Connect Savannah December 16, 2015

December 16 – 22, 2015 news, arts & Entertainment weekly connectsavannah.com

Miriam Center

don’t give a damn what you think

hardy Music Langston Hughes’ ‘Black Nativity’ stays true to the tale

By Jessica Leigh Lebos

Photo by geoff L. Johnson | geoffsphotos.com

for the

Craft Beer Drinker

Savannah tap house

Opens

march 24–april 9, 2016

Give the Gift of live music

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

for gift cards & tickets, visit savannahmusicfestival.org or call the box office at 912.525.5050

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sponsor of the 2016 savannah Music festival

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DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Week At A h

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compiled by Rachael Flora To have an event listed in Week at a glance email WAG@connectsavannah.com.

Include dates, time, locations with addresses, cost and a contact number.

Deadline for inclusion is 5pm Friday, to appear in next Wednesday’s edition.

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Wednesday / 16 Film: The Humanoid

One of the most ridiculously unashamed rip-offs of George Lucas’ “Star Wars” anyone ever dared to make. Never released in the USA, it stars hulking giant Richard Kiel as spaceship pilot Golob.

8 p.m The Sentient Bean, 13 East Park Ave. $7

Holiday Equinox Benefit Concert

Skatefest

Wednesday / 16 through Saturday / 2

The Civic Center is bringing back its annual family-oriented ice skating event. Ice skating sessions last 1.5 hours and all ticket purchases include skate rental. Single session tickets and punch passes are available for sale at the Savannah Civic Center box office, and in the arena’s Skateshop during the event.

Savannah Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave. $7 single sessions, $35 for 6 sessions

Join Jeremy Davis and the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra and the Savannah Harbor Foundation in support of The Empty Stocking Fund for a Holiday show live from The Westin Savannah Harbor Grand Ballroom. Tickets include a 3 course dinner from Executive Chef John Hart, and a 90 minute show! Proceeds donated to Empty Stocking Fund.

6:30 p.m Westin Savannah Harbor, 1 Resort Drive. $60 912-201-2085. aquastarseafoodkitchen. com/holiday-equinox-concert/

Magic Men Live!

Magic Men Live!

Saturday / 16

Experience the ladies night you’ve been waiting for like never before with a brand new, high energy, crowd interactive show that has captivated women of all ages. 18 years old and over.

7 p.m Savannah Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave. $29-$99 magicmenlive.com

December Nights and Holiday Lights

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

THURSDAY / 17 through thursday / 24

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This walking tour of various illuminated displays across 8 acres of the botanical gardens includes ambient music and access into a model railroad display.

6-9 p.m Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, 2 Canebrake Rd. $8 adults, $5 youth, kids under 2 free

Experience the ladies night you’ve been waiting for like never before with a brand new, high energy, crowd interactive show that has captivated women of all ages. 18 years old and over.

7 p.m Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave. $29-$99 magicmenlive.com

Skatefest

The Civic Center is bringing back its annual family-oriented ice skating event.

Ice skating sessions last 1.5 hours and all ticket purchases include skate rental.

Single session tickets and punch passes are available for sale at the Savannah Civic Center box office, and in the arena’s Skateshop during the event.

Dec. 12-Jan. 2 Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave. $7 single sessions, $35 for 6 sessions savannahcivic.com

Thursday / 17

Concert: Christmas Cabaret

Enjoy an evening of all of your favorite carols and some holiday jazz as you go on a sleigh ride to a Winter Wonderland.

Dec. 17-19, 8 p.m Lucas Theatre for the Arts, 32 Abercorn St. $25 912-525-5050

week at a Glance

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Savannah Square by Square Signing and Film

Coastal Heritage Society (CHS) invites the community to attend the book signing for Michael Jordan and Mick McCay’s new book Savannah Square by Square. CHS will also screen the recently updated film that inspired the book.

Dec. 17 beginning at 5:30 pm Savannah History Museum, 303 MLK Jr Blvd.

December Nights and Holiday Lights This walking tour of various illuminated displays across 8 acres of the botanical gardens includes ambient music and access into a model railroad display.

Dec. 17-24, 6-9 p.m Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, 2 Canebrake Rd. $8 adults, $5 youth, kids under 2 free

Theatre: Black Nativity

Langston Hughes wrote this joyful retelling of St. Luke’s story of the birth of Christ by way of gospel music, dance, poetry and narrative.

Dec. 18-19, 7:30 p.m. also 2 p.m. Saturday Sav’h Arts Academy, 500 Washington Ave. $15 advance, $20 week of

Theatre: The Underpants

Presented by Collective Face Ensemble, the play opens with a scandal: puritanical bureaucrat Theo Maske is outraged at his wife, Louise, for allowing her underpants to fall to the ground at a parade for the king.

8 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 3 p.m. Sunday Muse Arts Warehouse, 703 Louisville Rd.

Theatre: Charlie Brown Christmas

Heart-warming musical based on the beloved cartoon!

Candle Lantern Tours 7 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Sat. & Sun. Fort Pulaski commemorates the Savannah Children’s Theatre, 2160 East Confederate Nog Party of 1861 with night- Victory Dr. time tours of the fort by candlelight and oil Dec. 15-20 lamps. Visitors will have the unique experi- 912-238-9015. savannahchildrenstheatre.org ence of a guided tour of the fort by candlelight. Hot cider and cookies, caroling, Saturday / 19 Twelve Bars of Christmas Bar Crawl and night-time weapons firings will allow Are you ready to survive “Savannah’s visitors to re-live the festive occasion.

Winter Wonderland?” Crawlers will have Dec.18-19, 6-9 p.m to brave the ice-cold winter weather Fort Pulaski, US Highway 80 E. and journey through Savannah’s winter $10 adults, $3 kids wonderland, otherwise known 12 bars 8 Concert: Christmas Cabaret later, you’ll be sufficiently full of holiday Enjoy an evening of all of your favorite cheer. Crawlers start at South Pole carols and some holiday jazz as you go on (McDonough’s) and end at North Pole a sleigh ride to a Winter Wonderland.

(Savannah Smiles) between 5 and 11 pm.

Dec. 17-19, 8 p.m 3-11 p.m Lucas Theatre for the Arts, 32 Abercorn St. McDonough’s, 21 East Mcdonough St. $25 $15 adv/$20 day-of 912-525-5050 Brian@StaffordPromotions.com

Friday / 18

Get merry with live music from The Train Wrecks, The Accomplices, City Hotel and Waits & Co. Plus, get in the photo booth with Santa.

11 p.m American Legion, Post 135, 1108 Bull St. $20 advance, $25 at door

Savannah Christmas 3D Video Projection Experience

Visit the Westin Savannah Harbor to experience the 3D Video Projection show on the southern facade of the resort. This massive performance will span hundreds of feet and can be seen from River Street.

See the Gingerbread Village and Santa’s Workshop. Have a drink at the ICEBAR or join us for Stories & S’mores by the fire.

Dec. 17-20, 7-9 p.m Westin Savannah Harbor, 1 Resort Drive. $5 donation requested 912-201-2000 savannahharborfoundation. com

Concert: Christmas Cabaret

Enjoy an evening of all of your favorite carols and some holiday jazz as you go on a sleigh ride to a Winter Wonderland.

Dec. 17-19, 8 p.m Lucas Theatre for the Arts, 32 Abercorn St. $25 912-525-5050

Concert: Trinity River Band

Award-Winning Bluegrass, Americana & Acoustic Roots band from Callahan, Fla. 7:30 p.m Randy Wood Guitars (Bloomingdale), 1304 East Hwy. 80. $20

Concert: Under a Starry Sky

Emotionally-charged Christmas musical bringing the arts and ministry together.

6 p.m Calvary Baptist Temple, 4625 Waters Ave. continues on p. 6

ULTIMATE UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER CONTEST Saturday, December 19 at 9pm Eat, drink, and be ugly! Celebrate the holidays with Savannah’s best music and yuletide cocktails.

Prizes awarded for the TOP 3 UGLIEST SWEATERS! Live music with LAIKEN WILLIAMS & FELLOWSHIP OF LOVE!

102 W B AY S T • 912.721.3800 Located at the Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Homegrown Holiday Hoedown

Join us for

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week at a Glance

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Ugly Sweater Contest

Plus live music with Laiken Williams & Fellowship of Love.

Dec. 19, 9 p.m.

Rocks on the Roof, 102 W. Bay St.

Concert: Tybee City Limits

In the third installment of Tybee City Limits, the talented singer-songwriter Payne Bridges; Andrew Gill’s Junkyard Angel playing foot-stompin’ originals and rock-alt-jam tunes you know by heart; and the Isaac Smith Band.

8-10 p.m The Tybee Post Theater, 10 Van Horne Ave. $10 general admission, $9 Theater members 912-472-4790 tybeeposttheater.org/

Forsyth Farmers Market Rain or shine.

9 a.m.-1 p.m Forsyth Park forsythfarmersmarket.com

Gardening Session

Kerry Shay, an organic farmer and owner of landscaping company Victory Gardens, provides free instruction. third Saturday of every month, 8:30-9:30 a.m Charles H. Morris Center, 10 East Broad St. Free and open to the public

Reindeer Run 8k

The Rape Crisis Center of the Coastal Empire hosts this run, beginning with a kiddie race at 8:45 and followed by the 8k at 9:45. Runners are encouraged to dress as their favorite holiday characters.

8:45 a.m Trade & Convention Ctr, 1 International Dr.

Tacky Christmas Sweater Party

Wear your tackiest Christmas sweater to this Savannah Jaycees party with hors d’oeuvre, a DJ, karaoke and prize for tackiest attire. Portion of proceeds benefit U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

7 p.m Ampersand, 36 MLK Jr. Blvd. $10

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Every Saturday rain or shine.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Islands Community Church, 111 Walthour Rd.

Sunday / 20

Candlelight Communion

This year’s theme “...And On Earth PEACE...” will exemplify the city’s racial harmony in diversity with the addition of a 20 piece orchestra comprising of the Savannah Fine Arts Community including St. John, Kristin King and The New Arts Ensemble. Grammy Award winning artist Tramaine Hawkins will also perform.

4:30 p.m Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave. Free and open to the public

Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe

Participate in activities such as caroling, burning of the yule log, dancing to live period music, and other holiday observances of the colonial period, including games and refreshments.

1-4 p.m Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd. $4.50-$10

Concert: The Christmas Story

The Goliards will present a telling of the Christmas Story.

3 p.m St. Paul’s Episcopal , 1802 Abercorn Street. $10

Tuesday / 22

Holiday Princess Parade

Come in your most adorable costumes and walk with our princesses through the Gingerbread Village and around the lobby.

Prizes will be awarded for best costumes.

Stay to visit with the princesses and enjoy story time by the fire.

6 p.m Westin Savannah Harbor, 1 Resort Drive. $5 donation

Tongue: Open Mouth and Music Show hosted by Melanie Goldey

A poetry and music open mic with an emphasis on sharing new, original, thoughtful Nonprofit organization that promotes and work. hosts free, family-friendly culturally diverse fourth Tuesday of every month, 8 p.m events to give back to the community. The The Sentient Bean, 13 East Park Ave. events feature handcrafted ethnic arts and crafts, home-based businesses, and community nonprofits. Entertainment provided by churches and other local individuals and groups.

December theme: Christmas Magic third Saturday, Sunday of every month River Street, River St.

Unity in the Community

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Wilmington Island Farmers’ Market

news & Opinion Editor’s Note

When bullets, and panic, fly IF ANYONE thought Savannah’s growing and collective sense of panic about crime would calm down after an election in which voters opted for sweeping change, they were right.

For about two or three days.

The hysteria reached a new fever pitch this past weekend after eight people were shot in several incidents, possibly the bloodiest single weekend in local memory.

It’s something of a minor Christmas miracle no one was killed.

The temptation to freak out about all this violence, as many are doing, is understandable. A certain amount of angry passion will be necessary to focus political and public will to address the problem.

But now more than ever it’s important to keep a cool head.

Four victims were wounded in a single incident about 2 a.m. early Saturday. It began with shots fired inside Club Rain, which is ironically almost directly across from City Hall on Bay Street.

Like a scene from a Bourne movie, the action extended into the Whitaker Street Garage, where another gun battle erupted and the four were shot. One alleged shooter was arrested, with another still at large.

Bars and restaurants in the area had to shut down early because of the massive police presence and fear that the gun battle might continue to metastasize.

feedback

A police officer recently told me that many of today’s teenagers caught up in Savannah’s crime-to-prison factory literally don’t know how to fistfight, as previous generations of young men learned.

Guns are so easy to get, and so often seen as the only way to settle a dispute, that an entire generation of young men have grown up only knowing how to rack a slide and pull a trigger, rather than throw a proper punch.

But while guns are clearly part of the issue, they are just as clearly not the entire issue.

More immediate and granular local steps will have to be taken, such as a closer scrutiny of alcohol licenses of repeatedly problematic clubs, continuing to staff up the police department, and revisiting the so-called Ambassador Program for downtown’s increasingly chaotic and dangerous entertainment zone.

As I write this, however, tempers are running high and anyone displaying less than a full-on panic attack about crime is seen as cruel and heartless.

With the election in the rearview mirror, there’s no go-to scapegoat, no easy vector for citizens’ frustration and anger.

The old administration will be history in less than a month. The new administration will face the same problems and likely make more than a few missteps of its own.

In the meantime, life must go on. Business must go on. We really have no choice.

It would be wrong to normalize this kind of violence. But panic, as always, is perhaps our worst enemy. cs

letters@connectsavannah.com

Why apologize for cover?

Dear Idiots, Regarding your recent apology for the Norman Rockwell parody cover “Happy Runoff”: I have never seen such carryings-on as about the former Mayor’s picture!

Gosh, wearing of all things an apron! Oh my God, an apron!

Please grow up!

Tell me exactly why in the hell were you apologizing so profusely?

You offend me greatly by being so P.C. Disgusting. Putrid.

CONFORMIST! Glad the paper is free, because I wouldn’t buy it.

Grow some balls, all of you.

C.D. Page

Fight continues on Sea Island controversy

Editor, On Dec. 11 Georgia’s DNR “Shore Protection Committee” approved a controversial permit to disturb wildlife habitat and the beach-dependentsand-sharing system to allow Sea Island Acquisition (SIA) to install a second groin and deposit 120,000 cubic yards of sand to protect fast-eroding lots they are trying to develop as the “Sea Island Reserve.”

Over 100 individuals and organizations submitted written comments and all but three were opposed to the proposal.

Greenlaw, a public-interest environmental law non-profit, presented compelling evidence

Connect Savannah is published every Wednesday by Morris Multimedia, Inc 1464 East Victory Drive Savannah, GA, 31404 Phone: (912) 238-2040 Fax: (912) 238-2041 www.connectsavannah.com twitter: @ConnectSavannah Facebook.com/connectsav Administrative Chris Griffin, General Manager chris@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4378 Editorial Jim Morekis, Editor-in-Chief jim@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4360 Jessica Leigh Lebos, Community Editor jll@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4386 Anna Chandler, Arts & Entertainment Editor anna@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4356 Rachael Flora, Events Editor happenings@connectsavannah.com Contributors John Bennett, Matt Brunson, Raymond Gaddy, Geoff L. Johnson, Kayla Goggin, Orlando Montoya, Jon Waits, Your Pal Erin Advertising Information: (912) 721-4378 sales@connectsavannah.com Jay Lane, Account Executive jay@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4381 Design & Production

of the damage expected by approving the project, substantiated by coastal geologists and evidence of rapid erosion made worse by a previous groin built in the same area.

When the vote was called after more than 90 minutes of testimony—overwhelmingly against the project, despite time allotments and rebuttal allowances that unfairly favored SIA lawyers—there was some doubt that the motion to approve would be seconded.

A hesitant and delayed second to the motion came only after DNR Commissioner Mark Williams turned to the committee member who belatedly made it, strongly suggesting a cue to proceed and a

prearranged vote.

Once again, environmentally concerned Georgians have learned that a predominance of public opinion and professional advice has little if any effect on decisions made by state permitting authorities, decisions that pose profound threats to public resources meant to be protected by state law. These outcomes are highly political, favoring applicants having the most influence with the governor and other officials.

The decision will be appealed by several environmental organizations, including the Center for a Sustainable Coast.

David A. Kyler Executive Director, Center for a Sustainable Coast

Brandon Blatcher, Art Director artdirector@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4379 Britt Scott, Graphic Designer ads@connectsavannah.com (912) 721-4380 Distribution Wayne Franklin, Distribution Manager (912) 721-4376 Howard Barrett, Jolee Edmondson, Brenda B. Meeks Classifieds Call (912) 231-0250 DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

by Jim Morekis

jim@connectsavannah.com

People weren’t allowed to drive their cars out of the garage until hours later.

So to recap: Not only were four people shot in a single incident—which is tragic and concerning enough—but downtown’s economy was severely impacted at the same time.

One gunshot victim this weekend was a 12-year-old boy, shot in a Southside apartment in what appears to be an attempted home invasion or attempted retaliation.

Two of the other gunshot victims this weekend were 16-year-old boys, involved in an altercation at Frazier Homes.

Another gunshot victim in another incident was a 34-year-old man—ancient by the standards of Savannah street crime, where so many young men are either dead or in prison by the time they’re old enough to buy a beer.

That man, Rahmine Ashley, had recently gotten out of prison after serving a five-year plea deal for attempting to run over two police officers in 2006 while fleeing capture.

Ashley did end up in custody a few months after trying to run over the officers, when he was shot by a rival in the Waffle House parking lot on Abercorn.

In all, Ashley has been arrested at least 24 times in his life, beginning when he was 16—the same age as the boys shot this weekend in Frazier Homes.

This is the cancer of multi-generational crime, exacerbated by easy access to guns, encouraged by what many see as a revolving-door justice system, and fed a steady diet of poverty and its attendant side dishes of hopelessness and frustration.

Proud Sponsor of the Savannah Music Festival

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News & Opinion The (Civil) Society Column

The bright side: 5 reasons to love Savannah right now

By Jessica Leigh Lebos

jll@connectsavannah.com

In the wake of more shootings, nosediving educational standards and other bad news scrolling across our feeds, I recently admonished a dear friend for being too cheerful.

It was more of an accusation, really.

“How can you be so gaddamn optimistic when the world is clearly unraveling?” I muttered into my bourbon.

“Stop smiling. It’s…pathological.”

“Are you calling me a pathological optimist?” He clapped his hands. “I love it!”

A few days later, this same person merrily pointed out to the doomy-gloomy fearmongers on Facebook that there has been no better time to be a human being than right now. While we’re conditioned to dismiss such positivity as charmingly insane, his arguments were sound, citing history’s evidence of evolutionary progress and “our unlimited capacity to create and innovate” our way to solutions.

The more I considered this, the more I realized he’s right. Nothing’s ever gotten solved by handwringing and wallowing.

And the bourbon isn’t really helping either.

So here are five reasons why there is no better place to be than Savannah this week—if you can’t beat the pathological optimists, join ‘em, right?

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

THE CAMELLIAS ARE BLOOMING! From sunny corals to sexy scarlets to spellbinding pinks, the colorful flowers are currently festooning trees and shrubs all over town. Some are the size of teacups, others the size of dinner plates, all are evidence that our city’s beauty has deep roots.

Where else in December do the trees decorate themselves?

If you want to immerse deeply in camellia glory, check out the Judge Arthur Solomon Camellia Trail at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (yesh, I still call it the Bamboo Farm, too.)

The three-acre path hosts more than a thousand species and hybrids, including C. Sansaqua, C. Japonica and Camellia sinensis. The latter’s little white poms are grown commercially around the world for tea, and we can expect our own local brew to come soon from CGBG. “The trail is just beautiful right now— all the color and variety is amazing,” says outreach coordinator Liz Lubrani, who encourages everyone who comes 8 for the camellias to stay after sunset for

Who-hoo will end up on the nest? photo courtesy of landingsbirdcam.com

The last Little Free Library on the Flannery O’Connor Book Trail. Photo by Paige Wolf

December Nights and Holiday Lights, a sparkly wheelchair- and stroller-accessible walking tour every night through Christmas Eve. (6-9pm, $8/$5 kids.)

