Southern Tatler

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CARY CENTER ART OF PHILANTHROPY

JULE COLLINS SMITH MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS SUMMER AT THE MUSEUM

BEN RUSSELL ENGINEER, ARTIST, VISIONARY Auburn/Opelika, AL May/June 2015

GREAT ESCAPE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK Enjoy some of Marriott’s top golf in Alabama and play where the PGA pros will compete in July during the Barbasol Championship. Plunge into three tropical pools.

Experience the new tennis center complete with pickleball courts or hike along miles of natural trails. Sip on signature cocktails while sitting around outdoor firepits. Stay in style and savor American cuisine at the Lakeview Room. No passport or long drives required for this escape. Just head to the Marriott at Grand National in Opelika and enjoy a world-class retreat closer than you think.

For information or to make reservations, call 800.593.6456 or visit MarriottGrandNational.com.

AUBURN MARRIOTT OPELIKA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER AT GRAND NATIONAL 3700 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika, AL 36801 Phone 334.741.9292, MarriottGrandNational.com A part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

© 2015 Marriott International, Inc.

Luxury Lives in east aLabama Connect with Auburn-Opelika’s #1 Real Estate Company: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

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CONTENT

VISAGE

VISAGE

town

EVENTS AROUND

JASON DUFNER CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC Moore’s Mill Golf Club

22 MIURA UNCORKED Auburn University Hotel

30 WALK ABOUT WINE TASTING Maestro 2300

32

DANCING STARS OF EAST ALABAMA Auburn University Arena

34

SEVENTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER & AUCTION Stor ybook Farm

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CONTENT

FEATURES

LOCAL FOCUS

LOCAL FOCUS

The Bottling Plant Event Center

56 LOCAL FOCUS

Jule Collins Smith Museum

62 CULINARY CORNER Chef Scotty Turner

80 LOCAL FEATURE The Car y Center

98 HOME

Oliver Henr y 112

T R AV E L

SEOUL Korea 126

FEATURE STORY

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BEN RUSSELL

334.663.5346 SARAH@SEIDESIGNSTUDIO.COM W

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SOUTHERN TAT L E R THE ESSENCE OF SOUTHERN SOCIETY

PUBLISHER Matthew Tse

A D V E R T I S M E N T & M ar k eting Michelle Grenier Clay Brannon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cicily Willams Mia Wilson Matthew Tse

P hotographer Nicole Degree John Denney Issac Leverett

W riters

Caroline Lentz Michelle Grenier Clay Brannon Matthew Tse

for questions or comments concerning advertising or general inquiries: 334.539.1780 customer.relations@southerntatler.com Southern Tatler is a bi-monthly magazine by Raw Conceptual, LLC. All material published remain the property of Raw Conceptual, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced, or copied without Raw Conceptual, LLC consent.

LETTER

the

from

PUBLISHER Life can be viewed as a painting, and we are all artists. Each stroke we take, each color we choose can be a viewed as a reflection of our soul, and the experiences we encounter.

In this issue, we learned about the process of life, determination and the hard work one has to go through during our journey. Mr. Ben Russell tells Southern Tatler his life journey and the steps he has taken to be where he is today.

We had the opportunity to learn about the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and all of the many ways it expresses various art forms and demonstrations. Each piece of art is not only about the aesthetics but also how the artist feels and how it evokes feelings from the viewer.

“Philanthropy is one of the most empowering things one can do“- Sidney James Nakhjavan.

Success, money and power aren’t the only things we as human should be caring about or striving for. Having these three components doesn’t necessarily make us happy.

There are many other components that can make us happy. The Cary Center in Auburn, AL the headquarter for Women’s Philanthropy Board, The Phils, Camp i Care, Art of Philanthropy, taught us the feeling you get from helping other is better than any other thing money can buy.

We are all artists and all start with a blank canvas it is up to us how we paint our picture of life. How we want to leave our legacy? If we choose to be happy and strive to make those around us happy?

-Matthew Tse

LIFE

SUMMER CAMP FOUR SEASONS RESORTS MALDIVES KUDA HURRA Surf ’s up in the Indian Ocean atolls- it’s peak season from now until September as waves ranges from chest height to double-overhead. The Resort offers option for beginners and experienced surfers. Rookies master the basics within Kuda Huraa’s calm lagoon before venturing out on supervised excursions, while old-timers have a choice of six quality breaks all within a 20-minute speedboat ride, and gnarly secret spots nearby.

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EL COLIBER ESTANCIA DE CHARME, ARGENTINA

Whether you’re passionate about polo or just looking for a new hobby, the Argentine countryside is one of the best places to practice chukkas. The ranch, set against the bluish-grey mountains of Cordoba, operates its own polo club. Ponies are bed and cared for on-site and the club participates in provincial and national tournaments.

www.estanciaelcolibri.com THE BERKELEY, LONDON Aqua ballerinas don their best cossies, swimming caps and nose clips as the latest fitness fad hits the hotel’s rooftop pool. Learn to scull and do the eggbeater kick as gracefully as 1940 MGM film icon Ester Williams with the help of Aquabatix, the award-winning synchronized swimming team whose members include Olympic hopefuls Jenna Randall and Olivia Federici.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 OLD SCHOOL R & B JAM

F E A TU RIN G CA L VIN RI CHA R D SO N PLUS LOCAL RECORDING GROUP “JUST US” & DJ TRUZ OF MAGIC 101.3. ADVANCED TICKETS $20/ $25 DAY OF. FOOD AVAILABLE ON SITE BY NIFFER’S PLACE.

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CONCERT FEATURING DOUG STONE, LARCUS “SILKY TONE” FULLER, KEVIN FLANNAGAN, & DALLAS DORSEY. ADVANCE TICKETS $20/$25 DAY OF. FOOD AVAILABLE ON SITE BY NIFFER’S PLACE. DOORS OPEN AT 6:00PM.

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COMEDY NIGHT FEATURING “THE FUNNIEST MAN IN AMERICA”, JAMES GREGORY. ADVANCED TICKETS $25/$30 DAY OF. RESERVED TABLES OF 10 $350. RESERVED TABLES OF 4 - $150. DOORS OPEN AT 6:00PM. SHOW STARTS AT 7:00PM.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015.

VALENTINE’S SWING DANCE WITH THE AUBURN KNIGHTS. DOORS OPEN AT 6:45. ADMISSION $10.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2015 -

THE LEE COUNTY LITERACY COALITION PRESENTS THE 3RD ANNUAL READING BETWEEN THE WINES. SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE.TICKETS $50. GO TO WWW.LEECOUNTYLITERACY.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

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March 22, 2015

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Help fight childhood hunger with the Jason Dufner Charitable Foundation while promoting your company. This charity event is a venue for community-minded sponsors who desire to promote your company’s image through involvement in a prestigious event that benefits an important cause.

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March 22, 2015

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March 22, 2015

VISAGE MIURA UNCORKED

MIURA UNCORKED THE HOTEL AT AUBURN UNVERSITY & DIXON CONFERENCE CENTER, AUBURN AL

March 12, 2015

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Winemarker Emmanuel Kemiji master sommelier, and Miura Vineyards held a wine tasting event at Auburn University Hotel. Miura Vineyards creates exceptional wines from the finest Pinot Noir and Syrah vineyards in California.

VISAGE WA L K A B O U T WINE TASTING

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April 23, 2015

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Dancing Stars of East Alabama is a fundraising event under the Community Foundation of East Alabama. The goal of the event was to raise funds for local agencies that provide healing services to children of Lee County who have been hurt by life’s challenges. This year they partnered with Junior League of Lee County to provide support and further our impact on our community!

VISAGE DANCING STARS

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D A N C I N G S TA R S O F E A S T A L A B A M A AUBURN UNIVERSITY ARENA, AUBURN AL

April 23, 2015

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27 M AY/ J UNE

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D A N C I N G S TA R S O F E A S T A L A B A M A AUBURN UNIVERSITY ARENA, AUBURN AL

April 23, 2015

CLOSE SHAVE. CLOSE to the ACTION. Barbasol, America’s #1 men’s shaving cream brand, is bringing the PGA TOUR to Auburn/Opelika July 13 – 19 and we invite you to be part of the excitement. Hundreds of volunteers are needed for this world-class golf tournament featuring PGA TOUR pros.

GET UP CLOSE TO THE ACTION while making golf history in Alabama’s first PGA TOUR tournament. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities and options are available for both golfers and non-golfers. TO LEARN MORE about volunteering at the Barbasol Championship visit barbasolchampionship.com or call 334.749.9042.

The Barbasol Championship will be held on the Lake Course at RTJ Grand National and is part of the FedExCup competition, awarding 300 points to the winner.

Close Shave.

Close to the Action.

Barbasol, America’s #1 men’s shaving cream brand, is bringing the PGA TOUR to the Auburn/Opelika July 13-19 and we invite you to be part of the excitement. Hundreds of volunteers are needed for this world-class golf tournament featuring PGA TOUR pros.

Get up close to the action while making golf history in Alabama’s first PGA TOUR tournament. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities and offers options are available for both golfers and non-golfers.

The Barbasol Championship will be held on the Lake Course at the RTJ Grand National. Learn more about volunteering at the Barbasol Championship. Visit www.barbasolchampionship.com or call 334.749.9042.

The Barbasol Championship is part of the FedExCup competition, awarding 300 points to the winner.

