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AUBIE
A TIGER’S TALE
AUBURN / OPELIKA, AL JULY/AUGUST 2016
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
© 2016 Marriott International, Inc.
New Homes AvAilAble Now iN AUbURN’s oNlY GATeD CommUNiTY FoR ACTive ADUlTs 55+ ClUbHoUse AND pool Now opeN!
The legacy luxury lifestyle From Every Day to Game Day. Cary Creek Brings It All to Life! Are you dreaming of making your home on the Plains? Then The Legacy at Cary Creek is a dream come true. Main level living floor plans, open, accessible layouts and stair-less entry. Plus the clubhouse, the pool, the community gardens, the walking trails, the pickle ball courts…It’s all expertly created with your active lifestyle in mind. Because it’s not about leaving a legacy, it’s about living your legacy. NEW HOMES AVAILABLE NOW!
For tours and info call (334) 826-1010
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Come Home to Alfa® Home is a symbol of comfort and security. When you protect your home with Alfa Insurance®, you get the comfort of dealing with our hometown team and security knowing your property is protected by a strong, stable company. Plus, with Alfa®, you’ll get top-rated claims service from local adjusters. Call Alfa® for a homeowners quote today. Scott Reaves
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Call Alfa®. The best agents in the business. AO16
Brad Litkenhous, D.M.D. Cosmetic Dentistry, BOTOX/Juvederm
Myles Wiggins, D.M.D. Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Auburn Dental Spa welcomes Dr. Myles Wiggins to our growing practice
New patients who schedule a cleaning receive a FREE 30 minute Custom Facial or Massage from our spa, ĂŠLevĂŠ.
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AU B U R N D E N TA L S PA .CO M
1575 Professional Parkway Auburn, AL 36830 334.821.2846 a ubur n de nt al sp a. com
CONTENT
VISAGE
VISAGE
town
EVENTS AROUND
EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER Stor ybook Farm, Opelika AL
22 WINE DINNER
Maestro 2300, Auburn AL
30 VARIATIONS: CHARLOTTE’S WEB Opelika Performing Arts Center, Opelika AL
34 THE PHILS PHOTOSHOOT The Car y Center, Auburn AL
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THE FLAGSHIP DIVISION OF THE CARY CENTER FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF PHILANTHROPY AND NONPROFIT STUDIES PROUDLY FEATURES ITS MEN’S AUXILIARY
The Phils are men who believe in the importance of PHILanthropy and support the work of the Women’s Philanthropy Board: striving to educate and enable individuals to become financially sustainable and philanthropically engaged. The Phils are husbands, fathers, brothers, sons, and friends. They are philanthropic leaders and mentors, dedicated to investing in the next generation and giving for a quality of life. The Phils are joining forces for the greater good and invite all men to share in this commitment.
THIS IS SHAPING THE FUTURE. THIS IS PHILANTHROPY. THIS IS AUBURN. For more information about The Phils or the Women’s Philanthropy Board, please contact (334)844-9156 or wpbchs1@auburn.edu.
W W W.C A RYC E N T E R . AU B U R N . E D U/ W P B
CONTENT
FEATURES
LOCAL FOCUS
FACES
Brett Smith
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LOCAL FOCUS Toomer’s Coffee
54
LOCAL FOCUS Allen Orthodontics
64
FEATURE STORY
AUBIE
82
CULINARY CORNER Jin Korean Restaurant
72
FASHION Studio 3:19
100
T R AV E L
ICELAND
REYKJAVIK
112
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SOUTHERN TAT L E R THE ESSENCE OF SOUTHERN SOCIETY
PUBLISHER Matthew Tse
O peratio n S
Savannah Simpson
A D V E R T I S e M E N T & M ar k eti n g Amy Jessica
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Anisa Patel Anthony Zigal Kenneth Ngo
P hotographer Glenn McCarley Isaac Leverett Tracy Young
W riters
Amy Hudson Caroline Lentz Jelani Moore Sierra Lehnhoff 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.
The Fighter
Will O. (Trip) Walton, III 2011- 2014 Super Lawyers 334.321.3000 www.waltonlaw.net waltonlaw@waltonlaw.net
“Walton Law Firm Top Five”
$17,500,000.00 Insurance Fraud Verdict $8,000,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $7,500,000.00 Spine Injury Settlement $6,750,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $4,000,000.00 Wrongful Death Settlement
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Traumatic Brain Injury • Wrongful Death • Serious Personal Injury “The recoveries, verdicts, favorable outcomes, and testimonials described in this ad are not an indication of future results. Every case is different, and regardless of what friends, family, or other individuals may say about what a case is worth, each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The evaluation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, thejurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties, and the testimony, among other factors. Furthermore, no representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater thanthe quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
LETTER
the
from
PUBLISHER First and foremost, I would like to wish you all the happiest of summers. My hope is that you all are enjoying time in the sunshine with family and friends. I am also hopeful that you are taking advantage of all that East Alabama has to offer in the warmer months, whether that be beautiful Lake Martin, dinner on the patio at your favorite restaurant, or a visit to one of Auburn or Opelika’s charming downtown shops. I, for one, have been busy taking in the sights and sounds of what I believe to be Alabama’s best little college town on the Plains. Over the last several weeks I have been lucky enough to meet several local small business owners. One such individual was Mrs. Toni Holt, owner of Toomer’s Coffee Shops in Auburn. Mrs. Holt embodies the Auburn Spirit with her attention to the importance of quality relationships. All a visitor to her shop needs is a warm cup of her house blend and a friendly face across the table to feel at home. We were also given the opportunity to sit down with To Yon Hawk, owner of Jin Korean Restaurant. In just three years, her small business serving up authentic and delicious cuisine has become one of the most talked about eating establishments in Auburn. Dr. Hank Allen of Allen Orthodontics and his wife, Dowe, also sat down with us to tell their story. For more than six years now they have been building the confidence of East Alabama children and adults by bringing life to their smiles. Brett Smith, owner and partner at Huff Smith Law spoke at length about what he believes makes his town special, including its focus on the family. Brett was excited to talk about the benefits of settling down in Auburn with his wife, Haley, and daughter, Dagny. Last but certainly not least, we were given the rare chance to learn about the history of the country’s most handsome and talented mascot, Aubie. Trust me, it’s no wonder he is a star. As always, in compiling this special issue I was blown away by the men and women who are the very makeup of our wonderful community. My hope is that Southern Tatler’s readers will take the time to know and appreciate all they they have contributed. I truly believe that the sense of friendship in East Alabama is what maintains its place as one of the South’s, if not the nation’s, most charming regions. Reach out to these men and women. Learn from them, and let them tell you their stories. Perhaps you would even like to bring something new to the scene. Thank you again for your support of Southern Tatler, The Essence of Southern Society. I hope you enjoy acquainting yourself with the individuals featured in this issue as much as I did.
-Matthew Tse
Huff Smith Law Protecting Your Future
We are Here to Protect Your Future. The mission of Huff Smith Law, built by the two partners Haley L. Huff and Brett A. Smith, is to protect the future of our community. Haley L. Huff
We aspire to provide exemplary legal services and counseling for a variety of legal matters:
• Criminal Brett A. Smith
• Non-Profit • Real Estate • Small Business
Brandon Poticny
Even if you don’t currently have a need for our services, we’d love to meet you and get to know you. Give us a call, or stop by our office just to say “Hi.” Our office is located in downtown Auburn, at the corner of College Street and Samford Avenue, in the historic Cullars-Conner Home.
Contact
(334) 329-5596 www.huffsmithlaw.com info@huffsmithlaw.com
• Family Law
Address
• Charitable Organization
369 S. College St. Auburn, AL 36830
“No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
LIFE
Royal Getaway
NORTH ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
www.north-island.com Jetting off to the tropical archipelago might make for a clichéd honeymoon, but one step on the white powder-soft beaches and you’ll see why it’s a top choice for newlyweds including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who spent theirs in North Island. Right on your doorstep are world-class diving and mountain biking options, or you could always just lounge on the beach and indulge in the spas. www.north-island.com MUSTIQUE, THE GRENADINES
www.mustique-island.com The tiny island was given the royal stamp of approval in 1960, when Princess Margaret was generously gifted a 4ha plot of land as wedding present by Colin Tennant. It’s also a hit with the Middleton family, and with Kate married to the future king, it’s back in royal favors. Sumptuous villas include Sienna, and Italian-inspired manse looking over Macaroni Bay.
HUKA LODGE, NEW ZEALAND
www.hukalodge.co.nz Set in Taupo on the banks of the Waikato River, the secluded 1920s hotel was founded as simple fishing lodge. But with its breathtaking natural environs, word soon got around. The resort attracted Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as their son and daughter-in-law, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, and a number of other royal guests from European Courts. For the utmost privacy, book into the Owner’s Cottage, which sits on a headland above the river with beautiful views of Huka Falls downstream.
SLS HOTEL AT BEVERLY HILLS, LOS ANGELES
www.slsbeverlyhills.com When Prince Harry was in the US for military training, he made a side trip to the Philippe Starck-designed party pad and caught up with David Beckham. Mere mortals who can’t entertain such visitors can settle for the rooftop pool, or taste Jose Andres touch-tickling tapas at The Bazaar.
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22 EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DAY DINNER
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VISAGE
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VARIATIONS: CHARLOTTE‘S WEB
T H E P H I L S P H O T O S H O O T
VISAGE EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER
EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L
May 7th, 2016
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The eighth annual derby dinner is the largest fundraising event of the year for Storybook Farm. This is the second year that the derby dinner was held on the same day as the Kentucky Derby. Partnering with Mint Julep Boutique to provide guest with a unique experience of watching the race on the beautiful grounds of the farm with catering from local businesses.
