STUFF TO READ
PAWS Humane Society
A Community Effort Against Overcrowding
ART & MUSEUMS
Butch Anthony
The Persistence of Form in Life‘s Remains
AROUND TOWN Calendar
CineForge Co-op Annual Slate Hits Mid-Year Stride
The Columbus Jazz Society
Teen Composer Jackson Laird Unveils Jazz-Funk Debut, Up Time
Making ‘Noise’
With Sterling Alexander
My Mother’s Mill Town Echoes
Hidden Gems Of The Chattahoochee Valley Fort Mitchell National Historic Landmark
Where Creativity Flourishes
Discover the Vibrant Phenix City Art Center & Gallery
Hello dear readers,
For almost a decade, it has been our unwavering focus to highlight the remarkable people, distinctive places, vibrant music, and incredible food that make our community so special. Putting together each issue is an honor which allows us to celebrate these stories, and that commitment feels more vital than ever. As we embrace the summer hum (perhaps on the porch with a cold drink in hand), we’re excited to shine a spotlight on some of the very best of it.
This month, we dedicate this issue to two remarkable individuals who recently passed, leaving a lasting impact on our creative landscape. We pay tribute to Dave Carson, owner of Soho Bar and Grill and the visionary founder of Playgrounds magazine. Dave paved the way for local publications like ours, nurturing a space for local voices and culture. We also remember Steve Scott, a beloved local writer, artist, and friend to many. We’re honored to include a poignant piece on Fort Mitchell Steve wrote before his passing. Their legacies remind us of the powerful impact individuals can have on shaping our community’s story.
Our film guru, Paul Rowe, brings you the latest scoop on the mid-year film slate, detailing what’s happening in local film production. I’m especially proud to share my first personal, creative piece, “My Mother’s Mill Town Echoes.” This article not only highlights my mother’s story but also offers a glimpse into the lives and times of the millworkers from our historic town.
You’ll also find Natalie Downey’s captivating conversation with art enthusiasts Bill and Sue Walters from the Phenix City Art Center & Gallery. The Columbus Jazz Society shines a well-deserved spotlight on local musician Jackson Laird, and we “make some noise” with local DJ Sterling Alexander.
We couldn’t do any of this without you. It’s because of the creativity, resilience, and unending wellspring of positive stories right here in Columbus that The Local gets to exist, month after month. Every issue is a testament to the passion and warmth which flows through this city. We are simply here to provide the lens, to gather these threads, and to weave them into a narrative that celebrates you.
What we consistently find, issue after issue, is an abundance of joy, inspiration, and connection just waiting to be discovered. That’s the story we’ve chosen to tell, and it’s a story that never runs out of new chapters.
From all of us at The Local, thank you for living these stories, for being the heart of our community, and for reminding us every day why choosing to celebrate Columbus, our home, is always the most rewarding path.
Thank you for reading,
Monica Jones
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.
editor@thelocalcolumbus.com
&
Keeping Pets Home
A Community Effort Against Overcrowding
At Paws Humane Society, we’ve felt the warmth of our community through a wonderful surge in adoptions recently. It is truly inspiring to see so many loving animals find their forever homes. Yet despite this incredible progress, our shelter in Columbus is still bursting at the seams. The simple truth is that more pets are arriving than leaving, and that puts an immense strain on our resources and on the well-being of the animals in our care.
Beyond the Shelter Walls: Reuniting Families and Offering a Helping Hand
To truly tackle this challenge head-on, we’re doubling down on two vital strategies: keeping pets right where they belong – with their families – and drastically cutting down the time animals spend in the shelter environment.
Our dedicated team works tirelessly to reunite lost pets with their anxious owners as swiftly as possible. A quick reunion isn’t just a joyous occasion; it dramatically reduces stress for both the animal and their human, and crucially, frees up much-needed space for other pets waiting for care.
We also understand that life throws curveballs. Temporary hardships can make caring for a beloved pet feel overwhelming. That’s precisely why our Outreach Team steps in with direct support aimed at keeping pets in their homes. We offer practical help like:
• Pet food assistance
• Basic veterinary care
• Connections to essential community resources
Sometimes, just a little bit of support can make all the
difference, transforming a heartbreaking surrender into a heartwarming success story.
Meet Your New Best Friend: Offsite Adoption Events!
To accelerate adoptions and make it easier than ever for families to connect with their perfect match, we’re bringing our adoptable pets directly to you! We host weekly offsite adoption events that offer a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere away from the shelter’s hustle and bustle:
• Saturdays: Come say hello at Market Days, right in front of Three Dog Bakery.
• Sundays: Find your new companion at Petco on Whittlesey Boulevard.
These events give our wonderful animals visibility to potential adopters, all while creating a laid-back, casual setting for folks to get to know their potential future furry family member.
For a comprehensive schedule of all our upcoming events and special promotions, be sure to visit our event calendar at pawshumane.org or follow our updates on Facebook: facebook.com/pawshumane1.
Don’t Miss Out: Bissell’s Empty the Shelters Adoption Special!
Mark your calendars! From July 5–19 , we are thrilled to participate in the Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” event. This is an incredible opportunity to adopt a pet with significantly reduced fees for a limited time:
• Dogs & Puppies: $50
• Cats & Kittens: $25
• Senior Pets: FREE Adoptions!
Please note: All adoptions require an approved application.
This special event is the perfect moment to open your home to a new furry friend while directly supporting our vital mission to alleviate shelter overcrowding.
Lend a Paw: Volunteers Are Our Lifeline
If you’ve been searching for a meaningful way to give back to your community, volunteering with Paws
Humane Society is an incredibly rewarding experience. From walking energetic dogs and comfortably helping with cat socialization, to assisting with events and creating enriching activities, our volunteers are the backbone of our operations. They play a truly crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for every animal awaiting their forever home.
Ready to make a difference? Learn how to become a volunteer by visiting: pawshumane.org/get-involved/volunteers.
A Collective Impact for Lasting Change
Every adoption, every successful reunion, and every hour volunteered contributes to a powerful, lifesaving change. Thank you for standing with Paws Humane Society as we continue our unwavering commitment to creating a world where every animal is cherished, supported, and loved in a forever home.