VISAGE SEVENTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER

SEVENTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L

May 2, 2015

40 S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

Seveth annual derby dinner, is the largetst fundraising event for the year for Storybook Farm. This year is the first year Storybook Farm derby dinner is held on the same day as the Kentucky Derby. With mint julep reception, tasty cuisine, and experienced the Kentucky Derby on the big screen. Distinguished guest speaker Bruce Pearl, and Mike Hubbard.

41 M AY/ J UNE

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Let us tell you more.

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801 COLUMBUS PARKWAY OPELIKA, AL 3347498113 WWW.OPELIKAFORDCHRYSLER.COM

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May 2, 2015

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VISAGE SEVENTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER

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SEVENTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER & AUCTION S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L A BA M A

May 2, 2015

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BREATH

SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

LOCAL FOCUS: The Bottling Plant Event Center Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts

CULINARY CORNER: Chef Scotty Turner

LOCAL FOCUS

THE BOTTLING PLANT EVENT CENTER

In 2008, Lisa Ditchkoff toured the home of the former Coca-Cola Bottling Plant Company in Downtown Opelika and fell in love with its charm. With a vision to help build the community and further help non-profits by bringing a unique venue, her team began renovations on the majority of the 33,000 square foot space to include a gorgeous ballroom, pre-function bar, versatile courtyard, and other spaces. Two years later, additional renovations were completed that include an elegant rooftop terrace, a lounge, additional meeting space, and an intimate bridal suite. Along with its welcoming of a number of exciting changes coming this fall, Event Center Downtown is being re-branded as “The Bottling Plant Event Center” to further embrace the heritage of the 1938 building bearing Coca-Cola’s name.

W

hen Opelika was founded in 1851, it was already a booming center of commerce because of its positioning on a rail line stretching from Montgomery, Alabama to Atlanta, Georgia. When the Coca-Cola Bottling Plant opened, it became the distribution site for the entire central Alabama area. The company was vital to the town’s economic climate so much so that countless local businesses cleared their shelves for stocking of the products and displayed the iconic red and white advertisements in their storefront displays. 614 North Railroad Avenue first opened as a site for the bottling and distributing of the famously sweet beverage in 1938. When the property was purchased with Ms. Ditchkoff ’s vision exactly seventy years later after its closing in 2008, she vowed to salvage and preserve its unique history and integrity by keeping and reusing the building’s antique materials and features.

The Coca-Cola logo still appears on a limestone block over the front door of The Bottling Plant. One step inside and visitors are taken back to a time when the sweet syrup we are all familiar with tasted just a little different. An open foyer boasts an extra high ceiling with exposed beams, nearly century old brick walls, polished concrete floors, and dazzling copper.

The entire venue is outfitted with structural elements all original to the site along with beautifully dark, antique hardwoods, and vintage light fixtures. There are even plans to turn its basement boiler room and fallout shelter into a wine cellar, where small dinner parties and wine tastings may later be held. The Bottling Plant has recently expanded its business license to include the selling of fine wines. Eventually, the wine cellar will be fully stocked with quality libations for purchase. Ms. Ditchkoff may be reached at the venue phone number for the pricing of these wines, so that she may place orders and make bottles and cases available for pick up or delivery.

The sophistication of the location paired with its broad functionality makes it the perfect place for hosting benefits, community events, and concerts. In the past, artists like American

Idol winner Taylor Hicks, country music legend Doug Stone, comedians like The Funniest Man in America, Mr. James Gregory, Henry Cho, and Opelika’s own Jody Fuller have performed here.

In April, hundreds of guests attended the 10th Annual Mayors “Jeans & Jackets” Ball, benefitting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County. This event is an example of how Lisa’s vision to further help the community non-profits have additional success with higher overall proceeds stating that the venue rental combined with catering expense overall is less than the typical conference type venue.

The rebranding of the venue will be celebrated in August with a grand re-opening

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featuring a number of exciting performers like James Gregory (back by popular demand) and others yet to be announced. Ms. Ditchkoff told Southern Tatler she will have more news to share closer to the grand re-opening festivities.

Local residents and visitors to the Plains can experience the fun, uncommon atmosphere of The Bottling Plant every Wednesday evening at “Wine Down Wednesday,” where all wines are half price from 5:00 – 8:00PM. Starting on August 7, 2015, every first Friday of the month will be First Friday Wine Tastings. With the expanded business license, patrons now have the opportunity to purchase bottles or cases.

The Bottling Plant can accommodate up to 1500 guests, making it ideal for large gatherings as well as smaller groups of only 6 people. Plenty of space is available for seminars and conferences. Three ballrooms are available for reservation, all of which offer various seating options for housing crowds of various sizes. If you are planning a conference, seminar, exhibition or a trade show, home displays, boats, cars, or other large items can also be showcased here. They are able to accommodate a wedding or reception, a family reunion, an anniversary celebration, a birthday party, or a fundraiser on the premises.

For more formal events, attendees can enjoy dinner parties or brunches. Guests may also enjoy the full service, pre-function bar. Invite friends and family to take a seat as you get mar-

ried under the sun or the stars in The Bottling Plant’s sizeable outdoor courtyard, then dance the night away at your reception just a few steps inside or if your guest list is less significant, have an intimate bridal tea or baby shower.

The Bottling Plant does offer a listing of reputable and approved caterers and merchants, so booking vendors for your event really could not be easier. They also offer in-house sound technicians and a full bar staff. Floor plans, a photo gallery, and a digital brochure are available online at www.BottlingPlantEventCenter.com.

You can also take a 3D virtual tour of the facility on the website, as well as read about upcoming events and ticket prices.

If you are interested in celebrating alongside of your closest friends, you can take a guided tour of The Bottling Plant with Lisa Ditchkoff at 614 North Railroad Avenue. Look for the building with the landmark Coca-Cola limestone sign over the front entrance. Office Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm. for more information on Bottling Plant Event Center, visit www.BottlingPlantEventCenter.com, or call 334.705-5466

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2015

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LOCAL FEATURE

JULE COLLINS SMITH MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

T

hanks to the efforts and contributions of many Auburn community members, the generosity of several area businesses, and the support of Auburn University and the City of Auburn, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art is able to offer a number of exciting learning opportunities this summer for adults and little ones alike. The museum is a family friendly destination and a valuable resource for art education, as well a fabulous place to spend a quiet afternoon on the plains.

Programs organizers at JCSM know that the future of the East Alabama community lies in the hands of a creative youth. In an effort to support the imaginations and aspirations of these area children, they will host a summer youth series, open to elementary, middle, and high school aged boys and girls. “State of Create,” for rising seventh graders through high school seniors, is an art club for teenagers. Participants are introduced to challenging new materials, techniques, and art forms through workshops on creating sculpture, mosaics, sewn and woven items, masks, and art books. Students also learn about artistic methods like drypoint and techniques for enhancing realism. Classes take place every Friday from 1:00-2:30, beginning June 5th. For the third through sixth grade age group, “Arty Pants” gives kids the chance to explore their own creativity, make new friends, and explore tools for creating pieces of art. Children can attend workshop on collage making, drawing, lithography, sewing, and others every Saturday from 10:00-11:30 starting May 30th. For wee little ones, “stART!” supports the growing learner by improving his understanding of color, line, and shape, and familiarizing him with the principles of design like harmony and balance within works of art. Classes begin May 30th and occur weekly on Saturdays from 12:30-2:00.

Parents are encouraged to join in the festivities for Arty Pants and stART. There is a break in the series on July 3rd and 4th for Independency Day. On the night of May 28th, and into the morning of the next day, teenagers will “take over” the museum as they construct a spontaneously conceived exhibition in just twelve hours. Several JCSM galleries will be occupied with this creative group for this overnight lockin. Whatever the team creates will be on display May 29th-June 7th.

Summer fun at the museum is not just for kids. “Jazz! Food! Art!” takes place every Thursday from 5-8 p.m. Guests can listen to live jazz in Carlisle Lobby, performed by Cullars Improvisational Rotation and other talented bands.

Tapas by Ursula’s Catering will be on the menu, as well as beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.

Visitors can enjoy JCSM’s beautiful new exhibition starting May 23rd: “Between the Black and Caspian Seas: Antique Rugs from the Caucasus.” Exquisite rugs and textiles from the collection of Dr. Larry Gerber will be on display in the Bill L. Harbert Gallery. With their brilliant colorations and intricate patterns, these art pieces of Byzantium, Islamic, Central Asian, Turkish, and Ottoman influence have captivated collectors for centuries. Dr. Gerber will be

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providing commentary on his collection on the night of June 4th at 5:00 p.m. John T. Wartime will also be hosting a “show and tell” of sorts on June 25th to help owners of aged rugs, wall hangings, table coverings, and textiles determine the cultural value of these items. With a reservation, inquiring rug collectors can find out what detailed markings and pigmentations on their carpets might mean. There will also be several lectures given on antique textiles and the ageold methods employed for their weaving.

Another exhibition, entitled “The Greatest Poem”, will include art from the collections of Auburn men Robert B. Ekelund Jr. and Mark Thornton. Works selected for the museum are reminiscent of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass, in which he asserts that America is, in itself, “the greatest poem.” These art pieces come from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when America began to celebrate its heritage as a melting pot of cultures. Paintings in the collection depict the overwhelming beauty of the American landscape and celebrate the common man under the conventions of both abstraction and realism.

A lecture on American Modernism by Dr. Janice

Simon, Professor of Art History in the Lamar Dodd School of Art, is slated for July 16th. Films with a visual connection to “The Greatest Poem” will be shown later in the month.

Every two years, JCSM holds its nationally juried “Out of the Box” sculpture and display in an effort to make the grounds an active part of the museum. Artists compose one of a kind outdoor sculptures for entry in JCSM’s competition promising ten finalists $1,000 in prize money.

