SWGA Beat - March 2015

Race Map pgs 12 &13 Race & Mardi Gras Details - pg 19

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2 A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • March 2015 • www.albanyherald.com

Social

HAPPENINGS AMONG LOCAL GROUPS, CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Albany Downtown Sertoma Club Meets first and third Thursday at noon at Our Daily Bread.

270 Grand Isle Drive Contact Gene Goldsmith at (229) 888-7802

Rotary Club of Thomasville Meets every Thursday at 12:15 pm at Plaza Restaurant.

American Cherokee Confederacy Accepting members with 1/16 or more of Indian heritage Contact (229) 787-5722 or Contact the tribal office 619 Pine Cone Road

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 (229) 894-2425 Kiwanis Club of Dougherty County Meets 12:30 pm Monday at Hilton Garden Inn 101 Front Street, Albany Contact David Shivers (229) 698-4253 Kiwanis Club of Lee County Meets at noon Thursday at Grand Isle Club

Camellia and Garden Club of Albany formerly the Men’s Garden Club, invites men and women 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 The Albany Audubon Society Meeting March 12, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Every 2nd Thursday Flint RiverQuarium 117 Pine Ave, Albany Albany Lion’s Club Meets first and third Tuesday at noon at Golden Corral.

The Exchange Club of Albany Meets Fridays at noon at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds.

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75

$

00

Will Be Our Special Guest Performer / Entertainment.

Phillip Daniels is a former American football defensive end and is currently the Director of Player Development for the Washington Redskins of the NFL. He played college football at the University of Georgia, was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1996 NFL Draft. He has also played for the Chicago Bears and the Washington Redskins.

Location: Darton Cavalier Arena Auction 5:30 p.m. Dinner Served 6:30 p.m.

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Art

Americus

Rylander Theater Sumter Players, Inc. Anything Goes March 5 - 7, 8:00pm March 8, 2:30pm When the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention get tossed out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love...proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise, and some good old-fashioned blackmail!

Peppering this timeless classic are some of musical theatre's most memorable standards, including "I Get A Kick Out Of You," "You're the Top," and of course, "Anything Goes." For a toe-tapping good time, you need look no further!

(229) 931-0001

Moultrie Pigments of Imagination Exhibit Through March 27 Colquitt County Arts Center (229) 985-1911 Beginner’s Sampler Quilt March 3, 10 & 17 9:30 am to 12:00 pm OR 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm Learn quilting techniques.

6 classes/$75 plus book Suzanne’s Quilt Shop 415 Rowland Drive (229) 616-1013 “Hansel & Gretel” March 12 - March 15 Arts Center Theatre presents "Hansel & Gretel" Colquitt County Arts Center http://www.colquittcountyarts.com Contact: Connie Fritz: (229) 985-3158 Arts Center: (229) 985-1922

20th Annual Calico Arts & Craft Show March 21 & 22 Saturday 9-5, Sunday 10-4 $5 per person Children under 12 Free Located at Spencefield in Moultrie (home of the Sunbelt Ag Expo) Free Parking – No Pets For more info call: (229) 985-1968 calicocrafts.com

Tifton Arts in Black Talent Show March 27, 7:00 pm Tift Theatre Tickets $8 Arts in Black Festival March 28, begins 11:00 am Fulwood Park Performances on two stages and a children’s area.

Arts in Black Poetry Competition March 29, 3:00 pm Tifton-Tift County County Recreation Department For more information, contact Dr. Tamisha Blackshear, Arts in Black chairperson, at (229) 821-0126 or visit the website atwww.artsinblack.net.

Tour the Historic Tift Theatre Every 3rd Saturday 10 am -12 pm admission: In Kind Donation. www.tifttheatre.org

Albany/Lee The Albany Area Arts Council Shadow and Light The Sunbelt Photography Club’s Annual Exhibition March 5 - 27 Opening Reception March 5th 6-8pm.

The exhibit will feature photography from 15 different club members.

Albany Area Arts Council Carnegie Library 215 N. Jackson St

WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE IN LOCAL ARTS AND THEATER (229) 439-ARTS (2787). Visit our website at www.albanyartscouncil.org or follow us on Facebook for regular updates.

