Table of Contents November 30, 2017
Insider Jenny is Wright Kris Fisher Whine Line Feature Holiday Help What’s Up Calendar Nightlife The Eight Sightings
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Amanda Main
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Contributors Jenny Wright, Austin Rhodes, Kris Fisher, Michael Johnson
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Metro Spirit is a free newspaper published weekly on Thursday, 52 weeks a year. Editorial coverage includes local issues and news, arts, entertainment, people, places and events. In our paper appear views from across the political and social spectrum. The views do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Visit us at metrospirit.com.Š 15 House, LLC. Owner/Publisher: Joe White. Legal: Phillip Scott Hibbard. Reproduction or use without permission is prohibited. One copy per person, please.
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Future of the Arena Goes to Augusta Commissioners WELL FOLKS, they did it again. But this time they took it even a step further. The Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority voted 4-2 on Tuesday, Nov. 28, to approve a deal offered by the owners of the former Regency Mall property. While Coliseum Authority Attorney Ed Enoch did not immediately share the proposed deal offered by Regency Mall owner Cardinal Management with the media, word quickly spread about the terms of the agreement from folks close to the situation who are outraged by the proposal. Basically, if the coliseum authority agrees to build at least a 12,000-seat arena on its property, Cardinal Management will agree to “gift” the city 10 acres of property at the south Augusta site that the company owns. Specifically, it will be the 10 acres on which the former Montgomery Ward store currently sits. However, the city needs at least three times that amount of land to build the new $120 million civic center, so the authority will still have to agree to build this state-of-the-art facility on property owned by Cardinal Management. That should have been the first big red flag. Here is the next one: The city must agree to abate all property taxes on the mall property for 10 years. But there’s more. The authority also must agree to redo the asphalt, take care of the landscaping, install lighting, provide drainage and utilities and do all the necessary maintenance on the entire mall property for five years. Only after five years will the authority be responsible for just the nearly 30 acres of property and parking needed for the new arena, rather than the entire property. The authority also must be willing to pay for maintenance, insurance and property taxes on the almost 30-acre arena parking site for the entire life of the arena. In exchange for all that, Cardinal Management will “retain the right” to develop the remaining former mall property that it owns. However, if the company does build on its property, Cardinal Management must stick to “compatible uses” for the land such as restaurants, office space, hotels and retail. So, there it is folks. The deal that stinks all the way from Gordon Highway down to Savannah River and back. But four coliseum authority members still chose to support the proposal despite the very vocal objections of the authority’s Vice Chairman Brad Usry and authority member John Kelley. Usry was clearly in disbelief that coliseum authority members were accepting Cardinal Management’s proposal. “I just want to go on record that I’m very uncomfortable with these terms,” Usry told his fellow coliseum authority members. “And I’m very 4 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
uncomfortable with us ignoring the recommendations of the architects we hired.” He asked his colleagues that, if the Augusta Commission rejects this proposal by Cardinal Management, that the authority “should move on.” After the vote, four Augusta commissioners — who were actually allowed to stay in the closed-door legal meeting despite protests from members of the media, specifically by WJBF Senior Reporter George Eskola — said that they still have very mixed feelings about the proposal from Cardinal Management. “Right now, I still don’t believe that it’s a good situation for the city,” Augusta Commissioner Dennis Williams said. “And that’s what we have to be absolutely sure in our evaluation as to which way to vote that is good for the city, overall. And we don’t want to have an arena out there on somebody else’s property just for the mere sake of having it out there.” Williams said he is uncomfortable with many aspects of Cardinal’s proposal. “It is going to cost the city more than what it is worth,” Williams said. “We just have to look really closely at the arrangement.” The coliseum authority told commissioners that they would receive a copy of Cardinal’s proposal within the next 24 hours. “I want to be able to get the document in my hands, sit down, go through it and make a good firm decision,” Williams said. However, Williams said he was very optimistic that it wouldn’t take the Augusta Commission very long to make a final vote on the Cardinal’s offer. “I haven’t really seen anything that was good for the city in this whole situation, so it shouldn’t require a lot of thought in determining that it is not good for the city,” Williams said. “It don’t think it will take long.” However, Augusta Commissioner Bill Fennoy
wasn’t so sure. “I want to see it in writing because we weren’t involved in the discussion during the coliseum authority meeting,” Fennoy said. “I think it is important for my colleagues and I to see what they are proposing and to have some discussions around what is being proposed and see if it is something that we as commissioners can live with.” Fennoy, whose district includes the downtown area, said he still likes the Regency Mall location for the arena. “I don’t like quick decisions, and I don’t support a quick decision because a $120 million arena should not be a decision that is made quickly,” Fennoy said. “It should be given some thought and some careful consideration, and that’s what I’m going to do before I cast my vote because I still like the location.” Augusta Commissioner Ben Hasan said he still has serious doubts about the deal. “I haven’t had a chance to look at the proposal, but I’m somewhat still leery of it because all of it goes back to my initial sit-down with the Cardinale family a couple of months ago,” Hasan said. “Back then, I didn’t see where they were looking to make an actual investment in Augusta. And I am still getting the feeling that they are not willing to make a hard investment like they are expecting our local government will do.” Immediately after the vote, Augusta Commissioner Sammie Sias said he appreciated the fact that the coliseum authority made a decision and moved the item to the Augusta Commission for its consideration. “We will get a chance to look at it,” Sias said. “And I don’t think the commission is going to take as long as this has been going on to make a decision on this proposal. I think you will see a very quick response to it.” 30NOVEMBER2017
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Bringing South Augusta Back to Life Over the pASt few weekS, the Metro Spirit staff and The Insider have spent a lot of time and taken up a great deal of space in the paper covering the conversations surrounding the future site of the proposed $120 million James Brown Arena in Augusta. The paper has highlighted commissioners’ views on the arena, covered the Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority meetings, talked to the experts involved in ranking the sites, reviewed the offers made by the owners of Regency Mall and tried to understand why Mayor Hardie Davis feels so strongly about building the new arena in south Augusta. The Metro Spirit has also given local developer and businessman Clay Boardman a platform to discuss the matter. Why? Despite what some readers may think, it’s not because he’s rich or he’s white or he’s from a prominent Augusta family. It’s because he has a proven track record of success throughout this community (including south Augusta) and he’s not afraid to speak out against an idea he feels so strongly against. Say what you will about Boardman, but he isn’t turning his back on south Augusta. In fact, just this past week, he wrote to the Augusta Commission offering some help.
The following is Boardman’s letter last week to commissioners: Most of you know how I feel about the arena location and I appreciate your courageous vote in favor of “calling the question” on the ill-fated discussions with the Regency Mall owners. They appear to be “bad owners” who don’t have a concern for Augusta and have been bad stewards of their property for many years. There are many possible solutions for what could be at Regency Mall, but it will require investment on the owner’s part and I have little hope that they will ever come through. They seem to want a free ride and blank check from the City — heck, all of us would like the same deal! Should you ever want to form a very small group to approach these owners and press for a solution to better utilize the property, I would be happy to help. There are many ideas out there to redevelop the property, but an arena as the starting point is ill-advised. I do want to ensure that you know that I am not anti-south Augusta. As I have stated before, my most valuable asset is in south Augusta and I worked a block away from the mall for 14 years and still own property near the mall. Its redevelopment would be very welcomed by me civically and personally. Last Tuesday when I was meeting with the Mayor and Ed Tarver, I suggested that if the City wanted to make an investment in south Augusta, that I would certainly be interested in designing a list of targeted, strategic 6 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
investments by the City to make the area more inviting, more receptive to investors. A SPLOST-like targeted list of investment initiatives financed by the City could be developed with input from the community in south Augusta and Augusta as a whole. I want south Augusta to succeed – it is part of “my” Augusta and all of Augusta is important to me. We have invested tens of millions in Laney-Walker/Bethlehem, downtown and other areas in an effort to jumpstart their rebirth. It may be time to add additional focus to the south side of the City. I am happy to help in this effort if you wish. I appreciate your help yesterday in doing what’s right for all of Augusta. You should be proud as I am. I am also thankful for your courage to do the right thing. That is leadership and is something that has been missing at certain times in Augusta. Thank you for that. Kind regards and many wishes for a happy Thanksgiving for you and your families. Sincerely, Clay Believe it or not, Boardman cares about Augusta. All of Augusta. So much so that he is willing to volunteer his time to help jumpstart growth in south Augusta. He’s not all talk. He’s taking action. The Augusta Commission and all Richmond County residents should hear him out. Boardman doesn’t want to bury south Augusta. He wants to bring it back to life. 30NOVEMBER2017
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Conversations That Keep You Up At Night Jenny is Wright YOU KNOW THOSE CONVERSATIONS that just stick with you? The ones that wake you at 3 in the morning? I feel like the queen of those sometimes. You know, guys, like when you ask if a woman is pregnant, but she isn’t? I’ve gotten much better about it over the years, learning to bite my tongue and think before I speak. I have a bad habit of saying, “you, too.” It’s almost a reflex, and my guess is it comes from a mostly Southern upbringing where manners matter most. “I hope your dog enjoys his new toy,” says the lady at the pet store. “You, too,” I quip back. I mean, I guess she could have a dog who just got a toy, but one shouldn’t assume. Once, a friend was praised for making a gutsy life move to another town, and I reacted with, “So what? I did that before.” Why would I say that? I was excited for her. I knew how hard it was to pick everything up and move away, but I muttered those negative words and haven’t forgotten it. Guilty pangs, 3 a.m. Not all memorable conversations are bad, though. One of the hardest I’ve had in my life has also become one of the most important. When my mom was very sick, weeks from dying, her doctor wasn’t quite as forthcoming as he needed to be. He was a relatively good physician, but his bedside manner left something to be desired. Although he told her they’d run out of treatment options, she didn’t understand. She desperately wanted to attend my brother’s wedding. We had to tell her she wouldn’t. My brother and I sat at the foot of her bed and explained that her body had become too weak to tolerate the chemo needed to cure her. She cried. We cried. It was hard. It was worse than that, really. She
asked about other curative measures her doctor previously mentioned, and we held her hand and quietly told her, no, not those either. Out of that conversation came a beautiful moment. A soft light in an otherwise dark room. Mom smiled. She relaxed. She looked at me and said, “thank you.” She was relieved to know the truth. After that, she napped, and a little later she rode in an ambulance to the hospice facility where, a week later, she’d take her last breath. If having that as one of the most important conversations in my life sounds morbid, so be it, but it was just that. It was lovely and profound. Knowing she trusted us as much as she did, that life had come full circle, with her children taking care of her, mattered the most. There are so many unfinished conversations, ruined without a chance to fully explain ourselves. We wonder if we should go back, or have faith that the universe will unfold as it should. The finished ones might not’ve gone how we’d hoped. I’ve shaken my head and rolled my eyes at myself more times than I care to think about. Remember, I’m trying to avoid those 3 a.m. OMG wake-ups. Others are perfectly imperfect, and the rest fall somewhere in the middle of all that, but if there’s one thing to remember from all this, y’all: never, ever ask a woman if she is pregnant, unless you can see the baby coming out of her. JENNY WRIGHT’S humorous observations on marriage, motherhood and living in Augusta have earned her a devoted following, both in print and on Facebook. When she’s not spying on other parents in the carpool line at school, you’ll probably find her with either a camera, tennis racquet or wine glass in her hand.