One honorable mention receives an additional $500, while 2nd and 1st place awards receive $1,500 and $3,000, respectively. All ten finalists’ sculptures are placed around JCSM’s lake for a period of one year. This year’s exhibition, juried by contemporary artist Willie Cole, will be installed on October 2nd, and may be viewed until October 2nd of 2016. Anyone eighteen or older can enter the competition upon paying a $25 entrance fee and submitting photos of his or her sculpture online by July 6th.

Alongside “Out of the Box”, the museum will feature on extended view select pieces from “Advancing American Art” collection and other selections from the permanent collection. While

the museum opened to the public in 2003, the story of its collection is rooted in history. In 1946, U.S. State Department Visual Arts Specialist Leroy Davidson put together a number of works intended to showcase America’s artistic freedom. President Harry Truman and members of congress deemed the collection unpatriotic, un-American, and radical. All 117 oils and watercolors by greats like Milton Avery, Georgia O’Keefe, and Adolph Gottlieb were auctioned as war surplus in 1948. Thirty-six of them (purchased for only $1,072) reside permanently at the Jule Collins Smith Museum.

The museum now has an annual collections building effort known as The 1072 Society, where donors give gifts starting at $1,072 in order to add new works to complement the collection.

Other programs this summer include readings by notable poets and authors, a screening of the movie Muscle Shoals about music rooted along the Tennessee River, and art talks moderated by Auburn students. The summer months are also a great time to take a run or walk around the lake on the JCSM grounds. Yoga enthusiasts also find the museum’s lawn a great setting for introspection.

A full time, expert staff works tirelessly to provide guests of the museum an enriching and memorable experience. Perhaps the sustainers of JCSM are its docents, who support its mission by revealing for curious visitors the complexities of each work of art.

Docents at the museum are highly trained to give insightful tours and to inspire a person to surmise his or her own feelings and emotions that a particular piece of art may evoke. Charlotte Hendrix, museum communications and marketing specialist, told us, “This is your place. It is a fun, not a ‘pinkies

out’ experience.” Dr. Tommy Chase, a chairman of JCSM’s advisory board, consults regularly with directors, curators, and collections and preservation committees, so he knows all about what the museum has to offer. As a docent, he gives tour groups an unforgettable experience by telling and showing people, in a hands- on way, about the art he is so proud of. For example, he demonstrates the intricacies of textile weaving by having visitors physically walk in and around each other in a line. Helga Wilmoth, of Germany, has been a docent since the museum’s opening in 2003. She has been recognized for sharing her first hand accounts of World War II with inquiring ears.

JCSM is not only an environment conducive to learning. It’s a great place to entertain, as well. The facilities may be rented by individuals, businesses, and corporations for social gatherings, presentations, performances, and meetings. Accommodations are available for 20-250 guests. Polished travertine floors in Carlisle

Lobby lay ground for a lovely event foyer. The rotunda with its Dale Chihuly Luster chandelier adds to the venue’s grandeur. 600 pieces of hand blown glass in hues of amber, olive, gold, green, and lavender hang 17 feet from the ceiling. Seminars, weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, graduations, birthdays, recitals, bridal and baby showers may be hosted in JCSM’s grand gallery, or on the terrace. Two gardens, both designed and maintained by King Braswell, owner of Blooming Colors in Auburn, may also be rented, as well as the museum café. Ursula’s Catering serves as the museum’s exclusive caterer for all events.

A new campaign to sustain the future endeavors of the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and the entire university has recently been launched as a part of Auburn’s one billion dollar “Because this is Auburn” campaign. JCSM offers 200 free public programs and sees 30,000 visitors annually. It is a priceless gem within the Auburn, Opelika, and surrounding communi-

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ties, and certainly a prize for the university. Because of the kindness of members and benefactors, the museum is able to meet its goal of providing authentic, interesting, and thought-provoking, original works with significant artistic value to admirers. JCSM also strives to present compelling programs that might inspire a love for art among the young and the old. A diverse collection makes it one of the most impressive stewards of fine art in the United States. Finally, the museum staff is constantly combing for ways in which to “raise the bar “ as it pertains to what they can gift the community and University.

For locals (and for residents of neighboring towns), the Jule Collins Smith Museum is a “staycation”, and escape from the ordinary day. It is your museum, a place where you are free to discover. Instead of wasting a sunny summer afternoon, why not take your children to the art museum to see a period of art history – they may have heard of in art class? Then walk with your kiddos through the gardens and share a picnic lunch. Even better, attend a free workshop with them. JCSM is a pretty great destination for a romantic date, too. Take your lady, or your man, to see artwork by her (or his) favorite sculptor or painter. Then relax on the terrace, hand in hand under the stars, with a glass of wine.

Listen to the music as you enjoy the rhythm of a jazz band. Host a summertime party in the grand gallery with your closest friends, and delight in delicious food and cheery conversation. When you just need “you” time, take a few moments and admire the landscape of the museum by going for a walk or a run on the grounds, or practice yoga as the sun comes up.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Sundays from 1:00-4:00. Extended hours are on Thursday, when the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is free courtesy of JCSM Business Partners. Fresh salads, Italian Panini sandwiches, seasonal soups, and entrees are available at the café from 11:00-2:00 Monday through Friday. Docent tours should be reserved 2 weeks in advance. The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art is located at 901 South College Street, Auburn. for more information on Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, visit: www.jcsm.auburn.edu, call 334.844-1484

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Rebel Belle started by ‘accident’ (I prefer to think of it as Divine intervention) about three years ago, when my Momma and older sister had an issue with their hands. I started doing a little research (I’m a science nerd by nature), and kept coming across the same ingredients as answers to my many questions. After checking with a Paramedic friend of mine for drug interactions, and following up with another friend, that happens to be a Pharmacist, I made the first batch of ‘Butter My Butt and Call Me a Biscuit’ body butter.

Soon after, another close friend asked me if I could make her some goat milk soap, and everything just went a little nuts, from there. It didn’t take me long to learn how much ‘junk’ there is in the products that we use on our bodies. Now, I’m not against chemicals. Most of the products in my shop are NOT all-natural. If it’s safe for YOU to eat, bacteria and other nasties can eat it, too. Not good. So, I DO use preservatives, though minimal, and only when absolutely necessary. Let’s face it, I’m PAINFULLY Southern, so I want it to smell good and be pretty….. and, that usually requires some things that are manmade. I’ve tried to reduce the ingredients down to the bare essentials. I’ve approached every product from the standpoint of, ‘what DON’T I like about the commercial version of this product?’, and start eliminating ingredients, from there. It’s all been done based on a list of what I DIDN’T want from the product, just as much as it’s been based on what I DID want.

I worked out of my kitchen for the first year, or so. Then I had someone push me towards retail and offer to invest to help me get started. Well, the lease got signed, the flooring got put in, and wouldn’t you know, my investor fell through. I was stuck. I had this commercial space with nothing in it. No product, no displays. NOTHING. So, from day one, this little

72 S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

passion of mine has had to fuel itself. It’s been a struggle at times, and I haven’t been without help, but it’s had to be self-sustaining, for the most part. But, for the grace of God, go I. It started with body butter and soap, and has grown from there. I make a TON of different products, now. Since I’m a one-person operation (with lots of love, support, and extra hands from friends) not everything I make is on the shelves at all times, but it’s never further than a customer request away. I have my hands pretty full. I do everything from making all of the products, designing my packaging and labeling, marketing, right down to maintaining and decorating the shop. I even do several off-site events every year. We do quite a few fundraisers and charity events, as well. I try to stay as community-involved as I can. You have to reinvest in the folks that invest in you, everyday.

I have certain products in the shop, year round. Others, change seasonally. For Spring I did a line of AMAZING florals, and for Summer, I’ve got all tropicals, planned. I’ve also recently started a line of soaps and bath products that are all made with wine, or a wine theme. I actually have a whole section of bath products made with spirits. I call it ‘The Grapes of Bath’. (insert drum rimshot) I even have bath bombs with a wine cork inside of them. I’m actually trying to work with a couple of local wineries, in hopes of using some of their wines in my soaps. I like to keep things local, whenever possible.

I also have a pretty extensive line of men’s grooming products. Shave soaps, beard balms and oils, mustache wax, pre-shave oils, and aftershave. I make Mechanic’s soap, and a killer Hunter’s soap. See what I did there? *snort* Rebel Belle Soaps, Sundries & Curiosities 7410 Fortson Rd Suite F Columbus, GA 31909 706-527-2800 Open Tue-Fri from 12-7 and Sat from 12-5

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Having money problems or wanting to increase abundance in all areas of your life? Use any of these items or colors in the far left corner of your room or home to boost your prosperity: Any color in the blue, red or purple color spectrum Expensive or valuable possessions, such as art, crystals, coins and sculpture Water features, such as waterfalls, fountains and fish tanks Fresh flowers or plants that bloom in blue, red or purple flowers Healthy plants, especially ones with round, coin-shaped leaves, such as jade plants Photos and artwork representing desired possessions, such as cars, homes or jewelry Affirmations or quotes pertaining to wealth and abundance Wind chimes, mobiles, flags and whirligigs Arrangements in groupings of four To energize or transform your current love life, as well as attract new relationships, incorporate these elements and hues in the far right corner of your room or house: Warm flesh tones: pinks, reds, taupe, apricot, burgundy, chocolate and peach Pairs of objects or coupled items Mementos and photos from special romantic occasions: anniversaries, honeymoons and romantic vacations Photos of your romantic interest, spouse or partner Artwork, sculptures and photos depicting romantic imagery Arrangements in groupings of two

If you’re suffering from health problems or looking to establish more balance and grounding throughout your life, use these items and colors in the middle area of your room or home to improve your physical well-being: Colors in the yellow spectrum and all earth tones, browns and golds Ceramics, pottery, clay, brick, sand, stucco, tile and earthenware Items that are square, cubes or rectangular Long flat surfaces Artwork depicting landscapes, flat fields or meadows Artwork depicting bodies in your desired state of health and vitality Arrangements in groupings of five When struggling with self-understanding and personal growth, include these knowledge-enhancing colors and items in the near left side of your room or home: Colors in the blue, black and green spectrum Study materials, such as books or your home library Artwork or photographs of wise people sitting in contemplation or meditation Images of mountains or other still, quiet places Quotes, affirmations or other personal, inspirational items that remind you of your own self-wisdom Your favorite reading or meditation chair

78 S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

Arrangements in groupings of eight

CULINARY CORNER

CHEF SCOTTY TURNER

Chef

Scotty Turner

E

ast Alabamians know that southern cooking is the best around.

