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Auburn Facelift

(08/30/13 7:03pm)

Most of us know the cozy strip of downtown Auburn to be the very core of this city. College Street and Magnolia Avenue mirror the University with the city. Thousands of Auburn students, residents and visitors walk the sidewalks and drive the streets of the downtown area. It's home to most of us, whether it be where we go for dinner, out for entertainment, to get to school or to the stadium. Auburn's downtown epitomizes the approachable yet exciting environment all Tigers know and love. This is a fact the City of Auburn understands completely, and only hopes to improve. On Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m., the city held a public meeting in the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center where Auburn residents were able to give input on what is referred to as the "Downtown Master Plan." The City of Auburn realizes the best and most fitting people to make the decisions regarding what be renovated downtown, and what it should look like, are the people who frequent our downtown area in their everyday lives. The Master Plan looks to revitalize the downtown area. The area's proximity has not expanded since the 1940s, so the City is aiming to adequately utilize the space by renovating some of the more dilapidated buildings and structures. "What we're trying to zero in on is some things ascetically that we can do better," Forrest Cotton, Auburn's planning director said. "I think streetscape and talking about expanding into some of these areas and making some actual infrastructure improvements to really show people that we aren't just on paper expanding downtown, this is what we want downtown to feel like." The presentation included an explanation of the issues and potential developments, allowed for community input and held workshops for more personal communication. Residents in attendance ranged from those who have been living in Auburn for 30 years to those living here for less than 2 years. "It shows how interested and in-tune the Auburn citizens are," City Manager Charles Duggan said. "They care about what the future is going to be. They want to have a hand in shaping that and we're welcoming it. We want people to come to tell us what they like and don't like. Their input is going to be vital to what the final recommendations are going to be." Bob Begle of Urban Collage conducted the meeting as principal designer. Urban Collage is a planning and design company based in Atlanta, and was established in 1997. Its research in Auburn began in June, and with the first phase nearly complete, it intends to move into the second phase of designing and drafting, which will include another public meeting. The last phase will accept community feedback and focus on implantation. "This is a downtown that doesn't have a lot of vacant lots, doesn't have a lot of vacant store fronts, but it still could be, I think, an even better version of itself," Begle said. "That's what we are interested to hear, what do people think that better version could be." Urban Collage suggested the new downtown feature a modern grocery store, more fine dining, family-oriented retail and more entertainment such as nightlife options and a movie theater. "At the end of the day we want to make sure we get the quality the citizens of Auburn want to see in their downtown," Duggan said. "We want a welcoming destination. We don't want just a place people drive through. We want people to come, have a great time, bring their families and when they leave think, 'I want to go back there.'" The City has yet to assign a budget, but Duggan said the process would need to be completed before they can make an estimate. At this point, the projected timeline will be 2030.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/auburn-facelift

Southern Cryotherapy offers chilly relaxation for sore muscles

(08/28/13 3:07am)

A new wave of technology has been introduced to Auburn in the form of Southern Cryotherapy. The Auburn-based company has been in business for approximately 60 days, covering nine southern states. Johnny Mann, co-owner of Southern Cryotherapy, originally created the idea. "Southern Cryotherapy is a device company that sells whole-body cryotherapy units, which is a process that cools your body down and helps rejuvenate, revive and repair your body," said Will Faulkner, director of sales marketing. Cryotherapy uses extreme cold on the body. At Southern Cryotherapy, the user sits inside the spherical device as it fills up with liquid nitrogen at negative 300 F. Southern Cryotherapy is trying to be a replacement for ice baths and ice packs. "It's more effective," said Chad Finnegan, co-owner of Southern Cryotherapy. "The time that you're in there is a lot less and it's less painful." The treatment lasts about 3 minutes and has been popular among professional athletes. "If you're an athlete, this is the muscle recovery of the next generation," Finnegan said. The treatment doesn't just work for athletes; it can help with any sort of overworked, or stressed, muscles from activities such as working out at the gym, or at a normal job. John Mann, chiropractor at Total Rehab and father of Johnny Mann, said when the cold nitrogen hits the body, blood vessels constrict, pushing on the inflammation or swelling. When the treatment is over and the body is no longer in contact with the cold, the blood vessels expand and bring fresh oxygenated blood into the region. John Mann said oxygen is the key healing component the body is looking for. He believes it's more effective than only using ice packs or ice baths because it doesn't just focus on one region of the body. "With the nitrogen cryotherapy, we're able to do the entire body," John Mann said. "The benefit is that you may be coming in for a neck problem, but you know you may have a chronic ankle or something you don't even think about." Faulkner recommends users do five treatments in close proximity to each other to get the full effect. The Auburn community can get one treatment for $30, or buy a package. John Mann said the treatment was safe if administered by a trained technician who knows what health risks to look for. John Mann said some health issues may eliminate people as candidates for Southern Cryotherapy, including heart problems, some forms of diabetes, and people who are overly sensitive to ice. "This is new science; this is new technology," John Mann said. "How much good can be derived from this, I think the sky is the limit." For more information and updates about their new location in Auburn, go to facebook.com/SouthernCryotherapy.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/southern-cryotherapy-offers-chilly-relaxation-for-sore-muscles