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VISAGE EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER
EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L
May 7th, 2016
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2016
VISAGE EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER
EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L
May 7th, 2016
26 S OUTHERN
TAT L E R
General, Family, and Cosmetic Dentistry
serving Auburn, Opelika, and surrounding areas
Cosmetic, General, Laser, and Implant Dentistry
Dr. Kyle Donaghey
Dr. Michael O’Brien
Bone Grafting
Laser Dentistry
Removable Dentures
Botox/ Facial Esthetics
Oral Cancer Screenings
Root Canal Treatment
Crowns & Bridgework
Orthodontic Treatment
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Fillings
Gum Disease Therapy
TMJ/TMD Treatment
Dental Implants
Porcelain Veneers
Tooth Extractions
Gum Recontouring
Professional Teeth Cleanings
Emergency Dental Treatment
WWW.OBRIENDENTAL.COM 836 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL 36830, (334) 821-8800
VISAGE EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER
EIGHTH ANNUAL DERBY DINNER S T O RY B O O K FA R M , O P E L I K A A L
May 7th, 2016
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TAT L E R
VISAGE WINE DINNER
WINE DINNER MAESTRO 2300, AUBURN AL
May 18th, 2016
Steve & Leslie Swartz
Russell & Melissa Harris Chef Scotty Turner
Allen & Missy Harris
Dr. Warren Jahn Stewart and Courtney Roberts
Dr. Jason and Kristin Bond
30 S OUTHERN
TAT L E R
Comprehensive financial planning done LOCALLY
Serving the Southeast for over 40 years. 1800 Airport Road
|
Opelika, AL 36801
|
(334) 749-5001
w w w. s m i t h - k a s t n e r. c o m
Roth IRAs Traditional IRAs Education Savings Plans Investment Accounts Employer Sponsored Plans Retirement Income Planning Medicaid Protection Special Needs Trusts Advanced Healthcare Directives Family Partnerships & LLCs Charitable Gifting Plans Insurance
Securities offered through ValMark Securities, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory service offered through ValMark Advisers, Inc. an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. 130 Springside Drive, Suite 300, Akron, OH • 44333-243 • PH: (800) 765-5201. Smith-Kastner Wealth Management, LLC. is a separate entity from Valmark Securities, Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc.
VISAGE WINE DINNER
WINE DINNER MAESTRO 2300, AUBURN AL
May 18th, 2016
John & Michelle Reed and Bobbie Hyde
Ken & Laura Miller
Clayton Cawthorne
Ladene Mangum and Luellen Bishop
Stanley Sistrunk
John & Michelle Reed and Bobbie Hyde
Howard Smith & Stephanie Garrett
32 S OUTHERN
TAT L E R
VISAGE VA R I AT I O N S : CHARLOTTE’S WEB
VA R I AT I O N S : C H A R L OTT E ’ S W E B OPELIKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, OPELIKA AL
May 13th -14th, 2016
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2016
VISAGE VA R I AT I O N S : CHARLOTTE’S WEB
VA R I AT I O N S : C H A R L OTT E ’ S W E B OPELIKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, OPELIKA AL
May 13th -14th, 2016
Barbara & Wendy Stewart
Candace Sims, Sophie
Courtney & Abgail Cherry Jennifer & Emma Virginia Hood
Joseph & Amanda Trask
Amanda Demyan
Kevin with Evan Benford
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VA R I AT I O N S : C H A R L OTT E ’ S W E B
VISAGE VA R I AT I O N S :
OPELIKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, OPELIKA AL
CHARLOTTE’S WEB
May 13th -14th, 2016
Amy Hendrix with Ann Langston Candis Birchfield, Anne Margaret Birchfield, Candy Hacker
Kate & Eve Gholston
Milton & Dalton Watts
Anna & Katherine Israel
Richard & Sue Hagmann with Allianyna
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Patsy & EmilyGwyn McWhorter
Lee, John and Henry Britton
Hollis Lasik A Vision so Clear, yet Divine
1100 South College Street, Suite 108. Auburn, AL. 36830
334.826.8778
THE PHILS PHOTOSHOOT
VISAGE THE PHILS PHOTOSHOOT
THE CARY CENTER, AUBURN AL
May 24th, 2016
Michael Hasty, Ann Rundquist, Bill Capps Robin Reynolds, Celeste Dorman
Robert Smith, Jay Jacobs
Montravius Adams & Kim McCurdy Juli Stover & Hillary MacIssac
Alyse Scott & Will Faulkner
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TAT L E R
Rick Werner, Charlene Kam & Barry Dorman
Caleb, Evelyn, & Laura Swann
Emily Conn & Kim McCurdy
Steve & Jan Ellis, Bill & Charlotte Gastont Morgan Rhodes & Todd Trawick
Melissa & Morgan Rhodes & Robin Reynolds
Jay & Angie Jacobs
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VISAGE THE PHILS PHOTOSHOOT
THE PHILS PHOTOSHOOT THE CARY CENTER, AUBURN AL
May 24th, 2016
Sidney, Behzad, & Arian Nakhjavan & Reed Hanson Mike Reynolds, Mike Stover, Hillary MacIssac & Elliott MacIssac
Melissa Rhodes, Will & Lauren Faulkner
Charlene & Fred Kam
Jay Jacobs & Montravius Adams Michael Hasty, Robert Smith, Juli & Mike Stover
Bill & Charlotte Gaston, Jan & Steve Ellis
Sam Allbrook, Kim Walker, Meri & Ken Pylant
42 S OUTHERN
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SOUTHERN
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BREATH FACES: Brett Smith
LOCAL FOCUS: Toomer’s Coffee Allen Orthodontics
CULINARY CORNER: Jin Korean Restaurant
FACES BRETT SMITH
Br Brett
FAMILY FOCUSED
Sm Smith
In recent years, Southern Tatler Magazine has introduced to its readers several of Auburn’s finest men and women. These individuals
carry the Auburn spirit with them everywhere they go, proving to be some of Alabama’s most hospitable hosts- true representatives of the Auburn Family. These individuals are invested in the betterment of their community, whether that be through time or financial support. Some are mothers and fathers raising up the next generation of Auburn men and women, while some are successful businessmen and businesswomen striving to keep the heart of a small town beating strong. In early June, Southern Tatler had the privilege of speaking with one local Auburnite, a proud husband and father, Brett Smith, owner and partner at Huff Smith Law, LLC.
B
rett was born in Birmingham and lived in the Pleasant Grove area until he was nine years old, at which time he moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Upon graduating high school, he pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism with minors in Political Science and English, at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Brett was active during his college years. He pursued intermural sports, was elected President of his fraternity, wrote for the school newspaper, and served in the Student Government Association. Brett also had the honor of interning with U.S. Senator Richard Shelby at his Washington D.C. office. After graduating, Brett attended Tennessee State University out of Nashville and finished with a Master of Public Administration in 2009. This was his segway into a position as a Political Subdivision Liaison for the State of Tennessee Treasury Department. During his time as a Field Service Representative, Brett traveled regularly across his state to meet with elected officials and their constituencies to help guide them in their decision making in regards to retirement and savings. In his time with the Treasury Department, Brett was introduced to a number of community and state leaders. His interest in Law was peaked as he made these acquaintances, and he applied to Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law in Montgomery in 2009. He eventually obtained a Master of Law from the University of Alabama School of Law. It is also worthy of noting that Brett has always been a firm believer in hard work and personal responsibility. He worked throughout high school, college, grad school, and law school, beginning at age 16.
Brett’s world started turning when he was 26, the year he met the love of his life. An exhausted but dedicated law student at Jones, he walked into the very crowded library one evening to study and walked out that same night a changed man. He was captivated by a girl with long brown hair studying at a desk in the corner of the room. Her name was Haley Huff. Hailing from Auburn, Alabama, she was a true southern lady- a conscientious student with a winning personality and a kind spirit. As it turned out, Haley shared many of Brett’s interests, passions, and values, not the least of which was an appreciation of the importance of family. Only a short time after meeting they would attend a Student Government Association hosted bowling night together, the first “date” of many. Before they knew it, Brett and Haley were studying together for the Alabama State Bar, sights set on a fulfilling future as practicing lawyers. Brett says the time he and Haley spent together at Jones working toward their Juris Doctorates were some of the best years of his life thus far. “It’s wonderful when you can work toward something so big with someone you love so much,” he explained. “We helped each other and were able to achieve our goals together.” As they came to know each other more deeply, they fell in love. This later translated into the happiest day of their lives when they exchanged vows. Their relationship helped them better understand that there is no greater institution than that of the family. The gravity of this realization was significant enough that a few years later, Brett and Haley would establish their own legal practice in Auburn, specializing in small business, real estate, and family law, among other legal areas. 2014 brought a whirlwind of excitement Brett’s way, as Haley became his bride and the couple made the decision to move to Auburn and open practice in the historic Cullars-Connors Home on the corner of College Street and Samford Avenue in Auburn. This home also houses offices belonging to Auburn Realty, LLC, a business owned by Haley’s parents, Ray and Charity Huff, lifelong Auburn residents. On the day of the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of Huff Smith Law, Haley found out
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“
Small businesses are invaluable to a town like Auburn, as are nonprofits and charities. Some individuals don’t even realize they need legal services until certain circumstances warrant them, and
“
I’m so happy to help them out.
she was pregnant. “At that point I realized I would be raising two babies,” Brett laughed. “Our business and our first child.” Of course, Brett and Haley celebrated and embraced the surprise. Nine months later, their bundle of joy arrived, a beautiful baby girl named Dagny Olivia. Huff Smith Law has earned itself a stellar reputation in East Alabama. Brett, Haley, and their associate partners, Brandon F. Poticny and Joshua T. Morgan, are incredibly thankful for the good people they can serve in Auburn. They are also mindful that in order to maintain their standing on the Plains, they must continue to focus on the well-being of families. Brett feels blessed to be a part of a practice that cares about its community. “My own focus areas of practice are real estate legal matters, small business, and nonprofit and charitable organizations,” he said. “Small businesses are invaluable to a town like Auburn, as are nonprofits and charities. Some folks don’t even realize they need our services until something happens and they need someone to talk to, and I’m so happy to help them out.” Brett
believes that small businesses are cornerstones of social and economic prosperity in any community, but particularly in small towns like Auburn, where preserving the memories of people who brought a place its magic and charm is a must. He believes that the independent spirits of Auburn’s small business owners are important facets of Auburn’s livelihood. In his two years of practice on South College Street, Brett has helped start more than twenty-five small businesses. As an average, that is one small business started every month. Brett also knows that he and his partners are instrumental in the lives of families facing uphill personal battles like divorce or other family matters, even adoption. “Because I love my own family so much, I realize how difficult it would be to experience the challenges some of my clients are familiar with. We are here to protect the futures of the families we represent.” Brett believes in second chances as well, and sometimes that means advocating for clients facing criminal charges. “There is such a large percentage of young people who become repeat
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offenders once they get stuck in the cycle of crime. In many cases it starts with a small misdemeanor charge, and often escalates from there, depending on the consequences for their actions, until the person can no longer escape the cycle. It’s a reality that can impact good kids and their families for many years.” While he recognizes criminal law can be a difficult area of focus, he says Huff Smith Law feels fortunate to help grant second chances. Brett and Haley’s firm was voted “Best Attorney” in Opelika-Auburn News in both 2014 and 2015. Brett is one of only two attorneys in Lee County accredited with the Veterans Administration to handle Veteran’s benefit claims. Huff Smith Law hosts a quarterly free workshop at the City of Auburn Public Library titled “Starting a New Business in Lee County, Alabama” and “Free Legal Fridays” for individuals who cannot afford legal services. When we asked Brett what it is like to work alongside Haley, he emphatically stated that having his wife as his professional partner is a blessing.
