Metro Spirit - 03.01.18

Augusta’s Independent Voice Since 1989 • Metrospirit.com

March 1, 2018

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Table of Contents Augusta’s Independent Voice Since 1989 • Metrospirit.com

Jenny is Wright Kris Fisher Whine Line Feature

6 9 12 14 Sports 19 ETCP Springfest 24 What’s Up 26 Calendar 27 Nightlife 34 The Eight 36 Sightings 37

March 1, 2018 | V29 • N09

Events Calendar Page 27

Sunshine, good beers @ Lady A Page 24

A taste of summer Olympics Page 19 01MARCH2018

The Insider Darren Smith Covers for Mayor Davis

by The Insider On the same day that Augusta Mayor Hardie Davis presented his 2018 State of the City address, his good pal, Coliseum Authority member Darren Smith, faced tough questions from his colleagues regarding the controversial proposal to build a new $120 million arena at the former Regency Mall site.

Smith was put on the spot while Davis was getting spiffied up for his big speech and reception.

When you’ve got friends like that, who needs enemies, right?

But, let’s face it, Smith brought it on himself.

Over the past few weeks, Smith has been busy making public speeches around town insisting he was the one driving the Regency Mall proposal.

Not the mayor.

During the Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27, Authority Chairman Cedric Johnson played a recording of a speech Smith recently made in front of the Committee for Good Government.

“I called the mayor and asked him to check into it, and he did,” Smith is heard saying on the recording. “And for four or five months, I tried my best to get leadership on the Coliseum Authority to check into these folks and find out what their interest level was.

And to be quite frank with you, they didn’t do it, and they were not going to do it.”

As the recording was being played, the coliseum authority’s vice chairman, Brad Usry, simply shook his head.

“At that point, I personally asked the mayor to intervene and to contact (the owner of former mall Alan Cardinale) on our behalf to see what their interest was,” Smith was heard saying.

After playing the recording, Johnson told Smith he was presenting to the public a “misrepresentation of the truth.”

“For four or five months you came to us asking to do negotiations (with Cardinal Management)?” Johnson asked Smith.

Smith looked straight at both Johnson and Usry and said that was absolutely true.

“I came to y’all several times,” Smith said.

“Right here in this room.” > Continued on next page AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989 METROSPIRIT 3

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The Insider

Richmond County Sgt. Shane McDaniel Speaks Out

by The Insider Earlier this year, The Insider wrote a column about the growing number of law enforcement officers who are leaving Richmond County Sheriff ’s Office due to low morale.

Some officers have stated that there is a lack of respect shown throughout the sheriff ’s office, particularly from two top members of Sheriff Richard Roundtree’s command staff. Several deputies claim these top officials are frequently out of line with verbal abuse and their treatment of county personnel.

However, officers working under these two top cops fear putting anything on the record or making an official complaint because they don’t want to be seen as a “rat” within the agency.

They also worry that filing such a complaint would haunt their careers if they decide to look for employment within another local law enforcement agency.

It’s easier to pack up and leave than fight the system.

Some former officers have gone as far as to describe the Richmond County Sheriff ’s Office as a “toxic workplace.”

At this point, many of the veteran officers in the Richmond County Sheriff ’s Office are simply trying to hold out until retirement.

In fact, some even have their countdown to retirement listed as their screensaver.

When The Insider wrote about these problems within the sheriff ’s office in January, many were surprised to see that one of the first people who “liked” the column on Facebook was none other than Sgt. Shane McDaniel of the Richmond County Sheriff ’s Office.

McDaniel is a former public information officer for the sheriff ’s office, and while he agreed with The Insider a few weeks ago, he stunned many local Augustans this past Friday by publicly talking about issues he’s faced working under Roundtree.

WGAC Radio Host Austin Rhodes reposted a Facebook message from McDaniel that he apparently wrote last week.

Here is the message from McDaniel: “I am sitting back and watching (with a HUGE SMILE) some GREAT & INTELLIGENT people leave a cesspool of an agency. Congrats to you courageous people for standing up for what’s right for YOU. You men and women deserve so much more... And you definitely deserve a better leader.

If a leader doesn’t understand the concept of ‘service above self,’ they will not gather the trust, confidence, and loyalty of their subordinates. Any leader is only as good as his or her team’s desire to be led by them. An over abundance of EGO, PRIDE, and ARROGANCE are NOT positive leadership traits.

Real leaders take the blame and give the credit — not the other way around.

Long story short: if a leader receives a vote of nonconfidence from their subordinates... Then the subordinates WILL seek alternatives...”

If that’s not a wake-up call for Sheriff Roundtree, nothing ever will be.

It’s time to get real.

If Roundtree really wants to retain more deputies and officers in his department, he might want to seriously talk to them about their work environment.

There are only so many newbies willing to join a sinking ship.

Roundtree needs to listen to his veteran officers and make some immediate changes.

Darren Smith Covers for Mayor Davis

by The Insider > Continued from the previous page “No, sir,” Johnson said as Usry once again shook his head.

“Yes, sir,” Smith responded, adding that he simply wanted Johnson and Usry to approach the Cardinale family to find out their “level of interest” in developing the Regency Mall property.

Smith said he asked both Johnson and Usry to contact the Cardinale family prior to the coliseum authority meeting approving the Regency Mall location as the preferred site for the new arena back in August.

“How legally could we negotiate with the Cardinale family?” Johnson asked, pointing out that the authority hadn’t approved the site at that point. “Brad and I are not in a position to do any negotiations or talks.”

The only one who was supposed to be talking with Cardinal Management was Ed Enoch, the coliseum authority’s attorney, Johnson said.

The fact that Smith was going around the community telling people that the leadership of the coliseum authority refused to negotiate with the Cardinale family is simply a lie, Johnson said.

In fact, Johnson said the mayor was the only person who ever asked him and Usry to consider the Regency Mall site, Johnson said.

“You are misrepresenting the truth, and you are being dishonest about the facts,” Johnson said directly to Smith.

“It’s slanderous for you to say Brad and I didn’t do anything.”

However, Smith insisted he was telling the truth about the entire matter.

After going back and forth several times about the dates involved in the Regency Mall discussions, it was clear that the two sides were not going to come to any agreement, so the meeting was adjourned.

4 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Following the meeting, Johnson said he simply felt he needed to set the record straight.

“It’s just amazing to me,” Johnson said. “Even based on all the documentation and records that we have, and the fact that none of his fellow Coliseum Authority members approved any negotiations, he still insists that he singled Brad and I out and asked us to talk with the Cardinale family without the approval from the rest of the body.”

Usry said he can’t believe that Smith looked him in the face and still didn’t tell the truth.

“I hate people questioning my character when I’ve been above board during the entire process,” Usry said. “Once the mayor asked us to look at the Regency Mall site, from that point on, we did it.”

Without question, Usry said he and Johnson have always been straightforward and honest with the mayor.

“Anytime we were asked by the mayor — and it was the mayor, not Darren — we discussed it with him,” Usry said.

“But now Darren is trying to protect the mayor during his reelection and say it was his idea.”

The entire situation is ludicrous, Usry said.

“The first time Regency Mall was truly brought up to us was by the mayor. That’s a fact,” Usry said. “He asked us to look at it, and we honored that request out of respect for the mayor. But for someone on the authority to question our reputation and our character is completely preposterous.”

You have to wonder why Smith is willing to jump into the fire for the mayor over this Regency Mall debate.

Let’s at least hope Davis served him up a big juicy steak at the mayor’s reception because Smith had already been put through the flames and grilled that day.

01MARCH2018

Jenny is Wright 15 in 5

Because I love a list. Especially a random list.

by Jenny Wright 1. Downtown was exciting last weekend. Were you there?

JENNY WRIGHT’S humorous observations on marriage, motherhood and living in Augusta have earned her a devoted following, both in print and on Facebook. When she’s not spying on other parents in the carpool line at school, you’ll probably find her with either a camera, tennis racquet or wine glass in her hand.

2. The Augusta Players performed to a nearly sold-out Imperial Theatre. The Symphony had another spectacular concert at The Miller. Le Chat had a cabaret. At least two places downtown had lines a hundred people deep. The Greater Augusta Arts Council held its annual, and awesome, Wet Paint Party at Sacred Heart. Augusta University put on its incredibly popular 10K/half marathon. I know there was more. And there’s nothing to do in Augusta.

3. Speaking of the Imperial, did you know they just celebrated the 100th anniversary of their first opening night? Happy birthday, Imperial Theatre! 100 looks good on you!

4. Did you also know the Imperial is undergoing extensive renovations? Painting, plaster — I can’t wait to see the facelift.

5. We’re so fortunate to have two historic theaters in Augusta. Even more, we’re lucky to have a thriving arts community that supports them both.

6. This weekend alone, you can go to Le Chat (Schrodinger’s Cat), The Miller (Ed Turner), The Bell (Dixie Dregs), James Brown Arena (Elevate the Stage), Phinizy Swamp (Saturday Hike), The Canal (boat and museum tour), The Country Club (Nelly). You can run a 5K supporting Heart and Sole, if that’s your thing.

7. If you want something to do with your kids, The Augusta Jr. Players present Daisy Pulls

6 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

it Off, March 2 and 3 at Crossbridge Baptist Church. Think Matilda meets Madeline. Yes, my girl is in it. The Boy’s running lights for the show. It was a shameless plug.

8. The Boy’s birthday came and went. It’s hard to believe he’s 14. He’s suddenly taller. I’m not even going to discuss his voice.

9. The Girl’s birthday is next. My baby will be 12. Girls sure start to get testy around this age. The happiest kid on the planet isn’t always happy with me these days. It’ll pass. In the meantime, I’m taking suggestions for breathing exercises and meditation.

10. I wouldn’t go back to middle school if my life depended on it. It’s treacherous.

11. The Girl has dealt with a few mean girls, but she’s figuring it all out. As much as I want to wring these girls’ necks, I can’t. All I can do is arm her with the proper tools to handle jerky people.

12. Avoid, avoid, avoid at all costs. Sure, it’s not always possible to avoid, but don’t engage if possible. Also, never, ever, ever, ever type anything into a text that you wouldn’t want on the front page of the newspaper which lands on your grandmother’s coffee table every morning.

13. Mean girls are always mean girls. That’s a fact. They’re even mean adults.

14. Mean people suck. It’s possible to convey a point without being angry or condescending.

It’s never necessary to speak to someone as if they are stupid. Assume positive intentions.

15. Be nice, y’all. Your fellow humans deserve it.

01MARCH2018

Kris Fisher Show Me Love

by Kris Fisher

I haven’t been in the dating world in quite a while. The last time I had to worry about who I’d be spending my Saturday nights with, Netflix & Chill wasn’t yet a thing.

In fact, Netflix was still just a movie-by-mail service.

Zuckerberg had just started his world-domination by making Facebook available to everyone. I was still ranking my friends on my MySpace ’Top 8.’ My cell phone was just barely bigger than your car’s key fob, and you had to flip it to open it. And forget touchscreen — KRIS FISHER is the midday host and program director for HD98.3 the iPhone wouldn’t make that popular for another year. and an Augusta radio staple. He Fast-forward to 2018, and boy, have things changed. is a husband, father of three and lover of all things adventurous, No, I’m not in the dating world. But I hear a lot about as well as activities most people would have outgrown years ago. it. Jenna from the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show talks djkfish.com. about it pretty much every morning, I read social media posts about it, and I have a lot of friends who are dating.

Recently, a female friend of mine received a text that I hear many women receive whether they want to or not. It was a picture from a guy. She didn’t ask for the picture and doesn’t even like the guy, nor has she ever gone on a date with him. In fact, she’s in a long-term committed relationship with someone.

