Mike's Corner

Jessica Smith was my Administrative Assistant the entire time I was working at the Outback in Opelika. Not only was she a tenacious worker, she was a great person to be around. She recently graduated from Auburn University and got a job in Tampa with Outback's corporate office as an accountant for Carrabba's Italian Grill (which is under the Outback umbrella). A couple of weeks ago, Candice Hamilton, my current Head Wait (here in little old Austell, GA), asked me about finding a job to utilize her Finance degree. I made some calls, and got her an interview in Tampa. I was so excited for her that I paid for her plane ticket! Sure enough, she got hired as an accountant for Fleming's Prime Steakhouse (also under the Outback umbrella). I realize that over 99.9% of the people that I hire and work with are not going to choose Outback as a career, but it's great to see doors open for a few, just like they were opened for me. Good luck to you both. You've earned it. Mike

Very, very impressive! Great atmosphere, great food, questionable location. If you ever decide to go there (which I hope), you'll see what I mean. Happy eating, Mike

I'm attending an all-day meeting with the Outback Partners from North Georgia, South Georgia, North Florida, North Alabama, East Alabama, and South Tennesee tomorrow. Afterwards, we are all going to dinner at a place called Two Urban Licks. I've never heard of it, but rumors tell me it's awesome. Check out their jazzy website at www.twourbanlicks.com for more info. I'll let you know how it is. Mike