March 2009

verge downtown augusta

free

it’s a brand new deal for downtown

march 2009

verge / march / 3

contents 13

front porch: Jim McGuire

15

A Brand New Deal for Augusta

A career of capturing Nashville’s greats on film

Downtown rolls out its own cheeky stimulus package

17

Choosing Life in Pinched Gut Families return to Augusta’s oldest neighborhood

18

Antiquing Along Broad Street Discovering the romance of yesteryear’s treasures

21

The Random Lunacy of Freedom Documentary at the Imperial explores a man’s quest

22

25 31

gallery: spring artist’s market soundcheck: the cubists onstage: beauty queene of leenane offstage: ringling brothers circus good chow / White Elephant New owners bring delightful new tastes to downtown

Black Stone Cherry Says No Rules This band stays true to the course of pure rock & roll

experience more

5 7 9 9 11 27 33 35 37 39 39 43 volume two issue one

smatterings quick clips discover downtown a view from downtown he saw / she saw: the loudermilks pipeline / get plugged into events music scene printed matter / a year of words past times / the green building explore downtown hands across downtown /way of the cross reverberations / the pallbearers on the cover: the art of downtown #1 collage by Tom Crowther

4 / march / verge

verge / march / 5

verge publisher Matt Plocha editor Lara Plocha pipeline editors Claire Riche Joyce Tahop web guy Andy Donnan photography editor Elizabeth Benson Editorial content of verge is the opinion of each contributing writer and is not necessarily the opinion of verge, its staff or its advertisers. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

copyright 2008, 2009 verge all rights reserved verge is a free monthly publication verge is printed on 50% recycled stock. It may be recycled further, please do your part. contact us 706.951.0579 publisher@vergelive.com advertising publisher@vergelive.com got a story tip? editor@vergelive.com

smatterings / notes from the publisher it takes a community to raise a newspaper.

My family and I extend a warm and heart felt “thank you” to all the partners we have had the pleasure of doing business with over the past twelve months, business and personal alike. The list goes on and on! The greatest and most enjoyable opportunity we have had is helping you grow your business and promote your event or cause. Your support for verge and its vision is a testament to the dedication you have for our community. Not often enough are you thanked for the endless hours you dedicate to your business or recognized for the sacrifice(s) that you and your families make to create and enhance the epicenter of our community. When we say “thank you,” that is not enough.

I was recently speaking with one of our business partners about this issue. The conversation went something like this: “Hey, Matt, this is your first full year coming up right? Do you have anything planned special to celebrate it? It is quite an accomplishment what you have done. One year, no kidding, you should be proud.” After talking it over with my editor (a.k.a. my wife), we decided there wasn’t going to be any gratutious patting ourselves on the back. We just want to stay focused on our mission: promote the health, vibrancy, cool stuff and people in downtown Augusta. That is what we do.

We do it out of passion. We do it because we care. We publish verge because we want to see a better tomorrow for our children and grandchildren. We publish verge because there is more to life than finger pointing. We publish verge to promote the health of our community, not display its warts and all. With that said, we also discussed a special front cover flaunting the fact that we turned one (whoo-hoo).

mail 1124 Broad Street Augusta GA 30901 submit your ideas editor@vergelive.com

www.vergelive.com

In another recent conversation, someone said, “You know what Augusta needs?

Augusta needs to put an end to the recession. We need to have a “funeral” of sorts for it. A grand party. An event to say ‘we’re tired of hearing about it.’ We all know it’s pretty tough out there right now, but there’s so much positive growth about to happen in Augusta, it will have a huge impact on our community.” How can we put an end to the “R” word and move on?

And the idea blossomed.

For one day in downtown Augusta on March 14 (rain or shine), verge is helping to have an event so crazy in design, that it just might work.

It’s A Brand New Deal: Downtown Augusta’s very own “Economic Stimulus” plan. A partnership formed between the Downtown Augusta Alliance (d(a)²), 95 Rock, your Downtown Development Authority and forty independent business owners.

For one day, one glorious day, you, along with your family and friends, can come downtown can get your very own “Economic Stimulus Checkbook” for a mere five bucks. In that checkbook are

coupons to receive FREE goods and services and special offers from over 40 different businesses in downtown Augusta.

There are offers of popcorn and a movie to hot dogs, limited art prints to temporary tattoos, balloons to Red Velvet Cake, free admission to museums to chocolate.

Dental exams to eye glasses. Jambalaya to books. There are 44 offers for you to have an opportunity to take part in.

This, AGAIN, is testament to the dedication that the independent business owners of your downtown have to you.

They are willing to give it up. Give away free stuff to you to be able to come downtown and have a really cool day. Explore some places that you may not have known existed. Sample a flavor of the dynamic and diverse offering of downtown. Mingle with the people of your community. Get to know one another. Hang out for a day (maybe longer) and have some fun in a family friendly environment. What a better way for us to say “thank you” to all of the people we have had the sincere pleasure of working with over the past year. It’s not about us. It’s about you and the community you serve. It’s about coming together for a common cause larger than ourselves.

That is our downtown community. That is the spirit of the downtown independent business owner. We hope to see you on March 14th and beyond as you get to know your downtown community.

This is why we wake up. This is why we come to work. This is why we have passion for this community. This is verge.

Thank you for reading and supporting verge.

Matt

find what you want / advertiser index

free event listings pipeline@vergelive.com letters to the editor editor@vergelive.com

We discussed having a parade (too many logistics). We talked about a year in review (boring). We talked about coming up with a snazzy “Look at us! We’re one!” icon (nah, not for us). What we finally came up with was something beyond these pages. An event that epitomizes what we have been publishing for the past year. A partnership formed out of vision, community and commerce. An event for the entire community to have the chance to participate in rather than a select group. An opportunity to come together and experience what downtown Augusta has to offer. It started like this:

shops & galleries 20 42 24 42 22 6 14 40

12 10

12 10 38

2 16

8th Street Tobacco 8th Street Tobacco Art On Broad Artistic Perceptions blue magnolia Cloud Nine Costumes by Michele Elduets Treasures of the World International Uniform Ninth Street Wine Market Paper Vinyl Cloth PeachMac Quilt Shop on The Corner Rock Bottom Music Sho-Ane’s Design

10 12 40 14 40 41 42

Shoppe 31:30 United Loan & Firearms Vintage 965 Vintage Ooollee Window Gallery Woodrow Wilson House Zimmerman Gallery

entertainment & events 30 41 25 8

95 Rock Presents Acoustic Underground Le Chat Noir Way of the Cross

restaurants & bars

services

24 34 23 44 8 4 32 4 26

6 24 4 14

20 36 34 36 6 38 12 34 36 36 38

8

1102 Bar & Grill Aroma Blue Sky Kitchen Boll Weevil Cafe Fat Man’s Cafe’ Joe’s Underground The Loft Manuel’s Bread Cafe Metro Coffeehouse & Pub Nacho Mama’s New Moon Café Stillwater Taproom T-Boy’s Po’Boys

Americana Tattoo Augusta Minit Print Casella Eye Center Downtown Dental Halo Salon & Spa Health Central Klean Machine Modish Salon & Spa Perry & Company PowerServe Sanford, Bruker & Banks The Well

shop local and discover it downtown

6 / march / verge

verge / march / 7

quick clips renovating, and leasing historic buildings and how significant tax credits can reduce the cost of rehabilitation by half. The workshop is on Thursday, March 12, from 9 am until noon at the Joseph R. Lamar Boyhood Home (415 Seventh Street). The cost is free for Historic Augusta members and $50 for non-members. Space is limited. Register by calling 706.724.0436.

lokal loudness winners

The 2009 Lokal Loudness Music Choice Award winners were released last month during A Very Lexie Weekend of parties and concerts at Sky City. If you missed the party, the voters picked:

 one bourbon, one

scotch, one beer (and a glass of wine)

With beer tastings, wine tastings and a whiskey tasting all in the month of March, George Thorogood would be out the door and in downtown Augusta in no time flat. (Unlike George, you’ll need to make reservations.) On March 11, The Bee’s Knees and Ninth Street Market host an educational wine dinner, complete with tapas to match ($15 a person. 706.724.1442).

On St. Patrick’s Day (that’s March 17), Le Chat Noir brings you Craythurs Whiskey Tasting and $3 Guinness with live Irish music complete with bagpipes. You’ll also be treated to selected scenes from McDonagh’s Beauty Queen of Leenane ($35 per person. 706.722.3322). Skip over to La Maison on Telfair on March 22 for a Wine Maker’s Dinner (706.722.4805). Finish up the month back at The Bee’s Knees for their first beer tasting event featuring Hebrew and Coney Island Breweries, known for their spectacular lagers ($15 per person.

706.828.3600).

tattoos and handbags have a birthday!

Americana Artworks, at 1160 Broad Street, celebrates its first anniversary at their downtown location this month.

It’s been a banner year for tattooing; owner Jesse Lee Vaughn has been busy expanding the store’s lobby and booth space, which should be finished in time for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Vintage 965 also turns two this month. The quaint store at 965 Broad Street has built quite a reputation for their stylish selection of animal friendly handbags made with vegan leather.

preservation for profit workshop on march 12

Join Historic Augusta for their second Preservation for Profit workshop and learn how investment in a historic building makes good financial sense.

Historic Augusta board members Tennent Houston, Paul King, and Bryan Haltermann explain the process of buying,

• Dixie Dregs Award for Favorite Lokal Band: Edison Project • Brandon Layton Award for Favorite All Ages Lokal Band: Say Vandelay • Science Friction Award for Favorite New Lokal Band: 48 Volt • Swanee Quintet Award for Favorite Christian or Gospel Band: Joseph Christie Band • Dorian Tauss Award for Favorite Lokal CD: Chairleg – Determinate • 1,000 Miles Award for Favorite Lokal Song: 48 Volt “Lights on the Boulevard” • Paul M. Colohan, Sr. Award for Favorite Lokal Male Artist: Micah Swenson • Kat Turner Award for Favorite Lokal Female Artist: Allison Foster • Robbie Ducey Award for Favorite Lokal Solo Artist: Jacob Beltz • Steve Cheeks Award for Favorite Lokal Vocalist: Luke Scasny • Reed Scott Award for Favorite Lokal Miscellaneous Instrument: Henry Wynn III • Matthew Keenan Award for Favorite Lokal Guitarist: Michael Baideme • Chris Hardy Award for Favorite Lokal Bassist: Jo Bone • Chris Watkins Award for Favorite Lokal Drummer: Brian Caplette • dieAgnostic Award for Favorite Hard Rock Band: Chairleg • David Bradberry Award Favorite Rock Band: 48Volt

 new boutique offers affordable women’s fashion

Jesse and Jessica Elliott have expanded the reach of Broad Street Ministry once again, this time opening up Shoppe 31:30, a boutique featuring gently worn women’s fashions, at 1126 Broad Street (right next to blue magnolia). Another section of the store will be maternity consignment, cleverly called “Bump to Bump.” A portion of the sales returns to Broad Street Ministry and also helps women in the Becoming Ministry obtain appropriate clothing when rejoining the workforce. Jessica says, “Shoppe 31:30 will be providing great clothing, accessories, jewelry, and vintage home decor to the public at affordable prices.” Hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.

 miller turns 69 and

urges voters to say yes

The Friends of the Miller definitely had more to celebrate on March 1 than just the Milller’s 69th birthday. The Augusta Commission unanimously approved the final project list for the next phase of SPLOST (the Penny Sales Tax) and the Miller Theatre made it on the list for $5.1 million. Now, Miller supporters turn their attention to encouraging voters to vote for SPLOST during the June 16th special election.

mayor’s masters reception moves to the common

Based on last year’s stellar attendance, Mayor Deke Copenhaver needs a bit more elbow room for his annual Mayor’s Masters Reception. This year, the Augusta Common will host the throngs of residents and visitors who come to sample a bit of Augusta’s local restaurants and, hopefully, rub elbows with golfing greats. Don’t miss the Mayor bestowing a key to the City on guest honoree Fuzzy Zoeller (and stay for the speeches).

 the playground bar moves a block, stays fun

Scott Levine has purchased the old Ballroom Billiards building and is busily turning it into the new stomping grounds for The Playground Bar, known for their karaoke and open mike nights. The relocation should be done by the beginning of March. The one block move changes their address to: 978 Broad Street sandwiched firmly in what is quicly becoming known as "bar row."

got news? we want to hear it

Whether it’s a new product line or an addition to your menu, a new employee or a new title, an addition to the family or a request for help, verge wants to hear from you. Send your “quick clips” to editor@vergelive.com by March 20th for inclusion in April’s issue.

We’re here to help you spread the good news about your business.

8 / march / verge

verge / march / 9

discover downtown shop

dine

play

live

Midtown Threds

Wicked Wasabi

Metro Coffeehouse & Pub

Modish Salon and Spa

Midtown Threds provides a fine, eclectic selection

Owned by Ayako Inaba and her husband,

Coffee house by day, bar by night (actually, a

Here is everything you need to get that look

of modern and vintage boutique clothing. Owned

Wicked Wasabi has been on Broad Street

little bit of both all the time) Metro Coffee House

you’ve always wanted under one roof. Modish

by Patty Thelen and Maggie Scully, the shop has

since 2001 (after a previous ten year stint on

& Pub has been serving up good times for nine

Salon (owned by Patty Thelen) and Spa Bleu

been open for a little over two years. Over ninety

Wrightsboro Road). Inaba is proud they are

years. Co-owned and operated by brothers

(owned by Mirenda Angelo) partner to provide

percent of their clothing comes straight from Los

Japanese people serving authentic Japanese

Kenny and Bobby Morrison, Travis Petrea, and

the best in beauty care on the outside and inside.