Book your holiday party with us! 1204b Broad St. Augusta, GA 30901
For inquiries email: megan@froghollowgroup.com 30NOVEMBER2017
Photo by Lauren Carnes AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
METROSPIRIT 9
hope i Die Before i Get Old Kris fisher
Well, it’s finally here. I’ve dreaded this day for a long time. I remember seeing other people go through it my whole life. Some handled it well, some handled it like … well, like I’m handling it, which is to say: not very well at all. This Saturday, I’m turning 40. I know it’s not as bad as I’m making it out to be. It’s just that, like my youngest son, I don’t want to grow up. It seems like just yesterday I was turning in my homework late, cutting school to do things I had no business doing and making terrible decisions because of a girl. Now I’ve got three kids, one of which is driving me crazy by doing all of those things I mentioned before. By the way, that one is two years from being an adult. Ya get that? I’m two years away from being a parent of an adult, which means, if he decided to start early, I could actually become a grandfather in two years or so… which will be detrimental to my son’s health, because I’ll kill him. But, I digress. To make matters worse, I’ve stopped shaving my (usually bald) head for ‘No-Shave November.’ Not only is my hair only growing back on 2/3 of my head, but the hair that is growing back has a few specks of gray… well, maybe shades of gray… ok, fine, it’s totally gray. My anxiety about turning 40 is really uncalled for. Life is good. I don’t necessarily feel 40, so I’m trying to talk myself back from the ledge a bit. It helps that I’m kicking off my birthday with a six-mile run through Evans. The Jingle Jam 10K always falls on my birthday weekend. That it falls ON my 40th birthday this year was just a stroke of luck. So, kicking off my birthday by knocking down a few miles (because, hey, some 40-year-olds can’t) and by helping to support families suffering from domestic violence through SafeHomes of Augusta? I can’t think of a better way to crest the hill. Follow that up with the ‘Dawgs playing in the SEC Championship game (and probably losing, because Georgia sports) and I’ve got myself a nice li’l introduction to 40. It helps that, even though I’m turning 40, I sometimes still feel like I should be that teenager that has to answer to my parents or a teacher. Then I have to remind myself that, y’know what, I can buy candy anytime I want and I don’t even have to ask to borrow a few dollars from mom. I can eat fast food every day of the week if I want. I can even stay up late and watch R-rated movies, and no one will yell at me — and that’s pretty flippin’ awesome! So, bring on the black balloons and the “over-the-hill” jokes. 40, I’ve dreaded you for pretty much my whole life. But I’m ready for ya. KRIS FISHER is the midday host and program director for HD98.3 and an Augusta radio staple. He is a husband, father of three and lover of all things adventurous, as well as activities most people would have outgrown years ago. djkfish.com. 30NOVEMBER2017
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The race card again is thrown on the table. President Trumps statements gave no racial attack or inflection but now the race card is thrown by the attackers. I am sick of the racist blacks throwing the race card! inappropriate sexual actions are everywhere. And yes, it is difficult to bury inappropriate actions against oneself even after 20 plus years. Yes, me too, now an older male who was inappropriately touched in my crotch by a male coworker over 20 years ago, the incident reported to management, the incident was brushed off by management and the offender later given promotions to management positions.
WHINELINE@THEMETROSPIRIT.COM
Have something you want to get off your chest? Send your whines to whineline@themetrospirit.com. The Metro Spirit reserves the right to edit submitted whines for content, but we will otherwise print them pretty much exactly as you type them… spelling errors and all.
Can yal tell me how we went from like 5 cops to 200 in Burke County with all new cars? We about the poorest county out there so where’s that money coming from and why don’t none of them cops live in Burke county. With the way women think today, why would any man want to get a wfie? Stay single guys. Remember, the Bible says live your life for God, not live your life for woman. Women have caused the destuction of the fabrick of society. God put the man in charge, women manipulated the court systems, and made fruits out of men. Each and every married men lives an imprissoned live, or just misserable.
Few women had expectations for O’Reilly or Clinton to behave decently, but we did for Cosby, Rose and Franken. Now they, too, have turned out to be like so many other men who have taken deeply unfair advantage of women, usually younger, and always subordinate. This has nothing to do with political affiliation, liberal or conservative
The solution to the Augusta areas traffic problem is to ban all cars that are not paid for from the roads.
leanings, or religious faith. No, it only has to do with men abusing power. Whatch out Richmond County, you are about to lose your finest piece of green space and It can never be replaced ... The “Jewel of Augusta” Pendelton King Park has a contract on it to be sold to a developer. The City has Known that the park lease was up, they have referred to it in their masterplan. Hog wash … In action speaks volumes. Get Vical people or one day you will realize it’s to late!!! Speaking of stuffed turkey, isn’t Scott Johnson done yet? I pity you poor folks in Richmond County. The mayor and commission have maxed out your property taxes and now want to waste millions on a new arena. Do what smart people do and leave that bunch to wallow in their selfinflicted bankruptcy. Cross needs to quit his water bill rhetoric!
... What The Hell?
The best actors in America are not in Hollywood. They are the racists who pretend not to be racists, the followers of Lucifer who pretend to follow Jesus, and the sellouts who pretend to represent the interests of black people. Why is it allowed that people on Atomic Road heading to SRS can drive 90mph and there are no cops in sight? I never see police on Atomic Road during the rush hours to and from SRS. Does no one realize how unsafe this is? If you are going the speed limit, people ride your bumper and swerve around you. Anyone out there doing their job? Republicans say that their tax cut is for the middle class (tax cuts expire after a few years) and not the rich (tax cuts never expire). They say that if companies see their taxes cut they will raise wages. What do you think your company will do when they lower their taxes? Now what argument is fake? Vladimir Putin denies any meddling in our election. Roy Moore denies the many allegations of sexual misconduct that have been directed toward him. By the gospel according to trump, all allegations in either case are not true, because these two fine upstanding gentlemen have denied them. And this is the world we have to deal with. I am SICK and TIRED of these people whining and crying about how terrible our CSRA is! If it is so bad then just leave ... Bye-Bye, whiny poo-poo pants crybabies! We will not miss you at all. 12 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
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The view from above TranterGrey media Group is soaring above its competition in video production, especially from the air
rheTT bailey, vice president of TranterGrey Media Group, can’t say for sure that the Evans-based marketing and media company was the first in the Augusta area to use drones as part of its video production services, but it definitely started the trend. “We have always been on the forefront of video, that’s for sure,” Bailey said, just hours after returning from working on a video production in Seattle and catching a red-eye flight home. “I don’t want to say that we were the first ones to fly drones commercially around here because that may not be true, but we were definitely one of the first. In fact, in the beginning, we had other agencies calling us to ask how much it would cost for us to fly a drone for them. That sort of stuff.” When Bailey joined TranterGrey about five years ago after working for Levi Strauss in San Francisco, he was anxious to grow the company’s video production department. TranterGrey’s early use of dramatic and exciting footage with drones definitely caught people’s attention. “I guess we don’t want to necessarily be known as a drone company,” Bailey said, chuckling. “We want to be known as a video production company that makes highquality content. Drones are a part of our toolset. But so are different lenses and our different cameras, so there are all kinds of tools we use in order to get the shots that we need.” While TranterGrey Media is a full-service marketing and media company that specializes in a variety of different areas including graphic design, webpage development, app creation, billboards, direct mailing and television and radio 14 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
By Stacey Eidson
commercials, Bailey let his passion lead the way. “My heart is really into video production,” Bailey said. “And as the years have gone on, it has morphed into video with a much more creative focus. When I came along here about five years ago, we were doing creative, but the creative that were doing here was based on being a marketing agent and placing media. So we were shooting commercials and we were telling people, ‘Hey, we will do these inexpensive commercial for you, as long as we could place it, that’s what we’ll do.’” Bailey said he wanted to think bigger. “I wanted to do it a bit differently,” he said. “I saw the trends going towards a lot of digital. I felt like when you have a creative agency you can go one of two ways: one way is to concentrate on developing websites or, the other way is you can start with video production.” While TranterGrey also offers webpage development, Bailey put a lot of time, energy and money into expanding the company’s video production division. “It was kind of like, you know how when you were kid and everybody was listening to ska music and you could either go punk rock or reggae? You just had to make a choice of which direction you wanted to go,” Bailey said, laughing. “This was kind of the same thing. We chose to go the route of video production. And it is expensive and time consuming, but I saw it as an important step.” Due to the strength and long-term success of TranterGrey’s parent company, SuperSaver Coupon, Bailey said he was given the freedom to make that leap. 30NOVEMBER2017
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“I guess we don’t want to necessarily be known as a drone company. We want to be known as a video production company that makes high-quality content. Drones are a part of our toolset. But so are different lenses and our different cameras, so there are all kinds of tools we use in order to get the shots that we need.” — Rhett Bailey, vice president of TranterGrey Media Group “SuperSaver has always done well and, at the time, SuperSaver was the parent company,” Bailey said. “Now, it’s our sister company.” His father, Blane Bailey, has worked in advertising in the Augusta market for about 25 years. He started doing direct mail with Jones Intercable back in 1992, and he was the first person to do co-op direct mail in the area. Finally, in 1994, he formed his own company, SuperSaver Coupon. The direct-mail business funded what Rhett Bailey describes as the family’s “true passion,” which is TranterGrey. The full-service agency was formed by his father more than a decade ago and has been thriving ever since. “When I came here, I just started this transition into a creative agency,” Rhett Bailey
said. “Transition is a little tough because we still have a great team that places media and so, we still do those things, we just do a lot less local videos than what we were doing before. Most of what we do, we do out of town, on bigger projects.” In fact, TranterGrey is now a multiple Emmy Award winning company that regularly travels both nationally and internationally on video production projects. “In the last six weeks, we’ve been to Chicago, New York, Africa for two weeks, Tuscaloosa, Ala., Minneapolis, Las Vegas and Seattle,” Rhett Bailey said, smiling. “We’ve been to all of those places over the past several weeks, so it can get a little crazy.” Rhett Bailey said he is finally getting to the point that he can sleep on the airplane to get some much-needed rest. “We went to New York City where we did New York Fashion Week, which it is insane,” Rhett Bailey said, laughing. “At New York Fashion Week, you see the most pretentious, craziest, most self-centered event that happens in the United States. Or at least of any event that I’ve seen or been a part of. And then, we transitioned to the next week being in Africa and working on a video production of people not having any clean
“It is nice when a client allows you to be really creative, and not even out-of-the-box creative, but just something impactful. Those are the jobs that are the most fulfilling for me.” 30NOVEMBER2017
— Tyler Jackson, TranterGrey’s vice president of creative services AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
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December 1 - 3 Friday, December 1 Concert and Carnival in the Square Lexington Square Park 6pm-8pm *Tree Lighting at 8pm* Saturday, December 2 Movies in the Park Icehouse Amphitheater 5pm - 9pm *Movie Starts at 5:30pm* Frosty’s Winter Wonderland - G It’s A Wonderful Life – PG Sunday, December 3 Lexington Christmas Parade Main St. 3:30pm For more information visit www.lexsc.com or contact 803-356-8238. FREE Admission to all events listed.
