Metro Spirit 10.11.2012 by Metro Spirit

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METRONEWS CROSSWORD AUGUSTA TEK FEATURE

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EVENTS CALENDAR JENNY IS WRIGHT

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SLAB MATTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUSIC SIGHTINGS

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THE8 ART45 PET PAGE

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WHINE LINE

INSIDER RUFFINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; IT AUSTIN RHODES

Metro Spirit piritt is a free nnewspaper published publisheed weekly on Thursday, Thursd sday, 52 weeks a yea year. ar. Editorial coverage ge includes local issues issu sues and news, arts, s, entertainment, peo people, eople, places and apppear views from ac cross the political and an social spectrum.. The views do not necessarily n represen ent the views of thee ppublisher. Visit us at metrospirit.com.ÂŠ events. In our paper appear across represent Publisher: Joe White. e. Legal: Phillip Scotttt Hibbard. Reproduc ction or use without ut permission is proh hibited. One copy per peer person, please. 15 House, LLC. Owner/Pu Owner/Publisher: Reproduction prohibited.

CONTENTS

COVER DESIGN: KRUHU

EricJohnson|news editor eric@themetrospirit.com

GabrielVega|lead designer gabe@themetrospirit.com

BrendaCarter|senior account executive brenda@themetrospirit.com

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JoeWhite|publisher joe@themetrospirit.com

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Michael-RKQVRQ_VLJKWLQJV Â&#x2021; Valerie(PHULFN_ZULWHU Â&#x2021; Amy3HUNLQV_HGLWRULDO LQWHUQ Â&#x2021; LauraPerry|volunteer

WHINELINE Gru ....how bout university of dr dazziznutz udd... The best thing about this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Westobou Festival was the promo commercial featuring JB spraying his do. Thanks for the excellent cover story (Spirit, 10.4.12), though earlier wouldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been better. Philippe Petit was superb but you could have shot deer in there.

When Austin Rhodes is 62 or 65, then he can tell me when I should retire. If he thinks anyone can live off Social Security only, then he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know jack S t. Write about what you know.

channel with an animal name. @#$ News is responsible for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dumbingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of America. If you truly â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; what comes out of their flapping gums, you will understand.

thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s substantial evidence that Romney may have broken the law by lying to the American people about when he left Bain Capital on a legally required candidate disclosure form. This could be the straw that breaks We all saw in the debate on the camelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back in his campaign Wednesday how Mitt Romney I agree with the person who of lies. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why, last week, implored folks to not let political is trying to lie his way into the MoveOn delivered a legal memo ads by super PACs influence how White Houseâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but did you know to the Department of Justice they may choose our President. that one of his lies may actually outlining the evidence and be criminal? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rightâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; I also would like to sugggest requesting a formal investigation that folks avoid a certain news into Romneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible crime.

r ying tto win this With Romney trying election with lies, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that every American knows the truth as soon as possible. But much of the mainstream media has been scared to touch the story, saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too hot to cover.â&#x20AC;? So we need to get the word out ourselves through social media and email.

Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Just Kenny: Echols says heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always been Smooth Flight: Skyfest organizers work hard to make show run safely and smoothly Close ride: The canal single track gives riders year round thrills, even in the dark

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(continued on page 42)

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

THUMBS

SIDER

“Why is it that if you take advantage of a tax break, you’re a smart businessman, but if you take advantage of something you need to not be hungry, you’re a moocher?” One of Jon Stewart’s many zingers during The Rumble 2012 debate Saturday night. Don’t worry, conservatives: Bill O’Reilly got in a few himself, which means everybody won!

down

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The One-Two Punch at bay. Election Day is getting close and, as we all know, On September 27, Broun told folks at a sportsman’s this is the most important election in 9,000 years. With banquet at Liberty Baptist Church in Hartwell that that in mind, local Republicans are gearing up for a most of the established cornerstones of scientific one-two punch of awesomeness. thought were lies. On Tuesday, October 16, the Paul Broun “All that stuff I was taught CSRA Republican Women’s Club, about evolution, embryology, who really seems to be wearing the Big Bang theory, all that is lies pants in the local Republican family, straight from the pit of hell,” is hosting a “Countdown to Victory said Broun, a doctor. “It’s lies Rally,” a $25 sit-down dinner in the to try to keep me and all the Crystal Room of the Pinnacle Club. folks who are taught that from At a fundraiser and pep rally understanding that they need a for 12th District Republican Lee savior. There’s a lot of scientific Anderson, who’s taken the whole data that I found out as a strong, silent type thing to an entirely scientist that actually show that new level by pretty much refusing to this is a really young earth.” say anything to anybody, the special He goes on to say that he guest will be Congressman Paul believes the earth is 9,000 years Broun, who thanks to his big mouth, old. most Americans right now think is Affirmations of faith are the same kind of ignorant clod they nothing new, especially for thought Missouri Congressman Todd Republicans, but such a forcibly Akin was after that science lesson he stated contrary opinion in an gave about how victims of “legitimate election year raises serious rape” are able to form a Maginot questions about Broun’s Line to keep unwanted sperm safely

METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

critical judgment and his ability to be a team player, especially when he links the Bible with public policy. “It teaches us how to run our lives individually, how to run our families, how to run our churches,” he said of the Bible. “But it teaches us how to run all our public policy and everything in society. And that’s the reason, as your congressman, I hold the Holy Bible as being the major directions of how I vote in Washington, D.C., and I’ll continue to do that.” Though the remarks can do little to Broun, who’s running unopposed, they’re certainly proving embarrassing for the party at large. His comments have become a national story made even better by the fact that Dr. Broun sits on the House Science, Space and Technology Committee along with — you guessed it — Todd Akin. As a bonus to those locals fortunate enough to live in either the 10th or the 12th District, those at the Pinnacle Club rally will get to hear Broun brief everyone about what they can expect from the coming months if President Obama’s health care legislation isn’t repealed. As for entertainment, we’re not sure what’s being planned, but they could do worse than having Broun sit Anderson on his knee, stick his hand in his back and give him something to say.

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Whereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Robin Hood? Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen the signs, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen the bumper stickers, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve probably even been hit up to send some money to this purest of causes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Save the A. It seems like a heartwarming story of regular folk coming together, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a remarkable breadth of support, crossing ethnic and political lines.â&#x20AC;? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a quote from Nick Evans, a local businessman stepping out on a limb to do what he feels is right for the community. And Lord knows it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t easy. At first, the campaign was little more than secretive whispers, but soon, thanks to Nick Evans, the resistance got bolder. Stronger. Braver. In no time, it seemed, it represented a true cross section of Augusta plopped down in a four-page advertisement in the Augusta Chronicle. Four pages of common folk ready to be heard. When the concerned citizens group employed a local ad agency to spread the word, there was a sense of a solid group banding together to do good in the face of evil. And that ad agency, Hall Marketing, they meant business, too. When the Spirit inquired about the use of the donations and the media buys, it got a note back talking about PSAs and media assistance to help get the word out about Saving the A. The whole city, it seems, had become a group of Merry Men â&#x20AC;&#x201D; renegades opposing tyranny of the absolute worst kind. But hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the thing, folks. That P.O. Box youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sending your checks to? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Chronicle box. Simple Google search found that out. That whole grass roots storyline â&#x20AC;&#x201D; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about as orchestrated as it could be. What makes the whole thing so troubling is that what seemed so good, so pure, was little more than a power struggle by a news organization that already had the authority to make an argument against the name change. That had, in fact, already been making the argument. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a long time since Billy Morris had been as popular as he was when he came out against the name change, so why not run with it? Why be deceitful? Did they worry their editorial page, once the ultimate bully pulpit, no longer had what it took? Does this speak to the decline of the daily? Why bait the local press with Nick Evans standing up for what he believes in when he was really just standing for what Billy Morris believes in? In the end, how is your credibility any better than the evil Dr. Azziz when you basically set up a shell corporation to fight your fight, then cower in the shadows behind it?

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METROSPIRIT

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Three Extremes A post-debate analysis Coming off, as we are, the first presidential debate, picking a topic for this week’s column was a quintessential “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” dilemma. On the one hand, I’m getting really, really tired of writing about the same freaking thing every week — politics is full of jackasses, but Republicans are especially big jackasses and here’s why — and as a result, every fiber of my being screams at me to just type up a list of under-the-radar horror films or something. Though, to be fair, that’d probably end up being even more divisive than I usually am. The fact that we’re in election season is the only thing that obligates this content. Mark my words, as soon as Obama is re-elected — let’s not kid ourselves — I’m going to lose myself in a Wikipedia sinkhole and emerge a week later, assigning light-saber combat styles to Food Network personalities. On the other hand, this is, by the loosest definition possible, a political column, and we are on the heels of a major debate. It’d be disingenuous and, let’s face it, a bit of a cop-out on my part if I didn’t chime in on this, especially considering the miles-apart narratives surrounding the aftermath of Denver. Regarding the latter note, there have been, as I can see, three primary narratives guiding media coverage since the debate ended. Rooted on the surface in partisan sentiment, they nevertheless hold certain amounts of contextual water and, in some cases, are wound intrinsically together. This song is almost over, so let’s get cracking. 1. Romney Won, Obama Lost Why It’s True: If we’re stopping at characterizing mannerisms and interactions, then, yes, this is probably true. Let me be blunt: in terms of stage presence and rhetoric, Romney bludgeoned Obama. Over-rehearsed and deeply programmed though they were, his talking points were spoken with enough confidence and conviction to make them sound reasonable and wellintentioned, which is essential when most of what you say is a sticky rhetorical salad that doesn’t add up. Romney dominated the exchanges, speaking rapidly without getting mush-mouthed and — in an impressively brazen (I mean that as a compliment) breach of etiquette — directly addressed Obama on several occasions. A rather brilliant strategic maneuver, I think, in that it threw the typically polite president off his game from the get-go, and established that night’s version of Romney to be a candidate willing to bend the rules, to get a little rough in the interest of the country, or at least his plan for it. We still don’t know what that is, but more on that later. Obama, in comparison, was reserved to a fault, and just looked generally tired and irritated on the stage. Whether it was due to fatigue from all the simultaneous campaigning and presidenting, or to his well-founded bemusement that he actually had to debate this joker, no one can really say. He didn’t call Romney out on any of his lies — again, more later — or any of his horrendously gaffe-y, telling comments (47 percent, anyone?), and didn’t exhibit any trace of aggression. Image-wise, he took a hit. Why It’s BS: Looking first at the grand scheme of things, it’s one debate. In different, more honest terminology, it’s one instance in a trio of instances that really aren’t going to matter that much. The 2008 debates between Barack Obama and John 6

METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

McCain served only to highlight the fact that McCain was old and his policies were ineffective, which we already knew. In the context of the first Obama/Romney clash, what we already knew about Romney was simply reinforced: he’s terrible in moments that aren’t strictly scripted, and he’ll do whatever he can to avoid being drawn into an actual, honest discussion. If he looked good and sounded confident, it’s because he essentially delivered his stump speech, complete with lies and exaggerations — the “six studies” Romney cited that supposedly support the math on his tax plan consist of two conservative bloggers, three Romney advisers and Harvey Rosen, a former George W. Bush adviser — and he steamrolled and yelled over Jim Lehrer anytime the moderator tried (admittedly, not very hard) to rein him in or ask a pertinent follow-up question. Obama wasn’t very aggressive, but then, he didn’t have to be. Even under these circumstances, all the incumbent has to do is play competent defense and continue to campaign well. His advisers, David Axelrod among them, admitted that the president was a little blindsided by this version of Romney, but that they’re going to be in Romney’s face much more next time. 2. The Romney Bump! Wheeeeee! Why It’s True: I want to preface this by admitting I ate a little crow. I predicted in an earlier column — or, more accurately, like six or eight earlier columns — that it would be impossible for Mitt Romney to ever lead Barack Obama in any poll, ever, that didn’t involved Andrew Breitbart asking Georgia residents which candidate they’d let their daughters marry. For the love of god, a Fox News poll had Obama comfortably leading in most demographics. That’s like Varg Vikernes listening to Pat Boone, then telling his friends about it. And yes, that metaphor was just for me. But yeah, a Pew poll came out yesterday that showed Romney leading Obama by four points among “those most likely to vote.” A word about the caveats in these polls: “most likely to” doesn’t mean squat. If that were true, the valedictorian from my high school would have gone on to Harvard instead of dropping out of UGA and running back to agricultural school, and I’d be a Buddhist director on Broadway. Side note: rednecks think gays and Buddhists are the same thing. Still, that’s a bump, and Republicans are rightfully thrilled. Why It’s BS: If there’s one thing we can take away from most polls, it’s that they don’t ring true in the long run. Remember, a poll is a microcosm of impassioned, immediate reactions, especially those taken in the immediate aftermath of a major event, like a debate. Remember when it was announced that Osama bin Laden had been assassinated by Seal Team 6 on the president’s orders? For a while there, Obama’s approval rating was polling at 57 percent or higher. Gradually, it dipped back into the usual low-to-mid 40s territory. “But Josh,” you might be asking yourself because you read this column for some reason. “You’ve been

gloating over the pro-Obama polls for months now! Isn’t it hypocritical and disingenuous of you to brush this one aside?” You raise a good point, hypothetical, impossibly polite reader. The difference, however, is that Obama has been polling comfortably ahead of Romney for months now in every demographic, save a couple. This indicates not an isolated outpouring, but a trending sentiment, and makes for a much more accurate reading of current national sympathies and tendencies. 3. Romney Has Turned It Around Why It’s True: Ha ha, seriously? Why It’s BS: Remember what I said earlier about polls? That a single, isolated incident is borderline negligible, but that a string of similar incidents indicates a trend? Ever since general election campaigns started this year, the Romney team (nay, conservatives in general) have been quick piss away whatever goodwill or momentum they gained at any given point. A formula developed early, and any hopes that Romney or his team could claw their way out of it were effectively quashed by the time the “47 percent” video was aired. And yeah, yay for the Romney bump. But, in true GOP fashion, they’ve nearly obliterated the momentum. Just a day after the election, the jobs numbers came out, with unemployment at its lowest point (7.8 percent) since Obama took office. This is great news for the whole country, and you’d think it would be greeted with enthusiasm from all sectors. You obviously don’t know anything. Conservatives — Romney, Fox News and all — immediately took to questioning the numbers, and even went so far as to accuse the administration of “cooking the books” in order to get the desired results. Yeah, most of this came directly from the mouths of people like Donald Trump and Jack Welch (who admitted he had no evidence at all), but when Fox News — ostensibly the GOP mouthpiece — actively courts those individuals, it’s safe to assume that they’re on board. A few things, conservatives: A) this makes you look crazy, B) it makes you look like you are completely apathetic to the good of the country as a whole, and C) the numbers are due to a combination of several factors, including trends that you should’ve seen coming a mile away. Quick elaboration. Unemployment has been steadily, slowly dropping for a couple of years now, so it should come as no surprise that it continues to drop, at pretty much the same rate. Reacting this way — mostly because of the drop below 8 percent — is telling and ridiculous. On top of that, unemployment, regardless of the year, tends to drop slightly around this time of year anyway, as college students get part-time jobs, etc. You’re fashioning a bats**t insane narrative, one that is completely antithetical to the actuality of the situation. Once the election is over, very promising careers in reality television await you all.

