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STUFF TO READ PAWS Humane Society
A Fairytale Ending for the Fall Line Trace Troll
ART & MUSEUMS Calendar
Letter from the Publisher
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COLUMBUS JAZZ SOCIETY
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AROUND TOWN
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From a Mustard Seed
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Westville, Still Here
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We Know This River
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CineForge Co-op
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Why Learning Jazz Should Be Your New Year’s Resolution Calendar
How Sydney Helms Built a Growing, Glowing Local Empire Rooted in Community Why an Old Place Is Quietly Opening Its Doors Again
Georgia Rivers Is Inviting Us to Explore the Rest The Annual Slate
706 250 7777 anuary has a way of slowing us down, whether we ask it to or Jcalendar not. After the rush of the holidays, the noise fades a bit. The t hel o c a l c o l u mb u s. c om resets, and we’re reminded that before we show up for our work, our families, and our community, we have to be well enough to enjoy them. This issue is rooted in that idea. Care for yourself. Care for your people. Care for the place you call home. Over the past few weeks, I was reminded how quickly life can demand your full attention, and how important it is to listen when it does. No matter how much we promote, plan, or push forward, none of it matters if we aren’t healthy enough to experience it. Filling your cup isn’t indulgent. It’s necessary. It’s how we stay present. It’s how we keep going. That theme shows up everywhere in this issue. We spent time with Josh O’Neal at Hydralive and Stretch Zone, exploring what intentional recovery looks like, from cryotherapy and IV hydration to the simple but powerful act of stretching and slowing down. We sat down with Sydney Helms, whose businesses continue to grow because she refuses to quit, even when the road gets steep. Her story is a reminder that passion matters, but persistence matters more. Westville’s long-awaited reopening invites us to reconnect with hands-on crafts, shared history, and the beauty of learning skills that don’t come with a screen. Paws Humane Society reminds us what care, compassion, and second chances look like in action. Paul Rowe gives us a glimpse into the year ahead in film, and we close the issue with music, because choosing creativity is always a solid resolution. Someone once told me that if your “why” doesn’t make you emotional, it might not be your why. Another piece of advice – sometimes you have to get protective of your time and energy so you can truly learn your craft and honor what drives you. Both are reminders that growth doesn’t happen by accident. You water it. You tend to it. You show up. Columbus is full of people doing exactly that. This magazine exists to highlight them, support them, and remind us all that the grass really is greener where you water it. Here’s to a year of intention, care, and community.
facebook.com/thelocalcolumbusga issuu.com/thelocalcolumbus
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
Monica Jones Publisher, The LocaL
ADVERTISING | PR
Monica Jones ads@thelocalcolumbus.com
CONTRIBUTORS & CREDITS Monica Jones Paul Rowe Arreasha Z Lawrence Amy Byrne Andy Funderburk COVER AJ Robinson Welcomes You To The Westville Village Shoe Shop Image by Monica Jones
Power By House Image Andy Funderburk
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A Fairyta l e End i ng
TROLL
for the Fall Line Trace
or weeks, locals along the Fall Line Trace had F whispered about a mysterious creature. Dubbed “Troll,” this grumpy little bridge guardian, rumored
to dwell somewhere around mile marker 6.5, became something of a legend — chasing joggers, skaters, walkers, and even the occasional dog who dared to wander too close. Much like a real-life Bigfoot, Troll seemed to outsmart everyone, slipping away from attempts to capture her and leaving Animal Services scratching their heads. Despite the team’s month-long efforts — setting traps, patrolling the trail, and trying every trick in the book — the elusive creature remained free (though they did snare a possum.). Meanwhile, generous community members left food and water along the
trail, hoping to help Troll, though unintentionally making it harder for the team to safely bring her in. The mystery grew even more captivating thanks to grainy photos which only added to Troll’s legend. Locals followed the story with fascination, but the team never gave up. Their mission was clear: bring Troll to safety, warmth, and care. Then, on November 26, the fairytale finally took a happy turn. Troll was safely captured and brought to the shelter — only to reveal she wasn’t a troll at all. She was a gentle, shy girl who had been surviving on LocaL
her own and simply needed a chance at a real home. She was promptly renamed Cupcake Sprinkles During her time on the trail, Cupcake Sprinkles grew attached to a delivery driver who visited her on his daily route, forming a special bond with her. When she was finally captured and brought to the shelter, he realized just how much those daily visits had meant to him and came to adopt her, giving Cupcake Sprinkles a loving home. Cupcake Sprinkles’ story is a heartwarming reminder of patience, perseverance, and community care. From a legendary “troll” of the trail to a cherished companion in a loving home, her fairytale ending proves that every animal deserves a chance to be seen, loved, and safe.
Thank you to everyone who followed her story, reported sightings, and cheered for this little legend. The Fall Line Trace Troll’s story couldn’t have ended sweeter. Paws Humane Society 4900 Milgen Road, Columbus, GA 31907 pawshumane.org | 706-565-0035
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½ off Tuesdays at the Columbus Collective Museums 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 available at their Box Office at 706327-3688. 8 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 11 p.m., Springer Opera House, 103 East 10th Street, Columbus Sketching Under the Skylight Come and join us for our monthly figure drawing series to catch the creative spirit while drawing under the Center’s skylights. This free event happens every second Thursday of the month and is open to the public of all ages and skill levels. Just bring your own supplies. The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus America Fantastica: Memories, Dreams, and Chance Dive into a dreamlike atmosphere that makes a nod to pivotal moments in American surrealism, including the legendary “mile of string” installation from Marcel Duchamp and the iconic View magazine cover by Joseph Cornell. You’ll discover interactivity woven throughout the show, including a can’t-miss tech display where visitors of all ages can play the classic exquisite corpse drawing game. Don’t just visit - experience it. Daily, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Drop In Tour: Celebrating the Columbus Museum Collection Join a COMU docent for a guided tour highlighting The Columbus Museum’s permanent collection. No registration required. Every Saturday, 2 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus A Decade of Drawings This exhibition showcases over 30 images in a variety of media, most of which were gifts to the Museum. Highlights include portraits by John Singer Sargent and Burton Silverman, landscapes by Marsden Hartley and Frederick Hammersley, and figure studies by Benny Andrews and William Beckman. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Daily Special: The Art of John Miller Oversized glass sculptures of hamburgers, French fries, frosty soft drinks, and decadent donuts. Millers work pays homage to post-war popular design and draws inspiration from Pop Art, particularly the soft sculptures of Claes Oldenburg. Repeats daily, Through January 4, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Hadieh Shafie: Beautiful Words Over the past decade and a half, Iranian American artist Hadieh Shafie has systematically explored the physical qualities of writing. Her art reveals the multifaceted materiality of text. Beautiful Words await viewers to experience, where, according to the artist, “words are an energetic charge, color is emotion, and repetition is a kind of spiritual practice.” Through January 18, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus JANUAR Y 2026
