The LocaL, January 2024

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STUFF TO READ PAWS Humane Society

Letter from the Publisher

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A Fresh New Start

ART & MUSEUMS

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Songbird Art Gallery

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Starr Power

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The Columbus Jazz Society

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The Film Scout Reviews

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AROUND TOWN

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The SiBL Life

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Calendar

Where Persian Heritage & Local Art Unite in Beautiful Harmony Blackberry Smoke Frontman Charlie Starr Comes To Columbus Giant Steps on Giant Shoulders

2024 Golden Globes Predictions Calendar

Growing from Seed to Shooting Star with Joe Fiveash

Jake Rhodes Photography

s we step into the new year, it is my great pleasure to share 706 250 7777 A with you all the art, music, food and fun that awaits us in t hel o cal co l u mbu s . co m the coming month.

January has always been a special time for me. From our local traditions for making sure we have plenty of ‘luck and money’ in the coming year (for those who may not know, make sure you eat your black eyed peas and collard greens on the 1st), to spending more time at home cuddled up with loved ones or a good book, this is a time to reset and get ready for new experiences sure to come.

While it’s nice to stay in, there’s still plenty of good weather and things to do here in Columbus during the month of January.

It is our aim that the pages ahead inspire you and motivate you to get out and experience the beauty we are blessed to share.

The month is set to be a melodious delight. The Loft will hold two of the month’s most powerful shows, where the night will come alive with the sounds of talented musicians like Charlie Starr & Benji Shanks, coming to delight us for their Wednesday night edition of “Sweet South Music Revival” on the 17th. Plus, the energetic “big band” The Cavaliers are set to play for the Columbus Jazz Society’s Annual gala honoring our “Giants of Jazz” on the 20th.

Whether you’re into energetic rock or mellow acoustic sets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make it a point to look up local artist SiBL and experience the magic of his new EP 536 AD and revel in the electrifying atmosphere of our local music scene.

Our calendar boasts a stunning array of exhibitions and theatrical performances showcasing the talent and expression of our local artists. From captivating paintings to intricate sculptures, these exhibitions offer a window into the boundless imagination and skills of our artistic community. Be sure to carve out time in your schedule to explore these showcases and support the vibrant art scene in Columbus.

One in particular would be The Wes and Missy Cochran Collection “Energetic Line and Color” on Display at The Do Good Fund through February 16th. We also spent some very special time with Parivash Etemadi at her lovely space, Songbird Art Gallery on 2nd Avenue in the Historic District.

We highly suggest a stop in. She has an amazing array of fine Persian rugs and ceramics which are the perfect gift ideas for a loved one or for your own home.

The holidays are a sweet glimmer of memories, and now it’s time to slow down a bit and take time to reflect on where we are and where we want to be moving forward. As we embark on this new year, it’s important to stay open to the possibilities and opportunities that await us. Whether it’s discovering a new favorite artist or immersing oneself in a compelling performance, there is so much to look forward to in the months ahead.

So take the time, eat the food (we highly suggest checking out the newly opened Flying Biscuit located in the new Highside Market development), taste the wine and even just stop and listen. .. and if you missed your black eyed peas and greens, no worries. I’ll save some for ya.

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, people and stories. When good things are happening, we will be here to help you get involved. Our monthly print issues 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 editor@thelocalcolumbus.com

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Mat Cornett

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Scott Berson

ADVERTISING | PR Monica Jones ads@thelocalcolumbus.com

CONTRIBUTORS & CREDITS Natalie Downey Frank Etheridge John Houzer Miguel Juarez Josh McQuien

Thanks for reading Monica Jones

Cover image provided by SiBL siblashofficial.com

Power House

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f acebook .com/t helocalcolumbusga issuu.com/t helocalcolumbus

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Humane Society

A Fresh New Start

aws Humane Society plays a vital role in our community P by providing essential services and support for animals in our community. Offering a lifeline to over 17,000 furry companions who need help each year. Each staff member is

committed to enhancing the quality of life for these animals and curbing shelter populations, Paws Humane Society employs a multifaceted approach that includes an adoption center, an affordable veterinary clinic, community outreach, and various life-saving programs.

Embark on a pet’s transformative journey through the corridors of Paws Humane Society, where every day unfolds as a new chance for these animals: 1. Shelter Haven Paws Humane Society serves as a sanctuary for over 100 homeless dogs, cats, and critters daily. Functioning as a limited admissions shelter, it opens its doors to animals from Columbus Animal Care and Control, surrendered pets, and those facing emergency situations. With no time constraints, each animal receives quality care for the duration of their stay, offering them the time needed to find their forever home.

2. Compassionate Veterinary Care The society’s low-cost, high-quality spay/neuter and wellness Veterinary Clinic prioritizes shelter medicine, ensuring every animal, regardless of their condition, receives top-notch medical attention. From spay/neuter surgeries to

microchipping and heartworm treatment, the clinic serves as the first stop for every shelter pet, with additional specialized care provided in collaboration with local veterinarian partners.

3. Foster Families and In-Home Heroes Puppies and kittens, some just days old, as well as adult pets in need of healing and rehabilitation, find solace in the homes of loving foster families—Paws Humane Society’s LocaL

in-home heroes. These dedicated caregivers provide the necessary love and care, helping animals build confidence and prepare for adoption.

4. Beyond Boundaries As animals reach readiness for adoption, Paws Humane Society’s Transport program extends their journey to new horizons. Partnering with shelters in states with a demand for pets, such as New York and Pennsylvania, the program addresses the shortage of adoptable animals and ensures that every pet finds a loving home.

In addition to adoption services, Paws Humane Society places a great emphasis on promoting responsible pet ownership. They offer various educational programs, including workshops and seminars, that engage the community in understanding the needs and responsibilities of owning a pet. By imparting knowledge on topics such as proper animal care, nutrition, and training, they actively contribute to reducing the number of abandoned and neglected animals in our area.

5. Healing and Enrichment Recognizing the stress of shelter life, Paws Humane Society prioritizes the well-being of its animals through enrichment activities. From playgroups and socializing to food puzzles and games, expert trainers and behaviorists guide animals on a path of healing and confidencebuilding, ensuring each pet experiences tailored care, even including special outings to parks or a stop at Starbucks for a puppuccino.

6. A Forever Home The joyous culmination of the journey is when pets find their forever homes. Paws Humane Society remains

½ off Tuesdays at the Columbus Collective Museums

Discover the wonder of the Columbus Collective Museum.

Immerse yourself in a maze of thrifting and discovery.

Originally the Lunch Box Museum, now also the Royal Crown Cola Museum, The Chero-Cola Museum, The Nehi Drink Museum, The Georgia Radio Museum, The Tom Huston Peanut Museum, a Car Museum and more.