JOSHRUFFIN, a Metro Spirit alum, is a published

journalist and poet who just received his MFA from Georgia College & State University. He was once the most un-intimidating bouncer at Soul Bar.

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AUSTIN RHODES

Desegregation Order Outlives Its Usefulness Jack Ruffin was an amazing hero. The pioneer black attorney, civil rights champion and eventual Georgia state appeals court chief first secured his place in local history books as the man who guided the case against the Richmond County education system that forever changed the way the schools in Augusta were run, and many sadly say, it was the ruination of the public schools here as we once knew them. Judge Ruffin would want an honest accounting of all the good that he did in his vast career as an attorney and jurist, but it is only fair and appropriate to consider also laying to rest the unintentional disaster that came on the heels of his greatest victory, the federal desegregation case that he won against the Richmond County school board. While the fight was righteous, and the goals admirable and lofty, the resulting final solution remains hanging around the neck of local taxpayers like a rotting, stinking albatross. Much like the national debt will choke generations of taxpayers who were not born when the politicians of yesteryear decided to become a debtor nation, the property owners of Richmond County are paying the tab for sins they didn’t commit for medicine to cure a disease that has long since been eradicated. The short story that tells the tale is simply this: Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Ruffin was able to convince the federal courts that long after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that public schools should be completely desegregated, officials with the Richmond County school board kept their system separate and unequal through a rigid and premeditated school zoning plan that drew sharp lines between black and white neighborhoods. Some say it was subtle, but the result was obvious. In Augusta-Richmond County, there was almost no race mixing in the public schools. In 2012 no one (except the most ignorant Neanderthals) sees racial segregation as anything other than an anachronistic throwback of an unenlightened age. But in 1972 the local folks fighting Jack Ruffin and his case against their school system were far more concerned about the possible remedies than any misbegotten allegiance to racial purity. I can say that with 100 percent confidence, because my family, specifically my mother, father and a number of aunts and uncles were on the front lines fighting for the other side. I saw and heard their concerns in my own living room, and over hundreds of evening meals, for weeks and months and years on end. Some 42 years later, after many, many hours of research, discussion and study on the issue, I can tell you without hesitation: both sides were right. Ruffin and his plaintiffs were right to question the system plans and agendas that kept the schools almost solidly segregated long after the Supreme Court ruled such policy verboten.

11OCTOBER2012

My family and their allies were right when they feared the final solution, in which they rightly feared a hideous busing plan that did nothing to alleviate poor conditions in minority dominated schools, but rather, tried to “equalize” the system by subjecting suburban kids to the conditions of the inner city. Ruffin and his team won the local battle to be sure. Decades later we see that they sadly lost the war that was the more important struggle for quality education for all. To say the court constructed final solution didn’t work would be the understatement of the century. Virtually overnight Augusta’s few private schools were filled to capacity by the children of those with the means to pay their way out of the court-ordered busing nightmare, and new private schools popped up like dandelions. The resulting exodus of talent, intellect, community service and financial support was a blow to the system that was almost fatal. Many years later, thanks to the advent of the magnet schools, a return to sensible neighborhood zoning plans for most schools, and the post Charles Larke leadership maturity that was once lacking, the Richmond County school system is inching closer to performing at levels that most would call acceptable and respectable. Current board members Jimmy Atkins, Frank Dolan and Alex Howard have expressed a strong desire to get out from under the federal court order that resulted from Ruffin’s case, and the millions in legal fees that continue to add up every year as compliance is monitored by any number of rotating local attorneys. In 2012 the system shows no signs of operating in anything other than a completely “enlightened” environment, and, ironically, several mandated directives in the order have had to be adjusted because the system has performed so well. For instance, the order provided that the racial makeup of school employees reflect the make up of the county population. If they followed the letter of the law, the system would have to replace a good number of black employees with white ones, because, by the letter of the law, whites are now underrepresented in the ranks. How is that for irony? Judge Jack Ruffin was rightly given a hero’s burial at the time of his passing. It is now time to bury the unrighteous court order that was the unintended result of his greatest victory.

AUSTINRHODES

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

AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

METROSPIRIT

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ERICJOHNSON

He’s Just Kenny

Echols says he’s who he’s always been

If you haven’t noticed, Kenny Echols’ signs have an addition to them — No New Taxes. “I’m just trying to follow the same kind of conservative approach I had out of the school board, where if the budget was increased, I couldn’t support it,” he says. “That’s where I’m coming from with that, and I thought it would be good to put it on the sign.” He says some people have mistaken it for an across the board pledge, which it’s not. The commission as a whole could vote for a tax increase; he’s simply saying he won’t be voting with them. “Once you’ve made that promise, if you go back on it, then you’re lying to the public, and I just can’t do that,” he says. The overarching message? Raising taxes just isn’t the answer. “What I see in our local government is a lot of waste,” he says. “The easiest thing to do is raise taxes, but I think the first thing you need to look at is operations and look at where you can cut back. I know there are places that can be cut back.” He points to several studies financed by the city, which he says are simply shelved, and grants, which he says could be handled internally. “When I was on the school board, we had people to write grants and apply for grants,” he says. “To me, that makes sense.” Echols was elected to the school board for 12 years and served 10 years on the Richmond County Board of Health. Professionally, he was a medical 8

METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

administrator, retiring from GHSU last December. “I think the commission’s job is to have fiduciary responsibility to look out for the taxpayers’ money,” he says. “That’s why I have a strong commitment and feel really good about coming out and saying I’m not going to support any new taxes, because people are paying enough right now.” Though no stranger to campaigns, Echols says this one feels different. “I haven’t raised as much as my opponent, but my gosh — what I’ve raised is unreal.” The final financial disclosures before the election show Echols trailing Georgia State Patrol Lieutenant Donnie Smith by more than $10,000, about what he’s raised. This year, it seems, most of everyone’s money has gone to signs. “I think there ought to be some kind of ordinance on these campaign signs,” he says. “I’m reluctant to say I’d like to do that on the commission, but I really think we need to look at that. They’re awful looking. I’m as guilty as everybody else, but it just looks bad for the community.” Being out fundraised, though, doesn’t bother him. “I don’t worry about that,” he says. “I’m going personally door to door and I get these shocked looks. They say ‘You’re Kenny Echols and you’re walking?’” Smith may have more signs, but Echols says he’s knocked on more doors. When it comes to the issues, people are telling him they’re concerned with the usual stuff — adequate fire safety, security, zoning issues, the widening of

Berckmans Road and whether or not he’ll be a fulltime commissioner. “I tell them I’m retired, and they think that’s great, because they want a full-time commissioner,” he says. “That’s important to a lot of people. You don’t elect somebody to go to a meeting when they have time.” Besides that, he says, people know him. “They don’t want some old crony politician that’s been there before and hasn’t done much,” he says. “The people of West Augusta know that I fought for them. When I was on the school board they wanted to close National Hills School, and I wouldn’t allow them to do that.” Making an oblique reference to Smith’s involvement in an altercation at Wild Wing, where he allegedly attempted to use his influence to assist an acquaintance after an arrest for disorderly conduct, Echols says he has learned to sidestep the entanglements that come with elected office. “I used to get calls when I was on the school board,” he says. “When the person starts out the conversation ‘I voted for you,’ the red flags go up.” Resisting those kinds of things, he says, is part of who he is. “You’ve got to be in a situation where you don’t let any power or authority go to your head,” he says. “I’ve always been the kind of person — I’m Kenny before I was elected, I’m Kenny when I’m on the board and I’m Kenny when I get off the board. It’s always amazed me how when people get a little authority it always goes to their head.” 11OCTOBER2012

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V23|NO41

ERICJOHNSON

Smooth Flight

Skyfest organizers work hard to make show run safely and smoothly

Though visitors to this year’s 20th Anniversary Boshears Skyfest won’t be able to miss the crackerjack flying or the dazzling array of aircraft, they’ll likely overlook much of the infrastructure that keeps people safe and the show running smoothly. And that’s okay by the organizers, who work for a full year so they can be overlooked this way. The week of the air show, however, everyone springs into action. “You have to take an airport that’s set up for flying operations and, in a matter of a couple of days, turn it into a parking lot and a pedestrian walkway and an area that’s safe for crowds to come around airplanes,” says Tony Gay, the show’s logistics specialist. “So basically, we put up about a mile or so of fence and we sink about 1,000 posts. We fence the parking lot, we make driveways and pedestrian walkways for ticket gates all in a matter of a couple of days.” Not only that, but they have to work to provide power to areas of the airport that were never intended to have power. “The field’s not set up for electricity, so we have to run

10 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Of course, show time has its own set of requirements. “The FAA shows up Saturday morning,” Kyzer says. “They inspect the airplanes, they talk to the pilots and we have a briefing before each show where our air boss and I outline the show and what we expect and the rules of our particular field.” Because Daniel Field is an in-town airport, there are some additional restrictions. According to Gay, the neighboring municipal golf course is closed, and the airspace above the field, known as the box, is closed for all traffic except the assigned performers. And in spite of the way the performers push the envelope, the show itself is very controlled. “Safety is the first consideration,” Kyzer says. “We want people to be excited, but we want the show to be safe as well. The performers that we have are all true professionals.” However, because any type of flying is, in some degree, dangerous, there are multiple safety precautions, from fire trucks on the field to security to power everywhere we want power with generators,” Gay medical professionals stationed in ambulances as well as says. “That’s all wired up on Wednesday and Thursday.” manning a medical tent. The static performers start coming in on Thursday It’s an expensive proposition, and though a small and Friday. portion of the show’s funding comes from the Augusta “The airport never closes except for two hours during Regional Airport and Daniel Field, the vast majority both days for the show itself,” Gay says. comes from solicited sponsorships. Preparation for the actual air show portion of the event “Our goal is to have at least 80 percent of the money requires patience, perseverance and a lot of paperwork. through sponsorships and public funding so that we don’t “First of all, you have to book your aviators,” says have to depend on the gate.” show Chairman Brad Kyzer. “Then you have to get all According to Kyzer, relying on paying customers of their credentials.” means relying on a variable. Weather, the economy To fly in an air show, a pilot has to have certain and other unforeseen circumstances can all conspire certifications, Kyzer says. First, they’re allowed to do to limit a show’s revenue, which could jeopardize its their performances at high altitudes, and the more they ongoing appearance. progress, the closer to the ground they’re allowed to go. Not only that, but when the show’s organizers decided The popular ones are certified to fly basically right down to give free admission to children 12 and under, a to the runway. goodwill gesture meant to increase the number of kids “You have to get all that stuff, and then you have to exposed to aviation, they lost a good deal of the gate. submit a waiver,” he says. “That’s a big deal. I usually get Judging from the number of kids — and their smiles — it in two months ahead of time. There, you list all your it was a popular decision. performers, their license numbers, the type of airplanes they’re flying and that sort of thing.” Boshears Skyfest 2012 The waiver is what allows them to close the airport Daniel Field | Saturday-Sunday, October 20-21 for a certain, limited amount of time, as opposed to the 9 a.m., gates; 1:30 p.m., opening ceremonies and air requirements for a fly in, where everyone just comes and show | $15 in advance, $18 at the gate goes as they please. boshearsskyfest.org

11OCTOBER2012

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V23|NO41

ERICJOHNSON

Close ride

The canal single track gives riders year round thrills, even in the dark

Though cooler temperatures mean the sun is setting earlier and earlier, that doesn’t mean Augusta’s mountain bike community has to park its bikes. The single-track trail off the Augusta Canal towpath remains an accessible and fun getaway right in the middle of town. “I would label it an intermediate ride,” says Drew Jordan, owner of Andy Jordan’s Bicycle Warehouse. “You wouldn’t want to not have any experience on a mountain bike and then come out there for your first ride.” Not only can it be technical in spots, he says, the steep hills have a way of sneaking up on you. “There are switchback corners where you might double around a corner and then all of a sudden it’s straight up,” he says. “Really knowing how your gears work and how to properly modulate your brakes is definitely a good prerequisite, I would say.” Jordan leads a group of riders from the bike shop every Wednesday. In the summer, the group can be as large as 28. This time of year, the rides average around 12 participants. Riders meet up at the bike shop at about 6 p.m. and depart around 6:30, heading down the Augusta Canal towpath, which they catch about a block away from the store. From there, they basically follow the towpath to the back entrance to the trail rather than starting at the pumping station. “It adds a little bit of mileage to the trail,” he says. “It gives you more single track.” Starting there, riders essentially complete three laps — a half a lap in, two full laps, then a half a lap out. “Right now, the big thing is stressing the light issue, because it gets dark fast out there without a light,” he says. “It catches people off guard, because this time of year you’re not real sure what to expect. It’s surprising how quick it gets dark.” With the exception of the area along the ponds between the trail and Riverwatch Parkway, there is full and very dense tree coverage.

12 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

“Until the leaves start falling, you don’t get any moonlight in there whatsoever,” Jordan says. Even when the leaves fall, the trail is dark and often alarming. “It’s a totally different experience at night,” he says. “I know that trail like the back of my hand, but that first loop around after it gets dark it’s like you’re riding a new trail.” Changes in equipment have made the experience much more enjoyable, however. “The lights have gotten so good that they will literally rival any automobile headlight,” he says. “They are very compact, they have rechargeable batteries and they are very lightweight. You have plenty of light, it’s just not natural light, so reading the trail is a lot different.” A first-time nightrider last week couldn’t believe how different the experience was, Jordan says. Not only is your vision different, but your hearing elevates as your senses attempt to accommodate for the reduction of sight. The trail, which was built piecemeal from old deer trails, literally comes alive at night. “We see a lot of deer as soon as it starts getting dark out,” he says. “And when the sun goes down, you’ll have owls.” This past weekend, Jordan was riding in the darkness and had an owl swoop down in front of his light. “It always scares you at first because, with night riding, your peripheral vision is shut off and you can basically only see what’s in front of you,” he says. “It always catches you off guard when you have something flying into your light.” The Wednesday ride is a yearlong ritual that neither darkness nor cold can send packing. “There’s plenty of gear in the bike industry to pretty much eliminate any and all excuses,” he says. “Cold, dark — it doesn’t matter.” The only time they won’t have a Wednesday ride is if there has been a bad rainstorm that day or one the night before, since they don’t want to put unnecessary wear and tear on the trail. The rides, however, are free. “This is something we do just to do,” he says.