Under the Oaks Arts Festival March 12 Business After Hours: 5:30 pm Reception & Awards: 7:00 pm The Lee County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce its Ninth Annual Under the Oaks Arts Fest set for Thursday, March 12, 2015 at The Bindery at Oakland Library at 445 Oakland Park W, Leesburg. This event will include a jurored art show and sale.

For more information, contact Lee County Chamber of Commerce at (229) 759-2422.

Albany Museum of Art and Albany Recreation & Parks Department Spring Family Day March 14, 10 am - 2 pm Albany Museum of Art 311 Meadowlark Drive Art activities, outdoor games, art show, and interactive art gallery.

Free of charge (229) 439 - 8400 Overlapping Sensabilities Albany Museum of Art Through April 18 Albany Museum of Art 311 Meadowlark Drive “My technique is mixed medium based.

I use natural untreated fabrics such as cotton, linen or papers. On these surfaces I apply, by brush and hand, multiple applications of colorfast solarized dyes, soft pastels, acrylic paints and color pencils. There are often as many as 80 individual applications of these mediums to the untreated natural surface of one work. Over 800 of my unique paintings and designs are included in over 250 corporate, private and public collections throughout the world.” – Ray Pierotti Free (229) 439-8400

Brunch & Brushes Join us for one Saturday each month from 10am - 12pm as participants have the opportunity to express their creativity through painting. During each class individuals will complete a themed painting with guidance from a trained instructor. A light brunch will be provided. Bring your own liquid inspiration in the form of mimosas, bloody marys or the adult beverage of your choice! Classes are for those 21 years and older. Register early, as seating is limited. Call the museum at 229-439-8400 or email yjones@albanymuseum.com to reserve your canvas.

Cost: $45/members & $55/nonmembers includes all painting materials and brunch.

Cocktails & Acrylics at the AMA March 12, 2015 Grab a friend and a bottle of wine and join AMA every second Thursday from 6:30 - 9 pm for Cocktails and Acrylics, as our trained teachers help even the artistically challenged create a visually appealing painting. With step by step instructions, students are able to relax and enjoy an evening at the museum while sipping a beverage of choice with one hand while painting a beautiful canvas with the other. Classes are for those 21 years and older. Register early, as seating is limited. Call the museum at 229.439.8400 or email yjones@albanymuseum.com to reserve your canvas.

Cost: $35/members and $45/nonmembers includes all painting materials AMA's Visiting Artist Series: Ray Pierotti From Shellman, GA and featured in the AMA's East Gallery through April 18 Toddler Tuesdays Join us on the first Tuesday of every month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. for arts, crafts, movement and stories. Toddler See ART, page 18

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MARCH MOVIE RELEASES

Friday, March 6 Chappie - R Unfinished Business The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel - PG Road Hard Faults Merchants of Doubt Friday, March 13 Cinderella - PG Run All Night - R It Follows - R Anarchy The Wrecking Crew

Friday, March 20 The Divergent Series: Insurgent - PG-13 The Gunman - R Do You Believe? - PG-13 Tracers - PG-13 Friday, March 27 Home - PG Get Hard - R Serena - R While We’re Young - R Man from Reno Nightlight - R Riot Club - R A Little Chaos - R

SWAMP GRAVY: LOST & FOUND RETURNS TO STAGE MARCH 6 Since 1992, Swamp Gravy, Georgia’s Official Folk Life Play, has been bringing to life the true stories of Southwest Georgia and delighting audiences from across the country and around the world. Swamp Gravy combines the ingredients of true stories, local volunteer talent, original music, traditional favorites, and professional playwriting, design, and direction and spices it up with a healthy dash of Southern charm to create its own brand of unique storytelling theater.

Over 23 years, Swamp Gravy has produced 20 unique scripts by 7 different playwrights.

This March, Swamp Gravy returns to the stage with its newest production, “Swamp Gravy: Lost & Found.”

