In a converted Coca-Cola warehouse, the Opelika Chamber of Commerce board members, community leaders and guests gathered for Business Over Breakfast with guest speaker coach Tony Barbee Aug. 25.
Attendees buzzed in anticipation of Barbee's speech at the Event Center Downtown.
"The Business Over Breakfast program is always a big draw," said John Wild, president of the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Board. "They really do a good job getting speakers. People are starving for some AU basketball information, so coach Barbee was an exciting choice."
Among the community leaders who attended the breakfast were Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Lee County Commissioner Robert Ham and Sen. T.D. Little.
Jones said Barbee's dedication, teaching talents and knowledge are reflected in his title as 2010 Conference USA Coach of the Year.
"There is definitely no lack of energy and effort," Jones said. "He seems to be very focused."
Barbee began his speech by saying he was blown away by the spirit of the Auburn family.
"You start to live and breathe the Auburn family," Barbee said. "It's something special. It takes your breath away."
Barbee described his hopes and goals for the team. He also addressed the recent setbacks he's experienced in his short time at Auburn.
"As I take over, we've got some challenges," he said, "Things are never easy coming in the door."
But Barbee said not all of the challenges were negative.
"Things are never that good, and never that bad," Barbee said. "Reality lies in the middle."
Barbee said the basketball program is in a rebuilding phase, but he is excited about taking over in the new Auburn arena.
When he initially opened the floor to questions, there was silence.
"I love it," he said after the pause. "When you're undefeated like I am right now, nobody's got questions."
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