11OCTOBER2012

V23|NO41

CAR TALK

By Elayne Cantor and Victor Fleming / Edited by Will Shortz 93 Thickly cover 97 With one’s heart, if nothing else 101 Vice-presidential family 103 TV excerpts 104 Spot for a farm laborer’s sunburn 105 More lighthearted 107 Theologian Johann 109 Potentially slanderous remark 110 Smell of sour milk? 113 English king ___ the Peaceful 116 Suffix with balloon or cartoon 117 Harebrained 118 Bling-bling? 122 Bleepers 123 Wild equine of 79-Across 124 Company with a 2004 I.P.O. 125 Word before sale or after sales 126 ABC, e.g., in Variety-speak 127 Feared folklore figure 128 Picks up Down 1 Wrongful discharge award 2 One-named Brazilian soccer star 3 Extended one’s stint 4 “___ said …” 5 Price abbr. 6 Bases for boats 7 ___ McAn shoes 8 Practice, as skills 9 911 V.I.P.’s 10 Elongated swimmer 11 Ancient assembly sites 12 Genesis man who lived 239 years 13 Tipped off 14 Dual-___ 15 Shade akin to almond 16 Round entree 17 Weavers’ willows 18 Diary tidbit 22 Circus employee 24 Lock up 29 Iago, to Othello 31 Word before A or T 32 Side of a road 35 California’s Harvey ___ College 37 Some sleepwear 38 Life after death? 39 Looney Tunes toon, informally 41 Restroom sign 42 Preferred groups 44 “The Lady’s Got Potential” musical

49 Unglazed ceramic jars 50 Comprehended 52 Scottish turndowns 53 Mozart’s Donna ___ 54 Synthetic fabrics 55 ___ bar 56 Accustomed (to) 57 Coat and tie, e.g. 58 “We ___ Get Out of This Place” 60 Viewed remotely? 61 About 90% of its land is owned communally 63 Like dunderheads 66 Lieu 67 Odist’s “before” 70 One-sixth of a drachma 71 Borgia enemy 72 ___ Pet 73 Greek architectural style 80 Northern Plains people 81 Facility 82 Lenny’s friend on “The Simpsons” 84 Spanish direction 86 Dam that aids in fish-catching 87 Local council member: Abbr. 90 Number-one 91 ___ all-time high 94 Pier group? 95 Pauline work 96 Ones reliant on the local blood supply 97 Whole 98 Dramamine user’s fear 99 Oasis, often 100 ___ Landing (part of Philadelphia) 101 Fit in 102 One of the Lennons 106 Company with a 1996 I.P.O. 108 Rock-climbing challenges 111 Capital of the Swiss canton of Valais 112 About 113 Nose out 114 Effectuates 115 Toy warnings? 119 It fits in a lock 120 Skiing gold medalist Tommy 121 Almost forever

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PREVIOUSPUZZLEANSWERS

Across 1 First name in the White House 7 Old Navy’s owner 13 Dandy 16 Like one battery terminal: Abbr. 19 Start of a seasonal song 20 Tribute 21 Source of some intolerance 23 What Katie Holmes lost in divorce court? 25 Unsteady 26 Money of Laos 27 Shoots in the foot 28 Commuter on a crowded bus, e.g.? 30 Huck Finn’s father 31 Knicks venue, for short 32 Throw in the towel 33 “Sing of old ___ and the ancient ways”: Yeats 34 Prefix with -meter 36 Some modern memos 40 1946 Best Supporting Actor nominee William 43 Bro’s greeting 45 Beam of support 46 Leon who won a Pulitzer for his biography of Henry James 47 Actor Patel of “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” 48 Dealy-bobs 51 Digit in military lingo 55 Epiphany? 59 Some August newborns 62 Slaw, e.g. 64 Strep treater, for short 65 Preschooler 66 “Dreaming of You” singer 68 Sholem Aleichem protagonist 69 What “Send” triggers? 74 Family 75 Giggles 76 Noise in a nest 77 They tend IVs 78 Judea’s ___ the Great 79 Home for a 123-Across 80 Legal proceeding over a meth bust? 83 Hero makers 85 Programming behind computer pop-ups 88 “___ second” 89 1950s coup site 92 Gen. Robt. ___

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11OCTOBER2012

AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

METROSPIRIT 13

V23|NO41

GREGORY A. BAKER, PH.D

What If?

The only limit is imagination Recently I came across the thought, “In a society driven by innovation, challenges would be seen as opportunities.” From this perspective, it’s not difficult to believe that we live in one of the most opportunity rich times in our history. No matter where you turn, it seems that another obstacle has been placed in the path to our own personal utopia. ,W·V HDV\ WR ZKLQH DERXW LW %XW RWKHU WKDQ NHHSLQJ $XVWLQ RQ WKH UDGLR ZKDW GRHV ZKLQLQJ UHDOO\ DFFRPSOLVK" 7KH PRUH FKDOOHQJLQJ SDWK WKH URDG OHVV WUDYHOOHG LV WR VWDUW WXUQLQJ DOO WKH FUDS WKDW·V JRLQJ RQ LQ WKH ZRUOG LQWR WKH SRVVLELOLW\ RI GRLQJ EHWWHU 7KH VHFUHW LV LQQRYDWLRQ ,QQRYDWLRQ LV DERXW FUHDWLRQ« WKH FUHDWLRQ RI QHZ LGHDV RI QHZ ZD\V RI GRLQJ WKLQJV RI QHZ ZD\V RI ORRNLQJ DW WKH VDPH WLUHG ROG VWXII ,I ZH FDQ·W FUHDWH VRPHWKLQJ QHZ RU HQYLVLRQ WDNLQJ D GLIIHUHQW SDWK IURP WLPH WR WLPH ZH·UH GHVWLQHG QHYHU WR DFFRPSOLVK D WKLQJ ,QQRYDWLRQ DQG FUHDWLRQ ERWK KDYH WKHLU URRWV LQ LPDJLQDWLRQ DQG LQ EHLQJ DEOH WR WKLQN RXWVLGH WKH ER[ ,PDJLQDWLRQ LV EHLQJ DEOH WR VWHS RXWVLGH RI \RXU FXUUHQW OLIH DQG VD\ ´:KDW LI"µ )RUWXQDWHO\ IRU $XJXVWD ZH GR KDYH D JURXS RI SHRSOH ZLWKLQ RXU WRZQ ZKR DUH PDVWHUV RI DVNLQJ ´:KDW LI"µ DQG ZLWK D VLQJOH PLQGHG GHWHUPLQDWLRQ WKH\ DUH SXOOLQJ $XJXVWD LQWR WKH ZRUOG RI ´:KDW &RXOG %H µ ,I \RX FRXQW \RXUVHOI DPRQJ WKH FUHDWLYH SOHDVH EORFN RXW 1RYHPEHU IRU WKH &65$ ,QQRYDWLRQ )HVWLYDO 7KH DSSOLFDWLRQ RI LQQRYDWLRQ DQG FUHDWLYLW\ JUHDWO\ LPSDFW RXU OLYHV 2QH RI WKH SULPDU\ JRDOV RI WKH &65$ ,QQRYDWLRQ )HVWLYDO LV WR VKRZFDVH VXFFHVV VWRULHV LQ $XJXVWD (YHQWV DW WKH IHVWLYDO ZLOO LQFOXGH ,QQRYDWLRQ &RPSHWLWLRQ ³ EXLOG VRPHWKLQJ DURXQG WKH FRQFHSW RI LPSURYLQJ PRELOLW\ +DFNDWKRQ ³ +DFN IRU (GXFDWLRQ 1RYHPEHU DW S P WR 1RYHPEHU DW QRRQ

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11OCTOBER2012

MORE THAN AN AIRSHOW! THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY SAT. & SUN. OCT. 20 & 21 DANIEL FIELD boshearsskyfest.org

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V23|NO41

ERICJOHNSON

Searching for Stillness

Living with monks, an ASU instructor hopes to find ways to help educate

ASU Communications instructor William Bryant is working on his Ph.D. in educational studies from the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, and for his dissertation, “Contemplation and Mindfulness in Education: Between Self and Other in Modernity,” he was interested in examining how contemplation and mindfulness practices might help teachers become better teachers and students become better learners. Admittedly not exactly blockbuster stuff, but Bryant is young and enthusiastic, and as he talks, his quick 16 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

smile steers you away from the rocky shoals of Deep Thought without dumbing things down or making you feel like an intellectual featherweight. In fact, his enthusiasm proves infectious. “One of the things I’m doing in my dissertation is trying to explain how you don’t have to remove yourself from the secular world and put yourself in a sacred space,” he says. “You can be contemplative anywhere, you can be mindful anywhere, but it takes practice.” That kind of portable calm is certainly an attractive concept given today’s fast-paced lifestyle, but practicing it? You might as well be juggling in a hurricane, and Bryant knows it. Though he may be an academic, he’s also pragmatic enough to realize that you can’t find stillness and quietness in the midst of chaos. At least not enough to get

your foot in the door. So when the question became how do you shut down the chaos, he turned to one of the most chaos-inducing devices in today’s society — the internet — and typed in contemplation. If you like the irony of that, you’ll love the fact that one of the websites that popped up was for Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist monastery in Moncks Corner, S.C. That’s right, not only does the abbey have a website, it has email and a telephone, and thanks to all that technology, soon Bryant was spending 44 days living with monks who pray by candlelight, work with their hands and speak only when absolutely required. “The great thing about going to a monastery to do it is you can see that type of alternative lifestyle enacted right in front of you,” he says. “The monks are truly different people.” 11OCTOBER2012

V23|NO41

Will Bryant

As society progresses, those differences become more and more noticeable. As do the similarities. The abbey, just north of Charleston, occupies 3,000 acres on the scenic Cooper River. It was donated to the Catholic Church for the establishment of a Trappist monastery by Henry Luce and his wife, Clare Boothe Luce. According to Mary Jeffcoat, Mepkin’s communications director, Trappist monks must support themselves by the work of their hands, which for the monks at Mepkin means growing and selling mushrooms. They also have a gift shop and a 11OCTOBER2012

columbarium, which is a final resting place for those who choose to have their ashes stored at the Abbey, but it’s the mushrooms that take most of the work. “In addition to supporting themselves, they do have friends and benefactors that give them donations to maintain the public portion of the monastery,” Jeffcoat says. “That would not be for the monks, however. That would be to support their external hospitality ministry.” Though the stereotypical monastery is secluded and not exactly welcoming to outsiders, Jeffcoat says that hospitality is an important aspect of the Trappist way of life.

“According to the Rule of St. Benedict, their life is composed of prayer, spiritual reading and work, with hospitality,” she says. “Hospitality is really important to them, so you would rarely see Mepkin Abbey without one or two guests.” Many of those guests are day visitors who come to enjoy the grounds. “A hundred percent of the people that I talk to say the minute they come on the property they immediately feel at peace,” she says. “And if they’re religious people, they’ll immediately say they feel God.” Other visitors are monastic retreat participants like Bryant or those who chose shorter retreats where they observe the silence and solitude of the lifestyle without living with the monks the way Bryant did. One of the common threads, though, is silence — that stillness Bryant wants to apply to education. “You don’t have to believe in God to understand the value of slowing down and being quiet,” Bryant says. “There have been all kinds of studies about how meditation helps us.” It’s true, of course. It’s a scientifically proven fact that meditation can restructure your mind and help you think differently and think better. “But you can do that in a hotel,” Bryant says. “You can do that in a cabin in the woods — Thoreau did it, for crying out loud, and he’s probably one of the most spiritual people ever, just because of the simple fact that he understood that there’s a greater purpose beyond our chaos.” Which brings him back to the focus of his study — the application of contemplation and mindfulness in the learning process — and the source of some intellectual tension, since for the monks, the contemplation and mindfulness is directed toward a thoroughly religious purpose. While Jesuits or Benedictine monks might teach or work in hospitals, the ministry of the Trappists is prayer, Jeffcoat says. Everything they do is structured to allow

them to pray, from the repetition of their work to their adherence to a rigid and unwavering schedule. “Work and their life becomes such a routine that it becomes automatic for them,” Bryant says, “and when things are automatic, you can focus your mind on other things, and what they try to do is focus their mind on praying. They consider themselves part-time workers and full-time prayers.” And the goal of their praying? “They see their job as praying for the world, trying to heal the world and trying to heal with people in it,” he says. That’s one of the reasons behind the extreme hours. Monks at the abbey start their day at 3 a.m. by praying. “What they say is that they’re going on watch,” Bryant says. “In other words, the secular would is all asleep at that time, but they rise and they pray in order to keep ready in case Jesus Christ is to return to Earth. That’s the whole reason they get up at that hour — so that someone is always on watch for the Lord to return.” Often, people speak of prayer in casual terms, something that’s more pleasantry than prayer. Not so with the monks. “It made me so appreciative that people like the monks exist,” Bryant says. “You hear people sometimes say they’ll pray for you and you’re thinking they probably won’t, but when they receive a prayer — it gets prayed for.” He describes a large map prickly with pushpins representing prayer requests received either by letter or by email. Passing monks pause and read and pray. “Whether or not it works, who’s to say, but the point is, I think it’s a positive contribution no matter how you look at it,” Bryant says. “It’s about them giving up themselves and giving up their time to want to help others, and I think we can all learn from that. If we could all do that in our lives, if we could put ourselves aside so that we could help others — they’re perfect AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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models of that.” Obviously, Bryant, a Catholic, came to the abbey further down the mindfulness path than most of us are, but practically speaking, he was also there as a researcher, which makes him far different than the average monastic guest. So what kind of people were the other guests? “I think introspective people, people that are really curious about their meaning and what it’s all about,” he says. “Or people that just need a break from the chaos of the world and are looking for some stillness and some quiet. I don’t know if I can describe what that type of person is, but I would say that they’re the type of people that I think that we could all use more time being around.” Though most of us would admit to wanting an occasional break from all the distracting noise in our lives, most of us also structure our lives so that we are never really alone with our thoughts, never have to think the hard thought “These monks are completely silent, and when you’re in an environment where it’s silent, you’re left alone with yourself, but your mind doesn’t stop,” Bryant says. “You have this internal dialog that’s going on and going on, and so all kinds of stuff came up inside of me — what am I doing here, why am I spending 30 days here?” He’s also married with two children, and he chose to spend his time at the abbey over Christmas break, so there was a mixture of longing and guilt, too. “It was very difficult for me to be away from my family, but I thought it was important for me to entrench myself within those times to understand that those connections to the world are very important to me,” he says. Just as it took him being at the abbey to realize how much he appreciated what he had at home, it took him being back in the regular world to understand what the abbey was really all about. “I don’t think I ever got comfortable on my first trip there because everything was just so foreign and so different,” he says. “It was just such a different way of being that I didn’t get comfortable. But on the second trip, I think I did. Everything they do is just so mindful and so calculated. You can’t really put your hands on it, but they’re different. I’m not saying they’re better, I’m not saying they’re worse, they’re just a different type of person. Though admirable, personal growth wasn’t necessarily his goal, however. He was there looking for ways to apply all this to a learning environment. “I’m interested in how I can take the monastic practices of contemplation and mindfulness, silence and solitude and incorporate them into the process of education,” he says. “What does that mean and what will come out of it — will we have better understanding in the classroom, will we have better rapport with our students? Will our students have better rapport with us? Can I replicate that type of experience in a secular space?” Now, in spite of all that time he spent in silence, you can see the chaos starting to creep in. He wants to combine theory and action and develop a real-world application for all these things he’s realizing, but he’s not quite there yet. “I think I have a better understanding of it theoretically, but how that theory can inform practices, I’m still working on,” he says. He’s willing to be patient, however. “I really do think this will be a major part of my scholastic studies in the course of my career,” he says. And you believe him because it’s obvious he enjoys working the problem. Whether or not he’ll ever be able to wrestle it into submission is, in some ways, beside the point, and he seems to know it. “Ultimately, it’s a stimulant for people to realize that they can live this way,” he says. “Then they go back to their lives and take a piece of that monastic existence with them to whatever they end up doing.” 18 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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R.U.N.E ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED

THE

FAIR

For our money, the most wonderful time of the year isn’t in December, it’s right now. Or, we should say, next Friday, when the Georgia-Carolina State Fair comes to downtown Augusta. The smell of hay on the ground and funnel cakes and corn dogs in the air just can’t be beat. The rides, entertainment, exhibits and looking at livestock aren’t bad either. The good news for Augusta residents is that the Western Carolina State Fair follows shortly after, and Columbia County’s version extends fair season all the way into November. Meet you at the bumper cars!