5 ways to scrimp and pinch in college

(08/27/13 3:16pm)

We all know college is expensive and students are usually broke. Jokes about students eating cereal and ramen for breakfast, lunch and dinner are runof-the-mill. I'm pretty sure Taco Bell was created by college kids just trying to make the last few dollars in their bank account last all the way through finals week. But by tweaking some small lifestyle choices, college life doesn't always have to break the bank. #1 Shop with coupons & rewards Kroger is amazing about sending coupons for free grocery items every month or so if you sign up for their Kroger Plus rewards card. You also get discounted prices as a Kroger Plus Card member, and can download digital coupons so you won't spend your Sunday clipping coupons like a TLC show maniac. Winn-Dixie also offers 5 cents off every gallon of gas with their rewards card, which may not sound like much, but you're going to wish you saved that little bit when all you want is a candy bar from Outtakes and you're scraping the bottom of your book bag for spare change. Deal sites such as Groupon.com, LivingSocial.com, and Slickdeals.net offer huge discounts on normally expensive services like oil changes and eye care. #2 Take the bus I know taking a bus isn't as fast or convenient as just zipping to campus, but honestly, are you going to find a parking spot anyway? Spare yourself the headache that is C-Zone and save a few dollars in gas by hopping on the Tiger Transit. #3 Get an on-campus job There are plenty of great, flexible jobs available within a wide variety of University departments and locations on campus. Jobs can range from as little as 10-25 hours per week, and you are often able to choose your schedule and work around your classes and other activities. On-campus jobs look great on resumes, help you meet people on campus and provide a little extra spending money. #4 Dine in I'll admit, I love eating out just as much as the next person and on top of being a pretty terrible cook, that leads to a lot of calls to Jimmy Johns and trips to Moe's for a quick dinner. But after tips, gratuities and delivery fees, you end up spending much more than you would spend on a dinner made at home with groceries purchased with coupons (tip #1 anyone?). It will take more time to prepare, but you'll save a decent amount of cash and sharpen a useful life skill in the process. Sites such as Pinterest.com often have copycat recipes for popular restaurants and for you amateur cooks, free apps like How to Cook Everything by Culinate, Inc. take you step-by-step through even the mostbasic cooking techniques. #5 Go with water Of course, there are plenty of occasions that warrant splurging on dinner out. When you do decide to hit your favorite pizza joint, don't get a $3 soda on top of your meal price and stick with good old ( free) H2O. Most drinks offered, such as sodas and sweet tea, are high in calories anyway. Why not save yourself the few dollars all the while making a healthier choice? Your wallet and waistline will thank you.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/5-ways-to-scrimp-and-pinch-in-college

Children's book gives perspective to rivalry

(08/27/13 2:44pm)

