Southern Tatler Issue 19

19 THE LAKE ISSUE

AUSTIN SINGLETON SINGLETON MARINE GROUP AUBURN / OPELIKA, AL MARCH/APRIL 2017

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.

MFun

a t a k i means

MIKATA offers a wide assortment of delicious sushi and hibachi entrees prepared right in front of you!

323 Airport Road Auburn, AL 36830 334.821.5305 mikatarestaurant.com

CONTENT

VISAGE

VISAGE

town

EVENTS AROUND

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND Marriott at Grand National, Opelika AL

22 DORMAN’S MARDI GRAS PARTY Dorman’s Home, Auburn AL

30 INKY JOHNSON STORY The Hotel at Auburn University, Auburn AL

32 ACROSS THE TRACK Zazu Gastropub, Opelika AL

34 MAYSARA WINE DINNER Amsterdam Cafe, Auburn AL

36 ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL The Red Barn, Auburn AL

38 WINE DINNER The Bottling Plant Event Center, Opelika AL

52

8 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

Custom built furniture

that's made to last as long as the memories you make around it.

www.SimplySouthernHomeDecor.com Simply Southern Home Decor

334.203.1992 181 Columbus Pkwy. Opelika, AL

CONTENT

FEATURES

LOCAL FOCUS

FACES

Ronnie Dennis

58

LOCAL FOCUS Alabama Fly Fishing

64

LOCAL FOCUS Krewe De Tigris

72

FEATURE STORY

AUSTIN SINGLETON

88

LOCAL FOCUS Weichert

78

FASHION Studio 3:19

116

T R AV E L

AMSTERDAM

NETHERLANDS

114

10 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

Singleton Marine - Blue Creek Marina 7280 Highway 49 South Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-8888

Singleton Marine - Parker Creek Marina 486 Parker Creek Marina Road Equality, AL 36026 (256) 329-8550

SingletonMarine.com

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 Jaena Norton Jamie Burnett

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Amanda Jones Anisa Patel Kenneth Ngo

P hotographer Glenn McCarley Andrea Newan Isaac Leverett Jamie Burnett Tracy Young

W riters

Amy Hudson Caroline Lentz Jelani Moore

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.

VISIT US!

OPELIKA OFFICE 1995 Pepperell Pkwy, Suite 2 Opelika, AL 36801 VALLEY OFFICE 207-B Fob James Drive Valley, AL 36854

334-705-8655

www.bracesbyallen.com

LETTER

the

from

PUBLISHER In putting together this issue of Southern Tatler, I’ve done a lot of reflecting on how far we’ve come since establishing our publication in 2012. We have evolved just as East Alabama has evolved, ad it is because our loyal readers and sponsors. Please allow me to sincerely thank you for supporting us.

In this springtime issue, we’ll introduce you to a few spirited men and women who, through hard work and dedication, have created prosperous businesses and companies facing even brighter futures. These individuals have have been excellent stewards of the gifts given to them by the local community and have been conscious to invest back into it.

Austin Singleton, President and CEO at Singleton Marine Group, has locations all over the United Sates, yet he still chooses to reside right here on the plains and beside beautiful Lake Martin. The people at Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties cultivated a realty and property management company which has earned an outstanding reputation in the Southeast and beyond. In a small town like Auburn, it is pretty amazing that they have consistently been named industry leaders since 2008.

Drew Morgan, owner at East Alabama Fly Fishing, hasn’t been running his fly fishing guide service for very long, but his clients are already sharing rave reviews of his daytime lessons on the warm, clear Tallapoosa River. Another Lake Martin admirer, Ronnie Dennis, invented The Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light and is now manufacturing and shipping them from a facility on his property just up the road in Dadeville.

And just for fun, we are introducing you to Barry Dorman, President of Krewe de Tigris, Auburn’s Mardi Gras Krewe, and introducer of the first ever Auburn Mardi Gras parade and tableau. Finally, we will take you on a virtual trip to Amsterdam, The Venice of the North, in our travel section.

I’m sure you’ll be just as impressed by our featured Auburnites and Opelikans as we were. Take the time to read their stories, and next time you’re in the market for a new home, a sharp new watercraft, a quality fly fishing lesson, or a long lasting underwater fishing light, do us a favor and give them a call. We are glad to call them friends of Southern Tatler.

-Matthew Tse

18 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

THE HUDSON FAMILY FOUNDATION ROOKIE READER PROGRAM The Hudson Family Foundation’s Rookie Reader Program is a book donation initiative that promotes literacy and the love of reading from a young age by donating books to children and youth-serving organizations throughout Alabama and Georgia. THE FOUNDATION HAS DONATED OVER 13,000 BOOKS TO CHILDREN AND WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS. Our latest initiative within this program is our Book Box Program. This program is designed to encourage children and parents to read. We have partnered with the Lee County Home Builder’s Association and they have designed and built and donated more than a dozen boxes.

These book boxes will be placed at businesses, non-profit and service organizations, in public parks and neighborhoods, and other suggested locations. Children and parents can take a book, read it, share it, and return it...or they are welcome to keep it!

@Hudson Family Foundation

@HudsonFamilyFdn

/HudsonFamilyFdn

To find our more about us or make a donation, please log onto our website at

WWW.HUDSONFAMILYFOUNDATION.ORG

LIFE

Action Stations

THEE FORKS RANCH, WYOMING

Experience living life like a cowboy, albeit a very apmered one, at this world-class lodge nestled in 80,000 hectacres on the Colorado-Wyonming border. Pry yourself away from the lavish spa, gourmet dining or roaring fired to take on the great outdoors with a spot of fly fishing or saddle up for a real cattle drive. www.threeforksranch.com

GLENEAGLES HOTEL, SCOTLAND The art of gentlemanly pursuits is traditionally and luxuriously delivered at this French-style chateau in the Scottish Highlands. A shooting school with expert instruction and guides on etiquette with arm guests with the skills to embark on a five-star deer-stalking or game bird-shooting experience. There are also three world-renowned golf courses on the 350ha estate, plus a falconry school and the opportunity to learn how to handle your own gun dog Stay in the Royal Lochnagar Suite and enjoy fine fare at the two -Michelin-starred restaurant.

www.gleneagles.com

QUALIA, AUSTRALIA Take a break from laps in the infinity poo at this tranquil private pavilion overlooking Australia’s stunning Whitsunday islands and hop in a helicopter for a round of golf at one of the world’s most spectacular courses. A golfer’s paradise awaits at the Hamilton Island Golf Club, with a challenging 18-hold championship course places precariously on an island complete with sprawling panoramic views over the Coral Sea.

MOTU TETA, TAHITI

www.yourdreamisland.com

Write your own castaway adventure at this private island in the South Pacific while learning how to spear-fish from a Tahitian guide. The catch is then cooked by your personal chef for dinner. Other activities include swimming with sharks, outrigger canoeing and kite surfing.

www.qualia.com.au

18 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

VISAGE

22

30

32

34

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND

DORMAN’S MARDI GRAS

INKY JOHNSON STORY

ACROSS THE TRACK

SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

36

38

52

54

M AY S A R A WINE DINNER

ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL

ALEXANDER VALLEY WINE DINNER

JUSTIN V I N E YA R D S WINE DINNER

VISAGE SUPER

BOWL

BENEFIT WEEKEND

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National, Opelika AL

February 3rd - 5th, 2017

22 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

23 M ARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE SUPER

BOWL

BENEFIT WEEKEND

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National, Opelika AL

February 3rd - 5th, 2017

24 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

25 MARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE SUPER

BOWL

BENEFIT WEEKEND

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National, Opelika AL

February 3rd - 5th, 2017

26 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

29,000 square feet accommodating all events with a capacity from 6 to 1,500 people.

Parties, conferences, weddings, exhibitions, private/social functions and more.

Take our virtual tour online!

614 N. Railroad Avenue. Historic Downtown Avenue

334-705-5466

Lisa@BottlingPlantEventCenter.com

www.BottlingPlantEventCenter.com

VISAGE SUPER

BOWL

BENEFIT WEEKEND

SUPER BOWL BENEFIT WEEKEND Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National, Opelika AL

February 3rd - 5th, 2017

28 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

VISAGE DORMAN’S MARDI

GRAS

PA RT Y

DORMAN’S MARDI GRAS PARTY DORMAN’S HOME, Auburn AL

January 21st, 2017

.30 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

31 MARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE INKY JOHNSON STORY

INKY JOHNSON STORY THE HOTEL AT AUBURN UNIVERSITY & DIXON CONFERENCE CENTER, AUBURN AL

March 24th, 2017

32 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

INVITE US IN AND LET US SHOW YOU WHY

WEICHERT works

Weichert, Realtors

®

Porter Properties #findahousemakeahometown

334-887-2070

www.PorterProperties.com 472 North Dean Road, Suite #200 Auburn, AL 36830 /WeichertRealtorsPorterProperties @Weichert.Auburn.Opelika /AuburnHomes

