The LocaL, December 2019

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DECEMBER 2019

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DECEMBER 2019

STUFF TO READ

Letter from the Publisher

PAWS Humane Society

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Transports

UPSTREAM

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BELOVED CANTUS CHRISTMAS TRADITION

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Empathy

Comes To Finale At Rivercenter

AN ARTIST’S DELIGHT

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The JointREDEMPTION

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Curious About Motorcycling?

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ARTIST GLORIA MANI

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YOUTH ORCHESTRA OF GREATER COLUMBUS

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Metro Diner

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Heritage Art Center Revitalizes Space in Historic Columbus

My True Story Part II

TRY OUT A LOCAL GROUP Behind the Gallery Door

Takes Time for Three

Southern Hometown Comfort

FUN, FOOD & YOU

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She Has Helped Them All

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Vital Vittles II

E&S Men’s Clothing Celebrates Longest-Serving Employee

s I write this not only are we wrapping up another issue, A we are wrapping up the final issue of the year 2019. It’s fascinating to realize that in a month we will begin our own

decade of the 20’s. I mean, I remember when partying like it was 1999 seemed a very distant future. Yet, here we are.

Regardless of what you went through, where you came from or how you got here, we are all here, in this beautiful place and time. And it’s so much more than I had hoped for so many years ago.

So this is a toast. My toast to you, this incredible city we live in and this wonderful ride we get to be on. I hope you take this month to relax, reflect and rejoice.

For now, I wish you the best and I hope that you enjoy our publication.

By picking up this magazine, you’ve already made a fantastic step in learning about many of the wonderful things our city has to offer. And I hope you take advantage of as much of it as you can.

In this issue we conclude Bella Bond’s Joint Redemption.

I can’t tell you enough how proud I am of this woman and overjoyed at how far she has come. I only hope that her story sheds some light and empathy for those who will be alone this season, shackled by their guilt and shame of what could be an innocent mistake.

Artist Gloria Mani truly is a beautiful soul. As much as you can, go see this woman and spend time chatting with her. I promise a short discussion could absolutely change your whole perspective on life. Oh, and I hear she’s pretty good at painting too. We are absolutely delighted to get to have her amazing work on this month’s cover.

No matter how you’re feeling, I can promise a trip to Metro Diner will have you all smiles. Not only do they serve up the best comfort food you’ve ever tasted, they also give free hugs. Just ask for my girl Bobby Jo. And definitely try the pancakes.

And if you’re needing a little drive and motivation, look no further than the inspirational stories of Mrs. Mary Nell at E&S Clothing and Karen Ouzts of Heritage Art Center, two true local heroes who have helped more people in more ways than I’m sure they will ever know. Thank you for being such a blessing. You teach people you don’t have to be a Rock Star to be just that. Being great can be as simple as listening to what others need you to do, sharing your gift and always, always taking that leap of faith.

Last but certainly not least. I want you to know that we are here for you. If you have a story, a redemption, a new business or know someone who deserves to be recognized, let us know.

You can message me directly at publisher@ thelocalcolumbus.com. Don’t forget, voting for the LocaL Choice Awards ends midnight, December 20. We’ll tally up your votes and celebrate the winners January 26th, at the Loft in Uptown Columbus. Please check our social media outlets for more information and tickets. To vote just go to our website. I hope to see you at the show.

Cheers to a wonderful year!

Monica Jones Publisher

Photo by Scott Berson LocaL

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t hel o cal co l u mbu s . co m f acebook .com/t helocalcolumbusga issuu.com/t helocalcolumbus

What We Are All About.

The mission of the LocaL magazine is to bring you the best in art, music, food and fun from Columbus and the surrounding area. Locally owned and operated, we work to improve and expand community relationships through promoting positive events and stories. When good things are happening, we will be here to help you get involved. Our monthly print issues will feature stories and events that comprise and drive the ongoing surge toward a more beautiful community. This magazine exists because we who work on it believe in actively engaging with community improvement, and we invite you to join us, not only by reading these pages, but also by taking part in any of the many wonderful events we feature.

PUBLISHER

Monica Jones publisher@thelocalcolumbus.com ads@thelocalcolumbus.com editor@thelocalcolumbus.com

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Mat Cornett

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Scott Berson

ADVERTISING | PUBLIC RELATIONS Anastasia Tikka

CONTRIBUTORS & CREDITS

Casey Smith Jennifer A. Sheffield Bella Bond Joe Miller S. Adam Icard Joey Goldwing

Cover Artwork By Gloria Mani 3

DECEMBER 2019

Bizarre Bazaar Art Show 2

Friday the 13th at Offbeat. Donations accepted at the door. Artists will need to supply their own tables, displays, and chairs. Vendor space is $5 and can only be purchased through ticket link. Space is limited (only 18 spots available). Looking for local artists to participate in our second dark arts show. Horror, fantasy, true crime, pop culture, and any other related art all welcome. Come setup, display and sell your art and wares. Also come see over 20 pieces of art and artifacts from some of the world’s most notorious criminals. Charles Manson hair, art by John Wayne Gacy, Ottis Toole, Jack Trawick, Richard Ramirez, and many more will be on display. Friday, December 13 at 6 – 9 p.m., Offbeat, 2202 Elm Drive, Columbus

Christmas Ornament Party

Family-Friendly Crafting Fun. Each member will create SIX different Christmas ornaments.

We provide all supplies including aprons and professional guides. They include: painted lights, marbleized paint, snow men, gold foil and more. The Caravan of Art Guides will be at Heritage Art Center in downtown Columbus. Heritage Art Center provides leasing options for studio, galleria, classrooms and outdoor event space. You will get instruction, 6 empty globes, and all the art supplies to make six awesome designs. Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m. – Noon, Heritage Art Center, 102 6th street, Columbus

Half Off Tuesdays @ The Lunch Box Museum

Take ½ off your admission price every Tuesday. Opens 10 a.m. The River Market Antiques and Lunch Box Museum, 3218 Hamilton Road, Columbus Sketching Under the Skylight Leave your voices at the door & witness the power of the creative process as professional artists sketch from a live model in costume under the magical skylights of the Bo Bartlett Center. Free admission and open to the public. The second Thursday of each month. 4 p.m., The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Open Studio: How to Make Homemade Snow

Join us during the winter break from school as we turn the Museum into a winter wonderland.

Participants will discover a process to create their own “snow” and will be sent on a gallery scavenger hunt that will celebrate the season. Each participant will go home with a bag of the snow they created and a recipe to create your own snow at home. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Saturday, December 21 at 10 – 12 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus An Artist Open House, presented by the YMCA. Join us for an artist open house. The John P. Thayer YMCA has partnered with Heritage Art Center, Artflowly Created by Sue Walters and Trey Walker Studio to showcase the talented artists in the community. We will have artists on display who you need to meet, and the best part is you can even take home a last minute Christmas gift!. Come and support your local community and artists. Saturday, December 21 at 11 – 4 p.m., John P. Thayer YMCA, 24 14th Street, Columbus

2020 Vision Board Art Party

This is a creative goal-setting party where you create an inspirational board in a beautiful environment. You don’t have to hunt down supplies. We provide it all. Paint and brushes, magazines, scissors, canvases, easels, aprons, and professional guide. This is a prepay only event. You will not be able to pay at the event. Dream and Create ~ Walk through proven prompts to help you design your best life. With guidance on how to capture your dreams with provided medium: magazines, paint, etc. Friday, December 6, 7 – 9 p.m., Heritage Art Center 102 6th street, Columbus

Christmas Art Show

Join us for an Art Show at Mill District Studios. This is the perfect chance to get gifts for everyone on your list. Shop paintings, prints, jewelry, pottery and more from many local artists including: Art by Max Mitchell, Bent by Courtney, Celia Solomon, Helen Brooks Art, Highland Galerie, Kate Waddell Art, Katherine Waddell Art, Kathy Frost Pottery, Katie Jacobson Art, King Fisher Woodworks, Mary Frances Flowers, Mollie Jenkins Pottery, Mary Margaret Monsees, Sally Denham Glass, Silvan Guitars. Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m., Mill District Studios, 3110 2nd Ave, Columbus

Gingerbread Village at RiverCenter

Build Your Dream Gingerbread Home. Recreate your favorite building or landmark.

We’re welcoming any and all gingerbread interpretations to make our village as unique as our city. We discourage use of a kit, but if you must use a kit, please make it your own. Installation of Gingerbread Houses will take place on Monday, Dec. 2. The Village will be open December 3 - January 5, 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Color-Full | A Solo Art Exhibit By Yoyo Ferro

I’m so excited to announce my first solo art exhibit. #Colorfull will exhibit gallery paintings and works on paper I’ve been working on since 2014 - some of which inspired the murals you see around the city - and also a bunch of other cool things like new prints, t-shirts, pins, stickers, and more. You all have been amazing to me, and for that reason, I have decided to organize this show independently, which enables me to provide you all with more affordable artworks (as there’s no gallery commission) as well as maintain my creative freedom. Hope to see you all there for a fun night celebrating art surrounded by good people and colorful artworks. Much love - Yoyo Ferro. clock Saturday, December 7, 6 – 11 p.m., 665 North Ave NE, Atlanta

Astronomy Night at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center

This event is Free. Come out and join us for a night of stargazing at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center. Dr. Rosa Williams will start off with a presentation about what to expect at 7 pm, and we will have our fleet of mobile telescopes on hand with students to help guide you through the wonders of our universe. Observing will begin at 8 pm. Saturday, December 7, 6 – 9 p.m., Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center, 701 Front Avenue, Columbus

Look! @ Lunchtime

Take a break with us. Look! @ Lunchtime is a collaborative viewing exercise and dialogue centered on works of art from the Museum’s permanent collection. Jonathan Frederick Walz, Ph.D., Director of Curatorial Affairs & Curator of American Art, will facilitate discussions.

Each month a new object will be explored. December: Walter Quirt, “Untitled (Surrealist Composition)”. Tuesday, December 10, 12:15 PM – 12:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus

2nd Annual Artist Alley

Join us for our 2nd Annual Artist Alley. A variety of local artists selling their wares, just in time for the holiday season. Give the Gift of Art this Season. Bring your kids for free holiday make and take craft corner. If you are an artist interested in setting up with us, please email us sparkart360@gmail.com with a few samples of your work and we will send you more details. Thursday, December 12 at 5 – 9 p.m., Pop Uptown, 1234 Broadway, Columbus

Art History 101: Please Have a Seat

Looking to learn more about art history? Art History 101 is an opportunity to do just that.