“We went to New York City where we did New York Fashion Week, which it is insane. At New York Fashion Week, you see the most pretentious, craziest, most selfcentered event that happens in the United States. Or at least of any event that I’ve seen or been a part of. And then, we transitioned to the next week being in Africa and working on a video production of people not having any clean water to drink and seeing those kinds of conditions in comparison. The contrast was shocking.” — Rhett Bailey, vice president of TranterGrey Media Group
30NOVEMBER2017
water to drink and seeing those kinds of conditions in comparison. The contrast was shocking.” TranterGrey traveled to Africa to work on a video for the Spartanburg, S.C.-based organization, Lead Like Jesus, Rhett Bailey said. “We shot video for the Christian company, Lead Like Jesus, which was founded by Ken Blanchard, the author of ‘The One Minute Manager,’” he said. Basically, Blanchard began the organization with his longtime friend, Phil Hodges, after studying the Bible and becoming fascinated with how “Jesus led perfectly in every way,” according to the group’s website. Therefore, Lead Like Jesus is meant to help inspire and equip people to not only live, but lead like Jesus. It has become a global organization that partners with established ministries throughout Africa to help those struggling communities, Rhett Bailey said. “It was an incredible opportunity,” Rhett Bailey said. “And it’s exciting to see how much we have evolved. These days, one job may take two or three months as opposed to, in the past, where we would have three jobs in a week. Now, it is us just being a little more picky and choosy about jobs. The clients that we are taking on have a little more robust projects, which is exciting for us.” Along with traveling to places like Africa and New York City, TranterGrey is also working on several major productions in the South. “We were in Pinehurst, N.C., shooting some stuff that we can’t really talk too much about,” Rhett Bailey said. “There is a person who is trying to start a new major league organization. I can’t name the sport, but there is a major league organization that he is trying to start so it was like a $400,000 production.” While Rhett Bailey jokingly described his role at the company as more “client relations” based, he said TranterGrey’s vice president of creative services, Tyler Jackson, really drives the video production team. “It is nice when a client allows you to be really creative, and not even out-of-the-box creative, but just something impactful,” Jackson said. “Those are the jobs that are the most fulfilling for me.” One of TranterGrey’s goals is to get more of those kinds of creative video production jobs over the next few years, Rhett Bailey said. “Tyler and I work really well together,” he said. “Our passion really is the creative side. When I came here from San Francisco, I knew that I wanted to do something fun and creative, so Tyler and I were on the same page with that. And he was already doing it. He has been here eight years, and we’ve continue to grow creatively since then.” Part of that creativity has been developing quality footage, including the everpopular video using drones. “We use drones a lot now,” Rhett Bailey said. “We have two drones: one that we have travels with us and one that we usually use locally just because of size and they
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“You can buy a $1,000 drone now and get that shot, where before you had to rent a helicopter and a pilot, which was really expensive. With a drone, you spend $1,000, and you can use it for years and years and years. Even if you use it one time, you are getting something the equivalent of footage that would have cost you $10,000 or more to get before drones came along.” — Rhett Bailey, vice president of TranterGrey Media Group have different camera specs and that sort of thing. But these days, drones are a dime a dozen. You can go and buy the same drone that we travel with at Costco for about $1,000. So, anybody who wants to start a drone company can easily go buy a drone and get licensed for it.” But not everyone can provide quality video and footage using drones, he said. “It is an aspect of what we do, but we do see a lot of drone work where people only use drones,” Rhett Bailey said, adding that he wanted to be careful not to offend anyone. “We don’t just use drones. We pepper it throughout the video. There’s a difference.” However, there are certain businesses like real estate companies that need a lot of aerial footage in commercials and drones are a perfect way to accomplish those shots for not that much money, he said. “You can buy a $1,000 drone now and get that shot, where before you had to rent a helicopter and a pilot, which was really expensive,” he said. “With a drone, you spend $1,000, and you can use it for years and years and years. Even if you use it one time, you are getting something the equivalent of footage that would have cost you $10,000 or more to get before drones came along.” And the ease in which people can now get drones and operate them is incredible, he said. “They have just become dummy proof now,” Rhett Bailey said, laughing. “The drones that we had before, we built them ourselves, we wired them, we soldered them, we programed them and we did all the software updates. It was a lot of work, so if we broke or lost them, it was a big deal. Now, you pull a drone out of the box and it’s ready to go. And they are a whole safer than they were before. It’s amazing now.” But in order to have a quality video production, you need a lot more than just a drone, Rhett Bailey said. In fact, TranterGrey has invested in some RED Digital cameras that can be as expensive as $80,000 each. Basically, RED cameras were developed to allow cinemastyle shooting like as in a traditional film camera, but instead of shooting film the RED cameras shoot digitally. RED cameras are used throughout the film industry, even in major motion pictures such as “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and “Transformers: The Last Knight.” “It’s an expensive camera,” Rhett Bailey said. “Fortunately, they came out with a new model that’s more affordable that’s around the $20,000 price range. But we shoot with 18 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
that stuff, and we are constantly trying to do a better job than what we’ve done before. Luckily, we have won three Emmys for the work that we’ve done and a bunch of ADDY Awards. So, our work has a whole new quality that people are recognizing.” In 2015, TranterGrey won an Emmy for the “Text & Drive” public service announcement which was a campaign that 1 Hour Optical sponsored to remind people to not text and drive. That same year, the company won another Emmy for a public service announcement with the same anti-texting commercial and an anti-teen drinking commercial sponsored by Advantage Behavioral Health System. Companies are finally realizing the value of an excellent video production, but Rhett Bailey said it has been a battle at times to prove that such quality comes at a price. “People see paying for video as a worthy cause when they are putting it on television, but when they are putting it on internet, which is actually going to be seen more than the TV, they feel like it is of a lesser value,” Rhett Bailey said. “They say that they just need something quick for their Facebook page.” It has taken some time, but companies are beginning to see that they need to offer quality video footage, especially on the internet, Rhett Bailey said. “Everything is driven towards video now,” he said. “Every bit of marketing and every bit of information. The truth is, nobody wants to read anymore. People want to hear about it, see about it and laugh about it on video, so video can really create an image for your brand that you can’t capture anywhere else. That’s what we’re doing.” He said he can’t wait to see how TranterGrey evolves over the next decade. “We want to take on additional clients that are even more forward thinking and have larger projects,” he said. “I think we all have the desire to make some sort of short film and movie one day. But, even more importantly, I want to see every employee that is here fulfilled in their position.” It is important for all TranterGrey employees to enjoy what they do, each and every day, Rhett Bailey said. “I want them to feel like they are supported and they can financially support their family and their livelihood doing what they love to do,” he said. “So, a goal of mine is to make sure that everybody who is here feels like it is the best place to work and they are proud of the product they are producing every day.” 30NOVEMBER2017
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Help out!
Give others a hand this holiday season PeoPle are in need year-round, but people tend to find themselves wanting to help others more around the holidays. There are so many ways to help in the CSRA. It might be time for you and your family to make helping others a holiday tradition — if you don’t do that already. Children’s Hospital of Georgia: donation drive The Children’s Hospital in downtown Augusta will have large bins in the main lobby between Monday, Dec. 18, through Friday, Dec. 22. Most of the items donated will be used as Christmas gifts, but what doesn’t get used at Christmas will be used throughout the year to fill hospital playrooms, in the DinoStore (where kids having surgery can pick out a toy), for birthdays and for prizes. The list of needed items includes: rattles for babies (it’s a big need); infant toys (especially things that light up and make noise); Rock-N-Stack Rings; shape sorters; Fisher Price animal puzzles; Fisher Price school buses or airplanes with people; Fisher Price doctor sets; board games like “Candy Land” and “Chutes and Ladders”; card games (regular playing cards, and especially UNO; hand-held games like Bop It and Simon Air; and virtual reality goggles like Dream Vision. The Children’s Hospital of Georgia is at 1446 Harper Street in Augusta. Call 706-721-5437.
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Jim Hudson lexus: donation drive Each year, this store hosts 15 Gifts of Christmas, a large donation drive that runs for a month through Dec. 15. All donations must be brand new. Jim Hudson Lexus is collecting toys for all ages for the James Brown Family Foundation, Bridge Ministries and New Bethlehem Community Center; board games and stuffed animals for the James Brown Family Foundation and Child Enrichment; toothpaste for Rape Crisis, Grace House and Augusta Warrior Project; washcloths for Rape Crisis; laundry detergent for ACTS Aiken; Kleenex (small packs and boxes) for ACTS Aiken, Rape Crisis and Lydia Project; paper towels for the Ronald McDonald House and ACTS Aiken; hardback story books for kindergartners through fifth-graders for Communities in Schools; diapers for Communities in Schools and the Hope House; spiral notebooks for Grace House and Hope House; adult coloring books, children’s coloring books, colored pencils and crayons for SafeHomes; disinfectant wipes for the Ronald McDonald House; healthy snacks for Bridge Ministry, New Bethlehem Community Center and Augusta Warrior Project; children’s socks for New Bethlehem Community Center; and pencils and pens for Hope House and Lydia Project. The Augusta Warrior Project also needs gas gift cards because of transportation issues for their clients. Jim Hudson Lexus is at 3520 Washington Road in Martinez. Call 706-650-9999.