“She’s wonderful,” he said. “Haley is an amazing wife, a loving mother, and a brilliant attorney.” Brett also enjoys the freedom he has to spend time with Haley and one-year-old Dagny since opening the office. “My first priority will always be Haley and my little girl. Any chance I have to be with them I take full advantage of.” In addition to being a partner, Haley recently started the “Baby Bunch,” a group of new mothers, which has grown to include about fifty little boys and girls (and their parents) in Dagny’s age group. On the weekends, Brett and Haley can often be found taking Dagny to a birthday party or helping host a “get together” for these little ones. Brett laughed, “My dad told me having a girl would be different than having a boy. Well, we haven’t had a boy yet, but my little girl sure has me wrapped around her finger. One of my greatest joys is seeing her face light up.” When asked about former role models and their impacts on his upbringing, Brett recalls a number of giants he encountered along the path to adulthood, one of the most influential being
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“
“
I am a better man because I have Haley and Dagny.
his grandfather, Mr. Jim Hyde. An Auburn man, he possessed a character of depth, honesty, and integrity. Mr. Hyde taught his grandson many priceless life lessons. Brett also fondly remembers his father’s father, Shelby Smith, Sr., a foreign missionary in Ecuador and Costa Rica. While he never felt called to ministry, Brett is thankful to have been brought up in a family where faith and good works were exemplified. Since exchanging vows with Haley and being blessed with a daughter, he grasps wholly the gift of family and feels even more grateful for the words and actions of those childhood heroes. “I am a better man because of Haley and Dagny,” he said. Brett, Haley, and Dagny have no plans to leave the Plains. Southern Tatler asked Brett, “Why is Auburn a great place to take care of your family?” He smiled from ear to ear. His answer was simple:
“It’s the sense of community. I don’t think there are too many people who can say they live in a town where, if someone is cold, another person will give him his coat. If you have car trouble in Auburn, six people will stop to help you before the problem is solved, and no one minds ‘paying it forward.’ I cannot think of anywhere in town I would not take a walk with my wife and daughter.”
Because Huff Smith Law sits right on the edge of Auburn University’s campus near Ag Hill, Brett has become well acquainted with some of Auburn’s finest men and women- both current and former students, spirited faculty and staff, and longtime Auburn residents. He has wasted no time in forming quality relationships with these members of the Auburn Family by investing his time and energy in bettering the city. Brett is serving a four-year term on the City of Auburn’s Greenspace Advisory Board, a group that advocates for the beautification of the town and the preservation of its natural appeal. Brett was a panelist in the East Alabama Mental Health Center’s Town Hall on Underage Drinking in April. He was voted 2015 Entrepreneur of the Year with the Al.com Young Professionals Summit, and is president of Lee County Young Professionals, or, “LeeYP.” Brett is a guest lecturer in classes at Auburn’s Raymond J. Harbert College of Business, and has taught as an adjunct instructor at Southern Union in Opelika, teaching American National Government. When asked to leave our readers with a few words of advice, Brett said, “I encourage Auburnites to continue to love their communities and their families, to take full advantage of opportunities for spending time with cherished friends and neighbors, and to discover the charms of the place they call homeAuburn, Alabama.”
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LOCAL FOCUS TOOMER’S COFFEE
s ’ r e m o oT offee C
For many, a good cup of coffee is a daily addiction. It is a suitable start to a chaotic Monday, a soul-soothing treat on a cool afternoon, or even a bedtime drink for the caffeine immune. On a blazing summer day, coffee connoisseurs enjoy their favorite drink in its delightful iced form. Some take it with cream and sugar, while some choose to add yummy syrups, frothy steamed milk, or any one of a plethora of other flavorful embellishments. Even then, some just like it black...
What is fascinating, though, is that coffee is more than just bold flavor and an energy boost. Coffee brings people together. It is a drink for businessmen negotiating the final details in an important contract, an appropriate end to a romantic evening on the town, or a delicious backdrop to conversation among friends. Friends, families, and neighbors need a great place to take in the happy times to be had around a hot cup of coffee. For the Auburn community, that place is Todd and Toni Holt’s charming place of business, Toomer’s Coffee Company.
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oomer’s Coffee provides the kind of service that customers rave about. It is no wonder they have so many regular patrons. One step in the front door and you are greeted straightaway with a smile and a kind “hello” from a friendly barista. Several wooden tables and their chairs fit snugly within the walls of the intimate little shop in Moore’s Mill across from Ogletree Village. Fittingly small and comfortingly cozy, the eclectic Toomer’s Coffee is decorated with happy earth tones. It is an environment that is easy to sink into. Inspirational quotes and verses from the Bible line the walls, and the sunshine streams in through the front door. In late afternoon, when the morning and lunchtime crowds have dwindled, it is a peaceful and quiet place to study or read.
The Backstory
Toomer’s Coffee Shops are everything that the company’s original founders, Sandy and Trish Toomer, hoped they would be. The Toomers devoted their lives to the field of evangelical missions in the early
90s, both working for Mission Aviation Fellowship, Sandy as a pilot and Trish as a hospitality coordinator. In the fourteen years they spent with the MAF in Ecuador, Sandy and Trish were fortunate enough to serve a people called the Quichua of the northern Ecuadorian jungle. The Quichua grew and processed Arabica coffee, and the Toomers could not help but learn a vast array of information about the coffee business from this tribe. Shortly after they moved back to the states in 2004, Downtown Opelika welcomed Sandy and Trish to its pool of small business owners. Because they felt that a more suitable market was to be found in the city of Auburn, the couple moved to its location on South College Street in University Village. This was the singular location for Toomer’s Coffee until 2013, when Auburnites Todd and Toni Holt purchased the business. The Holts are originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, but moved to the Plains two decades ago when Todd’s position with Knology Inc., a cable company, motivated the couple’s relocation. Toni worked as an elementary school teacher, and Todd served as President of Knology until the company was sold in 2012. Looking for an opportunity to invest in an established Auburn business, the Holts were told about the newly listed Toomer’s Coffee Shop and were introduced to its owners, Sandy and Trish. While they appreciated good coffee, the Holts were not yet acquainted with the coffee business, but felt confident that this new endeavor would be a lot of fun. Sandy and Trish placed the well-loved business they had built into the hands of their new friends, a decision they would not regret. In fact, only months after purchasing the shop on South College, the Holts opened up the second location in Moore’s Mill (the spot Southern Tatler was so happy to visit in June). Recently, Todd and Toni brought their exceptional coffee and delectable pastries to a third locationResurrect Antiques in Valley, right off I-85 at Exit 77.
Toni said purchasing Toomer’s Coffee Company was one of the best decisions she and Todd have ever made. “We absolutely love the direction our shop is going,” she explained. “We just want to offer a place where people can spend quality time together. Every day we have groups hold their weekly Bible studies here. High school and college students come in after school to study. One of my favorite things is to see mothers come in with their daughters. Sometimes they just sit and talk.” Toomer’s Coffee on Moore’s Mill even offers a meeting room for large parties. “It’s always exciting to see big business deals going down in our store,” Toni laughed.
The Menu
The shop is known to have some of the best pastries, cookies, and desserts around town. While there are many well-loved food items on the menu,
Toni said her best seller is probably the Oatmeal Steamer. It is truly a beautiful thing. Granola is freshbaked in store, covered in steamed milk, and sprinkled with savory Craisins, fresh fruit, and slivered almonds, then dusted with a spoonful of cinnamon. “Droves of people come here during the early morning hours to get one,” Toni said. “We always sell out.” Lattes are also popular menu items. The Toomer’s Coffee menu features a number of unique variations, like the Raspberry Vanilla Latte or the Dirty Spiced Chai Tea Latte. Both the South College Street and Moore’s Mill Locations serve up fresh pimiento cheese and chicken salad on crackers or in a panini for lunch. In Valley, Toni chooses to let some of her New Orleans roots shine through on a slightly different daytime menu. Authentic red beans and rice, jambalaya, and seafood gumbo are staples. Muffalettas and po boy sandwiches are also shining stars. Brownies, baklava, raspberry white chocolate scones, and bread pudding with brandy sauce make mouths water. Of course, the Artisan Roasted coffees at Toomer’s Coffee Shops take front and center on the stage. Sandy and Trish Toomer now own Toomer’s Coffee
Roasters, the non-retail, roasting arm of Toomer’s Coffee. Yes, that’s right. The couple that poured so much love into Toomer’s Coffee Shop several years ago still plays an important part in bringing customers artisan crafted, small batch roasted, liquid goodness. Sandy and Trish’s efforts are focused across the Southeast. In 2013, Toomer’s Coffee Roasters was mentioned in Southern Living Magazine as one of the South’s premiere artisan coffee roasters. A process they use called infrared roasting results in a full-bodied taste with no hint of burnt or bitter flavor. Beans are evenly roasted and acidity levels are lower, making for the perfect cup. Because the roaster is still located in Auburn, coffee ordered at Toomer’s is often the product of beans roasted no more than a day or two before brewing. Signature Blends and Roasts include the Auburn City Blend, a bold mixture of three African coffees, Toomer’s Coffee’s number one seller. A medium Breakfast Blend, a sweet but smoky French Roast, and an Espresso Blend are also signatures. Other popular coffees are the nutty Sumatra Mandehling, rich Tanzanian Peaberry, Vermont Maple Nut, Southern
Pecan Pie, and Vanilla Butter Cream. In December of 2014, an unidentified gentleman walked into Toomer’s Coffee Company with an uncommon request. “I’d like 66 two ounce bags of your best coffee.” No one working that day understood why he would make such a purchase, but one employee thought he heard something about a movie premiere. When Toomer’s called the man to confirm his order, he explained that the miniature bags of Auburn City Blend would be placed in gift bags handed out at the Golden Globe Awards. Who knows? Maybe some of Hollywood’s most notable celebrities are sipping the south’s yummiest roasts from their own golden goblets. Toomer’s Coffee also offers catering services. From weddings, bridal teas, and baby showers, to local charity and University events, Toomer’s provides quality food and drink for almost any occasion. Whether catering a picnic luncheon with pimiento cheese paninis and chips, or an office meeting with warm sausage biscuits and coffee for 100, they never fall short.