Fried green tomatoes, pimiento cheese, and hand rolled biscuits are the indulgences we grew up on. Executive Chef Scotty Turner, of Maestro 2300 restaurant in Moores Mill, had a childhood beset with the same southern pleasures. That’s why today he finds inspiration in the charms of traditional Alabama fair.

Chef Turner was raised in Opelika, surrounded

Operation Management. Turner had a passion for

by a family who encouraged him to embrace the

creating unique and delicious food, so he made the

cooked was really out of necessity. My dad told me

Florida Culinary Institute in West Palm Beach,

art of cooking from an early age. “The first time I

I needed to learn to make food for myself because

there wouldn’t always be someone there to do it for

decision to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts at the Florida. He graduated in 2003.

Right after graduating he traveled to Guatemala

me,” Turner laughed. He got his first job as a worker

to learn Spanish and work at Hotel Atitlan, where

Bread Basket in Phenix City. It was there that he

American dishes. Turner returned to the states

customer. After graduating from Opelika High

University introduce its Arricia Italian Trattoria and

in his uncle’s convenience store deli called John’s

got an early taste of what it’s like to please a hungry

he assisted in the preparation of a variety of Central

several months later and helped The Hotel at Auburn

School in 1994, he went on to attend Auburn Univer- Bar alongside Executive Chef John Hamme. As part

sity, graduating in 2001 with a degree in Business

of the team bringing a fine new restaurant to the

Turner explained. “I’ve had many. Your Executive Chef is always who you look up to. He’s the person you have

complete loyalty to. He can offer you a lot of valuable guidance.”

Like his leaders, Turner recognizes that he too

has a great legacy to leave. He hopes to be a shining

example to other men and women pursuing excellence in their own restaurants, and aspires to preserve a

positive impression on the Auburn community by

crafting an exceptional experience at Maestro 2300.

For every chef, there is that one annoyance

that really gets under his skin. “People don’t always

understand a ‘sense of urgency’ in the kitchen,” Turner

chuckled. He said these days his kitchen staff is pretty on top of things, but sometimes it takes a bit of time

to coordinate what happens behind the scenes so that

everyone is in his or her proper place. “It’s essential you know exactly what you are going to do as soon

as you hit the kitchen. That includes knowing where

tools and ingredients are, where your station is, and scene in Auburn, Turner was able to gather the neces-

sary experience to take on the position of Sous Chef at

Yellowhammer Restaurant in Waverly, Alabama one

year later. He left the dining industry briefly in 2009, but returned with renewed enthusiasm in 2012. The

respected Chef Leo Maurelli brought Turner on at a

new eatery called Railyard Brewing Company as a line

chef, priming him for his second experience alongside Maurelli, when he would work as a Sous Chef at the very successful Central Restaurant in Montgomery.

In 2014 Turner came to the Plains to cook at

Maestro 2300. In October, he became Executive Chef.

When we asked him what it is like be head chef in a

busy kitchen, he replied emphatically that it is one of

the most rewarding endeavors of his lifetime. He also told us that he appreciates the knowledge and profi-

ciency he gained from working under several talented men before fostering the position. “Who is your

mentor?” we asked. “It’s hard to pick just one,” Chef

what your specific jobs are. Some people can just

restaurant, you will try Chef ’s signature dish, his

managing expectations is of the utmost importance

chop, accompanied by stewed field peas, spring

get completely confused.” Chef Turner knows that when organizing a dinner for 100 hungry guests.

“Everyone takes the time to prepare before we start

serving for the evening. Once service starts, every-

one has his space and his station. We use a French

hickory smoked Heritage Farms Cheshire pork

greens, tomato jam, and ham hock broth. The

beauty of these dishes, paired with their creative

tastes and aromas, leave guests with a desire to

come back and relish other plates designed by Chef

phrase for this: mise en place, meaning all of our

Turner.

initiate the cooking process”

chopping block either. Every dish must contain

appearance of a dish matters just as much as its

concocting the ideal flavor set for every palate

important things to remember is that we eat with

hard sometimes to abide by the familiar rule ‘the

ingredients are planned and put in order before we For a seasoned chef like Scotty Turner, the

complex flavor. He told us that among the most

Of course outstanding taste is never put on the

bitter, salty, hot, sweet, and savory flavors, and

is no small feat. Turner smirked, “It’s kind of

our eyes before we taste anything. Plating is an art

customer is always right.’ Sometimes what a

that every platter is perfectly balanced and alive

when a meal is finally delivered to his table.” He

form in itself. Turner and his kitchen make certain with color, and that components like height and

customer thinks he wants is not what he enjoys

spends an immeasurable amount of time studying

light are given the appropriate attention. Every

the essences of his culinary conceptions so that

ulously planned. Take for example Maestro 2300’s

wants to change up the way a dish is presented,

salad, soup, appetizer, entree, and dessert is metic-

harmony can be achieved in taste. When someone

blue crab and shrimp linguine, uniting the spring-

the resulting flavors may dissatisfy the customer.

and red bell pepper. Or perhaps if you visit the

alongside what would normally accompany a

time colors of heirloom tomato, arugala, asparagus,

For example, when a diner requests a pork chop

83 M AY/ J UNE

2015

Turner also likes to pay tribute to his grand-

steak, the combination of ingredients may be less

mother with eats reminiscent of her downhome

than best. Turner told us it can be challenging to

accommodate the wants of every guest, but that it

southern cooking, such as collard greens and fried

first bite with a smile. “People will eat you up and

prepare (right now, at least)? “I love the fish of

green tomatoes. But what is his favorite dish to

is completely worth it when a customer follows his

spit you out if you’re not careful in the restaurant

the day. It’s a fresh catch with a creamy sauce of

happy.”

a fish on top. It’s really good.” What’s the most

artichokes and leeks, sort of like clam chowder with

world. My primary goal is to make my customers

important item in his kitchen? “Salt,” he said simply.

Chef Turner’s favorite ingredients to use are

“And my knife of course.” Chef Turner told us he

those locally sourced. He enjoys making use of

cannot narrow down his tastes to a single favorite,

Alabama hydroponically grown fruits and vegeta-

but if he had to name a type of cuisine he really

bles like squashes, cucumbers, and fresh greens,

loves (besides the country cooking he was brought

especially with the springtime upon him. His

up on), it would be food with an Asian flair. “It’s

current menu features items like rhubarb and aspar-

a blend of so many flavors- more of a heightened

agus to salute this time of year. He rotates Maestro

palate.

2300’s offerings with the change of every season.

Chef Turner recognizes that there is something

An Auburn hydroponic plant grower, Extreme

new to be learned daily in his kitchen. He plans to

Green Hydroponics, is even growing Turner a

“Maestro 23000 Microgreen Mix.” These herbs add a

continue sharpening his technique, but he likes the

dishes with the flavors of red bull’s blood, mizuna,

izing in a quality product, because less is truly more.

idea of staying small at Maestro 2300 and special-

unique element to the foods he prepares, enlivening

He attributes a successful restaurant to first-rate

daikon, cabbage, kale, carrot, and tatsoi. Live

planters are kept in the kitchen, and herbs are fresh

cut for customers at the start of each evening.

This spring, Chef Turner serves up several

customer service and an openness to improvement.

“I’d like to experiment with gastronomy, you know, presenting food in gels and spears and the things

like that,” he told us. It is this creativity that makes

delicious ice creams and sorbets with names

him a standout among southern chefs. Still, Turner

like strawberry balsamic, coconut lime, mango

habanero, charred pineapple-basil, and chocolate

knows that staying true to his roots, and using

produced in house, and are the perfect ending to

his food apart.

homegrown ingredients and influence is what sets

sour cherry. All of these flavors are created and

Finally, we asked the culinary master about the

a delectable meal. Turner’s favorite, though, is his

personal rewards of being an Executive Chef: “it’s

“backyard honeysuckle sorbet.” Given to him by one

the instant gratification. When we send a plate

of his mentors and one of the best chef chefs he has worked under, Chef Collin Donnelly formerly of

out to a customer, they sometimes send word back

the unique taste and aroma of Alabama springtime

they’ve ever had. We have men and women who

with their waiter or waitress that it’s the best meal

Yellowhammer Restaurant, this sorbet incorporates honeysuckle. The flowers for the sorbet were even

come back on the same day of every week to order

cream in the future.

this position if it was not for good food and great

exactly the same dish every time. I wouldn’t be in

picked by neighborhood children promised free ice

people.”