Exhibition: Elizabeth Brim Born and raised in Columbus, Georgia, Elizabeth Brim forged her way as a pioneer of contemporary blacksmithing. With her upbringing in the deep south as a significant source of inspiration, she draws from traditional trappings of a proper southern lady: a Sunday hat, strappy high heeled shoes, a lace-fringed pillow, and a silky slip dress to name a few. She introduced a distinctly feminine perspective into the maledominated field in the late 1980’s. The irony and metaphor of such delicate objects wrought in iron cannot be missed. This exhibition is the first exhibition of her ironwork in Columbusa true homecoming. Tuesday, January 20 - Friday, April 24, The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus Exhibition: We Are the Drum and the Scribe: Black Art in America Collection We Are the Drum and the Scribe is both an exhibition and an affirmation of Black Art In America‘s (BAIA) ongoing mission to document, preserve, and promote the contributions of African American visual culture. As the Scribe, BAIA records, preserves, and safeguards the visual histories of African American artists—ensuring that their legacies, past and present, are written into the record of American art. As the Drum, BAIA amplifies those voices—allowing both emerging and established artists to resonate across the nation through exhibitions, collections, media, and meaningful institutional partnerships. This exhibition reflects BAIA‘s core mission while serving as a living reminder that Black stories are to be kept and experienced. Tuesday, January 20 - Saturday, May 16, The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus Exhibition: Bo Bartlett: Paintings from the HomeFront Georgia-born artist Bo Bartlett has been heard to whisper in confidence that he is unofficially “retiring”. No one knows what that means or what it may look like, but apparently work is continuing in the privacy of his studios both in Georgia and in Maine. Tuesday, January 20 - Saturday, March 14, The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus The Prague Philharmonia With Blake Pouliot & Andrew von Oeyen The Prague Philharmonia was founded in 1994 by conductor Jiří Bělohlávek (1946-2017). Today it is one of the most recognized orchestras: not only within the Czech Republic but throughout the world. Since its 2015/2016 season, the orchestra has been led by the captivating French conductor Emmanuel Villaume. Villaume is also the current Music Director of The Dallas Opera. The orchestra will be joined by the tenacious young Canadian violinist Blake Pouliot, Pouliot has performed with the orchestras of Aspen, Atlanta, Detroit, Dallas, Madison, Montreal, Toronto, San Francisco, and Seattle, among many others. Pouliot was most recently the soloist-in-residence with Yannick Nézet-Séguin’s Orchestre Métropolitain in which he performed Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5. The orchestra will also be joined by Mr. von Oeyen. Mr. von has appeared as soloist in the United States with such ensembles as the Philadelphia Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, National Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Dallas Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, amongst others. He has given recitals at London’s Wigmore Hall and Barbican Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Boston’s Symphony Hall, and Royce Hall in Los Angeles. He is highly regards for his critically acclaimed solo and concerto albums. Thursday, January 22, 7:30 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts 900 Broadway, Columbus The Da Vinci Code In this thrilling play, based on Dan Brown’s best selling international phenomenon, Professor Robert Langdon is called to the Louvre in the dead of night, where he unwittingly becomes the center of a murder investigation. When cryptologist Sophie Neveu arrives at the scene, she alerts Robert that, not only is he being asked to solve the crime, he is also the prime suspect. Soon they are in a race against time to clear Robert’s name and decipher a labyrinthine code before a shocking historical secret is lost forever. From Paris to London and beyond, follow LocaL
along with two of your favorite characters as they solve this pulse-racing mystery. January 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, February 1, 2 p.m., The Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus The Puzzle of Politics: Calvin Smyre in Service Calvin Smyre first took office in the Georgia House of Representatives in 1975. Over the next 50 years, he became a respected and powerful leader, well-liked by colleagues on both sides of the aisle. This exhibition explores Smyre’s decades of service and his role in highprofile legislation, such as making Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a state holiday, replacing the 1950s-era state flag, construction of the Georgia Dome, and passing a hate crimes law. Smyre’s advocacy for Muscogee County issues and causes is highlighted, including his role in bringing the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts to life and his longrunning involvement with the Fountain City Classic and Leaders of Today and Tomorrow. His dedication to public service is matched only by his zeal for jigsaw puzzles, and the exhibition features his reflections on puzzles as stress relief and memory preservation. January 31 - March 1, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Heist! Join us for a night of crime-solving. A work of art has suddenly gone missing, and we need your detective skills to crack the case – complete with a cash bar, tasty snacks, creative artmaking, music, and more throughout the evening! Guests will enter the Heist experience during their selected time slot. Before and after, enjoy all of our other event offerings. Saturday, January 31, 5:30 p.m. 8 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Appalachian Spring with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Journey through luminous soundscapes and rustic beauty in Appalachian Spring, a concert of celestial serenity, playful charm, and sweeping Americana. The evening opens with Aaron Jay Kernis’ Musica Celestis, a transcendent work of shimmering, angelic harmonies that seem to drift through the heavens. Duo Amadeae—sisters Esther Park and Sun-A Park—bring their dazzling synchronicity and expressive touch to Poulenc’s spirited Concerto for Two Pianos in D Minor, a piece bursting with wit, elegance, and unexpected turns. Copland’s beloved Appalachian Spring brings the night to a radiant close, evoking gentle nostalgia and painting a musical portrait of open skies and endless possibility. This program offers a joyful, heartfelt journey through sound and story—a celebration of hope, imagination, and the enduring spirit. Saturday, January 31, with an Open Rehearsal from 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m., event 7:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Making Bank: Money and Columbus Financial Institutions As Columbus transitioned from a blue-collar mill economy to one centered on financial services, money and banks gained even more importance. This exhibition utilizes artifacts in the Museum’s permanent collection and object loans from individuals and local financial institutions. It also features historic coins and banknotes, placing a special focus on the artistry and symbolism of designs used on these commonplace objects. Through March 26. The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Want to see your event listed here? Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com
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New Year Resolution: Jazz
Why Lea r ni ng J a zz Should Be Your NEW YEAR’S Resolution
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By Arreasha Z Lawrence
very New Year brings a chance to reset, to choose new goals which could actually change how we think, feel, and grow. Common resolutions—exercise more, spend less time on screens, get better grades—are valuable, but they often fade because they feel like chores. A stronger resolution is one which builds discipline and joy at the same time. Learning jazz—whether through listening deeply, playing an instrument, or studying its history—is exactly that kind of goal.
failure at all costs. Jazz also strengthens discipline and focus. While it sounds spontaneous, jazz actually requires a deep understanding of scales, rhythm, harmony, and structure. Practicing jazz regularly means committing to consistent effort, careful listening, and patience. You don’t improve overnight; progress happens gradually, through repetition and reflection. This makes jazz an ideal resolution, because it encourages long-term habits rather than quick results. Learning a jazz standard, mastering complex rhythms, or improving your tone on an instrument teaches you how to set goals, track progress, and stay motivated.
