The LocaL, December 2017

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STUFF TO READ How To Drive

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Art & Museum

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Like You’re From Columbus

PAWS What is NO-KILL?

Ways To Contribute To Our Community

Around Town Cantus Christmas

Sings The Christmas Story In Annual Concert

Food & Drink

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SHOP COLUMBUS

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Roller Girls

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the LocaL Cocktail Club

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find LOVE in all the Local PLACES still hunting for home venue

706 250 7777

Letter

the loca lcolu mbu s .com

from the Editor

that I’m biased because I work Itforisn’t a locally owned company. I work for a locally owned company because I know how much local business do for their communities.

The math on this is simple. When you buy locally, more of your money stays in your community. When you buy locally, you encourage start-ups. Buying local combats inequality; the difference in income between employees of small business is less than the difference at chain stores. Buying local encourages job growth, because locally owned businesses employ more people per unit of sales and retain more employees during economic downturns. When big box retailers show up, wages tend to decrease, whereas economies rich in locally owned business are associated with higher wages and better benefits. Shopping local decreases the strain on local governments, because local businesses do not demand the massive subsidies of box stores. Speaking of taxes, locally owned businesses generate more tax revenue than the box stores, too.

There is an enormous library of studies to back up these claims, as well as studies that backup what should already be clear: the more locally owned business a community has, the greater its social capital, civic engagement and sense of well-being. All of these economic benefits of shopping local translate to a happier community.

This holiday season, when you consider where to shop and dine and entertain, consider locally owned businesses first.

Columbus has so many wonderful shops and restaurants, many of which we are exited to feature in this month’s magazine, that there’s no reason to spend time or money in a business that drains our community.

When we come together to support each other, we all benefit.

Our next issue will hit stands in the new year. Let’s take this shop local momentum into 2018, too.

Thank you for reading, Tom Ingram Editor

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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

pu bl i s her @t hel o cal co l u mbu s . co m

editor

Tom Ingram edi t o r @t hel o cal co l u mbu s . co m

layout & design Mat Cornett

contributors & credits Bobbi Yeo Frank Etheridge Matt Szabo Richard F. Edwards Christina Paz

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De ce m be r 2017

how to drive like you’re from

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ur’s is a growing community, with many transplants to whom we offer a hearty: welcome! Our area has so much to offer, and we want to encourage you to get out and joy every bit of it. Personally, I often enjoy attractions as geographically diverse as the National Infantry Museum in the morning, lunch in Uptown, a movie at Columbus Park Crossing, and dinner in Harris County. To visit all that our community offers, one must take to the roads, large and small, well-maintained and otherwise.

This is my second time living in the Fountain City. My first sojourn was as a school kid, whose only relation to area traffic was as a largely uninterested passenger. It was often difficult for me and my brother to determine if our father’s frustration was directed at the two of us in the back seat or other drivers on the road.

Now as an adult, who learned to drive elsewhere, with many hundreds of hours of driving experience in dozens of states, one foreign country, and every kind of weather—including northeast Oklahoma in the blizzard of 2006—I have the right

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kind of eye and requisite experience to help all the recently arrived acclimate to Columbus traffic conventions. To better fit in with the locals, give the following tips a try.

1. Many of our residential properties require that drivers back out of driveways. It is best to do this with as little awareness as possible. Go ahead and jut out across any sidewalk, heedless of pedestrians. When entering the street, always assume that you have right-of-way.

The other bleary-eyed drivers, having not yet taken the first sip of their morning coffee, will totally expect you to careen toward them at an alarming speed. Best of all, the resultant cacophony of blaring horns and angry yells is the perfect way to begin a new work day.

2. Turn signals matter. In Columbus, you will find it best to use them sparingly.

Seasoned immigrants and true locals may not use turns signals at all, but for the newly-arrived, try using them irregularly, so as to keep your fellow motorists on their toes (or their soles nervously on their brake pedals), and only use a turn signal at the very last moment. We don’t want the other drivers getting lazy now, do we?

3. While we’re on the subject of distracted driving, you may have heard in the news about the Columbus Police Department conducting sting operations, targeting motorists who do such absurd things as eat a bag of chips or check their watches at red lights. Best practice: don’t worry about these sting operations.

Go ahead and and answer that text in rush hour traffic. No worries if you swerve across lanes. Remember, we want to help keep other drivers nervous at all times.

Besides, local law enforcement will likely be too busy writing a ticket for someone who dared check their GPS at a red light to ever bother with you.

We hope these tips help you better fit in to your new home, especially as driving culture is so central to our experience. While we do have a few routes through which riding a bicycle is safe, more or less, on the whole the practice approaches suicidal. As for walking, well, good luck! No, in Columbus, most of us must drive if we’re to get anywhere, and doing so like a local is the best way to thank your new home for being its own unique destination.

As for tourists, you might just want to call an Uber or a Lyft. Seriously. Don’t drive. By Tom Ingram, Editor 4

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Adapted Art for Adults: Holiday Cards

Make your loved ones a handmade holiday card. These adapted, inclusive crafts are perfect for adults of all ability levels.

Supplies will be provided. This program will be held in the Synovus/CB&T Meeting Room, Side A, and is free to attend. Dec. 12, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

SpaceCase: Galaxy Star Craft and Star Talk

The annual Geminid meteor shower will reach its peak in December, so in celebration of the cosmos, we are going to find our cool with space-themed calming jars. Catch the stars and catch a break with these stress reeling jars of stars, and catch an introduction to the sky with DIY star gazing kit. All space cases welcome. Dec. 13, 4 - 5 p.m., North Columbus Public Library, 5689 Armour Road, Columbus

Crafting Power Hour

Get your craft on! Each Power Hour will allow you to get hands on with a variety of materials and create a work you can take home. All materials are included in the cost. Space is limited, registration required. Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for future members. Dec. 7, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Teen Holiday Ornament Glassblowing Workshop

Participants will be guided on a step-by-step process to create their own blown glass ornaments. Register by Dec. 12. Classes available from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Dec. 16, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Teen Takeover: Craft Wars

Compete in our own version of the hit TV show, Craft Wars.

Contestants will create a craft using unconventional materials in order to win over the judges. All materials will be provided, but do register, (706) 748-2855. For teens aged 12 - 18. Dec. 7, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., North Columbus Public Library, 5689 Armour Road

Open Studio

Join the Columbus Museum as they turn the museum into a winter wonderland. Participants will discover a process to create their own snow and will be sent on a galley scavenger hunt to celebrate the season. Each participant will go home with a bag of snow they created and a recipe to make new snow at home. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Dec. 22, 10 a.m. - noon, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Eat, Drink and Be Giving Fundraiser

Join the LaGrange Art Museum for a buffet dinner fundraiser honoring the Callaway Foundation. Dec. 7, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., LaGrange Art Museum, 112 Lafayette Parkway, LaGrange, Georgia

Break In Case of Emergency: A Grief Art Session

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

If you are grieving this holiday season, join Eastside Crafts at Midtown Coffee House for a make and break art session on loss. Bring your own plate or donate $2 to cover supplies. Dec. 9, 2 - 4 p.m., Midtown Coffee House, 1342 13th Street, Columbus

Portmanteau Senior Thesis Exhibit & Reception

Come for the closing reception for the BFA/BSED Senior Thesis exhibition at Columbus State University’s Riverpark Campus.

Exhibiting seniors include: Steven Bardon, Taylor Bardon, Ashlee Burgess, Ashley Colbert, Payton Fulford, Shelbi Guyton, Brandy Manley, Kyshmah McNeill, Marisol Peña, Maya Siler and Benjamin Winchester. Dec. 9, 4 - 6 p.m., Corn Center, 901 Front Avenue, Columbus

Look! At Lunchtime

Look! At Lunchtime is a collaborative viewing exercise and dialogue centered around works from the museum’s permanent collection. Jonathan Frederick Walz, Director of Curatorial Affairs and Curator of American Art, will facilitate Look! discussions every second Tuesday. Each month a new object will be explored. Dec. 12, 12:15 - 12:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Coffee & Coloring Club

Looking for a relaxing activity to de-stress and create beautiful artwork at the same time? North Columbus Public Library’s Coffee & Coloring Club is just the thing. All supplies provided. Dec. 12, 4 - 5:30 p.m., North Columbus Public Library, 5689 Armour Road, Columbus LocaL

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PAWSWhat HU M AN E is NO-KILL? W

e’ve come a long way over the past 150 years when it comes to animal welfare in the U.S. The original function of animal control was to limit the spread of rabies. This has, for all intents and purposes, been accomplished. The incidence of rabies in humans is extremely rare. Even so, too many animal control agencies have not changed their operational models in response to the current reality.