84 S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

““ When we send a plate out to a customer, they sometimes send word back with their waiter or waitress that it’s the best meal they’ve ever had...

good food & great people.

If you’d like to taste Chef Scotty Turner’s

cuisine for yourself, you can visit Maestro 2300

at 2300 Moores Mill Road in Auburn. The chef

recommends you order a starter like their delicious

poached shrimp bruschetta, with grilled peaches,

with an entrée like Maestro 2300’s signature Maple

Leaf Farms duck breast complimented by warm

orzo salad or grilled filet mignon with red bliss potatoes.

After dinner, order a drinkable dessert or

pickled red onion, serrano ham, arugula, corn,

homemade strawberry shortcake. You may also be

tribute to your southern roots by trying the house-

most extensive in Auburn, boasting more than 400

heirloom tomato, and lemon vinaigrette. Or pay

made jalapeno pimiento cheese with Applewood

smoked bacon and crackers. You can’t go wrong

interested in Maestro’s impressive wine list, the bottles.

for more information on Chef Scotty Turner or Maestro 2300, visit: www.maestro2300.com, call: 334.821-4408

85

M AY/ J UNE

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““

I wouldn’t be in this position if it was not for

F

SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

EATURES Ben Russell

............ 88

The Cary Center

............ 98

FEATURE

BEN RUSSELL

Ben Russell

I

n 1876, amidst our great country’s reconstruction, a family legacy began. It all began with its patriarch, Benjamin Russell. To those that venerated this man, Benjamin Russell “Mr. Ben” is how he was known and how he is remembered. For the sake of clarity, we will revere him as Mr. Ben, his grandson and subject of our story, “Little Ben” Russell. According to Little Ben, the history of this noted family most importantly serves the life of his only grandchild and grandson, 15 year old Benjamin.

88 S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

89 M AY/ J UNE

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M

r. Ben Russell worked in the post office where he started a stamp collection. It was partially due to the proceeds of the sale of this stamp collection that allowed Mr. Ben to fund his education at The University of Virginia and graduated with a degree in law. He also wrote for the University’s newspaper in which he was compensated by sharing in the paper’s profits. Not long after graduation, Mr. Ben left his law practice in Birmingham and returned to Alexander City to pursue many other endeavors that brought new life to the community, including a phone service, timber company, and in 1900, founded what is now USAmeriBank. In 1902, he purchased a knitting mill that had sustained damage in a tornado. The mill’s success would later prove to have the greatest long term impact on Alexander City (Russell Mills) becoming Russell Corporation, a NYSE listed company and parent to JERZEES and Russell Athletic, now a part of Berkshire Hathaway.

Mr. Ben bought much of the “Red Clay Hills” surrounding Lake Martin. Some purchases made for as little as .75 cents, not $’s cents (or less) per acre. This turned out to be quite the investment. Many thought the land was worthless and it wasn’t until Mr. Ben planted all the pine trees which became a natural filtration system that keeps the loved Lake Martin clear to this day. He purchased all (the land) he could that was not otherwise acquired by the power company. “Visionaries” and “bright” come to mind easily while getting to know about what each of them (the power company and the Russell family) have contributed to this magnificent recreational property enjoyed by generation after generation. Before the power company built the great dam on the Tallapoosa, Mr. Ben had begun construction of a dam to produce power for his mills and the City of Alexander City. A particular (power company) lawyer

came by one day to question Mr. Ben’s dam and was informed by Mr. Ben, “seems to me you are on my land, looking at my dam, talking about your vision.” Needless to say the controversy was squashed, the smaller dam was aborted and Lake Martin was formed. The lawyer was the Tom Martin (for whom the lake was eventually named) – and the two became friends…

Mr. Ben had come to be a man of political interest as well. He sat on the board of trustees at Tuskegee Institute and there are letters that exist today between him and George Washington Carver. He started the first State Chamber of Commerce, not an easy endeavor back in a day where technology and communication were limited. Once again perseverance proved successful after visiting every county to convince them to join him to make yet another “Ben” vision come to fruition. Mr. Ben noticed the men of the community weren’t active after the crops

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Ben and Luanne Russell

Lake Martin

Fireworks on the Lake

SpringHouse Restaurant

Catherine’s Market

Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children

Marina

Wood Gasification Vehicle

came in, so another vision that came to light was the creation of a cast iron foundry. Not only did this employ those same men, it also attracted the accompanying women for sewing. That probably pleased the gentlemen in the area. Little Ben states that he credits his father and grandfather for all that and the interest he has in land and nature and that he has always admired them.

They all three share the love of nature and have since developed many venues for others to enjoy as well. Wind Creek Park was also built by Little Ben’s father - with a tractor and a backhoe (and, of course, a good old shovel!).

As a child, Little Ben recalls his first job was at Russell Mills where he worked in the garage, and later doing data processing which he says was not his forte. He did manual labor at the Elkahatchee Dam digging ditches. He was taught good work ethics at a young age. This “shiny, bright, clean-cut kid” as his father-in-law, William L. (Billy) Radney of Radney Funeral Home referred to him, would certainly be proud of his accomplishments and how they have served to be a source of employment and higher standards of living for his community. In terms of describing Little Ben by others, the general consensus was “half-artist, half-engineer and all visionary”, much like the generation before him.

They tried to put all three words together to surmise all three words, going so far as to create a new word and found it difficult to do.

As a reference to his engineering side, consider his time spent with wood gasification. In 1976, Little Ben became interested in this “old technology”. For those of you unaware, Wikipedia will have you know “a wood gas generator is a gasification unit which converts timber or charcoal into wood gas, a syngas consisting of atmospheric nitrogen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen, traces of methane, and other gases, which – after cooling and filtering – can then be used to power an internal combustion engine or for other purposes.” In true “Ben” form, he decided to learn something new every day, much like the generations of “Bens” before him. Once Little

“

half-artist, half-engineer and all visionary

”

Ben got interested, he was hooked on improving the technology and eventually traveled coast-tocoast from Jacksonville, Florida to the California Pacific Coast, at times reaching speeds of 60plus miles per hour. This feat occurred in 1979 - with no gas in the vehicle, but rather relying on the wood gasification process. Thirty years later (just three years ago), he made a similar trip, this time from Key West to Campobello, Canada. His reference of the fact that his father was a combat engineer in WWII, now makes perfect sense.

Many may be familiar with the Discovery Center in Russell Crossroads (on Lake Martin).

While admiring the interior aesthetics of this visitor’s center, you can view a large chandelier, a chandelier made by Little Ben himself. It was made in his blacksmith shop, Little Ben having created it from start to finish. It is evident all “Bens” have many proud accomplishments and gifts. Little Ben references Children’s Harbor as one of his proudest. This was a vision of his and his adored wife Luanne.

In fact, it is through the actions, vision and generosity of this couple (now wed for more than 54 years), that the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children was constructed just a few years ago in Birmingham. The vision of the “Bens” and the realities of their efforts continue today. And, Alabama benefits.

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A " doption is the Best Option" Our mission is to advance humane treatment and responsible ownership of companion animals through community education, animal sheltering and adoption, and alleviation of animal suffering.

Our vision is to be the leading advocate for companion animals in our community. We envision a future in which animals are valued, pet overpopulation is eliminated, and every adoptable companion animal has a loving and responsible home.

LCHS is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all membership fees and donations are tax deductible.

1140 Ware Road Auburn, AL 36832

路 P: 334-821-3222 路

www.leecountyhumane.org

LOCAL FEATURE

THE CARY CENTER

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The

Cary Center If you have driven by 360 North College Street you have probably noticed one of the oldest homes in Auburn- a charming white traditional Greek revival style antebellum home with four squared columns and a welcoming stairway to two unusually wide front doors. The house was originally built by a wealthy landowner in the 1840’s as a wedding gift for his son and daughter-in-law. When they opted to not live in this location, the home now known Halliday Cary Pick house, was sold to Dickinson Halliday, a Georgia planter who settled his family in East Alabama. After Halliday’s death, Dr. Charles Allen Cary, founder and legendary dean of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, purchased the home for his family of a wife and three children. When Cary could find no place to house the first veterinary medicine students, he converted his third floor attic into a dormitory for those students. After his death in 1935, members of Cary’s family remained in the home. In the 1950’s his daughter, Alice Cary Pick Gibson and her husband, Lt. General Lewis Andrew Pick, Sr., renovated the home and moved into it. Alice Cary Pick Gibson continued to live in the home until her death in 2006.

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he Halliday Cary Pick house exudes southern charm and, with one step inside, visitors soon learn the important milestones that have occurred in this historic property. Guests are also awed with the home’s beautiful contents and captivated with its prized jewel 360 degree free-standing spiral staircase in the home’s core. Today, the excitement in and around the home is not only a reflection of its important heritage, but also of what is currently taking place at the Halliday Cary Pick house. When Dr. Cary kept residence on North College Street, he could not have predicted that over one hundred years later, one of the nation’s most prestigious academic centers would be headquartered in his home. Today, the Halliday Cary Pick house is the national headquarters of the Cary Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies where professionals in Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences work tirelessly to uphold the center’s mission. Through its work, the Cary Center provides real and virtual communities that promote philanthropy, wealth management, nonprofit studies, and mentoring through outreach, teaching, and research.

The Cary Center also facilitates networking and academic engagement within the College of Human Sciences, across the AU campus, with other institutions of higher education, and through public and private partnerships.