Some of our camellias will push out pretty blooms all the way through January.

But there’s no reason to shed a tear when the last one drops its last waxy petal: It just means that azalea season is right around the corner.

Dang y’all, if all this positive collaboration keeps up, I might have to trade out my copy of the Anarchist’s Cookbook.

THE BIRDS ARE BACK! It’s been almost a year since a pair of great horned owls settled atop the loblolly pine on Skidaway Island and raised a family as the world watched, thanks to the live feed at LandingsBirdCam.com.

We compulsively refreshed our screens FREE BOOKS FOR ALL! There are as mama brooded on her eggs and her baby now eight—count ‘em—EIGHT more Little daddy brought her delicious dead things to Free Libraries around town, thanks eat; we cheered as those two precious owlto the generosity of Roots Up Gallery ets emerged from their shells and learned owners and all-around wonderful people to fly.

Francis Allen and Leslie Lovell. Some Now there’s reason to believe that The may recall that in lieu of gifts for their 2014 Real House Raptors of Savannah might wedding, the newlyweds established The have a second season: A screenshot of a Flannery O’Connor Book Trail as a way great horned owl pecking around in the to spread their passion for literacy and art. dead of night appeared on the LandingsThe trail’s final hand-painted box o’ BirdCam Facebook page a few weeks ago. books was dedicated last Sunday in ThunBut any decent sequel needs some interderbolt in front of the magical Diamond speci es drama: A bald eagle has also been Oaks Treehouse created by poet/profeseyeing the aerie, and over the weekend an sor Chad Faries. (If you have guests com- osprey checked in, inspecting the stability ing to town, this fairy-lit, moss-draped with its feathered claws. wonderland boasts a solid five stars on Nobirdy has laid claim to the stickAirbnb. Yes, Chad has legit bed-andwoven nest yet, but once again, we are breakfast status.) delightfully obsessed.

Among those on hand to sanctify the CITIZENS ARE UNITING! The resi“take one, leave one” repository were its artist Jose Ray, ecclesiastical ace Michael dents of Savannah Gardens have not let the recent gun violence in their neighborChaney, and 10 year-old Sage Batchelor, hood drag them down the rabbit hole of who was the first to grace the wooden negativity. shelves with a copy of Peter Pan. At a recent community safety meeting “It really has been a labor of love,” said held in one of the complex’s beautifully the book trail’s creative director, Coco Papy. “The community has built this proj- decorated gathering spaces, more than 50 ect, and it’s so exciting to see it finished.” people offered real solutions to keep the

recently renovated, five-unit apartment complex on Pennsylvania Avenue from developing a reputation for tolerating bad behavior.

They demanded a stronger police presence, and in turn promised to share tips about criminal activity and encourage others to do the same. Suggested proactive measures included more security cameras, better lighting and the establishment of a league of building captains to keep property managers informed of “unauthorized guests” who bring guns, drugs and trouble to this multi-generational community.

Owned and operated by the Denver, CObased non-profit Mercy Housing, Savannah Gardens provides affordable housing to almost 500 local families, seniors and those with special needs, and any judgment about that ought to be squashed.

According to Mercy staff, the majority of residents work or are in school during the day, and the nights are usually quiet. They take great pride in their homes and are working to make sure the negative actions of a few will not outshine the positivity of the many.

“I think there are more good people than bad people moving to this area, and they’re all interested in keeping this a beautiful place to live,” said senior property manager Curtis Lowe.

YOU ARE GENEROUS, BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE! Everywhere I go, I see Toys for Tots bins literally overflowing with stuffed bears, Lego kits and Tonka trucks—the U.S. Marines have quite a mission this year as they distribute this bounty to needy families this Christmas season.

Santa was also in full effect last Saturday, handing out gifts to over 300 families for the 34th annual Miracle on May Street at the West Broad YMCA. Bikes, books, scooters, toys, arts supplies, a few pairs of new Nike kicks all donated by you found their way through Kids Helping Kids, Hands On Savannah and Savannah Lives Matter.

If you’ve still got more left to give, Loop It Up Savannah is still seeking gifts for teens this week. Want a little cheer with your donation? Blessings in a Bookbag continues its good works with the presentation of “Ain’t No Santa Claus” this Sunday, Dec. 21 ($10 in advance, $12 at the door; go to BiB’s FB page for info.)

Folks, as bad as it seems at the moment, there is proof in history that Savannah can survive rough times and long shadows. We can curse the darkness or light a few candles—the choice is ours. cs

Beck & Call.

Santa’s at Your Beck & Call.

Avoid the long lines by making a reservation to see Santa. GO to MySantaExperience.com and make your reservations today.

SANTA HOURS Monday 10am-8pm Break 3pm-4pm Sunday 12noon-6pm Break 2:30pm-3pm Break times may vary

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912.927.7467

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DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Now Located in the Dillard’s Court.

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news & Opinion community

Miriam Center: ‘I don’t give a damn what people think’

By Orlando Montoya

SAVANNAHPODCAST.COM

WITTY and irrepressible 89-year-old Savannah writer Miriam Center has lived on East 55th Street since 2002.

That’s growing moss by her U-Haul loving standards.

“Thirteen years?” she asks. “I don’t remember being anywhere that long in my life!”

Center, author of the book Scarlett O’Hara Can Go To Hell and the play Johnny and Me, has lived in 14 homes in Savannah and several more in California and New York.

She recently invited me on a tour of her former Savannah addresses. Knowing some of her background, I jumped at the chance. A white liberal Jewish woman in the South, she knew the great Johnny Mercer and the infamous Jim Williams. She sold real estate in pre-SCAD Savannah.

A former politico, she married and divorced longtime alderman Leo Center and ran for office twice herself, losing to Edna Jackson in 1999.

Her son Tony is a Chatham County Commissioner; her son Scott ran the Edna Jackson campaign which defeated her.

This was going be some tour!

“I move like a gypsy when I look back at it,” she says. “I think deep down I’m restless.”

That restlessness came from her parents, Russian immigrants who started her life at an apartment on West Charlton Street in 1929. Let the year sink in!

The historic mansion has a pool today.

But Center remembers dirt floors downstairs where another family boiled laundry

Miriam Center’s pioneering ways brought her into politics and the business world long before that was commonplace for Southern women.

to hang in the yard.

A confectionary was out back. “We bought Tootsie Rolls for a penny,” she says.

Center lived within a block of sweet shops at least four times, including on West 40th Street, where in an apartment, when she was five, her father attempted suicide.

“He kept pacing up and down saying, ‘Goodbye little girls, goodbye,’” she recalls.

“He took poison.”

She listened to FDR on the radio and closed the curtains during WWII scares at an apartment now across from Green Truck Pub. “It was like a shtetl,” she says of the eight-unit residence, called Tomochichi Apartments. “The families would get together. I babysat for all of them.”

Lots of Jews lived nearby, she says, firing off names. I didn’t know how Savannah’s Jewish community moved from

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

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neighborhood to neighborhood until Center told me.

I asked how her religion, gender and politics made her stand out. “It was difficult,” she says. “But since I don’t give a damn what people think, it doesn’t bother me.”

Center didn’t give a damn in the 1950’s when proper Southern ladies sat at home playing cards. Instead, she pursued a career in the boys-only world of real estate.

“All my friends thought I was crazy,” she says on East Park Avenue, where she pushed both her career and babies in strollers. “Those were the happiest years of my life.”

Moving to the suburbs, she found green pastures, but no idyll, on Bacon Park Drive.

She talks about a car crash, a murder, a drug overdose, a drowning and other tragedies involving families that lived around hers. Then her own tragedies struck.

“My oldest son died of a brain tumor,” she says. And moving around the corner, to Sweet Briar Circle, she notes “This is where my marriage began to fall apart.”

A novelist could write the rest. Another move brings freedom. Another brings spiritual awakening.

We only had time for nine of her former homes. But I definitely learned a lot more than “how the neighborhood has changed.”

“If you are who you are, it doesn’t make a difference what other people think,” she says.

Maybe she’ll live past 100 with that outlook. But maybe not in Savannah.

“We went to Beaufort last week for three days and I said ‘Let’s move to Beaufort!’” she says. “I’m feeling a spirit.” cs

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13

news & Opinion The News Cycle

Shifting the car vs. bike paradigm

by John Bennett

john@bicyclecampaign.org

THE YOUNG MAN, who had been impatiently revving the engine of his Dodge Durango, stomped on the accelerator and roared past about two feet from my left elbow as soon as the light changed.

This was his way of reminding me that my bicycle will never be as powerful, fast and cool as his ride. At least that’s what I presume people are trying to convey when they attempt to intimidate cyclists.

Actually, Durango Dude reminded me of a question I’m frequently asked. People want to know what I’m doing to combat aggressive bicyclists.

Folks regale me with tales of misdeeds perpetrated by people on bikes and urge me to do something about growing scourge. I listen patiently and say, “Believe me, I don’t condone that sort of behavior.”

And I don’t. A big part of my job is helping people understand and employ riding tactics that reduce their vulnerability.

I usually ask people to describe the person they saw riding a bike recklessly and answers are almost always the same.

Male? Most of the time. Between 17 and 25 years old? Usually.

Then I paraphrase Jeff Mapes, senior political reporter for The Oregonian newspaper: Young men, as a demographic group, have a tendency toward risky behavior.

While it is true that people on bikes can pose a threat to people who walk, a legion of scofflaw cyclists cannot inflict the amount of pain, suffering and death as one young man driving a Dodge Durango.

When streets are configured to maximize motor vehicle speed and throughput, they are deadly for people who walk and ride bikes.

Same rights? Hardly. As Mike Dayton recently wrote on the Bike Law blog, driving a car is a privilege not a right. On the other hand, the right to use public roads dates back to Roman times and was affirmed by court cases in the U.S. when bicycles first hit the scene back in the late 1800s: “This right of the people to the use of the public streets of a city is so well established and so universally recognized When we see a guy doing something stu- many of the same traffic regulations as in this country that it has become a part of pid on a bicycle, we can at least be glad he’s drivers. the alphabet of fundamental rights of the doing it on a bicycle instead of behind the But what if we applied the “no new bike citizen.” wheel of a 2-ton SUV. lanes unless cyclists earn them through Dayton suggests, “Let’s savor that While it is true that people on bikes good behavior” approach to the world of thought for a moment. Riding a bike on can pose a threat to people who walk, a driving. the public streets is ‘part of the alphabet of legion of scofflaw cyclists cannot inflict the Earlier this year, Politifact Georgia fundamental rights of the citizen’.” amount of pain, suffering and death as one analyzed a reported spike in deadly autoYet when streets are too dangerous for young man driving a Dodge Durango. mobile wrecks. They found, “it’s clear the people on bikes to use, we’ve effectively Be that as it may, I’m often told, we number of fatal crashes in which distracted stripped citizens of their rights. should press pause on plans for new bicycle driving was a factor jumped nearly 64 perI’m not trying to stir up a fight between lanes until cyclists start obeying traffic cent in five years.” people who ride and people who drive. regulations. They sometimes quote the We should halt every highway project in (That would only create internal conflict bumper sticker. “Same rules. Same roads.

Georgia until drivers stop texting! After for those of us who do both).

Same rights.” all, we have the third-highest rate in the We should all be on the same side and It’s a snappy slogan that’s been remarknation for drivers who text while behind here’s why: When streets are made safer ably effective. Even people who don’t ride the wheel, according to the Governor’s for people who walk and ride bikes, they bikes and know little about laws relating Office of Highway Safety. become safer for everyone, including peoto bicycles are familiar with the phrase.

Same roads? Not really. Is the experiple who drive.

Unfortunately it describes a utopian ideal ence of traveling on Abercorn Street the What’s more, research indicates better instead of the reality on our streets. same for people on bikes and people in bicycle infrastructure breeds better bicySame rules? Technically, yes. Bicycles cars? Try riding a bike from Mall Bouleclist behavior. So if you’ve had it up to here are considered vehicles under state law vard to Montgomery Crossroad and let me with all those rule-breaking cyclists, take a and people on bikes are required to follow know what you think. stand! Demand more bike lanes! cs

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news & Opinion blotter

56

2015 Sav/Chatham County Homicide Total through Sun. Dec. 13 (20 solved)

Shootout in Whitaker Street garage injures four; one suspect in custody

Shots fired inside a Bay Street club led to a shootout in the nearby Whitaker Street garage, with four people being injured.

One man is in custody and another suspect at large.

“Someone fired shots inside Club Rain on W. Bay St early Saturday morning.

No one was hit and all of the patrons left the club. A few minutes later, at approximately 2:00 a.m., an altercation took place between two parties inside the Whitaker Street Parking Garage which turned into a gun battle,” police say.

“Four people were shot and were located by officers in various locations in and outside the garage. None of the victims sustained life-threatening injuries.”

“Three of the men who were shot were with the parties involved in the altercation. They are Deshaun Kinlaw, 30, of Savannah, Malcolm Washington, 24, of Atlanta, and Joshua Karruth, 22, of Savannah,” police say. “The fourth victim, Darryl Greenwood, 30, from Parris Island, SC was shot in the hip while inside his vehicle.

He was attempting to leave the garage and wasn’t involved in the altercation,” police say. “Investigators believe there were two shooters. Police arrested one of the shooters, Christoper Jones, 29, of Savannah. The second shooter is still being sought.”

“Ashley was reportedly shot during an armed robbery near MLK, Jr. Boulevard and Broughton Street. No evidence of a shooting was found at that location,” police say. “Detectives also followed leads to Fahm and Zubly streets in Yamacraw Village. Investigators are working to determine where the incident occurred.”

12-year-old boy shot on Hampstead Detectives are investigating a shooting on the 200 block of Hampstead Avenue.

A 12-year-old Savannah boy was shot at approximately 11 p.m. on Friday night.

Two 16-year-olds shot in Frazier Homes incident

Violent Crimes detectives are investigating a Saturday afternoon shooting that injured two 16-year-old males near Emerald Drive and May Street in Frazier homes.

“At about 2:15 p.m. Metro responded to the scene finding one of the teens suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to an area Hospital in critical condition,” police say.

“Metro also learned the second injured teen fled the scene. He was found in Garden City at Highway 80 and Alfred Street.

He was taken to an area hospital for care of non-life-threatening injuries,” police say.

“A gray Buick sedan with three male occupants, including one of the injured teens, was found wrecked near May Street

Man charged in Dec. 9 murder

Gregory Rhynes, charged with murder

and Emerald Drive. Detectives believe shots were fired during an altercation between the teens,” police say.

Man shot; details elusive

Detectives are investigating a shooting reported on Sunday morning that injured Rahmine Ashley, 34.

“At about 12:37 a.m. Metro responded to Candler Hospital, where Ashley arrived in a privately owned vehicle seeking care of a non-life-threatening wound,” police say.

Ashley has an extensive history with the local justice system. In 2006 he was called “one of Savannah’s most wanted men” after an incident in which he allegedly tried to run over two policemen.

Detectives arrested and charged Gregory Rhynes, 24, after questioning by investigators at Police Headquarters. He is charged with murder in the Dec. 9 shooting death of Michael Holmes, 33.

Burroughs St. murderer still at large

Detectives seek information on a fatal shooting on 39th and Burroughs streets on Thursday afternoon.

At about 3:26 p.m. Metro responded to the scene finding Rocquan Scarver, 17, suffering from a gunshot wound, which later claimed his life.

The killing is the 56th homicide of the year in Savannah, with five of those considered justified, i.e. self-defense. cs Give anonymous crime tips to Crimestoppers at 912/234-2020 or text CRIMES (274637) using keyword CSTOP2020.

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15

slug signorino

news & Opinion straight dope

What if we redistributed all the world’s wealth?

If you took all the wealth in the world and leveled it among all the people in the world, what would our standard of living be? — Kathy Wilson AS IT happens, Kathy, I’ve answered this very question once before: back in 1991, when the USSR was on the verge of collapse, and with it, seemingly, the dream of the socialist utopia you’re describing here.

At the time, with a gross world product of about $21.8 trillion, I calculated a global per-capita income of $3,100—a number, I wrote, suggesting that “a more equitable distribution of resources wouldn’t beggar everybody.”

Fast-forward to 2015. The world is richer, but an equitable distribution of resources most certainly isn’t beggaring anybody; in fact, that kind of shakeup looks like an even more remote possibility now than it did a quarter-century ago. (But hey, let’s not count Bernie out just yet.)

Before we get into the numbers, a caveat: from today’s vantage, an exact comparison is tricky because the units have shifted. I

arrived at the 1991 figure by adding up all the world’s gross national products. Since then, though, gross domestic product has replaced GNP as the standard primary measure of economic health. So, admitting our comparison will be rough, what we come to is this: If we add up each country’s 2013 GDP, we get a gross world product of $75.5 trillion dollars. Divide that by the 2013 population, 7.2 billion, and we’re left with a per-capita world income of $10,500—a decent gain on 1991, even after you adjust for inflation.

Of course, this rising tide is hardly lifting all boats. The per-capita GDP of the ten richest countries in the world in 2013 was $76,500, that of the ten poorest a puny $433. Leaving out the tiny principalities Monaco and Liechtenstein, Luxembourg has maintained the top spot now for two decades running, with Norway just behind it since 2000. (The U.S. typically clocks in around eighth or ninth, if you’re wondering.) The other end of the GDP rankings hasn’t been quite as consistent over the same period, with Burundi, Malawi, and Ethiopia taking turns at the bottom.

So the numbers on inequality are stark.

But what if we take a broader view—globally, is inequality growing or not? Here things get more complex, and the question provokes a surprising amount of disagreement among economists. It seems that, aside from an income gap, there’s also an information gap: whereas tax returns in the U.S. and Europe provide rich (as it were) data for analysis, elsewhere researchers have to rely on surveys, which can return sketchier results—particularly with respect to where the wealthy have their money parked. So while some studies in recent years have indicated that global inequality is on the decline, a pair of IMF economists warned in 2014 that when you

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correct for the “missing rich,” as they’re called, it actually “might not have gone down at all.” (One recent estimate put individual wealth kept in offshore tax havens at a gobsmacking $7.6 trillion.)

But countries don’t exist in a vacuum anymore, and further muddying the issue is globalization. This has been great for the booming middle classes of places like India and, especially, China, whose middle class is now the largest in the world. It’s been less great, of course, for the middle class in the U.S., where thus far the benefits of globalization have worked mainly to further enrich the 1 percent: imported Chinese goods have held down wages and employment (as documented in a 2013 paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research) while lifting the share prices of stocks held predominantly by the wealthy.

To hear the World Bank tell it, one of the more encouraging trends in terms of global income is that the proportion of people worldwide mired in extreme poverty— defined as living on $1.90 or less a day—will this year fall below 10 percent for the first time. Of course, that’s cold comfort to the 702 million who don’t make the cut; and critics suggest it’s cold comfort even to many of those who do—$1.91 a day ain’t exactly a walk in the park. As the author of a 2014 paper to this effect, Georgetown University economist Martin Ravallion, has put it, “The bulk of the developing world’s progress against poverty has been in reducing the number of people living close to the consumption floor, rather than raising the level of that floor.”

What Ravallion is talking about—and the substance of your inquiry, Kathy—is standard of living: a trickier metric than simple wealth. Some economists have urged that we focus less on dollar figures, for instance, and more on holistic

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measures of prosperity that take into account such factors as health, education, and environmental sustainability. We <ital>could<>, for instance, enrich ourselves by burning the estimated $15 trillion in untapped coal, oil, and gas extant in the world today, but it’s not exactly an ideal scenario—hell, we’re on that road already.