In jazz, listening is just as important as playing. Musicians must pay close attention to each other to stay in sync, respond to changes, and build something CAN CHANGE A CHILD’S LIFE THIS HOLIDAY Arreasha Z. Lawrence together.SEASON This kind -ofByactive listening builds empathy and communication skills. It teaches respect for others’ ideas and the ability to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. In group settings—whether a band, classroom, or team—these skills are invaluable. Jazz shows that individual voices matter most when they Jazz is a mindset that encourages creativity, contribute to a shared conversation. confidence, collaboration, and resilience. Making jazz your New Year’s resolution can improve your musical skills, sharpen your thinking, and even change how you approach life. One of the strongest reasons to choose jazz is that it develops creativity in a way few other activities do. Jazz is built on improvisation, which means making decisions in the moment. When you improvise, there is no single “correct” answer. Instead, you learn to trust your instincts, experiment with ideas, and turn mistakes into opportunities. This creative freedom carries over into everyday life. Students who practice improvisation often become better problem-solvers because they are comfortable adapting when things don’t go as planned. Jazz teaches you that perfection is not the goal— expression is. That lesson is powerful, especially in a world which constantly pressures young people to avoid LocaL
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Jazz also offers a powerful connection to history and culture. Originating in African American communities, jazz reflects stories of struggle, resilience, and innovation. Learning jazz means learning about the people who created it and the social conditions which shaped it. Making jazz a resolution is not just about music; it is about engaging with history in a living, meaningful way. It reminds us that creativity often grows out of challenge, and that voices which were once ignored can grow to shape the world. Jazz also builds confidence. Performing improvisation takes courage—you are sharing your ideas in real time, without a script. As you grow more comfortable expressing yourself musically, you may find it easier to speak up in class, present ideas, or take leadership roles. Jazz teaches that your voice matters, even when it’s different. That confidence can shape how you carry yourself long after the music ends. Finally, jazz is a resolution that grows with you. There is no finish line. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, there is always something new to learn—new styles, new artists, new techniques. This makes jazz a lifelong companion rather than a shortterm challenge. It adapts to your level, your interests, and your goals. Few resolutions offer that kind of flexibility and depth. Making jazz your New Year’s resolution is a choice to invest in creativity, discipline, empathy, and confidence all at once. Jazz challenges you to listen more closely, think more freely, and express yourself more honestly. It connects you to history while preparing you for the future. Most importantly, it makes growth enjoyable. As the new year begins, choosing jazz means choosing a resolution that doesn’t just change what you do—but transforms how you think and who you become.u
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Milton E. Long Library, 6529 Eckel Avenue, Building 2783, Fort Benning Full Moon Market
This is not me-maw’s craft market. Catch the vibe with our select makers and curators. Food trucks and good vibes. Saturday, January 3, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m., The Vibe on 6th, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus Weekly Swing Dance
Monday scaries? Not anymore. Come learn how to swing dance and twirl your cares away every Monday night at First Presbyterian Church in Uptown Columbus. 6:30-7 Beginner lesson (free with admission), 7-8:30 Dancing. Every Monday, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus Big Dog / Walk
30 minutes out and 30 minutes back. We walk at a leisurely pace for everyone and can adjust if we need to. The walk group is also great to meet new people and make new friends. Feel free to bring friends and the whole family (strollers and pets welcome) to join in on the fun. Every Tuesday and Thursday, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Big Dog Fleet Feet, 1200 Broadway, Columbus Tuesday Trivia with April Norris
Fun trivia with an even funner host. Come out to The Bottom every Tuesday and work your brain, while enjoying some tasty cocktails and food from your friends from the Wicked Hen. Every Tuesday, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m., The Bottom (upstairs from the Wicked Hen), 1350 13th Street, Columbus Story Time with Grammy Trish
Join us for Story Time with Grammy Trish where she’ll read charming children books and engage with your little ones. Every Wednesday at 11 a.m., Columbus Bound Bookshop, 1328 13th Street, Columbus Bachata Wine Wednesday
Grow your dance skills with us in our fun, judgment free environment. 1hr classes are $15 | Cash or card @ door. Pay for the month at a discounted rate. We can’t wait to see you. Every Wednesday, 6 - 8 p.m., Event by BailaMo, Art of Yoga, 4924 Armour Road, Columbus Sweet South Music Revival @ The Loft
Enjoy music of the American South. Gospel, Blues, Soul, Funk, Zydeco, Jazz, Americana, and more. With Jesse Shelby & Jason Ezzell. Wednesday nights, 7 p.m. 10 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus 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. Every Thursday, 7:30 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Live Music @ The Bottom
Good friends and oxymoronic experiences. With live music most Wed, Thurs and Friday’s. Check their social media for the latest updates. Bottom’s UP! Open Monday - Saturday, 4 p.m. - 12 a.m., The Bottom, 1350 13th Street, above the Wicked Hen Restaurant, near Lakebottom Park, Columbus Look at Lunch @ COMU
Spend your lunch break at COMU with a 20-minute gallery presentation followed by lunch in the courtyard. Bring your food or purchase from the Museum Café. Every 2nd Tuesday, 12:15 p.m - 12:35 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Sensory Storytime
A small-group storytime for our friends that may need a different type of storytime. Designed to be accommodating for children with sensory issues (sensitivity to light, loud sounds, big groups, etc.). The Library staff will also utilize props and adaptive pieces (scarves, fidgets, bubbles, etc.) and use dimmer lighting and quiet music to help everyone have fun. No registration required, and it’s Free. For more information, call the library at 706-545-4911 or just stop by. Sensory Storytime takes place every third Friday at 10:30 a.m. LocaL
Full Moon Ride
We will ride at a conversational pace with just a few miles to our destination. We’ll have some great music and will stop at a local spot to grab a beverage. Rentals are just $5, but be sure to reserve in advance. Saturday, January 3, 8 p.m., Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus Drop-In Tour at the Museum
Join a COMU docent for a guided tour highlighting The Columbus Museum’s permanent collection. Learn about American art and regional history through this hourlong introduction to some of our most beloved collection objects. Free. No registration is required. Saturday, January 3, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Live Music at the Plughouse-Compound
Voice of Dissent - Buffalo NY punk, Borzoi - Atlanta hardcore punk, Ghosts Among The Pines - Dothan punk rock-n-roll, Kallusd - Dothan Alt/Metal. No Drugs No Drama. $15 at the gate. Friday, January 9, 7 p.m., The Plughouse-Compound, 213 Sealy Wells Road, Cottonwood Columbus River Dragons vs Blue Ridge Bobcats
Youth Sports and Non-Profit Spotlight Night. Friday, January 9, 7:35 p.m., The Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus Morning on the Mountain
Start your morning with a refreshing 3.4-mile hike on the Overlook Loop Trail, led by a park ranger. Explore peaceful forests and rolling ridges while learning about local plants, animals, and natural history. This moderate to strenuous trail features loose rocks and acorns, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Pre-registration is required at least one day in advance, either at the Park Office or by calling 706-663-4858. Admission is free, with a $10 parking fee. Saturday, January 10, 8:30 a.m., F.D.R. State Park, 2970 GA Highway 190, Pine Mountain Yoga at the Museum