If you haven’t figured it out by now, the text was a picture of the guy’s junk. A grown woman received this from a grown man who I would have thought had long outgrown such immature things. This isn’t the first time I’ve heard of this happening; it’s just the first time I witnessed it.

Maybe it’s because I haven’t dated in 12 years, but I don’t understand it. I mean, if you’re dating someone and your relationship is in a place that you exchange these pics, then sure. But to just send the pic out-of-the-blue all willy-nilly seems weird. I’ve spent most of my life hoping that no one sees me naked. Never would I think that some random woman could be swooned by a surprise pic of my nether regions. But, like I said, I am several years removed from the dating scene. Maybe this has worked for one or two of these guys. Or maybe they’re all just positive thinkers: “I’m sure ONE day this will work!”

You may be wondering why I care if I’m not in the dating pool. I have two kids that will be entering the game soon. I try to advise my oldest son on how to treat a woman, but he’s 16 so 98.3 percent of what I say goes in one ear and out the other. But my daughter is 13 and just getting into what I feel like is unavoidable disaster. I almost feel like we’re standing on the edge of a minefield telling her to “watch her step.” I know how guys were when I was younger. We were quite tenacious, but we weren’t sending anyone pictures of our mini-me. Of course, we would have had to mail it, which I’m sure would have led to the longest 5 to 7 business days of my life.

But there is hope. Last weekend, I was at the mall when a friend of mine was approached by a woman who said, “Hey, you’re not married, are you?” To which he replied: “No, I’m not.” She then explained that her friend thought he was hot and wanted to give him her phone number. It was a little ‘middle school,’ but I smiled because it gave me hope that not everyone is relying on apps and swiping for their dates. I took it upon myself to tell that girl that I am married and couldn’t accept any numbers. I’d like to say she was disappointed to hear that, but she wasn’t. In fact, she completely ignored me. What can I say? The ol’ guy’s still got it!

01MARCH2018

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America ?? ? You must not have seen the naked pics of your first Lady Melania. Your standards are so low, yoy loose every argument. We must be the laughing stock among the drunk Russian guys of her Sovjet Union hometown.

How these people in south augusta be having luxury cars in their driveway but they house less than the car?

While idiots try to ban AR15’s the mentally ill looking to do harm are planning the next attack, maybe with a Uhaul, an explosive vest or maybe 5 handguns with 16+1 clips. Evil will find a way. #LessGovernmentNow

WHINELINE@THEMETROSPIRIT.COM

Have something you want to get off your chest?

Send your whines to whineline@themetrospirit.com. The Metro Spirit reserves the right to edit submitted whines for content, but we will otherwise print them pretty much exactly as you type them… spelling errors and all.

The METRO spirit editorials and published whine spots are just like the mass media that is controlling what is published to meet their intended influence of opinion. You have space to publish the drivel of Austin Rhodes so publish all of the public opinions you receive. Be the open paper you profess to be.

Dear whiner: “Sick of the gay crap?” I can tell how old you are from your whine. When you die, your opinions will largely die with you. Have fun in hell with the other bigots.

Notice the the gnats coming out to attack Pam Tucker on her blood donor effort. Watch in the near future for more of the Development/Builder/Good Old Boys Cabal and their minions to attack the threat to their status quo efforts to turn Columbia County into the land of asphalt and traffic jams.

Why is Austin Rhodes back on the radio? Why is Austin Rhodes supported by the Metro Spirit? This guy is now advocating the potential shooting of a teacher that has a view that teachers should not be armed in the classroom.

Then he adds “bitc*” to the discussion. Austin Rhodes has been booted before and it is time to boot him again.

The ultimate goal of the gun control effort is confiscation of all guns from U.S. citizens. Nothing else will satisfy the gun control demand. Why else would they continue to use examples of Australia, Japan and other weapons banned countries to show the success of total gun ban to the

lowest injury and deaths. To obtain this goal, the second amendment will be overwritten or simply removed from the Constitution What does Chicago, Detroit, Washington DC, and New Orleans have in common? City Governments that are run by Democrats who have implemented gun control, and they have the highest murder rates and shootings in the nation. How can that happen, since guns are banned there? Duh. The Government does not want to take your guns away.

As a ten years US Army veterean I have had to teach, and train soldiers on many weapons systems out of the arsenal of the Federal Government. I hsve seen the devil’s claws. I can thetefore assure you, if the government wanted to take your guns away, there woul be nothing you could do to stop them. Your little piff paff guns, and rifles at the house are no match against what they have.

Amazing how they went after Pam’s signs but they are ignoring Doug’s campaign signs. Where is CC Code Enforcement? Let’s play by the rules.

What is it about the Columbia County Commission Chairman’s position that attracks people who have bankrupted their businesses? The current Commission Chair along with the District 1 Commissioner as well as the other man in the race have all had their turns in business failure court. If they can’t handle their own money, what makes you think they can handle yours? So much for an honest news media that won’t print the truth.

This is how sick you are. You dont want to give up your guns, because you can no longer trust the government.

Where is your logic? You ate the one who voted for this government, that you dont trust. I rest my case.

Look out Columbia County. Here comes #PoorMeToo and #I’llShowYou. Vote Pam. It’s Sucker Time!

GARDEN CITY (yea right) Trash all over town, Downtown, South Augusta, West Augusta, and the cit can’t grow AZALEAS just take them out. Oh but lets worry about renaming roads and important stuff like that. How about fixing the roads?

I wish the Metro Spirit would move it’s office into Columbia County and focus on more important issues than who runs the best pool hall and hamburger joint in downtown Augusta.

So Trey Enfinger wants to criticize Pam Tucker yet how many know that he is more than likely being used as a mouthpiece of the leadership of the administration of the county. His wife is employeed by the county and Mr. Johnson and Mr. Kennedy are frequent visitors of the local grill business that he works for. So this young man who has 3 baby mamas might want to focus more on himself than others. If he could only get his buddy Sleeper to be as vocal.

See a trend?

It’s been almost a month since Austin Rhodes submitted an article in the Spirit, and Kevin Palmer did not disappoint!

You are sick of Lindsey Vonns burr pics representing 12 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

01MARCH2018

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Young People in Recovery (YPR) has an Augusta chapter that empowers and advocates for those recovering from substance-use disorders

Recovery: Stopping the stigma

by Stacey Eidson | stacey@themetrospirit.com

When Paige Miller entered into recovery and began leading a sober lifestyle in the beginning of 2014, she was only 22 years old.

At the time, she said it felt like the end of the world.

“I thought my life was over,” Miller said. “I was like, ‘I will never have fun again. I have no idea what to do with myself anymore. I might as well just work because what else is there to do?’”

In February 2014, she had decided to seek help through an outpatient treatment and support group after her drinking had spiraled out of control.

“For a year, I woke up sick, went to work, promised myself I wouldn’t drink, and by 5 p.m., my skin would be crawling,” Miller said in a recent profile featured on drugrehab.org. “By 6 p.m., I was on the verge of blacking out.”

At 22, Miller thought recovery meant that her life ceased to be fun, but she soon learned that recovery was actually her key to happiness.

“I found people in recovery who were like, ‘We are going kayaking on Saturday. We are going to play kickball. We are going to go ride our bikes on the Augusta Canal.’ All of these things that I used to do, but now I have a group of people in recovery that I’m doing those activities with, which is awesome,” Miller said. “In fact, I never thought I could go to a concert 14 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

sober, but that is something I found out that, if I went with people in recovery, I could do that again. I now live to experience life.”

These days, Miller is not only an advocate for own recovery, but she is helping those struggling with addiction turn their lives around.

Miller helped start the local chapter of a national organization called Young People in Recovery (YPR), which provides a variety of workshops and programs to assist those in recovery access necessary resources in their community.

“In July of 2015, we started the chapter here in Augusta, and we were a pretty small group in the beginning; like, there were five to eight of us that were really actively volunteering and working toward implementing more programs,” Miller said. “But we’ve really grown since then. Basically, Young People in Recovery focuses on three primary areas: Employment, education and housing. And they have added a fourth element: recovery support.”

Employment, education and housing are crucial for anyone to succeed in life, Miller said, but those going through recovery sometimes need extra help breaking through the stigma associated with their past addictions.

“Employment gives a lot of people purpose, but it also gives you the opportunity to sustain yourself and

give back to your community,” Miller said. “So at the end of 2016, we received a grant from the Community Foundation for the CSRA, because YPR is a 501(c)(3) and we were actually able to take those workshops into the Day Reporting Center (which serves probationers and parolees) in Richmond County.”

These workshops went through basic steps on how to address a past criminal record when applying for a job or looking for a place to live, Miller said.

“People asked us, ‘How do I apply for a job and explain my criminal record? How do I sustain my recovery while employed? And how do I prioritize all of those pieces?’”

Miller said. “We talked about resume building and how to explain gaps in their resumes because some people have had periods of incarceration or times where they have been in treatment, so there might be spaces in their resume. That is an opportunity for the community to have a conversation and talk to people who may not be familiar with recovery and what that looks like.”

Christian Frazier, the chapter lead for YPR-Augusta and a recovery counselor at Bluff Plantation, said it’s vitally important that the Augusta community begin viewing recovery in a positive light.

“We want to change the conversation that is associated with our disease,” Frazier said. “There is a lot of stigma associated with who we are and who people perceive we 01MARCH2018

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are, and a lot of that is our fault because we perpetuate a language that helps feed that stigma.”

YPR is trying to help change the way even those in recovery view themselves and treatment, he said.

“We try to remove some of those stigma-inducing words out of the things that we say,” Frazier said. “Such as, I don’t identify as an alcoholic. Whereas, some groups that you go to, you say, ‘Hey, my name is Christian. I’m an alcoholic.’ Well, I’m not an alcoholic. I’m a human being. I struggled with the disease. I’m in recovery from it. And I’m a person who lives in long-term recovery, so that’s how I identify myself.”

“For a year, I woke up sick, went to work, promised myself I wouldn’t drink, and by 5 p.m., my skin would be crawling. By 6 p.m., I was on the verge of blacking out.”

— Paige Miller, the compliance officer for Hope House Terms such as “drug addict” and “alcoholic” immediately cast a negative image upon someone, Frazier said.

“So when we are speaking in the community, we don’t use the word addiction anymore,” he said. “We use the words substance-use disorder. And probably YPR’s main mantra is that the opposite of addiction is not sobriety, it’s connection.”

People in recovery need social engagement with others to understand that the fun doesn’t stop with sobriety, Frazier said.

“Every month, we have activities that not only people in recovery can come and attend, but we invite them to bring their children, their loved ones, people who they refer to as allies because we want people to know that there is life after addiction,” Frazier said. “Because one of the barriers to recovery is, ‘I’m not going to have any fun anymore.’ They associate their disease with all the good times. And they have this inability to recognize all the consequences that went along with their substance abuse. They just think back to the times that were good. So we offer activities like kayaking, disc golf, flag football, kickball games and going to the movies because connection matters.”

YPR also helps advocate for those in recovery to fight discrimination when they’re seeking housing or trying to further their education, Miller said.

“Housing is a problem for a lot of people in the Augusta area. We just don’t have enough affordable housing, but the thing is, especially when somebody receives a felony conviction for whatever reason, your options are really limited,” Miller said. “You have to check that felony box over and over again for employment. But especially for housing, you are almost immediately disqualified.”

YPR is trying to help change the community’s mindset in that regard, she said.

“Some places do consider what the criminal charge is. They will look and see, ‘OK, it’s not a violent drug offense. Clearly, this person has had some challenges, 01MARCH2018

but they are doing well now,’” Miller said. “But more often than not, when a person has to check that box that they have a felony or once they go through the background check and someone finds out that they have had a felony, they’re immediately disqualified.”