“Lost & Found,” written by Gerard Stropnicky and Jerry Grillo,tells the stories of unforgettable characters like Grace, a woman who has spent her life longing for the love of a biological mother she has never met, only to find peace when she finally accepts her complicated relationship with the only mother she has ever known. Her story, along with others involving lost teeth, stolen clothes, Irish Travelers, and one angry monkey, prove that what you’re looking for isn’t always what you expect to find… or where you expect to find it.

“Swamp Gravy: Lost and Found” runs March 6 - 28, with showings at 7:30 on Fridays and 2:00 and 5:30 on Saturdays. Tickets are available by calling (229) 758-5450 or visiting www.swampgravy.com.

Tickets are $22, and group rates are available.

Photos by Katherine Willis

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Event

Albany/Lee

Photo courtesy of Krissy Waller

Tift Park Community Market Opens March 7th - November Saturdays, 9 AM - 2 PM GWE Presents: A Most Excellent Adventure Local Pro Wrestling Saturday, March 7th 7:30 pm Belltime State Theater, 313 Pine Ave Ringside: $10, General: $8, Kids: $5 Friends of Scouting Fundraiser March 10, 6:30 pm Merry Acres 1500 Old Dawson Road Contact: Allison Flory (229) 292-4591 12th annual Albany Tech Foundation fundraiser Roast of Ken Hodges March 20, 7:00 pm Kirkland Conference Center Albany Tech $50 per person/$500 per table (229) 430-6624 jnajjar@albanytech.edu Every Friday & Saturday Dance VRW-Post 2875 315 Philema Road

UPCOMING FESTIVALS AND EVENTS IN SOUTHWEST GEORGIA

Cover at door - 7:00 pm (229) 883.9950

Tifton

Every Friday-Sunday Imagination Theater Showtimes Flint RiverQuarium, 100 Pine Ave $4.50-$6 Friday: Kings of Baja 1:15 & 4:15; Micro Planet 2:15; Alligator Kingdom 3:15 Saturday: Kings of Baja 1:15 & 4:15; Micro Planet 2:15; Alligator Kingdom 3:15 Sunday: Kings of Baja 1:15 & 4:15; Micro Planet 2:15; Alligator Kingdom 3:15 (229) 639.2650

ABAC Truck and Tractor Pull March 5 - 7, 7:00 pm ABAC Pull Track This is the first sanctioned truck and tractor pull at the college in almost 30 years. Highlighting the truck and tractor pull will be the Southern Pullers Association Super Modified pulls on March 6-7. $5 Thursday, $15 Friday & Saturday $10 Children, Five & under free bgunter1@stallions.abac.edu

Every Friday-Saturday Wetherbee Planetarium Thronateeska Heritage Center 100 Roosevelt Ave $3.50 The Wetherbee Planetarium is proud to be considered a valuable educational resource in South Georgia, sharing not just fulldome educational films, but also producing live presentations on a wide variety of astronomy topics.

The 14th Annual Mardi Gras Street Festival March 7th, Noon to 8:00 pm Downtown Albany Live Music, Vendors, Kid Zone, FUN!!

The festival will be located along the 100 block of Pine Ave. Admission is $5 per visitor, children 10 and under free with paid visitor. For more info, please call (229) 432.6955 or email tsmith@heritagecenter.org

Moultrie 58th Annual Moultrie Federated Guild Antique Show and Sale March 20 - 22 Moultrie Technical College 800 Veterans Parkway N Judy Stringfellow (229) 891-0202 Gail Thompson (229) 891-4901 Stop the Violence Carnival March 21, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm W.O.W Park - Southwest Moultrie Contact New Beginning Bible Church (229) 529-1120 Free

Wiregrass Farmers Market Open Saturdays, 9 am -12 pm April-October.

Market will open for season on April 5th during the Folklife Festival at the Georgia Museum of Agriculture.

Savor quality homegrown produce and handmade goods, celebrate local folk traditions, and learn more about food & healthy living!