Relax and enjoy The Columbus Museum with a special yoga class! Start with a short mindfulness exercise then relax with a gentle, all-levels yoga session led by Sue Tomkiewicz. Some yoga mats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required. Saturday, January 10, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Campfire Basics and S’mores Fun
Join a park ranger for a cozy, hands-on program all about fire building and campfire safety. Participants will learn essential techniques for starting and maintaining a safe campfire before roasting marshmallows and making delicious s’mores together. A perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and build lasting memories. Preregistration (at least one day in advance) and payment are required by calling 706-663-4858. Admission is $5, with $10 for parking. Saturday, January 10, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., F.D.R. State Park, 2970 GA Highway 190, Pine Mountain Artful Babies (Ages 6-24 months)
We offer a welcoming space for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to explore books, hands-on objects, and a simple art activity together. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, this drop-in program encourages early learning through play, discovery, and shared experiences in a museum setting. Saturday, January 10, & Tuesday, January 13, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., The Columbus, Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Dixie Red at Wild Wing Cafe
Your favorite local southern rock/country band returns 8
to W.W.C. It’s gonna be a wild night, be there. Saturday, January 10, 8:30 p.m., Wild Wing Cafe, 6525 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus
Sarah West Weekly Fine Art Class Enrollment
We Invite You to Join American Narrative Artist, Sarah West as she opens her studio for aspiring creatives of all ages and skill levels to learn alongside the artist during Weekly Fine Art Classes. Enjoy an enriching, immersive, educational studio experience curated for you and unlike any other, at Smiths Station, Alabama’s Premiere Fine Arts Destination, The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts. January 13 - 15, 12 p.m. 8:30 p.m., The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, 2750 Lee Road 430, Smiths Station After School Art Break
Join us in the Studio each month for a new artmaking project inspired by an object from the COMU collection. Explore different materials, spark your imagination, and take home a one-of-a-kind creation—no registration required. Tuesday, January 13, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus TEDxColumbusStateU
An independently organized TEDx event designed to spark meaningful conversations, share powerful ideas, and inspire action. Held at CSU’s Riverside Theater, the event will bring together dynamic speakers and performers under the theme “Ripples,” exploring how small actions can create lasting impact in our communities and beyond. Thursday, January 15, 6 p.m., CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, 6 W 10th Street, Columbus In The Round
Event will consist of four of Nashville’s hottest up and coming stars, all in one night sharing the stage together. This special show will feature each artist in their own words as they share personal stories and experiences, origins to lyrics and songs they’ve written and sing, and of course, musical performances. In the Round is a unique listening experience that cannot be duplicated. Friday, January 16, 6 p.m., The Bottling Plant Event Center, 614 N. Railroad Avenue, Opelika Sally Brown Band back at Wild Wing Cafe
We’ll be bringing the classic tunes you know and have added some great new material so y’all get ready, save the date, bring your friends and let’s do this thing. We are super excited to return to WW Cafe. Friday, January 16, 8 p.m., Wild Wing Cafe, 6525 Whittlesey Boulevard, Columbus Family Saturday at the Museum
We offer families a fun and interactive way to explore the Museum together during Family Saturday. Held monthly, this drop-in program features new activities inspired by COMU’s permanent collection and special exhibitions. Each visit offers fresh ways to engage with art and history through hands-on fun for all ages. Saturday, January 17, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Rodeo Columbus
a heart-pounding night of bucking bulls, fast rides, and big-time PRCA action at the Columbus GA Civic Center! See top cowboys battle it out in the arena as Rodeo Columbus, powered by Busch Light and HILO Pro Rodeo, takes over Columbus for one unforgettable night. Enjoy free parking, great sightlines from every seat, and an electric, family-friendly atmosphere as the doors open and the excitement builds. Saturday, January 17, 6:30 p.m., Columbus Civic Center 400 4th Street, Columbus Mini Makers (Ages 204)
We offer young children and their caregivers a playful introduction to the world of art through story time, games, and hands-on creativity. Each session features new materials to explore and a chance to create mini masterpieces to take home. Designed for ages 2–4, this drop-in program encourages imagination, learning, and quality time together in a fun, welcoming environment. JANUAR Y 2026
January 20 & 24, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Columbus River Dragons vs Biloxi Breakers
Join us for our monthly lunch lecture series highlighting topics related to objects and exhibitions currently on view at COMU! In January, Jack Schley will talk about the exhibition Making Bank: Money and Columbus Financial Institutions. An optional gallery experience will begin at 11:30 AM, while the talk will begin at 12:15. Participants have the option to purchase lunch from the Museum’s Café or bring their own. Registration requested. Tuesday, January 20, 12:15 - 1 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Nigel Wearne
Lifelong Learners
Ink Matters Tattoo Show
This is a 4 day tattoo expo featuring live on-the-spot tattooing and piercings for the public all 3 days. There will be artists to help you with the style of tattoos you’ve been looking for. All different styles from realistic to traditional and black and grey. Tickets will be available at the door only. Free raffle giveaways with $1,200 worth of free tattoos on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with the attending artists of your choice. January 22 - 25, 2 p.m., Golden Wave Tattoo, 3100 Gentian Boulevard, Columbus Columbus River Dragons vs Baton Rouge Zydeco
Education Night. Friday, January 23, 7:35 p.m., The Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus Adult Workshop: Junk Journals
Join COMU staff to learn about the art of junk journaling! Start the new year with a new mindful practice to capture your memories and unleash your creativity. Registration is required. Space is limited. Saturday, January 24, 10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Let It Snow Door Sign Painting Party
Come join S + S Design Boutique and get creative this winter by making your own delightful door sign! It’s a fun way to spread cheer to everyone who visits. Saturday, January 24, 12 p.m., 2 p.m., River Oak Boutique, 1204 1st Avenue, Columbus Illusionist Student Workshop (Ages 5-18)
Step behind the curtain and experience the wonder of illusion for yourself ! Before the Clement Arts Spring Event—Illusionists David and Teesha Laflin. Students are invited to join David and Teesha, and their four children, for an interactive, hands-on workshop that brings the art of illusion to life. Learn simple yet astonishing tricks, explore the creativity behind performance, and discover how illusion can be used to share messages of hope and truth. This engaging session is perfect for curious minds who love to learn, laugh, and be amazed. Saturday, January 24, 5 p.m. 6 p.m., Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts, 1700 Midtown Drive, Columbus