Paws Humane Society 4900 Milgen Road, Columbus, GA 31907 pawshumane.org | 706-565-0035
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., MondaySaturday , 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 America Fantastica: Memories, Dreams, and Chance
This extraordinary show brings together seven exceptional works on loan from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), two from the innovative Art Bridges Collection, and a special piece from a local private collector. These treasures are paired with standout paintings and drawings from COMU’s own collection - dating back to our first acquisitions in the 1950s. 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. Every day at, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Andy Warhol: Silver Clouds & Cow Wallpaper
Silver Clouds is a special interactive installation on loan from the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh. Created in 1966, Warhol’s Silver Clouds consists of a roomful of floating pillow-shaped balloons. The reflective balloons are inflated with a proprietary mixture of air and pure helium, enabling them to float enchantingly in the space between the floor and the ceiling. The installation will be enhanced by a display of Warhol’s Cow Wallpaper, the first in the artist’s series of wallpaper designs, which were never made commercially available. This engaging environment is intended to delight visitors, inspiring a fun and immersive experience for all. Every Thursday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Our Own Work, Our Own Way
This exhibition brings together 42 women artists of the 20th century with connections to the South, including Elaine de Kooning, Zelda Fitzgerald, and Alma Thomas. Having faced resistance from the art world for decades, many of these artists are just beginning to receive critical attention. Composed of artwork from the 1930s to the 1990s, Our Own Work, Our Own Way champions a roster of artists whose aesthetic achievements transcended social conventions and invigorated modernism in the South. Every Thursday, 10 a.m. - 5 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 Sketching Under the Skylight
Leave your voices at the door & witness the power of the creative process as professional artists sketch from a live model in costume under the magical skylights of the Bo Bartlett Center. Free admission and open to the public. 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 American Made: Paintings & Sculpture from the DeMell Jacobsen Collection
Over 100 works by renowned American artists such as Benjamin West, Thomas Cole, Mary Cassatt, Robert Henri, and Charles Alston, this exhibition beautifully traces the evolution of American art over two centuries. Experience masterworks of portraiture, landscape, and still life that have previously been featured at prestigious institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Through July 6 , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Beyond Go Figure VI
This exhibition features works created by our local talent. Last year was truly a celebration of the wealth of artistic talent in and around Columbus and the Center is thrilled that we are hosting Beyond Go Figure VI this year with hopes to show even more of the local artists in the area. Through August 2 , The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus Photographs from the Missions of Astronaut David R. Scott Exhibition
Featuring photographs illustrating the three space missions of Astronaut David R. Scott: Gemini VIII, Apollo 9, and Apollo 15. Gemini VIII achieved the first successful docking of two vehicles in space. Dave Scott served as the Pilot in this mission with Neil Armstrong as Command Pilot. As Commander of Apollo 15, Scott was the first person to drive a vehicle on the Moon (Rover 1) and was the seventh human to walk on the Moon. Astronaut Alfred Worden was the Command Module pilot orbiting the moon. For this mission Astronaut James Irwin was the Lunar Module Pilot. Brigadier General Scott logged 546 hours, 54 minutes in space and 20 hours, 46 minutes in extravehicular activity. Through August 2, Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. , The Bo Bartlett Center, 9921 Front Avenue, Columbus Bells & Pomegranates: Jewish American Art from the Permanent Collection
The exhibition features prints, drawings, and objects exploring Jewish life, portraiture, landscapes, and abstraction. Works by artists like Peter Max and Ida Kohlmeyer are showcased alongside lesser-known talents who helped shape American modernism. The exhibition also highlights the Straus family’s connection to Columbus with a pair of Brilliant-Period cut glass goblets. Through August 10 , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Exhibition:
The Persistence of Form in Life’s Remains
Featuring seven large-scale works crafted from bones. Blending natural history with artistic imagination, artist Butch Anthony transforms skeletal remains into thoughtprovoking compositions that challenge perceptions of life, death, and transformation. With his signature blend of curiosity and craftsmanship, this exhibition invites viewers to ponder the persistence of form beyond life itself. Through August 15 , The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus
The Seventh Bardo: Photographs by Beth Lilly
Re-envision the view outside the window as a no-man’s land, far removed from the ordinary routines of daily life. While the landscapes are shot handheld, the portraits are taken by cameras mounted on tripods and using a remote cable. In exhibition, the landscapes are printed large, reflecting the monumentality of the interstate structures and vast spaces. Mimicking encounters on the highway. Through August 23, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 1-5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. , The Do Good Fund, 111 12th Street, Columbus
The Quieting World - Pasaquan
Eight dawn recordings from the Marin Headlands. “The Quieting World invites visitors to slow down and engage with two simultaneous messages,” states JoshuaMichéle Ross, “the gradual quieting of our natural world and the persistent beauty of each dawn‘s chorus. The recordings, captured at the moment of perfect balance between light and darkness during the autumnal equinox, speak to themes of renewal and disappearance, hope and despair.” Through August 29, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. , Pasaquan, 238 Eddie Martin Road, Buena Vista Making Bank: Money and Columbus Financial Institutions
Money is a key part of our everyday lives, affecting our daily decisions and the prosperity of our communities. Some of these businesses have their roots in local textile mills and other manufacturing ventures, but since the mid-20th century, the success of local banks has become a key driver of our region’s growth. 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, 2026 . The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
An Artist’s Collective @ Highland Galerie
This exhibition will showcase the talent of eight carefully selected local and regional artists in celebration of the vibrant creative community that surrounds us. From the seasoned creator to the emerging artist just beginning his or her exploration in the world of visual art, this exhibition opens the door for a variety of new voices and perspectives to be shared here in the Galerie. Featuring: Elaine Clayton, Melissa Terry Fish, Corrine Gala, Jay Provitt, Joe Sanders, Jarrod Turner, Julie Umberger. July 15 - 25, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. , Highland Galerie, 3500 2nd Avenue, Columbus
July Guest Lecture: Masterless Men
Historian Dr. Keri Leigh Merritt, author of Masterless Men: Poor Whites and Slavery in the Antebellum South, will be the guest lecturer. Keri Leigh Merritt, an Atlanta-based historian and writer, specializes in American inequality and poverty. Her research delves into the intersections of race and class throughout U.S. history. Keri Leigh Merritt examines what happens to whites who were too poor to own land or enslaved people and instead existed as a threat to slavery’s stability. Leading to a deep class division that grew even stronger during the Civil War. Thursday, July 17, 6 p.m. , National Civil War Naval Museum, 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus
Alice in Wonderland
Take a tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice into a Wonderland like you’ve never seen before. Go back to arcade games, VHS tapes, weird commercials, and the first glimpses of the internet. In this vibrant, high-energy adventure, Alice dashes through the audience in pursuit of the White Rabbit, joins the most absurd tea party in history, and faces off with the fiery Queen of Hearts. Along the way, she meets cheeky cats, talking eggs, mad hatters, and the magic of growing up. It’s a mixtape of transformation, a scrapbook of identity, and a celebration of all the questions we’re still learning how to answer. July 19 - 27, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. , Dorothy McClure Theatre at Springer Opera House, 1016 1st Avenue, Columbus
Want to see your event listed here? Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com
Step into the Bo Bartlett Center now through August 15, and you’ll find yourself transported to a place where the familiar meets the fantastic, and where the echoes of life persist in the most unexpected forms. Butch Anthony: The Persistence of Form in Life’s Remains is a captivating exhibition by the self-taught Alabama artist, offering a profound and often whimsical journey through seven largescale works crafted predominantly from bones. It’s a show that will make you rethink what art can be, and what stories the silent remnants of nature can tell.
Bo Bartlett, renowned artist and the center’s namesake, recently sat down with Anthony for a revealing radio interview, broadcast from the mythical town of Magnolia, Georgia (aka Columbus). Bartlett introduced Anthony
as an “outsider artist,” a collector of things – bones, old photographs, forgotten objects – which he “rearranges and reassembles and reorganizes and turns into his own art.” Anthony, who once studied biology, zoology, geology, and anatomy at Auburn University, lives on his family farm in Seale, Alabama, where his unconventional creative process unfolds.
Bartlett coined the word of the day for the interview: entanglement, a quantum phenomenon where particles share the same state regardless of distance. He then playfully linked it to Anthony’s own term for his work: intertwangleism. As Bartlett mused, it’s about “two things that are connected, that have a little southern twang to them,
THE PERSISTENCE OF FORM In Life‘s Remains Butch Anthony
By Monica Jones
put into some sort of overriding theory or philosophy of art.” This concept perfectly encapsulates Anthony’s artistic approach, where disparate elements – from cow bones to discarded drawers – are woven together into new narratives, imbued with a distinct Southern sensibility. Anthony’s personal philosophy is equally direct: “They can think the way they want to think, and I’m going to think the way I want to think.” It’s a sentiment that speaks volumes about his independent spirit and singular vision. Intertwangleism
itself is defined by Anthony as: (inter = to mix; twang = a distinctive way of speaking, thinking, behaving, assessing; and ism = a theory).
Anthony’s connection to bones runs deep, stemming from a childhood discovery. At age 14, while camping by a creek in Seale, he quite literally stumbled upon a dinosaur bone – one of the first found in Alabama. This sparked a five-year stint traveling the country, digging for the Auburn Paleo Lab in the early 80s. While there are no dinosaur bones in this current exhibition, Anthony’s fascination with skeletal forms clearly endured. Today, he gathers cow bones from local pastures, allowing nature – “beetles, fire ants, buzzards, the sun, rain” – to be his patient employees, cleansing the bones over at least three years until they are ready for his artistic hand. “Each bone looks like a sculpture
by itself,” he observes.
The exhibition features monumental works that command attention, none more so than the Ossuary. This towering piece, forty feet wide and twenty feet tall, is a reimagining of the Golden Chamber of St. Ursula in Cologne, but with materials gathered along the historic Federal Road in Seale. Anthony describes it as a mix of old church windows from Georgia and discarded drawers that people toss by the roadside, all filled with bones. It evokes the medieval catacombs where plague victims’ bones were stacked, creating a poignant and powerful tribute to forgotten histories. He notes that the shoes and various pieces incorporated into the wall represent the “foot tracks of the Trail of Tears,” as the Federal Road was also part of that tragic route where Native Americans were forced to walk to Oklahoma. It’s a compelling example of how Anthony transforms discarded remnants into a shrine blurring the sacred and the forgotten, echoing the deep history embedded in the land itself.