Whether the Auburn-Alabama football rivalry will ever fade is unknown, but Deb Hiett is doing what she can to show people it doesn't always have to end with poisoned trees. Hiett has been on television shows such as "Parks and Recreation," "The Office," "Prison Break," "Desperate Housewives" and "Boston Legal," but she has recently chosen to write a book. Hiett said the idea for her book, "When Mommy Loves Bama and Daddy Loves Auburn," popped into her head when she was reading a blog post comment where the user said how much college football fans across the country hate the SEC. Her feelings toward the user's comment triggered the idea of a children's book. Hiett was raised in a house divided, with her mom being an Alabama alumna and her father, an Auburn alumnus. She recalled being sent over to the neighbors house the day of the Iron Bowl because her parents didn't want to upset the children with their reactions to the game. This inspired her to write a story about children living in a household divided by sports teams. "I wrote it from the kid's perspective of growing up inside of the biggest rivalry in college football. It's important, I think, to be really passionate about sports," Hiett said. "Last fall, I actually had neighbors here in Los Angeles come over to check on me because of all the screaming that was going on on Saturdays, but it's also important to maintain some perspective and kindness and joy." Her book follows the ritual of college football game days, from the certain foods that fans like to eat to the clothes and chairs that they choose specifically for that day. Hiett included references to Toomer's Drugstore, Niffer's Place and popular Tuscaloosa eateries such as The Globe Restaurant and Dreamland Bar-B-Que. These are things she learned growing up, and these are the things the children in the book see. The book's illustrator, Amy Lynn Stevenson, said she used special techniques to put the focus on the children. The illustrations don't show the parents' faces, but instead the story is told through the children's faces and reactions. This was Stevenson's first time illustrating a book. She said while she found it challenging, she enjoyed it by the end. "(Hiett) had in mind kind of a 50s era golden book," Stevenson said. "It was very fun for me to kind of come up with these very kind of perfectly cherubic kind of little kids." Chad Gibbs, columnist for Opelika-Auburn News, wrote a column about Hiett's book and said it portrayed a serious rivalry from a hilarious perspective that makes it easier for kids to understand. "If a children's book will prevent someone from poisoning trees 60 years down the road, maybe it's a good thing," Gibbs said. Gibbs described Hiett's book as clever and funny, but appropriate for all ages. "The thing I really liked about it is that it tries to be kind of inclusive," Gibbs said. "It's not one side bashing the other side, it's kind of trying to bring people together and not attacking each other." "Bridesmaids" actress Wendi McLendon-Covey gave the book a positive review. "This is a frank and honest look at an age old rivalry that has torn families apart," McLendon-Covey said. "Not since the East/West Coast Swing Dancing Wars has an American pastime caused so much grief. Now the healing can begin. Knowledge is power." Hiett's book is available in the Auburn University bookstore and Amazon.com. For more information about Deb Hiett, or to order the book, visit DebHiett.com.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/childrens-book-gives-perspective-to-rivalry

Scooter McGavin brings Southern folk to Auburn community

(08/27/13 2:28pm)

For many students, the final lazy days of summer are filled with packing, last minute visits with friends and finishing up jobs and internships. But for the four members of Auburn-based band Scooter McGavin, the last few weeks have been far from lazy. The band has almost completed recording their first, full-length album, performed a marathon of shows in the Alabama-Georgia area and kicked off their fall line-up with a show at Spicer's Music in Auburn, all in the span of three months. The band is comprised of vocalist, lyricist and guitarist Sam Harvey, bassist Jimi Greene, electric guitar and mandolin player Mitch McKoy and drummer Corey "Scooter" Spicer. What started out as a simple jam session among friends has become an organized music group. "I met Mitch at Auburn United Methodist Church, and he always kept talking about his roommate [Harvey] who was an acoustic guitar god," Spicer said. "We just started jamming at the beginning of last summer." After being together for only a year, the band's success has come as a surprise to its members. "It's kind of weird just because for the longest time starting out it's so hard to get gigs," McKoy said. "But now it's people calling us." The group's first gig was performing at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, but soon afterward, they received calls to play at the Loft in Columbus, Ga., the Summer Swing Series in Opelika and the Taste of the Highlands Festival in Atlanta. McKoy considered the Highlands Festival as his alltime favorite gig so far. "The whole experience was so cool, meeting a ton of cool people and the family we stayed with. We didn't make much money, but it was still cool," McKoy said. When asked about the unique name, McKoy laughed and said it's a combination of all the band members' names. Spicer contributed his own nickname, Scooter, to the band's first name. McGavin is a blending of McKoy and Harvey's real name, Gavin. And Greene's contribution? "Jimi is the space in-between," McKoy said. Scooter McGavin has been described by its members as folk, funk and Southern rock, but according to Harvey, the band's genre is somewhat of a mixture. "We always joke about how we call ourselves Americana because that could be anything," Harvey said. Lyrically, the music of Scooter McGavin attempts to provide a sense of connection through shared experience. However, Harvey said he is hesitant to write about real people. "I made it a point to myself to never write about actual situations," Harvey said. "It's too dangerous, you end up like Taylor Swift. I try to make them a story but they're always about some people who aren't actually real." The fast pace that has defined Scooter McGavin this summer will continue into the fall with a line-up that will include shows at The Overall Company in Opelika, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and the Art, Food and Wine Festival in Atlanta. The band's first album is expected to be released sometime this fall and will be available on iTunes and Spotify and as a physical copy. More info can be found at www.ScooterMcGavinBand.wix.com/ScooterMcGavin

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/scooter-mcgavin-brings-southern-folk-to-auburn-community

Yellow curbs leave some Bibb Avenue neighbors seeing red

(08/27/13 3:05am)