VISAGE ACROSS THE TRACK

ACROSS THE TRACKS BEER DINNER Z A Z U G A S T RO P U B, O P E L I K A A L

March 2nd, 2017

34 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

VISAGE M AY S A R A WINE DINNER

MAYSARA WINE DINNER AMSTERDAM CAFE, AUBURN AL

February 18th, 2017

36 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

37 MARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE ALABAMA

ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL

OYSTER

THE RED BARN, AUBURN AL

SOCIAL

January 28th, 2017

38 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

39 MARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE ALABAMA

ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL

OYSTER

THE RED BARN, AUBURN AL

SOCIAL

January 28th, 2017

40 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

41 M ARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE ALABAMA

ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL

OYSTER

THE RED BARN, AUBURN AL

SOCIAL

January 28th, 2017

42 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

35

+

YEARS EXPERIENCE

. r D e l a e V s e l r a Ch OUP R G P I MDV H G U CAL O I R N H I T L C , SUB S ICINE E D N E O M RGE HORM E L I C A C N I O T C N ICINE E D D E I M O I L G IN B TURA A N I N Z I D L L AN A C SPECIA I O R HY HYPOT

2160 Moores Mill Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 |

334-826-1704

VISAGE ALABAMA

ALABAMA OYSTER SOCIAL

OYSTER

THE RED BARN, AUBURN AL

SOCIAL

January 28th, 2017

44 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

VISAGE AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL

AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL M O O R E S M I L L C LU B, AU BU R N A L

January 31st, 2017

46 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

47 MARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL

AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL M O O R E S M I L L C LU B, AU BU R N A L

January 31st, 2017

48 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

VISAGE AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL

AUBURN YOUNG PROFESSIONAL M O O R E S M I L L C LU B, AU BU R N A L

January 31st, 2017

50 S O UTHERN

TAT L E R

Indoor Air Quality Experts 334-246-1062

www.Sensigreen.com HVAC Installation/Maintenance/Repair Spray Foam Insulation Plumbing

BECAUSE OF THE AIR THEY BREATHE Alabrma Heating and Air Conditioning Contractors Certification Card #12075 Alabama Refregeration Contractors Certification Card #52809 Georgia Conditioned Air License #CR110215

VISAGE ALEXANDER VALLEY WINE

DINNER

ALEXANDER VALLEY VINEYARDS WINE DINNER THE BOTTLING PLANT EVENT CENTER, OPELIKA AL

January 19th, 2017

52 S OUTHERN

TAT L E R

53 M ARCH/ APRI L

2017

VISAGE JUSTIN VALLEY WINE

DINNER

JUSTIN VINEYARDS WINE DINNER THE BOTTLING PLANT EVENT CENTER, OPELIKA AL

February 16th, 2017

54 SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

We offer complete pet grooming services in a self-contained, climate controlled van at your home for both dogs and cats.

Your pet will receive personal one-on-one attention from the groomer.

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your first appointment for new clients

Call today to schedule your first appointment.

334-740-9909 | ZoomToGroom.net | zoomtogroom@gmail.com

SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

BREATH FACES: Ronnie Dennis

LOCAL FOCUS: East Alabama Fly Fishing Krewe De Tigris Weichert Realtors

FACES RONNIE DENNIS

Ronnie Dennis

&

GREEN

MONSTER

AROUND HERE, IN WHAT WE BELIEVE TO BE ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST GORGEOUS SETTINGS, SPRAWLING LAKE MARTIN RESTS PEACEFULLY STILL AND QUIET.

A lakeside abode is filled with sounds of laughter and conversation, and just down the Tallapoosa daring swimmers brave the still-cold March waters. The winds of springtime are finally blowing in, and March comes in like a lion, out like a lamb. The lake’s favorite season is just around the corner. Summer will bring its blazing sun and long, tranquil days in just a few weeks. It is getting warm enough to sunbathe, now, and people talk for hours on their back porches and piers about anything and everything. Families share picnics on the lakeshore, and Dad fires up the grill for homemade burgers and houseseasoned steaks. On special nights, families take the boat out to watch the sun set from the center of the lake. A yummy meal follows at a local dockside restaurant.

THE MOON SITS HIGH IN THE SKY, AND ALL OF A SUDDEN, A GLOWING GREEN LIGHT COMES UP FROM THE FLOOR OF THE SHALLOW LAKE

And then there are the fisherman.

The water level is still a bit low on Lake Martin, but that doesn’t stop them from casting a line.

The water is warming up and in late March, the bass are spawning under cover, congregating under piers, docks and boat houses. Other fish hang out there, too, and the weather is just too beautiful not to be outside, standing on the edge of the landing or hanging feet off its edge. For those most passionate fisherman, rod is in hand and a cooler is beside them. They stay out until the sun sinks back into it hiding place. For the most faithful rodmen, however, nighttime is the best time to fool those sought-after marine fellows.

The moon sits high in the sky, and all of a sudden, a glowing green light comes up from the floor of the shallow lake. The fisherman can see what he could not see before, now. The fish are darting here and there.

They are even coming closer to the pier, like the bright green glow has some kind of magical quality. Tonight will be a good night for the fisherman.

Every now and again, you hear of a businessman or inventor who has come up with a brilliant productan implement that is completely new to the scene and uniquely useful. The inventor believe his product will take the market by storm, and he pours time and effort into the development of his product, simply because he believes in it. For some, that process seems too arduous, and they let great ideas slip away. For one longtime Auburn resident, Mr. Ronnie Dennis, however, his goals came to marvelous fruition. Ronnie stayed the course and has watched his Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light become a hit among fisherman and lakeside homeowners. In speaking with Ronnie, it was evident that he could not be more thankful for the family and friends who have supported him in recent years. He was excited to share his story, and it seemed as though he had told it hundreds of times, but his voice was still filled with joy. I asked him to start from

the beginning. “How’d you end up here?” I asked. He didn’t mind filling me in.

Ronnie is originally from Baldwin County. During the summer season, his family would stay at their Lake House on Lake Martin. “It was hard not to fall in love with the area,” Ronnie said. “Even when I was young I knew I wanted to live out here.” Ronnie graduated

“EVEN WHEN I WAS YOUNG I KNEW I WANTED TO LIVE OUT HERE.” from Auburn University at Montgomery with a degree in nursing, then took a job at East Alabama Medical Center in the Intensive Care Unit. After he married his wife, Tera, they moved to a home on Lake Martin.

Today, the couple has two children, thirteen-year-old Olivia and eight-year-old Drake, and life on the lake is good. Both kids attend school at Lee Scott Academy. Ronnie and Tera don’t mind making the twice

daily trek into town, either. “We’re used to it by now,” Ronnie laughed. “It’s nice to feel a part of the Auburn community too, even living on the lake.”

Ronnie loves to fish, and reeling in a swimmer under the glowing moon is one of his favorite ways.

Ronnie’s idea for his Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light came about when he decided he needed some underwater lights for his dock to improve visibility in the water. He also didn’t mind the idea that an underwater light might have the luminosity that would draw fish right to the dock. With nothing commercially available, he concluded that he would have to create a lake light on his own and took it upon himself to do more than a little research. Ronnie consulted several engineers in the industry before finally coming up with a design that worked. By combining their expertise and his vision, he was able to create an exceptional product that had not been seen before. It wasn’t just any old overhead beam or lawn light, it was something that could shine from under the surface. He tested the light for an entire year before applying for a patent, then began formulating a plan to sell it.

“IT’S NICE TO FEEL A PART OF THE AUBURN COMMUNITY TOO, EVEN LIVING ON THE LAKE.” So, what exactly is The Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light? The design is genius. The light is weighted so that it is sits on the lake floor. It emits a twenty-five to thirty-foot diameter of glowing green light, providing ample visibility of underwater fish hanging out close to the dock or pier. It is a great solution for people living in areas were above-water lights are not permitted, or where unwanted pests and insects are a problem. The light’s bulb is a 175-watt mercury vapor bulb and attracts Bass, Catfish, Crappie, Tarpon, Snook and countless other bait fish. Better yet, it can be placed in freshwater or saltwater, so there is plenty of flexibility for placement. The Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light also eliminates what

Ronnie calls the “refraction issue.” “Put a pier or dock light above the water and half the light will reflect off the water just as the sun does,” he explained. “With our underwater lights there is reverse refraction. Light is bouncing off the underside of the surface and back into the water.” This increases the light’s efficiency significantly, and the lake floor becomes a sea of emerald illumination. The Green Monster also gives what it lights up a lot of visual appeal and sets the scene for a blast of a nighttime lake party.

At first, Ronnie sold his lights on eBay. He laughed, “I was still working as a nurse in the ICU. We were selling about one light every week on eBay, and to me that was great. It was extra income, and we had money to go out for dinner.” Once eBay sales picked up, however, Ronnie developed a website and things “really got kicking.” He was operating out of an 8x12 storage facility then, but to his delight, he began to outgrow it. Eventually Ronnie quit his steady income nursing position at the hospital. “For four years I’ve been gainfully unemployed,” he smiled. “It’s been fun.”

Ronnie said it was a decision he had been hoping to

make for some time, but prior to becoming a nurse, it was not something easy to imagine in his career’s beginnings. The fact that the light secured its reputation and people began placing orders was a huge blessing from his perspective.

Ronnie moved his operation into a 5000 square foot metal building four years after starting the company. Unfortunately, the facility was hit when an Alabama tornado super outbreak wreaked havoc across Lake Martin and countless cities and towns in the state in 2011. On April 27, The Green Monster Fishing Light’s manufacturing area sat directly in one storm’s path of destruction, and it was completely destroyed. Later, the Lake Martin tornado, which touched parts of Elmore Tallapoosa, and Chambers Counties was classified an EF-4. Winds reached a maximum speed of 170 miles per hour, and seven people were killed. Ronnie lost everything, but the Dennis family stayed protected. They were well insured and rebuilt the facility shortly after. In fact, Ronnie says that in the grand scheme, things are even better now.

