Metro Spirit 09.01.2011 by Metro Spirit

TABLE of CONTENTS

Beautiful Skin Begins Here! whine line - TOM TOMORROW - INSIDER metro - THE DOWNLOAD - NYTIMES CROSSWORD - AUGUSTA TEK - ADVICE GODDESS the8 are you not entertained - CALENDAR fall guide metro augusta parent sightings - CUISINE SCENE - JENNY IS WRIGHT - FREE WILL ASTROLOGY slab - EARDRUM - MATT’S MUSIC - BALL - AUSTIN RHODES

04 04 06 08 12 13 14 14 15 17 18 19 29 54 55 56 56 57 57 58 65 66

Complimentary Complexion Analysis

LIMITED TIME ONLY

NEXT SE

REJUV

ENATE

DATE: TODAY

S T. FLOR

Want to advertise in the Metro Spirit? 706.496.2535 or 706.373.3636 JoeWhite|publisher-sales manager joe@themetrospirit.com

GabrielVega|lead designer gabe@themetrospirit.com

BrendaCarter| account executive brenda@themetrospirit.com

EricJohnson|writer eric@themetrospirit.com

JedCapuy|account executive jed@themetrospirit.com

JenniferPoole|publisher’s assisstant jennifer@themetrospirit.com

LigéHaab|account executive lige@themetrospirit.com

JordanWhite|design intern

MichaelJohnson|sightings

YOUR S TIME: NOW

FRANCE

AmyChristian|production director amy@themetrospirit.com

RVICE

THANK

ENTINO,

KIN

YOU

We ta ilo and m r a combin ation edicalof health g y yout rade skin c medical pro are pr hful s cedur oduct kin! e s to ac s hieve

COVER DESIGN

KRUHU.COM

Metro Spirit is a free newspaper published weekly on Thursday, 52 weeks a year. Editorial coverage includes local issues and news, arts, entertainment, people, places and events. In our paper appear views from across the political and social spectrum. The views do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Visit us at metrospirit.com.© 15 House, LLC. Owner/Publisher: Joe White. Legal: Phillip Scott Hibbard. Reproduction or use without permission is prohibited. One copy per person, please.

V. 22 | NO. 54

Dr. Florentino is a Board-Certified Dermatologist from Detroit, Michigan. She is fluent in Spanish, has four children and one Labrador Retriever named Leo. METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

WHINELINE Where is Old Man Winter? I miss him. Will he ever return?

& louder? ...actually, THAT part I like! -evil snicker-

Re: the India festival at ASU on Saturday, August 27: I wish you would go back to the foods of before. The S.C. restaurants foods was tasty but the chicken were very small and too few in pieces. The samosas were very small compared to past years. And there were confusing prices.

Why are people in this country so quickly offended? Their day can be ruined by a simple word that’s not considered “politically correct”. Suck it up you weak little cry babies! Words are just words. It’s called “slang”. It’s an alternative way of expression. And it’s my first ammendment right. To hell with “politically correct”. Aparently we do live in the United States of Offended.

so, if you are a non-conservative media outlet, and you speak in a nonconservative voice, you are criticized? i don’t get it. people are complaining about the exact rights for which they’ve fought. you can’t win for losing. While I thoroughly enjoy reading all of the ridiculously witty and disgruntled Augustan’s whines...can we not also have a section on all of the things we don’t hate about Augusta and the good things she offers us? If all we really have to do all the time is whine, then please move. If you think the city sucks it’s probably because it is made up of you and everyone like you. This is to the lady who is tired of all those lazy men who expect her to pay their bills for them, you haven’t found any men who have jobs or that will keep them because you are too busy paying a loser’s bills. Have some self-respect, you are being used. Hopefully you are not an example to any kids. Am I the only one who thinks this “Lady A Amphitheater” with the “Josh Kelly Stage” is an idiotic idea? Columbia County can’t even fill the amphitheater they already have...y’know, the one RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET! Furthermore, I seem to remember the residents in that area complaining about the noise coming from that amphitheater. So let’s make one bigger

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

I love the downtown events spread every issue! Informative and visual. That’s the way to go. I am glad to see 95 Rock off the air. The programming was heavy on repetition, light on new music, had a mission too narrowly defined to be truly marketable, and actively railed against sexual, ethic and racial equality. If that doesn’t turn you off, their most prominent DJs were big jerks, they had zero commitment to local music, and their program manager was stuck in the 90s. Good riddance to bad rubbish. No fan of Austin, but perhaps better things are ahead. A Metro Spirit music station, perhaps? ARTZILLA is COMING!! I really wonder why Beasley Broadcasting thought it was a good move to put 95 Rock on 93.1. I do not think replacing the best rock station in Augusta with ‘talk radio’ is a very good idea. If the people of Augusta wanted to hear someone talk on the radio all day then there would be no place for Beasley’s latest music station BOB 93.9, Would there? If only Sheriff Strength wanted to pursue the drug dealers, gang members,

and hardened criminals the way he wants to pursue an attorney who lost it in the courtroom with one of the judges, we might actually improve the safety of our streets in Augusta. Sheriff Strength - if we show you some real criminal behavior will you pursue and make arrests? Try the area of Highland Ave. turning into Berckmans Road. They are usually high as kites, loitering, drinking and stumbling in the road. I hope this description helps you find them. If you determine no criminal activity is going on (wink, wink) perhaps you can see if they might want to move and hang out in front of Hillcreek every afternoon. Unbelievable. Right after I clicked on the “submit” button about my accident, I find out my daughter just got run off the road by another car and they kept driving. So now I not only have one vehicle to get fixed because of another driver running off, I have two vehicles that need to get fixed. Let this happen again. I will chase you down and run you

into the ditch, then pull you out of your car and beat you until I am satisfied. Thank you to the lady driving the faded blue four door Ford Taurus who rear ended my suv at the Windsor Spring Road light and ran. I followed you at high speed in and out of traffic, even circling through a supermarket parking lot four or five times, then back onto the main road hitting speed over 100mph. My passenger was on the line with 911. They told me to stop chasing you and pull over and wait for a police officer to file a report. Back in the land of law abiding citizens, my insurance will go up if I want my car fixed. Good to see more businesses supporting The Metro Spirit. I hope they can finally see the danger of supporting a so-called “newspaper” whose job it is to cover government - but which then takes government contracts on the side. From an Augustan concerned about corruption to all advertisers who support businesses like the Spirit, thank you!

up THUMBS

The unborn child of Beyonce and Jay-Z is already a star, breaking TPS records Sunday (that’s tweets per second).

down THUMBS

Nancy Grace, however, never will be a “star” to us, no matter what Tom Bergeron says.

V. 22 | NO. 54

WHINELINE@THEMETROSPIRIT.COM

Alvin Mason needs to go before Fred Russell does because he can’t count either. They all told the public that we were in the hole millions of dollars, right and that they need to reorganize in order to take-up some of that shortfall. In other words we were still going to be in the hole millions. Then Russell gave out 350,000 in raises which the commission gave him the authority to do and Alvin Mason tries to get him fired. Wrong move. If Alvin mason cared about those raises instead of grandstanding as he always does he would have made a motion to rescind the raises. That would have helped our budget, restored employee trust, and sent a clear message to Russell that he can’t do anything he wants. That was the point. Remember it’s the budget. Isn’t almost forty years long enough for Richmond County Board of Education attorney Pete Fletcher and the local NAACP attorney to reach an amicable conclusion to the federal lawsuit under which the Richmond County School System has operated since the early 1970s? Get angry Augusta. Really. The one and only station in the area has been

relegated to a frequency that no one can even pick up, and in its place, more right-wing news talk radio. The powers that be seem to think that the target demographic aren’t viable consumers. This is 100% false. We spend our money just the same as anyone else. Even if you don’t care for rock music, think how would you feel if the music you do listen to was one day gone from the airwaves? We already have plenty of news talk radio, can’t we at least have ONE rock station? Please? I don’t care how high ratings are for talk radio, but please don’t take away Augusta’s only rock station. Sure we have a classic rock station and I know everyone talks about how raunchy the 95Rock Raw show was, but think about all the good these guys have done for the community like Canapalooza, bowling for boobies, the “Military Wall of Honor” & “The Gratitude Campaign,” all of the great rock bands/concerts these guys brought to Augusta and best of all, the tremendous support they show our local bands... Not to mention 95Rock is ALL ABOUT there fans & listeners. I just want to be able to listen to our rock station over the airwaves of

The Best Beatle

The trailer for Martin Scorsese’s newest documentary surfaced this week, and we couldn’t be happier about the subject. “George Harrison: Living in the Material World” premieres on HBO October 5-6 (visit georgeharrison. com) and details the quietest Beatle from the start of his career to its end with his death from cancer in 2001. Lately, Scorsese has proven that he’s a master at not only fictional film, but documentary as well, and music seems to be his subject of choice. With 2005’s “No Direction Home” about Bob Dylan and 2008’s Rolling Stone concert film “Shine a Light,” he clearly has an eye for the greats, and there’s no greater that the guy who penned the beauty that is “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” Harrison may have been overshadowed by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, but there’s no denying his enormous talent.

WERECOMMEND my car radio while on my way to work or where ever else I’m driving. Please BRING OUR ROCK station back to a good frequency where we can actually hear the station!

95 Rock is the ONLY radio station I listen to so I really don’t appreciate the move to 93.1 and replacement with talk radio. I understand that it comes down to money in the long run, but can’t Beasley find a CLEAR channel from which to broadcast 95 Rock since

most of its audience is Augusta and North Augusta?! 95 Rock supports the local music scene and community organizations and brings awesome bands to Augusta! Can’t we give the radio jocks and rock music the courtesy of a clear channel? Meanwhile, I’m streaming online every day and listening in on the TuneIn application for my Android phone. Rock on 95 Rock!

Pizza Joint The

B100%IFRESHG• 100%OORIGINALN

  

  

    



56 taps in Evans + liquor 706.447.4992 30 taps downtown 706.774.0037 30 taps in aiken + liquor 803.648.9074 24 taps in columbia + liquor 803.454.1743



 V. 22 | NO. 54

F L A V O R

HOMEMADE PIZZA BAKERS since1996

$1.95 Draft $1.95 Specialty Slices

Open Late Every Tuesday 5PM to Close METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

INSIDER

INSIDER@THEMETROSPIRIT.COM Insider is an anonymous, opinion-based examination of the hidden details of Augusta politics and personalities.

The Marble Circus You had to feel for poor Georgia Johnson, picking the longest committee meetings in recent memory the way she did. She was there to make a presentation about her garbage service, but before she could do that she had to make it through the lengthy, petulant and sometimes embarrassing group of meetings in front of her. Frail and obviously a little awed by the inner workings of government, oily though they may be to the rest of us, she nevertheless sat patiently and quietly for her chance to address the body. At one point she did get up to stretch. She apologized. “You just get so stoved up sitting down for so long,” she whispered to Engineering Director Abie Ladson, who was sitting near her. She wasn’t gone long, though, and given her disposition, you can’t help wonder what she thought of everything that was going on around her. When a crusading Alvin Mason forced Chief Howard Willis to admit he lacked the academic qualifications to actually hold his position as fire chief, did she feel sorry for him? Did she find his belly, his thinning hair and his uncertain speech somehow endearing? Even the hard-hearted in the room (and there’s

certainly no shortage of heart-hearted people in the commission chambers) were starting to shift around in their chairs as Willis — his friends call him Bubber — clumsily tried to evade the questioning that would eventually pin him down. Did she see the humor in Deputy Administrator Bill Shanahan’s goodnatured attempt to circumvent the physical and metaphorical makeup of the chambers by actually looking at Mason and Lockett instead of facing forward (which is actually away from them) so he could speak to them manto-man? Would she understand that the true confirmation of the afternoon’s interminable length came at the 3:48 mark when Deputy Administrator Tameka Allen, a fixture standing in the right-side doorway, actually sat down? And what about when Matt Aitken spoke up? Could she appreciate that the man who’d chatted with her before the meeting about being in God’s grace actually got off the question of the day when he asked both deputy administrators if they felt Russell gave them adequate information to do their jobs? Would she understand how difficult that would be for them to

answer, how much might be riding on their answers? (For her part, Allen quietly said yes after a long, thoughtful pause and Shanahan admitted that he felt he could have known a little more about what was going on with the savings.) You wonder if she understood how awkward it must be for Shanahan to be the new guy, the guy who literally came into the picture between passing of the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and the reorganization. Could she know everything that went into Jerry Brigham storming out of the room (or at least storming as much as a guy like him can storm) after getting into it a back-and-forth with Mason? Or was she thinking that, unlike Aitken, who knew he was in God’s grace, Brigham could only hope he was there when she spoke to him before the meeting? Would she think such uncertainty was significant, given the way things ended up for him? And what do you think she made of the somber, suited group sharing the front row with her a few seats down? She probably would have appreciated their stoicism more had she known they were from Heery International, the management company that controls

most of the city’s big-ticket SPLOST programs. Of course they’re paid very well to be disciplined, but still... would she enjoy the fact that they were both sitting waiting their turn? Would she have acknowledged the glee with which Mason took off his jacket before the meeting got going, baring his bright orange, high-necked, short-sleeved confidence to the room and the cameras? Would she contemplate his ambitions? Would she recognize its naked joy? Given all the rancor and aspirations and desire, how could she have been so apologetic about having to leave before her chance to speak? But she was. After Hurricane Alvin blew for much of the afternoon, she had to go home and administer a shot, and you just wonder how could she feel anything but frustrated about all that had come between her and her chance to go before her government. She apologized to Abie Ladson and asked him to apologize to Clerk of Commission Lena Bonner, who had to cross her off the list and make a note to add her to the next one. Do you suppose she’s looking forward to coming back?

So Easy ACAVEman Can Do It They are opposed to “fraud, waste, abuse, ignorance, hate, crime, blight and corruption in our local government.” And baseball stadiums, too. They’re the members of the Facebook group ACAVE (Augusta Citizens Against Virtually Everything), taking their name from an editorial written by Augusta Mayor Deke Copenhaver in which he referred to detractors of the proposed downtown GreenJackets baseball stadium as “cave” people, or citizens against virtually everything. They have named their opposition the CABAL (Corrupt Abusers Bilking All Loot). Is that supposed to be the County Commission? Mayor Deke? It’s unclear. The Insider has to agree with the club with respect to the baseball stadium, but has to ask the point of publishing a manifesto opposing “fraud, waste, abuse, ignorance, hate, crime, blight and

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

ACAVE member Jill Peterson at a recent commission meeting.

corruption in our local government.” Don’t most public advocacy groups hold these beliefs? In reality, It appears that the ACAVE club is little more than a vehicle for self-proclaimed “political gadfly” Brad Owens to re-inject himself into the public discourse from his current job posting in Sierra Leone. Miss us much, Brad? Others associated with the club are former political also-ran Lori Davis and a radio personality. (No, not that one!) Just like “Facebook Friends” aren’t really friends, isn’t it true that “Facebook Public Advocacy Groups” aren’t really public advocacy groups at all? The Insider hopes that ACAVE grows up one day and gets serious, because public advocacy really is a nice thing, but it’s a well-known fact that it’s difficult to grow when personalities and egos fill the room.

V. 22 | NO. 54

More Fast Dealing Reports of Gov. Nathan Deal’s dirty dealing are growing by the day, and you’ve got to wonder when these bigass tires are finally going to get some traction outside of the political wonks in Atlanta. This Sunday, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reported that two ethics investigators looking to peer into Deal’s 2010 campaign expenditures received a harsh how-do-you-do from the commission chairman, who cut one job’s salary and totally eliminated the other.

Creative Loafing reports that when the agency’s director, Stacey Kalberman, stormed out of the office, the chairman of the agency sent her an email saying he accepted her apparent resignation. The investigators were preparing to serve subpoenas to Deal, his chief of staff and others involved in the campaign. Most glaring is the campaign’s use of Deal’s North Georgia Aviation LLC to supply aircraft for the campaign, which is a little like getting paid to live in your own house or drive your own car, only

cooler, since planes always have that element of danger attached to them. Deal, however, has shown a pretty fair disregard for danger since deciding to run for office. According to the AJC, Chris Riley, Deal’s pilot and campaign manager — and now his chief of staff — sold the campaign a 2008 Honda Ridgeline for $25,000 while his father’s company received $6,000 for media consulting. A company formed by Deal’s daughter-in-law received $90,000 for

fundraising and spent more than $40,000 on her salary and expenses. Then, of course, there are his business dealings with the porn king and his work in Congress, which earned him a place on the list of the “15 Most Corrupt Members of Congress.” At some point, all this Georgia red clay is going to stick. We’re just wondering if anyone on this end of the state is going to care.

and he’s not the type of guy you’re likely to see on Fox News. Ben Harbin, on the other hand, is precisely the type of person you expect to see on Fox News, but will his personal challenges withstand the intense scrutiny of the inevitable background check that goes along with moving up in the ranks. Sure, his problems in Atlanta are well documented and might have been magnified by a partisan solicitor’s office working to cause as much damage as it could, but as liabilities go, there may be more to the iceberg than we can see. Just

how much more is anybody’s guess, but you can bet somebody’s going to spend a lot of money trying to find out. Builder Rick Allen (of R.W. Allen fame, brother to Columbia County Commissioner Charles Allen) has been courted by Saxby Chambliss to run for something for quite awhile now, and this might very well be his opportunity, though whether or not his backroom knowledge can translate into out-front electability is still unknown. And then there’s Max Burns, who’s been touted for his familiarity with the

district and his awareness with its voters. He’s a popular, but unoriginal choice. What’s worrisome for Columbia County’s longball-craving Republicans, however, is its short bench. The farm system is definitely suffering, and many say that a strong, conservative Democrat could pull off the unthinkable if they don’t find a way to field better candidates. Expect that farm system to change, though not necessarily at the party level.

unregulated, highly illegal form of lottery that was popular until the feds decided Augusta was getting too cosmopolitan for such activity and decided to come in and clean things up. For the younger Nicholson, the court convened a hearing on the contempt charge on Aug. 23 and he was found to be in contempt and sentenced to 20 days in jail and a $500 fine. The judge offered to allow Nicholson to serve the time under house arrest and also to suspend the time contingent upon Nicholson writing an apology to his client, the assistant solicitor and the arresting officer in the case. The judge also offered to allow Nicholson to make a $500 donation to charity in lieu of a fine (which would presumably be taxdeductible.) An arrest warrant was issued for

Nicholson late last week after he failed to meet any of the conditions set forth by the judge as requirements to avoid incarceration. As of Friday, Nicholson

had appealed the court’s decision to the Georgia Court of Appeals. Nicholson will remain free pending the determination of the Court of Appeals.

Redrawing the Future The redrawn districts have local politicians in potential shuffle mode. Insiders say State Rep. Lee Anderson was almost too eager to announce his interest, and they question his ability to pull off a congressional election. He’s one of those guys who, when you ask about him, you get a question thrown back at you. “Is Anderson a viable candidate?” (pause). “Have you ever met him?” Characterized as foxy smart and a team player, he nevertheless hasn’t done much to distinguish himself in Atlanta,

Man on the Run Augusta Attorney Chris Nicholson needs a lawyer. Nicholson, in practice since 1974, has been judged to be in contempt of court for his actions in a client’s trial before State Court Judge David D. Watkins. Reportedly, Nicholson made inappropriate statements directed at Judge Watkins and an assistant solicitor and ultimately walked out on his client’s trial. The client was convicted and has hired another attorney who has filed a motion for a new trial. Long-time Augustans might remember Nicholson’s father, George, as a key member of the famed Southside Mafia, the local Democratic machine that ran the city. He was also the attorney for the “entrepreneurs” running the local numbers racket, which was an V. 22 | NO. 54

Mack Taylor ATTORNEY AT LAW

-Former DUI ProsecutorCRIMINAL DEFENSE Free Initial Consultation

DUIS/TRAFFIC

706.922.1992 M

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

METRONEWS

ERICJOHNSON

Fishing with Costco

Luring the warehouse club could end up helping Augusta catch a lunker

As Augusta’s much-anticipated Costco steams toward a November opening, the executive director of the Development Authority of Richmond County, Walter Sprouse, hints that not only is the warehouse club a good catch in itself, but it could end up being the lure that helps Augusta boat the really big fish. According to Sprouse, Bass Pro Shops has not given up on Augusta. In fact, from the discussions he’s had with company officials, they’re still very much interested in the Augusta market. “I think the big thing that people really have a difficult time understanding is that it’s their schedule, not ours,” he says. “I know we want them now, but it’s their schedule, not ours.” Bass Pro Shops was originally envisioned as the anchor for the 115-acre Village at Riverwatch development, but as the recession delayed Bass Pro Shop’s expansion plans, Costco moved in as the initial tenant while Bass Pro Shops quietly faded from the conversation. Officials, including Mayor Deke Copenhaver and Chamber President/ CEO Sue Parr, broke ground for Costco

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

in late June, and other than a recent construction delay due to worries about the path of Hurricane Irene, the world’s highest-volume warehouse club should open as planned. Its opening, Sprouse says, may be just what Bass Pro Shops needs to strike. “Whenever Bass Pro Shops says the time is right, I think they’ll do it,” Sprouse says. “But I think the one thing that’s really going to spur them on a little bit more is the success of Costco. Knowing that the driveway’s done, the stoplight’s there, the road’s been improved, Alexander Drive is finished — I think Bass Pro Shops is going to come back and say, ‘Let’s go ahead and move on this thing.’” Bass Pro Shops recently announced it was moving ahead with a store in Memphis. Augusta would join Lawrenceville, Macon and Savannah as Georgia locations for the outdoor superstore, which has nearly 60 locations nationwide. Rumors that Bass Pro Shops might be considering another location — and that Columbia County might be in a position

to lure the retailer across county lines, potentially to the Gateway — are untrue, Sprouse insists. “Every time I’ve talked with Bass Pro, they’ve been so excited about this market,” he says. “And they’re also committed to Richmond County. They said that if they’re going to build it anywhere around here, they’re going to put it here.” Because Bass Pro Shops locations tend to be considered destinations rather than simply stores, Sprouse and the Development Authority can issue Industrial Revenue Bonds. Usually a tool reserved for enticing factories, warehouses and distribution centers, rule changes have expanded the ways the bonds can be used. “There’s a provision in the Development Authority Law that says we can do Industrial Revenue Bonds for tourism projects, and believe it or not, Bass Pro Shops qualifies as a tourist destination.” Bass Pro Shops locations feature outdoor-themed restaurants, freshwater and saltwater aquariums and wild and

exotic animal mounts. In spite of the drawing power of Bass Pro Shops, Sprouse says Costco is an excellent fit for Augusta and the Tax Allocation District the county created to spur growth. The 200 jobs it will create combined with the sales tax revenue the store will generate will more than compensate for whatever money the county won’t take in because of the Tax Allocation District. Whatever happens, Sprouse anticipates a sudden interested in the Village at Riverwatch. “Honestly, I’m guessing that what’s going to happen is that once Costco gets out there, they’ll start getting some phone calls from some of the retail people asking what their plans are for that property,” he says. “If it does work out that Bass Pro Shops does decide to go ahead and move on it, they’ll probably have to hire another person, because everybody will be wanting to go out there.”

V. 22 | NO. 54

Outlet Shopping

Columbia County knows that you want them to have an outlet mall. Now they have to convince the outlet malls.

Earlier this year, Columbia County’s Development Services division created an outlet mall survey designed to gauge area support for the idea of an outlet mall in Columbia County. Of the 8,000 who replied, 97 percent expressed a desire to see an outlet mall in the county, including county staff and commissioners, who practically salivate at the idea of all the extra tax money an outlet mall could generate. Not only would it keep county money from slipping across the boarder into V. 22 | NO. 54

the stores of Richmond County — or Atlanta or Columbia — but it could draw outside retail spending in a way Columbia County’s currently paltry retail opportunities couldn’t do. So, what’s the latest? “We’ve put those items into our Outlet Report that’s being given out to developers and Realtors,” says Planning and Engineering Manager Nayna Mistry. “We’ve been getting the message out and we have had inquiries from developers.”

