 1103, Shelby Center, AU.  Free & open to the public.
James Bray, Auburn University alumnus and service module director of the Project Orion Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, will a seminar hosted by the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Bray has written proposals for new space contracts with NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the central research and development organization for the Department of Defense. He has played a role in the development of a national launch system; an advanced launch system; a single-stage-to-orbit vehicle to replace the shuttle; a reusable launch system; an advanced transportation system; a two-stage-to-orbit launch vehicle; a hybrid rocket launch vehicle; and Orion, a replacement for the space shuttle. Bray earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial and systems engineering from Auburn and his master’s in business administration from Tulane University.

THURSDAY, OCT. 2, 7:00 pm – COLLEGE DEMOCRATS / SPEAKER: ROBERT EGGER (followed by viewing of the VP debate
Held in the new AU Student Center, room 2222. Free & open to all.
Speaker Robert Egger is the Founder and President of the DC Central Kitchen, where unemployed men and women learn marketable culinary skills while foods donated by restaurants, hotels and caterers are converted into balanced meals. Since opening in 1989, the Kitchen has distributed 17.4 million meals and helped over 605 men and women gain full-time employment. Currently, Robert is the Co-Convener of the first ever Nonprofit Congress and the founder of the V3 Campaign (www.v3campaign.org), which is working to get the voice, value and votes of the nonprofit sector recognized in every election in America.  Robert is also the Chairperson of the DC Mayor’s Commission on Nutrition and serves on the Boards of TimeBanks USA and the Food Systems Leadership Institute.
NOTE: After Egger’s talk, the College Dems will be watching the VP Debate in the same room  (Room 2222, New Student Center).

FRIDAY, OCT. 3, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM –  ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR
Held at the Elk’s Lodge, 1944 Opelika Rd. To register, call 749-3353.
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Lee County office will host this estate planning seminar featuring speakers including attorney Robert Tufts of Auburn University’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences and Clint Niemeyer of the Alabama Securities Commission.

UPCOMING EVENT
SATURDAY, OCT. 11, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM — FREE WORKSHOP: COOPERATIVE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Held at the Federation of Southern Cooperatives, Rural Training and Research Center, 575 Federation Road, Epes, AL.  RSVP required by Oct 7^th to 205-652-9676.
Free & open to all.  One hour Lunch break at 12:00 noon (lunch will be provided).
The Federation of Southern Cooperatives/LAF is hosting a free CO-OP 101: Introduction to Cooperative Business Training, a free one-day workshop. This training is designed to provide participants with information on understanding the Cooperative Model and developing and managing a cooperative business.  Attendees will be trained on: Achieving Financial Independence, IDAs, Understanding Credit, The Cooperative Model, How to Start a Cooperative, Managing a Co-operative etc. Come learn how to start your own cooperative business, how cooperative businesses operate, and the financial resources needed to start your business.

= = = = = = = =
UPDATES:

POLITICAL SIGN REGULATIONS – CITY OF AUBURN
Pursuant to section 23-1-6 of the Code of Alabama and Chapter 8 of the City Code, the City of Auburn has the following regulations in place governing the placement of political signs:
• Signs may not be placed earlier than thirty days prior to the election date.
Signs for the 2008 Presidential election may be placed beginning Sunday, October 5.
• Signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way, on any structures in the right-of-way including power poles and
traffic signs, in road medians, or on any property owned by the City of Auburn or Auburn City Schools.
• Signs are limited in size to thirty-two square feet.
• It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that the volunteers who distribute and install political signs are in
compliance with these regulations.
• Signs must be removed within seven days following the election.
Signs must be removed by Tuesday, November 11.
For more information regarding sign enforcement regulations, please contact Katie Ray in the City of Auburn Planning Department at 501-3038.

MARTIN MARIETTA WITHDRAWS APPLICATION FOR PROPOSED LOACHAPOKA QUARRY
On Monday, Sept. 29, Martin Marietta sent ADEM a written request to withdraw their permit application for a new Loachapoka quarry.  Although this is good news, don’t breathe a complete sigh of relief yet – the permit could be resubmitted at any time.

POSTPONED — PUBLIC MEETING RE: FEMA FLOODPLAIN MAPS & FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY UPDATE
Lee County is in the process of updating its Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Floodplain Maps and
Flood Insurance Study. The City of Auburn’s FEMA Floodplain Maps and Flood Insurance Study will also be updated as part of the countywide map modernization project. State officials will host a Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map
(DFIRM) community coordination meeting for the City of Auburn at a date and time to be determined during the first
half of 2009. The meeting will be open to the public. Additional information regarding the study and the public meeting
will be available in an upcoming issue of Open Line and on the City’s website at www.auburnalabama.org/fema.
For more information, please contact the City of Auburn Public Works Department at 501-3000.

== == == == == == == ==

Thanks for your interest and support.

Email: placeforum@gmail.com
Web: http://placeforum.org/blog/

Oct. 2, 2008

Comments Off