SWGA Beat - December 2014

229-405-2874 | 2516 Dawson Rd. Suite #I | Albany, GA 31707

www.venumvapur.com

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Social

HAPPENINGS AMONG LOCAL GROUPS, CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Rotary Club of Thomasville Meets every Thursday at 12:15 pm at Plaza Restaurant Thomasville Kiwanis Club Meets Friday 1 pm - 2 pm at Plaza Restaurant Albany Golden K Kiwanis Club Meets 10 am - 11 am Wednesday at 2509 Homewood Drive Albany Rotary Club Meets noon Thursday at Doublegate Country Club Dougherty County Rotary Club Meets noon Tuesday at Doublegate Country Club Kiwanis Club of Albany Meets at noon Wednesday at Darton College, Student Union room 252 Contact Roger Marietta at (229) 894-2425 Kiwanis Club of Dougherty County Meets 12:30 pm Monday at Hilton Garden Inn 101 Front Street, Albany Contact David Shivers at (229) 698-4253 Kiwanis Club of Lee County Meets at noon Thursday at Grand Isle Club 270 Grand Isle Drive Contact Gene Goldsmith at (229) 888-7802 American Cherokee Confederacy Accepting members with 1/16 or more of Indian heritage Contact (229) 787-5722 or Contact the tribal office at 619 Pine Cone Road Camellia and Garden Club of Albany formerly the Men’s Garden Club, invites men and woment to join. Meetings are 7 pm on the first Thursday of the month (except July, no meeting) at the Albany Federated Garden Club Building. 808 Fifth Ave. Meetings include program and pot-luck dinner.

(Club provides fried chicken and members are encouraged to bring a covered dish.)

Visitors and potential members welcome.

Contact Jim Warner, club president, at (229) 446-0004

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Event Albany

Make Your Own Empty Bowl Now-December 31, 2014 For $25 paint 2 bowls. Paint one bowl to take home for yourself and donate the second bowl to the Empty Bowls Event, hosted by Albany Area Arts Council and SOWEGA Council on Aging.

Where: Clay Spot 2109 Old Dawson Road Contact: Clay Spot (229) 4462229

Thronateeksa Heritage Center will be full of Christmas cheer. The Albany center opens its annual exhibit of photographer Don Fisher’s Santa collection, Santa Goes Global, in its Science Museum.

The exhibit continues until Jan. 3. That’s also when the science center’s Wetherbee Planetarium debuts its annual “Season of Light” show, which will be shown at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Thursdays-Sundays through Jan. 3.

Thomasville

Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival One of the nation’s premier art shows, featuring dozens of the best sporting and wildlife artists in one location, PWAF takes place annually in December. For more information, call the Thomasville Center for the Arts at (229) 226-0588 or visit their website at www.pwaf.org.

UPCOMING CONCERTS, FESTIVALS AND EVENTS IN SOUTHWEST GEORGIA

Local Live Auditions @ Beans & Strings Saturday, December 8 5:00pm – 6:30pm Beans & Strings, 19 1st St SE Local performers can audition to share their talents at the coming month's Local Live performance. Local Live performers must live within a 50 mile radius of Moultrie and have a set list of at least 6 songs. Performers will audition before Beans & Strings staff and will be scheduled, upon passing rehearsal, for the coming month's Local Live (at the earliest).

Covers are acceptable but original music is given preference.

Because Beans & Strings is an all-ages venue and a music school with a strong roster of minor students, all songs must meet The Good Stuff Standard. We understand that this may put some constraints on an artist's set list, but these are the guidelines. Please contact Eric at Beans & Strings (229-985-0093) to schedule an audition. http://beansandstrings.com/the-goodstuff-standard/ Movie on the Square Saturday, December 8 6:30pm – 8:00pm WhereCourthouse Square, Moultrie, GA (map) DescriptionEnjoy a family fun filled movie on the courthouse lawn. A Dennis the Menace Christmas

Moultrie

Ladies Night Out Thursday, December 6, 5pm – 5pm Downtown Moultrie Ladies this night is for you. Visit participating shops and restaurants for unique specials.

Local Live @ Beans & Strings Saturday, December 8 7pm – 9pm Local musicians, young and old, take turns performing onstage at Beans & Strings every second Saturday of the month. Participants must audition for Local Live a month in advance.

Lights! Lights! Thanksgiving Night Thursday, December 27 6pm – 8pm Downtown Moultrie Live reindeer, pony rides, shopping & pictures with Santa.

Calico Arts and Crafts Festival December 8-9 Show Hours: Saturday - 9:00 am until 5:00 pm Sunday – 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Ticket prices: Adults $5.00 Children 12 and under are free with a parent.

Free Parking No pets please (229) 985-1968

Christmas Parades Friday, December 5, 5 pm Downtown Valdosta Saturday, December 6, 10 am Downtown Leesburg Saturday, December 6, 5 pm Downtown Tifton Saturday, December 6, 6 pm Downtown Albany Thursday, December 11, 6 pm Downtown Moultrie Thursday, December 11 Friday, December 12 Victorian Christmas Thomasville

Automotive Swap Meet and Car Corral December 21-23 Admission is $10.00 cash per person each day at the gate and $5.00 on Sunday Children under 12 years of age are Free.

(888) 686-2102

Over 70,000 lights, music, and amazement.

There are lights that flash in time to music, scenes of winter wonderland and Santa's workshop, and an outstanding nativity scene. Contact Gary Woodams gwoodams@yahoo.com

Bainbridge

Valdosta

3rd Annual Seminole State Park Tour of Lights Friday, Nov 28 2014 Seminole State Park Drive through a winter wonderland every Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday evening through December 31, 2014. Contact Mandy Johnson, ajohnson@swgafarmcredit

"Valdosta's Got Talent" Saturday, December 01, 2014 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Valdosta High School Performing Arts Center (PAC) N. Forrest St. Valdosta, GA Price: $10.00

Swine Time Saturday, Nov 29 2014 Climax, Ga Join the thousands who attend this event yearly. All activities are geared to family entertainment. 3 stage locations, entertainment throughout the day.

Contests & Events include best dressed pig, corn shucking, hog calling, eating chitterlings, pig racing, syrup making, baby crawling and the greased pig chase. www.swinetimefestival.com Woodams Christmas Lights Saturday, Nov 29 2014 (40 days) 195 River Oaks Drive Bainbridge

Lake Blackshear between Cordele and Americus, the Holiday Light Show starts at 6 p.m. and continues until 9 p.m., as it will every Thursday through Sunday night until Dec. 28.

The city of Pelham will light its city Christmas tree at 5 p.m. Dec. 5 in Freedom Park.

The SAM Shortline Train in Cordele becomes the Candy Cane Express on Dec. 5 with two excursions that include a 70-minute layover in Plains. The Candy Cane Express runs at 10 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. on Dec. 9, 11 and 15 as See EVENTS, page 18

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Holiday Musical Event

Christmas Gala & Holiday Pops Concert Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra

for more information: Christmas Gala & Holiday Pops Concert featuring a variety of seasonal favorites and traditional classics such as White Christmas, Sleigh Ride, Ave Maria, and an old fashioned singa-long. This delightful concert features the full orchestra, the JCSO Gala Chorus, soloists and special guests.

The home that inspired Twelve Oaks in the movie Gone With the Wind in now open to the public.

This Beautiful antebellum home built in 1836 is nestled in the heart of historic Covington, Georgia. It is perfectly located 30 minutes east of Atlanta for the weekend getaway or leisurely mid-week holiday.