Such rejection can cause someone in recovery to find themselves in an extremely vulnerable state, she said.

“How can a person be successful if they don’t have a safe and stable place to lay their head at night?” Miller asked. “So, we are working to educate our community on what recovery looks like and change that stigma.”

But Miller is not only volunteering with YPR to make a difference.

For the past six years, she has worked at Hope House, a local nonprofit organization that has been helping women recover from substance misuse, mental health challenges and poverty since 1992.

Hope House is a long-term residential treatment facility that encourage families to stay together by allowing children to live onsite with their mothers going through recovery during the duration of their treatment.

“We target women 18 years or older who are single, pregnant or have children under the age of 13,” said Miller, who serves as the compliance officer for Hope House. “We want our services to be no- to low-cost for people who come to us because we really fill that gap for people that don’t necessarily qualify for Medicaid but can’t afford private insurance. We want to be there for them.”

For more than 25 years, Hope House has served approximately 1,800 families and assisted with more than 200 drug-free births.

“We know that pregnant women especially take top

priority,” Miller said. “There are a lot of programs that won’t take a pregnant woman all the way up until the birth because there is such high risk associated with it.

But we are one of those programs that will. And we are the only one like us in 13 area counties. There are about 20 other programs across the state like us, but if you have 159 counties in the state of Georgia, there’s a lot of area to cover.”

“We had 159 people die in 2016 from overdoses in Augusta-Richmond County.

And 88 were identified from overdosing from opioids, whether that was a legal prescription or heroin.”

— Paige Miller, the compliance officer for Hope House Across the state of Georgia, the demand for recovery assistance is growing.

“We serve about 100 families a year because we are a long-term treatment facility,” Miller said of Hope House. “But just this fiscal year since July of 2017, we’ve had more than 800 people apply for our services.”

Both Hope House and YPR also are on a mission to educate the community about the dangers of opioids and the rising opioid epidemic.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

METROSPIRIT 15

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Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, drug overdoses killed about 64,000 people in this country in 2016.

In fact, drug overdoses are expected to remain the leading cause of death for Americans under 50, according to a recent article in The New York Times.

Specifically, drug deaths involving fentanyl more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, accompanied by an increase in deaths involving both cocaine and methamphetamine.

In just the past three years, deaths involving synthetic opioids have risen to more than 20,000 from 3,000 back in 2014, according to The New York Times.

Here in Georgia, there were 1,475 drug overdose deaths from July 2016 to July 2017.

And, as with most states across the country, opioids played a significant role in increasing overdoses here in

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the Peach State.

In 2016, 982 people lost their lives due to opioid drug overdoses in the state, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.

And the problem is growing here in Augusta with each passing day.

“We had 159 people die in 2016 from overdoses in Augusta-Richmond County,” Miller said. “And 88 were identified from overdosing from opioids, whether that was a legal prescription or heroin.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly nine opioid prescriptions were dispensed for every 10 residents of Augusta-Richmond County in 2016.

So, along with supporting those in recovery, YPR also works to educate the public on naloxone, which is sold under the brand name of Narcan, Miller said.

Naloxone is medication used to block the effects of

opioids, especially in overdoses.

“We want people to know that this is like an EpiPen and you give it when it’s needed because those seconds matter,” Miller said. “Opioids basically tell your body to stop breathing and that’s the thing that is a little bit different than other overdoses. We want people to be equipped with that knowledge and for them to know about the medical amnesty law because a lot of people are afraid. They’ll think, ‘I’m on probation. I’m on parole. I can’t get in trouble. I am going to get arrested.’

We want them to know what it means if they do call 911.”

The medical amnesty law protects those who seek medical attention as a result of illegal actions, she said.

YPR is also involved in communitywide naloxone training with local law enforcement and firefighters, Miller said.

“Our first training we did with 50 officers from Columbia County Sheriff ’s Office as well as the fire department,” Miller said. “What was really cool was Columbia County actually purchased (naloxone) kits.

They have now built it into their budget, and in March 2017 they actually carried them on all of their vehicles.

They had 33 successful overdose reversals just last year.”

The naloxone kits can make all the difference in the world, Miller said.

“That’s 33 lives saved just in Columbia County,” Miller said. “So that’s a story we need to tell. As long as there’s life, there’s hope.”

YPR has also teamed up with Richmond County State Court Chief Judge David Watkins to offer recovery

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support for those in the State Court Alcohol & Drug Court Program.

Watkins, who hosts the weekly radio show, “The First Step” on WGAC at 6 p.m.

Sunday, worked with Beasley Broadcasting to arrange for YPR to offer what’s called an “All Recovery” meeting at the station during the same time as his radio broadcast.

“We have all-inclusive community group meetings held every Sunday night at Beasley Broadcasting at 6 p.m.,” Frazier said. “The groups are run by certified peer specialists who have been certified by the state of Georgia as peer advocates or peer support counselors.”

“We want people to know that this is like an EpiPen and you give it when it’s needed because those seconds matter.

— Paige Miller, the compliance officer for Hope House, said about naloxone, a medication used to block the effects of opioids (especially in overdoses) Miller said the All Recovery meetings are unique because no matter what kind of treatment or support someone is receiving for their addictions, they are welcome at the meetings.

“So, no matter someone’s pathway, whether it is a 12-step program like an Alcoholics Anonymous or maybe someone has chosen a faith-based pathway, like Celebrate Recovery, or if they don’t have a pathway like that and they found recovery in different ways, everyone is welcome,” Miller said. “If you are in recovery, you are welcome to come. Or if you are thinking recovery and you are still struggling, you are welcome to come. Or if you have a family member, say you are not specifically in recovery yourself, but you need to get a little hope, you are also welcome to come.

That’s different than a lot of other meetings.”

While the All Recovery meetings encourage people to introduce themselves to the group, they don’t have to do so, Miller said.

The entire purpose of the meetings is positive reinforcement and support, she said.

“Typically, how I would introduce myself is I would say, ‘Hello. My name is Paige Miller, and I’m a person in long-term recovery,’” Miller said. “Then we ask the question, ‘What is right with you today?’ Because we want to talk about the positives. Because living the negative over and over again and continuing to talk about our use as opposed to what our lives look like today isn’t helpful. Because we change.”

In the beginning, the All Recovery meetings started out small, but they have grown to almost 50 people during each meeting.

“So the hour-long meeting goes pretty quick,” Miller said. “We try to limit it to two or three minutes for each person so everybody can share and we wrap up always with, ‘What keeps you hopeful?’”

Since the local YPR chapter began here in Augusta in the summer 2015, Frazier said more people are starting to understand that there are multiple pathways to recovery.

“We don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all approach to the problem or the solution,” Frazier said. “For a lot of years, 12-step programs have really been the McDonald’s of the recovery world. It was really the only option available, and it still is in a lot of places.”

Frazier said he fully supports the mission of programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, but all people are different and some individuals going through recovery need other avenues or options.

“It has just taken forward thinking folks like myself and Paige and others to say, ‘You know what? That’s not enough,’” Frazier added. “This disease does not discriminate against people, so the solution shouldn’t discriminate either.”

To help educate the community about YPR and its mission, the group is hosting the Third Annual “Run Into Recovery” charity run on Saturday, March 24, at the River Levee Trail in Augusta.

“We want people to know who we are and what we do,” Miller said. “And there are just so many people who sign up for 5Ks because they want to run, and they may not know the organization that the run is supporting. We are able to provide that information to them.”

The charity run also raises money for YPR’s events so more people can participate in social gatherings without any cost to them.

“When people come to YPR events, if they can’t afford something, for example, we did active climbing a few weeks ago and that was $20 to get all of that equipment,” Miller said. “We don’t want that cost to be a barrier for someone not to come and participate. So fundraisers like the run actually help pay for those kinds of social gatherings and events.”

But most importantly, Miller said the charity run helps those in long-term recovery celebrate their overall wellness, both physically and mentally.

“We stand as people in recovery saying, ‘Hey, we are people in your community,’ because people don’t necessarily know we’re here,” Miller said. “So we are working, not only to empower people in recovery, but we are also working to educate our community on what recovery looks like and change the stigma around it.”

For more information about YPR-Augusta or the upcoming “Run Into Recovery” on March 24, visit the group’s page on Facebook or the national organization’s website, youngpeopleinrecovery.org. To learn more about Hope House, visit hopehouseaugusta.org.

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College women’s gymnastics teams to compete in Augusta; a UGA teammate competed in Olympic Trials

A taste of summer Olympics

by Amanda Main | amanda@themetrospirit.com

If gymnastics is one of your favorite sports to watch during the summer Olympics, you won’t want to miss a gymnastics event coming to Augusta this week. (Yes, the winter Olympics just wrapped up, but it’s hard not to look forward to what’s in store for summer 2020!)

The Elevate the Stage gymnastics meet is bringing together four women’s college teams — The University of Georgia, the University of Nebraska, the University of Illinois and Stanford University — at 7:30 p.m. March 2 at the James Brown Arena.

So it’s not an Olympic event, but at least one of the gymnasts who’s going to be competing there came very close to making it into the 2012 Olympics in London, and she even won gold on the American team at the World Championships in 2011 alongside eventual gold-winning Olympians Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney and Aly Raisman.

The young woman who competed alongside the eventual Olympians and made it to the Olympic Trials herself is Sabrina Vega, 22, who is a sophomore at the University of Georgia. She finished in 10th place at the Trials.

Originally from New York, Vega started in gymnastics when she was 4 years old. As an all-round gymnast who spent five years as a USA National Team member, she took a winding path to get to school in Georgia.

“I was training for the Olympics in 2012,” she said. “I made it to the Olympic Trials, and then I moved to Kansas City to try again for the 2016 Olympics. But I had some major injuries that set me back from reaching those goals, and it was like a transition period for me in 2016, trying to decide what to do next with the sport. And Georgia gave me the opportunity to come on a scholarship. It was really a last-minute decision because I had put off school for quite some time to train for the Olympics, so it was a blessing in disguise.”

Vega is working hard on her body and her mind — she is double majoring in biology and psychology. Her eventual goal is to make it to medical school and become an orthopedic.

She explained her choice on including psychology.

“I want to go into sports orthopedics, so I always think that in the medical field for orthopedics and dealing with athletes, there is a lot of psychological aspect to rehabbing and the sport itself. It’s all a mental game,” Vega said. “So I figured having that psychology background can help me in the long run.”

She’s enjoying her last years in gymnastics, and she says she’s past working toward making it to the Olympics. She is proud of having made it to the Olympic Trials, because not many athletes can say they did that.

“Honestly, I’m taking these next two years at college to really enjoy the sport and looking toward the next chapter in life, so I will be watching the next Olympics, but that’s not my goal.”

Vega and the other women will be kicking off a long weekend of gymnastics at Elevate the Stage — after the college teams compete on March 2, more than 1,000 youth gymnasts will compete through March 4. Tickets can be purchased online or in person for the college meet, but daily and weekend passes for the club meet on March 3 and 4 are available at the door only.

Until now, Elevate the Stage had been held only in Birmingham, Ala., for the past three years as a meet between the University of Alabama and Auburn University. This year, it’s happening in six cities across the U.S. The meet takes place on podiums, which historically have been used only for the SEC and NCAA Championships. Competing on podiums gives more bounce and spring for the gymnasts, and it gives the teams an advantage heading into post-season competition.

It’s also more visually appealing for the audience.