A yellow curb raised questions and concerns during the Auburn City Council meeting on August 20. The residential parking issue ended in a tie and almost every councilman voiced his opinion. "An ordinance was passed at the last meeting establishing a no parking zone on a piece of property on Bibb Avenue," said City Manager Charles Duggan. "This evening some of the neighbors asked for the council to reconsider that vote." Before the August 6 meeting, a lady on Bibb Street requested to have the curb in front of her house painted yellow to indicate a no parking zone, said City Engineer Jeffery Ramsey. And the Council voted to have the curb painted. "This is not unusual. We have gotten several requests all over town of people blocking their driveway and blocking their mailboxes," Ramsey said. "We allow them to make a petition to City Council for no parking as long as it's in front of their property." William Lester of 918 Bibb Ave., questioned the Council's decision to paint the curb in front of his neighbor's property on 920 Bibb Ave. "My concern is that no notification was given to the neighbors. We were not allowed to give any opposing opinions or views," Lester said. "We woke up the next morning and there's a yellow curb in our neighborhood." Lester said his neighbor had a car parked in front of her property for at least 15 years. He said when she moved the car, he felt she did not want anyone else parking there. The issue goes beyond residential parking for Councilman Arthur Dowdell. "I think this was done with malice and selfishness," said Councilman Arthur Dowdell. "I think if we start allowing single citizens to come and ask we are going to have a lot of yellow lines in our communities." The area in question is in a closed neighborhood. According to Lester, few cars pass through the area that are not residents. "There's a steep hill there. The crest of the hill, she can't see over that," Lester said. "Her driveway is below the hill and regardless if there's a vehicle in that spot or not, she cannot see over the hill." "Gentlemen, I feel a little responsible that we passed this and didn't ask to hear the other side of the story from the other neighbors," said Councilman Ron Anders. "I think we should have done that and I would like to see us resend this vote." Anders' opinion did not come true, but he encouraged Lester to converse with his neighbor to resolve the issue in a respectful manner. "We obviously are caught in the middle of a neighborhood spat and that's not a good place for us to be I don't think," said Councilman Bob Norman. "I'd hate to see a precedent set here that anytime anybody wants to control parking in front of their house that it's a political issue." Norman said if he were in the resident's shoes, he would expect the City to paint the curb if he could not see to safely get out of his driveway. "I hate to make this a political referee issue," Norman said. "We got a precedent, we've done it other places by citizen request." The Council voted four yes and four no, which led to a tie. The decision to paint the curb yellow still stands and the paint will not be removed from the curb.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/yellow-curbs-leave-some-bibb-avenue-neighbors-seeing-red

Opelika revitalizes its Southern culture through opportunity

(08/27/13 2:55am)

Just a 20-minute drive from Auburn's campus is a town with a rich history and a busy downtown. "There is so much more to offer in the area than just what is on campus or what might be on their typical beaten path," said Robyn Bridges, vice president and public relations director for the Auburn and Opelika Tourism Bureau. "Especially when you talk about going over to Opelika and what seeing what the downtown area of Opelika has to offer." Every street corner of downtown Opelika has something to offer college students. But some people do not venture beyond the safety of University property. From music to art, entertainment and food, the city's downtown area has something for everyone. "I always like to say we have an atmosphere that is unexplainable," said Pam Powers-Smith, director of Opelika Main Street, Inc. "It's just fun to be in our downtown. The atmosphere is great and it just makes you want to be here." Downtown offers a range of dining options from coffee bars, New Orleans fare to Southern cuisine alongside a string of antique and clothing stores. "Besides all of our fun eateries and shops, students can enjoy some down time at beautiful Courthouse Square or they can stroll along beautiful Railroad Avenue," Powers-Smith said. "If someone has some extra time, they could pop in to the Museum of East Alabama, take a look at the Historic (Lewiston-Auburn) Depot or simply mark their calendars to attend one of our fabulous events." The downtown area features historic exhibits and museums, including the Museum of East Alabama located on South Ninth Street. The museum celebrates the rich history of East Alabama and focuses on five Alabama counties including Lee, Macon, Russell, Chambers and Tallapoosa. The museum offers free admission and is closed Sunday and Monday. "I also think the historic significance of Opelika is fun to learn about and you still see it," Powers-Smith said. "We try not to tear down any buildings or destroy what our ancestors built for us. It's always good for everyone to experience somewhere new." Opelika appeared on maps around 1733, according to the Museum of East Alabama. In the mid-1800s, the town became a railroad crossroads to cities in Alabama and Georgia. Today, trains still run through the city, but passenger trains were discontinued in 1970. "I don't know that I can think of any hidden places, but I always like to encourage newcomers to try to experience all of our restaurants and shops," Powers-Smith said. "Don't always just go to the same ones. Walk around the corner or visit a block you haven't before. I think it's fun to try a restaurant that none of my friends have and be the first one." Downtown Opelika also appeals to the music scene as well. Bands from Nashville and Atlanta play at venues in the area, said Bridges. "These are just places that students might not necessarily know about and they have so much to offer in terms of nightlife and food and cultural events," Bridges said.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/opelika-revitalizes-its-southern-culture-through-opportunity