Another striking piece is The Dream House, or The
Bone House. Anthony recounts building forts as a child –tree forts, underground forts, even beaver lodges. His dream of a house made of weightless, drifting bones was inspired by tales of the first migrants to North America, who built shelters from woolly mammoth tusks and leg bones. This work, with its ribcages forming vaulted roofs and vertebrae stacked as columns, is a beautiful and haunting exploration of survival made sacred through necessity, “architecture carved from extinction.”
One of the most talked-about pieces in the exhibition is The Legend of the Hoop Snake. Rooted in Southern folklore, it brings to life the chilling tale of a serpent that rolls like a hoop, then strangles its victim before sticking
X Butch Anthony & Bo Bartlet
Butch Anthony at Work at the Bo Bartlett Center
From The Museum of Wonder
its tail up their nose to confirm death. Anthony intertwines this legend with a personal anecdote about meeting the filmmaker behind Hoop Dreams, inspiring him to create a unique interpretation. The immense snake is crafted from twenty-one pieces of petrified cedar trees from his farm, riddled with nearly 5,000 nails salvaged from demolished 19th-century homes. He worked six months, seven days a week, often with the help of CSU students, hammering each bent nail straight on an anvil.
At the heart of the “Hoop Snake” piece, a centaur (a horse skeleton with a human skeleton atop) shoots a golden basketball into the snake’s mouth, its tongue serving as the basketball goal. The net? A truly remarkable detail made from 200 chicken wishbones. As Anthony humorously recounts, “It takes a long time to eat 200 chickens!” The piece is a testament to his intricate craftsmanship and his ability to weave together myth, memory, and material in a way that is both playful and profound.
Adding another layer of sensory experience to the exhibition, Anthony has incorporated “smell-o-ramas.” By the “Hoop Snake” piece, you can lift the lid of a jar and take a deep whiff of Horse Leather, a smell which transports Anthony back to his childhood joy of riding horses and the scent of a sweaty saddle. Similarly, near the Bone Bouquet (Osseoalbus phalli) – a stunning creation of over 100 raccoon baculum bones, deer and cow bones, and chicken wishbones – you can experience the scent of Southern Wax Myrtle,
a favorite childhood smell from the woods around his farm. This inventive taxonomy, where he creates his own species, playfully references the Adam and Eve story and challenges our perceptions of natural classification.
The exhibition also features It’s a Nice Day for a White Wedding, Anthony’s interpretation of Alabama haute couture: a stunning wedding dress built from over 500 pounds of animal bones and miles of aluminum electrical wire. Drawing inspiration from 16th to 18th-century corsets structured with whale bone, it stands as a monument to endurance and the hidden structures beneath beauty. At the opening, a live model will even stand in it, complete with a bone snake wrapped around her.
Anthony’s collaborative spirit extends beyond the Bo Bartlett Center walls. His friendship with renowned filmmaker Les Blank led to two decades of filming for a documentary, now being completed by Blank’s son. Beyond that, the film Chasin’ Butterflies—directed by Joshua Harding, Adam Hobbs, and Matt Klug—offers a layered portrait of Anthony himself. Much like his art, the film is eccentric, playful, authentic, and deeply original. As a self-taught artist from a one-horse town in rural Alabama, Anthony defies easy categorization. Through glimpses of his drive-thru museum, trophycovered Cadillac, and pontoon pirate ship Llatikcuf
(read it backwards), the film invites viewers to meet the Butch behind the Butch—and see him as he truly is: an original.
For those eager to dive deeper into Anthony’s world, a visit to his Museum of Wonder in Seale, Alabama, is a must. Located right on the old Federal Road (Highway 431), it’s described as the country’s only drive-thru museum, open 24/7. With 35 windows, it’s a “giant cabinet of curiosities that you get to drive through.” Anthony’s advice for aspiring artists is as practical as his art: “I don’t buy any of my art materials; I find them on the side of the road, dumpster diving.” This philosophy, embodied by his upcoming Kudzu Zoo (topiaries made from scrap metal and rebar, trimmed with kudzu), underscores his resourceful and imaginative approach.
Butch Anthony’s exhibition, The Persistence of Form in Life’s Remains, is more than just a collection of artworks; it’s an invitation to explore the beauty in what remains, to ponder the interconnectedness of things, and to see the world through the eyes of an artist who finds wonder in every discarded object and every silent bone. It’s a truly unique and memorable experience that bridges art, history, and the richness of Southern life. u
Lady from 1843, Oil painting
Summers at Callaway
Callaway Resort & Gardens offers the ultimate family vacation experience in nature. Afternoons and evenings bring families together for bike rides, beach fun, competitions, bingo, trivia, shows, and more. This perfect escape for families seeking fun and relaxation away from the chaos of the city. Packages include accommodations in cozy Cottages or Villas, and daily admission to Callaway Gardens and Robin Lake Beach throughout your stay. Daily programming details are under development, please email to learn more. Every Day , Callaway Gardens, 17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain Chattahoochee RiverWalk
The 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk provides scenic trails perfect for walking, running, or biking, and offers picturesque views of the river and downtown Columbus. It’s a great option for outdoor activity at your own pace. Daily, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. , Along the Chattahoochee River, Columbus Whitewater Express
For a more adventurous outdoor experience, Whitewater Express offers whitewater rafting on the longest urban whitewater course in the world. They also have a zip line that crosses the river from Georgia to Alabama and back again. Check their schedule for availability and booking within your dates. Whitewater Express, 1000 Bay Avenue, Columbus Big Dog / Walk
We meet up at the store and walk for an hour. Everyone is welcome to join our walk group, no matter your pace, age, etc. We usually head out to the Riverwalk and do an out-and-back style 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 Tuesdays at 10 - The Columbus Museum (COMU)
Stop by any Tuesday in June or July for a new adventure each week - whether it’s a scavenger hunt, hands-on gallery objects, creative art making, or something totally unexpected. No two weeks are the same. This program is completely Free and geared toward ages 4 and up. Every Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Tuesday Night Bike Ride
We leave Ride On Bikes at 6pm and head south on the River Walk. With dinner afterwards at The Mix Market, if you’d like to join. It’s a great place to get some exercise and make lifetime friends. Every Tuesday, 6 p.m. , Ride On Bikes, 1036 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
Rooftop Trivia - Every Wednesday at Nonic
Join us on Wednesdays with Tristan Daniels. Free to play and cool prizes are given out. While enjoying Refreshing drinks and Delicious bites. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. , Nonic, 211 13th Street, 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 Outdoor Thursdays with BailaMo
Let’s enjoy the warm summer days with some salsa outdoors. Meet us on the stage in front of Agave and Pineapple Jacks for a fun dance pattern and Latin dancing. If you’re driving by, park and join us. If weather does not permit, we’ll choose a place for dinner instead. Every Thursday, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. , 1100 Block 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 Suspending Reality
Do you enjoy a good spine-chilling, reality-suspending, and possibly dimension-traveling good time? Please join us each third Monday of the month as we discuss a book that suspends reality. This month, Monday, July 21 : “Interview with the Vampire” by Anne Rice. Every third Monday, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. , The Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus First Thursday CJS Monthly Meeting + Music
Hosted by CJS. With a meeting at 6pm and Music by the Band at 7p. Every First Thursday, this month (June ) Enjoy Dallas Smith, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m., The Goetchius House, 405 Broadway, Columbus Adventure Cooks
Come and enjoy a discussion of a different regional, ethnic, or national cooking style. Bring a dish in that day’s style to share with at least 10 other attendees as we sample delicious foods of the world. For more information call 706-243-2691. This month, July 11 - Italian. Every 2nd Friday, Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus Live Music @ Ivy Park Sports Bar
Enjoying a cold one and savor their flavors. With great local entertainment. Every Friday, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. , Ivy Park Sports Bar and Grill, 9501 Veterans Parkway, Midland Market Days on Broadway
Each Saturday, three blocks along Broadway host over 100 local and regional vendors. Visitors can expect to find fresh and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts, and delicious baked goods. Market Days is the perfect Saturday activity for family, friends, and visitors. Don’t forget to bring your furry pals to get in on the fun. Every Saturday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. , 1000 Broadway, Columbus
Belly Dancing Class at Art of Yoga
“The dance of the wind” or Belly Dancing is a very unique type of dance focusing on the pelvis. With various benefits: Improving concentration, A full-body workout, Improves your posture. The more you belly dance and overtime, the longer your back will be in a good position. Join instructor Haronid Veloz at the studio to experience a new way to connect with your body or learn the basics of belly dancing. Regular classes $12. Reserve your spot at Getlocaltix.com, email hvbellydance@ gmail.com for more information. Every Saturday, 3:30 - 4:30 , Art of Yoga, 4924 Armour Road, Columbus
It’s BING-GO @ Scofflaw Brewing
It’s always a good time playing It’s Bing-Go at Scofflaw with our girl, Kendrea. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday, 6:30 p.m. , Scofflaw Brewing Company, 1421 6th Avenue, Columbus
Camp NIM Kids at the National Infantry Museum
Join us for an action-packed summer of adventure and fun. At Camp NIM, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re interested in history, teamwork, or just having a blast. Our activities are designed to be exciting and hands-on, helping campers build confidence, develop leadership skills, and work together in a lively, supportive environment. Get ready for a summer full of fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.