All rooms feature luxurious bedding, plush bathrobes, and L’Occitane products.

Stay in a room with luxurious spa tub that has aromatherapy and chromotherapy or choose a room with a classic antique claw foot tub or experience an original ribcage shower. All rooms have fireplaces that work by remote control, iPhone/iPod docking stations, flat panel TVs, and many other five star amenities.

Join us in the mornings for a full southern breakfast, and in the evenings for Southern Sippin’ and Nibblin’ Hour. Then enjoy a turndown service at night that includes chocolate truffels.

770-385-4005 2176 Monticello St., Covington, GA 30014 • www.thetwelveoaks.com

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Art

Rylander Theater - Americus A Christmas Carol Saturday, December 6th, 2014 2 pm and 8 pm GENERAL ADMISSION: Advanced Sales: Adults: $15 Students : $10 www.rylander.org Whether read aloud with family and friends or in solitude on a chilly winter evening to savor the story, Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a very special holiday experience.

Take a break from the holiday rush and settle in for this dramatic telling of this holiday classic. Often hilarious, sometimes spooky, this show has been recreated for the whole family.

Featuring the incomparably talented Jeremy Webb, he plays all 30 roles in the production, from the Ghost of Christmas Past to Tiny Tim. It has to be seen to be believed!

World Ballet, Inc. Henry Hernandez, Artistic Director presents The Nutcracker: A Diversity Celebration Sat., Dec. 6, 2014 at 7:30 pm Sun., Dec. 7, 2014 at 2:30 pm Lee Hall Auditorium, Florida A & M University Tallahassee FL World Ballet Inc. provides Darton State College Dance Program students professional performance opportunities.

For more information about the production and/or the World Ballet/Darton State College Dance Program partnership, contact elizabeth.delancy@darton.edu Swamp Gravy - Colquitt A Merrier May-Haw Christmas December 4, 5, 6, 7 2014 Thursday and Friday at 7:30, Saturday at 2:00 and 5:30, and Sunday at 2:00

WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE IN LOCAL ARTS AND THEATER Tickets just $15 www.swampgravy.com Looking for a production to get you and your family in the spirit and start your Christmas season off right? A Merrier May-Haw Christmas is here for you! Familiar faces from May-Haws past will bring laughter and merriment, while talented singers treat you to the beautiful songs of the season. You’ll leave with a happy heart warmed with the reminder of what Christmas is all about. You can purchase tickets online or by calling 229-758-5450.

www.albanysymphony.org Prices are: Premium seating $30, Regular seating $22, Senior or Military $20, Student w/ID $10 We will also have 2nd balcony open and those tickets are $15 each.

You won't want to miss this exciting concert.

Albany Municipal Auditorium Cirque de la Symphonie A Holiday Concert for the Whole Family Saturday, December 13 7:30 pm Be sure and get your tickets for the upcoming Christmas Concert on Dec. 13th. You can call the office (4308933)or order them online @

Tift Theatre for the Performing Arts Dr.Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat Thursday, January 29 at 10 am and 7 pm Friday, January 30 at 7 pm Saturday, January 31 at 7 pm Sunday, February 1 at 3 pm

Theatre Albany Dashing Through the Snow (A Jones Hope Wooten Comedy) December 5, 11, 12, 13 at 8 pm Sunday matinees: December 7 and 14 at 2:30 pm

See ART, page 10

PARKER MUSIC

Instrument Packages • Seagull Guitars & Other Top Brands Band & Orchestra Instruments • Drums • Amps • Sound Equipment Pianos • Keyboards • Repairs • Lessons Daisy Rock Guitars (High Quality For Small Hands)

404 N. Westover Blvd. • Albany (229) 435-4591 • parkermusicalbany.com

DECEMBER MOVIE RELEASES Friday, December 5 The Pyramid Action - R Top Five - Comedy Dying of the Light Drama - R Friday, December 12 Exodus: Gods and Kings - Drama Top Five - Comedy Inherent Vice - Drama - R Wednesday, December 17 The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies - Drama - 3D/2D Wednesday, December 19 Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb - Action - PG Annie - Remake - PG Thursday, December 25 Into the Woods - Fantasy - PG Unbroken - Drama - PG-13 The Interview - Comedy Big Eyes - Drama - PG-13 *Not all movies shown at all theaters.

Check local listings.

Carmike Wynnsong 16 – Albany, GA Spotlight Theatres – Cordele, GA Moultrie Stadium Cinemas 6 – Moultrie, GA Carmike Cinema 2 – Americus, GA Carmike Cinema 6 – Tifton, GA

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Looking for a job is a job!

By Wendy Wilson Have you ever read a quote that causes you to stop dead in your tracks?

Fortunately, I’ve lost count of the number of great quotes I’ve read over the years. In fact, I’ve read so many I thought it best to begin documenting them by subject matter.

My professional development category houses hundreds of quotes that I live by and share with my clients. One of my top favorites quotes- “Looking for a job is a job!” When I first came across the quote, I was indeed looking for a job! And yes, after reading the quote, I stopped dead in my tracks. After fully taking note of the quote’s meaning is when I began to realize that looking for a job is not only a job, but a job that should be done methodically and strategically.

Anyone that is committed to seeking employment or in the midst of a career change knows this to be a proven fact! Job searches can be both taxing and frustrating. At best the search can last from a week to a month. The worst case scenario it can last for years. Whatever time frame you find yourself in there are certain steps I suggest you take to navigate the process.

Step- 1 – Learn as much as possible about the career field or job you are interested in pursuing. This may involve going back to school to earn or certificate or degree. It may be as simple as conducting a “Google” search. Whatever the course of action be sure it aligns with your interests and ambitions. If you have a fear of snakes, then becoming a snakecharmer may not be the best job fit for you.

Research, research, research is the key!

Step- 2- Seek out a mentor or an advisor who is a member of the profession or career field of interest. The guidance and advice from an individual with firsthand knowledge and experience will aid in helping you determine if in fact you are pursuing the best career path. Be sure to ask questions that will contribute to making a well informed decision. What do you like most about the job/profession? What do you like least? How many hours a week do you commit to your job responsibilities?

These and others will help you gain a better understanding of the job you seek.

Step-3 - Map out a plan of action once you’ve decided to pursue a specific job or career field. Immediately begin working on your cover letter, resume and portfolio.

Also, identify job search sites that are specific to the industry you plan to enter.

Contact those individuals you deem can best speak to your capabilities and experiences. Request they serve as professional references or ask them write letters of recommendation.

Above all, stay committed and be patient with yourself throughout the process. And remember, looking for a job is a job! For more professional development tips contact, W2 Communications at W2Communications.net and be sure to “like”us on Faceboook. W2 Communications offers public relations support as well as professional development and training services. We specialize in résumé and employment portfolio design. Wendy Wilson is CEO of W2 Communications.

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Music

Dueling Musical Top 10 Lists

BRAD MCEWEN: Top 10 Favorite Musical Acts (At this moment) OPINION: For many fans young and old, it's hard to top The Beatles

By Brad McEwen brad.mcewen@albanyherald.com

For a great many music lovers (and music loving writers) such as myself and my good friend and colleague Carlton Fletcher, it’s hard to resist the temptation to share the important songs, and the great musicians that made them, that have provided the soundtracks to our lives.

Therefore it was easy to settle on each of us doing a Top 10 list for the Friday JAM page, just to do something different and maybe get some discussion going with other, like-minded music nuts such as ourselves.

What follows is my Top Ten list of favorite artists and a few of the songs that earned them their spot.

