Opelika Character Council

The Opelika Character Council proudly honors the student mentors of the Opelika Community Theatre Penguin Project as the Citizens of Excellent Character for Loyalty. Recognized at the June 16th City Council Meeting by Mayor Eddie Smith and Councilman George Allen, these dedicated students include Walter Green, Reagan Stokes, Taylor Simpkins, Kyleriah Briskey, McKensley Ford, Lauryn Benton, Silvia Marchetti, Magnolia Underwood, and Kaylee King.

Balancing their own busy schedules, these young mentors have sacrificed their personal time to support, encourage, and empower artists with special needs. Through their unwavering patience and compassion during rehearsals and performances, they have fostered an environment of true belonging and success.

The impact these students have made is visible in every smile they helped create, every fear they helped overcome, and every child whose confidence grew because someone believed in them. Thank you to these inspiring young mentors for proving that true leadership is about lifting others up, and that some of the greatest acts of loyalty come from young hearts willing to make a difference.

Character Trait of the month 🧩💚

This June, Opelika focuses on loyalty as our character word of the month. Loyalty is the foundation of trust. It shapes how we serve our community, support one another, and stay committed to what matters most. When we choose loyalty, we strengthen the connections that make Opelika a great place to live and work.

As we wrap up our month on Patience, remember that great achievements require time and dedication. Building strong character is a step-by-step process, but the results are always worth the wait. ✨

What was your biggest lesson on patience this May? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! 👇

Today, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 🇺🇸

True character is often defined by what we are willing to give for the sake of others. On this Memorial Day, we recognize the profound courage, selflessness, and dedication of our fallen heroes. Their legacy is the ultimate example of service, loyalty, and honor.

As you gather with family and friends today, the Opelika Character Council invites our community to take a moment of quiet reflection to express deep gratitude for those who laid down their lives for the freedoms we hold dear.

It is our honor to announce Seth Carter as the Citizen of Excellent Character for the trait of Patience for the month of May. Mayor Eddie Smith and Ward 5 Councilman Todd Rauch recognized Seth for the deep impact he has made on the lives of many people in our community.

Seth lives with cerebral palsy, and even as the effects of his condition have become more difficult over the years, he has continued to show an extraordinary level of patience. He meets each day with courage, humility, and an uplifting spirit that encourages everyone around him. During difficult moments, Seth remains kind, appreciative, and upbeat, facing life with remarkable grace and strength. His faithful, resilient, and steadfast spirit reminds us that while we may not always control the challenges placed before us, we can control how we respond to them.

We also want to recognize his incredible family—his mother Jennifer and his sister Alice Anne—who surround Seth with constant love, care, and support. Seth is a true inspiration to our community, especially to other families and individuals facing disabilities or hardships. He consistently responds to life with patience, perseverance, grace, and faith.

Congratulations, Seth Carter, and thank you for being a beautiful example of character in action!

Patience is more than just waiting; it is about keeping a positive attitude and a steady heart while we work toward our goals. Whether you are navigating a challenging situation or striving for a new personal milestone, practicing patience gives you the clarity and strength to see it through to the end.

What big goal are you patiently working toward this month? Tell us in the comments! 👇

The wait might feel tough, but remember, the reward is always worth the perseverance!

What motivates you to keep waiting for something great?

Happy International Family Day, Opelika! 🏡❤️

Our families are our very first classrooms. It is around the dinner table, in the backyard, and during the quiet moments at home that we learn the most important lessons about respect, responsibility, and kindness. Strong character starts at home, and strong families build a stronger community.

Today, the Opelika Character Council celebrates families of all shapes and sizes! Take a moment to thank the people who support you, guide you, and help you grow into the best version of yourself.

What is one character trait that your family values the most? Share it with us in the comments! 👇

Great character isn't built overnight. It takes deep roots, steady perseverance, and a lot of patience to become the best versions of ourselves.

If you feel like your personal goals are taking longer than expected, don't get discouraged! The Opelika Character Council reminds you that lasting, meaningful growth is always worth the wait. Keep nurturing your roots, Opelika.

Drop a 🌳 in the comments if you are trusting the process today!

We are often quick to extend grace to our neighbors, but we forget to be kind to ourselves. Building strong character is a lifelong journey, not a sprint!

This week, the Opelika Character Council encourages you to pause, take a deep breath, and give yourself the time and space you need to grow.

How are you practicing self-patience today? Let us know in the comments! 👇