Angeles, while the vintage portion is brought

food. The menu focuses on traditional sushi,

Michael Yamasaka, the Metro is at the heart

Modish boasts six fully trained hair stylists,

in from North Carolina. Surprisingly, their

but offers a variety of other foods including

of the downtown scene. It’s the place you go

offering a wide range of services including basic

selections are not as expensive as most boutiques.

a delicious seaweed salad. For those not

during the day get some work done, study, relax,

hair styling, colouring, bridal parties and formal

The “look” appears more expensive than it really

comfortable with raw fish, they offer deep

converse, or find out anything you need to know

updos. Spa Bleu takes its innovative techniques

is; don’t be afraid to walk on in and peruse the

fried shrimp and pork as a substitute and

about what is going on downtown (the publisher

directly from European spas, from Swedish and

selection. A majority of the items hover between

a vegetarian roll. One of Wicked Wasabi’s

of verge considers the back booth his office

deep tissue massages to facials, manicures and

$10 to $40. That’s even college student affordable!

signature dishes is a unique take on the

away from home). The staff is always friendly

pedicures. In partnership with Midtown Threds,

Plus, Augusta students receive a ten percent

classic volcano roll that can be served in mild,

and willing to pass a few minutes chatting it up

Modish hosts two high fashion shows a year and,

discount on top of the great prices. If you are

medium, and hot depending on the customer’s

while they prepare your drink. Once night falls,

while entrance is free, the events benefit several

trying to find something you found in another

preference. Take-out service is available for

the Metro is always packed with people looking

non profit organizations (last month’s was for

store or magazine, manager Angela Fern can

anyone not able to sit and enjoy their meal

for a good time. If you like activities while you

the CSRA Humane Society). Modish offers free

also help suggest and track down clothing and

in house, and the portions are large enough

drink, they have a pool table and, occasionally,

hair cuts to those willing to donate to Locks 4

accessories similar in style. On March 6, during

to fill you up while leaving room for a side

live music. Every third Thursday, Bleeding

Love. Hours are Tue and Thu: 11 am to 7 pm;

First Friday, Midtown Threds will showcase

of crunchy seaweed. They are open Tuesday

Counterfeit takes the stage and Kris Fisher from

Wed and Fri: 10 am to 6 pm; and Sat: 10 am to 4

live models in the windows. Midtown is open

through Thursday for lunch from 11:30 am to

98.3 DJs every First Friday. They are open 10 am

pm. Call for an appointment: (706) 722-1518.

Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 7 pm and

2:30 pm and dinner is served Tuesday through

to close Monday through Friday and noon to 2

on Saturdays from 10 am to 6 pm.

Saturday from 5:30 pm to 10 pm.

am on Saturdays.

1022 Broad Street

1048 Broad Street

1054 Broad Street

1018 Broad Street

by ANDREW MULLIS photos MULLIS

a view from downtown / don’t tread on my flyers Like most people who organize area events, I often find myself with the

had been for naught, but very appreciative that someone finally had been

unthankful task of putting up flyers and posters to get the word out. I

given the task of keeping these clean. [CADI has taken on the thankless

say “unthankful” because there is no amount of praise or payment that

task of keeping the kiosks clean and debris free] But, that is not when my

could ever be hoisted upon me to even remotely enjoy this task. Now,

issue with these kiosks occurred.

the designing is fun. Paying out-of-pocket for printing and taking the time and gas to put these “creations” up are a totally different matter altogether. Some places accept “drop-offs,” which basically means that your mini investment actually getting posted in a visible spot is a hit-ormiss proposition. But while we, who do this form of promoting week in and week out, have to contend with such things, we should never have to contend with obstacles from our fellow promoters.

A few weeks ago, I spent several hours doing the task that I loath so much and, once again, found myself confronted with the two information kiosks that sit on Broad Street. Plastered with flyers as usual, one spot on the kiosk boasted a poster touting an event from the previous night. A few small flyers surrounded it, all for events on that day. Needing room for my 11 x 17 poster, I gently “relocated” the smaller adverts so I could place my poster over the now out-of-date poster. I repeated this same scenario at the other kiosk further down Broad Street.

Imagine my surprise when I arrived downtown on Monday morning to find BOTH kiosks wiped clean. I was slightly frustrated that my efforts

At the first cleaned up kiosk, I noticed a few posters for a different event had been neatly pinned up, so I added mine as well. At the second kiosk, something unexpectedly made me angry. I was happy to find again a completely clean kiosk. But as I prepared to put my poster up, I noticed posters (exactly like and for the same event I found on the previous kiosk) in the trash can. Someone had come along and taken down these full color posters that were obviously put up AFTER [the CADI team] had cleaned the kiosk. Time AND money in the trash.

After putting up my posters, I reached into the trashcan and pulled out these beautiful posters that were not torn up or soiled and put them back up on the kiosk. Never mind that the event was the same night as mine.

No one had the right to take them down, at least until the next weekend when the “kiosk cleaners” come back through to do their job. I could have just shrugged it off, but it was the right thing to do.

Maybe one day one of my fellow “flyer friends” will do the same for me.

by JOHN J. CANON photo ELIZABETH BENSON

10 / march / verge

verge / march / 11

he saw / she saw

the loudermilks embody the mantra “live, work and play downtown” With over nine years of marriage, a seven year old daughter, and a dachshund living in downtown Augusta, some may think our family is missing a few pieces. Where is the other kid and the white picket fence?

No need, because we feel that we have a fabulous marriage, one incredible daughter, an adorable dog and love living in our loft at The White’s Building!

About two years ago, we embraced a vision when the opportunity presented itself to purchase and renovate the J.B. White’s Building, with our partners Mike and Farrah Raeis. We lived in Atlanta and commuted to and from Augusta, making it difficult for us to spend time together as a family. One day we stood with hardhats on, in the back of the White’s Building, conversing with our neighbor, Jeff Gorelick, of Reuben’s Department Store. Jeff effused about Augusta’s culture, the small town charm, the golf, some of the great schools, etc. Roane’s wheels started to spin and the planning began. Move our family from the suburbs of Atlanta to downtown Augusta? Our family could be together and get to know a beautiful city where we could all live, work and play!

We made the move and love it! A typical day for us starts with getting Mina off to school.

Roane heads out for a morning power walk with our dog Jack and, sometimes, Sherwin.

Two rules we try not to break on our walk: no cell phones and many doggie bags! First, we stop at New Moon Cafe for some java and make the loop from the White’s Building to Thirteenth Street, down to Fifth Street and back. Jack loves sporting his black jacket and sniffing his way through downtown! The best part of the walk is waving good morning to all of our early bird store keepers that are sweeping off their sidewalks and the friendly CADIs that keep our streets clean. Then, it’s over to University Health Central to meet with Brian a few mornings a week. (For all of you Health Central regulars, we know you feel sorry for Brian as he ignores Roane’s dreadful excuses and whining!)

Then, it’s off to work! We head upstairs to our loft to get ready and then pop right next door to our office, sometimes stopping by to get another cup of coffee from Casa Blanca.

After putting in a few hours, we always find a great local restaurant for lunch: Blue Sky for a bit of everything, 1102 for some wings, or Wicked Wasabi for some sushi. We sometimes make it down to the Ramada for their all you can eat southern buffet. They are all great and, more importantly, downtown, which equals local support and convenience.

We often stop during the week and visit Kate at Oasis Garden to grab some fresh greens and bread. After Roane picks up Mina from school, we are usually in for the night helping Mina with her homework. We dine at home during the week, but often manage to have a

downtown family night or a date night. We enjoy taking a family bike ride to Mellow Mushroom or Pizza Joint for a cheese pie.

Watch out pedestrians! Mina just learned how to ride her bike without training wheels.

So sorry to those of you she has taken out!

On date night, our local sitters, Emily or Ashley Plocha, stroll down from their Broad Street loft to watch Mina. We enjoy a nearby wine tasting that Donna at Ninth Street Wine Market hosts at The Bee’s Knees or take Salsa lessons at downtown’s A&E Dance Studios with James and Ashlyn. But, our favorite time is spent sitting outside on Broad Street in the rocking chairs at Stillwater Tap Room, spending time with great friends and beloved neighbors.

The weekend rolls around and, if we are in town, we usually head to Augustino’s at the Marriott for their brunch buffet. Cesario, who prepares the omelets, always comments on how Sherwin looks like the president of Panama, President Martin Torrijos!

On Saturdays, we follow that with a stroll down the Riverwalk, stopping for a visit on the playground and, then, on to the Fort Discovery Science Center. Mina especially loves to visit Boyce at the Starlab, ride the Moonwalk and Human Gyro, and play virtual volleyball with us. The public library on Greene Street is often a once a week visit for us, where Mina can check out up to 20 books! And finally, if it were up to her, we would always top the evening off with dinner at Nacho Mama’s for a cheese quesadilla!

Other weekend favorites include visiting the Morris Museum and doing a bit of shopping for books at The Book Tavern, shopping for gifts at Vintage 965, blue magnolia and Zimmerman Gallery. And Mina’s personal favorite: strolling through Elduets Treasures of the World! If company’s in town, we try to pack an early dinner to take with us on the Patriot Cruise down the Savannah River.

Following the cruise, we stop for dessert at Boll Weevil before walking back home.

We truly enjoy spending time downtown and our move opened our eyes to the importance of supporting our local community. Having lived in the suburbs most of our lives, we never stopped and thought about making the choice to shop local. Local for us was getting in the car, purchasing things we needed at corporate stores, loading the trunk up and heading home. Now that we live, work and play downtown, we rarely use our cars and see the importance of shopping local and infusing our money back into our own economy. Local newspapers, such as verge, have pumped us up to spend our money downtown and so we do!

We continue to keep it local and have made many good friends along the way. Some of our first year memories will forever be in our mental scrapbook. Sharing the Fourth of July

with our dear friends Jeff Gorelick and Bonnie Reuben from the Ramada, where they graciously hosted us for a beautiful night of fireworks!

Saturday mornings at the Saturday Market on the River where Mina and Arian sold lemonade to raise money for our new Downtown Public Library.

Even more so, the many moments we have shared with our cherished neighbors at gatherings such as Roane’s surprise birthday party; the doggie play dates on the first floor; Sherwin and Mina playing Xbox 360 Rock band with our neighbor; the self portraits that Mina sketched of her neighbors as

they patiently posed and all of the memories that were shared with our security officer Raymond, because Everybody Loves Raymond!

As long as we think we have all of the pieces, that is all that matters. Of course, life is not perfect, but who needs a white picket fence? This is our American Dream... thank you, Augusta, for embracing our family and making downtown a place that we love to call home!

by SHERWIN, ROANE, MINA AND JACK photo ELIZABETH BENSON

12 / march / verge

verge / march / 13

front porch / jim mcguire

“he’s one hell of a photographer. you can take one look at a photo of his and say, That’s a McGuire.”

To peer over a broad shoulder at the road-worn hands of an internationally renowned songwriter, is somewhat intimidating. When the shoulder belongs to Augusta’s own Larry Jon Wilson as he shows me a hand-written letter by his long-time friend and photographer of equal international renown, it is humbling. Larry John rustles the letter, flips out a stack of black and white photographs and muses, “Jim is a genuinely good man. And when I think about it, he may now be the foremost black and white photographer in the world. Yes, he’s a good friend of mind.”

Larry Jon is the latest portraiture subject of Jim McGuire, a war veteran, music lover and the only photographer to have had the likes of Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Bèla Fleck and Townes Van Zandt sit in front of his classically hand-painted backdrop of grey dabs and white highlights. This legendary collection has been turned into a traveling exhibition of the history of Nashville. Each photograph in the Nashville Portraits exhibit scribes a song of road travel to dingy nightclubs and arena music halls alike, without amplifiers or entourages. The musician and the music are in black and white, smiling or straight-faced, and only allow interpretation from the other side of the canvas.

I’ve heard that Hank Snow’s “Spanish Fireball” was the song that first inspired your love of country music. Is there newer music that inspires you today?

VERGE:

I don’t listen to new music at all. I’m one of those guys that is stuck in the past. I listen to a lot of ‘40s and ‘50s jazz, Django Reinhardt, John Jorgenson Quartet and Dixieland music.

Modern day country music, I really can’t get into. I’m kind of old school.

JIM MCGUIRE:

During your tour in Viet Nam, what stayed with you, considering those were formative photography years?

VG:

JM: When I was first over [in Viet Nam], I was a weatherman. They

learned I could work a camera, so they made me a photographer.

It was kind of a fluke. I had no skills in development or printing, so they hired a local Vietnamese portrait photographer who set up a dark room in a tent and showed me how to develop film.

That whole process very much stayed a part of my photography.

When you moved to New York, what made you want to write music reviews for The Village Voice?

VG:

I was in love with 50’s country music, especially bluegrass.

Unfortunately, there was no place for those bands to play in New York. Then, those bluegrass festivals sort of worked their way north. It was a great time to be in New York. In the beginning of all the country and folk music... Bob Dylan, John Hartford… it was just a really great time to be up there.

JM:

Of the members of the “Nashville Portraits” is there a photo shoot that sticks out in your mind?

VG:

All of the sessions were so diverse. The one shoot that sticks out in my mind is that of Bill Monroe (the front cover of Nashville Portraits). He had just gotten his mandolin back from Gibson, as it had been smashed to a thousand pieces almost a year before.

Gibson took it and pieced it back together for him. There was such a sentimental attachment; he felt the need to hold it like a child.

VG: How did you come to sit for Jim?

VG: What connection do you now feel when hearing the music of

Legends alike and country gentlemen always, Jim McGuire and Larry Jon Wilson stay friends to this day, with many friends and decades between. Meet the men who define the history of music and the history of the small world that is friendship between us all. It’s always more than words.

JM:

your subjects?

People like Sam Bush, John Prine, Emmylou Harris; I’ve got files that go back 25 to 30 years, at the early stages of their careers.

It has been so interesting to grow up with them and watch their careers blossom so successfully. The viewer of [this exhibit] only sees the one photo, but I literally have hundreds upon hundreds that show the progression of these musicians as people.

JM:

One of Jim’s more recent subjects, Larry Jon Wilson, already had a very personal connection with the photographer, as their friendship spans over thirty years.

VG:

How did your relationship with Jim start?