By Amanda Main Grace House augusta: donation drive Grace House Augusta, a drug and alcohol treatment center for women, takes donations throughout the year. Most of the women who go there come in with nothing, so for the holidays this year, they are seeking gift cards to places like Walmart and Target so that they can buy what suits them, whether it’s personal hygiene items or job interview clothes. Grace House also accepts items like notebooks, socks, lotion, lip balm and more. Call 912-258-9939. aCTS aiken: Community Christmas Store ACTS stands for “Area Churches Together Serving,” and the Aiken location partners with First Presbyterian Church to create an affordable place where low-income people can shop for new toys, clothing and other gifts for Christmas. The store will be open from Dec. 4 through Dec. 8, by appointment only. The store will need donations of all kinds of new items, especially teen-size and husky jeans. Volunteer opportunities are available, to help with pricing and bundling items and to assist shoppers with finding things and with gift-wrapping items. The Christmas store will be located in the ACTS Resale Store at 401 Hayne Ave., in Aiken. Call 803649-3800 to find out more.
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James Brown Family Foundation: James Brown Toy Giveaway This annual tradition will be taking place at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 22. Donors can give on the website at jamesbrownfamilyfdn.org, and there will also be two toy drives in December — bring new, unwrapped toys to Walmart on Deans Bridge Road from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 2 and to Walmart in North Augusta from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 9. The James Brown Family Foundation will accept donations for the toy giveaway through Dec. 21. Call 803-640-2090. Bridge Ministry of the CSRA: donation drive and volunteering This nonprofit organization helps innercity poor and homeless people 50 Saturdays a year under the Calhoun Expressway on 15th Street. Just a couple of days before Christmas, on Dec. 23, the organization will be providing nearly 1,000 Christmas meals to those in need, as well as 600 gift bags for adults and 300 gift bags for children. Needed items include socks, hats, gloves, scarves, hygiene products, candy, snacks and toys for babies on up to 12-yearolds. The deadline for receiving gifts is Dec. 20 at the warehouse at 715 S. Old Belair Road in Grovetown. Volunteers may show up under the bridge to help out on Dec. 23 by 11 a.m. Call 706-210-5711.
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Jim Hudson Lexus’ 15 Gifts of Christmas
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Child Enrichment (Child Advocacy Center): donation drive Child Enrichment works tirelessly to help abused children, and they are in need of donations for their clothing closet throughout the year. Bring your new and gently used clothing donations to their location at 2300 Walden Drive in Augusta. Right now, they are in need of teen-size winter wear like coats, hats and gloves, and they especially need donations for teen boys. The organization also takes monetary donations, socks, underwear, and basically anything you need at your home and office. There also are many volunteer opportunities. Visit childenrichment.org or call 706-737-4631. Communities in Schools: donation drives and volunteering This organization works inside schools with students from kindergarten to 12th grade, helping build relationships with students to help them with school and prepare them for life beyond. For the holidays, the organization is gathering donations of toys and books for boys and girls ages 5-12. The gifts must be modest (no electronics, bicycles, iPads, etc.). Deadline for the gift donation is Dec. 11 — call 706-550-7716 for drop-off location. And all year round, the organization helps struggling families and students with unmet needs — Communities in Schools is looking for donations of gift cards in increments of less than $50, and these can include VISA and MasterCard gift cards or cards to grocery stores, Walmart, Big Lots and dollar stores. You also can donate school supplies, food, transportation, clothes, coats, shoes, glasses, adaptive aids and child care. Communities in Schools also helps teenaged mothers and takes boxes of diapers (newborn and up), nonperishable baby food items and baby clothes. For more information on donations, email dkalliokoski@cisaugusta.org or call 706-550-7716. And volunteers can help out with things like reading to children, helping them with basic education skills and high school math. To find out more about volunteer needs, email salias@cisaugusta.org or call 706-5507716. Visit communitiesinschools.org.
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Golden Harvest Food Bank: volunteering The food bank serves a hot lunch to about 300 people in need every day of the year, and they need volunteers to help provide that lunch. Volunteer needs include greeting guests, prepping and serving food, cleaning as well as playing music or offering a blessing for the meal. Five to 10 people are needed daily from 8:30 a.m. to noon for kitchen and meal prep (you must be at least 18 to work in the kitchen). Younger volunteers can get in the action, too, though — 10 to 16 dining room service and clean-up volunteers are needed from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and they can be 13 and older. Register online at goldenharvest.org/ volunteer/opportunities or call 706-736-1199. Toys for Tots: donation drive Toys for Tots is one of the most well-known holiday season toy drives, but it’s definitely worth mentioning. The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve collects new, unwrapped toys to give to less fortunate children in the same community where the toys are collected. Toys R Us is one of many drop-off locations for Toys for Tots; find more by visiting toysfortots.org and clicking on “Find local toy drop-off information” and selecting your state and county. There also are volunteer opportunities with work at the local warehouse, which you can find at the website.
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What’s up
Calendar: 26 | Music Listings: 34 If you have any questions, or would like to submit an event to our calendar, please email Amanda Main at amanda@themetrospirit.com.
Butt in seat, cash to a Good cause Go see a movie, give back to the community! The Georgia Theatre Company is bringing back Cinema for a Cause this Sunday, Dec. 3. If you see a movie any time on that date at Riverwatch Cinemas, Masters Cinemas or Evans Cinemas, 100 percent of the ticket sales will go to charity! This year, the charities include the CSRA Humane Society (csra-hs.com), the Police Benevolent Foundation (pbfi.org) and Variety: The Children’s Charity (varietyofgeorgia.org). If you’re going to be out of town that day, the Georgia Theatre Company is giving money at its 24 locations throughout Georgia, Florida, South Carolina and Virginia. Each theater’s staff chooses the charities. “The theater is a place where communities come together to share a common experience,” Bo Chambliss, President of Georgia Theatre Company, said in a statement. “We appreciate all that our employees do to make the movie-going experience as enjoyable as possible. We are grateful to allow the managers and their staff select charities to support in the local community. It is a great way for us and for them to give back.” Last year, the theater company raised $157,920 for 35 charities.
Friday, dec. 1
saturday, dec. 2
sunday, dec. 3
tuesday, dec. 5
If you’ve taken up adult coloring books, you’ve probably run across a mandala… the symbol is “used for meditation purposes allowing the individual meditating to become one with the universe,” according to spiritualawakening.weebly.com. The Augusta University College of Education will have a reception at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Jessye Norman School of the Arts for its 2D and 3D visual arts show themed around the mandala. It will be on display through Dec. 27. Email STEAMED@augusta.edu or call 706828-7768.
Birds need some love, too! Head over to North Augusta’s Living History Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday for Christmas for the Birds, where you can make edible decorations for birds in the park. Bring apples, oranges and peanut butter, as well as pet food that will go to local adoption centers. Cider and cookies will be served, and you can sit in on story time, too. Call 803-279-7560 or visit colonialtimes.us.
The Children’s Hospital of Georgia partners with the Partridge Inn each year for Teddy Bear Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays through Dec. 17. Kids 12 and under who donate a Teddy bear get to eat for free, and kids at the hospital will get the bears just before Christmas. Visit facebook.com/ ThePartridgeInn, and make reservations by calling 706-737-8888.
The UGA Accidentals glee club will be bringing holiday favorites to Tuesday’s Music Live at Saint Paul’s Church this Tuesday. The Accidentals, UGA’s only all-male a cappella group for 41 years, will perform for free at 11 a.m. and noon, with a $12 lunch after the noon performance. Reserve lunch by calling 706722-3463 or visit tuesdaysmusiclive.com.
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For more information on these events, see our calendar of events on page 26.
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Pre-registration required. Call 706-821-2615 or visit arcpls.org.
6pm Tertulia: Spanish Conversation Group Headquarters Branch Library A group for beginner to intermediate Spanish speakers. Call 317-695-4748.
Thu Dec 7
11:30am - 1:30pm Open Job Lab Diamond Lakes Branch Library Participants can complete job applications, resumes or conduct job searches with staff available for one-on-one help if needed. Call 706-772-2432 or visit arcpls.org.
Ongoing
Code Bootcamp Sign-up theClubhou.se The sign-up for this three-month class ends at midnight Sunday, Dec. 3. The class starts Feb. 5 and ends May 10 and is meant to help underemployed or unemployed find work in coding and web development. Tuition is $5,310, but full tuition scholarships and travel allowances are available. Visit augustacodeschool.com or call 706-723-5782.
“The Polar Express” Story Time Barnes & Noble 7pm Fri Dec 1 Come in your PJs; coloring and activities to follow. 706-737-0012 or bn.com
ARTS Thu Nov 30
1pm - 3pm Block Printing Christmas Cards Harlem Arts Council Class with Angelika Bondar. $20. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-394-4682.
Fri Dec 1
6:30pm - 8:30pm Unbroken: Life, Learning, Mandala Opening Reception Jessye Norman School The Augusta University College of Education partners with the Jessye Norman School of the Arts to offer this 2D and 3D visual arts show themed around the mandala. More than 40 area artists and teachers will sell their mandala art. On display through Dec. 27. Email STEAMED@ augusta.edu or call 706-828-7768.
Sun Dec 3
Noon - 5pm Holiday Open House Morris Museum of Art An event that includes holiday crafts, stories, tours, music at 2 p.m. and more. Free. Call 706724-7501 or visit themorris.org.
Mon Dec 4
10am Oil Painting Class Harlem Arts Council Oil painting with Minette Hatcher. $20 per class. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-556-6656.
Thu Dec 7
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Harlem Arts Council Pottery with Angelika Bondar. Continues Dec. 14. $40 for the two classes; includes material fee. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 706-394-4682.
Ongoing
$200 and Under 4P Studios and That Place Coffee Starting Friday, Nov. 10, more than 60 artists will have original works priced at less than $200 for the next two months. Call 706-267-6724 or visit 4pstudiosart.com.
DANCE Thu Nov 30
James Brown Family Historical Tour
Fri Dec 1
3:30pm - 5pm Spanish for Beginners Maxwell Branch Library Pre-registration required. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.
Mon Dec 4
3pm - 4:30pm Partners in Friendship Aiken Public Library This elementary course in conversational Italian language and culture is suitable for teens and adults. Partners in Friendship membership optional. Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.
5:30pm Beginner Spanish Class
Imperial Theatre Shows again at 7 p.m. Dec. 1. $15-$35. Call 706722-8341 or visit imperialtheatre.com.
Friedman Branch Library An adult class led by Edwin Perez of the Asociacion Cultural Hispanoamericana. Preregistration required. Call 706-736-6758 or visit arcpls.org.
Sat Dec 2
Tue Dec 5
Harlem Arts Council Experience the Christmas spirit of dance in this class led by Ashley Driggers, for kids ages 4-10. $25, with lunch included. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance. Call 762-383-9743.