The 10-time national champions Georgia Gymdogs will play neutral site host to the other three, out-of-conference opponents. As of Feb. 23, the NCAA ranked all four teams coming to Augusta in the top 30, out of 82 teams: Nebraska came in at No. 14; Georgia was right behind at No. 15; Stanford was ranked at No. 22; and Illinois came in at No. 28.

Elevate the Stage James Brown Arena 7:30 p.m. March 2 $15-$20; 877-4AUGTIX georgialinatix.com

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The taps will be flowing at Metro Spirit’s sixth annual ETCP Springfest

Sunshine, good beers @ Lady A

by Metro Spirit Staff

If you spend much time on Facebook, you probably notice stories that bemoan everything millennials are supposedly killing. Retail shopping centers. Cable TV. Chain restaurants.

But it’s not like millennials are done contributing to the U.S. economy. The younger generations seem to be seeking out how they can support the little guy (small businesses) — and one thing they’re participating in is drinking more craft beer than previous generations, according to a report at brewersassocation.org.

Craft beer is defined as that which is made by smaller, more local breweries; we have two right here in Augusta, Riverwatch Brewery and Savannah River Brewing Company. Those two breweries, along with others in the region, will be represented at the sixth ETCP Springfest at Evans Towne Center Park on March 10. Along with fine craft beers, the free festival also offers local bands the Scarlet Begonias, the Mason Jars and the Robbie Ducey Band, as well as many local food vendors.

Craft Brand Manager Logan Stansell, who works for A B Beverage Company, helps with beer selection at the festival.

“So most people, if they’re just asking about craft beer, the first thing they’ll want to know is, ‘Well, what does it taste like? What color is it? How is it made?’ … If you get somebody that drinks Bud Light, the best way to approach somebody is to say ‘What’s your

24 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

favorite beer?’ and when they tell you Bud Light, then you try to find something light, not hoppy, not bitter,” Stansell said. “Hops are used in bitter beers, so … if you’re not very familiar with IPAs, IPAs are bitter beers. Very hoppy. But that’s basically what I do when they walk up and they don’t really know what they want to drink, I go ‘What are you into; what kind of beer do you normally like?’ If they don’t drink beer, I try to give them something that’s easy to drink. Craft

beer’s just real small, basically. You know, you’ve got big beer, which is Budweiser, Miller Lite and stuff like that. And then craft beer is small breweries, start-up breweries. It’s very hands-on.”

He said younger drinkers seem to be into expanding their horizons past the big names in beer, like Budweiser and Miller Lite. Craft beers are known for offering all different types of flavors, as well as higher ABV (alcohol by volume).

“Craft beer in Augusta probably within the last three years has come on very strong, as far as people just getting more educated about beer and how beer’s made and wanting to know how it’s made,” Stansell said. “In fact, when we were younger, nobody really cared about how it was made. These days, you can talk for hours about how beer’s made. So the culture’s definitely changed around here; I mean, four years ago, you didn’t see any of it. And it started to come on strong. And it’s picked up; I mean, we saw it four years ago in Atlanta. And the crazy thing is, it’s still so much stronger outside of Augusta; up toward Atlanta and stuff, craft beer’s huge. And it’s steadily making its way this way, because you can see it’s totally different in the last four years. And that just comes with people coming into our territories that have experienced beers from outside of here, and just, their taste buds are different. People just want to try new things.”

Stansell said part of the reason for craft beer growth in Augusta lately is the fact that there is a military base here.

“The military post and those people have been all over the world drinking beer. They’ve been in Belgium, which a lot of these beers are influenced from Belgium,” he said. “A lot of these ales and stuff like that. So that’s a huge thing. They’ve traveled outside of here, so people have tried different beers in different cities, and then they bring that back to Augusta with them, and then they get their friends to try it, and that’s just constantly what grows.”

Besides the two Augusta breweries, other breweries 01MARCH2018

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that are planned to be represented at ETCP Springfest include Holy City Brewing out of Charleston, Wicked Weed Brewing out of Asheville, Monday Night Brewing Company out of Atlanta, Jekyll Brewing out of Alpharetta, Red Hare Brewing out of Marietta, Reformation Brewery out of Woodstock, and Nantahala Brewing out of Bryson City, N.C. Another beer festival will be coming up about a month later, in North Augusta.

World of Beer is presenting their third annual Augusta Craft Beer Festival at the new home of the Augusta GreenJackets (SRP Park) from noon to 5 p.m. April 21. Keith Edmondson, director of the festival and president of Augusta Sports Leagues, said people who attend ETCP Springfest will have a chance to win tickets to the Augusta Craft Beer Festival, as well as to play games.

“We’re not specific to an area of town, and so we’re open to all areas of the CSRA,” Edmondson said. “I think that’s one of the things that we love the most about it, is it kind of gets people of their routine. And so you’ve got people from Grovetown and Fort Gordon hanging out with people from Aiken and North Augusta, and all points in between. And that’s what we’re really excited about is to get people out and about that don’t normally meet each other.”

Havird Usry, vice president of operations and development at Fat Man’s Mill Cafe, will be running the beer operations at the ETCP Springfest. He is looking forward to the festival.

“It just always seems to be a beautiful early spring day with some live music and good beer that folks enjoy, and then also a variety of beer,” Usry said. “And we from a concession standpoint, I think we just enjoy being busy and taking care of all the guests that come to the concert and having a little backstory along with A B Beverage of where each beer comes from and kind of a profile of the beers.”

He said the beers will be cold and on tap, served from kegs (no bottles or cans). He said spring is a good time to be in Augusta.

“Folks have been cooped up through some cold weather, and they’re just ready to get out into a warm climate and hear some good, local music, and then enjoy a beer,” Usry said. “I think the craft beer part of it is really just a third of it. I think we want to have that good weather and live music component, as well, but between those three things, I think those are what draw folks out. It’s kind of the first outdoor event of the year that people can go to Lady A and enjoy the outdoors.”

Like Stansell, Usry also said the craft beer culture in Augusta is looking good.

“I think our culture is strong here, as far as craft beer goes, and I hope it keeps getting stronger,” he said. “I think the more we support it locally and the more we have that critical mass of population in Augusta, we’ll be able to accommodate and support more breweries, as well. And to speak about both of the breweries that are in Augusta, for such a kind of a small to midsize market in my mind for craft beer, I think both of our breweries in Augusta do an excellent job.”

ETCP Springfest Evans Towne Center Park The Lady A Amphitheater Saturday, March 10 Noon - 6 p.m.

Admission is free

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What’s Up

Calendar: 27 | Music Listings: 34 If you have any questions, or would like to submit an event to our calendar, please email Amanda Main at amanda@themetrospirit.com.

A THRIFTER’S PARADISE — FOR A GOOD CAUSE The Junior League of Augusta’s 66th annual Attic Sale is happening this weekend! It kicks off from 7 to 10 p.m.

Thursday, March 1, with the Attic Sale Preview Party. For $20, you can get a chance to buy merchandise before anyone else can, as well as dinner, live music, raffles and more.

Then, the Attic Sale is a free-for-all from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 3. Gently used items that will be for sale include household goods, clothing, furniture, electronics, appliances, books, toys and more. Admission on Saturday is free, and a free community health fair will take place at the same time. All Attic Sale events will be at the Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds.

Money raised from the Attic Sale goes toward the Junior League’s community projects and grants that support the organization’s focus on generational poverty in the CSRA. In the past, funds raised at the sale have gone to good causes including the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta, Boys & Girls Club of the CSRA, Safe Homes and more.

The Junior League of Augusta is a “community volunteer organization of women who provide over 350 trained volunteers to the Augusta community throughout the year,” according to their website.

Call 706-736-0033 or visit jlaugusta.org for more information.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

SUNDAY, MARCH 4

TUESDAY, MARCH 6

THURSDAY, MARCH 8

Self-proclaimed geeks, rejoice — it’s back!

AgamaCon (short for Artists Gamers and Anime Members Association Convention) is happening through Sunday, March 4, at the Weeks Center in Aiken. It includes cosplay, a vendors hall, an artist alley and panel discussions on topics like Dungeons & Dragons and “Rick & Morty,” and much more. A two-day badge is $30; children 10 and under get in free. Visit agamacon.com or facebook.com/agamacon.

Heels on, glasses up! That’s what’ll be going on at Wine, Women & Shoes at the Bell Auditorium at 2 p.m. Sunday. It’s a day for shopping, wine tasting, food, fashion and more. The event benefits the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta. Feel free to dress up with your gal pals for this one. Tickets start at $75. Visit winewomenandshoes.com/event/augusta or call 706-724-5901.

Storytime in the Gardens is back at Hopelands Gardens in Aiken. The free event, taking place at 4 p.m. Tuesdays through May, invites families with children ages 8 and younger to bring their blankets, chairs, drinks and snacks to enjoy a relaxing time outdoors. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov.

We’re less than a month away from the Masters... hard to believe, but it’s true. This week, the Morris Museum of Art will have an exhibition opening for the Academy of Golf Art from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, featuring Dr. Robert T. Jones IV, the grandson of golfer Bobby Jones. He’ll be sharing stories of Augusta’s golf past. It’s free for members and $5 for nonmembers.

Call 706-828-3867 or visit themorris.org.

For more information on these events, see our calendar of events on page 27.

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harlemartscouncil@gmail.com.

Wed Mar 7

10am - noon Watercolor Painting Harlem Arts Council Watercolor painting class for adults with Frank Carstarphen. Continues March 14, 21 and 28. $20 per class, with a $10 supply fee per class. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-799-9854, visit harlemartscouncil.org/register or email harlemartscouncil@gmail.com.

2pm - 4:30pm Acrylic and Oil Painting Sessions

Aiken Public Library A class for adults and teens that meets Wednesdays through March 28. Preregistration and purchase of your own materials required. Call 803-642-2020, ext.

1131, or visit abbe-lib.org.

Ongoing

Bogart Paint Party

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. $30. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/paint-parties.

DANCE Whine and Cheese for Rescues Vineyard Wine Market 5pm - 7pm Sat Mar 3 This evening, including an art show and sale, benefits local animal rescues. $20 for the wine tasting. Call 706-863-2067, email doxydog@att.net or visit pawprintsfoundation.org.

ARTS

Thu Mar 1

1pm - 3pm Cool Coloring for Grownups

Aiken Public Library Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbe-lib.org.

6:30pm - 8:30pm Pottery Class

Harlem Arts Council Pottery with Angelika Bondar. Continues March 8, 22 and 29. $80 for all four classes; includes material fee. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-394-4682, visit harlemartscouncil.org/register or email harlemartscouncil@gmail.com.

Fri Mar 2

2pm Artist Talk

Arts & Heritage Center, North Augusta A talk with Alicia Cully, whose works are being shown in The Winter Exhibit through March 4. Free, members; $5, nonmembers.

Reserve a spot by emailing Director@ artsandheritagecenter.com, or call 803-4414380.

01MARCH2018

Sat Mar 3

9am - noon Basket Weaving

Harlem Arts Council Class with Tammy Przylepa. $40; all materials included. Register at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-414-1716, visit harlemartscouncil.org/register, or email harlemartscouncil@gmail.com.

Mon Mar 5

9am - 4:30pm Mad Potters End of Semester Sale

AU’s Jaguar Student Activities Center Work for sale by students of the ceramics program. Continues 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

March 6 and 7. Visit augusta.edu or call 706667-4888.

10am - noon Oil Painting Class

Harlem Arts Council Oil painting with Minette Hatcher. $20 per class. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-556-6656, visit harlemartscouncil.org/register or email

Academic Strategy of Career Development, Financial Assistance, Credit Transfers and Admissions. Light refreshments will be served.

Call 540-336-2872 or email ebrown@apus. edu.