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news & Opinion News of the weird turtles as they study their diets by examining their feces. “To our great surprise,” said one researcher, they “worked perfectly.” The suits were easy to put on, comfortable for the sea turtles to wear (according to the researchers, not the turtles), looked great (ditto), and we were “able to collect the entire fecal sample,” he bragged to a London Daily Telegraph reporter in Sydney.

• After all, leeches The Finer Points of the are interesting and thus Law someone has to study • Justice! In September, them, and Mark Siddall, federal judge Cathy Seibel curator of invertebrates ordered the town of Liberty, at the American Museum no star New York (100 miles from of Natural History, is that wars New York City), to stand trial person. These leeches spoilers!

Can’t Possibly Be True for failure to teach police are easily found, but only • Pastor Thom Miller, 60 (of the United and prosecutors proper in the rear ends of hipChristian Ministries International in free-speech law -- thus givpopotamuses, he noted, Mansfield, Ohio), told an international ing plaintiff Willian Barboza and told Wired.com in news crew recently that he had “marrevenge for his arrest for August that if a creature ried” his 19-year-old pregnant girlfriend writing a “crude” message can exploit a niche others (Reba Kerfoot), but that some in his conon the speeding ticket he cannot, it has a monopoly gregation disapprove -- because Miller paid three years ago. Seibel on food. “The only part on is already married (though his incumruled that Barboza’s phrase the hippo that’s vascularbent wife, Belinda, 44, apparently does (urging intercourse upon the ized enough to get a good approve). Said Belinda, “Thom is the love manure-like town) posed blood meal (is) the recof my life and Reba is the blessing of my no “imminent” threat and, tal region.” (Making life life, so it all works.” Said Miller, “Sexually besides, was obviously just a worse for these leeches, I have no preference and look forward to complaint about government services. Sei- they lack the strong jaws of other leeches my time alone with both wives.” (Bonuses: bel also raised the possibility that money and must instead use a nose-like organ (1) Miller was an enforcer for organized damages will come from the prosecutor’s that, writes Wired, it “snakes” into the crime in Cleveland until he “found God” in own pocket. vascular tissue.) prison. (2) He is annoyed that Ohio recog• Dr. Bilgin Ciftci was fired in October Least Competent Criminals nizes same-sex marriage but not polygamy. from Turkey’s Public Health Institution Damon Matthews, 19, surrendered to (3) The local Mansfield News Journal was and later charged with violating one of police in Bay City, Michigan, in Novemapparently scooped on the story but is now President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s favorber and confessed to robbing a 7-Eleven. catching up.) ite laws -- against “insulting” the presi• Mexican artist Renato Garza Cervera’s dent (which carries a maximum four-year His sister had convinced Matthews that work usually involves realistic-looking police would soon arrive to apprehend him prison term) -- because Ciftci had joined figures created to startle (e.g., a “piggy because, even though he wore a ski-mask a Turkish Facebook thread that was bank” as a scowling hog of a man down on “disguise,” Matthews is 7-foot-4 and a denouncing Erdogan with facial images all fours), but his recent “gang member” former high school classmate of the clerk. comparing him to the “Lord of the Rings” floor rugs seem a career peak. RejectIt was left unreported why Matthews character Gollum. The judge, admitting ing bear rugs and lion rugs, Cervera’s “Of thought the mask would help him. his unfamiliarity, appointed a five-person Genuine Contemporary Beast” project group of experts to advise him whether the features exquisitely constructed, life-size, Erdogan-Gollum comparison was “insult- Recurring Themes • Once again, someone minding his own snarling, naked, heavily tattooed men’s ing.” (“The Lord of the Rings” film direcbusiness here became royalty elsewhere. bodies (as if skinned) as rugs, representtor Peter Jackson immediately protested ing “modern” beasts -- Salvadorean gang This time, it was a 32-year-old Vancouthat the images depict not Gollum but his members. Actually, Cervera told Vice.com benign alter ego Smeagol, making the com- ver, British Columbia, man with a wife he intended sympathy: “Societies always and baby, working as a gardener -- until parison obviously uninsulting.) invent new beasts in order to make others he learned that a 6,000-person tribe in The Job of the Researcher responsible for their problems.”

Ghana wanted him for their king. Thus, • Las Vegas police continue to investi• Scientists from Australia’s University Eric Manu, a nephew of the king who died gate Kimberly Knight after a video surof Queensland have developed “swimsuits” in 2013, was asked in July 2015 to come faced on her fetish pornography website to act as diapers for six giant loggerhead take over (part-time, at least), and by In November, lawyer Michael Petersen of Appleton, Wisconsin, was ordered by county judge Philip Kirk (in a sentence for contempt of court) to inform every client he acquires in the following 12 months that Petersen is a “crook,” “cheat,” “thief” and “liar.” Kirk concluded that Peterson had lied about a plea deal with the prosecutor and created phony documents for backup, leading a client to plead guilty to armed robbery when the prosecutor said there was never such a deal. According to the Appleton Post Crescent, Kirk (after dressing down Petersen in colorful language) told him, “I want you to have as much business as a pimp in a nursing home.”

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purporting to be of a medical doctor performing a breast-enlargement procedure and then immediately having sex with the patient. KTNV-TV has questioned Knight on the authenticity of the claims, and she seemed to back off slightly, describing the surgeon as a “medical student,” then characterizing the whole thing as a “mistake.”

As of early December, Knight had not been charged with a crime.

THIS WEEK

tradition, Manu’s Canadian wife will join him as queen (“mother of all mothers”).

Eric said the couple will do whatever they can to improve lives in their village.

• Achan Agit presents a worst-case scenario for the weirdness in how some state governments over-regulate professions, and she is currently suing the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences for burdening her right to make a living. As Forbes.com reported in October, Achan was a war refugee from what is currently South Sudan and is now a permanent resident of the United States -- and skilled in braiding hair, which she learned from elders when she was 5. However, a licensed braider in Iowa (maximum penalty if caught unlicensed: prison, plus a $10,000 fine) needs a high school diploma or equivalent and 2,100 hours of cosmetology coursework -- more than the combined training for dental assistants, bus drivers, EMTs, child care workers and security guards -- and for which Iowa’s 27 cosmetology “schools” might charge up to $22,000.

• Undignified Death: On Dec. 2, a 48-year-old woman in Alicante, Spain, who according to neighbors had suffered from depression and was likely trying to commit suicide, leaped from her seventhfloor balcony -- but failed. She was hospitalized in stable condition after landing on an elderly gentleman sitting on a bench (who did not survive the collision).

A News of the Weird Classic (April 2011)

Scientists Just Wanna Have Fun: A team of whimsy-loving researchers at the University of Osaka (Japan) Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences has produced a strain of mice prone to “miscopying” DNA -- making them susceptible to sometimes-unexpected mutations, such as the recently born mouse that tweets like a bird. Lead researcher Arikuni Uchimura told London’s Daily Telegraph that he had expected to produce, instead, a mouse with an odd shape, but the “singing” mouse emerged. Previously, the team produced a mouse with dachshund-like short limbs. cs By chuck shepherd UNIVERSAL PRESS SYNDICATE

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Hardy & the Hardknocks hit Savannah this Thursday

BY Anna Chandler

anna@connectsavannah.com

T. Hardy Morris established himself as a key player in the Southeast scene through his time with psychedelic Southern rock band Dead Confederate, but the Georgia native is showing his versatility as a songwriter through his solo endeavor, Hardy and the Hardknocks.

In 2013, Morris released his first solo LP, Audition Tapes, a hearty slice of Americana that goes for twang over his mainstay’s signature trippy swills. Vulnerable, roadweary, and observant, Audition Tapes was a crossover success; followup Drownin on a Mountaintop offers a fuzzier approach, laden in slide guitar and tied together by Morris’s signature earnest, weathered, and distinctly Georgia-accented voice.

We chatted with Morris about growing up in Augusta, playing in supergroup Diamond Rugs with members of The Black Lips, Los Lobos, and Deertick, and mastering the Hardknocks’ sound.

On recording Drownin on a Mountaintop: The first album I did pretty much by

“A pretty healthy dose of Southern rock lingers and remains in my music. As much as you try to get away from it, it kind of becomes engrained in there somehow, especially the Hardknocks record.” myself; it wasn’t a specific band or audition tapes. Just me in the studio bringing in whatever the song needed, and this was more of a band album.

We did some demos of some stuff with the whole band and wound up recording in Athens. It was a full band thing. I came in with skeletal outlines of the songs, but when you put them together as a band, that’s T. Hardy Morris and the Hardknocks. It’s a full band album. It wouldn’t sound the same without those guys. As I started writing this stuff, they were along for the ride and ready to go. It’s a much different sound; they’re awesome players and can do whatever.

On writing for Dead Confederate, Hardy and the Hardknocks, and Diamond Rugs: I just kind of write whatever and figure out which box it belongs in later. You can tell as it comes together; I don’t think of a certain thing while I’m writing. I just play around it, and it finds its way there.

I’m usually writing by myself, and then I’ll bring it to whichever band. I do some little demos on my phone and kind of keep a long list in my head of songs. When the time arises, I bring it to that band. It’s a little scatterbrained, but somehow, it works.

continued from previous page

On coming of age and playing music in Augusta, Georgia:

It never gets old watching someone play the pedal steel, it’s just such a treat and just feels good.

It’s not the most compelling music scene there, but it’s still good. I still play with the people I’ve known from there—the Dead Confederate guys grew up there, we’ve played together forever.

My music wouldn’t sound the way it sounds without it. It’s a pretty Southern place, you know? A pretty healthy dose of Southern rock lingers and remains in my music. As much as you try to get away from it, it kind of becomes engrained in there somehow, especially the Hardknocks record. It kind of did hearken back to being young and having fun, and that’s kind of what that record was supposed to have.

On the definition of “Southern Rock” and playing it outside of the Southeast:

I feel like everything I’ve done has treaded that line and shared a troubled history.

The sounds that I make, it kind of reveals a little bit of that: you want to defy the bad things about it, but you embrace certain parts. It’s identifiable; you can’t escape it, but you take the good and leave the bad shit behind, because there are positive things to it. There’s plenty of bad you want to forget about.

I’ve definitely noticed that, with this album more so than anything I’ve done, it’s definitely kind of, I’ve noticed, more buzz bubbling around Southern talent. It seems to have gotten more of a response from probably a lot of artists and people who are around my age and grew up the way we did. It rides a lot of country and Southern Rock, and the lyrics are the antithesis. I think there are places—I wouldn’t say it’s over their head, it’s not hyper-intelligent—but maybe they don’t get it. But it’s gotten a lot of good response, so it’s fine by me.

On mastering the Hardknocks’ Southern grunge sound: The guitar, pedal steel, bass, and drums, a four-piece, carry a little more weight. With guitar, I have more pedals going on. It’s a really fun little band; it’s a good time and makes for a good show. It never gets old watching someone play the pedal steel, it’s just such a treat and just feels good. It’s fun to use it in a more punk rock, garagey kind of way; it adds this layer of twangy-ness to the punk rock.

On the origins of supergroup Diamond Rugs:

The first time in 2011, 2012, it was John and Robbie from Deertick.

They booked some studio time—we’d talked about doing some stuff together in the past.

So they were calling, asking me to come to Nashville to record some stuff, and I met Steve and Bryan, the drummer—and Steve’s the horn player and keyboardist from Los Lobos.

When I got there, Ian from Black Lips came over; I knew them from living in Atlanta and playing some shows with them. And it wasn’t a band name or any idea, really; everybody just came in and we started putting down songs and drinking a lot of beer and having fun. We didn’ tknow if we’d do five songs or fifteen songs or two, we didn’t know what was going to happen, everybody had a lot of good song ideas.

They were sounding good, and through it, we had 12-15 songs or whatever.

We said, ‘I guess we better think of a band name!’ Ian had always wanted to have a band called Diamond Rugs because it’s just ‘D’ and ‘I’m on drugs,’ and that’s how Diamond Rugs came about.

On the casual nature of Diamond Rugs: It was kind of funny; some of the writeups about that band were, ‘Oh, it’s all over the place and they have no identity, yadda yadda’…that’s the frickin’ point! Since when is everybody supposed to sit around and hark up this grand scheme to create a band? Why do they have to be these big institutions? And whatever, to me, it was exactly how a band should start: throwing shit against the wall and seeing what sticks with people who don’t hardly know each other but speak the same language, because we all love rock ‘n’ roll. That kind of sucked, the critique on that end. It’s like, y’all really missed it, to be a rock writer.

I’m generalizing. A few people were like ‘How can you not get it, how can you be that far off.’

It was pretty pure and fun; I don’t know what’ll happen in the future. CS

Hardy and the Hardknocks, Justin Osbourne (SUSTO), Breakers

Thursday, December 17 The Jinx 10 p.m. $8 advance via ticketfly.com, $10 day of

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Ra Ra Riot. Yuck. Futurebirds.

Porches. Hiss Golden Messenger.

White Reaper. No BS! Brass Band.

Alex G. Mystery Skulls. Mass Gothic.

French Horn Rebellion.

Christopher Paul Stelling.

David Wax Museum. Rathborne.

Family and Friends. Big Ups. Diet Cig. Heaters. PWR BTTM. Beverly. Mothers. Alex Calder.

New Madrid. Twin Limb. Des Ark.

Hollis Brown. The Ballroom Thieves.

Sweet Crude. All Dogs. And The Kids.

Lazyeyes. Faux Ferocious. Howard.

Daniel Bachman. Go!Zilla. Blank Range.

Susto. Great Peacock. Chief Scout. HayBaby.

Acid Dad. Lucette. OxenFree. Your Friend.

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BE THE FIRST TO HEAR WHAT’S NEXT

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

interview

19

Music feature

Nana Grizol’s back!

Members of Neutral Milk Hotel, Defiance, Ohio and more make jovial sounds by anna chandler

anna@connectsavannah.com

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Sulfur Studios has been illuminating the Starland District with a slew of all-ages shows; now, two beloved acts are coming through Savannah for a rare performance in the gallery/studio space.

Folk-pop/punk band Nana Grizol, rooted in Athens, Georgia, has emerged from a bit of a slumber to dust off material from its two acclaimed full-lengths, break out some new tunes, and bring its jovial, politically-charged spirit across America.

Toby Foster of Indiana queer-positive pop-punk band High Dive is in on the fun, too, playing a solo set.

The brainchild of Theo Hilton (a member of beloved folk punk band Defiance, Ohio), Nana Grizol crafts gentle, deeply human songs about growing up, exploring friendships and romances, savoring the little things, getting freaked out by the big picture, and looking for love in everything.

It’s kind of a perfect show for the holiday season.

After the lauded release of their sophomore LP, Ruth, Hilton moved away from Athens and shifted his focus toward his education.

“I finished college, and then right now I’m working on a master’s degree in Urban Studies, which is a way to take enough social sciences so I can teach college,” he says.

The reemergence of Nana Grizol is quite organic, much like the nature of the project as a whole. Hilton often plays a solo set with friend Madeline while home in Athens for Christmas; this year, the holiday reunion has grown into a cross-country tour for Hilton and his bandmates, and fans are thrilled to see their return.

On lead vocals and guitar, Hilton is surrounded by excellent company: Laura Carter (a member of both Neutral Milk Hotel and Elf Power) on trumpet, clarinet, and drums, Robee Cucchiaro (Neutral Milk Hotel member Julian Koster’s project The Music Tapes) on trumpet, euphonium, and vocals, Matte Cathcart (of Landlord) on drums, and Jared Gandy (of Zumm Zumm) on bass, guitar and vocals.

While it’s been a minute since a fullband Nana Grizol show, Hilton doesn’t really think of this tour as a reunion.

“We’re all around and like to hang out, and this is the easiest way to do it!” he says with a laugh.

As the year wraps up and we find ourselves longing for positive thinking and 20 words of encouragement to start 2016

Above, Nana Grizol live.

Not even one of them is anywhere close to finished yet.”

“Everything You Ever Hoped Or Worked For,” Love It Love It

off right, get a jumpstart with the lyrics of Nana Grizol. Some of our favorites are below; give ‘em a spin, and perhaps you’ll have them down in time to sing along at Sunday’s show!

“And we settle and it’s so strange the way that people in situations change you got caught up in some crazy current now it seems as though we speak a completely different language but you’ll always be as beautiful as the moment that we met.”

“Blackbox,” Ruth “It should be unlawful to live where you can’t see the stars.”

“Circles ‘Round the Moon,” Love It Love It

“Cynicism isn’t wisdom It’s a lazy way to say that you’ve been burned.”

“Cynicism,” Ruth “But when I’m 9 hours on a bus, I look at photographs of us and I truly do believe it’s what we need: To go back to Portland or Even anywhere in France, And find that shiver for your spine To keep you growing like a vine, And baby never stick too close to your plans.

And the best books of our lives are Being written all the time, but

“So you remember to eat dinner, remember to feel better, remember your friends, they’ll think that you forgot them if you only write secret letters.

Remember not to focus on those feelings that you lack; You just might give yourself a heart attack.”

“Stop and Smell Thee Roses,” Love It Love It “And a song well sung is a sung well song so sing.

If nothing else, you must remember that you’re still breathing.”

“Tambourine-N-Thyme,” Love It Love It

Nana Grizol, Toby Foster, Curbdogs, Garden Giant

When: Sunday, Dec. 20 @ 7:30 p.m.

Where: Sulfur Studios Cost: $8 advance via Eventbrite.com, $10 at door

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DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

t h e

21

By Anna Chandler anna@connectsavannah.com

The Accomplices Photo by Jon Waits | @JWAITSPHOTO

music The band page

It’s back! One of Savannah’s hottest holiday affairs, the Homegrown Holiday Hoedown is a chance to chow down, sip, dance, donate, and much, much more.

A veritable cornucopia of local Americana talent, this year’s roster features The Train Wrecks, The Accomplices, City Hotel, and Waits & Co. “We’ve really become kind of a core group,” explains Train Wrecks drummer Jeremy Hammons. “We have a shared audience; people who come see us go to see the other bands equally. It was a no-brainer to have everyone there.”

Pay Santa a visit in the photo booth, dig into some delicious eats from North Beach Grill, enjoy a Southbound brew (comes with a limited edition koozie!), savor desserts and coffee from The Sentient Bean, and don’t forget to bring an unopened, unwrapped toy to donated to Toys for Tots.

“We must have filled up five or six of those big Toys for Tots boxes last year,” Hammons recalls. “It’s definitely out of the goodness of people’s hearts— because you don’t have to—but everybody walks in with a bag of toys, which is really awesome.”

Expect a few Christmas tunes from the bands, including The Train Wrecks’ first dip into holiday songs. While the music brings folks together, Hammons says that it’s really a chance to bring the community together in the spirit of the season.

“It’s very open; there’s not a lot of seating, so it’s very much a mingling event,” he says.

“You get to hang out for an evening with a couple hundred of your best friends; it’s more of a fellowship kind of show than we usually do. The music’s there, but we’re half the focus of the night.”

Friday, December 18, 6:30 p.m., $20 advance, $25 at door, 21+

Bad Justice

5th Annual Homegrown Holiday Hoedown @American Legion Post 135 Ballroom

‘80s Hair Metal Party with Morrill Smith, Nowhere Child, Bad Justice @The Wormhole

Get into the spirit of giving with an evening of ‘80s sleaze and shred to benefit homeless veterans.

All funds from the evening will go toward Bridging the Gap, a four-year-old nonprofit that works directly with veterans in need of food, shelter, and educational assistance.

The 501(c)(3) emphasizes individualized attention and human connections—they’re not a call center, and there is no lengthy application process for those in need of assistance.

It’s a costume contest with $200 in prizes available, so break out the Aqua Net and mesh for Best Male, Best Female and Best Metal Hair categories. If dressing up isn’t your style, perhaps you’re ready to show off your fiery fingers in the Air Guitar Competition!