Columbia County Library All levels welcome. Email boassma@gmail.com or call 706-863-1946.
7pm “The Nutcracker” by Columbia County Ballet
9am - 2pm ‘Tis the Season to be Dancing
10:30am - noon English as a Second Language
Wed Dec 6
EDUCATION
1pm - 2:30pm Digital Library Branch Info Session
Thu Nov 30
Aiken Public Library Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.
Columbia County Library Learn about how you can survive without your monthly cable bill. Pre-registration required. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.
2pm Microsoft Word for Beginners Part I
5:30pm Cord Cutting
Headquarters Branch Library
Augusta Museum of History Available Saturdays at 11 a.m. and lasting about two hours, this bus tour includes Brown’s elementary school, his childhood home, his statue and more. $15 fee, includes admission to the museum, which houses the largest collection of James Brown memorabilia. Reservations 24 hours in advance required. Call 803-640-2090 or visit jamesbrownfamilyfdn.org.
Guided Tours 1797 Ezekiel Harris House Offered by appointment only Monday-Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Last tours of the day begin at 4 p.m. Adults, $2; children, $1. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.
North Augusta Driving Tour Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta Offered by appointment and includes a 30-45-minute guided tour and admission to the center. Self-guided tours are also available through an iPhone downloadable audio tour or a Google Maps-based tour. Guided tours: $5, adults; $3, students K-12. Call 803-441-4380 or visit artsandheritagecenter.com.
Tours Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson Guided tours, approximately 45 minutes long, are offered Thursday-Saturday on the hour from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Group tours are available by advanced reservation. Adults, $5; seniors, $4; kids K-12, $3; under 5 years, free. Call 706-7240436 or visit wilsonboyhoodhome.org.
Historic Trolley Tours of Augusta Augusta Visitors Center Tours aboard the Lady Libby available at the 30NOVEMBER2017
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Augusta Visitors Center with 24-hour advanced reservations. Tickets include admission to the Augusta Museum of History. Call 706-724-4067 or visit visitaugusta.org.
1 Million Cups theClubhou.se Held from 8-9 a.m. on the first Wednesday of every month is an opportunity for two earlystage start-ups to present their companies to an audience of mentors, advisors and other entrepreneurs. Each founder presents for six minutes, followed by a Q&A. Coffee and doughnuts are provided. To apply, visit 1millioncups.com/augusta. Visit theclubhou.se or call 706-723-5782.
ELSEWHERE Fri Dec 1
1pm - 3pm Wild Forage Wreath Making White Hills Farm, Dearing Get dressed to go through the woods to forage for wreath-making ingredients. $5 donation requested. Visit augustalocallygrown.org or call 706-288-7895 (text first).
Sat Dec 2
5:30pm Snow on the Square The Square, downtown Washington Play in the snow on The Square in downtown Washington. Free. Call 706-678-2013 or visit washingtonwilkes.org.
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EXHIBITIONS Thu Nov 30
706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.
A Celebration of Our Own
Westobou Gallery Get a sneak peek at this exhibition of small works by local and regional artists, all available for $300 or less. The preview is a wine and cheese reception (a free reception will be held 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1). $25. Find the event on eventbrite.com. Call 706-755-2878 or visit westoboufestival.com.
Mary S. Byrd Gallery of Art This exhibition features recent, various media works by Augusta University art and design faculty including Kristin Casaletto, Tom Crowther, Carrie Dyer, Philip Morsberger, Jennifer Onofrio, Randy Pace, Raoul Pacheco, Brian Rust, Chadwick Tolley, Julie Sibley and Janice Whiting. On display through Dec. 1. Call 706-993-6719 or email bmeagher@augusta. edu.
Fri Dec 1
Art Show with Ron Lee
6pm - 9pm SEEDS Exhibit Preview
5pm - 8pm SEEDS Exhibition Reception Westobou Gallery An exhibition of works in a variety of mediums from local and regional artists, all available for $300 or less. The exhibition will show until Feb. 2, and the reception is free and open to the public. Call 706-755-2878 or visit westobou.org.
Ongoing
Augusta Museum of History Includes the following: “The Godfather of Soul, Mr. James Brown; “Celebrating a Grand Tradition, the Sport of Golf”; “Augusta’s Story”; “A Community That Heals”; “Into the Interior: A History of the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company”; “Local Legends”; “One Man, Two Ships: Lessons in History and Courage”; “A Quilt Journey”; and “Canteens to Combat Boots”. Call
Hire Grounds Cafe (inside Goodwill) This photographer’s works will be on display through Nov. 30 at 3179 Washington Road. Visit facebook.com/events/516299092074882 or call 706-863-3669.
In/De Flation Wolf and Finch Artists Leonard “Porkchop” Zimmerman and Jay Jacobs have teamed up for this exhibition that focuses on “a mythical figure, the harbinger of great deals and bad dance moves that has been spotted all over the world.” The show runs from Dec. 1-22. Call 706-250-0301, email art@wolfandfinch.com, or visit facebook.com/ events/1949497908644537.
FLIX Fri Dec 1
Noon “One Christmas” Morris Museum of Art Part of the Films on Friday series that includes a discussion afterwards. Participants are invited to bring lunch. Free, with refreshments. Call 706-724-7501 or visit themorris.org.
5:30pm - 8:30pm Christmas Movie Night: “Elf” Evans Towne Center Park Free screening at 6:30 p.m., plus a special appearance by Elf on the Shelf. Train rides and concessions available. Visit evanstownecenterpark.com or call 706-8683484.
Sat Dec 2
3pm “Frozen” Saturday Sing-Along Series Aiken Public Library Call 803-642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.
Tue Dec 5
5:30pm - 8pm Tuesday Night Movie Series Headquarters Branch Library Eclectic variety of films. Visit arcpls.org or call 706-821-2600.
HEALTH Thu Nov 30
7pm - 8:30pm Happiest Baby on the Block
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Doctors Hospital An infant care and sleep class for new parents. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.
7pm - 8:30pm Infant CPR Class University Hospital Pre-registration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.
Fri Dec 1
6:30pm - 9:30pm Weekend Childbirth Education Class University Hospital Class continues Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Preregistration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth. org.
Mon Dec 4
6pm Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention Class University Hospital’s Heart & Vascular Institute A class that offers information, diagnostic exams, lab work, a personal plan and more. Class also held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5. Pre-registration required. Call 706-774-5548 or visit universityhealth.org.
7pm Center for Women Tour Doctors Hospital Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctorshospital.net.
Thu Dec 7
Coloring for grownups. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.
Doctors Hospital An infant care and development class. Pre-registration required. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctors-hospital.net.
Thu Dec 7
7pm - 9:30pm Baby 101
Ongoing
Meditation Sessions
6pm Weight Loss Surgery and You University Hospital Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-774-8931 or visit universityhealth.org.
5:30pm Fiber Arts Craft and Chat
HOBBIES
6:30pm - 8:30pm PWN AUG Chess Club Meeting
Thu Nov 30
5:30pm - 7pm Rock Painting Aiken Public Library The library will supply rocks and painting supplies to participants ages 12 and up. Pre-registration required. Call 803-642-2020, ext. 1131, or visit abbe-lib.org.
Fri Dec 1
10am Genealogy 101 Columbia County Library Learn the genealogy basics of research and organization. Preregistration required. Call 706-863-1946, ext. 4, or visit gchrl.org.
Sat Dec 2
Maxwell Branch Library Trade coupons and money-saving tips with others. Call 706-7932020 or visit arcpls.org.
Mon Dec 4
6:30pm Doodle Hour
Wed Dec 6
Columbia County Library Coloring for grownups. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org.
University Hospital Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.
Wed Dec 6
5pm Breastfeeding Class
Noon Doodle Hour Columbia County Library
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Aiken Public Library Pre-registration required. Call 803-642-2020, ext. 1131, or visit abbe-lib.org.
The Yoga Center, North Augusta Led by members of the Southeastern Buddhist Community the first and second Wednesday of each month. Sessions are free and open to the public. Visit sebuddhist.org.
1pm - 3pm Coupon Group
Tue Dec 5
1pm - 3pm Coloring for Grownups
Columbia County Library Open to those of all abilities who crochet, knit, loom and cross stitch. Call 706-863-1946 or visit gchrl.org. The Book Tavern A club open to all ages and skill levels that meets the first and third Thursdays of each month. Participants are encouraged to bring their own chess sets. Call 706-826-1940 or visit booktavern.com.
Ongoing
Basic Genealogy Tutorials Headquarters Branch Library’s Georgia Heritage Room Free sessions offered by appointment. Call 706-826-1511 or visit arcpls.org.
KIDS-TEENS Fri Dec 1
10:30am - noon Super Awesome Story Time The Book Tavern Juice and cookies provided by New Moon Cafe. Call 706-8261940 or email superawesomestorytime@booktavern.com.
12:30pm - 2pm Mr. Kenny’s Wondrous Stories, Songs and Play Jessye Norman School of the Arts Participants will read, sing, play musical instruments and explore movement designed to help them develop both literary and cognitive skills. Parents or caregivers participate in the class through age 3. Preschool and kindergarten children may attend with, or without, a parent or caregiver. $10; pre-registration required. Call 706-828-7768 or visit jessyenormanschool.org.
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6pm - 10pm Kids Night Out Kroc Center A drop-off program for kids ages 2-12 that may include swimming, gym play and inflatables. Swimsuit and towel required. Children 4 and younger will not swim. $15, members; $20, nonmembers. Dinner is included. Register at the welcome desk or visit krocsales.sauss.net.
For those ages 0-3. Pre-registration recommended. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls. org.
10:05am Toddler Story Time Appleby Branch Library This is a program best for children ages 18 months-3 years. Call 706-736-6244 or visit arcpls.org.
7pm “The Polar Express” Story Time
10am Wacky Wednesday Story Time
Barnes & Noble Come in your PJs; coloring and activities to follow. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.
Barnes & Noble Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.
10:30am Preschool Story Time
Sat Dec 2
11am “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” Story Time Barnes & Noble Activities to follow. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.
11am Migration, Hibernation and Winter Adaptations Reed Creek Park Kids ages 8 and up will learn how animals survive when the temperature drops. Free, members; $2 per child, nonmembers. Preregistration required. Call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@columbiacountyga.gov.
4pm Really Cool Reptiles Reed Creek Park Kids ages 5 and up will be introduced to reptiles. Free, members; $2 per child, nonmembers. Pre-registration required. Call 706-210-4027 or email reedcreekpark@ columbiacountyga.gov.