Women in business night. Friday, January 30, 7:35 p.m., The Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus Experience the spellbinding sound of Nigel Wearne, winner of the 2025 Telluride Blues Challenge, as he weaves blues, jazz and Americana-noir into a night of rich storytelling. Nigel Wearne delivers a captivating mix of after-dark blues, cinematic jazz and razor-sharp storytelling. Doors open at 7:30 | Show at 8 . BYOB or Sip n Support Donation Bar. Seating is limited to 50 guests. Friday, January 30, 8:30 p.m., The Sound Wall, 605 Avenue B, Opelika Dixie Red at The Varsity
Never miss a night at the Varsity with Dixie Red. Friday, January 30, 9 p.m., The Varsity Sports Bar and Grill, 3745 Hwy 80, Phenix City Magic Hunks - Australian Takeover
This show is intensely exciting and will drive you absolutely WILD...in the best possible way. These guys bring down the house with a Man-tastic Night of Fun & Excitement. Get ready for the Best Girls Night Ever. Whether you’re celebrating a Birthday, Bachelorette Party, Divorce, Dirty Thirty or your Sheer Awesome Self. Wednesday, February 4, Chattabrewchee Southern Brewhouse, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus Camellias and Cocktails
Step into a world where sunset cocktails meet blooming camellias. The Sam M. Wellborn Camellia Garden will be illuminated with starry lights, shining on the beautiful camellias.Grab a self-guided tour book and start your walk at our cash bar with complimentary charcuterie. It will feature specialty cocktails inspired by several of our camellias, such as the “La Peppermint” and “Sweet Scent-sation.” You will learn about the camellias of the garden, pruning, growing tips, and more! A fun scavenger hunt will also be featured. Be the first to complete it and win a garden prize. Nonalcoholic “mocktails” will be available, as well. Thursday, February 5, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m., The Columbus Botanical Garden, 3603 Weems Road, Columbus Shop Social
Join us for our very first event of the year! We will host a sidewalk sale with pop up vendors, local author book signing, prizes, wine slushie specials, and tons of fun. Stay tuned for a complete list of activities and sales. February 6 & 7 (67), The 706 Social, 1025 Broadway, Columbus Want to see your event listed here? Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com
Murder in the Trailer Park Dinner Theatre
Dinner with a show, come and enjoy good food with friends or family and kick back and have a laugh. Tickets only available in advance on freshtix.com. Phenix City Shrine Club, 1911 Opelika Road, Phenix City Jenny and the Exs
Have a drink, grab a bite to eat, sing along, and dance as we woo you with punk/indie/rock stylings of original songs and covers. Music & audio. Saturday, January 24, 8 p.m., The Bottom, upstairs at Wicked Hen, 1350 13th Street, Columbus Mall Parade
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Jarret Holbrook
A Mardi Gras party like no other. This years theme Purple Passion. Enjoy watching the participants second line through the halls to the tunes of your favorite Louisiana and Mardi Gras brass music. This will be an evening to be remembered and we look forward to celebrating with you. Join us as we “laissez les bons temps rouler”. Friday, January 30, 6 p.m., Peachtree Mall, 3131 Manchester Expressway, Columbus
Image By Andy Funderburk
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F rom A Mu st ard S e e d
How Sydney Helms Built a Growing, Glowing Local Empire
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
By Monica Jones
here’s a verse in the Bible about a mustard seed. reflected what would become a signature of every Sydney T Tiny. Unassuming. Easy to overlook - and yet, when Helms venture—beautiful spaces built for real people.. planted with care, it grows into something far larger than In downtown Columbus, Sydney’s on anyone expects. For Sydney Helms, the mustard seed wasn’t just a name for her shop. It was a philosophy. Long before she owned multiple businesses, before her spaces became known for their warmth, beauty, and intentional design, Sydney started exactly where the metaphor suggests: small, curious, and willing to figure it out as she went. She didn’t enter the coffee world with Chris & Sydney
a master plan or industry pedigree. She entered it the way she’s entered everything else in her life—by saying yes to opportunity and trusting her instincts. “I didn’t know anything about the industry at all,” she admits. The original Mustard Seed began almost accidentally, inside her salon space in Phenix City, sparked by a conversation with a friend who loved to bake. When that chapter came to a close, Sydney made a decision that would become a pattern throughout her career: she leaned in instead of backing away. That leap of faith became The Mustard Seed coffee shop, a place which quickly felt less like a business and more like a gathering space. Thoughtfully curated, welcoming, and grounded in local collaboration, it LocaL
vision to expand without losing its soul. That balance is perhaps most evident in The Seed at the Rapids, the coffee shop that is now preparing to move into a new, riverfront location in the Synovus Headquarters on Front Avenue. The opportunity didn’t come lightly. It came because others in the community believed in what Sydney had already built. “Working with W.C. Bradley has been a dream,” she says. “They love the community. They work with you to build. It was easy to see what they’re doing and want to be part of it.” The new space promises more room, more music, and
First emerged as something more than a salon. Part blowout bar, part lounge, part community hub, it blurred the line between beauty and hospitality. Beer and wine, intimate events, a sense that you were welcome to stay awhile. Sydney laughs when people marvel at how much she’s doing. “It is not me,” she insists. “We have
great teams. And Chris—100 percent—has helped me through all of this.” Her husband and business partner, Chris Helms, brought something essential to the table: balance. Where Sydney designs and curates, Chris cooks and creates. Together, they share a love of food, local business, and the kind of spaces that make people feel at ease. Their partnership allowed the 10
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more moments. A baby grand piano is already waiting. Nights will be filled with sound, mornings filled with light, and the space is sure to be a continuation of what The Seed has always offered: a place to land. But Sydney’s growth has never been about taking up more space just for herself. Her presence inside The 706 Social, a new Broadway collective opened by Carla Bounds, is a perfect example. Rather than opening yet another standalone storefront, Sydney chose collaboration. Inside her booth, you’ll
highlighting local businesses she loves—places worth supporting, exploring, returning to. It’s not about competition. It’s about connection. And that may be the most remarkable part of Sydney Helms’ story. In an era obsessed with fast growth and louder branding, she has built something slower, steadier, and far more lasting. From selling handmade keychains in high school to opening her first salon in 2014, to now stewarding multiple thriving businesses, she has been, by her own words, “figuring it out.” When asked what she would say to young women considering entrepreneurship, her answer is honest and unsweetened. “It isn’t for the weak,” she says. “There are good seasons and bad seasons. You have to have the grit to keep going.” Still, she believes deeply in creating space for others to try—to test their wings before taking bigger leaps. Vendor collectives, shared spaces, collaborative models. These are not just trends to her. They are lifelines for a community that grows best together. From a mustard seed to a small empire which continues to bloom, Sydney Helms’ story is proof that beauty and business don’t have to be opposites. That growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of integrity. And that when you plant something with care—really care—it can grow into something extraordinary. And judging by what she’s built so far, this is still just the beginning.u
find thoughtfully branded wares from The Seed and her salons—candles, small touches, quiet invitations into her world. That mindset extends even further. At The 706 Social, Sydney created a small Columbus guide LocaL
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Westville, Still Here
Why An Old Place Is Quietly Opening Its Doors Again
while, it felt like Westville existed mostly in memory. For aPeople spoke about it in the past tense. School trips.