It is only the most progressive cities in which government officials give any thought to live release rates or see this as an indicator of success in their animal control agencies. In fact, there are still animal control shelters that do not operate adoption programs at all. They simply pick up stray animals and euthanize them once the legal stray hold expires.

For those cities approaching the pinnacle of Maslow’s Hierarchy, the ultimate goal, when it comes to animal welfare, is to achieve “no-kill” status. With all the in-fighting among animal welfare organizations, this can become a controversial topic. There is a long history of conflicting ideas regarding the definition of “no-kill”. For some it is as simple as a percentage threshold related to live release vs. euthanasia rates, most commonly stated as 90% vs. 10% This no longer quite does it for me, as I’ve seen large discrepancies in the way various agencies calculate their live release rates. A high live release rate is a demonstration of success that will bring in more contributions. So, they may be tempted to fudge the numbers a little bit.

In 2004, a group of national animal welfare organizations met to develop uniform definitions and a standard calculation to determine live release rate. What came out of this meeting was a set of written guidelines called the Asilomar Accords. Although this information is readily available on line it is surprisingly underutilized as the standard for our industry.

Even with the Asilomar Accords, there is no magic threshold for live release rate that automatically means a community has achieved “nokill” status. This is because a rate does not, by itself, reveal whether or not any healthy or treatable animal has been euthanized.

In Muscogee and Harris Counties in Georgia, we’re now at a 92% live release rate, and that is thrilling. Yet too many animals continue to die in our animal control facilities. Shelter euthanasia continues as the leading cause of death in companion animals nation-wide. That is a terrible statement for a civilized, first world country to make, but it is a fact. I, for one, know we can do better than this.

Bobbi Yeo lives in Opelika, AL. She is the CEO of PAWS Humane in Columbus, GA, an animal shelter and veterinary clinic offering low-cost spay/neuter and other services to the public. Email her at byeo@pawshumane.org with your comments and story ideas.

Binks

No Shame Theatre

At 10:30 every Friday night, the Springer plays host to No Shame Theatre. No Shame Theatre is an uncensored evening of original performance that allows anyone to explore their creative potential. Signup begins at 10 p.m., and the first 15 to sign up get a five-minute time slot to perform their original material. Admission is $5, including for performers. Every Friday, Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus, (706) 324-5714

All Aboard! The Polar Express

The Polar Express 3D is returning to the Giant Screen Theatre inside the National Infantry Museum every weekend beginning Dec. 9. Every child wearing pajamas will receive a free hot chocolate at the museum. Dec. 9 - 23, The National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus

The Nutcracker, presented by The Columbus Ballet

Celebrating over a decade of performances, The Columbus Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to instill a love of the arts in young and old alike. With a cast of over 100 performers, live orchestra and acclaimed guests artists, this family-oriented production captures the magical wonder and innocence of Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet. Dec. 9, 7:30; Dec. 10, 2:30; RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Adoption Hours Mon-Fri•10am-6pm, Sat•10am-5pm, Sun•12pm-5pm 4900 Milgen Road Columbus, GA 31907 www.pawshumane.org office@pawshumane.org (706) 565-0035 Vet Clinic phone number (706) 987-8380 LocaL

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage

Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the all-new touring production, A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage.

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Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. Dec. 18, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Disney’s Newsies

Fresh from Broadway, this exhilarating song and dance sensation from Disney tells the captivating story of the 1899 New York newspaper boy strike. Led by 17-year-old runaway Jack Kelley, an army of orphan street kids takes on the world’s most powerful publishing empire and shuts it down. This twotime Tony Award-winning musical hit is the thrilling tale of a band of underdog children who fight for what’s right. Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 3, 10, 17 at 2:30 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus

We all want to make our community a better place. Sometimes, though, finding the time to be involved is the most difficult part of getting involved. Here, we will offer a few simple, impactful ideas for small acts that can make a big difference.

’Tis The Season To Find Creative Ways To Contribute To Our Community

A Tuna Christmas THE NEXT GENERATION

Putting the fun in disfunction, a brilliant new cast of master comedians continues the legacy of Columbus’s legendary holiday cult favorite. Springer favorites Jim Pharr and Ben Redding will play all 24 citizens of Tuna, the tiny Texas town that erupts in holiday mayhem every year with a disastrous production of “A Christmas Carol,” yard displays vandalized by the Christmas Phantom, and a Humane Society overrun with iguanas, coyotes, sheep and myna birds. Dec. 14 - 23, 7:30 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus

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hile much of this issue of the magazine is focused on shopping local and the ways in which spending our dollars with locally owned businesses benefit the community, there are many other important and creative ways we can contribute in December. Here are five simple ideas that will make a big difference this holiday season.

Visit: For many of us, December is a month for time with family and friends. The evenings are warm and bright, even if that one uncle shows up; it’s the time of year we decided to let his comments slide and to be grateful for the gathered loved ones. Unfortunately, for many people, December is acutely lonely. Spend some time with a person who is alone. Visit a nearby nursing home and ask about opportunities.

Volunteer: At any time of year, there are hundreds of volunteering opportunities. In December, there are even more.

With so many season-specific events going on, the need for volunteers is particularly high. While volunteering for a winter clothing or food drive is great—go, go do it!—don’t forget those year-long endeavors that still need our attention, like area homeless shelters.

Give food: Speaking of food drives, it seems like every church, school and local business is hosting some sort of canned food drive. Contributing to these food drives is unquestionably a good thing. However, the canned food drive is more than a chance to clear out those dust-collecting items in the back of the pantry. When you’re getting ready to give to a food drive, call ahead. Ask if they need specific items and if they can accept fresh items, like fruits and produce.

Craft: Do you unwind with yarn and knitting needles?

The Columbus Public Library (3000 Macon Road) is accepting donations of hand-made hats and scarves. Of course, homemade ornaments and other decorations make excellent gifts. Bring some beauty into the life of a neighbor or your new friend from the nursing home.

Lend a hand: Do a good turn daily—that’s the Boy Scout slogan and some of the best advice you’re likely ever to hear.

It’s such a simple thing, but after 365 good turns in a year, you’ve made a significant and positive impact on those around you. Look for a chance to hold open a door, offer to help a neighbor in the yard, or pick up that stray piece of litter when you see it. Not only do these little acts accumulate into consequential improvements in the community, this practice of daily helping others will help attune ourselves to the needs of others. Our outward-facing cognizance is the tool through which we daily engage the world in meaningful ways, and this practice of doing at least one good thing each day is perfect practice. by Tom Ingram editor

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

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Sorry No Sympathy at The Estate

Columbus’s only DIY music venue presents Sorry No Sympathy, Dec. 4. $7, doors open at 7 p.m., band starts at 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 7 11 p.m., The Estate, 1231 Midway Drive, Columbus

Caroling at Old Town with Sola Voce

Sola Voce, Voices of the Valley’s auditioned chamber ensemble, invites you to Old Town Dec. 5 for three sets of caroling. Dec. 5, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Old Town Columbus, 8201 Veteran’s Parkway, Columbus

Mothersound at The Estate

Columbus’s only DIY music venue presents Mothersound, Dec. 7. $7, doors open at 7 p.m., band starts at 8 p.m. Dec. 7, 7 - 11 p.m., The Estate, 1231 Midway Drive, Columbus

Mind Bender at The Tavern

No cover at The Tavern for Mind Bender. Get in early for dinner before the show. Dec. 8, The Tavern, 6 298 Veterans Parkway Building 7, Columbus

Dynamite Death Chair at Soho

Join Soho Bar & Grill for Dynamite Death Chair. Cover is $5; show is 21 and up. Dec. 9, 10:30 p.m., Soho Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Christmas Cantata

St. Luke United Methodist Church’s annual Christmas Cantata will be presented at 8:30 and 11 a.m. services, and will feature the Chancel Choir accompanied by a strong orchestra from the Schwob School of Music. Dec. 10, 8:30 a.m. - noon, St. Luke United Methodist Church, 1104 2nd Avenue, Columbus