The evening’s entertainment is Morrill/Smith, featuring ‘80s metal juggernaut Wayne Morrill. Back in the day, you could catch Morrill performing in Black Knight, The BulletBoys and Hawk; he’s also played alongside members of Poison, Guns N’ Roses, Ratt, King Kobra, and more. While he was in the thick of the ‘80s metal scene in Los Angeles, Morrill is now based out of Nashville, Tennessee.

Locals Nowhere Child and Bad Justice open the evening.

Friday, December 18, 9 p.m., $5-$10, 21+

22

KNife Photo by Jabberpics

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

The Office Party @Sulfur Studios

This ain’t your stuffy corporate celebration. This year, forego drunk bosses and awkward conversation over sugar cookies for a real rager, Sulfur-style!

Dance the night away to the sounds of Deejay Skypager, DJ Jose Ray, and Employee Ray while wearing your best business casual (or don’t; it’s not required, but there’s a certain kind of devious fun that comes with busting moves in a blazer or pencil skirt, no?).

Also, bet you’ve never had a work party with live hip-hop (and if you have, congrats on the dream job): An Toine, KNife, Miggs Son Daddy, and Solo will all be performing.

The best part? On Monday, nobody’s gonna be side-eyeing you from the next cubicle because your faulty break dance attempt. Get ready to clock in and get down!

Friday, December 18, 8 p.m., $5, all-ages

music The band page

Bottles & Cans Photo by Geoff L. Johnson

Get Ugly: The Ultimate Ugly Sweater Roof Party @Rocks on the Roof

It gets a little chilly down there overlooking the river, which makes Rocks on the Roof’s Ultimate Ugly Sweater Roof Party all the more appropriate!

Hit the thrift shop or dig in the back of your closet for the most appliqued, sequined, pompom’d, glitter-glued crewneck you can find and head downtown for an evening with siren Laiken Love and her band, Fellowship of Love.

Nicholls, Georgia native Love moved to Savannah in 2004; though she initially struggled with shyness, Love has bloomed into a captivating powerhouse of a frontwoman. When she’s not gigging with her Fellowship, you can catch her crooning with Voodoo Soup and Emerald Empire Band.

Love and her boys are sure to get you moving with their unique blend of R&B, funk, soul, jazz, and standards. To the tune of hits across the ages, from Bruno Mars to Ben E. King, grab your sweetie, a delicious beverage, and hit the floor.

Saturday, December 19, 9 p.m., free, 21+ Portmans_ConnctSvnnh-1216_Layout 1 12/10/15 4:11 PM Page 1 Laiken Love

The Train Wrecks Holiday Jam with Bottles & Cans and Joe Nelson @The Jinx

The final Wrecks show of 2015, this is sure to be a memorable throwdown with some of the Hostess City’s top country and blues players.

If it’s looking to be a blue Christmas, look no further than Ray Lundy’s roughed-up belt to warm you up; he and the rest of Bottles & Cans always put on a great show.

Savannah’s own Joe Nelson will perform his spectacular solo work, and The Train Wrecks have promised that many a special guest will grace the stage. You just never know who’ll surprise you, so catch it while you can!

Saturday, December 19, 9 p.m., 21+

Daily Happy Hour 5-7pm!

OPEN MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 5PM ‘TIL...

SATURDAY & SUNDAY NOON ‘TIL...

Mon & Tues: Free Hold ‘Em Poker!

Wed: Free Team Trivia!

Thurs: Ladies Night - BOGO! Thurs-Sat: Karaoke/Dance Party!

Sat: College Gameplan!

Oyster Roast Every Saturday Afternoon!

Sun: NFL Sunday Ticket!

FRI 12.18

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Soundboard Music

Soundboard is a free service - to be included, please send your live music information weekly to soundboard@connectsavannah.com. Deadline is noon monday, to appear in Wednesday’s edition. We reserve the right to edit or cut listings due to space limitations.

y Thursda NG Friday, December 18 @10pm T GA PBR STREE PM Cape Fear Hangfire Farewell Do-Over Round I I0 @ E K O A R KA Tuesday ECORD S ET THE R STRAIGHT AKES W/ MR. SN @I0PM-ISH

DJ LYONCE, CC POWERS, JESSICA QUO LABOS, DJ JEFFE & MORE!

SAME LOCATION! SAME CROWD! COME GET LOUD! 37 Whitaker St Downtown 443.9956

Pelican Johnny, A.M. Rodriguez @The Sentient Bean

First-take bedroom recordings of “sappy, secular folk diddies” are Pelican Johnny’s trade; dip into The Sentient Bean to catch the Richmond-based singer-songwriter and Savannah’s own A.M. Rodriguez. saturday, dec. 19, 8 p.m., $5, all-ages

Wednesday / 16

Barrelhouse South VuDu Shakedown Bay Street Blues Hitman Bayou Cafe Thomas Claxton Billy’s Place at McDonough’s Thea, piano/vocals Boomy’s Eric Culberson Band coffee deli Acoustic Jam Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub Fran Doyle Rachael’s 1190 Jeremy Riddle Rocks on the Roof Rachael Shaner Treehouse Wobble Wednesday Vic’s on The River Jimmy Frushon Wild Wing Cafe Jeff Beasley The Wormhole Open Mic Z2 Live Music

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Trivia & Games

24

The Chromatic Dragon Geeky Trivia Night Guild Hall Star Wars Trivia Night The Jinx Rock n Roll Bingo Rachael’s 1190 Team Trivia Tailgate Sports Bar and Grill Trivia World of Beer Trivia

Karaoke

Ampersand Karaoke Club One Karaoke Hercules Bar & Grill Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke

Mediterranean Tavern Karaoke hosted by K-Rawk Wet Willie’s Karaoke

Comedy

Mutuals Club Phatt Katz Comedy Thang

DJ

Little Lucky’s DJ Mixx Masta Matao SEED Eco Lounge DJ Cesar

Thursday / 17

Bay Street Blues Hitman Bayou Cafe Eric Culberson Band Billy’s Place at McDonough’s Nancy Witt Cocktail Co. Laiken Love Jazz’d Tapas Bar Trae Gurley The Jinx Hardy and the Hard Knocks Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub Harry O’Donoghue Rocks on the Roof Randy Cuba Savannah Taphouse Christy Alan Band The Foundery Coffee Pub Open Mic Vic’s on The River Frank Bright and Clair Frazier The Warehouse Jon Lee’s Apparitions Wild Wing Cafe Bucky & Barry Wild Wing Cafe (Pooler) Acoustic Thursday Z2 Live Music

Trivia & Games

The Britannia British Pub Trivia Mediterranean Tavern Butt Naked Trivia with Kowboi Melody’s Coastal Cafe and Sandbar Cantina Trivia Pour Larry’s Explicit Trivia Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint Trivia

Karaoke

Applebee’s Karaoke Club One Karaoke Doodles Karaoke Thursday & Saturdays Flashback Karaoke Jukebox Bar & Grill Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke Mediterranean Tavern Karaoke Rachael’s 1190 Karaoke Rusty Rudders Tap House Karaoke World of Beer Karaoke

DJ

Congress Street Social Club DJ Blackout The Jinx Live DJ Little Lucky’s DJ Mixx Masta Matao Mediterranean Tavern DJ Kirby Rusty Rudders Tap House DJ Tap SEED Eco Lounge DJ Cesar

Bar & Club Events

Carnival Bar Theatre Downtown Delilahs present The Naughty List Club One Drag Show

continued from previous page

Other

Tailgate Sports Bar and Grill Open Mic

Friday / 18

Barrelhouse South Waits & Co., Bradford Lee Folk & The Bluegrass Playboys Basil’s Pizza and Deli Christy and Butch Bayou Cafe Hitman Billy’s Place at McDonough’s Nancy Witt Boomy’s Liquid Ginger Congress Street Social Club The Hypnotics Hang Fire Cape Fear Hang Fire Do-Over w/ DJ Lyonce, CC Powers, Jessica Quo Labos, DJ Jeffe Huc-A-Poo’s Rachael Shaner Jazz’d Tapas Bar Jon Lee The Jinx Scaryoke w/ DJ Lucky Bastard Mansion on Forsyth Park Tradewinds One-Eyed Lizzy’s Mallory Jen Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Jody Espina Trio Rocks on the Roof Souls Harbor, Doug Marshall Ruth’s Chris Steak House David Duckworth & Kim Polote Savannah Taphouse Brandon Reeves Vic’s on The River Frank Bright and Clair Frazier The Warehouse High Velocity Wild Wing Cafe Thomas Claxton & the Myth Wild Wing Cafe (Pooler) Fig Neutrons World of Beer (Pooler) Ed Lemon Duo Z2 Live Music

Trivia & Games

Coach’s Corner Movies & Music Trivia

Karaoke

Bay Street Blues Karaoke The Islander Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke Rachael’s 1190 Karaoke Sunny’s Lounge Karaoke Tailgate Sports Bar and Grill Karaoke/DJ

DJ

Club 309 West DJ Zay Doubles Nightclub DJ Sam Diamond Hang Fire DJ Sole Control Hercules Bar & Grill DJ Little Lucky’s DJ Sweet Treat Melissa Rusty Rudders Tap House DJ Tap SEED Eco Lounge DJ C-Rok Treehouse DJ Phive Star

Bar & Club Events

Abe’s on Lincoln DJ Doc Ock Carnival Bar Theatre Downtown Delilahs present The Naughty List Club One Drag Show Gata’s @Sundown McDonough’s McDonough’s Christmas Party

Saturday / 19

17 Hundred 90 Restaurant Gail Thurmond Ampersand Underside Barrelhouse South John Murphy, The High Divers Bayou Cafe Magic Rocks Billy’s Place at McDonough’s Nancy Witt Casimir’s Lounge Jackson Evans Trio Congress Street Social Club Reckless Abandon Huc-A-Poo’s Anders and the Downtown Sheiks Jazz’d Tapas Bar Jeff Beasley Band The Jinx The Train Wrecks & Friends Molly MacPherson’s American Hologram The Olde Pink House David Duckworth & Kim Polote One-Eyed Lizzy’s Luke Landers Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant Jody Espina Trio Rocks on the Roof Bucky Bryant Savannah Taphouse Bucky & Barry The Sentient Bean Pelican Johnny, A.M. Rodriguez Vic’s on The River Frank Bright and Clair Frazier The Warehouse Eric Culberson Wild Wing Cafe (Pooler) Ugly Sweater Party w/

Melody’s Coastal Cafe and Sandbar Cantina Karaoke Rachael’s 1190 Karaoke

Thomas Claxton World of Beer (Pooler) Chuck Courtenay The Wormhole Star Wars Christmas Party Z2 Live Music

DJ

Applebee’s Karaoke Bay Street Blues Karaoke Doodles Karaoke Thursday & Saturdays The Islander Karaoke Jukebox Bar & Grill Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke

Bar & Club Events

Carnival Bar Theatre Downtown Delilahs present The Naughty List

17 Hundred 90 Restaurant Gail Thurmond Aqua Star Restaurant (Westin Harbor Hotel) Sunday Jazz Brunch Bayou Cafe Don Coyer City Market Christy Alan Band Congress Street Social Club Voodoo Soup continues on p. 26

Adams Bluegrass, LLC Present:

SHERRY BOYD, MC

A FAMILY FESTIVAL

Sunday / 20

Doubles Nightclub DJ Sam Diamond Little Lucky’s DJ Sweet Treat Melissa Rusty Rudders Tap House DJ Tap SEED Eco Lounge DJ Pieces Treehouse DJ Phive Star Wild Wing Cafe DJ Natty Heavy

Karaoke

Club One Drag Show Rocks on the Roof Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest

Sound by BLUE RIDGE SOUND NO VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING

– 40th Annual –

New Year’s

“Queen of Bluegrass”

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL In the CONVENTION CENTER

75 N. Beachview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA - 31527

GEORGIA’S JEWEL

DEC. 31st, 2015, JAN. 1st & 2nd, 2016

DAILEY & VINCENT

“2008-2010 IBMA Entertainer of the Year”

(Saturday, 2nd)

THE GIBSON BROTHERS

BLUE HIGHWAY

“2012-2013 - IBMA-Entertainer of the Year”

THE GARY WALDREP BAND

(Friday, 1st)

(Thursday, 31st)

RUSSELL MOORE AND IIIrd TYME OUT

LOU REID AND CAROLINA (Saturday, 2nd)

SPRINGFIELD EXIT (Friday, 1st)

(Thursday, 31st)

NOTHIN’ FANCY

VOLUME FIVE

(Saturday, 2nd)

(Thursday, 31st)

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Phone: 912-635-9800

(Thursday, 31st)

DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER

THE LITTLE ROY & LIZZY SHOW (Thursday, 31st)

(Friday, 1st)

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& Suites.

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THE LARRY GILLIS BAND (Friday, 1st)

Security Guards On Duty NO Alcoholic Beverages, Smoking or Pets Allowed in Concert Area – Strictly Enforced – WE RESERVETHE RIGHTTO REFUSE ADMISSIONTO ANYONE

LORRAINE JORDAN AND CAROLINA ROAD BAND (Saturday, 2nd)

THE MORON BROTHERS (Saturday, 2nd)

THE CROWE BROTHERS (Saturday, 2nd)

SHOWTIMES: RESERVED: GEN. ADMISSION: THURSDAY, 12 Noon – 12 Midnight............................ Adult $45.00 ........................................Adult $40.00 FRIDAY, 12 Noon - 11 PM .......................................... Adult $45.00 ........................................ Adult $40.00 SATURDAY, 12 Noon – 10:30 p.m............................. Adult $45.00 ...................................... Adult $40.00 3 Day Ticket – (Adult)................................................ Adult $95.00........................................Adult $90.00 3 Day Ticket – (Children 7 - 15) ............................................$50.00................................................. $45.00 1 Day Ticket – (Children 7 - 15) ............................................$25.00................................................. $20.00 Children 6 and Under .......................................................................................................FREE with Parent Tickets not mailed: processing fee on credit cards: ($3.00 per 3-day ticket, $2.00 per 1-day ticket) *Order Tickets Online at: adamsbluegrass.com* Note: The due date for payment of your reserved seats is October 1, 2015

For tickets, complete details and free mailing list, contact:

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Visit our website at www.adamsbluegrass.com

GOLDWING EXPRESS “Celebrating 25 Years”” (Friday, 1st)

THE TENNESSEE GENTLEMEN (Friday, 1st)

All RV Vehicles Permitted to Park FREE Wednesday PM through Sunday AM at Summer Waves Parking Lot located at 210 South Riverview Drive Jekyll Island, GA 31527 All Vehicles - Toll Fee Charged to Enter Island

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR DURING THE FESTIVAL

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

soundboard

25

soundboard

an

continued from previous page

Jazz’d Tapas Bar Jeff Beasley The Olde Pink House Eddie Wilson One-Eyed Lizzy’s Rachael Tybee Island Social Club Sunday Bluegrass Brunch Vic’s on The River Jimmy Frushon Wild Wing Cafe Bucky & Barry Z2 Live Music

Trivia & Games

Lulu’s Chocolate Bar Sunday Afternoon Trivia Tailgate Sports Bar and Grill Trivia

THURSDAY 12-17

Ampersand Blues & Brews

Monday / 21

THE HYPNOTICS

Abe’s on Lincoln Open Mike with Craig Tanner and Mr. Williams Bayou Cafe David Harbuck The Jinx Babes in Toyland w/ the Wave Slaves Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub Carroll Brown Vic’s on The River Jimmy Frushon

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Bay Street Blues Ben Keiser Band Bayou Cafe Jam Night with Eric Culberson Billy’s Place at McDonough’s Thea, piano/vocals Foxy Loxy Cafe Acoustic Tuesday Jazz’d Tapas Bar Danielle Hicks Duo The Jinx Hip Hop Night Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub Open Mic Vic’s on The River Jimmy

Karaoke

Club One Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke The Rail Pub Karaoke Wet Willie’s Karaoke

Comedy

Chuck’s Bar Comedy Open Mic

DJ

Hang Fire Vinyl DJ Little Lucky’s DJ Mixx Masta Matao SEED Eco Lounge DJ C-Rok

Bar & Club Events

The Chromatic Dragon Movie Night

Other

Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub (Pooler) Open Mic

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32 Degrees Midtown Grille and Ale House Trivia The Britannia British Pub Bingo Hang Fire Team Trivia McDonough’s Trivia Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub (Pooler) Bingo

Karaoke

Boomy’s DJ Basik Lee

Live Music DJ BLACKOUT

Trivia & Games

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Boomy’s Karaoke Club One Karaoke Little Lucky’s Karaoke McDonough’s Karaoke Wet Willie’s Karaoke

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culture theatre

Come all

ye

faithful Langston Hughes’ ‘Black Nativity’ stays true to the tale by jessica leigh lebos

jll@connectsavannah.com

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

For the past five years, the members of the Performing Arts Collective have brought Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity to life in Savannah.

Director Darowe McMillon, choreographer Muriel Miller and musical director Gary Swindell have produced Hughes’ passionate retelling of the Christmas story in neighborhood churches, black box theaters and other community gathering places—smallish venues that have served the 35-member cast just fine.

This year, however, PAC Savannah is ready to ascend to the next level.

For the first time, the fervent vocals and bold dances of PAC Savannah’s Black Nativity can soar to the highest reaches when it is performed at the John A. Varnedoe Auditorium at Savannah Arts Academy Dec. 18-19.

“We’ve had five years to work out the kinks and we’re ready for that big stage,” says McMillon, who has been preparing the cast since mid-September. He assures, however, that the larger space will not 28 diminish the sacred meaning of the story.

Jasmine Johnson and Darrell Davis (center and right) play Mary and Joseph in PAC’s production of Black Nativity. Photo by geoff L. Johnson

“It doesn’t matter where we do it. We carry the same spirit with us always.”

The classic, cherished tale of the birth of Christ has been enacted throughout the centuries, but it wasn’t until the 1960 that Langston Hughes created a production devoted to the African American experience. The poet, playwright, activist and cultural icon wrote Black Nativity towards the end of his life, infusing traditional Christmas carols with gospel hymns and elevating African American spirituality into the cultural metanarrative.

Originally titled Wasn’t It A Mighty Day?, the play debuted off-Broadway in 1961. (Alvin Ailey was part of the original cast but quit over the name change.)

The following year, Black Nativity went on tour in Europe, stirring normally restrained audiences into hand-clapping

enthusiasm, especially at the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy. “The elegant festival public appeared to have forgotten itself, lost in this rhythmic wave that overwhelmed it, an integral part itself that bound stage and auditorium in a mystical fusion,” reported the Rome newspaper Il Tempo.

The play returned to the U.S. to the then-brand new Lincoln Center and has been a Christmas tradition in cities large and small ever since.

Hughes’ script allows for and encourages musical interpretation, and the soundtrack has evolved to include not only hymnals but reggae, blues, calypso, African and even a Disney tune in the case of PAC Savannah. Though productions in Atlanta, Chicago and New York may have bigger stages and brighter lights, PAC Savannah’s

interpretation has another element that makes it special.

“There are a lot of adaptations of this play,” explains Swindell, a musician, minister and songwriter who has been performing Black Nativity for over 30 years and toured the Southeast with a Savannahbased production in the 1980s.

“We’re the only ones who begin with John 1:1—‘in the beginning was the word’— and then go into the Gospel of Saint Luke.

We maintain the spiritual aspect.”

McMillon nods in agreement. “You have to tell the complete story. Some productions focus more on the African American telling, and it ends up becoming a gospel concert. We want to stay true to Langston Hughes’ intent.”

