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Southern Greens opens in downtown Auburn

By Gracie Goodman | News Writer | October 1

On Friday, Sept. 19, downtown Auburn welcomed Southern Greens at its grand opening, featuring customizable menu items and ready-made meals all with a focus on health and wellness.

Downtown Opelika vandalized, more than $2,500 in damages

By Brychelle Brooks | Editor-in-Chief | September 29

On Sept. 28, Opelika Police Department (OPD) responded to calls about graffiti in the downtown area. Over $2,500 in damages resulted, with buildings and vehicles being painted on. OPD has identified the vandals, and they're now in custody.

Opelika removes 2013 Miss America signs following statements about Charlie Kirk

By Sydney Gallardo | News Reporter | September 25

Late last week, the city of Opelika took down signs identifying itself as the hometown of Miss America 2013 Mallory Hagan, following her controversial statements about the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk. A Sept. 19 Facebook post by the City of Opelika states that the mayor Gary Fuller requested for the signs to be taken down.

Brilyn Hollyhand announces campus tour with Turning Point USA

By Tripp Hedden | News Writer | September 25

On Sept. 19, Brilyn Hollyhand, Auburn freshman studying political science, announced his plans to join forces with Turning Point USA (TPUSA) to launch his “One Conversation at a Time” college campus tour. Hollyhand, driven by the death of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk, will travel across the southeastern United States to speak and encourage young people to stay engaged in politics. Hollyhand aims to build on the legacy established by Charlie Kirk.

State representatives promote violence prevention strategies

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor | September 18

On Sept. 16, Alabama State House Representatives Jeremy Gray and Phillip Ensler attended a discussion with members of the Auburn-Opelika community regarding ways to prevent violence among young individuals in Alabama. The event was hosted by Moms Demand Action, an organization dedicated to protecting individuals from gun violence through public safety measures, and was held at Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church.

Opelika Police respond to fatal stabbing, investigation ongoing

By Ally Northridge | Content Editor | September 16

In the morning of Sept. 16, 2025, Opelika Police responded to a suspicious incident that left one woman fatally stabbed in Opelika, Alabama.

Auburn University hosts 2025 Homecoming Parade

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor | September 13

On Friday, Sep. 12, Auburn University hosted the annual homecoming parade. Beginning its run through Downtown Auburn at 6 p.m., the parade featured local businesses, student organizations and other members of the community. 

Tunnel to Towers: 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Exhibit comes to Opelika

By Landi Rutledge | News Editor | September 11

On Thursday, Sept. 11, the East Alabama Regional Training Association hosted the non-profit Tunnel to Towers Foundation and its 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Exhibit in Opelika. As its first arrival in Alabama, the exhibit serves as a tribute to the lives lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks and will continue to be displayed until Sept. 16. Admission is free for all, and access is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

AUPD investigating assault on East Glenn Avenue

By Brychelle Brooks | Editor-in-Chief | September 10

On Sept. 10, 2025, AUPD responded to a call, citing a disturbance on E. Glenn Ave, outside of Chappy's Deli and CVS. Citing the victim, a 36-year-old male, was assaulted with an edged weapon.

Auburn-Opelika ICE raids lead to arrests of fugitives and detainment of immigrants

By Jennifer Santiago | Lifestyle Editor | July 15

Immigration raids occurred at local Auburn-Opelika Mexican restaurants on Tuesday, July 15, following an on-going, joint investigation by federal, state and local agencies; more than 40 immigrants allegedly living in the U.S. illegally were detained. Authorities executed search warrants in relation to a federal indictment of fraud and abuse of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for 52-year-old Cesar Campos-Reyes, who is now in FBI custody.

Soundtrack of Saturday: AUMB plays theme song for EA's College Football ‘26

By Brychelle Brooks | Editor-in-Chief | July 7

AUMB is the first marching band to record a theme song for EA's game series College Football, becoming the band that captures the spirit of Saturdays for gamers worldwide. The game releases officially on July 10, 2025 at 11 a.m. central time.

PLAINSMAN'S CHOICE | Best coffee: Thrive Here @Auburn

By Railey McCord | News Writer | July 7

Near Samford Lawn, Auburn students and local coffee lovers line up to visit Thrive Here @Auburn. The small local coffee shop is beloved for its diverse menu, friendly student staff and ability to accept Tiger Card dining dollars as payment. House favorite menu items include a vanilla cardamom latte, matcha and pour over. 

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.