In the early 70’s, Jim and I met during the filming of a documentary Heartworn Highways. This film documented the lives of mutual friends of ours, such as Townes Van Zandt, David Allen Coe, Guy Clark, Steve Young and many more. Jim has photographed all of them at one time or another, and that would have to be the beginning. We’ve kept in touch regularly… must have been 33 years now. My gosh, a long time.

LARRY JON WILSON:

I sat for Jim after the book [Nashville Portraits: Legends of Country Music] was published. He shot some photos for my latest album. I don’t reach the fame or notoriety of his other subjects, but he’s always been at the top of his game. I mean, he’s one hell of a photographer. You can take one look at a photo of his and say, “That’s a McGuire.”

LJW:

Nashville Portraits opens during the annual The Sixteenth Annual Morris Museum of Art Gala on Friday, March 6, and closes on Friday, April 24, with an intimate evening with Jim McGuire and Larry Jon Wilson. For tickets to either event, contact The Morris at 706.724.7501. The exhibit is open to the pubic during normal museum hours. Nashville Portraits is accompanied by a book entitled Nashville Portraits: Legends of Country Music.

Compiled and edited by Morris Museum of Art director Kevin Grogan, the book includes more than sixty of Jim McGuire’s black and white photographs of Nashville’s finest, accompanied by brief biographical sketches of each artist and quotes from their peers.

The Morris Museum of Art is located at One Tenth Street.

by JACOB LYNDON BELTZ photos JIM MCGUIRE want more? read the uncut interview at vergelive.com

14 / march / verge

verge / march / 15

a brand new deal / experience downtown (almost) free

on march 14, downtown businesses call a halt to the recession

In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt rolled out unprecedented measures to rescue the country from deep economic trouble and instill confidence and hope back into America. On March 14, 2009, seventy six years later, downtown Augusta businesses follow FDR’s example with their own “Brand New Deal.”

What began as a tongue in cheek idea to “bury the recession” quickly turned into an innovative version of an Economic Stimulus Package for downtown.

“We wanted a way to firmly say ‘the recession is not welcome here,’” said Matt Plocha, publisher of verge, who created the “Brand New Deal” concept. “I thought it was also a great opportunity to demonstrate the power of the merchants in our downtown district and their willingness to go above and beyond for their community.” And downtown businesses responded in droves. The Economic Stimulus Package includes forty four checks, each redeemable for

“we wanted a way to firmly say, the recession is not welcome here.” a free item or special offer on Saturday, March 14, from 11 am to 5 pm (several of the offers do have extended expiration dates).

When Matt approached Downtown Augusta Alliance (d(a)²) with the idea, the working group for Events & Promotions immediately saw the benefit and jumped on board.

“It’s a great way for residents and business owners to get together and stimulate their local economy,” said Kate Lee, owner of Oasis Garden and group leader. “A Brand New Deal showcases the variety of independent businesses downtown with this fun Saturday event.” d(a)² also felt a Brand New Deal mirrored the same goals

ON MA

of Destination Downtown, downtown’s first shopping rewards program, inviting more people to experience all that downtown has to offer.

The checkbooks cost a mere five dollars; the proceeds benefitting the Downtown Augusta Alliance to support initiatives like Destination Downtown and a proposed Shop Local campaign.

A quick flip through the “checkbook” reveals that the five dollar cost can easily be recouped by redeeming just a few of the 44 checks in the book.

The idea is simple, but effective.

Consumers get to experience downtown’s shops, restaurants and businesses and receive free gifts along the way, while the shops reap the benefit of added traffic directed right into their doors.

A sampling of the cool free things you can pick up: a box of HEM incense from 8th Street Tobacco, a free book from The Book Tavern, free jambalaya from T-Boy’s Po’Boys, free fabric from Quilt Shop on the Corner, a free seedling from Oasis Garden, a free temporary tattoo from

RCH 14 ,

2009!

Americana Tattoo.

Other coupons can be redeemed for free food, drinks, artwork, dental exams, hair styling products, chocolate and tea. Some of the offers do have limited quantities.

Just as FDR promised America in 1933, downtown businesses have stood up and pledged: a brand new deal for the people of Augusta.

by ELIZABETH RAND EDITOR’S NOTE: Don’t miss the special

screening of Twlight Becomes Night hosted

by The Well at 716 Broad Street during A

Brand New Deal. This stellar documentary reveals the role neighborhood stores play in our individual lives and community. It examines the issues threatening locally owned and indpependent stores: large chains, poor public policy, high rents, etc. However, it also demonstrances how neighborhoods can save these stores, through individual commitment and community activism.

Screenings on the hour from 11 am to 4 pm. Popcorn and coke provided (with your economic stimulus check, of course!).

A Brand New Deal

March 14 • 11 am to 5 pm HQ: The White’s Building • 936 Broad St. Purchase your Economic Stimulus Checkbook in advance at any of the following locations: Vintage Ooollee

1121 Broad

blue magnolia

1124 Broad Street

Oasis Garden

1034 Broad Street

The Book Tavern

1026 Broad Street

Zimmerman Gallery

1006 Broad Street

Casa Blanca Café

The White’s Building

Vintage 965

965 Broad

8th Street Tobaccoo

230 Eighth Street

Quilt Shop on the Corner 428 Fifth Street The Morris Museum of Art One Tenth Street

DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS UNITE! FREE STUFF! GREAT SAVINGS! GET YOUR ECONOMIC STIMULUS CHECKBOOK TODAY!

Five Bucks for 44 Free Gifts & Special Offers That’s A Brand New Deal!

Free items and offers may have limited quantities or other restrictions. Complete details are listed on each check.

16 / march / verge

verge / march / 17

olde town / passionate about pinched gut life in augusta’s oldest neighborhood When my husband first mentioned it was time to look for a house to buy (I mean, SERIOUSLY look), I was ecstatic. Matt and I had started looking for our first home about three years before we actually bought one. We had dreams of a cheap fixer-upper that we could mold into a fantastic financial booster pack. Our budget was less than desirable and it only took a quick second to figure out there wasn’t much out there in the 25K range.

Nonetheless, we pressed on and feverishly searched the internet and newspaper for potential houses in our budget. We spent our Saturdays driving through the “off the hill” and Harrisburg areas, combing the neighborhoods for a good deal. We finally find one off of Bull Run Road; a real gem for a mere $27,000, built in the early 1900’s, about 1500 square feet and in decent shape. In those days, we were both just finishing college and reliant on our parents’ John Hancock to secure a loan. We excitedly rushed our parents to take a look at our golden egg. They walked through the house, looked at us like we were crazy and emphatically said “no.” We took the blow to our egos rather hard and swore to hold off on the dream of home ownership until we could do it all by ourselves.

Fast forward a few years. Our family grew by two beautiful boys, we started our careers, and felt really ready to find our first home. We began the mission with undying gusto (and luckily a bigger budget). We started the search again, looking at houses in Waverly, Montclair, Summerville, Hammond Hills and more. As we traipsed through home after home, we discovered our desires leaned toward older, more genteel homes, homes with a history and, if we were lucky, a puzzle to unravel and discover.

It was about the time of this inner discovery that we came across home the now known as “Panera House.” From the moment I stepped through the big rounded front door, I knew this was it. Panera House is located in Olde Town, downtown Augusta. We had always liked the area and its historic charm, but thought it might not be the best place to raise a family. This created a definite dilemma: we LOVED the house. It was beautiful, old, needed minimal work and could be had for a great price. The house had spent the last 25 years divided into two different apartments (it still boasts two complete kitchens). Panera House seemed aching to return to her initial calling: a single family home.

We spent weeks stopping by at various times of the day and night, meeting the principal of Heritage Academy (across the street) and walking the neighborhood repeatedly. The more we got to know the neighborhood, the more we loved it. We loved the idea of walking to the Saturday Market or Broad Street, biking to work, playing in the fantastic playground directly across the street and living our dream of reducing our carbon footprint by migrating back to the city’s center. We would be getting a roof over our heads and gaining a new way of life.

Eight months later, neither of us has looked back. Our home may not have the best insulation and Matt’s bike has been stolen out of our yard, but every decision has some form of sacrifice. We have met our Olde Town neighbors and one thing continually rings true: The oldest neighborhood in Augusta is filled with folks who love their homes and revel in the neighborhood’s history. As any member of the Olde Town Neighborhood Association will tell you, to protect the history, we must look towards the future.

We have joined a growing collection of lawyers, doctors, engineers, business owners, bankers, and environmentalists; we are young and old, diverse in our passions, but one thing is certain, Olde Town will continue to grow. Slowly but surely, most of the houses of Olde Town will once again become the family residences they were meant to be. As downtown Augusta revitalizes, so also does Olde Town rise slowly like a phoenix from the flame. Our future is one we need only look to history to see, Olde Town was once the cat’s meow, and it’s headed that way again. When you get right down to it, the Panera House and the Pinched Gut neighborhood (Olde Town’s real name) is exactly where our family wants to be.

The Olde Town Neighborhood Association meets the third Monday of every month at the Peter Knox Center on Greene Street. The next meeting is March 16 at 7 pm. All living in the neighborhood are encouraged to attend.

by TONYA BONITATIBUS photos ELIZABETH BENSON Tonya Bonitatibus the Development Director for the Savannah Riverkeeper, GA Field Representative for Oceana, and a proud resident of downtown Augusta.

18 / march / verge

romancing broad street

a quest for cool finds through downtown’s antique shops

Anytime I see a vintage film camera, it’s as if Harry just met Sally. These classic Kodak brownie cameras, one windup and the other trigger operated, are the stuff of magic. In a modern world of digitally produced movies and high def, it’s lovely to be reminded that there is a much more artful way to create cinema.

Ever since seeing Gabi’s “wall of plates” (see verge, October 2008), I became obsessed with finding neat pieces with which to build a small assortment of my own. Antique stores are bound to have a good amount of kitchenware, whether a full set of Pyrex serving bowls or a crate of miscellaneous plates.

I’m apt to keenly check out anything woodsy. These wooden salt and pepper shakers add character reminiscent of an original Disney movie chock full of forest creatures singing.

And doesn’t everyone want a cute cottage home full of sweet, wild (yet seemingly tame) animals like Snow White?

Rotary phones bring to my mind the image of a grainy black and white film star calling up the mob to inform them the deal is off, each click of the turn dial bringing more suspense.

It’s a cheesy thought, but the picture is

romantic to me, and thus sparks my love for Rotary phones.

Retro frames are making their way back on the fashion scene, but why bother spending more than a few bucks on a pair of what may have been your grandfather’s glasses just to have a logo stuck on them?

verge / march / 19

romancing broad street

a quest for cool finds through downtown’s antique shops I am fond of kitschy things.

Not in the manner of cheap, imitation art or black velvet portraits, but in the way of small, decorative items which belong in an open aired home full of bright colors. I suppose this trait comes from the summers spent at my great-grandmother’s home in Waddy, Kentucky (population 30, the epitome of a softspoken country town). While I don’t own collections of bird statuettes or doilies, I do enjoy little pieces of décor which serve no purpose but to provide satisfaction to my ridiculous, romantic imaginings and tastes.

Downtown is filled

with antique stores, each brimming with personality. Granted, not all merchandise is necessarily a true antique by definition of an item 50 to 100 years old. It is the latter part which matters most: it is desirable due to rarity, condition, utility, or some other unique feature. The shelves are stocked with what seem like yesteryear’s throwaways, but certain treasures are sure to make the hunt worth it.

discover your own antiques, collectables & kitsch Whitehouse Antiques

1010 Broad Street | 706.774.9448

Antique World Auction

1140 Broad Street 706.722.4188

The Marketplace Antiques Another romantic tendency of mine is imagining the glorious Old West, as painted by fictional cowboys and Indians living in pup tents and rambling through desert cities with a guitar

on their back and pair of boots on their feet. Thus is it only logical that a pair of worn leather cowboy boots give me hope that that sort of sweet, lonesome life could exist.

1208 Broad | 706.724.6066

Neil Ghingold Antiques

No home is complete without an accordion.

1230 Broad Street | 706.722.3483

Merry’s Trash & Treasures

1236 Broad Street | 706.722.3244

Downtown Antique Mall

1243 Broad Street | 706.722.3571

Frog Hollow General Store

1472 Broad Street |706.724.4259 While certain items may need some cleaning up, they still prove to be operable. This telephone, though in need of a paint job, is in practically perfect condition.

The Armchair

1447 Broad Street | 706.724.0484

Naaiya’s Antiques & Flowers

108 Macartan Street | 706.823.5954

Lofty Ideas

305 Eighth Street | 706.722.2000

by ASHLEY PLOCHA photos ELIZABETH BENSON

20 / march / verge

verge / march / 21

indie film / random lunacy

a man and his family challenge the definition of freedom Random Lunacy allows us to gaze into one man who lives life “free of the landlord” and challenges us to examine how our own personal choices impact our ultimate freedom.

Film and television veteran, Victor Zimet teamed up with writer/producer Stephanie Silber to tell the story of Poppa Neutrino, the roving musician/enterpriser, through their latest documentary Random Lunacy: Videos from the Road Less Traveled, which screens at The Imperial Theatre on March 15.

The New Yorker’s Alec Wilkinson, who specializes in writing about “exotic” characters, describes Poppa as “[one who] has all the characteristics of any person who has built a fortune. Cunning, opportunistic, good ideas, works incredibly hard.”

For the filmmakers, the truth behind the story lies within its extremities. Zimet and Silber adroitly answer the question: How is it possible to discover the brand of freedom Poppa Neutrino preaches? They chronicle Poppa’s decision to relinquish the stability found in traditional residential living, the normalcy of a nine to five job and the comforts of routine for a nomadic life into the unknown. Poppa and his family live only by their own sufficiency.

For over twenty years, Zimet and Silber “grew up” with the Neutrino family, which consists of Poppa, his wife Besty and their five children.

The first encounter Zimet had with the Neutrinos came in 1986 as he followed the sound of New Orleans jazz through a Times Square subway station.