The Georgia-Carolina State Fair Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds Friday, October 12-Sunday, October 21 Monday-Friday from 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon georgiacarolinastatefair.org The Western Carolina State Fair Aiken Fairgrounds Thursday, October 18-Saturday, October 27 Monday-Friday from 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon westerncarolinastatefair.com

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ENTERTAIN

ME Arts Art at Lunch, featuring artist Richard Stenhouse discussing his work, currently on view in the museum, is Friday, October 12, at noon at the Morris Museum of Art. $10, members; $14, non-members. Price includes lunch. Pre-registration required. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.

It’s time for Das Boot, but beer drinking isn’t the only pastime going on at For t Gordon’s Oktoberfest, October 12-14, at Bar ton Field. A carnival will run all three days, as will enter tainment in the form of live music and dancing. The flea market will be Saturday, as will the Boss car, truck and bike show. Round out activities with a vendor village, a kid’s corner on Saturday and a salute to the troops on Sunday, and you have the makings of a great weekend for the entire family. For more information, a schedule and carnival prices, call 706-791-6779 or visit for tgordon.com.

October 31 at the Zimmerman Gallery. Call 706-774-1006 or visit zimmermangalleryaugusta.com. City of Dust: Photographs by John Mulhouse shows at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706-834-9742 or visit augustaphotofestival.org.

Gary Russeth Lecture is Sunday, October 14, at 2 p.m. at the Morris Museum of Art. Free. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.

Portraits of Southern Artists by Jerry Siegel shows through December 2 at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.

The Morris Museum of Art offers free admission through October 14 in honor of its 20th anniversary. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.

A Sense of Place, the 32nd annual juried fine art competition and exhibition, shows through October 12 at the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. Call 706-722-5495 or visit ghia.org.

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.

Leonard Porkchop Zimmerman: Love Stories shows through October 12 in the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art’s Creel-Harison Community Art Gallery. Call 706-722-5495 or visit ghia.org.

Exhibitions October Exhibitions at the Aiken Center for the Arts include The Artisans of the South Carolina Cotton Trail, Lila Campbell and Joseph Bradley in the main gallery, the ACA Summer Camp Show in the Brooks Gallery and Bill Updegraff in the Aiken Artists Guild Gallery. Call 803-641-9094 or visit aikencenterforthearts.org. Annual Quilt Exhibition shows through December 31 at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. Pre-registration required. Call 706-7243576 or visit lucycraftlaneymuseum.com. Works by Troy Campbell show at Sky City during October. Visit skycityaugusta.com. Printed Matter by sculptor and mixed media artist Joe Sanders shows in ASU’s Mary S. Byrd Gallery of Art until October 19. Visit aug.edu. The Whiskey Painters of America annual exhibition shows through 11OCTOBER2012

Elizabeth Moretz-Britt and Beth H. Jones Exhibit is on display through October 26 at Sacred Heart Cultural Center. Call 706-826-4701 or visit sacredheartaugusta.org. The Art of Alfred Hutty: Woodstock to Charleston, including 60 oil and watercolor paintings, pastel drawings, etchings, drypoints and lithographs, shows through October 28 at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-7247501 or visit themorris.org. Tying the Knot, a display of wedding dresses and accessories from the late 1800s to the 1960s, now shows at the Augusta Museum of History. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.

Music Eddie Money and Starship perform Friday, October 12, at Evans Towne Center Park, with gates open at 5 p.m. and music beginning at 7 p.m. The event also includes an ‘80s flashback fashion show, a kids fun zone and vendors. $30, advance; $35, gate; $45, VIP; free, kids under 12. Call 706-

312-7192 or visit evanstownecenterpark.com. Double D performs Friday, October 12, at 6 p.m. at the Augusta Canal’s Moonlight Music Cruise. Participants are invited to bring snacks and beverages on the hour and a half canal cruise. $25. Call 706-823-0440 or visit augustacanal.com. Open Opera Auditions, for a one-act opera called “Bambino” written by USC-Aiken faculty member Dr. Richard Maltz, are Wednesday, October 13, at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center in room 125. Singers and actors needed, and an accompanist will be provided. The opera will be performed in May. For more information, call 803-553-2220 or email richardm@usca.edu.

Literary Poetry Workshop led by Lucinda Clark is Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org. Monday Night Book Discussion, featuring “Winter Ghost” by Kate Mosse, is Monday, October 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org. The CSRA Writers meet Monday, October 15, at 6:30 p.m. at Georgia Military College, 115 Davis Road. Writers needing a support group are invited to attend and bring 10 copies of a manuscript to be critiqued. Call Steve Fox at 706-836-7315. Friends of the Aiken Library Annual Meeting is Tuesday, October 16, at 2 p.m. at the Aiken Public Library. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org. The Art of Taste, an Aiken Center for the Arts Taste of Wine and Art event, is Wednesday, October 17, at 11 a.m. and features author Nathalie Dupree, who will discuss her latest book, “Mastering the Art of Southern Cooking,” as well as sign copies. $10, ACA members; $12, non-members. Call 8030641-9094 or visit aikencenterforthearts.org. AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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Brown Bag Book Discussion, featuring “The Distant Hours” by Kate Morton, is Thursday, October 18, at 11:30 a.m. at the Columbia County Library. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org.

9:30 p.m. at the Augusta Ballet Studio on 2941 Walton Way. No partners needed. First visit free. Call 706-399-2477.

Harlem Branch Library Book Club examines “Fatally Flaky” by Diane Mott Davidson on Thursday, October 18, at 4 p.m. Call 706-556-9795 or visit ecgrl.org.

“Frozen,” a production of USC-Aiken and the University Theatre Players, shows Thursday-Saturday, October 11-13, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, October 14, at 2 p.m. at the Etherredge Center’s main stage. $15, adults; $12, seniors and faculty; $7, students. Call 803-641-3305 or visit usca.edu.

The 23rd Annual Augusta Greek Festival at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church downtown is Friday-Saturday, October 12-13, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday, October 14, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The event includes authentic Greek food and drinks, live music and entertainment, a market, church tours and more. Visit holytrinityaugusta.org.

“The Little Red Hen,” “The Sky Is Falling” and “Once Upon a Time in a Barnyard,” productions of the ASU Literacy Center’s Patchwork Players, shows Wednesday, October 17, at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. in the Maxwell Theatre. $3. Call 706-737-1625 or visit aug.edu.

Aiken Home Show is Friday, October 12, from noon-7 p.m. and Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the USC-Aiken Convocation Center. $5. Call 866-722-8877 or visit georgialinatix.com.

It’s Your Book Club examines “Silver Sparrow” by Tayari Jones on Thursday, October 18, at 6:30 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706821-2600 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.

Dance Ensemble Espanol Spanish Dance Theater, presented by the Aiken Performing Arts Group, performs Thursday-Friday, October 11-12, at 8 p.m. at the URS Center for the Performing Arts. $40, adults; $20, students. Call 803-648-1438 or visit apagonline.org. “Peter Pan,” a Columbia County Ballet production, is Saturday, October 13, at 7 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre. $10-$28. Call 706-722-8341 or visit imperialtheatre.com. Christian Singles Dance, a smoke-, alcohol- and drug-free event for those ages 40 and over, is each Saturday night at the Ballroom Dance Center in Evans. Dance lessons start at 7 p.m., and the dance begins at 8 p.m. No partners needed. $8, members; $10, guests. Visit christiandances.org. Tango Night is every Thursday, 7-9:30 p.m., at Casa Blanca Cafe, 936 Broad Street. Call 706-504-3431 or visit casablancatime.com. Belly Dance Class is every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Euchee Creek Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-556-0594 or visit ecgrl.org. Augusta International Folk Dance Club meets Tuesday nights from 7:30-

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Theater

Flix “The Avengers” shows Saturday, October 13, from 2-4:30 p.m. at the Aiken Public Library. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org. “The Lady” shows as part of the ASU Film series on Monday, October 15, at 7 p.m. Maxwell Theatre. $3. Call 706-667-4100 or visit aug.edu. “Otis Under Sky” shows as part of the Southern Circuit Film Series on Tuesday, October 16, at 6 p.m. at the Morris Museum of Art. a Discussion with filmmaker Anio Sepulveda follows. Free. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org. “Annie Liebowitz: Life Through a Lens” shows Tuesday, October 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Free. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org.

Special Events Oktoberfest at Fort Gordon begins Thursday, October 11, from 4-10 p.m. at Barton Field with a family carnival. The carnival continues Friday, October 12, from 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m.-midnight; and Sunday, October 14, from noon-6 p.m. Carnival: $10-$20. Other Oktoberfest activities include a vendor village on Friday, October 12, from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, October 13, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; a flea market

Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Live entertainment on Friday and Saturday; a Boss Car, truck and bike show on Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and more. Call 706-791-6779 or visit fortgordon.com.

20th Annual Hispanic Festival of Augusta is Friday, October 12, from 4 p.m.-midnight and Saturday, October 13, from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. The event features folkloric groups, live music, authentic food stands from several countries, arts and crafts, games for children, a night dance and more. $3. Visit elcervantino.org. The Georgia-Carolina State Fair is Friday, October 12-Sunday, October 21, at the Augusta Exchange Club fairgrounds downtown. Hours are Monday-Friday, from 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, from noon. Activities include a rides and games midway, food, agricultural exhibits, entertainment and more. Advance admission and ride tickets are on sale now and admissions specials are available daily at the gate. Visit georgiacarolinastatefair.org. Burgundy 2009 Tasting Event, led by Jean-Pierre Chambas of Aleph Wines, is Friday, October 12, at 7 p.m. at Wine World in North Augusta. $22, prepaid reservation; $30 at the door, if space is available. Call 803-279-9522 or visit wineworldsc.com. Beech Island Fall Festival and Yard Sale is Saturday, October 13, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Beech Island Historical Society. Call 803-827-0184. 27th Annual SEED (Science Education Enrichment Day) is Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at USC-Aiken and features more than 60 hands-on

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exhibits and activities, exhibitors, demonstrations and more. Free. Call 803641-3313 or visit rpsec.usca.edu/SEED. Seventh Annual CoCo Culinary and Wine Festival is Saturday, October 13, from 1-4 p.m. at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion. The event, for those 21 and older, includes food samples, more than 200 wines, imported beers, live jazz, door prizes and more. Visit csrawinefestival.com. Walk with the Spirits, a tour of historic Magnolia Cemetery led by spirit guides dressed in period costumes, is Saturday-Sunday, October 13-14, from 3-6 p.m. $15, adults; $10, children and groups of 10 or more. Pre-registration recommended and refreshments will be provided. Call 706724-0436 or visit historicaugusta.org. Beyond the Gravestone, a guided walk through the Beech Island Cemetery, is Saturday, October 13, at 4:30 p.m. at Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site. $6. Call 803-827-1473 or visit southcarolinaparks.com. Building Up for the Build, a Women Build Kitchen Tour featuring eight homes in downtown Aiken highlighting kitchen designs and décor, is Sunday, October 14, from 1-5 p.m. $18, advance; $20, day of. Call 803-642-9295 or visit aikenkitchentour.com. The Morris Goes to the Dawgs: Tailgating and Book Signing with Vince Dooley is Wednesday, October 17, from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Morris Museum of Art. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org. Mike Epps: I’m Still Standing Tour visits the Bell Auditorium Friday, October 17, at 7 p.m. $39.50-$47.50. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com. The Western Carolina State Fair is Thursday, October 18-Saturday, October 27, at the Aiken Fairgrounds. Hours are Monday-Friday from 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon. Activities include a ride and games midway, exhibits, a rodeo, demolition derby and more. Advanced admission and ride tickets are on sale now and admissions specials are available daily at the gate. Visit westerncarolinastatefair.com. The Corner Pumpkin Patch at Marvin United Methodist Church is open

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through Wednesday, October 31. Hours are Monday-Friday, noon-7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday, 1-6 p.m. Call 706-863-0510 or visit marvinchurch.com.

Weight Loss Surgery Seminar is Thursday, October 11, at 7 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-7212609 or visit georgiahealth.org.

Weekly Wine Tastings at Vineyard Wine Market in Evans are each Friday from Babies, Bumps and Bruises, a childcare and infant CPR class, is Thursday, October 11, from 7-9 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Free, but pre-registration 4:30-6:30 p.m. and each Saturday from 1-6 p.m. Call 706-922-9463 or required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net. visit vine11.com. Apres Market walking tour of downtown art galleries meets Saturdays at 2 p.m. at the Augusta Market at the River. The tour, which lasts until 5 p.m., includes live painting, children’s reading hours, demonstrations and discounts. Visit artistsrowaugusta.com. The Augusta Market at the River is every Saturday through October 27 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the 8th Street Bulkhead and features produce, arts and crafts and more for sale, as well as live music and entertainment. Call 706-627-0128 or visit theaugustamarket.com.