I have little doubt readers will be puzzled at some of my choices, but the reality is this is my list of favorites at this moment. Inevitably the list will change at some point, provided there’s always another generation picking up a guitar, banging a drum or sitting down at the piano to craft a new masterpiece.

So, without any further nonsense, here’s the list (in ascending order): Jack White — One the newer artists on my list, I chose White for two reasons really: He’s pretty much one of the coolest, most interesting dudes in music and he’s incredibly prolific. White keeps cranking out stellar track after stellar track, all while managing to mix it up enough to not sound like he’s doing the same thing over and over again. With the White Stripes, he put heavy, blues-based garage rock back on the map and then single-handedly made the quasiindie rock super-group the Raconteurs something worth listening to. As if that wasn’t enough, he got behind the drum kit and helped craft folk doom with

The Dead Weather and then capped all of that off with two impeccable solo albums. For White, I’ll give you one song each from his many incarnations. Check out “Hello Operator” by The White Stripes, “Treat Me Like Your Mother” by The Dead Weather, “Consolers of the Lonely” by The Raconteurs and “Lazaretto” by the solo White. Favorite Album: “Elephant” by The White Stripes.

Queens of the Stone Age — Over the past few years this band, that slithered forth from the California desert from the ashes of underground sensation Kyuss, has become an increasingly important player in my musical life. Across six full-length albums, the band has earned its spot, in my opinion, with rock’s all time greats. There may not be a band as instantly rock and roll “cool” as QOTSA, and they’ve got the killer tracks to prove it. From molten heavy rock to acid-drenched freak-outs they cover all of my favorite bases and sound like no one else.

Mastermind Josh Homme can pile up nasty, gut-punch riffs for days while alternately beckoning you closer with his seductive croon. If you too want to fall under their spell, check out “The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret,” “Suture Up Your Future,” “Regular John,& ("Over the Years and Through the Woods” live album version) and “A Song for the Dead.” Favorite Album: “Over the Years and Through the Woods.”

Kings of Leon — I recently read an article in which the writer continued to call this band “the Southern Strokes” in reference to the New York band once heralded by rock critics in the early “aughts” as the new face of indie rock.

When these grandsons of Leon Followill hit the scene with their jangly, garage rock debut “Youth and Young Manhood,” it was evident to me (not so to the critics

who dismissed them) that the group had much more going for it than being a Strokes rip-off. Over time, this proved to be the case as album after album (six and counting) the group matured into an arena rock powerhouse, hit machine, whose musical palette now covers a wide variety of styles and textures. Even better, their stuff is catchy, infinitely listenable and down-right great. But don’t take my word for it, give a listen to a couple of my favorites: “Pyro,” “Ragoo,” “Cold Desert” and “Supersoaker.” Favorite album: “Because of the Times.”

Red Hot Chili Peppers — Early in their career, the Peppers were almost a novelty act, mashing up punk, pop, funk, ska and hip-hop into an unholy noise that might have actually required copious drug use to truly enjoy. Fortunately for music lovers, by the late ’80s guitarist John Frusciante and drummer Chad Smith joined singer Anthony Kiedis and bass master Flea to record the seminal album “Mother’s Milk,” which showed flashes of maturity and some real musical chops. By the time superproducer Rick Rubin shepherded them through the completion of 1991’s “Blood, Sugar, Sex Magic,” the Peppers seemed like a new band all-together. They have rattled off killer records with regularity since the release of 1999’s “Californication,” culminating with the most recent release “I’m With You,” proving that they have basically become one of the best rock bands around.

If you need further proof of that assertion, I recommend favorites “Venice Queen,” “Funky Monks,” “Turn it Again” and “Wet Sand.”

Favorite album: “Stadium Arcadium.”

Black Sabbath — There’s no way a guy who loves metal can make a Top 10 list that doesn’t include the progenitors of the

genre. I am a metalhead to my very core, and I truly believe that every metal band that has ever existed owes a debt to Birmingham’s Black Sabbath. With their down-tuned guitars, jazzinfluenced drumming and dark imagery, Sabbath blazed a trail uniquely their own and became rock’s answer to the “Summer of Love” flowers and sunshine movement. Sadly, many dismiss the group as evil and don’t really give them a chance. Lyrically they may have been dark, but dig deeper and it’s obvious the band had a conscience as it sung about the evils of war, drug abuse and pollution. You could really listen to every record the band made with Ozzy Osborne and hear nothing but top-notch music, but to me, few song are as awesome as “Into the Void,” “Symptom of the Universe,” “A Bit of Finger/Sleeping Village,” and “Wheels of Confusion/The Straightener.” Favorite album: “Master of Reality.”

Tool — I first fell in love with Tool after hearing early efforts “Opiate” and “Undertow.” Back then, the thing that grabbed me was the band’s intense, bottom heavy-sound and raw fury. In time, however, the band became more than one of my favorite metal bands, thanks to their progressive rock leanings on subsequent albums “Aenima,” “Lateralus” and “10,000 Days.” While it can be frustrating waiting on Tool’s next record (only four full-lengths in over 20 years), the payoff is always worth it. I literally love every song Tool has ever recorded, but a select few stand as my all-time favorites. Case in point would be “The Pot” (man that bass line), “Pushit” (epic and a sign of things to come); “Wings for Marie Part II” and my last choice, is a bit of a cheat as it’s actually four songs. Played in succession “Lateralus,” “Reflection,”

“Disposition” and “Triad” work as one truly breathtaking prog metal suite. Favorite album: “Lateralus.” ##Metallica — No type of music quite grabbed me by the short hairs and turned me into a life-long fan as soon as I heard it more than metal. Chugging and wailing guitars combined with furious drum beats are like the music of heaven to me, and no band ever embodied all that better than Metallica. Their entire discography is, in my opinion, stellar, even the albums where they departed from the raw fury and mathematical precision that made them famous. Thirty years into a multiplatinum career that has seen them become the elder statesmen of a genre, Metallica is not only still the top metal band in the land, they have transcended the genre and become one of the most important and popular bands in rock history.

With Metallica it’s all about the heavy, which can be heard loud and clear on “Disposable Heroes,” “Suicide and Redemption,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “Shortest Straw.” Oh, yeah yeah! Favorite album: “Kill Em All.” Pink Floyd — I won’t tell you exactly what was going on the first night I discovered Pink Floyd, but I will tell you that it was the somewhat obscure album “Ummagumma” that first piqued my interest and that the night was magical. By the time I gave “The Dark Side of the Moon” album a first listen while on a family vacation out west a few months later, I was totally hooked and firmly convinced that this was one of the greatest bands of all time. In truth, there’s really just no band that sounds like them, and no band was as daringly experimental while simultaneously as accessible as Pink Floyd. The prog rock label gets put on other greats like

See Top 10, page 20

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CARLTON FLETCHER: Greatest music defies era, genre, categorization OPINION: Certain artists create musical works that have lasting impact

By Carlton Fletcher carlton.fletcher@albanyherald.com

When we set about on this musical journey of whimsy — because we both are fanatics and, heck, we can — my colleague Brad and I batted around various ideas about how we might illustrate the generational disparity in musical obsessionalism. (Note: I made that word up.) We were — at least we thought — perfect subjects for such an exercise because neither of our tastes’ is bound by era or genre.

Give it a beat, funk it up a bit and throw in some words that reach beyond the depth of, say, Sisqo’s “The Thong Song” (still among the two or three worst songs ever), and we’ll listen to it. Chances are, we’ll like it, too.