He discovered a truly extraordinary sight: a ragtag group of musicians, complete with bearded patriarch Poppa, Betsy on sax, flaxen haired little kids tap dancing and singing. Zimet immediately knew he needed to tell this story in film. From that initial encounter, Zimet immediately created a short profile for a local television show and a lifetime friendship began with the Neutrinos.

In 2002, Zimet and Silber (who have worked together since 1999) decided to take on the larger task of telling this family’s singular story, following the family’s travels in an old bus, performing in gritty little beach towns to a stint with a Mexican circus.

As they restlessly moved from place to place, other people randomly joined them, helping to build rafts

from found objects. The family sailed those rafts across the Atlantic Ocean, then trekked from Europe to Russia, playing Dixieland jazz and ekeing out a living on the streets. In retrospect, the experiences proved illuminating for the children, as each grew up to be extraordinary human beings: kind, decent, hard working, and all living conventional lives. Two of the children are now professional musicians; one is a graphic artist; two are college students; three are happily married with children of their own.

When asked to define the kind of freedom that Poppa Neutrino and his family embodied, Zimet and Silber answered: “Poppa feels that rent is the thing that will ruin a man. Living by that philosophy, freedom of movement became his choice and his way of life.”

“Choice is certainly a part of freedom. For Neutrino, his choices enabled him to wake up every single day and make up his life as he went along; that kind of complete freedom on a daily basis is a concept foreign to most of us. Obviously, figuring out how to pay for food and basic essentials for himself and his family was an issue. As a result, possessions were pared down radically. Poppa’s wife Betsy puts it like this: ‘You figure out what your needs are as opposed to what your wants are. When you travel the way we did, you take with you only what you can carry. You figure out which book do you really want to read!’”

Freedom does come with a price. “Choosing to make this film independently, which means self-financing and an enormous amount of time invested over the course of years, without pay, allowed us to be free to make the work we deeply desired to make, and tell the truth that we found in the story without interference from some studio head or TV exec trying to commercialize our work and the family’s life at the expense of truth. [Though] it is ironic that in order to make a film about a homeless family we needed to take out a loan against our home. Great freedom does entail great risk.”

Random Lunacy has made its own tour of the world and, even though Poppa Neutrino is not necessarily always a likeable character, audiences are compelled to discover the why and how of a life that many desire, but fear to attempt.

by HEATHER RANKIN photo SOUTHERN CIRCUIT

“his choices enabled him to wake up every single day and make up his life as he went along; that kind of complete freedom on a daily basis is a concept to most of us.”

Random Luncay: Videos from the Road Less Traveled • Imperial Theatre • March 15 • 7:30 pm Meet Victor Zimet and Stephanie Silber before the screening at 6:30 pm. Stay after for a Q&A.

more film to see in march Pleasant Journeys & Good Eats along the Way

The South on Film: Judge Priest

High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music

sunday march 8 • the morris • 2 pm

sunday march 11 • the morris • noon

sunday march 29 • the morris • 2 pm

View the new documentary about the work, life and personality of one of the most important photorealist painters today: John Baeder. His painstakingly rendered oils and watercolors documents the roadside eateries he reveres—diners, taco trucks, and barbecue dives. His depiction of them captures the pulse of America in a bygone era. For a sneak preview: youtube.com/ user/FilmHouseInc.

The 1934 comedy Judge Priest is considered an important example of Hollywood’s portrayal of African Americans.

Exuding southern charm throughout (the film was promoted as “mellow as a mint julep and twice as refreshing”), the film features Stepin Fetchit, the first black actor to become a millionaire. After viewing the film, museum director Kevin Grogan will lead a discussion.

This classic Americana documentary follows the storied musical career of Kentucky musician Bill Monroe and becomes an impassioned portrait of bluegrass music, a true American art form. The footage of Ralph Stanley singing “Man of Constant Sorrow” and glimpses of a young Alison Krauss add to the film’s appeal.

22 / march / verge

gallery

soundcheck

Spring Artists’ Market and Festival

The Cubists

Gertrude Herbert • March 20 to 27

Sky City  CD Release Party Coming Soon

The Gertrude Herbert’s Annual Spring Artists’ Market and Festival thrives on fresh visual concepts that only local artists can provide. Founded in 1937, the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art serves as the area’s only independent non-profit visual art school and gallery.

Programs such as Gertrude’s Spring Artists’ Market provide an outlet for local artists to keep presenting fresh and sometimes forward thinking works of art on consistent basis.

Some odd years ago, I was standing amongst the mix of townies, cigarette smoke and spilt PBR in Augusta’s indie heaven. I gazed at the stage as three men mounted their gear, quickly judging them by their non assuming garb and stature. Then it happened.

Local artist and gallery owner Lou Ann Zimmerman exclaimed, “I hope to see a lot of new work. I would love to see more 3-D work.”

The market accepts a wide variety of entries: painting, pottery, drawing, photographs, jewelry, sculpture, hand-pulled prints, fine crafts and visual arts. The art must be family friendly, created in the last two years and not previously exhibited in the Gertrude Herbert.

This year’s market and festival kicks off on March 20 and runs daily through March 27. The opening evening features a public reception from 6 pm to 8 pm with music by Marybeth Adams on the harp. Exhibiting artists will be on hand to meet guests and answer questions about their work. All artwork purchases are ten percent off during the reception only.

On Saturday, March 21, from 11 am until 3 pm, the Gertrude Herbert invites families to spend the afternoon discovering their inner artist with a fun day of hands-on art activities and artists’ demonstrations from the Gertrude Herbert faculty. Children will be able to work with a variety of artist’s materials as they create items they will then be able to keep, some may require a small fee to cover material costs. The Artists’ Market features work by member artists of the Institute. This exhibition and sale will run daily through the event.

Noel Brown, Marcus Barfield and Chris Carrick swung the hardest backhand at me I had ever felt with the strum of the first chord. My jaw fell to the ground and my heart pounded with a force unmatched, as the trio rocked me harder than any band I had ever seen in Augusta. I cackled like a schoolgirl stricken as Marcus wailed away on his guitar Noel crooned vaguely dark lyrics, and Chris pounded away mercilessly on drums.

The Cubists continue the evolution of this band without bounds on their newest record (soon to be released). Hints of every genre of music imaginable seem thrown into a dark cauldron, mystical words spoken over it as Noel stirs the trio’s collective concoction.

Blues, electronica, metal, pop, jazz, rockabilly, all this and more thrown on one record.

Noel glows with excitement over the record and collaboration with Dave Barbe, a producer from Athens. Much of the project was done at home. Family time increased; time (and money) spent in the studio greatly reduced. With musical toys and computer gizmos strewn about the living room, Noel describes how the band brought a nearly finished product to Barbe to add the fine “tweakings and strip out the unnecessary elements.”

The Spring Artists’ Market at Gertrude Herbert is free and open to the public. Schedule: Friday, 3/20, 9 am to 8 pm; Saturday, 3/21, 11 am to 3 pm; Monday through Friday, 3/23 to 3/27, 8:30 am to 5 pm. For details, contact the Gertrude Herbert at 706.722.5495.

Ten songs make up the new record, Mechanical Advantage. With a tentative CD release date sometime this month, Noel promises a show with lots of guest appearances and a multimedia experience you won’t soon forget. “I just want to make good records and have fun doing it. I want to make a live show that’s just as good as the record.” Find out more at myspace.com/thecubists.

by HEATHER RANKIN photo GERTRUDE HERBERT

by JASON BARRON photo ELIZABETH BENSON

verge / march / 23

onstage

offstage

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

The Ringling Brothers Circus

Le Chat Noir  March 13 - 28

James Brown Arena  March 26 to 29

In the town of Leenane, beauty is found on outgoing trains while isolation only hears the departing whistles. Set in rural Ireland, Martin McDonagh’s crafty tale The Beauty Queen of Leenane is spun with unrelenting precision as it barrels toward its destination.

At the center of the play is the mother-daughter relationship between Mag and Maureen respectively. Maureen, a 40 year old single woman dreams of shucking her self-imposed obligations to her Mother and joining her “freed” sisters in the land of husbands and children. Enter Pato Dooley, a construction worker set on leaving the confines of rural Ireland and starting anew. As Maureen and Pato’s romance blossoms, Mag’s desperation intensifies.

Few family traditions have remained as consistent as the annual circus; smelling peanuts and freshly spun cotton candy, spotting a sneak peek at the elephants patiently awaiting the spotlight, sharing the electricity that sparks as the Ringmaster takes the stage. The circus spins the tale that’s relived and retold night after night at bedtime. Even Winston Churchill fondly recalled P.T. Barnum’s traveling show:

Sipping complan and mouthing tedious complaints, Mag’s insults and demands serve to anchor Maureen to the shabby kitchen and, as a result, into her mother’s servitude. This is not “kitchen-sink-drama” mind you; this mother-daughter dispute is waged in the spirit of uncompromising warfare.

The production of Beauty Queen is deceptively simple, with minor staging requirements and small cast of four actors. But McDonagh’s electric dialogue delves deep into the human psyche requiring the acting and direction to create a level of intimacy with the audience, while exposing the abundant black humor throughout. Director Krys Bailey brings together a strong cast of veteran actors (Sharon Brooks, Nicole Swanson, Mark Swanson and Duane Brown) to portray McDonagh’s dark wit and irony lacing each scene.

Will Maureen find her seat on a train or will she saunter home whistling a tune of bitter sadness? The answer will revealed only at Le Chat Noir. The play opens on March 13, with additional performances on March 14, March 19 to 21 and March 26 to 28. All performances begin at 8 pm. For tickets, call the box office at 706.722.3322, Tuesday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm. Le Chat Noir is located at 304 Eighth Street.

by DOUG JOINER photo LE CHAT NOIR

“I remember, when I was a child, being taken to the celebrated Barnum’s circus… the exhibit I most desired to see was the one described as ‘The Boneless Wonder.’” In the true spirit of wonder, The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus brings the Greatest Show on Earth to James Brown Arena on March 26 through 29.

This year’s performance, “Boom A Ring,” features a daring crossbow demonstration by Martti Peltonen that takes archery to new extremes, mind-boggling illusions by master magician Joel Ward, and the Urias globe of steel, where whizzing motorcyclists orbit within inches of a female. The beloved circus animals continue to make appearances: white striped Bengal tigers, Asian elephants and miniature Daschunds.

A special extra perk offered this year is the free, all-access pre-show event, which begins an hour before show time. Bringing patrons closer to the performers, the audience will have a chance to meet and get to know the performers personally. Circus fans will discover how the performers got into the circus world, how they train each day to prepare for the show, and will even learn some circus skills of their own.

Shows are on Thursday 3/26 and Friday 3/27 at 7 pm; Saturday 3/28 at 3 pm and 7 pm; and Sunday 3/29 at 1:30 pm. Tickets are $30, $20 and $15. For details: jamesbrownarena. com or 1.877.4AUGTIX. All seats are reserved.

by ELAINE RICHTER photo RIINGLING BROTHERS

24 / march / verge

verge / march / 25

good chow /white elephant’s makeover delights the tastebuds Josh Detchemendy lived in Spain working at a sushi bar as a sashimi chef, came home for holidays, saw the White Elephant was for sale and decided to open a new Spanish tapas restaurant to follow up his first project, Broad Street Market.

Seems simple enough? It is.

Josh and his brother/business partner Luke chose to run a very precise, yet exceptional, menu featuring two sides: dia, for day and noche for night. Wanting to experience the food their way, I asked Josh for his favorite dishes and he surprised me by bringing out one of each to sample.

The first dish presented was steamed mussels and crostini, or “little bread.” I’ve never been attracted to the idea of bivalve seafood, yet there’s something visually appealing about that slight tint of turquoise on the rim of the shell (leave it to me to be engrossed with food because of its natural beauty). Removing the meat from its shell, I carefully positioned it on the crisp bread, covering it with the creamy sauce the shells came soaked in. As soon as the combination hit my tongue, I changed my mind on the mollusk. Never again will I prejudice upon a mussel if it has been prepared in garlic, white wine and sweet basil cream. Our waiter even offered to bring us extra crostini to soak up the remaining sauce. We gladly accepted!

The crab fritter came out next in a beautiful state, looking so like a delicacy instead of a simple something to eat.

Sitting in a shallow saucer of bright spicy pineapple glaze and garnished only with a few minimalist slices of avocado and spice, this made for a lovely dish. Try it with a side salad or the delicious sweet potato fries if you choose to have it as your meal, or share it with your date as an appetizer over lunch.

The ideal lunch plate includes greens, light meat, and something sweet. Josh’s lunch favorite, the Thai Chicken Salad, encompasses and surpasses these criteria.

The texture and taste of tempura on top of a fresh bed of greens are sure to satisfy any craving for fried chicken and assure you that your diet is still intact. Doused in

light, sweet chili vinaigrette and adorned with fresh diced mango and avocado, it leaves a lingering sweet and spicy taste on the tip of your tongue. Particularly delightful is the sorbet which crowns the salad, giving it a note of bliss which makes one long for warmer days (and more homemade sherbet).

To satisfy your sweet tooth, the chocolate gateau is sure to hit the spot. A petite molten cake finished off with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and bathed in thin strawberry slices is a delightful finish to a delightful meal. A chocolate lover at heart, I knew I was destined to love it, though my photographer adds that the cream cheese pie is divine.

Detchemendy hopes to soon add his sashimi expertise into the mix and open a full sushi bar. He also wants to add ofile, or sweetbreads, to the menu. The brothers look forward to “Mariachi Thursdays,” where they’ll serve tequila along with their impressive wine menu and have a live mariachi band amble through the restaurant.

As for integrity to the restaurant’s name, the brothers have definite plans to change the name to better reflect their food, atmosphere and service. I prod and pry, but am only able to get a few hints. “Grandmother,” says Josh as I walk onto Broad Street, appetite satisfied and disposition content. “And Portuguese,” adds Luke. “Portuguese!”