Through July 11, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m ., National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus
Explore at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center
Enjoy a $5 discounted ticket if you take a selfie at Bo Bartlett Center’s new exhibit “Images From Space that Fire the Imagination.” Then come and explore: A Planetarium show in our Omnisphere Theater, Tour our space shuttle and Apollo
artifacts, An Adventure to the ISS on A Space Shuttle Odyssey flight sim. Interactive exhibits and more. Bo Bartlett Center is a free facility that accepts donations. Open only TuesdaysSaturdays (11 am-4 pm) . The CCSSC Hours are 10 am-4 pm Monday-Friday, while Saturday is 10:30 am - 5 pm, available through August 2 , The Coca Cola Space Science Center, 701 Front Avenue, Columbus
The Lehigh’s Acoustic Duo at The Backwaters at The Landing
Featuring Justin Lehigh (Whiskey Moon) on guitar and his wife, LeAnn Lehigh on vocals performing acoustic versions your favorite country, pop, and rock hits from the 90’s and 2000’s. Sunday, June 29, 5 p.m. , Backwaters at The Landing, 53 CR-798, Valley
July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Callaway
Celebrate summer days and starry nights with our weekendlong Star Spangled Beach Party. Enjoy volleyball, putt putt, and water activities like stand-up paddle boarding. Play all day on floating obstacle course Aqua Island*, where your family can race across twisting bridges, scale towering inflatable mountains, and slip down gigantic slides into the sparkling waters below. Each day ends with a bang thanks to our nightly Fireworks Extravaganza; a spectacular salute to summer. J uly 4 & 5 , Callaway Gardens, 17800 US-27, Pine Mountain Independence Day at Port Columbus
Celebrate Independence Day on Friday, July 4th at the National Civil War Naval Museum. The all-day event features a museum tour exploring the holiday’s history, diverse food truck options for lunch, and a live concert by the Bob Barr Community Band. Enjoy unlimited access to all festivities and exhibits for a $7 admission. Come witness the traditional cannon firing, a significant commemoration of independence. Friday, July 4, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. , National Civil War Naval Museum, 1002 Victory Drive, Columbus Artful Babies at The Museum (COMU) (Ages 6 - 24 months) This is a drop-in event. No registration required. Each session includes playtime to explore books and hands-on objects and an art activity for children and caregivers to enjoy together. Saturday, July 5, 10:30 - 11:30 , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Astronomy Night at Providence Canyon
Look for us at the picnic area with a small building. The evening will start at 9 p.m. with a brief presentation by Dr. Rosa Williams on notable celestial objects visible in the current sky. Then, weather permitting, we will move to the telescopes set up around the field to view the night sky objects. The moon will be in a Waxing Gibbous phase. This location is great for seeing the bend of the Milky Way Galaxy, being far away from light pollution. If not cloudy, M57, M4, and the Elephant Cluster will be visible. Feel free to bring your lawn chairs for more comfort. The main entrance is off Rte. 39C. Meet us at the field between the playground and restrooms. Saturday, July 5, 9 p.m. , Providence Canyon State Park, 8390 Canyon Road, Lumpkin 706 Day
Join us for the 3rd annual 706 Day, a free community celebration uniting Columbus through culture, entertainment, and meaningful connection. This signature event brings together hundreds of community members for an unforgettable afternoon. Live Local musicians, Professional Athletes and Entertainers, Interactive workshops, demonstrations, Kidfriendly zones, giant game stations, Food vendors, small businesses, Connect with community leaders and neighbors. Sunday, July 6, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. , Woodruff Park, 1000 Bay Avenue, Columbus Gallery Play Date at the Museum (COMU) (Ages 6-24 months) Drop by COMU for gallery play time for children ages 4 and under! Explore objects on view in the galleries and play with a variety of toys, books, games, and more. Wednesday, July 9 & 23, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton road, Columbus 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. We can’t wait to see you all. Thursday, July 10, 8 p.m. , Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus Midnight Satellite @ The Loft
We’re baaaaack! The Loft is always such a great time, see you there. Friday, July 11, 9 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus
Honey Harvest
Experience the annual Honey Harvest! This event celebrates local honey and provides an opportunity to learn about beekeeping and the importance of pollinators. Expect educational exhibits, honey tastings, crafts, story time, and animal interactions. Honey sales begin at 12 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. , Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus Enchanted Fairy Fest
Join us for a day of enchantment, celebration, magic and wonder. Bubble Station, Fairy Crowns, Wands & Pirate Swords – Create your own magical gear to take home. Build a Gnome Home – Craft cozy, nature-inspired shelters for our garden gnome friends. Face Painting, Scavenger Hunt. Water Play Area, fairy-friendly water zone. Dress in your most enchanted attire—wings, glitter, and imagination encouraged. Bring the whole family for a day of creativity, nature, and fairy tale fun. Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. , Columbus Botanical Garden, 3603 Weems Road, Columbus Mini Makers at the Museum (COMU) (Ages 2-4) Drop in event. No registration needed. Each session includes a chance to explore new art materials and create mini masterpieces to take home. S aturday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Yoga at the Museum By The Columbus 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 Mary Liwanag. Some yoga mats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required. Saturday, July 12, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
Christmas In July Food Truck Festival
Join the fun at River Oak Boutique and Street Food Saturdays’ Christmas in July Food Truck Festival on First Ave. With a diverse range of food trucks and adult beverages available, there’s something for everyone at this free event. Saturday, July 12, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. , RiverOak, 1204 1st Avenue, Columbus Free Astronomy Night at CCSSC
We’ll begin at 8 p.m. in our Omnisphere Planetarium, with Dr. Rosa Williams pointing out current constellations and bright objects in the evening skies. Weather permitting, at 9:30 pm, we will move outside to the telescopes on our South Lawn to view the moon. Other night sky objects will also be visible, and we will try to find harder objects as the night progresses while showing our WestRock observatory off to those interested. Come out and see the stars with us. Saturday, July 12 & 26, 8 p.m. , Coca-Cola Space Science Center, 701 Front Avenue, Columbus GP38 Live @ The Loft
Real Country Music to keep you dancing and singing along all night. Saturday, July 12, 9 p.m. , The Loft, 1032 Broadway Columbus Frogwarts Summer Camp
(7-11 yrs) Explore the magical world of science and nature in this Harry Potter inspired camp. Attend classes, encounter magical creatures, explore the forbidden forest and more. This is a day camp Monday - Friday from 9 am - 4 pm each day. Please visit oxbow.columbusstate.edu/summercamps for more details. July 14 - 18, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. , Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus Gallery Play Date at The Museum (COMU (2-4 Years) Drop by COMU for gallery play time for children ages 4 and under! Explore objects on view in the galleries and play with a variety of toys, books, games, and more. Wednesday, July 16 & 30, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus
The Big Sing
Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus
A unique choral experience where the audience bids on the music to be performed, creating a dynamic and interactive concert atmosphere. Proceeds from the event will directly support singer scholarships for the 2026 East Coast Tour and a featured performance at Carnegie Hall. Free Admission, so bring a group for a fun experience for all. Friday, July 18, 6:15 p.m. , Legacy Hall, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus
Family Movie Night - Shark Tale
Dive into summer with our Family Movie Night. We will be watching Monster House and popcorn will be provided. Bring your blankets, chairs, and all the family. Movie will start at 7:15pm. $10 per family. Friday, July 18, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m., D.A. Turner YMCA, 4384 Warm Springs Road, Columbus Midnight Satellite Live @ Locals
We’re so excited to return to Locals. New ownership, new vibes. Come check it out and goof off with us. Friday, July 18, 8 p.m. , Locals, 5409 Summerville Road, Phenix City Family Saturday at COMU
Drop by the Museum each month for new activities exploring the Museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. This program is a Free drop-in event for families. Saturday, July 19, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Summer at The Rialto