Spicer's combines family and music

(08/27/13 2:43am)

Walking into Spicer's Music off East University Drive, it is evident it is not just your average music store. The walls are lined with guitars, trumpets and an array of other instruments, but that's not what differentiates Spicer's from other music stores. It's the combination of the relaxed coffee-shop feel along with the warm welcome given by the owners and staff of the Spicer family. Within seconds of entering Spicer's, it is clear the store holds more than meets the eye. Opened January 2012, it is evident owner Tom Spicer created his store based around making music in an atmosphere the whole family can enjoy, as the fall kickoff, held Saturday, Aug. 17, clearly showed. Their effort to incorporate music into family life has been nothing but a success. Tim Spicer, Tom's son, said the kickoff created more awareness about the store, and allowed local bands to showcase their talents. "We love giving the youth bands play all day long," Tim Spicer said. "We love giving the kids the opportunity to get up on stage and play in front of others." Bands such as No Refunds took the stage as representative of the Spicer's Garage Band Camp. Tim Spicer said Garage Band Camp, an after-school camp, stemmed from the Spicer's desire to find a family-oriented, positive and fun summer music program for their children. The Spicers said the camp and music made by the family inspired the extension of the camp to other children and has seen immense success. The program includes 15-20 other bands who said they hope to improve their skills and do what they love by playing music with their peers. "Some of the bands who have completed the Garage Band Camp are now recording EP's in Atlanta and Nashville (Tenn.)," Spicer said. "[The camp] has been going on for the last six years and teaches bands how to cover songs, write originals and many other musical talents," Spicer said. Allowing children to get up and play on stage helps improve self-esteem and confidence. Such confidence was obvious when No Refunds, headliner at The Spicer's Fall Kickoff, took the stage at the event and amazed concertgoers, evident by the audience's applause. No Refunds has seen their own share of success as Spicer says they are now "booking professional paying gigs and even headlined at The Opelika Fireworks Show." With no member older than 15, it is clear the Spicer's array of programs, in combination with a team of 14-15 experienced instructors, has helped the camp's bands succeed. Showcasing their experience at the event allowed participants to experience the success of the camp firsthand. While bringing families into the store is a major goal, Spicer's also strives toward outreach within Auburn's collegiate community. Open mic nights, college jams, songwriter's workshops and related activities allow the college community to participate. "[We] have everything from 3-year-olds to 93-year-olds walking through the door and taking lessons, purchasing instruments and accessories," Spicer said. Although Spicer's has only been open since January, their impact on the community is easily seen.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/spicers-combines-family-and-music

Arricia celebrates the best of the state's culinary talents

(08/27/13 2:30am)

No food is more comforting than the southern Alabama cuisine and Auburn's Ariccia Italian Trattoria and Bar has joined Alabama Restaurant Week by presenting a special three course meal from Aug. 16-25. Alabama Restaurant Week features dozens of Southern restaurants that serve delicious and intriguing meals from specially created menus for this annual 10-day event. Ariccia, located in The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center, kicked off their celebration Aug. 16 by offering a $20 three course meal exclusively for this event. "We have been getting a lot of positive feedback," said executive sous-chef Richard Mason. "We interact with our guests with the dine-in experience." Mason said it was important for chefs to choose a menu with as many Alabama grown foods as possible. "As a team we try to look at what is in season and what is local," Mason said. "We go to farmers markets once a week to get anything available that is fresh." The meal begins with a fresh garden greens salad topped by balsamic dressing, blue cheese and a pistachio brittle. It is followed by a grilled chicken dish served with parsnips, grape mustard and roasted carrots. Mason said they chose to exclude a sauce, a traditional accompaniment to grilled chicken, and instead include half of a lemon for the guest to squeeze over the chicken to add desired flavor. A strawberry salad with basil, vanilla and passion fruit serves as dessert and eventual completion of the meal. Adam Keeshan, senior restaurant manager, said it was a good beginning weekend with many students returning for move in and bid day. "It is a great opportunity for people to come in and try a salad or dessert they may not have tried before," Keeshan said. Alabama Restaurant Week was started by the Year of Alabama Food as a way to bring the community together to eat at local Alabama restaurants as a way to support the community, said Allison Duke, social media specialist at the Auburn Hotel. "We were part of it last year and we have a connection with the Year of Alabama Food and Alabama Travel," Duke said. "We wanted to get the word out the community about the local foods and local restaurants." According to Duke, the Auburn Hotel and Ariccia enjoyed being a part of the event last year. They said they plan to participate in the event in the future and hope it will be a repeated success with their guests. "Here, in house, as much as possible, we try to find out how the guest's experience was," Mason said. "We ask how the meal was and what we can do to enhance that experience." Approximately 100 restaurants are participating in Alabama Restaurant Week in almost every county. Many of the participating restaurants are successful Alabama-grown chains like Dreamland Bar-B-Que. For a complete listing of participating restaurants, visit alabamarestaurantweek.com. To make reservations for Ariccia Italian Trattoria and Bar's $20 dinner, call 334-844-5140 or visit auhcc.com.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/08/arricia-celebrates-the-best-of-the-states-culinary-talents