Sidney James Nakhjavan, Drummond Thorne Stukes Executive Director of the Cary Center and Women’s Philanthropy board said, “We relate to Dr. Cary and his experiences as the veterinary medicine program was expanding. Likewise, we have grown significantly throughout the last few years. ” In 2002, Dr. June Henton, Dean of the College of Human Sciences at Auburn University, and other leaders recognized that there would be a growing number of female wealth holders as a result of a generational transfer of wealth. With this “power of the purse,” leaders also realized that women would influence philanthropy in significant ways.

To address this societal trend, Dr. Henton

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understood the educational opportunities for the College of Human Sciences and began working with her team to create outreach and teaching offerings. She and a core group of women attended a conference in Dallas, Texas for educators interested in setting up programs focused on gender related distinctions pertaining to money management and philanthropy. After the conference, these women came back to Auburn with intentions to establish the Women’s Philanthropy Board. They incorporated in the plan strategies to further the College’s mission with outreach programming that would teach participants leadership skills, wealth management, philanthropy, and mentoring. In the

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fall of that year, the board hosted its first program and featured Bo Jackson, a graduate of the College of Human Sciences, as the speaker.

Initially housed in the development office of the College of Human Sciences, the Women’s Philanthropy Board’s primary focus was on outreach education and fundraising. Its vision was all-embracing of the potential that lies within every woman: Change lives through education, leadership, and giving, Collaborate with other women to meet collective goals, Connect with women of all ages to develop professional networks and personal friendships, and Create opportunities to foster independence as financial donors and decision makers. Initial funding provided by the Office of Auburn University Outreach and individual and corporate donors undergirded and continue to fund the Women’s Philanthropy Board.

In 2004, when staffing became solidified, the Women’s Philanthropy Board experienced additional growth. As its programmatic agenda swelled, a growing number of donors came forward to support these endeavors while the need to provide personal financial and philanthropy education was fulfilled in the College of Human Sciences. In addition, leaders in the Women’s Philanthropy Board began to seek ways to expand the WPB mission to involve more beneficiaries.

In 2006, the Women’s Philanthropy Board was repositioned into the College of Human Sciences’ Dean’s Office and affiliated with the College’s Department of Consumer and Design Sciences as an academic partner. This strategic structural move provided a venue in which to expand the board’s outreach and teaching pursuits.

S O U T H E R N TAT L E R

Nakhjavan and her colleagues knew they could offer more for university students possessing a passion and drive for becoming excellent financial and philanthropic stewards. So in the summer of 2008, the College of Human Sciences offered a class entitled Gender, Wealth, and Philanthropy, a course mirroring the mission of the Women’s Philanthropy Board. The course was developed and taught by Nakhjavan . Those first twelve students were the first to receive the abundance of insight offered in the course. Nakhjavan remembers that first group of students fondly: “We knew right after that semester, that we had developed something that was meaningful to millennials. What we learned in that first class was that this generation of students is eager to learn. This generation wants to be engaged and is on fire to develop their full leadership potential. This generation wants to be knowledgeable about

wealth stewardship and the philanthropic process.” Course evaluations spoke volumes about Gender, Wealth, and Philanthropy as a valuable course offering for undergraduates to learn about real life application of financial responsibility as it pertains to giving “for a quality of life.” The course was offered again in the fall semester of 2009, and once more the class received rave reviews, confirming for leaders in the College of Human Sciences that it should be a permanent course offering.

Because of the evaluations of the students who had taken this class, additional course offerings were created and paired together.

In 2011, the university curriculum committee approved a minor in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies which is offered through the College of Human Sciences Department of Consumer and Design Sciences and available to all Auburn University undergraduates.

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Meanwhile, the outreach initiatives in the Women’s Philanthropy Board continued to inspire and provide valuable education for its participants. As a Benefactor donor to the Women’s Philanthropy Board, Michelle Hodges felt lead to mentor the next generation of philanthropists, particularly those her young daughter’s age. When meeting with the WPB leadership team one day, she posed the question, “What would it be like to teach a child about leadership, wealth management, philanthropy, and mentoring?” From Hodges’ comment came the inspiration for Sidney James Nakhjavan, then Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Board and Sharon Wilbanks, Director of the Auburn University Early Learning Center, to form a partnership and adapt the mission of WPB to form Camp iCare, a four half-day summer camp for youth ages 6-12. In Camp iCare, campers are empowered to practice smart money skills,

become philanthropic leaders, while mentoring others.

The first Camp iCare was held in the summer of 2009 and continues to be a partnership between the Auburn University Early Learning Center and the Cary Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies. In its first year, Camp iCare hosted two dozen children, and they were taught lessons like the three S’s of money: “save it, spend it, share it,” and the four T’s of philanthropy: “the giving of time, talent, treasure, and trust.” The 2015 summer session will mark the camp’s sixth anniversary, and to date, well over two hundred and fifty children from throughout the nation have attended Camp iCare since its inception. In addition, this summer, Camp iCare will expand to other nonprofits and neighboring school systems.

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Just one year after the inaugural Camp iCare session, Wanda Lewis, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lee County, reached out to Nakhjavan and informed her of a grant the clubs had been awarded for its teen program. Little did she realize that she was igniting yet another fire that would soon develop into the board’s next partnership: REAL Cents REAL Change, a joint venture between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County and the Women’s Philanthropy Board. In 2010, REAL Cents REAL Change was initiated as a teen learning series whose mission spawned from WPB, Gender, Wealth, and Philanthropy, and Camp iCare. Organizers of REAL Cents REAL Change believed teenagers could benefit from lessons related to financial responsibilities like balancing a checkbook, developing a resume, arranging finances for college, and avoiding debt. In addition, through REAL

Cents REAL Change, participants were taught how to maximize their giving potential by studying examples of inspiring philanthropists. REAL Cents REAL Change was met with the same positive response as Camp iCare, and today, through generous funding from the Davison Bruce Foundation, approximately twenty Boys & Girls Clubs teenagers meet bi-monthly for the learning series and participate in summer service projects. Since the original partnership between The Boys & Girls Clubs and the Women’s Philanthropy Board, the REAL Cents REAL Change program has expanded to a residential summer camp and attracts teens from throughout the southeast for a five day and five night session on Auburn’s campus. This summer, like Camp iCare, REAL Cents REAL Change will expand into other local nonprofits and nearby school systems.

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With continued momentum in the Women’s Philanthropy Board, the establishment of an undergraduate minor in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies, the launch of Camp iCare and REAL Cents REAL Change, administrative leaders began to strategize about how to create the appropriate academic infrastructure to serve as the repository of these programs while working synergistically with academic units to further inject the principles of financial and philanthropic sustainability into academic disciplines. The conclusion was that an academic Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies would bring widespread recognition and provide the appropriate infrastructure to propel this work further into the national arena.

The dream became a reality, and in April 2011 during the 9th Annual Women’s Philanthropy Board Spring Symposium, Dean June Henton shared that Auburn University President Jay Gogue had approved the establishment of the academic center hereby known as the Cary Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies, and that this center would have as its national headquarters the historic Halliday Cary Pick house located at 360 North College Street. The Cary Center’s headquarters was made possible through the altruistic generosity of Frances Pick Dillard and her family. Dillard is a founding member of the Women’s Philanthropy Board and the daughter-in-law of the late Alice Cary Pick Gibson (daughter of Dr. Charles Allen Cary). In July of 2011, the professional team of the Cary Center, known as Team 360, moved into the Halliday Cary Pick house and began to integrate the property into Auburn University while

expanding the programmatic activity of the center.

Today, the appropriate organizational infrastructure as an academic center is fully institutionalized and the Cary Center’s programs are globally recognized. In addition, the Halliday Cary Pick house is the ideal “anchor” location that bridges “town and gown.” Because of the unique blending of its programs and location. The Cary Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies is a national model for academic excellence in outreach and teaching.

On the programmatic front at the Cary Center, initiatives continue to broaden through Women’s Philanthropy Board, Camp iCare, and REAL Cents REAL Change.

In addition, programs such as Volunteers in Philanthropy, Community Knowledge 360, the Art of Philanthropy, and a Cary Center Affiliates are emerging. Remarkably, the Cary Center continues to meet the university’s mandate for its programmatic arm to remain “soft monied,” meaning there is no lined in budget for the staff salaries or the center’s programs. Endowments such as the one dedicated to undergird the Volunteers in Philanthropy program as well as philanthropic and grant funds are constantly being sought to fund the programs in the center. In addition, there is an endowment that is dedicated to supporting the Cary Center’s Volunteers in Philanthropy program. Just recently, the College of Human Sciences hired one of its alumnae, Kim McCurdy, as a development officer to lead the center’s fundraising efforts.

Because of the growth of WPB, the advent of the Cary Center, and the generosity of its donors, WPB has been able to expand

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its staff and its impact. Kim Walker came on board with the organization in August of 2012 and serves as WPB’s Director of Educational Programs, Mentoring, and Scholarships. Walker is charged with managing and developing programs and initiatives that build upon WPB’s educational, mentoring, and philanthropic mission.

In the last two years, Walker has helped established programs that are allowing WPB to expand its reach including new mentoring initiatives and opportunities for individuals and businesses to affiliate with the organization.

In 2013, WPB and the College of Human Sciences Office of Academic Affairs, began a partnership to co-sponsor “College to Career,” a series of educational sessions designed to support the transition from student to young professional. Sessions have covered topics such as dining etiquette, what to expect from

your first job offer, and financial planning for young professionals. In 2014, WPB launched its newest mentoring initiative, the Student Philanthropy Board (SPB). SPB, a pre-professional organization for students in the Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies minor, provides opportunities for students to practice what they have learned in their coursework through participating in community service projects.