Over 1,000 lunch boxes will just get you started. Local Readers get ½ off their ticket price every Tuesday. Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday - Saturday, 3218 Hamilton Road, Columbus Tours at the Springer

This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour grants entry to areas of the theatre rarely seen by the public. Springer Tours is an unforgettable evening of history, mystery, and the unexplained. Are you brave enough to face the possible ghosts that haunt our historic theater? Please be aware that this is a 45-minute walking tour that will involve navigating multiple staircases within the Springer. For ages 12 and up. Tickets are $25. Available at our Box Office at 706-327-3688. Call for dates. Times are 8:00 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 11:00 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 East 10th Street, Columbus No Shame Theatre

Every Friday night, come out to the Springer (side door) for a good ole hosting of No Shame Theatre. You never know what you’re going to get. Comedy, poetry, skits or music acts. Everything is good and even if it’s not? NO SHAME here. Be an act, just don’t act up. $5 cover. Sign up starts at 10 p.m., show starts at 10:30. Every Friday Night, Springer Opera House, Columbus Sketching Under the Skylight committed to adopters by offering ongoing support for training, medical advice, and more.

7. Keeping Our Shelters NO Kill Another crucial aspect of their work is tackling the issue of pet overpopulation through spaying and neutering programs. By providing affordable or even free sterilization services, Paws Humane Society effectively helps prevent unwanted litters and reduces the strain on local animal control facilities. This helps maintain a healthier and more balanced pet population, while also avoiding the tragic fate of countless animals left without homes.

Furthermore, Paws Humane Society frequently collaborates with other organizations, both within and outside our community, to ensure the welfare of animals extends beyond their immediate reach. They actively engage in advocacy and lobbying efforts, working towards animal rights, improved legislation, and the overall well-being of pets in our society.

This New Year, consider the life-changing impact of providing a new beginning to a shelter pet. Join Paws Humane Society in its mission to create a brighter future for our furry friends.

For more information visit pawshumane.org.

4900 Milgen Road Columbus pawshumane.org office@pawshumane.org (706) 565-0035 • Vet Clinic

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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.

Skechers, only need to bring your own supplies.The second Thursday of each month, 3 p.m - 5 p.m., The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus Industrial Columbus History Exhibit

The Georgia Legislature established Columbus in 1828 specifically as a “trading town” at the head of navigation of the Chattahoochee River. Crossing the Fall Line at Columbus, the river drops 125 feet within 2 1/2 miles, producing at least 66,000 horsepower potential energy. This hydropower attracted entrepreneurs, investment capital, and laborers to Columbus. Made possible thanks to a grant from the Cultural Arts Alliance. Viewing is free during regular business hours. Now through March 2024, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Awkward Family Photos

When it comes to awkward moments, every family has lived through their fair share. This exhibition pokes fun at and celebrates the perfectly imperfect moments that come with being a family while offering a chance for people to take comfort in the fact that theirs is not alone. The exhibition includes more than 200 classic photos, framed in vintage, era-appropriate frames, alongside hilarious “behind the awkwardness” stories from the actual families. Created by the friends behind AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com, the exhibition has been traveling since 2012 and is making its Georgia debut at The Columbus Museum’s temporary headquarters. Through January 7, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus JANUAR Y 2024

Energetic Line and Color on Display at The Do Good Fund

This is your very own chance to view The Wes and Missy Cochran Collection. Curated by CSU students. The collection will be up January 12 - February 16th, Wednesday - Friday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. & Saturday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Do Good Fund, 111 West 12th Street, Columbus The Life And Music of George Michael

Get ready to relive the magic of George Michael’s music in a way you’ve never experienced before, The Life and Music of George Michael will take fans on a captivating ride through the incredible legacy of this musical icon while listening to all the songs they have come to love over the years. The Life and Music of George Michael celebrates the performance and sound of one of the biggest international stars of our time. The show will have fans on their feet dancing and singing along to blockbuster hits including “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go,” “Freedom,” “Faith,” “Careless Whisper,” “Father Figure,” and many more. Saturday, January 13, 7:30 - 9:00 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 BroadwayColumbus Murder On The Orient Express

All aboard for a tale of romance, revenge, and, yes, primal murder. Whodunit? World-famous detective Hercule Poirot is determined to find out. Ten passengers are on board the luxurious Orient Express that’s traveling from Istanbul to Paris. After an avalanche blocks the tracks on an isolated, snow-swept mountain pass, only nine of them are still alive. Every passenger becomes a suspect, and tensions rise as Poirot searches for a killer in their midst who just may strike again. The mystery is an enigma.

Be there when Poirot unravels the astounding secret of Murder on the Orient Express. January 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus Open Rehearsal with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra

The CSO is pleased to offer a family-friendly, nonticketed Open Rehearsal. We will be rehearsing the music for our concert “Shostakovich & Brahms” to be performed later in the evening. During the rehearsals, the performance hall doors are open and the house lights are on to create an informal setting that is welcoming to all. It is perfect for families with small children to gain exposure to the art form. It is also great for those who may not be able to sit long, are uncomfortable in the dark, unable to attend the concert at night, cannot afford the evening ticket prices, and many other barriers that prevent people from attending concerts. Attendees are given the option of “paying what they want” by providing a donation or attending for free. You set the price. Saturday, January 20, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Studio Theatre for Know the Score, a pre-concert discussion with Maestro George Del Gobbo about the music that is being performed at the 7:30pm concert. (Included with concert ticket purchase).

For more information, visit csoga.org. Saturday, January 20, 7:30 - 10 p.m., Columbus Symphony Orchestra at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Shen Yun

The culture of ancient China was divinely inspired.

Shen Yun’s works reflect this rich spiritual heritage... Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away. Tuesday, January 23, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus The Glenn Miller Orchestra

The World-famous Glenn Miller Orchestra brings timeless classics like In the Mood, Moonlight Serenade, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Pennsylvania 6-5000, String of Pearls and Tuxedo Junction back to the stage. Even 80 years after founding his famous orchestra Glenn Miller’s music is alive and well. Over 18 musicians and singers bring the unforgettable Glenn Miller sound and perform those songs that everyone remembers... This is a show not to miss for jazz and swing fans alike or the incurable romantics who want to step back in time. The legendary Glenn Miller was the most successful of all the dance bandleaders back in the Swing era of the 1930s and 1940s. Monday, February 5, 7:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here?

Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Shostakovich and Brahms

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Jarret Holbrook

The mysticism of Hovhaness, and the witty satire of Shostakovich are delightfully set against the pastoral beauty of Brahms’ D Major symphony. Dominic Cheli returns to perform Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2.

His playing has been described by Symphony Magazine as “spontaneous yet perfect, the best of how a young person can play.” Alan Hovhaness | Psalm and Fugue, Op. 40a, Dmitri Shostakovich | Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Major, Op. 102*, Johannes Brahms | Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 73, *Featuring Dominic Cheli, piano. Ticket Prices: Adult: $20-42 | Child/Student: $12. Senior, Military, and Educator discounts available in-person at the Box Office. For tickets, visit rivercenter. showare.com/orderticketsvenue.tix. Ages 4 and under are not permitted for the evening performance, but are welcomed and encouraged to attend our non-ticketed Open Rehearsal at 12:30pm the day of the concert. Visit csoga.org/open-rehearsals for details. Join us at 6:30pm in 5

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By Natalie Downey

Where Persian Heritage & Local Art Unite in Beautiful Harmony

ight pours through the windows of Songbird Art Gallery, back home and share with her community. Over time her L located off of 2nd Avenue, next to the beautiful old collection grew to include art from Turkey, Oman, Europe, school building in the Historic District. The space is filled Australia, Japan, and more. with pieces of delicate and intricate art, inviting one to slow down a little and notice every detail. Tales of exotic lands are whispered in exquisite embroidery, artisan pottery, and beaded jewelry.