The White Elephant offers Spanish tapas and wine at a moderate price. Hours: Tuesday to Saturday (11 to 2:30, 5 pm until), Sunday (11 until). Closed Mondays. Located at 1135 Broad Street across from blue magnolia.

by AURELIA SORENSON photos ELIZABETH BENSON

26 / march / verge

verge / march / 27

pipeline / 3.6 to 3.9

movies at main monday nights • 6:30 pm augusta main library

friday march 6 outdoors 

First Friday

successful 2004 re election campaign.

Downtown Augusta • 5 to 10 pm • free On the First Friday of each month a celebration is held downtown along Broad Street. Galleries and studios remain open those evenings to debut new works, street vendors sell their wares, and bands can be heard all over. First Friday is a free, monthly, family friendly event. special 

Variety says “For a film that could have

blue magnolia: a spring cleaning party

March 9: W. Oliver Stone directs this controversial biographical depiction of President George W. Bush from his college days through his

been either a scorching satire or an outright tragedy, “W.” is, if anything, overly conventional, especially stylistically.” Rated PG 13, 129 minutes. (2008)

1124 Broad Street • 5 to 10 pm • free blue magnolia gets ready for warmer weather with a spring cleaning sale plus a party featuring the live acoustic music of Jacob Beltz, Bellagio Brownies, chocolate sampling and more fun!

Details: 706.828.6550

Shoppe 31:30: Grand Opening

1126 Broad Street • 10 am to 9:30 pm • free Welcome Shoppe 31:30, a new ladies’ boutique specializing in gently worn clothing. 30% of all sales go to benefit the shop’s partner ministry, The Broad Street Ministry Center. Details: 706.722.5999 or bsmcaugusta.org

The Book Tavern: Book Signing by Jessica Baptiste

1026 Broad Street • 7 to 9 pm • free Meet young novelist Jessica Baptiste, a graduate from USC Aiken and former writer for the Augusta Focus and pick up a signed copy of her first novel, Call Her Saffron.

Modish Salon: Still Live Models

1018 Broad Street • 7 to 9 pm • free Experience the beauty and mystique of living models designed and styled by Patty Thelen & Toni Horton of Modish Salon. Clothing provided

by Vintage Ooollee & Costumes by Michelle.

March 23: Milk Sean Penn delivers an incredibly moving (and Oscar winning) portrayal of Harvey Milk, California’s first openly gay elected official, who was assassinated in 1978.

New York Times reviewer A.O. Scott called it “the best live-action mainstream American movie that I have seen this year.” Rated R, 128 minutes. (2008)

Vintage 965: Second Birthday Celebration

saturday march 7 outdoors 

Heart & Sole 5K

Sector 7G • 6 pm

Downtown Augusta • 9 am • $25 This benefit 5K race starts and ends at MCG Children’s Medical Center, where numerous medical miracles take place everyday! Details: heartandsoleinc.org special 

Heart & Sole Day Downtown

Downtown Augusta • all day • free Select downtown merchants join together for Heart & Sole, donating a portion of their day’s sales to benefit the MCG Children’s Heart Program. Come downtown to support this worthy cause! Details: dasquared.com

The Book Tavern: Ken Berger Book Signing

The Book Tavern • 3 to 5pm • free Meet the author, Ken Berger, and purchase a signed copy of his new novel, Swallow Savannah Swallow. Pat Conroy, author of The Prince of Tides, says, “Ken Burger has long been my favorite sports columnist and now has written a humdinger of a novel! It’s got politics, treachery, rotten politicians and a swift moving plot. “

Heart & Sole Evening Celebration

The Whites Building • 7 to 11:30 pm • $50 Wrap up an awesome day with the Heart and Sole evening celebration! Wonderful drinks & food, lots of fun with all of your Friends! Live music by Soul Dimensions. Ticket includes food and beer & wine. Must be 21 or older. Details: heartandsoleinc.org live music 

Ed Turner and #9: Music from The Beatles Fort Discovery • 7:30 pm • $25 Details: see March 6 listing

Josh Pierce and Jacob Beltz

965 Broad Street • 6 to 10 pm • free Come celebrate our birthday with us and enjoy lots of goodies made by Grandma. Tell us “Happy Birthday” and get 10% off your total purchase (excludes Melie Bianco and Locally Made Goods).

Located across from Nacho Mama’s.

Pre-Meat Bash with Seldora • Aralic Agnes • Roselyn • Conditions Valley of Mediggo

Joe’s Underground • 9 pm • $4

Guitar Strings

Augusta 706.724.1172 Aiken 803.649.1919

Casper & the Cookies • Venice is Sinking Sky City • 10 pm • $5

sunday march 8 film 

Pleasant Journeys and Good Eats Along the Way

Morris Museum • 2 pm • free View this new documentary about the work of John Baeder. Post film discussion with Mr. Baeder and museum director Kevin Grogan about how the film was developed with support from the Watson-Brown Foundation. sports 

WWE: Road to Wrestlemania Smackdown Tour

James Brown Arena • 7:30 pm • $15 to $50 On the Wrestling Card: Jeff Hardy, Edge, The Great Khali, MVP, Carlito & Primo, R-Truth, The Brian Kendrick, Vladimir Kozlov, The Divas and many more. Tickets: jamesbrownarena.com

Augusta Blues Festival

live music 

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $43.50 to $48.50 This celebration delivers the dynamics of highenergy music and entertainment with love, happiness and nostalgia, all in the name of the Blues. World class blues entertainers Mel Waiters, Sir Charles Jones, Latimore, Theodis Ealey, Shirley Brown, Clarence Carter and Floyd Taylor share the stage! Tickets: jamesbrownarena.com

Signature Escape • The Emotron The Chiltons • The Phillip Experience Poor as Fred • Flechette 15 Sector 7G • 7 pm • $8

monday march 9 film 

Movies at Main: W.

Greene Street Library • 6:30 pm • free Directed by Oliver Stone. Rated R, 97 min.

Artistic Perceptions: Original Oil Painting

by AvaLynn Zilke 551 Broad Street • 5 to 9pm • free AvaLynn is an outstanding artist who at the age of thirteen shows aptitude and accomplishment far beyond what would be expected. Jaycie Ward will be singing some of your favorites on First Friday.

Refreshments available.

Sixteenth Annual Morris Museum Gala

Morris Museum of Art • 7 pm • $200 This annual elegant black tie cocktail party is the talk of the town with live music by the Blue Dogs, Charleston’s most popular band. Silent auction and valet parking. Details: themorris.org sports 

Harlem Globetrotters

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $19 to $71 Details: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com live music 

Ed Turner and #9: Music from The Beatles

March 30: Rachel Getting Married “A contemporary drama with an aggressive sense of humor about the return of an estranged daughter to the family home for her sister’s wedding. Kym’s reemergence throws a wrench into the family dynamics, forcing long-simmering tensions to surface in ways both hilarious and heartbreaking.”

(Jacob Felix). R, 114 minutes. (2008)

Fort Discovery • 7:30 pm • $25 Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see this great band and support Augusta’s no-kill animal shelter. Proceeds benefit the CSRA Humane Society. Doors open at 7 p.m. & all shows begin at 7:30 p.m. sharp. Tickets only available at: csrahumanesociety.org

80s Night

Sky City • 9 pm • $5

venice is sinking

First Friday DJ Mix

saturday march 7 • 10 pm • sky city

Miss Tess and The Bon Ton Parade

Athens five-piece band, Venice Is Sinking share a wistful coalesce of melodies, reminiscent of early ‘90s ambient post-rock in their newest release Azar. With hauntingly beautiful instrumentation and heart sinking vocal counterparts, they set to display their warm sound alongside Casper and The Cookies, another Athens born indie outfit, whose energetic dance-rock sound, will grace Sky City on Saturday, March 7. Tickets are $5. Details: skycityaugusta.com

Soul Bar • 9 pm

Stillwater Tap Room • 10 pm • $4

Red Headed Step Child

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

Day Fall

1102 • 10 pm

After the Crash

Club Sparx • 9:30 pm

28 / march / verge

pipeline / 3.9 to 3.19 monday march 9 The Golden Age

live music 

Sector 7G • 8 pm

tuesday march 10 Dave Firman

live music 

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

wednesday march 11 Seniors Luncheon

special 

Lucy Craft Laney Museum • 11:30 am • $7 This month’s speakers: Wanda Williams, Bridgette Williams and panel of female journalists. RSVP: Emily Capers at 706.724.3576.

The Bee’s Knees Wine Tasting

The Bee’s Knees • 5:30 pm • $15 Limited seating: 706.724.1442

The South on Film: Judge Priest

film 

Morris Museum • noon • free After viewing the film Judge Priest, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. live music 

Never Shout Never • The Scene Aesthetic The Honorary Title • The Bigger Lights

Influenced by Buddy Holly and Frank Sinatra, Don McLean worked small clubs until “American Pie” exploded in 1972. Details: augustasymphony.org

Lounge Lizzard

live music 

Pops at the Bell: American Pie

Bell Auditorium • 7:30 pm • $25 to $65

Sector 7G • 8 pm

Music at the Morris: The Music of Peggy Lee with Kate Stevenson

Black Stone Cherry

Sky City • 10 pm • $9.5 to $12

friday march 13 special 

Divine Performing Arts: New World Tour

Bell Auditorium • 6:30 pm • $29 to $89 The world’s premier classical Chinese dance company, Divine Performing Arts, presents classical Chinese dance and music in a gloriously colorful and exhilarating show. tickets: jamesbrownarena.com art  Morris Museum • noon • $10 to $14 Howard Paul, president and CEO of Benedetto Guitars, discusses how their world-class instruments are handcrafted in Savannah.

Catering by the BBQ Barn. RSVP: noon on March 11; no lunch walk-ins. Details: themorris.org theatre 

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 Martin McDonagh’s Tony Award winning black comedy unleashes all the dark humor and rich language for which McDonagh has been internationally praised. See page 25 for more details. Tickets: lcnaugusta.org

Mics & Cables

Augusta 706.724.1172 Aiken 803.649.1919 live music 

Ed Turner and #9: Music from The Beatles Fort Discovery • 7:30 pm • $25 Details: see March 6 listing

80’s Night

Psycho Devilles The Loft • 9 pm

Divine Performing Arts are headquartered in New Jersey and have expanded to three touring companies and 300 shows per year, traveling throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. They recently completed seven sold-out performances at the Kennedy Center, including the venue’s first Sunday show in ten years. “It is a magical event,” says Yang. “Even with the current economy, it receives an overwhelming welcome wherever it goes.”

New Times Culture and Education Center was established in 2005 in Atlanta. The Augusta branch was created in order to bring Divine Performing Arts into Augusta and other Southern markets — a six-month endeavor to coordinate itineraries, available dates, logistics, ads, tickets and sponsorships. “We are a volunteer organization,” says Yang. “Our goal is to promote Chinese culture in a way that can benefit all ethnic groups.” For more information: www.divineshows.com/augusta.

by ELAINE RICHTER

Imperial Theatre • 7:30pm • $8 Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers presents Random Lunacy: Videos from the Road Less Traveled with producers & directors Victor Zimet, and Stephanie Silber. Poppa Neutrino, patriarch of an innovative and creative family of vagabonds, travels with wife and six children playing Dixieland jazz and eking out a living on the streets. Random Lunacy chronicles one family’s journey that you won’t soon forget.

monday march 16 live music 

Bela Kiss • Stained Glass Romance Outrun The Gun • Virulence • Glory of the Forgotten • Exsilium Eterna Sector 7G • 5 pm

tuesday march 17 outdoors  St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Augusta Common • noon to 10 pm • free Riverwalk Special Events will be “rolling out the green carpet” on St. Patrick’s Day! This year features live entertainment, dancing, arts and crafts vendors, children’s games and activities and plenty of food and beverages. Details: 706.821.1754

Craythurs Great & Small Whiskey Tasting

Soul Bar • 9 pm

Event organizer Ben Yang of the New Times Culture and Education Center explains that one of the primary reasons for bringing this performance to Augusta is to present “the real culture and history of China. Over the years we have seen a lot of Chinese shows and the majority are sponsored by the government,” he says. “They don’t show the true story. I saw this performance last year at Radio City and it hit my heart. It’s very emotional. ”

film 

Random Lunacy: Videos from the Road Less Traveled

Broad Street • 2 to 4 pm • free Details: 706.821.1754

Sector 7G • 8 pm

On March 13, world-renown Divine Performing Arts will make their Augusta debut at Bell Auditorium. With a 40-piece orchestra and 55 dancers, everything from the sound to the costumes, backdrops, music and choreography pay respect to the grace and dignity of traditional Chinese culture.

Morris Museum • 2 pm • free Singer and college professor Kate Stevenson pays tribute to the great Peggy Lee.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

TFS Rave

friday march 13 • 6:30 pm • the bell auditorium

special 

Lionheart • Years Spent Cold • Up In Arms

Art at Lunch: Creating Benedetto Guitars

divine performing arts

Sky City • 9 pm • $5

sunday march 15

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm

Sector 7G • 6 pm

thursday march 12

Hope for A Golden Summer • Favorite Cousin • Emma Jean

Horror Costume Party with DJ Joycette 1102 • 10 pm

Le Chat Noir • 7 pm to 1 am • $35 Whiskey tasting and selected scenes from Martin McDonagh’s The Beauty Queen of Leenane and as much Irish as you can keep down. Reservations eeded! 706.722.3322 or lcnaugusta.com live music 

Bayou Bleu

Tuesday Music Live: The Augusta Children’s Chorale

Sky City • 7 pm • $5

Whosehouse

St. Paul’s River Room • noon

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

Edison Project

Cristabel and the Jons

1102 • noon

Stillwater Tap Room • 10 pm

saturday march 14 special 

A Brand New Deal

Downtown Augusta • 11 am to 5 pm • $5 Downtown Augusta has said “No” to the recession and created its own economic stimulus package for you: the Brand New Deal! It’s a “taste of downtown” with a twist. Get your booklet of Economic Stimulus Checks for $5. Each check is good for a free item or special savings at over 40 participating businesses. Proceeds benefit the Downtown Augusta Alliance. dasquared.com theatre 

The Beauty Queen of Leenane Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

St. Patrick’s Day: The Mason Jars Joe’s Underground • 8 pm • $5

wednesday march 18 dance 

The Art of Bellydance: Bellydance Superstars

Imperial Theatre • 7:30 pm • $32 to $45 The ancient art of bellydance has existed for generations as part of Middle Eastern culture.