Blacksmith forges. Quilts, looms, and the smell of iron and wood smoke clinging to a warm afternoon. Then the pandemic came, and like so many cultural spaces built on shared presence, Westville went quiet. Now, quietly and deliberately, Historic Westville Village is opening again. Not with balloons or a ribbon-cutting or a line down the road. But with open doors, working hands, and the sound of history being practiced rather than performed. On a recent visit, the village felt alive in a way that doesn’t announce itself. Interpreters moved through their
By Monica Jones spaces, working rather than waiting to be watched. A blacksmith tended his fire. A sewing space prepared for workshops yet to come. A small retail area filled with locally made goods hinted at what Westville has always been at its best: a place rooted in craft, community, and continuity. Westville has always been a living history museum, but that phrase can be misleading. You’re not stepping backward in time here but standing inside it. The buildings,
soft opening by design, only part of the site is fully operational, with more coming online as restoration and staffing allow. The goal isn’t to open with glitz and spectacle. It’s sustainability. “We’re training a whole new generation,” Director April Kirk explains. “In order to preserve these traditional ways and crafts, we have to teach them.” That philosophy runs through everything happening on site. Westville isn’t simply recreating 19th-century life. It’s passing down skills that are in danger of being lost. Sewing, blacksmithing, pottery, woodworking. These aren’t demonstrations frozen behind glass. They’re active practices, taught, refined, and shared.
many of which have been moved and preserved multiple times over the decades, tell stories of survival in their own right. The village itself is an act of preservation layered on top of preservation. What’s different now is intention. Under new leadership, Westville has carefully reopened on Fridays and Saturdays. A
By Monica Jones Image By Andy Funderburk
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In the blacksmith shop, Allen Gaskill works coal and iron the way it’s been done for centuries. He explains the elements of fire, the heat required to shape steel, and the reason the phrase “strike while the iron’s hot” exists at all. What starts as a horseshoe becomes something else entirely. A fish, formed from repurposed metal, glowing briefly before cooling into permanence. This is the rhythm of Westville now. Slow. Intentional. Human. There are plans for hands-on workshops and programming rolling out in the coming months, with a focus on sewing,
blacksmithing, and other traditional crafts, alongside artist residencies and demonstrations. These offerings are designed not just as performances, but as participatory experiences. Westville isn’t interested in people simply watching history happen. The goal is to let visitors touch it, learn it, and carry those skills forward. Westville is also reestablishing itself as a versatile space. A museum, yes, but also a park-like environment where visitors move at their own pace. A venue for small events, weddings, meetings, educational programs, and film productions. A place flexible enough to serve the community without losing its soul. That flexibility matters. Like many cultural institutions, Westville was hit hard by circumstances beyond its control. Reopening is about building responsibly from where things are now. Incremental growth, thoughtful stewardship, and respect
for both the site and the community supporting it. For longtime Columbus residents, Westville carries nostalgia. For newer residents, it offers discovery. And for children, especially, it provides something increasingly rare: a tactile connection to how things were made before everything arrived shrink-wrapped and disposable. Westville is open again. Not loudly. Not perfectly. But honestly, and maybe that’s exactly how a place like this should return..u
Image By Andy Funderburk
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We Know This River
Georgia Rivers Is Inviting Us to Explore the Rest By Monica Jones
If you live along the Chattahoochee, you already understand something not everyone does. Rivers aren’t just scenery. They shape the way a place feels. They
the state next year, including experiences right here in Columbus and along the Chattahoochee. The schedule is both expansive and intentional, designed to welcome
distance, camping, or multi-day travel. The goal is not competition or performance, but familiarity. The more time people spend on rivers, the more invested they become in protecting them. Trip prices range from $70 for single-day excursions to $450 for weekend adventures. Youth discounts are available, and Georgia Rivers offers full and partial scholarships for women, people of color, recent immigrants, and low-income residents for all events. Accessibility is a cornerstone of the organization’s mission, recognizing that river access should not be
OKE National Wildlife Area - Joe Cook
cool us off in the summer, offer moments of quiet when everything else feels loud, and remind us that this land existed long before we arrived and will remain long after we’re gone if we take care of it. That understanding sits at the heart of the 2026 adventure schedule recently released by Georgia Rivers. The nonprofit has announced a full slate of canoe, kayak, paddleboard, and fishing trips planned across
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newcomers while still offering meaningful experiences for seasoned paddlers. Registration for many of these trips opened in late December, allowing river lovers to begin planning well in advance and giving plenty of lead time to build outdoor experiences into the year ahead. For those who prefer memories over material things, these trips offer something to look forward to long after the holidays have passed. Georgia Rivers’ 2026 calendar spans more than 25 communities across the state. Trips are planned in Bainbridge, Donalsonville, Savannah, Rome, Athens, Blue Ridge, Augusta, and several towns tied together by the Chattahoochee River. From coastal waterways to mountain-fed streams, the lineup reflects the geographic diversity of Georgia’s rivers and the many ways people interact with them. The schedule includes trips for those just learning to kayak, as well as longer, more immersive adventures for experienced paddlers. Some outings focus on quiet exploration and skill-building, while others emphasize 14
limited by income, background, or prior experience. “Our goal is to connect people with the incredible beauty and infinite fun to be experienced on Georgia’s rivers,” said Rena Ann Peck, executive director of Georgia Rivers. “When people are connected to our rivers they care about them. When they care about our rivers, they protect them and they protect the public’s right to access them.” Highlights of the 2026 season include a Chattahoochee Camp and Paddle utilizing new Chattahoochee RiverLands paddle-in campsites, a spring adventure into
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A complete listing of Georgia Rivers’ 2026 events, along with registration details and scholarship information, is available at garivers.org/events.u
the Okefenokee Swamp when native plants are in bloom, and multi-day paddling experiences near Savannah that blend river exploration with Georgia history as part of America250 commemorations. Georgia Rivers’ trips extend beyond recreation alone. Many outings incorporate fishing, floating, and educational components that address the challenges facing Georgia’s waterways. Participants learn about water quality, public access, and conservation efforts while experiencing these rivers firsthand. It’s a model that pairs enjoyment with responsibility, reinforcing the idea that stewardship grows from familiarity. For communities like Columbus, where the Chattahoochee plays a central role in both recreation and identity, the 2026 schedule offers a chance to deepen that relationship while also exploring the broader network of rivers that define the state. Each trip becomes part of a larger story about access, protection, and the shared responsibility of caring for Georgia’s natural resources.