Art transcends language, its fluid expression crossing manmade boundaries. It is both universal and highly personal.

And throughout the world, art is cherished, collected, saved for special occasions, and passed down through generations.

Parivash Etemadi-Farmer Songbird Art Gallery is an elegant treasure trove of both international and local art, from paintings to pottery, all curated with care and intention by owner Parivash Etemadi.

As Parivash leads me around the studio, pointing out beloved pieces and telling me the stories of the artists and lands they come from, her eyes shine with excitement as she recalls finding each item and bringing it to her gallery. She explains that little by little, her gallery grew, and with each trip abroad, she would take time to seek out new pieces to bring

“I wanted to share art with people,” Parivash says.

Originally from Persia, a land with a rich history of art, Parivash has spent much of her life traveling around the world, and developed a love for international art she couldn’t keep to herself. She remembers finding beautiful pieces of handcrafted art and bringing them back to her family and friends, excited to share something uniquely irreplaceable with them. Her travels and interest in art led to her making

connections with artists all over the world, and those connections add a personal element to the art she collects.

Over time, Parivash followed her family to Columbus and settled here. In 2020, she decided to create a public space for people to experience the art she found so dazzling, and opened Songbird Art Gallery. The gallery features handmade pieces which Parivash says are “Exclusive, special, nothing you’ve seen before in this area.”

Among its many other items, the gallery features intricately painted ceramic wares. Parivash’s eyes sparkle as she gently picks up each one. “Imagine having tea with a very special friend,” she says, smiling. Undoubtedly the breathtaking tea cups, dishes, and pottery would add an elegant touch to an unforgettable occasion. Samples decorate the gallery, and Parivash explains that entire sets can be ordered.

Persian fine ceramics, jewelry, and rugs are all known for their superior craftsmanship, and often incorporate precious metals, rich fabrics, and intricate details to create a work of art that reflects the rich cultural heritage of their homeland.

Songbird Art Gallery’s upstairs area displays a dazzling collection of ornate handmade Persian rugs, both modern and vintage. Parivash works closely with dealers and can assist customers in ordering rugs according to the color, design, material, and size they desire. Ranging from $700$4000, her wide selection of rugs gives buyers the option to

shop for unique, high quality Persian rugs locally, instead of driving to Atlanta or other big cities.

The gallery also showcases paintings by the artist Shahryar, whose use of color and movement in his work suggests a winding course of emotions, visceral humanity, and dreams. An artist who developed a unique technique, Shahryar originally created landscape art before switching to abstract pieces. His methods included using unusual items to create his paintings, such as the edge of a common credit card, instead of a brush. While he has moved on from this world, his artwork lives on, captivating and enchanting its viewers.

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Gloria Mani and Sia Etemadi.

For Parivash, it’s all about the feeling that comes from beautiful artwork. She offers the community a unique collection of items handmade by artists all over the world, oneof-a-kind gifts for special occasions, and keepsakes to be passed down through the generations. The art is both a story told in and of itself, and a story waiting to be told, as well as an invitation to take the time to make your home a little more special.

Songbird Art Gallery is located at 621 2nd Avenue, Suite B. Their hours are Monday-Friday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, and Sunday 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

Art pieces can be viewed and ordered from the website as well, which can be found at songbirdartgallery.com.u Movement (red) 27x19

By Artist Shahryar

The Songbird Art Gallery currently has five of Shahryar’s paintings on display. Three of his abstract paintings bring curiosity and color to the gallery. “Movement - Red” is made of deep red hues with hints of yellow throughout, a painting with movement that invokes ideas of passion, humanity, and life.

“Movement - Abstract” is made of wavy lines painted in red, orange, yellow, and pink, a work that seems to embody visually what it feels like to dance. “Wave” is another abstract, this one in gray and black with some green mixed in. These three abstract paintings were all made by Shahryar using a credit card instead of a paint brush, creating interesting lines with clear edges and smooth waves. The lines run over and under each other, boldly in some areas in single shades, faint in others with colors merging to blend into new hues.

Songbird Art Gallery also displays two of Shahryar’s landscape paintings. “Green Mountain” is a quiet painting in muted,

warm colors of green, yellow, and tan.

The mountain in the background towers over smaller plants and shrubs, suggesting landmarks where memories wait to be rediscovered. “Landscaping” features trees seemingly glowing in bright greens and yellows, contrasted with sharply angular black trunks and limbs, and black silhouettes beneath the trees.

Local paintings and drawings are also on display in the gallery by artists such as LocaL

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Benji Shanks & Charlie Starr

STA R R P OW E R

By Frank Etheridge

Blackberry Smoke Frontman Charlie Starr Comes To Columbus For Intimate Acoustic Show January 17th dad was a bluegrass guitar player and loved His dad taught him “the rudiments” of guitar, Starr “StarrMy traditional country, bluegrass, and gospel,” Charlie says. But strumming classic tunes his dad enjoyed such as says when asked what music he heard as a child. “Wreck of Old 97” and “Blue Moon over Kentucky”?

“My mom liked the Stones, the Beatles, and Bob Dylan.

And my sister liked Rock 103.”

Speaking by phone two days before Christmas from his Atlanta-area home, Starr – a Chattahoochee Valley native, having bounced across the river a few times growing up between Chambers County, Alabama and Troup County, Georgia – has spent the last 22 years

as conductor of the nightly Southern rock locomotive that is Blackberry Smoke. The prolific, hard-touring band has achieved the rarified duality of global appeal while staying true to their real-as-red-clay roots. And a lot of those roots’ lingering inspiration were beamed out of Columbus on mega-watt sound waves absorbed by a teenage Starr jamming along to Rock 103.

“I can probably put as much emphasis on rock-androll radio as anything else,” Starr explains. “Rock 103 was coming out of every car and truck when we were teenagers.

It was the first place I ever heard Charlie Daniels, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the Allman Brothers Band.”

Starr recalls he was 11 or 12 when he first started to understand music — not just hearing it, but really absorbing it. “I especially remember figuring out ‘Honky Tonk Women’ is the same as ‘Roll in My Sweet Baby’s Arms’ – just faster and louder. I started to see it all comes from a specific place.”

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touring guitarist Benji Shanks (long-time shining star of the Atlanta jam scene, formerly in Outformation) for an intimate, acoustic performance on January 17th that marks the debut of a new venue in Columbus, The Pearl.

“The Uptown Life group is reactivating a historic building on Broadway called The Pearl,” proprietor Buddy Nelms tells the LocaL. “It houses the Mix Market on the ground level, a second floor music and event venue and a third floor gallery space. It ties into the Loft music venue and recording studio.”

Acoustic or electric? Starr says he has no real preference. “It’s all music,” he says. “I do love the acoustic shows because it strips those songs back to how they were born.”