You’re Invited to join us for Summer at The Rialto. A series of Free events throughout the month of July for the entire family. Ultimate Bingo, Nerf Wars, Family Movie Night and More. We are partnering with local businesses in the Uptown community to create a summer of fun. Ultimate Bingo, Friday, July 18, 6:30 p.m., Nerf Wars, Saturday, July 19, 1 p.m. , Family Movie Night, Friday, July 25, 6:30 p.m. , The Rialto, 1231 Broadway, Columbus
Two Turnt Neon Party at The Peach Shoppe
We’re celebrating two amazing years deserves one unforgettable night. Featuring food trucks, local shopping, music, peachy vibes, and some sweet giveaways. Then when the sun goes down, the glow-up begins. Head inside Stirrup Trouble for the Neon After Party. Come hungry, come glowing, and come ready to win and celebrate. After party from 10pm-12am at Stirrup Trouble. Must be over 21 to attend after party. Saturday, July 19, 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. , The Peach Shoppe & Co, 900 Front Avenue Suite 212, Columbus Astronomy Night at FDR State Park
Staff and students from the Space Science Center will have telescopes set up in the baseball field, across the road from Liberty Poo. We will begin at 9 pm with a presentation by Dr. Williams on objects in the summer evening skies, then (weather permitting) move to a night sky tour, and close-ups with the telescopes. As the night sky darkens, we will try to find harder-to-see objects. The phase of the Moon will be Waning Crescent. Contact Coca-Cola Space Science Center info@ccssc.org, 706-649-1477 for more information. Saturday, July 19, 9 p.m. , Meet at the baseball field off Rte. 354, opposite of the Liberty Bell Pool, Warm Springs Friends of Libraries BIG Book Sale
Thousands of gently used books will be on sale, all priced at $2 or less. Shop from a wide selection of books including bestsellers, paperbacks, and children’s books! There will be something for everyone at this three-day sale. July 25 - 27 , Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus Southern Luau & BBQ Making Class
Join us for a Southern twist on island vibes. Enjoy live Hawaiian music, learn the art of smoking a whole pig from start to finish, and take home your own handcrafted bottle of BBQ sauce. Whether you’re a grill master or just love good vibes. The Party is Free to Attend but RSVP to let us know you are joining. Saturday, July 26, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. , Highside Market, 211 13th Street, Columbus Summer Mahjong
Enjoy a summer evening out at Highside Market with your girlfriends for an open play night of Mahjong! Your $25 reservation includes lite bites, a beautiful space to play, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase from Ray’s Quick Stop and It’s Tamale Time. Thursday, July 31, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. , Highside Market, 211 13th street, Columbus
Want to see your event listed here? Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com
ALights, Camer a community
CineForge Co-Op’s ANNUAL SLATE HITS MID-YEAR STRIDE
s the summer heat rises in Columbus, so does the momentum behind the region’s booming film scene. Just six months after unveiling its first-ever Annual Slate, the CineForge Co-Op, Columbus’s homegrown filmmakers’ collective, has proven that the local creative current flowing through the Chattahoochee Valley is no passing trend.
And what a first half it’s been.
It’s also worth highlighting the recent wave of visiting film productions hosted right here in Columbus by Story Mill Entertainment, led by locals John and Alayna Mock. Among them is Bookends, featuring an impressive cast including Oscar winner F. Murray Abraham (Amadeus, The White Lotus), Caroline Aaron (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, 21 Jump Street), Noam Ash (The Other Two), and Charlie Barnett (Russian Doll, The Acolyte). Also wrapped is The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd, starring the multitalented Tim Blake Nelson (O Brother, Where Art Thou) and Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!).
Local premieres, production launches, and festival entries have already begun to pour in, capitalizing on the success of the past two years and affirming that Columbus is building a new film industry.
From Script to Premiere
Larry “Pop” Thomas Jr.’s debut feature, A Cry in Secret, held its premiere at the National Infantry Museum in IMAX on May 17. Just one day prior, the
film, a family drama that tackles childhood trauma with tenderness and grit, made its streaming debut on Amazon Prime, a major leap for Thomas and LPT Film Productions.
The next act? Thomas is already in pre-production for another suspenseful family drama, set to begin filming in late summer.
He’s not alone in his pace. Fresh off a sold-out red carpet premiere which left audiences laughing, crying, and clamoring for more, Zack Collins’ emotionally rich dramedy Going Postal will have had a sold-out encore at the National Infantry Museum in IMAX - that’s 230+ attendees!
Created by Zack Collins, a family court judge by day and filmmaker by passion, Going Postal offers a grounded and deeply human portrayal of a modern Black blended family, viewed through the lens of a mailman navigating the emotional weight of his home, job, and community.
By Paul Rowe
Now, with this final hometown screening, Going Postal prepares to take the next big step: securing distribution and expanding its audience.
In the Works
Terrance Smith continues his streak with two wildly different projects: The House of Asher, a high-stakes thriller set in the luxe skincare industry, begins filming June 28; while Open Road, a 1970s buddy comedy, is slated for production in October. Smith’s range is a testament to the diverse stories being nurtured in Columbus.
Andy Carpenter, founder of Strongland Creative, has been quietly building a powerhouse slate of projects. He
wrapped the script for his newest title, You Were Wrong About the Jellyfish, in May and began shooting a promo trailer in June to support funding. Meanwhile, his earlier work, Trajectory, is now under exclusive option by a bicoastal production group, a major accomplishment in itself.
Carpenter’s drama Our Father’s Hands, to be directed by Trey Walker (Mud Films), remains on track for filming in early 2026, with development and casting underway.Another collaborative feature film, Deadline, is a thriller reminiscent of Nightcrawler and Sleepers from Trey Walker, Andy Carpenter, and Paul Rowe (Last Caress Productions) and is due to complete production in the fall.
Speaking of range, MetaModern Productions (led by Kane Kettering) has already made waves with their horror short Everybody Eats!, now on its festival run. The time-bending thriller earned early accolades and served as a crucial learning experience for the team. Their follow-up, Project Lazarus, a twisted Christmas holiday mystery, was funded by a 2024 Columbus Local Filmmakers Grant and is now deep in post-production. And it wouldn’t be a true community update without celebrating writer Shavonne R. Johnson, whose feature On Borrowed Time, penned for Atlanta-based CA Films, enters production this summer. Meanwhile, Johnson is rallying support for her script Line to Line, a searing exploration of betrayal and redemption in the basketball world.
Coming Soon
These success stories are just the surface. From Paul Rowe’s post-production work on feature film A Southern Horror (now It Wants Nightmares), to be released in the fall, and his newly funded second feature film, Southern Scares, to be filmed in August, to festival-bound shorts like The Archeron from Erin Walsh and soon-to-bereleased So Long and Goodnight from Eddie O’Blivion, the city’s creative output is as eclectic as it is unrelenting.
Let’s Celebrate That
This mid-year checkpoint isn’t just a chance to take stock - it’s a call to celebrate. Want to support local film? Follow the filmmakers from the Annual Slate on social media. Help fund if you can. Attend a premiere. Share a trailer. Or grab a camera, join the movement, and make something of your own. The community is here to support you - you don’t have to do it alone. u
The air crackles with a familiar energy, a vibrant hum of creativity blossoming right here in our own backyard. If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a soft spot for those moments when young talent truly shines, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that come with passion and dedication. Well, get ready for a serious dose of that feeling, because Columbus’s own Jackson Laird, a mere seventeen-year-old, is shaking up the music scene with his debut album, Up Time.
This isn’t your grandpa’s smoky club jazz. While Up Time certainly pays homage to the genre’s rich traditions, Jackson has injected a lively, infectious dose of funk into his compositions, creating a sound both nostalgic and distinctly modern. Imagine classic jazz sensibilities grooving hand-inhand with vibrant, funk-infused rhythms – that’s the magic
Laird has bottled. This isn’t just an album; it’s a journey through an exciting new soundscape crafted by a truly precocious talent.