11:30am - 1:30pm Open Job Lab

Diamond Lakes Branch Library Participants can complete job applications, resumes or conduct job searches with staff available for one-on-one help if needed. Call 706-772-2432 or visit arcpls.org

6:30pm - 9pm Citizen’s Law Enforcement Academy

Columbia County Sheriff ’s Office, Appling These classes will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Thursdays through May 10.

Applications can be downloaded from the Columbia County Sheriff ’s Office website at columbiacountyso.org under the Community Services Division. Call 706-541-2856 for information.

Fri Mar 2

3:30pm - 5pm Spanish for Beginners

Maxwell Branch Library Pre-registration required. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.

Ongoing

Sat Mar 3

Adult Beginner Tap with Marilyn Tomeo

9am - noon Richmond County School System Career Fair

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 10 to 11 a.m.

Wednesdays for four weeks. $50. Call 706828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/ the-best-of-tap-w-marilyn-tomeo.

Augusta Marriott Convention Center Positions available for K-12 teachers as well as guidance counselors, school nutrition, paraprofessionals, nurses and more. Dress professionally. Call 706-826-1000.

Hip-Hop n Groove Dance Class with Ashley Denerra

10:30am - 12:30pm Putting It All Together

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Saturdays. $15. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/dance-classes.

MMUVE with Ashley Denerra

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 2 to 3 p.m.

Saturdays. $15. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/dance-classes.

Lett’s Dance with Mario Lett

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 7 to 8 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. $7. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/letts-dance.

EDUCATION Thu Mar 1

8am - 5pm American Military University Information Session and Career Counseling

4081 Jimmie Dyes Parkway (Hampton Inn & Suites, Main Business Conference Room) This free event will provide information about

University of Phoenix, Augusta Campus Come prepared from head to toe for mock interviews. Sign up for this free career workshop at www.eventbrite.com/e/careerworkshop-series-tickets-41577884572.

Mon Mar 5

3pm - 4:30pm Partners in Friendship

Aiken Public Library This elementary course in conversational Italian language and culture is suitable for teens and adults. Partners in Friendship membership optional. Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.

3:30pm - 5pm Intermediate Spanish Class

Friedman Branch Library An adult class for those who already know some Spanish, led by Edwin Perez of the Asociacion Cultural Hispanoamericana. Preregistration required. Call 706-736-6758 or visit elcervantino.org or arcpls.org.

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Friedman Branch Library An adult class led by Edwin Perez of the Asociacion Cultural Hispanoamericana. Preregistration required. Call 706-736-6758 or visit arcpls.org.

Tue Mar 6

10:30am - noon English as a Second Language

Columbia County Library All levels welcome. Email 7022esl@gmail. com.

2pm - 3:30pm Online Safety Workshop

Aiken Public Library Learn how to avoid scams, phishing, malware and viruses online when searching, shopping or using email. Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.

4pm Libraries are for Creating: Teen Tech Help

Appleby Branch Library Pre-registration required. Visit arcpls.org or call 706-736-6244.

5:30pm - 7:30pm Google School

Columbia County Library Participants will learn about Google’s many services, including books, maps and shopping.

Pre-registration required. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

Wed Mar 7

Call 706-771-4131 to register for entrance testing.

is at 7. Free, members; $5, nonmembers. Call 706-828-3867 or visit themorris.org.

Headquarters Branch Library A group for beginner to intermediate Spanish speakers. Call 317-695-4748 or visit arcpls. org.

Job Skills Training

Ongoing

6pm Tertulia: Spanish Conversation Group

Thu Mar 8

5:30pm - 7:30pm Gadget Help with Alex Columbia County Library First come, ďŹ rst served. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

Ongoing

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program

Maxwell Branch Library Volunteers from AARP will help patrons ďŹ le their taxes; there is no age requirement.

Help is on a ďŹ rst-come, ďŹ rst-served basis.

Continues from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through April 14. Visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or arcpls.org for information.

GED Classes

Kroc Center These free classes are offered from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Wednesdays throughout the year for adults 18 and older. Preregistration and entrance testing required.

LEGENDS CLUB

Sunday, March 4, 2018 • 10:30 am - 2:00 pm TICKETS: ADULTS....$20.00/$25.00* • KIDS 2-10....$5.00/$7.50* *at the door ALL YOU CAN EAT soups, breads and desserts donated by area restaurants & caterers.

Free student created ceramic “Empty Bowl� for each ticket holder.

You “Canâ€? Help Raffle - Win a BIKE! • Kids’ “SOUPERâ€? Events & Eats

Best Silent Auction

For ticket locations go to: www.emptybowlcsra.org Our Sponsors

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28 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Randy Lambeth

4P Studios A variety of works in oil and watercolor will be on display from March 9 to April 7. A free reception will take place from 6 to 8 p.m.

March 9. Visit 4pstudiosart.com or call 706267-6724.

theClubhou.se Held from 8-9 a.m. on the ďŹ rst Wednesday of every month is an opportunity for two earlystage start-ups to present their companies to an audience of mentors, advisors and other entrepreneurs. Each founder presents for six minutes, followed by a Q&A. Coffee and doughnuts are provided. To apply, visit 1millioncups.com/augusta. Visit theclubhou. se or call 706-723-5782.

Gallery on the Row Reunion Show

ELSEWHERE

Sat Mar 3

600 Broad Gallery Several former partners of Gallery on the Row are reuniting from March 5 through March 30 to showcase their works of ďŹ ne art in a variety of mediums. A free reception will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. March 16. Visit 4pstudiosart.com or call 706-267-6724.

FLIX

Thu Mar 8

3pm “Wonder�

Downtown Savannah This festival features 80 bands in small to mid-size venues across Savannah’s Historic District. Performers include of Montreal, Nikki Lane, Wild Child, Larkin Poe, Pylon Reenactment Society and more. Runs through March 10. Tickets start at $34. Visit savannahstopover.com or call 478-254-0888.

Tue Mar 6

EXHIBITIONS

Thu Mar 1

6pm - midnight Savannah Stopover Music Festival

5pm - 8pm Sentiments & Origins Exhibit Opening Reception

17 Years of Ending Hunger Together

CSRA’s

1 Million Cups

Fri Mar 2

AUGUSTA JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER

2018

Kroc Center This three-month, tuition-free program starts in April and provides people of low income the opportunity to gain the practical skills necessary for personal growth and employment success. Call 706-364-4088.

Westobou Gallery An exhibition featuring contemporary interpretations of owers and foliage by artists Frances de La Rosa, Cynthia Farnell, Juan Alberto Negroni, and Pandra Williams in collaboration with Jennifer Garcia-Green.

An artist lecture will precede the event at 4 p.m. March 2. The exhibit will remain on display until April 20. Call 706-755-2878 or visit westoboufestival.com.

Thu Mar 8

5pm - 7pm Exhibit Opening Reception

Sacred Heart Cultural Center Featuring works by Walter Cumming. The exhibition will remain on display through March 29. Reception is free and open to the public. Call 706-826-4700 or email kimsacredheart@knology.net.

6pm - 9pm Exhibition Opening: Academy of Golf Art

The Morris Museum of Art Dr. Robert T. Jones IV, grandson of golfer Bobby Jones, shares stories of Augusta’s golf past and some of the important ďŹ gures he has known. The lecture is at 6, and the reception

Aiken Public Library Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.

5:30pm - 8pm Tuesday Night Movie Series

Headquarters Branch Library Eclectic variety of ďŹ lms. Visit arcpls.org or call 706-821-2600.

HEALTH

6pm Breastfeeding Class

University Hospital Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

6pm Center for Women Tour

Doctors Hospital Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

7pm Center for Women Tour

Doctors Hospital Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

Sun Mar 4

3pm - 5pm The Daddy Class

Doctors Hospital An infant care class for fathers only. Preregistration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

Mon Mar 5

6pm Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention Class

University Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute A class that offers information, diagnostic exams, lab work, a personal plan and more.

Pre-registration required. Call 706-774-5548 or visit universityhealth.org.

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Headquarters Branch Library This seminar exists to help people with an Irish or Scots-Irish background research their family history. The deadline to register is Feb. 23. $45 per person for Augusta Genealogical Society members; $50 for nonmembers.

Lunch and refreshment breaks are included.

Call 706-722-4073, visit augustagensociety. org or email augustagensociety@comcast.net.

4pm - 5pm Coupon Group

Maxwell Branch Library Trade coupons and money-saving tips with others. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.

(Note: Hours for this monthly meeting have changed because of the meeting room being occupied by AARP tax assistance. Normal hours will resume in May.)

Sun Mar 4

7pm Shire of Border Vale Meeting

Augusta Richmond County Fire Station, 2627 Parkway Drive Monthly class introduces attendees to Middle Ages role playing, crafts and skills, put on by the local chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. Call 706-951-2437 or visit bordervalekeep.atlantia.sca.org.

Mad Potters End of Semester Sale AU’s Jaguar Student Activities Center 9am - 4:30pm Mon Mar 5 Work for sale by students of the ceramics program. Continues 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 6 and 7. Visit augusta.edu or call 706-667-4888.

6:30pm Refit

Headquarters Branch Library A free cardio dance class. Call 706-821-2600 or visit arcpls.org.

Tue Mar 6

2pm Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention Class

University Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute A class that offers information, diagnostic exams, lab work, a personal plan and more.

Pre-registration required. Call 706-774-5548 or visit universityhealth.org.

7pm - 9pm Breastfeeding Class for New Mothers AU’s Health Sciences Campus Pre-registration required for this free class.

Visit calendar.augusta.edu, call 706-721-9351 or email tmcculle@augusta.edu.

7:30pm Childbirth Tour

AUHealth Call 706-721-2273 or visit calendar.augusta. edu.

Wed Mar 7

7pm - 9:30pm Weekday Childbirth Education Class University Hospital This three-week class meets 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Wednesdays. Pre-registration required. Call 01MARCH2018

706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

Thu Mar 8

7pm - 9:30pm Baby 101

Doctors Hospital An infant care and development class. Preregistration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

7pm Women’s Center Tour

University Hospital Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

Ongoing

Mon Mar 5

6:30pm - 7:30pm Doodle Hour

Columbia County Library Coloring for grown-ups. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

March 1. Call 706-504-2279 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/the-healing-practiceof-qigong.

Wed Mar 7

HOBBIES

Columbia County Library Coloring for grown-ups. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

Thu Mar 1

5:30pm - 7:30pm Fiber Arts Craft and Chat

Columbia County Library Open to those of all abilities who crochet, knit, loom and cross stitch. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

6:30pm - 8:30pm PWN AUG Chess Club Meeting

Meditation Sessions

The Yoga Center, North Augusta Led by members of the Southeastern Buddhist Community the first and second Wednesday of each month. Sessions are free and open to the public. Visit sebuddhist.org.

The Book Tavern A club open to all ages and skill levels that meets the first and third Thursdays of each month. Participants are encouraged to bring their own chess sets. Call 706-826-1940 or visit booktavern.com.

Augusta Meditation Meetup

Fri Mar 2

Unity of Augusta sanctuary Licensed Professional Counselor Cynthia Gray leads this 20-minute non-religious, breath-awareness meditation at 9 a.m.

Sundays. Find more details at meetup.com, or email cynthiagray@outlook.com.

The Healing Practice of Qigong Jessye Norman School of the Arts Held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays, this costs $80 for two three-hour sessions

Noon - 1pm Doodle Hour

Ongoing

Basic Genealogy Tutorials

Headquarters Branch Library’s Georgia Heritage Room Free sessions offered by appointment. Call 706-826-1511 or visit arcpls.org.

KIDS-TEENS

1pm - 3pm Genealogy 101

Columbia County Library Learn the basics of genealogy research and organization. Pre-registration required. Call 706-863-1946, ext. 4, or visit gchrl.org.