Each class will focus on a specific artwork and its creator, followed by a related art-making activity. Whether you are a new visitor or a regular, everyone will find something engaging and interesting in this class series. In December, we will explore “Please Have A Seat: A Survey of American Chairs, 1820-2020.” Advanced registration required. Free. Thursday, December 12 at 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus LocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

PAWS Humane Soci ety chieving a No-Kill community is the main goal for animal welfare movers and shakers in Columbus, Georgia. And while our local animal control, Columbus A Animal Care and Control (CACC), teeters the line every month, live release numbers

are looking better than ever. Reaching and maintaining this status will not happen overnight. You may even notice many animal organizations are launching new and improved programs, all with one goal in mind: to save every treatable adoptable companion animal.

At Paws Humane Society, we realized we were missing one important component that could help us save more lives – a transport program. Other local organizations like Animal SOS run a high level program similar to this, so we are taking notes from them. In short, a transport program is created to support the movement of animals from overburdened shelters to rescues who have a higher market demand for animals. Typically, we see transport programs created in the South to transport

to shelters in the North.

There are many days when Animal Control is at capacity and they ask us to transfer animals to our facility to save lives. If Paws Humane is also at capacity, this is an impossible task. That’s where transporting comes in. We can easily transfer a few animals into our facility, have a foster home lined up, and send the pup to a wonderful temporary home while they await their transport date. They then head up North where they have the best chance to find a forever loving home.

Snowelle and Otto have proven to be one of our most successful transport stories to date. These two large Great Pyrenees mixed dogs ended up at Animal Control after their owners were evicted.

As soon as we transferred them to our facility, we noticed that Snowelle was pregnant. That very same day, she gave birth to 10 beautiful healthy puppies.

After the pups were a few weeks old, Mom, Dad and all 10 siblings headed to Virginia to start their Snowelle new life. To this day, we still get updates on all the puppies in their new homes. Nothing is more gratifying than that.

At Paws, we transport to a variety of states including New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. This year alone, we’ve transported 168 animals out of Columbus and into shelters who experience a demand for dogs. We are proud of that growing number, and to take this program to the next level, our next step is to obtain a van to be designated to our transport program.

While maintaining a successful transport program is difficult with so many moving parts, we know how imperative it is to our lifesaving mission. Every animal deserves a chance, and we are giving them that through the Paws Humane Society Transport Program. If you are interested in being involved in our transport program, you can sign up to be a volunteer driver or foster parent. Visit www.pawshumane.org for more information.u Casey Smith lives in Opelika, Al. She is the interim Executive Director at Paws Humane Society in Columbus, Ga., an animal shelter and veterinary clinic offering affordable spay/neuter and wellness services to the public. Email her at director@pawshumane. org with your comments and story ideas.

Adoption Hours: Mon-Fri•10am-6pm, Sat•10am-5pm, 4900 Milgen Road Columbus, GA 31907 • www.pawshumane.org office@pawshumane.org (706) 565-0035 • Vet Clinic phone number (706) 987-8380 LocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

thinking cab driver, and you have what the Seattle Times calls the “best new holiday romp of the year”. All Late Night at The Columbus Museum events are open to ages 13+. Any guests under the age of 18 must be supervised. Contact membership@ columbusmuseum.com. 706.748.2562 ext 5400. Friday, December 6, 6– 9 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

MCoE Band Holiday Concert

NO SHAME THEATRE

For over 50 years, the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band has taken great pride in entertaining the soldiers, military families, and civilians of the Fort Benning, Columbus, and Phenix City communities. The Band’s performances create esprit de corps among soldiers and veterans, as well as provide patriotic spirit within the civilian community.

This event is free but does require a ticket to attend. Please RSVP with the RiverCenter Box Office. (706) 256-3612 www.rivercenter.org. Saturday, December 7, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Uptown Originals

Round up the family and come enjoy a movie together. This is a free event open to all families. The movie selected will be one that tugs at your heart, as well as, opens your eyes to so many real life situations. Movie Rated PG-13: Parental Guidance Suggested – some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Be prepared to have an open discussion about certain scenes. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. So, come enjoy an afternoon of bonding and growth with the Family. Sunday, December 8 at, 3 – 5 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Family Movie Day

No Shame is an uncensored evening of original performance that allows anyone to explore their creative potential. Signup begins at 9:30 p.m., and the first fifteen to signup get a five minute time slot to perform original material. Admission is $5 for all, including performers. There are just three rules: all acts have to be original material; all acts have to be five minutes or less; and you can’t break anything, including yourself, the space or the law. Every Friday, 10 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 East 10th Street, Columbus

A Tuna Christmas

Open Mic at the Cantina. Mike Murphy and Dylan Boyd host a night of comedy that involves the theme: family. Let’s be thankful for cheap beer, free comedy and good laughs. Free admission. Every Tuesday, 8 p.m., The Cantina Grill Bar & Lounge,1030 Broadway, Columbus

Over the past eighteen years, 45,000 otherwise normal people have paid perfectly good money to see two grown men in pantyhose. (Also cowboy hats, dresses, overalls and bouffant hairdos). Two extraordinary comic actors portray twenty-one inhabitants in “Texas’ third-smallest town,” Tuna, where the annual Christmas yard-display contest has been plagued by a vandal known only as the Christmas Phantom. Socialite Vera Carp hopes to win for the fifteenth year in a row, but she has stiff competition from Didi Snavely, the owner of Didi’s Used Weapons and the sassy Tastee Kreme waitresses Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd. Columbus most popular show and a genuine Holiday cult favorite. December 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 7:30 PM & December 15 and 22 at 2:30 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus

Up Close … and Funny!

Join comedy duo Jerry Farber (known for his comedy shows in Atlanta and the Loft and James Etchison (from No Shame Theatre) as they bring the laughs in a small but inviting room along with the best standup comedians from near and far. A great night out at one of Columbus’s best restaurants. Cover is $5. For reservations or booking, call Jerry (404) 414-6667 or James (334) 444-0879. Every Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., Lemongrass Thai and Sushi, 2435 Wynnton Road, Columbus

The Nutcracker, Presented by The Columbus Ballet

Crown and Comedy at The Loft

Celebrating their 25th anniversary, The Columbus Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to instill a love of the arts in young and old alike. This familyoriented production, which features a cast of over 100 performers, with live orchestra and acclaimed guest artists, captures the magical wonder and innocence of Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet as seen through a child’s eyes. December 14 & 15, at 2:30 – 5 p.m., The Columbus Ballet, 1004 Broadway Ste 200, Columbus

Two comedy shows every week, hosted by The LocaL’s Choice Award Winner for Favorite Comic, Lil’ Bit. Enjoy $7 Crown Royal and ordering from the full dinner menu. Tickets are $10. Every Thursday, 7 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus

Genealogy Documentary Film Series

Join us Thursday afternoons for a documentary film series centered on a genealogy and local history theme. Topics include: Appalachia; DNA; and African American Lives.

Call 706-243-2681 for each week’s film title. Every Thursday, 4 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Cantus Columbus Christmas, 2019

In its twentieth annual holiday concert, the professional chorus Cantus Columbus, directed by William J. Bullock, recounts the Christmas story with classical masterpieces and audience carols. Don’t miss this beloved Columbus tradition. For more information please contact the RiverCenter Box Office: (706) 256-3612, www.rivercenter.org.

Tuesday, December 17, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical

The inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom & the soundtrack to a generation. Featuring a stunning array of beloved songs written by Gerry Goffin/ Carole King and Barry Mann/Cynthia Wei. Beautiful has a book by and Tony® Awardnominee and Academy® Award-nominated writer Douglas McGrath, direction by Marc Bruni, choreography by Josh Prince. For more information please contact the RiverCenter Box Office: (706) 256-3612 & www.rivercenter.org. December 4 & 5, 7:30 – 10 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Star Wars Episode 9 Colgay Pride Viewing Party

Let’s Come Together United for the Final Skywalker Star Wars Film: Star Wars Episode 9: The Rise of Skywalker. Tickets are about $20 per person. Early Bird Viewing in the IMAX 3d Auditorium 8. Come in costume as your favorite character. Our ColGay Pride Director will be dressed as the Emperor Palpatine Sitting in D17. Thursday, December 19, 9:45 p.m. – 12:45 a.m., AMC CLASSIC Columbus Park 15, 5556 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus

Cinderella - The New Broadway Musical

Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/ It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago” in this hilarious and romantic experience for anyone who’s ever had a dream. December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 7:30PM & December 8, 15, 21, and 22 at 2:30PM. Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus

National Infantry Museum Kids Free Winter Film Fest- Week 1 & 2

Looking for something to do with the kids during Winter Break? NIM Kids is hosting the 2019 NIM Kids Film Fest (Winter Edition) December 26 through January 5.

The films are FREE to the public. Admission is on a first come, first seated basis.

Concessions will open prior to the first showing. Specials will be available, including a Snack Pack ( popcorn, fruit snack, and 16 oz. drink) for $5. December 26th - 28th, & Jan 1 - 4. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., NIM Kids, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Best Christmas Pageant Ever

In this hilarious Christmas classic, a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant is faced with casting the Herdman kids--probably the most inventively awful kids in history. You won’t believe the mayhem - and the fun - when the Herdmans collide with the Christmas story head on! Come join us for a few favorite Christmas Carols and lots of laughs. December 6 & 7, 13 & 14, 20 & 21, 7:30 – 9 p.m., December 15, 2:30 - 4 p.m., Family Theatre, 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus

Late Night at the Museum: Christmastown: A Holiday Noir

Kick off the holiday season at the Columbus Museum. Enjoy a live production of Christmastown, a film-noir inspired holiday theatrical thriller. Hard-boiled detective Nick Holiday investigates some un-holiday like shenanigans taking place in Christmastown that sends him on a search for the truth about Big Red. Add a glamorous elf, a used-Christmas-tree salesman, a muckraking reporter, and a quickLocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

Empathy

his semester I taught a class called Empathy T and Cinema. They’re good companions. They were both born about the same time. Cinema as

we know it was invented in France in 1895, and the word empathy was coined in 1908 by a pair of psychologists from Cornell and Cambridge to stand for “the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.” At its best, cinema can facilitate this by transporting viewers into lives that are entirely different from their own.

Or can it? This is a matter of hot debate in contemporary film studies. Some say that films not only evoke empathy but actually work as entertainment because viewers empathize with the characters in them. Others argue that this isn’t the case at all, and they approach the question of cinema’s connection to the human experience via myriad other perspectives, from philosophical to socio-political to even neuroscience. I’m firmly in the “films evoke empathy” camp, and for my class I offered a selection of movies I hoped would move my students to understand and share a broad range of feelings with characters from all over the world.

We started off with Moonlight, which won the Oscar for best picture in 2017. The film is comprised of three stories from three different stages from a man’s childhood and early adulthood.