He decided to relocate the facility to his backyard. The new location cost much less to operate. Two cable and insurance bills were reduced to one, and Ronnie and Tera were given a tax write-off for the business space they consumed on their own property. Even better, the commute to and from work changed from a lengthy drive to a walk taking all of several seconds.

“It was a scary time, and lots of decisions had to be made, but ultimately we decided that having the facility on our own property would be the wisest choice.

Because 99% of our business is internet based, we don’t require any retail space. We cut our overhead significantly, too. It was a hurdle to overcome, but in the long run it was a blessing.”

Today the Green Monster Underwater Fishing Light is used all over the world. The company has thirty-two distributors and is gaining notoriety.

“WE HAVE LIGHTS ALL OVER THE UNITED STATES, IN AUSTRALIA, IN THE BAHAMAS… YOU NAME IT. I’M SO THANKFUL THAT I CAN SUPPORT MY FAMILY OF FOUR WITH THIS ENDEAVOR. MY WONDERFUL WIFE IS ABLE TO BE AN AWESOME STAYAT-HOME MOM, AND WE CAN GIVE OUR KIDS A LIFESTYLE THEY ENJOY.”

Ronnie says he wouldn’t be where he is today with Tera’s loving support. The Dennises live life for their children and enjoy spending free time at home on the water.

“IT WAS A HURDLE TO OVERCOME, BUT IN THE LONG RUN IT WAS A BLESSING.”

LOCAL FOCUS EAST ALABAMA FLY FISHING

The Tallapoosa River Drift Boat Trip is described as a full day floating from Horseshoe Bend at Jaybird Creek boat launch. Fish for spots, redeyes, bluegill, and redbreast with a fly rod while enjoying a peaceful float down on of the cleanest and prettiest rivers in the South.

East Alabama Fly Fishing with

Drew Morgan

DREW MORGAN, OWNER AT EAST ALABAMA FLY Drew’s dad kept an old fly rod in the FISHING, WAS RAISED IN garage which belonged to his grandfather, THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH OF so fishing was always someone where on ALABAMA IN DOTHAN. HE his radar, even if only embedded deep HAS ALWAYS FOSTERED in his subconscious. As a child, Drew AN APPRECIATION OF enjoyed catching fish in creeks and rivers THE OUTDOORS, BUT with conventional spinning rods. It was BECOMING A FLY FISHING just something he did- a fun pastime.

GUIDE WASN’T SOMETHING HE SET OUT TO DO UNTIL HE WAS A WORKING , however, when he rediscovered his ADULT. love for fishing about ten years ago RIGHT

His small hobby evolved into something more HERE IN EAST ALABAMA.

Drew graduated from Auburn in 2009 with a degree in Secondary Social Science Education. He loved the area, so he accepted a position at Auburn Junior High School teaching ninth grade World History. Drew befriended a coworker who was a fly fisherman, and began talking about the great opportunities for this type of fishing in creeks and rivers in the local area.

Drew laughed, “I was surprised when my coworker told me I should learn to cast a fly rod for bass and other fish around here. It wasn’t really something I had thought about, but it sounded like a good idea to me.”

Drew learned that the currents in the Tallapoosa and the creeks that flow into it actually give more life to the fly when fishing using the technique.

I ’VE BEEN HOOKED SINCE THEN,” he said. “No pun intended.”

Drew told us the fishing in Auburn, Opelika, and surrounding areas is much better than most people realize. He explained: “within a three-hour radius you can pretty much catch whatever you want to catch in warm water. Fly fishing is kind of divided into two worlds- cold water and warm water fishing. Fly fishing in cold water is good for catching trout, while bass, bluegill, striped bass, and carp are found in the warmer waters.”

Drew realized he had a talent for fly fishing and entertained the though of starting a guide service. He figured guiding was a lot like teaching, so perhaps it would be a good fit. With a little encouragement from his coworker and fellow fly fishing aficionado, Drew bought a boat. But this wasn’t the typical john boat that most people would expect. He purchased a drift boat, a small, raft-like craft which is good for navigating in shallow water. Soon Drew was teaching happy guests the ins and outs of his sport, providing for them an experience which was a bit different from the fishing excursions they’d been a part of before. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and word began to spread that Drew was an excellent teacher.

Drew’s fly fishing guide service is enjoying success in its second full year.

I’ m not trying to get rich. it’s just

I enjoy doing

something

and I may as well be doing it,” “I’m not trying to get rich- it’s just something I enjoy doing and I may as well be doing it,” he said.

“I still love teaching my students history at Auburn Junior High. This is simply something I can do on the weekends and in the summer for extra income. It’s really a lot of fun.” Drew has all ready taken several guests on trips in 2017 and several more day trips are on the books for the summer season.

Just in case our readers needed a run-down on how fly fishing differs from traditional fishing with a rod and reel, we asked Drew to give us a little background on the sport. We assure you he is a well-informed source! He knew we didn’t know much, so he started from the beginning: “Fly fishing in Alabama used to be really big, but when the bass boat craze hit, that changed for a while.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, everyone took their fast-moving bass boats out on the lake and put their fly rods away. ‘That’s what Grandpa did,’ they’d say.

The people born in that generation are adults now- in their late 20s, 30s, 40s- and they see fishing differently again. Fly fisherman are coming back around.”

Drew paused, and we asked him to explain the draw to the sport. “Why fly fish when you can use a more traditional (and more popular) reel method?”

“It takes more patience and sometimes a little more skill. The best way I can explain it is with an analogy. In the south we love to deer hunt. Anyone can take a rifle with him on a hunt and eventually find a deer to take. It may necessitate some waiting, but most people can do it. Fewer people go deer hunting with a bow. It tends to be much more difficult, and in turn, has a much more rewarding payoff because of the skill level required. Some have called it an art form. That’s how I think of fly fishing. If you love to fish, learn to use a fly rod and add it to our arsenal.”

Drew’s favorite fishing spots are situated along the main stretch of the Tallapoosa River near Dadeville and Alex City. This 5.5 mile stretch is located above Lake Martin. There are a few smaller creeks and tributaries in close proximity to the area where Drew and his guests wade into the water to fish rather than casting from the drift boat, however all are within the Tallapoosa River drainage.

The four main fish species which may be easily caught in the Tallapoosa region are the Striped Bass, Spotted Bass, Bream, and Redeye Bass. Every once in a blue moon, a large mouth bass shows itself. “The redeye are my favorite to fish for,” Drew said. “They love living in the current and they’re much more aggressive. They’re a challenge to catch They have a unique and beautiful

color.”

Drew’s trips are carefully organized and planned with his guests in mind. He provides a variety of options for half day or full day excursions, but will accommodate individual requests when possible. The East Alabama Fly Fishing website provides a description of services and an accompanying price schedule. The Tallapoosa River Drift Boat Trip is described as a full day floating from Horseshoe Bend at Jaybird Creek boat launch. Fish for spots, redeyes, bluegill, and redbreast with a fly rod while enjoying a peaceful float down on of the cleanest and prettiest rivers in the South. This trip is available for one or two people and includes shuttle service, lunch and snack, equipment, tackle, instruction, and photography.

Wading trips, available for the full or half day, are enjoyed

with “wet feet” and take place in spotted bass and redeye streams. Drew also offers one-hour fly rod casting and fishing and fly tying instructional courses. Drew captains a “pleasure cruise” for those who like to float down river without a rod in hand.

Most trips leave Horseshoe bend around 8:00 a.m. and are back by around 4:00 in the afternoon. “We take it slow and take the time to fly fish the right way.

All guests have to do is show up and I take care of the rest,” Drew said. Naturally, the fish don’t always cooperate, but the beautiful stretches of river, all shoals, high bluffs, rock outcroppings, and caves are worth the trip alone.

“Sometimes it almost feels like we’re floating out west,” Drew smiled. “The Tallapoosa doesn’t flow through any big city or metropolitan area, and it’s very clean with very

little pollution. The water there is pretty clear for a warm water river. It’s a different experience from what most people are used to.”

Fly fishing takes some getting used to, no doubt.

Conventional fishing uses a heavy weighted lure. When one casts his line the weight of the lure pulls line from the rod. In fly fishing the weight of the line is what it allows it to travel when cast. The fly at the end of the line may come in a variety of presentations and can be fashioned from a number of materials: feathers, deer hair, foam, synthetic substances, or other components. The weighted line allows casting of flies of various weights. These flies may be referred to as “bugs” or “bait fish.” All of this in mind, fly casting is not something that can be mastered on the first attempt. Drew says that’s okay, though, because it is easy to go out in the yard and practice. “Even if the fish aren’t biting, you can work on your cast.”

Drew wants his customers to know that they are in a no judgment zone when aboard the East Alabama Fly Fishing drift boat.

I don’t like promising fish, but I do promise a great time.

Usually we catch some fish, anyway, but I want the trip to be enjoyable for other reasons too. I think being a good guide takes three character

traits:

optimism,

patience, and confidence. I try to

adapt to my clients based on their needs, and no matter where they are, I want them to feel comfortable in this learning environment. I want everyone to leave the trip having

learned

something

new, whether that be a new tactic or a new strategy.”