A Family Affair
The Holts have three sons, Taylor (20), Jarrod (16), and Brendon (13). Taylor and Jarrod work in the shops, but for now, Brendon is a barista in training. He, too, will join his mother and brothers at Toomer’s Coffee a few years from now. Todd is now CEO of AMK9, a leading company in the K-9 Security industry. He is also CEO of Talon Aerolytics, a company that uses drones to collect data for a number of businesses in the telecommunications, energy, oil, and gas industries. Todd feels blessed to have been presented with so many wonderful business opportunities in Alabama. The Holts understand that family is important. This is made evident as soon as you enter one of their coffee shops. They have a real interest in reaching out to others within the Auburn Family as well. By taking full advantage of the rapid growth that has ensued so recently in the city, they have been able to share with friends and strangers alike their passion for good coffee and good people. “Everyone is welcome,” Toni said. The Holts are active at Cornerstone Church in Auburn, and even provide coffee for several of Cornerstone’s events throughout the year. The relation-
for more information on Toomer’s Coffee visit: www.toomerscoffeeshops.com or call 334.887.0004
ship they have with their church is just one of many that means so much to them. Todd and Toni wish to exemplify their faith in action every day through their business. Christian music is usually playing in the shops, and shelves next to the cash registers are stocked with items made by local artists. The sale of these items benefits missionaries both close to home and abroad. In May, Toni planned a “Coffee Fest” behind the Moore’s Mill Toomer’s Coffee Company. All coffee and pastries were sold for two dollars each, which gave Toni a bit of a chance to show off all of the shop’s delicious offerings. Guests were treated to a live mini concert featuring local bands. Turnout was great. Lucky for Auburn, Toni plans on hosting another Coffee Fest before school starts back in the fall. Toni and Todd live in close proximity to the Moore’s Mill location. The journey from their driveway to the Toomer’s Coffee Company parking lot is no more than a five-minute commute, so it is not uncommon to see Toni’s face behind the counter. Last year, when her car would not start, she even rode her son’s bike to work! Customers appreciate that they are able to communicate directly with the owner of their favorite coffee shop. Her ability to pop in and out also helps her play a
more active part in day to day business, as Toni manages all scheduling, inventory, and much of the shops’ promotional efforts. “When my husband proposed we buy the first Toomer’s Coffee I was really excited. I knew it was going to be something I had to be very involved in, and from the start it sounded like a lot of fun,” she said. In the beginning, her experience related to playing the part of a business owner was limited, but she jumped into the role with ease. Toni told Southern Tatler there are days when things get more than a little stressful, but she seems to take on these trials with grace. “What keeps you motivated in the coffee business, and why do you keep doing what you do?” we
asked her. Without hesitation, Toni explained that her employees, most of whom are local high school and college students, deserve all the credit: “My employees are all talented individuals. They are always kind and so easy to work with. If I come into the shop after having a bad day, often one of my guys or girls will say something sweet to me that makes me feel instantly better. Sometimes it is hard to come back to work after a long day of catering, for example, and my employees will help me be sure everything is taken care before we close for the day. I am beyond thankful for them.” Toni wished to leave readers with one message:
Make sure people understand that small business is the livelihood of the city. Auburn is one of the fastest growing towns in the South, so it is makes sense to open up a shop here. But more importantly, the residents are so wonderful and generous, and we are extremely grateful for that. Small business owners have a lot to offer that is uncommon and tailored specifically to Auburn residents, so I would like to encourage everyone to visit their stores. Over the years I have seen firsthand the sense of community they create.
LOCAL FOCUS ALLEN ORTHODONTICS
ALLEN Orthodontics
Over the past six years, Dr. Hank Allen has transformed the smiles and renewed the confidence of hundreds of grateful patients, both young and old. Allen Orthodontics provides quality care in two state-of-the-art facilities, one in Opelika and the other in Valley. Southern Tatler was fortunate enough to sit down with Dr. Allen and his wife, Dowe, at their Opelika office just a few weeks ago. After we were welcomed at the door by a kind receptionist, the Allens showed us around a cheerfully decorated lobby, complete with a wall covered in patients’ “before and after” photos. Upon seeing those faces hanging on the wall, grins stretched a mile wide, it was easy to understand that in Dr. Allen’s profession, a healthy customer is a happy one. We were excited to hear all that the Allens had to share with us.
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r. Allen left his home in Dothan, Alabama prior to the Fall of 1989 to attend Auburn University. While pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering, he began a great love affair with Auburn and everything it had to offer, including the woman he would marry, a fellow student named Dowe Bricken. Upon graduation, Dr. Allen moved to LaGrange, Georgia where he worked as a Chemical Engineer at Milliken and Company. Dowe joined him in LaGrange in 1996 after the couple married. Dr. Allen’s best friend, an engineer himself, became interested in the field of orthodontics and made the leap to completely change his life’s path so that he might pursue the profession. This sudden shift in occupation piqued Dr. Allen’s interest, especially as his friend sang praises of his new career plans. After being convinced that he could employ many of the technical and analytical skills he had learned in engineering school within his own orthodontics practice, Dr. Allen took the dive and quit his eight-year engineering career to begin dental school. “It was a sink or swim decision,” he said. “I swam!” “Not many men have wives who would allow them to leave a stable career just to start over,” Dr. Allen laughed. With Dowe’s loving support, at the age of 32, he began dental school at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. In those early years at UAB, life brought a whirlwind of changes. Naturally, the Allens made the move to Birmingham. This was transition enough, not to mention they were raising their first child, two-year-old Bricken. Despite these challenges, Dr. Allen excelled in his studies. He served as class president for four years while at UAB and was presented with a number of other high honors as well, including the prestigious Dean’s Medal and the Alabama Dental Association Student Leadership Award. After finishing orthodontics school, Dr. Allen began considering his family’s future. At first its seemed as though the best decision for the Allen family was to stay in Birmingham, but something was amiss. Auburn had left a stain of orange and blue on the couple’s heart. After careful consideration, they made the decision to return to their “home” on the plains. While they felt compelled to weigh their options regarding where to relocate, Auburn was the obvious choice, as both had fallen madly in love with its magic while pursuing their undergraduate degrees some years earlier. As it turned out, they were forced
to make the move on a bit of a “last minute” basis. In fact, the same afternoon a moving truck drove into their new driveway it turned out to be “Meet the Teacher Day” at their children’s school. “It was an easy decision for us,” Dr. Allen smiled. He turned to look at Dowe and said, “Remember? I asked you where you saw us in ten to fifteen years down the road right before we moved.” Without hesitation, Dowe explained, “We both saw our family in Auburn.” To the Allens, there was no other logical choice. Even if it took a leap of faith, they were going to raise a family and start an Orthodontics practice in their favorite Alabama city. In October of 2009, Dr. Allen and Dowe opened up their first office in Valley, Alabama. In January of 2010, the husband-and-wife duo opened another office in Opelika near East Alabama Medical Center. For a year, day-to-day operation at Allen Orthodontics was a “two man show.” Dowe worked as a receptionist at the front desk, checking in patients, managing expenses, and assisting Dr. Allen in new patient work-ups. Today, Allen Orthodontics’ Opelika location has grown to employ a staff of nine. They serve a full schedule of patients each day, all of whom leave one step closer to the smile of their dreams.
Auburn had left a mark on the Allen family’s heart and
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The people living in this area are the ones who brought us back here in the first place
they decided to return to the place that had felt like home
Allen Orthodontics is not only on the forefront of community When we asked Dr. Allen what motivates him in his field- what drives him to keep going even on the stressful days, he excitedly explained that there is nothing like interacting with patients and meeting new people.
Dr. Allen beamed as he told us stories of patients’ transformations throughout the years. When patients come in for their braces removal appointments, he shows them photos from their initial consultations. People are often shocked when they realize what a change several months under Dr. Allen’s care has made. He loves to watch their reactions and is thankful that he can share in their joy and celebration. His career as a Chemical Engineer prepared him well for an occupation in which he must derive creative solutions for complex problems. He is also an excellent independent thinker and enjoys utilizing original ideas and new technology.
“The people living in this area are the ones who brought us back here in the first place,” he said. “I love meeting all of the wonderful families here. Even better, I get to watch these kids grow up and I am fortunate enough to help them gain the confidence they need to go out in the world. There is nothing like it.”
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“Another thing I really appreciate is that I am able to use my engineering mind,” he told us. “I think people might forget that orthodontics requires a lot of spatial analysis. It’s extremely fast paced.” Dr. Allen is also quick to say that one of his favorite parts of being an orthodontist is being his own boss. He is thrilled to have been able to choose where to work and live. Setting his own hours and having time for his wife and children is also a huge gift. He explained that for Dowe and himself, creating a business from the bottom was initially very challenging despite the payoff: “The market for orthodontics was already pretty saturated in Auburn and Opelika, so we had to be competitive. In dental school they teach you how to be a dentist, but they don’t teach you how to be a business person… you just have to figure it out.” Throughout our conversation, Dr. Allen emphasized that he could not have been successful without his wife by his side. “We did it together,” he smiled. The Allens are a testament to the fact that sometimes our greatest struggles can reap the largest rewards. Dr. Allen has a meaningful relationship with his community. Whether they are seven-years-old or seventy-years-old, patients come back to the office to thank him all the time. Dowe fondly remembers several patients bringing thoughtful notes of gratitude, baked goods, or small gifts by the front desk. The office staff members also have a reputation for being professional, patient, and understanding. Dr. Allen bragged on his office manager, Meredith Turner several times throughout our conversation: “She is a vital part of every day. She’s awesome!” Dr. Allen and his staff are conscious to provide top quality care and are quick to sooth the nerves of those patients who might be uneasy. It is reassuring for those in the dental chair that their procedures will be performed safely, meticulously, and with their comfort in mind. As a result, Allen Orthodontics enjoys a high rate of client loyalty. In this way, Dr.
involvement, but they are on the technological forefront as well
Allen gets to know his community one person at a time.