The Phils, a men’s auxiliary of WPB, was formed in the summer of 2014 as a way for men to affiliate with the organization and show dedication to the women in their lives. The auxiliary was formally introduced through the production of a 2015 calendar featuring the first 15 members of The Phils.

To date, there are 32 Phils and this donor base is growing rapidly.

The WPB Business Partners giving category was established in 2014 as a way for

Practicing philanthropy is one of the most empowering things that one can do. small businesses to support the organization.

This recognition level is in addition to the long standing individual donor categories (Visionary, Benefactor, Associate and Legacy) and WPB Corporate Partners, all of whom support the WPB initiatives.

Because of the generosity of its donors, WPB awards sizable scholarships and grants each year. Since its founding in 2002, WPB has provided more than $500,000 in support of students, faculty, and programs in the College of Human Sciences. In addition, there are now nine endowed scholarships and one endowed professorship that share the WPB name.

Educational outreach programing remains at the core of WPB’s mission and activities. Each year, WPB hosts large scale programs featuring nationally recognized experts in financial and philanthropic topics. This spring, WPB hosted its 13th Annual Spring Symposium and Luncheon featuring Trudy Cathy White, nonprofit leader, businesswoman, philanthropist, and daughter of Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A. Past speakers have included notables like Knight Kiplinger, Andy Andrews, Jenna Bush Hagar, and Jean Chatzky.

Today, WPB, as the flagship division of the Cary Center, continues to serve as a national leader in women’s financial and philanthropic empowerment. WPB’s original mission persists in serving as a guidepost for all Cary Center educational programs in addition to new initiatives in WPB. Through the programs at the Cary Center countless of participants and beneficiaries have become educated, empowered, and enabled to pursue sound financial and philanthropic legacies. When we asked Nakhjavan why a philanthropic legacy is important to establish, she emphatically answered that it is one of fulfillment: “Practicing philanthropy is one of the most empowering things that one can do. Developing a philanthropic footprint is a reflection of one’s values and vision for change. Inspired philanthropy involves analyzing, recognizing and feeling proud of being a positive influence and role model.

The goal of the Cary Center and of those who work to advance our mission is to encourage people to maximize their potential as philanthropists so that society as a whole benefits.

We are all dependent on each other’s successes.” for more information on The Cary Center, visit www.carycenter.auburn.edu or call 334.844.8524

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Rock Killough a friends

$10

ADVANCE TICKETS

Blooming Colors, Mama Mocha's Coffee, Spicers Music and online at sundillamusic.com. $12 at door.

at Blooming Colors on May 29th at 7:30pm

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MC: Willard Blevins Sound Men: Wild Man Steve and Dave Potts

Beautiful LIVING

SOUTHERN

TATLER

Oliver Henry

HOME

OLIVER HENRY

Oliver Henry Stacey Jordan, owner of Oliver Henry and Interior Environment Designs, LLC, knows that a beautifully adorned home is a happy home. Since establishing her business in 2001, Stacey has designed the interiors for some of the finest homes and offices in Auburn, Opelika, and surrounding areas. With a unique design perspective and a passion to create for homeowners a space they will love and enjoy, she has made for herself a very respected name.

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Imagine you have just spent the day cruising in your boat on East Alabama’s beautiful Lake Martin.

It is late afternoon, and the light will stay for just a few more hours. With sun kissed shoulders, you walk up the pier and down a winding path to your covered back porch, where you drip dry on a stone laden floor. You turn on some summer music and nap on a wicker sofa, still not acclimated to the stillness of land. With dreams of a long, lazy summer, you sleep for what seems like days, but the sound of company at the front door wakes you. You rise from your slumber, remembering the dinner party you will host that evening.

A step inside to greet your guests and you are received by the coolness of the sunroom’s tile floor.

Muted but cheerful shades of blue, green and brown fool you to think have yet to leave the sunshine’s graces. The brightness of the sky still lingers and is shone through the many large windows, ushering you into the living area and foyer where your visitors wait. You show them to the family room where they rest on a linen covered couch and two leather chairs.

A cozy rug in shades of blue and gray is spread on the dark hardwood floor, and fresh cut hydrangeas fill the room with freshness. An Oliver Henry candle burns.

You leave your friends to unwind with a glass or a bottle as you walk upstairs to your bedroom.

Vaulted ceilings hang over a handmade four-post bed, and your favorite book sits on a bedside stand.

The urge to fall into the billowing linen duvet and soft white sheets and stare out your picture window as the sun goes down is great, but instead you must shower off the day before heading back downstairs to prepare dinner. Your spacious master bath with white marble tile and tub is an evening oasis, and prepping yourself for the night’s festivities is fun in the reflection of a beveled mirror. You pull your favorite red dress from the adjoining closet and put it on before journeying to the kitchen to prepare a lovely meal.

Every time you step into your custom designed, expansive lake view kitchen it is like the first. Sweeping views of the water take your breath away, and dish washing isn’t so bad if you can look out the windows. An easily navigable floor plan makes cooking your famous Eggplant Parmesan stress-free.

You plate several delicious hors d’oeuvres and display them on the granite-topped, black lacquer island for friends to graze on. The main dish is served on gorgeous summer china in the ambiance of the dining area. For dessert, cheesecake and wine is served by lamplight in the den.

Once the ladies and gentlemen of the party exit the drive, you retire finally to your bedroom and draw the curtains. You open a grand armoire to reveal a once-hidden television, and settle in with your favorite movie. You drift off dreaming of the morning, when you will sip coffee by the kitchen window, planning another day on gorgeous Lake Martin.

Do you want to live like this? A visit to see Stacey and her team at Oliver Henry makes it possible. Building on her interior design business, Stacey has crafted a shop showcasing the best of her talents.

With vendors like Duralee, Stanley Furniture, Legacy Home, and Taylor King, Stacey’s store makes designing customers’ residences an exciting experience.

Oliver Henry offers the finest in furniture, fixtures, wall coverings, fabric, rugs, accessories, art, and gifts. Let them coordinate your entire home, or just one room. Oliver Henry can create for you (and your family) a warm and inviting, comfortable and personal atmosphere, and can make your spaces perfect for entertaining.

Oliver Henry is located in Ogletree Village, 2272 Moores Mill Road, suite 210 in Auburn. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information on Oliver Henry visit www.oliver-henry.com or call 334.246.3582

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SOUTHERN TATLER SOUTHERNTATLER.COM

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A new start at Southern Tatler means newer and better online content and to prove our point, we provide all of our past issues, and behind the scenes of each of our past cover feature.

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LIFE

HIGH BROWSE

Ultra Thin

Vacheron Constantin often reminds us that it is the oldest watch manufacture in continuous operation since its inception - this year is its 2620th anniversary- which gives the Geneva brand a certain gravitas. It kicked off its anniversary year with the introduction of new collection, the Harmony. The inspiration actually comes from a monopusher chronograph from 1928, which featured a cushion case. Today’s Harmony collection builds on that aesthetic by focusing on monopusher chronographs, with different variations on the complication. Perhapas the most impressive and likely to be sought after, is the Harmony Ultra- Thin Grande Complication Chronograph. It’s a self-winding movement that features a split-second monopusher chronograph- perhaps one of the most underappreciated complications, for it takes a significant technical mastery and ability to craft the split second movement. With only 10 pieces made, it will remain a rare one indeed.

There were smart additions to Audemars Piguet’s Millenary range that were part of what the maison called its two-pronged approach to women’s watch, underlining refined design and micro mechanics.

Three years in the marking, the new Millenary line for women is slim, elegant and follows the curves of the wrist ergonomically. The delicate form belies the complexity of the movement, which is an open worked construction with the balance wheel left exposed and its artfully decorated. Three new Millenary models for women were presented, all equipped with the new in-house manual- winding Calibre 5201, with hours, minutes and small seconds- including this model in white gold, with the dial bezel, case and lugs fully set with diamonds and a blue sapphire cabochon set in its crown.

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LIFE

HIGH BROWSE

Zafirro Irdium Zafirro Irdium, the modern razor for men. The two blades made out of sapphire, with a handle made of 99.9 per cent pure iridium- the most corrosion-resistant platinum metal, found only in meteorites.

The Two blades are made from white sapphire grown at former Soviet Union lab in Ukraine, just 80 atoms think on their cutting edge – 5,000 times thinner the width of a hair and far sharper than any common blades. Each Zafirro Irdium is custom made, from the strongest, purest, and most durable materials in the world.

There are only 99 Zafirro Irdium made in the world.

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LIFE

HIGH BROWSE

NEPRESSO

Nepresso the new and modern coffee maker, brewed from coffee capsules. Nespresso brand is a story rooted in the company’s heritage of highest quality coffees, innovative stylish machines and personalized services.

Nespresso began with a simple idea, continuously reinvented to revolutionize the way millions around the world enjoy their coffee. It is the quest for excellence that reveals the essence of the Nespressobrand.

Nespresso is not just a coffee. It is a sensorial experience. It is a lifestyle that is simple yet refined, offering timeless elegance.

Nespresso is also a global community of coffee lovers sharing their desire for the perfect cup of coffee. Nepresso has made a lasting mark in the minds of coffee enthusiasts worldwide. Every interaction is focused on allowing them to immerse themselves in the brand experience.

Nepresso a brand with original ideas, flavours and innovations, meeting the high expectations of coffee connoisseurs worldwide.