Health Mobile Mammography Screenings, offered by appointment, are available October 11 at Edgefield Medical Center, October 12 at Christ Community and University Hospital, October 15 at Belle Terrace Health and Wellness Center, October 16 at Internal Medicine Partners on Peach Orchard Road, October 17 at Scana Energy and October 18 at Aiken Fiberglass Yarn. Appointments can be made from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. each day. Call 706-7744145 or visit universityhealth.org. Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know, a seminar and dinner, is Thursday, October 11, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the North Augusta Municipal Building. Free, but pre-registration required. Visit universityhealth.org. Bariatric Seminar is Thursday, October 11, from 6-7 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-651-4343 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Women’s Center Tour is Thursday, October 11, from 7-9:30 p.m. at University Hospital. Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding Class meets Friday, October 12, from 9 a.m.-noon at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Free, but pre-registration required. Visit trinityofaugusta.com. Saturday Express Lamaze Class meets Saturday, October 13, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Free, but pre-registration required. Visit trinityofaugusta.com. Childbirth Tour is Saturday, October 13, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at GHSU’s Medical Center. Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-721-9351 or visit georgiahealth.org. HUG Your Baby infant care preparation class meets Monday, October 15, from 4-5 p.m. at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Free, but pre-registration required. Visit trinityofaugusta.com. Look Good, Feel Better, a class for female cancer patients who want to maintain their appearance and self-image during radiation and chemo, is Monday, October 15, from 5-7 p.m. at the American Cancer Society Office. Pre-registration required. Call 706-731-9900 or visit universityhealth.org. Full Support: Dealing with Breast Cancer is Monday, October 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. at University Hospital. Pre-registration required. Call 706-7744141 or visit universityhealth.org. Total Joint Replacement Class is Tuesday, October 16, from 1-3 p.m. at University Hospital. Call 706-774-2760 or visit universityhealth.org. Look Good, Feel Better, a class for female cancer patients who want to maintain their appearance and self-image during radiation and chemo, is

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georgiahealth.org. Prostate Cancer Support Group meets Tuesday, October 16, from 6-7:30 p.m. at GHSU’s Cancer Center. Call 706-721-0550 or visit georgiahealth.org. Blood Cancer/BMT Support Group meets Wednesday, October 17, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at GHSU’s Cancer Center. Call 706-721-9134 or visit georgiahealth.org. Trauma Support Group meets Wednesday, October 17, from noon-1 p.m. at GHSU’s Medical Center. Call 706721-0278 or visit georgiahealth.org. Weight Loss Support Group meets Thursday, October 18, from 6-7 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Call 706-6514343 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Beyond the Bars is a support group for those with incarcerated loved ones. For more information about meetings, call Gerry Nail at 706-855-8636.

Two festivals within walking distance of each other? Yes! The 23rd Annual Augusta Greek Festival is at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church downtown Friday-Saturday, October 12-13, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday, October 14, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The event includes authentic Greek food and drinks, live music and entertainment, a market, church tours and more. Visit holytrinityaugusta.org. Meanwhile, the 20th Annual Hispanic Festival of Augusta is Friday, October 12, from 4 p.m.-midnight and Saturday, October 13, from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. The event features folkloric groups, live music, authentic food stands from several countries, arts and crafts, games for children, a night dance and more. $3. Visit elcervantino.org. Tuesday, October 16, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at GHSU’s Cancer Center. Pre-registration required. Call 706721-0466 or visit georgiahealth.org. Ready and Able, a three-session class for those in their third trimesters of pregnancy, is Tuesdays, October 16-30, from 7-9:30 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Childbirth Education Class meets Wednesdays, October 17-November 7, at 6:30 p.m. at GHSU’s Medical Center. Pre-registration required. Call 706-721-9351 or visit georgiahealth.org. Everything You Need to Know about Cancer Awareness, a lunch seminar led by Dr. Mariam Atkins, is Thursday, October 18, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-6719 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Breastfeeding Class is Thursday, October 18, from 7-9 p.m. at Babies R. Us. Free, but preregistration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org. Baby 101 infant care class is Thursday, October 18, from 7-9:30 p.m. at Doctors Hospital. Preregistration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Saturday Mammograms will be available at GHSU between 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in October. Register by calling 706-721-9729 or visit georgiahealth.org/breasthealth. 24 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Diabetes Youth Support Group meets quarterly. For more information, call 706-868-3241 or visit universityhealth.org. Cardiac Support Group meets three times a year. For more information on meetings, as well as for pre-registration, call 706-774-5864 or visit universityhealth.org. Adult Sexual Assault and Rape Support meets for group counseling. For more information, call 706-7245200 or visit universityhealth.org. Narcotics Anonymous meets Fridays and Sundays at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Visit na.org.

Child Safety Seat Inspections and Car Seat Classes, sponsored by Safe Kids East Central, are offered by appointment at either the Safe Kids Office or MartinezColumbia Fire Rescue. Call 706-721-7606 or visit georgiahealth.org/safekids. Joint Efforts, presented by Trinity Hospital of Augusta, meets every Thursday from 11-11:45 a.m. at Augusta Bone and Joint, and features a free seminar about knee and hip pain, treatments, medication, food and exercise. Call 706-481-7604 or visit trinityofaugusta.com. Infant CPR Anytime Learning Program will be held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the first floor information desk (west entrance) of Georgia Health Sciences University. Visit georgiahealth.edu. Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatics Class meets every Monday and Friday at noon at the Wilson Family Y. Free for members; $3 for nonmembers. Pre-registration required. Call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9664 or visit thefamilyy.org. Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Orientation is every Monday at 6 p.m. and Tuesday at 2 p.m. at University Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute (Classroom 3). Call 706-774-5548 or visit universityhealth.org. Adapted Wii Special Populations available by appointment at the Wilson Family Y, and feature individual ½-hour classes for physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. $10, members; $20, non-members. Call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9662 or visit thefamilyy.org.

Support ALS Support Group meets Thursday, October 11, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at GHSU’s Medical Office Building. Call 706-721-2681 or visit georgiahealth.org. Breast Cancer Support Group meets Thursday, October 11, from 12:30-2 p.m. at GHSU’s Cancer Center. Call 706-721-4109 or visit georgiahealth.org. Brain Injury Support Group meets Thursday, October 11, from 6-7:30 p.m. at NeuroRestorative Georgia. Open to survivors and their family members and caregivers. Call 706-829-0370 or visit wrh.org. Cancer Survivor Support Group meets Thursday, October 11, from 6-7 p.m. at Augusta Oncology Associates. Call 706-651-2283 or visit doctorshospital.net. PFLAG, a support group for LGBT people and their parents, family, friends and allies, meets Thursday, October 11, at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Augusta. Call 803-645-1436 or visit pflag.org. ALS Support Group meets Friday, October 12, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at GHSU’s Medical Office Building. Call 706-721-2681 or visit georgiahealth.org. Spine Education and Support Group meets Monday, October 15, from 1-2:30 p.m. at University Hospital. Visit universityhealth.org. CSRA Gyn Cancer Suppor t Group meets Monday, October 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Augusta Oncology Associates. Call 706-721-5557 or visit

AA meets every Sunday and Wednesday at 7:15 p.m. at Aiken Regional Medical Centers’ Aurora Pavilion, and includes an open discussion. Call 800-322-8322 or visit aikenregional.com. Burn Support Group meets every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at Doctors Hospital’s Lori Rogers Nursing Library, JMS Building. All burn survivors, and their families and friends are welcome. Call Tim Dorn at 706-651-6660 or visit doctors-hospital.net. Moms Connection, a free support group for new mothers and their babies, meets Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. at Georgia Health Sciences Building 1010C. Call 706-721-9351 or visit georgiahealth.org.

Education Word Processing Basics, a two-session class, meets Thursdays, October 11 and 18, at 10 a.m. at the Diamond Lakes Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-772-2432 or visit ecgrl.org. Don’t Get Scammed, a fraud prevention seminar, is Friday, October 12, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Aiken Public Library. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org. Getting Even: An Analysis of Compensation, Retribution and Revenge, a Psychology Series lecture led by Dr. Kimberly K. Mannahan, is Friday, October 12, at noon at ASU’s University Hall room 170. Call 706-667-4620 or visit aug.edu. The Other Tubmans, part of the Voices of the Past Series, is Saturday, October 13, at the Augusta Museum of History, at noon, 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Free with museum admission. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.

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Tangled Threads Quilting Demonstration is Sunday, October 14, from 1-4 p.m. at the Augusta Museum of History. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.

GED Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-8212600 or visit ecgrl.org.

black-tie optional event features live art, live music, food, an open bar, chocolates and other desserts, silent auctions and more. $75. Call 706737-4631 or visit childenrichment.org.

University Consolidation Forums, featuring ASU Interim President Shirley Kenny and GHSU President Ricardo Azziz, are Monday, October 15, at noon in ASU’s Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre and at 3 p.m. in GHSU’s Natalie and Lansing B. Lee Jr. Auditorium. Visit asughsu.org.

Free Tutoring for all ages, offered by ASU’s Literacy Center, is available by appointment Mondays-Thursday, from 4-8 p.m., at the center at 1401 Magnolia Drive. Appointments required. Call 706-737-1625 or visit aug.edu.

Intro to the Internet Class is Tuesday, October 16, and Thursday, October 18, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-722-6275 or visit ecgrl.org.

Work Networking Group is held each Monday from 8:30-10 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church in North Augusta. A networking and informational meeting for anyone looking for a job, the group meets in room 206 of the Asbury Building and is facilitated by career and business professionals. Call 803-279-7525 or email doctor@pritchardgroup.com.

Lock, Stock & Barrel, a shooting tournament to raise funds for the Augusta Training Shop, is Saturday, October 13, at Pinetucky Gun Club in Blythe, with registration from 1-3 p.m., the tournament at 3 p.m., awards at 7 p.m. and dinner at 8 p.m. $100, individuals; $75, military and public service personnel; $50, youth; and $475 for a five-person team. Call 706-7381358 or visit augustatrainingshop.com.

Sierra Club Meeting is Tuesday, October 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church’s meeting room. Eddie Ehlert, Georgia Sierra Club’s political chair, will discuss state and local environmental issues as they relate to the upcoming election. Free and open to the public. Email Sam Booher at sbooher@aol.com. Power Point I computer class is Wednesday, October 17, at the Headquarters Branch Library. A valid PINES card and pre-registration are required. Call 706-821-2604 or visit ecgrl.org. Basic Computer Boot Camp Part 2 meets Wednesday, October 17, from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org. Computer Hardware Basics, a two-session computer class, meets Wednesdays, October 17 and 24, at 6 p.m. at the Diamond Lakes Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-772-2432 or visit ecgrl.org.

Computer classes are offered every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. Call 706-722-6275 or visit ecgrl.org. ESL classes are offered every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Headquarters Branch Library (Third Floor Writing Lab). Pre-registration required. Call Charles Garrick at 803-279-3363 or visit ecgrl.org. Intermediate Spanish Language Class is each Monday from 2:30-4 p.m. at Friedman Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-736-6758 or visit ecgrl.org. Beginner’s Spanish Language Class is each Monday from 4-5 p.m. at Friedman Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-736-6758 or visit ecgrl.org.

Benefit

Spanish 101, a six-week course for those ages 16 and older, is held Thursdays beginning October 18, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Kroc Center. $80, members; $90, non-members. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org.

Oyster Roast and Barbecue, a benefit for STAR Riding Inc., is Friday, October 12, from 6-9 p.m. at Black Forest Equestrian Center in Aiken. $30, advance; $35, door. Call 803-270-2575 or 803-652-3231, or visit starriding.org.

The Joy of Signing meets each Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-noon at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org.

The 17th Annual Art of Chocolate, a benefit for Child Enrichment Inc., is Friday, October 12, at 7 p.m. at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion. The

26 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Alumni and Friends Chefs Showcase, a benefit for the Augusta Mini Theatre in celebration of its 37th year that features the food of 25 chefs and caterers, is Sunday, October 14, at 2 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel and Suites. $37, adults; $16, students. Call 706-722-0598 or visit augustaminitheatre.com. CRSA Christmas Outreach 2012, for those looking for financial assistance for children’s Christmas gifts, is accepting applications Tuesday, October 16-Thursday, October 18, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center. Those interested need to bring verification of income, picture ID for adults in the household, and birth certificates, Social Security cards or current Medicaid card for each child in the household. Call 706-364-6484. Symphony of Wine: Brew with a View, a benefit for Symphony Orchestra Augusta, is Thursday, October 18, at 7 p.m. at the Richmond on Greene. The event features live bluegrass, hors d’oeuvres, a beer and wine tasting and more. $50. Raffle tickets are $10 or $25 for three. Call 706-8264719 or visit soaugusta.org. The Lucky 13th: A Taste of Wine and Art, a benefit for the Aiken Center for the Arts, is Thursday, October 18 from 7-10 p.m. at the center, and will feature more than 23 Aiken restaurants and caterers, wine and beer, visual arts, live music, a silent auction and more. $50, ACA members; $53, non-members. Call 803-641-9094 or visit aikencenterforthearts.org. Karma Yoga is offered at Just Breathe Studio, downtown Aiken, each Friday

11OCTOBER2012

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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.

welcome, and those interested should bring a pair of cleats (cross trainers will work) a mouthguard, gym shorts and a T-shirt. Visit augustarugby.org or Facebook under the Augusta Rugby Club heading.

Sports-Outdoors

BlazeSports Swim Team, for all ages of physically challenged swimmers who want to train for competition, meets at the Wilson Family Y. $35 a month, members; $50 a month, non-members. Pre-registration required. Visit thefamilyy.org.