Some of Drew’s clients come to him and within a short time can cast forty feet, while some can’t cast at all. His female clients seem to enjoy fly fishing just as much as their sons and husbands do. He laughed, “I actually find that men sometimes like to overpower the rod a put a lot of muscle into it. Sometimes women are better at casting. Fly fishing is sort of a finesse sport, and women tend to have a little more finesse.”

Drew is a sponsor for this year’s Tallapoosa River Bass Bass benefiting Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing. Project Healing Waters, an initiative which originated in the western United States, has a new East Alabama chapter and provides opportunities for disabled American veterans to go on fishing trips. The Tallapoosa River Bass Bash will raise awareness of the group and will hopefully get their new chapter into the public limelight. Mountain High Outfitters has donated several prizes for participants. The Alabama Cooperative Extension Service is also taking an active part in the event via its River Kids program. River Kids provides recreation activities for young people, teaching them how to paddle and float canoes and kayaks down river. East Alabama Fly Fishing is excited to be be involved with both of these worthy causes. Drew invites Southern Tatler readers take part in the Bash.

Bass Fishermen and Fisherwomen may click on a sign up link on his website’s homepage. It costs only $30 to enter, with an entry deadline of May 11th. $30 buys participants a t-shirt, goodie bag, and a chance to win

several fabulous door prizes. The Bash takes place on Saturday, May 13th.

With the summer season approaching, Drew’s appointment book is quickly filling up. Mid march to mid July is prime time as far fishing on the Tallapoosa goes. “Experiences are better gifts than objects,” he said. “A fly fishing trip is a great idea for a birthday or anniversary, even as a retirement present.” Photos, pricing, and descriptions of services are all available at eastalabamaflyfishing.com. Click on the “media” link to see some footage from a few of East Alabama Fly Fishing’s recent trips or select “Fishing Reports” to view some fly fishing tips ad diagrams from Drew Morgan himself. East Alabama Fly Fishing may be reached via telephone at 334-797-7362.

This spring, take Drew’s advice (Southern Tatler’s, too), and don’t neglect the outdoors. Auburn and greater East Alabama is home to some of the Southeast’s most stunning natural wonders. Take in the wildlife and plant life around you, catch a few fish, or simply float at a leisurely pace down our own Lake Martin. Too many of us take for granted the land and waterscape lying in wait. for more information on East Alabama Fly Fishing visit: www.eastalabamaflyfishing.com or call 334.797.7362

Experiences are better gifts than objects�

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.”

LOCAL FOCUS KREWE DE TIGRIS

Krewe de In February, Auburn’s first ever Mardi Gras parade, sponsored by the newly organized Krewe de Tigris, was held in the downtown district.

Everyone had a grand time as East Alabama residents young and old crowded College and Gay Streets. Twenty-four floats were carefully crafted by spirited Auburn citizens in the weeks before, and parade participants wore brightly colored garments of sparkling purple, gold, and green. The inaugural Mardi Gras parade was attended by an estimated six thousand people and is SURE TO BECOME AN ANNUAL TRADITION.

Auburn’s Mardi Gras Krewe, Krewe de Tigris, is the brain child of its president, Barry Dorman, and friends.

“When you hear about or see a Mardi Gras event taking place, everyone is always so happy.

Mardi Gras happens on a very large scale in New Orleans and Mobile, but there is really no reason we can’t celebrate Mardi Gras on a lower scale here in town. We saw that there wasn’t a Mardi Gras parade in Auburn and decided we’d have one. It was really as simple as that,” he laughed.

Fifteen years ago, Barry and his wife, Celeste, had dinner with their close friends, Michael and Nancy Kincaid. Nancy had been the Mardi Gras queen in her parents’ own Krewe in New Orleans as a young woman. She’d grown up with an appreciation for Mardi Gras culture, and enjoyed reminiscing about its carnivals, tableaus, and extravagant parades. Barry and Celeste frequented New Orleans during Mardi Gras weekend and so enjoyed the atmosphere that they longed for the festivities at home. The Dormans and Kincaids formed their own Krewe, named the Krewe of Kindor, a morphing of their Kincaid and Dorman surnames. Their hopes were high that the Krewe would gain membership and that a grand Mardi Gras celebration would be an annual Auburn tradition, but as time passed, their priorities seemed to shift. It was evident that they didn’t have the necessary time to devote to the Krewe of Kindor as young parents. The Krewe of Kindor unfortunately never took off, but the itch for a Mardi Gras culture on the plains never left Barry and Celeste.

Just last January, as they enjoyed dinner with friends, Barry and Celeste suggested the idea once more. “We’d been wanting a parade in Auburn for such a long time,” Barry said. “We just started talking casually about the idea. We asked a few friends if they’d like to help us get Krewe de Tigris off the ground, and they were all on board.” The Krewe’s founders held a meeting

the following Monday night to discuss logistics, and the rest was history. They vowed to meet the first Monday night of each month thereafter, then started coming together more frequently as ideas emerged about the 2017 parade, the accompanying Mardi Gras ball, or tableau, and several other events. That first group was very small but quickly grew. Founding members were:

Barry and Celeste Dorman

Mike and Robin Reynolds

Anthony and Mary Helen Martin

Mark Kantor and Michelle Pollack

Adris and Courtney Ludlum

Blake and Patricia Dorman

Tyler and Chelsey Settles

Mary Ann Stiles and Craig Wahlberg

Chris and Kathy Hughes

Beth and Steve Witten

Chris and Charlotte Kincaid (Chris is the brother of Michael Kincaid.)

Founding members were encouraged to bring one couple interested in Krewe de Tigris membership to each Monday night meeting.

It did not take long for the Krewe to grow to a membership of 120.

On a side note, Krewe de Tigris is named fittingly for the powerful tiger, a symbol that resonates deeply with East Alabamians and supporters of our marvelous university. The Krewe’s website, Krewedetigris.com, describes the mighty tiger of their namesake:

Krewe de Tigris was born of myth and magic. For over 5,000 years, the tiger has

represented POWER, PASSION, AND A FIERCE

SPIRIT. Magnificent in a yellow-gold coat striped with black, the tiger paces the plains of Auburn with grace‌

The Krewe’s official mythology goes on to say, “The spirit of our Krewe exists in the dreams of a people who share a love of place and a sense of history. These dreams vest in the mysteries of a land were children dig for buried treasure in the red clay, where friends are as family, where time is measured by church bells, where celebrations erupt on a street corner and trees are draped with wisps of white.

To victory! To the tigers who prowl as Krewe de Tigris.”

All age groups and walks of life are represented in Krewe de Tigris. “Newlyweds, senior citizens, and all have a great time- we’re just in it for a good time,” Barry said. During float decorating and parade planning, multiple builders and contractors joined the group and offered their assistance. Mary Ann Stiles provided expert decorating advice and direction, while local business owners and organizations spent hours perfecting their own parade structures. Pat and Dan Grider, owners at Skybar Café downtown gave the Krewe permission to hold the tableau in their venue. Founding Krewe de Tigris member Chris Kincaid and his daughter, Molly, were named the King and Queen of the evening.

Barry said, “We all came together to create something that Auburn had never seen before, and it turned out so well. When people climbed down from their floats at then end of the parade so many turned to me to say, ‘did you see all the kids smiling?’ I knew it was well worth the time and effort at that point.”

Local downtown merchants were fans of the parade, too, as attendees stayed downtown and enjoyed fabulous food and nighttime shopping.

Aubie served proudly as the parade’s Grand Marshall, and Thompson Tractor pulled the official Krewe de Tigris float. The Tuskegee Marching Band gave parade-goers a show with their spirited routines. If those Auburnites standing on the sidelines had closed their eyes, they would have sworn they were celebrating in New Orleans on Fat Tuesday. Beads and candy littered the streets, but that was perfectly acceptable. Children were

happy to collect leftovers at the parade’s close.

The morning after the parade and tableau, David and Robbie Hyde hosted brunch in their home with all the classic Cajun Mardi Gras dishes.

Shrimp and grits was a crowd favorite.

Krewe de Tigris will hold a Kentucky Derby party in May which will be hosted at the home of doctors Jim and Nancy Golson. The Krewe will also attend a Halloween costume party in October.

Barry said, “The wonderful thing about this group is that everyone is so willing to get involved. We don’t serve much of a purpose other than be good friends to one another, and that’s all right with me.”

Krewe de Tigris officers are: Barry Dorman, President, Chris Kincaid, Vice President, Tyler Settles, Treasurer, Kathy Hughes, Secretary, Mary Helen Martin, Facebook Page Manager, Austin Stiles, Web Page Manager, and Ann Pittard, Historian.

For more information, visit krewedetigris.com.

Keep an eye out for this spirited group. If you were not able to attend this year’s parade, mark your calendar for next year’s Mardi Gras weekend. If the Krewe’s inaugural celebration was this much fun this time around, we can only imagine what it will be in the years to follow. for more information on Krewe De Tigris visit: www.krewedetigris.com

spirit of our Krewe

The exists in the DREAMS of a people who share a love of place and a sense of history. These dreams vest in the MYSTERIES of a land were children dig for buried treasure in the red clay, where friends are as family, where time is measured by church bells, where and trees are draped with

erupt on a street corner

celebrations

wisps of white. To victory! TO THE TIGERS WHO

PROWL AS KREWE DE TIGRIS.