Songs of Joy

Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus presents Songs of Joy. Sola Voce and Bella Voce choirs sing a variety of music, including holiday favorites. Concert is free, but a suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. Dec. 11, 7 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Alabama Avenue at Scruffy Murphy’s

Alabama Avenue plays your favorite classic and southern rock, new and traditional country, and party songs. $5 cover; 21 and up. Dec. 15, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m., Scruffy Murphy’s Irish Pub and Eatery, 1037 Broadway, Columbus

Rosedale / The Story Continues at The Estate

Columbus’s only DIY music venue presents Rosedale and The Story Continues, Dec. 16. $5, doors open at 7 p.m., bands start at 8 p.m. Dec. 16, 7 - 10 p.m., The Estate, 1231 Midway Drive, Columbus

Money Shot at The Tavern

Get in early for dinner before the show. Dec. 16, 8:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m., The Tavern, 6298 Veterans Parkway Building 7, Columbus LocaL

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Didges Christ Superdrum at Soho

Join Soho Bar & Grill for Didges Christ Superdrum. $5 cover; show is 21 and up. Dec. 16, 10:30 p.m., Soho Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, Columbus

Cantus Christmas

Read Frank Etheridge’s fantastic article about this holiday concert, now in its 18th season, on page #10. Dec. 19, 7:30 - 10:30, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email editor@thelocalcolumbus.com

Light the Spirit Annual Tree Lighting

Gather with St. Francis Hospital to share in the season at their annual tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy music and holiday cheer, and after the program, stay for holiday treats, pictures with Santa and a Kids Zone with holiday crafts. Dec. 5, 6 - 8 p.m., St. Francis Hospital, 2122 Manchester Expressway, Columbus

Christmas at Old Town

Join this Southern Living-inspired community in all its festive adornment for the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy Voices of the Valley singers, an appearance by Santa, wreath making, tree lighting, ornament craft table for children, and many local vendors with crafts and edibles for sale. Dec. 5, 6 - 8 p.m., Old Town Columbus, 8201 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

AIGA December Meetup

Join the Columbus chapter of The American Institute of Graphic Arts for its December Meetup at 11th and Bay Southern Table.

Connect with area designers and meet Richard Longhi, art director at Realtree. Dec. 5, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., 11th and Bay Southern Table, 1050 Bay Avenue, Columbus

Animal Ark Rescue Volunteer/Foster Orientation

Join the Animal Ark Rescue team and help save lives. T-shirt purchase ($20) requires. Please RSVP. Dec. 7, 5 - 6 p.m., Animal Ark Rescue, 7133 Sacerdote Lane, Columbus

When I Grow Up presents: End of Year Celebration

Attention parents! Join When I Grow Up for their End of Year Celebration with Malita The Mogul. This party, at The Gallery at Fountain Park event venue, will be all of motivation, interactive activities, dancing, gifts, treats, door prizes, and more. Come celebrate 2017 and get geared up for 2018. Dec. 7, 6 - 8 p.m., The Gallery at Fountain Park, 4261 Macon Road, Columbus

Au-Thurs-Day

Enjoy coffee at Iron Bank while two local authors read from their novels. Event if free and open to the public. Dec. 7, 6:30 9 p.m., Iron Bank Coffee Company, 6 West 11th Street, Columbus LocaL

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Warm Up American Hat and Scarf Turn In

Join Warm Up American, The Columbus Chapter for their December meeting, which will focus on turning in hats, scarves, washcloths, etc. They will meet in the Hobby Lobby classroom at 9:30 a.m.. Enjoy door prizes and refreshments. Dec. 9, 9:30 a.m.

- 12:30 p.m., Hobby Lobby, 6499 Whittlesey Boulevard

3rd Annual Winter Market

by Frank Etheridge

This year’s Winter Market will be at Eagle and Phenix Mill.

Enjoy the hot chocolate bar, snacks, live flower arranging, and lots of great shopping with great local vendors. Dec. 9, 11 a.m.

- 2 p.m., Eagle Phenix Mill, 1201 Front Avenue, Columbus

Pictures with Santa

White Christmas inspired photos with Santa. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and more. Free and open to the public. Bring your letter to Santa, and Chattahoochee Harley-Davidson will send it to the North Pole for you. Toy donations for local charities are welcomed. Dec. 9, noon - 4 p.m., Chattahoochee Harley-Davidson, 3230 Williams Road, Columbus

A Sacred Mission

Cantus Christmas Sings The Christmas Story In Annual Concert

Christmas Extravaganza Vendor Showcase

Every year, William J. Bullock, Ph.D., finds a new way to tell an old story.

“I’m a professor at heart, so I really enjoy the research,” Bullock (called Bill by those who know him) says of finding music to fit into Cantus Christmas, an annual highlight of the holiday season in Columbus and gold-star event on the city’s cultural calendar now in its 18th year.

“I start with four parts,” he says of the concert’s rendering of the Christmas story during an interview at Fountain City Coffee in early November, when rehearsals for it begin to kick into high gear.

“The first part is prophecy, the Advent. Second is about the birth. Third is about the Epiphany, with the three kings. The last part is the sacrifice of the innocents, with Herod killing the children and Christ escaping into Egypt. People don’t often include that part, but it really is a big part of the Christmas story. Each section ends with a stand-up carol with the audience, and I always end with ‘Joy to the World.’ So I start with those four parts and set out to find music to tell that story and just have fun researching. It gets harder and harder ever year to find new music. It’s a labor of love, but it’s a lot of work.”

Having arrived in town in 1983 to teach music at then-Columbus College, Bullock retired in 2000 as professor and assistant department head at CSU’s Schwob School of Music before retiring as executive director at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts in 2015 at age 70. His inspiration for forming Cantus Columbus— the professional chorus (cantus being a Latin word for voice) he leads each year into the Christmas concert and periodic other performances—came about because he “didn’t’ want to get away from music completely” after he stopped teaching. The group’s first concert was a cappella versions of secular music at the Springer Opera House in spring 2000. Later that year, they performed their first Christmas concert at St. Luke United Methodist Church before moving the following year into its current home in the dazzling, acoustically pristine Legacy Hall.

“It’s always a very inspiring concert, and it’s become quite a tradition here in Columbus,” says Cantus singer and manager Debbie Anderson, a veteran of the 23-member ensemble since its inception, of the Christmas concert, noting that it comes modeled in its breakdown into four parts on the legendary Christmas programs presented by the late, brilliant Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Director Robert Shaw.

“Doctor Bullock is a wonderful programmer and effectively chooses

Finish up your holiday shopping by shopping local! Admission is free to the public with donation of canned goods for our homeless community. Vendor spaces available. Dec. 9, 2 - 6 p.m., RAM Fit Too, 3743 Macon Road, Columbus

ColumbusMakesIT Open House: Public Tour & Peek In

Curiosity getting the best of you? Want to visit and see what ColumbusMakesIT is all about? What is a Makerspace, anyway?

Come by and find out. Dec. 11, 6 - 8 p.m., ColumbusMakesIT, 710-B Front Avenue, Columbus

Boutique Crawl

Enjoy a one-night-only exclusive shopping event with the most popular boutiques in the Chattahoochee Valley. Nosh on Christmas cookies and cocktails, win giveaways and stocking stuffers and gifts galore. Plus, bid on silent auction items courtesy of participating vendors. All proceeds benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. Dec. 14, 5 - 8 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Children’s Miracle Network Fundraiser

Join Launch Trampoline Park for a fundraiser benefitting the Children’s Miracle Network. Fundraiser is all day, from noon until 8 p.m.. Tickets must be purchased at the park, and don’t forget to tell the cashier why you’re there. Dec. 27, noon - 8 p.m., Launch Trampoline Park, 7607 Veterans Parkway, Columbus

New Year’s Party for Teens

Celebrate the New Year in the Teen Department with pizza and karaoke. For ages 12 to 18. Dec. 28, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Knit Columbus Warm

Help make and collect hats and scarves to donate to the Open Door Community House and to be distributed to those in need of something warm for winter. For the experienced knitters, patterns and yarn will be available to take home.

For beginners, brand new knitting kits can be checked out.