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TRAVEL

SEOUL KOREA

A Few Days in

Seoul ou’ve just boarded a plane at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

International Airport headed for Incheon International near Seoul, South Korea. With an appreciation for fabulous food, an interest in beautiful historical sites, and a love for all things natural, you begin your fifteen hour journey with pen and paper in hand. By hour two of your flight you’ve hardly completed planning a single day of your itinerary, but you resolve to make the most of your trip, so you power through and map out the adventure of a lifetime.

B

y the time you reach Incheon International, you’ve spent almost an entire day in the sky, so a nap sounds pretty appealing. You catch the airport train into the city, and take a taxi to your hotel in downtown Seoul. After a few hours of sleep, you awaken refreshed and decide to spend a quiet evening taking in an hour or two of mesmerizing traditional Korean dance at Korea House, a well-known performing arts center. You follow the show with authentic court cuisine of the Joseon Dynasty, prepared on the premises by master chefs.

On your first full day in Korea, you have literally countless option as to what parts of the city you choose to see, but keeping in mind you will need to look your best for a late night out, you visit the famous shopping mega district of Myeong-dong in search of the perfect attire. On the main streets of this popular center for commerce walk thousands of locals and visitors to South Korea.

More than one million people pass through

this area each day, so you hear a plethora of languages spoken from the mouths of passerby. A long day of perusing hundreds of retail outlets really depletes any energy you may have had leaving your hotel, so you stop by a street vendor’s cart to purchase some “seoul”food. Tteokbokk, perhaps Seoul’s most frequently devoured street fare, is the first bite you enjoy. With its fiery red pepper paste, this rice cake is a gastronomic delec-

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tation. Next you savor a rice roll stuffed with cucumber and crab, called Kimbap.

For dessert, Bbokki is the perfect treat.

Cooked right in front of you in a hot ladle, it is a crispy candy made of caramel and baking soda. There is a little heart in the center of the candy that you try not to break, so you can win another piece of candy (this feat proves to be too difficult).

When night falls, Seoul comes alive with billions of dazzling lights, as its nearly eleven million residents go about their nighttime activities. For a better view of the skyline, you embark on a dinner cruise along the Hangang River, gliding under 27 colorfully illuminated bridges spanning the kilometer wide waterway. You coast by the famed World Cup Fountain next to World Cup Stadium and Seonyudo Park. Finally you reach the remarkable Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, the world’s largest bridge fountain with over 10,000 LED colorful LED lights and the ability to shoot out 190 tons of water every minute.

A new day brings a new chance to explore. A morning tour of the peaceful sanctuary that is Changdeokgung Palace enlightens you to the structural and decorative elements commonly observed in 15th century Joseon Dynasty architecture.

Situated at the foot of the grand Bugaksan Mountain, the palace is the picture of feng shui. An incredible, “secret” garden, originally constructed as a private oasis for the royal family and ladies living on the grounds, makes up the landscape behind the building. You see twenty-eight beautiful pavilions, a lotus pond, and a botanical wonderland comprised of several thousand flora species.

Next on the agenda is a stroll inside Insadong, a maze of streets in Seoul effervescent with Southern Korean culture.

Centuries old folk music floats in and out of traditional tea houses, or chatjips, that fills the air with the sweet and distinc-

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tive aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and daechu fruits. You visit many antique and handicraft shops in an alley of Insadong before ushering out the daytime light with a visit to a resplendent art gallery, full of paintings, sculpture, and pottery created by recognized and respected Korean artists.

An evening feast at Top Cloud Restaurant in the downtown area more than satisfies your palate with Asian and French fusion cuisine. Situated on the 33rd floor of the 24 floor Jungo Building (Samsung Securities), the grill and café is a ring balanced on three massive pillars reaching up from the 24th floor. Floor-to-ceiling windows the entire perimeter of the restaurant offer a panoramic view of expansive Seoul and its glittering nighttime lightscape as you settle in with a glass of house wine. It is an unforgettable photo opportunity, so of course you take advantage before catching the subway back to your hotel.

By your third morning in Seoul you have grown accustomed to the ins and outs of navigating the city, and you are ready to experience the hustle and bustle like a true local.

You take a subway to the neighborhood of

Noryangjin-dong near Seoul’s towering, golden beacon, The 63 Building (or 63 City), Korea’s tallest and most well-known skyscraper. Once in Noryangjin-dong, you enter its famed 24 hour fish market. 700 vendors are squeezed tightly into a 64,000 square foot warehouse of sorts. Men and women stand behind huge tanks full of still-swimming fish and a number of unusual sea creatures.

Lobster, octopus, clams, prawns, mussels, blue crabs, halibut, mackerel, anchovies, and even stingrays are available for purchase on tables covered in coolers and ice. One vendor calls you over to his stall and tries to sell you a slimy, wiggling sea slug, but you give him a few thousand won for a fresh filet of salmon instead. At a 6:00 a.m. auction, wholesalers skirmish over the freshest fish and bargain with stubborn fishmongers, transforming the market into a bazaar of deafening pandemonium.

After a satiating breakfast of fresh salmon sashimi (from the filet of salmon you purchased, of course), you depart the market in hopes of discovering some of Seoul’s natural wonders outside the concrete jungle of the city. You take a lengthy walk to Bukhansan

National Park, with plans to hike the mountain’s highest peak called Baegundae. At more than 837 feet, you know reaching the top will be a challenge, so you recruit one of the park’s private guides to make the trek with you. Along the way, you fall in love with Bukhansan’s vast granite peaks, crystal clear mountain streams, foliage, and diverse wildlife. Your guide takes you to a Buddhist temple, and leads you to Bukhansanseong, a six mile long walled fortress once marking the Joseon Dynasty’s northern boundary. Used to protect Seoul from northern invasions, it also offered the kings protection.

You close the exhausting day with a taxi ride to the Hongdae neighborhood, where you buy a pass to the Happy Day Spa, a Korean natural spa where your fatigued muscles can relax. Seoulians call it a jjimjilbang. You submerge yourself in jasmine infused hot bath, and snooze on the heated floor. Finally, you crown the visit with a professional hot stone massage. When you get back to your room at the hotel, five minutes do not pass before you are sound asleep.

On the penultimate day of the trip, a sightseeing tour enhancing your Korean po-

litical literacy is a must. After a quick bite at a roadside stand, you board a tour bus headed for the 38th parallel north, the demarcation line, or the Korean Demilitarized Zone.

Abiding by the Korean Armistice Agreement, which ended the Korean War in 1953, the DMZ serves as a buffer zone preventing North and South Korean military encounters.

The buffer spans two kilometers north and two kilometers south of the demarcation line.

A small, deserted village, called Panmunjon, about 50 to 60 miles north of Seoul, marks the spot where the famous truce was signed.

When you enter Panmunjon, you are asked to sign a liability waiver in the event of enemy fire or combat. A little alarmed, but mostly fascinated, you approach the DMZ and take note of hundreds of armor-clad soldiers, tank stoppers, and barbed wire. Upon providing government issued identification and a passport, you are allowed entry into a painted blue, ground level building in which sits a conference table that plays host to meetings between representatives for the two countries.

A trot through part of the Third Tunnel of Aggression lets you see firsthand one of the

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passageways designed by North Korea as a route for surprising the Republic of Korea with attack in the 1970s. You also visit the Yeolsoe Observatory in Yeoncheon-gun, where sweeping views of North Korea are offered through binoculars.

Ironically, one of the most dangerous places you have ever visited turns out also to be among the most beautiful. 3,000 plant and animal species thrive in the wildlife preserve the DMZ has become. The strip of land, nearly 100 kilometers in area, has reverted back to nature since sitting untouched by human hands for more than sixty years. Numerous battlefields, where the blood of four million men was spilled, teem with lush vegetation.

Rare red-crowned cranes, Asiatic black bears, spotted seals, musk deer, amur gorals, blackfaced spoonbills, swan geese, and perhaps even nearly extinct Siberian tigers inhabit the valleys, gorges, and grasslands making up the mountainous Demilitarized Zone.

Having experienced one of the most unique environments on planet Earth, you board your bus and head back to downtown

Seoul for a nighttime walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream. A stroll along the four mile “river”proves to be the perfect way to reflect on your getaway, and you can’t help wishing you had just a few more days to explore.

When the city comes alive, you enjoy a laser show over the water. Dinner comes from a Korean barbecue house. Tomorrow you will head back home, so it’s time to pack your suitcase.

Waking up is hard to do when you know leaving time is near, and your flight will be a long one, so you hit the snooze button a few too many times. With the remaining hours you have left to delight in Seoul, you journey to the crowded Namdaemun Market for some last minute souvenirs. Family and friends in sweet home Alabama will be receiving surprises like jewelry, candies, and authentic Seoulian art pieces. When your taxi delivers you to Incheon International Airport, you tour the Cultural Museum of Korea on the airport grounds before your plane leaves. You take in just a few more minutes of Korean art and culture, like royal relics and musical

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When night falls,

Seoul comes alive with

billions of dazzling lights...

items.

Fifteen hours later, you are waking up to the approaching lights of the Atlanta skyline.

Your plane lands, and you click your heels together, with the most earnest wish you were back in Seoul. Unpacking a bag of souvenirs, you paint for your friends a picture of a gorgeous place at the base of a mountain, where the Han River flows through a botanical paradise. You tell them about foods they have never tasted, foods with flavors you cannot possibly give justice to. You tell them about an incredible seafood market and the salmon you had for breakfast there. They laugh when

you tell them the most dangerous place on Earth is the loveliest demonstration of nature you have ever seen.

A few weeks later, longing for another Eastern escape, you book another flight for Incheon International. This time, you’ve started planning your itinerary long before you’ve even thought of boarding the plane.

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C O N C I E R G E

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