LOCAL FOCUS WEICHERT REALTORS

Growing up ON THE

Y

PLAINS

Weichert Realtors ou might not know that the well known and very respected Weichert RealtorsPorter Properties of Auburn has evolved tremendously since the singular Porter Properties was established in 1992. The WeichertPorter home base is located on North Dean Road in Auburn, but the positive impact the company makes on those individuals and businesses it touches stretches far beyond the plains. We met with the men and women working behind the scenes at Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties in late February. They shared with us their plans to keep investing in the Auburn community, and gave us a short history of their brand. These dynamic individuals are among the top property managers and real estate brokers in the industry, and there is little doubt in our minds that it is because they love what they do.

H

oward J Porter, Jr. founded H.J. Porter & Associates in 1976.

At that time, H.J. Porter was focused solely on appraisals and consulting.

In 1992, Howard teamed up with Mr. Philip Minor.

With Philip’s experience in appraising real estate, he was the perfect partner with whom to form Porter Associates Southeast, a real estate appraisal company. Philip took over the appraisal and business management sides of the endeavor, while Howard concentrated more on development work.

Howard’s wife, Katherine, jump started the property management company at about the same time. For several years, Katherine independently oversaw property management, Porter Properties Inc., and made the Porter Properties name one not to be forgotten.

The firm was restructured in 2000 with the addition of Matt Rice as a partner and shifted its focus to include commercial sales, acquisition of commercial properties in Auburn, Birmingham, Montgomery, and Huntsville, management of multi-family properties, leasing and management of Auburn real estate, and development of climate-controlled self storage facilities. The newly expanded Porter Properties LLC became well acquainted with the inner workings of the market, and in 2004, they jumped into the single-family property sales market with their development and sale of several condominiums.

Mill Creek Condominiums, Longleaf Villas, and Magnolia Plaza in downtown Auburn were among the first of these.

In 2008, Porter Properties formally affiliated itself with

Weichert Realtors to focus exclusively on sales, bringing on Ms. Stacey Sanders as broker. Porter Properties LLC moved its focus to property management, leasing, and development.

Stacey began working in real estate in 1997 and served as the Lee County Association of Realtors (LCAR) President in 2006.

In 2007 and 2015, Stacey was named Realtor of the Year from LCAR. She currently serves as Treasurer of the Alabama Association of Realtors, a group comprised of approximately 13,000 members, and will the association’s president in 2019. Stacey has continued to be a standout in the industry, and says that Weichert RealtorsPorter Properties has been a great place to

People move back here all the time,” Howard said. “Young men and women graduate and come back for more. It’s our close to proximity to I-85, our wonderful university,

the impressive industrial base, public schools, and golf courses, plus so much more. IT IS A SMALL TOWN with a city

believe Auburn keeps people both mentally and physically active, too. feel. I

hone her talents and abilities. Until that inaugural year when Porter Properties added Weichert to its signage, there had been only three agents carrying residential sales. Once Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties got off the ground and could refocus, many new agents came on board. Today, thirty-three agents are setting records for the firm in and around Auburn.

When asked whether they have faced any significant challenges since 2008, Howard, Philip, and Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties’ third owner and associate broker, Matt Rice had to laugh. “In retrospect, 2008 was probably the worst time we could have picked to expand,” Philip told us. “It was the worst time on paper, but in many ways it was the best time for us, because the ideal time to invest was when everyone was trying to

come out of the downturn. We were actually able to grow when others were contracting.” They also faced a challenge in reviving and re-centering their focus, especially as they took on third party management of several properties. The common thread, however, as Howard, Philip, and Matt led Weichert RealtorsPorter Properties in revitalizing the local industry, was that they were opportunistic. They became experts in the field, managing not only commercial and residential properties, but also homeowner association management. They continued developing single family and multi family housing, then moved forward in taking on low income housing, office buildings, assisted living facilities, and more than a dozen industrial properties. Today it is hard to believe that the folks transforming the industry at this noted firm sprung up from the roots planted deep by Howard’s original mom and pop appraisal company.

The firm has consistently been named one of Weichert’s top 15 agencies. Their conference room walls are adorned with trophies and plaques bearing the names of top producing agents right here in Auburn. Howard, Philip, Matt, and Stacey are quick to say that the East Alabama community has been a fabulous support system, and that the people in this town have helped them achieve a level the things they couldn’t do on their own.

Howard, Philip, Matt, and Stacey all chose to raise their families in Auburn, and they truly believe in the power of the Auburn spirit.

“People move back here all the time,” Howard said. “Young men and women graduate and come back for more. It’s our close to proximity to I-85, our wonderful university, the impressive industrial base, public schools, and golf courses, plus so much more. It is a small town with a city feel. I believe Auburn keeps people both mentally and physically active, too. ” Auburn’s explosive growth in recent years has certainly not hurt business at Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties, and they haven’t done any slowing down.

“So, what sets you apart from competitors in a community like Auburn?” we asked our interviewees.

They exchanged glances for a few moments, then Howard spoke

up and said something which defined for us the true focus and mission of the firm: “Coming from a variety of different backgrounds, particularly with our experiences in real estate appraisal, we have unique expertise from every angle. We are a full service real estate company in every sense of the word. We do a little bit of everything involving real estate around here.” Stacey added that the positive team environment that is fostered at their office promotes great things, too.

EVERY DEPARTMENT IS OUTSTANDING. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, ACCOUNTING, HUMAN RESOURCES, MARKETINGEVERYONE WORKS SO HARD AND IT’S FUN TO SEE WHAT WE ARE ABLE TO DO AS A TEAM. Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties employees enjoy an annual planning day and attend the Weichert Awards each year. Events like these are special opportunities for those on staff at the office to come together in celebration and recognition of both individual and team accomlishments. Stacey talked more about the awesome dynamic at Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties: “Our National Affiliation with Weichert brings us a lot more business as far as companies that communicate and send us referrals- things like that. We are also fortunate to take full advantage of Weichert’s excellent marketing strategy and their national training tools. But the biggest factor in our success is the people

we work with who each bring something different to the table. Many of us have analytical backgrounds in real estate and property management, and we are able to have clarity about our most important decisions.

Our team is hard to beat for that reason.”

Howard holds the CCIM designation, or, in other words, is a Certified Commercial Investment Member. CCIM designees must complete extensive coursework in financial and market analysis, and they must have proven expertise in the commercial investment real estate realm. Philip and Matt have decades of

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THE GREAT PEOPLE THERE AND BEGAN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE WONDERFUL THINGS THEY DO FOR OUR CITY. I AM EXCITED TO SAY THAT THEY ALREADY HAVE SO MANY THINGS PLANNED FOR 2017. THESE PEOPLE KNOW THAT BY BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY TO LIVE AND WORK IN, A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY FOR ALL RESULTS.

experience in the industry as well, and are equally as excited to see Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties through to what is sure to be another decade of success on the plains.

Because the the good people at Weichert RealtorsPorter Properites are so appreciative of the Auburn, Opelka, and surrounding communities, they have vowed to give back in 2017. We spoke to the firm’s social media consultant, Amy Register, about their philanthropic goals for the year. Amy had many interesting tidbits to share:

So, what exactly does Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties have up their sleeves for 2017?

WHEN MY FAMILY AND I MOVED HERE ALMOST FIVE YEARS, THE INDIVIDUAL WE CONSULTED WITH FOR OUR MORTGAGE RECOMMENDED A WEICHERT AGENT. JUST BY COINCIDENCE, I CAME TO KNOW

First, they’re teaming up with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. They hosted a kickoff event for the Chamber’s Auburn Young Professionals group in January. Another kickoff party is planned for January 2018. Just this month, they’ve been packing backpacks with the Jason Dufner foundation for underprivileged children in Lee County. Katherine Porter serves on the board for The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama and is planning Lee County’s first Big Green Egg Fest, “Eggs on the

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Plains,” which will take place on April 1st. The festival will take place at Watson’s Backyard Living and will raise funds to benefit the Exceptional Foundation. Attendees will sample a variety of delicious meats cooked on Big Green Eggs.

Demonstration grills will be sold to the public at a discounted price.

Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties is also a sponsor of Youth for Christ, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, The Lee County Literacy Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, local food banks, Alabama Rural Ministries, Auburn Parks and Recreation, Children’s Harbor in Alex City on Lake Martin, and Auburn’s annual Wine, Women, and Shoes event, among others. “We are blessed to be able do what we can, and we want to keep supporting the people who have supported us over the years,” Howard explained.

Take Southern Tatler’s word for it. Howard, Philip, Matt, and Stacey, their thirty-three amazing agents, and their entire office staff know what it means to serve a community well. Even in H.J. Porter’s small beginnings, Howard Porter was searching for ways to invest in Auburn’s future and stay connected. His efforts paid off, and he accepted nothing but the best when it came to building a solid reputation. Their vision for the future is even brighter.

Next time you pass the the Weichert Realtors-Porter Properties office, perhaps now you’ll feel that you know Howard, Philip, Matt, and Stacey on some level, and perhaps you’ll stop in to say hello.

One of their outstanding agents would be happy to help your family find a home in Auburn or Opelika or that commercial or investment property for your business. for more information onWeichert Realtors visit: www.weichert.com or call: 334.887.2070

SOUTHERN

TAT L E R

FEATURE 88 _________________________ AUSTIN SINGLETON

FEATURE AUSTIN SINGLETON

T

AUSTIN SINGLETON Singleton Marine Group

hanks to the pleasantries of a warm southern climate, East Alabama and Western Georgia are the outdoor enthusiast’s ideas of paradise. And for those who appreciate the vastness and mystery of the freshwater marine realm, gorgeous Lake Martin is a dream come true. What better way to explore its grandeur than aboard a watercraft?