Inquiries, but so far no commitments. Commitments or not, Mistry says the staff feels the county’s location makes it attractive even before you factor in public input. According to the report, the closest outlet shopping center is almost two and a half hours away. Most are clustered around the Atlanta area or on the Atlantic coast. “Our research shows that most outlet malls are located near interstates because of the mixture of the local community and people passing through who might want to stop and shop at something like that,” she says. “I think the Gateway is the most preferred location. It is our commercial node on the Growth Management Plan and there’s plenty of space there.” The Gateway, near Grovetown off I-20 at Lewiston Road, has begun to expand from a lone Walmart to a growing shopping district. Several new businesses have opened in recent months and preparations are being made for the development of several more tracts of land. The Gateway will be more than purely retail, however. The county is also building exhibition space it will initially share with the Family Y while the Y builds its own Gateway facility. Later, the county will absorb the extra space and the building will provide services similar the Savannah Rapids Pavilion. Mistry says that while commercial development has been soft for the last couple years, outlet malls continue to be one of the stronger segments of the retail market, providing concentrated value to shoppers in easily accessed environments Besides that, Columbia County has finally, officially passed the number most retailers seem to consider an important benchmark for expansion. “More developers are looking at Columbia County in general because of the new Census figures,” Mistry says. “Being over 100,000 people seems to me to be one of the main markers, and now we’re almost 125,000. I think developers are really looking at that.” While the Census figures are still fairly new, she says they’re already seeing evidence of the increased interest. “We have seen a little bit of an increase in commercial recently in terms of inquiries,” she says. “It feels like things are starting to move again. We’ve got a few more projects getting through permitting and review and everything else, so I think things are looking up.”

GEORGIA

INSTITUTE

OF COSMETOLOGY Enrolling now for day & evening classes full & part time

Service to the public! $4.99 haircuts manicures & pedicures walk-ins | 9a.m. - 9 p.m.

Martinez 706.855.0010 4127 columbia rd

Augusta 706.736.1819 daniel village shopping center METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

· PIG

It’s Hot... Our Beer’s Cold!

POLKA

DOT

G A S T R OP UB C E N T E R

S U R R E Y

706.496.2930

BAR STAYS

$3 Cocktails $2 Domestic Beer $3 Glasses of Wine

OPEN LATE

Happy Hour 4 - 7 pm

Great Micro Beers on Tap! Lunch & Dinner Tuesday - Saturday

Private Parties or Call Ahead and Take Us Home

Lobster Philly Cheesesteak, YUM! P

10 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

Shadow Boxing Past the point of no return?

Now that Commissioners Mason and Lockett have used the Administrative Services Committee to hammer home their point that Administrator Fred Russell’s decision to give pay increases to 44 employees was “illegal,” what kind of footing is Russell standing on going into the next commission meeting? “I don’t think it accomplished anything,” said Commissioner Jerry Brigham. During five hours of committee meetings that never even made it to the final Financial Services Committee, Alvin Mason forcefully and methodically laid out the case that Russell’s pay increases did not follow the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual. He also aggressively questioned the deputy administrators and division directors about their qualifications. Russell was out of town on vacation. “When you have a morale issue, generally there’s a lack of leadership somewhere, and what I was trying to figure out was how do we hone in on where the leadership issues are,” Mason said after the meeting. “If you’re going to be in these positions, then you must be prepared to show leadership and do those necessary things to effectively manage your people and get the best out of them.” Brigham, however, took issue with the questioning on a number of levels. “Who wants to work with someone who’s going to come up and berate them?” he asked. “That’s all it was. And who gives him the authority to berate somebody? Why does he have that authority and I don’t?” There was a definite edginess to the questions, with most of those questioned appearing to answer very cautiously. “And who is he to judge the educational requirements?” he continued. “If they’ve already been awarded the position, he’s not there to judge their educational requirements. Is he a one-man commission? That’s how he’s acting like. It was not ‘we’ or ‘us.’ It was ‘me’ and ‘I.’” Mason’s questioning was particularly severe on Chief Howard Willis, who he forced to admit did not meet the educational requirements of the job description. “I think he was grandstanding more than anything else,” Brigham said of the questioning. “I don’t think he accomplished anything.” The committee’s motion to rescind the pay increase passed without Brigham’s V. 22 | NO. 54

Tom Beck

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 11

received additional duties, he sounded unwilling to be any more critical of Russell than he’s already been. “There’s a lot of hostility going on still, but I don’t think they helped find anybody that was going to be helpful to their situation about terminating Fred,” Brigham said. “Not with their attitude and the way they went about it.” He also questioned the vehemence Mason and Lockett seem to have for rescinding the raises, given the fact that the two shared and agenda item calling for raises for all employees who did not receive raises under Russell’s plan. “Why would I want to make 90,000 taxpayers mad at me to please Mr. Mason and Mr. Lockett and 2,700 employees?” Brigham asked. “I’m not going to vote for a tax increase to do that, and if we pay for it out of reserve funds — that sounds like a plan to make sure we head for bankruptcy court.” In spite of the lack of interest from other members of the commission, Mason vows not to let up on Russell. “I have an agenda item for the termination of Mr. Russell next commission agenda and I will continue to do so until we address these issues that cause us to be where we are today,” Mason said. “You can not arbitrarily utilize your position and not follow the rules that you helped put in place.” Though Brigham questioned the validity of Mason’s argument that not signing the Position Description Questionnaire makes the raises illegal, he seemed confident in his opinion that Mason and Lockett are each using the situation to his own advantage. “I think they want to use Fred as a kicking stone so they’ll have something to talk about and have more publicity and time,” he says. “I think that’s what it’s all about with them.”

THEDOWNLOAD

presence. He was twice deemed out of order by committee chair Lockett and finally stormed out after a sharp exchange with Mason, who was in no mood to hear Brigham’s complaining. “You’re part of the reason we’re here, Mr. Brigham,” Mason snapped, referring to Brigham’s abrupt motion to adjourn at the last commission meeting, which prevented commissioners from asking Russell pertinent questions about the cost savings of the reorganization. It was at that same meeting that Mason pushed a vote to terminate Russell. The vote failed 6-4, with Mason, Lockett, J.R. Hatney and Matt Aitken voting for the termination. “Obviously, I wasn’t allowed by Mr. Lockett to participate in the Administrative Services Committee,” Brigham said. “I didn’t realize that we were there just for the pleasure of Mr. Lockett and Mr. Mason. I thought we were there to do the public’s business.” By the time Mason finished questioning the deputy administrators and the different division directors, the meeting seemed more like a legal proceeding. “Maybe he was auditioning for Perry Mason’s job,” Brigham quipped. Mason, however, continued to insist the entire issue of the raises was handled improperly and said he was bothered by the fact that so many commissioners left during the meeting. “It’s par for the course,” he said. “The fact of the matter is, we could have addressed it at the commission meeting the way it was supposed to be when certain commissioners adjourned the meeting.” Oddly enough, the commission infighting could actually be advantageous to Russell’s survival. While most, including Brigham, continue to be critical of Russell’s handling of the 44 pay increases, the tone of the committee meetings did little to unify the commissioners. In fact, though Brigham himself has serious doubts that everyone who received a pay increase also

PRI’s The World: Geo Quiz Podcast 620

So let’s talk isthmuses, I guess. The World’s Geo Quiz Podcast is literally that — a quiz — albeit one so convolutedly worded that you eventually begin to second-guess the obvious answer. If I told you to name an isthmus that once served as a land bridge between North and South America and was home to a major commercial waterway, what would you say? Congratulations, those of you who didn’t sleep through Common Sense 101: the Isthmus of Panama is correct! Those are the only hints we need, Host Lady. See, baby boomers? There’s hope for the future yet. Still, the extraneous stuff — something of a water link between the Atlantic and Caribbean, widening the waterway, etc. — leads into an actual news story. It’s all pretty interesting: There’s some work being done right now to widen the canal, which is exposing a bunch of heretofore unseen layers of rock. Turning out to be a pretty rich tapestry of plant and animal fossils, it’s a huge geological find, and could provide us with a wealth of new information about prehistoric migrations, how and when the continents actually collided, etc. Which is relevant, if only to have a slightly sharper stick with which to prod Young Earth nutjobs. Visit pri.org/pri-podcasts.html.

The Top Gear Podcast, August 25

I admit I’m not that into cars. And aside from periodically replacing the hamster that runs on the wheel powering my 2000 Ford Echo, I definitely don’t get into the down and dirty of it that much either. So it must be my love of all things British that vouches for my love of the BBC’s “Top Gear” (and “Antiques Roadshow,” and well… anything on the BBC). For the uninitiated, “Top Gear” is a weekly program hosted by three British men (who look, in turn, like a magical meerkat, a retired lesbian and Anthony Bourdain if he never took heroin), running down all the current, usually, high-end automobile news. It’s actually pretty thrilling sometimes: These jokers get $200,000 cars sent to them with the sole purpose of pushing the machine’s technical limits on a closed course. Even I know that’s awesome. The show’s biweekly (or fortnightly) podcast is somewhat less so. I mean, it’s kind of interesting in the nuts-and-bolts sense — tours of the producers’ meeting room, the infamous “Stig’s” waiting quarters — but the whole thing is a bit slipshod. There are occasional, actual features, such as this week’s interview with a rep from Cintron Motors, but on the whole, it doesn’t offer much. Still, it’s miles ahead of the History Channel’s American version of the show, which I suggest you spurn, in the words of Rowan Atkinson, “as you would spurn a rabid dog” (sips martini, looks British). Visit bbc.co.uk/topgear/.

The guys from BBC’s “Top Gear”: Can you figure out which is which?

Josh Ruffin is a published journalist and poet, who just received his MFA from Georgia College & State University. He was once the most unintimidating bouncer at Soul Bar.

12 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

UNDERWATERSEARCH By Alan Arbesfeld / Edited by Will Shortz

ACROSS 1 One going into an outlet 6 Sonata movement 11 Org. for Lt. Columbo 15 331/3 and others 19 Buzz 20 Huge quantity 21 Cross letters 22 “___ la Douce” 23 Again 25 “I before E except after C” and others 27 Tampa-to-Orlando dir. 28 Swelling of the head 30 Carry illicitly 31 Modern: Ger. 33 Old Turkish V.I.P.’s 34 “Now you ___ …” 35 Skippy alternative 38 Attachment points under the hood 42 Finnish city near the Arctic Circle 46 Oodles 48 Street on old TV 49 Racketeer’s activity? 51 “Ideas for life” sloganeer 53 Skips on water 55 “The Canterbury Tales” pilgrim 56 Sight near a drain 57 Also 61 Dues payer: Abbr. 62 Mark Twain, e.g., religiously speaking 64 Sp. miss 65 Human, e.g., foodwise 67 Salad orderer’s request 70 Mercedes competitor 73 Bothered 74 Attractive 77 Mother of Horus, in Egyptian myth 79 “Mona Lisa” feature 82 Prince Valiant’s son 83 Part of the Hindu Godhead 88 Summer hangout 89 Italian 10 91 Organic compound 92 Rights of passage 94 1936 Loretta Young title role 96 Pioneering computer 99 Back end of a time estimate 100 Carolina university 101 Terminology 104 ___ Banos, Calif. 105 Skipping syllables 107 Edible Andean tubers 108 Cousin on “The Addams Family” 110 Prepared for YouTube, say 113 Tyson nickname 116 Suffix with planet 119 “Just a sec” 121 Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi 124 “Fargo” director 125 “This ___!” 126 Inner tube-shaped 127 Perplexed 128 Objectives 129 Firm part: Abbr. 130 Bag of chips, maybe 131 Unlocked? DOWN 1 Maven 2 Bit of Viking writing 3 Sign 4 Ladies’ club restriction 5 Miracle-___

V. 22 | NO. 54

6 Nicolas who directed “The Man Who Fell to Earth” 7 Twice tetra8 Big name in upscale retail 9 Cracked or torn 10 What Rihanna or Prince uses 11 City of the Kings 12 Former Texas governor Richards 13 Like the alarm on many alarm clocks 14 Least hopeful 15 Notes to pick up on? 16 Self-righteous sort 17 Mid 22nd-century year 18 Ed.’s convenience 24 French island WSW of Mauritius 26 Non’s opposite 29 Tryster with Tristan 32 Slippery ones 34 Awake suddenly 35 Teased 36 “Have ___ myself clear?” 37 2003 Pixar film 39 “___ further …” 40 U.S.A. or U.K. 41 ___ Bator, Mongolia 43 Stoic 44 Occasional ingredient in turkey dressing 45 1972 Bill Withers hit 47 Applies, as paint 50 Banks and Pyle 52 PC key 54 Lower layer of the earth’s crust 58 Suffix with Capri 59 Magazine with an annual Hot 100 60 Neighbor of Que. 63 Stood like a pigeon 66 Improvised musically 68 “Lord, is ___?” 69 In concert 71 Hope grp. 72 Spot 74 One concerned with el niño 75 Sans-serif typeface 76 Field of stars? 78 Will of the Bible 80 Pick 6, e.g. 81 Someone ___ 84 Zero 85 “Sense and Sensibility” sister 86 “___ Wood sawed wood” (old tonguetwister) 87 Hears again, as a case 90 Treats with scorn 93 It often has dashes 95 Fatigue may be a symptom of it: Var. 97 Approaches boldly 98 O.K. Corral gunfighter 102 Senior 103 Capital of Eritrea 106 Little hopper? 109 Crown holder 110 Viva ___ 111 Home ___ 112 One may be good or dirty 113 Wee, informally 114 Suffix with arthr115 Sergeant in “The Thin Red Line” 117 “___ sorry!” 118 One of them does? 120 Annual b-ball event 122 Has been 123 Palindromic girl’s name

23 27

67 74

100

101

111

102

88 93

99 103

104

107

108

113

114

120

109

115

116

121

122

124

125

126

127

128

129

130

131

O N E T O G O

S T I N K O

79 86

106

H I P P A L A I S L I C N O A S K G O I N E L L I G A L L A C E P E R O L A Z A L F I N A A N T S R E E R S A L E T H A T Y E T I L A I N E D N A

119

112

110

105

60 65

64 68

42 49

32 38

28 31

PREVIOUSPUZZLEANSWER

When this puzzle is done, look for a name (hinted at by 37-Down) hidden17 times in the grid, each reading forward, backward, down, up or diagonally, word search-style.

T I N O

S E A T B T A L C D S E A L T L O E T I T E A L L Y G C I R R E P U E D E F S F H A S N L I E A N S N E S

E T T U E F T W A C O T I L T S A T

M O O G H E A R L V S A I R L L I O T I N E N E A W B E L E S

A B E T T E D

T O R T

T H E R I A L T P O E A N T A D L I A N H E

E A S E

N M E X

R A H

T A B O U L I

W I R E

A A R E T A I L G O U T M O A N E D

R I T T I D I V T E L L U D H O U R M A A F A I S O P S H O A L T

117

118 123

D E G R E E

A L I E N

L A G O S

I N A N E

F S A T I A R T E E A I S C T S I N E D C I H A O N

A T O M

X E N A

K I M O O N

S T E R N E

D S S A T O

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 13

ADVICEGODDESS

AUGUSTATEK Random Thoughts

Last week, my daughter and I walked out from my office and I said to her, “So, sweetie, let’s count all of Daddy’s cars that don’t work.” One. Two. Three. Okay, not three. I only have two cars that don’t work. We do have a third car, our newest… an 8-year-old Honda Pilot with 120,000 miles on it. As you can see, our family’s transportation mission statement goes something like this: Buy almost new. Drive it until it dies. Hope someone will tow it away. So bottom line, I need a new(er) car. My primary requirement (other than being able to run) is Bluetooth compatibility. I enjoy listening to technology podcasts like CNET Buzz Out Loud or books from audible.com on the way to work. For Christmas last year, Santa brought me a Bluetooth external speaker. Awesome gadget, but to get the full experience, the entire car needs to be wired for sound. (You know what I’m talking about.) My 1996 Silverado with super deluxe hi-fi cassette doesn’t cut it. The FJ Cruiser 4X4 is looking pretty good. More to come… Augusta Tek would not be complete this week without a mention of Steve Jobs stepping down from Apple CEO due to health reasons. The best compliment I’ve read regarding Steve Jobs is his ability to completely transform consumer technology. For those counting, he did it twice. Apple defined the PC market in the early ’80s, and then redefined consumer devices with the iPhone and iPad. And by the way, he reinvented the music industry along the way, too. Even though Steve Jobs won’t be Apple CEO, I suspect that his influence won’t wander too far away. In related news, did everyone get their HP touchpad last week? I’ll pay $300 for yours… just kidding. BTW, for those folks needing a quick image editor with a little bit of power, try paint.net. It’s a freeware program, but very useful in situations where PhotoShop is overkill. Nice, intuitive interface. One really nice feature is its ability to handle layers. Also, my desktop didn’t get infected when I downloaded it. That’s always a plus. I hope you find it useful. I want to apologize to those sitting around me at Wesley UMC this past Sunday. When Rev. Porterfield asked everyone to stand up for the reading, I do admit that I pulled out my Android. Several folks looked in my direction, some curious, others a little more concerned. For the record, I was reading along using my Bible app. Really, I was. (Seriously.) In retrospect, I see how others might have gotten the wrong impression. If it makes you feel any better, my Android allows me to carry a Bible everywhere I go. (Now, that doesn’t necessarily make me read it, but that’s a topic for another week.) Finally, do you need help composing a break-up letter? Or do you need someone to be your girlfriend on Facebook? How about someone who will retweet your posts to 62,000+ followers? Do you have errands you need to run in Turin, Italy? Would you believe that all of these tasks can be performed for $5? All this plus Spanish lessons, customized emotional rants and ravenous bunny marketing can be yours on fiverr.com. It’s the place where you can buy or sell anything for $5. Oh, here’s a good one… I will write your Metro Spirit article for $5. Nice. Until next time, I’ll see you on the internet. Tweet me @ gregory_a_baker. L8R. Gregory A. Baker, Ph.D., is vice president and chief rocket scientist for CMA, which provides information technology services to CSRA businesses and nonprofits.

14 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Guru, Interrupted

My husband is extremely analytical, to the point where he has a negative or argumentative response to almost anything I say — including positive or even insignificant things. Then, when he makes some remark, unless I respond with “I agree” or “uh-huh,” he debates me. I’ve repeatedly asked him to stop making everything an argument, but he insists that he’s just giving his “honest opinion.” I go for counseling, but he refuses to, saying he won’t talk to “some stranger” about us. He’s turning my happy self into a miserable, depressed self. — Always Wrong Nothing brings out the eighth-grade debate champion in a man like being asked to weigh in on life’s big philosophical questions: “What is death, and should we fear it?”, “Why is there something rather than nothing?” and “More orange juice, dear?” How fun that you never know whether you’ll be enjoying breakfast with your husband or petitioning him for a new trial. Of course, he knows, as we all do, that there are remarks that aren’t meant to be responded to as if one were testifying before Congress. “Nice weather we’re having”? Just say “Yes, dear.” No need to counter with data on sunspots, cloud cover and death rates of baby polar bears. A man doesn’t make his wife’s every innocuous comment a springboard for an intellectual death match because he’s “analytical” and “honest” but because he feels like a skin tag among men. What your husband’s showing you isn’t love; it’s narcissism. Narcissists are self-absorbed, manipulative users. What they lack in empathy they make up for in a sucking need for admiration. To a narcissist, other people aren’t so much people as they are staging areas for the narcissist’s greatness. A loving husband understands that there’s a right answer and a more-right answer — the one that doesn’t leave his wife feeling depressed and beaten down. You need to decide whether staying married is more important to you than being happy, because if he is a narcissist, he’s unlikely to change. Narcissists rarely agree to therapy, as they can’t take the challenge to their manufactured authority or let anyone expose them as the tiny little people they actually are. You may be able to control your husband’s behavior by giving him boundaries for what you’ll put up with and being truly willing to walk if he keeps crossing them. But, if that’s what your marriage comes down to — a husband who acts like less of a bully so you won’t leave — is that enough? You could actually have love in your life… if you’re with a man capable of loving. That man will watch you as you sleep — because he can’t take his eyes off you, not because he’s waiting for you to talk in your sleep so he can shake you awake and correct you: “Honey!... Honey! You are the weakest link.”

Wait Training

One of my single girlfriends went on a date with this guy. The date went well, then silence for two weeks — until he texted her, inviting her over for dinner. She’s irritated and is considering not accepting. Is texting instead of calling a valid reason to write a guy off? — Wondering Not every guy’s a talking-on-the-phone person, and that’s okay, but there’s much to be said for polite timing. Texting a girl the day after a date (even just “great time, call u soon”) says a guy’s interested. Texting two weeks later says he’s explored every other option, including hookers and suicide, and settled for her. Unless this guy followed up his text by calling from a hospital bed and explaining “A dog ate my iPhone — and part of my arm,” he should no longer be in the running. Behavior predicts behavior. It also illustrates character (like an interest in others’ feelings). But, let’s say vanishing for two weeks without a word (or even a “wrd”) is out of character for this guy. He might’ve redeemed himself if he’d just manned up — called to express some remorse for disappearing and apologized. At least then he’d be telling your friend “I know I don’t get to do this to you” instead of “You seem like a woman who lets men walk all over her. My turn Tuesday at 7:30? And don’t worry, I promise — no hard-soled shoes or muddy hiking boots until the third date.” ©2011, Amy Alkon, all rights reserved. Got a problem? Write Amy Alkon, 171 Pier Ave, #280, Santa Monica, CA 90405, or email adviceamy@aol.com. Also visit advicegoddess.com and read Amy Alkon’s book: “I See Rude People: One Woman’s Battle to Beat Some Manners Into Impolite Society” (McGraw-Hill, $16.95).

V. 22 | NO. 54

THEEIGHT BOX TOPS

Hurricane Irene slows box office sales to a crawl. “The Help” doesn’t seem to mind too much, though. RANK

TITLE

WEEKEND GROSS

TOTAL GROSS

WEEK #

LAST WEEK

THE HELP

$14,536,118

$96,833,423

COLOMBIANA

$10,408,176

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

$8,867,741

$148,674,018

DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK

$8,525,728

OUR IDIOT BROTHER

$7,011,631

MOVIEREVIEW

“Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark”

David Koon It may be fun, but this “scary” movie is low on scares In recent years, Mexican writer/ director Guillermo del Toro has kind of cornered the market on what might be called “Dark Magical” cinema. His two “Hellboy” films, “Pan’s Labyrinth” and his low-budget vampire feature “Cronos” (it was on Netflix Instant last time we checked) seem to be about the Twilight Zone-ish idea that just below the surface of our rational and orderly world there are mystic caverns full of monsters, fairies and demons just waiting for all of us to take a wrong turn on the way to the bathroom. So it is as well in “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark,” which he co-wrote. A remake of a 1973 television movie of the same name, seen by almost nobody outside of cult-film-buff circles, the new “Don’t Be Afraid” benefits heavily from excellent set design, pretty good acting, and the all-important CGI it took to bring its monsters to life. It’s an old-timey kind of scary, mostly getting its juice from a generalized sense of dread. That said, the central premise is fun, but almost too corny to invest much time in. In the film, Guy Pearce plays Alex, an architect in the process of restoring

a rambling Victorian mansion designed by a historically significant designer, with hopes of making a splash in Architectural Digest and eventually selling the joint at a profit. When the house is finally cleaned up enough to live in, Alex moves in with his fiancee Kim (Katie Holmes) and his 8-year-old daughter Sally (Bailee Madison). Sally doesn’t like the idea of living in the old house. While playing in the garden, the girl comes across a basement window where there shouldn’t be one, leading to the discovery of a walled off room containing what looks suspiciously like a pagan altar. Hearing whispered voices from a bolted-down furnace grate, Sally gets curious, unbolts the metal straps holding the grate, and unwittingly releases a swarm of tiny, evil creatures that have been trapped there since they (literally) ate the last owner of the house and his young son. From there, you can probably guess how it goes: a series of dangerous mishaps and destructions that get blamed on Sally, which she denies, until a final showdown where the truth is finally, horribly revealed. A few years back, I heard another

critic say of “The Amityville Horror” that it’s really a film about financial terror: A couple moves into a house, sinks their life savings into it, then finds out that it’s got something wrong with it that’s a lot more sinister than a cranky hot water heater and some termite damage in the attic. A lot of “haunted house” movies are like that and “Don’t Be Afraid” is squarely in that category, with Alex even saying as much at least once: that he can’t entertain his daughter’s insistence that there might be little monsters in the walls because he’s sunk a million bucks into restoring the joint. Will it ruin it for you if I tell you that one of the last scenes in the movie is of a “For Sale” sign in front of the house? I’d bet Alex didn’t write “tiny, ancient, evil monsters

NFL TICKET ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR ON SUNDAY

living in the basement” anywhere on the disclosure forms for that sale. While Pearce, Holmes and Madison do some solid work here, in the end “Don’t Be Afraid” feels a lot like an overly-gory kid’s movie, or an astronomically big-budget TV movie — which isn’t surprising, given that’s where it came from in the first place. While the CGI trolls are well done and surprisingly creepy to look at, seeing them skittering around stabbing people in the shin with screwdrivers really becomes more laughable than anything else after awhile. In short: “Don’t Be Afraid” is worth a look for fans of the horror genre, but our advice is to wait for it on Netflix.