In the beginning, he’s a skinny, sensitive boy who’s relentlessly cut down and hazed by people around him, including his mother. By the end, he’s a hardened drug dealer, someone far different from his true self, and the film really makes us feel the pain of his journey, and leaves us with hope that he’ll be able to reclaim who he once was.

From The Movie Passion of Joan of Arc

From there we went back to the silent era with Carl Theodor Dreyer’s The Passion of Joan of Arc. Its script was woven from the actual transcripts of the martyr’s trial in 1431. Much of the film is comprised of close-up shots of Joan of Arc and LocaL

her interrogators. Faces fill the screen, and every slight shift in facial expression evokes new and deeper emotions. The performance by Renée Jeanne Falconetti is stellar and heartbreaking, one of the best in the history of cinema.

Over the course of the semester, we watched a wide range of films from all over the world, many of which I’ve written about before in this column, including Paisan by Roberto Rossellini, The Bitter Tears of Petra Von Kant by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, and Seven Beauties by Lina

Wertmüller. Among the student’s favorites was Cameraperson, by Kirsten Johnson. Johnson is a highly sought after cinematographer for documentary film directors, and in this film she uses outtakes from various projects she’s worked on to craft a meditative examination of filmmaking in the face of human tragedy that is deeply moving. Another was The Official Story,

by Luis Puenzo of Argentina. It tells the story of a school teacher who begins to learn the truth about her adopted daughter, that she was taken from a political prisoner who was tortured and killed during that countries dictatorship of the 1970s and early 1980s.

We ended with Carlos Reygadas’s beautiful, beguiling and deeply touching Silent Light, which is set in a Mennonite community in Northern Mexico and is about an otherwise pious family man who is in love with a woman other than his wife. The slow pace of the film and the stunning cinematography really draws the audience into the complex range of emotions the characters are feeling. I won’t give any more away, except to say that the ending is transcendent, and the film ultimately stands as a breathtaking example of how cinema and empathy, born at about the same time in history, are forever intertwined.u

JOE MILLER IS CO-DIRECTOR OF THE CINEMA STUDIES PROGRAM AT CSU 7

DECEMBER 2019

Open Mic with Matt Kirkley

Musicians are welcome to come and show off their skills and hidden talents. All musicians wishing to play must sign up in advance. Sign up at 7 p.m., music from 8 until 9. Stay afterward for Mango Strange. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus

Cabaret Wednesday’s @ Crowne Hookah

Great food, great drinks and great Hookahs. Entertainment and singing with a touch of comedy.

Every Wednesday, 7 – 10 p.m., Crowne Hookah Restaurant & Lounge, 1113 Broadway, Columbus

Thursday Night Thunder of Live Music @ Wild Wing Cafe

Every Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Wild WIng Cafe, 6525 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus

Grand Theft Audio @ Soho

Friday, December 6, 9 p.m., Soho Bar and Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Josh Rodgers @ Players

Friday, December 6, 8:30 – 11:30 p.m., Players, 1500 54th Street, Columbus

Classical Revolution Christmas Show @ Midtown Coffee

Saturday, December 7, 7 – 8 p.m., Midtown Coffee House, 1342 13th St, Columbus

Wicked Dixie @ Soho

Saturday, December 7, 9 p.m., Soho Bar and Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Clay Amason Live @ Hudson’s

Friday, December 13, 6 – 9 p.m., Hudson’s Craft Burgers & Beer, 6298 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Into The Further @ Soho

Friday, December 14, 9 p.m., Soho Bar and Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Jonboy Storey @ Outlaws

Friday, December 13, 9 p.m., Outlaws Saloon, 6499 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Josh Purgason Live A Chattabrewchee

Saturday, December 14, 7 – 10 p.m., Chattabrewchee Southern Brewhouse, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus

Dixie Red @ Soho

Saturday, December 14, 9 p.m., Soho Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

A Very Ugly Christmas with Septarian, Giger, X-Ray Vision @ Offbeat

All bands and venue are donating all the proceeds to go towards helping a couple local families in need. $10 at the door. Only $5 if you bring a packaged, new, unopened toy. Please email chad@livefastent. com and put in the subject A very Ugly Christmas from (the LocaL). More bands TBD. Friday, December 20, 2019 at 7 – 11 p.m., Offbeat, 2202 Elm Drive, Columbus

Crispin Wah @ The Cuckoo’s Nest 10 Year Celebration

A full fun day of art, skateboarding, video premiere of the new shop video “Radical Intersessions” and music by Crispin Wah. Saturday, December 21, 6 – 10 p.m., Cuckoo’s Nest Skateshop, 1326 10th Avenue, Columbus

Barstool Prophets @ Soho

Saturday, December 21, 9 p.m., Soho Bar and Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

The JBJ Trio @ TheHangout

Friday, December 27, 8 p.m, The Hangout, 6060 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Fux Rocks The Loft NYE Kickoff Party

We are gonna kick off New Years for you the right way, with a little bit of rock and roll and a whole lotta dancing. Saturday, December 28 at 9 – 12 a.m., The Loft Columbus, 1032 Broadway, Columbus

American Whiskey @ Soho

Saturday, December 28, 9 p.m., Soho Bar and Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Money Shot Brings in 2020 @ Wild Wing Cafe

Tuesday, December 31, 10PM, Wild Wing Cafe, 6525 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus

Blind Tiger, Satisfied, and more TBD @ Offbeat

Friday, January 3 at 8 – 11 p.m., Offbeat, 2202 Elm Drive, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com LocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

Photo by Kristen Hudson, Marketing Director of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra

BELOVED CANTUS CHRISTMAS TRADITION W i l l C o m e To F i n a l e A t R i v e r C e n t e r

F

By Scott Berson

or nearly twenty years, the RiverCenter halls have rung each winter with the glorious melodies of Cantus Christmas. Hundreds of hymns, chorales, tunes and carols have risen from the stage, lofted by talented singers and master musicians, and sent out to an enraptured audience. A Christmas tradition and a gift for the community, made for the community, and beloved by the community.

Eventually, however, every gift must be wrapped up and put away. The December 17 show will be the final performance of Cantus Christmas, and it promises to be a show fit to remember for years to come.

“After 20 years, I think I’ve said what I had to say,” founder William J. Bullock (or Bill) told The LocaL. “We have several people who have been coming to this concert for 15 years or so. I met a couple of people after our concert last year who had been to all 20 of them. There’s been kind of a following that’s there.”

Cantus Christmas began after Bullock retired from teaching at CSU in 2000. He decided to put together a professional chorus in Columbus, and named it “Cantus” -- meaning “voice.”

“So I established that group in 2000, and we presented an inaugural concert at the Springer in the spring of 2000. And then our second concert started this series of Christmas programs,” he said. “It picked up after the first two or three years, and began getting a real following. Now it sells out or almost sells out every year. I’ve done new literature, new pieces of music, each time, always following the same format.”

That format is the telling of the Christmas story in a new way, each year. The program progresses through prophecy to Christ’s birth, and is designed to let the listener sink into the music. The professional musicians play and sing pieces from across the world, and include some audience participation where viewers are invited to join in the singing.

“It will always involve different instruments, sometimes a full orchestra, sometimes a harp, sometimes an organ, guest soloists, different varieties -- but always the chorus.

There’s no applause until the end, it’s a serious program that tells the Christmas story,” Bullock said.

This finale show will include selections from all the previous years of Cantus Christmas, so superfans may have fun reminiscing the first time they heard the pieces.

The souvenir program for the show includes notes on the songs, lyrics and some history on when each piece was first performed.

One thing Bullock says to be prepared for is to let the music carry you toward an understanding of the story. There is no narrator here -- and that’s out of respect for the audience, whom Bullock says get a lot out of the show by just listening and understanding each song.

“The whole concept of the program is to let the music tell the story, so that’s part of the difficulty over the years of finding music. How do you tell each part of the story?

There are four sections of the program-- but you let the music do it. It’s sort of treating the audience with a great deal of respect. We don’t need to tell you what this is about.

Let your heart be moved.”

Cantus Christmas 2019 will be performed at 7:30 p.m.on December 17, 2019 in Legacy Hall at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available at rivercenter. org or at the theatre’s box office, 900 Broadway, Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.- 5:30 p.m., or by phone at 706-256-3608. Contact the box office for information on prices, discounts and student rush tickets. u

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Heritage Art Center is an enclave for all who are creative or simply love the arts. The main Gallery will open in January; the CoWork building is open now. The large exhibition area includes 75 spaces for two-dimensional art and room for dozens of three-

AN ARTIST’S DELIGHT

Heritage Art Center Revitalizes Space in Historic Columbus

By Anastasia Tikka

dimensional displays. This beautiful gallery will be a lovely place to discover local talent, shop for art, or enjoy an afternoon.

Karen says, “ We would love to see some creative local scenes, modern or abstract art, and industrial chic decor.” The gallery welcomes pieces that are handcrafted by artists, but they must be original work and not just refurbished or refinished. They are looking for high quality, cohesive bodies of work. All the pieces on exhibit will be for sale, and the gallery is happy to help artists with evaluation.

Heritage hopes to have a balanced exhibition that includes women, minorities, and artists from all walks of life. “This is a place for emerging painters, photographers and sculptors to be seen, a place for everyone,” Karen

new beacon for art and creativity is putting down roots in the Historic District, honoring rich local A art with an eye toward the new. For Karen Ouzts, a

native to the area, the new Heritage Art Center is the realization of a longtime dream.

While growing up in Phenix City, Karen remembers her father dabbling with woodworking, but having no space in their small duplex to indulge in his craft.

She grew up embracing artistic pursuits, eventually majoring in art education at CSU and teaching art at Jordan High School. Through that time, she continued to see the same challenges for artists. “They longed for a dedicated space to work and a place to display their pieces,” Ouzts said.

Artists often leave Columbus for this reason. We must give a platform to young entrepreneurs to create and thrive, and Karen is doing just that. “This would not have worked until now. It’s finally time,” she explained.

“The arts community is bursting in Columbus.”

A year ago, Karen found the perfect place to bring her vision to life – a three-building complex in the historic district. The center building is a gorgeous old warehouse with exposed brick, tall windows, and lots of light. This is the main gallery. It is flanked on either side by two smaller buildings. One was Caldwell’s grocery store and is now the CoWork Studio at Heritage; the other houses the Private Studios, ten personal workspaces for artists to lease. The CoWork Studio is a space for workshops, creative meet-ups, and art gatherings. It has a bonus gallery, where up-and-coming artists can take advantage of display space and sell their art.

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said. “There is power in a collective group of artists.”

They will also have a community studio with a pottery wheel, a kiln, a darkroom, and workstations. The center strives to be an artists’ hub, supporting the creative community with whatever it needs. To accommodate the night owl tendencies of creative minds, artists can work there any time of day or night.