The Lake Martin loyals at Singleton Marine Group know a lot about the natural wonders in this part of the state, and they’ve devoted their days to cultivating in their patrons a passion for being on the water. The funny thing, however, is that while Singleton Marine Group’s roots lie right here near the Plains, its reputation as a top boat marine dealer in the industry spreads far and wide across the entire United States. I’ll bet you didn’t know that they’ve got locations in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Kentucky, Texas, and Florida- fortyfour to be exact. But Phillip Singleton, the company’s founder, certainly did not start out with so much on his plate. For more than twenty years, Singleton Marine

Justin Shields

Austin Singleton

Matt Clark

has been cultivating what started as a small mom and pop operation into a connected, multi-milliondollar company. We sat down with Austin Singleton, President and CEO at Singleton Marine, to talk about Singleton Marine’s awesome evolution and how being a life-long Auburnite and East Alabama business owner has provided him with an amazing degree of opportunity in his industry.

that time, Blue Creek was to be a 100-boat dry stack storage facility with a ship store, two service bays, and a new boat sales department. Blue Creek Marina thrived, and Mr. Singleton saw that his efforts were paying off.

Austin joined his father at Singleton Marine in spring of 1994 when he was 20 years old and attending Auburn University. For four years, Austin managed the service department, his father’s only employee. “It was just something I naturally fell into,” he laughed. “I’m thankful that I started working for my dad. For the first few years, it was just the two of us, and I learned a lot.”

Phillip Singleton founded the company in 1988 when he saw a need for a boat shop in his locality. Austin said that when his dad’s boat would tear up, it was easier for him to trade it in than to get it properly fixed.

Mr. Singleton knew he could fill a niche by starting with some of his accumulated boating equipment and opening a small marina on Lake Martin. He purchased a trailer park and gas station on Highway 49 in Dadeville and began construction on Blue Creek Marina, situated on the lake’s southeastern shore. At

In 1997, the Singletons opened a second location on Lake Martin at Parker Creek in Equality, Alabama.

They added a 2000 square foot ship store, new fuel docks, and a 184-boat dry stack storage facility.

15000 square feet of space was dedicated to Parts and Service. That same year, ground was broken on a 9000 square foot Parts and Service facility and additional

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dry stack storage at Blue Creek. At that time, the Blue Creek and Parker Creek Marinas sold boats by several major makers: Dynasty, Riviera, Regal, Crownline, Mako, Suncruiser, Lakescraft, and Harris Flotebote. They catapulted themselves into the high-end boat market when they came on the scene as retailers of the highly sought after Cobalt boats.

A 10000 square foot showroom was added to Blue Creek Marina in 1999, which meant that Singleton Marine could showcase 23 boats in a climate controlled and air-conditioned space. They began establishing rapport as leaders, and in 2001 were actually able to purchase a Cobalt dealership in Atlanta. Singleton Marine may not have had a store by that time in Atlanta, Georgia, but that didn’t keep Austin and his team from attending the Atlanta Boat Show in a 10 foot by 10 foot booth, right next to a gentleman selling steaks. By 2003, however, Singleton Marine had opened the original Cobalt Boats of Atlanta on Holiday Road in Buford, Georgia, close to Lake Lanier.

“

Around that time, Austin brought in Justin Shields, of Opelika, to serve as a Finance and Insurance Manager and Sales Representative at Blue Creek and Parker Creek. As Singleton Marine grew in stature, Austin began traveling on a regular basis, and Justin became the “home base” guy. Two years later, Austin recruited Matt Clark, of Opelika, to work in Singleton Marine’s Service and Storage Departments. Justin and Matt’s prior experience in the automobile sales industry meant they brought something new (and beneficial) to the table, and they’ve been permanent fixtures since then. Between 2003 and 2006, Singleton Marine purchased and rebranded three more marine sales locations, one along the Georgia-South Carolina Border on the Keowee, one in Montgomery, and one on Lake Oconee in Georgia.

Singleton Marine partnered with Carver and Marquis Yachts in 2010 to open the Singleton Marine Yacht Center on Lake Lanier at Holiday Marina. A private dock at the Yacht Center boasts an office for five and can accommodate boats sized 21-100 feet and beyond. 15000 commercial slips are available within a five-mile radius of the Sales Dock.

The relationships we have been able to form with our neighbors are so valuable to us

Today, Singleton Marine has grown to an impressive 44 locations, but the Blue Creek and Parker Creek Marinas remain important a part of Lake Martin and its surrounding communities. Singleton Marine has been in what Austin calls “acquisition mode” since the early 2000s, purchasing dealerships and forging relationships with all the major boating brands. Austin is now CEO of what is called OneWater Marine Holdings, a marine dealer and consolidator which resulted when Singleton Marine and Legendary Marine merged in April 2015. In that year alone, OneWater acquired American Boat Brokers in Atlanta, Rambo Marine in Birmingham and Huntsville, and Captain’s Choice Marine is Columbia, South Carolina.

“

As Singleton Marine has experienced explosive growth in recent years, it has also cemented its reputation as a top dealer in the world. It is the second largest marine dealer in the world and has been named the number one worldwide dealer of Cobalt, Regal, Harris, Malibu, Axis, Sea Hunt,

“

Everglades, Chris-Craft, and Yamaha jet boats. In 2016, Boating Industry Magazine named Singleton Marine the 2016 Dealer of the Year for sales and customers service, overall business leadership, management, and performance. The really cool thing about Singleton Marine, however? Its success has taken the industry by storm, but all the while the two original hubs on Lake Martin have continued to grown and thrive, and Austin, Justin, and Matt still live in the Auburn area. Austin says he is thankful for East Alabama’s continued support:

We thought it would be fun to open a restaurant where they could pull up in their boats, walk onto the pier and into the restaurant, then have a nice lunch or dinner. There are not that many places to eat right on the lake, either, so people are really enjoying the convenience and the setting.

“In the beginning when we opened the Blue Creek and Parker Creek Marinas, the Auburn community did not have a huge representation on Lake Martin. We had lots of customers who were coming from Birmingham and Atlanta. Today, though, there are so many people living in Auburn and Opelika who go to Lake Martin on the weekends and during the summer. It takes about twenty-two minutes to get to Dadeville from Auburn, and I think people appreciate that beauty like this is only a few miles away. The relationships we have been able to form with our neighbors are so valuable to us.”

Austin, Justin, Matt have devoted a lot of time and energy to growing the company, and they’ve faced their fair share of challenges, but they are quick to say that it has and continues to be a lot of fun. “No one drives out to one of our dealerships to look at a new boat saying ‘gosh, I have to buy a new boat today!’ or ‘I wish I didn’t have to be on the lake today!’” Austin laughed.

“We get to sell to people who are not buying something out of necessity. They’re buying toys!” Austin and a business partner, Mr. Herb Winches, were recently able to open one of only a few restaurants on Lake Martin called The Landing at Parker Creek. “Herb and I had a vision for the restaurant and were happy to see it come to fruition,” Austin said. Mr. Winches has much more of a hands on role in running the restaurant. “We love the lake and our customers love the lake,” he said. “We thought it would be fun to open a restaurant where they could pull up in their boats, walk onto the pier and into the restaurant, then have a nice lunch or dinner. There are not that many places to eat right on the lake, either, so people are really enjoying the convenience and the setting.” The restaurant’s chef, Rob Teel, whose resume includes The Ritz Carlton, has created a delicious and reasonably priced menu for casual dining on the water. The Landing has been open for less than two years, but it is already a hit. Austin says that the Landing is a regular

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“

We get to sell to people who are not buying something out of necessity.

They’re buying toys!

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hangout for patrons of Parker Creek Marina, and he recognizes that his success over the years has opened the doors for new endeavors like the restaurant. “That’s the fun part of doing what I do,” he said. “The growth is exponential when you can start small and build up like we did. Business is good and the unique opportunities we encounter are even better.”

A wakeboarding apparel brand, called OneWake, also emerged from Singleton Marine thanks to Austin’s constantly evolving vision. OneWake has water sports pro shops on Lake Lanier, Lake Martin, and Lake Oconee. An online shop, OneWake.com, offers wakeboard and wake surfboards, life vests, ropes, handles, GoPro cameras, and other items. Austin opened Terminus Wake Park in Cartersville, Georgia in 2013. The park provides a way for participants to enjoy towed water sports without a boat through an innovative cable system. Wakeboarders, wakeskaters, water-skiers, kneeboarders, and other water sportsmen frequent the park.

Back at home on Lake Martin, Singleton Marine offers day camps and surf camps multiple times throughout the summer. They also host three to four wakeboard clinics every season. Local children get to learn to wakeboard and surf behind Singleton Marine boats alongside several pro riders from the OneWake Team.

Austin, Justin, Matt, and the rest of the Singleton Marine enjoy giving back, too, and they do this through a number of community outreach efforts. Singleton Marine is an annual supporter of Camp Star, a day camp for youth in southeastern Tallapoosa County and northwestern Lee County. Singleton Marine provides a boat for Camp Star’s use each summer. They also support the Alabama Sheriff ’s Girls Ranch in Camp Hill. Matt chuckled when he told us about several local athletes and sports teams which Singleton Marine sponsors: “We’re pretty much suckers for sports. We are happy to support the Lee Scott Academy baseball team, Auburn High’s baseball team, and several other teams around Dadeville and Eclectic.” Singleton Marine sponsors two local fisherman on Lake Martin. Alex City Guide Services charters Stripe Bass fishing tours, and Singleton Marine sponsors two of their boats.