BAR ONLY | EVERYDAY 4-7 | 9- CLOSE

. Y A D S FRI

SELECT APPETIZERS AT THE BAR 2800 WASHINGTON ROAD

Y A W L T’S A

I , E R IN HE V. 22 | NO. 54

$2 Bottles of Bud and Bud Light $3 Long Island Iced Tea, House Margaritas, & Absolut $4 Glasses of Wine $5 Pitchers of Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, & Yuengling METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 15

September 2-3 Main Field: Cars 2 (G), Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (PG-13) and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (PG-13); Screen 2: Apollo 18 (PG-13), Transformers: Dark of the Moon (PG-13), and The Hangover Part 2 (R); Screen 3: Back to the Future (PG), Grease the SingAlong (PG-13), and Jaws (PG-13). Gates open at 7 p.m.; shows begin at 8:15 p.m.

Masters 7 Cinemas

September 2 Winnie the Pooh (G) 4:45; The Change-Up (R) 4:15, 7:00, 9:45; Zookeeper (PG) 5:20, 7:45, 10:10; Green Lantern (PG-13) 4:30, 7:15, 10; Mr. Popper’s Penguins (PG) 6:45, 9:15; Super 8 (PG-13) 4:15, 7, 9:30; Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG) 5; Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (PG13) 8; Bridesmaids (R) 4, 6:45, 9:30. September 3 Winnie the Pooh (G) 12:45, 2:30, 4:45; The Change-Up (R) 1:15, 4:15, 7, 9:45; Zookeeper (PG) 12:30, 3, 5:20, 7:45, 10:10; Green Lantern (PG-13) 1:30, 4:30, 7:15, 10; Mr. Popper’s Penguins (PG) 6:45, 9:15; Super 8 (PG13) 1:15, 4:15, 7, 9:30; Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG) 12:30, 2:45, 5; Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (PG13) 8; Bridesmaids (R) 1, 4, 6:45, 9:30.

Evans Cinemas

September 2 Apollo 18 (PG-13) 4:10, 7:10, 9:50; Seven Days in Utopia (G) 2:25, 4:50, 7:15, 9:45; Shark Night (PG-13) 2:50, 5:10, 7:35,10:05; The Debt (R) 4, 7, 9:45; Columbiana (PG-13) 4:20, 7:20, 9:55; Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (R) 3, 5:20, 7:40, 10:05; Our Idiot Brother (R) 3:10, 5:30, 7:45, 10:05; Friday Night (R) 10; One Day (PG-13) 6:45; Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (PG) 4:40, 7:05, 9:30; The Help (PG-13) 4:30, 8; Rise of the Planet of the Apes (PG-13) 2:30, 5, 7:30 10; Cowboys and Aliens (PG-13) 3:50, 9:35; Crazy, Stupid, Love (PG-13) 6:50; The Smurfs (PG) 2:40, 5:05, 7:25, 9:40; Cars 2 (G) 2:30, 5, 7:30;

Midnight in Paris (PG-13) 3:40, 9:25. September 3 Apollo 18 (PG-13) 1:30, 4:10, 7:10, 9:50; Seven Days in Utopia (G) 12:05, 2:25, 4:50, 7:15, 9:45; Shark Night (PG-13) 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:35,10:05; The Debt (R) 1:15, 4, 7, 9:45; Columbiana (PG-13) 1:40, 4:20, 7:20, 9:55; Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (R) 12:40, 3, 5:20, 7:40, 10:05; Our Idiot Brother (R) 12:45, 3:10, 5:30, 7:45, 10:05; Fright Night (R) 10; One Day (PG-13) 12:35, 6:45; Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (PG) 12:05, 2:20, 4:40, 7:05, 9:30; The Help (PG-13) 1, 4:30, 8; Rise of the Planet of the Apes (PG-13) 12, 2:30, 5, 7:30 10; Cowboys and Aliens (PG-13) 3:50, 9:35; Crazy, Stupid, Love (PG-13) 12:50, 6:50; The Smurfs (PG) 12:15, 2:40, 5:05, 7:25, 9:40; Cars 2 (G) 12, 2:30, 5, 7:30; Midnight in Paris (PG-13) 3:40, 9:25.

Regal Exchange 20

September 2-3 Apollo 18 (PG-13) 1, 4, 7:05, 9:30, 12:05; Seven Days in Utopia (G) 12, 2:25, 4:50, 7:15, 9:40, 12:05; Shark Night (PG-13) 12:10, 12:50, 2:25, 3:15, 4:40, 5:30, 7:10, 7:50, 9:25, 10:05, 11:40, 12:25; The Debt (R) 12:30, 4:10, 7:25, 10:10; Columbiana (PG-13) 12:20 (DA), 4:05, 4:45, 7:20, 9:55, 10:25, 12:30; Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (R) 12:40, 4:15, 7:15, 9:40, 12:20; Our Idiot Brother (R) 1:10, 4:25, 7:45, 10, 12:15; Conan the Barbarian (R) 12:40, 4:30, 7:40, 10:20; Fright Night (R) 1:15, 4:55, 7:30,10, 12:30; One Day (PG-13) 12:55, 7:55; Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (PG) 12:05, 2:20, 4:35, 7:05, 9:20, 11:35; Thirty Minutes or Less (R) 12:25, 2:35, 7:20; Final Destination 5 (R) 12:35, 4:15, 7:30, 9:50, 12:10; The Help (PG-13) 12:15, 12:45, 3:50, 4:20, 7, 7:35, 10:15, 10:45; Rise of the Planet of the Apes (PG-13) 1:05, 3:55, 7:25, 9:55, 12:25; The Smurfs (PG) 12:35, 4:25, 7:10, 9:45, 12:15; Captain America: The First Avenger (PG-13) 5, 10:30; Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (PG-13) 12, 3:30; Transformers: Dark of the Moon (PG-13) 7, 10:20; Cars 2 (G) 12:10, 2:50, 5:30, 8:10, 10:50.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

(THEY PAY OUR BILLS!) 16 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

DRAMA

“The Debt,” rated R, starring Helen Mirren, Tom Wilkinson, Jessica Chastain, Sam Worthington. Three Mossad agents must relive a 1966 mission involving a Nazi war criminal. There is no doubt in Helen Mirren’s considerable talents, but Israeli Mossad? Not the first person we would have cast.

HORROR

“Shark Night 3D,” rated PG-13, starring Sara Paxton, Katharine McPhee, Donal Logue. Sharks attacking people in fresh water? Holy crap! We’re really not safe anywhere are we?

COMEDY

“A Good Old Fashioned Orgy,” rated R, starring Jason Sudeikis, Leslie Bibb, Lake Bell, Will Forte. A rated R comedy starring Jason Sudeikis and Will Forte? Why have we not heard anything about this before? Oh, yeah… because of the word “orgy” in the title.

“Office Space”

So, Labor Day weekend is coming up and the last thing you probably want to think about is work. But no one should miss this 1999 Mike Judge classic that introduced us to the importance of getting TPS reports exactly right, wearing more flair than anyone else on the planet… or at least at Chotchkie’s, and Swingline staplers. It’s the story of Peter Gibbons (Ron Livingston), who already had a crappy boss in Bill Lumbergh (Gary Cole) even before Initech hires corporate downsizers. Life takes a surprising turn for Peter when he acquires a cute waitress girlfriend (Jennifer Aniston) and the downsizers (The Bobs) decide to promote him even after excessive absences and other odd behavior. Still, a couple of his friends are in line for the axe and, together, they decide to get back at the company. Hilarity ensues in almost every scene, from poor Milton looking for his ever-absent stapler to the guys taking out their frustrations on the copier that never works. And you’ll have so many more lines to add to your movie reference database it won’t even be funny. Missing “Office Space”? We wouldn’t recommend it. — MS

WERECOMMEND

The Big Mo

OPENING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

THE8ERS

V. 22 | NO. 54

R.U.N.E ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED

Swamp Stomp From their sound, their instruments and the names of the songs, including “Jambalaya,” you would think that the Chickasaw Mudd Puppies hail from a Louisiana bayou. But this cult favorite from the 1990s, who employed harmonicas, washboards and something called a stomp board (a homemade percussion instrument consisting of a wooden box with a hole cut in the side in which to stick a microphone) to produce their gritty and surreal sound, is from just up the road in Athens. They started as a duo, released the Michael Stipe-produced “White Dirt” and 8-Track Stomp,” then died before their time shortly thereafter. Thanks to fan interest and movies like “The Mechanic,” which showcased their song “Chickenbone,” Brant Slay and Ben Reynolds are back, bringing with them Alan Cowart formerly of The Beggar Weeds — not too surprising considering a 20-year-old picture of Slay wearing a Beggar Weeds T-shirt. They may be older, but they’re still stompin’… and for that we’re all thankful.

Chickasaw Mudd Puppies | Stillwater Tap Room Saturday, September 3 | 10 p.m. | $4

facebook.com V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 17

ENTERTAINMENT Civil War Redux: Pinhole Photographs by Willie Anne Wright shows at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-828-3867 or visit themorris.org. Philip Juras: The Southern Frontier, landscapes inspired by Bartram’s travels, shows at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.

Music

Fight for Freedom Boot Camp is going on September 3-October 1 at Greubel’s MMA. Sponsored by FAST (Freedom Fighting Athletes Against Slave Trafficking), this program includes kickboxing, jiu jitsu, circuit training, yoga and weekend boot camp classes for participants who will pay $150, 100 percent of the proceeds of which will go to a charity to help combat Southeast Asia’s sex trafficking industry. Call Leesa Gray at 706-284-4831, email indigohands@gmail.com or visit greubelsmma. com.

Arts

First Saturday, hosted by the Center for Arts and Heritage in North Augusta, is Saturday, September 3, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free with admission to the Arts and Heritage Center. Art supplies included with admission. Call 803-4414380 or visit artsandheritagecenter.com. Artists Row is now accepting recycled materials to build ARTie, a 72-foot-dragon designed by Sarah Mays, their 2011 student art scholarship winner. The group needs plastic soda and water bottles, plastic grocery bags and leftover cans of spray paint, which can be delivered to Artistic Perceptions, Gallery on the Row, Oddfellows Gallery, the Book Tavern and Zimmerman Gallery. They also need volunteers to help build the sculpture September 29-October 5, with construction shifts available 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 2-5 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Call 706-8268991 or visit artistsrowaugusta.com. Day of Art, hosted by the North Augusta Artists Guild, is each Tuesday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Arts and Heritage Center and includes a group of artists painting in the center who will answer questions or allow visitors to join in. Call 803-441-4380 or visit artsandheritagecenter.com.

Exhibitions

Expect the Unexpected, an exhibit of ceramic art by members of the Clay Artists of the Southeast (CASE), including Pricilla Hollingsworth and Ann Baker, shows September 6-October 29 at the Arts and Heritage Center in North Augusta. Call 803-441-4380 or visit artsandheritagecenter.com.

18 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Adaptive Reuse of Historic Buildings is Wednesday, September 7, starting at 12:30 p.m. As part of the Augusta Museum of History’s Brown Bag History Series, Clay Boardman will address the economic benefits of adaptive reuse versus demolition of a city’s historic assets. The lecture is free to museum members and $3 for nonmembers. Participants should bring a lunch and the museum will provide beverages. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m.; the lecture begins at 12:30 p.m. Call 706722-8454 or visit augustmuseum.org. Aiken Artist Guild Gallery Series: Leslie Hutto. Throughout the month of September, Leslie Hutto’s work will be displayed on the first floor of the center. Call 803-641-9094 or visit aikencenterfortearts.org. The Art of Millinery will be showcased through the month of October at the Center for Arts and Heritage in North Augusta. Millinery is the art of making hats and fascinators, and this exhibit showcases the works of local milliner Elizabeth Tudor. Call 803-4414380 or visit artsandheritagecenter.com. AikenArtistGuildGallerySeries: Leslie Hutto. Throughout the month of September, Leslie Hutto’s work will be displayed on the first floor of the center. Call 803-641-9094 or visit aikencenterfortearts.org. No Nature, No Art, an exhibition by William Willis, shows at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-828-3867 or visit themorris.org.

Corey Smith in concert is Thursday, September 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Jessye Norman Amphitheater. Presale tickets $15 each while supplies last; advance tickets $22.50 when pre-sale tickets sell out; if tickets remain the day of show, they are $27.50 at gate; gates open 6:30 p.m. Call 706-495-6885 or visit coreysmith.com/tickets. Moonlight Music Cruise will be held on Friday, September 2, at 7 p.m. and features entertainment by acoustic pop/rock duo Ruskin Yeargain/Impulse Ride. $25 per seat. Call 706-823-0440 or visit augustacanal.com. Fourth Annual Smooth Music Festival starring Boney James with special guest Rachelle Ferrell is Friday, September 2, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $40-$60. Call 877-4-AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com. Uncommon JazzFestis Saturday, September 3, at the Augusta Common with gates opening at 3 p.m. and music continuing until late in the evening. Musicians include Tre Tailor & TailorMade, Tony Person-Shaver & Chamberjazz, the Lunar Octopus, Bill Karp, Mike Frost and Lauren Meccia and Reggie Sullivan and the Resonance String Quartet. $10, with free admission to children 13 and under. Visit uncommonjazzfestival.com.

Literary

Non-Fiction Book Club will meet Monday, August 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. The group will be discussing “Hot, Flat, Crowded” by Thomas L. Friedman. Call 706-8631946 or visit ecgrl.org. NOOK Tutorials at Barnes and Noble in the Augusta Mall are each Saturday beginning at noon, followed by a NOOKcolor tutorial at 12:30 p.m. Free. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

Theater

“PurlieVictorious,”aproduction of USC-Aiken’s University Theatre that will show October 13-16, is holding auditions on Thursday, September 1, at 6 p.m. in USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center. Roles are available for two African-American men ages 18-60, four Caucasian men ages 18-65, and three African-American women ages 18-60. Call Jack Benjamin at 803641-3327 or email jackb@usca.edu. Auditions for “Eli’s Bethlehem Inn,” an Enopion Theatre Company musical dinner theater production, will be held at the Kroc Center through September 2 for the production, which will show in nine performances November 18-December 2. Parts are available for men and women 18 years and up. All auditions are by appointment only. Call 706-771-7777 or visit enopion.com.

Flix

“The Great McGinty” (1940) shows as part of the Morris Museum of Art’s Films on Friday series on Friday, September 2, at noon. Participants will view this sharp political satire starring Brian Donlevy and, afterwards, museum Director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Free. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org. “Mars Needs Moms” shows Saturday, September 3, at 2 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org. “Rango” plays at Wildwood Park’s Boat-In Movie on Saturday, September 3, at dusk. Free for boats, $3 park entrance fee for vehicles. Concessions available. Call 706-541-0586.

Special Events

Labor Day Weekend Sidewalk Sale is Thursday-Saturday, September 1-3, in downtown Aiken. Call 803-6492221 or visit downtownaiken.com. First Friday is Friday, September 2, from 5-10 p.m. in downtown Augusta and includes street vendors, entertainment, music and shopping. Galleries and restaurants are open late and include many specials and exhibition openings. Visit augustaarts.com. First Friday Inshop Tasting is Friday, September 2, from 5-8 p.m. at Wine World in North Augusta. Participants will taste six special wines as well as various cheeses. $5 fee with a $3 rebate with V. 22 | NO. 54

Can you feel it? There’s actually a gentle breeze blowing through the balmy, nearly 90-degree day. And if you inhale really deeply, you might get that telltale whiff of fall: funnel cakes. That’s right, Augusta: It’s September. That means that, right around the corner are all the harbingers of cooler weather: college football, Arts in the Heart, Westobou, the Greek Festival, The Hispanic Festival, the Summerville Tour of Homes and, most anticipated, the fair. From there, it’s just a short hop, skip and jump over Thanksgiving to Christmas Tree lighting ceremonies and “The Nutcracker,” all on the way to Santa’s big visit December 25. But for now, at least, let’s just take a minute and say goodbye to that, hopefully, last 100-plus degree day as we savor every last second of the crisp fall days that everyone in Georgia and South Carolina so looks forward to every year. Can’t wait to make your fall plans? Good thing you have everything you need right here at your fingertips in the Metro Spirit’s 2011 Fall Guide.

Events are listed in order by dates within each month. Events are subject to change.

FALLGUIDE September

Graystone Ranch Wildlife Education Center

WEBSITE: graystoneranch.com COST: $10 (good for entire weekend) LOCATION: 1017 McManus Road, Hephzibah DATE & TIME: Through November 30. Friday, 7:30 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, noon-midnight. From September 23-November 6, the Haunted Forest stays open from dark to 10:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A wild animal rescue facility that also has 500 acres of hiking trails, 50 acres of lakes, camping, fishing, petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, hay rides, boat rides and more.

Border Bash

Preserving History Tours

“The 39 Steps”

WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8454 COST: Adults, $4; seniors, $3; children ages 6-18, $2; children 5 and under, free LOCATION: Augusta Museum of History DATE & TIME: September 3, 10, 17, and 24, 1-3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A demonstration on caring for collections with Amanda Klaus.

Aiken’s Makin’ Sidewalk Sale

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 649-2221 COST: Free LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: September 6-10, all day DESCRIPTION: The best bargains on the highest quality goods.

Wee-Peats Children’s Consignment Sale

WEBSITE: weepeatsconsignment.net PHONE NUMBER: (706) 495-4843 COST: Free admission LOCATION: 596 Bobby Jones Expressway (between Walmart and Sams) DATE & TIME: September 8-10, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sale includes clothing, toys, furniture and equipment, as well as the “Dollar Dash” on Saturday, September 10, from 2-4 p.m.

Art Exhibit Opening Reception

WEBSITE: aikencenterforthearts.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-9094 COST: Free. LOCATION: Aiken Center for the Arts DATE & TIME: September 8, 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Works by Myrna Spurrier, Kent Amber, Mary Walker, John Williamson and John Hilton.

Judy Gillespie and Ginny Griffin Art Exhibit

WEBSITE: sacredheartaugusta.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4700 COST: Free. LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: September 8-October 28 DESCRIPTION: Art from Judy Gillespie and Ginny Griffin will be displayed. Opening reception will be Thursday, September 8 from 5-7 p.m.

Carolina Divine Consign

WEBSITE: carolinadivineconsign.com COST: Free admission LOCATION: Aiken County Shrine Club DATE & TIME: September 9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; September 10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sale includes winter apparel, baby gear, toys, bedding books and more.

20 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

WEBSITE: borderbash.net PHONE NUMBER: (706) 396-7101 COST: $10 LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: September 9, 4 p.m.-11 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A family event that brings Georgia Bulldog and South Carolina Gamecocks rivals together to celebrate the annual rivalry and football game the next day.

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com/theater PHONE NUMBER: (706) 793-8552 COST: $40-$25 LOCATION: Fort Gordon Dinner Theater DATE & TIME: September 9, 10, 16, 17, 22 and 24, dinner at 7 pm and show at 8 pm DESCRIPTION: The amazingly brilliant cast of four plays more than 140 characters in this fast-paced comedy theater.

“Chicago”

WEBSITE: aikencommunityplayhouse.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-1438 COST: $20 LOCATION: URS Center for the Performing Arts DATE & TIME: September 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 24, 8 p.m.; September 18 and 24, 3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Presented by Aiken Community Playhouse. Set in 1920s Chicago, Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband to take the rap. Winner of six Tony Awards.

USCA’s 50th Anniversary Family Picnic

WEBSITE: usca.edu PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-6851 COST: Free LOCATION: Banksia, downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: September 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The official beginning of USCA’s 50th anniversary celebration with a family picnic on the grounds of Banksia, opportunities to tour the facilities, remarks from USCA alumni and friends, and a display of USCA history.

Second Saturday Concerts

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: Free LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheatre DATE & TIME: September 10, 7-9:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Air Force Reserve Band commemorates the 10th anniversary of 9-11.

Songwriters Come Home Concert

WEBSITE: usca.edu PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-3305 COST: $40 LOCATION: The Etherredge Center for Fine and Performing Arts DATE & TIME: September 10, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: USCA alumni who became famous songwriters present unplugged concert followed by dancing to the music of Palmetto Grove in the theme of Aiken’s “Teen Town.”

V. 22 | NO. 54

Children’s Consignment Sale

A Sense of Place Juried Art Competition and Exhibition

31st Annual Arts in the Heart Festival

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: How to Murder a Millionaire

WEBSITE: trinityonthehill.net PHONE NUMBER: (706) 738-8822 COST: Free admission LOCATION: Trinity on the Hill United Methodist Church DATE & TIME: September 16, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; September 17, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sale includes children’s clothes and accessories, maternity clothes, baby equipment, toys, books, games and more. Saturday’s sale features 50 percent off select items.

WEBSITE: augustaarts.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4701 COST: $5 LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: September 16, 5 p.m.-9 p.m.; September 17, 11 am-9 pm; September 18, noon-7 pm DESCRIPTION: Each year showcases visual and performing arts and celebrates the ethnic groups who blend to create the heart of Augusta. Over 35 countries lend their ethnic flair and talents to the festival. Arts in the Heart presents performances by local, regional and national entertainers throughout the weekend, and the events also includes, food, arts and crafts and more.

WEBSITE: ghia.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-5495 COST: Free. LOCATION: Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art DATE & TIME: September 16, 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The national juried fine art competition celebrates its 31st year, continuing its tradition of recognizing the outstanding quality and diversity of work being generated by contemporary American artists.

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 649-2221 COST: $50 LOCATION: Newberry Hall DATE & TIME: September 16-17, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An annual fundraiser for Aiken Downtown Development Association, this evening is filled with good food, good laughs and good audience interaction.

St. Petersburg String Quartet

WEBSITE: hjcms.org, stpetersburgquartet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 790-9274 COST: $25, adults; $7, kids LOCATION: at the ASU Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: Friday September 16 at 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A production of the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society.

Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives

WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: $13-$37 LOCATION: at the Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: September 16, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Part of the Mom’s Museum of Art’s Budweiser true music Southern Soul and Song Series.

Ingrid Hofer Exhibit

WEBSITE: ghia.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-5495 LOCATION: Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art DATE & TIME: September 17-October 15 DESCRIPTION: Solo exhibit features mixed media journals of the art’s travels throughout Europe and select watercolors and acrylics from her larger works.

A Celebration of Freedom

WEBSITE: columbiacountyballet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 860-1852 LOCATION: Hardin Performing Arts Center DATE & TIME: September 17, 6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Performed by the Columbia County Ballet.

Screen on the Green

Steed’s Dairy

WEBSITE: steedsdairy.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 855-2948 COST: $9-$12 LOCATION: 4634 Wrightsboro Road, Grovetown DATE & TIME: September 16-November 13. Fridays, 5-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.10 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Education fun includes a five-acre corn maize, a jumping pillow, hay rides, a petting zoo, a cow-milking demonstration, a pumpkin patch, a giant tube slide, a corn kernel pit, concessions and more. V. 22 | NO. 54

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: $1, children 3 and under admitted free LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheater DATE & TIME: September 17, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: There will be a showing of “Furry Vengeance.”