Behind the Country Store at the Georgia Museum of Agriculture 1392 Whiddon Mill Road, Tifton http://wiregrassmarket.org/ Second Saturdays: Super Saturdays at the Tift Theatre - Family Friendly Movies, 1 pm Third Mondays: Movie Musical Mondays at the Tift Theatre - 7 pm Fourth Sundays: Golden Star Sundays Old Hollywood Movies, 3 pm

Thomasville 2nd Annual Dazzling Divas Prom Dress Drive March 7th, 10 am - 12 pm PURSES Inc., “Unlocking the Treasures within You” Presents: 2nd Annual Dazzling Diva’s Prom Dress Drive. This is a free pre-prom event that includes door prizes, beauty and hair tips, and a collection of gently used gowns, shoes and accessories to choose from.

Business Exchange Building See EVENT, page 7

Atta pulg us Dog wood Festiva l Alwa ys the las t Saturday in March.

Friday, March 27 5 pm - Run and Fun Walk The registration begins at 5 pm with the 1 mile walk beginning at 5:30 and the 3 mile run to begin at 6 pm. Downtown Attapulgus across from Fire Department. and the cost is $10. All finishers are given a T-shirt and trophies go to all the winners.

7 pm - Creekside Country Strings Creekside Country Strings will entertain at 7 pm. This is a bring your own chair street sing downtown Attapulgus across from Fire Department.

Saturday, March 28 8:30 am til 3 pm - Arts & Crafts booths with many food vendors at the Festival Grounds off the Quincy Highway.

10:30 am - Parade with Grand Marshall Bill Reynolds, former Bainbridge Mayor.

Parade has Antique Vehicles, Classic Cars, Horses, Beauty Queens, Clowns and much more.

The Parade begins on the Quincy Highway, goes through downtown Attapulus, and then on to the Festival grounds.

11:30 am Entertainment begins with dancing, country music and gospel music. This is great fun and fellowship day for the family.

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Event

Continued from page 6 125 North Broad Street (229) 699-4558 purses_unlockingtreasure@yahoo.com Easter Egg-stravaganza March 14, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Join us for a community-wide Easter egg hunt! Games and activities for all ages will be available.

Paradise Park, 403 South Broad Street Kha McDonald (229) 227-7001 visit@thomasville.org Thomasville Rose Queen Pageant March 14, 7:00 pm Thomasville’s Rose Queen Pageant is an event of the Rose Show & Festival.

Thomasville’s Rose Queen will promote Thomasville and Thomas County by serving as an ambassador participating in the Rose Show & Festival as well as various civic, social and charity events. Thomasville’s Rose Queen will reign over all official Rose Festival Activities. Scholarship prizes awarded for the top contestants.

Municipal Auditorium 144 East Jackson Street Felicia Brannen 229-227-7020 visit@thomasville.org Metcalfe Spring Market March 21, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm Metcalfe Spring Market is an annual event complete with lots of unique items for sale, food vendors and our first 5K run. Check out their Facebook page for more info: https://www.facebook.com/metcalfega Metcalfe Community Park Metcalfe, GA Contact: C. Butler (229) 226-8762 jabutler@rose.net Hands and Hearts for Horses Hoedown March 28, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm Put on your boots and jeans, kick back and relax or kick up your heels for a good time with delicious food and

country and western music. Your participation supports the therapeutic riding for children with disabilities.

Sponsorships are available for $150, or individual tickets are available for $60 (on sale March 16th, 2015). www.handsandheartsforhorses.com Hands and Hearts for Horses Barn, 3824 Lower Cairo Road Frances Parker 229-403-0771 frances@handsandheartsforhorses.com

Spring Lecture Series at Thomas County Museum of History www.thomascountyhistory.org (229) 226-7664 Butterfly Garden Work Day 9:30 am to 12:00 pm Our Butterfly Garden volunteers usually meet on the first Thursday of the month to tend our beautiful Butterfly Garden. Please call Donna Legare at (850) 386-1148 or the Birdsong office at (229) 377-4408 for more information.

Birdsong Nature Center 2106 Meridian Road 322 birdsong@birdsongnaturecenter.org Rose Show & Festival April 23 - 25 Held in beautiful, historic downtown Thomasville, the Rose Festival has been a Southwest Georgia tradition since the 1920’s. Enjoy roses, roses, and more roses, plus two parades, live music and street dance (this year featuring the Atlanta Rhythm Section), arts & crafts, fantastic food and so much more. www.thomasvillega.com

Camilla Gnat Days Season of Events 1st Saturday in May – Gnat Days is a yearly tribute to our favorite southern pest. Featuring crafts, food, festivities, Gnat Days is sure to provide a fabulous time for family and friends.