That’s the fun part of doing what I do,” he said. “The growth is exponential when you can start small and build up like we did. Business is good and the unique opportunities we encounter are even better.

Singleton Marine will host a kickoff party at its Lake Martin-Parker Creek Marina location in midApril in celebration of recent renovations. They’ve installed twenty-four-hour fuel pumps at this location, as well as at Blue Creek, a huge draw for lake traffic in need of gasoline. The Parker Creek showroom has also been revamped, and Singleton Marine cannot wait to show it off. Justin says there will be music to enjoy and food for all. “We’d love to have a great turnout for that event. We really want people to see what we’ve been working so hard on,” he said.

Last year, OneWater purchased locations in Southeast Florida, Kentucky, Houston, Texas, and the Florida Panhandle. It was also named “Dealer of the Year” by Boating Industry Magazine. Since January, it has taken on a dealership in Ft. Myers, Florida as well as 11 outlets previously owned by Grande Yachts in New York, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. OneWater doesn’t plan on slowing down.

“Did you ever believe that you would be the leader in your industry, especially starting so small in the Lake Martin Community?” we asked Austin. “Honestly, it kind of just happened. We have been fortunate to rise the top like we have. I want to thank everybody who has supported us around here. There is a reason I have stayed right here in Auburn all these years. I graduated High School from Lee Scott Academy. My kids go there now. My wife and I are raising a family here because we love it.”

. We have been fortunate to rise the top like we have. I want to thank everybody who has supported us around here. There is a reason I have stayed right here in Auburn all these years. I graduated High School from Lee Scott Academy.

My kids go there now. My wife and I are raising a family here because we love it.

FASHION Studio 3:19

FASHION STUDIO 3:19

FASHION STUDIO 3:19

GIFT IDEAS FOR ENTHUSIASTS OF THE

water

1

SMOKE HOLLOW GRILL FOR PONTOON BOATS

A MUST HAVE for pontoon day trips on the Lake!

Extreme Marine Products has modified the legs of the grill to work with their Universal Grill Bracket System. You can still use the legs of the grill when the System isn’t in place, like at a picnic. Simply remove the System and you’re good to go! The Universal Grill Bracket System is designed for Pontoon boats with non-standard railing (not 1.25” square) and for Pontoon boats with closed fencing (where the metal sheeting runs from the floor to the top of the railing). If you have round railing, please contact us, as we have a product designed specifically for that type of railing.

Arnell's Extreme Marine Products partnered with Outdoor Leisure Products to offer the Smoke Hollow 205. The universal brackets work with open and closed pontoon fencing and can be mounted safely to your pontoon boat to enjoy a cook out right on the boat.

The grill features:

• 305” of cooking surface • 205” removable stainless steel cooking grid • 100” chrome plated warming rack • 12,000 BTU “U” burner • Exterior temperature gauge on lid • Large, easy access stainless steel drip tray • Push button ignition • Legs fold in for portability • Locking lid for transportation and storage • Uses 16 oz propane canisters • Stainless Steel body

The Universal Brackets adjust up to 4.75” in width.

They are easy to install and remove and they are incredibly strong. They are made of marine-grade Stainless Steel and will not rust. You can also use them with our other Pontoon accessories, including Rod Holders, Cup Holders, Lantern Holders, and Arch Support System.

To Order, contact Extreme Marine Products at 417-833-5600 or at info@arnalls.com and we will help make the best fit for your boat model. www.shop.arnalls.com

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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

2

MB GREENE BOAT TOTE

Moores Mill Monograms

The perfect boat tote with a waterproof interior.

Also pictured is the vertical essential and the small zip to hold small items, sunscreen and cel phones!

Boat Tote Features 25 1/2” W x 8 1/2” D x 16” H Canvas with waxed cotton finish Lined with turquoise detailing Wipes clean with damp cloth Features exterior zipper pocket Available at Moores Mill Monograms

Moores Mill Monograms

1888 Ogletree Rd Ste. 150, Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 329-5848

• • • • • •

3

EMINENCE TROPICAL VANILLA DAYCREME SPF 32

SPA ELEVE

Use this tropical daily moisturizer and UV blocker to treat your sun-kissed skin. Infused with zinc, this cream uses hydrating shea butter and the fragrant aroma of vanilla to care for your skin with the defenses of natural SPF. Organic and safe sunscreen for the whole family.

SPA ELEVE 1575 Professional Parkway, Auburn AL 36830 (334) 821-2846

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4

YOEBI WINE GLASS CUP HOLDERS The Yoebi Wine Glass Holder is perfect for holding your wine glass on a sunset cruise.

The Yoebi fits into most cup holders making easy placement for your wine glass, margarita, champagne or mimosa. A must have for wine enthusiasts and lake lovers everywhere.

Easy placement and no worries of tipping, breakage or using paper cups.

Fits most 3 1/2� diameter cup holders.

Available in 3 colors: Black, White, and OffWhite. www.yoebi.com

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THE HUDSON FAMILY FOUNDATION ROOKIE READER PROGRAM The Hudson Family Foundation’s Rookie Reader Program is a book donation initiative that promotes literacy and the love of reading from a young age by donating books to children and youth-serving organizations throughout Alabama and Georgia. THE FOUNDATION HAS DONATED OVER 13,000 BOOKS TO CHILDREN AND WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS. Our latest initiative within this program is our Book Box Program. This program is designed to encourage children and parents to read. We have partnered with the Lee County Home Builder’s Association and they have designed and built and donated more than a dozen boxes.

These book boxes will be placed at businesses, non-profit and service organizations, in public parks and neighborhoods, and other suggested locations. Children and parents can take a book, read it, share it, and return it...or they are welcome to keep it!

@Hudson Family Foundation

@HudsonFamilyFdn

/HudsonFamilyFdn

To find our more about us or make a donation, please log onto our website at

WWW.HUDSONFAMILYFOUNDATION.ORG

5

PICTURE FRAME WITH METAL ARROW

OLIVER HENRY

Creative Co-op’s design team travels the world for inspiration, taking the best elements of their experience and translating them into a creative, unique assortment that caters to a broad variety of tastes.

4x6” Photo Frame w/ Metal Arrow, 13”L x 11-1/2”H, 2 Styles available

OLIVER HENRY 2272 Moores Mill Rd #210, Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 821-2846

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SOUTHERN TATLER SOUTHERNTATLER.COM

THE ONLINE GUIDE TO SOUTHERN SOCIETY

SOUTHERNTATLER

DINING

SOUTHERNTATLERDINING.COM

IN THE WORK

LATEST ISSUE

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

Coming soon, Southern Tatler Dining will be the new dining guide for local citizens, as well as those visiting, the East Alabama area.

STAY UPDATED

Southern Tatler will constant update our online visage section. Bringing you the latest parties pictures around town

>>MORE ONLINE SOUTHERNTATLER.COM -Online Version of Southern Tatler -Weekly Pictures of Local Events -Newest Business Additions to Local Area & MORE

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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.

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(334) 887-8502

sreaves@alfains.com www.alfainsurance.com/scottreaves

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Call Alfa®. The best agents in the business.

AO16

TRAVEL AMSTERDAM

AMSTE

RDAM AMSTERDAM, THE VENICE OF THE NORTH, IS THE LARGEST CITY IN THE NETHERLANDS, JAM PACKED WITH FLOWER MARKETS, OUTDOOR EATERIES, AND ADULT STORES THAT MANY AMERICANS MIGHT FIND JUST A LITTLE TOO PROVOCATIVE.

based upon the size of their dwelling but rather by the distance their houses or businesses span relative to the canals. Such architecture provides Amsterdam with a unique character which is unmatched in continental Europe.

S

panning an area of slightly less than 85 square miles, Amsterdam proper packs a lot into a relatively small space. The houses are narrow in width but extend backwards, in some cases an entire city block. This is because Amsterdam is a canal city. Much like Charleston here in the United States, residents of Amsterdam are taxed not

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For the meat lover, Amsterdam is one of the best European cities to visit.

It seems that there is an Argentinian steak house on every corner. The steaks are generally served with an accompanying plate of frites, or, as we say here in the states, french fries. Fries are a favorite side dish throughout the Netherlands, traditionally served with a generous portion of mayonnaise.

It seems a little odd that Argentinian steaks from thousands of miles away are all the rage with Amsterdammers, but this heavy south American influence dates back to the days when Argentina was more or less controlled by the Dutch East India Company.

Chartered in 1602, the Dutch East India company was not only the world’s first transnational corporation, but was also the first company to sell stocks

CANAL and bonds which quickly brought vast wealth to the Netherlands as well as cultural influences from around the globe.

If you happen to visit Amsterdam in late March through May, your visit will not be complete without a stroll through the famous Dam Square where the annual tulip festival is held. Dam Square, the historic center of old Amsterdam, is transformed into a sea of blooms for the festival, with over 200,000 potted tulips on display. The festival celebrates the beginning of the tulip growing season. This flower has become a national symbol of the Netherlands, a phenomenon dating back to the 1500s. Tulips were one of the only plants that thrived in the harsh environment of the low countries, and they became an economic staple for the country. It is said that at one point, certain varieties of tulip bulbs would sell for 10 times what a craftsman or laborer could make in a year. Though the price of the flower has seen drastic decline, Amsterdammers still celebrate the flower for its beauty and historical significance.