Mon Dec 4
10:30am Jr. Lego Club
Appleby Branch Library Songs, finger plays and stories for those ages 18 months to 3 years. Pre-registration required for groups of six or more. Call 706-736-6244 or visit arcpls.org.
Thu Dec 7
10:30am Create with Me: ‘Tis the Season Morris Museum of Art Participants will look at works depicting wintry scenes and create a holiday sculpture using found objects. Free, members and parents; $4 per participant, nonmembers. Pre-registration required. Call 706-828-3867 or visit themorris. org.
1pm - 3pm Homeschool Adventure: Holiday at Mistletoe
Tue Dec 5
The Shepard Project
4pm Story Time with Mrs. Claus Weeks Center, Aiken; Rooms 6-7 Mrs. Claus will read books, give away a free book to all families who attend and share juice and cookies. For kids ages 8 and under accompanied by an adult. Call 803-642-7631.
Wed Dec 6
10am Story Time Maxwell Branch Library Pre-registration required. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.
10am Story Time for Tots Headquarters Branch Library 30NOVEMBER2017
Maxwell Branch Library “A Separate Country” by Robert Hicks will be discussed. Call 706-793-2020 or visit maxwellbookclub.wordpress.com.
Barnes & Noble Held every first Wednesday of the month. Call the store for information about the book of the month. Call 706-737-0012 or visit bn.com.
7pm - 10pm Graphic Novel Discussion
6:30pm - 8pm Book Club
The Book Tavern A group open to older teens and up. Call 706826-1940 or email david@booktavern.com.
The Book Tavern Featuring “The Book of Dave: A Revelation of the Recent Past and the Distant Future” by Will Self. Call 706-826-1940 or visit booktavern.com or facebook.com/ events/1840849012846044.
Sat Dec 2
11am - 1pm “Sid Sez... Grow It In Augusta” Book Signing Wild Birds Unlimited Featuring author and retired Richmond County Extension Agent Sid Mullis. Call 706-855-1955.
Tue Dec 5
6pm - 8pm Meet the Author The Book Tavern Featuring Anna Schachner and Joshilyn Jackson. Call 706-826-1940 or visit booktavern.com or facebook.com/ events/352404891838835.
7pm The Play’s The Thing Aiken Public Library Discussion on “The Importance of Being Earnest.” Call 803-642-2020, ext. 1131, or visit abbe-lib.org.
6pm Page Turners Book Club
MUSIC Thu Nov 30
7pm Appreciation Concert North Augusta’s Nancy Carson Library Saxophonist Fred Williams performs in honor of the Nancy Carson Library Foundation. Call 803-279-5767 or visit abbe-lib.org.
Sat Dec 2
1:30pm Holiday Favorites Augusta Museum of History A performance by the choral ensemble Augusta Bel Canto that will include songs to celebrate the holidays. Free. Call 706-722-8454 or visit augustamuseum.org.
Tue Dec 5
Noon Tuesday’s Music Live
4pm Lego Club Aiken Public Library For kids ages 5-11. Legos provided. Call 803642-2020 or visit abbe-lib.org.
Headquarters Branch Library For those ages 3-6. Pre-registration recommended. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls. org.
Wed Dec 6
10am - noon Morning Book Club
Mistletoe State Park For homeschool students ages 5 and up. $5 per child, plus $5 parking. Pre-registration required. Call 706-541-0321 or visit gastateparks.org/ mistletoe.
Headquarters Branch Library For those ages 2-4. Legos provided. Preregistration required. Call 706-821-2623 or visit arcpls.org.
10am Big Kid Story Time
Thu Nov 30
Ongoing
Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer A teen hangout and safe space for LGBTQ+ teens, ages 14-17, and allies that meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 5-8 p.m. The group is also looking for chaperones ages 25 and older and youth mentors 18-24 years old, who must pass a background check. Call 803617-8352 or email shepardprojectaugusta@ gmail.com.
After-School Program Smith-Hazel Recreation Center, Aiken A program for those ages 5-13 that includes homework help, games, snacks and more. It meets Monday-Friday from 2:30-5 p.m. and follows the Aiken County Public School calendar. $20 first child, then a $5 sibling discount. Call 803-642-7634.
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Fri Dec 1
9am - 5pm Christmas Craft Show HO Weeks Center, Aiken An event featuring crafts from more than 100 artisans from across the Southeast. Call 803-642-7631.
5pm - 9pm First Friday Downtown Augusta A family-friendly arts event that includes musicians, dancers, artists and other vendors. Visit facebook.com/artistsrowaugusta.
5pm - 8pm Wine Tasting Wine World A drop-in First Friday event. $5; $2 rebate upon purchase of a bottle of one of the featured wines. Call 803-279-9522 or visit wineworldsc.com.
5:30pm - 9:30pm Christmas Tour of Homes Arts and Heritage Center, North Augusta This Beta Sigma Phi event continues Saturday, Dec. 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $20, advance; $25, day of. Visit artsandheritagecenter.com or call 803-441-8380.
6pm - 7:30pm 29th Annual Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony Newberry Street, Aiken An event that will also include music, refreshments, and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Call 803-642-7631.
Sat Dec 2 Columbia County Christmas Tree Lighting Evans Towne Center Park 2pm - 6pm Sat Dec 2 The 17th annual tree-lighting ceremony includes full Christmas vendor village, free Santa photos, free train rides, cookies with Mrs. Claus, ornament decorating, food and beverage vendors, nine holes of North Pole Mini Golf, a giant maze and more. evanstownecenterpark.com or 706-868-3484
8am - 4pm Holiday Market at the 5th Street Marina 5th Street Marina Vendors will sell homemade craft items and treats for the holidays. Call 912-225-6165 or join the Augusta Vendor Connection group on Facebook.
9am - 1pm Pet Food Drive and Gift Sale Health Center Credit Union, Evans Stop by for treats, gift sale and pet food drive, all to benefit local homeless pets. Sponsored by Pawprints Foundation & Long Dog Rescue. Call 706-863-2067 or visit pawprintsfoundation.org.
9am - 2pm Christmas at the Crossroads Saint Paul’s Church Featuring a free concert by the UGA Men’s Glee Club (holiday concert). Lunch afterwards is $12 a person and requires reservation. They’re also performing at 11 a.m., without lunch. Call 706-722-3463 or visit tuesdaysmusiclive.com.
7:30pm A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols Sacred Heart Cultural Center A Guild of the Sacred Heart Cultural Center presentation that is led by Keith Shafer and is based on the traditional English Christmas program that originated at King’s College Chapel, Cambridge University. $20. Call 706-826-4700 or visit sacredheartaugusta.org.
Wed Dec 6
7:30pm Rick Springfield and Richard Marx Bell Auditorium $49.50-$85.00. Call 877-4AUGTIX or visit georgialinatix.com.
audience sing-along on familiar carols. A free-will collection will be received. Visit columbiacco.org or call 706-755-5849.
SPECIAL EVENTS Thu Nov 30
4pm - 9pm Christmas Festival Fort Gordon’s Barton Field An event that includes the Kris Kringle Market, hay rides, refreshments, live music, a bonfire, a visit from Santa and a tree lighting. Visit fortgordon.com or call 706-791-8878.
5pm - 8pm Holiday Bazaar Evans Middle School This Evans Middle School PTSO event features 30 local crafters and vendors, silent auction, and $10 Olive Garden spaghetti dinner (must pre-order the dinner by Monday, Nov. 27, at ccboe. revtrak.net). Visit facebook.com/events/139033446845579.
5:30pm - 8pm Christmas in the 1800s
Thu Dec 7
7pm Community Christmas Concert Scottish Rite Center Free concert features music performed by the Columbia County Orchestra and includes familiar Christmas classics, as well as an 30 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
Aiken Municipal Building An event by the Diann Shaddox Foundation for Essential Tremor that features author, storyteller and living historian Kim Poovey, music by Jayne Williams, refreshments and more. $35. Visit diannshaddoxfoundation.org.
Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church, Evans A craft bazaar and bake sale featuring more than 40 vendors. Call 706-863-6795 or visit lewismemorial.com.
9am - 5pm Christmas Craft Show HO Weeks Center, Aiken An event featuring crafts from more than 100 artisans from across the Southeast. Call 803-642-7631.
10am - 2pm Christmas for the Birds North Augusta’s Living History Park A free event in which participants will create edible decorations for birds in the park. Participants are asked to bring apples, oranges and peanut butter for the decorations and pet food that will be donated to local adoption centers. Cider and cookies will be served and story times will be held at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. Call 803-279-7560 or visit colonialtimes.us.
2pm - 7pm Christmas Light-Up Spectacular & Parade Augusta Common A free event that includes live entertainment, children’s activities, a parade at 2 p.m., a fireworks display, tree lighting and more. Call 706-821-1754 or visit augustaga.gov. 30NOVEMBER2017
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2pm - 6pm Columbia County Christmas Tree Lighting Evans Towne Center Park The 17th annual tree-lighting ceremony includes full Christmas vendor village, free Santa photos, free train rides, cookies with Mrs. Claus, ornament decorating, food and beverage vendors, nine holes of North Pole Mini Golf, a giant maze and more. Visit evanstownecenterpark.com or call 706-8683484.
4pm - 8pm Grovetown Christmas Festival Liberty Park Community Center This event includes live music, dance, crafts, food, hot chocolate, tree lighting, a visit from Santa and more. Call 706-860-7691 or visit facebook.com/events/930962957051839.
1968 is having its 50th anniversary reunion June 9, 2018. Visit arcclassof68.com to learn more, and share the website with your out-oftown classmates. Email Hap Harris at hharris@ sbbinsurance.com, Keith Henry at henryke@ bellsouth.net, or Gail Evans Patty at gepatty@ aol.com.
This organization offers adult sports leagues and social events, including kickball, soccer, flag football, softball, basketball, indoor and sand volleyball, cornhole, dodgeball and more for coed and men’s leagues. For more information, visit augustasportsleagues.com or call 706309-0280.
Belair Road between Washington Road and Cox Road Visit columbiacountyfair.net.
SPIRITUAL
SUPPORT
Thu Dec 7
Mon Dec 4
Tue Dec 5
7pm Hayride Through the Life of Christ
2pm - 4pm Jaycees Christmas Parade Downtown Aiken Call 803-761-7081.
2pm Columbia County Christmas Parade
6pm - 9pm Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony AU’s Summerville Campus This free event includes caroling, crafts, trolley rides, photos with Santa, food trucks, refreshments and more. Call 706-737-1451 or email specialevents@augusta.edu.
6pm “Mystery of the Christmas Star”
Thu Dec 7
Dupont Planetarium, Aiken Also showing at 7 and 8 p.m. Dec. 2. Weather permitting, the observatory, housing the Bechtel Telescope, will be available for viewing after each show. $2-$6.50. Call 803-641-3654 or visit rpsec.usca.edu.