Concerts, Bike Races, Street Dances, Pet Shows, Musicals, and much, much more!

See EVENT, page 18

Ask LadyByrd the

Eventista

Dear LadyByrd, Help! I am getting married this year and I don’t know where to start. I would like to hire an event planner, but my fiancé says that I really do not need one and I can have my family and brides maids assist to save money. There are a lot of sites for do it yourself (DIY) brides, but I really want to know is it worth it?

Sincerely, Bride on a budget Dear Bride on a Budget, I am a believer in the sayings, “You get what you pay for” and the “The more you put into something, the more you get out.” A little something to consider when making your decision. Your fiancé means well and probably desires that you save money to not only have a beautiful wedding day, but a beautiful life after the wedding.

So why hire an event planner?

Experienced event planners specialize in making your life so much easier during the planning process and especially on your wedding day. Soon after your fiancé pops the big question, planning usually kicks into high gear for brides. We’re talking invitations and dresses and cakes and venues and RSVP’s and menus and DJ’s- OH MY! And all of the details can be very overwhelming, especially given you probably have a life and a job outside of planning a wedding, right? Upon hiring an event planner, their full time job becomes you, your fiancé and creating a memorable wedding experience. We help you create your budget, conceptualize the perfect event to fit your budget, select your ideal venue, find awesome vendors, negotiate contracts, and much more! And for those who have several years of experience, we are pretty good at it!

But the service doesn’t stop there. We also help you fully enjoy your wedding day without stressing over details like why the

baker has not arrived on time or why the centerpieces are not what you originally ordered or why the DJ is setup in the wrong area of the ballroom? No bride wants to be stressed on her wedding day and you shouldn’t be. A great event planner handles all of the details on your wedding day with ease and the aforementioned details you will never be aware of.

And your event planner makes sure that your every beck and call is attended to, from making sure you have had enough to eat and drink, to preparing an emergency wedding day kit, to making sure that your bridal party is where they should be, on time, with no visible traces of the bachelor or bachelorette party from the night before! An event planner’s goal is to make sure that you and your spouse-to-be create blissful memories that you will never forget.

Why not hire family? Simply put, you want your family to enjoy your day with you , without the stress of all of the planning and details. What happens if they do not carry out your plans as you desire? Do you really want to fall out with your family over the details of your wedding? Do you really want them to hate you because they are sure that you are becoming a “Bridezilla”?

Weddings are emotionally charged enough to add family rifts to the equation. It’s just not worth it!

Can a bride plan a wedding herself? Of course she can! But is it worth the risk of not fully enjoying the journey from engagement to wedding day due wedding planning burnout? Well, that is for you and your fiancé to ultimately decide. But a word of advice to your fiancé: Happy wife, happy life. So if you want a happy life, get your wife- to-be an event planner! Congrats to you both!

Cheers!

LadyByrd the Eventista

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Music Thomasville

Anne Cline will perform live at Bacchus!

March 6, 8:00 pm Pop with an acoustic folk-rock feel.

Bacchus Wine Bar, 229 West Jackson Street, Thomasville, GA Contact: Bacchus Wine Bar 229-236-9463 visit@thomasville.org

Swingin' Medallions March 6, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Join us Downtown for a FREE outdoor concert by the Swingin’ Medallions! This band is sure to please with its upbeat rhythms and fun-to-dance-to vibe. Their diverse repertoire has made them overwhelming favorites for all ages.

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the show!

Downtown Thomasville Main Street Office 229-227-7020 visit@thomasville.org

Open Mic Night Every Tuesday 8:30 pm Join us on Tuesdays for Open Mic Night.

A place for our future poets, musicians, and spoken word artists. Pre-register online or arrive by 8pm on Tuesday. No a capella performances will be permitted. Performers age 16-20 must be accompanied by an adult.