You do not have to be an established artist to be a part of the Heritage Art Center. “We encourage all to come, meet other creative entrepreneurs, and use the facility,” Karen said. “We are inclusive, not exclusive. We provide the platform, you bring your talents and dreams.”

Heritage Art Center is a full-service artists’ resource.

It is in the Historic district in the downtown area just far enough from the bustling streets of Uptown to be a true artist’s haven. Stop in and wander, browse and buy. u For More Information Or To Be Featured In The Gallery, Contact Karen Ouzts at info@heritageartcenterofcolumbusga.com.

Heritage Art Center is located at 102 6th Street in Columbus.

Photo by Trey Walker 11

DECEMBER 2019

Yin Yoga Workshop

Yin Yoga was originally developed to help us sit and Be in our bodies during meditation (but so too during our day). Although some consider this a “passive” practice, it is very much an active journey- a journey into the MAGIC DARK where old stories, patterns and habits reside & linger in our energetic bodies. Join Toni as we go deeper (and longer) into connective tissues, muscles and fascia (you know I love some fascia work!) in this practice. Please come with your mat and dressed to move comfortably. Yin Yoga: Into the Magic Dark. With Toni Lum | $30. Friday, Dec 6, 6 -7:30 p.m., River Flow Yoga and Wellness, 6801 River Rd #403, Columbus

Yoga at the Museum

De-stress with a yoga class at The Columbus Museum, surrounded by art and history.

Start with a short mindfulness-focused gallery experience then relax with a gentle, all levels yoga session led by Sue Tomkiewicz. Some yoga mats are available on a first-come, first served basis. Registration required. Free for Members/ $5 for Future Members. Saturday, December 7, & January 4, 10:30 – 11:45 a.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Rd, Columbus

Fantasy In Lights

The South’s Christmas Tradition. Nightly, November 15 - January 4. Treat your family to a fun tradition that’s filled with holiday cheer. One of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the world. Come make merry in the Christmas Village, meet holiday characters up close, and ride through the dazzling illuminated forest. Extend the celebration with an overnight stay, enjoy mouthwatering meals or cozy cups of cocoa in our beautiful accommodations, and explore 2,500 acres of stunning natural landscape.

Create a season that’s magical with a getaway to remember – at Callaway Resort & Gardens. Callaway Gardens, 17800 US Highway 27, Pine Mountain

2nd Annual Charity Kickball Tournament

Brighten a child’s smile on Christmas Day. As many of you know our goal is to raise money in order to help those that are less fortunate than others. Teams must have a minimum of 10 people (4 girls on the field at all times) to play. The cost is $20 per person. Double elimination. All teams are guaranteed at least two games.

Congratulations again to the Jamokes for winning last year’s tournament. Who’s going to win this year? Open to the public. Sunday, December 8, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., 29th Street Park, 501 29th Street, Columbus

Monday Sunset Group Run @ Jarfly

Hosted by Vikena Ytz of Project 42 Running. All paces welcome for fun routes through the neighborhoods of Midtown. Reflective gear and a headlamp are recommended. Stay afterwards for a beer, craft cocktails and delicious food. Feel free to chat with Vikena about her training programs. Every Monday, 6 p.m., Jarfly, 1358 13th Street, Columbus

Full Moon Ride - Cold Moon

Enjoy the full moon with Bruce and Keagan. No spandex needed, this is a chill social ride. Make sure you bring your lights. Thursday, December 12, 8 – 9:30 p.m., Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus

Dance Lessons

Let’s Dance Y ’all of Columbus host dance lessons every Monday. Country Line lesson begins at 6 p.m. and ballroom at 7 p.m. Cost is $5 per person; no partner required. Every Monday, 6 - 8 p.m., Hilton Terrace Baptist Church, 2236 Warm Springs Road, Columbus

Second Saturday Clean Up

Join us in an effort to keep our region clean with our Monthly Second Saturday Clean Up. This month We will concentrate on Broad street from Dillingham to approximately 15th street and down to White Water Ave, 14th Street East of Broad and that general area. Bring family and friends for a better experience. The East Alabama Chamber will provide garbage bags, but you provide your own gloves. If interested in assisting please email info@ealcc.com and in the subject line put Second Saturday Cleanup. Saturday, December 14, 9 – 10:30 a.m., East Alabama Chamber of Commerce, 1107 Broad St, Phenix City

Tuesday Night Dirt

The Brickyard crew is excited to resume the Tuesday night dirt road riding tradition.

Come ride your own pace (and maybe bring a friend!) and we will all meet up at the end. Every Tues Night. 6:15 – 8:15 p.m., 21 Cutchin Drive, Seale

Lena Start Parenting Class

Free class, free parenting kit, free books and lunch. Lena Start classes help parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers close the talk gap. Together with your class, you’ll explore practical strategies to start more conversations with children. Lena’s engaging curriculum will teach you brain-building talk skills through instructional videos, peergroup sharing, printed resources and self-reflection. Call (706) 321-6322 to register.

Every Wednesday, 11 a.m., South Columbus Public Library, 2034 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus

The Deathly Hallows

Join Mackenzie Eaton Trauma certified and Pre-Natal certified for a flow to surrender completely as we battle the forces of our own death-eaters within. Price: $25. What you need: your wand, a yoga mat, and water. All items above will also be available at the event if you do not possess them. Price includes: food and drinks, photo booth, and a magical experience. Saturday, December 14, 4 – 7 p.m., The Harry Potter Yoga Series, 1329 Wynnton Road, Upstairs, Columbus

Wednesday Sunset Group Run

All paces welcome, dogs and strollers, too. Recommended to wear reflective gear and a headlamp. Enjoy a different route every week, a great way to explore Columbus.

Afterwards, meet at Iron Bank Coffee for $2 drafts, coffee or other tasty beverages of your choice. Every Wednesday, 6 p.m. Big Dog Fleet Feet, 1200 Broadway, Columbus

Yoga at the Bo: A Celebration of the Light

The Winter Solstice marks the return of Light, the shift from long nights to longer days. Join River Flow Yoga as we celebrate this turn of cycles at the truly incredible Bo Bartlett Center. 6pm-7pm All levels yoga flow led by Alee Morrison Link, 7pm-8pm Food, drink and merriment catered by Bare Roots Farmacy. Thursday, December 19, 6 - 8 p.m., The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

LGBT Diversity and Support Group

Colgay Pride and Counseling Solutions of Columbus bring specialized individual and group counseling for transgender, gay and lesbian Columbusites and their friends and family.

Every Thursday, 7 p.m., Corporate Center of Columbus, 233 12th Street, Columbus

Big Dog Running Co Jingle Run for Freedom

Fundraiser for Micah’s Promise, dedicated to prevention, awareness, education, and restoration on the topic of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking. Saturday, December 21, 9 – 1:30 p.m., Big Dog Fleet Feet, 12 W 11th Street, Columbus

Saturday Sunrise Pancake Breakfast

This sunrise group run is an invigorating way to start the day, explore Columbus and watch the sunrise. All paces welcome. Stay after for pancakes, then head to Iron Bank for some coffee. Every Saturday, 6 a.m., Big Dog Fleet Feet, 1200 Broadway, Columbus

Winter Solstice Sound Bath

Let’s stoke our internal fires of peace and well-being during this winter solstice as we prepare to explore zazen (shikantaza-seated meditation), walking meditation, and an evening sound bath. Join Michelle as she takes us into the conversation between our mind and body, guided by solstice sounds. Please bring a small pillow for neck comfort, sleep eye mask (if you have one) and anything else that aids you in being comfortable while seated and lying on the floor for this 1.5hr experience. Saturday, December 21 at 5 – 6:30 p.m., Art of Yoga, 627 2nd Ave, # 6, Columbus

Destination: 100 - Group Ride

The start of the official Destination:100 group rides.These are designed to build into the century and will gradually increase in distance and incorporate some training efforts. We will try to mix up the routes every week to keep them interesting.These are designed to be friendly No Drop rides, everyone is welcome, and are always free to attend. Every Saturday, 7:30 a.m., Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus

Yoga for All: a donation-based class

Want to see your event listed here? Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com

This is a drop-in class designed for all. No matter your yoga experience, your background, your history. Whether you are a current RFY member, old member, or have never stepped into a yoga studio. All walks of life are encouraged to join. Class is one hour and designed for all levels. A $5 cash only donation is appreciated, but not required. Please wear comfortable, breathable clothing that you can easily move in.

Every Saturday, 11 a.m. River Flow Yoga and Wellness, 6801 River Road, Columbus LocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

My True Story PART II

long and difficult road to redemption where I meet you now. And I tell you this with all sincerity, I truly do feel redeemed.

I am clean and sober, I take proper measures in maintaining my mental illness, I pursue therapy as a way to heal from past traumas, I cut ties with people who affected me negatively, and I had a spiritual awakening that has had immeasurable impact on my ability to stay the course. I have fallen head-over-heels for a man who makes me feel worthy of all the love and goodness that life has to offer, and we plan to get married in October of next year. His two daughters have become my own and I find that I was made for motherhood, feeling more fulfilled than ever before. I am healthy, I am happy, I am free. I dismantle the chains of guilt and shame and proudly stand up to say, I AM REDEEMED.u

REDEMPTION

1. The action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil 2.The action of regaining or gaining possession of something in exchange for payment, or clearing a debt

his word is used a lot in religion, the act T of a savior redeeming followers of their failures, no matter how grave. It is a word

Bella & Josh Mims- fiance

By Bella Bond

that often is interpreted as a fresh start, a clean slate, a do over.

That is not what it is. Redemption doesn’t negate what was done, does not make it disappear as if it never happened. But it does take away the action’s power to determine the life you live afterwards. It does break the chains of bondage, the shackles that remind you of your failure with every clang of metal, it removes the handcuffs of guilt and shame, it lets you out of the judgement jail made by your peers. While redemption does not undo mistakes, or cancel them out, it does set you free from them.

The redemption has come in slowly, over time as I have made changes to my lifestyle and circle I keep company with. It has come from bearing my soul and sharing my shame publicly, admitting my faults, claiming my mistakes and owning my failure. I didn’t know it when I shared my story that it would be the final step in my redemption journey.

My father, Ian, passed on an email to me from one of his colleagues. He told my father how much he admired my humility and courage. Then he said, and this brought me to tears, “I don’t know Bella, but I know that you and Julie have much to be proud of in her.” That, right there is what redemption is.

After all I have put my parents through, how many times I have let them down and disappointed them and, while they will never say this, the embarrassment I caused from having my photo in The Joint. Those same people who saw my face there, now see me in a different light. The transformation from cautionary tale to inspirational story was happening without me realizing it.

My sins are not forgotten, but they are transformed from failures to stepping stones.