This space and format will give fans the chance to listen to a pristine set of covers sprinkled among topnotch Blackberry Smoke tunes. So look for Starr originals, such as “Old Delilah” – a modern retelling of

“My friends didn’t give a shit about that stuff,” he says with a laugh. “They wanted to play Led Zeppelin. I thought, ‘Man, I better get an electric guitar and learn to play some Led Zeppelin. Because I’m not very cool right now, playing [bluegrass founding father] Bill Monroe.”

Charlie Starr is cool now. Blackberry Smoke has sold out tours around the world, crafted acclaimed albums, and lovingly developed a rabid, loyal fanbase. And he’s definitely cooler than his last couple trips downriver to Columbus. He played in a cover band at (now-closed) Victoria’s bar on Milgen Road in the ‘90s. Before that,

the biblical Sampson and Delilah love saga, complete with witness stands and cell phones – and “One Horse Town,” written from the perspective of a small-town Chattahoochee Valley boy shackled to his roots. People all over the world have told him that the song is about their hometown, too, Starr says, “So I guess it could be a pretty universal idea.”

“I think it’s really healthy,” he explains of having a creative outlet as a solo artist. “Especially at this point.

After 22 years, it’s not like anybody’s going anywhere.

It’s healthy if people want to do things outside of what they feel they can do within the confines of Blackberry Smoke. Look, the world doesn’t want Blackberry Smoke to make a bluegrass record. But I would definitely like to make one myself.” u Charlie Starr Charlie Starr having just turned 18, he walked tall into a Victory Drive tattoo parlor and got his first tat.

What was the tattoo?

“A Rolling Stones tongue.”

A humble yet hard-charging rock star for sure, Starr returns to Columbus on a more mellow vibe than vintage Blackberry Smoke. Playing in a duo with the band’s 8

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By Miguel Juarez

& The CJS

Annual Jazz Soiree @

GIANT s teps on GIANT shoulders The notion of standing on the shoulders of giants feels

especially true when discussing music and the arts. In jazz, as Louis led to Dizzy, and from Dizzy we got Miles, we can often directly attribute our successes to our mentors and heroes. From my father, my first guitar teacher Crisanto Bautista, my jazz teacher Paulo Siqueira, to David Morgan and through Dr. David Banks who invited me to the Columbus Jazz Society in the first place, my journey with jazz has always been about the hands reaching down to help me up.

On January 20th, the CJS will hold their annual Dr. David Banks Jazz Soiree, where seven musicians from the tri-city will be honored for their contributions to music, art, and community. They are: Dr. David Banks (piano), Mitch Barron (guitar), Dr. George Corradino (saxophone), Elwood Madeo (guitar), Jan Hyatt (vocals), David Morgan (drums), and Stan Murray (saxophone).

The event will be held Mitch Barron in The Loft’s Green Room (1032 Broadway). Ticket bearers will enjoy a night filled with live music, food, camaraderie and a whole lot of fun, with music Dr. George Corradino from the majestic 17-piece “Cavaliers Orchestra” led by Jim Evans.

General Admission is only $50 and includes dinner and the raffle. VIP tables for up to 8 are also available, which include a complimentary bottle of wine or champagne.

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are also available for those who just want to groove the night away. Dinner will be curated by the amazing team at The Loft, and raffle tickets will be given to everyone who holds a general admission ticket or above.Tickets can be found on the CJS website at columbusjazzsociety.com, through their Facebook event page @The Annual CJS Soiree 2024, the CJS Instagram @columbusjazzsociety and our ticketing site getlocaltix.com as well as thelocalcolumbus.com/getlocaltix.

Admission also grants you a one-year membership to the Columbus Jazz Society. Jan Hyatt Benefits include discounts on events and merchandise, a contact list for other members and musicians, and (for musicians) leads and priority calls during gigs.

Serving as president of the CJS, my aim is to focus on those positive experiences and attempt to reciprocate that feeling to others by facilitating more opportunities to perform, jam, learn, and network amongst musicians and our community.

We are always seeking community-minded individuals who will help foster growth in jazz and the arts in our area. In a recent discussion with one of our partners, Aresha “Z” Lawrence of Music Entertainment Council, we realized that the only difference between “major cities” and other places with big populations is the level of philanthropy and desire to give back. We hope this work will continue to spark something in people’s hearts to maybe push a little bit as well.

David Morgan It is because of our community that we will have a chance to come together in recognizing these amazing legendary musicians.

Because it’s not just about the cultural importance of music and the arts, it’s about the positive impacts that a healthy music scene can provide.

The CJS is entirely dependent on the donations and generosity of those who support us.

We thank our partners and sponsors, people like Peter Bowden of The Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance and VisitColumbusGa, Buddy Stan Murray Nelms of The Loft, Monica Jones of The Local, Kanise Wiggins of The Liberty Theater, as well as local business owners and entrepreneurs such as Jason Keaton of Jiujitsu Columbus and Sydney Helms of Sydney’s on 1st.

We cannot thank them enough for their support.

Columbus has an abundance of talented artists, supportive patrons, and historical venues. It just takes some connectivity to make it all work together. Hopefully the CJS can serve as a conduit for these parties to be able to provide the best education and culture to our community in the years to come.

The Annual Columbus Jazz Society Soiree 2024 is fast approaching, and we cannot wait to celebrate our city’s very own “Giants of Jazz” with all of you.

Elwood Madeo

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The Film Scout Review

2024 GOLDEN GLOBES PREDICTIONS

BEST PICTURE/COMEDY – Barbie or Poor Things

This one honestly could go both ways.

I haven’t seen “Poor Things”yet, so my pick would be “Barbie,” a movie I had a lot of fun watching in the theater. This is also a movie where the practical effects really stand out and are used in the best ways to tell this story. You can never go wrong with director Greta Gerwig behind the camera. It’s honestly kind of crazy that we have a Barbie movie written by her and husband Noah Baumbach, who is a fantastic writer/ director in his own right.

BEST ACTRESS/DRAMA – Lily Gladstone

By John Houzer sking a movie enthusiast about their favorite films of the year will yield a diverse array of responses, and this year A is no exception. One thing I’m eager to do in 2024 is attend

film festivals, which I’ve never done outside of Columbus.

While I appreciate the convenience of online viewing options, I’m ready to take my passion for cinema to the next level by meeting fellow filmmakers and attending festivals in person.

My friend and fellow movie buff, Scott Phillips, has been an inspiration in this regard, as he’s now an official judge in some festivals. I aspire to follow in his footsteps and deepen my involvement in the world of film criticism.

Speaking of criticism, the 2024 Golden Globes are coming up and I figured I’d give some of my predictions.

BEST PICTURE/DRAMA – Oppenheimer.

The word that comes to mind when I think of this actress is “pure,” and that’s exactly how I would describe her performance in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” She was essentially the backbone of the movie and carries so much emotionally throughout the film. I think this is going to be her breakout year and I’m hoping to see a lot more of her in the future.

BEST ACTOR/DRAMA – Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy and Christopher Nolan have frequently collaborated, but this is Murphy’s first starring role in one of the famed director’s films. His portrayal of Dr. Oppenheimer was without question one of the best performances of the year, and with the film expected to sweep many of these categories, it would only be right if he picked up this award.

SUPPORTING ACTOR – Robert Downey Jr.