One thing we discovered while carrying out and discussing this project is that, generational differences aside, there is some music that defies time, genre and categorization. We talked about our 30 or 40 or so favorite artists and found that a good number of them were the same. I credit Brad’s musical good taste to his upbringing and knowledgeable influences; I’m sure he credits my innate talent and superior intellect.

So, never mind the bollocks, here’s one guy’s Top 10 musical artists ever (at least right now): THE BEATLES: I really don’t need to say anything about the Fab Four because it’s all been said before. But I offer this as compelling evidence of John Lennon’s, Paul McCartney’s, George Harrison’s and Ringo Starr’s lasting impact on popular music: I have three kids from three very distinct generations. All three are Beatles fans.

Listing a few favorite works by these incredible artists may have been the toughest task of this whole deal. You could start playing the “favorite Beatles songs” game with a like-minded friend and not get past No. 1. I listed “Rain,” “A Day in the Life,” “Revolution” and “Yesterday.” If I got deep enough into it, I could throw out “Here, There & Everywhere,” “Paperback Writer,” “Helter Skelter,” “Mr. Moonlight,” “She’s Leaving Home,” “Magical Mystery Tour,” “Lucy in the Sky,” “Til There Was You,” “I Am the Walrus,” “Get Back,” “Nowhere Man,” “Across the Universe,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” “Dig a Pony,” “Something,” “Let It Be,” … and on and on and on. And we won’t even get into the four’s solo works.

They say truly great and gifted artists come along once in a generation. The Beatles are once in several lifetimes. They stand alone.

Album: “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” Songs: “Rain,” “A Day in the Life,” “Revolution,” “Yesterday” LED ZEPPELIN: People who know all the hits — “Whole Lotta Love,” “Black Dog,” “Rock and Roll,” “Stairway to Heaven” (one of the two or three greatest songs ever) — go on and on about Zep’s “heavy metal.”

And they do define the genre. But listen to some of their acoustic work — “Going to California,” “Thank You,” “The Rain Song” — or their blues stuff — “In My Time of Dying,” “When the Levee Breaks” (best drums ever), “Dazed and Confused.” This is no one-trick pony.

Jimmy Page is one of the top three or four greatest rock guitarists ever; Lars Ulrich might be able to hang with John Bonham on a good day; Robert Plant’s voice is uncategorical. Throw in John Paul Jones’ bass/keys, and Led Zeppelin are the sum of some pretty freaking amazing parts.

Album: “Led Zeppelin II” Songs: “Going to California,” “Stairway to Heaven,” “Over the Hills and Far Away,” “When the Levee Breaks” PEARL JAM: Nobody can sing like Eddie Vedder. There are maybe a couple of better pure singers, but no one feels a song the way Eddie does. But as much attention as the PJ frontman deservedly gets, it’s the sheer rock musicality of his bandmates that makes these Seattle boys among the greatest ever.

I’ve heard hundreds of thousands of songs in my life, fell in love with tens of thousands of them and have a few thousand that touch me deeply every single time I hear them. My favorite song ever? Pearl Jam’s “Black.” I can’t give a better endorsement.

Album: “Ten” Songs: “Black,” “Yellow Ledbetter,” “Daughter,” “Breathe” EMINEM: Wait a minute … aren’t you an old fart … who’s supposed to listen only to classic rock … and white? Folks, there has been no bigger rock and roll — and I mean that in the truest, most rebellious sense of the term — artist in the last two or three decades than Marshall Mathers. Sure, he used his skin color and his attitude and his love for a black musical genre as perhaps the greatest PR gimmick since Elvis did the same thing in the 1950s.

But the man has rhyme skills and a deep sense of the things that burrow into our subconscious and create insecurities. And if you want to hear him at his best, play “Rap God” off his “Marshall Mathers LP 2.” Fast-

forward to around the 4:36 mark. The next 15 seconds may be the coolest musical interlude of the last 15 years.

Album: “The Eminem Show” Songs: “Love the Way You Lie,” “White America,” “Stan,” “Bezerk” ELTON JOHN: It was such a simple time … 10th grade, football camp at South Georgia College, and all I wanted to listen to was the Rocket Man’s “Madman Across the Water” album. We didn’t know that Sir Elton was gay back then, and when that “shocking” bit of news was revealed, we didn’t care. All that mattered was “Bennie and the Jets” and “Skyline Pigeon” and “Daniel” and “Tiny Dancer” and “Someone Saved My Life Tonight.”

Lennon-McCartney, Jagger-Richards and Holland-Dozier-Holland come immediately to mind. But the list of songwriting teams equal to Elton and Bernie Taupin in the rock era is a short one.

Album: “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” Songs: “Harmony,” “Rocket Man,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Love Song” STEVIE WONDER: People who want to know what the musical terms “funk” or “soul” or “R&B” mean need only get copies of Stevie’s “Talking Book” or “Songs in the Key of Life” or “Innervisions” and listen. Those are like the Genesis, Exodus and Leviticus of classic soul music.

Worthy followers have at times created works that allow them to fly in the rarified air that surrounds Stevie, but they inevitably crash and burn. His is an existence not suitable for mortal man.

Album: “Talking Book” Songs: “Superstition,” “I Believe (When I Fall in Love With You It Will Be Forever),” “Living for the City,” “Higher Ground” THE EAGLES: Everyone knows and loves “Hotel California” and “Take It to the Limit” and “Take It Easy” and “Life in the Fast Lane” and the dozens of other magical musical tunes created by this Southern Cal supergroup. But the magnum opus for this Don Henley/Glenn Frey-led combo is the “Desperado” album with classics like “Tequila Sunrise,” “Certain Kind of Fool,” “Desperado” and “Whatever Happened to Saturday Night.”

Watch the excellent documentary about The Eagles and you’ll wonder how they, with all the drugs and infighting, ever made all this happen. Break out one of their albums and give it a new listen, though, and you’ll just be glad they did.

Album: “Desperado” Songs: “Last Resort,”

“Tequila Sunrise,” “Hotel California,” “Certain Kind of Fool” SIMON & GARFUNKEL (Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel): One of the greatest singer/songwriters ever + one of the greatest voices ever = an amazing body of work. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is easily the pair’s most memorable song, but there are so many others — “I Am a Rock,” “Only Living Boy in New York,” “The Boxer,” “Cecilia,” “For Emily Whenever I May Find Her,” “The Sound of Silence” — it’s hard to grasp that these amazing works all came from the same creative pool.

Amazingly, both Simon and Garfunkel are still making viable, relevant music some five decades since they burst onto the scene.

Album: “Bridge Over Troubled Water” Songs: “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “The Boxer” “Mother and Child Reunion” (Simon), “All I Know” (Garfunkel) BILLY JOEL: This guy is the everyman songwriter. There are others who get to the heart of universal themes that impact the human collective, but BJ’s lyrics are written for the individual … the disconnected young man in “Captain Jack,” the boy from “Oyster Bay, Long Island” who rode “with a six-pack in his hand” in “The Legend of Billy the Kid” … the bored musician playing for drunks at a familiar piano bar in the astounding “Piano Man.” It’s no wonder Joel is so well-loved. His is the voice of us all.

Album: “The Nylon Curtain” Songs: “Downeaster Alexa,” “Goodnight Saigon,” “You’re My Home,” “The Entertainer” JACK WHITE: This man is perhaps the most prolific, creative artist of the last decade-plus, zigging with his many projects when everyone else was zagging; working with country queen Loretta Lynn, disbanding the beloved White Stripes, co-founding the Raconteurs, putting together all-girl and allboy bands for a tour that had fans scratching their heads … loving the music, but scratching their heads nonetheless.