Every mistake I made has gotten me to this place, a place where those mess-ups are used to identify with others who may be lost on the same path I was. It gives me an authority over the advice I give. I have been there, done that, and came out the other side smarter and stronger. Life isn’t about not falling down; life is about getting good at standing back up. You can’t sit in shame and wallow in guilt forever, so don’t waste the opportunities that failure presents.

Family, friends, and even the public have a tendency to be more forgiving when you are open and honest about your mistakes. You’ll be surprised to find that nobody actually expects you to be perfect.

It’s one thing to be invisible, and being unknown I can handle, but infamy is a whole ‘nother ball game. It’s an experience no one can prepare you for. If you know me only by my last story, then you may be thinking that I’m making a real meal out of this and that a DUI isn’t such a socially detrimental thing. Well, my new friends, if I only had the time to weave the tale of an undiagnosed bipolar, immigrant (England), preacher’s daughter (both parents are reverends) who lost all reality in a sea of addiction, abuse, and deep dark depression mixed with bouts of erratic, uncontrollable, and destructive, mania, summed up as twelve years of over all misery, than you would be able to understand and fully appreciate the pure miracle that my redemption journey over the last three years has been. September 23rd 2016, I chose life over death and ended twelve years of opioid use, that acted as a catalyst that slowly propelled me down this LocaL

Bella & Julie Bond-Mom

Bella & Ian Bond- Dad

Have you, or someone you know, been featured in a publication typically found at gas station checkout counters? Were you in that magazine on charges for which you were never found guilty? Or maybe you felt embarrassed, taken advantage of? At The Local, we understand. We believe that “innocent until proven guilty” and the right to privacy should work in tandem.

We want to help you tell your story, right here in the pages of our magazine, in a regular column we call “The Joint Redemption.” Here, we will share stories of people misrepresented, stories of overcoming and perseverance. This is your chance to share your side of the story.

Email: editor@thelocalcolumbus.com

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ABATE

OF GEORGIA

Curious About Motorcycling?

I

TRY OUT A LOCAL GROUP

have always enjoyed the feeling and freedom associated with the wind blowing through my hair (or at least what’s left of it), from dirt bikes and ATVs as a teenager to street bikes as an adult.

My involvement in the motorcycle community started in 2003. I joined the Southern Cruisers Riding Club with my JR Hines, Joey Goldwing, Wayne Hubbard & Honda Shadow 1100 here in Columbus, Friend, Photo by Sherry Hubbard Ga. Things you take for granted now seemed almost daunting back then, like getting used to riding in a group. Group riding can be a tiny culture in and of itself.

I had to understand riding in a staggered formation, keeping your distance, handling and navigating stops and red lights. All of these things seem so simple and automatic now, but I recall feeling scared to death at times. Maturity, experience, and success often breed confidence. The most enriching thing I have learned is how tight-knit, generous, and caring the motorcycle community can be.

My current situation has changed drastically since those days. I am now the Second Officer of the local chapter of the Southern Cruisers 275 and District Coordinator for ABATE of Georgia District 9. The SCRC is riding club (RC), and ABATE is a Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO).

When I took on these roles, I knew I needed to take a giant step into the deeper end of the motorcycle world. Generally speaking, there are four primary MC (motorcycle) group types: MC, RC, MA, and MRO. MC - Motorcycle Club. These guys typically have a clubhouse and guidelines on the type of bike and engine size you must Joey (on right) & Friend Clifford Spickler have. I’m not sure how mandatory meetings Photo by Sherry Hubbard are, but I would imagine you’re strongly encouraged to attend. They are more organized and structured than others.

RC - Riding Clubs. For the most part, fewer rules, less structured. Speaking for the SCRC, we have weekly dinners and weekend rides. It’s often joked that we are an eating club with a riding disorder.

MA - Motorcycle Association. In the Columbus and Valley Area, the MA is typically religiously based. Christian Motorcycle Association and Heaven’s Saints are two big ones around here. Both are doing God’s work but focused on promoting within the motorcycle community.

MRO - Motorcycle Rights Organization.

ABATE (American Bikers Active Towards Education) promotes motorcycle rights at the local and state levels of government by building relationships with elected officials by way of grassroots initiatives.

Only 4 percent of people in the US have ever ridden a motorcycle. As humans, we Joey and Wife Kelli Rucke sometimes fear or distance ourselves from Photo by Sherry Hubbard things we don’t understand. If you are one of those people, I would encourage you to attend a local bike rally or bike night. You will discover the community is welcoming and one of the most generous groups of people you will ever meet. u Ride Safe.

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A R T I S T GLO R I A MA NI

plein-air painters in Vermont. In 1978, she settled back in Columbus to pursue her career. For many years, she painted furniture for the Sugar Hill catalogue.

The Columbus Ledger named her ‘One of the most influential people in the arts in the past 100 years in Columbus, Georgia.’

She found early inspiration at the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum in New York City, where she gazed for hours at the Monets and Van Goghs. Gloria finds the most joy in expressionism and impressionism. “Painting is an escape from the world,” Gloria explains. “Being creative is a form of higher consciousness. When I stop thinking about what a painting ‘should’ look like and just express myself freely, it is much more fun.”

Making one’s living as an artist requires discipline, but for Gloria, painting every day is like taking her next breath. It comes so naturally she doesn’t think much about it. “I couldn’t imagine not doing this,” Gloria said. “If I had remained in the corporate world, I’d be retired now and have lots of security, but I would feel bored and unfulfilled.”

Lately she has been doing a lot of plein-air painting, painting outside. Gloria enjoys working in gardens or by the river, and often finds historic buildings and old architecture to be interesting subjects. “Painting real life is exhilarating,” Gloria said. Figures are her first love; she finds them to be a springboard for bursts of creativity.

Gloria and her friend, artist Jan Miller, came up with the very popular ‘Sketching Under the Skylight’ series at

Gloria would like to encourage local businesses to collect artwork, especially that of local artists. “If artists don’t have resources to sustain them, they will die on the vine,” Gloria said. “Spaces need color and creativity. A

Behind the

Gallery Door

Young Violinists

home without art is cold and very uninviting - it’s the same with a business.”

As Gloria so eloquently points out, ”We are made in God’s image; and when we create, we are closest to God.” If creating a work of art is like saying a prayer, Gloria Mani is a blessing.u

By Anastasia Tikka

trip to the Gloria Mani Fine Art Gallery is an A inspirational adventure. I recently found Gloria in her studio, happily painting with her dog, Woofie, at

her feet. She was busy completing one of her colorful nudes with an acrylic wash. Gloria’s workshop and gallery is behind her gallery in St. Elmo Square. Built in the 1920’s, the square is the oldest shopping center in Columbus, and it suits Gloria perfectly. She grew up in our beautiful city and loves living and working in the historic Lakebottom area.

Gloria knew she was going to be an artist from the time she was very young. Her father, Antonio Mani, opened the Columbus School of Art in 1946 and hosted the ‘Watch Mr. Artist’ TV show. He was gregarious and well known around town, and Gloria followed him everywhere.

He’d often draw Gloria in preparation for a class or to imagine a painting. He took her to many art shows where she was endlessly fascinated.

Gloria remembers being captivated by an art book at Sassy Lady just three years old. “It was called ‘Figure Drawing for What It’s Worth’ and I read it over and over again,” she said. “It was written by Andrew Loomis and I still have that book today.”

Gloria’s first job was in the art department at Aflac; she also worked for her father’s art school for awhile.

Eventually, she moved to New York to study at the Art Student League, then went on to the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida. Gloria continued her studies with an art conservator in California, and worked with LocaL

Country Home

the Bo Bartlett Center. This is a monthly gathering of artists who bring their tools and sketch a model under the gorgeous skylight in the gallery. It is f ree to artists and spectators, and it has quickly become a much-loved event.

The creative revival in Columbus is particularly thrilling for Gloria. “Art has ebbs and flows, but now there’s an explosion of creativity here,” Gloria said.

“Artists must be diligent, keep at it and not give up.”

She encourages young artists to be unique and not worry about what others are doing. “Create that which speaks to you and feeds your soul.”

When discussing the future of art in Columbus, Gloria points to Savannah and Charleston as examples of cities that have been transformed by arts and culture.

“People in Columbus must realize that art will encourage new businesses to come here.” She’s witnessed it in other places for years. “It can happen in Columbus, too. We must value our creative spirit, and together we can make a difference.”

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Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus Takes Time for Three

ne of the Columbus 2025 initiatives for increasing the overall prosperity of the city is to create a more O competitive, and enterprising culture, by educating,

and producing talented people. The Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus (YOGC) operates within those parameters every day, and will continue its 2019-2020 season on January 6-7, by bringing in one of the top under40 touring groups that is taking classical music beyond traditional conventions and energizing its expression through an uncommon blend of modern influences.

Time for Three (TF3) stops in Columbus, after trips to London and Vienna to share its blend of Americana, modern pop and traditional music for violin and double bass. Charles Yang (violin), Nick Kendall (violin), and Ranaan Meyer (double bass), also provide vocals.

The trio has collaborated with artists as diverse as Ben Folds and Joshua Bell, and premiered original works by composer Chris Brubeck. They have appeared on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars, and are working with Pulitzer Prize winning composer Kevin Puts on a piece that will be played by the San Francisco Symphony and the Philadelphia Orchestra in the summer of 2020.

TF3’s partnership with YOGC has been in the works for three years, upon the suggestion of its nationally

awarded conductor and educator, Jim Palmer. “The stars aligned,” said YOGC Executive Director Stephanie Payne. “This group is creating a niche, and carving out a successful career. That entrepreneurial spirit and variety is important to show to kids who are considering playing music professionally,” said Payne.

As a kid himself, Kendall said, “I spent a lot of time in Japan and was drawn to the sound of the Taiko drum.

My parents wouldn’t let me play the drums, so I made my own in my dad’s workshop and I had three other dudes in my high school bucket band.”

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The journey to being a full-time band for TF3 started when Kendall and Myer were students at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia and Yang was at Julliard in New York. “We were all pursuing classical solo careers,” said Kendall, “but always experimenting, creating arrangements, and improvising. TF3 came from that mindset.”

“I still play chamber music festivals,” said Kendall.

“That is all about blending sound and TF3 uses every bit of those tools of interacting with those you’re playing with. We hope the overall experience is interesting, but we also want people to be moved.”

The group thinks it’s cool to work with youth, because “we’re out there being wild and crazy, sometimes, and it’s good for kids to see that. They relate to us, but we don’t call ourselves teachers. We want to be the reflection of what hard work can amount to.”

Payne, who is an active musician herself, added, “We love classical music, and that’s important, but there is a lot more out there. I was in a youth orchestra, and we never did anything like this.”