BEST ACTRESS/COMEDY – Emma Stone

I think people might expect Margot Robbie to take the prize here, but Emma Stone acted her ass off in “Poor Things.” She was fiery, a little unhinged, and the perfect amount of bizarre – enough to strongly captivate the audience into not taking their eyes off her in this film.

By now, we all know RDJ can act. But his role in “Oppenheimer” is by far his best performance as a supporting actor, and it helps that he had such a standout talent as Cillian Murphy to act alongside. He’s so fantastic you literally forget he’s just playing a role. It’s great to see where his career has gone post-Endgame.

BEST DIRECTOR – Christopher Nolan or Bradley Cooper

BEST ACTOR/COMEDY – Paul Giamatti

Not only am I predicting this to win, but I’m guessing this will be Christopher Nolan’s year in general (which is long overdue). The amount of detail and time that went into this film is incredible. All of it was practically shot, which on its own is so amazing because as a video creator myself, one of the first things I always think about before going into a project is, ‘How can we shoot this without having to use VFX?’ I’ve always loved the practical effect. It just always looks good on camera, and it really challenges you as a filmmaker to be creative in the process. I say all this because award shows love movies that can “do more with less.” Case in point, last year’s award swiper, “‘Everything Everywhere All at Once,” is not only a great movie, but the creativity that went behind making it is almost just as amazing as the film itself.

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While Joaquin Phoenix’s performance in “Beau is Afraid” is impressive (and one of my personal favorites this year), Giamatti’s underdog performance deserves recognition. If you’re looking for a wholesome holiday movie with a strong story and even stronger performances, “The Holdovers” is it. And it wouldn’t be anything without his performance.

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It might be controversial to NOT pick Martin Scorsese for this category, but I think this is simply the year for Christopher Nolan. His execution with this film is immaculate. He has yet to win this category, but “Oppenheimer” is the perfect film to finally get him this accolade. Bradley Cooper is also a strong contender—if you’ve watched any of the interviews he’s done regarding the making of “Maestro,” you can tell his level of passion for creating this film. Do you know how incredibly hard it is to not only be a method actor for your own film, but to direct it as well? That’s a lot to juggle, and he seemed to do it effortlessly. The man can do it all, and I feel he’s incredibly underrated.u JANUAR Y 2024

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Gentle Flow at Aglow Join us for gentle, non-intimidating yoga perfect for any experience or ability level. Our classes are taught in small groups of 6 students or less to allow for a great deal of personalized instructor interaction. $10 for your first class, $15 for all classes thereafter. Reserve your mat online at aglowapothecary.com. Mondays: 12p and 6p, Wednesdays: 12p and 6p, Thursdays: 5:30p. Aglow Apothecary + Healing Haven, 3501 Massee Lane, Old Town, Columbus Vets Run/Walk @ the Columbus Riverwalk Bring water, headphones and a positive attitude (unless poor weather conditions). Every Monday, 4:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m., Event by Swaggy Veterans, meet up in parking location, 900 Bay Avenue, Columbus Restorative Yoga Join us for gentle stretching and relaxation on the bolsters. Perfect for all ages and abilities - this is a restful. meditative experience. $10 for your first class, $15 for all classes thereafter. Reserve your mat online at aglowapothecary.com. Every Tuesday, Aglow Apothecary + Healing Haven, 3501 Massee Lane, Old Town, Columbus Line Dance Lessons at Broadway Saloon Join us on Tuesdays as we teach ya to two-step. There are three dances and three instructors to help you learn the steps. You’ll have fun and meet new friends. Free. Just bring your line dancing shoes. Every Tuesday, 8 p.m. 12 a.m., Broadway Saloon, 1111 Broadway, Columbus Weekly Board Game Night @ TCP We have around 50 open board games that you can play or bring your own. This event is welcome to all ages and all experience levels. We will teach you games as needed. Come and go anytime. Price: $5 per player.

Food is available for purchase. Every Wednesday, 4 – 9 p.m., The Cool Place – Columbus, 7830 Veterans Parkway, Columbus Sweet South Music Revival @ The Loft Celebrating the music of the American South. Gospel, Blues, Soul, Funk, Zydeco, Jazz, Americana, and more.

Hosted by Jesse Shelby & Jason Ezzell. Wednesday nights, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Comedy Open Mic at Giovanna’s Pizzaria Sign up @ 7. Show starts at 8pm. Free for all. Come show us your funny talent or join the audience and enjoy the show. Full Bar and Full Kitchen. Free order of Garlic Knots when you Mention “The LocaL”. Every Thursday night, Giovanna’s Pizzaria and Restaurant, 1600a Broadstreet, just over the bridge, Phenix City Crown and Comedy Night @ The Loft It’s always laughs at the Loft as our favorite hostess with the mostest Lil’ Bit takes the stage to introduce the best comedians around. Great drinks, good friends and lots of comedy. Every Thursday, 7:30 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Mobile Food Market Friday In partnership with the Food Mill and Piedmont Columbus Regional’s Mobile Unit. The Food Mill will sell fresh fruits and vegetables. The Piedmont Columbus Regional Mobile Unit will provide free screenings for blood pressure, body weight, BMI, body fat, and waist circumference, as well as health education. This event LocaL

is open to everyone. Held on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, 1 - 3 p.m., at the Three Arts Theatre Parking Lot, 1120 Talbotton Road, Next to Columbus Diagnostic Center/in front of the old Columbus Health Department near the Midtown Campus, Columbus Motor and Mouths Monthly Meet Up A family friendly monthly meeting of car guys/girls to run their motor mouths about their vehicles. Held the 2nd Sunday of month from 8-11am. Windsor Village parking lot, Carnoisseur Detail side, Columbus Classic Cars and Diner Favorites Join us for Metro Diner’s Classic Car Drive-in. We’re pairing classic cars with classic diner dishes. The 4th Tuesday of every month, 4 - 6 p.m., Metro Diner, 5524 Whitesville Road, Columbus First Day 7 Mile Hike Join us for the first hike of the year and challenge yourself with a 7 mile hike on our back country trail. All attendees will receive a first day hike sticker. Meet at the visitor center, $5 parking pass required plus $5 program fee. Monday, January 1, 9 a.m., Providence Canyon, 8962 Canyon Road, Lumpkin W.I.L.D Social Night Join us for our monthly meetup at Banks Food Hall 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. When you arrive - look for the metal lady - as we sometimes are inside or outside depending on the weather. Tuesday, January 2, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., Banks Food Hall, 1002 Bay Avenue, Columbus New Year’s Sankalpa Ceremony Join Alee Link for an in depth look at what the coming year has to offer energetically based on astrology and numerology. This intention setting ceremony will help us to get grounded, centered, and focused so we can work With the coming energy instead of forcing ourselves against it. Expect: Astrology and numerology reading for 2024. Yoga flow designed to experience the coming energetics in our minds, bodies, and spirits. We’ll incorporate flow, Kundalini, chanting, and meditation in order to cleanse any leftover residue from 2023 and open ourselves up to the magic of 2024.

Monday, January 1, 4:30- 6:30 p.m., River Flo Yoga and Wellness, 1801 1st Avenue, Columbus Columbus River Dragons Vs. Blue Ridge Bobcats Friday, January 5 & 6, 7:30 p.m., Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus Artful Babies Babies love art. Each session includes playtime to explore books and hands-on objects as well as an art activity. Class size is limited. Arrive early to secure your spot.