Donations of hats and scarves are also accepted. Dec. 28, 6 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

New Years Eve Bash

The biggest New Years Eve party of the year will be at Outlaws Saloon. Come ring in the New Year with Drew Ellis performing, a huge balloon drop, free party favors, free champagne, and a New Year’s Eve glow party. Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Outlaws Saloon, 6499 Veterans Parkway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email editor@thelocalcolumbus.com LocaL

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music to the Christmas story in a beautiful way,” Anderson says.

“It’s always very exciting to learn what he’s picked out for us for the coming concert, though you have to know your stuff.”

Billed each year as “Music of the Season—Music of the Masters,” Cantus Christmas for the first five or six years largely figured the works of such classical-music composers as Beethoven, Bach and Brahms. “Now maybe we should expand that slogan to say music of important composers,” the affable Bullock says with a laugh.

“While all the major composers of the classical period wrote religious music, they may not have done any Christmas music.

Mozart did next to no Christmas stuff. Because in many ways Christmas became what it is today as a promotional thing in America with Santa Claus in the late 1800s. You really have to move into the Romantic period, and a lot of stuff from the Russian Orthodox Church, to find music composed for Christmas.”

Accompanied as always by Bullock’s wife, Janie Lee (who plays with Columbus Symphony Orchestra), on piano, Cantus Columbus this year will be joined by the renowned, Atlanta-based Vega String Quartet.

In addition to the perennial “Joy to the World,” the audience this year will join in for singings of “O Come, O Come Emanuel,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Among the 24 works selected for this year’s concert, Bullock has picked a George Gershwin string quartet lullaby for the Nativity scene and the “Gloria” movement of Schubert’s most famous Mass. Bullock describes two to three numbers as “a bit out there, a little strange sounding,” which arrive free of melody but full of sound, and says he’s curious as to how the audience will respond.

When asked what he wants his audience to feel from Cantus Columbus, Bullock is quite clear.

“From the non-religious side, I want to evoke joy and an experience of good chorus music that’s well performed,” he says.

“From the sacred side, I want them to feel deep inside the meaning of Christmas, what it’s really about, and to take away the whole scope of what it means for society. You can come to it either way. You can enjoy the concert as just a concert and hear a wide variety of music you’re not going to hear anywhere else in Columbus, Georgia. I can assure you of that.”

The 18th annual Cantus Christmas concert takes place in the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts’ Legacy Hall on Tuesday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $34u

Big Dog Run/Walk Half & Full Marathon Training

Ready to tackle some new miles? Big Dog wants to help you accomplish these goals with their run/walk half and full marathon training program. Training is offered three days each week. For complete details, visit runsignup.com through December, Big Dog Fleet Feet, 1200 Broadway, Columbus

WILD About 2018

WILD, Women’s Initiative for Learning and Discovery, has had a great year, and are well on the way to becoming a nonprofit corporation providing outdoor education, learning and wilderness experiences to women. If you’ve participated in any of their events, or are interested in learning more, drop

by Nonic Bar and Kitchen any time between 5 and 8 p.m. for drinks and food. Join the silent auction and see what exciting events are planned for 2018. Dec. 6, 5 - 8 p.m., Nonic Bar and Kitchen 1239 Broadway, Columbus

The Woddies & Christmas Party

Join CrossFit CSG for a red carpet awards night and Christmas party. Dress is cocktail attire. Awards will include most improved athlete, most dedicated, most encouraging, greatest gains, and more. Dec. 8 6:30 - 9 p.m., CrossFit CSG, 1234 Broadway, Columbus

Vinyasa + Barre Teacher Training: Free Sample Class

Learn more about Vinyasa Flow + Barre full 200-hour RYT Yoga Teacher Training, which runs from January through July in Columbus. This is a free one hour sample class and information session. Dec. 9, 9 - 10 a.m., 1401 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Going Nuts for ESP

Join Going Nuts Biking for a race (Extra Special People), which creates with disabilities and their families thrive. Dec. 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Go Nuts

to raise money for ESP opportunities for people to engage, connect and Biking, Columbus

Finding Stillness: Tools for Calming the Mind this Holiday

Join the Up! Factory for an introductory workshop to try out various stress-reduction and mindfulness techniques. Call (706) 405-1525 for more information. Dec. 10, The UP Factory, 1401 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Columbus Figure Skating Academy Christmas on Ice

Bring the family to enjoy the talented athletes of the Columbus Figure Skating Academy’s Christmas on Ice. Show time is 1 p.m., $5 admission. Dec. 10, 1 - 3 p.m., Columbus Ice Rink, 400 4th Street, Columbus

Going Nuts for ESP

Join Big Dog Fleet Feet for the Jingle 5K run. To be guaranteed a t-shirt, register by Dec. 7. Come run the Big Dog Jingle and spread Christmas cheer all around for all to hear. Dec. 16, 9 11 a.m., Big Dog Fleet Feet, 1200 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email editor@thelocalcolumbus.com LocaL

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Holiday Sip ’n’ Shop

Experience the holiday spirit at The Wynn House. Enjoy unique gifts, appetizers and beverages. Members $10, non-members $12.

RSVP: (706) 323-1895 or darenewynnhouse@ gmail.com. Dec. 7, 4 - 8 p.m., The Wynn House, 1240 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Holiday Highball

Join the Young Art Patrons for an evening featuring local bartenders competing in the art of mixology, sample craft cocktails, enjoy hors d’oeuvres by The Wicked Hen, and live music. Cast your vote for best cocktail. Tickets are $50 each or $90 for two. Young Arts Patrons must purchase a ticket to attend. Dec. 8, 7 - 10 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Breakfast with Santa at WWII Company Street

Join the National Infantry Museum Saturday, Dec. 9 for a light breakfast with a vintage Santa Claus and holiday crafts in the Mess Hall. Brig your camera for photos with the jolly old elf and the Kelly Zeroes. Two time slots available, 9 - 11 a.m. or 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. $10 for children up to age 12; $5 for adults. Call (706) 6852614 to reserve space before Dec. 7. Dec. 9, 9 a.m.

- 1 p.m., National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus

Toy Giveaway & Christmas Dinner

Join Reach 4 Your Dreamz for their 9th Annual Toy Giveaway and Christmas Dinner. More than 1000 individuals will enjoy a traditional Christmas meal, and at least 1000 toys will be given away at this free event. Enjoy games, music, drawings and swag bags from sponsors.

To donate, volunteer or sponsor, please contact gwennettawright@gmail.com. Dec. 10, 2 - 5 p.m., Reach 4 Your Dreamz, Inc., 3604 Macon Road, Suite 2, Columbus

SUDS = StartUp DrinkS for Entrepreneurs

A social drinking club with a startup problem.

This group of creative minds who come together to socialize and develop entrepreneur networks.

Dec. 12, 5:30 - 8 p.m., 7th Street Provisions, 222 7th Street, Columbus LocaL

Keep Calm and Bake Something!

Columbus’s own Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus is invited to the American Celebration of Music in Britain, July 2018. To send all of the kids in the choir, we need to raise some money.

Kids and their families are busy doing their part. You can help, too, by participating in our Local Celebrity Desert Auction, which will be held during the fall concert on Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. The top 3 bakers and bidders of $1,000 or more will receive a special choir performance at an event of their choosing. Dec. 12, 6:30 9:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

The Royal Banquet/ GlamMother’s Pageant

The Royal Banquet Presents the GlamMother’s Pageant. Tickets are $25, and include a fivecourse dinner, a host of desserts, music, entertainment, giveaways, entrance into the pageant, and fun. Dec. 16, 6 - 9 p.m., 1858 Midtown Drive, Columbus

3rd Annual Holiday Brunch

Tadow Entertainment and Baby Fetish Clothing Bank host their 3rd Annual Holiday Brunch.

This event helps provide winter clothing, hot meals and toys for the less fortunate. Enjoy games and raffles for prizes. Dec. 17, 2:30 5:30 p.m., Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

2nd Annual Feed the Hungry

Join the Hungry Hillbilly for a place where the less fortunate can get a free, hot meal and socialize with others in the community.

The Local Editor says: honestly, how great are the people at The Hungry Hillbilly for doing this? Maybe drop in sometime and thank them, yeah? Dec. 23, noon - 3 p.m., The Hungry Hillbilly, 2901 University Avenue Suite 1, Columbus Want to see your event listed here?