Bass Fishing Tournament

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-5078 COST: $10-$20 LOCATION: Butler Reservoir DATE & TIME: September 18, 6 a.m.-noon DESCRIPTION: Prizes Big Fish Pot, $100 for first place and $50 for second place. METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 21

Livingston Taylor

Pass It On Kidsignment Sale

WEBSITE: passitonaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (678) 859-2365 COST: Free admission LOCATION: Aiken First Baptist Church DATE & TIME: September 23, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; September 24, 8 a.m.-noon. DESCRIPTION: On Saturday, all items are half off at this sale, which includes kids clothing, accessories, furniture, toys and more.

Kids Fishing Derby

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-5078 COST: Free LOCATION: Claypits Lake DATE & TIME: September 24, 7:30-11:30 a.m. DESCRIPTION: Prizes for first-third places will be awarded in the four ages groups. The first 300 kids get a free T-shirt and all participants will receive a free hot dog and soda.

Kackleberry Farm

WEBSITE: kackleberryfarm.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 830-4968 COST: $8-$11 LOCATION: 1025 Verdree Road, Louisville DATE & TIME: September 24-November 13. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An area for small children, as well as a hay jump, jumping pillows, tire mountains, zip lines, the Kackleberry Speedway and more.

Kids Shooting Day

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-5078 COST: Free LOCATION: Tactical Advantage Sportsman’s Complex DATE & TIME: September 24, 1-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Kids, accompanying by an adult, will receive instruction in

22 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

recreational shooting and archery.

Screen on the Green

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: $1, children 3 and under are free LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheater DATE & TIME: September 24, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: There will be a showing of “True Grit.”

ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta

WEBSITE: ironmanaugusta.com COST: Free for spectators LOCATION: Downtown Augusta DATE & TIME: September 25, 7:30 a.m. DESCRIPTION: Consisting of 1.2 mile swim in the Savannah River, a 56 mile bike covering areas of Georgia and South Carolina, and a 13.1 mile run through downtown Augusta, this event draws approximately 3,000 pro and amateur athletes to the Augusta area.

Tuesday’s Music Live

WEBSITE: tuesdaysmusiclive.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 COST: Free for the concert; $10 per person for pre-reserved lunch LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: September 27, Noon DESCRIPTION: Featuring the Guidonian Hand Trombone Quartet.

Westobou Festival

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 755-2878 COST: Varies by event LOCATION: Varies by event DATE & TIME: September 29-October 6 DESCRIPTION: Designed to celebrate excellence in the arts, Westobou showcases a variety of performances and presentations by local, regional and nationally V. 22 | NO. 54

recognized individuals and organizations, primarily in the disciplines of dance, music, theater and visual arts.

An Evening with Livingston Taylor

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: $37-$32.50 LOCATION: Hardin Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: September 29, at 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An Augusta Amusements presentation.

Sarah Hobbs Reception and Lecture

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 729-2417 LOCATION: Mary S. Byrd Gallery, ASU Campus DATE & TIME: September 29, 4-7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A lecture by the artist, whose works shows at the Gertrude Herbert in October.

Art at Lunch: Art Rosenbaum

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 828-3867 LOCATION: Morris Museum of Art DATE & TIME: September 30, noon DESCRIPTION: Art Rosenbaum will discuss his work and exhibit.

“Incarnatio Mysteria”

WEBSITE: davidson.rcboe.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 650-2311 LOCATION: Davidson Fine Arts School DATE & TIME: September 30, 3:45 and 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Presented by Columbia County Choral Society. Dr. Powell’s original work is performed by the combined choirs of Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and the Davidson Fine Arts Orchestra.

Whiskey Painters of America Annual Show and Sale PHONE NUMBER: (706) 774-1006 LOCATION: Zimmerman Gallery, 1006 Broad Street DATE & TIME: September 30-October 31, 5-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Zimmerman Gallery

“I Waltzed with God the Morning of Genesis” WEBSITE: paine.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 396-7591 LOCATION: Paine College DATE & TIME: September 30, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Stage performance

Innocence Cherished

PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-3305 LOCATION: USC-Aiken DATE & TIME: September 30, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This concert, sponsored by the Aiken Symphony Guild and SOA Classic Series, includes works by three of the Romantic era’s most admired composers.

Women’s Wellness and Adventure Weekend

WEBSITE: thefamilyy.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 359-2153 LOCATION: Camp Lakeside, Lincolnton DATE & TIME: September 30-October 2 DESCRIPTION: A fun and energizing retreat for women of all ages. Lodging, meals and activities included.

706.738.4536 | Surrey Center | 387 Highland Ave. | Augusta

New Products Arriving Daily!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHAD McCLURE

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 23

October The Annual Quilt Exhibition

WEBSITE: lucycraftlaneymuseum.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-3576 LOCATION: Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History DATE & TIME: October 1-December 31 DESCRIPTION: See the history of quilting among African-American women and how they used their skills to provide for their families

Jaguar Jaunt

WEBSITE: augustastriders.com COST: $10-$20 LOCATION: ASU DATE & TIME: October 1, 8 a.m. DESCRIPTION: A 5K run through the ASU campus and the surrounding Summerville neighborhood.

23rd Annual Oliver Hardy Festival

WEBSITE: harlemga.org. PHONE NUMBER: (706) 556-3448 COST: Free LOCATION: downtown area DATE & TIME: October 1, 9 a.m. DESCRIPTION: A day-long event honoring Harlem-born Oliver Hardy with parades, arts and crafts booths, look alike contests, live entertainment, food, movies, games rides, raffles and more.

Rivers Bridge Battlefront Tour

WEBSITE: southcarolinparks.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 267-3675 COST: Adults, $5; children, $3 LOCATION: Rivers Bridge State Historic Site DATE & TIME: Saturday October 1, November 5, and December 3 at 2 pm DESCRIPTION: Guided tours of Rivers Bridge Battlefield will be offered the first Saturday of each month. Visitors will meet at the park community building prior to the tour for demonstrations of Civil War equipment, stories of how the battle affected the lives of the men who fought there and revelations of how the results of the battle changed the history of South Carolina. The tour will then examine the still intact fortifications as well as the natural topography that lead one Union general to call Rivers Bridge.

Porter Fleming Literary Competition Awards Ceremony

WEBSITE: themorris.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-7501 LOCATION: Morris Museum of Art DATE & TIME: October 1, at 5-7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Wine and cheese reception to honor the winners.

Ira Glass

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 1, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A performance by the host of NPR’s This American Life.

Artrageous! Family Sunday: Instrunment Petting Zoo

WEBSITE: themorris.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-7501 LOCATION: Morris Museum of Art DATE & TIME: October 2, 1-4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sponsored by the friends of Symphony Orchestra Augusta.

24 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Quarteto Vivace Brazil

Website: hjcms.org Phone Number: (706) 790-9274 Cost: $25, adults; $7, kids Location: ASU’s Maxwell Performing Arts Theater Date & Time: October 2, 3 p.m. Description: The Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society presents this, one of the most exciting new groups on the Brazilian music scene that plays mainly folk-based popular Brazilian music.

I Waltzed With God the Morning of Genesis

WEBSITE: paine.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 396-7591 LOCATION: Paine College DATE & TIME: October 2, 5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A metaphoric performance featuring music, dance, spoken word, visual art and fashion.

Coming Up Shoutin!

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: October 2, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Featuring The New England Spiritual Ensemble. A Film Comedy Evening with Peter Tischner WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 COST: General admission, $10; seniors 60 and older, $5; Students, free LOCATION: JSAC Ballroom DATE & TIME: October 3, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Peter Tischner is a renowned editor in Hollywood, whose work spans 30 years and is featured in comedy hits such as “Borat,” “Dodgeball,” “Road Trip,” “Charlie’s Angels” and “Horrible Bosses.” He will bring a sneak preview of his latest work as an editor and using clips from his films will discuss the technical skills of editing comedy.

Branford Marsalis & Joey Calderazzo Duo

WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: $40-$15 LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 3, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A benefit concert for the Jessye Norman School of Arts, this concert will feature an appearance from Jessye Norman

SOA Discovery Concerts

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4705 LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 4, 10:30 a.m. DESCRIPTION: Featuring the debut of Gabriel Pique, pianist, 2011 Symphony youth competition winner.

ASU Student Recital Showcase

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 5, 1 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Part of the Westobou Festival.

Wycliffe Gordon V. 22 | NO. 54

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 LOCATION: Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 5, 5:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Lecture and demonstration.

COST: Free LOCATION: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church DATE & TIME: October 7-8 DESCRIPTION: Event includes tours of the church’s sanctuary, music, dancing, a marketplace and food.

Hums & Oms: Performing Sculpture

Sarah Hobbs Exhibit

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 LOCATION: Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 5, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Part of the Westobou Festival.

Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales

WEBSITE: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3521 COST: $41-$16 LOCATION: The Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: October 6, 3:30 or 6:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Disney Live! presents three classic fairy tales. The characters in this show are Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy; Cinderella; and Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Art Exhibit Opening Reception

WEBSITE: aikencenterforthearts.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-9094 LOCATION: Aiken Center for the Arts DATE & TIME: October 6, at 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Dog exhibitions in all galleries in coordination with Aiken’s Wild Read Program.

ASU Gala Concert

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 6, 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Featuring Wycliffe Gordon. Cocktail party at 6-7:30 p.m. at the Maxwell Alumni House. Concert at 8 p.m.

Momix

WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: General public, $75-$20; students, $65-$10 LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 6-7, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A company of dancer-illusionists who use costumes, projections and custom-made props and puppetry which adds an extra dose of fantasy.

Michael Landro’s Celtic Fire

WEBSITE: aikenperformingartsgroup.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 643-4774 LOCATION: URS Center for Performing Arts DATE & TIME: October 6-7, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A high-energy performance anchored in the traditional customs and ancient musical history of Ireland, featuring live music, dance and song.

Small Fry Fun Day

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 821-1754 COST: $2 LOCATION: Fleming Athletic Complex in Bernie Ward Community Center DATE & TIME: October 7, 10 a.m. DESCRIPTION: For children in Pre-K through first grade, this a fun way for kids to enjoy new things, meet new people and just play.

Greek Festival

WEBSITE: holytrinityaugusta.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-1087 V. 22 | NO. 54

WEBSITE: ghia.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-5495 COST: Free. LOCATION: Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art DATE & TIME: October 7, 5-7p.m. DESCRIPTION: Atlanta artist Sarah Hobbs presents a contemporary art installation in conjunction with the Westobou Festival.

Blessing of the Animals

WEBSITE: st-augustines.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 738-6676 COST: Free LOCATION: 1131 Broad Street (in from of Sho Ane’s) DATE & TIME: October 7, 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Held downtown during First Friday, this service is open to anyone with a pet.

The Art of Chocolate

WEBSITE: childenrichment.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 737-4631 COST: $75 LOCATION: Savannah Rapids Pavilion DATE & TIME: October 7, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A benefit for Child Enrichment, this event includes live entertainment, food, chocolate and other desserts, silent auctions and more.

Summerville Tour of Homes

WEBSITE: summervilleaugusta.org COST: $35 LOCATION: Summerville DATE & TIME: October 7, 7 p.m.; October 8, noon-5 p.m.; October 9, 1-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This year, the Sesquicentennial celebration will feature ribbon cuttings for new Summerville signs, a blessing of the beasts on the lawn of Good Shepherd Church, a parade and Evensong service at Church of the Good Shepherd.

Festival Hispano: The Hispanic Festival

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 373-2564 COST: $2 LOCATION: The Augusta Common DATE & TIME: October 8-9, all day DESCRIPTION: Includes folk groups, bands, authentic food stalls of various Hispanic countries, crafts, activities for children, and other family attractions.

Fall Festival

WEBSITE: exploremcduffycounty.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 541-0321 COST: $10 per car; free, overnight guests LOCATION: Mistletoe State Park DATE & TIME: October 8 DESCRIPTION: This event has a pumpkin scavenger hunt, nature hike, apple bobbing, marshmallow roasting, games, music, story telling, hayrides and more.

Walk With the Spirits

WEBSITE: historicaugusta.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-0436 COST: $10, children and groups of 10 or more; $15, adults LOCATION: Summerville Cemetery DATE & TIME: October 8, 3-6 p.m.; October 9, 3-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Guided tours led by some of the cemetery’s residents begin every 20 minutes. METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 25

PLANNING A WEDDING...

28 Days

WE HAVE AN APP FOR THAT! Nominated Metro’s Best caterers!

ONE NIGHT

Proudly serving Augusta for over 15 years

A FIRST CLASS STEAKHOUSE WITH 152 ROOMS. We age our own steaks for 28 days, grow our own herbs and make our own sauces.

ROUXSCATERING.COM

Experience our table side salads Washington Road at I-20 | 1069 Stevens Creek Road | Augusta

39 STEPS Presents ...

by Bobby Dimon

Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan, “The 39 Steps” is a two-time, Tony Award-winning hit show and continues to be a total audiencepleaser ... where Hitchcock meets hilarity! The cast of 4 plays over 140 characters in this fast-paced comedy thriller that’s great fun for ages 9 to 90. The production will be the ultimate actors’ challenge. An absolutely terrific show. It will be our Army Festival entry.

SHOW DATES:

SEPTEMBER 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23 & 24 Dinner, 7:00 p.m. | Show, 8:00 p.m. Civilians: $40 | Seniors (65 & over), Retirees, DA Civilians, Active-Duty E7 & above: $38 | Active-Duty E6 & below: $30 | Show only: $25

For reservations, call 706-793-8552 26 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

2nd Saturday Concerts

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: $5 LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheater DATE & TIME: October 8, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Swingin’ Medallions will be performing.

Music of John Williams Spectacular

WEBSITE: westoboufestival.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4705 LOCATION: Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: October 8, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A celebration of great film themes.

Lizz Wright: The Gospel of Jazz

WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: $40-$15 LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 8, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Presented by Garden City Jazz, Lizz Wright delivers a sultry R&B performance that is divinely layered in gospel and jazz.

Tuesday’s Music Live

WEBSITE: tuesdaysmusiclive.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 COST: Free for the concert; $10 per person for pre-reserved lunch LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: October 11, Noon DESCRIPTION: Featuring Duo Lana

Purlie Victorious

WEBSITE: usca.edu PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-3305 LOCATION: USC Aiken DATE & TIME: October 13-15, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.

Zombie Apocalypse Survival Bootcamp

WEBSITE: lcnaugusta.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3322 LOCATION: Le Chat Noir DATE & TIME: October 13-15, 18-22, 25-29 DESCRIPTION: An interactive Haunted House.

Oktoberfest

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-6779 COST: $10-$20 for carnival LOCATION: Barton Field DATE & TIME: October 14, 4-11 p.m.; October 15, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; October 16, 1-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This family friendly event features a carnival, live music, DJs, folk dancers, a flea market on Saturday, a car and bike show, as well as food and drinks.

89th Annual Georgia-Carolina State Fair

WEBSITE: georgiacarolinastatefair.org COST: Gate admission, $6; unlimited rides, $18; parking, $5 LOCATION: Exchange Club Fairgrounds DATE & TIME: October 14-23. Monday-Friday, 5 p.m.; Saturdays-Sundays, noon DESCRIPTION: Includes rides, games, shows, exhibits, concessions and more.

Pam Tillis

WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: $37-$13 V. 22 | NO. 54

LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 14, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Pam Tillis is a country singer and this is part of the Morris Museum of Art’s Southern Soul and Song Series.

“The Crucible”

WEBSITE: aikenperformingartsgroup.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-1438 LOCATION: URS Center for Performing Arts DATE & TIME: October 14-16, 21, 22; 8 p.m. October 16 and 22; 3 p.m. October 14, 15, and 21 DESCRIPTION: Winner of the 1953 Tony Award for best play.

Miracle Mile Breast Cancer Walk

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 729-5656 COST: Donations LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: October 15, 8 a.m. DESCRIPTION: The annual miracle mile walk helps raise funds necessary to provide potentially life-saving screenings.

Boashears Skyfest

WEBSITE: boshears.com LOCATION: Daniel Field DATE & TIME: October 15-16, 9 a.m. DESCRIPTION: Event includes airshows, Paratainment parachute teams, a car show, airplane and helicopter rides, displays, exhibits, food vendors and carnival rides.

Fall Flea Market

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-2555 LOCATION: Barton Field DATE & TIME: October 15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sponsored by the Fort Gordon Spouses and Civilians Club.

Oktoberfest

WEBSITE: st-augustines.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 738-6676 COST: Free LOCATION: 3321 Wheeler Road DATE & TIME: October 15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Held on the front lawn of the church, this event with feature German far and lager, games for kids, and unique vendors.

20th Annual Colonial Times A Day to Remember

WEBSITE: colonialtimes.us/coltimes.html PHONE NUMBER: (803) 279-7560 COST: Free LOCATION: Directions at colonialtimes.us/directions.html DATE & TIME: October 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; October 16, 10 am-4 pm DESCRIPTION: Watch the colonial past come to life through demonstrations and living exhibits. See how life and times were from 1735-1785. Featured attractions include hornsmithing, pottery, a tomahawk throw, butter churning, weaving and spinning, quilting, candle making, scrimshaw, pewterer, musket firing demonstrations, calligraphy, gunsmithing, gold and silversmithing, blacksmithing, woodworking, and meat smoking and curing. Be sure to stop by and visit with the Indian traders, the Backwoodsmen, the Sutlers, the Milliner, the Tavern Keeper, the Alchemist, and pet the animals.

“Young Frankenstein”

WEBSITE: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com, broadwayinaugustaga.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722- 3521, (888) 706-BWAY LOCATION: The Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: October 17, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An award-winning musical, this play derives from the classic film “Frankenstein.” Part of the Broadway in Augusta series. METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 27

Aiken Community Band Fall Concert WEBSITE: usca.edu PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-3305 LOCATION: Etherredge Center DATE & TIME: October 18 at 8 p.m.

Sandhills Writers Series

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4437 LOCATION: JSAC Coffee House DATE & TIME: October 19, 1 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Cornelius Eady, poet and Karen McElmurray, novelist.

Faculty Artist Recital

WEBSITE: usca.edu PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-3305 LOCATION: Etherredge Center DATE & TIME: October 19

Western Carolina State Fair

WEBSITE: westerncarolinastatefair.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-8955 COST: Vaires LOCATION: South Carolina fair grounds DATE & TIME: October 20-29 DESCRIPTION: Includes rides, games, and activities on the South Carolina fairgrounds.

Tuesday’s Music Live

Time to Scare Halloween Festival

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (803) 279-1212 COST: Free LOCATION: Diamond Lakes Community Center DATE & TIME: October 27, 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: For children ages 12 and under, this event will feature a haunted house, carnival game room, and chances to win candy. A costume contest will be held at 7 pm with three different age groups.

Aiken Fall Steeplechase

WEBSITE: aikensteeplechase.com LOCATION: Aiken Training Track COST: $10, advance; $15, gate. Same prices for parking. Children 6 and under receive free admission. DATE & TIME: October 28-29, 9:30 a.m. DESCRIPTION: An annual event that includes races, as well as the Village of Shops.

Local Legends

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4888 LOCATION: Washington Hall DATE & TIME: October 20-November 11

WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8454 COST: Adults, $4; seniors, $3; children 6-18, $2; children 5 and under, free LOCATION: Augusta Museum of History DATE & TIME: October 28, noon; October 29, noon DESCRIPTION: The new exhibit opens to the public.

Veronika Hart Lecture

Polo and Balloon Festival

Veronika Hart Art Exhibit

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 729-2417 LOCATION: 170 University Hall DATE & TIME: October 20, 3:30-5 p.m.

A Taste of Wine and Cheese

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com COST: Free with a donation to the families of servicemembers LOCATION: Stormbranch Equestrian Club, Aiken DATE & TIME: October 28, 3-8 p.m.; October 29, 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Event includes a mass ascension of hot-air balloons, a polo game, live music, fireworks, and, on Saturday, trick or treating between the balloons.

WEBSITE: aikencenterforthearts.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-9094 LOCATION: Aiken Center for the Arts DATE & TIME: October 20, 7-10 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Event features unique food offerings from Aiken’s 20 top restaurants and caterers, fine wine and libations plus a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Aiken Center for the Arts.

Broad Street Ramble

Opera Octoberfest

Trunk or Treat

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 737-1444 COST: General admission, $5; Students, free LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: October 20, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This will be a performance by ASU’s Opera Ensembles program, designed for students interested in the performance of operatic and musical theater repertoire.

Second Blessings Consignment Sale

WEBSITE: oursecondblessings.com COST: Free admission LOCATION: Christ Sanctified Holy Church gym, Evans DATE & TIME: October 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; October 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sale includes children’s clothing and accessories, baby equipment, furniture and toys. Saturday’s sale includes many items at 50 percent.

WEBSITE: augustastriders.com LOCATION: Downtown Augusta DATE & TIME: October 29 DESCRIPTION: A 10K run through the streets of downtown that also includes a 5K and shorter races for kids.

WEBSITE: thefamilyy.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 922-9622 COST: Free LOCATION: Wilson Family Y parking lot DATE & TIME: October 29, 10 a.m.-noon DESCRIPTION: A safe way for kids to trick or treat. Trick or Treat on Newberry Street WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 642-7649 COST: Free LOCATION: Newberry Street DATE & TIME: October 29, 5:30-7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: There will be lots of treats for kids 12 and under in costumes. Games, candy, costume contests and more.

“The Emperor’s New Clothes: A Musical” WEBSITE: storylandtheatre.org

28 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

“You won’t find a butcher, baker or candlestick maker on our Web site right now… but we’re working on it.”

Whether you own, rent, or want to buy or sell a home, you can find just about anything you need for your home or yourself at CSRAHomeConnections.com. Unlike some national services, we feature only local businesses and services, with dozens and dozens of excellent, trusted PREFERRED PROVIDERS who have been referred by CENTURY 21 Larry Miller Realty agents, property managers, or other Preferred Providers. And, because we want to make sure our CSRA HOME CONNECTIONS members are the cream of the crop, each prospective Preferred Provider must apply for membership and be accepted by our Executive Review Committee. Then, every Preferred Provider must adhere to a set of high performance standards to maintain their membership.

www.CSRAHomeConnections.com The CSRA HOME CONNECTIONS Local Alliance Co-op Marketing Program is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CENTURY 21 Larry Miller Realty

You will find Preferred Providers in these categories

--- CSRA HOME CONNECTIONS | Program Coordinator Lindsey Folley

• Accounting • Attorneys • Auto Service • Banking • Cabinetry • Carpentry • Carpets • Carpet Cleaning Services • Residential and Commercial Cleaning Services • Computer Services • Countertops, Disposal Services • Doors • Electrical Services • Heating & Air Sales and Service • Flooring (Carpets, Tile, and Hardwoods) • Dust-free Floor Refinishing Service • Gutters • Hair Salon • Handyman Services • Home Improvements • Home Inspection • Home Security • Insurance (Home/Life/Auto/Health/Casualty) • Landscaping • Lawn Care • Mortgages (Home Loans) • Moving • Painting • Patio and Carport Covers • Pest Control • Plumbing • Pressure-Washing • Professional Photography • Real Estate • Roofing • Security Systems • Siding • Health Spa •Tree Removal • Professional Video Service • Virtual Home Tours • Windows---with more products and services added all the time.

“Call me to find out if your business qualifies for membership in the CSRA HOME CONNECTIONS Local Alliance Co-op Marketing Program.” --- Sherrie Prince | 706.860.0000 | Director of Membership Development

30 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

PARENTGUIDE

ERICJOHNSON

September

Preserving History Tours

WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8454 COST: Adults, $4; seniors, $3; children ages 6-18, $2; children 5 and under, free LOCATION: Augusta Museum of History DATE & TIME: September 3, 10, 17, and 24, 1-3 pm DESCRIPTION: A demonstration on caring for collections with Amanda Klaus.