Saturday, January 6, 9, & February 3, 10:30 a.m., The Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus Relax With Sound This free-form class is designed to offer the soothing benefits of a sound bath, while allowing you to use and explore the time and space how you wish. Jeffrey will play live instruments to create a meditative 12

environment. If you have been curious about the benefits of therapeutic sound, but don’t want to dive into a full sound bath, or would like to do your own movement practice while immersed in live healing sounds, this is the class for you. Drop in rate $25. RSVP your spot through our ticket site - getlocaltix.com. This class is included with your Art of Yoga monthly membership or class pack. Saturday, January 6 & February 3, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., Art of Yoga, 4924 Armour Road, Columbus American Whiskey The Reunion Tour @Outskirts Start your year off with a Bang. We’ll be rockin your socks off at the Outskirts. Great food, cold beer and lots of really cool people to meet. Come Rock with us for our Reunion Tour back in C-town. Saturday, January 6, 9 p.m., The Outskirts Bar and Grill, 5736 Veterans Parkway, Columbus Happy Hour Birth Worker Community Mixer Join us for an exciting gathering of birth workers and birth enthusiasts. Whether you are a doula, midwife, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, or simply passionate about birth, this mixer is the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and share experiences in a relaxed and informal setting. Celebrate and network with like-minded individuals who are dedicated to supporting families during the transformative journey of birth.

Expect engaging conversations, laughter, and an overall

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January 13, 1 p.m., at Scofflaw Brewing Co., 1421 6th Avenue, Columbus Dueling Pianos @ Outskirts Bar and Grill One of the best nights you can have. The Andres Brothers Dueling Pianos brings the funniest, most talented duo experience that will leave you singing, dancing and laughing the night away. Come out, sing along and enjoy some of the best bar food and cold beers in the area. Georgia’s own all requests, singa-long, music and comedy show returns. Saturday, January 13, 9 p.m., The Outskirts Bar and Grill, 5736 Veterans Parkway, Columbus Dr. MLK Jr. Unity Awards Breakfast The “Unity Award Breakfast” has become a long standing must attend event in Columbus the third Monday of each January. With humble beginnings which date back to 1987. The initial idea was to create a community wide event that could serve as a means to generate funding for scholarships to be awarded to high school seniors. And to honor those who have promoted and exemplified the philosophies of Bro. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We hope you’ll attend. Monday, January 15, 8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., Ironworks Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus Charlie Starr and Benji Shanks Live @ The Loft The mesmerizing lead vocalist and guitarist of Blackberry Smoke, will be taking the stage of our new event center next door to the Green Room. Joined by longtime friend and guitar player Benji Shanks, this acoustic performance promises an intimate night with some of the best songwriters in the business. Doors @ 7.

Show @ 8. Tickets at theloft.com. Wednesday, January 17, 7 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Lunch and Learn: Washington Color School Join us for an informative lunchtime presentation on Columbus-born artist Alma W. Thomas and the Washington Color School. Miriam Grotte-Jacobs, a Johns Hopkins-trained art historian, and Jonathan Frederick Walz, the Museum’s curator of American art, will share the research they conducted for their forthcoming articles on postwar art in Washington, DC, to appear in the Smithsonian’s journal American Art. After two 15-minute illustrated presentations, there will be time for further dialogue and questions.

Free to attend and $18.50 for an optional boxed lunch.

Registration required. Friday, January 19, 12 - 1 p.m., Event by the Columbus Museum, at The Wynn House, 1240 Wynnton Road, Columbus Kids Night Out Glow Party (Ages 5+) You’re invited to join us at Just Breathe for Kids for our annual Glow Party. Come join Ms.Jamie and Ms.Christie for a fun evening of shining our light as we create glow in the dark t-shirts, practice GLOWyoga, and explore glow in the dark mindfulness play. No experience necessary. Supplies and T-shirts (to make GLOW ) are included with registration. Limited spots available. Friday, January 19, 6 - 8 p.m., Just Breathe For Kids, 1365 Warren Williams Road, Columbus Family Saturday at the Museum Discover, create, and more at our Family Saturdays at The Columbus Museum! Drop by the Museum’s temporary headquarters every month for a new activity exploring our permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. This event is Free and open to the public.

No registration is required. Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus Continued On p.14 13

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sense of community. Meet seasoned professionals in the birth field, exchange ideas, and forge valuable connections.

This event aims to foster collaboration, inspire growth, and provide a space for everyone to feel heard and supported. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to expand your birth network and make lasting connections.

Sunday, January 7, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m., The Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus Breakfast With Dale Carnegie: Achieving Breakthrough Engagement Join us for a special training session on Achieving Breakthrough Engagement. This event is great for business owners, managers, and human resource leaders who are looking to enrich their organization and employee experience. The discussion will cover various topics, including the importance of employee engagement, how to make it a top priority, and strategies for moving forward with enhancing employee engagement. A light breakfast will be provided. Tuesday, January 9, 8:30 - 10 a.m., Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 1200 6th Avenue, Columbus Garden Volunteer Workdays The Columbus Museum will be having a Volunteer Workday in our beautiful and historic Bradley Olmsted Garden the second Thursday of every month from 8 AM to Noon. Join in anytime during the morning. All necessary tools will be provided by the Museum, and we will have water and snacks available. If you can join us for a lovely day working in the garden, we would greatly appreciate the assistance. For any questions, please contact Brooke King, bking@columbusmuseum.com. Thursday, January 11, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., The Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus The Reunion Tour - Duo - @ The Office Join Matt and Tyler for a night of acoustic singalongs as the American Whiskey Reunion continues. Friday, January 12, 7 p.m., The Office, 2979 N Lake Parkway, Columbus Paws - Free Pet Food Pantry We have a variety of dog food and supplies, as well as limited cat food and supplies available. This event is open to All Georgia and Alabama residents. Drive around and line up along the tree line at the back of the mall. Our team will guide you through the pantry to pick up the supplies your furry friends need. It’s first come, first served, so don’t miss out. Join us for our Drive Thru Pet Food Pantry event at Peachtree Mall. See you there.

Saturday, January 13, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., Event by Paws Humane Society, at Peachtree Mall, 3131 Manchester Expressway, Columbus Mini Makers Each session includes a chance to explore new art materials and create mini masterpieces to take home!

Class size is limited. Arrive early to secure your spot.

No registration required. Saturday, January, 13, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus Roller Derby New Member Recruitment Join Muscogee Roller Girls for our Meet & Greet and Info Session for our 2024 roller derby recruitment bootcamp.

Have some snacks and meet some members from the team. We are always looking for new skaters, officials, and volunteers. On skates or off skates, there is a place for You in roller derby. You do not have to have experience or your own gear to join us for bootcamp. No Skates? No Gear? No problem, we have limited loaner gear available.

We will teach you and guide you. Currently we are only accepting ladies 18+ as players, but volunteers, referees & non-skating official positions are open to men as well.

