Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor - The Auburn Plainsman

Jack Dutton (middle) with Gavin Fisch (right) and basketball star Keyshawn Hall (left).

Contributed by Gavin Fisch

Lifestyle

In memory of Jack Dutton

By Margaret Griffin | Lifestyle Writer and Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | February 2

It is an honor to recognize a student whose character, dedication and impact have left a lasting impression on Auburn University’s community. Jack Dutton, junior in Auburn’s Professional Flight program, passed away on Dec. 18, 2025, following a tragic plane crash in Statesville, North Carolina. Dutton's passing, together with his father Dennis and others, is deeply felt across the Auburn community.

Two glass hourglasses filled with red sand are positioned on a textured background of soft, colorful clouds.

Ellie Hobbs | Graphic Artist

Lifestyle

Monthly picks: A 'timeless' movie, book and album for February

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | February 1

As the ice of January melts away, February marks a time of celebrating the special connections we have in our lives. Whether it be family, friends or significant others, this month is focused on all sorts of love. To celebrate the new month, I’ve curated a list of entertainment, including a movie, book and album, guaranteed to set the mood for the season.

Contributed by Carrington Allen

Lifestyle

A backstage look at AubFest

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | December 28

Auburn’s own DIY music festival AubFest had its seventh successful edition from Oct. 3 to 5, uniting the community with music performed by over 30 regional bands. Starting as a simple idea by an Auburn University student, Ashley Spencer, the festival is now a non-profit event and has quickly blossomed into a beloved, biannual tradition. However many attendees do not realize the amount of hard work that Auburn University students dedicate to the festival.

Contributed by Sophia Aulisio

Identities

Sophia Aulisio and Thomas Lester: Two students inventing their own paths

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 25

Sophia Aulisio and Thomas Lester, two Auburn University students, have successfully made new products within the past year. They were also featured in the 2025 Inno Under 25 of the Birmingham Business Journal. With Aulisio’s volleyball gear and Lester’s instant-heat coffee, they are changing the world, one idea at a time.

Inside The Auburn Popcorn Company on Nov. 11, 2025.

Estela Munoz | Assistant Photo Editor

Lifestyle

Pop on in to The Auburn Popcorn Company

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 18

Since opening in 2017, The Auburn Popcorn Company has been gracing downtown Auburn's presence with freshly popped popcorn. With about 14 different flavors, there is a salty and sweet treat for everyone who ventures into the store.

A stylish interior features a dark tiled wall, illuminated sign reading "Olivine," lush green plants, and plush seating.

Wyatt Loftin | Photographer

Lifestyle

Exclusive look at Olivine, downtown Auburn's new rooftop restaurant

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 14

The new rooftop bar and restaurant Olivine hosted an exclusive first look on the evening of Nov. 13. Auburn’s newest rooftop experience offers a menu inspired by Italian cuisine mixed with Southern charm. Although opening officially on Nov. 19, Olivine invited a select few to an exclusive fine dining experience.

A small black dog with expressive eyes and slightly raised ears sits on a soft, patterned blanket.

Roxy Duda | Photographer

Lifestyle

Where every paw matters: The heart of the CARE Humane Society

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 12

For 51 years, the CARE Humane Society has been dedicated to serving the community by sheltering cats and dogs and promoting the humane treatment of animals. The shelter first started as a volunteer establishment, but has grown into an animal shelter that strives to find a home for every adoptable animal.

A woman in a white dress with floral embellishments joyfully holds a pom-pom in front of a red brick building.

Lifestyle

In memory of Lainey Anderson

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 9

Filled with overflowing kindness and a welcoming spirit, Lainey Anderson made an effort to spread love wherever she went. During her time at Auburn, she was dedicated to including everyone at the table, while being a constant friend in her relationships. Anderson graduated from Auburn this past May with a degree in professional flight from the School of Aviation with a minor in finance. She was also a certified flight instructor at Sander’s Aviation in Jasper, Alabama.

A colorful children's book titled "Andy: A Dog's Tale" features a cheerful cartoon dog on the cover, with multiple copies stacked below it.

Contributed by Tami Kelly

Lifestyle

Award-winning animation director Jamy Wheless introduces newest character at Auburn Public Library

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 8

Animator, veteran of Lucasfilm, director and Auburn University alumnus Jamy Wheless hosted an event at the Auburn Public Library on Nov. 7, at 9:30 a.m. to introduce one of his newest characters: Andy the future service dog. Andy made his debut in a short film directed by Wheless and is now the star of a brand-new children’s book based on the film.

Mia Stamey | Graphics Editor

Lifestyle

The scariest movie of all time: A review of Friedkin's 'The Exorcist'

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | October 25

Once hailed as "the scariest movie of all time," William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist” follows the paranormal possession of a young girl and the lengths her worried mother goes to help her. Throughout the movie, Regan (Linda Blair) starts behaving strangely, developing symptoms such as vulgar outbursts, grotesque physical transformations and violent behavior. While I did not necessarily find it scary, the practical effects, the story and the incredible performance by Blair really sold the film for me. It is a movie that just feels evil, with its disturbing scenes and the sinister energy that the young girl possesses.