Recreation and are part of the Auburn and Opelika Fall Festival and Christmas parade every year.
Because Dr. Allen feels his success is owed to the wonderful families he has the privilege of treating, his family and his staff strive to give back to the community as often as possible. They often take on special cases, helping young people obtain the oral care they need when there might not otherwise be an option to do so. Allen Orthodontics conducts oral health education sessions during oral health education month in October at local elementary schools.
Giving back to the Auburn and Opelika professional communities is another thing Dr. Allen likes to do in his free time. Formerly twice a year, now once a year, Dr. Allen hosts continuing educational programs for dental offices and their staff members at the Saugahatchee Country Club. This course gives all dental professionals in attendance the continuing education credits they may need to progress in their field. Allen Orthodontics invites local dental offices to its annual Cinco de Mayo luncheon and open house as well. Dr. Allen supplies the Mexican food, and his mother bakes six yummy cookie varieties for dessert.
The Opelika office is a drop-off location for the Big House Foundation’s annual towel and swimsuit drive to provide new summer necessities for children in foster care. It also participates in the annual Helping Hands Canned Food Drive. Dr. Allen and his team enjoy sponsoring athletic teams within the Auburn and Opelika Departments of Parks and
for more information on Allen Orthodontics, visit: www.bracesbyallen.com or call 334.705.8655
Allen Orthodontics is not only a leader in community involvement, but is on the technological forefront as well. The office is completely paper-free, and has been since its grand opening six years ago. All patient profiles, medical records, and other archived materials are stored online. Dr. Allen is one of the only orthodontists in the area to use TADs, or, Temporary Anchorage Devices. These titanium alloy anchors can be implanted when it seems all other options have been exhausted. For example, when a patient has a severe overbite, open bite, or is missing permanent
teeth, Dr. Allen can utilize these TADs to prevent major jaw surgery, compromised results, or expensive dental restorations. Dr. Allen works with TADs frequently when cooperating with dentists in the area. His progressive approach to orthodontics allows him to partake in interdisciplinary oral care providing excellent results for patients in his community. Today’s latest dental technology will be making its way to Allen Orthodontics in the form of a new digital scanning system later this month. If you have ever been fitted with braces, you surely remember the forty-five unpleasant seconds you spent in an orthodontist’s chair while he pressed a tray of bright pink, semi-solid goo into the roof of your mouth. Dr. Allen’s new digital scanner will eliminate the need for alginate impression plates. Dr. Allen also provides such services as Invisalign, palette expansion procedures, and even a special laser to even out patients’ gum lines, drastically improving their gingival architectures. The added benefit of being fitted for braces by Dr. Allen is that he does not install each bracket individually. Instead, he is able to quickly and skillfully apply the entire set at one time. It is very important to Dr. Allen that he provides the least
invasive, most efficient care for each and every patient, every time. Dr. Allen and Dowe would like to thank East Alabamians for supporting Allen Orthodontics over the past six years. “Not only is this a great place to raise our three children,” Dr. Allen said. “It’s also a great place to own a business. We are grateful and excited.” The Allens believe strongly in the importance of family. In their free time, they spend time on Lake Martin with their three children: Sixteen-year-old Bricken, Twelve-year-old Emily, and ten-year-old Henry. Sometimes the Allen family even hangs out in the office. Bricken saved money to buy her first car last year by cleaning her dad’s office and sterilizing medical instruments. Emily recently held a patient appreciation car wash in which Dr. Allen paid her five dollars per car to treat patients to a “thank you” gift. Her little brother, Henry helped at the car wash as well. Emily also bakes homemade cupcakes for local referring dental offices.
e t s a g n T i A ometh CULINARY CORNER
JIN KOREAN RESTAURANT
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One would be tempted to think that in a town as small as Auburn, people would be relatively closed minded when it comes to sampling cuisine from for away countries and continents. We live in a place where a large majority of permanent residents grew up on southern fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and other southern Sunday dinner staples. That being said, our city is also at least a temporary home to around 25,000 men and women under the age of 25- college students enrolled at Auburn University. These Auburnites on the threshold of adulthood still exemplify the delights of youth, like a desire to travel, a calling to learn, and curiosity for brand new experiences. Perhaps that is why restaurants appealing to their cross-cultural interests are doing so well.
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hat is food, after all? Yes, it is a way to sustain oneself, a giver of energy, and sadly, sometimes the fodder that fulfills a calorie-quota. For several local restaurants, however, refreshingly uncommon offerings make meals an enjoyable part of one’s day- more than a quick bite after work. One such spot is Jin Korean Restaurant in northeast Auburn. It is one of the Plains’ best kept secrets, a hidden gem near the fast-food cluttered Opelika Road. Jin is tucked away behind a bank on University Drive, a discreet little storefront with a bright green sign and a blinking “Open” light. It is not ornately decorated, and it is certainly not particularly large, but its parking lot is always overflowing with cars. Jin opened its doors for business on October 10, 2013, a day the owner, To Yon Hawk, is not soon to forget. Hawk would pour all of her time and energy into the new endeavor. This was a big step.
In fact, she planned to utilize an unusual and very tiring business plan that most restaurant owners are unable to put into practice. Hawk would serve as the behind-the-scenes unwavering flame at Jin- a onewoman-show. She would not hire a chef or a kitchen staff, but instead would cook every dish herself. Her husband would stay on top of the dishes, the laundry, the dining area, and managing supplies, while a couple of waiters and waitresses would take orders. Today It seems that she has held tight to this plan, for as soon as we walked into Jin only a few Wednesday afternoons ago, we were greeted at the door by the busy as a bee, apron-wearing Hawk, her forehead glistening with sweat. We arrived a bit early, so we were concerned when we realized we may have interrupted Hawk and her husband, Young Woo as they were finishing a large catering order for send off. “Come in,” Hawk said despite their preoccupation. She sat down with us, smile on her face, willing and ready to tell us about the business she has loved and nurtured for close to three years now. She told us about how she identifies more with the American spirit than any other, although she was born in one of the southernmost parts of Korea near Jin Ju, as she has lived in the United States since 1974. She called Ohio home for thirty years before moving to Atlanta, then Westpoint, Georgia in 2004. Hawk and her husband worked in a number of large Asian restaurants and supermarkets in Westpoint before they finally decided to establish permanent residence and open
Jin Korean Restaurant in Auburn. Prior to 2013, 2055 East University Drive housed a small fish market. When it was placed on the market for sale, Hawk and Woo jumped on the opportunity to purchase the property, but their swift action was not immediately met with an influx of patrons. Because of Jin’s location, it was a little difficult to get the word out at first. “A lot of people did not know we were here,” Hawk explained. “It was stressful. We had to wait for word of mouth to spread the news.” When people realized what a treat they had been missing, however, business picked up.
“My favorite thing about being here every day is the chance to meet all kinds of people that come in to enjoy my food.”
Hawk said she recognizes several familiar faces on a weekly basis. Once a person tries Jin for the first time he is hooked. He will be back again. Of course, Hawk is usually in the kitchen preparing plates for hungry customers, so she must leave her work to come out and greet a guest, but she still gets to know the frequent flyers. In truth, we were extremely impressed with Hawk’s passion for what she does. Every delicious item served is made to order, fresh and authentic. “Have you always cooked? Where did you learn?” we asked her. She hesitated, then laughed. “I just know how to cook,” she said simply. “I don’t think anyone ever taught me. I just know.” She did, however, work in the kitchen alongside her mother as a little girl. Still, her talent must have come naturally. It seems that she is, for the most part, a self-taught culinary genius. She enjoys her craft, has developed it, and is now a master of bona fide Korean gastronomy. Because many of our readers are unfamiliar with the phenomenon that is is the delightfully palatable, distinctively flavorful Korean meal, we asked Hawk to describe its essence. “It’s easy to eat because it’s not greasy food, and it doesn’t have to be spicy. We don’t do that spicy stuff here,” she laughed. “And it’s healthy food, too. People that are scared of Korean food believe that because it looks or tastes different than what they have had before they will not like it. I always tell them that it’s easy to try something. When they just try it, they like it.”
As one might imagine, traditional Korean cuisine is heavily influenced by the region’s geographical location near the Yellow and East China Seas and the Sea of Japan. These vast bodies of water provide thousands of species of sea life for seafood connoisseurs to enjoy. King Crab, squid, and tuna are among the most popular, but many others are highly coveted and creatively incorporated into some of Korea’s tastiest feasts. Also interesting is Korea’s numerous small environmental and climatic conditions resulting from its very mountainous terrain. These microenvironments allow for the growing of highly varied crops throughout the land, meaning Korea’s cold warm summers, chilly winters, and temperate fall seasons bring new and unique pleasures every few months. For example, the valleys contain the appropriate soil to raise up beans, vegetables, and
rice, while the mountains bring about wild plants and savory mushrooms. Each area of Korea has its own well-loved fare. As Hawk explained, while it is assumed by most that Korean food is fairly spicy, not all Korean food has to be. It is true that Korean chefs regularly use bean paste, garlic, ginger, red pepper paste, and other sharp spices, but that is only if the meal’s consumer prefers it to be prepared in this manner. Korean chefs also tend to bear the health-conscious eater in mind, as almost every meal is inclusive of colorful uncooked or pickled vegetables, hot soups or broths, and wholesome grains. This does not mean that Korean meals are not hearty, however. A family meal often includes several large entrees and fifteen to twenty side dishes. Small plates like Kimchee (most commonly prepared using pickled cabbage and radishes), bellflower roots, roasted seaweed, and bean sprouts are popular sides. We asked Hawk to make some recommendations for our return visit to Jin. Not surprisingly there is much we are eager to try. Her most popular dish is La Galbi, hearty short ribs grilled to perfection in house. Beef Bulgogi Baekban, otherwise known as stir fried beef over is also a fan favorite. The pork and spicy squid variations on this dish are admired as well. For those looking to take the more traditional route, a savory stew made from mixed vegetables, sausages, ham, kimchi, and noodles called Bi Bim Bop is sure to please. Hawk emphasized to us that there is something for absolutely everyone on her menu. Whether you are a traditionalist or a brave foodie,
We can attest to the fact that you will not leave hungry at Jin. When food is delivered to one of the modestly sized tabletops, the spread looks akin to a sizeable thanksgiving feast. Jin is a fun place to go with a large group, because everyone
is encouraged to share, to taste as much as they can, and to try something new. It is truly an ode to the family values so cherished in Korean culture. The family table is a sacred place.