It might seem unbelievable for someone so young, but Jackson Laird has been on this musical path for what feels like ages. He started composing at the age of eight, initially exploring the classical realm. But as he grew, so did his musical palate. His style evolved, a delightful alchemy blending jazz, classical, and contemporary influences into something uniquely his own. It’s a testament to his innate curiosity and relentless pursuit of new sounds. His work hasn’t gone
unnoticed either, garnering recognition both here in Georgia and across the nation.
Up Time is a bold statement, a culmination of Jackson’s evolving artistry. What’s truly remarkable is that he not only wrote and produced the entire album but also brought together a fantastic roster of musicians to bring his vision to life. This collaborative spirit saw him working with fellow students from the Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts, the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University,
and Georgia State University, along with contributors from around the world. It’s a global jam session orchestrated by a local prodigy.
One track, in particular, has been turning heads: “Dr. B.” This standout piece earned “Best in Show” at the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) Music Technology Competition and also took home the Instrumental Category award at the School of Beats Music Technology Grand Finale Competition in Atlanta. These accolades are a clear sign of Jackson’s exceptional compositional prowess and technical skill – he’s not just writing tunes, he’s crafting award-winning masterpieces.
The future looks incredibly bright for Jackson. This fall, he’ll be honing his craft even further at the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University, diving deeper into music composition, production, and performance. But he’s not one to rest on his laurels. In a move that will excite fans, Jackson has already begun work on his second album, collaborating with Up Time rhythm section members Walter Taff, Jack Seymour, and Ben Badgett – all fellow Schwob School of Music students.
Up Time is more than just a debut album; it’s an introduction to a truly promising young musician who’s poised to leave an indelible mark on the music world. Available now in digital format, CD, and vinyl on Bandcamp, it will soon be hitting all streaming services. Want to learn more or connect with Jackson? For interviews, bookings, or general media inquiries, reach out tojacksonlairdmusic@gmail.com.
Teen Composer Jackson Laird Unveils Jazz-Funk Debut UP TIME
From Columbus to the Cosmos
Jackson Laird
Jackson Laird
NOISE MAKING
with STERLING Alexander A LIFE
IN SOUND
By Monica Jones
When Sterling Alexander steps behind the turntables, he makes “Noises.” This isn’t just a clever name for his bi-weekly gig; it’s the signature brand of a dynamic DJ whose presence consistently thrums through the region. From his childhood in Columbus to commanding local stages, Sterling’s entire life and creative output resonate as a vibrant, ever-evolving project built around his uniqueAftersound.some early years in Ellerslie, Sterling transitioned to the city proper around age three or four. He fondly recalls a cul-de-sac childhood, brimming with friends, including his childhood best friend Adam Woodall, and the genesis of his lifelong love for skating. A pivotal shift occurred with a family move to Harris County, a decision initially met with resistance from
young Sterling. “Honestly, I absolutely hated it when I moved out here,” he admits, despite the serene beauty of his current lakeside surroundings. Growing up immersed in baseball, the transition to a more rural setting was jarring. He humorously recounts showing up to practice in proper cleats, only to find peers in boots and shorts. Yet, over the years, he adapted, learning to navigate this new terrain. This early experience of being “unplugged” and learning to adapt would prove to be a recurring theme throughout his life.
Skateboarding quickly evolved beyond a pastime; it became a sanctuary and a powerful shaper of his identity.
During a challenging time when he needed an escape and an outlet, Sterling found unexpected solace and mentorship through his high school engineering teacher, Ryan Miller. This mentor, recognizing his potential, helped him create a skate brand and enter competitions.
“Skateboarding has always helped me conform into … the highest version of myself,” Sterling explains, highlighting how his unique style and perceived origin (often mistaken for Los Angeles or New York) stem directly from the skateboarding community. It offered an escape, a way to “run away from my problems at home.” This pursuit led him to the renowned Skate Park of Tampa from 2015 to 2018, where he managed the retail department. This was a significant chapter of his life, allowing him to rub shoulders with not only the renowned owner, Brian Schafer, but also legends like Tony Hawk, Bam Margera, and Ryan Sheckler. These figures provided a blueprint for life beyond professional skating, a valuable lesson as Sterling recognized that “skating doesn’t last forever.” His time in Tampa was a crucial step in understanding the professional landscape of his passion.
Sterling’s return to Columbus was born out of personal transition. After a short-lived marriage in Tampa, he found himself back in his hometown, initially working as a bar-back at The Uptown Tap. This period marked a
new beginning. He vividly recounts the tragic passing of Emily Robinson Evans, a beloved bartender at Picasso’s, who lost her life in a motorcycle wreck. “I told them, ‘I’ll cover it all,’ “ Sterling recalls, working tirelessly for two
weeks straight to allow colleagues time to grieve. This act of compassion and commitment cemented his place behind the bar.
His journey through the downtown bar scene between The Tap, Picasso’s, and eventually Smoke Bourbon and Barbecue, honed his craft. He even considered a significant opportunity as a camp director
at Woodward, a world-renowned action sports facility in L.A., but ultimately chose to stay in Columbus. This pivotal decision, guided by his mentor Stephanie O’Neal (whom he affectionately calls “Steph”), solidified his commitment to building a stable life and career in the local bar industry. “It was one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made,” he reflects.
The transition into DJing emerged as a natural progression, subtly nudged by Steph’s keen observation. “She told me, ‘You should try to DJ, you have the flair, and the knack for it,’ “ Sterling recounts. His eclectic music taste, already beloved by patrons, had already set the stage. His initial attempts to learn were self-taught, driven by a desire to master the craft. He embraced online instructional videos, meticulously breaking down complex techniques. He also forged his own innovative solutions to the logistical challenges of DJing, utilizing his personal hotspot and leaning into the vast world of SoundCloud to access and play music “right now,” when it’s most popular.
Sterling’s deep affection for Columbus is palpable. “Columbus is the second largest city in the state of Georgia, and people don’t realize that,” he notes. For
Sterling Alexander
Sterling, the city offers unparalleled convenience, with everything within a 15-minute radius of his Lakebottom home. He speaks with genuine warmth about the comfort of being a recognized face in his community, likening it to the familiar setting of Friends. Places like “Plucked Up Chicken and Biscuits” and the local bars have become extensions of his home, where “everybody knows your name.”
His personal journey mirrors the city’s unique charm. He views his life as a baseball game, with each “base” representing a significant move or challenge— from first base in Tampa, to second base back home, to third base in Ohio (where he cared for his grandmother), eventually leading him back to “home plate” in Columbus. “If the grass is greener on the other side, maybe you should water your lawn,” he observes, having certainly cultivated his own.
Sterling’s return to The Uptown Tap as a general manager marks a profound “full circle” moment. His career trajectory in the bar industry, from bar-back to manager, reflects not only his professional growth but also his unwavering loyalty to mentors like Stephanie and Josh O’Neal. The transition to The Tap, while initially requiring patience, has been a resounding success. He’s found a true professional home where
he can thrive. As Sterling explains, “The Tap is such a diverse bar, and I think that’s why it’s found so much success... Jay Patel and Ryan Lake have done so much to bring the city a space where people can just express themselves to their full potential.” This environment, where he not only feels at home but also gets to work alongside his current best friend, Fez (affectionately known as “Lil Hand”), creates a comfortable setting for both staff and patrons to be their authentic selves. For now, mark your calendars for Friday, July
25th, because Sterling is throwing a massive birthday celebration at The Uptown Tap that you won’t want to miss. He’ll be commanding the main stage, and with Sun Cruiser and Lucky One sponsoring the event, attendees can expect special pricing on these drinks all night long. It’s set to be an electrifying evening for locals looking for a great night out.
While “Noises” is a core part of his current focus, Sterling’s entrepreneurial spirit keeps him open to new collaborations. He’s particular about the vibe, often preferring settings like pool-side events or rooftop parties, always ensuring any project aligns with his vision and doesn’t detract from his beloved main job. For Sterling, DJing isn’t about booking endless gigs; it’s a passion project, a way to introduce new music and connect with people. He sees it as almost a “non- profit,” doing it “for the people.” This selfless approach to his art further reinforces the idea of his work as an evolving, community-driven sound project, driven by a genuine passion for connection.