Email editor@thelocalcolumbus.com

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Shopping with local businesses offers a host of economic advantages to a community, including increased job creation, higher tax revenues and higher wages. What’s most exciting about shopping with local businesses, bolstered by these economic benefits, are the social benefits. Communities rich in locally owned businesses are happier, safer and more civically engaged. The Columbus area is rich with locally owned businesses, and here we want to show off a few of our favorites. turn your holiday party from fun to unforgettable.

Keep The Fun Flowing Pat Daniel and her team at Uptown Wine and Spirits have introduced Uptown to something more than a liquor store.

This Holiday Season At 1208 Broadway in Columbus, The shop is a destination, a place to discover, a place to between Big Dog Fleet Feet and learn, and above all a place to meet some friends who can Kilwin’s, you’ll find Uptown help you find the next, perfect drink for any occasion. For Wine and Spirits, which stocks the holidays, Uptown Wine and Spirits is a must-visit shop. all of your favorites and many Uptown Wine & Spirits 1208 Broadway • 706 221 5024 exciting libations to try in the expertly curated selections of local shop outfits you craft beer, fine for the entire natural world wine and specialty spirits.

Whether you’re camping in the backyard, Uptown Wine and Spirits has quickly day hiking in Franklin D. Roosevelt established itself as a destination State Park or preparing to thru-hike the store, and this holiday season, Appalachian Trail, your first stop needs to they have everything you need, be a visit to Chris Largent at Outside World, from planning to drinks, to make 1025 Broadway in Columbus. your holidays a little merrier and With personal service and hands-on brighter. knowledge of all the products they offer, the Uptown’s selection, already staff at Outside World can get you on the water extensive and interesting to peruse, or on the trail with the gear you need. Offering specialty is getting even more exciting. For products from brands you won’t find at other retailers, like the holiday season, Pat Daniel—who Uptown Society, Osprey, Big Agnes and Jackson Kayaks, no one is involved with everything from the Bo Bartlett Center to the else can get you on the way to your next big adventure like Columbus Symphony Orchestra—has brought together a broad Outside World. They even do repairs, including plastic welding collection of fine wine and champagnes. With the shop in full on kayaks. holiday fettle, browse Pat’s wine and champagne room, full of small production, artisanal and family-owned champagnes and wines you’ll not find anywhere else.

Whether you’re attending a party or looking for a special gift, these wines and champagnes, plus any of the excellent spirits or craft beers, are perfect for a season’s greetings. Be sure to check out their special stock of bar ware gift items, too. If you’re planning your own party, the expert staff at Uptown Wine and Outside World is an anchor in our burgeoning outdoor excursion Spirits can help. Ask economy, and not only because they have the gear and boats. about cocktail recipes Summer group trips help people get together and get outside and wine pairings to through the warmer months, instructional clinics help people LocaL

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get to know their equipment, and Scout discounts make sure young adventurers can get the gear they need.

Chris appreciates his customers, and they appreciate him. Outside World staff make a point to get to know their customers, to build a community. Those customers return the favor, often sending Christmas cards and pictures from their adventures.

Outside World Outfitters is the top shop for all thinks hiking, camping, paddling and climbing for their customer service, expertise and inventory. Whether for yourself or a special person in your life who enjoy getting out for adventures, drop by Outside World Outfitters and let Chris and the crew take care of you this holiday season.

Outside World 1025 Broadway • 706 322 4200

the best, and for good reason

Big Dog Fleet Feet has been the area’s premier running and walking specialty store since the first shop opened on Broadway in 2010, a distinction bolstered by the opening of another store two years later in Columbus Park Crossing.

Big Dog carries everything you need to get on your feet, with shoes, apparel, hydration, nutrition, inserts and insoles, and socks. Whatever you need for walking, running or hiking, Big Dog will get you moving.

The backbone of the business is the in-store experience. Customer service and knowledge of those staffing the shop is unparalleled, and with two inviting locations, it’s easy to put one foot in front of the other.

Big Dog also has the technology to fit you with the right footwear with new 3D scanning technology. fit id™ creates a 3D scan of a person’s foot, providing specific measurements of foot width, length and each height. The scan takes only a few seconds and appears on an instore tablet, which allows one of Big Dog’s fit specialists to review, discuss observations and find solutions with the customer. fit id™ is a complimentary part of Big Dog’s excellent customer experience.

Coupled with the expertise of Big Dog’s highly-trained staff, this technology will give customers the best fit and solutions available.

For the holiday season, check in at either of Big Dog’s locations for deals, including buy-one get-one on apparel and many great quality shoes marked down from $120 to $60. With great products, top-notch customer service, and a technology-backed in-store experience unmatched anywhere, Big Dog is the place to go when you want to get going.

5413 Whittlesey Boulevard • 706 330 1800 1200 Broadway • 706 322 2786 LocaL

better bikes, better build, better service

Ride On Bikes, located at 1036 Broadway in Columbus, specializes in Specialized brand bikes because they are the number one bikes in the industry. Whatever angle, the one resonant theme throughout Ride On Bikes is that everything they do is done at the highest level of quality.

Consider the saddle. What’s comfortable in the department store likely won’t be comfortable twenty miles down the trail, and this discomfort can even lead to injury. Ride On Bikes has a saddle test, which measures a person’s hip bone so that the experts in the shop can fit you to the right saddle. On top of that, they give you 30 days to test your seat.

This translates to the rest of your bike. Many stores only size on wheel size. At Ride On Bikes, they consider wheels, frame, even your reach, to find the best fitting bike, and they have a lot of bikes to chose from. On any give day, Ride On Bikes has 100 bikes on the wall. In addition to new Specialized bikes, they also have top quality used bikes for sale. Those Specialized bikes come with a lifetime warranty and a full year of free service, and they are built by employees who train in California to be expert bike builders. When your bike is in for repair by those same experts, they send you home with a rental, on the house, to keep you riding.

Maybe you’re not sure about a bike. Maybe you’re not sure about riding. A $10 rental will put you in the saddle, and by the end of the day, you’ll be looking to take one home. At Ride On Bikes, the aim isn’t to make a sale but to make a customer for life. When a child outgrows a bike, trade it in for a new one.

If you’re looking for a riding partner, join in on one of Ride On Bikes’s many group rides. Most of all, whatever your questions or concerns, go visit the experts at Ride On Bikes and ask. You’ll also want to check out their Small Business Saturday deals, which run through December, and the 2017 bikes now on discount.

Ride On Bikes 1036 Broadway • 706 324 1132 15

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draught beer and delicious chargrilled oysters.

In addition to dinner hours, River and Rail is open for lunch Tuesday through Thursday, and for brunch on Saturday and Sunday (their classic bloody Mary is to die for). They are also hosting a New Year’s Eve Party; call ahead or stop by the restaurant for tickets before they’re gone.

River & Rail 1232 Broadway, • 706 940 0312

a touch of the big city with a local flavor base

Chef Brad Andries is from a small community in Louisiana and cut his teeth in New Orleans kitchens. He recalls the rich and diverse food culture of his home, the hyper local recipes that dot the state, and those special dishes that his family made, which remind him of home.

When Frank and Leah Foley, originally from Columbus, were ready to raise a family, they looked back to Columbus as the town with the right kind of culture in which to raise children. Brad and his family were ready for the same. Combining their experiences and passions for the business, the opened River and Rail, in February of 2017, bringing a little bit of the big city to town.

With a focus on farm-to-table ingredients, sourced from local and regional producers, including White Oak Pastures, Brad’s dishes showcase southern and Louisiana classics with interesting twists. The blue crab gumbo is served over potato salad, the way his grandmother made it, and the result is a rich, refreshing bowl. Louisiana alligator tail meat is remixed with General Tso glaze. With venison osso buco, roasted quail and many more, you’ll want to share.

“I cook what I love,” Brad says of his menu. His dishes for him recall memories of his grandmother, and he loves helping other make new memories over his food.

River and Rail’s focus on local products extends to the bar. You’ll find Red Hare and Omaha Brewing Company beers on tap, and Richland Rum is featured behind the bar. You’ll also find twenty varieties of rum, tequila’s galore, a n d a wellstocked bar all around.

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Columbus’s confectionist & chocolatier

With 120 stores across the country, it might seem strange to think of Kilwin’s as a local business, but we certainly do.