Wee-Peats Children’s Consignment Sale

Carolina Divine Consign

Border Bash

USCA’s 50th Anniversary Family Picnic

Second Saturday Concerts

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: Free LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheatre DATE & TIME: September 10, 7-9:30 pm DESCRIPTION: The Air Force Reserve Band commemorates the 10th anniversary of 9-11.

Children’s Consignment Sale

baby equipment, toys, books, games and more. Saturday’s sale features 50 percent off select items.

31st Annual Arts in the Heart Festival

WEBSITE: augustaarts.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4701 COST: $5 LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: September 16, 5 pm-9 pm; September 17, 11 am-9 pm; September 18, noon-7 pm DESCRIPTION: Each year showcases visual and performing arts and celebrates the ethnic groups who blend to create the heart of Augusta. Over 35 countries lend their ethnic flair and talents to the festival. Arts in the Heart presents performances by local, regional and national entertainers throughout the weekend, and the events also includes, food, arts and crafts and more.

Steed’s Dairy

A Celebration of Freedom

WEBSITE: columbiacountyballet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 860-1852 LOCATION: Hardin Performing Arts Center DATE & TIME: September 17, 6 pm DESCRIPTION: Performed by the Columbia County Ballet.

Screen on the Green

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 COST: $1, children 3 and under admitted free LOCATION: Columbia County Amphitheater DATE & TIME: September 17, 7 pm DESCRIPTION: There will be a showing of “Furry Vengeance.”

Bass Fishing Tournament

Pass It On Kidsignment Sale

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 31

Kids Fishing Derby

ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta

Kackleberry Farm

Westobou Festival

Kids Shooting Day

“Incarnatio Mysteria”

WEBSITE: davidson.rcboe.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 650-2311 LOCATION: Davidson Fine Arts School DATE & TIME: September 30, 3:45 and 7:30 pm DESCRIPTION: Presented by Columbia County Choral Society. Dr. Powell’s original work is performed by the combined choirs of Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and the Davidson Fine Arts Orchestra.

October The Annual Quilt Exhibition

Jaguar Jaunt

WEBSITE: augustastriders.com COST: $10-$20 LOCATION: ASU DATE & TIME: October 1, 8 a.m. DESCRIPTION: A 5K run through the ASU campus and the surrounding Summerville neighborhood.

23rd Annual Oliver Hardy Festival

Rivers Bridge Battlefront Tour

32 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

the tour for demonstrations of Civil War equipment, stories of how the battle affected the lives of the men who fought there and revelations of how the results of the battle changed the history of South Carolina. The tour will then examine the still intact fortifications as well as the natural topography that lead one Union general to call Rivers Bridge.

Artrageous! Family Sunday: Instrunment Petting Zoo

WEBSITE: themorris.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-7501 LOCATION: Morris Museum of Art DATE & TIME: October 2, 1-4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sponsored by the friends of Symphony Orchestra Augusta.

SOA Discovery Concerts

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4705 LOCATION: ASU’s Maxwell Theater DATE & TIME: October 4, 10:30 a.m. DESCRIPTION: Featuring the debut of Gabriel Pique, pianist, 2011 Symphony youth competition winner.

Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales

Michael Landro’s Celtic Fire

WEBSITE: aikenperformingartsgroup.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 643-4774 V. 22 | NO. 54

LOCATION: URS Center for Performing Arts DATE & TIME: October 6-7, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A high-energy performance anchored in the traditional customs and ancient musical history of Ireland, featuring live music, dance and song.

Small Fry Fun Day

Greek Festival

WEBSITE: holytrinityaugusta.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-1087 COST: Free LOCATION: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church DATE & TIME: October 7-8 DESCRIPTION: Event includes tours of the church’s sanctuary, music, dancing, a marketplace and food.

Blessing of the Animals

Summerville Tour of Homes

Festival Hispano: The Hispanic Festival

Fall Festival

Walk With the Spirits

Oktoberfest

89th Annual Georgia-Carolina State Fair

Boashears Skyfest

Fall Flea Market

WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 791-2555 LOCATION: Barton Field DATE & TIME: October 15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sponsored by the Fort Gordon Spouses and Civilians Club.

Oktoberfest

20th Annual Colonial Times A Day to Remember

Western Carolina State Fair

Second Blessings Consignment Sale

WEBSITE: oursecondblessings.com COST: Free admission LOCATION: Christ Sanctified Holy Church gym, Evans METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 33

DATE & TIME: October 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; October 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Sale includes children’s clothing and accessories, baby equipment, furniture and toys. Saturday’s sale includes many items at 50 percent.

Time to Scare Halloween Festival

Aiken Fall Steeplechase

Local Legends

Polo and Balloon Festival

Broad Street Ramble

WEBSITE: augustastriders.com LOCATION: Downtown Augusta DATE & TIME: October 29 DESCRIPTION: A 10K run through the streets of downtown that also includes a 5K and shorter races for kids.

Trunk or Treat

WEBSITE: thefamilyy.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 922-9622 COST: Free LOCATION: Wilson Family Y parking lot DATE & TIME: October 29, 10 a.m.-noon DESCRIPTION: A safe way for kids to trick or treat.

Trick or Treat on Newberry Street

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 642-7649 COST: Free LOCATION: Newberry Street DATE & TIME: October 29, 5:30-7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: There will be lots of treats for kids 12 and under in costumes. Games, candy, costume contests and more.

“The Emperor’s New Clothes: A Musical”

WEBSITE: storylandtheatre.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 736-3455 COST: $5 LOCATION: The Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 30, 3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Saturday matinee is open to the general public. School shows, but pre-reservation only, are Tuesday-Friday, October 26-29. For the Saturday matinee, doors open at 2:15 p.m. and seating is on a first come first served basis. The audience is invited to stay after the performance and meet the cast.

Steed’s Dairy

Kackleberry Farm

Graystone Ranch Wildlife Education Center

November Columbia County Fair

WEBSITE: columbiacountyfair.net LOCATION: Fairgrounds in Grovetown DATE & TIME: November 3-12 DESCRIPTION: Includes rides, games, exhibits, entertainment, food and more.

LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: November 5, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Eat a variety of apple desserts from the apple bake shop, games for kids, trash n’ treasure, variety of booths and silent auction. Enjoy breakfast and lunch in the apple seed café’, fresh apples for sale.

St. John’s Apple Fest

Just Desserts Concert

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-6891 COST: Free

34 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

WEBSITE: augustachildrenschorale.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4718 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center V. 22 | NO. 54

DATE & TIME: November 10, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A performance of the Augusta Children’s Chorale is followed by a dessert reception.

Fall Pottery Sale

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4888 LOCATION: JSAC Breezeway, ASU Campus DATE & TIME: November 16-18, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Holiday Gingerbread Village

WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8485 COST: Adults $4, Seniors $3, Children $2 (6-18), Children FREE (5&under) LOCATION: Augusta Museum of History DATE & TIME: November 16, noon-November 28, noon DESCRIPTION: View the delightful, delicious gingerbread creations.

“Eli’s Bethlehem Inn”

WEBSITE: enopion.com LOCATION: Kroc Center DATE & TIME: November 17-December 3 DESCRIPTION: An original dinner theater production

Greater Augusta Youth Orchestra

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 731-7971 COST: Free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 21, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A presentation of the ASU Conservatory Program.

December Barnwell Tree Lighting and Christmas by Candlelight

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com, cityofbanwell.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 541-6555 COST: Free LOCATION: The Circle in Downtown Barnwell DATE & TIME: December 1, 5:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Annual tree lighting in downtown Barnwell.

Bamberg County Holiday Choral Concert

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com, bambergcountychamber.org PHONE NUMBER: (803) 245-4427 COST: Free LOCATION: The Dane Theater DATE & TIME: December 1, at 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A holiday choral concert will be performed at the Dane Theater.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 642-7631 COST: Free LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: December 2 DESCRIPTION: A tradition for many years, Mayor Cavanaugh lights the city Christmas tree.

4th Annual Light Up Spectacular Boat Parade

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8000 LOCATION: Jessye Norman Amphitheater DATE & TIME: December 2, 6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Bundle up and witness a spectacular display of creativity to kick off the Christmas season in Augusta.

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 35

“The Nutcracker”

WEBSITE: columbiacountyballet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 860-1852 LOCATION: The Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: December 2, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A holiday tradition.

Festival off Main

WEBSITE: exploremcduffiecounty.com, festivaloffmain.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 597-1000 COST: Free LOCATION: 111 Railroad Street DATE & TIME: December 3 DESCRIPTION: 5K Depot Dash, arts & crafts fair, children’s activities, musical entertainment, and tour of homes.

A Holly Day

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 649-2221 COST: Free LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: December 3 DESCRIPTION: Participating shops will offer a variety of treats to put you in the holiday spirit.

Tea and Tutus

WEBSITE: columbiacountyballet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 860-1852 LOCATION: Center for Oral and Maxiliofacial Surgery DATE & TIME: December 3, 11 a.m. DESCRIPTION: A chance to have snacks with the members of the cast of the Columbia County Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.”

5th Annual Christmas Light Up Spectacular

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8000 COST: Free LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: December 3, noon-6:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Augusta’s mayor will light the Christmas tree and holiday decorations downtown. The event will also have activities, vendors, and live entertainment.

Barnwell Christmas Parade

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 541-6555 COST: Free LOCATION: Barnwell Downtown Circle DATE & TIME: December 3, 4-6 p.m.

Photos with Santa

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 821-1812 LOCATION: The Old Government House DATE & TIME: December 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Have photos made with Santa or family holiday portraits, reasonable packages available to fit any budget.

Bamberg County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 245-4427 COST: Free LOCATION: Bamberg County Courthouse DATE & TIME: December 4

Night of 1,000 Lights 36 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 649-2221 COST: Free LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: December 8 DESCRIPTION: Sponsoring businesses will stay open late. Luminaries will line the streets of Downtown Aiken. Food, festivities and even Santa will be in town. Come

and shop and enjoy a fun holiday evening in downtown Aiken.

Anyone Can Dance Camp

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 261-0555 LOCATION: Jessye Norman School of the Arts DATE & TIME: December 19-21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Augusta Ballet presents this fun interactive dancing meets cooking camp where kids learn the fine arts of each.

GETAWAYFROMITALL

AMYCHRISTIAN

Three short, fun and colorful family trips Leaves changing colors. There’s

backyard). So there’s really no

a simple scientific explanation for

excuse for not taking advantage of

the phenomenon, but no amount

this downtime to take a memorable

of talk on the subject of chlorophyll

family trip.

can do justice to the beauty that

You’d like to, you say, but you really

the process actually produces.

don’t know where to go. Well, here

And the fact that it occurs during

are our top three picks. All are less

October is icing on the cake. Think

than half a day’s drive away, all

about it: the last day of October

offer stunning scenery and, most

signals the onset of the holiday

importantly, all offer a chance to

season but, up until that point,

get away — even if it’s only for a

there’s a lull into which a short

few days.

family trip would fit perfectly.

So, in the words of a certain

The weather’s nice, the crowds are

television commercial, get out

sparse and the views spectacular

there.

(and practically in your own

Georgia Home base: The city of Blue Ridge. Why? Because it seems to be a good midway point for many interesting sights in North Georgia. It also has an abundance of hotels, and cabin rentals are also available. Route: Take I-20 to I-75 North in Atlanta. From 75, take I-575 and stay on it, even after it changes to I-515, which will take you into Blue Ridge. Travel time: At a little over 200 miles, it should take you about five hours. What you’ll see: It seems like you’ll see a little bit of everything if you stay on I-515. Take the road east from Blue Ridge to Hiawassee and you’ll eventually end up at Brasstown Bald, Tallulah Gorge State Park and Alpine Helen. Go west and you’ll end up in Dahlonega, but not before you pass Amicalola Falls (the entrance to the Appalachian Trail) and Burt’s Pumpkin Farm, and drive through apple country. For more information: helenga.org, visitblueridge.com, georgiatrails.com/places/amicalola.html.

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 37

South Carolina Home base: The city of Greenville, SC. Why? Lodging is plentiful. Don’t spend too much time in the city, though, or you’ll miss out on the great outdoors. Route: Take US 25 N to I-185 N to US 29 to SC 124. Travel time: At 120 miles, it should only take about three hours in the car. What you’ll see: When most people think of South Carolina, they think of coastal cities like Myrtle Beach, Beaufort and Charleston. But if you keep to the east side of the state, you’re missing out. Right above Greenville is the small town of Cleveland, which is a great place to set up camp for outdoor adventures that could keep you captivated for a week. There are six (that’s right, six) state parks in the vicinity of Cleveland, as well as Sassfras Mountain and whitewater rafting on the Chattooga (you don’t have to mention the movie “Deliverance” which was filmed there). And Route 11, or the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway runs right through. For more information: greenvillecvb.com, theupcountry.com, southcarolinaparks.com.

North Carolina Home base: The city of Blowing Rock. Why? Sure, you don’t have to go all the way up to Blowing Rock to find good accomodations, but if you want a quaint little mountain town that has everything from B&Bs to great shopping and restaurants, this is your place. It’s near Grandfather Mountain, a must-see, and just looks like a fun place to unwind after a day of exploring the countryside. Route: It’s complicated, but let’s just say I-20 E to I-77 N to I-85 S to US 321. Travel time: At nearly 250 miles, it should take between five and six hours. What you’ll see: The Blue Ridge Parkway in all its glory. The parkway, which is a national park, is 469 miles long, 252 of which are in North Carolina. The two-lane road has a speed limit of 45 mph, but there’s no need for speed here — you’ll miss the great scenery, along with all the stops along the way. After you’ve spent a while on the parkway, visit the quaint little towns that dot the road, like Linville Falls and Little Switzerland. Or plan an outing to Grandfather Mountain, between Linville and Blowing Rock, to traverse the mile-high swinging bridge. Other natural wonders include Mt. Mitchell and Mt. Pisgah, near where the parkway ends in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Or simply stay in Blowing Rock where, throughout the month of October, there are fairs and festivals galore. For more information: blowingrock.com, grandfather.com, nps.gov/blri

Field Trip An autumn road trip doesn’t have to be a completely frivolous affair; it’s also a chance for a hands-on science lesson that will answer your kids’ questions about why leaves change color in the fall. What’s that? You say you don’t exactly remember why leaves change color? Here’s a short explanation, as well as a couple of links to help bring back memories of fifth-grade science class. Leaves are a tree’s food factories — most of the nutrients a tree needs are manufactured in the leaves’ cells that contain chlorophyll, which also give them their green color. (Other colors, like orange and yellow, are 38 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

present in leaves all year long, but the high amount of chlorophyll masks their presence.) In the fall, because of the changes in temperature and length of daylight, leaves stop producing food and, because of this, their chlorophyll begins to break down. This allows the yellow and orange pigments to become visible. Other chemical changes may also occur and result in reds and purples as well. Leaf color is dependent on tree type. For more information, visit sciencemadesimple.com/leaves.html.

V. 22 | NO. 54

How popular is our Friday night Prime Rib and Seafood Buffet? Our Menu Highlights include:

Hand Carved Prime Rib Sweet and delectable Snow Crab Legs Delicious Fried Jumbo Shrimp Oyster on the Half Shell Seafood Pasta Station (Design your own!) Ahi Tuna with Wasabi and Pickled Ginger Full Dessert Bar Plus live music! This Friday Night Jazz CollectiveÂ Saturday night Michael Peele and Old Skool

We do it all again every Saturday night. 2651 Perimeter Parkway | Augusta | 706.855.8100

augusta christian

socially

Building Kingdom Leaders academically

physically spiritually

Augusta Christian Schools is an approved provider of the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship!

K3 thru 12

313 Baston Road Martinez, GA 30907 Call 706-863-2905 Ext 131 for eligibility requirements (706) 863-2905, ext. 100/113 Deadline to qualify is September 16, 2011. www.augustachristian.org Member School V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 39

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 736-3455 COST: $5 LOCATION: The Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: October 30, 3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Saturday matinee is open to the general public. School shows, but pre-reservation only, are Tuesday-Friday, October 26-29. For the Saturday matinee, doors open at 2:15 p.m. and seating is on a first come first served basis. The audience is invited to stay after the performance and meet the cast.

Steed’s Dairy

Kackleberry Farm

Graystone Ranch Wildlife Education Center

November “Mamma Mia!”

WEBSITE: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com, broadwayinaugustaga.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3521, (888) 706-BWAY LOCATION: The Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: November 1 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The ultimate feel-good show that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill. Part of the Broadway in Augusta series.

Columbia County Fair

WEBSITE: columbiacountyfair.net LOCATION: Fairgrounds in Grovetown DATE & TIME: November 3-12 DESCRIPTION: Includes rides, games, exhibits, entertainment, food and more.

Oysters on Telfair

WEBSITE: ghia.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-5495 LOCATION: Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art DATE & TIME: November 3, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Casual fundraising event which features an evening of raw and steamed oysters, a down on the bayou feast, soulful music and a silent auction of “small works” by local artists.

“The Women of Troy” by Euripedes

WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 COST: Public, $10, Seniors (60+) $7, Children $5 LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 3-5, 7:30 p.m. and November 6, 3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Euripides explores the devastating features of the post-war landscape in The Women of Troy. His strong pacifist and feminist opinions are accentuated repeatedly throughout his play through the environment of extreme cruelty and torment after war; an environment without a glimmer of hope, especially for women.

Gallery on the Row Holiday Open House

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 863-7929 LOCATION: 1016 Broad Street DATE & TIME: November 4, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

V. 22 | NO. 54

St. John’s Apple Fest

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 648-6891 COST: Free LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: November 5, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Eat a variety of apple desserts from the apple bake shop, games for kids, trash n’ treasure, variety of booths and silent auction. Enjoy breakfast and lunch in the apple seed café’, fresh apples for sale.

Brash and Flash

WEBSITE: augustachoralsociety.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4700 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: November 5, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Augusta Choral Society Concert

Tuesday’s Music Live

WEBSITE: tuesdaysmusiclive.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 COST: Free for the concert; $10 per person for pre-reserved lunch LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: November 8, Noon DESCRIPTION: Featuring the Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School Chorale Mike C. Berry & David Swanagin Exhibit PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4700 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: November 10-December 30 Just Desserts Concert WEBSITE: augustachildrenschorale.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4718 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: November 10, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A performance of the Augusta Children’s Chorale is followed by a dessert reception. ASU Jazz Ensemble WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 41

COST: Public $5, Students free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 10, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: ASU jazz ensemble performs.

COST: Adults $4, Seniors $3, Children $2 (6-18), Children FREE (5&under) LOCATION: Augusta Museum of History DATE & TIME: November 16, noon-November 28, noon DESCRIPTION: View the delightful, delicious gingerbread creations.

“Christmas Belles” WEBSITE: fortgordon.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 793-8552 COST: $25-$40 LOCATION: Fort Gordon Dinner Theatr DATE & TIME: November, 11-12, 18-19, December 2-3. Dinner, 7 p.m.; show, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: In this production, a church Christmas pageant spins out of control as three squabbling sisters try to control it.

Gift Shop Holiday Open House WEBSITE: sacredheartaugusta.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4700 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: November 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Book signings, cooking demonstrations and holiday bake sale items will be included.

SOA Symphony Series Performance WEBSITE: soaugusta.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4705 LOCATION: First Baptist Church of Augusta DATE & TIME: November 12, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: West Side Stories. Songs of life weaving stories and connecting us through the languages of love between lovers, father and child, and brother and sister. Rickey Smiley & Friends WEBSITE: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3521 COST: $57-$37 LOCATION: The Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: November 12 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Augusta’s number 1 morning show host, Rickey Smiley, is back and funnier than ever, also with him, he has crazy friends Special K and Big Shawn. He will also be looking for three of Augusta’s best singers, comedians, and rappers to join his show. Roberto Plano WEBSITE: Hjcms.org, Robertoplano.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 790-9274 COST: $25 for adults $7 for kids LOCATION: at the ASU Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 13, 3 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This concert, presented by the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society, is for the benefit of Harry Jacob’s widow. Three Kosher Singers WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: November 13, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Join Irvin Bell, David Sirull and Bertram Kieffer for a evening with unbelievable talent. ASU Choirs WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 COST: Public $5, Students free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 15, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Augusta State University Department of Music presents ASU Choirs. Fall Pottery Sale WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4888 LOCATION: JSAC Breezeway, ASU Campus DATE & TIME: November 16-18, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Holiday Gingerbread Village WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8485

42 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Opening Reception Art Exhibit PHONE NUMBER: (803) 641-9094 LOCATION: Aiken Center for the Arts DATE & TIME: November 17 DESCRIPTION: Artwork by artists Elizabeth Moretz-Britt, Bea Kuhlke, Mike Carr Hartley and the holiday exhibition Tis the Season. “Eli’s Bethlehem Inn” WEBSITE: enopion.com LOCATION: Kroc Center DATE & TIME: November 17-December 3 DESCRIPTION: An original dinner theater production ASU Orchestra WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 COST: Public $5, Students free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 17, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The Augusta State University Department of Music presents ASU Orchestra. William Willis Exhibit WEBSITE: ghia.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-5495 LOCATION: Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art DATE & TIME: November 18, 6-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Works by the new Morris Eminent Scholar in Art at ASU. Forbidden Broadway 30th Anniversary Tour WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 667-4100 COST: Public $15, Children (up to 17) $5, Students free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 18, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: The ASU Lyceum series presents Forbidden Broadway 30th Anniversary Tour. A funny Broadway play. Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, Nu-Blue WEBSITE: imperialtheatre.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8341 COST: ? LOCATION: Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: November 18, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Part of the Morris Museum of Art’s Southern Soul & Song series. Gasping Gobbler 5K and TK WEBSITE: thefamilyy.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 349-8080 LOCATION: Trolley Run Station, Aiken DATE & TIME: November 19 Conservatory Jazz Band WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 731-7971 COST: Free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater V. 22 | NO. 54

DATE & TIME: November 19, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: This is a jazz band from high school and some middle school instrumentalists. Sand Hills String Band WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 731-7971 COST: Free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 20, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An ensemble, which promotes string instrument performances with quarterly concerts of bluegrass, country, old-time, Celtic, gospel, and blues numbers. James Brown Turkey Giveaway WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 724-0505 LOCATION: Dyness Park DATE & TIME: November 21, at 10 a.m. Greater Augusta Youth Orchestra WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 731-7971 COST: Free LOCATION: Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 21, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A presentation of the ASU Conservatory Program. Tuesday’s Music Live WEBSITE: tuesdaysmusiclive.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 COST: Free for the concert; $10 per person for pre-reserved lunch LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: November 22, Noon DESCRIPTION: Featuring the Columbia Baroque Soloists The ASU Wind Ensemble WEBSITE: aug.edu PHONE NUMBER: (706) 731-7971 COST: Public $5, Students free LOCATION: The Maxwell Performing Arts Theater DATE & TIME: November 22, at 7:30 p.m.

V. 22 | NO. 54

Photos with Santa WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 821-1812 LOCATION: The Old Government House DATE & TIME: November 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Have photos made with Santa or family holiday portraits, reasonable packages available to fit any budget. Steed’s Dairy WEBSITE: steedsdairy.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 855-2948 COST: $9-$12 LOCATION: 4634 Wrightsboro Road, Grovetown DATE & TIME: September 16-November 13. Fridays, 5-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.10 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Education fun includes a five-acre corn maize, a jumping pillow, hay rides, a petting zoo, a cow-milking demonstration, a pumpkin patch, a giant tube slide, a corn kernel pit, concessions and more. Kackleberry Farm WEBSITE: kackleberryfarm.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 830-4968 COST: $8-$11 LOCATION: 1025 Verdree Road, Louisville DATE & TIME: September 24-November 13. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. DESCRIPTION: An area for small children, as well as a hay jump, jumping pillows, tire mountains, zip lines, the Kackleberry Speedway and more. Graystone Ranch Wildlife Education Center WEBSITE: graystoneranch.com COST: $10 (good for entire weekend) LOCATION: 1017 McManus Road, Hephzibah DATE & TIME: Through November 30. Friday, 7:30 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, noon-midnight. From September 23-November 6, the Haunted Forest stays open from dark to 10:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A wild animal rescue facility that also has 500 acres of hiking trails, 50 acres of lakes, camping, fishing, petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, hay rides, boat rides and more.