Hughes left plenty of room for modern continues on p. 30

lucas theatre

2015

week

lucas theatre 2015

christmas cabaret Thursday, December 17th @ 8:00pm Friday, December 18th @ 8:00pm Saturday, December 19th @ 8:00pm

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, and our Christmas Cabaret is back and sure to please this holiday season! Enjoy an evening of all of your favorite carols and more with Cecilia Arango, Jenny Woodruff, Trae Gurley, Roger Moss, and Jared Hall!

winter

soon beach, boogie, and

doo wop

Saturday, January 16th @ 7:30pm

912.525.5050 lucastheatre.com

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

For tickets and info:

29

theatre

continued from previous page

(L to R) Muriel Miller, Darowe McMillon, Lee Abernathy and Gary Swindell are the driving force behind Performing Arts Collective, inspired by the late Clinton Powell. Photos by Geoff L. Johnson

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

music in the second act. Unique to PAC’s production are 14 of Swindell’s original compositions, including the soulful “Touch of Heaven” and “Chosen.” The latter was inspired by the love story between Mary and Joseph, played by Jasmine Johnson and Darrell Davis.

The rest of the cast and crew is a closeknit community that crosses multiple generations—even the Savior is listed in the program.

“Yes, we always have a real baby!” laughs Miller, who teaches dance for all ages as the executive director of Abeni Cultural Arts. “Even if there is a little crying, I think it adds to it.”

Spitfire Spoken Word master Marquice Williams assists with directorial duties and Leigh Abernathy returns as stage manager, though many in the cast and crew aren’t necessarily associated with theater or performance apart from participating in the yearly production.

“We want to give everyone the experience,” says McMillon with a smile.

“If you want to sing, we’ll find a place for you. If you want to dance, we’ll find a place for you. If you just want to stand around, you can hold a tree branch.”

Speaking of branches, the bigger venue means enhanced set design. PAC has commissioned a few pieces from a local craftsman and filled in the gaps by borrowing from SAA. McMillon is pleased with the results: “We’re setting the scene for a regular day in Bethlehem.”

30 As always since 2011, the production is

dedicated to the memory of poet activist and PAC co-founder Clinton D. Powell, who shaped the collective and inspired this particular interpretation of Black Nativity.

A creative force who brought together all stripes of Savannahians in the name of art and community, Powell passed away from cancer in January 2011, just a few weeks after the play’s debut.

“He was the one, he’s the reason we’re here. He plotted for two or three years, putting us together so that we could do this production,” says McMillon.

In Powell’s honor, PAC and the Black Nativity cast will perform a free show for the patients and staff of Candler Hospital in lieu of a Sunday matinee.

Audiences can expect beats and songs to make them stand up and dance, but the leaders of PAC underscore that their motivation is more about reverence than entertainment.

“What we’re doing is more than a show, more than a concert,” says Swindell.

“What we’re trying to bring is the true meaning of Christmas and what this birth means to the world.” cs

Black Nativity presented by Performing Arts Collective

When: 7:30pm Friday, Dec. 18; 2 pm & 7:30pm Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Savannah Arts Academy, 500 Washington Ave. Tickets: $20 Info: nativitysavannah.wix.com

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SAVANNAH’S

31

Art

Patrol

Art Patrol is a free service - to be included, please send your information weekly to artpatrol@connectsavannah.com. Deadline for inclusion is 5pm Friday, to appear in next Wednesday’s edition. We reserve the right to edit or cut listings due to space limitations

Openings & Receptions

Mickalene Thomas at Giverny — The mixed-media works of Mickalene Thomas (b. 1971) combine rhinestones with acrylic and oil paints to create compositions that reference iconic works. In her reimagined renderings, the artist replaces the European subjects with powerful and glamorous African American women. Through Jan. 3, 2016.

Jepson Center, 207 West York St.

The Gift You Never Wanted — We are often given gifts that are unsightly or unseemly. Often these “gifts” stay with us, sometimes for the better. The gifts we never wanted take many forms, both physically and emotionally. In the end we have to ask—are gifts given for the sender or the receiver? Fri., Dec. 18, 6-9 p.m. Non-Fiction Gallery, 1522 Bull St.

Monet and American Impressionism — The Jepson brings four paintings of French master Claude Monet to Savannah for the first time in the city’s history. Monet galvanized the work of countless artists as a founder of the French art movement Impressionism. Through Jan. 24, 2016. Jepson Center for the Arts, 207 West York St.

Continuing Exhibits Coeur de Lion jewelry trunk show — Coeur de Lion jewelry is handmade in Stuttgart, Germany using a combination of various elements such as steel, glass, rhodium, and Swarovski. The Grand Bohemian Gallery, 700 Drayton St. Eclectic Encounters — Telfair Museums houses more than 6,500 objects in its permanent collection. Eclectic Encounters gives an inside look to works not been seen by the public in over 10 years. Jepson Center, 207 West York St. Ed Jones and Daniel Smith — Ed Jones displays his sculpture and Daniel Smith shows his paintings. Hospice Savannah Art Gallery, 1352 Eisenhower Drive.

European Jewelry by Coeur de Lion Trunk Show — Through Jan. 3. The Grand Bohemian Gallery, 700 Drayton St. Focus 150 — Inspired by the season, the artists of Kobo Gallery have crafted original holiday decorations to be sold during the opening reception. Featured artists include, Heather Lindsey Stewart, Christi Reiterman,

A unique show, ‘The Gift You Never Wanted,’ opens at Non-Fiction with a Friday reception.

Patch Whisky — From murals to museums, Patch Whisky’s bright and playful characters have engaged and delighted viewers since 2008. The Butcher Tattoo Studio, 19 East Bay St.

Logan Miller, Susanne Carmack, Christina Edwards, Doris Greider, Marta McWhorter, Tobia Makover, Jan Clayton Pagratis, David Kaminsky, Dana Richardson, and Dicky Stone.

Kobo Gallery, 33 Barnard St

The Highwaymen — A total of 26 artists, one woman and twenty-five men, traveled the highways of Florida from the early ‘60s to the early ‘90s selling oil paintings from the trunks of cars. Beach Institute, 502 E. Harris St.

Folk Art: Simply Profound — Exaggeration and simplicity converge to describe the innermost soul of the folk artist. Beach Institute, 502 E. Harris St.

House Blend — Group exhibition featuring the staff and friends of Gallery Espresso.

Through Jan. 4. Gallery Espresso, 234 Bull St.

Rooms With A View: Holiday Impressions — This two-week-long show features local interior designers along with the internationally acclaimed designer Mary McDonald.

“Rooms” will be constructed in the Jepson Center atrium, transforming it into a dazzling showhouse. Through Dec. 18. Jepson Center, 207 West York St.

I Have Marks to Make — Celebrating the therapeutic power of art for more than two decades, Telfair’s annual I Have Marks to Make exhibition features work by individuals of all ages with disabilities and work by others making art in rehabilitation from injury or illness. Through Jan. 3, 2016. Jepson Center, 207 West York St.

Sharon Saseen and Marisa Alvarez — December featured artists are Sharon Saseen whose Savannah scene paintings are described as delicate and whimsical and Marisa Alvarez who creates one of a kind jewelry pieces many from reclaimed items and stones. Through Dec. 31. Gallery 209, 209 E River St.

Jonathan Gregory Keller — Jonathan Gregory Keller lives and works in Savannah. From an early age he was interested in the arts and loved to create abstract artwork.

Through Dec. 31. savannahjea.org. Jewish Educational Alliance, 5111 Abercorn St.

The Storyteller — Exercise your creativity with a collection of narrative works

by Elmer Ramos. These Monotypes and Serigraphs invite the viewer to experience their own version of the story. Through Jan. 31, 2016. Foxy Loxy Cafe, 1919 Bull St.

From Bankers to Presidents: The Work of Joseph Gallettini — Gallettini was Savannah’s foremost ship model builder, and his work is displayed at the museum. Through Dec. 31. Ships of The Sea Museum, 41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

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Digital Magazine

33

culture Food & Drink

Savannah Taphouse touches down on Broughton

Brews, eats and screens from Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger & Co. menu that pushes past the usual sports bar fare, Savannah Taphouse follows the King jll@connectsavannah.com Street Grille model of plush surroundings and blanket satellite cable coverage.

Sports fans probably already know The venture has found solid local cred that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben in the unique venue of the historic Avon Roethlisberger is one of the backers behind Theater, where assistant general manager Savannah Taphouse, opening this week on and Savannah native Jerry Bacon used to Broughton Street. watch movies on Saturday afternoons in Roethlisberger won’t be around to the 1960s. bless your Fantasy Football picks at least “I remember when you could get in until the season’s over, but NFL groupies with six Coke bottlecaps!” laughs Bacon, a can watch him snap the ball on 80-inch 30-year veteran of Savannah’s hospitality screens as they bask in the shadow of his industry. jersey hanging on the wall.

He’s been delighted to see the façade of The Super Bowl pro and his business the old Avon restored to its former glory partner Scott Kier own six restaurants in with a fresh coat of paint and a fixed-up the greater Charleston and Myrtle Beach marquee, but the real excitement comes areas and hope to parlay the success of from what’s new on the inside. their upscale sports bar scene in the HostWhile several restaurants have come ess City. and gone from this location in the past few “Savannah is very similar to Charleston, years, the Taphouse is the first to reveal which is where King Street Grille origithe space’s true architectural majesty. nated,” said Kier in a press release regardThe front windows have been replaced, ing their first hotspot that has won the and layers of paint and drywall have been “Best Sport Bar” award from Charleston’s taken down to uncover ancient brick walls City Paper for 10 straight years. and original terrazzo floors. The long“We saw the need for a concept like ours neglected second level now has a new staircase that leads to an airy mezzanine with in the area.”

Featuring 40 beers on tap and a dynamic exposed beams. Thick pipes along the wall

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

by jessica leigh lebos

34

The BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger is made with 100 percent certified Angus beef.

Food & Drink

continued from previous page

Executive chef Lawrence Rice borrows his recipe for fried pork chops and garlic corn succotash from his grandmother, serving it up with seasoned mashed potatoes.

Featuring 40 beers on tap and a dynamic menu that pushes past the usual sports bar fare, Savannah Taphouse follows the King Street Grille model of plush surroundings and blanket satellite cable coverage.

Among those bona fide dishes are sweet tea fried chicken, smothered in an orange pekoe reduction and served with spiced mashed potatoes, and fried pork chops topped with garlic corn succotash. Pork belly with pickled Georgia peach mostarda and a turkey melt on brioche are among the sandwich options, and flatbreads stretch beyond pizza with buffalo chicken and Cuban selections.

Burgers are made from 100 percent certified Angus beef and creatively interpreted, especially in the Texas Heart Stopper, heaped with cheddar and gouda cheeses, bacon and a fried egg on grilled Texas toast. Greener eaters will appreciate the build-your-own salad menu, boasting a cornucopia of chopped ingredients to mix into a meal-sized bowl.

Of course, finger foods reign: Halftime might go a little faster with an order of spinach-stuffed Charleston Cheese Sticks or savory-sweet Captain Crunch chicken tenders.

The Savannah Taphouse menu could be described as the NFL version of American comfort food—top ranked ingredients executed with precision strategy. At the continues on p. 36

*PURCHASE MUST BE MADE IN PERSON. OFFER GOOD THROUGH DECEMBER 31ST. DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

keep the bar flowing with a continual supply of craft brews, and chocolate brown leather booths gleam in the amber glow of a mosaic constructed from beer bottle glass.

The result feels like a posh, post-industrial saloon with a retro private club vibe, where you might want to wear your team swag with your best pair of jeans.

And let’s not forget the screens: Six are 80 inches, five are 65 inches and the rest (28 in all) are still big enough to see the grass stains on the linebacker’s knees, guaranteeing that whatever your game is— football, hockey, ice-skating, whatever— it’ll be in hi-definition.

“If there’s a purchasable sports package, we have it,” assures marketing director Jyles Sosa.

“We literally have every channel there is.”

Sosa has helped Kier and Roethlisberger open several King Street Grilles.

He believes that while the walls of TVs and wide selection of beers satisfies customers just fine, the real success of the concept is in the food.

“We consider ourselves a restaurant first,” says Sosa.

“Obviously, we have nachos and wings, but our sandwiches and entrées are legit.”

35

Food & Drink

continued from previous page

Go beyond pizza with the Pesto Shrimp flatbread

Anyone can become a member with Savannah Taphouse’s take on the Club Sandwich.

behest of executive chef Lawrence Rice, everything is “scratchmade,” from the hand to the mac ‘n’ cheese egg rolls to the sauces and rubs for those requisite nachos and wings.

“A lot of these recipes came from my grandmother,” says Rice, who has

Sosa and the rest of the Savannah Taphouse team break the huddle for their own kickoff.

With a combination of proven business model, robust menu and sumptuous locale, Rice believes they have a winning game plan.

combined his passion for home style cooking with a love of sports since childhood.

“Every Sunday during football season, we’d have a little 12-inch TV set up at the end of the table.”

As Roethlisberger takes on the Bengals’ defense on the field this week, Rice,

Mixing up sports metaphors, he says with a grin, “We’re gonna knock this outta the park.” cs Savannah Taphouse, 125 E. Broughton St., (912) 508-6200, savannahtaphouse.com

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BUYING holiday beer for your craft beer loving friend or family member can be tough. Sure, you can go grab a mixed sixpack and call it a day, but many beer drinkers like to check off every beer they can get their hands on and may have already tasted everything on local shelves.

How can you know if they have had a particular beer? If your beer aficionado is anything like the guys around Brew/ Drink/Run then buying beer is really hard unless you can get your hands on one of the craft beer whales.

This Holiday gift list focuses on gifts for those of us who want to do something more than run to the local bottle shop.

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 5PM-9PM

$5 WINE & $3 BEER

WED., DEC. 16 | 8PM | $7

Stocking Stuffers: Go Local

PSYCHOTRONIC FILM SOCIETY HILARIOUS STAR WARS RIPOFF

Every beer drinker has their favorite brewery and I’ll wager yours even has a favorite local brewery. Let them wear their love for local beer buy picking up a gift from one. T-shirts and pint glasses are always appreciated and let craft beer lovers show their pride in local beer. All four of Savannah’s breweries, Southbound, Service, Moon River and Coastal Empire have several options for any desired style.

Whatever the brewery preference, remember supporting local is good for your economy and your brewery.

Still want to buy beer and not gear?

Then pick up a gift card from Hops and Barley, Largo or one of the Habersham Beverage branches. Beer is never a bad option.

THE HUMANOID

The Big Gift; Klean Kanteen 64 oz.

Growler

For the beer drinker who has everything: Sweetwater Brewing: Healing for the Holidays

SweetWater Brewing has teamed up with Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. this holiday to provide a way to make your craft beer drinker happy and help support disabled veterans and disabled active service personnel. Project Healing

Your beer drinker loves their draft beer.

The Klean Kanteen Growler lets them take it home in style. This vacuum insulated growler is beautiful and keeps growler fills fresher and carbonated longer than the standard glass bottle growlers. The insulation really does keep the beer colder longer and the swing top lid has a heavy duty threadless seal to hold in carbonation.

These stainless steel growlers come in 32, 40 and 64 oz. sizes to fit any draft lovers needs. These can, of course be used for liquids other than beer, but why would you want to?

SAT., DEC. 19 | 8PM | $5

PELICAN JOHNNY & A.M. RODRIGUEZ TUES., DEC. 22 | 7PM | FREE

TONGUE: OPEN MIC WED., DEC. 23 | 8PM | $7

PSYCHOTRONIC FILM SOCIETY HUMPHREY BOGART BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE BEAT THE DEVIL

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

works to emotionally rehabilitate these service members though fly-fishing, education and other active lifestyle outings.

SweetWater has developed a collection of items for sale; 100% of the funds from these sales will go directly to Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing.

For the Collector: Beer Cap Maps

Does your craft beer drinker collect more than just the beers themselves? If your beer drinker has a ton of caps squirreled away Beer Cap Maps is the gift for them. Beer Cap Map displays provide the stylish way to show off that cap collection.

Beer Cap Maps are laser cut from 5mm thick plywood, each with a unique grain pattern that makes every map one of a kind. The designs come in all forms, from a US map to show off that full collection to individual states that can be used to showcase your favorite local brewery. This year Beer Cap Maps is offering up smaller ornament sized version of the maps so you can decorate your tree with beer. Pick your beer drinkers favorite state and let them show their pride and their love of craft beer.

the sentient

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film screenshots

by Matt Brunson

Visit our website online at www.connectsavannah.com/ savannah/MovieTimes for daily movie times and trailers

multiplexes CARMIKE 10 www.carmike.com 511 Stephenson Ave. 353-8683

spotlight EISENHOWER savannah.spotlighttheatres.com/ 1100 Eisenhower Dr. 352-3533

\ REGAL SAVANNAH 10 www.regmovies.com 1132 Shawnee St. 927-7700

VICTORY SQUARE 9 www.franktheatres.com 1901 E. Victory 355-5000

Carmike WYNNSONG 11 www.carmike.com 1150 Shawnee St. 920-3994

POOLER Stadium 12 www.gtcmovies.com 425 POOLER PKWY. 330-0777

ROYAL Cinemas POOLER www.royalcinemaspooler. com 5 TOWN CENTER CT. 988-4025

Indie venues Call or Visit the venue ‘s website for specific movies and times

Muse Arts Warehouse www.musesavannah.org

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

703 Louisville Rd (912) 713-1137

38

Sentient bean www.sentientbean.com 13 E Park Ave (912) 232-4447

Chris Hemsworth grimaces during In The Heart Of The Sea

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA

/ As much an introspective character study as an exciting racing flick, 2013’s Rush examined the heated rivalry that existed between Formula One superstars Niki Lauda and James Hunt back in the 1970s. Criminally unseen and underappreciated in this country – perhaps no surprise, since it ain’t about NASCAR – the picture was directed by Ron Howard and starred Chris Hemsworth as Hunt.

Apparently taking pleasure from their partnership, the helmer and the hunk have reunited for In the Heart of the Sea, adapted from Nathaniel Philbrick’s awardwinning book. But don’t expect a comparable rush from this new effort, as this one’s strictly a slog.

Philbrick’s 2000 book told of the 1820 encounter that reportedly prompted Herman Melville to write that classic of American literature, the 1851 novel Moby-Dick.

After heading out to sea from Nantucket, Massachusetts, the whaling ship the Essex was attacked and sunk by a rampaging sperm whale. Crew members then found themselves adrift in lifeboats for a span of several months, many eventually perishing from hunger and dehydration.

This story is dutifully and dully told in the film version, with the bonus of seeing Melville (Ben Whishaw) himself interviewing one of the survivors (Brendan Gleeson) decades after the incident. While it’s always nice to see Gleeson no matter the role, these wraparound scenes add precious little to the narrative – instead, they merely serve as tedious interludes breaking up equally tedious flashbacks.

Because the movie’s characters are exceedingly trite, Hemsworth, as first mate Owen Chase, has little to do but glower Fletcher Christian-style at inexperienced captain George Pollard (Benjamin Walker) before switching gears to suffer nobly in that lil lifeboat after the creature goes all Titanic-iceberg on the ship.

And what about that whale? He merits little screen time, though he pops up every now and then to remind the survivors that he’s stalking them through the high seas.

This notion of an oceanic animal acting like an avenging angel places this picture in the same class with such landmarks of cinema as 1977’s risible Orca, in which a killer whale tracks down the slayer of his pregnant mate, and 1987’s laughable Jaws: The Revenge, about which co-star Michael Caine famously (and honestly) stated, “I have never seen it, but by all accounts, it is terrible. However, I have seen the house that it built, and it is terrific.”

The former Opie’s big-screen opuses, even the more static ones, almost always benefit from crisp visuals (Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, etc.), but that’s not the case here. The look of Howard’s film is distractingly dim and muddy – although even then not enough to hide the obviousness of the CGI, which looks artificial for great chunks of the grueling running time.

As noted, the real-life events were potent enough to spur Melville to write his novel, and they have to have been more compelling than the snoozy tale here.

Otherwise, we wouldn’t be blessed with a masterpiece, as a bored Melville doubtless would have put down his pen and gone fishing instead.

CHI-RAQ

/// “No peace, no pussy.” “No pussy, no power.”

Those are the defining lines of the hour, In Spike Lee’s riveting motion picture Chi-raq, A film already subjected to ridiculous flack.