Forgive a personal anecdote: How badly did I want to see Jack and Meg back 10 years ago when they played a show in Atlanta? I was a month removed from major surgery, still had tubes and such attached to my body, and had only recently gotten able to walk. But I went anyway. If I was going out, who better to go out listening to?

Album: “Lazeretto” (White) Songs: “There’s No Home for You Here” (Stripes), “Ball and Biscuit” (Stripes), “Lazeretto,” “Seven Nation Army” (Stripes)

10 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com

ART

the viewer into participation with the scene he is depicting, says David Griffin, director of exhibitions and collections.

Now-December 12, 2014 Pulp Icons: Cast Paper and Prints Albany Museum of Art The exhibit is vibrant and colorful with dynamic lines influenced heavily by German expressionism. Nachmias exaggerates the relief-like qualities of printmaking into sculptural forms through his use of cast paper, creating a three dimensional image that draws

Thomasville The South Georgia Ballet is getting an early jump on the Yuletide season with its 17th annual presentation of the Christmas classic, “The Nutcracker.”

Performances are set for 7:30 p.m.

Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St.

Continued from page 6

TI F TO N Verona’s Italian Restaurant 212 Main St S (229) 445-3301 Hog-N-Bones 2008 US HWY 82 W (229) 238-2491 Wings Master 309 Tift Ave S (229) 382-2066 JoJo’s Family Restaurant 106 Magnolia Dr S (229) 382-9377 Longhorn Steakhouse

1314 US HWY 82 W (229) 256-4052 A L B AN Y Blackbeard’s B & B Bar-B-Que 2209 N Slappey Blvd (229) 878-6369 The Catch 2332 Whispering Pines Rd (229) 446-2235 Sonny’s Bar-B-Q 1900 N Slappey Blvd (229) 883-7427 Henry Campbell Steakhouse

629 N Westover Blvd (229) 594-9288 Cafe 230 230 W Broad Ave (229) 435-7632 LEE SBURG Riverfront Bar-B-Q 1533 US HWY 19 S (229) 888-4647 Rice Bowl Buffet 1561 US HWY 19 S (229) 446-0407 The Wharf Express 1561 US HWY 19 S (229) 405-2864

Featured ARTIST

Featured ARTIST

A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com 11

Who is Semaj Brooklin?

Semaj Brooklin is a Georgia native; born in Albany, GA and has been raised in the Atlanta area since the age of six years old.

You can find most people wondering what is the meaning behind the name ‘Semaj’. It has no true meaning as his real name is a play on the spelling of James, (Se-ma-j, which is James spelled backwards).

His mother, who is also his manager, took notice of Brooklin’s natural talent at an early age, as she would catch him rapping and singing songs that he had written. Of course, his drive and interest in the entertainment industry comes as to no surprise being that he names his biggest influences as artists such as Kanye West, Ryan Leslie, Lauren Hill, the late Notorious B.I.G., James Brown and Michael Jackson.

When Semaj was just 14 yrs. old, he began to experiment with recording songs and his mother enrolled him in voice lessons at Atlanta’s infamous Jan Smith Studios to improve his vocals. At that time, he was also performing at his school talent shows and pep rallies. Brooklin then worked on his demo, recording songs that he wrote in which he was rapping and singing.

“My music is different, I don’t want to just make money in the business. I love music and I want to inspire others. That’s my drive for being in this business. I’m in my own lane right now; don’t put me in a category or a box. I think outside the box and

I’m making music.” – Semaj Brooklin These days, you can find Semaj in the studio producing, writing and engineering the majority of his own music that you hear today. And also working on projects for other entertainment artist as well. His most recent music video “Day To Day”, which is an introduction to his new Mixtape “Timing Is Everything”, can be seen on Youtube. This video helped earn him a spot as Albany Music Awards “Artist of the Week” for two consecutive weeks.

Semaj is no stranger to the music business though. He put out his first EP through an Atlanta based production company at the age of 15 yrs. old; which was also followed up by a Mixtape. His goal is to ultimately become a young entreprenuer, building and growing his independent company Peak Red Entertainment. The most recent mixtape ‘Timing Is Everything’ was his first project released under Peak Red Entertainment. Just one of the many projects to look forward to coming from Peak Red in the present and near future.

Some recognizable charitable events that Brooklin has partnered with and performed for are Macy’s National Shop-For-A-Cause, The Pink Party Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness, Greenbriar's 45th Anniversary Grand Celebration and Toys for Tots hosted by Victory over Violence. With all that he has going on, Brooklin will continue to work with charitiable organizations and support worthy causes as well.

Meet Jessica Dorsey

Jessica Nicole Dorsey was born and raised in Forest Park, GA where she matriculated through Clayton County schools and graduated from Forest Park High School where she was a cheerleader, chorus member and crowned Miss Forest Park High in 2003. She was then accepted into the unsinkable Albany State University where she was an ASU Cheerleader, Miss ASU Gospel Choir, and was initiated into the Delta Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. in spring 2006.Jessica was nominated and served as the chapter’s Chaplin.

Jessica graduated from ASU in spring 2007 with her Bachelors of Science degree in Marketing, and again in fall 2012 with her Masters of Public Administration degree. Jessica worked for the Dougherty County 4H program for 5 years and is currently a program coordinator at Turner Job Corps and a director of the United Voices of Turner choir.

In her spare time Ms. Dorsey is an active member of the Albany Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, a vocalist with The Groove Band and featured vocalist for Soulful Soundz Band both out of Albany, GA, as well as an up and coming makeup artist. Jessica is a lover of the fine arts and is dedicated to her crafts. Her love for

music dates back to 1987 when she used to listen to her mother and grandmother play music around the house as she sang along. She was a main character in the musical stage play Love Don’t Live Here Anymore which debuted in Atlanta, GA and Dothan, Alabama. Her musical style is NeoSoul and R&B which she performs with her bands at local lounges, festivals, birthday, and company parties. She was recently featured on WALB along with The Groove Band for preforming for Jazz in the Park in Baconton, GA. Jessica lives by the motto If God brought you to it, he will certainly bring you through it!

PEOPLE

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SWGA

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BEAT

14 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com

Auto

By MALCOLM GUNN www.wheelbasemedia.com

It's interesting that a 50-year-old brand that sells in relatively limited quantities continues to garner such massive interest.

Chalk it up to the magic of the Mustang, a car that first saddled-up back in 1964. Now, a half-century later, the public still won't let go of the reins.

Ford has high global hopes for the latest 'Stang since both left- and righthand- drive versions are being shipped off to Europe and Asia. That could also explain a certain Euro-styling vibe that the Mustang exudes, especially in the delicate sweep of the roofline where it meets the rear deck and swoopy tail panel.

At the opposite end, the grille and lower air intake are remarkably, and perhaps reassuringly, similar to that of the 2014 edition.

It would seem as if the designers tried to walk a fine line in appeasing traditional steeped-in-nostalgia Mustang buyers, enticing fresh converts to the fold and appealing to citizens in European and Asian lands

2015 Ford Mustang

to forsake their traditional vehicle purchases for a taste of the American Dream. That's indeed a tall order, but if successful it's one that should pay dividends in the long run.

Dimensionally, the new Mustang remains true to the outgoing model.

Both are nearly equal in length and identical in distance between the front and rear wheels, while the newbie gains 1.5-inches in width. There's also more passenger volume and trunk space, although it's not a huge differential.

The Mustang does have plenty to crow about in one important area. For 2015, the Mustang has finally ditched its stone-age solid rear axle and replaced it with a more modern independent rear setup, along with a less radically altered front suspension.