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 43

December Barnwell Tree Lighting and Christmas by Candlelight

LOCATION: 1006 Broad Street DATE & TIME: December 2, 5-9 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Original paintings by Lou Ann Zimmerman.

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com, cityofbanwell.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 541-6555 LOCATION: The Circle in Downtown Barnwell DATE & TIME: December 1, 5:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Annual tree lighting in downtown Barnwell.

4th Annual Light Up Spectacular Boat Parade

Bamberg County Holiday Choral Concert

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Travel Series: Reflections on Scotland Our family serving your family since 1952

1854 Gordon Highway | 706.738.3374

TIRE TOWN

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 774-1006

ffer

44 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

ner

Bob

Wil

liam

Bra

ana

WEBSITE: columbiacountyballet.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 860-1852 LOCATION: The Imperial Theatre DATE & TIME: December 2, 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A holiday tradition.

Festival off Main

WEBSITE: exploremcduffiecounty.com, festivaloffmain.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 597-1000 LOCATION: 111 Railroad Street DATE & TIME: December 3 DESCRIPTION: 5K Depot Dash, arts & crafts fair, children’s activities, musical entertainment, and tour of homes.

WEBSITE: downtownaiken.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 649-2221 LOCATION: Downtown Aiken DATE & TIME: December 3 DESCRIPTION: Participating shops will offer a variety of treats to put you in the holiday spirit.

ke S

s|M

“The Nutcracker”

A Holly Day

new and used We O

ger

ervi

: Ch

ris

ces

Hie

In and out in under 60 minutes

$10 anything off

must present coupon | limit one per customer | expires 9.14.2011

Tea and Tutus

5th Annual Christmas Light Up Spectacular

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8000 LOCATION: Augusta Common DATE & TIME: December 3, noon-6:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Augusta’s mayor will light the Christmas tree and holiday decorations downtown. The event will also have activities, vendors, and live entertainment.

Barnwell Christmas Parade

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 541-6555 LOCATION: Barnwell Downtown Circle DATE & TIME: December 3, 4-6 p.m.

Photos with Santa

WEBSITE: augustaga.gov V. 22 | NO. 54

Jason Aldean September 29 Disney on Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic (tickets on sale Sept 16) November 17-20

Smooth Music Festival starring Boney James with special guest Rachelle Ferrell September 2 The Scream Tour featuring Mindless Behavior and Diggy September 30 Disney Live! presents Three Classic Fairy Tales October 6 Young Frankenstein Season tickets available BroadwayinAugustaGA.com October 17 Mamma Mia! Season tickets available BroadwayinAugustaGA.com November 1 Rickey Smiley November 12 My Fair Lady Season tickets available BroadwayinAugustaGA.com December 6 Riverdance Season tickets available BroadwayinAugustaGA.com February 17

Tickets available at georgialinatix.com, by phone 877-4AUGTIX and at the Champion Box Office at the James Brown Arena

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 45

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 821-1812 LOCATION: The Old Government House DATE & TIME: December 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Have photos made with Santa or family holiday portraits.

Holiday Concert with Lyra Vivace

WEBSITE: augustachildrenschorale.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4718 LOCATION: Holy Trinity Catholic Church DATE & TIME: December 4, 4 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A selection of holiday numbers.

Bamberg County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 245-4427 LOCATION: Bamberg County Courthouse DATE & TIME: December 4

Tuesday’s Music Live

WEBSITE: tuesdaysmusiclive.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3463 COST: Free for the concert; $10 per person for pre-reserved lunch LOCATION: St. Paul’s Church DATE & TIME: December 6, Noon DESCRIPTION: Featuring the UGA Accidentals

“My Fair Lady”

WEBSITE: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com, broadwayinaugustaga.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3521, (888) 706-BWAY LOCATION: The Bell Auditorium DATE & TIME: December 6, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Based on Shaw’s play “Pygmalion” with music and lyrics by Lerner and Loewe.

A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 826-4700 LOCATION: Sacred Heart Cultural Center DATE & TIME: December 6, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Program featuring the Augusta Collegium Musicum, guest choirs and readers are a highlight of the season. Reservations required.

Night of 1,000 Lights

A Service of Lessons and Carols

PHONE NUMBER: (706) 650-2311 LOCATION: First Baptist Church of Evans DATE & TIME: December 9, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Ring in the spirit of the holidays with this elegant evening of song featuring the Columbia County Choral Society.

The Merriment of Minstrel Krampus

WEBSITE: lcnaugusta.com PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-3322 LOCATION: La Chat Noir DATE & TIME: December 9,10,15-17, 8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A collection of holiday shorts

“A Dickens Tale”

WEBSITE: columbiacountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (706) 312-7192 LOCATION: Hardin Performing Arts Center DATE & TIME: December 11, 4 and 7 p.m. DESCRIPTION: A classic Christmas tale by Bright Start Touring Theater

Collegium Musicum

WEBSITE: augustamuseum.org PHONE NUMBER: (706) 722-8454 COST: Free LOCATION: Museum rotunda DATE & TIME: December 12, 7:30 p.m. DESCRIPTION: Annual concert of holiday music from around the world performed by Augusta Collegium Musician.

Anyone Can Dance Camp

New Year’s Trail Ride

WEBSITE: tbredcountry.com, lakeviewplantation.com PHONE NUMBER: (803) 584-0689 LOCATION: Lakeview Plantation in Fairfax, South Carolina DATE & TIME: December 29-31 DESCRIPTION: 140 roomy, campsites with electricity, water, a light and permanent tie lines. Food concession available on site providing traditional breakfasts sandwiches and snacks. Ride at your leisure through a mix of palmetto, pine, cypress and hardwoods on 58 miles of marked trails divided into 10 loops of approximately 6 miles each or explore an additional 20-30 miles of unmarked trails. Enjoy fellowship around the campfires in the evenings and DJ/Karaoke with line dancing on Saturday nights.

46 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

SPORTSGUIDE ATLANTA BRAVES VS = HOME | @ = AWAY

September 1 vs Washington Nationals

7:10 P.M.

September 2 vs LA Dodgers

7:35 P.M.

September 3 vs LA Dodgers

7:10 P.M.

September 4 vs LA Dodgers

1:35 P.M.

September 5 @ Philadelphia Phillies

7:05 P.M.

September 6 @ Philadelphia Phillies

7:05 P.M.

September 7 @ Philadelphia Phillies

7:05 P.M.

September 9 @ St. Louis Cardinals

8:15 P.M.

September 10 @ St. Louis Cardinals

7:15 P.M.

September 11 @ St. Louis Cardinals

2:15 P.M.

September 12 vs Florida Marlins

7:10 P.M.

September 13 vs Florida Marlins

7:10 P.M.

September 14 vs Florida Marlins

12:05 P.M.

September 16 vs NY Mets

7:35 P.M.

September 17 vs NY Mets

7:10 P.M.

September 18 vs NY Mets

1:35 P.M.

September 19 @ Florida Marlins

7:10 P.M.

September 20 @ Florida Marlins

7:10 P.M.

September 21 @ Florida Marlins

7:10 P.M.

September 23 @ Washington Nationals

7:05 P.M.

September 24 @ Washington Nationals

1:05 P.M.

September 25 @ Washington Nationals

1:35 P.M.

September 26 vs Philadelphia Phillies

7:10 P.M.

September 27 vs Philadelphia Phillies

7:10 P.M.

September 28 vs Philadelphia Phillies

7:10 P.M.

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 47

ATLANTA FALCONS VS = HOME | @ = AWAY

September 1 vs Baltimore Ravens

7:30 p.m.

September 11 @ Chicago Bears

1 p.m.

September 18 vs Philadelphia Eagles

8:20 p.m.

September 25 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

4:15 p.m.

October 2 @ Seattle Seahawks

4:05 p.m.

October 9 vs Green Bay Packers

8:20 p.m.

October 16 vs Carolina Panthers

1 p.m.

October 23 @ Detroit Lions

1 p.m.

November 6 @ Indianapolis Colts

1 p.m.

November 13 vs New Orleans Saints

1 p.m.

November 20 vs Tennessee Titans

1 p.m.

November 27 vs Minnesota Vikings

1 p.m.

December 4 @ Houston Texans

1 p.m.

December 11 @ Carolina Panthers

1 p.m.

December 15 vs Jacksonville Jaguars

8:20 p.m.

December 26 @ New Orleans Saints

8:30 p.m.

January 1 vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

1 p.m.

48 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

V. 22 | NO. 54

GREENBAY PACKERS VS = HOME | @ = AWAY

September 1 vs Kansas City Chiefs

7 p.m.

September 8 vs New Orleans Saints

7:30 p.m.

September 18 @ Carolina Panthers

Noon

September 25 @ Chicago Bears

3:15 p.m.

October 2 vs Denver Broncos

3:15 p.m.

October 9 @ Atlanta Falcons

7:20 p.m.

October 16 vs St. Louis Rams

Noon

October 23 @ Minnesota Vikings

3:15 p.m.

November 6 @ San Diego Chargers

3:15 p.m.

November 14 vs Minnesota Vikings

7:30 p.m.

November 20 vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Noon

November 24 @ Detroit Lions

11:30 a.m.

December 4 @ New York Giants

3:15 p.m.

December 11 vs Oakland Raiders

Noon

December 18 @ Kansas City Chiefs

Noon

December 25 vs Chicago Bears

7:20 p.m. Noon

January 1 vs Detroit Lions Metro Spirit Staff Writer Eric Johnson forced us to include the Packers.

NASCAR 2011 Schedule September 4 Atlanta

7:30 p.m.

September 18 Chicago

2 p.m.

September 25 Loudon

2 p.m.

October 2 Dover

2 p.m.

October 9 Kansas

2 p.m.

October 23 Talladega

2 p.m.

October 30 Martinsville

1:30 p.m.

November 6 Texas

3 p.m.

November 13 Phoenix

3 p.m.

November 20 Homestead

3 p.m.

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 49

SEC FOOTBALL SEPTEMBER 1

Mississippi State at Memphis Kentucky at Western Kentucky

SEPTEMBER 3

Utah State at Auburn Kent State at Alabama BYU at Ole Miss Montana at Tennessee East Carolina at South Carolina Missouri State at Arkansas Florida Atlantic at Florida Elon at Vanderbilt Boise State at Georgia Oregon at LSU

SEPTEMBER 10

Central Michigan at Kentucky Mississippi State at Auburn Alabama at Penn State Cincinnati at Tennessee South Carolina at Georgia S. Illinois at Ole Miss New Mexico at Arkansas UAB at Florida Connecticut at Vanderbilt Northwestern State at LSU

SEPTEMBER 15

LSU at Mississippi State

SEPTEMBER 17

Auburn at Clemson Ole Miss at Vanderbilt Coastal Carolina at Georgia Tennessee at Florida US Naval Academy at South Carolina Louisville at Kentucky North Texas at Alabama Troy at Arkansas

SEPTEMBER 24

Arkansas at Alabama Florida at Kentucky Georgia at Ole Miss Vanderbilt at South Carolina Florida Atlantic at Auburn Louisiana Tech at Mississippi State LSU at West Virginia

OCTOBER 1

Buffalo at Tennessee Alabama at Florida Auburn at South Carolina Mississippi State at Georgia Kentucky at LSU Texas A&M at Arkansas Ole Miss at Fresno State

OCTOBER 8

Vanderbilt at Alabama Auburn at Arkansas Florida at LSU Georgia at Tennessee

8 P.M. 9:15 P.M. NOON 12:15 P.M. 4:45 P.M. 6 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7:30 P.M. 8 P.M. 8 P.M. NOON 12:21 P.M. 3:30 P.M. 3:30 P.M. 4:30 P.M. 6 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7:30 P.M. 8 P.M. 8 P.M. NOON 12:21 P.M. 1 P.M. 3:30 P.M. 6 P.M. 7 P.M. 7:30 P.M. 7:30 P.M. TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD 9:15 P.M. TBD TBD TBD TBD

Kentucky at South Carolina Mississippi State at UAB

OCTOBER 15

Alabama at Ole Miss Florida at Auburn Georgia at Vanderbilt LSU at Tennessee South Carolina at Mississippi State

OCTOBER 22

Tennessee at Alabama Arkansas at Ole Miss Auburn at LSU Jacksonville State at Kentucky South Carolina at Mississippi State Army at Vanderbilt

OCTOBER 29

Arkansas at Vanderbilt Ole Miss at Auburn Mississippi State at Kentucky South Carolina at Tennessee Florida at Georgia

NOVEMBER 5

LSU at Alabama South Carolina at Arkansas Vanderbilt at Florida Ole Miss at Kentucky New Mexico State at Georgia UT Martin at Mississippi State Middle Tennessee at Tennessee

NOVEMBER 12

Alabama at Mississippi State Tennessee at Arkansas Auburn at Georgia Florida at South Carolina Kentucky at Vanderbilt Western Kentucky at LSU Louisiana Tech at Ole Miss

NOVEMBER 19

Mississippi State at Arkansas Kentucky at Georgia LSU at Ole Miss Vanderbilt at Tennessee Georgia Southern at Alabama Samford at Auburn Furman at Florida Citadel at South Carolina

NOVEMBER 25 Arkansas at LSU

NOVEMBER 26

Alabama at Auburn Tennessee at Kentucky Ole Miss at Mississippi State Florida State at Florida Georgia at Georgia Tech Clemson at South Carolina Vanderbilt at Wake Forest

TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD 3:30 P.M. TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD NOON 2:30 P.M. TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD

Family Recess at the Augusta Mall is Saturday, September 3 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. An interactive back-toschool program, this event will feature family-friendly activities including a Just Dance 2 gaming station, Sierra Mist Natural Putting Challenge, DIY station to customize apparel/hats, prizes, music, freeze modeling, special mall giveaways and offers and more. Contact Kate Newman at 312-960-5490 for more information. PaulF.MilnerSickleCellSupport Group & Advocacy Walkathon is Saturday, September 3, at 7:30 p.m. at Riverwalk Augusta’s Ninth Street Plaza. Walk will help raise awareness of the disease and dispel myths and fallacies about those with the disease. $10 registration. Call Cecil F. Gresham Jr. at 706-798-2526. 2011 CSRA Community Expo is Thursday, September 8, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Gordon Conference and Catering Center. The CSRA Alliance for Fort Gordon, Augusta Metro and Columbia County Chambers of Commerce, and Fort Gordon Morale, Welfare & Recreation Directorate are cosponsoring the 2011 CSRA Community Expo to welcome new arrivals to the area. Contact Thom Tuckey at ttuckey@ augustagausa.com. CSRA College Night is Thursday, September 8, from 5-8:30 p.m. at the James Brown Arena. High school students will have an opportunity to meet recruiters from more than 140 colleges and universities and win scholarships totaling approximately $17,000. Free. Call 706-722-3521 or visit augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. WeeklyWineTastingsatVineyard Wine Market in Evans are each Friday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and each Saturday from 1-6 p.m. Call 706-922-9463 or visit vine11.com. Saturday Market at the River, located at 8th Street Plaza, downtown Augusta, is each Saturday through October 29, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit theaugustamarket.com.

Health

Cribs for Kids, a program to teach caregivers how to provide safe sleep environment for babies, is Thursday, September 1, from 5:45-8 p.m. Those who can demonstrate a financial need will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for $10. Preregistration required. Call 706-721-7606 V. 22 | NO. 54

or visit mcghealth.org. Center for Women Tour is Thursday, September 1, from 7-8 p.m., in Suite 310 of Medical Office Building 1, 3623 J. Dewey Gray Circle on the Doctors Hospital campus. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Free Child Safety Seat Inspections, providing information of how to use a car seat properly, are at MCGHealth on Friday, September 2. Pre-registration required. Contact Rene Hopkins, MCGHealth, at 706-721-7606 or visit mcghealth.org.

Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatics Class, sponsored by the CSRA Parkinson Support Group and The Family Y, is a group class designed specifically for ambulatory participants affected by Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease. Held each Friday at noon at the Wilson Family Y indoor pool. Call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9664 or visit thefamilyy.org. Joint Efforts, an informational class about knee and hip pain causes and treatments sponsored by Trinity Hospital of Augusta, meets every Thursday at 11 a.m. at Augusta

WeekendChildbirthPreparation Class, a complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules is Friday, September 2, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 3, from 9 a.m.5:30 p.m. Call 706- 774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

– c a r e e r

Mended Hearts, a volunteer organization comprised of people with heart diseases, meets at the USC-Aiken Business Center Friday, September 2, from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Call 803-6497615 or visit aikenregional.com. Parents Healing Together, for parents, families and friends that have lost infants, meets Monday, September 5, at 7 p.m. in the University Hospital Dining Room 2. Call 706-774-2751 or

e d u c a t i o n –

THEIR BEST. Change your future and your life with a rewarding career. Miller-Motte offers career training programs in:

Cosmetology or Massage Therapy

Weight Loss Seminar, hosted by Georgia Health Sciences University’s Weight Loss Center, is Thursday, September 8, at 7 p.m. at the Columbia County Library in Evans. Free, but preregistration required. Call 706-721-2609 or visit mcghealth.org/weightloss.

Volunteers needed at Georgia Health Sciences University and Health System in both the adult program, open to those 18 and older, and the afterschool program, open to high school juniors and seniors at least 17 years of age. To request a volunteer application, call 706-721-3596 or visit georgiahealth.org/ volunteer.

Support

look & feel

Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding is Saturday, September 3, from 9 a.m.-noon at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. This class offers parents an opportunity to gain confidence in the care of newborns. Call 706-481-7604 or visit trinityofaugusta.com.

Car Seat Class will be held Thursday, September 8, from 5:45-8 p.m. in MCGHealth Building 1010C. $10. By appointment only. Contact Renee Hopkins at 706-721-7606 or visit mcghealth.org.

Orthopaedic Clinic. Call 706-481-7604 or visit trinityofaugusta.com.

HELP OTHERS

Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth Preparation is Saturday, September 3, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Participants will learn Lamaze coping techniques such as message, relaxation and patterned breathing. A tour of Trinity Hospital’s Family-Focused Childbirth unit is included in the class. Call 706481-7604 or visit trinityofaugusta.com.

Classes are forming. Call toll-free today!

(866) 425-0032 www.Miller-Motte.edu

purchase of a featured wine. Call 803-2799522 or visit wineworldsc.com.

Changing Futures. Changing Lives.® For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed these programs, and other important information, please visit our website at: disclosure.miller-motte.edu

621 nw frontage road, augusta, ga 30907 FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE TO THOSE WHO QUALIFY. AUTHORIZED BY THE NONPUBLIC POSTSECONDARY EDUCATIONAL ACT OF 1990.

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 51

visit universityhealth.org. A-Team Autism Spectrum Disorder Support, education and support for families of children with autism, meets Tuesday, September 6, from 6-7 p.m. in MCGHealth’s Children’s Medical Center. Call 706-721-5160 or visit mcghealth.org.

Group meets each Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in Suite 110 of Medical Office Building 2, 3624 J. Dewey Gray Circle, on the Doctors Hospital campus. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

Education

TheLunchBunch,abereavement grief support group for adults, meets Wednesday, September 7, from noon-1 p.m. Visit aikenregional.com.

Introduction to Computers, a two-part class, will be Tuesday and Thursday, September 6 and 8, at 10 a.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. Preregistration required. Call 706-722-6275 or visit ecgrl.org.

ALS Support Lunch and Learn is Thursday, September 8, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in MCGHealth Medical Office Building’s fourth floor, room 4306. Lunch is provided. Pre-registration required. Call 706-721-2681 or visit mcghealth.org.

Computer Classes for Seniors is Wednesday, September 7, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Headquarters Branch Library. Class will focus on mouse and keyboarding skills. Pre-registration required. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org.

Breast Cancer Support Group meets Thursday, September 8, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in MCGHealth’s Cancer Center’s first floor community room. Call 706-721-4109 or visit mcghealth.org.

A Post-9/11 World: Enduring Triumph and Tragedy is a panel discussion that takes place Thursday, September 8, at 7 p.m. at ASU’s student center ballroom. Moderated by Laurie Ott, panelists include religious and political leaders from the community, as well as members of the media and ASU’s political science department. The event is sponsored by ASU’s Political Science Cub and the Progressive Religious Coalition. Visit aug.edu.

Burn Support Group meets every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lori Rogers Nursing Library, on the second floor of the JMS Building on the Doctors Hospital campus. All burn survivors and their families and friends are invited to attend. Call Tom Dorn at 706-651-6660 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy Support Group is ongoing. For information and support following a pregnancy loss, call Sue Ellen Abney at 706-721-8299 or visit mcghealth.org. Moms Connection meets every Tuesday from 1-2 p.m. at 1225 Walton Way (the old Fairway Ford dealership), room 1010C. Preregistration required. Call 706-7219351 or visit mcghealth.org. Weight Loss Surgery Support

Preserving History: Behind the Scenes at the Augusta Museum of History, a tour of the collection preparation area and the processing laboratory with Registrar Amanda Klaus, is each Saturday in September at either 1 or 2 p.m. at the Augusta Museum of History. The one-hour tour is limited to 15 people on a first-come first-served basis and is free with museum admission. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org. GED Classes are held every Monday and Tuesday night at 6 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library.

New Career? Medical Coding Information Night

Monday, September 12th 6-8 PM University Hall 170 Augusta State University Campus

Classes begin September 27th! Open to the public. Overview of program offered through ASU Continuing Education. Call 706-737-1636 or go to www.ced.aug.edu for directions and details.

52 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

No pre-registration is required, but participants must have a valid PINES library card. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org. ESL Classes are held every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Preregistration required. Call 803-279-3363 or visit ecgrl.org. Saturday Historic Trolley Tour, every Saturday, begins at the Museum of History and tours historic downtown Augusta from 1-3:15 p.m. Reservations required. All seats are $12. 706-724-4067.

Benefits

A Benefit for Milo is Thursday, September 8, at Sky City and will include music and an auction to raise money for Rich and Julie Menger, whose new baby boy was born with a heart defect that will require several surgeries. For more information, email Veronica at vjbrownlee@gmail.com or visit skycityaugusta.com. Community Enabling Grant Applications are now available at the Junior League of Augusta’s website. Grants are available to nonprofits in the area who apply by 5 p.m. on the September 2 deadline. Visit jlaugusta.org. Karma Yoga is offered at Just Breathe Studio, downtown Aiken, each Friday at 10 a.m. and is free if participants bring a donation of a personal item which will be given to the Cumbee Center to Assist Abused Persons. Call 803-648-8048 or visit justbreathestudio.com.