Based on Aristophanes’ ancient Lysistrata, It instead examines today’s social strata.

Specifically, the poor in Chicago, Illinois, In a crime zone with no hope and even less joy.

The entire movie is spoken in rhyme, A risky gamble, but it works all the time.

Teyonah Parris is superb in the primary role, As a brainy, sexy woman with a definite goal.

Hoping to stop the men from killing each other, She devises a plan to save every brother.

No more sex from any female in the hood, If that doesn’t stop the deaths, nothing ever could.

The angry gang members all shout, “Fuck that noise,” But they think of laying down their murderous toys.

It’s a powder keg of a film from first frame to last, Anchored by Lee’s fury and a powerhouse cast.

As a priest, John Cusack has a tremendous scene, Railing against killings both senseless and mean.

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Angela Bassett projects dignity as a local sage, While Nick Cannon impresses with his bottled-up rage.

There’s Samuel L. Jackson, a favorite of Lee’s, Blaring “Wake Up!” among his omniscient pleas.

Chi-raq is one of the best films of the year.

Top 20, maybe Top 10, certainly near.

CREED

// For a stretch of 30 years (1976-2006), Sylvester Stallone wrote the scripts for six Rocky films—if ever a series could have benefitted from fresh blood, it was this one. The franchise has been gifted to writer-director Ryan Coogler, but what’s disappointing about Creed is how closely it follows the template of the previous pictures.

It’s as if Coogler, who made his startling feature debut with the powerful Fruitvale Station, was too afraid of messing with a sure thing, and the result is a movie that might as well have been written by Stallone himself. It’s certainly not bad—it’s the best entry since 1982’s Rocky III—but aside from the character shift, there’s nothing here that’s especially original, and one’s enjoyment depends entirely on how charitable one is feeling in the nostalgia department.

Michael B. Jordan is excellent as Adonis Johnson, the result of an adulterous tryst by the late Apollo Creed (played in earlier pictures by Carl Weathers). Grown up, he returns to Philly and asks Rocky Balboa (Stallone, of course), his father’s nemesiscum-friend, to take him under his wing.

Stallone is never better than when he’s playing this role he nurtured from birth, and his relaxed and generous performance shows that he has no problem moving from series star to supporting sage. But too many beats are far too familiar: There’s even a Rocky-cribbed scene where Adonis is surrounded by fans and friends as he jogs down the Philly streets, and anyone who doesn’t know exactly how the climactic fight will turn out clearly isn’t paying attention.

TRUMBO

/// The best movies are often the ones that educate as well as entertain, and with the magnificent Trumbo, we have a film that succeeds on both fronts. And the most important movies are often the ones that, regardless of setting or time frame, manage to lend a voice to today’s issues, and in that regard, the picture again passes with high marks. In a 21st century largely defined by the manner in which right-wing politicians in this nation have successfully used fear and bullying in their strategy to

divide and conquer, this look at the Hollywood blacklist during the days of the Red Menace hysteria seems especially timely … and pointedly frightening.

Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston is superb as Dalton Trumbo, the brilliant screenwriter whose work on such hits as Kitty Foyle and A Guy Named Joe made him one of the film capital’s most successful wordsmiths. But Trumbo was an acknowledged Communist, and once World War II ended and the Cold War began in earnest, Trumbo and those like him were soon targeted by the House UnAmerican Activities Committee. What followed was a national disgrace, as any entertainer with leftist sentiments, even Democrats like Edward G. Robinson (Michael Stuhlbarg), were thrown to the zealous politicians. Some were jailed, others cracked and willingly gave names, and almost all found their careers derailed. But Trumbo fought to survive, writing scripts and placing others’ names on them—this necessary deception ended up winning him two Academy Awards (for Roman Holiday and The Brave One), neither of which he could claim.

Such an abbreviated synopsis provides but a mere peek at everything going on within the confines of this simultaneously weighty and breezy picture, which looks at his home life (Diane Lane plays his wife while Elle Fanning portrays his oldest child) almost as much as his professional one. Trumbo isn’t portrayed as a saint: His workaholic tendencies alienate him from his family, and, like most people who subscribe to any one ideology, he can be somewhat of a hypocrite (as a friend notes, he’s a share-the-wealth Commie whose private property includes a lake). But there’s never any doubt that he was needlessly persecuted, and while the real-life Trumbo eventually stated that there were no heroes or villains during this era of the blacklist, that’s not exactly true.

Folks like actor Kirk Douglas and director Otto Preminger (respectively, and winningly, played by Dean O’Gorman and Christian Berkel), men who bravely helped break the blacklist, could be counted among the heroes, while columnist Hedda Hopper (Helen Mirren), politicians Joseph McCarthy and Richard Nixon (both seen in vintage footage) and, to a lesser degree, even actor John Wayne (a fine David James Elliott) could be numbered among the villains.

Astutely written by John McNamara (from Bruce Cook’s book Dalton Trumbo) and zestfully directed by Jay Roach (the Emmy-winning helmer behind the HBO political flicks Game Change and Recount), Trumbo is alternately poignant, amusing (John Goodman provides most of the nyuks as garrulous B-movie producer Frank King), infuriating and always thought-provoking.

THE GOOD DINOSAUR

// It’s a situation worthy of an Alanis Morrisette song. Isn’t it ironic that in the same week I pen an article ranking all the previous Pixar movies and noting that all of them are recommended to some degree, along comes the first Pixar movie to score a negative review? That’s the case with The Good Dinosaur, a crushing disappointment from an outfit generally known for its exacting high standards. Forget such modern gems as this summer’s Inside Out and the Toy Story trilogy—The Good Dinosaur makes even such indifferently received efforts as Cars 2 and Monsters University look great by comparison.

Pixar pictures have always been for adults as much as for children, yet this one marks the first time that grown-ups have been left out of the mix, with the studio fashioning a film designed to play only to the small fry (or as Tim Robbins’ Norville Barnes would say in the Coens’ The Hudsucker Proxy, “You know, for kids!”). That’s all well and good, but I’m not even sure the target audience will warm to a film so bereft of humor or excitement (or, should I say, warm to it as much as to other family films, as most kids will invariably watch anything as long as it involves bright colors and loud noises).

The film begins with a “what if?” scenario: What if the comet that wiped out the dinosaurs missed the planet? The only reason for this supposition is so a human protagonist—a feral boy—can eventually be added to the story, since this opening act doesn’t impact the film in any other way.

Mostly, the plot centers on a young dino named Arlo and how his life is irrevocably altered by a tragedy lifted straight out of The Lion King. And like another lion, the one taking the road to Oz, Arlo needs to finds his courage, and he only does so after getting lost and teaming up with the aforementioned boy, a lupine lad named Spot.

The story is suffocating in its simplicity, and while the backgrounds are gorgeously rendered, the characters are a visually drab lot (as my wife accurately noted, Arlo and his family members look like animated cucumbers). Thankfully, The Good Dinosaur never indulges in the sort of scatological humor seen in other studios’ toon efforts. Still, that’s a consolation that only goes so far, given that innovation and imagination prove to be as extinct as pterodactyls in the modern world

BROOKLYN

/// For once, the Ugly American didn’t have to leave U.S. soil to fully earn this designation—with the vile and decidedly unchristian decision by most citizens to side with opportunistic politicians seeking to block the acceptance of foreign immigrants in

general and Syrian refugees in particular, there are more than enough Ugly Americans to be found slithering through every city in the nation. Whether these knuckledragging knuckleheads would appreciate Brooklyn is up for debate—its lead character is certainly an immigrant, but, hey, at least she’s white!—but discerning filmgoers will immediately welcome it with open arms.

Adapting the novel by Colm Toibin, scripter Nick Hornby again demonstrates that he’s a master at tackling works centered around female characters, following 2009’s An Education and 2014’s Wild (both placing on my 10 Best lists in their respective years) with this lovely coming-of-age tale. Saoirse Ronan delivers a nicely modulated performance as Eilis, a young lass who leaves her Irish homeland with the hope of making it in America.

With the help of a kindly priest (Jim Broadbent), she lands a job at a department store, but homesickness and loneliness seek to crush her spirit at every turn.

She meets a nice Brooklyn kid named Tony (Emory Cohen in a breakout turn), but just as things seem to be turning around for her, an unexpected tragedy occurs, consequently forcing her to choose between the past and the present as she plans for the future.

VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN

// The new horror opus Victor Frankenstein cites Paul McGuigan (Lucky Number Slevin) as its director, but it’s entirely possible he’s only covering for Guy Ritchie.

That’s because in its approach and execution, it plays like an exact copy of Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes films, taking a popular piece of brainy literature and turning it into an action spectacle crammed with dashing heroes, a villain who dreams of global (or at least U.K.) domination, and the most elaborate sort of visual effects overkill that money can buy.

James McAvoy plays the title character, but he’s not really the star. That would be Daniel Radcliffe, cast as a nameless circus hunchback whose medical knowledge so impresses the good doctor that he makes him his lab assistant, removes his hump by syphoning all of the liquid from inside it, and gives him the name of Igor. There are nods to the 1931 Boris Karloff classic Frankenstein as well as a shout-out of sorts to Mel Brooks’ 1974 masterpiece Young Frankenstein (although, sadly, no one exclaims, “What knockers!”). There’s an extended cameo by Dawn of the Planet of the Apes’ scar-faced chimp Koba. And, oh yeah, there’s also a monster, a lumbering behemoth who figures in a risible climax that owes more to Michael Bay than Mary Shelley. cs

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Screenshots

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Happenings Activism & Politics

Drinking Liberally Every first and third Thursdays, 7:00 p.m.

A gathering of Liberals for an informal discussion of politics, the economy, sports, entertainment, and the world around us.

Free to attend. Food and beverages available for purchase. Free third Thursday of every month. (912) 341-7427. livingliberally.org/ drinking/chapters/GA/savannah. Tondee’s Tavern, 7 E. Bay Street.

Savannah Area Young Republicans Get involved. Contact is Michael Johnson, via email or telephone, or see website for info. 912-604-0797. chairman@sayr. org. sayr.org. Call or see website for information. Free ongoing. 912-308-3020. savannahyoungrepublicans.com.

Savannah Libertarians Join the Facebook group to find out about upcoming local events. Mondays. Facebook. com/groups/SAVlibertarians.

Young Democrats Mondays at 7pm on the second level of Foxy Loxy, Bull Street. Call or visit the Young Democrats Facebook page for more information. Free ongoing. 423-619-7712. foxyloxycafe.com/. Foxy Loxy Cafe, 1919 Bull St.

Auditions and Calls for Entries

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Auditions for Armstrong Youth Orchestra Open to students enrolled in primary grades through high school and including Armstrong students (available for course credit). Auditions, by appointment, are in Armstrong Fine Arts Hall. To schedule an audition, e-mail: savaayo@yahoo.com. Info is also available at www.savaayo.org. AYO is sponsored in part by the Savannah Friends of Music, www.savannahfriendsofmusic. com ongoing. about.armstrong.edu/Maps/ index.html. Armstrong State University, 11935 Abercorn St. Auditions for Collective Face Ensemble’s “Death of Salesman” and “Calendar Girls” The Collective Face Ensemble holds open auditions for its upcoming productions, “Death of a Salesman” and “Calendar Girls.”

All auditions will be cold readings from the script. The director will also welcome monologues if the actor wishes. All who audition must commit to vigorous rehearsal schedules. There are a variety of roles open; for more information, contact artistic director David I.L. Poole at 912-695-0549.

Thu., Dec. 17, 6 p.m. musesavannah.org/.

Muse Arts Warehouse, 703 Louisville Rd. Call for Entries for Elementary Student Artwork The City of Savannah is seeking submissions of original elementary student artwork celebrating the 50th anniversary of Savannah’s National Historic Landmark District (designated in 1966) to display in an exhibit in City Hall’s first floor rotunda.

40 Submissions will be judged by a panel of

artists, preservationists, and City leaders.

The winning entries will be framed and displayed by the City of Savannah in City Hall for the period July-December 2016 for all our citizens and visitors to enjoy. These winning works will become the property of the City of Savannah and will not be returned to the artists. Work not selected for display will be returned to the artists after judging.

Up to 6 winners will be chosen, including a “Best in Show.”All winners will receive an award certificate, prize of art supplies, and reproduction of their winning work for their portfolio. Winners will be announced to the public during an exhibit opening at City Hall.

For more information, visit savannahga. gov/artcontest or contact Luciana Spracher at lspracher@savannahga.gov or 912-6516411. Through March 11, 2016. Savannah City Hall, 2 East Bay Street.

Call for Entries for “IN:LINE” The Gallery at Sulfur Studios is now accepting entries for a group exhibition to be held in January and February of 2016.

Artists are encouraged to submit work that explores the theme of Line. Lines connect, separate and demarcate. Lines can be used to define or to obscure, they can point the way or bar the path. The lines featured in submitted work may be actual or metaphorical and work in all media will be considered. Entries are due December 30, and the show runs January 27-February 13.

Entry fee is $20 for up to 3 works. To submit your work, please visit sulfurstudios.org/callfor-entries Through Dec. 30. sulfurstudios. org. Sulfur Studios, 2301 Bull Street.

Call for Entries for Savannah GIF Festival The 2nd Annual Savannah GIF Festival will feature multiple categories as well as live music to accompany the silent animations during the inaugural screening. During the first GIF Festival in January of 2015, Savannah musicians Sunglow, Garret Kemp, and Chris Glass, played live electronic sets.

A video featuring music by Sunglow can be found at giffest.xyz. The musical artists for next year’s screening will be announced at the start of the year. Artists interested in having their animations featured in the upcoming festival can find our submission page at giffest.xyz. Submissions are completely free and there is no limit to the number of animations that can be submitted. Submission deadline January 20, 2016 at 6 pm. Through Jan. 20, 2016, 6 p.m. info@artrisesavannah.org. giffest.xzy. telfair.org/jepson/. Jepson Center for the Arts, 207 West York St. Call for Participants in PTSD Study Are you a recent combat veteran experiencing psychological or emotional stress related to your combat? You may be eligible to receive first-line medication and talk therapy interventions with proven effectiveness. PROGrESS is a study looking to learn more about how to effectively treat recent combat veterans with PTSD. The therapies are not experimental. You

compiled by Rachael Flora happenings@connectsavannah.com Happenings is Connect Savannah’s listing of community events, classes and groups. Visit our website at connectsavannah.com to submit a listing.

We reserve the right to edit or cut listings due to space limitations.

will be randomly assigned to receive either psychotherapy, medication, or both. For more information about the PROGrESS study, please call 912-920-0214 ext. 2169. ongoing. Online only, none.

Call for Performers, Vendors and Volunteers for Savannah Asian Cultural Festival The Savannah Asian Cultural Festival, which will take place April 15-16, 2016 at Armstrong State University, is currently seeking live performers, Cultural Marketplace vendors and event volunteers. There is no cost for performers to participate. All vendors must be consistent with the theme of the festival.

The cost for vendors is $85 per booth. The festival’s Cultural Marketplace will offer the opportunity to learn more about each country and discover the traditional arts, crafts, fashions and treasures unique to each nation. From Ming-shared jewelry to calligraphy sets, original paintings, handbeaded clothing, Asian accessories and henna body painting, an entire continent’s worth of treasures can be found at the festival. If you would like to participate as a performer, vendor or volunteer at the 2016 Savannah Asian Cultural Festival, please contact James Anderson at james. anderson@armstrong.edu or (912) 3443224. Through April 15, 2016. about. armstrong.edu/Maps/index.html. Armstrong State University, 11935 Abercorn St. Call to Artists for Telfair’s Public Art Installation, “Boxed In/ Break Out” The call to artists seeks entries for Boxed In/Break Out, a museum-sponsored public art installation that involves activating six windows at the Jepson Center facing Barnard Street. The artist chosen would have a detailed plan for how to utilize all six windows in a cohesive manner through self-created art that fulfills the following criteria: creativity, originality, feasibility, visual appeal, as well as resourcefulness and suitability in the space. Boxed In/Break Out is intended to highlight and provide an exhibition opportunity for the work of a local artist, through public display, promotional materials, and an artist talk. In addition to museum-supported promotion, the artist will receive a $1000 honorarium. The window installation will be up from April 28-August 28, 2016 and deadline for submissions are February 1. For more information on how to apply please visit: http://www.telfair. org/boxed/ Through Feb. 2, 2016. Telfair Museums, PO Box 10081.

Homeschool Music Classes Music classes for homeschool students ages 8-18 and their parents. Offered in Guyton and Savannah. See website for details. ongoing. CoastalEmpireMusic.com.

Oatland Island Seeks Memories and Recollections for 40th Anniversary Oatland Island Education Center is looking for memories of Oatland Island in honor of their 40th anniversary. People who were part

of the Youth Conservation Corp that helped to build Oatland Island Education Center in the 1970’s. Great memories from field trips.

Special family memories of Oatland Island.

Send your photos and stories to memories@ oatland40th.org. Deadline is August 31. undefined. 912-395-1500. oatlandisland.org.

Benefits

$5 Bikram Yoga Class to Benefit Local Charities Bikram Yoga Savannah offers a weekly Karma class to raise money for local charities. Thursdays during the 6:30pm class. Pay $5 for class and proceeds are donated to a different charity each month. This is a regular Bikram Yoga class. ongoing. 912.356.8280. bikramyogasavannah.com.

SCMPD Animal Control seeks Volunteers Savannah Chatham County Animal Control seeks volunteers to serve various tasks as needed by the shelter. No prior animal shelter experience is necessary. Newly trained volunteers will be authorized to serve immediately after orientation. Potential volunteers are asked to notify J. Lewis prior to orientation; though, walk-ins are welcome.

Volunteers must be at least 17-yearsold. ongoing. (912) 525-2151. jlewis01@ savannahga.gov.

Classes, Camps & Workshops

Art, Music, Piano, Voice Coaching Coaching for all ages, beginners through advanced. Classic, modern, jazz improvization and theory. Serious inquiries only. 912-961-7021 or 912-667-1056.

Beading Classses at Epiphany Bead & Jewelry Studio Learn jewelry-making techniques from beginner to advanced. Call for class times.

912-920-6659. Epiphany Bead & Jewelry Studio, 101 N. Fahm St. Beginning Belly Dance Classes Taught by Happenstance Bellydance.

All skill levels and styles. Private instruction available. $15 912-704-2940. happenstancebellydance@gmail.com. happenstancebellydance.wordpress.com.

Board Game Nights Bring your favorite board game or learn to play one of ours! Join our community of gamers and make some new friends while having an awesome time. Guild Hall members get in free; entry for non-members is $15. Saturdays, 7 p.m. Guild Hall, 615 Montgomery Street.

Cake Baking & Cake Decorating We educate children on the tools & techniques to properly bake and decorate cakes, such as birthday cakes, and wedding cakes. The children have fun learning, make new friends, and leave feeling a sense of accomplishment. Great for Mommy & Daughter dates, Birthday Parties, and Educational Workshops. $20 Saturdays, 12-3 p.m.. 912-826-3976. rinconsweets@ gmail.com. thecakemixacademy.com/kid-s-

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classes.html. The Cake Mix Academy, 5936 Georgia 21.

Cake Decorating Classes for Children Educate children on the tools & techniques to properly bake and decorate cakes, such as birthday cakes, and wedding cakes.

The children have fun learning, make new friends, and leave feeling a sense of accomplishment. Great for Mommy & Daughter dates, Birthday Parties, and Educational Workshops. $20 Wednesdays, 5-7:30 p.m.. 912-826-3976. rinconsweets@ gmail.com. thecakemixacademy.com/kid-sclasses.html. The Cake Mix Academy, 5936 Georgia 21.

Champions Training Center Offering a variety of classes and training in mixed martial arts, jui-jitsu, judo and other disciplines for children and adults. All skill levels. 525 Windsor Rd. 912-349-4582. ctcsavannah.com.