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NOT JUST A SPA DAY
What’s in the (IV ) Bag?
Hydralive offers a full menu of pre-formulated “cocktails”— each designed to support energy, immunity, recovery, or beauty—
By Monica Jones
How Hydralive Therapy & Stretch Zone Are Elevating Wellness that left me with four bulged discs, to a car wreck in 2021 that has a way of nudging us toward the mirror—toward JNewanuary reflection and reset. And if you’re anything like me, the “New Year, knocked my L5 out of line. These weren’t just tight muscles; this was long-term damage, and she handled it like a pro. You” hustle comes with a twinge of hesitation. After all, when your body carries battle scars from real-life wreckage, it’s not always about more effort—it’s about smarter healing. That’s why I made a trip to a growing wellness pocket in Old Town, where entrepreneur Josh O’Neal is helping Columbus
Stretch Zone uses a patented strapping system which allows practitioners to isolate and leverage each movement, providing a deeper, more targeted stretch without overexertion. It’s structured, intentional, and gentle—but effective. As Josh put it, “It’s not us versus physical therapy. Stretch therapy is a piece of the wellness puzzle. It works alongside PT, chiropractic, and fitness to help people move better.”
from “Beast Mode” to “Fountain of Youth.” But everything is customizable. “Most people come in and say, ‘Just tell me what I need,’” Josh laughed. “So we guide them based on what they’re feeling—fatigue, headaches, upcoming travel, post-workout soreness, you name it.” Here’s a peek at what they offer: • IV Therapy – Vitamin-rich blends for hydration, recovery, and immune defense • Cryotherapy – Full-body cold therapy for inflammation, pain relief, and muscle recovery
Cryo, Compression, and IVs—Oh My
Then it was off to Hydralive Therapy, where the care started before I even sat down. After filling out a health questionnaire, I had a quick virtual consultation with a licensed provider—a safety standard that’s built into every IV or injection session. The nurse walked me through my options, took my vitals, and helped me choose the right blend for inflammation and fatigue. I opted for a half-bag IV loaded with B12 and anti-inflammatory support, plus cryotherapy (yes, the full-body -160° chamber of doom), and a session residents feel better, faster. He’s the owner of Hydralive Therapy, a modern health studio specializing in IV hydration, cryotherapy, and compression. And just six months ago, he opened Stretch Zone right across the street—doubling down on what he calls “empowering people to stay mobile, energized, and doing what they love.” I tested both. And my body—held together by a mix of willpower, five herniated discs, scoliosis, and a splash of degenerative disc disease—needed it.
A Stretch In The Right Direction
Let’s start with Stretch Zone. My practitioner took the time to understand everything I’d been through—from an old back injury
of compression therapy using pneumatic leg sleeves, which feel like a blood-pressure hug for your whole lower body. Josh described cryotherapy best: “It’s cold therapy, like an ice bath—but a lot colder, and only for three minutes. The inflammation relief is real. We’ve had clients with back injuries come in daily for cryo instead of cortisone shots, and they swear by it.” I swear by it now, too. The day after my visit? I moved. Like, actually moved. With less hesitation and a lot less stiffness.
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• • • • •
Compression Therapy – Circulation-boosting leg treatments that promote recovery and reduce swelling Intramuscular Injections – B12, immune support, fatburning options NAD+ Therapy – A next-level boost for cellular repair, clarity, and overall vitality Hormone & Weight Management Programs – Guided support for long-term health goals Corporate Wellness Packages – For teams that want to boost energy and productivity
Memberships That Make Sense
Hydralive offers flexible membership options that make regular wellness accessible and smart. Starting at just $50/ month, members receive: • One free bag of fluids per month • 50% off all additives and additional services • No consult fees (a $25 value each visit) • Discounts on house calls • And even a family plan for up to four members to share the love
You can walk in, book online, or bring Grandma. No pressure, no fluff—just real care delivered by a staff who know their stuff. (And yes, the snacks and blankets are a real thing.)
Built From the Ground Up (Literally)
Hydralive’s mission is simple: support you in your real life. Whether you’re managing stress, prepping for travel, recovering from illness, or just feeling worn out, the services are meant to give your body a leg up without the guesswork.
Josh opened Hydralive three years ago after a COVID furlough forced him to rethink his career stability. With a background in sales for home health and a degree in kinesiology, he partnered with Melissa, a registered nurse with a master’s in health administration, to bring Hydralive to Columbus. His decision to expand with Stretch Zone was personal. “I tried it myself and walked out feeling taller,” he said. “I thought—this is something we need here.” Now, the two businesses sit across the street from one another, nestled in a neighborhood that’s quickly becoming a hub for holistic health. With Clean Eatz, Aglow Apothecary, and Studio Aesthetics all within walking distance, Old Town is carving out a new identity—one rooted in restoration, not just real estate.
Both Hydralive Therapy and Stretch Zone Columbus are located in Old Town at:
8201 Veterans Parkway, in Columbus. To learn more, check out hydralivetherapy. com and select the Columbus, location. You can also follow them on Instagram at @hydralivetherapycolumbusga for updates, promos, and that behind-the-scenes wellness vibe.