Questions? Email us at recruitment@muscogeerollergirls. com. Experienced derby player or transfer? Send us an email and we can discuss our transfer process. Saturday,

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Around Town Continued From p.13 Mardi Gras Pop Up Market

Bottomless Mimosa while you shop until supplies last. Mardi Gras Souvenirs, Carnival Supplies, Art & Face Jewelry, Food & Desserts, Music & Clothes.

In the South Hall of the Columbus Convention and Trade Center. Admission is Free. Pop-Up Mardi Gras is a family friendly event, with music, food and lots of space to hang out. Saturday, January 20, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Ironworks Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus Rodeo Columbus

Professional rodeo cowboys from across the country will be stampeding into the Columbus Civic Center for two Giant shows. Witness live and unrehearsed, non-stop, rodeo action.Bareback riding, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, and Bull Riding. Plus, laughter and antics from rodeo clowns and bullfighters throughout each show. Plus, Daring and Dangerous entertainment from world renown Roman Rider Dusti Dickerson. You can purchase tickets directly at the box office from 10am – 5pm, Monday through Friday. And starting at 10am on January 20th. 1:00pm Show & 7:30pm Show. All tickets purchased before January 20th are discounted $3.

Ticket prices start at $15 and increase in different sections up to $68.00. Lap children are free.

Backstage Tour: There limited tour passes available for both shows. You must have a ticket (in any section) to purchase and attend the tour. The tour is $50 per person and can be purchased at the box office or through Ticketmaster. Saturday, January 20, 1:00 - 9:00 p.m., Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus Whiskey Moon Live at Wild Leap Brewing Co. - Comfort Food Festival

This is a family event open to all ages. Free admission and there will be food trucks. Music starts at 1pm.

Saturday, January 20, 1 p.m., Wild Leap Brewing Co. 308 Main Street, LaGrange Annual CJS Soiree 2024

The Columbus Jazz Society invites you to an incredible evening honoring our Columbus Jazz Legends. It’ll be a night to remember. Awards Gala, Live Performance from 17-piece Big Band “The Cavaliers Orchestra”, Dinner from The Loft, Raffle Prizes, and 1-year membership to the CJS. Cash bar. General Admission $50 (Includes Dinner and Raffle). VIP Table for 8 (Includes complimentary bottle of wine) $400. Standing Room $10. Purchase tickets at getlocaltix.com. Saturday, January 20, 6 - 9 p.m., The Loft’s Green Room, 1032 Broadway, Columbus A Styled Shoot Experience

Wedding Vendors, Photographers, Models, Actors get ready for a fully immersive content shoot. The Gallery at Heritage will be transformed into a dramatic, Industrial Boho Wedding. Our exposed brick and charcoal building will be filled with teal and gold, combining textures, colors, and styles to give you a romantic setting that is both unique and timeless. Enjoy a day of celebration while you build your portfolio. Sunday, January 21, 1 - 7 p.m., Heritage Art Gallery, 102 6th Street, Columbus Sip + Shop

Our 3rd Annual Sip + Shop. Come on out and enjoy this girls night with your best Galentines. You can expect to shop with your favorite Jewelry artists, LocaL

Boutiques, and receive on-site services from Nail, Hair + Beauty salons. Not to mention Champagne + Treats, door prizes, plus the cutest photo ops. Sip champagne and shop with your favorite boutiques, jewelry artists, and salons. It’s time for the ultimate girls’ night out. Tickets: $10. Tickets will also be sold at the door. Ticket cost includes a free glass of champagne (ID required) or non-alcoholic beverage. Additional concessions will be available for purchase. Thursday, January 25, , 5 - 8 p.m., Ironworks Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus

Whiskey Moon @ The Loft

The best Rock Show in town returns The Loft in Columbus. Join us at one of Columbus’ premier live music venues. Incredible food, ice cold drinks & Whiskey Moon make this a helluva Saturday night party. Saturday, February 3, 9:30 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here?

Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Smartphone Photography Workshop with Eliza Daffin (Ages 16+)

Want to learn some basic skills to improve your photographs? Join us for a beginner-level smartphone photography workshop with professional Eliza Daffin. Learn to elevate your technique and capture better photos of your own. All you need to bring is your smartphone. Saturday, January 27, 10:3012 p.m., Event by The Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus Gavin Adcock with Landon Smith

Full Band Show at The Broadway Saloon. Saturday, January, 27, 8 p.m., The Broadway Saloon, 1111 Broadway, Columbus

Cooper Creek

Poison Whiskey @ The Dawghouse

Ice cold drinks, fantastic food, Great friends, and Poison Whiskey rockin the stage. Saturday, January 27, 8 p.m., The Dawghouse Sports Bar and Grill, 5140 Warm Springs Road, Columbus Your Wedding Bridal Show

Join PMB Broadcasting, RCG Media, and The Columbus, GA Convention & Trade Center for the Largest bridal show in the Chattahoochee Valley.

Sunday, January 28, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., Ironworks Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus Painting Workshop Series

Spend your Saturdays in February at the Museum during this special four-week workshop series! This afternoon class is designed to help students aged 6-10 improve their painting skills. Taking inspiration from work in the Museum’s permanent collection, instructor Lesley Jakovcic will lead participants through a series of activities utilizing both watercolor and tempera paints. All skill levels are welcome! Price includes all classes in the series. Every Saturday starting February 3, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1327 Wynnton Road, Columbus Andrew Finn Magill

Columbus State University presents Andrew Finn Magill, an award-winning multi-instrumentalist composer, performer and educator from Asheville, North Carolina. Performing a fusion of violin/fiddle world music. Friday, February 2, 7 - 9 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus 14

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Columbus Jazz Society Continued From p.9 The CJS MUSICIAN OF THE MONTH: Luther Smalls

TL: What got you into jazz music?

LS: Jazz music has always been an integral part of my life, thanks to my father, who also played my primary instrument, the saxophone. His love for the instrument and vast collection of records introduced me to the world of jazz. Growing up, the sounds of the Jazz Crusaders, Grover Washington Jr., and Herbie Hancock resonated deeply within me, influencing my musical path.

TL: What makes you excited about playing jazz in Columbus?

LS: Transitioning to Columbus, I bring over 30 years of musical experience, [and] 18 years of that experience was acquired during my service in the United States Army across various stations and abroad. As I embark on this new chapter after the Army in a couple of years, I anticipate retiring within this community. My enthusiasm to play here stems from experiencing the culture and the prospect of forging new connections with local musicians. I aspire to contribute by fostering musical opportunities for others and creating educational programs for students exploring the realms of jazz improvisation.

TL: Favorite local musician and why?

LS: Reflecting on the area’s local music scene, one artist that stands out for me is Peggy Jenkins.

Witnessing her captivating performance this summer left a lasting impression. Her song choices and vocal prowess delivered an exceptional show, solidifying her place as one of my favorite local musicians today.

TL: Where can people hear you play?

LS: Curious to experience my jazz renditions, with the incorporation of a little funk? Stay updated on my performances by following my journey and liking my pages on Facebook and Instagram @ luthersmallsmusic. You can also view my endeavors on my website at luthersmallsmusic.com.