In the late 20th century, the art spread its wings and inspired women around the world to become a virtual craze evolving into the fastest growing dance form in the world today. details: bellydancesuperstars.com

thursday march 19 special 

live music 

Ed Turner and #9: Music from The Beatles

The Marvin Sapp Crusade Tour

Sausage Fest 4

James Brown Arena • 7:30 pm • $25 to $30 The dynamic Marvin Sapp takes the stage with Crystal Aikin, Melinda Watts and Anointed Voices of Hope. Details: jamesbrownarena.com

Rap

Authors Respond to Art

Fort Discovery • 7:30 pm • $25 Details: See March 6 listing Club Hollywood • noon • $8 Sector 7G • 8 pm

art 

Morris Museum of Art • 6 pm • admission

verge / march / 29

Join members of the Augusta Authors Club as they present prose and poetry inspired by Edith Caywood’s paintings. Wine and cheese reception to follow. Regular museum admission. live music 

Edison Project • Bain Mattox Shot From Guns

live music 

The Independents • Phillips Experience The Chiltons • Steve Hit Mike • Poor as Fred • Insides Out Sector 7G • 7 pm

Joe’s Underground Birthday Bash with Edison Project

Sky City • 9 pm • $5

Joe’s Underground • 9:30 pm • $4

Paul Arrowood

Musicians Night Out #8: The Vellotones

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm

friday march 20 special 

Sky City • 9 pm • free Join local musicians as they play your favorite cover songs with The Vellotones all night long in a great Augusta tradition.

sunday march 22

Clean Start Launch Party: Just for Teens

Le Dolce Vita • 4 to 6 pm • $35 Includes starter kit, California gift, pizza, drinks and education. Reservations required: 706.724.0040 art 

Spring Artists’ Market

Gertrude Herbert • 9 am to 8 pm • free The third annual Spring Artists’ Market and Festival kicks off on March 20th and runs through March 27th. This free community event offers a wide range of special opportunities for artists and art lovers of all ages and interests, from the seasoned collector to the youngest Picasso-intraining! Details: ghia.org

Artists’ Reception: Spring Market

Gertrude Herbert • 6 to 8 pm • free Meet the Artists orthe Spring Market and receive 10% off all purchases Details: ghia.org

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

theatre 

Drum Sticks

Augusta 706.724.1172 Aiken 803.649.1919 live music 

Southern Soul and Song: Alecia Nugent and Bradley Walker

Young Jeezy’s “The Recession Tour”

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $27 to $87 “The Recession Tour” features Young Jeezy along with special guests Lil Boosie, Ron Brownz, Ace Hood, and DJ Pro Style. Tickets: jamesbrownarena. com

Pitboss

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4 Soul Bar • 9 pm

Edwin McCain with Simplified Sky City • 10 pm • $15 to $20

Danger Muffin

Seussical, The Musical

Davidson Fine Arts School • 7 pm • $8 to 12

friday march 27

The Beauty Queen of Leenane Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

special 

Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey: Boom a Ring

live music 

DJ Triskyl & DJ Codec

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $15 to $30 See page 26 for details or jamesbrownarena.com

Spring Artists’ Market

Dark Electro Dance Party Club Sparx • 7 pm

art 

Suns Collide • Shotgun Opera • Subcam The Loft • 9pm

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free Details: See March 20 listing. comedy 

Big Scene

1102 • 10 pm

These Boys So Crazy Comedy Tour: David Lee and Spark Plug

Stone Dogs

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

Imperial Theatre • 8 pm • $33 David Lee and Spark Plug have been in the comedy circuit for three years, performing in small clubs to comedy clubs. Both are natives of Birmingham, AL from the same area as comedian Rickey Smiley.

Bloodkin

Sky City • 10 pm • $5

Splinter Belly

Stillwater Tap Room • 10 pm

monday march 23 art 

Spring Artists’ Market

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free Details: See March 20 listing. film 

Movies at Main: Milk

Dave Firman

live music 

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm

tuesday march 24 art 

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free Details: See March 20 listing.

Ruskin

live music 

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

wednesday march 25 The Bee’s Knees Beer Tasting

special 

The Bee’s Knees • 5:30 pm • $15 Featuring Hebrew and Coney Island Breweries. art 

Spring Artists’ Market

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free Details: See March 20 listing.

thursday march 26

art 

Spring Artists’ Market

Stillwater Tap Room • 10 pm • $4

saturday march 21 outdoors 

Hammonds Ferry • all day • free Pack your favorite picnic lunch and fly kites in the park. Details:wposs@hammondsferry.com art 

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free See page 25 for more details. theatre  Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

theatre 

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm

Sector 7G • 7 pm

special  Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey: Boom a Ring James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $15 to $30 See page 26 for details or jamesbrownarena.com

(r)evolution

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

live music 

The 12s Look Like You • Our Last Night I See Stars • We Came As Romans

Spring Artists’ Market

Imperial Theatre • 7:30 pm • $12.50 and up Performing throughout the south with her family band, Alecia Nugent blends the influence of Reba McIntire, Carl Smith and Loretta Lynn, with the indelible sounds and styles of legendary bluegrass acts like Flatt & Scruggs and the Stanley Brothers.

2007 IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year, Bradley Walker belongs to a tradition that includes such outstanding stylists as Merle Haggard, Mel Street, Gene Watson, Lefty Frizzell, and Keith Whitley.

Details: southernsoulandsong.org

Spring Artists’ Market

Le Chat Noir • 5 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

Joe Stevenson

Greene Street Library • 6:30 pm • free Directed by Gus Van Sant. Rated R, 128 min.

Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

Family Picnic & Kite Flying in Boeckh Park

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

theatre 

pipeline / 3.19 to 3.27

Gertrude Herbert • 11 am to 3 pm • free Details: See March 20 listing.

Terra Cognita: Jon Eric Rils

Morris Museum • 6 to 8 pm • free Textile artist Jon Eric Riis discusses his work. Details: themorris.org theatre 

Seussical, The Musical

Davidson Fine Arts School • 7 pm • $8 to 12

The Beauty Queen of Leenane Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

Amen • The Animal

live music 

Sector 7G • 7 pm

The Plainfield Project • Bayou Bleu Sky City • 9 pm • $5

bellydance superstars

wednesday march 18 • 7:30 pm • imperial theatre The ancient art of bellydance was brought into the mainstream five years ago with the formation of American dance group the Bellydance Superstars, now the premier touring bellydance troupe. They have performed all over the world before millions of people, recorded best-selling DVDs and CDs, and hold successful workshops, as several of the members are also expert instructors.

The Superstars began in 2003 as unlikely participants on the 45-city Lollapalooza tour, where they performed for over half a million people. Following this feat, they embarked on their own headline tour, featuring 56 shows in 55 cities in 62 days.

In 2005, the troupe spent three months at the renown Casino du Monte Carlo in Monaco, with Prince Albert attending two of their shows. Their dazzling performances led to another three-month booking in 2007.

On their website, the troupe states that they “see bellydance as greater than a mere narrow cultural expression of one region. Creative mutations and hybrids of the dance in other lands are a testament to the brilliance of its originators.”

The Bellydance Superstars perform at the Imperial Theatre on March 18 ($32 and up) and will hold a workshop on March 17 at the Augusta Ballet School from 6 pm to 9 pm.

The workshop price is $75 until March 16 and $85 at the door. To register, visit www. alchemydance.com/zoe.shtml

by ELAINE RICHTER by STEPHEN DARRASSE

30 / march / verge

pipeline / 3.28 to 4.4 saturday march 28 outdoors 

Yellow Jessamine Festival

Hammond’s Ferry • 11 am to 9 pm • free The Yellow Jessamine Festival celebrates the arts, the garden and music, with an art competition, show and sale, vendors of art and quality handmade crafts, a garden expo with garden speakers, vendors and exhibitors, free and fun children’s crafts and activities, and a variety of great food. The event culminates with a street party and live entertainment by the Swingin’ Medallions. Details: 803.613.1641 special 

Mozart: Requiem

St. Paul’s Church • 7:30 pm • &18 to $22 The Augusta Choral Society and full orchestra.

Details: augustachoralsociety.org

Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey: Boom a Ring

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $15 to $30 Details: See page 26 or jamesbrownarena.com theatre 

Seussical, The Musical

Davidson Fine Arts School • 1 & 5 pm • $8 to $12

The Beauty Queen of Leenane Le Chat Noir • 8 pm • $25 See page 25 for more details.

Woodwind Reeds

live music 

Cougar Strike • Just for Kicks Sludgebomb • Virulence • Royalist Sector 7G • 7 pm

Keith Gregory

Joe’s Underground • 9 pm • $4

Modern Skirts • Dave Firmin Deep Vibration

Toddler Time: Absolutely Abstract

special 

Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey: Boom a Ring

James Brown Arena • 7 pm • $15 to $30 Details: See March 26 listing film 

High Lonesome: The Story of Bluegrass Music

Morris Museum • 2 pm to 3:30 pm • free The film provides a historical survey of bluegrass music centered on Kentucky musician Bill Monroe.

monday march 30 film 

Movies at Main: Rachel Getting Married

Greene Street Library • 6:30 pm • free Directed by Jonathan Demme. Rated R, 113 min.

tuesday march 31 live music 

Sector 7G • 7 pm

wednesday april 1 Brown Bag History Series: General William Penn Duvall

special 

Augusta Museum of History • 12:30 pm • $3 Historian Dr. Russell K. Brown tells of the decorated Spanish-American War veteran. Bring your own lunch.

The Loft

art 

Wednesday DJ Dance Party Sky City • 10 pm • $2

Morris Museum • 10 am; 11:15 am; & 12:30 pm • free to $4 Learn about abstract art and create your own abstract painting using found objects. Museum family members and parents, free; nonmembers, $4 per participant. Registration required. Details: themorris.org

Live Music

thursday april 2

DJ On Point

outdoors 

Play Through Downtown: Second Annual Game brought to you by d(a)²

Throughout Downtown Augusta • free Pick up a “Play Through Downtown Game Card” at participating downtown businesses for your chance to win while exploring downtown augusta.

Watch for more details in the April issue of verge. details: dasquared.com

Manuel’s Bread Cafe • 7 pm Located in the heart of Hammond’s Ferry’s Town.

Details: 803.380.1323 saturdays 

Disha / modern jazz

La Maison on Telfair • 6 pm The Loft • 10 pm • free

Hype Night Dance Party 1102 Bar & Grill

DJ Brian J

Club Sparx • 9 pm

Ezekiel Harris House Tours

1822 Broad • 1 to 5 pm • free to $4 Last tour starts at 4 pm. Details: 706.737.2820

ongoing exhibitions

The White’s Building • 3 to 9 pm • free Experience the Passion of Christ as local area artists interpret each station of the cross in their own medium. Presented by The Well and The Quest. Details: wayofthecrossartwalk.com

thru May 2011 The Godfather of Soul: Mr. James Brown

First Friday

continuing A Community That Heals

Downtown Augusta • 5 to 10pm • free On the First Friday of each month a celebration is held downtown on Artists’ Row. Galleries and studios remain open those evenings to debut new works, street vendors sell their wares, and bands can be heard all over. First Friday is a free, monthly, family friendly event. Details:augustaarts.com

Art at Lunch: Art Rosenbaum

Morris Museum • noon • $10 to $14 Artist and musician Art Rosenbaum discusses his experiences collecting and researching Georgia folk music and plays samples from his Grammy-nominated boxed set Art of Field Recording. Catering by Al’s Family Restaurant.

Paid reservations by noon, March 11; no lunch walk-ins, please. Details: themorris.org theatre 

The Great Big Gopher Boat: The Story of Noah

Fort Discovery • $7 to $15 Enopian Theatre Company presents this delightful family retelling of the story of Noah and the Ark.

saturday april 4 theatre 

Hansel & Gretel: Family Matinee

Imperial Theatre • 3 pm • $5 Storyland Theatre closes its season with the classic tale of a boy, a girl, a witch and lots of candy! Active Military and their families are free.

every week

Joe’s Underground • 10 pm • $4

Psyopus • ABACABB • Catelepsy

Bike Night & Drink Specials

Fox’s Lair • free

Augusta Common • 6 to 10 pm • free Live music on the main stage, vendors, and our monthly car show, this event is sure to entertain the whole family! Details: 706.821.1754 art 

sunday march 29

wednesdays 

Soup Suds & Conversation

thursday april 2

Spring Concert & Car Show

Sky City • 10 pm • $5 to $10

Jeff Liberty

Morris Museum • noon • free After viewing the film Pinky, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion.

Way of the Cross Art Exhibit

Augusta 706.724.1172 Aiken 803.649.1919

every week

film 

The South on Film: Pinky

sundays 

Worship at The Well

715 Broad Street • 9 am & 10:45 am

Morris Museum Tour

Morris Museum of Art • 2:30 pm • free John Kolbeck Cotton Patch • 7 to 11 pm • free tuesdays 

Dr. John Fisher

Fox’s Lair • 9 pm • free • irish session

Open Mic Night

wednesdays 

209 Music Lounge • 8 pm • free

AUGUSTA HISTORY MUSEUM details: augustamuseum.org

thru March 31 National Geographic Documentary 1929-1941: The Great Depression April 1 to 30 History Theatre Film: Bobby Jones, Stroke of Genius

ongoing exhibitions FORT DISCOVERY

details: nscdiscovery.org

thru April 26 National Geographic MAPS: Tools for Adventure GERTRUDE HERBERT details: ghia.org

thru March 30 Agnes Markwalter Youth Art Competition and Exhibition LUCY CRAFT LANEY MUSEUM

details: lucycraftlaneymuseum.com

thru April 30 Women’s Fine Arts Exhibition with Nancy Bookhart & Malaika Favorite MORRIS MUSEUM OF ART details: themorris.org

thru April 19 Inside/Out: The Private World of Edith Caywood thru April 26 Nashville Portraits: The Photography of Jim McGuire SACRED HEART CULTURAL CENTER details: sacredheartaugusta.org

thru April 31 Art Exhibit: David Swanagin and The Pearl Girls

get listed. send your event info to pipeline@vergelive.com by the 20th of each month. it’s free.

verge / march / 31

black stone cherry /sky city on march 12

“we do what we do and we’ll keep it that way until the day we die. this is who we are.”