Sports-Outdoors

The Augusta GreenJackets play the Kannapolis Rome Braves Thursday-Saturday, September 1-3, at 7:05 p.m.; Sunday, September 4, at 5:35 p.m.; and Monday, September 5, at 2:35 p.m. at Lake Olmstead Stadium. $1-$13. Call 706-922-WINS or visit greenjacketsbaseball.com. Coastal Plain Meander River Trip, sponsored by Savannah Riverkeeper, is Saturday, September 3, beginning at 7:30 a.m. and is a two-day, one-night trip to Savannah. $500-$625. Call 706-826-8991, e-mail info@savannahriverkeeper.org or visit savannahriverkeeper.org/cpm.shtml. Fight for Freedom Boot Camp is going on September 3-October 1 at Greubel’s MMA. Sponsored by FAST (Freedom Fighting Athletes Against Slave

Trafficking), this program includes kickboxing, jiu jitsu, circuit training, yoga and weekend boot camp classes for participants who will pay $150, 100 percent of the proceeds of which will go to a charity to help combat Southeast Asia’s sex trafficking industry. Call Leesa Gray at 706-2844831, email indigohands@gmail.com or visit greubelsmma.com. Lakeside Rideouts at Hilltop Riding Stables at Fort Gordon are each Sunday beginning at 1:30 p.m. on a first-come first-served basis. The ride, which begins at two, is a twohour guided ride to Wilkerson Lake. $45-$50. Call 706-791-4864 or visit fortgordon.com. Guided Trail Rides at Hilltop Riding Stables at Fort Gordon are available Saturdays at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.; Sundays at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and noon; and Wednesday-Friday at 11 a.m. with reservations 24 hours in advance. All trail rides are on a first come, first served basis, and participants should arrive 30 minutes prior to the trail ride starting for sign in procedures. $23-$30. Call 706-7914864 or visit fortgordon.com. Augusta Rugby Football Club meets every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Larry Bray Memorial Pitch, 100 Wood Street. New players are welcome. Email arj6402@yahoo.com. Group Run begins each Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at Nacho Mama’s. Three- and four-mile routes are available for all ages and abilities of runners. Call 706-414-4059 or email jim@ enduranceconcepts.com. Hockey Skills & Drills is every Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Augusta Ice Sports Center. $10-$15. Call 706-863-0061 or visit augustaicesports.com. Thursday Night Chain Reaction Ride begins at 6 p.m. each Thursday at Patriots Park in Grovetown. For intermediate to fast-paced cyclists, who average 25-32 miles. Participants should bring their own water and helmet. Call 706-855-2024 or visit chainreactionbicycles.net. Riverview Disc Golf League meets each Thursday at 6 p.m. at Riverview Park in North Augusta. $5 entry fee and $1 ace pool. Call 803-2158181 or visit augustadiscgolf.com. Road Bike Ride meets each Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Andy Jordan’s Bicycle Warehouse downtown for an V. 22 | NO. 54

approximately 25-mile ride at a moderate to fast pace. Front and rear lights, as well as a helmet, are required. Call 706-7246777 or visit andyjordans.com. Wheelchair Tennis Clinic, presented by the Walton Foundation for Independence, meets each Monday at 6 p.m. (weather permitting) at The Club at Rae’s Creek. Free and open to the public. Call 706-826-5809 or email alsalley@wrh.org.

Bee a Reader is Wednesday, September 7, at 1 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Participants will celebrate National Honey Month with special honey treats and talk about the books children are reading. Preregistration required. Call 706-447-7657 or visit ecgrl.org.

Augusta Canal Boat Tours lasting one hour are offered daily at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday Sunset Cruises, lasting three hours, are at 5 p.m. All tours include admission to the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center. Call 706-823-0440 or visit augustacanal.com.

Kids

ToddlerTime:BirdsEverywhere! is Thursday, September 1, from 10-11 a.m., or 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at the Morris Museum of Art. Participants will view works from the exhibition Naturalists in the South: Abbot, Audubon, Catesby and Wilson, and learn how artists and scientists observe the world. Afterwards, they’ll create a colored pencil and watercolor bird drawing. Museum family members and parents, free; non-members, $4 per participant. Registration required. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org. Attack of the Alien Plants! is Saturday, September 3, from 10-11 a.m. Participants will look at plants who are invaders and those that are native to our area. For ages 5 and up. Members: free; non-members: $2 per child. Preregistration required. Call 706-210-4027 or visit reedcreekpark.com.

DECLASSIFIED

Biscuit Visits Storytime is Saturday September 3, at 11 a.m. at Barnes and Noble in the Augusta Mall. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

The Little Red Hen is a program on Tuesday, September 6, at 10 a.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Children will have a chance to learn about how bread gets to the table. Preregistration required. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org.

Clarks Hill Beekeepers Program is Thursday, September 8, at 4 p.m. at the Columbia County Library in which participants ages 6-11 will learn about beekeeping with the Clarks Hill Beekeepers. Call 706-447-7657 or visit ecgrl.org. Self-Defense Class is Thursday, September 8, at 5 p.m. at the Harlem Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-556-9795 or visit ecgrl.org. “Mission to Mars” shows Saturdays in September at USC-Aiken’s DuPont Planetarium at 7 and 8 p.m. Tickets are $4.50 for adults, $3.50 for seniors, $2.50 for 4K-12th grade students, and $1 for USC-A students, faculty and staff. Reservations are not required. Call 803-641-3654 or visit usca. edu/rpsec/planetarium. Registration for Couch to 5K continues throughout the month of September at the Wilson Family Y. This program is designed for beginner and intermediate runners and walkers to prepare for the Y’s Gasping Gobbler 5K on November 19. A six-week session is offered October 11-November 17 at 10 a.m. or 7 p.m. Participants will be guided through a workout twice a week and one on their own. Cost is $15 per session for Family Y members and $25 per session

V. 22 | NO. 54

AdaptedWiiSpecialPopulations, throughout the month of September, is at the Wilson Family Y. Individual ½-hour classes (one-to-one ratio) for all physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Specially trained staff uses the Wii interactive computer games to improve participants’ independence and quality of life. $10 for members; $20 for non-members. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs. By appointment only. Call Claudia Collins at 706-9229662 or visit thefamilyy.org. The Augusta Arsenal Soccer Club Junior Academy, for boys and girls ages 5-8, meets each Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Augusta Soccer Park. Call 706-854-0149 or visit augustasoccer.com. Toddler Time, free play for children ages 5 and under, is each Monday and Wednesday from 9:3011:30 a.m. at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Ceramics Class, for ages 14 and up, meets Mondays at 9 a.m. or 6 p.m., Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. in the Weeks Ceramics Center. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Wacky Wednesday Story Time is each Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the children’s department of Barnes and Noble in the Augusta Mall. Call 706-7370012 or visit bn.com. Homeschool Playgroup meets each Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Creighton Park in North Augusta. Call 803-613-0484.

Seniors

Games for Seniors at the Weeks Center in Aiken include Rummikub each Thursday from 9 a.m.-

noon, Mahjong each Thursday from 1-4 p.m., Bridge each Friday from 11:30 a.m.3 p.m., Bingo each Tuesday at 9 a.m., Pinochle each Tuesday from 10:30 a.m.2:30 p.m.; and Canasta on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Line Dancing is each Tuesday at the Weeks Center in Aiken at 10 a.m. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Silversneakers I is offered Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 11:15 a.m., while Silversneakers Yogastretch is offered Mondays and Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m. at the Weeks Center in Aiken. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Ceramics Class is offered at 9 a.m. on Mondays or Wednesdays and 6 p.m. on Mondays or Tuesdays at the Weeks Center. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Fit 4 Ever is offered at the Weeks Center in Aiken on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10-11 a.m. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Yoga I and II is offered at the Weeks Center in Aiken on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8:45-9:45 a.m. and on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov.

Hobbies

The Garden City Chorus, the area’s leading men’s singing group and a member of the Barbershop Harmony Society, is seeking new members. Those interested are welcome to attend Tuesday night rehearsals, held at 7 p.m. at North Augusta Church of Christ on W. Martintown Road. Visit gardencitychorus.org.

Stand Up Paddleboard Excursions

We bring the Wine Country to you! Host a private guided wine tasting of limited production handcrafted artisan wines in your home, office, or clubhouse.

Call for details:706.829.7505 AUGUSTAWINETASTINGS.COM

(actual size) 1.5” x 1.9” Tall $40 per week

for non-members. Register at any Family Y location or online at thefamilyy.org.

Canal |River | Lake 706.833.9463 Weekday evenings are SUPer cool! Whitecap SUP

All declassified ads are Cash in Advance (credit card payment required) and are $40 per week. Visit metrospirit.com to place your ad in minutes. METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 53

Michael Johnson

mejphoto.photoreflect.com

Christian Edwards, Erin Smith, Jennifer Hudson and Andy Garner at Coyote’s.

SIGHTINGS

Greg and Nicole Gease with Hollynd Dyches and Steubin Johnson at Bar West.

Mellow Mushroom’s Madia Orlando, Kaley Parker and Kristin Sportz at the Savannah Riverkeeper’s 2011 Paddlefest on the River.

SIGHTINGS

Jennifer Gut, Sung Park and Tonya Bontatibus at the Savannah Riverkeeper’s 2011 Paddlefest on the River.

Robyn Snead, America’s Got Talent’s Grandma Lee, Laura Thomas and Stephanie Campbell at the Comedy Zone at Somewhere in Augusta.

SIGHTINGS

Chris Kroger, Jack Bannister and Rai Peraza at Club Argos.

54 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Dakota Belotti, Joey Styron, Michael Brandon and Bryan Boden at the TN Survivor Run at the Filling Station.

Kailey Fuller, Lauren Szabo and Elizabeth Hands at Nacho Mama’s.

Michael Johnson

mejphoto.photoreflect.com

Sheena Smith, Tim Chance, Sakeena Scott and Chrystal Drayton at Wheel’s Pub.

V. 22 | NO. 54

CUISCENEINE Three’s Company

Sae Shin runs three of the most popular restaurants on Broad Street

Lindsey Phillips Owning three restaurants within two blocks of each other definitely has its advantages — both for owner Sae Shin and for his customers. “No one wants to eat the same thing every day,” Shin asserted. “I think a lot of people have come here and they’ve never tried this kind of food before — they just wanted something different.” “Here” is Soy Noodle House, located at 1032 Broad Street. It is the second restaurant that Shin has opened since 2003, when he opened 1102 Bar & Grill at 1102 Broad Street. And early this summer, Shin expanded his empire by

V. 22 | NO. 54

acquiring Blue Sky Kitchen at 990 Broad Street. “When I first moved to Augusta, Blue Sky was, I thought, the best concept downtown,” Shin remembered. “I thought, ‘Wow. Somebody already took the concept that I had.’ and I knew he [previous owner Barry Blackston] ran it right because he’d been there for 11 years. So when he wanted to sell, I went in and said, ‘I think I can keep this open.’” Shin may have bought his first restaurant in 2003, but he’s been in the business since he was 13 years old,

doing prep work for the China Dragon, a restaurant where the Blue Horse Bistro is now located. “I used to go back there and cut up vegetables, wash dishes, sweep and mop,” he remembered. Shin could only go up from there and the number of titles he’s held is varied — dishwasher at the former Radisson on Washington Road, server, then corporate trainer, at Applebee’s, bartender at the former Modjeska. “Everywhere I went I was crosstraining,” he said. “At Applebee’s, and it was never official, but the managers would actually ask me to hold it down for them while they were out running errands.” The entire time he was learning different aspects of restaurant management, however, Shin said he couldn’t stay away from the kitchen. An avid cook, the restaurateur said he comes by it honestly. “I learned a lot of cooking through my parents,” Shin, who is half Vietnamese and half Korean, said. “And my wife is an awesome cook.” In fact, he gives credit to his wife Mia for being the driving force behind Soy Noodle House, which recently doubled in size, taking over the space vacated by Oasis Garden. “My wife, she’s the one who opened

it. I just assisted her,” he said. “She worked here until she was eight months pregnant, all day in the kitchen on her feet.” The Shins now have a daughter, Umi, who just celebrated her one-year birthday at Soy Noodle on August 31. Shin also credits his wife, who is Korean, for coming up with the sauces for the restaurant’s dishes. And all those sauces are made from scratch in-house. He added, however, that he did have a little bit of input. “I had to curb them a little so they’re not as spicy or pungent,” he admitted. “I knew as a business owner that I had to make money, so I’m sorry to the people who have a stronger palate, but we can cook it stronger if they ask.” Those who visit Soy Noodle may be surprised to find non-Asian cooks in the open kitchen. Shin said he’s heard these criticisms before, but just waves them off. “We did intense training with everybody,” he said. “Because you’re white you can’t cook Asian food? That’s kind of silly.” With the added space at Soy Noodle, Shin said he’s been able to give the restaurant a more open feel, as well as add a full bar. “We also started doing live music on Friday and Saturday nights because a lot of people were asking about it,” he said. “The music starts at 10 p.m., so families can still come in earlier. And if we close the restaurant, the bar side will still be open late.” Live music is a common theme at all three of Shin’s restaurants. At 1102, live music happens in the back bar area, so as not to interfere with the casual atmosphere of the restaurant up front. That restaurant, he said, is meant to mimic the style of one of his former employers. “Downtown needed an Applebee’s but we couldn’t afford the franchise fee, so it’s sort of a homegrown Applebee’s,” he explained. “We serve the favorites people like, the basics. You don’t have to get dressed up and I think people like that. It’s not stuffy.” As for his newest addition, Blue Sky Kitchen now hosts light jazz on Saturday nights. Other than that, Shin said he’s made little changes to the restaurant’s popular and eclectic menu. “No menu changes, not yet,” he said. “I didn’t want to be the new guy coming in changing things. I’m slowly trying to make it better — rotating some of the sides, changing some seasonings, using METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 55

there to work.” And though he’s built a small empire, Shin said he welcomes some friendly competition. “I think the more businesses that are downtown, the more money everyone makes,” he said. “Fifteen years ago, downtown was a ghost town. There’s was nothing down here. Then the Soul Bar, Nacho Mama’s, Blue Sky and 1102 opened. Imagine if we didn’t do it.” 1102 Bar & Grill 1102 Broad Street 11 a.m.-midnight, Monday-Wednesday; Thursday & Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Friday & Sunday, 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. 706-364-4075 Soy Noodle House 1032 Broad Street 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Sunday 706-364-3116 Blue Sky Kitchen 990 Broad Street 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday 706-821-3988 better quality breads and better meats.” Shin did say that he’s reopened Blue Sky for dinner and decided to keep the restaurant open between lunch and dinner service. Now open from 11 a.m.-

10 p.m. Monday-Saturday, Shin said the added hours give workers a chance to prep during their downtime. And it is these workers who Shin gives the credit for much of his success to.

JENNYISWRIGHT

“Our staff, of course, is a big factor in our success,” he said. “Without the staff, there’s no restaurant that can do it. In all three locations, I’ve been lucky. They know what they have to do. Everyone’s

Jenny Wright lives in Summerville with her husband, who she calls The Man, and two kids, who she affectionately calls The Boy and The Girl. She enjoys taking photos, cooking and playing tennis.

Why People Are Crappier These Days People are falling apart. The quality of the human race, at least in America, is sliding downhill at a remarkable pace. I know I sound like an old fart saying that, but it’s true. I can’t decide if conveniences and technology have changed us, making us lazy, or if it’s just bound to happen. The list of things we should be doing better is miles long, but the following four stand out. Fast food: It’s so easy to do. I’ve got to get The Girl to tennis and run across town to the Y for a 7 p.m. soccer game. Everyone has to eat, and we pass several fast food places along the way. I get it, but it’s making us fat. Trust me, it is. I pulled through a drive through the other day and was asked if I wanted my meal medium sized. Medium tends to mean “average,” so that’s what I thought I’d get. Nope. Medium is the upsell and the drink isn’t really in a cup. It’s a vat o’ cola. There are enough fries in the box to partially solve the hunger issues in Africa. The internet: Sure, it’s convenient.

56 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

I know the first time The Kids have a major project, it will be so much easier than when I was in school. Remember having to lug out the big encyclopedia, hoping there would be enough information to complete your report? If there wasn’t, you could switch to a different brand of encyclopedia, hoping the other one would have a few extra sentences on the mating habits of dolphins. Now you can watch a video of dolphins mating. Unfortunately, I think my attention span has suffered for it. If a page isn’t loading fast enough, I just open another window and find something else to look at while I wait. I can’t remember the last time I brainstormed the solution to and solved a problem. Why would I? Google can fix everything. Videogames: They rot your brain. I know, I know. That’s what your mom always said. I remember the days of Zelda. I’d watch my cousin play for hours, hearing my first cuss words as his character died and he was out of

lives. Watching The Boy feels the same. Although he doesn’t cuss, he is so intense. What happened to Monopoly or Checkers? When you got mad for losing those games, you weren’t tossing a $200 piece of equipment across the room. Thrown dice are easily replaced. Cell phones: Remember when you’d listen for your mom to call or whistle for you when it was time to come in for dinner? Now we’re supposed to text them when they’re presence is requested. I’ve heard of teens racking up thousands of texts in one month. I’ve been known to text The Man from our bedroom, because I didn’t want to walk to the den to ask him a question. Can you imagine being a business traveler before cell phones? You’d leave your office and no one could talk to you until you checked into your hotel and dialed 9, incurring the ridiculous per minute charges. We’re just so reachable now. Sometimes I feel bad ignoring the occasional call on my cell phone because I need a quiet moment. Yeah, I admit it. I ignore you.

Obviously, I’m as guilty as the next person. What it all seems to boil down to is that we need to relax more, talk to each other and make time for peace. Since most of these things probably aren’t going away, maybe we can just manage them better. I don’t think we could ever go cold turkey. Will someone text me when the next Angry Birds update is available?

V. 22 | NO. 54

EARDRUM I’ll Know to Find You… Left of the Dial Stak

A few weeks ago I wrote of the relegation of 95 Rock to virtual Siberia, a particularly sad turn of events in a way. I mean, I didn’t get my mother’s milk from the latest active rock tracks by Seether and Godsmack and Nickelback (but damn, I really dig every single thing Avenged Sevenfold puts out). However, I see the value of choices that don’t include the latest hits by the Nashville pop machine and the oldest hits by whoever was making records in the ’70s and ’80s (no offense BOB). That brings me to this: Why don’t we have college radio here in Augusta? Now let’s take a minute and allow me to sell you on the idea. First off, this town is too big and our own ASU has become too cosmopolitan to disallow such a turn of events. Attendance goes up and up and up and we win National Championships in sports that only Division II schools can have a hope of winning... golf (and a damned good run by the basketball team for a few really good years). And yet, our intrepid communications students are stuck. Our version of college radio here is a joke. Period. Sure it’s a fountain of classical music, but can they do worse in terms of market share? The thing is, we can still have that classical music. But we can put the feet of the communications majors to the fire and actually ask them to program some personality into the college airwaves. The beauty of college radio is this... anarchy. From one track to the next in its purest form, you get all the ADHD and schizophrenia of whomever is at

the helm for their three-hour shift at the time. An Afro-Cuban track gives way to Nael Yaim track to the latest platter of scary breakfast by local band The Radar Cinema. And there you have it. What radio is supposed to be and what was abandoned long ago by the industry. Is it too much to ask for to have human fingerprints all over the damned thing? There once was a time in American culture when the personality was defined by what the DJ spun. If that’s not true, then why have websites like turntable.fm suddenly become so popular. I long for the time when what a DJ spun was not dictated by some empty suit. Those guys are probably wearing short sleeves underneath their blazers (congratulations on being a douchebag). Did you know that WBBQ was once a station with real DJs and a playlist that was watched and mimicked by radio stations all over the country? Oh how far we have regressed! Here’s a really crazy idea: free form radio in Augusta. Augusta State University, I am calling you out. Get off your lazy, complacent ass and do the community a favor. Have you heard about how our native sons and daughters are succeeding in the music industry? You could be a part of their success! We have the already proven quantities like James Brown, Lady Antebellum, Josh Kelley and the proving themselves quantities like Dead Confederate, Veara and Turf War. Behind them is a mountain of great music by lesserknown bands like Shaun Piazza, Carey Murdock, The Radar Cinema, She

The Replacements and She, Panic Manor, Sibling String, Artemia and the list goes on for at least another page (seriously, if you’re not paying attention, you’re missing a Renaissance in our music history. Go see a show now.) A college radio station in its purest form could play our vibrations for the world to hear. I’ve learned from my time doing the podcast at confederationofloudness. com that the homegrown stuff is not necessarily weak or bad or inferior at all. Stoney and I have benefited from time spent face to face with many of Augusta’s best musicians. Almost universally we have found them to be charming and bursting with personality. And we have never been disappointed by the creativity and musicianship of these brave souls. For the idea of a college radio station to actually celebrate such personality, charm, creativity and

musicianship... well that’s unheard of in this backwater town. Ain’t it? There is a beautiful song by The Replacements on the album “Tim”... its called “Left of the Dial” and it documents Tim Westerberg’s ability to keep up with a fellow musician by backing the dial all the way to the left (remember when we had dials in our car stereos?). It would be a damned fine thing to turn that dial to the left and tune into the ASU station and hear “The Arduous Climb” by The Radar Cinema. I would float on air for at least a week... and so would Coco Rubio and Steven Uhles and John Cannon and any number of people I don’t have the space to name. Seriously, make it happen... you ASU students know you want it. So go run tell ’em. Just a thought.

it can eat away hours of your time, time you probably don’t want to give up. So that’s where I come in… a simple music fan whose hobby is finding talented artists out there who aren’t really known. I’m so passionate about it that my wife and I started our own private concert room we call Downstairs Live, where we showcase the talented artists that I find. This room is in the basement of our home, and every so often we invite our music friends over to enjoy a night of intimate live music. What started out as a cool way to gather with friends and introduce them to new music has now evolved into us being a favorite spot for touring

musicians. Go figure. Since this room is in our home, we are very selective with who attends our shows. Over the past seven years we have connected with other passionate music lovers across the southeast and these are the nice people who fill our seats. We now have over 500 on our Downstairs Live email list. It’s pretty amazing. Once I announce a show to the list, the seats are reserved in mere minutes. This dedicated following has convinced me that there are lots of people out there who share our taste in music and want to hear it in a quiet listening room atmosphere.

The Best Music You’ve Never Heard Chuck Williams

Shows like “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent” are immensely popular in the U.S., and they’ve kick started many singing careers over the past nine years. Music fans across the country can simply sit in front of their televisions and watch as different artists try to win votes with their voices. There’s no denying that the shows consistently bring talented artists to the attention of the world, but the music fans in our country need to know that there are many other talented musicians out there doing it the old-fashioned way… one venue at a time. They’ve chosen to bypass the fast track of reality television and, instead, head out every morning on V. 22 | NO. 54

a long drive to a different city in the U.S. They arrive at the venue, load-in their gear, do a sound check, then grab a bite to eat before they go on stage. It’s a lonely, challenging lifestyle, but one that they choose. Unfortunately for them, most of us between ages 25 and 55 don’t have any interest in heading to a smokefilled venue at 11 p.m. on a Tuesday in hopes of discovering a new musician. So besides reality television, how might we discover new artists? One way is through iTunes. You can search endlessly through the different genres and artist links until you find something that appeals to you. The downside is that

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 57

INMUSIC Brendan James Currently our email list is full and we are not adding any more names, but we do stream our shows live over the Internet, hoping to share these concert experiences with other music lovers around the world. If you would like to be notified by email about future shows being streamed live, go to downstairslive. com for more info. One of our favorite Downstairs Live performers has been Brendan James, a singer/songwriter based in Los Angeles. One listen to his songs and you’ll be a lifer. His heartfelt lyrics, songwriting skills and soothing vocals make him my alltime favorite. Yep, I said it… all-time! I would love to suggest a few of his songs, but I honestly can’t narrow it down. I love them all! He has two CDs to date, “The Day Is Brave” and “Brendan James,” and is currently working hard on his third. During 2011, he’s toured the country a few times, been on “The Rachael Ray

58 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Show,” and had his song “The Lucky Ones” used on an “American Idol” commercial. He is definitely a rising star and we’ve been blessed to have him on the Downstairs Live stage five times since 2008. My name is Chuck, and my wife and I run Downstairs Live, a private concert series streamed live from our home. I also dabble in photography and videography. For more info go to CRWconcepts.com, or Downstairslive.com.

Does Anybody Still Care About the VMAs?