5pm Pearl Harbor Day Presentation Maxwell Branch Library Historical enthusiast Joseph Styczynski will give a presentation. Call 706-793-2020 or visit arcpls.org.
7pm Celtic Yuletide Feast
Smith-Hazel Recreation Center, Aiken An event that will include decorating the tree, holiday sing-along, refreshments, door prizes and more. Call 803-642-7634.
Church of the Good Shepherd Join the Columbia County Choral Society and the Sand Hills String Band as they present a sumptuous meal and authentic music from the period. $30. Visit columbiacountychoralsociety. org.
7pm - 10pm Mr. Fezziwig’s Ball Augusta Museum of History An Augusta Players Christmas ball straight out of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Held in the museum’s rotunda, this event will feature performances of the Players’ production of “A Christmas Carol The Musical,” food and drink, music, dancing, a silent auction and a cast of costumed Dickens characters. $45. Call 706826-4707 or visit augustaplayers.org.
Sun Dec 3
All day Cinema for a Cause Those who go see a movie today at Riverwatch, Masters or Evans Cinemas will have 100 percent of their ticket sales donated to local charities. Last year’s event raised $157,920. Visit georgiatheatrecompany.com.
8am - 5pm Portraits with Santa Old Government House Photo sessions are on a first-come, first-served basis. No session fees; multiple vendors on site. Call 706-799-2161.
11am - 2pm Teddy Bear Brunch The Partridge Inn Guests are encouraged to bring a teddy bear, which will be donated to the Children’s Hospital of Georgia. Children 12 and under who make a donation will eat free. Visit facebook.com/ ThePartridgeInn. 30NOVEMBER2017
6pm Christmas Tree Lighting
6pm Night of 1,000 Lights Downtown Aiken A festive evening out with shops staying open late and offering holiday treats, drinks and music. Free. Call 803-649-2221.
7pm - 10pm Ambassadors Soiree Venus and Hank Griffin’s home in Summerville An Augusta Ballet event for Ambassador members that will kick of the Holiday Tour of Homes weekend. The event will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, an open bar and live music. Admission is by Ambassador membership of $65 or $125 for couples. Call 706-261-0555 or visit augustaballet.org.
Ongoing
Augusta on Ice Augusta Common For 50 days from Nov. 17-Jan. 6, The Augusta Common will transform into a winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink, live music, dancing, beer and wine, Santa selfies and more. Passes to all activities cost $20 for one day or $50 for a season pass. General admission for those who just want to watch the skaters, enjoy the entertainment and visit the Elves Lounge (aka alcohol tent) can pay $5 for a day or $20 for the season. Kids under 3 get in free. Visit augustaonice.com for more information and to buy passes.
ARC Class of 1968 50th Reunion Old Medical College of Georgia The Academy of Richmond County Class of
Columbia County Fairgrounds Runs daily at 7 p.m. through Sunday, Dec. 10. Hosted by Sharon Baptist Church of Appling, this event features live vignettes, live music and hot chocolate. Free. Call 706-541-0667.
7pm - 8:30pm Lifting the Veil on Islam Islamic Society of Augusta Part of a monthly program to enlighten newcomers about Islam, this one called the Quran and Science. Free, with refreshments. Email outreach@isaugusta.com.
SPORTS-OUTDOORS Sat Dec 2
All day Fourth Annual Southeast Hunter Trials Stableview Farms, Aiken Spectators welcome. Call 803-648-1222 or visit stableviewfarm.com.
8am - 10am Jingle Jam 10K Evans Towne Center Park A fundraiser for SafeHomes of Augusta, costumes are encouraged for this race. Preregistration required. $40. Late registration is $50 on Dec. 1 at Academy Sports in Evans. Visit jinglejam10k.com.
8am - noon Rivergate Run for Recovery Lake Olmstead Trailhead 5K benefits Aglow Rivergate drug and alcohol rehab. To register, email djn85011@uga.edu.
9:30am - 11:30am Swamp Saturday Hike Phinizy Swamp Nature Park A guided, 2.5-mile hike. $2; free for members. Pre-registration required. Call 706-396-1426 or visit phinizycenter.org.
10am - noon Hike and Craft
6pm - 7pm Stroke of Hope Doctor Hospital A support group for stroke patients, families and caregivers, held on the first Tuesday of each month. Call 706-651-2229 or visit doctorshospital.net.
6:30pm - 7:30pm Cancer Share University Hospital For those with any type of cancer, held the first Monday each month. Call 706-774-5946 or visit universityhealth.org.
6:30pm - 7:30pm Lung Cancer Support Group University Hospital Meets the first Monday of each month. Call 706-744-5946 or visit universityhealth.org.
6:30pm - 7:30pm Pink Pistols Meeting A group for women in their 20s and 30s dealing with breast cancer that meets the first Monday of each month. Call for location. Call 706-7744141 or visit universityhealth.org.
7pm - 8pm Parents Healing Together University Hospital A support group for parents, families and friends who have lost infants through miscarriage, death, ectopic pregnancy or stillbirth. Call 706-774-5811 or visit universityhealth.org.
Tue Dec 5
10am - 11:30am Moms Connection Augusta University Medical Center This free weekly support group for new mothers meets in the Terrace Dining Dogwood Room on the second floor beginning at 10:20 a.m. All new moms and their babies are welcome and an international board certified lactation consultant/educator/perinatal nurse will answer questions and offer resources. Call 706-721-8283 or visit augustahealth.org.
Mistletoe State Park A naturalist-led hike of about one hour, followed by a craft time. $2, craft; $5, parking. Call 706541-0321 or visit gastateparks.org/mistletoe.
5:30pm Weight Loss Support Group
Wed Dec 6
Wed Dec 6
Stable View Farm Call 803-648-1222 or visit stableviewfarm.com.
University Hospital A breastfeeding support group for mothers of NICU babies. Pre-registration required. Call 706774-2825 or visit universityhealth.org.
2:30pm - 9pm Under the Stars Jumper Night
Ongoing
Augusta Sports Leagues
AU Professional Building 1 Free, but pre-registration required. Call 706-7212609 or visit augustahealth.org/weightloss.
1pm The Lactation Club
5:30pm Girl Talk Support Group AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
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Adult Sexual Assault and Rape Support Group Provides group counseling at University Hospital for those who have experienced sexual assault, incest, rape or childhood sexual abuse. Call 706-724-5200 or visit universityhealth.org.
Alcoholics Anonymous Holds several meetings locally. For a current schedule, visit augustaaa.org/documents/Meetings/meetings.pdf.
Narcotics Anonymous Trinity Hospital of Augusta Meets Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Visit na.org.
Beyond the Bars A support group for those with incarcerated loved ones. Call 706-855-8636.
Community Christmas Concert Scottish Rite Center 7pm Thu Dec 7 Free concert features music performed by the Columbia County Orchestra and includes familiar Christmas classics, as well as an audience sing-along on familiar carols. A free-will collection will be received. columbiacco.org or 706-755-5849
THEATER Thu Nov 30
7pm “Eli’s Bethlehem Inn” Kroc Center An Enopion Theatre Company production. Also showing at 7 p.m. Dec. 1, 4, 7, 8, and at 6 p.m. Dec. 2 and 9. $18. Call 706-771-7777 or visit enopion.com.
Fri Dec 1
7:30pm “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Doctors Hospital A support group for those who have pelvic health issues. Preregistration required. Call 706-651-4343 or visit doctors-hospital. net.
Thu Dec 7
10am - 11:30am Alzheimer’s Association Support Group Kroc Center For those dealing with Alzheimer’s and/or caregivers. Preregistration required. Call 706-860-5233.
Ongoing
Recovery International Mental Health Support Group Unitarian Universalist Church of Augusta A weekly group that meets Wednesday from 6:30-8 p.m. Based on the work of Abraham Low, MD, RI offers its members a low cost method to regain and maintain their mental health by using mental health through will training. People who stick with the RI Method are able to live healthy, productive lives with lower levels of tension, anger, fear, anxiety, stress, compulsions, and other symptoms. Email marykahb@yahoo.com.
Georgia Carolina Toastmasters
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) GA, 110 Augusta St. Alban’s Episcopal Church fellowship hall The group meets Mondays, with weigh-in beginning at 5:15 p.m. and the meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. Call 706-790-0391 or visit tops.org.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Pine View Baptist Church The group meets Tuesdays, with weigh-in beginning at 4:45 p.m. and the meeting beginning at 5:15 p.m. Call 706-481-0529 or visit tops.org.
La Leche League A breastfeeding support group. For more information on meeting dates, times and locations, visit them on Facebook under La Leche League of Augusta or at lllaugusta.wordpress.com.
Celebrate Recovery Journey Community Church This Christ-centered recovery program meets every Monday night at 7 p.m. The meetings last two hours and childcare is provided. Pre-registration suggested. Visit cr@ journeycommunity.net.
Write to Heal Creative Writing Program
Aiken Community Playhouse $20, adults; $17, seniors and active military; $12, students; $7, children. Also showing at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16, and at 3 p.m. Dec. 10. Call 803-648-1438 or visit aikencommunityplayhouse.com.
7:30pm - 8:30pm Experimental Relief Etherredge Center, Aiken A series of plays written, directed, acted and produced by University Theatre Players students. Also showing at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3. $5, general; proceeds will go to a civic organization to help support their community. Call 803-641-3305 or visit etherredge.usca.edu.
8pm - midnight xTreme Theatre Games Le Chat Noir First Friday improv comedy by Schrodinger’s Cat. $12 online and at door. Call 706-722-3322 or visit lcnaugusta.com.
Ongoing
“Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Ken Ludwig Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre Showing at 8 p.m. Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9 and at 4 p.m. Dec. 10. $15-$53. Call 706-793-8552 or visit fortgordon.com.
Children’s Hospital of Georgia family resource library For patients, family members and caregivers, this program meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Preregistration required. Call 706-721-5160 or email nawilliams@gru. edu.
“A Dog’s House”
Group empowers people to become more effective communicators and leaders. Meets weekly from noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays at Fat Man’s Cafe. Email jmcneill22@att.net or call 706-798-5515.
Grief Share Program
Diabetes Youth Support Group
Sat Dec 2
Aldersgate United Methodist Church This program is for people who have had a loved one pass away and need to share with others in the difficult journey. There is a $20 registration fee, with free child care and scholarships available. The group will meet Sunday evenings from Jan. 7 to April 1. Email showmanjj@comcast.net or call 706-830-8741. 32 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
Meets quarterly. Call for more information. Call 706-868-3241.