Food pantries, community markets: citizens battle against hunger

(07/24/13 8:34pm)

On a global scale, there are just less than 1 billion people fighting hunger. On a national scale, there are approximately 13 million. And right here in Alabama, there are 214,200 households that are food insecure. Food scarcity surrounds us everywhere we go. However, with the exception of the winter holidays, most carry on with their lives ignoring the empty stomachs and subsequent health hazards that plague millions. In fact, many will launch their body across their living room in hopes of grabbing the remote and changing the channel before those Sally Struthers' commercials have taken hold. However, in east Alabama, Lee County specifically, hunger has created a movement that has organizations sprouting up and jumping at the chance to get involved and battle hunger. Students, adults and even the elderly have begun working together in order to help feed their community. It is not a position of power that motivates these individuals to help, but a basic instinct. "It's our duty as humans to help each other out," said Tim King, adviser for student organizations at Auburn University. King's belief is mirrored by many throughout the community, as evidenced by the hundreds of volunteers at the many donation locations. Even in an area where most financial problems stem from large University loans and not from smaller grocery bills, Hunger is still widespread. "I think it is easy to forget because it is so picturesque [at the University] and so many students don't need to worry about their next meal," King said. "But students have said that they see other college students coming in and getting food, so it's one of those things people often don't think about, but it is happening." Among the many organizations King oversees, he is adviser to The AU Food Pantry. This project developed and run by students creates safe and private environment for students in need. The application to benefit from the pantry is simple and non-invasive. It is more of a record keeper for King and Katherine Hettinger, co-adviser to The AU Food Pantry, to see who is making use of the project. Working with The AU Food Pantry is another organization, Campus Kitchens. A university branch of the original D.C. Kitchens, Campus Kitchens works to feed not only university students, but also those in the community. The organization was an idea of the hunger studies minor capstone class and is advised by Jennifer Commander, vista volunteer. More than 30 percent of students in the Auburn/Opelika area are on the assisted lunch plan, eating a free or reduced lunch. Often the breakfast and lunch provided to them by the school are their only meals for the day. And some students may go from Friday afternoon to Monday morning without anything to eat. Campus Kitchens partnered with professional golfer Jason Dufner and his wife, Amanda, in pursuit of success for the project Blessings in a Backpack. Campus Kitchens chose two elementary schools in the Auburn/Opelika Area, Yarborough Elementary and Carver Elementary, where more than 90 percent of students were on the free or reduced meal plan. The Dufners fund the local branch of Blessings in a Backpack, which allows Campus Kitchens to partner with Kevin Mortar of Walmart and assemble bags for students to take home for the weekend. The weekend bag includes a can of pork and beans, a can of SpaghettiOs, a packet of popcorn, applesauce, two packets of oatmeal and two granola bars. "We had so many teachers coming back to us saying that they were noticing a drastic difference in how kids were behaving on Monday," Commander said. "They had much higher attention rates and more energy and weren't as lethargic, and they think it's because the food has been helping them." A widespread misconception of those who benefit from food banks is they are all on welfare or they are looking for a free ride. Elsie Lott, Director of the Community Market explains that isn't always the case. Lott said the application process to be a client at The Community Market is thorough so as not to allow any abuse of the system. Because she believes the need of all her clients, Lott works to stock the shelves with not just discarded cabinet items that most people donate, but with coveted brand named goods as well. The Market works unlike most food banks. Once a client is accepted he or she is awarded either 75 or 100 pounds of food per week. However, the family can have unlimited produce and bread. Lott only weighs the meat and packaged items. Clients have a wide variety of choices and with shopping carts donated by local grocery stores, one would hardly notice the market was a food bank. There are even sections of the store devoted to personal hygiene care and infant supplies. "I want it to feel like a real grocery store," Lott said. "This is a last resort for people, but why does that mean that because they've hit hard times they can't celebrate with a cake or that their kid can't enjoy the same Capri Sun as a kid who isn't struggling." Even full-time students set aside their free afternoons and weekends to help out. "Sometimes when I'm really busy, I think that I don't have time to go, but then I'll pass by the market and remember all the good it does. All of a sudden, I have time to volunteer," said Perrin Tamblyn, senior in nutrition and dietetics and frequent volunteer at The Community Market of East Alabama. The movement to end hunger in east Alabama is a force to be recognized. Hundreds of students across the University's campus and across the county are teaming up to fight food scarcity and are hoping to bring their movement to a global level. Cary Bayless, a member of the committee of 19, an organization to fight hunger, said he feels confident that awareness is key. "Awareness is everything. If people don't know how serious food insecurity is, they won't be motivated to join the battle," he said.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/07/food-pantries-community-markets-citizens-battle-against-hunger