First, the franchise is locally owned. Second, there’s nothing else like it. Third, Kilwin’s does all of the things we love in our locally owned businesses, from hand made and stamped chocolates from one Michigan source, rather than one of the giant agricultural conglomerates, to producing many of their products in house.

Before you enter Kilwin’s, you’ll see the kitchen—and if they’re making waffle cones for their original recipe ice cream, you’ll likely smell the kitchen, too. Those sweet aromas, the marshmallow dipped in chocolate, the apples emerging from caramel, are only a taste of what’s tasty inside.

Scanning the cases whatever your age will make you feel about ten years old. Of course it does: there are twelve kinds of fudge, caramels, brittles. Moving along the case toward the ice cream, ask for samples of their original recipe scoops. Eyeing something cherry-flavored? Those are real cherries in there, and you’ll want a scoop or two in one of those waffle cones you saw being made as you walked in.

For the holidays, Kilwin’s has great gifts for kids of all ages. In addition to all of the year-round treats, there are hand made seasonal Christmas chocolates. Enjoy a cup of coffee, or the world’s greatest hot chocolate, while one of Kilwin’s employees helps you design a gift basket for someone special. And never fret over shipping, because they can handle that, too. Before you leave, you’ll also want to ask about catering for parties and events.

Kilwin’s 1230 Broadway • 706 221 2486

area’s top men’s boutique since Reconstruction

Since 1873, Chancellor’s has excelled at the two things a men’s clothing store must do in order to be the best: selection and service. With 144 years behind the historic shop, the last independent men’s store in Columbus, Chancellor’s is looking ahead to another 144 years of stocking the Photo by Christina Paz best clothes and accessories and rendering customers the absolutely best in service.

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When you visit Chancellor’s and talk to owner Roger M. Stinson, who purchased the business in 2007 after having worked there since 1987, he can tell you all sorts of wild stories. Ask about the store’s roots in a field hospital during the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, or about the time James Edgar Chancellor, thenowner of the shop, rented a baby elephant from a traveling circus and walked it up the stairs into the local bank—and then the elephant refused to descend those same stairs.

In addition to great stories from the store’s history, Roger also keep track of what his customers purchase.

Roger get to know his customers, their individual style. This allows him to make recommendations to customers based on their past purchase.

This also makes Roger a great resource when buying a gift for the man in your life; tell Roger who you’re shopping for, and he’ll know what they need. And when you’re purchasing a gift, be sure to take advantage of the free gift wrapping. Chancellor’s even offers local delivery.

During December, Roger is offering a formal ware and accessories promotion, as well as an exotic skin products promotion, such as alligator skin belts. Whether shopping for someone special or looking to spruce up your own look, December is the perfect time to visit Columbus’s best, and longest operating, men’s boutique.

Chancellor’s 1108 Broadway • 706 322 8819

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For customer and community

Shooter’s Valhalla, a retail gun shop located on the corner of 12th Street and 1st Avenue, actively serves the community, and exists because the community asked for it.

Shooter’s grew out of Valhalla Training Academy, directed by Rob Phipps, who proudly served 22 years in the US Military’s Special Operation’s Command, 75th Ranger Regiment, with extensive instructor experience and many prestigious awards. Gene Lively, a partner in both businesses, is proud that clients, impressed with the quality of firearms training, clamored for a gun shop dedicated to the same level of expertise and customer service.

Two years after opening, Gene says his focus is still “100% on the customer.”

Shooter’s customers have a lot to look forward to when they visit Uptown’s only gun shop. This holiday season, drop in for special deals and sales on all sorts of items, including ARs, pistols, gifts and novelties. Be sure to check out the t-shirts, too.

When it comes to ammunition, Gene’s phrase is, “buy your rounds by the pound.” He isn’t kidding. Shooter’s sells ammo by the pound.

Where Shooter’s sources much of their ammo is indicative of the business’s communityfocused spirit. Where possible, Shooter’s features local and

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regional products, including Black Dot, Glock and H&K. In addition to partnering with local business, Shooter’s works with local law enforcement and charity. Every Muscogee County Sheriff’s patrol officer is equipped with a quick response bag—in, say, an active shooter situation, these officers can grab the bag and be ready to go. Also, Gene serves as the Georgia chapter president of HOOAH, which serves veterans and active duty service members by hosting fundraising events, sending care packages, and assisting them and their families in times of need.

For a gun shop committed equally to customer and community service, with decades of training and military expertise on staff, visit Shooter’s Valhalla.

Shooter’s Valhalla 1205 1st Avenue #101 • 706 940 0185

exhibit, Fountain City Faces. 90-some sketches of Fountain City regulars and baristas, by Columbus artist Garry Pound, fill the shop, a perfect reflection of the shop itself: a place, beyond the great coffee, food and amenities, that feels as much like home as your own living room.

Fountain City Coffee 1007 Broadway • 706 494 6659

33 years of bringing beauty to Columbus

David Benefield is proud to celebrate 33 years in Midtown, at St. Elmo Shopping Center on Lakebottom Park. Customers whose wedding flower arrangements he made three decades ago now come in with their adult children, who need arrangements for their weddings. David has served generations of Columbus families, and when you visit his shop, currently bursting with festive adornments, it’s no wonder that Ann’s Porch is a local institution.

David specializes in weddings, anniversaries, funerals, showers, parties, holidays and other special events.

Whatever your event, David’s work always surpasses expectation. His original designs deliver perfect orders, satisfaction guaranteed.

When it comes to gifts and eclectic items, Ann’s Porch is sure to surprise with unique and interesting items.

David stocks for the season, so check in regularly for pottery, decorations and more. A year-round go-to gift idea, and an easy way to spruce up a neglected corner or table in your own home, are David’s beautiful orchids.

You can find our more about Ann’s Porch on the website, annsporchflorist. com. On the website, you will also find a link to David’s personal Facebook page, the perfect way to keep in touch with David and all the interesting events and specials going on at Ann’s Porch.

Ann’s Porch 1815 Garrard Street, Suite B • 706 324 4881

What makes a great coffee shop?

Beyond all other factors, by far the most important quality of a coffee shop is the main event: the coffee.

At Fountain City Coffee, that Uptown staple on the corner of 10th Street and Broadway, you’ll find the only shop in town that serves their own houseroasted brew. You can buy their local roast, whole bean or ground, to brew at home, too.

With a cup of great coffee—or any of Fountain City’s drinks, which include an Emerald Islander (banana, caramel and Irish cream) and Thanksgiving & Hugs (chai made with half and half, pumpkin spice, vanilla and cinnamon)—the next thing to consider is a bite to eat. For a snack, enjoy an array of fresh baked goods—cookies, scones, muffins; and if you’re hankering for something more substantial, Fountain City’s sandwiches, from breakfast through dinner, are thoroughly satisfying.

Now that we have something to eat, the coffee’s warm aroma compels us to find a spot to flop. Fountain City has several options. A new set of comfortable chairs, the kind you easily sink with a book; a new sofa, perfect for a close conversation; and ample tables for meetings, working on your laptop, games with friends, and more—Fountain City offers options aplenty.

Considering all of the qualities that make Fountain City Coffee the perfect place for your next caffeine fix, the decor would seem an afterthought.

It isn’t. Fountain City keeps the walls well-appointed with works from local artists, often including the legendary Ralph Frank.

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the music shop by musicians, for musicians

Since 2000, Phenix City-based American Guitar Boutique has provided musicians in the Chattahoochee Valley with the service and expertise only working musicians can provide. Owners Tim O’Brien and Mike Childree have more than eighty years of professional experience between them.

Their experience in the trenches gives them the broad, real-world knowledge necessary to guide players of all skill levels, from beginners to pros, toward the right products and services.

This locally owned shop, located at 707 13th Street in Phenix City, is the kind of place a musician can walk into whether they’re in search of a new instrument or just want to check out 18

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some gear and talk shop. When it comes to gear, the guys at American Guitar Boutique keep the shop stocked with new, used and vintage gear.

For the holiday season, be sure to check out their many specials on entry-level instruments and gear. Have an inspiring guitarist in mind? Tim and Mike will have guitar and bass starter packs, and their starter packs are nicer than what you’ll find at the online vendors. Need lessons for that aspiring musicians? AGB offers lessons in guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, keyboards, harmonica and voice, and the instructors can not only get those beginners on their way, but they can teach old dogs new tricks, too.