Chinese Language Classes The Confucius Institute at Savannah State University offers free Chinese language classes starting January 17. To register, please call 912-358-3160. ongoing. 912-3583160. confuciusinstitute@savannahstate. edu. savannahstate.edu. savstate.edu/.

Savannah State University, 3219 College St. Clay Classes Savannah Clay Studio at Beaulieu offers handbuilding, sculpture, and handmade tiles, basic glazing and firing. 912-351-4578. sav.. claystudio@gmail.com.

Boating Classes Classes on boat handling, boating safety

and navigation offered by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. See website or call to register. 912897-7656. savannahaux.com.

Creativity Coaching Do you have a creative idea but don’t know where to start? Is it time to move forward with your project? Work with your very own creativity coach and learn how to blast through blocks, plan your time, and enjoy the richness of a creative life. See website for more info at www.laurenl.com/creativity_ coaching/ or contact Creativity@LaurenL. com ongoing. Online, 2222 Sedwick Drive.

DUI Prevention Group Offers victim impact panels for intoxicated drivers, DUI, offenders, and anyone seeking knowledge about the dangers of driving while impaired. A must see for teen drivers.

Meets monthly. $40/session 912-443-0410.

Krav Maga / Tactical Self Defense: Dynamic Defensive Tactics combines the Israeli self defense techniques of Krav Maga with tactical fighting concepts. This is NOT a martial art but a no nonsense approach to self defense. With over 37 years of experience, Roger D’Onofrio will teach you solutions, which are aggressive, simple and effective, to the violent situations of today.

Note: these are private sessions for adults only. ongoing. 912-308-7109. ddt_910@ yahoo.com.

Eldercare Professional Development - Ethical Issues in Long-Term Care As more of the American population grows

Jonesin’ Crossword by matt Jones

©2015 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com) Answers on page 45

“Two-Way Streets” --hey, look where you’re going!

continues on p. 42

Across

1 Widescreen medium 5 DJ Kool ___ (hip-hop pioneer born Clive Campbell) 9 College football coach Amos Alonzo ___ 14 Blarney Stone land 15 Like much family history 16 Spanish citrus fruit 17 “Author unknown” byline 18 City south of Tel Aviv 19 Adult insect stage 20 Tribal carving depicting the audience for a kids’ show street?

23 Part of TMZ 24 More than just clean 25 Storm warnings 28 Macy Gray hit from the album “On How Life Is” 29 “Cold Mountain” star Zellweger 30 Amos with the album “Little Earthquakes” 31 Beach bucket 35 “Look out, bad generic street, my show’s on the air!”

38 Lindsay Lohan’s mom 39 Hose problem 40 Chair designer Charles 41 Incandescent light bulb depiction (because I have yet to see a CFL bulb depict one)

42 Philadelphia hockey team 43 Follow-up to “That guy’s escaping!”

47 “Buena Vista Social Club” setting 48 Financial street represents a smell-related statute?

53 Came to a close 54 Nick Foles’s NFL team 55 “Hawaii Five-O” setting 56 Bothered constantly 57 Bendable joint 58 “JAG” spinoff with Mark Harmon 59 Mozart’s “___ Alla Turca” 60 Lawn sign 61 Acquires

Down

1 ___ index 2 “The Flintstones” pet 3 Harness race pace 4 Home to the world’s tallest waterfall 5 Hulk and family 6 Take out 7 Completely destroy 8 School excursion with a bus ride, perhaps 9 Oscar the Grouch’s worm friend 10 Kitchen noisemaker 11 Big name in violins 12 “Diary of a Madman”

writer Nikolai 13 $1,000 bill, slangily 21 Device needed for Wi-Fi 22 Heart chambers 25 Street ___ 26 Jeans manufacturer Strauss 27 “Come ___!”

28 Ancient Greek region 30 Signs of a quick peel-out 31 Just go with it 32 “Paris, Je T’___” (2006 film) 33 “Skinny Love” band Bon ___ 34 Word in an express checkout lane which annoys grammarians 36 ___ Ababa, Ethiopia 37 Nellie of toast fame 41 “There was no choice” 42 Sweated the details 43 Go blue 44 “So much,” on a musical score 45 “Here we are as in ___ days ...”

46 Respond to a charge 47 Caravan member 49 It means “one-billionth” 50 Lingerie trim 51 Take ___ (lose money) 52 Chicken

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

Happenings

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DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

older, decisions about healthcare often become more complex. Ethical issues in long-term care continue to present challenges for both administrators and healthcare professionals. This workshop will focus on legal and ethical concerns that impact the care of our elderly population, while creating a forum for the discussion of quantity and quality of life issues. Participants will leave with a better understanding of how to create an environment conducive to ethical decision making. In addition, this informative and interactive workshop will assist participants in identifying their own personal roles in ethical leadership. $89.00 - lunch is not included Wed., Dec. 16, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

912-478-5551. conted@georgiasouthern. edu. academics.georgiasouthern.edu/ ce/programs/professionaldevelopment/ eldercare/. Georgia Legal Services Office, 6602 Abercorn Street #203.

Eldercare Professional Development - Residents’ Rights Implementing a meaningful Residents’ Rights program in your facility is an ongoing challenge. Involvement of staff at all levels is essential, and administrators must ensure that caregivers are sensitive to the needs of their residents. In this workshop, our expert instructor will address the transition process of institutional care and will examine the legal rights of nursing home residents.

Participants will receive tips on how to build relationships with elders in their care and will discuss the best practices for changing perceptions of seniors. $89.00 - lunch is not included Thu., Dec. 17, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

912-478-5551. conted@georgiasouthern. edu. academics.georgiasouthern.edu/ ce/programs/professionaldevelopment/ eldercare/. Georgia Legal Services Office, 6602 Abercorn Street #203.

Family Law Workshop The Mediation Center has three workshops per month for people who do not have legal representation in a family matter: divorce, legitimation, modifications of child support, visitation, contempt. Schedule: 1st Tues, 2nd Mon, 4th Thursday. Call for times. $30 912354-6686. mediationsavannah.com.

Fany’s Spanish/English Institute Spanish is fun. Classes for adults and children held at 15 E. Montgomery Crossroad. Register by phone. ongoing. 912921-4646.

Guitar, Mandolin, or Bass Guitar Lessons Emphasis on theory, reading music, and improvisation. Located in Ardsley Park. ongoing. 912-232-5987.

Housing Authority Neighborhood Resource Center Housing Authority of Savannah hosts classes at the Neighborhood Resource Center. Adult literacy/GED prep: Mon-Thurs, 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm. Financial education: 4th Fri each month, 9am-11am. Basic computer training: Tues & Thurs, 1pm3pm. Community computer lab: Mon-Fri, 3pm-4:30pm. ongoing. 912-232-4232 x115. savannahpha.com. savannahpha.com/NRC. html. Neighborhood Resource Center, 1407 Wheaton St. Intro to Circuit Design Series 42 with Raspberry Pi

Intro to Circuit Design Series with RaspberryPi to take place in our Miskatonic Labs. This series of classes includes: 1. Dec 2 - Install Raspbian on Raspberry Pi 2. Dec 9 - Design Gameboy cartridge plug board with KiCad. 3. Dec 16 - C / C++ / Python programming basics with Raspberry Pi. Also interface with breadboard circuits 4.

Dec 23 - Assemble Gameboy cartridge plug board and learn how to dump ROM / RAM 5. Jan 6 - Design USB joystick with https:// www.adafruit.com/products/296 and some buttons /3D model enclosure 6. Jan 13 - Print enclosure and assemble joystick $20 per class Wed., Dec. 16, 6-7:30 p.m.

844-MY-GUILD. events@theguildhall.com.

Guild Hall, 615 Montgomery Street.

Knitting & Crochet Classes Offered at The Frayed Knot, 6 W. State St. See the calendar of events on website.

Mondays. 912-233-1240. thefrayedknotsav. com.

Music Instruction Georgia Music Warehouse, near corner of Victory Drive & Abercorn, offering instruction by professional musicians. Band instruments, violin, piano, drums and guitar.

All ages welcome. ongoing. 912-358-0054. georgiamusicwarehouse.com/. Georgia Music Warehouse, 2424 Abercorn St. Music Lessons--Multiple Instruments Savannah Musicians’ Institute offers private instruction for all ages and experience levels in Guitar (electric, acoustic,classical), Piano, Bass, Voice, Banjo, Mandolin, Ukulele, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Music Theory/Composition/Songwriting. 609 69th Street, Savannah GA. ongoing. 912398-8828. smisavannah@gmail.com. savmusiciansinstitute.com.

New Horizons Adult Band Program Music program for adults who played a band instrument in high school/college and would like to play again. Mondays at 6:30pm at Portman’s. $30 per month. All ages and ability levels welcome. Call for info. ongoing.

912-354-1500. portmansmusic.com.

Portman’s Music Superstore, 7650 Abercorn St. Novel Writing Write a novel, finish the one you’ve started, revise it or pursue publication. Awardwinning Savannah author offers one-onone or small group classes, mentoring, manuscript critique, ebook formatting. Email for pricing and scheduling info. ongoing. pmasoninsavannah@gmail.com.

Photography Classes Beginner photography to post production. Instruction for all levels. $20 for two-hour class. See website for complete class list. 410-251-4421. chris@chrismorrisphotography.com. chrismorrisphotography.com.

Piano Lessons Piano lessons with a classically trained instructor, with theater and church experience. 912-312-3977. ongoing. georgiamusicwarehouse.com/. Georgia Music Warehouse, 2424 Abercorn St. Piano Voice-Coaching Pianist with M/degree,classical modern jazz improvisation, no age limit. Call 912-9617021 or 912-667-1056. Serious inquiries only. ongoing.

Pole Fitness Classes Pole dancing is a beautiful artform, and a combination of dance, flexibility and gymnastics. Pole dancing has quickly become one of the most popular forms of fun and exercise for women. It can help you lose weight, gain beautiful muscle tone, make you stronger than ever and build confidence like no other form of exercise can. Join us on Tuesday nights and get fitter and stronger than you’ve ever been, with this amazing full body workout. Schedule TBA $20 Every other Tuesday, 7-9 p.m. 912-9881052. Mediterranean Tavern, 125 Foxfield Way. Qigong Class A six week Qigong class. Simple Qigong forms, breathing exercises, and standing and walking meditations will be practiced in this class. Each week will focus on a different organ, the corresponding internal energy exercises, self massage and sounds to clear stagnant and toxic energy from that organ to promote health, vitality and longevity. The Longevity Qigong form, a simple set of ten exercises to improve the flow of Qi throughout the body, calming the mind, will be practiced. 6 classes @ $60. or $15. per drop in class Thu., Dec. 17, 6:307:30 p.m. 912-484-0675. nszychowski@ gmail.com. branchesyoga.com. Branches Yoga Center, 242St.4 Drayton.

A. Roper Studio - Voice Technique and Coaching Experienced and successful voice instructor is accepting students. Nurturing and collaborative studio. Services offered include strengthening the voice, range extension, relaxation techniques, and coaching through various styles of music.

Audition and competition preparation.

Located 15 minutes from downtown. Varies Mondays-Saturdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. 912-4840628. Downtown Savannah, downtown.

Russian Language Classes Learn to speak Russian. All experience levels welcome, beginner to expert. Call for info. ongoing. 912-713-2718.

Soul Progression Yoga In this practice of yoga, we use the asanas(postures) as an artistic expression of ourselves as we open our hearts, physically and energetically to set the foundation with an intention for having a more open heart in our daily life. This class offers a deeply rooted spiritual foundation integrating alignment techniques and enlightening messages woven throughout the practice. Open to all Levels Class Prices: Ongoing classes: $15 drop in. 5 Class card: $70 (3 month expiration) 10 Class card: $130 (4 month expiration) Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. 912-308-3410. yogamelynn@ gmail.com. branchesyoga.com/schedule/. branchesyoga.com. Branches Yoga Center, 242St.4 Drayton.

Yoga Teacher Training Info Session Rsvp deadline: December 1, 2015 Join us to find out what makes Savannah Yoga Center’s yoga teacher training (YTT) program so awesome! We will discuss and explain our 200hr and 300hr YTT programs. Both of which are recognized by Yoga Alliance. Come with questions and leave with new friends and information

that has the power to change your life for the better forever! App deadline: June 15, 2016 Free Wed., Dec. 16, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

912-232-2994. marketing@savannahyoga. com. savannahyoga.com/workshops. savannahyoga.com/. Savannah Yoga Center, 1321 Bull St.

Clubs & Organizations

Abeni Cultural Arts Dance Classes Classses for multiple ages in performance dance and adult fitness dance. African, modern, ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, gospel. Held at Abeni Cultural Arts studio, 8400-B Abercorn St. Call Muriel, 912-6313452, or Darowe, 912-272-2797. ongoing. abeniculturalarts@gmail.com.

Avegost LARP Live action role playing group that exists in a medieval fantasy realm. generallly meets the second weekend of the month. Free for your first event or if you’re a non-player character. $35 fee for returning characters. ongoing. godzillaunknown@gmail.com. avegost.com.

Buccaneer Region SCCA Local chapter of the Sports Car Club of America, hosting monthly solo/autocross driving events in the Savannah area. Anyone with a safe car, insurance and a valid driver’s license is eligible to participate. See website. ongoing. buccaneerregion.org.

Business Networking on the Islands Small Business Professionals Islands Networking Group meets first Thursday each month, 9:30am-10:30am. Tradewinds Ice Cream & Coffee, 107 Charlotte Rd. Call for info. ongoing. 912-308-6768.

Chatham Sailing Club Friday evening social event at the clubhouse.

Meet Members and their families who all enjoy water based activities but whose prime interest is sailing. This BYOB event is free and all are welcome, but Membership is encouraged after several visits once interest is gauged!! We look forward to meeting you.

Fridays, 7-10 p.m. pranschkec3@gmail.com.

Young’s Marina, 218 Wilmington Island Rd. Coastal Bead Society Coastal Bead Society monthly meetings, 12 noon on the third Friday of the Month at the Coastal Georgia Center, 303 Fahm Street, near SCAD. All beaders are welcome. ongoing. wyrnut18@gmail.com. cgc. georgiasouthern.edu/. Coastal Georgia Center, 305 Fahm Street.

Fiber Guild of the Savannahs A club focusing on weaving, spinning, basket making, knitting, crocheting, quilting, beading, rug hooking, doll making, and other fiber arts. Meets at Oatland Island Wildlife Center, first Saturday of the month (Sept.-June) 10:15am. Mondays, 10:30 a.m. fiberguildsavannah.homestead.com/. Fiber Guild of the Savannahs, 711 Sandtown Road GA. Historic Flight Savannah A non-profit organization dedicated to sending area Korean War and WWII veterans to Washington, DC, to visit the WWII Memorial. All expenses paid by Honor Flight Savannah. Honor Flight seeks contributions, and any veterans interested in a trip to Washington. Call for info. ongoing. 912-5961962. honorflightsavannah.org.

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Historic Savannah Chapter: ABWA Meets the second Thursday of every month from 6pm-7:30pm. Tubby’s Tank House, 2909 River Drive, Thunderbolt. Attendees pay for their own meals. RSVP by phone. ongoing. 912-660-8257.

Knitters, Needlepoint and Crochet Meets every Wednesday. Different locations downtown. Call for info. No fees. Want to learn? Join us. ongoing. 912-308-6768.

Low Country Turners A club for wood-turning enthusiasts. Call Steve Cook for info at number below. ongoing. 912-313-2230.

Military Order of the Purple Heart Ladies Auxiliary Meets the first Saturday of the month at 1:00pm. Call for info. ongoing. 912-7864508. American Legion Post 184, 3003 Rowland Ave. Philo Cafe Discussion group that meets every Monday, 7:30pm - 9:00pm at various locations.

Anyone craving good conversation is invited. Free to attend. Email for info, or see Facebook.com/SavannahPhiloCafe.

Mondays. athenapluto@yahoo.com.

R.U.F.F. - Retirees United for the Future RUFF meets the last Friday of each month at 10am to protect Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and related senior issues. Parking in the rear. Free to all Seniors ongoing. 912344-5127. New Covenant Church, 2201 Bull St. Safe Kids Savannah A coalition dedicated to preventing childhood injuries. Meets 2nd Tuesday each month, 11:30am-1:00pm. See website or call for info. ongoing. 912-353-3148. safekidssavannah.org.

Savannah Brewers’ League Meets 1st Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm at Moon River Brewing Co. Call or see website for info. ongoing. 912-447-0943. hdb.org. moonriverbrewing.com/. Moon River Brewing Co., 21 West Bay St. Savannah Charlesfunders Investment Discussion Group Meets Saturdays, 8:30am to discuss stocks, bonds and better investing. Contact by email for info. ongoing. charlesfund@gmail. com. panerabread.com/. Panera Bread (Broughton St.), 1 West Broughton St. Savannah Council, Navy League of the United States A dinner meeting every 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm at local restaurants. 3rd Tuesday in November; none in December.

For dinner reservations, please call Sybil Cannon at 912-964-5366. ongoing. 912-7487020. savannahnavyleague.us.

Savannah Go Green Meets most Saturdays. Green events and places. Share ways to Go Green each day.

Call for info. ongoing. 912-308-6768.

Savannah Kennel Club Monthly meetings open to the public the 4th Monday each month, Sept. through June. ongoing, 7 p.m. savannahkennelclub.org. barnesrestaurant.com. Barnes Restaurant, 5320 Waters Avenue.

Savannah Newcomers Club Open to women who have lived in the Savannah area for less than two years.

Membership includes monthly luncheon and program. Activities, tours and events to help learn about Savannah and make new friends. ongoing. savannahnewcomersclub. com.

Savannah Parrot Head Club Beach, Buffet and no dress code. Check website for events calendar or send an email for Parrot Head gatherings. ongoing. savannahphc@yahoo.com. savannahphc. com.

Society for Creative Anachronism Meets every Saturday at the south end of Forsyth Park for fighter practice and general hanging out. For people interested in re-creating the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Free Saturdays, 11 a.m.. savannahsca.org. Forsyth Park, Drayton St. & East Park Ave. Savannah Toastmasters Helps improve speaking and leadership skills in a friendly, supportive environment.

Mondays, 6:15pm, Memorial Health University Medical Center, in the Conference Room C. ongoing. 912-484-6710. memorialhealth.com/. Memorial Health University Medical Center, 4700 Waters Ave. Savannah Veggies and Vegans Join the Facebook group to find out more about vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, and to hear about upcoming local events.

Mondays.

Toastmasters Toastmasters International is an organization which gives its members the opportunity to develop and improve their public speaking abilities through local club meetings, seminars, and contests.

Regardless of your level of comfort with public speaking, you will find a club that is interested in helping you improve your speaking abilities. Free Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m.. hostesscity.toastmastersclubs.org. thincsavannah.com. Thinc Savannah, 35 Barnard St. 3rd Floor.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 671 Meets second Monday of each month, 7pm, at the American Legion Post 135, 1108 Bull St. ongoing. 912-429-0940. rws521@msn. com. vvasav.com.

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Happenings

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Happenings

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Meets second Tuesday each month (except October) 6:00pm, Woodville-Tompkins, 151 Coach Joe Turner St. Call or email for info. ongoing. 912-232-3549. chesteraellis@ comcast.net.

Comedy

Comedy Night Join us for an evening of ice cream and laughter...the perfect combo for your Friday night! All ages welcome. Free Fridays, 8-10 p.m. craftbeercustard.com. Exit Strategy Icecreamists, 310 E Bay St. Odd Lot Improv

An improv comedy show in the style of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” $5 Mondays, 8 p.m. musesavannah.org/. Muse Arts Warehouse, 703 Louisville Rd. Odd Lot Improv: On The Spot Mysteries Dinner Theatre Odd Lot is teaming up with the brilliant Chefs of Savannah Coffee Roasters to bring you a whole new dining experience.