New automated downtown parking system a hot topic at City Council meeting

(07/17/13 3:20am)

The purchase of a new automated parking system for the downtown area was a topic of lengthy discussion at the July 16 meeting of the Auburn City Council. The new system, part of Phase I in Auburn's Parking Project, is serviced by Ventek International and will manage 93 spaces in the recently constructed lot on Gay Street in the combined space from the old Colonial Bank and Auburn Bank drive-thru tellers. Assistant City Manager Kevin Cowper explained that the system will use payment kiosks instead of traditional coin meters. For the past several months, there has been a test kiosk at the municipal parking deck behind Moe's Barbeque and Little Italy Pizzeria. The seven new kiosks will accept coins, bills and credit cards, which Cowper noted would be a popular option for college students and other young adults. Users will walk to the nearest kiosk, type in their parking space number and pay for their time, which will be measured in normal 30-minute allotments. The system will allow users to pay for up to four hours of parking time at once. The traditional parking meters have a two-hour time limit, and Cowper noted that those meters were not ideal for those working or staying downtown for extended times. Most of the discussion involving the new parking system centered on its price tag. According to the City Manager's office, the system will cost $215,740.96. "I understand what (the council members) are saying (about the price), but we think there will be a good return on this investment," Cowper said. "It's hard to say exactly how much money this system would generate--I am estimating around the $40,000 range annually, which would give us around a five-year payback for this system." While the resolution was later unanimously passed by the Council, the financial concerns from several members remained. "I would hope that, in the future, we look at more vital projects first," Councilman Arthur Dowdell said. "I'm going to go ahead and vote for it, but it's hard to digest the price of this system...I'm not saying this is not a good project, but it's hard to digest this. It seemed like the old system worked. "I know we live in a modernized age, but we need to be good stewards of how we spend the city's money." Dowdell raised more concerns right before the meeting was adjourned, but they had nothing to do with spending city money. The Ward 1 Councilman read part of a letter he received from an African-American doctoral alumna of Auburn University who never received a response from the city's school system two years after applying for a job. Dowdell called for a closer look into racial discrimination allegations all across the Auburn government, from the Auburn Police Division to the school board. In other news from the meeting: . The Council approved an alcoholic beverage license for Jenni's Kitchen on 901 South College Street. . Supplemental law enforcement services were approved for Auburn University sporting events for the next year. . A zoning ordinance for the Farmville Lakes area was approved. . A contract was finalized with Dixie Electric Cooperative for underground electrical service and street lights at the Auburn Technology Park. . Another contract was finalized with Machen, McChesney & Chastain LLP for an annual independent audit. . A motion for a full-time school resource officer for Lee-Scott Academy was approved. According to the Auburn Police Division, the school will pay for the officer's salary, and the City of Auburn will provide 22 percent of the benefits. . A mutual aid agreement was approved for the City of Opelika, the Lee County Commission and the Lee County Sheriff's Office. . Two motions from the Water Resource Management Department were approved for the purchase of two clarifier drives for Thickener Drive and for Phase 2 of the City's Sewer Project. . A motion for drainage and utility management acceptance across Lot 7 of J. Cary Woods Subdivision (Sanders Street) was approved.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/07/new-automated-downtown-parking-system-a-hot-topic-at-city-council-meeting

Mama Mocha's opens a second location

(07/14/13 6:00pm)