Sat Mar 3

9am - 4:30pm Researching Your Irish, Scots-Irish Ancestors Seminar AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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Thu Mar 1

1pm - 3pm Homeschool Adventure Mistletoe State Park For homeschool students ages 5 and up. $5 per child, plus $5 parking. Pre-registration required. Call 706-541-0321 or visit gastateparks.org/mistletoe.

5:30pm - 7:30pm “A Wrinkle in Time” Cosmic Art Workshop

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11am “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” Story Time

Barnes & Noble Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

Mon Mar 5

10am Tiny Tot Story Time

Headquarters Branch Library Create cosmic art and discuss the book. Best for kids and young adults ages 9 and up. Call 706-821-2623, 706-434-2036 or visit arcpls. org.

Reed Creek Park “The Thing About Spring” story time for kids ages 2-4. Free, members and nonmembers. Pre-registration required; register through reedcreekpark.com. For information, call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@columbiacountyga.gov.

Fri Mar 2

10:30am Jr. Lego Club

10am - 12:30pm Story Time Fridays

Aiken Public Library Stories, songs and interactive activities.

Story time for babies (0-23 months) begins at 10:15 a.m., toddlers (2-3 years) at 11 a.m. and preschoolers (4-5 years) at 11:45 a.m.

Participants and caregivers are encouraged to participate. Call 803-642-2023 or visit abbelib. org.

10:30am - noon Story Times

North Augusta’s Nancy Carson Library Story time for those ages 0-2 begins at 10:30 a.m., and story time for those ages 3-6 begins at 11:15 a.m. Call 803-279-5767 or visit abbe-lib.org.

11am - 11:30am Sensory Class

Columbia County Library A class for those ages 3 and up designed to help strengthen motor, social and cognitive skills. Pre-registration required. Call 706-8631946 or visit gchrl.org.

12:30pm - 2pm Mr. Kenny’s Wondrous Stories, Songs and Play

Jessye Norman School of the Arts Participants will read, sing, play musical instruments and explore movement designed to help them develop both literary and cognitive skills. Parents or caregivers participate in the class through age 3.

Preschool and kindergarten children may attend with, or without, a parent or caregiver. $10; pre-registration required. Call 706-8287768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org.

6:30pm Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration

Headquarters Branch Library For those ages 2-4. Legos provided. Preregistration required. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls.org.

4pm - 5:30pm Young Makers

Columbia County Library This program is for kids ages 8 to 12 to work collaboratively on a staff-directed project or on individual projects of their own, or just to play with some neat technology. Visit gchrl. org or call 706-863-1946.

Tue Mar 6

10am All Ages Story Time

Headquarters Branch Library Stories, songs and rhymes. Pre-registration recommended. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls.org.

Barnes & Noble Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

10:30am Preschool Story Time

Appleby Branch Library Songs, finger plays and stories for those ages 18 months to 3 years. Pre-registration required for groups of six or more. Call 706736-6244 or visit arcpls.org.

10:30am - noon Super Awesome Story Time

The Book Tavern Juice and cookies provided by New Moon Cafe. Call 706-826-1940 or email superawesomestorytime@booktavern.com.

Thu Mar 8

10:30am Create with Me: BBQ is on the Menu!

Morris Museum of Art Participants will view John Baeder’s painting “Col. Poole’s Pig Hill of Fame,” then create their own diner signs. Free, members and parents; $4 per participant, nonmembers.

Pre-registration required. Call 706-724-7501

4pm Lego Club

Aiken Public Library For kids ages 5-11. Legos provided. Call 803642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.

4pm Teen Advisory Board

Columbia County Library Teens can help plan programs for the Teen Department while getting volunteer credit.

Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

Ongoing

Nature Explorers

Reed Creek Park This program will be outdoors come rain or shine and is intended for home-schooled kids ages 5 to 7 and after-school kids ages 5 to 11.

Each session is six weeks long and costs $12 per session (registration is restricted to one session this spring). Sessions run through May 24. Pre-registration required; to register and find out the dates, visit reedcreekpark.com.

For information, call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@columbiacountyga.gov.

Science & Nature Club

Reed Creek Park This program will be indoors and outdoors and is intended for home-schooled kids ages 8 to 11. Each session is six weeks long and costs $12 per session (registration is restricted to one session this spring). Sessions run through

4pm Storytime in the Gardens

Hopelands Gardens, Aiken For families with children ages 8 and younger. Blankets, chairs, drinks and snacks are welcome. Call 803-642-7631 or visit cityofaikensc.gov.

Wed Mar 7

10am Music and Movement

Headquarters Branch Library Music, songs, dance and rhymes for children.

Groups of six or more require registration.

Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls.org.

Sat Mar 3

10am Story Time for Tots

30 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

10am Wacky Wednesday Story Time

or visit themorris.org.

Maxwell Branch Library An event in which members of the community can read to therapy dogs. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.

10am Story Time

Headquarters Branch Library No registration required. Call 706-821-2623 or visit augustachess.com or arcpls.org.

Appleby Branch Library This is a program best for children ages 18 months-3 years. Call 706-736-6244 or visit arcpls.org.

3:30pm Paws for Literacy

Barnes & Noble This event features a story time, games and activities to celebrate the author’s birthday.

Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

10:30am - noon Beginners Chess for Kids

10:05am Toddler Story Time

Maxwell Branch Library Pre-registration required. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.

Headquarters Branch Library For those ages 0-3. Pre-registration recommended. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls.org.

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May 24. Pre-registration required; to register and find out the dates, visit reedcreekpark. com. For information, call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@columbiacountyga.gov.

The Shepard Project

Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer A teen hangout and safe space for LGBTQ+ teens, ages 14-17, and allies that meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 5-8 p.m. The group is also looking for chaperones ages 25 and older and youth mentors 18-24 years old, who must pass a background check. Call 803-617-8352 or email shepardprojectaugusta@gmail.com.

Homeschool PE

Kroc Center For kids ages 5-12 and meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for an hour at 9:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Members, free; nonmembers, $2 per visit. Activity follows the Richmond County school calendar. Call 706364-5762 or visit augustakroc.org.

Kroc Tots

Kroc Center A program for parents and children up to age 5 that includes work on physical, social and emotional development, as well as cognitive skills and language development. Meets most Tuesdays at 10 a.m. during the school year. $2, members; $5, nonmembers. Call 706364-5762 or visit augustakroc.org.

LITERARY Tue Mar 6

7pm An Evening with Brian Panowich

The Book Tavern $25. All attendees will receive a free copy of Brian Panowich’s new book. Musical guest Dan Adams will have an after party at Stillwater Taproom for $3. Visit booktavern. com or call 706-826-1940.

Wed Mar 7

6pm Page Turners Book Club

Barnes & Noble Held every first Wednesday of the month.

Call the store for information about the book of the month. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.

Ongoing

Winter Reading Program

Appleby Branch Library Through March 31, get a log at the front desk and record your winter reading (five books or five hours). Turn in your complete reading log for a chance to win a reading prize — there’s one for kids, teens and adults. Participants can complete the program once per month. Call 706-736-6244 or visit arcpls.org.

Winter Reading Challenge Aiken Public Library 01MARCH2018

Pick up a reading challenge and return it by March 31 to win a small prize and be entered in a drawing to win a $25 Books-A-Million gift card. Open to adults only. Call 803-6422020, ext. 1131, or visit abbe-lib.org.

Kroc Book Club

Kroc Center This diverse group of people who love to read and talk about literature meets the fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Call 706-364-5762 or visit augustakroc. org.

MUSIC

Thu Mar 1 7pm Nelly

The Country Club $60. Visit augustacountry.com or call 706364-1862.

Fri Mar 2

7:30pm Ed Turner and Number 9

Etherredge Center, Aiken $40, general; $15, USC Aiken students. Visit etherredge.usca.edu or call 803-641-3305.

7:30pm Night of Jazz

Bell Auditorium A Symphony Orchestra Augusta performance featuring other musicians and a tap dancer. $16-$66. Visit soaugusta.org or call 706-826-4705.

7:30pm POPS! A Night at the Cotton Club

Bell Auditorium Musicians Byron Stripling, Carmen Bradford and Bob Breithaupt and tap dancer Ted Louis Levy will perform 1920s jazz with Symphony Orchestra Augusta. $16-$66. Visit soaugusta.org or call 706-826-4705.

Ongoing

Daon Drisdom’s Piano Lessons & Workshops

Miller Theater Performance with Symphony Orchestra Augusta. Second show is at 7:30 p.m. March 3. $45-$75. Visit millertheateraugusta.com or call 800-514-3849.

Jessye Norman School of the Arts The free workshops take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Paid private lessons available. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/on-the-keys-w-mr-d.

8pm Dixie Dregs

Keith Jenkins’ Guitar Lessons & Workshops

Bell Auditorium $49.50-$74.50. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com.

Sat Mar 3

8am - 2pm Saturday Morning Swing

Eighth Street Plaza Live music from local jazz artists and performing arts groups during the Augusta Market. Call 706-627-0128 or visit theaugustamarket.com.

Tue Mar 6

Noon Tuesday’s Music Live

Saint Paul’s Church Featuring a free concert by Lindsay Deutsch.

Lunch afterwards is $12 a person and requires reservation. Call 706-722-3463 or visit tuesdaysmusiclive.com.

7pm Spring Classics Concert

Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center This free concert features the Columbia County Orchestra and includes performers Clara Park and Fabio Mann, with pieces by composers including Finzi, Haydn, Mozart, Sullivan and Telemann. Donations accepted.

For information, visit columbiacco.org.

Thu Mar 8

6pm - 7:30pm Adult Guitar Club Columbia County Library A club for experienced guitar players. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.

7:30pm Goitse (Go-with-cha)

Jessye Norman School of the Arts The group sessions take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Thurdays; donations accepted. Paid private lessons available. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/guitarlessons-w-keith-jenkins.

SENIORS Ongoing

AARP Tax Aide Program

Headquarters Branch Library Volunteers with the AARP Tax Aide program will prepare tax returns at no charge during these walk-in tax clinics from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays through April 13. This program is geared toward taxpayers with low and moderate income, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Take a picture ID, Social Security card, last year’s tax returns, and a voided check/accounting/routing number for direct deposit. Call 706-826-1511 or visit arcpls.org.

SPECIAL EVENTS Thu Mar 1

7pm - 10pm Attic Sale Preview Party

Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds An event that includes dinner, live music, raffles and a chance to see and purchase attic sale merchandise before the sale on Saturday. $20. Call 706-736-0033 or visit jlaugusta.org.

7pm Brian Kemp Putting Georgians First Bus Tour

Monterrey Restaurant, 4352 Washington

Road Voters are invited to meet with Secretary of State Brian Kemp. Visit KempForGovernor. com/Tour.

Fri Mar 2

2pm - 5pm Stop and Swap

Weeks Center, Aiken This yard sale for “geek-related things” will take place in the Odell Weeks center’s picnic shelter. Visit agamacon.com.

5pm - 9pm First Friday

Downtown Augusta A family-friendly arts event that includes musicians, dancers, artists and other vendors.

Visit facebook.com/artistsrowaugusta.

5pm Wine Tasting

Wine World A drop-in First Friday event. $5; $2 rebate upon purchase of a bottle of one of the featured wines. Call 803-279-9522 or visit wineworldsc.com.

7pm - 11pm Morris Gala

Morris Museum of Art This 25th annual, black-tie event benefits the Morris Museum of Art. It will feature fine art, food, live entertainment, dancing, raffles and more. For ticket information, call 706-828-3825 or visit email lauren.land@ themorris.org.