Bacchus Wine Bar, 229 West Jackson Street, Thomasville, GA 229-236-9463 visit@thomasville.org

MainStream Band will perform live!

March 13, 8:00 pm Country with a southern-rock feel.

Bacchus Wine Bar 229 West Jackson Street

Sundays at Four: March 15, 4:00 pm "Sundays at Four" offers monthly concerts that feature local and regional artists performing a wide range of musical styles.

Thomasville Center for the Arts 600 East Washington Street

Musical Happenings in Southwest Georgia

Thomas University 229-227-6964 visit@thomasville.org

Travelin’ Light will play live at Bacchus!

March 20, 8:00 pm Folk-rock music.

Bacchus Wine Bar 229 West Jackson Street (229) 236-9463 visit@thomasville.org Another Night of Bluegrass: Nothin' Fancy March 28, 7:30 pm Traditional Bluegrass at its finest! Join us for a show by Nothin’ Fancy.

Thomasville Municipal Auditorium 144 East Jackson Street Thomasville Visitors Center 229-228-7977 visit@thomasville.org Moultrie

Watoto Children's Choir March 19, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm From Kenya to Colquitt County - The Watoto Children's Choir comes to Moultrie with a high-energy performance of music and dance. And with a message of the great things that God is doing in their lives. Sponsored by the First United Methodist Church.

Colquitt County Arts Center http://www.moultriefumc.org Contact Information: First United Methodist Church (229) 975-2139 Fees/Admission: An offering will be taken during the performance.

Albany Dueling Pianos March 20 6:30 Cocktails 8:00 Showtime Doublegate Country Club Live music, food, drinks, and auction.

Featuring live entertainment by the performers of “88 Licks.” All proceeds to

benefit Albany Resource Center and Children’s Miracle Network.

Tickets $50 For more info, jlalbany.org Albany Symphony Orchestra Orchestra Petting Zoo and Family Concert March 20, 7:30 pm Albany Municipal Auditorium Pre-Concert Notes at 6:30 pm.* A special, non-subscription event for music enthusiasts of all ages.

(229) 430-8933 Albany Symphony Orchestra Joesph FireCrow, native American flute April 11, 4:00 pm Albany Municipal Auditorium Pre-Concert Notes at 6:30 pm.* A multi-media performance of Jim Cockey’s "The Gift of the Elk" plus Grofe’s colorful "Grand Canyon Suite," and Abel’s “Global Warming (229) 430-8933 Tifton

Rhythm & Ribs Festival March 7, begins at 10 am The festival promises to offer a weekend full of awesome entertainment. On Saturday, George Porter, Jr. and His Runnin’ Pardners will be headlining the festival. Music starts at 10 am and includes performances from Austin French, The Van Lears, Corbitt Brothers Band, Evan Barber & the Dead Gamblers, Sailing to Denver, Scott Brantley, Dallas Dorsey, Andy Hicks, Veronika Jackson, Dan Evans and Jen Anders. The festival will also include rides and games for kids. For more information, call the Spearman Agency at 386-0216.

Virtuoso Chamber Music Series Melody Ng March 12, 7:00 pm A piano concert ABAC - Howard Auditorium Free of charge The Gospel Starlights 6th Annual

Albany Battle of the Bands Upcoming Pre-Battles: Mar 14 - Veterans Tribute @ VFW Mar 14 - Downtown Disturbance vs Intoxicated Logic @ Ozone Apr 10 - Voting Polls Close Apr 25 & 26 - Battle of the Bands Event at Chehaw Park Vote for your favorite band: www.albanybotb.com

Hometown Gospel Celebration March 14, 6:00 pm Tift Theatre $10/$15 (229) 339-4930 Veterans Memorial Gospel Sing March 21, 6:00 pm Tift Theatre (229) 339-4930 Travis Tritt Concert March 28, 6:30 pm UGA TCCC $35 & up Americus Blind Boys of Alabama Rylander Theater March 14, 8:00 pm Five-time Grammy Award winning gospel group Blind Boys of Alabama will put a spring in your step. The group has spanned 70 years of music and numerous albums since first singing together in 1944. www.rylander.com (229) 931-0001 Chamber Concert Series An Evening with Gershwin, with Joe Chapman March 26, 7:30 pm GSW’s Jackson Performance Hall Call (229) 931-2204