The smell of freshly roasted coffee will soon be joining the sights and sounds of downtown Auburn. Mama Mocha's Coffee Emporium and The Hound are working together to open a second location for the local coffee shop. The new shop is set to open on the first week of August, just in time for summer graduation and for students returning for the fall semester. Mama Mocha's co-owners Sarah Barnett and Maddie Wilder are looking forward to expanding to a new location. Wilder said that they wanted to be downtown and The Hound approached them with the opportunity. "We are very excited to be partnering with them," said Matt Poirier, co-owner of The Hound. "We are frequent customers of MM and a couple months ago we were in there getting coffee and overheard them talking about a second location on North College." Poirier said the owners of Mama Mocha's were smart and hard-working and created a great product. "We have had the space in the back that has been underutilized and figured it would be a good match," Poirier said. "It seemed like a win-win for everyone." Though they will share the same building, the two businesses will not be run the same. "The Hound and Mama Mocha's are separate businesses and will be operated as such," Poirier said. "They will have a separate entrance on Tichenor Avenue. They will be open much earlier and will not stay open as late." The Hound already produces most of the baked goods that are sold at the original Mama Mocha's location in the back of The Gnu's Room, and the two businesses are looking forward to increasing their collaboration. "Only food made by The Hound will be sold at the new location," said Wilder. Some food at the Gay Street location will come from places other than The Hound. "One added benefit of having Mama Mocha's in our back room is that we will be able to expand our coffee options for our customers during our very busy weekend brunches," Poirier said. "French press brewed coffee and all the espresso drinks that the town has come to love." The owners of Mama Mocha's are set to take over the lease after The Gnu's Room closes. The bookstore announced their closure several months back, but gave no definite date for when the closure will actually occur. "We're planning to change the lighting and add some couches inside the building," Wilder said. "We want a very casual atmosphere here." The coffee at Mama Mocha's is roasted on site. Beans come from South and Central America from companies like Royal Coffee, Ally Importers and Thrive Farmers Coffee. Barnett was unhappy working at her previous coffee shop, so she decided to open Mama Mocha's. The Hound was opened by husband and wife team Matthew and Jana Poirier. The building is the former location of The Olde Auburn Ale House. Wilder said there will be a fundraiser Saturday, July 20, to help raise money to keep The Gnu's room afloat. The Gnu's Room became a nonprofit business back in 2007 when owner Tina Tatum took over.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/07/mama-mochas-opens-a-second-location

Opelika's 8th & Rail brings together musicians of all genres

(07/12/13 12:58am)

Opelika restaurant Eighth & Rail provides a chance for local musicians to try their hand on stage as well as meet and perform with other local artists. The restaurant hosts The Benjamin Sessions, an open-mic night every Wednesday starting at 7 p.m. The stage is open to all performers willing to play. Sign up begins at 6 p.m. The event is free for musicians and audience members, and it is a great opportunity to see some local musicians in action. Musical styles vary greatly, as do the ages of the performers. Most sets consist of no more than three people, though the end of the night turns into a jam session with the night's performers switching instruments and joining each other on stage. Alaina Guzman has been hosting the event for the past two months. "It gives musicians a chance to play with people they never would play with," Guzman said. Performers include Guzman, Sylvia Novak, Jackson Gafford, Doug Knight, Scott Ashcroft and Grammy-winning producer Larry Mitchell performing with his group The Larry Mitchell Trio.\0x2028 Guzman said its nice having different generations all on stage together. Performers are given roughly 20 minutes to perform, though that isn't an unyielding limit, depending on the number of performers in a given night. Novak said this is one of the few places in the area where someone can get onstage and play. Her performances consist of original material, as well as a few popular covers on both acoustic guitar and fiddle. Gafford, an 18-year-old Opelika High School graduate, performed a number of songs, sometimes playing multiple instruments in the same song, aided by a sample board to loop one instrument behind another. Gafford performs at Eighth & Rail every week, usually with Josh Jackson, another Opelika High School graduate and local performer. Jackson records works under the Fiery Crash moniker. Both Gafford and Jackson perform a number of original songs, by themselves or as a duo. The two are occasionally backed by drummer Trenton Hilyer. "This kind of stuff is happening in garages all across the country," Guzman said. Guzman herself performed a number of original songs, singing and playing piano. She was eventually joined by many of the night's performers, accompanying her on different instruments. Performers jammed at the end of the night, playing instruments ranging from guitars to saxophones to electronic sample boards and even a melodica, a hand-held, mouth-blown, keyboard. The stage is located in the back of the restaurant, slightly elevated and lined with old wooden doors on the left and right walls. The restaurant provides excellent acoustics for the performances.

https://www.theplainsman.com/article/2013/07/opelikas-8th-rail-brings-together-musicians-of-all-genres