Sat Mar 3

7am - 2pm Attic Sale

Augusta Exchange Club Fairgrounds A sale of gently used items, including household goods, clothing, furniture, electronics, appliances, books, toys and more.

Free admission. A free community health fair will be held at the same time. Call 706-7360033 or visit jlaugusta.org.

10am - 11pm AgamaCon

Weeks Center, Aiken AgamaCon, short for Artists Gamers and Anime Members Association Convention, includes cosplay, a vendors hall, an artist alley and panel discussions on everything from Dungeons & Dragons to “Rick & Morty.”

Continues 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 4. Twoday badge, $30; children 10 and under get in free. Visit agamacon.com or facebook.com/ agamacon.

4pm - 7pm Icebox International Garden Party

Icebox Ministries Icebox Ministries are expanding their scope internationally; this garden party is intended to wish Tasha Alison and Steve Fountain well, with the theme Sliders, Slaw, Salads and Hot Sauce. Loads of volunteers are needed to help cook in the morning starting at 8 a.m.

Text Kim at 706-288-7895 to volunteer. Visit augustalocallygrown.org.

5pm - 7pm Whine and Cheese for AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

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School of the Arts. The event will also feature live music, a silent auction, door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, wine and more. $50. Call or text 706-836-3058 or visit thejnsa.org.

SPIRITUAL Fri Mar 2

7:30pm My Soul Thirsts 2-Day Prayer Conference

Glorious Praise Worship Center Led by Minister Tiffiny Robinson with Power N Prayer, this two-day conference continues at 10 a.m. March 3. Minister CoShendra Jackson of Beech Island will be the guest speaker. For information, visit tiffinyrobinson. com.

Sun Mar 4

11am Furman Singers

First Baptist Church, Augusta Free concert. Call 864-294-2086 or email FurmanMusic@furman.edu.

Savannah Stopover Music Festival Downtown Savannah 6pm to midnight Thu Mar 8 This festival features 80 bands in small to mid-size venues across Savannah’s Historic District. Performers include of Montreal (pictured), Nikki Lane, Wild Child, Larkin Poe, Pylon Reenactment Society and more. Runs through March 10. Tickets start at $34. Visit savannahstopover.com or call 478-254-0888.

Rescues

Vineyard Wine Market This evening, including an art show and sale, benefits local animal rescues. $20 for the wine tasting. Call 706-863-2067, email doxydog@ att.net or visit pawprintsfoundation.org.

Bell Auditorium A benefit for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta that includes shopping, a wine tasting, food, a fashion show and more. $75-$125. Visit winewomenandshoes.com/ event/augusta or call 706-724-5901.

6pm “Two Small Pieces of Glass”

Mon Mar 5

Dupont Planetarium, Aiken Weather permitting, the observatory, housing the Bechtel Telescope, will be available for viewing after each show. $2-$6.50. Call 803641-3654 or visit rpsec.usca.edu.

6pm - 11pm Butler High School Class of 1971 Reunion

Legends Club $40 per person or $75 per couple, advance. $50 per person or $85 per couple, at door.

Includes a catered dinner and entertainment by a DJ. For more information, visit Facebook under Butler High Augusta GA Class of 1971 Reunion or contact Jeanne Thigpen Christy at 706-951-6199.

7pm and 8pm “Cosmic Colors”

Dupont Planetarium, Aiken Weather permitting, the observatory, housing the Bechtel Telescope, will be available for viewing after each show. $2-$6.50. Call 803641-3654 or visit rpsec.usca.edu.

Sun Mar 4

2pm Wine, Women & Shoes 32 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

7pm Columbia County Democratic Party Meeting

Columbia County Government Center Auditorium, Building A The Columbia County Democratic Party invites the public to its monthly meetings, held on the first Monday of every month (unless it’s a holiday). Candidate for representative District 12 will be the speaker.

Social time takes place before the meetings at 6:30 p.m. For information, contact columbiacntydems@aol.com. Visit facebook. com/columbiacntydemocrats for updated information, or call 706-414-5558. The April meeting will take place April 10.

Tue Mar 6

6:30pm Meet the District 7 School Board Candidates Night

Warren Road Community Center The four Richmond County School Board candidates vying to fill the District 7 seat in the March 20 special election will speak and provide information about themselves and what they want to accomplish on the school board. A Q&A session will follow. Candidates

include Melvin Brown, Annette Turabi, Charlie Walker Jr., and Sarah Williams. Call 706-868-8027 or email jrjer@comcast.net.

Wed Mar 7

6pm - 8pm Yappy Hour

SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare This event includes live music, a cash bar, open dog park and food. Visit letlovelive.org.

Ongoing

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

North Augusta High School Auditorium Takes place at 7 p.m. March 9 and 10, and at 3 p.m. March 11. $20. Visit naArtsCouncil. org or call 803-646-2815.

Aiken Newcomers’ Club Luncheon Newberry Hall, Aiken Doors open at 9:30 a.m. March 13, with a business meeting at 10:15 a.m. and then lunch at 11:30 a.m. $25; pre-registration required by noon March 8. This month’s meeting features the annual Gala Fashion Show Fundraiser. The Aiken Newcomers’ Club is an organization for women. Email newcomers29803@gmail.com, visit aikennewcomers.com, or call 803-644-7924.

Purses for a Purpose

The Richmond on Greene A handbag auction event is set at 7 p.m.

March 15 that will benefit the Jessye Norman

5:30pm Saint Paul’s Choir sings Evensong

Saint Paul’s Church A reception will follow this musical event; child care is available. Visit saintpauls.org or call 706-724-2485.

SPORTS-OUTDOORS Fri Mar 2

7:30pm Elevate the Stage

James Brown Arena This event is a championship-style gymnastics competition for NCAA and Junior Olympic athletes. The 10-time national champion Georgia Gymdogs will play neutral site host to out-of-conference opponents Nebraska, Stanford and Illinois. $15-$20. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com.

Sat Mar 3

10am - noon First Saturday Hike and Craft

Mistletoe State Park $5, parking; $2, craft fee. Call 706-541-0321 or visit gastateparks.org/mistletoe.

10am - noon Swamp Saturday Hike

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park A guided, 2.5-mile hike. $2; free for members.

Pre-registration required. Call 706-396-1426 or visit phinizycenter.org.

7pm Pro Wrestling BUSHIDO

Thomson Boys & Girls Club $10, at door; $20, VIP; free, military and emergency personnel with ID. Group rates available. Visit facebook.com/ PWBUSHIDO.

Wed Mar 7

All day Stable View Jumpers

Stable View Farms, Aiken This equestrian event is free for spectators.

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Call 484-356-3173 or visit stableviewfarm. com.

6:30pm - 9pm Ladies Night Pickleball

Newman Tennis Center $2 per person; call 706-821-1600 to sign up.

Newman Tennis Center will have paddles and balls, but take your own if you have them. Also, free play is available from 8:30 a. m. to noon on Fridays.

Ongoing

It’s a Stretch: Yoga for the Stiff Skeptic

Jessye Norman School of the Arts This class takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. $10. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org/its-a-stretchmore-yoga-for-the-stiff-skeptic.

Free Fun Run Thursdays

Health Support Group

Unitarian Universalist Church of Augusta A weekly group that meets Wednesday from 6:30-8 p.m. Based on the work of Abraham Low, MD, RI offers its members a low cost method to regain and maintain their mental health by using mental health through will training. People who stick with the RI Method are able to live healthy, productive lives with lower levels of tension, anger, fear, anxiety, stress, compulsions, and other symptoms. Email marykahb@yahoo.com.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Kroc Center Meeting the first Thursday of every month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., this support group helps those dealing with Alzheimer’s or someone who is a caregiver of an individual who is affected by Alzheimer’s. Call 706-9228338

Evans Towne Center Park Hosted by Fleet Feet Sports, this is intended for anyone looking for a 2- to 5-mile run with a group. It happens at 6 p.m. every first, second, third and fourth Thursday of the month. Wear lights and reflective gear when appropriate for better visibility.

Email training@fleetfeetaugusta.com or visit facebook.com/events/218818291994876.

Furry Friends

SUPPORT

Group empowers people to become more effective communicators and leaders. Meets weekly from noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays at Fat Man’s Cafe. Email jmcneill22@att.net or call 706-798-5515.

Mon Mar 5

6:30pm Cancer Share

University Hospital For those with any type of cancer, held the first Monday each month. Call 706-774-5946 or visit universityhealth.org.

6:30pm Lung Cancer Support Group

University Hospital Meets the first Monday of each month. Call 706-744-5946 or visit universityhealth.org.

6:30pm Pink Pistols Meeting

A group for women in their 20s and 30s dealing with breast cancer that meets the first Monday of each month. Call for location.

Call 706-774-4141 or visit universityhealth. org.

Wed Mar 7

1pm The Lactation Club

University Hospital A breastfeeding support group for mothers of NICU babies. Pre-registration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.

5:30pm Girl Talk Support Group

Doctors Hospital A support group for those who have pelvic health issues. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-4343 or visit doctors-hospital.net.

Ongoing

Recovery International Mental 01MARCH2018

AU’s Cancer Clinic On the second and fourth Monday of every month, the Georgia Cancer Center uses furry friends to help people recover from or cope with various physical and emotional health issues related to cancer. Call 706-721-0472 or visit augusta.edu.

Georgia Carolina Toastmasters

Grief Share Program

Aldersgate United Methodist Church This program is for people who have had a loved one pass away and need to share with others in the difficult journey. There is a $20 registration fee, with free child care and scholarships available. The group will meet Sunday evenings through April 1. Email showmanjj@comcast.net or call 706-8308741.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) GA, 110 Augusta

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church fellowship hall The group meets Mondays, with weigh-in beginning at 5:15 p.m. and the meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. Call 706-790-0391 or visit tops.org.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

Pine View Baptist Church The group meets Tuesdays, with weigh-in beginning at 4:45 p.m. and the meeting beginning at 5:15 p.m. Call 706-868-0539 or visit www.TOPS.org.

La Leche League

A breastfeeding support group. For more information on meeting dates, times and locations, visit them on Facebook under La Leche League of Augusta or at lllaugusta.

wordpress.com.

Celebrate Recovery

Journey Community Church This Christ-centered recovery program meets every Monday night at 7 p.m. The meetings last two hours and childcare is provided. Pre-registration suggested. Visit cr@journeycommunity.net.

Ongoing

“The Last Romance”

Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre Showing at 8 p.m. March 2 and 3. $28-$53.

Call 706-793-8552 or visit fortgordon.com.

VOLUNTEER Ongoing

Remove Invasive Plants

Write to Heal Creative Writing Program

Reed Creek Park Volunteers ages 16 and up are needed from 7 to 11 a.m. March 10 to help rid the park of the non-native, invasive privet plants. Many people are needed, and volunteers should wear long-sleeved shirts, plants, closed-toe shoes and thick gloves. Visit reedcreekpark. com, call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@columbiacountyga.gov.

Overeaters Anonymous

Communities In Schools of Augusta Richmond County

Children’s Hospital of Georgia family resource library For patients, family members and caregivers, this program meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Pre-registration required. Call 706-721-5160 or email nawilliams@gru.edu.

This 12-step, self help program for people who are addicted to food meets for an hour at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 1:30 p.m. Saturdays. No dues or fees. Call 706-863-9534 or email oa.augusta. recovery@gmail.com.

Adult Sexual Assault and Rape Support Group

Provides group counseling at University Hospital for those who have experienced sexual assault, incest, rape or childhood sexual abuse. Call 706-724-5200 or visit universityhealth.org.