The band is stoked about coming to Columbus, and said, “As artists we have a duty to give back more than just music. We’re excited that the community is serious about education and the influence of art as part of the curriculum.”

Palmer summed up, “TF3 embodies the philosophy we instill in our orchestra students. It doesn’t matter if you are performing Beethoven, or the Beatles, music should be performed with the most passion possible and TF3 inspires audiences and performers alike.”

Following its fall concert, YOGC participated in the area’s third annual Whitewater Orchestra Festival, and its, “Maestro for a Moment” fundraiser kicks off at the Pops concert on February 27.

“Increasing prosperity takes time,” but “student alumni are doing amazing things for our community,” Payne said, “The kids are playing harder music earlier on and have never sounded so good. Our programs are working and we are proud to share that with Columbus.” u The Time for Three concert is January 7 at 7:00 p.m. at Rainey-McCullers SOTA. Cost is $10.00 per person.

Upcoming YOGC performances include its Chamber recital, on April 7 and spring concert on April 28.

Contact them at info@yogc.org for more information.

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Broadway Holiday Parade & Uptown Tree Trail Lighting

Family Storytime

We love families that read together. Join us for this program dedicated to families with young children (birth to 5 years) as we sing, play games, and most importantly, read great stories aloud. Every Monday, 10:30 a.m., South Columbus Public Library, 2034 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus

Trivia at The Tap

Every Monday, 9:30 p.m., The Tap, 1024 Broadway, Columbus

Trivia at Billiards

Every Tuesday, 8 & 11 p.m., Billiards on Broad, 1111 Broadway, Columbus

Bingo Night at Wicked Hen

Every Tuesday, 7 - 10 p.m., Wicked Hen, 1350 13th Street, Columbus

Chess: Unplug from the Computer for Chess’s Sake

Chess imitates life. Watch the moves you make. Learn winning strategies for chess and life from encouraging community mentors. Every Tuesday, 4:30 p.m., Mildred L. Terry Public Library, 640 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Free GED Classes

Do you wish you had your high school diploma? Let Columbus Technical College staff help you earn your GED in free, convenient afternoon classes. Don’t put your future on hold. Call (706) 243-2782 to get started.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, 3 - 6 p.m., Mildred L. Terry Public Library, 640 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Preschool Storytime

Let’s start getting ready for preschool. In this storytime, we will develop literacy skills by reading books aloud, reciting rhymes together, playing games, singing songs and more. Every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Mildred L. Terry Public Library, 640 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

ASL: Family Sign Language

This is an introduction and opportunity to learn and practice basic signs and sentences. The goal is to become comfortable with American Sign Language and explore new ways to make friends. Every Wednesday, 4 p.m., Mildred L. Terry Public Library, 640 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

Music ‘N Motion

During this structured play time, children will be encouraged to explore music through songs, puppets, books, creative movement and physical activities.

Connect and socialize with other families while helping your little ones build early literacy skills through music and play. Every Friday, 10:30 a.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Market Days on Broadway

Uptown Columbus’ Market Days on Broadway takes place year-round. You will find over 100 local vendors selling anything and everything that you can imagine. The Market features many local and organic farmers selling produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors, and baked goods. Our friends from local shelters and animal rescue groups can be found in the median of Broadway. For questions, call the Uptown office at 706.596.0111. Every Saturday morning, 9am - Noon in the 900, 1000, 1100, & 1200 blocks of Broadway, Columbus LocaL

Motors and Mouths Monthly Car Meet

This is a casual meeting for all makes and models. No awards or trophies just a family friendly atmosphere of cars, trucks, motorcycles or whatever moves you.

Held the 2nd Sunday of every month. facebook.com/ motorsandmouths. 8 - 11 a.m. Hosted by Carnoisseur Detail Studio in the Windsor Village Shopping Center, 3885 Miller Road, Columbus

Columbus Christmas Lights Shuttle Tour

Enjoy Columbus extravagant Christmas lights throughout the city. Visit various winter wonderlands including the famous Ludy’s Christmas Light Spectacular. Play Christmas Trivia for prizes. Sing carols and have fun.

This two-hour tour starts and ends at Lemongrass Thai & Sushi, 2435 Wynnton Rd. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. Visit VicinityTours.com or call 762-822-6251. Nightly tours from Dec. 2 - Dec. 25, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., Lemongrass Thai and Sushi, 2435 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Let’s Talk Columbus

A talk with Mayor Skip Henderson. The purpose of the forum is to provide a current status of the city and to provide an opportunity for citizens to come together and talk about Columbus. Thursday, December 5, 6 – 7:30 p.m., South Columbus United Methodist Church, 1213 Benning Drive, Columbus

Haunted History Tour

Entertainment and Education - Learn the haunting history of Columbus during this 90 minute walking tour.

Bring comfortable shoes and steely nerves as we walk forgotten trails. Flashlights and commentary provided by knowledgeable tour guides. Suitable for all ages. Hosted

by Columbus Eats Food Tours. December 6 & 13 at 7:30 p.m., Fountain City Coffee, 1007 Broadway, Columbus

Holiday Marketplace

We will have over 80 vendors, door prizes, silent auction baskets and Huckleberry’s BBQ chicken and ribs.

Interested vendors, please email rggyates@aol.com for a vendor app or call 706-464-6378. We are sold out of space inside the conference center and are currently accepting vendors for tables along the hallway outside the conference center. We are at capacity for jewelry, soap, wreaths, vinyl and hair bow vendors. Friday, December 6, 11 – 8 p.m., Wynnbrook Baptist Church, Conference Center, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus

Tree of Light

Kickoff the holiday season at Piedmont Columbus Regional with the 39th annual Tree of Light and Celebration of Life NICU Reunion on Friday, December 6 at 5 p.m. at the Midtown Campus Conference Center.

This annual event is hosted by the Piedmont Columbus Regional Auxiliary. Attendees can enjoy live music by the Clubview Elementary School choir and performers from the Springer Theatre Academy, hot chocolate, various activities and even get to meet Santa. Call 706.571.1480 for more information, no RSVP required.

Friday, December 6, 5 – 7 p.m., Piedmont Columbus Regional, 710 Center Street, Columbus 20

Christmas lovers rejoice as Santa is escorted on his sleigh for the 11th Annual Broadway Holiday Festival.

Sing along to traditional Christmas carols at the lighting of the giant Christmas tree. Hot chocolate, candy canes and lots of fun for the entire family. Witness The Uptown Tree Trail, a trail of ornately decorated trees in the median of Broadway to shine all holiday season. For more information, please visit UptownColumbusGA. com or call 706.596.0111. Friday, December 6, 6:308:30 p.m.,1100 block of Broadway, Columbus

Wizard Prom

Ever wish you could re-do prom? Dressing up, the lights, the music...the magic? Well, get ready for an evening more magical than any dance you’ve attended before.

Get dolled up in your dresses, your house-color ties, or even your house robes, and join us at the Uptown Columbus Wizard Prom, hosted by Pop Uptown and produced by Markster Con. 18+. You can get tickets for this enchanted evening up to the day of the event, but don’t wait too long...we can’t guarantee they’ll be around until then. Friday, December 6, 7:30 – 11 p.m., PopUptown, 1234 Broadway, Columbus

Wizard Weekend

The two-day event will encompass many venues in the uptown Columbus area for an adult-aged WIZARD PROM on Friday night and the WIZARD PUB CRAWL [ 21+ ] on Saturday. ‘Wizard Registry’ will be hosted at The Uptown Tap (1024 Broadway) for the Columbus WIZARD PUB CRAWL encompassing several venues, all within walking distance located in uptown. Attendees will move from pub to pub earning House Points that will go towards a House Points Competition that will be tallied at the end of the event.

Dec. 7, The Uptown Tap ,1024 Broadway, Columbus

Movie Night Feat.

ELF at the Phenix City Art Park

Come out to Movie Night in the Art Park and see Elf on the big screen. Bring blankets and lounge chairs for added comfort. Entrance is free. There will be a gourmet hot chocolate bar - $5 for a 16 oz cup. Food trucks will also be available. Brought to you by Phenix City Parks & Recreation and Positively Phenix City. Friday, December 6, 6:30 and 9 p.m., Phenix City Art Park, Phenix City

Fifth Annual Big Oaks Winter Show & Sale

As always, potter Carey Slay and quilter Kari Goodwin will be the featured artists, with guest artists including: Joshua Goodwin (knives), Farmington Herbals (botanical skin care), Jenny Jack Farms (chocolates and tinctures), Mica Hill Farms (honey), Chattahoochee Wax Co (beeswax candles), Plant Magic Medicine Shop (turmeric pastes), and EmMetals (handcrafted jewelry).

Come down to the farm for a day of shopping and fun.

Dec 7, 10 a.m. – Dec 8, 5 p.m., Big Oaks, 10747 Union Pleasant Grove Road, Omaha

Harlem Globetrotters

Sale Dates and Times: Public Onsale : Wed, 16 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM, VIP Bench + Merch : Wed, 16 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM, Return Customer Offer : Wed, 2 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM Venue/HG Presale : Wed, 9 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM, Me + 3 Promotional Offer : Fri, 25 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM, Ticketmaster Presale : Wed, 9 Oct 2019 at 10:00 AM. Saturday, December 7, 2 p.m., Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus

2019 Bi-City Christmas Parade

Beginning on the corner of Dillingham Street and Broad Street in Phenix City, going down Broad Street in Phenix City and turning right on 13th Street and DECEMBER 2019

going over the 13th Street Bridge, down Broadway to 9th Street in Columbus). Floats will continue to the Civic Center Parking Lot. Saturday, December 7, 10 – 12 p.m., Columbus ParksandRecreation, 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus

Star Wars Celebration

Festive lights, Christmas Market in the North Pole Tent, Gallery on 10th in the Adams Farmhouse, Pictures with Santa, Craft & Décor Workshops, Food Trucks, and Musical Entertainment. Stay until dusk and experience Christmas lights in the Camellia Garden. Some vendors and activities end at 7pm but the lights (and select vendors) will be open for your enjoyment until 9 pm. $5 per person - Kids 12 & under free. Saturday, December 7 & 8, noon – 9 p.m., Columbus Botanical Garden, 3603 Weems Road, Columbus

Watercolor Holiday Wreath

Christmas in the Garden

Holiday Tour of Homes

The afternoon will feature tours of 7 historic houses and music by the Schwob School. It will be a celebration of history, music, and architecture.Tickets are $25 before the tour and $30 on the day of the tour. Receive an additional $5 off the cost of your ticket if you bring a new unwrapped children’s toy to be donated (Bring to the Rankin House to receive a discount before or any house the day of the tour). Children 12 and under are free. For more information please contact Historic Columbus at 706-322-0756. Sunday, December 8, 1 – 5 p.m., Historic Columbus, 1440 2nd Avenue, Columbus

Pop Up Holiday Gift Market

For one night only come shop unique finds, new arrivals, and one-of-a-kind gifts not available anywhere else.