There is tons of great music around Augusta to be enjoyed, and you really don’t have to look far. On a given night, you can run into The Vue and hear dance music from DJ Richie Rich or HD 98.3’s Kris Fisher, you can stop in the Playground and hear rock music, there’s Soul Bar to get your ’80s fix, and you can even hop over to Stillwater Tap Room for a mix of jam-band infused banjo bluegrass. I think I just made up a new genre of music. Stillwater is one of my favorite bars. The bar has an upscale atmosphere and a great selection of beers on tap. On Saturday I caught the band Funk You, awesome name. And from what I remember, I had a great time. The MTV Video Music Awards aired this past Sunday, Aug. 28, filled with stars that I don’t care about. Anyone else remember when you actually wanted to watch this? Oh yeah, I was 13. Katy Perry came away with Video of the Year for “Firework,” Adele took three awards, Lady Gaga went drag the entire night resembling Adam Sandler from the movie “The Wedding Singer.” She performed with Queen’s Brian May… that’s all I have to say about that. Beyonce revealed she was pregnant; the father is some guy named Jay-Z. Britney Spears won the Michael Jackson Vanguard Award for her contributions to music video and dance (I can’t be the only one who just laughed). The only rock band that made it past security and got into the show were the Foo Fighters, where they won Best Rock Video for their single “Walk.” And last in my VMA round up, a big F-U goes out to Chris Brown, not only for being a women beater, but for performing a medley of songs, including Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” In related news, Nirvana’s, “Nevermind,” the album that supposedly kicked off the alt-rock explosion of the ’90s, is getting a reissue celebrating its 20th anniversary. Eight demos, test runs through “In Bloom” and “Lithium,” are among the never-before-heard extras on the 20th-anniversary edition of the landmark album, due out Sept. 27. Do you think Dave Grohl misses Nirvana? New releases this week include Red Hot Chili Peppers’ long-awaited follow up to 2006’s “Stadium Arcadium,” “I’m With You.” Robert Earl Keen issues “Ready For Confetti.” Okay. And last, Lil’ Wayne, the man who inspired my first teardrop tattoo, releases “Tha Carter IV.” Happy downloading. I love First Fridays. Uncrowned featuring False Flag will be at The Playground Friday, Sept. 2. It’s a birthday bash for promoter Mike “Rockshow Booking” Garrett, so I’m sure it’ll be a real low-key kind of night. Don’t forget about the big show Saturday night — Drowning Pool is at Coyote’s. If you don’t make the “21 and up” cut and can’t get into Coyote’s, check out Hawthorne Heights at Sector 7G; doors open up at 6 p.m. Football season is back! Side note: War Eagle (I’m an Auburn grad, so shut up). Border Bash is Sept. 9, featuring Sister Hazel and more. Head to borderbash.net for more details. What am I missing? Email me, matt@themetrospirit.com. All your hate mail can be sent to idontwanttohearit@themetrospirit.com. Just kidding; the Whine Line section of metrospirit.com might work for that.a Saturday night; now you have no excuses. What shows I see can be up to you. All you have to do is email me, matt@themetrospirit.com. Enjoy your week and support local music. Do it. Matt Stone — can be heard weekdays from 2-6 p.m. on 95 Rock. V. 22 | NO. 54

Bistro 491

Want to impress your date? Try the Armand de Brignac, "Ace of Spades" Brut in the beautiful gold bottle.

French Market Grille

Want a light(er) dessert? Try the Crepe Mascarpone with fresh fruit. 5 O’Clock Bistro King's Way's secret gem Bistro 491 fancy food with a sense of humor Calvert’s Restaurant old school Continental Club Argos LGBT

Helga’s

Crums on Central live jazz on weekends

Thursday & Saturday Trivia Better hope Alice Wynn hasn’t brought a team. If so, kiss that bar tab goodbye.

French Market Grille New Orleans in the Garden City Helga’s med student heaven

POLKA

Sheehan’s Irish Pub the nicest pub ever Surrey Tavern the original neighborhood bar Tako Sushi Asian / Mexican fusion The Vue upscale dance club w/ occasional bands

Mellow Mushroom

Verandah Grill at the Partridge Inn Augusta’s best balcony

Not hungry enough to devour their pizza? Try one of their munchies. The Capri is amazing.

· PIG Try the three little pigs burger. It’s pigalicious!

Polka Dot Pig unique atmosphere & unique bar

DOT

GA ST ROPUB

Augsburg Haus Traditional Bavarian Cuisine Cue n’ Brew pool hall

Mai Thai

Make sure to save room for their Thai coconut pudding.

Laura’s Backyard Tavern Laura’s house Mai Thai Authentic Thai Experience Mellow Mushroom plus full bar Pizza Joint Beer Me Tuesday

The Tavern at the Bean

Any establishment with almost 30 different bourbons to select from is sure to be a fun place to go have a cocktail… or two or three.

Pickles locally owned restaurant in ColCo Rhinehart’s backyard seafood The Tavern at the Bean discreet, top shelf Sidetrack Bar & Grill by the railroad tracks Tako Sushi Asian / Mexican Fusion

THE HILL

V. 22 | NO. 54

EVANEZ

WEST AUGUSTA

SOUTH AUGUSTA

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 59

60 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Manuel’s Bread Cafe - locally sourced bistro

01 Pizza Joint

The Highlander - real Bristish pub

Saturday it’s $5.00 domestic pitchers all day.

Augusta Canal - music on the water

Sweet Lou’s Crab Shack - Broad & 13th Frog Hollow Tavern - upscale restaurant & bar / locally sourced

Pizza Joint - 40 beers on tap and slices

Augusta Canal

Enjoy First Friday on the Moonlight Music Cruise with Ruskin Yeargain and Impulse Ride.

13T H

Tropicabana - salsa. no chips.

Mellow Mushroom - plus full bar Sky City - large music venue Firehouse - proud downtown dive

1102 - block deep restaurant & bar

Metro Coffee House - coffee, beer, liquor, people

Soultry Sounds - jazz club Wicked Wasabi - authentic Japanese Soy Noodle - Asian sensation Blue Sky Kitchen - new parents

08 09 10

Wicked Wasabi

12 14 13

Try the Philly Roll or the Yaki Soba.

Sweet Lou’s

Saturdays its $8.95 crab legs and $2 Bud Lights.

New Moon Cafe - ecclectic grindhouse Bee’s Knees - small plates Rooster’s Beak - tacqueria w/ great ice cream Soul Bar - pure funk Playground - rock-n-roll

Stillwater Taproom - blugrass before bluegrass was cool Casa Blanca - JB White’s storefront Wheels - cool & on the corner

H ST

Nacho Mama’s - rolling ‘em fat

12T

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Bee’s Knees

Make sure to try the Smoked Gouda Nachos while there. Great by themselves but even better topped with Chicken.

The Loft - liquor with attitude Bar on Broad - contemporary South Beach vibe Club Rehab - upscale sportsbar Joe’s Underground - live music underneath Broad St. Imperial Theatre - old majestic with a kickin’ sign

V. 22 | NO. 54

Nacho Mama’s

Sky City

Go for their Havana Burrito and try a Hoegaarden while there. What’s better than burritos and beer?

Saturday 14th Annual Bob Marley Tribute with Ever-G, Crucial Fiya, and Lady D

Mi Rancho

The best margaritas and salsa in town.

S S37 T

Tipsey McStumbles

39 41 40

17 25 26 20 21 27 18 22 23 28 24 19

Now opened at noon on Saturdays with $2 select bottle beer. Cheer on your favorite College team but stay away from the punching machine.

OAD

31 32

Tipsy McStumbles - confess later

42 43

Riverfront Stage - candle light jazz series

Fox’s Lair - coolest bar in America

01 02 03 01 34

35 36 02

Sector 7G - laundromat turned landmark Eagle’s Nest - best view downtown Blue Horse Bistro - jazz tapas The Sports Center - old school pool hall and burgers Luigi’s - Augusta institution Beamie’s Restuarant & Oyster Bar - taste of the beach downtown The Boll Weevil - great food and the best desserts Cotton Patch - eat, drink, be happy Mi Rancho - chips & salsa on the Savannah 209 Restaurant & Lounge - soul food & lounge

La Maison on Telfair - fine dining & tapas

The Joker Lounge girls dancing nightly Fantasy Showgirls girls dancing nightly Discoteque girls dancing nightly

Casa Blanca

Drop in for dinner and try the Grilled Salmon Burger with Wasabi Mayo.

The Playground

It’s open mike night on Thursday. Enjoy a drink or two while listening to some of Augusta’s undiscovered talent.

V. 22 | NO. 54

4T GO H ST RD ON HW Y

5TH

OLD

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 61

Cadillac’s

Bar West

Not downtown but craving some sangria? This bar’s versions, both red and white, rival the sting of another’s legendary recipe.

Friday it’s DJ Tim. Be prepared to not leave the dance floor.

Allie Katz good cheap drinks Bar West martini lounge Cadillacs cozy neighborhood spot Cadwallader’s Cafe Italian flair Carolina Ale House sports themed restuarant / feat. outdoor covered bar Country Club dance hall and saloon Cue & Brew great burgers Doubletree Hotel popular restuarant French Market Grille West NOLA in the Garden City

Doubletree Hotel

Country Club

Hooters hooters

Friday Enjoy A Step Up while you eat at their popular weekend seafood buffet.

Friday

Live music from Ty Brown and Rachel Bradshaw

Limelite Cafe extensive beer selection Malibu Jacks beach themed restaurant & bar Mi Rancho chips & salsa on the Savannah Prime 1079 Steakhouse Rack & Grill true pool hall Rae’s Coastal Cafe worth finding Rhinehart’s backyard seafood Robbie’s Sports Bar true pool hall

TGI Fridays

Military Appreciation Day is every Saturday.Military ID gets you 25 percent off all day and night.

Shannon’s old lounge / new look

Coyote’s

Drowning Pool, Burn Halo, Echoes the Fall Saturday, September 3 at 8 p.m. 95 Rock presents this show, tickets for which are $15 in advance.

Somewhere In Augusta sports bar & grill TakoSushi Asian / Mexican Fusion TGI Friday’s How many pieces of flair do you have? Wild Wings Cafe live music 7 nights a week Coyote’s great live music & DJs Road Runner Cafe in front of Coyote’s Villa Europa German / Italian /International favorites since 1974

THE HILL

62 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

EVANEZ

WEST AUGUSTA

SOUTH AUGUSTA

V. 22 | NO. 54

Thursday, September 1 Live Music

French Market Grille West Doc Easton Smooth Jazz Jessye Norman Amphitheatre Corey Smith Joe’s Underground Jerod Gay Malibu Jack’s Marilyn Adcock Mellow Mushroom Bryan Robinson One Hundred Laurens Kenny George Rose Hill Stables Preston & Weston Sky City Frontier Ruckus Surrey Tavern Sibling String The Willcox Four Cats in the Doghouse

What’s Tonight?

Cadillac’s Karaoke Casa Blanca Thursday Tango Club Argos Karaoke Club Rehab Candy Stripers Cabaret Cocktails Lounge Karaoke Fishbowl Lounge Karaoke Fox’s Lair Soup, Suds & Conversations Helga’s Pub & Grille Trivia Islands Bar & Lounge DJ Fred Nice The Loft Karaoke Mi Rancho (Downtown) Karaoke Mi Rancho (Evans) Karaoke Pizza Joint, Evans DJ Kris Fisher The Playground Open Mic with Brandy Shannon’s Karaoke Somewhere in Augusta Karaoke with Charles Soul Bar Boom Box Villa Europa Karaoke with Just Ben Wooden Barrel ‘80s Night Karaoke

Friday, September 2 Live Music

Augusta Canal Moonlight Music

Cruise w/ Ruskin Yeargain and Impulse Ride Bell Auditorium Smooth Music Festival w/ Boney James and Rachelle Ferrell Boeckh Park Music in the Park w/ Henry Wynn and the Henrys Cotton Patch Paul Arrowood Country Club Ty Brown, Rachel Bradshaw Coyote’s Pretty Petty Doubletree Hotel A Step Up French Market Grille West Doc Easton Joe’s Underground StoneDogs One Hundred Laurens John Kolbeck The Playground False Flag, Uncrowned Polo Tavern Robbie Ducey Band Stillwater Tap Room Chickasaw Mud Puppies Surrey Tavern The Unmentionables The Willcox Kenny George

2011

What’s Tonight?

Cadillac’s DJ Tim Club Argos Variety Show Club Rehab DJ C4 Cocktails Lounge Grown-Up Fridays with DJ Cork and Bull Pub Karaoke Fishbowl Lounge Karaoke Iron Horse Bar & Grill Karaoke Islands Bar & Lounge Caribbean Night with DJ Spud Mi Rancho (Downtown) Karaoke with Ryan Moseley Mi Rancho (Washington Road) Karaoke with Jeff Barnes Mi Rancho (Clearwater) Three J’s Karaoke Ms. Carolyn’s Karaoke Palmetto Tavern DJ Tim Rebeck’s Hideaway Open Mic Roadrunner Cafe Karaoke with Steve Chappel

THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS — COLLEGE FOOTBALL —

$3.25 22oz Mugs & $13 Buckets of Miller Lite & Coors Light WILD CARD: Win 2 Tix to The National Championship

SUNDAYS & mondays — NFL FOOTBALL —

$3.25 22oz Bud Lt Drafts • $13 Bud & Bud Lt Buckets Weekly Pick’em Trivia WILD CARD: Win 2 Tickets to the Super Bowl (Starts Sunday, Sept. 11th)

the line-up

Reggie Sullivan closes out the Uncommon Jazz Festival, the annual Labor Day celebration of music presented by Garden City Jazz. Gates open at 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 3, for the festival at the Augusta Common, which also includes music from Funk You, Tre Tailor & TailorMade, Tony PearsonShaver & Chamberjazz, The Lunar Octopus, Bill Karp Swing and Mike Frost Jazz featuring Lauren Meccia. Admission is $10 with children 13 and under admitted free. Visit gardencityjazz.com. V. 22 | NO. 54

9.1 Thursday Jones White Buffalo 9.2 Friday Night Rocks Thomas Tillman 9.3 Saturday Music Tony Williams Band 9.4 Sunday Blue Jeans Brunch 11am-3pm Matt Acosta Washington Road just past I-20 • 706-364-WILD (9453) w w w. w i l d w i n g c a f e . c o m METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 63

Ms. Carolyn’s Karaoke One Hundred Laurens DJ Kenny Ray The Playground DJ Fugi Tropicabana Salsa Saturday Wheels Live DJ Wooden Barrel Kamikaze Karaoke

Somewhere in Augusta Footloose Dance Party Sky City ’80s Night Soul Bar First Friday DJ Mix Tropicabana Latin Friday Wheels Live DJ Wooden Barrel Karaoke Contest

Sunday, September 4 Live Music

Saturday, September 3 Live Music

P.I. Bar and Grill Live Music

The Acoustic Coffeehouse Open Acoustic Jam Session with Eryn Eubanks and the Family Fold Augusta Common Uncommon Jazz w/ Funk You, Mike Frost Jazz with Lauren Meccia, Reggie Sullivan Blue Horse Bistro Live Music Blue Sky Kitchen Joel Cruz and Travis Shaw The Cotton Patch Keith Gregory Country Club Holman Autry Band Coyote’s Drowning Pool, Burn Halo, Echoes the Fall Iron Horse Bar and Grill Fried Green Tomato Festival w/ Electric Voodoo, Bad Habits, John Berret’s LaRoxes Joe’s Underground The Candice Hurst Band P.I. Bar and Grill Not Gaddy Polo Tavern Jim Fisher Band Sky City 14th Annual Bob Marley Tribute w/ Ever-G, Crucial Fiya, Lady D Surrey Tavern The Unmentionables

What’s Tonight?

Cadillac’s DJ Rana Club Argos Variety Show Club Rehab DJ C4 Cocktails Lounge Latin Night Fishbowl Lounge Karaoke Fox’s Lair Karaoke Helga’s Pub & Grille Trivia Islands Bar & Lounge Reggae Night with Island Vybez The Loft Karaoke Mi Rancho (Downtown) Karaoke with Rockin Rob Mi Rancho (Clearwater) Karaoke with Danny Haywood Mi Rancho (Washington Road) Karaoke

most local singles

What’s Tonight?

Caribbean Soul Love Jones Sundays Malibu Jack’s Karaoke with Denny Mi Rancho (Downtown) Karaoke Mi Rancho (Washington Road) Karaoke, Salsa Dancing

Monday, September 5 Live Music Soul Bar Metal Monday

What’s Tonight?

Applebee’s (Evans) Trivia Club Argos Karaoke Club Rehab Jenn’s Crazy Karaoke Malibu Jack’s Trivia with Mike Thomas Mi Rancho (Downtown) Karaoke with Danny Haywood Somewhere In Augusta Poker Tourney Wild Wing Trivia and Karaoke

Tuesday, September 6 Live Music

Blue Horse Bistro Tim Sanders Cocktails Lounge Live Music Joe’s Underground Happy Bones The Willcox Hal Shreck

What’s Tonight?

Club Argos Karaoke Club Rehab Jenn’s Crazy Karaoke Fishbowl Lounge Dart League Islands Bar & Lounge DJ Fred Nice Malibu Jack’s Karaoke with Denny Somewhere in Augusta Trivia with Charles

meet real women tonight try for

free

706.434.0108 Local Numbers: 1.800.210.1010 18+

64 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

www.livelinks.com

Ahora en Español

V. 22 | NO. 54

ONTHEBALL

Matt Lane is host of The Weekend Rundown which airs from 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays on News-Talk-Sports 1630 AM. He can be reached at mattlane28@gmail.com.

Prep Rehash

For the Evans Knights, it wasn’t that we thought they couldn’t produce points; we just weren’t sure where they would come from. With only three offensive starters returning, chemistry was the main concern entering this season. Team speed on defense seems to be their fastball this year. The surprises started with sophomore running back Stephon Jacobs, who ran for 213 yards and three touchdowns in his first varsity start. Evans also got stellar play out of then-reserve quarterback Eddie Johnson, who went a perfect 7-of-7 for 81 yards and added 36 yards rushing on eight carries as well. What was most impressive for the Knights, though, was after only scoring a touchdown in the first half, they found their momentum and exploded for 26 points in the second half to get the 33-19 win at home. And not to put too much stock into one win for the Knights, but Coach Marty Jackson — at least for this week — will be able to ditch the pencil and use a pen to fill out his starting lineup. Lincoln County enjoyed an exciting matchup in their second game of the season. They took on Abbeville, which is Lincoln County coach Larry Campbell’s hometown team, who had won 14 consecutive games and beaten Lincoln County the past three seasons. The win was in comeback fashion as the Red Devils trailed 13-10 at halftime against South Carolina’s reigning Class A champion. To solidify the win, the Red Devils relied on quarterback Denzel Gunby (9-16, 117 yards, two TDs) and Zireycus Letman (Five Rec, 72 yards, one TD), who also intercepted a pass to setup the goahead TD early in the second half to prevail 24-13. The area’s best team, the Burke County Bears, are at it again. Led by dual-threat QB Corey Mayton and RB/WR/DB Montres Kitchens (88 yards of total offense, TD and two INTs), the Bears beat a Top 10 team in Baldwin with the help of excellent run defense. They held the Braves to just 16 yards rushing on 14 carries, thereby completely eliminating any type of run game Baldwin might have had and making them more predictable on offense. Burke County also proved they can finish a game early in the season against a respectable foe with their 14 points in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach at 31-14.

Games to Watch

Statesboro @ Washington County: Friday, September 2, 7:30 p.m. The third best team in AAAA heads to Sandersville to give the talented, but lower classification, Golden Hawks all they can handle. Thomson @ Lakeside: Friday, September 2, 7:30 p.m. We will see how Mark Weidenaar performs against a tough Thomson bunch, and also what Head Coach Jarrett Troxler has up his sleeve. Evans @ Grovetown: Friday, September 2, 7:30 p.m. Grovetown has had a lot of downtime since their thrilling 28-24 win over Greenbrier on Aug. 18. Evans is riding high from their great second half performance against ARC. This will be quite the battle for both teams.

College Games to Watch

Western Carolina @ Georgia Tech: Thursday, September 1, 7:30 p.m., ESPN3 If you can name me five Tech players/coaches that are not named Barry Bostic or Paul Johnson, you might have a problem. Georgia Southern @ Samford: Saturday, September 3, 7 p.m. What do you have planned for your second season, Coach Monken? After leading Southern to their first NCAA FCS playoffs semifinal appearance since 2002, and beating five ranked teams throughout the season, he’s got the diehards back in Paulson Stadium after they started going to Statesboro High School games and inhaling Crown Royal to forget the Chris Hatcher era at GSU. Georgia vs. Boise St (Atlanta): Saturday, September 3, 8 p.m., ESPN UGA is the dawg — like what I did there? — in this one as the boys of Boise come into town looking to add a SEC team to their resume in hopes of playing for the National Championship at the end of the season. Georgia is underrated this year based off of last year’s losing season. Don’t be surprised if they pull out the victory — the speed on the defense this year will surprise you. And if you can’t make the game and are in the area, drop by the parking lot for the tailgate. Somebody’s bound to have a drink for ya.

V. 22 | NO. 54

METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11 65

AUSTINRHODES

The views expressed are the opinions of Austin Rhodes and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

Wither Matt Monroe? Here is a little tip from a 25-year media veteran to all media company general managers and heads of personnel: If you ever have to terminate or part ways with a popular and wellknown broadcast personality, it is to your infinite benefit to give them a very well publicized going away party, and a big-ass check to buy their acquiescence. Concerning the bizarre exit of veteran WJBF weatherman Matt Monroe, there has not been a more talked about TV “departure” in the Augusta market since Charley Britt was canned at Channel 12 over 20 years ago. I have had personal conversations with over a dozen current and former Channel 6 employees about this Monroe cluster-muck, going back to early July when I first learned about the decision not to renew his contract. To a person, the man is respected, admired and, dare I say, beloved. There was not one single person who said anything bad about him. Period. But his bosses said he had to go, and in his place, we have a bright, shining

new face that will spend the next six months learning the difference between Harlem and Hephzibah. Beautiful. Social media and its prominence in our ever-changing, interactive world is allowing pissed-off consumers to talk directly back to local broadcast executives who not so long ago were able to make decisions (good and bad) in relative obscurity. Well... maybe it would have been, if it weren’t for Facebook. To say Matt Monroe’s ouster has gone over like a lead weather balloon would be an understatement. My own mother-in-law has fussed about Channel 6 management every time she sees me, wanting to know if I had gotten to the bottom of why they did what they did, and if I would share that with the world. I have known for a while that Matt was a dead weatherman forecasting, but I was hoping, much like he was, that someone in management over there would wake up and see they were making a mistake. They never did. I had an hour-long conversation with

Matt that airs Thursday on my afternoon radio show; the upshot is this: Matt, gracious gentleman that he is, absolutely refuses to say anything even remotely unflattering about his 14-year morning news partner Mary Morrison. That said, I have been told point blank by people who have worked directly with both Matt and Mary that tension between the two of them, and Matt’s inability and/or refusal to visibly reach out and “make happy” on the air, is the specific and direct reason he was let go. Mary Morrison hard to work with? That does seem a bit hard to believe, but I am told that Mary’s reputation and demands as a perfectionist are the main reasons the morning news recently lost a key producer. She hated putting together the news with Morrison, and that is widely known by virtually everyone who worked with her. Matt Monroe artfully dodges the direct question when asked if his lack of communication and possible conflict with Morrison is the reason he was let go. Perhaps we should ask Mary if

she did anything to intervene and save Matt’s job? Yep... Mary, consider yourself asked. One last thing: I am appalled that a respected institution like WJBF would “peacefully” part ways with a 14-year pristine-clean and faithful employee like Matt Monroe and give him virtually nothing in the form of severance pay. Seriously? Let me put this in perspective for you: My company recently laid off well-known radio bad boy Jordan Zeh. Jordan is a talented broadcaster, a personal friend and, by his own admission, at times a train wreck. Jordan Zeh was given a severance package.

Get up to $2,200 from Georgia Power!

H S U B Y E L T WHA 1 4 0 6 . 1 9 6 . 706

HURRY! OFFER ENDS SOON! Are you a Georgia Power customer?

If so call me and I’ll perform a Home Energy Assessment, identify energy saving improvements for your home, and work with you to qualify for the full $2,200 rebate. Hurry, this is a limited time Georgia Power offer!

“I never thought I could have a 30 year old home that would be more energy efficient than a brand new house. The Home Energy Assessment was basically an MRI of my house!”

SUMMITGREENSOLUTIONS.COM 66 METRO SPIRIT 9.1.11

Georgia Power Home Energy Improvement Rebate. Summit Green Solutions is a Program Participating Contractor. V. 22 | NO. 54

iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take it!

3061 Washington Rd. Augusta GA, 30907

706-860-1111