Another great offer are the gift cards. Musicians can be difficult to shop for, so Tim and Mike take the stress out of buying holiday gifts by offering gift cards that can be used on anything in the shop, including lessons. Of course, if something breaks, American Guitar Boutique is the place for repairs. While most stores will do minor fixes, Tim and Mike handle it all, including tube amps and electronics.

There is a reason why Tim and Mike offer so many services and flexibility. As musicians, they understand the power of community, the way local people working together promotes the most good.

Whether it’s in the various groups they play with in the area or on their East Alabama local access show, No Cover Music Magazine, Tim and Mike are plugged in and here to build community.

American Guitar Boutique 707 13th Street, PhenixCity • 334 560 5202

let yourself relax a little with a premium cigar Holidays

hectic. We’re rushing around, buying gifts, cooking, and many of us are traveling, too.

Finding ways to relax d u r i n g this busy season is a ch a l l e n ge .

B r e t t Chastain, owner of Sweetbriar Smokeshop offers his customers a way to unwind between whatever chaos this holiday season brings.

“We’re in the relaxation business,” Brett explains. “People come here at the end of a long day to enjoy premium cigars.”

Since 1975 they have been frequenting this family-owned business, located in The Landings. A full-service destination for traditional tobacco products and accessories, Sweetbriar carries more than 400 varieties of premium, handmade cigars. They have a full inventory of pipes and pipe tobacco, imported cigarettes, specialty lighters, cigarette cases and humidors.

“We have a really comfortable shop,” Brett says. Settle into one of the sumptuous leather chairs and enjoy a cigar, and gourmet coffee, with friends.

An excellent ventilation system keeps the cozy store comfortable, making Sweetbriar the perfect place to meet friends.

“Cigars are a good way to relax and indulge,” Brett says. “And they are not too expensive.”

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Most of the cigars at Sweetbriar start at $2 and go up, which gives the experienced ample options and the curious a convenient entry into the indulgence. From now until Christmas, Brett will have two raffles daily; every $25 spent earns a ticket.

Brett is also offering a number of deals, including buy four get one Esteban Carreras and Oliva cigars, free humidors with qualifying purchases, and more.

There are many reasons to visit Sweetbriar. Go to relax and converse with great cigars and gourmet coffee. Find an indulgent gift for the holidays or a special occasion. Maybe get something for yourself, for those moments when you can slip away and unwind. Whatever your reason, if tobacco and tobacco products are your escape, Sweetbriar is your destination.

Sweet Briar Smoke Shop 5592 Whitesville Rd “Upper Part Of The Landings” sweetbriarsmokeshop.com

a small shop doing big things

Wheelys Cafe in The Landings is a cozy shop. Two things strike you as you enter: the dazzling array of locally-sourced products of all kinds and the gentle aromas of fresh coffee and delicious sandwiches being made.

Take some time to peruse the varied items on the shelves. You will find quality products from local and regional producers.

Georgia Soap Company, Columbus’s own, is made from all natural ingredients and none of the questionable chemicals found in so many products, including ones that claim to be all natural. Striplings brand jerky, sauces and syrups are a must-try. From cookies to pickles, kombucha to cheese straws, Wheelys has delicious offers perfect for gifts or your own home.

When it comes to food, this little shop punches well above its weight class.

Enjoy a cup of their locally roasted coffee, which you can sip from your hand made Ug Chug Coffee Mug, and good luck deciding on which delectable sandwich to try. All of the sandwiches are made with the best ingredients, and their piled-high Ruben, club on croissant, and maui, with ham and pineapple, are perfect for lunch. If you’re around for breakfast time, you’re in for a treat; starting at 7:30 a.m., it includes southern favorites, like stone-ground grits and biscuits and gravy.

Stopping in during your holiday shopping? Be sure to ask about gift baskets, brimming over with the local and regional goodies from the shelves. And when you’re planning your next get together, whether for family or the big

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game, taking home a sandwich tray is always a win.

Wheelys does things differently. More than a coffee shop, more than a sandwich spot, and more than a retailer of fine local products, Wheelys manages to pull off all three and to do it perfectly. It’s always a good day to stop at Wheelys.

Wheelys Cafe & General Store The Landings Shopping Center • 706 940 0344

to you, and they have fostered a positive community for all involved.

Cuckoo’s Nest 1250 Broadway • 706 596 5240

it’s the people as much as the products

Cuckoo’s Nest Skate Shop

SAndrew Oliver, owner and manager of Walls of Books, standing tall behind the counter, is soft spoken and affable.

While his love of great books is immediately evident should you ask about any of his shop’s wide selection, he always gives the genuine impression that he is just as happy introducing people to the books he loves as he is reading them. His staff, who have all acquired Andrew’s demeanor, are likewise genial and knowledgable. For bibliophiles, Wall of Books does everything the right way.

Walls of Books wastes no space with nostalgic decor; the shops name fits its interior. Whatever genre or subject has your interest, you’ll find both popular and unique options on the shelf. As in any good used book store, the paperback selection is broad and everchanging.

With prices starting at $2.97, you’ll have a tough time beating the price, too.

The teen and young

Since 2009, Cuckoo’s Nest Skate Shop has been the quirky epicenter of local skateboarding.

Run by skaters and for skaters, Cuckoo’s Nest is the longestrunning skate shop in the area, offering unique items and hosting regular events. Out of this shop, a community has emerged, one that deserves more attention.

For many young people, skating is an important outlet. This sport, which the International Olympic Committee voted unanimously to include in the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, provides a channel through which people can focus their energy in a constructive, community-centered way.

To hep facilitate this community, Cuckoo’s Nest hosts regular art shows, recently featuring local artists Dylan Schroeder and Kenji Niibayashi. Cuckoo’s Nest also offers skateboarding lessons, and hosts regular jams, where multiple skaters try out their new tricks.

Skateboarding is also a great way for a lot of people to get around town. College students in particular, whether on campus or the urban areas immediately adjacent, find skating a convenient way to get from A to B while also enjoying that sense of freedom and liberation found only on a board.

If you’re an experienced skater, you’ll understand immediately why Cuckoo’s Nest is a local, cultural hub. They stock shoes you can’t find elsewhere by top brands, including Adidas, Vans and Nike. All of their boards are professional quality, and the shop deals directly with their suppliers so that they can order the products best suited for each customer.

New skaters are in luck walking into Cuckoo’s Nest. With 60 years combined skating experience among the staff, Cuckoo’s Nest can get a new skater going with top gear. They draw on their background and experience to find the right board and equipment for anyone interested in taking up the sport.

Whether you’re a veteran skater looking for a shop to call home or you’re just now getting the bug, Cuckoo’s Nest has all the gear you need, the expertise to find the gear best suited LocaL

adult selection offers ample gift ideas for holiday shoppers, especially with the impressive YA manga selection.

For younger children, and for the adults who know too-well the steep prices of new children’s books, Walls of Books should be the first stop for shopping. In fact, at Walls of Books, you’ll find an entire room for younger children. In addition to a wide selection of books, you’ll also discover unique educational gift ideas. Andrew and his team stock, among other toys, Melissa and Doug products, those sturdy wooden puzzles, arts and crafts products and toys loved by parents and children alike.

Any one of these reasons are enough to bring you back to Walls of Books, but 22

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Andrew and his team go a step further. In their trade program: return books with price sticker attached and get fifty percent of that value in store credit; use that credit for up to fifty percent of your next purchase. Teachers, Andrew has more special deals and offers than we can tell you about here.

Whatever you’re looking for, and especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for, visit Wall of Books and let good people take care of your inner bibliophile.

Walls of Books 4508 Armour Road • 706 993 2400

Phenix City’s boutique gem

Robin White drove past the same shopping center every day and thought, “I need to open a boutique in that spot.” Leaving a comfortable job after nine years is a scary leap, but every day, as she drove by, Robin had the same urge: that’s my location, I need

to open a boutique.

Opening a clothing boutique had long been a dream of Robin’s. As a young girl, she grew close to her grandmother as the two made clothes for Robin and her dolls. When Robin found out that she was pregnant with her daughter, she knew that it was time to follow her dream, as an example to her child to never give up on dreams.

In October of 2014, with many late nights with her husband after work working on the building behind her, Robin opened her boutique. With her mother and aunt, Robin worked every day to get the business off the ground. They stocked pretty and affordable dresses, denims, accessories and gifts.