Ford's engineers state that these changes mean an improved ride and better handling. The distance between the left and right wheels has also been slightly widened for greater stability and the Mustang now sits a bit lower to the ground.

As you might expect, the cabin has also been completely retooled,

including larger round gauges and air vents and an equally sizable touchscreen that dominates the control panel.

Essentially unchanged are the 3.7liter V6 that makes 300 horsepower (down slightly from 305) and the 435horsepower 5.0-liter V8 in the GT (up 15 hp). Slotted between the two and priced only moderately above the $24,400 base V6 is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that's rated at 310 horsepower. All three engines are available in the Mustang coupe and convertible, the latter with a top that raises and lowers twice as rapidly as before.

Fuel economy with the V6 is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway, which is lower than the previous 19/31 mark. Meanwhile, the turbo engine with the automatic delivers 21/32. Of course the V8 is the thirstiest of the lot, but its owners likely won't mind too much.

The Mustang's standard six-speed manual transmission has been reworked to deliver smoother shifts. A six-speed automatic, now with available

steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, is optional.

Of all the Mustang's standard features, one of the more intriguing is a Track Apps package. It consists of a small screen between the tachometer and speedometer that can display, record and store lateral g-force data, 0-30, 0-60- and 0-100-mph acceleration times plus 1/8th- and 1/4mile elapsed times. For GT models with manual transmissions, the Track Apps can be supplemented with Launch Control (for track use only, of course) that delivers extra-quick and controlled starts with virtually no wheel spin. In a similar performance vein, the GT's line lock feature holds the front brakes so the driver can, in Ford's words, "warm up the tires." Or, more commonly referred to as burnouts.

Will the latest Mustang's emphasis on electronic gizmos and design softening play to audiences in North America and beyond? No doubt, opinions and loyalties will remain divided, but ultimately you don't survive past 50 without learning a few tricks about sustaining your popularity.

What you should know

2015 Ford Mustang

Type Two-door, rear-wheel-drive sport coupe and convertible Engines (hp) 3.7-liter DOHC V6 (300); 2.3-liter DOHC I4 (310); 5.0-liter DOHC V8 (435) Transmissions Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.)

Market position The Mustang, along with the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro, are part of a North American phenomenon that began in the mid-1960s, All three carry on, selling in sufficient quantities to a loyal fan base.

Points

* Redesign is a neat blend of old and new styling that works. * New turbo four-cylinder option should prove popular outside of North America. * Line lock and Launch Control will be a hit with gear-heads. * Rear-suspension improvements bring the Mustang ahead 10 years. * Look for more power-

Safety

Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control.

ful models to follow soon.

MPG (city/hwy): 17/28 (V6)

Base price (incl. destination): $24,400

BY COMPARISON Dodge Challenger Chevrolet Camaro Base price: $24,700 Both the Camaro and Mustang sell in almost equal numbers.

Base price: $28,000 Updated coupe offers the most performance with 707-hp Hellcat model.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Base price: $27,600 Sporty coupe is available only with a punchy 348horsepower V6 for 2015.

HOROSCOPES

A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com 15

ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, expect to be called into action several times this week. You may prefer to avoid the spotlight, but that won't be the case this week. Make the most of this opportunity.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, all of a sudden you are so busy it can be difficult to find a few moments to rest. Thankfully, you are able to keep up with all of the activity.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, seek advice from a trusted confidante as you contemplate a major lifestyle change. This person will provide valuable insight as you look to make the best decision possible.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, going solo on a project may not seem like the ideal situation. But you don't want to be distracted this week, so going it alone is the best way to tackle the tasks at hand.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, following your gut may not always work out, but this week everything works out for the best. Curb impulsiveness as much as you can, though.

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, although you might be dreaming of a lavish vacation and an escape from the daily grind, it's just not possible at this time. Start saving for this dream excursion.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, although it's noble to offer assistance to everyone you meet, you may be struggling to take care of yourself in the process. You must put your needs first.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 A desire to detach from others and be entirely self-sufficient can have some challenges, Scorpio. You don't need to give up independence to have the support of others.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, your energy levels are high and there is nothing you can't accomplish this week. Avoid extra caffeine because you're already buzzing.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Find a balance between caution and carelessness, Capricorn. You cannot control every situation, and this week you may have something unexpected come your way.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, if you're on the lookout for new work opportunities, look no further than your own supervisor for guidance. He or she may be your biggest ally.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 You have boundless creativity, Pisces, and this week you get to channel it into a special project. Don't overextend yourself until everything gets done.

16 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com

Dad rock dominates music scene during Christmas shopping season New releases by Pink Floyd, Dylan, Who, Queen hot items for holiday shoppers

By Carlton Fletcher carlton.fletcher@albanyherald.com

The pundits are calling it a “dad rock” Christmas, and why not?

As we race headlong into the holiday season facing the same old query — What do we get dear old dad or Uncle Jake or Aunt Martha, the music lovers of the family, for Christmas? — a few of their legendary heroes are supplying a ready answer. No less than 10 superstar acts of the Classic Rock era have dropped or are dropping new albums just in time for the holiday shopping season.

With works by Pink Floyd, Neil Young, the Who, Queen, Bob Dylan and AC/DC in the “new music”section — rather than the discount rack — of local music retailers, the flagging record industry is counting on a large boost in late-year sales during what has been the most dismal year of music sales on record.

Could this be the year the Spiders from Mars save Christmas?

The biggest prize of the dad rock Christmas season went on sale Tuesday, as Pink Floyd released what dueling band members swear is their last work ever. “The Endless River,” which features earlier recorded instrumental jam sessions with guitarist David Gilmour, drummer Nick Mason and keyboard player Rick Wright and one song with vocals, became a hit before it even reached retailers’ shelves.

“Since we launched the (Pink Floyd) campaign (around the first of October), ‘The Endless River’ has not moved from the No. 1 pre-order spot on Amazon,” Rhino Records Marketing Director Don Chalmers said. “Demand is

huge.”

Indeed, the new Floyd album surpassed One Direction’s last album as Amazon’s most pre-ordered album ever.

Band co-founder Roger Waters, who was not involved in the new Floyd project and who has remained at odds with other members of the band for decades, has so far been silent about “Endless River.”

Classic rock greats Led Zeppelin and Bruce Springsteen are going the reissue route to generate new interest in their back catalog; Queen, the Who, David Bowie and Genesis are going the repackaged greatest hits route, while Young and AC/DC are releasing new material.