hungry or just in need of a small bite, Jin has something great to offer. Hawk has found that some of the most ordered items come from her “snack menu.” These include crispy fried pork with rice, or, Donkatsu, pork and vegetable filled dumplings, called Yaki Mandu, or, kimchi, beef, and pork fried rice. “Young people really like the snack menu. They can order the portions they are looking for and they get exactly what they want.” Jin Korean is more reasonably priced than other restaurants in the area, which also helps attract the younger customer base. A meal there is more than a quick bite to eat- it is an event. Even those dishes more intimidating to Auburnites, like chicken gizzards in a spicy sauce or sea snails have come to be well loved. Every meal Hawk prepares comes with seven to eight limitless side dishes which vary from day to day. “I have customers who come in and get two or three refills on their side dishes throughout their meal. They love it.” We can attest to the fact that you will not leave hungry at Jin. When food is delivered to one of the modestly sized tabletops, the spread looks akin to a sizeable thanksgiving feast. Jin is a fun place to go with a large group, because everyone is encouraged to share, to taste as much as they can, and to try something new. It is truly an ode to the family values so cherished in Korean culture. The family table is a sacred place.
for more information on Jin Korean Restaurant: call 334.521.7080
Hawk does offer thee combo specials for family and friend groups who would like to try a little of everything. These combination meals were designed to provide a preview of three to five perfectly balanced entrees. Combo A includes Doenjang Jjigae, Godeungu Gui, Squid Bokum, and La Galbi. That’s soy paste stew, grilled mackerel, spicy squid with vegetables, and grilled LA style short ribs. A second combo is composed of Soon Tofu, Godeunguh Gui, Jogi Gui, Squid Bokum, and La Galbi, or, tofu stew, grilled mackerel, spicy squid with vegetables, and short ribs. A third combination comes with all of these delicious dishes previously listed plus grilled yellow croaker, a fish similar to grouper. Jin Korean Restaurant does offer catering for large groups. In fact, some of Hawk’s most loyal customers are local office staffs and University faculty members. “They can call us and request what they need, whether it’s for twelve or twenty. We will work something out with them so that they get what everyone likes.” Hawk and Woo get source their ingredients from many local vendors, including Auburn and Opelika farmers’ markets. While they are busy seven days a week, their commitment to quality and authenticity never waivers. The couple usually reports to the restaurant around 6:30 in the morning, and often does not leave until 10:00 or later in the evening. “Would you like to tell your community anything more about Jin Korean Restaurant?” we asked. Hawk had one thing to say:
“I just want to tell everyone thank you for stopping by. I am glad that
people here are adventurous when it comes to what they will eat, because I think we have really good food. Thank you so much.�
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a tiger’s tale
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Aubie A Tiger’s Tale
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But near the end of the line, there is a little girl, no more than three feet tall. She peeks through the legs of her father, patiently waiting to make one acquaintance. Finally, she catches sight of orange fur, black stripes, and a beard of bright white. Her father picks her up so she can see her favorite college mascot just a little bit better. As everyone’s favorite jovial tiger walks by, he turns around to greet the delighted child. Before he leaves, he embraces her, eventually pulling her completely into his arms and onto his hip for a photo. “Aubie!” the little girl shouts. “I love you.”
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I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.
I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully. I believe in honesty and truthfulness, without which I cannot win the respect and confidence of my fellow men.
I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities. I believe in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.
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I believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.
I believe in my Country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by “doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God.”
And because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it.
These are the words of the Auburn Creed. The embodiment of these beliefs comes in the form of thousands of proud Auburn men and women, whether they be attending students, current and former faculty and staff, or spirited alumni inhabiting countries across the globe. In the latter quarter of the 19th century, the home of the orange and blue we know today as Auburn University was called the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama. A professor of history and coach of the college’s first football team, George Petrie, put pen to paper and wrote what would become Auburn University’s defining doctrine, the Auburn Creed, in November of 1943. These seven proclamations of belief, which concern a robust work ethic, the value of a quality education, honesty in word and action, fitness of body and mind, lawfulness, compassion for fellow men, and loyalty to one’s country, are the standards to which all good Auburn men and women are upheld.
There are many who exemplify these values through their love and investment in Auburn University and the community that it enlivens, however there is one Auburn “man” who carries the special spirit of Auburn everywhere he goes. With his jovial personality, unwavering energy, and a bright orange, white-tipped tail, he is the feline king of the Southeastern Conference. His name? Aubie the Tiger. He has been called a goodwill ambassador, a cheerleader, and, naturally, a mascot, but Aubie is more than these things. For more than half a century, he has exhibited an unmatchable charm and talent that has made him the living spirit of Auburn.
Becoming Aubie In 1958, after much deliberation over whether a tiger or an eagle should have been Auburn University’s official mascot, an artist with the Birmingham Post-Herald named Phil Neel established the Aubie tradition by drawing the first cheerful Auburn Tiger. This cartoon character, who would be named Aubie just two years later, was met by fans with love and support, and the decision was made to make him the star on the cover of an Auburn/Hardin-Simmons football program in October of 1959. In the years following, Aubie’s appearance evolved in a number of ways. In the beginning he appeared unclothed, but eventually he was outfitted from head to toe and accessorized with hats and jewelry. In his youth, he stood on four feet, but in 1962, he began to stand upright in anthropomorphic fashion. Aubie’s presence on the football programs came to be regarded as a kind of good-luck charm during the years when Coach Ralph “Shug” Jordan graced the field. Color photographs took Aubie’s place on program covers in 1976, but this was not the end of his reign. A company out of New York City called Brooks-Van Horn Costumes, which boasted such clients as Walt Disney, was commissioned by Auburn’s Student Government Association Director of Spirit, James Lloyd, to help fashion Aubie’s persona for the 1979 Southeastern Conference basketball tournament. The $1,350 needed to purchase Aubie’s outfit was raised by individual contributions on the part of several Auburn clubs, generous alumni, and longtime friends of Auburn. Since his debut on the court that night, Aubie has been a staple wherever the Auburn spirit resides. His striking good looks have served him well.
“You never know where Aubie is going to be. His entrance is always grand. There have been so many funny things to happen to Aubie over the years.�
Another Victory
‘ Photo From Upcoming 2017 Aubie Calendar Photo Shoot
It did not take Aubie long to develop the playful personality that would make him the nation’s best, most adored mascot. Since 1979, countless “Friends of Aubie” have paid tribute to his mischevious antics and fun-loving nature. The unique privilege of being a Friend of Aubie is a high honor for Auburn Students, and for those individuals involved, it is one of life’s greatest experiences. Whether rallying supporters at a basketball tournament, football championship, or other event, Aubie never fails to appear in his full, unwaveringly energetic form whenever he is needed. Aubie is a “jack of all trades,” so his schedule is unbelievably full, particularly during the school year. In his youth, he traveled solo, but because his schedule has become more demanding with the passage of time, Aubie now takes an entourage of assistants with him wherever he goes. Even when pushed to the limit, Aubie makes a point to stay energized. After all, he has a lot to be excited about.
take on almost any challenge. Aubie is an athletic fellow, and he is quick on his feet, eyes always open to opportunities for cultivating passion for Auburn University in others. Aubie’s creativity is also a helpful tool. Having imagination at his fingertips means his spirit resounds no matter where he appears. A George-Jefferson-like walk and exaggerated motions are quintessential to Aubie’s character, but you might also see him riding through campus on his golf cart, waving to cars alongside him on College Street from a passenger’s seat, or striking a silly pose on the campus greenspace. Because Aubie is a representative of the University, he must abide by a specific code of conduct. Most importantly, he must never let a bad day affect his mood. Secondly, he is never to be anything less than the model southern gentleman.
The Aubie Family
It is unfortunate that Aubie is unable to be in two places at the same time, because demand is so high. For years Aubie has possessed a cheerful spirit so big, one might wonder if it could possibly fit under one roof, but that is part of his exclusivity. There is and will always be one Aubie the Tiger. Because he falls under the governance of the Student Government Association, all of Aubie’s endeavors are completely student run. While he must adhere to the codes of the NCAA, all skits, costumes, and props are original creations birthed by Friends of Aubie. His duties are broad and varied, and he must be willing to
Auburn University’s Student Government Association fills three positions each year for Directors of Aubie. These individuals work tirelessly to lead and delegate within the program, but hard work pays off for those Auburn men and women who are lucky enough to be adoptees into what is called The Aubie Family. Mike Reynolds, who has been Aubie Advisor for twelve years, talked about what it’s like to belong to the tightknit group: “Once you are a member of the Aubie Family, you are always a part of the family. It really does ‘take a village’ to help Aubie be the best that he can be, and we all become close as we work together. Aubie
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was created to be a mascot, but he has turned into so much more. He makes us all better, and he is extremely special to all of us.” Mike said one of his favorite Auburn traditions is Aubie’s role in graduation ceremonies each year: “Aubie leads students into throwing their hats into the air at the end of each ceremony, and it’s really neat to see him getting excited alongside the graduates during that time. I think it shows just how important he is to the Auburn Family. He is always there when there is something to celebrate.” Former members of the Aubie Family continue to support everyone’s favorite tiger after their time working with the program and make an effort to communicate with and assist new members of the family as they are inducted. Every five years, former Aubie family members meet for a reunion. “I have met very few people who have not absolutely fallen in love with their role as an Aubie Family member,” Mike explained. “It changes their lives, and everyone involved tends to stay involved, whether that be through helping with props, staging, or costumes. Everyone has ideas to contribute.”