This nonprofit works full-time inside K-12 schools with help from volunteers throughout the community. Opportunities include reading to a classroom of children, helping small groups of elementary school children with basic learning skills (like reading and math flash cards) and tutoring high-schoolers on math. Donations also are accepted.

For volunteer opportunities, email salias@ cisaugusta.org or call 706-550-7716; for donation opportunities, email dkalliokoski@ cisaugusta.org or call 706-550-7716. Visit cisaugusta.org for more information.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Holds several meetings locally. For a current schedule, visit augustaaa.org/documents/ Meetings/meetings.pdf.

Narcotics Anonymous

Trinity Hospital of Augusta Meets Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Visit na.org.

Beyond the Bars

A support group for those with incarcerated loved ones. Call 706-855-8636.

THEATER Fri Mar 2

8pm - midnight eXtreme Theatre Games

Le Chat Noir First Friday improv comedy by Schrodinger’s Cat. $12 online and at door. Call 706-7223322 or visit lcnaugusta.com.

Sat Mar 3

3pm and 7:30pm “The Last Five Years”

Aiken Community Playhouse $20. Proceeds benefit the show’s cast and crew visit to the Southeastern Theater Conference’s Community Theatre Festival this month. Call 803-648-1438 or visit aikencommunityplayhouse.com.

Joe White Publisher joe@themetrospirit.com 706-373-3636 Amanda Main Arts Editor/Production Director amanda@themetrospirit.com Stacey Eidson Staff Writer stacey@themetrospirit.com Joshua Bailey Lead Designer joshua@themetrospirit.com Johnny Beckworth Circulation Manager jdbeckworth@gmail.com COVER DESIGN: KRUHU Contributors Jenny Wright, Austin Rhodes, Kris Fisher, Michael Johnson Metro Spirit is a free newspaper published weekly on Thursday, 52 weeks a year. Editorial coverage includes local issues and news, arts, entertainment, people, places and events. In our paper appear views from across the political and social spectrum.

The views do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Visit us at metrospirit.com.© 15 House, LLC. Owner/Publisher: Joe White. Legal: Phillip Scott Hibbard.

Reproduction or use without permission is prohibited. One copy per person, please.

Want to advertise in the Metro Spirit?

Call or email Joe at 706.373.3636 joe@themetrospirit.com

V29|NO9

Polo Tavern (Aiken) - Karaoke w/ Tom Mitchell Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ Mike Johnson Southbound Smokehouse - Trivia Stillwater Taproom - Pub Quiz World of Beer - Trivia

Upcoming

POPS! A Night at the Cotton Club

- Bell Auditorium March 8 Brandon Reeves

- Wild Wing March 8

Dixie Dregs Bell Auditorium 8pm Fri Mar 2 $49.50-$74.50. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com.

Goitse

- Etherredge Center, Aiken March 8 Brian Herrington

- Southbound Smokehouse March 9 Anybody’s Guess

What’s Tonight?

The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Helga’s Pub & Grille - Trivia, then karaoke The Highlander - Karaoke

Sunday, March 4 Live Music

Capri Lounge - Vivian Valium & the Lounge Lizard Divas Harlem Java House - Lillie Morris and the Irish Fiddlers (traditional Irish music) The Highlander - Hard Fabric Wild Wing - Daddy Grace The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn

What’s Tonight?

Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ Mike Johnson

Katt Williams James Brown Arena 8pm Fri Mar 9 $55-$102. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com.

Thursday, March 1 Live Music

Country Club - Nelly Fox’s Lair - Open Mic Jam w/ Brandy Douglas Harlem Java House - Open Mic Night Mellow Mushroom (Aiken) - Mellow Music Sky City - Heart of the City, presented by Truez Wild Wing - Whiskey Run Duo The Willcox (Aiken) - Thursday Night Jazz w/ 4 Cats in the Dog House

What’s Tonight?

Helga’s Pub & Grille - Trivia The Highlander - Butt Naked Trivia Pizza Joint (downtown) - Trivia w/ Mike Sleeper Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane

Friday, March 2 Live Music

Country Club - Upchurch, Kenny George Band Bell Auditorium - Dixie Dregs Fox’s Lair - Dewayne Brock and The Lucky Bastards The Highlander - Chainsaw Masscara Miller Theater - Ed Turner and Number 9 w/ Symphony Orchestra Augusta Shannon’s - Perfect Picture Southbound Smokehouse - Neon Moon The Stables Restaurant (Aiken) - Jazz w/

34 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Jimmy Easton Stillwater Taproom - Michael Baideme and Phillip Lee Wild Wing - Interstate Exiles The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn

What’s Tonight?

The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Helga’s Pub & Grille - Karaoke James Brown Arena - Elevate the Stage (women’s college gymnastics including UGA)

Saturday, March 3 Live Music

Country Club - Holman Autry Band Coyotes - Waylon Owings (Outshyne) The Epicenter - Pheed the Pacc, Yowza Fox’s Lair - Carey Murdock Harlem Java House - The Loving Cup Concert & Marrow Donor Registry Drive Miller Theater - Ed Turner and Number 9 w/ Symphony Orchestra Augusta Shannon’s - Tandum Sky City - The Mantras (Beastie Boys tribute) Southbound Smokehouse - The Drifter Kings Stillwater Taproom - Acosta Tin Lizzy’s - Time Pirates Wild Wing - Center Lane The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn World of Beer - Blue Brindle Blues

Monday, March 5 Live Music Sky City - Cris Jacobs

What’s Tonight?

Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane Wild Wing - Trivia World of Beer - Open Mic Night

Tuesday, March 6 Live Music

The Epicenter - Harm, Rebirth, Afterglow, Similar Odds, Cloud Walking Fox’s Lair - Irish Music w/ Dr. John Fisher and the Undefeated Army The Willcox (Aiken) - Hal Shreck

What’s Tonight?

The Highlander - Game Night Mellow Mushroom (Aiken) - Trivia Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane World of Beer - Karaoke

Wednesday, March 7 Live Music

The Larder - Bethany and the Southside Boys Wild Wing - Whiskey Run Duo

What’s Tonight?

The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Bar West - Karaoke Capri Lounge - Game Night Chevy’s - DJ Richie Rich Joe’s Underground - Open Mic w/ J. MartinMoses Pizza Joint (Evans) - Trivia w/ Mike Sleeper

- Shannon’s March 9 Funk You

- Sky City March 9 Sister Hazel

- Country Club March 9 Mermaid Motor Lounge (album release show)

- Stillwater Taproom March 9 Mr. Haney

- The Highlander March 9 Katt Williams

- James Brown Arena March 9 Nerveshatter, Hall of the Elders, Kill the Host, Abductor

- The Epicenter March 9 Olate Dogs

- Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center March 9 ETCP Springfest w/ Scarlet Begonias, The Mason Jars, Robbie Ducey Band

- Evans Towne Center Park March 10 Chonda Pierce - Getting Back to Funny Tour

- Miller Theater March 11 Daughtry, Sinclair

- Bell Auditorium March 13 Ron White

- Miller Theater March 15 Winter Jam w/ Skillet and more

- James Brown Arena March 22 The Harlem Globetrotters

- James Brown Arena March 23 Liverpool Legends (Beatles tribute)

- Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center March 23 & 24 Kellie Pickler (benefit concert)

- Evans Towne Center Park March 24 Latin Masterpieces

- Miller Theater March 24 Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic

- Bell Auditorium March 25 The Mavericks

- Miller Theater March 31 Rock Fore! Dough w/ Scotty McCreery, Jordan Davis, DJ Rock, Shaun Piazza

- Evans Towne Center Park April 3 Keith Urban

- Evans Towne Center Park April 5 Major Rager w/ George Clinton & ParlimaentFunkadelic, The James Brown Band

- Augusta Common April 6 Sir Mix-A-Lot

- Country Club April 13 “Weird Al” Yankovic w/ Emo Philips

- Miller Theater April 14 01MARCH2018

Elsewhere

HALF HOUR FREE

Flogging Molly

- Music Farm, Columbia March 1 Matisyahu

- City Winery, Atlanta March 5 & 7 Dropkick Murphys, Agnostic Front, Bim Skala Bim

- The Roxy Theatre, Atlanta March 7 Blake Shelton, Brett Eldredge, Carly Pearce

- Philips Arena, Atlanta March 8 Spoon

- The Masquerade, Atlanta March 9 Steven Curtis Chapman

- Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta March 10 MGMT

- The Roxy Theatre, Atlanta March 13 Attila, Insane Clown Posse

- The Masquerade, Atlanta March 14 Los Lonely Boys

- City Winery, Atlanta March 14 Iced Earth, Sanctuary, Kill Ritual

- The Masquerade, Atlanta March 17 Mac Sabbath

- Hell at the Masquerade, Atlanta March 17 Dashboard Confessional, Beach Slang

- The Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta March 23 Lee Ann Womack

- City Winery, Atlanta March 29 & 30 Cradle of Filth, Jinjer

- The Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta April 3 &4 The Avett Brothers

- Township Auditorium, Columbia April 6

Real Singles, Real Fun...

706-434-0108 More Numbers: 1-800-926-6000 Livelinks.com 18+ FREE TRIAL

Discreet Chat Guy to Guy

706.434.0117

V29|NO9

THE EIGHT

BOX TOPS RANK TITLES

WEEKEND GROSS TOTAL GROSS WEEK # LAST WEEK

1

BLACK PANTHER

$111,658,835

$403,613,257

2

1

2

GAME NIGHT

$17,005,332

$17,005,332

1

-

3

PETER RABBIT

$12,760,382

$71,506,084

3

2

4

ANNIHILATION

$11,071,584

$11,071,584

1

-

5

FIFTY SHADES FREED

$7,147,285

$89,793,065

3

3

In Theaters March 2

ACTION MYSTERY “Death Wish,” rated R, starring Bruce Willis, Vincent D’Onofrio, Dean “Red Sparrow,” rated R, starring Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton, Norris and Elisabeth Shue. Yes, this is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name (which was based on a novel of the same name). But the casting makes this update look like it’s worth seeing. Bruce Willis plays a surgeon gone vigilante after his wife dies in an attack on her and their daughter. An update to this movie involves Willis’ character’s hoodied revenge going viral on social media. Bonus: Dean Norris plays a cop (if you watched “Breaking Bad,” you know who that is.)

36 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

Mary-Louise Parker and Matthias Schoenaerts. Jennifer Lawrence plays a Russian ballerina who gets mixed up in some deep government shit. She ends up being blackmailed into becoming a trained “Sparrow,” which means the government uses her body as a weapon. Her first mission is to target a U.S. CIA agent — but they seem to end up liking each other, putting the security of both nations in danger. We hope the president doesn’t take this fictional movie plot personally and unnecessarily deem it “fake news.”

01MARCH2018

V29|NO9

SIGHTINGS

Michael Johnson | mejphoto.photoreflect.com

Starr Holliday, Duncan Oliver, Paula McMillion and Steve Culpepper at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Liam Hodges with Shannon and Hilton Powell at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Clifford and Debra Hancock with Rose and Bobby Drawdy at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Drew and Samantha Widmann with Kayla and Weston Corley at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Donnie and Carmen Lowery with Paulette Long and Chris Knopp at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Kim Mullins, Robert Williams, Buddy Jackson and Nick Cason at the Blackberry Smoke concert at the Bell Auditorium

Jacob Hipp, Lilly Kim and Annaleesa Rogers at the Savannah River Brewing Company

Chris Kuang, Brittany Truitt, Meghan Bowser and Travis Welsh at the Savannah River Brewing Company

Rhonda Bao with Brenda and Norm Stafford at the Savannah River Brewing Company

01MARCH2018

AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989

METROSPIRIT 37