As Sterling looks to the future, with his 32nd birthday approaching, he expresses a profound sense of gratitude for how everything is “piecing together.” He acknowledges the unexpected blessings and the realization of his creative aspirations. “Everything that I have ever had in my mind, as a creative, is all coming to life,” he says.
Want to experience Sterling’s sound for yourself? Sterling Alexander is most active on Instagram. You can find all updates on his DJ sets and other happenings by following @noises.9pm (his primary feed for these). For a broader glimpse into his life and creative endeavors, you can also check out his main page, @beingsterling. Whether he’s dropping beats or simply being the welcoming face at The Uptown Tap, Sterling is making his own unique brand of noise, and he is undoubtedly a cool local DJ whose sound is worth listening to. u
My Mother’sMILL TOWN ECHOES
By Monica Jones
T he road stretched behind us, a two-day blur from Vegas, as our 1975 Ford van rumbled into Columbus (he was so proud of that van). My dad navigated the streets with a quiet determination, heading straight for the mill. I remember the immediate sense of its presence: a tall, formidable building, four or five stories high, looming near the river and the busy 14th Street Bridge. Even then, the air thrummed with the unseen work within its walls, traffic swirling around its historic foundations.
My mother had no idea we were coming. It was a secret, a grand surprise cooked up by my dad, designed to bridge the miles that had separated us. We waited with quiet anticipation, watching the constant ebb and flow of shift workers. Then, there she was. She emerged from the great maw of the mill, she had a certain spring in her step, and a cascade of blonde curly hair dancing around her face, framed by a big, genuine smile. In that instant, the industrial backdrop faded; all I saw was her, radiating a joy which transcended the long hours and the whirring machinery.
That vibrant exit was a snapshot of a life rich with purpose and connection. For thirty years, my mother walked through those mill doors, becoming an integral part of Fieldcrest Mills. It was a place where towels were meticulously woven, each thread contributing to a hum that became the relentless, inescapable soundtrack of daily existence. The air, heavy with the unique, earthy smell of cotton and the metallic tang of machinery, clung to clothes and memories alike. The rhythmic clack and whir of looms filled the space with a unique symphony of the industry that marked her days.
Within those bustling walls, she found more than just a job; she found deep bonds. Her best friend, Patty, was by her side for much of that journey. They shared the rhythm of the machines, the occasional break, and the unspoken understanding that comes from working tirelessly towards a common goal. In fact, she had originally met my dad at
a different mill in town, where they made gloves—another story from those vibrant industrial days. My mother loved the work, the hands-on process, so much so that even when she became a supervisor for a time, she found herself yearning for the direct engagement of the mill floor. That was where she truly thrived, part of the fabric of the mill, not just overseeing it.
Yet, beneath the steady hum of production and the warmth of camaraderie, there was an undeniable undercurrent of risk. The relentless pace of the looms, though mesmerizing, demanded constant vigilance. My mother often spoke of how quickly an accident could occur. I remember her telling me about one chilling incident when a gentleman working near
her had his wedding ring get caught on one of the weaving looms. The machinery moved so fast, it almost ripped his finger off. It was a stark reminder of the physical dangers inherent in the work, and the toll it could take. Indeed, the constant physical demands of the mill eventually took a toll on my mother’s own body, a reality shared by many who spent decades contributing to the city’s industrial heartbeat.
Today, the landscape of Columbus carries the echoes of those mills, once powering what was proudly known as the “Electric City.” While the looms are long gone, and the mill structures themselves are now repurposed or integrated into a vastly transformed area, the spirit of their contribution remains. The city has grown immensely around that historic
industrial heart, now boasting new lofts and a vibrant, evolving urban landscape. My mother’s stories, though fragments of a life I didn’t fully witness firsthand, resonate deeply within me. They are more than just memories of a workplace; they are the living history of a woman who built a life through grit and grace.
Her journey, alongside countless others, is etched into Columbus’s identity. And for me, her daughter, those “mill town echoes” are a constant reminder of resilience, hard work, and the profound personal stories that define this place we now all get to call home. This rich past, with its powerful industrial legacy, continues to inspire even modern-day creativity, perhaps even sparking the very ‘Electric City Life’ we see highlighted in our community today. u
Artwork by Richard Barham, Towel Mill Painting Oil on Canvas
Image by Charley Windham
Carol Jones
THE VAN - Shown Here With My Uncle Roger His Wife, My Cousins And Yes That’s Me There (The Lil Squirt On The End)
Image by Charley Windham Image by Me
HIDDEN GEMS
By Stephen Scott
OF THE CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY
Fort Mitchell National Historic Landmark
Y
ou know those places you’ve driven past countless times, maybe even wondered about, but never quite got around to exploring? For me, the Fort Mitchell National Historic Landmark, tucked away just off Alabama 165, was precisely that—a familiar sight, yet still a mystery. Well, I finally got around to checking it out, and let me tell you: it’s a jewel hidden in plain sight, just waiting for you to unearth its stories. I am so glad I did.
There’s a certain magic in stepping onto ground where history unfolded centuries ago. This isn’t just a collection of buildings; it’s a carefully preserved narrative of the Chattahoochee Valley, focusing on three pivotal elements which shaped this region: the enduring legacy of the Creek Indians, the monumental impact of the Federal Road, and the fascinating history of two 19th-century forts which stood guard over a changing landscape. For a staggering 10,000 years before Alabama even dreamed of statehood in 1819, the Creek Nation thrived here. Imagine a vibrant network of trade, connecting indigenous peoples across vast stretches of Georgia and Alabama, all centered right here in the Valley. Their history, resilience, and eventual sorrow form the bedrock of this landmark.
The story continues with the Federal Road, an artery of progress born from a treaty between the federal government and the Creeks. This widened footpath connected Fort Hawkins (near Macon) to Fort Mims (near Mobile), carving its way right through the heart of the
Chattahoochee Valley. And here’s a charming detail that speaks to a simpler time: the treaty mandated a structure every 18 miles.
Why 18 miles? Because that was considered a day’s journey, necessitating a place for weary travelers to rest, refuel, and perhaps swap stories. This road, more than just a route, was a catalyst ushering in settlers and shaping what would eventually become the state of Alabama.
The air still seems to whisper tales of the history which unfolded over the land. In 1813, a massacre at Fort Mims during the Creek War prompted the Georgia Militia to fortify the area. They arrived with a formidable presence—900 troops alongside 300 friendly Creek allies— to establish a vital supply base and try to maintain a fragile peace. By 1817, a trading post was established, providing essential food and supplies, further fostering commerce and connection. Yet, amidst these efforts to build and maintain
peace, a profound tragedy looms. In 1836, the Creek people were cruelly forced from their ancestral lands during the heart-wrenching “Trail of Tears,” a somber chapter in American history which forever marked this land. Today, the site’s replica fort stands proudly upon the very footings of those original structures, a poignant reminder of both the past’s turbulence and its enduring spirit. Among these faithful recreations, the Crowell-Whitaker cabin, built in 1840, stands as the sole original structure, a tangible link to the lives lived nearly two centuries ago. While other buildings are authentic replicas, this cabin truly makes you feel like you’re stepping into history itself.
I was truly impressed during my visit. This landmark, which came to life through archaeological digs in the 1980s which pinpointed the original fort locations, now boasts a superb visitor’s center, completed in 2005. The dioramas are incredibly detailed, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, and the information is remarkably accurate. The staff are knowledgeable and genuinely helpful. You could easily lose yourself for an hour or more, absorbed in the displays and the silent stories told by each historic marker. Beyond the center, a replica carriage house, a bustling trading post, the imposing wooden fort, and a quiet cemetery invite further exploration. I spent an hour or so enjoying a ramble through several centuries of history. It gave me a peaceful, easy feeling, and I truly enjoyed my time there. I am thinking that you will too. It’s a place that connects you to the past in a profound way, offering a quiet escape from the bustle of modern life. So, next time you’re looking for something unique to do, a place where history
comes alive, consider a visit to the Fort Mitchell National Historic Landmark. Give them a visit and take your kids –it’s an educational adventure they won’t soon forget!
If you’re planning a visit, the Fort Mitchell National Historic Landmark is open on weekends: Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll find it conveniently located on Alabama Highway 165, just south of the entrance to the Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Admission is $6 for general entry, $5 for seniors and military, and $4 for students.
