---

PLAINSMAN'S CHOICE | Best places to unwind in Auburn

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor and Jennifer Santiago | Lifestyle Editor | July 7

The Auburn community provides its students with many choices when it comes to where they spend their free time. These leisurely activities include attending local events, working out, or going on a first date. However, some locations and businesses are uniquely special due to their above and beyond services and welcoming environments. Plainsman’s Choice: Leisure will showcase the winners of these student-voted categories.

Close to 1,000 'No Kings' supporters protest in Toomer's Corner

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor | June 14

On Saturday, June 14, at 4 p.m., Auburn and Opelika residents joined to participate in the ‘No Kings” protest. Part of a nationwide initiative organized by the 50501 Movement, which stands for 50 protests, 50 states and one movement, protesters gathered to show their defiance against President Trump’s policies and reject what they call “authoritarianism.” The event was scheduled to align with the Army’s 250th anniversary celebration, Flag Day and the President’s 79th birthday.

Say cheese to Roni's Mac Bar, downtown Auburn's newest addition

By Landi Rutledge | News Editor | June 14

For its grand opening on June 14, Roni's Mac Bar - a mac and cheese bar with customizable toppings and grilled cheese - officially opened its Auburn location to the public. On North College Street, Roni's Mac Bar is the newest food spot in downtown Auburn.

Senator Tommy Tuberville announces 2026 Alabama governor campaign in Auburn

By Ally Northridge | Content Editor | June 5

On Tuesday, May 27, Senator Tommy Tuberville announced his 2026 bid for Alabama governor at local restaurant Byron’s Smokehouse in Auburn, Alabama. With incumbent Governor Kay Ivey term-limited and ineligible for re-election, former Auburn football coach Tuberville is considered a likely gubernatorial candidate for the Republican Party. However, as candidates step up and campaigns launch, one fact is for certain: Alabama residents–regardless of partisanship–will be following along.

Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation hosts 11th annual Burger Wars

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor | May 31

On Saturday, May 31, the 11th annual Burger Wars was hosted in downtown Opelika, with 22 grillers competing for cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights. Hosted by the Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation, the goal was not only to create a competitive culinary environment but also to fundraise for local charities.

Tennibot: An Auburn-based company overcoming global challenges

May 26

Tennibot, founded by Auburn University graduates and still based on the Plains, aims to become a household name in the tennis world. Though its roots remain local, the company’s challenges have grown increasingly global as it navigates a rapidly shifting tariff landscape and complex international legal disputes.

Four Corners Ministries to open thrift store in Opelika

By Ali Carriere | News Writer | May 23

Four Corners Ministries is preparing to open its fourth thrift store, with the soft opening set for June 2, 2025, and the grand opening following on June 17. The store will be located at 820 Columbus Pkwy. in Opelika.

EN ESPAÑOL | Revocación de visados: Lo que necesitas saber

By Sami Grace Donnelly | Editor-in-Chief and Michaela Yielding | News Editor | April 25

Aproximadamente 15 estudiantes y becarios internacionales de la Universidad de Auburn han visto revocados sus visados por «infracciones penales cometidas en el pasado». Como parte de una ofensiva nacional, la Universidad de Auburn es una de las numerosas universidades que se enfrentan a oleadas de revocaciones de visados y cancelaciones de expedientes dirigidas por el Departamento de Estado y Seguridad Nacional.

Lawn mowing app GreenPal expands to Auburn

By Ally Northridge | Content Editor | April 24

GreenPal, the lawn mowing app users commonly call the "Uber of lawn care," expanded to Auburn on Thursday, April 10. Across the nation and most recently in Auburn, GreenPal connects users with local vendors to achieve affordable, efficient and high-quality lawn care at the touch of a button.

Governor Ivey signs bill regulating Pharmacy Benefit Managers

By William Speigner | Legal Reporter | April 16

On April 15, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed Senate Bill 252, the Community Pharmacy Relief Act, into law. This act is seen as a crucial step towards protecting Alabama's local pharmacies. 

24th annual Old 280 Boogie taking place this weekend

By Ashley Massey | News Writer | April 11

The 24th annual Old 280 Boogie is coming to Waverly, Alabama, this Saturday, April 12, for art and music enthusiasts to enjoy. Tickets are available online or at the gate for $50 a piece for ages 13+. Kids 12 or younger can enter for free. For veterans and students, there will be a 20% discount, bringing the total down to $40 per ticket.  

Hundreds gather in Opelika for 'Hands Off!' protest against Trump administration

By Michaela Yielding | News Editor | April 7

More than 500 people attended the April 5 protest at the Andrews Federal Building in Opelika, according to an unofficial count given by Kristin Hinnant, one of the volunteer organizers of the protest.  Known as the "Hands Off!" movement, the Opelika protest is one of over 1,200 protests that occurred across the nation on April 5. 

Auburn Vintage Market shut down by university

By Sam Vise | Assistant Culture Editor | April 4

On Friday, April 4, Auburn Vintage Market’s first market was shut down by the university. The event, held on Haley Concourse, was originally set to last from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but was shut down around 10:30 a.m. 

Beignets and Brews opens in Downtown Auburn

By Olivia Garrett | News Writer | April 4

On March 29, 2025, Beignets and Brews officially opened its doors on North College Street, adding a fresh and exciting option to Auburn's culinary scene, offering a new spot for students, locals, and visitors to enjoy a delicious combination of sweet treats and coffee.

Specials and Sports: Menu deals in Auburn for Saturday's Final Four game

By Ashley Massey | News Writer and Railey McCord | News Writer | April 4

As Auburn University’s men’s basketball team prepares for its second Final Four appearance in program history, local businesses anticipate the excitement and are already preparing for a busy night in Auburn. As Auburn fans’ game-watching locations are being planned, several special deals will be running for those who want to enjoy food and drinks in truly electric atmospheres with each other.

Outreach Global to host upcoming Global Community Day Festival

By Allison Foran | Lifestyle Writer | March 31

The Outreach Global Office at Auburn University will host its fourth annual Global Community Day Festival on April 5 on Cater Lawn. Free to anyone in the Lee County community, the event will feature arts and crafts, food trucks and a fashion exhibition. 

Brewing to success: A small business spotlight on The Bean

By Ashley Massey | News Writer | April 4

Hope Nichols, daughter of owners Ben and Sydney Nichols, reflects what her journey has been like as a proud member of her family’s business, The Bean.

AubFest welcomes back Auburn's growing community of young creatives for its spring festival

By Jennifer Santiago | Lifestyle Editor | March 23

On Saturday, March 22, the local DIY music festival AubFest, united young creators and music lovers for its sixth edition at Boggin' On The Plains, a local ATV recreation park. Hosted once every fall and spring semester, the day-long festival welcomed those of all ages to enjoy musical performances, local vendors and group activities at the Vibes Tent.