They connected with their customers, and responded to what their customers wanted. As more and more

many raving, regular customers. Through the success, though, Robin’s focus is on the people. Those who entered her store as strangers leave as friends, and those relationships, Robin says, have enriched her life more than the success.

To see what Robin’s Nest is all about, visit the store at 5409 Summerville Road #7 in Phenix City. You can also peruse their fine products Dec. 9 at the Christmas Tree Lighting in Idle Hour Park in Phenix City, and again at the Boutique Crawl on Dec. 14 in the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts in Uptown Columbus.

Be sure to ask about the new mobile boutique, the Traveling Nest, which will soon be seen at events and is available for private parties. Also, do not miss their Twelve Days ’Til Christmas doorbuster sales; check their Facebook, Instagram or website (shoprobinsnest.com) for details.

Robin’s Nest 5409 Summerville Rd Phenix City • shoprobinsnest.com

Uptown Wine and Spirits

Shooter’s Valhalla

Outside World

Ann’s Porch

Ride On Bikes

American Guitar Boutique

Big Dog

Sweet Briar Smoke Shop

River and Rail

Wheelys Cafe & General Store

Kilwin’s

Cuckoo’s Nest

Chancellor’s

Walls of Books

Fountain City Coffee

Robin’s Nest

1208 Broadway, Columbus (706) 221-5024 1025 Broadway, Columbus (706) 322-4200 1036 Broadway, Columbus (706) 324-1132 1200 Broadway, Columbus (706) 322-2786 5413 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus (706) 330-1800 1232 Broadway, Columbus (706) 940-0312 1230 Broadway, Columbus (706) 221-2486 1108 Broadway, Columbus (706) 322-8819

customers left with that special, elated feeling that comes when you purchase something you can’t wait to look good in, word spread.

Robin’s Nest is a thriving boutique with LocaL

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1007 Broadway, Columbus (706) 494-6659

1205 1st Avenue, Columbus (706) 940-0185 1815 Garrard Street, Suite B, Columbus (706) 324-4881 707 13th Street, Phenix City (334) 560-5202 5592 Whitesville Rd Columbus, GA 31094 “Upper part of the Landings” sweetbriarsmokeshop.com The Landings Shopping Center, Columbus (706) 940-0344 1250 Broadway Columbus (706) 596-5240 4508 Armour Road, Columbus (706) 993-2400 5409 Summerville Rd Phenix City, AL 36867 shoprobinsnest.com De ce m be r 2017

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Still hunting for home venue Roller Girls Look Forward To Recruitment Night At Civic Center Match

In the two years since the Muscogee Roller Girls have played a home match, the league has come a long way. They rank 181st in international rankings according to the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, the result of successful recruiting and a focus on training. Still, the Roller Girls lack a home venue for their games, meaning that current fans must travel to see them compete.

The traveling takes a toll. Not only must current fans travel, but it’s difficult for the team to grow a fanbase without a home venue in which to showcase their skills.

As a nonprofit, finding a venue that meets safety standards and track requirements is difficult, too.

Still, the Muscogee Roller Girls are excited about the future.

Liz Wise, skater and one of the league’s leaders, says their vastly improved team will be geared up for their Aug. 25 game at the Civic Center. Exciting as a return to home play is for the team, the current focus is on recruitment.

Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m. at CrossFit Deprivation (9 Price Road, Phenix City), the Roller Girls will host their biggest recruitment night of the year. Liz says this is the perfect time to get involved with roller derby. Liz encourages women to embrace their New Years resolutions to pursue health by giving roller derby a try. The Roller Girls are serious athletes, and in January, the offseason, is the perfect time to start training.

Liz also stresses that though they take roller derby seriously, the door is wide open for any woman looking to get involved. As a key player and 47-years-of-age, Liz is serious when she says that, “as long as you are over 18, we have a place for you on our league. By Tom Ingram, Editor LocaL

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and vanilla to the butter/sugar mixture. Stir in the spices and the beaten egg whites.

Batter can be frozen for up to several weeks. If ingredients separate, stir briskly to re-blend.

To make a Tom & Jerry, fill a cup with hot water and bourbon (I use 1792 Small Batch Bourbon) and add a heaping tablespoon of the batter. For a non-alcoholic version, instead of spirits, add warm milk, or egg nog.

Hot Mulled Wine 'Tis The Season! For Christmas Cocktails

I

t’s the season for family, for giving and for holiday parties. Whether your party is a casual neighborhood get together, a mingling of co-workers, or a family gathering, the perfect cocktail will guarantee the success of your party.

If your gathering is more than a few people, and you want to avoid the expense of setting up a full bar and/or hiring a bartender, a punch, or some sort of cocktail that can be made in quantity and set up as self-serve, may be just the thing. The old standby is some variation on an egg nog, spiked or not.

An old school variation that is experiencing a resurgence in popularity is the Tom & Jerry. Popular in the midwest where the winters are cold and long, this drink is prepared by mixing a “batter” which is added to a combination of hot water and rum, brandy or whiskey.

For something a little lighter on the alcohol content, yet still very festive, consider a traditional mulled wine.

A Rosé Lemon Champagne Punch fits the bill for a festive holiday brunch or early afternoon gathering.

If you feel like tending bar, or hiring someone to mix drinks for your guests, try one of the following: a hot buttered rum, a caramel apple-pie cocktail, Liam’s Midnight Toast, or a Heath bar cocktail.

TOM & JERRY

12 eggs, seperated ½ tsp salt 1 lb of butter, room temperature 3 lbs confectioners sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp ground cloves 1 tsp ground allspice

In glass or metal mixing bowl, beat egg whites until foamy and stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks to soft peaks. In a large bowl, beat the butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks LocaL

1 ½ cups boiling water ½ cup white sugar ¼ lemon 8 whole cloves 1 cinnamon stick 1 750 ml bottle R. Collection Field Blend Red Wine 1 pinch of nutmeg

Stir water and sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Add lemon, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Increase heat and bring ingredients to a boil. Let boil for about ten minutes to allow flavors to combine.

Strain and return water mixture to saucepan.

Discard lemon, cloves and cinnamon stick. Stir red wine into mixture. Heat for 5-10 minutesuntil hot, not boiling. Garnish with a few dashes of nutmeg. For your party, it may be kept warm in a slow cooker.

Rosé Lemon Champagne Punch 12 ounces cranberry juice concentrate 12 ounces pink lemonade concentrate 1 750 ml bottle Saint Hillaire Sparkling Wine 1 750 ml bottle Francois Montand Sparkling Rosé 3 ounces fresh lime juice 34 ounces club soda 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries or cranberries, for garnish

Apple Pie Cocktail

1 ½ ounces Wheatley vodka 1 ounce ButterShots butterscotch schnapps 1 ½ ounces apple cider 1 tsp. Fresh lemon juice

Add ingredients to ice-filled cocktail shaker.

Shake well to blend and chill. Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

Heath Bar Shot

2 oz D’usse Cognac 2 oz Kamora coffee liqueur 2 oz di Amore Amaretto 2 oz Bailey’s shaved chocolate, for garnish

Add ingredients to ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake well to blend and chill. Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

Raspberry Heaven 1 oz plus one tsp raspberry liqueur 1 oz white crème de cacao 8 oz hot chocolate whipped cream raspberry, for garnish

To a cappuccino mug, add raspberry liqueur and white crème de cacao. Add hot chocolate and stir. Top with a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle teaspoon of raspberry liqueur over whipped cream. Garnish with fresh raspberry.

However you choose to entertain your guest, just remember that the key to holiday entertaining is for everyone to have a good time, including you, the host !! Cheers !!

R i c h a r d F . E dw a r d s ,

Marketing & Spirits Manager Uptown Wine & Spirits, 1 2 0 8 B r o a d w a y

About an hour before serving, combine all six liquids in a large punch bowl. Ladle into chilled champagne flutes or punch cups. Drop a few berries in each glass.

Hot Buttered Rum 12 oz. Clement VSOP Rum 4 oz. Hot milk 1 tsp. Brown sugar 1 tbsp of butter

This drink is best served in a mug that is heated before adding ingredients. To heat your mug, add very hot water to mug, cover and let stand.

To the warmed mug, add brown sugar and hot milk. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add rum. Float the butter on top and sprinkle with nutmeg.

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