Run Through the Fall 5K is Saturday, October 13, at 8 a.m. at the Aiken State Park. Call 803-642-7559 or visit aikencountysc.gov/tourism/ index.htm. Beech Island Garden Club Plant Sale is Saturday, October 13, starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Beech Island Historical Society. Fall Line Finds, a Canal Discovery Walk series tour that explores archeological sites along the fall line, is Saturday, October 13, at 10 a.m. and Sunday, October 14, at 3 p.m. beginning at the Lockkeeper’s Cottage at the Savannah Rapids Park. Free, Canal Keeper members; $2, nonmembers. Call 706-823-0440 or visit augustacanal.com. ASU’s volleyball team plays USC-Aiken in the Jaguar Invitational on Wednesday, October 17, at 7 p.m. at Christenberry Field House. Call 706731-7925 or visit aug.edu. Fall Fest at Graystone Ranch Wildlife Education Center and Nature Park is going on through November 30, on Fridays and from 10 a.m.-midnight and Sundays from noon-midnight. the event includes a haunted hayride and fireworks over the lake through November 3, hiking, fishing, boat rides, exotic animal tours, petting zoos, a pumpkin patch, a hay maze, photos with the scarecrow, zip lines and more. $10. Visit graystoneranch.com. Kroc Trotters Running Group, for those ages 16 and older, meets each Tuesday and Thursday at the Kroc Center to run the trails of the Augusta Canal. Free, members; $15, non-members. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. The Augusta Rugby Club holds weekly practice sessions at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Larry Bray Memorial Pitch, 100 Wood Street in Augusta, adjacent to the Augusta GreenJackets’ stadium at Lake Olmstead. Experienced rugby players and newbies ages 18 and up are

Zumba Sentao and Zumba classes meet every Monday and Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Aiken County Recreation Center on Jefferson Davis Highway in Graniteville, S.C. $6 per class, with coupons available. Call 706627-1767. Wheelchair Tennis is 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 visit alsalley@wrh.org. Augusta Canal Boat Tours lasting one hour are offered Monday-Saturday at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Sunday at 1:30, 3 and 4:30 p.m. All tours include admission to the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center. Call 706-823-0440 or visit augustacanal.com. The Augusta Fencers Club is open five nights a week from 5:30-9 p.m. and most Saturday mornings from 10 a.m.-noon. Visitors always welcome. Call 706-722-8878.

fast pace. Front and rear lights, as well as a helmet, are required. Call 706724-6777 or visit andyjordans.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, firstserved basis, and participants should arrive 30 minutes prior to the trail ride starting for sign in procedures. $23-$30. Call 706-791-4864 or visit fortgordon.com. Zumba with Sohailla is every Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the Ballroom Dance Center in Evans. Call 706-421-6168 or visit zumbawithsohailla. blogspot.com. Saturday Historic Trolley Tours are Saturdays from 1:30-3:15 p.m. at the Augusta Museum of History. Reservations required 24 hours in advance. $12. Call 706-724-4067 or visit augustamuseum.org. 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 2 p.m., is a two-hour guided ride to Wilkerson Lake. $45-$50. Call 706-791-4864 or visit fortgordon.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.

Weekly Group Runs include the Monday Metro Run meeting at Metro Coffeehouse at 6 p.m.; Monday Intervals meeting at the Family Y track on Wheeler Road at 7 p.m.; the Tuesday Nacho Mama’s Group Run at 6 p.m.; Wednesday’s Blanchard Woods Group Run at 6 p.m.; Wednesday Stay in Shape Group Run at 6 p.m.; Wednesday’s Post Office Hill Training Run at 7 p.m.; Thursday’s Homer Hustle at 6 p.m.; and Saturday’s Stay in Shape Run at 8 a.m. For more information, visit augustastriders.com.

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 803-215-8181 or visit augustadiscgolf.com.

Hott Shott Disc Golf is each Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Killer B Disc Golf, 863 Broad Street, and features games and prizes for all ages and skill levels. $2. Call 706-814-7514 or visit killerbdiscgolf.blogspot.com/p/hott-shott.

Road Bike Ride meets each Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Andy Jordan’s Bicycle Warehouse downtown for an approximately 25-mile ride at a moderate to

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p.m. at the Aiken Public Library. Legos supplied by the library. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org. Portmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rock band student concert is Thursday, October 11, at 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org. Freedom Friday at the Family Y of South Augusta, for kids ages 8 weeks-12 years, is Friday, October 12, from 6-9:30 p.m. Free for active-duty military families. Visit thefamilyy.org. Red Cross Babysitting Course, for those ages 11 and older, is Saturday, October 13, from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Kroc Center. $50, members; $65, non-members. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. Growing Boys, a class on the pre-adolescent years for boys ages 9-12 and their fathers, male relatives or friends, is Saturday, October 13, from 9:30 a.m.-noon at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. $10. Visit trinityofaugusta.com. Beginner Drawing Class, for ages 5-12, is Saturday, October 13, at 2 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org. Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Night Out at the Marshall Family Y and the Family Y of North Augusta, for kids ages 2-12, is Saturday, October 13, from 6-9:30 p.m. $12, members; $20, non-members. Pre-registration required. Visit thefamilyy.org.

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YA@AL Kickoff and Slogan/Logo Winner Reception is Sunday, October 14, at 3 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706-821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org. Teen Reed Week Festival, featuring crafts, literary activities, a movie and refreshments, is Tuesday, October 16, from 4-7 p.m. at the Columbia County Library. Free. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org.

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28 METROSPIRITAUGUSTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

will receive a free book. Blankets, chairs, drinks and snacks are welcome. If the weather is bad, storytime will move to inside the Weeks Activities Center. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Preschool Story Time (ages 2 and under) is every Wednesday at Headquarters Branch Library at 10 a.m. KinderCare Story Time (ages 3-6) is every Tuesday at 10 a.m. Group registration required. Call 706-8212600 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time is every Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Diamond Lakes Branch Library. Groups of six or more must preregister. Call 706-772-2432 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time is every Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Friedman Branch Library. Groups of six or more must preregister. Call 706-736-6758 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time is every Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Wallace Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706722-6275 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time is each Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Maxwell Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-793-2020 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time at the Columbia County Library is each Tuesday at 10:15 and 11 a.m. for those under 2; Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10:15 a.m. for 2-year-olds; Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11 a.m. for preschoolers; and Wednesdays for families with kids of all ages. Call 706-863-1946 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time at the Euchee Creek Branch Library, for all ages, is each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. and each Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. Call 706-556-0594 or visit ecgrl.org. Story Time is every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at Harlem Branch Library. Call 706-556-9795 or visit ecgrl.org.

French Language Class, for those is grades 1-5, is Wednesday, October 17, at 4 p.m. at the Aiken Public Library. Free, but pre-registration required. Call 803642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org.

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 803-6427631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov.

Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Out in the Library, featuring a showing of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Avengers,â&#x20AC;? is Thursday, October 18, from noon-4 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Call 706821-2600 or visit ecgrl.org.

Toddler Time, free play for children ages 5 and under, is each Monday and Wednesday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov.

eBooks for Teens, a Teen Read Week activity for those ages 12-17, is Thursday, October 18, at 3 p.m. at the Diamond Lakes Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-772-2432 or visit ecgrl.org.

Wacky Wednesday Story Time is each Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s department of Barnes and Noble in the Augusta Mall. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

YA@AL Ghost Story Contest is accepting submissions online and at the library October 1-19. Call 706-8212600 or visit surveymonkey.com/s/JWMDR7N.

Story Time is every Wednesday at Appleby Branch Library from 10:05-10:20 a.m. for toddlers 18 months-35 months, and from 10:30-11:15 a.m. for preschoolers ages 3 and up. Parent must stay with child. Call 706-736-6244 or visit ecgrl.org.

Kroc Tots Activity Hours, for those 5 and under, meets every Friday from 9-10 a.m. at the Kroc Center. Free, members; $1, non-members. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. Homeschool PE Time, for those elementary school aged, meets Monday-Friday, from 9-11 a.m. at the Kroc Center. Free, members; call for non-member prices. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. Storytime in the Gardens is each Tuesday in October at 4 p.m. at Hopelands Gardens behind the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame. Local senior adults will read childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books and each family who attends

Story Time is every Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. for Pre-K, and either 11 or 11:30 a.m. for preschoolers at Aiken County Public Library. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org. Story Time is every Wednesday from 10:30-11 a.m. for toddlers and 11:15-11:45 a.m. for preschoolers at North Augusta Branch Library. Call 803-279-5767 or abbe-lib.org.

Seniors AARP Driver Safety Program is Thursday-Friday, 11OCTOBER2012

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October 18-19, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Trinity Hospital of Augusta. $14. Pre-registration required. Visit trinityofaugusta.com. Silver Sneakers, a senior exercise class, meets each Wednesday and Friday from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Kroc Center. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, a class for seniors, meets Wednesdays through October 17 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Kroc Center. Free. Call 706-364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org. 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. 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. Line Dancing is each Tuesday at the Weeks Center in Aiken at 10 a.m. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov. Yoga I and II are 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 Hands On with the 1940 Census, a genealogy program, is Thursday, October 18, at 2 p.m. at the Headquarters Branch Library. Pre-registration required. Call 706-826-1511 or visit ecgrl.org. Belly Dancing Classes are held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. Call 706-722-6275 or visit ecgrl.org.

Spiritual Anniversary Weekend Celebration in honor of Trinity CME’s 172nd anniversary, begins Friday, October 12, with a Heritage Gala at the Doubletree Hotel, and continues Saturday with a gold tournament at Pointe South Golf Club. It concludes Sunday, October 14, in the church’s sanctuary at 3 p.m. with a service with the theme The Power of an Essential Church. Call 706796-2550 or visit trinitycmeaugusta.com. Francesca Battistelli, Andy Cherry and City Harbor perform Friday, October 12, at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of North Augusta. $20, advance; $23, day of show; $30, VIP, including Q&A session with Battistelli; $16, groups of 10 more. Call 803-8193125 or visit wafj.com. Bible Teaching Seminar, featuring the birth of Samson, is Saturday, October 13, from noon-1 p.m. at the 11OCTOBER2012

Friedman Branch Library. Participants should bring their Bibles. Visit donaldsao.com. Byrd Family 54th Anniversary Celebration-Service is Sunday, October 14, at 10 a.m. at Bible Fellowship Church in Martinez. The service includes Naomi and the Segos, the Byrd Family and guest speaker Dr. Roy Rogers. A barbecue will be held afterwards. All events are free and open to the public. Call 706-922-5314. Sunday activities at the Kroc Center include an adult Bible class at 9:30 a.m., youth Sunday school at 9:45 a.m., and a worship service at 11 a.m. Free. Call 706364-5762 or visit krocaugusta.org.

Volunteers United Hospice of Aiken, which covers Aiken, Edgefield, McCormick, Barnwell and Allendale counties, needs volunteers to visit with patients or work in the office. Training is provided. Call 803-641-0060 or email kathibault@uhs-pruitt.com. Rape Crisis and Sexual Assault Services is seeking volunteer advocates for Richmond, Burke, Jefferson and McDuffie counties. Advocates answer crisis calls and respond to hospitals in their area within 30 minutes. Call 706-774-2746 or email volunteerrcsas@ uh.org. MACH Academy is looking for volunteers to provide tutoring, academic support and mentoring services during fall after-school sessions held MondayThursday from 3:30-6 p.m. Call 706-796-5046, email mparks37@comcast.net or visit machacademy.com. Hospice Care of America’s Augusta office needs administrative and patient care volunteers. No experience necessary; training will be provided. Call Rich Boland at 706-447-2626 or email rboland@ msa-corp.com.

Elsewhere Blythe Fever is Saturday, October 13, beginning with a parade at 10 a.m. and continuing throughout the day with food, vendors and children’s activities, and ends with a street dance that night. Call 706-592-4988. Thursday Nights at the High, a special event at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, offers half price tickets from 4-8 p.m. each Thursday. A guided tour is offered at 6:30 p.m. Call 404-733-4200 or visit high.org.

If you would like to see your organization’s events listed in our calendar, please email Amy Christian at amy@themetrospirit.com. The deadline for each Thursday’s issue is the previous Friday at noon.

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Movie Night The way we went movies may have changed, but the late fees stuck around When I was little, every Friday night was spent eating pizza (pepperoni, mushrooms) and renting movies (often “Goonies,” “Faerie Tale Theatre,” “Ghostbusters” or “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”). The pizza part is still pretty much the same. The movie part isn’t. Remember when you’d go to the movie store (Turtles!?!) and spend half an hour looking at the cardboard boxes? If you couldn’t find the one you wanted, you could go ask the checker outer person if anyone had brought one in while you were looking. Once the movies were home, you really, really hoped they didn’t jam in the VHS player, spraying shiny tape all over the place. When my kids were little, Movie Gallery was the place, and having a toddler in there was a nightmare. At least the shelves were in alphabetical order, so you could try to return the boxes to order. I guess Netflix came along after that. You could rent any movie you wanted, but you had to wait until the next day to get it? It took a while to get used to it, but eventually all of the movie stores closed up shop. We don’t subscribe to the Netflix that sends you actual DVDs, because I could never remember to send them back. I’m pretty sure I still have their copy of (the only season of) “My So Called Life” in the junk drawer. Thinking back to the ‘80s and days of VHS tapes, who would’ve known that I could get directly on the internet through my TV and stream movies. Hell, we didn’t even know about the internet. So we’ve come a long way. Now, the newest thing is the kiosks. Blockbuster and Redbox seem to be at every store now. You can even rent movies at the gas station. They’re cheap to rent, and since the kiosks are everywhere, they’re easy to return. In theory. I’ve paid the maximum thirty something dollars for more than one movie. The other day, I was at the gas station kiosk, and all I had to do was return my DVD. I was all proud of myself, because I’d remembered, just before the 9 p.m. deadline, that we had a movie to return. Forget the fact that we never actually watched it. At least I remembered to take it back! I walked up to the kiosk and noticed a couple looking through the movie choices. I laughed to myself, because they were both under the sunshade, using it as a little tent, as if it was too heavy to hold up. Seeing that it was nearly 9, I’m sure you already guessed that it was dark. Under the little shade they huddled. I could hear them discussing the various genres. She wanted a love story. He wanted action. He doesn’t like that guy. She just loves that girl. I was starting to get a little restless. All I had to do was return my movie. It takes less than 10 seconds, and 9 o’clock was quickly approaching. And then they were arguing. They were yelling. “Um, pardon me? Any chance I can just return my movie? No? Oh, okay. I’ll wait.” I waited. 9 p.m. passed. I would be paying for another day’s rental. Suddenly I realized that they weren’t fighting about the movies anymore. This was a full-blown domestic disturbance. They finally noticed me standing there. He felt bad about it, and told her that I should go ahead. She had a totally different opinion. I was two steps away from getting in my car to find a

30 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

different kiosk, when they seemed to be wrapping things up. She was clicking on movie titles, and I think she let him choose one, too. Sweet. And then her card was declined. As in, she just spent 15 minutes trying to rent eight movies, and she didn’t have any money. Bless. Oh, I’m not judging. I’ve had my fair share of low bank balances. I just wish I’d beaten them to the kiosk. Maybe if they’d simply agreed on one movie, she’d have had the funds to cover it. I wasn’t in any position to make suggestions. The strangest part? The guy came out of the convenience store with a sixpack of beer. So why on earth didn’t he pay for the movies? Girl, rather than worrying so much about what movie you want to watch with him, you might want to think about returning him. I’ll cover the late fees.

JENNYWRIGHT 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.

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And the Nominees Are?