Perhaps the most anticipated work of the season — outside the new Floyd — is an album that was recorded in 1967. That’s when Dylan and Dave Grohl and Foo Fighters released the much-anticipated musical part of his backing band The Hawks their brilliant multimedia project "Sonic Highways" on Tuesday.(Special photo) — who would later become The Band — took a whole lot of drugs and goofed around packages by Queen (“Queen Young released “Storytone” Swift-like interest, Kendrick for hours, playing sometimes Forever”), the Who, Bowie on Nov. 3, and AC/DC’s “Rock Lamar, 50 Cent, Lil Wayne ragged, sometimes outlandish (“Nothing Has Changed”) and or Bust” is due in stores Dec. 4. (“Tha Carter V”), Nickelback, and sometimes magical Genesis will stir up nostalgia As Taylor Swift’s 1.2 millionTV on the Radio, and two versions of a bunch of songs and have the dads of the world plus first-week sales of her new artists whose sales should give that generally came to mind. explaining again to their album “1989” proved, there are the season a big upward tick: Among the 139 tracks were offspring why these artists were actually humans under the age Kanye West and One Dylan originals, country the bomb back in the day. of 40 who still buy musical Direction. standards and whatever else Bowie, Queen and the Who formats that are not digital While counting on sales to popped up. reportedly will include new singles. Younger artists will test the under-40 crowd — most of Portions of that crazed material on their releases. that theory in the coming whom assume all music is free recording session, dubbed Led Zeppelin, which will weeks as they release new to them online so why would “The Basement Tapes,” have eventually release remastered works in hopes of catching you pay for it anyway? — is leaked out over the years, versions of all its work, are some of that Taylor magic. always an iffy proposition, it’s a leaving audiophiles and Dylan giving fans “IV” and “Houses of The Foo Fighters’ muchsure bet dads and their giftcompletists clamoring for more. the Holy” this Christmas anticipated “Sonic Highways” giving offspring will jump at the They got their wish on Nov. 3 season, while Springsteen is dropped Tuesday, and others opportunities to relive some of when “The Basement Tapes releasing remastered versions releasing works in time for the those “Glory Days” Complete” was released to of all the albums he dropped what-do-I-get-so-and-so panic Springsteen sang about and to much fanfare. from 1973 to 1984, up to “Born include Nicki Minaj, whose hand retailers a big wad of Meanwhile, greatest hits in the U.S.A.” “The Pink Print” is stirring up their expendable income.

A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com 17

Holiday Tips from the Albany Police Department During the holidays, the potential for thefts and robberies increase.

More people are out and about, and they are carrying more gifts and money than during other times of the year. While there's no need to be afraid, you should remain alert and keep a few of the holiday safety tips in mind.

•Carry your valuables wisely. Do not keep cash in your wallet.

Instead, keep it in an inside pocket and only carry the credit cards you'll need.

•Do not leave valuables in your

vehicle. Try to complete all your shopping at one time then remove them when you get home. Keep the inside of your car “Clean” •Carry a cell phone with you. If someone makes you suspicious or uncomfortable, notify security or call the police.

•Whenever possible, park and walk in well-lit areas. Be aware of your surroundings, especially the people around you.

•Carry your purse close to you, with the opening or flap towards your body. Never leave a purse

unattended in a shopping cart.

•Do not keep a wallet, credit cards or cash in a backpack. If you are in a crowd, consider carrying the backpack in front of you.

Pickpockets can quickly and easily remove items from a backpack without being noticed by the owner.

•Protect your credit card numbers and other personal information.

Carefully dispose of receipts that have a credit card number on them.

Never provide credit card information in response to unsolicited calls or emails.

•Don't announce your new highdollar purchases after the holidays.

Break down the boxes of TVs, stereos, computers, etc. and turn them inside out before putting them in the trash.

• If you are traveling for the holidays, make your home look "lived in". Have a friend or neighbor collect your mail and newspapers or have your service suspended while you are away. Use timers to turn lights off and on.

Happy Holidays from the Albany Police Departmenta

18 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com

EVENTS

9 a.m. until 4 p.m., bringing back some of the 19th century traditions that were observed in Southwest Georgia during the holidays.

well. Santa will be aboard for the trips, which will live up to their name with free candy canes for passengers.

Contact (229) 276-0755 for tickets.

On the evening of Dec. 13, the Albany Symphony Orchestra gets into the Christmas spirit with the second of its four-concert subscription series, “Air — Cirque de Noel.” The symphony will be joined by the gravity-defying Cirque de la Symphonie in the concert, which gets under way at 7:30 p.m. at the Albany Municipal Auditorium following the 6:30 p.m. pre-concert notes.

Continued from page 4

7152 Moses Lane Tallahassee, FL, 32309 (850) 906-0766

CALENDAR OF EVENTS All club shows are non-smoking. Events are subject to change without notice.

Unless otherwise stated: Friday shows start at 9:00 PM and Saturdays shows start at 10:00 PM. Doors open at 8:30.

Weeknight shows start at 8:00 and doors open at 7:00. Reservations are guaranteed with advance ticket purchases.

Reservations for most shows are also available by calling the Club at (850) 9060766 or emailing: bradfordvilleblues@comcast.net , but advance ticket purchasers get reservation priority. Reserved seats held until show time.

Scheduled Events Dec. 5: Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials Dec. 6: The Terry Hanck Band Dec. 12: Delta Moon Dec. 13: The Ori Naftaly Band Dec. 14: Sunday @ 6PM Gators in the Sawgrass Dec. 19: Victor Wainwright Dec. 20: Joey Gilmore Dec. 26: Col. Bruce Hampton & The Madrid Express Dec. 27: Swingin' Harpoon Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Bash with Johnnie Marshall Jan. 2 : The Jamie Eubanks Band Jan. 3 : Little G Weevil Jan. 8 (8 PM): Tas Cru & His Tortured Souls Jan. 9 : Maurice John Vaughn Jan. 10: Bobby Rush and James "Super ChiKan" Johnson in a duo performance

State parks in the area will get into the spirit that Saturday. Christmas On The Lake will be 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6 at Florence Marina State Park in Omaha. Visitors will be able to make Christmas decorations out of natural ornaments such as pine cones, sweet gum balls, magnolia seedpods and seashells, and photos will be taken with Santa.

The first of several Victorian-era style Christmas observances is on Dec. 6.

From 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Westville, at 9294 Singer Pond Road near Lumpkin, will have an all-day with Father Christmas and Mrs. Christmas. Visitors also will be able to participate in handson crafts at the 1850s historic village.

The Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village in Tifton will turn the clock back on Dec. 7, when up to 125 visitors will be able to experience its Victorian Village by Candlelight from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are required as the event is limited to five groups of 25 who will start their respective tour every halfhour.

On Dec. 11, downtown Thomasville also will turn the clock back for the first of two consecutive nights of its annual Victorian Christmas celebration.

That event includes downtown caroling, entertainment, street vendors, crafts, downtown shops open late and community sing-alongs. The event is 6 p.m.-9 p.m. both nights.

Also on Dec. 11, Moultrie will conducts its annual Christmas parade, with Bainbridge’s Christmas parade starting that night at 6:30 p.m.

On Dec. 13, the Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village will celebrate its Wiregrass Christmas from

Christmas music lovers will have another chance to hear some of their favorites on Dec. 15 when the Albany Chorale has its Holiday with the Chorale concert at 7 p.m. at Walden Chapel of First United Methodist Church, 306 Flint Ave, Albany.

And just before Christmas week gets under way, children and the young at heart will be able to ride the North Pole Express 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 18-19 at the Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village in Tifton. The $6 train passes, which have to be purchased at the village’s country store, include Mrs. Claus reading “The Polar Express” to passengers on the 20-minute ride to see her husband, Santa.

Festival of Lights and Frosty 5k Race will be that Saturday 4 p.m.9 p.m. at Seminole State Park in Donalsonville. The 3rd annual event includes a visit from Santa, inflatables for the kids, crafts, music and food. For the Merry Mile and Frosty 5k, participants are asked to dress in holiday attire. The $5 parking fee applies at both facilities.

BEAT

Fitness DECEMBER

Saturday/6 Jingle Bell Jog About 1,000 participants wind their way through the tree-lined streets in Albany's beautiful Rawson Circle neighborhood.

Children are invited to cheer on the runners by ringing jingle bells at the start and finish lines at Phoebe Healthworks. Three-deep awards in 15 age categories go to the 5K and 10K runnersProceeds from the Jingle Bell Jog benefit the Children's Miracle Network.