For more information or to discuss a contribution in any way, you can always reach out to me directly at president@columbusjazzsociety.com or give me a call (or text) 818-515-4228. u LocaL

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the SiBL LIFE Growing from Seed to Shooting Star with JOE FIVEASH

By Frank Etheridge

Saying he was “delirious” from exhaustion, having just finished a 3-hour gig after working the overnight third shift at West Georgia Hospital, Fiveash talks about musical experimentation, the power of trust, and what comes next during an interview in a historic white cabin on the grounds of the Columbus Botanical Garden, where he performed part of their Shine holiday light show.

seem to be polar opposites. To SiBL, it’s just two parts of the same thing.

“It’s the same to me because the musicians in Columbus are crazy talented, super creative, and we trust each other,” he says. A vibrant, if a bit manic, energy beams out of him when he speaks about making music, his drained delirium be damned.

I’m not answering . . .

House Show Series, Image By Charley Windham

The Shine gig was the last in the 28-yearold’s series of intimate performances, each custom tailored to venue and audience.

For this one, SiBL performed in a trio and applied experimental interpretations — both in terms of the tunes’ arrangements and his vocal phrasing — of Christmas classics such as “Christ Is Born” and “12 Days of Christmas.” The crowd, consisting of some friends and curious onlookers, responded with a smattering of applause.

This was a far cry from the vibe SiBL cooked up earlier in December at his ‘Till It Kills You’ stop at Blue Canary Records (1250 Broadway).

There, the crowd suited the bohemian downtown setting, and was tuned in and turned on for a full-

J

osiah Levon Fiveash likes the game Jackbox.

“The game Jackbox is where you try to tell if what someone says is the truth or a lie, so the goal is to be as elusive as possible,” explains Fiveash – who goes by Joe, with Sire as a nickname, and SiBL as his stage name. “So I say, ‘I sing because I’m happy,’ then ‘I sing because I’m sad.’ It’s hard to know. I’ve always used singing as a coping mechanism. It was born out of soothing me. It gets me out of thinking.”

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“When it comes to doing things differently, like tonight,” he continues, “We just lean on what we do best. Everything we did as far as the Christmas music, it was all impromptu. We just followed along with each toehold, because of that trust.”

His show at Blue Canary Records?

“That turned into a wild writing session,” Fiveash Blue Canary Record Shop

tilt show of surreal sensations. SiBL, backed by a killer quartet featuring Dany Dickerson (keyboard), Emmanuel Black (drums), Darren Johnson (guitar) & Miguel Juarez (electric guitar), the hip audience enraptured by his mesmerizing, mystical approach to both the music and to how they engaged in it.

The Blue Canary experience ended on a high note, with SiBL improvising based on words shouted from the audience before leading a soul-stirring call-and-response to being his friend (Yeah Yeah YEEEAAAAYUUUUHHH!) or his foe (No No NNUYOOOOOOOO!).

To an outside observer, these two performances 16

explains. “Just trusting each other and having fun.

It’s always fun because when you improvise like that you never know how you’re going to create a theme and write a story off what someone gives JANUAR Y 2024

you. Being able to do that — to quickly execute that as best you can, lyrically and melodically? Oh my gosh, it’s an adventure!” ****** Miguel Juarez has been along for a lot of those adventures with his friend Fiveash. Now an accomplished guitarist and president of the Columbus Jazz Society, Juarez reflects back to years ago when he, fresh out of the Army, put himself out there on Craigslist as guitarist for hire. A local R&B group called Lyfe Unltd, which included Fiveash’s mom, responded to his post and, over time, Juarez became friends with her family, mostly through playing at their church.

“It’s always great playing with Joe,” Juarez says during a recent phone interview. “He puts down a solid foundation of music and makes the process of creating it with him a whole experience. It’s very open. A lot of times, these scenarios are dominated by large egos, and you have to execute exactly the vision presented. With Joe, it’s actual collaboration. He throws it out there and sees where it goes. A big part of that is how tight his core group — Manny Black, (drummer) and Darren Johnson, (guitar) — already are. And trust. We trust each other.”

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are as people is born out of our experiences. People that some call ‘bad’ or ‘crazy,’ there was, 9 times out of 10, neglect, a void, a pain, a level of suffering we can’t even imagine that got them to that point. It’s an empathetic realization that even though people made bad decisions, what would you have done?”

With a new album and full life to live in music ahead of him, Fiveash has some goals. Some specific, along with some more abstract ambitions. “I want

Juarez confesses to being a bit introverted, so he feels he has to “put on a mask” to play guitar on stage before an audience. “A lot of musicians have a very different personality from the one you see on stage. Not with Joe. He’s a lot more authentic.

What you see on stage with him, it’s the same if you’re hanging out in the living room. He is a true artist, always, no matter the setting.” ****** Joe Fiveash’s first stage setting was church, where he began singing at age 4. He credits his mother, Joritta (“a beautiful woman, her name means Pearl of the Sea”), also a singer, for fostering his start.

Next, his brother Anthony taught him guitar before Joe moved on to piano and violin. Joe’s voice remains

brother and I have a very interesting tension in regards to our music choices,” Joe says. “I am very folksy, and people like Fleet Foxes are what I love to listen to, what brings me joy. My brother is into R&B and fun pop beats and listens to Drake and H.E.R. He used to say, ‘I was the mountains in his city and he was the city in my mountains.’”

And now with SiBL? “It’s just me experimenting,” he says.

SiBL plans to drop his first EP this month. Its title, 536 AD, is named for the point in history that marked the darkest year in the Earth’s recorded human history, thanks to a massive volcanic explosion. That cataclysmic event parallels the COVID pandemic shutdown of 2020. “After COVID, things didn’t go like I wanted them to go,” Fiveash says. “I had all these experiences that were a rush of negative, negative, negative at that time in my life. So that mood of the album is very

Working With Garrett Lee And Trey Walker

to play South by Southwest,” he says when asked where he wants this music to go. “I want to do a Tiny Desk Concert. I don’t want to be famous. I just want to pull people out of sadness and pull them into something deeper than what society is

leave me alone

Brothers” Jet Grey - Josh Fiveash & Joe Fiveash

his favorite instrument, especially when used to improvise.

“I’ve been told I have three different voices,” he says. “I can go from down low with a guttural bohemian tone up to falsetto, which is my bread and butter.”

Fiveash first made a splash in the music scene with Siantz, a duo with his brother. The name bridges Joe’s ‘Sire’ nickname and Anthony’s. Their music built a bridge between their two tastes. “My LocaL

dark and edgy. I wanted to really express that aspect of who I am.”

With songs such as “Columbine” and “Stormy Weather,” 536 AD is, on the surface, dark. Some of it was inspired

by Joe’s job working overnight at West Georgia, which treats behavioral health.

One of the songs, “Orphan,” is about being all alone.

“Most of the patients are just people,” Fiveash explains. “The fact is, who we 18

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offering them.”

But it’s important to keep a level head, Fiveash stresses, throughout life and in any creative work.

“Don’t forget yourself in the process,” he adds. “The process is definitely more important than the goal. From seed to sapling to tree, you are perfect. It’s the journey, not the destination.

And you will always be exactly where you need to be.”

Look for more from SiBL by following his handle @SiBL on all social media platforms.

You can listen now to 536 AD anywhere you listen to music. u Taken While Working With Trey Walker

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