If 2025 left you feeling exhausted, disconnected from your body, or stuck in a cycle of temporary fixes, maybe it’s time to try something different. Hydralive Therapy and Stretch Zone don’t promise miracles—but they do offer thoughtful care, affordable access, and a genuine belief that you deserve to feel good. And that, if you ask me, is the best resolution of all.u
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Annual Slate 2026
Southern Scares - Southern folklore and mystery collide
By Paul Rowe
Paul Rowe, a screenwriter and filmmaker with CineForge Zack Collins, Producers: Paul Rowe, Ty Manns. Status: Iof ’mCo-Op, a Columbus-based collective fueled by a shared love Completed; festival run underway. Note: Official Selection at storytelling. In partnership with The Local, we’re excited when a video store clerk uncovers secrets tied to her missing
to present our second Annual Slate – with a part lookback at 2025, part preview of what’s coming in 2026, and a friendly nudge to local filmmakers about some expanded opportunities you’ll want to jump on sooner rather than later. A quick reality check first: not every project announced for development or production actually makes it to the finish line. That’s true here, and it’s true everywhere, from indie films to big studio releases. Filmmaking is hard. Really hard. Projects stall, funding shifts, life happens. What I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) is that filmmaking gets a lot more doable when you don’t try to do it alone. Many filmmakers hesitate to ask for help as they’re worried about losing creative control, getting burned, not knowing how to delegate, or are simply too embarrassed. Those fears are real. But so is the upside. Community doesn’t dilute a project; it strengthens it. If CineForge can be helpful, whether through collaboration, advice, or introductions, we have been here and will continue to be. Before diving into the slate, one important note for local filmmakers: the Columbus Local Filmmaker Grants are back and expanded. You’ll find details at VisitColumbusGA. com under “Film.” Five $10,000 grants will be awarded, with applications due by the end of February 2026. As a previous top-prize recipient, I can honestly say the grant made a real difference, not just financially, but by opening doors and strengthening ties within the industry. If you’re within Columbus or a 50-mile radius, this is a no-brainer. Questions? Film Commissioner Joel Slocumb’s contact info is on the site, and you’re also welcome to reach out to me directly. Now onto the films. 2025 In Review A Cry in Secret - A child silently struggles with hidden trauma in this emotional family drama. Writer/Director: Larry “Pop” Thomas, Jr. Status: Now streaming on multiple platforms. COLGA - A documentary examining gang violence in Columbus through raw footage and interviews. Directors: Caleb Money, David Swanson. Status: Now streaming on major platforms. Chasing June - A runaway adventure turns into a search for love and identity. Writer/Director: Lucas Hicks Status: Released in 2025 on major streaming platforms. Everything That Comes With It - A fractured man returns to his family farm to leave behind a message. Writer/ Director: Andy Carpenter, DP: Trey Walker, Producer: Paul Rowe. Status: Entered in the Cobb International Film Festival 24-Hour Film Race, Top 1- Finalist, with winners announced in February 2026. Going Postal - An anxious mailman and his wife take in
a troubled teen, leading to unexpected connections. Creator: LocaL
the International Black Film Festival (2025). It Wants Nightmares - A haunted vintage computer
sister. Director: Paul Rowe, Producer: Andy Carpenter, DP: Trey Walker. Status: Post-production; festival run planned for early 2026. The Archeron - A man battling addiction notices his possessions mysteriously disappearing. Director: Erin Walsh. Status: Post production. 2026 festival run planned. Note: Shot on 16mm; backed by a 2024 Local Filmmakers Grant. The Meadow - A fantasy drama set in South Austria, where survival hangs in the balance. Writer/Producer: Paul Rowe. Status: Proof-of-concept planned for 2026. Turn - A down-on-his-luck father, fueled by the conviction that his missing son is still alive, must navigate a dangerous world of temptation and crime to uncover the truth. Writer/Producer: Larry “Pop” Thomas. Status: Completed. Distribution on major streaming platforms planned for 2026.
forces a young woman to relive terrifying stories. Director: Paul Rowe. Status: Completed; submitted to major festivals for early 2026. Distribution to follow. Note: 2024 Local Filmmakers Grant Top Prize recipient. Of Pentacles - A turbulent relationship unfolds in this VHS-C-shot drama short. Director: James Fincher. Status: Completed; festival run underway. Project Lazarus - Two detectives must
solve Santa’s murder on Christmas Eve, uncovering shocking secrets along the way. Director: Kane Kettering. Status: Post production. Planning for a festival run in early 2026. Note: 2024 Local Filmmakers Grant recipient. So Long and Goodnight - Slaughtered on their wedding day, a pair of outlaw lovers make separate, perilous bargains beyond death, each willing to damn themselves to save the other. Director: Eddie O’Blivion. Status: Released on YouTube (@deadenddrive-in). 18
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after witnessing the murder of their father. Struggling to hold on to each other, they find hope in the kindness of a stranger. A prospective feature film from writer and director Andy Carpenter. Status: In development for a potential early summer production. Project Lazarus - “I’ve gotten some really great feedback on it so I feel really strongly about the upcoming festival run.” - Kane Kettering, Director The Haze - A group of fraternity brothers and
West of the New Kansas - Two brothers face challenges of faith and morality in 1850s Kansas. Writer/ Director: Andy Carpenter. Status: Released on YouTube (@ andrewcarpenter8274). 2026 Outlook
This space is set aside for the five filmmakers who will each receive a $10,000 grant in 2026. Congratulations in advance. We can’t wait to see what you bring to life! Going Postal - “We have the pilot episode completed and expect to begin pre-production and principal photography in 1st Quarter 2026 with series completion at the end of spring for a summer distribution schedule.” - Zack Collins, Writer and Director Holler - As the Civil War rages on, a mother and daughter,
attempting to appease a mysterious entity that lives in their cellar and survive in their valley-secluded home in Tennessee, seduce and murder those who discover their abode. A charming deserter arrives and threatens their twisted way of life. A feature film supernatural folk horror period piece, single location with practical effects. Written and to be directed by Paul Rowe. Status: Script complete and seeking funding. It Wants Nightmares and Southern Scares - “Our first and second feature films are entering the film festival circuit at about the same time. We intend to stir up interest at the festivals, make a sale, or at the very least self-distribute on major streaming platforms. From there we’ll invest our profits back into the next film(s) for 2026 and steadily increase our budgets.” - Paul Rowe, Director Maverick Ltd - A gritty near-future thriller where former cop Isabelle “Izzy” Wilson hunts fugitives for hire in a broken justice system. Haunted by the disappearance of her young son Lamont, Izzy stumbles onto a high-stakes contract leading her into the heart of a trafficking syndicate, and to the shocking discovery that her son may still be alive. Fighting rival contractors, corrupt officials, and her own unraveling faith in justice, Izzy risks everything for a final chance at redemption and reunion. A feature film from writer/director Paul Rowe. Status: In development and seeking funding. No Shallow End - Two young siblings go on the run
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their sweethearts are on a weekend retreat when they become hunted by an unknown killer. Part of a universe Zack Collins, writer and director, calls the Black Greek Cinematic Universe (BGCU). Status: In development and seeking funding. Too Fast Boat - A 12-year-old loner steals a speedboat
hoping he can outrun the only thing he can’t - heartbreak. A prospective feature film from writer and director Andy Carpenter. Status: In development for a potential early summer production. Yesterday Today Forever - Reimagines the life, ministry, death, and ascension of Jesus in a contemporary setting, revealing how His message of truth, justice, and redemption would collide with today’s media-driven culture, polarized communities, and deeply rooted biases. A feature film directed by Ty Manns. Status: Release in 2026. You Were Wrong About the Jellyf ish - When an unnamed virus begins to kill off human males, a family takes refuge on a sailboat. A prospective feature film from writer and director Andy Carpenter. Status: In development and seeking funding. If there’s a throughline to all of this, it’s simple: filmmaking works best when we do it together. Columbus keeps proving that. And we’re just getting started. Happy New Year, from CineForge: Andy Carpenter (StrongLandCreative@gmail.com) Paul Rowe (LCP@LastCaressProductions.com) Trey Walker (Trey@MudFilms.us) Zack Collins (PhilmWurks@gmail.com) u 19
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