A Winning Role As an official mascot and University ambassador, Aubie enjoys a number of freedoms that are otherwise unavailable to him when he is not busy making women swoon, high-fiving young children, or personifying the perfect male physique. Aubie is often seen throwing an arm
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around a stranger for an impromptu selfie, using larger than life motions to make fun of a public figure, or kidding with acquaintances using playful, practical jokes. While taking advantages of these freedoms, Aubie must also recognize that they come with a certain degree of responsibility. Part of Aubie’s magic is that he is known and loved by all Auburn men and women. People truly appreciate his consistently good attitude, which makes it all the more important for him to be a stellar representative of Auburn University at all times. Even when he competes against other mascots in UCA’s annual National Collegiate Mascot Competition out of Orlando, Aubie carries himself in a way that satisfies the doctrine laid out in the Auburn Creed. He loads up the trailer with every prop he can fit into those few square feet of space, writes an entertaining and original skit, and resolves to win. Mike assured Southern Tatler there are very few mascots who are as dedicated to winning the hearts of judges as Aubie is during competitions: “He is in a league of his own when it comes to competing. He starts preparing many months ahead of time, and once he is there, his eyes are on the prize. Even though he does not speak, Aubie communicates more love for his University than any other mascot does for its own school. It’s hard not to cheer for Auburn when he’s around.” Mike believes this dedication and the many talents Aubie possesses are what makes him a regular winner. “Members of Aubie’s family come from a number of
different backgrounds,” he said. “In the past, they have studied accounting, computer science, education, and almost anything else you can think of. That diverse set of abilities means we can win in a lot of areas.” For example, during the annual National Mascot Competition, Aubie compiles a video containing some of the highlights of his involvement over the previous year. Mike said, “At one competition a member of the Aubie Family was really into computers and video production. That year’s video was the best of any he ever submitted. Aubie blew the judges away.” It is also worth mentioning that not only does Aubie impress the judges, he also makes a lasting and positive impression on his competitors. “He’s always a leader,” Mike smiled. “I am confident other mascots strive to be like him. I call him the celebrity of mascots.” Auburn’s lively tiger is a nine-time UCA National Collegiate Mascot Champion.
Aubie has also earned for himself a number of other titles and awards throughout the years, including the UCA College Spirit Camp Champion, and the UCA College Spirit Camp Leadership Award. He was once selected to represent the United States as a member of the UCA in Tokyo, Japan. In 2016, Aubie was proclaimed winner of the Capitol One Mascot Challenge and brought home $20,000 for the Aubie program. He also belonged to the first class of collegiate mascots inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2006. Aubie’s appearances on the Jimmy Kimmel Show, Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and several television commercials were certainly memorable experiences, but it is worthy of noting that Auburn’s cherished mascot is not for sale.
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“Aubie will always be a symbol of everything that makes Auburn great. We don’t want to use him for advertisement, especially when it requires Aubie to sacrifice his positive attitude, or, really, any aspect of his personality. It wouldn’t be right to make him a money-making endeavor. Aubie loves everyone, and we want it to stay that way,” Mike explained.
Doing His Part In the early days of the Aubie program, he was invited to a small Alabama town to take part in a parade. In all of his rascally behavior, Aubie took it upon himself to climb aboard a fire truck riding in the line of floats and cars. As he waved to the crowd, capturing the attention of his audience in his usual silly manner, the firemen received word of an emergency and were forced to pull out of the parade. Aubie’s presence on the fire truck was unbeknownst to the driver, however, and Auburn’s prized mascot certainly was not a certified first responder. When the fire truck’s driver peered into the rear-view-mirror, he was quite surprised to see Aubie on board. The group of firemen had little choice but to drop him off and have him walk back into town. Lucky for Aubie, a policeman stopped to pick him up mid-trek. “That’s one of my favorite stories,” Mike said, as he reflected on other tales of mischief with Aubie in the center. “You never know where Aubie is going to be. His entrance is always grand. There have been so many funny things to happen to Aubie over the years.” While Aubie’s appearances generally last no more than one hour, the impression
he makes on a crowd is fantastic and long-lasting. Anyone who has attended an Auburn football game can probably recall him being dressed to the nines, toting an enormous sign with some hilarious tagline. Sometimes he is the torchbearer- the only renewing force in a stadium chock-full of more than 87,000 nervous fans. Auburn lovers of all ages rose from their seats in Jordan-Hare in 2015 as he donned Hawaiian, floral-patterned tourist clothes, danced around in cotton pajamas, imitated a piĂąata, and rocked other hilarious outfits. Somehow, without speaking, chanting, or singing, he can raise up the voices of a congregation in mere seconds. He has quite the busy schedule, jam packed with appearances more than 300 days out of every calendar
year, but Aubie never fails to make time for what is important. Aubie never misses a baseball, softball, soccer, or volleyball game. He is present at every gymnastics meet as well. You may encounter Aubie just about anywhere on campus, passing out t-shirts or Chick-Fil-A sandwiches for SGA, participating in the Tiger Walk on Football Saturdays, or rolling Toomer’s Corner after the Tigers win. He might pop in at an equestrian, swimming, or diving meet. He enjoys watching tennis matches and theater performances, too. Aubie has a permanent time slot for photos with President Gogue and friends in his suite at JordanHare during every home football game. Who is the go to when the athletic department plans a welcome ceremony for new recruits, or when it invites a special
guest to experience Auburn in all its glory? Aubie, of course. In summary, you can expect to see him just about anywhere orange and blue are proudly displayed. What really makes Aubie special, though, is that he goes above and beyond to share his warmth and compassion with those who need it the most. Just a few years ago, Aubie learned about someone with a very special need that might be met by the encouragement of the Auburn spirit. The family and friends of a terminally ill child had written the University, stating that the young boy so dear to them was in his final days. The child was an avid Auburn football fan, and his parents hoped that a word from
Auburn might lift him up in a very difficult period. The Aubie family wasted no time in making contact. Only a few days later, a very fortunate mascot was able to visit a very happy child. His parents were more than grateful that he was able to spend an afternoon with his favorite tiger, Aubie. Several days later, the little boy passed away, but his family cherished the memory of those hours when he experienced so much happiness and encouragement. This is the true spirit of Aubie- one of kindness, empathy, and thoughtfulness. Aubie appears at several annual children’s events as well. For example, he usually makes an appearance
as “Aubie Claus” during the month of December in Auburn. The Plains has never seen a more jovial Father Christmas. Parents bring their children to sit on Aubie’s lap, and for a small charge, usually around ten dollars, kiddos can take home a photo of the visit. Profits from purchased photos help members of the Aubie Family fund his trip to the UCA National Mascot Championship. Aubie also frequents events hosted by Auburn Clubs throughout the state. He would say that his favorite events are those in which he can brighten a child’s day, visit with the elderly, or raise funds for worthy causes.
Behind the Scenes As one might imagine, Aubie’s busy schedule dictates that he must be extremely thoughtful in his preappearance preparations. He has his very own director of Director of Scheduling, Director of Fundraising, Director of Publicity, and two advisors. It takes a lot of coordination to ensure his success, but things seem to always fall right into place. For Aubie’s helpers, like Mike Reynolds, involvement in the program is a gift: “I’ve been lucky to know Aubie as one of his advisors for the past twelve years. My children grew up with him, and I know he is a great guy,” he said. “There is something different about
him I just can’t put my finger on. He’s the best mascot in the world.” Mike’s office is adorned with photos of his favorite big cat. It is no secret they are great friends. “The neat thing is,” Mike started, “Aubie is everyone’s friend.” For those who would like to request an appearance by Auburn’s treasured tiger, a quick visit to his page on the University website generates an Aubie appearance request form. Do keep in mind that while Aubie makes appearances at no charge, he does not attend private or promotional events on behalf of Auburn University. Auburn students can also apply to join the Aubie Committee, a group that meets before each home game to create props. Aubie’s page does contain information about his 2016 calendar, which pays tribute to his campus and community spirit through photos of Aubie and his friends. Profits from calendar sales help purchase his props and costumes. Aubie’s supporters can also read about the latest trouble he has been into on his official Facebook or Twitter page.
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TRAVEL ICELAND R E Y K J AV I K
Iceland REYKJAVร K
The Sรณlfar (Sun Voyager) is a dreamboat, an ode to the sun. Intrinsically, it contains with
Iceland’s capital, ReykjavĂk, is a hot travel destination in a cool country. Boasting sites to explore year-round, you will not have lukewarm feelings toward your experiences in the land of fire and ice.
hin itself the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom.
Hallgrimskirkja Church
The City Reykjavik’s busy season is in July and August, when it’s easiest to get around, because of the lack of snow. There are many popular monuments to see in the capital, but one of the first buildings you will notice is the church Hallgrimskirkja. This church is one of the tallest buildings in Reykjavik and is the largest church in Iceland. Hallgrimskirkja was starting in 1945 and took 38 years to complete. Architect Gudjon Samuelsson designed the building to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland’s landscape. Guests can travel to the top daily, for a small fee, to get a view of the entire city and it’s surrounding mountains. A more recent architectural development is the Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre. Harpa was built in 2011 and has received numerous awards and prizes since their opening, most notably for its concert hall. The building is
covered from bottom to top with glistening glass- an architectural jewel reflected on the waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Travelers can stop in to see popular bands from around the world and Iceland’s popular music, theatre and dance artists. Reykjavik has a large variety of museums for travelers to explore as well. Visitors interested in the history and modern life of Reykjavik and Iceland can visit museums such as Vikin Maritime Museum, The Settlement Exhibition and The National Museum of Iceland. The Vikin Maritime Museum teaches all about maritime history. The Vikin displays a large variety of Viking-era artifacts found in Iceland, all the way to modern fish industry practices. One unique feature of this museum is that it is a former fish factory. The Settlement Exhibition uses multimedia to display and explain early life in Iceland and the history of its first settlers. The National Museum of Iceland holds permanent and temporary exhibitions.