Overeaters Anonymous Meets at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, at 7 p.m. Thursdays at Unity Church, and at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Call 706-8639534 or email oa.augusta.recovery@gmail.com.
Le Chat Noir Showing 8 p.m. Dec. 8, 9, 14, 15 and 16. $25. Visit lcnaugusta.com or call 706-722-3322.
VOLUNTEER 9am - noon Volunteer Work Day Icebox Urban Farm, 1736 Fenwick Street Lunch provided to volunteers, who should pre-register by calling 706-288-7895 or visiting augustalocallygrown.org.
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Augusta Warrior Project) Stillwater Taproom - Hound of Goshen The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn
- Shannon’s December 8 False Flag, Reverend Billy and the Soul Patrol
- The Highlander December 8 BirdDog Jubilee
What’s Tonight?
Phillip Lee Band
Sunday, December 3 Live Music
- Imperial Theatre December 8-10
Capri Lounge - Vivian Valium & the Lounge Lizard Divas Wild Wing - R3 The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn
What’s Tonight?
Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ Mike Johnson
GWAR (pictured), He is Legend, Ghoul, U.S. Bastards Heaven at the Masquerade, Atlanta 6:30pm Sun Dec 3 $20; masqueradeatlanta.com, 404-577-8178
- Southbound Smokehouse December 8
Helga’s Pub & Grille - Trivia The Highlander - Karaoke Wild Wing - SEC/ACC Championship Games
- Wild Wing December 8 “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” (The Augusta Players) Betty Wright
- Bell Auditorium December 9 Sassy Brass
- Shannon’s December 9 Black Iron Gathering
- Stillwater Taproom December 9 Holman Autry Band
- Country Club December 9 Center Lane
Monday, December 4 Live Music
The Highlander - Acoustic Mondays Metro Coffeehouse & Pub - Blues Monday w/ Famous Last Words
- Wild Wing December 9 Kiss-Mas Party w/ Love Gun
- Country Club December 15 Suzy Bogguss
- Imperial Theatre December 15 LUTHI w/ DJ Matto
What’s Tonight?
The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane Wild Wing - Trivia World of Beer - Open Mic Night
- Sky City December 16 Christmas with John Berry
- Imperial Theatre December 21 Fantasia, Bell Biv Devoe
- Bell Auditorium December 29 Jackson Browne
Tuesday, December 5 Live Music
Fox’s Lair - Irish Music w/ Dr. John Fisher and the Undefeated Army Joe’s Underground - Open Mic The Willcox (Aiken) - Hal Shreck
What’s Tonight?
The Highlander - Game Night Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane World of Beer - Karaoke
Rick Springfield (pictured) and Richard Marx Bell Auditorium 7:30pm Wed Dec 6 $49.50-$85.00; 877-4AUGTIX, georgialinatix.com
Wednesday, December 6 Live Music
Bell Auditorium - Rick Springfield, Richard Marx Shannon’s - Mike and Walter Wild Wing - Jeff Lucero Duo
- Bell Auditorium January 6 Henry Rollins
- Miller Theater January 8 St. Paul and the Broken Bones
- Miller Theater January 12 An Evening with Molly Ringwald
- Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center January 13 Lyfe Jennings
- Miller Theater January 13 D.L. Hughley Family and Friends Tour
- Miller Theater February 10 Diana Krall
- Miller Theater February 16 Ronnie Milsap
- Miller Theater February 17 “Weird Al” Yankovic w/ Emo Philips
- Miller Theater April 14
Thursday, November 30 Live Music
Fox’s Lair - Open Mic Jam w/ Thomas Langley Southbound Smokehouse - Brian Herrington Wild Wing - Sabo and Dave The Willcox (Aiken) - Thursday Night Jazz w/ 4 Cats in the Dog House
What’s Tonight?
Helga’s Pub & Grille - Trivia The Highlander - Butt Naked Trivia Imperial Theatre - “The Nutcracker” (Columbia County Ballet) Pizza Joint (Downtown) - Trivia w/ Mike Sleeper Shannon’s - Karaoke w/ David Doane That Place Coffee - Open Mic w/ J. Martin-Moses
Friday, December 1 Live Music
Coyotes - Corey Cox Fox’s Lair - Vicky Grady Band The Highlander - Trust in Traitors, O.D.D.
34 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
Shannon’s - Perfect Picture Sky City - Futurebirds Southbound Smokehouse - Village Sticks Stillwater Taproom - Augusta Big Band Aggregate Wild Wing - The Unmentionables The Willcox (Aiken) - John Vaughn
What’s Tonight?
The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Imperial Theatre - “The Nutcracker” (Columbia County Ballet)
Saturday, December 2 Live Music
8th Street Plaza - Saturday Morning Swing at the Augusta Market on the River The Backyard Tavern - Shameless Dave and The Miracle Whips Country Club - Lanco Coyotes - Corey Cox Fox’s Lair - Old Man Crazy Shannon’s - Terence Lonon and the Untouchables Sky City - Rocking the Stocking XXIV (benefits
What’s Tonight?
The Backyard Tavern - Karaoke Bar West - Karaoke Capri Lounge - Game Night Chevy’s - DJ Richie Rich Pizza Joint (Evans) - Trivia w/ Mike Sleeper Polo Tavern (Aiken) - Karaoke w/ Tom Mitchell Sky City - Hip-Hop Night Southbound Smokehouse - Trivia Stillwater Taproom - Pub Quiz World of Beer - Trivia
Elsewhere
Upcoming
Seether, Shaman’s Harvest
Brian Herrington
- Southbound Smokehouse December 7 Jukebox Robocop
- Wild Wing December 7 Freddie Bunz (hip-hop/Indianapolis)
- Soul Bar December 7 Granger Smith
- Country Club December 8 Unmentionables
Portugal. The Man, X Ambassadors
- The Roxy Theatre, Atlanta December 1 Luke Combs
- The Tabernacle, Atlanta December 1 Cindy Wilson, Yip Deceiver, Material Girls
- 40 Watt Club, Athens December 1 Gwar, He is Legend, Ghoul, U.S. Bastards
- Heaven at the Masquerade, Atlanta December 3 - The Tabernacle, Atlanta December 5 Brian Setzer Orchestra
- Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta December 6 Luke Combs, Josh Phillips, Faren Rachels
- Township Auditorium, Columbia December 7 Trans-Siberian Orchestra
- Infinite Energy Center, Atlanta December 9 Gary Numan
- Heaven at the Masquerade, Atlanta December 11 30NOVEMBER2017
V28|NO48 Katy Perry, Purity Ring
- Philips Arena, Atlanta December 12 Gin Blossoms
- Variety Playhouse, Atlanta December 14 iHeartradio Jingle Ball Tour w/ Demi Lovato, Nick Jonas and more
- Philips Arena, Atlanta December 15 Michael Carbonaro
- Township Auditorium, Columbia December 16 Janet Jackson
- Colonial Life Arena, Columbia December 16 - Philips Arena, Atlanta December 17 Indigo Girls
- City Winery, Atlanta December 27 Funk You
- Aisle 5, Atlanta December 31 Widespread Panic
- Fox Theatre, Atlanta December 31 Neko Case, Mt. Joy
REAL PEOPLE REAL DESIRE REAL FUN.
- Georgia Theatre, Athens January 19 They Might Be Giants
- Variety Playhouse, Atlanta January 20 Cracker
Try FREE: 706-434-0108
More Local Numbers: 1-800-926-6000
- 40 Watt Club, Athens January 20 Miranda Lambert, Brent Cobb, Jon Pardi
- Infinite Energy Center, Atlanta January 20 The Killers
- Infinite Energy Center, Atlanta January 21 Say Anything
- Hell at the Masquerade, Atlanta January 25 & 26 Don McLean
- City Winery, Atlanta January 27
30NOVEMBER2017
Ahora español Livelinks.com 18+ Meet sexy new friends
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706-434-0112
V28|NO48
THE EIGHT
BOX TOPS RANK TITLES
WEEKEND GROSS TOTAL GROSS WEEK # LAST WEEK
1
COCO
$50,802,605
$72,908,930
1
-
2
JUSTICE LEAGUE
$41,090,491
$171,903,874
2
1
3
WONDER
$22,674,238
$69,807,297
2
2
4
THOR: RAGNAROK
$16,863,294
$277,650,571
4
3
5
DADDY’S HOME 2
$13,217,419
$72,636,870
3
4
In Theaters December 1
COMEDY
“The Disaster Artist,” rated R, starring James Franco, Dave Franco and Seth Rogen. In the vain of movies like “Ed Wood,” this film recounts the making of “The Room,” one of the most famously bad movies ever produced. Despite his initial failure, director Tommy Wiseau (played by James Franco) finds that his film has developed into an unconventional cult hit. Much like the real-life filmmaker he portrays, James Franco pulls double-duty as both director and lead actor. 36 METROSPIRIT AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
DRAMA
“Wonder Wheel” rated PG-13, starring Kate Winslet, Jim Belushi, Juno Temple and Justin Timberlake. Set on Coney Island in the late 1950s, Woody Allen’s latest film tells the story of Humpty and Ginny, a carousel operator and his wife. Their lives are disrupted when Humpty’s estranged daughter, now wanted by the mob, seeks refuge with the couple. Even at age 81, Allen remains as prolific as ever, putting out a new film every year. 30NOVEMBER2017
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SIGHTINGS
Michael Johnson | mejphoto.photoreflect.com
Sara and Rusty Bonham and Brook Arrington at the Whiskey Bar (Kitchen)
Andrea Donald, Joe McBride, Carter Welsh and Bill Platt at the Marybeth Regan Memorial Golf Tournament at Forest Hills Golf Club
Andy Jones, Leigh McCormack and Tom Jastrom at the Marybeth Regan Memorial Golf Tournament at Forest Hills Golf Club
Patrick Regan, Jessica Bell, Jennifer Baker and Lee Cox at the Marybeth Regan Memorial Golf Tournament at Forest Hills Golf Club
Father Mark Ross, Margaret Regan, Meg Whitfield and Stan Byrdy at the Marybeth Regan Memorial Golf Tournament at Forest Hills Golf Club
Yessenia Pagán with Maria and Santos Pagán at the Pizza Joint downtown
Mia Dickens, Madison Clark and Caitlin Malcom at Augusta on Ice in the Augusta Common
Lawrence and Donna Smith, Katie Lawrence and Lynda Roach at Augusta on Ice in the Augusta Common
Shelby Adams, Tristan Adams and Amber Hosier at Augusta on Ice in the Augusta Common
30NOVEMBER2017
AUGUSTA’S INDEPENDENT VOICE SINCE 1989
METROSPIRIT 37
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