For more information, you can visit their website at www.visitfortmitchell.org, send an email to HistoricFtMitchell@att.net, or check out their Facebook page, Historical Fort Mitchell. You can also reach them by phone at (334) 855-1406 . u
remembering
DaveCarson
It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the passing of Dave Carson, a man whose vision and dedication profoundly shaped the cultural fabric of our community. Dave, who passed away peacefully at his Columbus home on June 7, 2025, at the age of 63, was a visionary whose passion for local arts and entertainment resonated
through everything he touched. Alongside his beloved wife, Vicki, his influence extended from the pages of their magazine, Playgrounds, to the lively atmosphere of their bar, SOHO
Dave’s impact reached far beyond business. For many, he was more than just a bar owner or a magazine publisher; he was a mentor, a supporter, and for some, a cherished “bar daddy”—a testament to the warmth and paternal guidance he offered.
A Legacy Etched in Print and Performance
The very existence of The LocaL owes a debt of gratitude to Dave and Vicki’s groundbreaking work with Playgrounds Magazine. For two decades, from 1994 to 2014, Playgrounds served as a vital hub, connecting artists with audiences and shining a spotlight on the vibrant creative scene in our town. In a time when local arts and entertainment coverage was scarce, their dedication to showcasing local talent and promoting cultural events laid the groundwork for future publications like ours. Dave’s legacy wasn’t just in print; it vibrated through the walls of Soho Bar and Grill. For 23 years, from 2002 to 2024, Dave owned and managed Soho, transforming it into a legendary hotspot for live music.
Known for its welcoming ambiance and, of course, a good drink, SOHO became a legendary venue. Dave and Vicki brought an incredible array of bands to their stage, fostering a dynamic environment where music thrived and memories were made. Many musicians and patrons alike found a second home at Soho, a place where creativity was celebrated and good times were plentiful. As his longtime friend and employee Stephen Miller
profoundly put it, Dave was the face of Soho, building a “classically raunchy” base camp for “many a misfit to meet a friend, or get away for a while, or play their songs on stage, or just call home.”
Dave was a friend to his customers and a true mentor to his employees. His guidance and encouragement to “do better for themselves” left an indelible mark on countless individuals. Stephen Miller fondly recalled, “He was the guy who would tell me when I was doing wrong and praise me when I was doing right.” Barbara ‘Babs’ noted, “So many of us grew up with Dave as a ‘father figure’. He gave some of the best no-nonsense advice and sometimes told me things about myself that I didn’t necessarily wanna hear, but needed to.” Dave was, as Angie Ortiz aptly described, “a man for the people,” who “rooted for everyone” and was “brutally honest in the best way possible.”
Born on July 12, 1961, Dave grew up in Columbus, graduating from Hardaway High School in 1979 before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama. His early career saw him working with patients facing mental health challenges and substance use, specializing in adolescents and young adults. This nurturing spirit was a constant throughout his life, whether developing outdoor programming at the
Bradford Center or offering late-night talks, advice, and jokes at Soho. He was, as Stephen Miller concluded, “one of the good ones.”
Dave’s passing leaves a profound void that will be felt deeply by all who knew him. He was a cornerstone of our community, a man whose kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for the arts and for people left an
immeasurable impact. We extend our sincerest condolences to his devoted wife of 33 years, Vicki Carson, his son Dylan Nabors, his daughter Elizabeth Carson, and his brother Jim Carson. Their loss is shared by countless individuals whose lives were touched by Dave’s remarkable spirit. As Jimmy Golden simply stated, “I lost a good friend and great man in Dave Carson, go rest on that Mountain. We love and miss you.”
As we reflect on Dave Carson’s extraordinary life, we celebrate the enduring legacy he leaves behind. He showed us the power of passion, the importance of community, and the joy of a good song and a great story. In honor of Dave’s memory, the family has requested donations be made to MercyMed or Columbus Hospice. Additionally, a celebration of Dave’s life will be held on July 12th, with further details to be announced by SohoBar and Grill.
Thank you, Dave, for everything. Your spirit, your vision, and your profound impact on so many lives will forever be remembered and cherished. The Columbus community stands on the shoulders of giants like you, and your inspiration will continue to guide us.u
Discover The Vibrant
Phenix City Art Center & Gallery
Where Creativity Flourishes
By Natalie Downey
Painted flowers playfully climb the walls outside the Phenix City Art Center & Gallery, a whimsical invitation beckoning passersby to stop and explore. This often-overlooked gem, nestled serenely across from the beloved Idle Hour Park, is a remarkable space for art’s quiet power. It’s a beautiful, thriving location that many in the Columbus-Phenix City area might not even realize exists—a true local secret waiting to be discovered. Enter
this delightful structure, and you’ll find not just a gallery brimming with original paintings, but a place offering art classes to ignite creativity in people of all ages. Once inside, you’ll find a maze of artworks unfolding for you to explore, each space adorned with a stunning array of paintings. These beautiful creations were born from the hands of the Center’s own members, a visual showcase of the diverse expressions nurtured and celebrated within its walls.
Billy and Sue Walters’ shared passion has been the driving force behind the Center since 2022. As President and Second Vice President/Curator respectively, Billy and Sue continuously brainstorm innovative ways to share their love for art with the wider community. As a well-established nonprofit, the Center dedicates itself to offering a compelling schedule of art classes designed for every age group. Billy and Sue
lead the children’s and teen’s art classes each summer, transforming lessons into engaging adventures. Imagine young artists experimenting with painting on wood or even creating masterpieces with shaving cream. “We want kids to be creative and find something they love to do,” Billy explains with a smile. Sue, with her meticulous approach, begins planning these summer sessions as early as January, carefully researching and testing activities to ensure they resonate with young minds.
Sue’s own artistic journey began at just 14, a passion she cultivated even through two decades working for the school board. Her particular joy lies in teaching the summer teen classes, where she guides students
through the fascinating world of color mixing, mastering various brushes, and exploring diverse paint types. Their dedication extends beyond the classroom; each summer, Sue brings art directly to the community, painting engaging and colorful prompts onto the sidewalks of Idle Hour Park, subtly encouraging kids to move, play, andAtexplore. the Center, inclusivity is paramount. Anyone over the age of 18 can become a member, with affordable annual fees of just $30, or $35 for a couple. Members instantly become part of a warm, supportive community, enjoying fellowship with other local artists at classes and monthly meetings. Crucially, they also gain the coveted
opportunity to display and even sell their art right within the Center’s vibrant gallery. The array of adult classes is equally impressive, welcoming everyone from curious novices to seasoned creators. These workshops span a wide spectrum of techniques and media—from acrylics to delicate watercolors and foundational drawing. Art is not confined to just an easel and brush either; classes extend to jewelry making, ceramics, and even the art of repurposing old clothes.
Both Billy and Sue are living examples of this artistic inclusivity. Billy, who only began creating art three years ago, has a unique specialty: crafting pieces with chains and paint. “I can’t use a brush,” Billy admits with a chuckle, “But I can still make art.” Sue, on the other hand, masterfully creates abstract images using an intriguing pouring technique. Their distinct creations are proudly displayed throughout the gallery, blending with other local works.
Since Billy stepped into the President’s role in 2022, the Center has seen remarkable growth. Its art gallery collection has exploded from a mere handful of paintings to over 300 stunning creations, and its membership has more than doubled. He and Sue, alongside the entire board, share an unwavering passion for empowering local artists, providing a nurturing space for learning new skills, and cultivating a vibrant community where artists can truly flourish. The Center actively gives back
Billy & Sue Walters
Artwork By Dot Garza
to the community that supports it.
Funds raised through classes enable them to offer tangible support, including presenting $500 scholarships to two deserving local students—one from Central High School and another from Russell County Schools. Perhaps the most heartwarming display of the Center’s welcoming spirit is its oldest member, who recently celebrated her 101st birthday
and still actively attends meetings and creates art “We threw her a party when she turned 100 last year,” Sue recalls with a fond smile.
Whether you’re interested in learning a new skill, making new friends, or simply soaking in the beauty of local art, the Phenix City Art Center is the perfect place to explore the boundless world of artistic expression. Anyone is welcome to stop by during open hours to enjoy the art or even purchase a unique piece to take home. Those interested in teaching classes can also reach out to Billy directly.
You can visit the Phenix City Art Center Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.. You can find them at 1002 Airport Road in Phenix City. For more information, visit their website: www. phenixcityartcenter.com. u
Artwork By Sue Walters