We’ll have accessories, apparel, artwork, stationary, vegan handcrafted natural products, fresh macaroons, and more. There will be something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. With featured items from The Posh Peach, Wired by ALP, The Blue Ridge Apothecary, The Southern Pearl, Written by J, The Ginger Macaroon, Kostlich and Couture, and more. Friday, December 13th, 5 -9 p.m., Pop-Uptown,1234 Broadway, Columbus

Donuts with Santa at Chattahoochee Harley-Davidson

Join us for some holly, jolly fun. We are hosting Santa (yes we know him ;) for a meet & greet and photo’s (free digital copies). Not to mention, Free DONUTS, coffee and hot chocolate. Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m. Chattahoochee Harley-Davidson, 3230 Williams Rd, Columbus

Bluebelle’s Holiday Market

Join us for our Annual Holiday Market! Enjoy storewide sales, giveaways, cookies, and free photos with Santa and the Grinch. Bring your own camera to capture your kiddos with Santa, the Grinch, or both. Santa: 11-4.

The Grinch: 11:30-1:30. Saturday, December 14, 10 – 7 p.m., Bluebelle Home Decor and Gifts, 2301 Airport Thruway, Columbus

Pictures with Santa Paws

Stop by Animal Ark Rescue for pics with Santa Paws with a monetary donation of your choice. Pictures will be available for download and print. Saturday, December 14, 1 - 3 p.m., Animal Ark Rescue, 7133 Sacerdote Lane, Columbus

Christmas Carnival at Moon Lake

Join us as the historic Martin-Idle Hour Park becomes a beautiful Christmas carnival. Vintage carnival rides and games, food trucks, Winter Village, pony rides, a small business expo featuring businesses from all over the Chattahoochee Valley, and Moon Lake’s newly unveiled Christmas lights set to music. Admission and parking are free, but the carnival rides carry a $5 admission and food trucks will determine their own prices. Saturday, December 14, 3 – 9 p.m., Martin-Idle Hour Park Moon Lake, 1212 Airport Road, Phenix City LocaL

Prepare for the upcoming final installment of the Star Wars saga! We will have snacks, crafts, games, and a chance to win prizes. Call 706-748-2855 for more information.

Saturday, December 14, 3 – 4:30 p.m., North Columbus Public Library, 5689 Armour Rd, Columbus Create a watercolor painting of a holiday wreath to practice your watercolor skills in a relaxed environment.

This would make a great holiday gift for a loved one. All materials are provided. There is no registration for this event, please arrive early to ensure your place. Sunday, December 15, 3 – 5 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Winter Solstice Tree Walk & MemberSip

Tree Walk at Dinglewood Park - Free of charge.

MemberSip 6pm-8pm at Jarfly- Free for member.! $25 for non-members. We’ll have a chili bar and other tasty treats, plus seasonal winter warmers. Join Trees Columbus at www.treescolumbus.org for free entry.

Thursday, December 19, 5 – 8 p.m., Jarfly, 1358 13th Street, Columbus

Christmas Carols & Friends

Annual Black Tie event with dinner, Special Musical Guests, fun, gifts and caroling. Charitable Partner: Hope Harbour, Domestic Abuse Shelter for Women and Children. All guests are asked to donate $5.00 towards the purchase of gifts for the children at the shelter. Through December 6th: General Admission: $65.00 per person VIP: $100 per person. Tickets are available at our website: valleygospel.com or on iTickets. Saturday, December 21, 6 – 10 p.m., The Bibb Mill, 3715 1st Ave, Columbus

A Winter Wonderland: An All White Affair

Our Annual Scholarship Gala. Come out to celebrate with us and party with a purpose. All proceeds will help a deserving High School senior to attend college. Formal attire is required. The all white attire is requested but not required.

Please see any member of Columbus Alumnae Chapter for tickets. Friday, December 20, 7 – 11:55 p.m., Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus

8th Annual All Black Party

Join us for an amazing evening of Poetry, Music, Dancing, Great Food & Drinks, Great People, and a whole lot of fun. Your feature artists are the Respect Da Mic Slam Team from Charlotte NC. Hosted by Solow and DJ Gio on the soundtrack you are guaranteed a great time.

Make sure to stay for the After Party. Contact us for Table Reservations. Hosted by Compound Columbus.

Saturday, December 21, 8 – 11 p.m., The Compound Event Center, 4261 Macon Road, Columbus

Lights for Heroes Christmas Parade

Bring your vehicle decked in Christmas lights (If you can decorate it and ride it). Awards given to Most Colorful and Best Theme. Parade participation ranges from $15 to $50. All proceeds go toward repairing local veterans homes. Donations are also accepted. The Parade starts at the Idle Hour Sports Complex and arrives at Chattahoochee Brewing Company. With live music by Denny Grimes and the Shelby Brothers. Santa will be present to take Christmas wishes. Food trucks to fill your appetite. Get tickets at: tickets.thelocalcolumbus. com. Saturday, December 21, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m., Idle Hour Sports Complex, 900 Airport Road, Phenix City

Roaring Twenties New Years Eve Party

Celebrate NYE at The 18th Amendment. Advanced tickets and VIP booths available now. Tuesday, December 31, 7 – 2 a.m., 18th Amendment, 1026 Broadway, Columbus

Want to see your event listed here?

Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com 21

DECEMBER 2019

Southern Hometown Comfort

Never Felt So LocaL & Good

T

By Scott Berson

he first thing you feel walking into Metro Diner is a sense of fun and excitement. The aroma of that delicious sweet, baked and perfectly fried something-orother wafting in the air hits you as you walk up into the diner. The dining room is lit, the coffee is just waiting for you right behind the counter. You can see the kitchen staff behind the bar, having fun and working hard, cracking jokes with regulars and dishing up plate after plate after steaming-hot plate of pure goodness.

It’s the mark of a good diner to feel this way, hometown comfort made physical (and edible). That’s how Metro Diner feels -- and that’s before we’ve even had a single bite.

“We take a lot of pride in what we do, and we are really fussy about it,” manager Aaron Ersoy told us.

While Metro Diner is relatively new to Columbus (opening in 2018), it has quite the colorful history. The original diner opened in 1984 in Jacksonville, Florida before getting the Metro Diner name in 1992. A few years later, master chef Mark Davoli and his family took ownership of the restaurant, and they’ve been expanding and improving ever since.

It paid off in February, 2010, when the diner was spotlighted by everyone’s favorite Mayor of Flavortown, Guy Fieri. Fieri featured Metro Diner’s Jacksonville

Guy Fieri

location on the popular show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Fieri tasted a few dishes, but zoned in on the meatloaf -- a unique and incredibly smooth take on this homestyle classic. He left the diner to applause, and called it a “great time” in a “great place.”

Sure, Guy Fieri liked the meatloaf, so we had to try it LocaL

too. At the end of the day, in any restaurant, the quality of the food is always the star of the show. So we dug in, and we are here to tell you, that this food is more than stellar.

Ersoy brought out every plate we could want. In true diner style, there’s something for everyone on the menu -- and it’s all good.

First off was the lighter side, shrimp and grits, a true southern comfort food served a little differently. Instead of the loose bowl of grits you normally find, these were formed into a firm cake, with the sauce and fixings poured

sweet and perfectly cooked. The Belgian waffle’s crispy sweet outer edge gives way to a buttery heaven. Bring on Metro’s homemade strawberry butter, and I’m sold for life. If pleasantly sweet and absolutely delicious is not your thing? They might just have the best chicken and waffles in town so you can still have yourself a real southern treat. They begin the brining process of the chicken the night before in a special marinade and when ready, fried quick. Making the meat so tender and flavorful most are surprised to know they don’t even

over. The grits were incredible -- almost cornbread like -- combined with an in-house made cream sauce, savory shrimp, sausage, bacon and scallions. Which all came together perfectly.

And that was just the start. Next we got to try their spectacular beef tips, served with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Ersoy explained how the tips are expertly carved in-house by trained staff, slow-cooked for hours and sautéed to a perfect, melt in your mouth, caramelized, not too heavy, roasty, savory meal.

Of course, we had to try the meatloaf -- and it ain’t your mommas. This meatloaf is made up of turkey, pork and beef, shaped by expert staff and cooked to perfection. Near the end of the cooking process the meatloaf is placed directly on the grill to give it a slightly crunchy, browned crust that is satisfying just as soon as it touches your mouth. There’s a soft, dry, smoothness

season the flour.

“We try really, really hard,” Ersoy said. “Everything is made with top quality in mind. We want this to be the place where if anyone has anything to say about their meal, they know they can tell us. If you say, ‘Hey, this could have been better, or you guys can do better,’ I want to hear it. We want your experience to be top-notch, fine-dining quality food, in a diner-style.”

Metro Diner is a community place, and the passion the staff puts into the food shows in how much they care about serving the Columbus community. “Our staff really make this place unique,” Ersoy said. He also wanted to thank the many soldiers who frequent the diner. “They really honor us by coming in here.”

Whether you’re a native to Columbus or just stopping through, you’ll feel the southern hospitality and great hometown comfort the LocaLs do at Metro Diner.

to the texture. It’s not crumbly like ground beef can be; perfectly formed, full-bodied and delicious. Pair it with their homemade gravy, mashed potatoes, zucchini and squash, and you’re all set.

Then, came the curveball -- Their belgian waffles and pancakes. Look, I’ve always believed that there’s not much to waffles or pancakes. They are what they are. Battered, cooked and slathered in syrup and butter, nothing really I’ve ever wanted to write home about. I usually find that pancakes simply just disintegrate in your mouth -- they can be a little grainy and floury in my experience and I typically don’t look forward to them.

Please, food gods, (or for you non believers gods of food) forgive me. These perfectly golden, cooked to perfection, ever so fluffy, round, goddess like breakfast items you could totally eat (and not feel bad about) any time of day, heaven bites, blew my doubts into the ionosphere.