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SINGEL The Dutch have long been famous for their art.

This tiny nation, reclaimed from the sea, was been home to some of the world’s most influential artists, such as Rembrandt, Hals, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.

It is well worth the seventeen euro admission ticket to see the the magnificent collection of traditional Dutch art at the famous Rijksmuseum. For admirers of impressionism, the Van Gogh museum is also a wonderful place to spend a few hours. It houses over 200 original works by the master himself along with paintings by some of Van Gogh’s contemporaries.

As is the case in many northern European countries, a trip to the Netherlands can be a bit pricey. The average hotel room will cost you anywhere between 150 and 350 euros a night in Amsterdam, although you may have to pay a bit more if you would like to stay close to the city center.

Street food can be had for ten to fifteen euros, but expect to pay a little more for a sit-down meal at one of Amsterdam’s delicious eateries. Since Amsterdam was a nation quite literally built on the sea, many traditional Dutch dishes are seafood based. Even if fish is not your forte, every visitor to Amsterdam should try the famous pickled herring. You can find these salty treats from vendors on almost every main street corner. To wash it down, grab yourself a cold Heineken, the national brew of the Netherlands.

Heineken is an Amsterdam based company which employs a substantial amount of the city’s workforce.

In fact, Heineken is the largest brewery in all of Europe, producing over 188 million hectoliters of the famous light beer every year.

The Heineken experience is the perfect way to learn more about the art of brewing, should you want to do more than sample one of these iconic brews at an outdoor cafe. The tour will take a little over an hour and details how the beer is made, bottled, and transported worldwide. The entire tour is very

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interactive with lots of hands-on exhibits.

At the conclusion of the tour, each person is given two complimentary beers which may be enjoyed at the famous Heineken rooftop bar overlooking the city. You will also leave with your own personalized Heineken bottle which makes for a great souvenir.

Every visitor to Amsterdam is encouraged to visit the historic Anne Frank house. The visit is a sobering reminder of the fates of so many of the Netherlands’ Jews during World War II. Visitors can walk behind the revolving bookcase where Otto Frank and his family hid from Nazi occupiers in the early parts of the war. Although the family was eventually discovered after being betrayed by a neighbor, the memory of their harrowing experience lives on in the famous Diary of a Young Girl, or, as it is better known today, The Diary of Anne Frank. The quarters where the Frank family lived for two years in hiding have been preserved exactly as they were the day the the Waffen SS raided their home in August of 1944. With the exception of their

father Otto, the entire family perished in various concentration camps just months before Europe was liberated. After the war the grief stricken Otto returned to Amsterdam to find Anne’s diary which had been carefully hidden by a family friend. Upon the Diary’s publication it quickly became a national treasure.

ANNE FRANK STATUE AT THE ANNE FRANK HOUSE

Canal tours are an excellent way to see the city and relax. For a very affordable seven euros one can catch a ride on one of the many low boats fitted with glass ceilings which provide excellent visibility for viewing the city. Amsterdam is home to over sixty miles of canals that once provided local merchants an efficient way to transport cargo through the congested city. The historic houses on the canal are several stories tall, and almost all have a large window on the top floor outfitted with an outdoor pulley which

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could quickly lower goods to the boats below. The canals are lined with houseboats, many of which are also full time residences. One can also find houseboat lodgings for rent for just over 100 euros a night. This is a unique and relatively affordable way to spend your nights in Amsterdam. Most rental boats come with two bedrooms, a small living area, and a toilet for a much lower rate than your average hotel.

The best way to get around the city is by bike. In fact, there are over 800,000 bikes in Amsterdam proper.

That’s more bikes than people, mind you. Like the rest of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is very flat, making biking easy and enjoyable. One will find that traveling by bike is often faster than hiring a cab since bikes have an easier time navigating the narrow and often congested streets.

Guided bicycle tours are also very popular and a great

way to see a large portion of the city in just a few hours.

If you are not pressed for time, there are countless day and half-day excursions provided by local Amsterdam tour companies. One of the most popular is a visit to The Hague and the quaint village of Delft. In The Hague, visitors can see the Dutch Houses of Parliament as well as the International Courts of Justice. Just a short drive from The Hague is Delft, home to the Royal Delft pottery. This pottery, known as Delftware, is known and sought after world wide for its iconic beauty and marvelous craftsmanship. The pottery is still made by hand by skilled craftsmen who have been perfecting their art in the same location since the early 17th century. Delftware is easily recognizable by its white background and painted on blue figures. Although expensive, a piece of original Delftware provides an excellent souvenir through which to remember your time in the Netherlands.

Another excellent excursion is a day trip to the villages of Volendam and Marken. This will give you the chance to experience the stunning countryside of the lowlands as your bus drives through typical Dutch polders and along narrow dikes. Located north of Amsterdam on the edge of the river Zann, this region is windmill country.

Volendam was once part of the North Sea and is a product of the land reclamation, an art perfected

by Hollanders long ago who felt a bit cramped in their small country. The name Volendam literally means “filled dam�. Windmills, many of which have been in operation for hundreds of years, pump water out of the lowlands, over the dikes, and back into the sea. Volendam is known for its still vibrant fishing community, scrumptious cafes, and the traditional Dutch clothing still worn by many of the residents. On your way back to Amsterdam you will pass through Marken.

This quaint village was once an island, but like Volendam, the land surrounding Marken has since all been reclaimed. Marken feels as if you have taken a step back in time. The luscious landscape is dotted with grazing milk cows which

Most international visitors to the city arrive via the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol which is a short nine kilometers from the heart of the city. It is one of the larger European Delta hubs and therefore offers direct flights to and from nine major American airports. When you arrive in Airport Schiphol, it will probably be easiest to catch a ride on the train which runs from the airport directly to Amsterdam’s Central Station. The train runs twenty-four hours as to accommodate all travelers, and the ride is only about fifteen minutes long. For the more budget minded traveler, it is always a good idea to compare flight prices from the Airport Schiphol to those at the Eindhoven Airport. Often travelers will be able to find a less expensive flight into Eindhoven, but you do have to account for ground transit cost because it is about 120 miles from Amsterdam. If you choose to fly into Eindhoven, you will want to catch bus 401 form the airport to the Eindhoven train station where you can then board a train to Amsterdam. The train ride from Eindhoven is affordable at around twenty euros and only takes about eighty minutes.

still provide milk for several local cheese factories, and residents of Marken still live in the traditional wooden houses painted green.

One of the most famous areas of Amsterdam is De Negen Straatjes, or in English, The Nine Little Streets. The nine streets run between two of the most prominent canals in Amsterdam, the Prinsengracht and Singel. The streets are home to countless boutiques and upscale gift shops. De Negen Straatjes is also a great place to find some of the traditional sweets that the locals love so dearly.

Among the most notable of these is the decadent apple tart and the fabled Dutch dark chocolate truffles. The little nine streets are also home to many fashionable clothing stores, making it a wonderful place to find all sorts of traditional Dutch apparel for the shoppers on your trip.

Europeans love their parks, and Amsterdammers are no exception. As a way to break up the urban monogamy that comes along with living in such a large and and congested city, many Amsterdam locals spend a great deal time in Amsterdam’s largest green space, Vondelpark. When in Amsterdam, grab yourself a traditional Dutch lunch and join the ten million annual visitors for a picnic in the park. Here you will see local children playing sports, Dutch dog lovers out for a stroll with their furry friends, and even the occasional street performer. The park also offers several playgrounds if you happen to be traveling with a little one in tow, an open air theater, and multiple outdoor cafes.

A visit to Amsterdam is well worth the money and the planning. You may just decide it is your new favorite destination. This spring, enjoy the tulips, the art, and the busyness of one of the world’s most beautiful canal cities: The Venice of the North.

WORKING WINDMILLS IN THE SUBURBS OF AMSTERDAM

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C O N C I E R G E

Belassi B3R The B3R Sport is without rival. The 3 cylinder 1602cc turbo charged power house delivers an astonishing 315hp and is without a doubt the most powerful production PWC in the world to date.

Relentless power and performance aside, the Sport comes with Cruise Control, Variable Trim System, Brake and reverse and a GPS based digital dashboard showing Turbo Boost Level, Sport/Wake/ Eco modes and so much more.

Add the 95 litres of storage, a towing eye and adjustable sponsons, the Sport is the ultimate PWC. value: $25,000

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Spring has Sprung at A·T…new offerings abound!

Introducing our new

Weekly Specials

sunday

tues day

THURSDAY

FROM 11AM-2PM

FROM 5:30-9PM

FROM 5:30-10PM

Brunch is back and features your breakfast & lunch favorites along with an omelet & carving station & decadent dessert bar

The same pasta night you love now features 1/2 price bottles of select wine to compliment your favorite house made pasta

Build your own 10” wood-fired pizza for $10 while enjoying $2 domestic & $5 craft beer drafts

241 S. College Street, Auburn, AL 36830 · (334) 844-5140 · www.auhcc.com/ariccia @HotelatAuburn

SINCE 1946

111 South College Street, Auburn • 334.821.7375 The Shoppes at EastChase, Montgomery • 334.386.9273 Eastern Shore Centre, Spanish Fort • 251.338.9273