Seven years ago, a 15-year-old Ben Wells had one goal in mind: to play music for a living.

Now, with two albums to his credit as guitarist/vocalist for Black Stone Cherry, Wells’ dream has become reality, but “we’re still trying to find ways to climb that ladder, and what keeps us together is that we haven’t lost the fire yet,” he says.

“We” includes vocalist/guitarist Chris Robertson, bassist/vocalist John Lawhon and drummer/vocalist John Fred Young, who are touring their second and latest release, Folklore and Superstition, with a stop at Sky City on March 12. Now past legal age, the show will be a far cry from the days when the teenaged band would play for free just to land bar gigs. “Several times we had to hide in broom closets when the police would come in,” Wells recalls. “We played any place we could, from concert venues to our favorite Mexican restaurant. We did whatever we had to do to be able to play.”

Folklore and Superstition was recorded in Nashville at Blackbird Studios and produced by Bob Marlette, who became “an extra set of ears and an extra band member,” says Wells.

“It was important to us that someone come in and not mess up our sound or jeopardize our careers. Bob liked the fact that we’re from Kentucky and the vibe we have. We picked him because he understood us as people and as musicians. He brought a lot out of us that we never knew we had.”

The end result is an album that rocks hard while rocking against the grain. “We’re not going to mold ourselves to go with any trends, because trends come and go, but the things that are true stay around forever,” says Wells. “We’re not dependent upon radio and television for our success, the way a lot of other bands are. We do what we do and we’ll keep it that way until the day we die. We’re risk takers. We stand on our own legs and say, ‘This is who we are.’”

As is the case with most bands these days, the Internet has proven to be a valuable tool in the building of Black Stone Cherry’s fan base, both here and overseas, but mostly it’s their

concerts that keep that fan base loyal. “Myspace and Facebook have helped get our music out all over the world,” says Wells. “The Internet has definitely helped us prevail through word of mouth. But our live show is fun, it’s energetic, and we give people their money’s worth. We meet and greet every night, no matter the venue size, and fans appreciate that.

They pay money to see you play, but they don’t expect you to hang out. I think a lot of that has contributed to why they keep coming back and supporting us.”

Whether in the studio or onstage, Black Stone Cherry follow one rule: no limitations.

“We’ll try anything,” says Wells. “The beauty of this band is that we can do whatever we want to. When we play the songs live, we keep them the way people are used to hearing them, but we extend some parts. We stick with a blueprint, but we step outside the lines once in a while.” Likewise what they use to create those songs. “We use Peavey amps and different guitars,” he says. “Gibson, Gretsch, Fender — if it sounds right, it will be used. I hear plenty of players say, ‘I can’t play that [line of guitars]. That’s insane! It takes away the freedom of music. You’re cutting your own throat.”

The band stays in creative mode, he notes, always coming up with new ideas, new parts.

“It’s constantly moving,” he says. “You can never say that you’ve learned all there is to learn about your instrument. You’re cutting yourself short if that’s the way you think. I’m listening to stuff that’s a new world of playing to me so that I can better my skills because there’s always room to grow. Right now I’m listening to Chet Atkins. I love it. His music is very hard; I have my work cut out for me!”

In retrospect, Wells sees little change in the Black Stone Cherry of his adolescence, other than “we’re older and have longer hair. From then to now, the band has grown in great ways, as we thought we would, but we’re constantly fighting the grind,” he says. “We’re looking forward to doing this when we’re 40 and looking back at who we were at 23.”

by ELAINE RICHTER photo COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

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live sounds abound /our march picks

nevershoutnever: march 11

psycho devilles: march 13

danger muffin: march 20

angie aparo: march 21

NeverShoutNever!, the eclectic, genre-crossing creation of singer / songwriter / guitarist Christofer Drew, will perform in Augusta at Sector 7G on March 11.

“Rockabilly on the edge of its seat” is how the Psycho DeVilles describe their high-energy brand of total coolness. Formed in 2002, the Atlanta three-piece has loudly twanged their way across at least half of the U.S., opening for a variety of bands, including the equally cool Legendary Shack Shakers.

The Charleston, S.C., trio Dangermuffin (Dan Lotti, Steven Sandifer and Miki Sivilli) liken their sound to something that “sticks in your mind like good batter sticks to your ribs.”

Food analogies aside, Dangermuffin have been making quite a name for themselves.

Through relentless touring they’ve ventured into other parts of the U.S., culminating in a slot at the 2008 Jazz Aspen festival opening for Widespread Panic and Xavier Rudd.

Angie Aparo’s musical career began in the 1990s as part of a band called Angie’s Hope.

He eventually pursued a solo career, initially starting out on the road with just an acoustic guitar. His first CD, Out of the Everywhere, was recorded in Nashville and released in 1996.

A native of Joplin, Missouri, Drew, whose band members include bassist Taylor McFee and drummer Nathan Ellison, is a prime example of how the Internet can help break a new artist.

Without a record deal, NeverShoutNever! have received close to 30 million MySpace plays and sold over 15,000 EPs and 125,000 tracks on iTunes. The demand and support are enough to warrant NSN headlining a U.S. tour with the Scene Aesthetic, the Honorary Title and the Bigger Lights.

This month, the group will perform at South

By Southwest in Austin, Texas; next month it’s the Bamboozle Road Show Tour with We The Kings and Forever The Sickest, and come summer they’ll play the SmartPunk Stage on the Vans Warped Tour.

Although several record labels have offered to put ink to paper, Drew prefers the D.I.Y. method, and why not? So far, it’s working remarkably well. NSN has been featured in numerous print and online publications — Billboard magazine among them — and even landed a spot on MTV’s TRL. absolutepunk.net says of Drew: “The [Yippee EP] isn’t bubblegum pop but that audience would find Christofer Drew’s melodic esthetics attractive, as well as those embracing the early stages of punk. The track “Big City Dreams” is steered by positive emo strokes and a catchy groove that drenches audiences in a natural high. The EP should come with a warning label that the music will gobble up audiences in its optimistic synergy. It is like a pure shot of sugar cane running through your veins.”

NSN is putting the finishing touches on a new album, produced Forrest Kline of Hellogoodbye, with whom NSN recently wrapped up a U.S. tour. Look for the CD in May. While you’re waiting, try the single “Happy,” which was just released on iTunes on March 3 or listen to more at myspace.com/ nevershoutnever. venue SECTOR 7G tickets 631 ELLIS STREET

The band has three albums out: a 2003 live disc, 2005’s Psycho Cadillac (all 22 songs of it!) and 2007’s Supercharger. A new CD is in the works, and if it’s anything like its predecessors, subject matter will revolve around “hotrods, girls, drinkin’ and broken hearts” — and that’s a direct quote.

If in-the-pocket bass and drums and the unmistakable sound of Gretsch guitars are your thing, check out the Psycho DeVilles when they play The Loft on March 13. venue THE LOFT tickets 974 Broad Street

As they like to put it, it’s in the looseness and in the groove, and you can find both on their 2007 CD, Beermuda, and 2008’s Emancee.

The two albums have contributed to the band becoming the darlings of Carolina public radio.Check them out when they’re in town.

In the meantime, get a “taste” of their sound at myspace.com/dangermuffin. venue STILLWATER TAPROOM tickets 974 Broad Street

In 1999 he released The American, which includes his original version of “Cry,” which later became a hit single for Faith Hill. Five releases later, he’s got a new CD in the works with longtime drummer Derek Murphy.

One fan wrote in: “Aparo seems to be speaking directly to the heart with his lovely voice and equally attractive lyrics. He is a poet and constructs his songs in a manner uncharacteristic of popular music today.”

Aparo joins Patrick Davis onstage for Downstairs Live on March 21. Hear his unique style at myspace.com/angieaparo venue FORT DISCOVERY THEATER tickets www.myspace.com/downstairslive

all above by ELAINE RICHTER

suns collide: march 27 Discovering downtown Augusta’s music scene took shape during my formative years of high school, dodging homework and curfews to attend the cluster of shows held at now sadly defunct venues, The Haven and Capri Cinema. Back then, these venues thrived off the young devoted fans of local and independent rock groups. During this time of embracing Augusta’s local music scene, I met future members of the destined group Suns Collide.

Veterans of the tug and pull lifestyle of creating bands, booking shows and envisioning their music to be heard on a larger scale, the members of Suns Collide have combined experience, musical influences and pure camaraderie into what they describe as “a band with bends and breaks and slopes and spires in all the right places.”

Blending several genres of music, Chris Whitaker, former vocalist of the popular metal group dieAgnostic, provides the subtly eerie and almost passionate vocals, while Eric Rinker, former drummer of local experimental rock groups Gearbox and Distal, supplies a full and skillful balance of rhythm. Easler, former lead guitarist of Cycle, rips guitar strings to an almost cyclonic degree, while newly added bassist Dave Mercer perfectly matches the group’s intensity, adding the missing element the band needed.

After four years of line-up changes, playing shows and a limited EP release, Suns Collide is set to continue writing songs and performing, hoping to release their full length album sometime this summer. While their music is often categorized with heavier genres, it’s only a hint of the group’s true character. Suns Collide is definitely progressive and, after a long road in the sways of Augusta’s rock scene, they’ve culminated into the prime group they’ve always wanted to be. Catch them share the stage with Shotgun Opera at The Loft on March 27. Show is free and music starts at 10.

by JOYCE TAHOP photo COURTESY OF THE ARTIST

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printed matter / a year of words It has now been a year since my very first printed matter was published. I have written about more than a dozen authors and many more books. Last year another publication asked me for a list of my ten favourite books for 2009. Since nearly every book I’ve written about qualifies as a favourite, the task challenged my focus. How could I limit myself to only ten? In fact, each time I sit down to write printed matter, I find the same difficulty before me: in under a thousand words, how can I pay homage to any book or author? To answer the call for ten books I decided to craft a list of ten books I wanted to read this year and share it with others.

Some of my recommendations were revisiting old friends, like Flannery O’Connor whose short stories I have read in abundance but never made it to her novels. This year I intend to correct that error by reading The Violent Bear It Away, her final novel. I think about writing a column for her every month so you can be certain when my contrition is complete she will reappear on these pages.

Old friends often have new companions, and I shared last month about Cornelia Funke, whose recently published Inkdeath concludes a story I began several years ago. And then there was Thomas Friedman, whose numerous editorials have often informed me and spurred me to think harder about what I believe. His book From Beirut to Jerusalem is one of the most astute explorations of the problems of the Middle East. He has written a number of books since then of which I have read none. With the release of The World Is Flat, now in it’s third revision in as many years, and Hot, Flat and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution – and How It Can Renew America, I find I must endeavor to expand my horizons once again.

Sometimes new friends bring old friends with them. Last year I met Michael Ryan, author of The Last Freedom: A Novel on the Real-Life Adventure of Dr. Viktor Frankl and Editorial Page Editor of the Augusta Chronicle. Mike’s book was nearly a visit with an old friend as I got to know the person and character of Dr. Frankl better by reading about his life in this unique manner. Afterwords, I had to reread Man’s Search For Meaning, one of Dr. Frankl’s more popular works, but one highly influential in the development of my life.

Often, new friends seem like old friends. I only read Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret last year, but I already feel an affinity usually reserved for books who have known me longer. I grew up with comic books and heard on the radio that 2009 is the year of the graphic novel, so the idea of novels like Persepolis and Watchmen already intrigue me. Selznick’s book, however, is substantially better than a graphic novel. While there is a text based story, a portion of the story is told only through imagery. No thought bubbles are present to inform you, but the images are as necessary to the story as the chapters of words interspersed between them.

Other books I put forth will bring me in touch with authors I have never read before. Of particular note is Graham Greene, a man whose entire life unfolded in the 20th century.

My interest in him was aroused by reading Shusaku Endo, whom some call the Graham

the professor’s top reads for 2009

Greene of Japan. I asked several people who were buying Graham Greene which was his most seminal work and the majority agreed it was The Power and the Glory.

Sometimes I find it very strange how books enter into our lives. For years I have known the name Wendell Berry. I knew he was a poet and a farmer in Kentucky. Dozens of people have prodded me to read his books and, for reasons I cannot comprehend, I resisted their urgings. Even my brother recommended I read his collection of essays, What Are People For? Yet still, I resisted. Then I read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle and Ms. Kingsolver referenced Mr. Berry numerous times and he is suddenly in my list of must reads. Why should a book unlock my willingness when people could not? In a very real way, I write this column for the very purpose of convincing others to read, and not just in general, but particularly what I have enjoyed reading.

T h e secret of unlocking your willingness is what I am after.

I have only succeeded when after reading my words, you are convinced to read another’s words. The whole thing hinges upon you. Thank you for letting me share my passion with books.

David Hutchison is the proprietor of the Book Tavern, located at 1026 Broad Street.

David is best known for his unique ability to match the perfect book to a customer’s personality and being a veritable walking encyclopedia of literary works.

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past times / the green building “One thing that I know is that Downtown Augusta is a great place to invest in an old building and bring it back to life. Recycling old structures is attractive because of the

unique architecture and desirable urban location.

These locations have large, vast infrastructure in place and can accept commercial offices, retail, and residential. As a result, these locations will always be desirable and marketable.”