The top male and female over 40 in the 5K and 10K receive Master awards. And, everyone crossing the finish line receives a ticket and a chance for one of dozens of door prizes. Age groups are as follows: 6-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 & up. The Jingle Bell Jog is an affiliate of Run & See Georgia.

8 am Phoebe Healthworks Albany Register at www.sgacancer.org

Saturday/13 KPS Christmas Color Run KPS is having a 5K/1mile color run to kick off the Christmas season.

Race will start 9:00am at KPS campus, loop through downtown Leesburg, and end at KPS. 1mile run/walk will be held in bus parking lot of KPS and Twin Oaks Elementary. All proceeds benefit KPS PTO. This is not a timed event but there will be first, second, and third prizes. Color powder is 100% gluten free, safe

A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com 19

MARATHONS, 5K’s, TRIATHLONS AND BIKING EVENTS IN SOUTHWEST GEORGIA

to people, washable, and biodegradable. Powder contains cornstarch-use caution if allergic to corn. Please park at the front of the school and event will be held in the rear parking lot of the school. Do not block main driveways. Packet pick up will be held Friday 2:15-6:00pm in the parking lot of KPS. In case of rain during packet pick up hours please come to the Art room inside the building. You may also pick up Saturday before the run from 7:308:30 am.

9:00 am Kinchafoonee Primary School Leesburg Register at www.runsignup.com

Saturday/13 Will Run for S’mores This is a fun family 5K with s'mores at the end. You can register yourself ($15) or a family of four or more (price cap of $50 for immediate members). There are age group and family awards.

There is a family division for you and your child (10 and under) to compete with others families for a special family award. Run hard and enjoy s'more and hot chocolate after.

8:30 am Wild Side Running Albany Register at www.active.com JANUARY Thursday/1 Azalea City Cyclists (Valdosta): Beginner/ Family Bike Ride Thursday, January 1, 2015 @ 6:15

PM (EST) 4611 Laurelwood South, Hahira This is primarily a C level ride (12-17mph) group.

Feel free to park in the driveway or out on the road or across the street from the Subdivision (Meadowoods) at Scruggs Asphalt Plant.

Azalea City Cyclists (Valdosta): Weekday Group Rides Tuesday, December 2, 2014 @ 6:00 PM (EST) Perimeter Road Baptist Church • 4091 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, GA 31602 Tuesday and Thursday - 6 PM. These rides meet and leave from Perimeter Road Baptist Church at 6pm and are primarily B and A level rides.

Mostly B level. The group bike rides on Tuesday and Thursday are usually a 24 mile out and back course and are generally spirited rides meaning the ride speed is in the 18-21 mph avg range.

Thursday/1 Rose City Cyclists: YMCA Thursday Ride Thursday, January 1, 2015 @ 6:00 PM (EST) Everett-Milton YMCA • 103 South Dawson Street Thomasville

Saturday/17 Run for the Son All proceeds for this event will be used to support the First Baptist Church of Putney traveling “Mission Team” in their efforts to spread the Gospel and render aid to those in need wherever they may be. The team has traveled to Oklahoma, West Virginia, North Georgia, Virginia, Louisiana, Tennessee, Haiti, and Mississippi.

In June 2015, the team will again be traveling to Mississippi. These efforts have all been made possible by those like yourself who love Jesus and long to see His work fulfilled. Run for the Son is a timed event on a certified course and part of the Run & See Georgia Grand Prix.

10:00 am First Baptist Church - Putney 1125 Antioch Rd, Albany Register at www.active.com

Saturday/24 St. Teresa’s Nun Run 2015 Pancake breakfast is included for all participants, Technical hat and reusable cloth bag for first 150 registered runners, Medals for top three 5K runners in 16 age groups, Door prizes!

1 mile Fun Run starts at 8am 5K starts at 8:30 am Register at www.active.com

Karaoke

20 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com Genesis, Yes, King Crimson and Rush, but from what I can tell none of those bands is as successful and as universally loved (well, Continued from page 8 maybe Rush) as the Floyd. To get a feel for why I think they’re so special, check out “Careful with that Axe Eugene” (Ummagumma version), “Breathe/Time/Breathe Reprise,” “One of My Turns,” and “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” (all the parts, thank you). Favorite album: “Meddle.”

Led Zeppelin — Since I first heard their magnum opus “Stairway to Heaven,” the mighty Led Zeppelin have been firmly cemented on my Mount Rushmore of Bands. When it comes to blues-based, hammer-down rock music, Zeppelin reigns supreme. Like The Beatles, their output over a short stretch of time is unmatched and is littered with classics. Whether it’s straight-ahead rockers, epic prog pieces or a country-folk ditty with just a couple of acoustic guitars, Zeppelin had the Midas touch. The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan summed it up best, once saying that Zeppelin’s influence on rock music is “so severe” that virtually everything that has come since draws something from the band’s diverse soundscapes. For me it’s much simpler: Zeppelin is the best “rock” band of all time. Period. To understand why I feel that way, check out “Since I’ve Been Loving You” ("Song Remains the Same" version), “We’re Gonna Groove,” “In My Time of Dying,” and “Achilles Last Stand.” Favorite album: “Physical Graffiti.”

The Beatles — One of my favorites since my parents first turned me on to the Fab Four when I was still wearing Osh Kosh, there’s not much that needs to be said about the band that revolutionized popular rock and roll. Touching on a variety of styles while also innovating the way popular music was conceived, recorded and presented, The Beatles are, in my opinion (and in that of many others), in a class of their own. Virtually every song they ever recorded, the volume of which is monumental in itself when you consider they did it all in just over 10 years while in their late teens and 20s, is nearly perfect. It was a no-brainer the band would make my list, but settling on a couple of choice cuts, not so much. After considerable deliberation I’ve settled on “Happiness is a Warm Gun,” and “I’ve Just Seen a Face,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and the better part of side two of “Abbey Road” starting with “You Never Give Me Your Money” through “The End.” Favorite album: “Abbey Road.”

So there is was. Now let the debates begin.

Top 10

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Icons Bar & Grill 104 N Washington St Albany Friday - 10 pm (229) 405-2298

Rum Runner Sports Bar 3988 N Valdosta Rd Valdosta Karaoke Wed-Sat 9pm (229) 241-9647

The Gin 261 Brumby Way Tifton Wednesday (229) 415-4159

Coach’s Sports Bar & Grill 2610 Dawson Rd Albany Tues & Wed - 9 pm (229) 496-1431

Oglethorpe Lounge 825 W Oglethorpe Blvd Albany Tuesday - 8:30 pm (229) 438-5819

Bogey's Bar & Grill 2238 Palmyra Rd Albany Thurs - 9 pm (229) 438-0181

Rick's Oyster Bar & Sports Bar 1328 W Jackson Thomasville Thursday - 8 pm All day/night Saturday

Now Open for Lunch churches, schools, civic organizations, companies, service men, recreational teams, fraternities/sororities, retirees, anyone simply wanting to help this holiday season.

Come help The Salvation Army this holiday season to continue providing food, clothing, emergency assistance and other services to those in need.

Sign up to volunteer just 2 hours of your time to ring the bell at any of our designated kettle locations today.

Faye_Turney@uss.salvationarmy.org

Southern style cooking at its best! Café 230 has quickly become the restaurant of choice for lunch during Albany’s busy work day. Order fresh, mouthwatering southern inspired foods right off the menu on weekdays, and enjoy a lunch buffet on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.

This restaurant’s food is often described by Albany, GA residents and visitors alike as nothing short of absolutely delightful.

230 West Broad Ave • Albany, Georgia

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22 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com

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24 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • December 2014 • www.albanyherald.com