Didn’t know NWA and Public Enemy were rock ‘n’ roll

Each year we welcome in a new class of groups to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. And with every year, it makes you question the definition of “Rock ‘n’ Roll.” But nonetheless, all the artists that are nominated each year have had at least one single that makes you go, “Oh yeah, I know them!” You become eligible to be nominated for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after the release of your first record. The hall considers influence and significance of the artists’ contributions to the development and perpetuation of rock ‘n’ roll; that’s according to their website. Leading this year’s nominees are two of the biggest acts in music history. They changed music forever, and the big artists of today quote them as major influences. Unfortunately, they aren’t rock ‘n’ roll. I am referring to NWA and Public Enemy. These amazing groups are two of the biggest hip-hop innovators of our time, so they are joining the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame? I’m not putting down songs such as “Straight Outta Compton,” “F*** the Police” and “911 (Is a Joke).” I’m also not putting down Dr. Dre, Ice Cube or Flava Flav, because they all scare me in their own way. I also respect them all. But I have to ask, is there a Hip Hop Hall of Fame? If so, would Bruce Springsteen be inducted, let alone nominated? I doubt it. Maybe “Rock ‘n’ Roll” doesn’t stand for rock music. Is “Rock ‘n’ Roll” an attitude, a persona, maybe a reputation? Maybe the definition is left up to you. I believe NWA is more “Rock ‘n’ Roll” then 90 percent of the current groups in the Hall of Fame. With the chance of sounding extremely cheesy, I think you are “Rock ‘n’ Roll” if you truly believe it. There are plenty of rock bands to fill up your ballots for this year’s class. Deep Purple, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Heart and Canadian rockers Rush. Slappa da bass. I cannot think of any reason why all of these bands shouldn’t be inducted. Even with Rush being the biggest nerd circuses of rock music, they are amazing. How can you argue with tracks like “Limelight,” “Fly By Night,” “Subdivisions” and “Tom Sawyer?” Of course, there are other notables on the list that skew the definition of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame, like Donna Summer and Randy Newman. If you want your voice to be heard, for the first time ever, voting will be open to the public until December 5. You can head over to rollingstone.com for more details on how you can cast your vote. It is the voting season, you know. Hey look, people are doing good things in our community. Rock Out For Cancer is this Saturday, October 13, at First Round Bar on 11th Street. The show begins at 4 p.m. and there is a $2 cover charge, with all the proceeds going to the local chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for Doctor’s Hospital. You can see some great local bands like Severed Halo, Allgood Asylum and Stillview, just to name a few. Check them out on Facebook to get more details and you can come out and see me. I’ll be broadcasting live for 95 Rock from 8-10 p.m., auctioning off a drumhead signed by the members of Papa Roach. It’s for a good cause, and I’m pretty sure if you show up it will get you into Heaven. There is definitely one band that comes to Augusta and every girl in the city will be there. I’m talking about Hinder. Hinder, along with Lyman, Within Reason and Augusta’s own False Flag will be at the Country Club on Tuesday, October 16. Tickets are only $20. Last, if you are looking for a great cover band, check out the Talking Heads cover band Same as it Ever Was on Thursday, October 18, at Sky City. What shows are you checking out that you want me to write about? Have you gone to the Whisky Bar yet? Can I come? What does NWA stand for? Email me at matt@themetrospirit.com.

MATTSTONE can be heard weekdays from 2-6 p.m. on 95 Rock. 11OCTOBER2012

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Are you so frustrated with your computer you’ve considered tossing it out the window? Is it so slow you can barely use it? Are you having trouble getting to your favorite web page... or facebood? Are you even tempted to teake it to one of those Big Box Stores for service? Think again! Do you really want the place that sells you envelopes or flat screen TVs working on your computer? Bring it to ComputerOne today... and our real computer guys will make it all better at a price you can afford. We’re the opposite of a Big Box Store. We’re the little store in Fairway Square and although we have our own of computer experts, we dont really call them geeks (at least to their faces). They’re just competent, skilled computer technicians with the know-how to clean up your computer at a reasonable price and get you back on the internet fast. And although we’re not keeping score, given the fact we’re celebrating our 25th anniversary this year, it is very likely we’ve sold and repaired more computers than any other company in Augusta... and we have thousands of satisfied customers to prove it.

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AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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Michael Johnson

mejphoto.photoreflect.com

Lisa Curley, Emily Stevenson, Nicole McLeod and Christine Anderson at the VIP party at the opening of the Westobou Festival at the Old Academy of Richmond County.

SIGHTINGS

Anna El Gammal, Lawrence Kearney and Mary Houston at the VIP party at the opening of the Westobou Festival at the Old Academy of Richmond County.

Mary and Scott Davis with Cindy Bachelder and Lucy Murray at the VIP party at the opening of the Westobou Festival at the Old Academy of Richmond County.

SIGHTINGS

Katy Ledford, Jennifer Jeffares and Anna Getzinger at the VIP party at the opening of the Westobou Festival at the Old Academy of Richmond County.

Emma Kate Few, Julie Easterlin, Maya Rubio and Eliza Easterlin at the Julia Easterlin and Bean Worley concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

SIGHTINGS

Jennifer Guilbeau, Natalee Greubel and Rose Mary Fields at the Julia Easterlin and Bean Worley concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

36 METROSPIRITAUGUSTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Frank and Christine Anderson with Bill and Robin Barfield at the Janelle Monae concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

Tara Scheyer, Erin Jocobs and Josh Gonzalez Easterlin at the Julia Easterlin and Bean Worley concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

Michael Johnson

mejphoto.photoreflect.com

Jane Marie Kensey, Lauren Robbins and Ansley Kuhlke at the Janelle Monae concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

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SIGHTINGS

Mary Margaret Kilpatrick, Kristen Weston, Gilchist Phillips and Catherine Knox at the Janelle Monae concert at the Parade Grounds of the Old Academy of Richmond County.

Haley Edmunds, Avrey Miller, Michelle White and Mackenzie Simpkins at Border Bash at the Augusta Common.

Vivian Barrientos, Beth Bargeron, Samantha Parkinson and Cassie Mercer at the L.A. Dance Project performance at the Imperial Theatre.

SIGHTINGS

Marsha Laverne, Trish Thigpen and Katie Olmstead at the Amateur Series performance at the Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center.

Anne Catherine Murray, Matt Arnett, Turner Simkins and Westobou Festival Executive Director Molly McDowell Mercer at the L.A. Dance Project performance at the Imperial Theatre.

Chris Stephens, Gabriel Smith and Prithy Siniha at Border Bash at the Augusta Common.

SIGHTINGS

Lynn Forbes, Melissa Best, Ashley Drummond and Laura Jane Turner at the ribbon cutting of the Legends Club.

Delreb Peige, Crystal Wheeler and Stephen Gillian during the Zombie Walk at 1102 Downtown.

UGA Cheerleaders Erin Gillis and Devon Dasher with Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emily Bordon and Nicole Ranieri at Border Bash at the Augusta Common.

- Kenny, Owner of Aces and Eights Tattoo & Piercing

11OCTOBER2012

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THE

BOX TOPS

Apparently moviegoers love Neeson the enforcer.

EIGHT

RANK

TITLE

WEEKEND GROSS

TOTAL GROSS

WEEK #

LAST WEEK

TAKEN 2

$49,514,769

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA

$27,053,395

$76,711,927

PITCH PERFECT

$14,846,830

$21,693,038

LOOPER

$12,116,001

$40,216,652

FRANKENWEENIE

$11,412,213

“Taken 2”

SAMEIFLING

More of the same: Neeson cracking skulls

So it looks like “Taken 2” made $50 million last weekend, the thirdbiggest October opening in the history of movies. This says as much about October movies as it does about “Taken 2,” unfortunately: It couldn’t top the openings of the second “Jackass” movie or the third “Paranormal Activity.” The second “Taken” benefitted from the fact that the first had the memorable line in which Liam Neeson tells a kidnapper to release his daughter or be tracked down and killed. Apparently people liked the thought of Neeson, a refined Northern Irish yeti of a man, tracking down and murdering Eurotrash human traffickers in search of his teenager. Vaulting from that appeal, Neeson has made a tidy little career of kicking people’s (and wolves’, and aliens’, and Greek gods’) asses in the years since. Neeson’s back in “Taken 2” doing more of the same, in a movie that feels like more of the same throughout. His retired CIA agent turned security specialist is trying to maintain a normal fatherly presence with his now college-aged daughter, played again by Maggie Grace (b. 1983). He’s also gently macking on his ex-wife, Famke Janssen (nee Jean Grey in the “X-Men” films), who’s having trouble with her new husband, some Beemer-driving jerk we never actually see. Gosh, well, why don’t mother and daughter accompany the former spook on a bit of sightseeing in Istanbul? That sure sounds like a way to get everyone bonding again. Except that the kidnapper gang of Albanian psychopaths from the first movie is burying their dead and talking of revenge against our hero. Apparently the main kidnapper from “Taken” had a dad — Rade Serbedzija looking a bit like the Most Interesting Man in the World after a month-long beach bender. He wants to kill Neeson real slow on the same godforsaken hill where he planted the son he dutifully raised into a violent kidnapper. In sequelworld, a dumb and usually repetitive place, this setup at least qualifies as logical, being a natural extension of the original story, with the added bonus that it mirrors the moving force (monomaniacal fatherly love) of “Taken.” But most of what unfolds in “Taken 2” is implausible, derivative and pat. (Wait, you mean the one overseas trip that his family joins is the one in which these gangsters plan his abduction?) Worse, no one is particularly interesting — not the leads, not the track-suited thugs chasing them in SUVs. Chess pieces have more distinct personalities than

the characters of “Taken 2.” This is closer a game of checkers that devolves into neck-breakings. Meanwhile Olivier Megaton directs-by-numbers. Luc Besson, who wrote “Taken” and the “Transporter” movies, is back with a script that unfolds like action movie Mad Libs. The last alleged joke in the 91-minute running time has the daughter asking the father not to shoot her boyfriend as they all sit down to milkshakes. (Oh, spoiler: The good guys go for milkshakes at the end.) It’s supposed to sound playful-ironic but it’s just grim and dumb after he has pumped bullets into every gun-toting lunk in Istanbul, smashing great chunks of the old city along the way. Give “Taken 2” credit for this much: The car chases are as spectacular as they are utterly unbelievable. Things explode, satisfyingly. And there are some fine hand-to-hand fighting scenes between Neeson (b. 1952) and some equally wellaged goons. Now, you may wonder, what are their names? What are their stories? Why should you care what happens? No time for silly questions. Old man Neeson has necks to break.

THE8ERS Movie times are subject to change.

The Big Mo

Gates open at 7 p.m.; shows begin at 8:30 p.m. October 12-13 Field 1: Argo (R) and Trouble with the Curve (PG-13-); Field 2: Taken 2 (PG-13) and House at the End of the Street (PG-13); Field 3: Looper (R) and End of Watch (R).

Masters 7 Cinemas

October 12 Premium Rush (PG-13) 4:45, 7:45, 9:50; Sparkle (PG-13) 7:30; Total Recall (PG-13) 4, 9:50; The Dark Knight Rises (PG-13) 3:45, 4:30, 7, 8, 10:15; Ice Age: Continental Drift (PG) 5:15, 7:30, 9:40; Madea’s Witness Protection (PG-13) 4:15, 10; Brave (PG) 5, 7:15, 9:30; The Avengers (PG-13) 6:45

38 METROSPIRITAUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

October 13 Premium Rush (PG-13) 12:15, 2:30, 4:45, 7:45, 9:50; Sparkle (PG-13) 1:15, 7:30; Total Recall (PG-13) 4, 9:50; The Dark Knight Rises (PG-13) 12:15, 1, 3:30, 4:30, 7, 8, 10:15; Ice Age: Continental Drift (PG) 12:45, 3, 5:15, 7:30, 9:40; Madea’s Witness Protection (PG-13) 4:15, 10; Brave (PG) 12:30, 2:45, 5, 7:15, 9:30; The Avengers (PG-13) 12:45, 6:45

3:15, 4:30, 5:30, 6:45, 7:45, 9:15, 10:05; Hotel Transylvania (PG) 12:45, 3, 5:10, 7, 7:30, 9:50; Looper (R) 12:50, 3:50, 6:50, 9:40; Pitch Perfect (PG-13) noon, 2:30, 5, 7:30, 10; End of Watch (R) 7:40, 10:05; House at the End of the Street (PG-13) noon, 2:20, 4:40, 9:25; Trouble with the Curve (PG-13) 1:40, 4:30, 7:20, 9:55; Finding Nemo 3D (G) 12:10, 2:40, 5:10

Evans Cinemas

Regal Exchange 20

October 12-13 Argo (R) 1:10, 4:10, 7:10, 9:55; Here Comes the Boom (PG) noon, 2:25, 4:50, 7:15, 9:45; Seven Psychopaths (R) 1, 4, 6:55, 9:30; Sinister (R) 1:15, 4:15, 7, 9:40; Frankenweenie (PG) 12:30, 2:50, 5:20, 7:35, 9:50; Taken 2 (PG-13) noon, 1, 2:15,

October 12-13 Argo (R) 11:20, 1:35, 2:05, 4:25, 4:50, 7:05, 7:35, 9:45, 10:30, 12:25; Atlas Shrugged: Part 2 (PG-13) 12:15, 2:50, 5:25, 8, 10:35; Here Comes the Boom (PG) noon, 1:50, 2:30, 4:15, 5, 7:15, 7:40, 10:15, 12:45; Seven Psychopaths (R) 12:05, 12:35, 2:35, 3:05, 5:05, 5:40, 7:45, 8:15, 10:25,

12:20; Sinister (R) 11:40, 12:10, 2:10, 2:40, 4:40, 5:10, 7:10, 7:50, 9:50, 12:25; Frankenweenie (PG) 12:05, 12:30, 2:25, 2:50, 4:40, 5:05, 7, 7:20, 9:10, 9:35, 11:25, 12:05; Taken 2 (PG-13) 11:40, 12:10, 1, 2:05, 2:35, 3:15, 4:30, 5, 5:40, 7:25, 7:45, 8:15, 9:50, 10:10, 10:40, 12:10, 12:30; Hotel Transylvania (PG) 11:45, 12:15, 2:10, 2:40, 4:30, 5, 7, 7:25, 9:20, 9:45, 11:40; Looper (R) 1:50, 4:40, 7:30, 10:15; Pitch Perfect (PG-13) noon, 2:35, 5:10, 7:45, 10:30, 12:05; Won’t Back Down (PG) 12:05, 2:40, 5:15; End of Watch (R) 9:45; House at the End of the Street (PG-13) 10:30; The Perks of Being a Wallflower (PG-13) 11:50, 2:15, 4:45, 7:20, 9:55, 12:20; Trouble with the Curve (PG-13) 7:50, 10:25; Resident Evil: Retribution (R) 10:45

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DRAMA

“Argo,” rated R, starring Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Alan Arkin. Anyone remember 1997’s “Wag the Dog,” in which Washington hires Hollywood to create a war to distract voters from a presidential scandal during an election year? This movie reminds us of that one, except, this time, Hollywood uses its powers of fakery for good -- to rescue some Americans trapped in Iran. It’s based on a true story that happened in the late ‘70s, which explains Affleck’s hair… we hope.