The pancakes were fluffy and golden-brown, semi-

Located at 5524 Whitesville Road, inside The Landings Shopping Center. Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for “Metro Nights”, where the restaurant plans to start adding a little moonlight-diner atmosphere. We’ll see you there.u

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DECEMBER 2019

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DECEMBER 2019

Hall on World War II Company Street. Bring your camera for pictures with the jolly old elf and the Kelly Zeros.Two time slots available: 9am - 11am or 11am to 1pm. Call 706-685-2614 or email campdirector@nationalinfantryfoundation.org to reserve space before December 3. $14 for children up to age 12; $5 for adults. Saturday, December 7, 9 a.m. & 11 a.m., National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus

WILD Social Night

Come join us for our monthly meetup at Jarfly - where we have a chance to catch up with one another, talk about past trips and learn about upcoming adventures. This is a great time to come meet many of the ladies involved with WILD, and to bring a gal pal that might be interested in joining us. Wednesday, January 1, 5 – 8 p.m., Jarfly, 1358 13th Street, Columbus

Want to see your event listed here? Email events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Half Priced Wine @ Houlihan’s

Every Tuesday, all day, Houlihan’s, 800 Front Avenue, Columbus

Pizza & Beer Special @ Cannon Brew Pub

Get 2 beers and a specialty pizza for just $15. Every Tuesday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., The Cannon Brew Pub, 1041 Broadway, Columbus

Tuesday Date Night @ Buckhead Steak and Wine

Enjoy a bottle of wine (Red or White), an appetizer, salads, two select menu entrees and a special dessert all for only $60. Call (706) 571-9995 for reservations. Must be you plus one and is dine in only. Every Tuesday, 5 p.m., Buckhead Steak and Wine, 5010 Armour Road, Columbus

Wine Wednesday’s @ Buckhead Steak and Wine

½ off Bottles of Wine, comes with a free appetizer (ask your server for details).

Every Wednesday night, Buckhead Steak and Wine, 5010 Armour Road, Columbus

Beer Yoga

Grab your mats and wet your whistle. Chattabrewchee moves the furniture out of the way to host an hour-long yoga class every Wednesday night. Drink before during and after if you wish. Chattabrewchee Southern Brewhouse, 1301 6th Ave, Columbus

Catfish ‘n Karaoke

Catfish specials until midnight, kid’s karaoke until 8 p.m. Fun for family and friends.

Every Friday, 5 p.m. - midnight, Backyard Bar and Grill, 7633 Lee Road 240, Phenix City

Uptown Happy Hour

Two hours, three restaurants and bars, featuring appetizers and signature drinks. Fun for everyone ages 21 and up. Hosted by Columbus Eats Food Tours. Every Friday, 5:30 p.m., The Black Cow, 115 12th Street, Columbus

Weekend Brunch @ Bare Roots Farmacy

See why Columbus locals call our brunch one of the best in town. Saturdays from 10 am - 3pm and Sundays from 10 am - 3 p.m., Bare Roots Farmacy, 105 12th Street, Columbus

Bites of Uptown Food Tour

You’ll stroll through the beautiful tree-lined streets of Uptown Columbus. You’ll stop at five to six local eateries to sample some of the best food this town has to offer. You’ll leave satisfied, educated, and entertained. Every Saturday, 11 a.m., My Boulange, 111 12th Street, Columbus

All Day Happy Hour

Every Sunday, 10 a.m., Houlihans, 800 Front Avenue, Columbus

Wine Down Wednesdays

Join us for a mid-week ‘wine down’ every 2d and 4th Wednesday of the month, featuring happy hour drink specials, guest artists, networking opportunities and so much more. DJ Gio has the soundtrack for the evening. Hosted by Solow. $5 cover.

Food available for purchase. Starts at 7:00 p.m., The Compound Event Center, 4261 Macon Road, Columbus

Breakfast with Santa

Enjoy a delicious breakfast provided by our extraordinary chefs. Write a letter to Santa and hand-deliver it, enjoy holiday crafts and spend quality time with Ole’ St. Nick.

Photographer Michelle Allen will provide one electronic copy of an image of your choice. adults - $15 Children - $10. Ticket costs are non-refundable as all proceeds will benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The money raised will stay here locally at The Children’s Hospital at Piedmont Columbus Regional. Saturday, December 7 at 8 – 10 a.m., Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus

Breakfast with Santa at WWII Company Street

Please enjoy a light breakfast, with a vintage Santa Claus and holiday crafts in the Mess LocaL

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DECEMBER 2019

Vital Vittles II Brea d o f L if e - PART I

here are many thoughts that race around in my head daily.

T What is the day going to be like? How many guests will come in tonight? Are we making a dent in this gigantic prep list? I hope my wife is having a good day. What

will I do on my day off? Is it vacation time yet? But there is one thought that I dwell on regularly. I feed off of it. I daydream of it. I get inspired by it. It stirs up countless emotions, memories, and possibilities. The word is: BREAD. Bread has been, in some form or other, a part of civilization since before recorded history. Many historians and archeologists believe bread has been made for consumption for roughly 30,000 years. There are some schools of thought that suggest bread has been around for over 100,000 years. I am no archeologist, but whether you believe

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one historian over the other, we can all agree that bread has been around for a whole heck of a long time. In ancient Ethiopia, humans would make flatbreads using ground sorghum, water, and fire-heated stones. There is extensive evidence that in ancient Egypt, bread was as common at every meal as salt and pepper in the present day. It has even been used as plateware, called a “trencher.” Bread has been used as payment before money was even invented.

With something that has been so intertwined into our daily lives for millenia, why does it seem like we (as a society) are trying to rid ourselves of it?

We’ve all heard of the diets and fads. Keto, low or no-carb diets, and the famous “gluten-free” trend tell ill-informed (I myself was one) consumers that wheat is evil and bad for you. The fact is, that a large amount of historical breads have been naturally gluten-free. Teff, sorghum, quinoa, amaranth, millet, and buckwheat are adequate grains to be used to make delicious breads -- and don’t forget corn.

Even though it seems like I’m naming a variety of grains that could be substituted for wheat (which I am), wheat is not the problem. The main reason people get sick is because of additives in commercial flours, not because of an ill-perceived or misdiagnosed gluten intolerance. If we simply source wheat and flours from respected and trusted farmers and millers, even “gluten intolerant” individuals can enjoy their favorite baguette or sourdough recipe. There are certainly a few options around the city and region that offer these. Country Life here in Columbus, Leaning J Farms in Fort Valley, Ga, and Ardent Mills in Macon, Ga are just a few. Please feel free to contact me through Instagram or Facebook to learn more.

Next month we’ll discuss what to actually do with our flours and grains to produce that perfect loaf.u @adam.icard Adam Icard

DECEMBER 2019

She Has Helped Them All

E&S Men’s Clothing Celebrates Longest-Serving Employee

F

or more than 20 years, family-owned E&S Men’s Clothing Warehouse has been the preferred “closet away from home”to find casual, business and formalwear.

It is the kind of place where its staff members hang measuring tape around their necks and alterations are stitched in store. Something they all share is the Mary Nell

By Jennifer A. Sheffield

was the one and only blues legend B.B. King, whom she used to cook for when he came into town for concerts at the old civic auditorium.

As for his fashion sense, “He dressed in overalls and his hat,” she said. “But he always liked what I put together.”

Selma (the “S” in “E & S”) Dabit gloated on Mary, “She’s a wonderful lady and everybody loves her.

She’s a loyal employee and knows what to say when customers ask.”

If you ask Mary Nell what advice she would give to young people, she has one answer, without hesitation: “Wear your pants, on your waist.”

Over the years, Mary Nell has worked with thousands, and at the end of the day, that’s the nature of the work -- and she is good at it.

“Dealing with people can be the difficult thing about this job,” said Dabit, “and she has never flinched. You get exactly what you get with her and with style and grace.”

To Mary Nell, her career comes down to this.

“Learn what they want you to know, then do what they want you to do.

That way,” she said, “you’ll always be doing the right thing.”

We applaud Mrs. Mary Nell, those like her, and this wonderful family team.

To get yourself suited right visit the team at E&S Men’s Clothing Warehouse.They fit all genders and provide a selection of suits, tuxedos, shirts, Big & Tall, accessories, and shoes, to fit men 2T to 72 that includes name brands: Ralph Lauren, Sean John, Steve Harvey, Micheal Kors and many more.

Located at 3939 Macon Road in Columbus.u

Mary Nell with the Legendary B.B. King

From left to right (Ann, Aida, Phillip, Amanie, Selma, Fred, Edmund, Mark, Mrs. Mary Nell, Lisa photo taken by Traci Gary

sentiment of the store’s longest serving employee, Mary Nell, and say that among its fashion suits, neckties and swanky shoes, there is a deep sense of belonging here -- to family, and to the community.

Mrs. Mary Nell celebrated her last day on the job in November, after a 40-year career in local retail.

However, her daughter mentions, with Christmas coming, “I know, she’ll go back to work – it’s her thing.”

It all began when owner Phillip Dabit’s father, Eddie (the “E” in “E & S”), moved his family to Columbus in 1986 and opened a men’s clothing store called Fifth Avenue Fashion in Columbus Square Mall in 1995.

Mary Nell was working at Casual Corner at the time and Phillip remembers Mary would help him choose his outfits for church when he was just 10-years-old.

“My dad worked us for five dollars a day, and Mary would catch us running into the arcade every Saturday,” Dabit remembers fondly.

Because of such a long-standing relationship, Phillip let us know, Mary Nell “can do what she wants.

Mary Nell and Phillip Dabit photo taken by Jennifer Sheffield

She has been selling since before the malls were here, back when people only shopped downtown.”

“She has helped them all.”

Mary Nell has a collection of celebrities she assisted over the years as a personal shopper and one in particular LocaL

Phillip gushed on Mary over and again saying, “You’re the sunshine that comes in here in the mornings.”

He said “Its is easier to run a business with an employee like her to count on. She never missed a day. I’ve had so many 18-40-year-olds work here, and they call out for whatever reason, but she wouldn’t complain about a broken leg. I find strength in that.”

Mary does not aspire to inspire, but her work ethic precedes her. She’s always taught “You don’t argue with people, you let them think they’re right,” her daughter explains. “She’s been through a lot in life, and has always been the go-to person for folks in and out of the store; but when it comes to the shop, she just knows her fashion. Customers want to work with her, and they’ll call the store just to find out if she’s there.”

Mary Nell broke down her system for us, which she’s used for decades.

“I try to find out what they like, but I show them better. I go their way, then I show them my way, and nine times out of ten they go my way,” Mary Nell said.

“They want to look nice, but not overdo it. If it doesn’t look good, I will tell you.”

“I like selling menswear,” she said. “A lot of men don’t know what kind of tie to put with their suit.

When I left J.C. Penny and I was thinking about going to a bridal shop. I came here instead and I told Phillip, I’ll do anything except the register, and I don’t work Sundays, and I’ve been here ever since.”

Mary’s granddaughter, Traci Gary, said the bond the families share is bigger than the store.

“I think it’s time [for Mary] to spread her wings while she’s still able,” said Gary. She also said Mary Nell always worked over holidays so younger staff could be with their families.

“The biggest lesson that I’ve learned from my grandmother is to treat people with kindness,” Gary said. “And that if you do anything you do it to the best of your ability.”

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