The always surprising talent of Odd Lot will perform a fully interactive Friday night Murder Mystery while you dine on a delicious three course meal. Seating is at 6:30pm Friday nights. Reservations are

strongly recommended. Four actors and three courses all for $40. It’s certain to be a night to remember. Great for groups, parties, or anyone who loves a good show. $40 Fridays, 6:30 p.m. justin@oddlot.org. oddlot. org. Savannah Coffee Roasters, 215 West Liberty Street.

Dance

Adult Ballet Class Maxine Patterson School of Dance, 2212 Lincoln St, offers adult ballet on Thursdays, 6:30pm-7:30pm $12 per class. Call for info. ongoing. 912-234-8745.

Free Will Astrology ARIES (March 21-April 19)

The Neanderthals were a different human species that co-existed with our ancestors, homo sapiens, for at least 5,000 years. But they eventually died out while our people thrived. Why? One reason, says science writer Marcus Chown, is that we alone invented sewing needles. Our newborn babies had well-made clothes to keep them warm and healthy through frigid winters. Neanderthal infants, covered with ill-fitting animal skins, had a lower survival rate. Chown suggests that although this provided us with a mere one percent survival advantage, that turned out to be significant. I think you’re ready to find and use a small yet ultimately crucial edge like that over your competitors, Aries.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Artist Robert Barry created “30 Pieces,” an installation that consisted of pieces of paper on which he had typed the following statement: “Something which is very near in place and time, but not yet known to me.” According to my reading of the astrological omens, this theme captures the spirit of the phase you’re now entering. But I think it will evolve in the coming weeks. First it’ll be “Something which is very near in place and time, and is becoming known to me.” By mid-January it could turn into “Something which is very near and dear, and has become known to me.”

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

“There is in every one of us, even those who seem to be most moderate, a type of desire that is uncanny, wild, and lawless.” Greek philosopher Plato wrote that in his book The Republic, and I’m bringing it to your attention just in time for your Season of Awakening and Deepening Desire.

The coming days will be a time when you can, if you choose, more fully tune in to the uncanny, wild, and lawless aspects of your primal yearnings. But wait a minute! I’m not suggesting you should immediately take action to gratify them.

For now, just feel them and observe them. Find out what they have to teach you. Wait until the new year before you consider the possibility of expressing them.

DEC 16-DEC 22, 2015

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

44

Congratulations! You have broken all your previous records for doing boring tasks that are good for you. In behalf of the other eleven signs, I thank you for your heroic, if unexciting, campaign of self-improvement. You have not only purified your emotional resources and cleared out some breathing room for yourself, but you have also made it easier for people to help you and feel close to you.

Your duty has not yet been completed, however. There are a few more details to take care of before the gods of healthy tedium will be finished with you. But start looking for signs of your big chance to make a break for freedom.

They’ll arrive soon.

Adult Ballet Toning Always wanted the body of a ballerina?

Well.. YOU CAN! Our class is designed to stretch, tone, and enhance your body to become healthier than ever. Join us and check out the calendar for dates to enroll. (this is apart of our fitness package of 10 classes for $80) $10.00 Mondays, 5 p.m.

912.312.3549. reservetodance@gmail. com. salondebailedancestudio.com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

Adult Intermediate Ballet Mondays and Wednesdays, 7pm-8pm. $12/class or $90/8 classes. Call for info.

by Rob brezsny

beautyandtruth@freewillastrology.com

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

The English word “fluke” means “lucky stroke.” It was originally used in the game of billiards when a player made a good shot that he or she wasn’t even trying to accomplish. Later its definition expanded to include any fortuitous event that happens by chance rather than because of skill: good fortune generated accidentally. I suspect that you are about to be the beneficiary of what may seem to be a series of flukes, Leo. In at least one case, though, your lucky break will have been earned by the steady work you’ve done without any fanfare.

You may not have to use a literal crowbar in the coming weeks, but this rough tool will serve you well as a metaphor. Wherever you go, imagine that you’ve got one with you. Why? It’s time to jimmy open glued-shut portals . . . to pry loose mental blocks . . . to coax unyielding influences to budge . . . to nudge intransigent people free of their fixations. Anything that is stuck or jammed needs to get unstuck or unjammed through the power of your willful intervention.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to consort with hidden depths and unknown riches. In every way you can imagine, I urge you to go deeper down and further in. Cultivate a more conscious connection with the core resources you sometimes take for granted. This is one time when delving into the darkness can lead you to pleasure and treasure. As you explore, keep in mind this advice from author T. Harv Eker: “In every forest, on every farm, in every orchard on earth, what’s under the ground creates what’s above the ground. That’s why placing your attention on the fruits you have already grown is futile. You can’t change the fruits that are already hanging on the tree. But you can change tomorrow’s fruits. To do so, you will have to dig below the ground and strengthen the roots.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

In the coming weeks, the pursuit of pleasure could drain your creative powers, diminish your collaborative possibilities, and wear you out. But it’s also possible that the pursuit of pleasure will enhance your creative powers, synergize your alliances, and lead you to new opportunities. Which way will you go? It all depends on the kinds of pleasures you pursue. The dumb, numbing, mediocre type will shrink your soul. The smart, intriguing, invigorating variety will expand your mind. Got all that? Say “hell, no” to trivializing decadence so you can say “wow, yes” to uplifting bliss.

Garnets are considered less valuable than diamonds. But out in the wild, there’s an intimate connection between these two gemstones. Wherever you find garnets near the surface of the earth, you can be reasonably sure that diamonds are buried deeper down in the same location.

Let’s use this relationship as a metaphor for your life, Sagittarius. I suspect you have recently chanced upon a metaphorical version of garnets, or will do so soon. Maybe you should make plans to search for the bigger treasure towards which they point the way.

Ready for the Cool Anger Contest? You can earn maximum points by expressing your dissatisfaction in ways that generate the most constructive transformations.

Bonus points will be awarded for your ability to tactfully articulate complicated feelings, as well as for your emotionally intelligent analyses that inspire people to respond empathetically rather than defensively. What are the prizes? First prize is a breakthrough in your relationship with an ally who could be crucial to your expansion in 2016. Second prize is a liberation from one of your limiting beliefs.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

A fourth-century monk named Martin was a pioneer wine-maker in France. He founded the Marmoutier Abbey and planted vineyards on the surrounding land.

According to legend, Martin’s donkey had a crucial role in lifting viticulture out of its primitive state. Midway through one growing season, the beast escaped its tether and nibbled on a lot of the grapevines. All the monks freaked out, fearing that the crop was wrecked. But ultimately the grapes grew better than they had in previous years, and the wine they produced was fabulous. Thus was born the practice of pruning, which became de rigueur for all grape-growers. What’s your equivalent of Martin’s donkey, Aquarius? I bet it’ll exert its influence very soon.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

“The deepest urge in human nature is the desire to be important,” said educator John Dewey. If that’s true, Pisces, you are on the verge of having your deepest urge fulfilled more than it has in a long time. The astrological alignments suggest that you are reaching the peak of your value to other people. You’re unusually likely to be seen and appreciated and acknowledged for who you really are.

If you have been underestimating your worth, I doubt you will be able to continue doing so. Here’s your homework: Take a realistic inventory of the ways your life has had a positive impact on the lives of people you have known.

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Academy of Dance, 74 W. Montgomery Crossroad. Wednesdays. 912-921-2190.

Argentine Tango Wednesdays, 7 p.m. salondebailedancestudio.com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive. Lessons Sundays 1:303;30pm. Open to the public. $3 per person.

Wear closed toe leather shoes if possible.

Doris Martin Dance Studio, 8511-h ferguson Ave. Call or email for info. ongoing. 912-9257416. savh_tango@yahoo.com.

Awaken with Chakradance™ A free-flowing, meditative dance, with eclectic music selected to resonate with each specific chakra, along with guided imagery. No dance experience or chakras knowledge needed. $20 ongoing, 7-8:30 p.m. 912-663-1306. Chakradancer@ comcast.net. chakradance.com/. synergisticbodies.com. Synergistic Bodies, 7901 Waters Ave. Ballroom Group Dance Class Weekly ballroom dance classes focus on two types of dance each month. Open to partners/couples or to solos. The $35 for 4 weeks or $10 drop in Mondays, 7 p.m.

912.312.3549. reservetodance@gmail. com. salondebailedancestudio.com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

Ballroom/Latin Group Class Group classes every Tuesday and Wednesday at 8pm. Tuesdays focus on fundamental steps, styling, and techniques.

Wednesday’s classes are more specific, with advanced elements. $15/person and $25/ couple Wednesdays, 8 p.m. and Tuesdays..

912-335-3335. savannahballroom@gmail. com. savannahballroomdancing.com.

Savannah Ballroom Dance Studio, 11 Travis Street.

Basic Shag Lessons Every Wednesday at 6:45 p.m. ongoing. doublesnightclub.com/. Doubles Nightclub, 7100 Abercorn St. Beginner’s Belly Dance Classes Learn basic moves and choreography with local Belly Dancer, Nicole Edge. Class is open to all ages and skill levels. Walk-ins welcome. 15.00 Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m.

912-596-0889. edgebelly@gmail.com. edgebellydance.com. Fitness on Broughton, 1 E. Broughton St. Beginners Belly Dance Classes Instructed by Nicole Edge. All ages/Skill levels welcome. Sundays, 12pm-1pm.

Fitness body and balance studio. 2127 1//2 E. Victory Dr. $15/class or $48/hour. Call or see website. ongoing. 912-596-0889. cairoonthecoast.com.

Beginners Belly Dancing with Cybelle For those with little-to-no dance background.

Instructor is formally trained, has performed for over ten years. $15/person. Tues. 7pm8pm. Private classes and walk ins available.

Synergistic Bodies, 7724 Waters Ave. ongoing. 912-414-1091. info@cybelle3.com. cybelle3.com.

C.C. Express Dance Team Wednesdays, 6pm-8pm. Clogging or tap dance experience is necessary. Call Claudia Collier for info. ongoing. 912-748-0731.

Windsor Forest Recreation Building, Windsor Forest.

Dance for Peace A weekly gathering to benefit locals in need.

Music, dancing, fun for all ages. Donations of nonperishable food and gently used or new clothing are welcomed. Free and open to the public. Sundays, 3 p.m. 912-547-6449. xavris21@yahoo.com. Forsyth Park, Drayton St. & East Park Ave. Dance Lessons (Salsa, Bachata) Learn to dance Salsa & Bachata. For info, call Austin (912-704-8726) or Omar (Spanish - 787-710-6721). Thursdays. 912-704-8726. salsa@salsasavannah.com. salsasavannah. com.

Dance Party Dance on Thursdays at 8pm--fun, friendship, and dancing. Free for Savannah Ballroom students. $10 for visitors ($15 for couples). free - $15 Thursdays, 8 p.m. 912-3353335. savannahballroom@gmail.com. savannahballroomdancing.com. Savannah Ballroom Dance Studio, 11 Travis Street.

Free Dance Thursdays at Lake Mayer Lake Mayer is offering free dance and fitness classes for all ages every Thursday, in the Community Center. 9:30 am and 10:30 am is the “Little Movers” class for toddlers.

12:00 pm Lunch Break Fitness. 1:30 pm Super Seniors. 5:30 pm youth hip hop. 6:30 pm Adult African Fitness. FREE ongoing, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. 912-652-6780. sdavis@ chathamcounty.org. Lake Mayer, 1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads.

FUNdamentals Dance Lesson Group dance lessons every Tuesday and Wednesday at 8pm. Tuesday: fundamental steps, styling, and techniques. Wednesday: advanced elements. $15/person $25/ couple Tuesdays, 8 p.m. and Wednesdays, 8 p.m.. 912-335-3335. savannahballroom@ gmail.com. savannahballroomdancing.com.

Savannah Ballroom Dance Studio, 11 Travis Street.

Home Cookin’ Cloggers Wednesdays, 6pm-8pm, Nassau Woods Recreation Building, Dean Forest Road. No beginner classes at this time. Call Claudia Collier for info. ongoing. 912-748-0731.

Irish Dance Classes Glor na Dare offers beginner to champion Irish Dance classes for ages 5 and up.

Adult Step & Ceili, Strength and Flexibility, non-competitive and competitive programs, workshops, camps. Certified. Wednesdays..

912-704-2052. prideofirelandga@gmail. continues on p. 46

Crossword Answers

Loving my first bully because he was afraid of me.

Come to think of it, my dad was my psychicyourpalerin@gmail.com very first bully. www.yourpalerin.com So when I was able to recognize my impending outburst and stop it in its I’LL ALWAYS remember where I was the tracks, it wasn’t just my first “grown up” moment I officially became an adult: on moment; it the first time I ever stood up the sofa of Mark’s 10th Avenue Manhatto my own inner bully. tan apartment, in the middle of an arguIn the past month the world has gotten ment over something so irrelevant that I exponentially crazy and I have struggled can even remember it now. to find words that emphasize the imporI felt like I was talking to a brick wall tance of loving others in the face of their and was frustrated beyond belief. That’s hate. when I heard the telltale whistle of an With all the despair over mass shootF-bomb a comin’. Instead of dropping it, ings, the impending threat of ISIS and I calmly said, “I want to call you a name whatever else might have happened by right now that I really don’t like. It’s time the time this column makes it to print, for me to go.” saying “just love each other” might seem And so I left. ridiculous, if not pointless.

On the cab ride home, all I could think But it’s necessary. about was the fact that I had almost So I will do my best to speak honestly sworn at him. And no sir, I did not like it. and from the heart.

Before you go thinking, “Aw…how very The reason I love those who commit Pollyanna of you, Erin!” there’s someunlovable acts is because I have done thing I need to explain. them myself. Violence and hatred are I grew up in a house with a father who learned behaviors taught by those of us blew his top first and apologized later. who are doing their best and haven’t yet And not in a funny, “To the moon, Alice!” learned how to do better.

Honeymooner’s-type way. Because I love because I have lived with the his mom had died when he was young, guilt and despair of doing unlovable my dad was prone to childlike temper things that are untrue to my heart; espetantrums. cially when I hurt those I love most.

Sometimes he would pick me up by I love because I have been as scared of my neck with both hands and force me myself as everyone else was, even more to look him in the eye while he screamed so. and shook me to illustrate his rage.

I love because I have been too ashamed By the time I was a teenager, I learned to say, “I’m sorry.” to survive by out crazying the crazy.

I love because there’s nothing more If he screamed, I screamed louder. If healing than the compassion of others he put his hands on me, I pushed back. when I feel unworthy of forgiveness.

And when I did, he would tell my mom I love because we all learn by example. that I needed to be put in a foster home

By Your Pal Erin

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com.

Kids Hip Hop and Jazz Mondays, 6 p.m. salondebailedancestudio. com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

Kids/Youth Dance Class Kids Group class on various Ballroom and Latin dances. Multiple teachers. Ages 4-17 currently enrolled in the program. Prepares youth for social and/or competitive dancing. $15/person Saturdays, 10 a.m. 912-3353335. savannahballroom@gmail.com. savannahballroomdancing.com. Savannah Ballroom Dance Studio, 11 Travis Street.

LaBlast Dance Fitness Created by world renowned dancer and ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” professional, Louis Van Amstel, LaBlast uniquely combines a wide variety of ballroom dance styles and music genres. Do the Cha Cha Cha, Disco, Jive, Merengue, Salsa and Samba set to everything from pop and rock to hip-hop and country – and burn fat and blast calories! No experience and no partner necessary. $15.00 drop in or 10 classes for $80.00 Mondays, 6-7 p.m. and Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. 912.312.3549. reservetodance@ gmail.com. salondebailedancestudio.com.

Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

Line Dance Party with Free Lesson Join us for our Monthly Line Dance Night!

Theresa Reed will be giving a FREE lesson before your night of fun and line dancing!

Ben’s Neighborhood Grill will be partnering up with us for appetizers and spirits!

8pm-10pm Admission: $10.00 per person $10 third Friday of every month, 8-10 p.m.

612.470.6683. salondebaile.dance@gmail. com. salondebaileballroomdancestudio. com/Events.html. salondebailedancestudio. com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

Line Dancing Take down Tuesdays. Jazzy Sliders Adult Line Dancing, every Tuesday, 7:30pm-10:00pm. Free admission, cash bar.

Come early and learn a new dance from 7:30pm-8:30pm. ongoing. doublesnightclub. com/. Doubles Nightclub, 7100 Abercorn St. Mahogany Shades of Beauty Dance classes - hip hop, modern, jazz, West African, ballet, lyrical and step. Modeling and acting classes. All ages/levels welcome.

Call Mahogany for info. ongoing. 912-2728329.

Modern Dance Class Beginner and intermediate classes. Fridays 10am-11:15am. Doris Martin Studio, 7360 Skidaway Rd. Call Elizabeth for info. ongoing. 912-354-5586.

Salsa Lessons by Salsa Savannah Tues. 8pm-9pm and 9pm-10pm. Thur.

8pm-9pm and 9pm-10pm. Sun. 5pm-6pm and 6pm-7pm. Salon de Maile, 704B Hodgson Memorial Dr., Savannah, 31406.

Tuesdays.. salsasavannah.com.

Salsa Night Come and shake it to the best latin grooves and bachata the night away in Pooler where it’s cooler. Wednesdays, 8-11 p.m. 912988-1052. medi.tavern314@gmail.com.

Mediterranean Tavern, 125 Foxfield Way. Savannah Shag Club Wednesdays, 7pm,at Doubles Lounge.

Fridays, 7pm, at American Legion

Post 36, 2309 E. Victory Dr. ongoing. doublesnightclub.com/. Doubles Nightclub, 7100 Abercorn St. Savannah Swing Cats--Swing Dancing ongoing. doublesnightclub.com/. Doubles Nightclub, 7100 Abercorn St. Sizzle: Dance and Cardio A class designed to maintain that summer body by dancing and having fun.

Incorporates dance and cardio to fun, spicy songs. $10 drop in or 10 classes for $80 Tuesdays, Fridays, 10 a.m. 912312-3549. reservetodance@gmail.com. salondebailedancestudio.com. Salon de Baile Dance Studio, 7064 Hodgson Memorial Drive.

LGBT

First City Network Georgia’s oldest LGBT organization (founded in 1985), is a local non-profit community service organization whose mission is to share resources of health care, counseling, education, advocacy and mutual support in the Coastal Empire. Members and guests enjoy many special events throughout the year, including First Saturday Socials held the first Saturday of each month at 7pm.

Mondays. 912-236-CITY. firstcitynetwork. org.

Gay AA Meeting True Colors Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, a gay and lesbian AA meeting that welcomes all alcoholics, meets Thursdays and Sundays, 7:30pm, at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 311 E. Harris, 2nd floor. New location effective 11/2012. ongoing.

Georgia Equality Savannah Local chapter of Georgia’s largest gay rights group. 104 W. 38th St. 912-547-6263. ongoing.

Savannah Pride, Inc. Organizes the annual Savannah Pride Festival and helps promote the well-being of the LGBT community in the South.

Mission: unity through diversity and social awareness. Second Tuesday/month. Call for location. ongoing. 912-288-7863. heather@ savpride.com. savpride.com.

Stand Out Youth A gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth organization. Meets every Friday at 7pm. Call, email or see website for info. Fridays, 7-9 p.m. 912-657-1966. info@standoutyouth.org. standoutyouth. org. Vineyard Church Office, 1020 Abercorn Street.

What Makes a Family A children’s therapy group for children of GLBT parents. Ages 10 to 18. Meets twice a month. Call for info. ongoing. 912-352-2611.

Pets & Animals

Low Cost Pet Clinic TailsSpin and Dr. Stanley Lester, DVM, host low-cost pet vaccine clinics for students, military and seniors the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. 5pm-6pm.

Vaccinations: $12, ($2 is donated to Savannah pet rescue agencies). See website for info. ongoing. tailsspin.com. tailsspin. com. TailsSpin Pet Supplies Store, 4501 Habersham St., Habersham Village.

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