COMEDY

“Here Comes the Boom,” rated PG, starring Kevin James, Salma Hayek, Henry Winkler. A high school teacher becomes an MMA fighter to help his struggling school. That won’t be the most farfetched idea in this movie, at least if Salma Hayek is playing Kevin James’ love interest. “Seven Psychopaths,” rated R, starring Colin Farrell, Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell, Christopher Walken, Tom Waits. Director Martin McDonagh helmed “In Bruges,” widely considered one of the best, most underrated movies of the last decade. This one involves the kidnapping of a shih tzu. Given the director’s pedigree, that snippet of plot and the psychopaths listed here, We’re already standing in line.

WERECOMMEND “Clueless”

At first glance, “Clueless” seems like a stereotypically vapid teen movie. And indeed protagonist Cher Horowitz fits the bill perfectly as that sort of movie’s heroine: The Beverly Hills princess doesn’t know where Kuwait is, thinks Bosnia is in the Middle East and swears that Billie Holiday is a guy. But she, as played by Alicia Silverstone in this 1995 classic, and the entire cast of this movie written and directed by Amy Heckerling (“Fast Times at Ridgement High”) are responsible for some of the funniest and most quotable lines in a movie since “The Princess Bride.” “As if,” “Monet” and “Baldwin” all made their way into casual conversation after “Clueless” debuted and Cher, for all her narcissistic tendencies, is responsible for some real gems. Cherisms include “It is one thing to spark up a doobie and get laced at parties, but it is quite another to be fried all day,” “Searching for a boy in high school is as useless as searching for meaning in a Pauly Shore movie” and “Sometimes you have to show a little skin. This reminds boys of being naked, and then they think of sex.” The plot? It’s loosely based on Jane Austen’s “Emma,” with Cher matchmaking and giving makeovers to friends and teachers, mostly for her own benefit. In the end, of course, it’s Cher who receives the real makeover and, in the process, finds love. Viewers will have to get over the creep factor of who she finds love with but, once that bridge is crossed, this is one movie that stands up to multiple viewing. 11OCTOBER2012

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VALERIEEMERICK

Colorful Characters

Spirits guide cemetery tours at Magnolia this weekend Spiritual Encounters

Here are some of the otherworldly guides participants in Walk with the Spirits will encounter this weekend. Ann Clanton Vason, 1830-1905 (portrayed by Sallie Metzel): Vason was wife of Colonel William J. Vason, attorney, a participant in the California gold rush and Confederate veteran. Whatley Bush, as Dr. William West Bussey, runs through his lines for Historic Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Walk with the Spirits cemetery tour. Bussey, 18381928, was a wholesale grocer, banker, physician and Confederate veteran whose home now serves as Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ronald McDonald House.

Augusta is a city rich in history, and as such has been home to some very interesting and colorful characters over the years. What better way to learn about the figures who helped shape the city and who had a lasting impact than by taking a leisurely stroll past their final resting places and hearing the spirits themselves tell you their stories? This year will be Historic Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth annual Walk with the Spirits tour, and after all that time they have just scratched the surface of interesting people from Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past to cover on these walks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We do it [Walk with the Spirits] every year in October,â&#x20AC;? says Julia Jackson, the programs and marketing director for Historic Augusta. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes we go to the Summerville Cemetery and sometimes weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in Magnolia. This year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re down in Magnolia.â&#x20AC;? To keep the tours interesting and new, every year they pick a different route so they can introduce different â&#x20AC;&#x153;spiritsâ&#x20AC;? from Augustaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the different routes, especially in Magnolia with it being so large,â&#x20AC;? explains Jackson, â&#x20AC;&#x153;we could pick a different route and highlight different interesting spirits every year for many, many years into the future.â&#x20AC;? All the participating spirits on the walk are volunteers with Historic Augusta and come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Dressing up in period costumes and standing in front of groups of strangers to tell a story might appeal to those who have a theatrical background, but surprisingly, very few of the volunteers come from the stage. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some do, some donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t,â&#x20AC;? says Jackson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes we try to get people who are descendants of the character, or have some sort of connection, like Jack Long (who is playing the role of Thomas N. Hopkins). He owns the

office building that was once the home of his character. So, sometimes there is a connection like that and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we choose the person.â&#x20AC;? Other times, there are volunteers who tried it once and got hooked and who come back year after year. Danny Craig (who portrays Charles A. Platt) participated in the first spirit walk six years ago and has been back ever since. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My daughter and son-in-law have been involved with Historic Augusta for years and years and six years ago they asked me would I play a character and I agreed to do it, and actually, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m the only one of us thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s done it every year for six years. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve enjoyed it very much and have played some interesting characters over the years.â&#x20AC;? Craig says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I actually played my own great-grandfather three years ago in the Summerville Cemetery.â&#x20AC;? For those of you who may be easily spooked donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry. The goal of these walks is to entertain and inform, rather than to scare (although Historic Augusta does recommend not bringing children under the age of 5). During a 45-minute tour led by a spirit guide in period costume, participants will hear about the history of the cemetery and iconography of the headstones. As the group progresses along the route they will get to meet additional Augusta residents buried in the cemetery, also in period costume, who will enlighten them with details of their lives and accomplishments. Walk with the Spirits Magnolia Cemetery | Saturday-Sunday, October 13-14 3-6 p.m. | $15; $10, children and groups of 10 or more Pre-registration recommended 706-724-0436 | historicaugusta.org

William Shivers Morris, 1869-1921 (portrayed by Mark Albertin): Morris was treasurer for the Georgia Railroad and a popular state senator. Charles A. Platt, 1814-1887 (portrayed by Danny Craig): Platt was proprietor of C.A. Platt & Co., a furniture and undertaking establishment. Gertrude Clanton Thomas, 1834-1907 (portrayed by Laurie Montgomery): Thomas was a Southern belle whose Civil War diaries catalogued the devastation that followed her family throughout the war and Reconstruction. Jacob Henry Lowrey, 1824-1909 (portrayed by Cobbs Nixon): Lowrey was founder of a wagon factory on the corner of 9th and Ellis streets which was confiscated by the Confederate Army for use as a shoe factory. Thomas N. Hopkins, 1839-1893 (portrayed by Jack R.B. Long): Hopkins was a Confederate veteran who taught at Houghton Institute. Sarah Eugenia Twiggs, 1836-1893 (portrayed by Missy Hargrove): Twiggs was the daughter of an Aiken plantation family. She raised her nine children alone after the death of her husband, Lieutenant Colonel John David Twiggs, who was killed by his overseer. John Jay Cohen, 1806-1884 (portray by Bob Rollins): Cohen was a stockbroker, as well as the first president of the Congregation Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nai Isreal (Children of Israel). Amelia Winter Hack, 1824-1881 (portrayed by April King): Hack was the wife of Daniel de Bruce Hack, owner of Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first cotton and wool mill, the Richmond Factory, on Spirit Creek.

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S P O N S O R

T H E

METRO SPIRIT’S amber@themetrospirit.com PET PAGE!

Upcoming Events Pet A Palooza NJ’s Grooming, 523 Shartom Drive Sunday, October 14 3-8 p.m. 706-364-5404

Animal Services By Lorna Barrett

The mission statement for Richmond County Animal Services Department is to enforce state laws and local ordinances pertaining to the control and management of animals, protection of human life and property and to raise public awareness of responsible pet ownership. Their tasks and services are many and varied, ranging from protecting citizens from vicious animals to protecting animals from neglect, abuse and cruelty. As the pet overpopulation crisis grows, their responsibilities grow. However, they must work within ever shrinking budget constraints. The staff of this department is also charged with the task of being prepared for a natural disaster by creating a set of plans to implement, as well as securing supplies and a network of volunteers that will be willing to help in the event of a large-scale disaster. In addition to their staff, they have an advisory board, made up of people who care enough about animal welfare that they volunteer their time to help with disaster preparedness, updating laws and ordinances, and generally promoting a good relationship between the Animal Services Department and the public. The overpopulation of animals is a serious problem that must be dealt with from many angles, and this team works together to come up with ideas and solutions. There are many topics on the table to discuss, and much research to do before decisions are made. Each member of the advisory board is appointed by a commissioner. Most commissioners realize the importance of this board and have found and appointed people willing to serve. However, three commissioners, Corey Johnson, J.R. Hatney and Alvin Mason have chosen not to make any appointments to this board, even though they know it is their responsibility to do so. The problem this causes is not having enough help to do things we are responsible for doing. There are animal care issues in every corner of Augusta, including the districts these gentlemen represent. Sure, there are responsible pet owners in these parts of the city, but there are also calls about problems with animals in these districts, as there are problems throughout our communities. There should be representatives from these areas present at advisory board meetings to help come up with and implement solutions. My guess is that there are probably people living in these districts that would be willing to serve on this advisory board but are unaware of the need. If you are interested in serving on this board, and live in the districts represented by any of the commissioners listed above, please contact them at your earliest convenience. Yes, you can make a difference. There are many ways: volunteering to be on this advisory board, volunteering to temporarily foster pets or getting involved with local rescues by donating money to reputable 501c3 animal rescues and teaching children and adults about responsible pet ownership. Yes, you can make a difference.

Petey is an approximately two years old male who has been neutered and vaccinated. He loves to play with people and other dogs, and is a big lap dog.

Bessy, a female bassett mix, was found wandering on Gordon Highway and hasn’t been claimed. She will be fully vetted before she is adopted.

Jack, a Jack Russell-chihuahua mix, is approximately one years old, and was found in the Forest Hills area. Since he hasn't been claimed we are seeking a new home and family for him.

Ongoing Adoption Events PETCO 4209 Washington Road, Evans Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Minny was seen dumped out of a truck, rescued and cared for by an out of state visitor. He has been fully vetted, and is house trained, sits, stays and walks on a leash. He is sweet and smart, and is less than a year old.

Sammy is approximately one and a half years old, and was found by a dumpster caring for a litter of pups also dumped there. He is very friendly and protective.

For more information about adopting these animals, call 706-736-3691 or visit Lorna Barret’s Facebook page.

PetSmart 225 Robert C. Daniel Parkway, Augusta Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tractor Supply 596 Bobby Jones Expressway, next to Sam’s Club Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4 p.m.

PawPrints’ Wags to Wishes Taylor BMW Saturday, October 20 7-10 p.m. Includes music, food, live and silent auctions, networking and more pawprintsfoundation.org Pet Howl-O-Ween Festival Graced Kennel Saturday, October 20 6-8 p.m. Rescues will be dressed up for Halloween and presented in costume for a costume contest 706-738-7168 gracedkennels.com Diamonds in the Ruff’s Mutt Strutt Evans Towne Center Park Saturday, October 27 Starting at 10 a.m. Includes a dog walk, Halloween costume contest, kissing booth, vendors and more. diamondsintheruffcsra@gmail.com diamondsintheruffcsra.org CSRA Humane Society’s Pet A Fair Julian Smith Casino Sunday, October 28 Noon Contests, raffles, auction and more. 706-261-7387 csrahumanesociety.org Santa Paws’ Santa and Pets Pictures Pendleton King Park Saturday, November 10 8 a.m. Holiday pictures with your pets and family. Sponsored by Jennifer Weaver, photographer, and That’s What Friends Are For. Inc. 706-736-3691 thatswhatfriendsarefor.org

WHINE

LINE So Gwen Fulcher Young will not vote for Lee Anderson because of looks and talk. Proverbial pot calling the kettle black.

The big lie that Donnie Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s red-shirted goons from the local firefighters union â&#x20AC;&#x201C; most of them donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live in Augusta BTW â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are spreading door-to-door in District 7 is that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kenny Echols is an old, washed up politician, who never accomplished anything during the 15 years he represented â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; district on the RCBE.â&#x20AC;? The sad thing is: The lazy and uninformed â&#x20AC;&#x153;tell me who I should vote forâ&#x20AC;? crowd has bought that BS - hook, line and sinker. If all the millions and millions of dollars of negative and lying political ads could only be cashed in for the monies, we could pay for so many needed things of physical comforts.

V23|NO41

WHINELINE@THEMETROSPIRIT.COM

why are we going to elect a sheriff whos wages will be garnished and indicted the next month? roundtree is playing the race card and he did buy votes, he will try to make the sheriffs office in his very short time there, BLACK!...i am black, i want quality, not a jackass!

To all the â&#x20AC;&#x153;upstanding citizensâ&#x20AC;? who throw away their pets by taking them to a rescue agency, Animal Control, or shelter in the middle of the night and tying them to a fence, etc: All of these groups are overwhelmed, overworked, and at maximum capacity. There is no room for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;petâ&#x20AC;? you are so lovingly discarding.....Animal Control will be called and the pet will be euthanized. I hope you have nightmares for the rest of your sorry life, and I pray you NEVER get another pet. Austin Rhodes sure likes to repeat stupid lies. In his most recent editorial he vomited up the bogus claim that social security and medicare are ponzi schemes. Fact checkers shot that whopper down when the senile Rick Perry first said it almost a year ago.

Have something you want to get off your chest? Send your whines to whineline@themetrospirit. com. If you do so by noon on Friday, you might just see it in the next Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. Oh, and whines may be edited for content but will pretty much be printed exactly as you type them.

Wait a minute. Did somebody actually say they like the happy hour with matt and sanj? These guys suck. I listen to these idiots talk for five minutes hoping for a good song to come on and then they play something gay. Also they have the same voice. It sounds like one dude talking with himself.

written... it looked like a first grader may have written it

The U.S. is $16 trillion in debt. A dollar bill is .0043 inches thick. If stacked one on top of the other they would stretch 1,085,858.586 miles. That means those dollar bills would circumnavigate the equator 43.6 times or would go to the moon and back 2.5 times. Corollary: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We, the people....â&#x20AC;? are screwed!

People who hammer in wooden sticks with religious words onto public and private property show they are illegal vandals who are dumber than rocks. Why should I believe your religion that you try to visually force upon us?

So, the Republicans finally found voter fraud__in the company they hired! Remember the temper tantrum they threw when ACORN was setup with a staged video hit job? Atleast ACORN self-reported when some of its canvassers collected bad registration info. Yep, that Karma is something else! while reading last weeks whineline, it was pretty easy to see that the last post on page 46 was a democrat, just by the way it was

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m new in the Augusta community; what is with waiters here? They hoover over you and provide 1st rate service UNTIL the check is due and then you have to find them!

I sure wish the Boshears had not raised the rates so drastically in recent years. I miss visiting the vendor tents. Wait til Oct. 12 when you hear how much ASU managed to raise this year. Then you can see how many people are really disgusted with GRU and the lack of a guarantee of how much their monies can really support the ASU. Unless the rich faculty step up to put in a lot more dough to raise their profile. I wonder how much Azziz and the Board of Regents have put in towards that effect?

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&DOO .HOOLH 3XJK DW WR VFKHGXOH \RXU SHUVRQDO WRXU WRGD\ 353 N. Belair Rd | Evans M O R N I N G S I D E O F E V A N S . C O M 42 METROSPIRITAUGUSTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

11OCTOBER2012