- Braye Boardman

the green building a brief history 1917 Brothers Furniture Company opened at 1019 Broad Street

1925

Culpepper Brothers Furniture participated in a gift package contest from Georgia and Florida Railroad Company to travel throughout Florida and Cuba advertised in the Augusta Chronicle

1931

Fire destroyed the Culpepper Brothers Furniture Company and the tragedy associated with the adjoining properties prompts discussion about public awareness of building codes and city responsibility of dangerous ruins

The Green Building is located at 1019 Broad Street in the Augusta Downtown Historic District. The current building under renovation was built after a fire destroyed the Culpepper Brothers Furniture Company on November 2, 1931. The building was burned to the ground and the unstable exterior walls collapsed into the Slusky Building next door, causing the Sluskys to move their business temporarily to 1033 Broad Street.

One woman at the Reel-Simkins Seed Company, 1027 Broad Street, was killed and thirteen others injured as a result of the collapse of the walls. Like the Slusky Building, the Green Building is in the midst of a major renovation to create additional commercial and retail space along this significant street. Together, these historic buildings stand as a testament to the story of Augusta’s downtown and the transformation throughout the decades as commerce and retail dominated the storefronts and occupied the blocks.

Historic preservation projects, whether a certified historic rehabilitation or labor of love and renaissance, serve as catalysts for rejuvenation and revitalization of the economic element of the traditional downtown destination for business, entertainment, and residences.

1932 The building is renamed the Green Building after Walter Green who rebuilt it after the fire

1938

Hull, Barrett, Willingham, and Towell Lawyers occupied 1019 Broad Street

1969

Reynolds Furniture Company is opened

1993

An exterior façade renovation is finished

2008

Braye Boardman purchases the vacated building, with plans to renovate the building to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Standards, while restroing the historic elements.

Today The Green Building is under full renovation,

including the installation of a white reflective roof, solar panels to heat the water and porous pavers in the alley to allow rainwater to percolate into the ground. Located in the Augusta Downtown Historic District, a historic preservation project is eligible for tax incentives, such as the 25% state tax credit and a 20% federal tax credit.

by ROBYN MAINOR rendering ALEX McCAIN, III photos courtesy of BRAYE BOARDMAN Robyn Mainor is the Preservation Services Director at Historic Augusta, Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve historically or architecturally significant structures and sites in Augusta and Richmond County.

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the monumental history of greene street / 05 Army National Guard Marker location

/ 500 Block of Greene Street dedicated in / 1984

The Army National Guard Marker is a granite monument that was erected in 1984 in recognition of Georgia Army National Guardsmen.

Surrounded by bushes and watched over by Georgia and U.S. flags, the National Guard Marker sits within the grassy median of the 500 block of Greene Street.

The monument is decorated with the Minute Man National Guard logo and the words “This Monument Placed In Honor Of All National Guardsmen 1984” on its West face, and Guard pledge “I Am the Guard” on its East face.

The North and South facades contain direct dedications, the North to the “Officers and Men 250th AAA Gun Bn (90 MM) Georgia National Guard Called To Active Duty Korean War August 14, 1950”, and the South to the “Officers and Men Battery A 214th C.A. Georgia National Guard Called to Active Duty World War II November 25, 1940.”

The South face also holds a plate with a history of Battery A 214th as well as a plate listing members of the group.

by John Cannon • original sketch by Alex McCain, III editor’s note: For the next several months, verge will highlight the history of the monuments that line the grassy expanse in the center of Greene Street. The first monument erected in the median was the Signer’s Monument (in front of the courthouse) in 1848, sixty two years after Greene Street was laid out. Over time, Greene Street has become a walking tribute of our community’s contributions and legacy.

way of the cross / the passion by local artists april 3 • the white’s building • 3 to 9 pm

“if we walked up and down these streets, (we’d find that) everyone has some kind of faith.”

those thirteen moments better than the preachers can preach them.

“Churches live too much within their own walls,” says John, pastor of The Quest Church in Martinez. The Well’s pastor, Jeremy Carr, adds, “If we walked up and down these streets, (we’d find that) everyone has some kind of faith…we want to invite the indigenous population to identify with the story of Christ.”

The men are co-visionaries of the Way of the Cross, what John calls a “community art-walk through the last week of the life of Christ.” Regional artists will depict one of thirteen events of Easter week. Their work culminates in a self-guided, interactive art exhibit in downtown. This year, it takes place the weekend before Easter due to conflicts with spring break.

John Kenney and Jeremy Carr envision thirteen moments in the final week of the life of Christ. They preach about Easter, like all good pastors do. But intuition, or perhaps the Holy Spirit, tells them that laymen-artists may be able to express

The Way of the Cross gives linear snapshots of the Easter story: the condemnation, death, and resurrection of Christ as explicated in the Scriptures. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and the prophets before them, told of the story of Jesus. But as in most stories, the passage of time can make it difficult for modern connections.

Using Scripture to define each station, John and Jeremy seek to depict the path of Christ to the cross in a straightforward and meaningful way. Last year’s Way was a

big success: around 500 people attended.

The tradition of the Via Crucis originated in the medieval Roman Catholic church, when the sacred walk through Jerusalem from Calvary was the great pilgrimage of devotees. The walk was characterized by stops and prayers along the way as pilgrims recalled the suffering of Christ.

In Europe, the walk was reproduced. It was called Stations of the Cross, the Way of Suffering, Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross, or simply The Way. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, the direction of the walk was changed in the sixteenth century to reflect ‘the spirit of the devotion” so that the progression of pilgrims would follow the suffering walk of Christ.

John and Jeremy met in 2005 when both were starting churches. Their churches are located in different parts of the Augusta metroplex, and their theology varies slightly (The Quest is affiliated with the Methodist church, while the Well is broadly Reformed but non-denominational). But just as both pastors began “planting” their churches at the same point in time, they have similarly positioned themselves to reach out to a culture that increasingly blurs distinctions between belief systems, parts of life, types of people, and so on.

Therefore, the conception of art as

significant to faith is a major part of both churches; artists of all kinds form a large member base. Jeremy and John formed their churches with the premise that Christians are meant to engage culture and to change it. They also believe that churches should be building culture, not just influencing it to make it better. “It’s messy,” John admits. There will always be some conflict between culture and faith, but the task of having culture-building faith creates a good tension.

At the end of our conversation, I ask the two pastors whether there are stipulations on the content or interpretations within the pieces of art that are offered. They pause, lean back from the table, and speak carefully. “It must be consistent with the spirit of the Holy Week,” says Jeremy. But he counters himself: the day is not meant to be a festival of doctrines; the focus is on how individual members of the region have internalized the life of Christ— historically, spiritually, psychologically. It is an event centered on the love of Christ, not only in his life and death, but also in the present—in the openness of two pastors and their congregations to do away with church politics and Christian isolationism and embrace the community.

by CHARLOTTE OKIE

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hybrid bikes /

the true green vehicle powers the future

“human power is required, you get up to 70 miles on a charge and you get the usual benefit of riding a bicycle: exercise.

It’s quite simply the ultimate hybrid vehicle.”

Hybrid is a term now widely used in the auto industry. It seems that every car manufacturer boasts a hybrid of some type. While an excellent and much needed concept, you still have to fill hybrid cars up with gas. And with gas prices constantly going up and down, you never know what to expect. Imagine a “hybrid vehicle” that requires no gas or license, costs no taxes, leaves no carbon footprint and works seamlessly in conjunction with human power. All of your wildest dreams have just come true! The world’s largest manufacturer of quality bicycles, Giant, has just released the first bicycle with Hybrid Cycling Technology (HCT).

Bicycles with Hybrid Cycling Technology are much different than your typical electric bike. An electric bike is basically a bike with some sort of motor strapped to it that propels the bicycle forward. Swing a leg over the bike, twist the throttle and go. Oh wait, that’s a motorcycle. Might as well call it one, as your typical electric bike requires no pedaling and matches the weight of a 200cc Honda. Electric bikes don’t require you to actually turn the pedals. Therefore, the motor and battery are subjected to great strain, which decreases efficiency, limits the distance one can ride, and basically defeats the entire purpose of having a power assisted bicycle. Electric bike, rest in peace.

Giant’s Hybrid Cycling Technology is the future. What makes it so unique is what you don’t notice when riding a Giant HCT bike. You don’t hear the sound of an overworked motor crying for help. And you don’t get that clunky, on/off feeling like typical electric bikes. Giant has created the exact opposite. This is not an add-on device for converting a standard bike. Giant’s HCT is the “heart” and the entire bike is built around it. It’s a system that seamlessly, and instantaneously, combines the power generated by pedaling, with the efficient power of an electric motor. For a system that uses an enormous amount of technology, you don’t have to be a technogeek to enjoy it. Just climb aboard, flip the switch, and pedal off. The key to it all is in the last two words of the previous sentence.

This is a bicycle, pedals are a component of a bicycle, and you have to turn them if you want to ride. That’s precisely what Giant wanted. There are two big advantages to HCT. Since human power is required, you get a much more efficient system (up to 70 miles on a charge) and you get the usual benefit of riding a bicycle: exercise. It’s quite simply the ultimate hybrid vehicle.

Giant’s Hybrid Cycling Technology is changing the way we view the bicycle. It’s opening up more doors, for more people. It’s giving the non-cyclist the ability to enjoy cycling like never before. It’s turning the idea of bike commuting into a reality for many people.

It’s taking technology and putting it to good work. You can now ride your bike to any destination in the CSRA and barely break a sweat. Welcome to the future.

by DREW JORDAN

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reverberations / The Pallbearers 1966 – 1971

augusta music history 201

The Pallbearers (left to right): Louis Jones, George Croft , Rudy Wilkes, Jimmy Maples, Jack Graves, Steve Allen

With rare exception, it can be concluded that the average Augusta band life span lies somewhere between 2 – 5 year: arguably on par with bands found in just about every nook and cranny of the United States. While some stand as merely a minor footnote, others manage to stomp a piece of themselves into the fabric of local music history. One such group was sixties rock band The Pallbearers.

Greenville before venturing into original music starting with the song “Music With Soul” written by Roy Smith.

Formed in 1966 by veteran singers George Croft and Louis Jones, The Pallbearers immediately took off running and didn’t slow down until the Hearse was finally put to rest in 1971. From good rocking boys to major label band to eventual UK cultural icons, The Pallbearers were to real life what The Wonders were to cinema in That Thing You Do.

Working from midnight until five a.m. (the only time slot they could afford), the band financed the recording and pressing of their first 45 with one purpose in mind: to get a signed recording contract. Armed with 500 copies, the group set about selling copies at area stores and enjoyed the thrill of airplay on then top Augusta radio station WBBQ.

“The first gig was at the Army Navy club out on Peach Orchard Road past the old Wise Drive-In,” said original drummer Steve Allen during a recent interview. “We put somebody at the door to collect a buck a head but no one came through the door because they had a big rollup door between the bar and the dancehall so they rolled up that door and everybody just played pool and listened to the band without paying any money. But we got free beer because the tap broke and they couldn’t shut it off.”

“When we heard it on WBBQ, that was like Heaven,” said Allen. “There was a great thrill there, but the reality was it was business too. We sent it off to every record company we could think of and we got picked up by Mercury on a very tentative contract.”

Through some of the Croft’s contacts, the fledgling band jumped immediately into a weekly Wednesday night gig at the Shamrock, where the Silver Bullet Lounge is currently located on Milledgeville Road. Gigs included appearances at Teen Town and high school proms before the band found their way onto the college circuit.

“That was where the good money was,” said Allen. “One of the frats had a list of good party bands and we managed to work ourselves to the top of that list. We got top draw. $1,200 was nothing for us for a frat party.

From there, with the help of a North Carolina booking agent, the group played clubs in Myrtle Beach and

“We recorded the song that Roy wrote for us,” said Allen.

“The funny thing about that song was we didn’t even have a flip side for it and we already had the studio booked in Atlanta. We looked in the studio catalog and found “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing” for twenty bucks.”]

That contract in 1967 called for six songs spread over three 45” singles, the first of which would be a remixed/ remastered version of the band’s original self-produced record. The second single, financed by the label, contained the band’s first self-penned original “Get Fired Up,” backed by another Smith composition.

Following the second Fontana release, tensions started to creep in with the band even splitting to cover overbooked shows on the same day, one in McCormick, South Carolina, the other in Massillon, Ohio. The Ohio trip would be the determining factor in Allen leaving the band in 1968.

“I got drafted in 1968,” said Allen. “The reason I got drafted is because I dropped out of college and lost my deferment in order to go to Ohio. By June I was in the service.”

Shortly after Allen’s draft, the band’s second single was

played on American Bandstand but, sadly, the record label showed no interest in a third release. Jones would soon leave the band and, by the time Allen returned from Germany three years later, The Pallbearers were no more.

Allen would find out in 1973 that “Music With Soul,” a record never released outside of the U.S., had become a huge hit with DJs in several Great Britain all-night raves.

Croft continues to perform hits from the band’s heyday and is occasionally joined by Allen who most recently was a member of Augusta country act the Dew Hickies. Allen has now joined area band 48Volt as a percussionist joining his son, drummer Brian Allen.

“Louis is till kicking around town,” said Allen. “Art Benton lives in Charleston. I had kept in touch with Jimmy by email for a while about one odd project or another but lost track of him. Jack’s till around of course. That’s Joe Graves’ (singer for Joe Graves and The Dirty left Hand) uncle.” Sadly, Rudy Wilkes passed away in a house fire in mid-90’s.

by JOHN STONEY CANNON, LOKAL LOUDNESS

Band Members: Jimmy Maples: Bass Rudy Wilkes:Guitar George Croft: Singer Louis Jones:Singer Steve Allen: Drums Jack Graves: Keyboards 1966 - 1967 Art Benton: Keyboards 1967 – 1971

Discography 1967 Music with Soul / Love is a Many Splendored Thing (Delphi label) 1967 Music with Soul / Love is a Many Splendored Thing (Fontana label) 1967 Gettin’ Fired Up / Every Man Needs (Fontana label)

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