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The permanent displays contain a lot of articles and information to educate visitors on Iceland’s heritage from settlement to present day. They strive to preserve their cultural heritage and push people to question what kind of things make a nation . The art enthusiast can get their fix at Iceland’s first art museum, the Einar Jónsson Museum on the outskirts of the capital. For those who are fans of contemporary art, The Living Art Museum shows a variety of emerging and progressive artists yearround. Museums and beautiful architecture is only a small part of what Reykjavik has to offer. The Tin Can Factory is a center of language and culture where you can “Meet the Natives”. Meet the Natives is a three-hour program where you learn how to speak the Icelandic language, enjoy traditional Icelandic cuisine and make your own traditional Icelandic pancakes in with historic cookware. All these sites in the capital are easy to walk to and if you need directions, no need to worry, most Icelanders speak English. Grab yourself a lopapeysa, an iconic Icelandic sweater design, and set out to explore the capital’s streets. If you get hungry along the way, Reykjavik has delicious food to offer. To start your day or get a sweet treat, drop in to the family-owned bakery and coffee house, Mosfellsbakarí. For the traveler who likes to grab a quick bite, hot dogs are a beloved food choice in Iceland. The capital’s harbor holds a popular hot dog stand, open since 1937, called Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. Icelandic hot dogs consist mainly of Icelandic lamb, along with a small amount of pork and beef. If you’re looking for more adventurous local fare, Café Loki is housed in the city’s cultural center right across from the Hallgrimskirkja church. At the cafe you will be able to find all of the unique coastal cuisine of Iceland from whale to fermented shark. End your evening in extravagance with a four-course meal at The Pearl’s restaurant, Perlan. The Pearl is a dome-shaped building made of glass and steel. During the day you can see Reykjavik from the Perlan restaurant, which rotates slowly every two hours. At night the dome is lit with 942 bulbs to resemble a starry heaven.
Harpa Concert Hall
Reykjavík
Basalt sea stacks near Vík í Mýrdal village
Traditional Icelandic food - þorramatur
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Icelanders created a lagoon with man-made walls. These walls allow ocean water to spill over and be heated with geothermal energy. The temperature of the main pool varies with the tide, so during high tide the water temperature may lower. If you enjoy higher temperatures, there are smaller pools in the lagoon that stay consistently warm. Visitors are free to switch back and forth between the open sea and the heated lagoon. If you desire a more intimate space by
The Outdoors If you feel like you’ve seen all that there is to see in capital of Reykjavik, or are simply a fan of nature, Iceland has a bountiful amount of natural beauty to offer. Staying close to the capital, you can enjoy the outdoors at the many beach sites in Reykjavik. While the North Atlantic Ocean tends to be rather cold,
Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
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the ocean, head to the Grotta Lighthouse. Located behind a wooden house near the lighthouse’s parking area is a foot pool heated by geothermal energy that can accommodate two to four people. This foot pool is an art installation by local artist Oluf Nordal. Enjoy warming your feet in this interactive art installation and soak up the beauty of the North Atlantic Ocean. A popular spot for those visiting the Reykjavik area of Iceland is the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa. It’s recommended to book your tickets at least three days in advance because of high demand and limited entry. Visitors to the Blue Lagoon can enjoy bathing in the naturally heated geothermal seawater and treat their skin with the area’s silica mud. Other amenities include saunas, steam baths, in-water massages and a variety of food and drinks. Sink shoulder-deep in the blue, steamy water and enjoy a refreshing drink from
Blue Lagoon
the Lagoon Bar, admiring the surrounding mountains. No matter the season, the Blue Lagoon is always an enjoyable visit. While you can relax and dine at the lagoon currently, visitors will be able to indulge in a full stay at the lagoon’s luxury hotel, scheduled for completion in 2017. For now visitors can enjoy the new amenities from the 2016 update, lagoon expansion and new silica mud mask bar. From the Blue Lagoon you can take off across black sands on an ATV tour up to the top of the mountain Hagafell. Take in a different perspective of the Blue Lagoon from the top of the mountain, as well as a view of the island of Eldey. Cruise back along the coastline and view historic shipwrecks peeking from the waters. The tour ends back at the Blue Lagoon where you can choose to enjoy a soak in the relaxing waters or continue to the next exhilarating adventure. There are many types of transportation back to Reyjavik. The Golden Circle is a popular driving route looping from Reykjavik to South Iceland and back to Reykjavik. Travelers can rent a car and create a day trip or take an organized tour to see some of Iceland’s famous landmarks. Traveling the Golden Circle allows for exploration of sites such as Þingvellir National Park. This national park is the location of the world’s first Parliament. The park also shows signs of where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly splitting apart and creating deep fissures in the ground. One of these fissures,
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Silfra, contains glacier water where some visitors go snorkeling or scuba diving. Haukadalur is the next landmark. This landmark contains two famous geysers called Geysir and Strokkur. The term “geyser” came from the geyser called Geysir in Iceland. Geysir no longer erupts, but Strokker still displays constant activity, shooting hot water 100 feet in to the approximately every 10 minutes. Past locals used this geothermal area to complete many activities such as washing clothes and cooking food such as boiled eggs. Icelanders have even buried dough under the warm earth and baked bread. Next, travelers can take a slight detour from the Golden Circle route and see the rushing Hvítá River tumbling in to a 100-foot crevice, creating Gullfoss waterfall. From afar you can admire the water rushing down and rising back up in to a thick mist that produces frequent rainbows. If you desire to walk the pathway that travels the edge of the falls, make sure you bring waterproof clothing to stay comfortable and dry.
Latrabjarg Bird Cliffs
Also located a couple of hours outside of Reykjavik is an area called Vik, Iceland’s southern most village. This countryside area is abundant with rolling green hills and black sand beaches. The population of the village averages at about 300 people and is the largest around for miles. The basalt lava that covers the majority of the area causes the black sand. Drive a few miles further from Vik and you’ll run across an area known as Dyrholaey. Here you can behold the architectural hand of nature and view the stone arch that extends in to the sea. The area is best viewed from the lighthouse, but if you are a fan of being close to the action, feel free to walk out on to the arch. The summer months draw a massive reserve of puffins, so you may have some competition for space on the arch during these months.
Seasonal Events
Although summer is the most popular season for travelers to visit, Reykjavik has much to offer during the fall and winter months as well. Many people flock to the area from September to April to try and capture a look at the Northern Lights. There are many places to enjoy the lights for an extended period of time. If the weather is opportune you can enjoy the view at The Pearl from the glass dome and the viewing deck. There are also options to go to sea from the Reykjavik harbor and dine on lobster to get a clear view of the lights. For the traveler who prefers land you can take a bus tour away from the city lights to get a clear view of the sky.
Gullfoss Waterfall
For the traveler who equates Iceland with it’s name and expects ice and snow, but can only make it during the busier summer season, every desire can be fulfilled at Langjökull glacier. This site is one of Iceland’s largest glaciers and offers fast-paced adventures such as snowmobiling at speeds of 40 mph across icy landscape to an exploration in to a remote ice cave. This site is located a couple of hours outside of Reykjavik, but is well worth the trip if you have the time to explore.
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Northern Lights at Mount Kirkjufell
If you are interested in Iceland’s music scene, the fall and winter months may have something to offer you. Although it does not produce music, the Imagine Peace Tower made entirely of light is lit every year on Viðey Island to honor the memory of John Lennon. Yoko Ono, the late Lennon’s wife, created the tower to honor him and remind people that peace on Earth matters most in life. You can take a short boat ride to the island to see the base of the tower or view the light as it beams up in to the sky from many different spots in the capital. Yoko Ono visits Reykjavik every year for the formal lighting ceremony on October 9th and the light stays on until December 8th, the day Lennon passed away. To get your music fix during the winter, look no further than Reykjavik. The capital hosts a large variety of music festivals during the winter months, making it a great spot to visit for any music lover. Iceland Airwaves is a well-known music festival held annually that spans over five days and showcases Icelandic and international music artists. Dark Music Days is a music festival hosting contemporary to new
music at Harpa Concert Hall during Iceland’s darkest period of winter, January 28th to the 30th. Electronic music fans can enjoy Sonar Reykjavik in the capital from February 18th to the 20th. These music events are only a few of the many music festivals held in Reykjavik every year. If you’re looking for an exciting place to start the New Year, Reykjavik is a popular destination. Iceland’s fireworks laws are relaxed for New Year’s Eve and the locals put on a massive fireworks display. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, a self-funded volunteer group of about 3000 people who make up 100 search and rescue teams, sells the fireworks in Iceland. All the proceeds from the sales go towards ensuring that the association’s teams have the best equipment to execute search and rescues. More than 1200 rescues happen in Iceland each year. A popular site for almost any viewing event, The Pearl displays a 360 degree view of fireworks all night long. If you know any locals, indulge in the local ceremonial New Year’s Eve feast with an Icelandic family. For travelers with no ties to the area, GJ Travel hosts a gala dinner
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at the Perlan. Here you will be able to enjoy drinks, dinner and immaculate views of the celebration while meeting others from around the world to this one location to celebrate the New Year. The fun doesn’t end at the gala. Reykjavik has a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages, where 10 bonfires are lit around the capital. This Middle Ages tradition stems from when fisherman would clean the house to ready it for the new year. They would burn all their old and unused items in a massive bonfire. After a few hours of singing and dancing, the locals head home to watch the New Year’s Comedy. It is a special show that is broadcasted annually since 1966 and covers the past year in satirical humor. After the show travelers can join the locals at the bars, which are open until 5 a.m. on New Years, and dance their way in to the first day of the new year.
Reykjavik and its surrounding areas have an astounding variety of views and activities to offer travelers of every age in any season. The land of fire and ice truly lives up to its name, containing everything from geothermal waters to massive glaciers in a small region of the country. Visitors of all types, from the outdoors enthusiast to the museum lover, will discover that Iceland’s capital is a hot travel destination.
The country straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, hands of igneous rock gripping to the diverging North American and Eurasian plates on both sides of the ridge. Iceland is an ethereal land that has drawn in many travelers to see it’s natural beauty, experience the growing music scene that produced musical talent such as post-rock band Sigur Ros and sites of geothermal activity.
Reykjavik has something for every type of traveler in it’s compact, charming capital.
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COSMIC INNOVATION
After 10 years of intensive research the Portuguese Siderale Scafusia is IWC’s most complex, and expensive timepiece thus far, uniting solar time with sidereal time – a time scale based on the Earth’s rate of rotation measured relative to the fixed stars – and astronomical displays in a single watch. The option of customization seals this already extraordinary deal – you’ll fly to the IWC headquarters in Schaffhausen for a personalized consultation. Apart from setting the coordinates to the clients chosen geographical location – thus a personalized constellation that shows the night sky relative to your position – there are over 200 design configuration to choose from. The timepiece is built-to-order only, with approximate one -year waiting time.
The IWC Siderale Scafusia cost: $824,000
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