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STAGGERWING COUNTRY JAMBOREE

2010 N Ashley St Valdosta, GA 229-247-1686 Saturday, March 7 @ 8:00 PM Jesse Ray Carter Friday, March 13 @ 10:00 PM You must be 21+ to attend

Made Ready Tuesday, March 17 @ 10:00 PM Chamomile and Whiskey Saturday, March 21 @ 8:00 PM Rory Kelly Friday, March 27 @ 12:00 AM Peelander-Z

Staggerwing country jamboree is great place to bring the whole family for some great country and southern rock n roll music.

Staggerwing Country Jamboree is also a place for all local talent to attend and show off their talents.

There’s a large dance floor for the slow dancers and line dancers.

2099 Georgia Highway 133 South, (quitman highway), Moultrie, GA next door to the Sunbelt Expo. Come out and listen to Gary Page and The Country Rockers featuring Billy Wilson,Wayne Watson, Lalla Lehmann,Emmitt Page, and Gary Page.

Great prize giveaways, Homemade Crunch Pound Cakes, super nice tee-shirts and more.

For you karaoke singers, we have a 1/2 hour set aside for you during break!

Every friday night starting at 7:00 pm until 11:00pm. Best jamboree this side of Tennessee. Great place for all Senior Citizens as well! For more information : Contact Sandy Page (229) 888-3664 / (229) 733-1526

Karaoke

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 7152 Moses Lane Tallahassee, FL (850) 906-0766 All club shows are nonsmoking. 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) 906-0766 or emailing: bradfordvilleblues@comcast.ne t , but advance ticket purchasers get reservation priority. Reserved seats held until show time.

March 6: Steady Rollin' Bob Margolin March 7: The Ori Naftally Band March 12 Thursday @ 8PM: Moreland & Arbuckle March 13: "The Sauce Boss" Bill Wharton March 14: Johnnie Marshall March 19 Thursday @ 8PM: Mike Zito & The Wheel March 20: Liz Mandeville March 21: The Brandon Santini Band March 27: Mac Arnold & Plate Full O' Blues March 28: The Nick Moss Band

corner

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

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

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

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

Bogey's Bar & Grill 2238 Palmyra Rd Albany Thurs - 9 pm (229) 438-0181 Coach’s Sports Bar & Grill 2610 Dawson Rd Albany Tues & Wed - 9 pm (229) 496-1431

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A (SCNI) SOUTHERN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER PRODUCT • SWGA BEAT • March 2015 • www.albanyherald.com 11

Fitness

Saturday/14 St. Patrick's 2nd Annual Lap A Leprechaun 5k/10k & Family Fun Walk 9:00 am St. Patrick's Episcopal Church 4800 Old Dawson Rd., Albany All proceeds from the Lap A Leprechaun event benefits St. Patrick's Building on A Sure Foundation Fund.

Saturday/14 For the Love of Kratos 5K and Quarter Mile Fun Run 8:00 am Crisp County Recreation Department 1205 N. 5 th St. Extension, Cordele Saturday/21 The Heritage 5K Walk and Fun Run 8:30 am Commercial Bank (start/finish line) Thomasville www.ymca-thomasville.org (229) 584-0922 Saturday/21 Albany Pink Walk - Albany Motorcars 10 am at Meredyth Place campus, Albany albanypink.com Saturday/21 5th Annual Legacy Run for Life 5K, 1-mile and Toddler Trot 9:15 am Legacy Park, Albany (Sherwood Baptist Church Sports Park) 1518 Old Pretoria Road, Albany This 5th Annual Legacy Run to benefit the Alpha Pregnancy Center will take place at Legacy Park.

Saturday/21 Flatlanders Canyon Crash Trail Run 5K/10K/13.1 Mile/50K 7:00 am 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA This event is designed to be a great "first time" trail run for the novice runner or road runner that will also challenge the seasoned trail runner at the 1/2 marathon distance. Beautiful scenery mixed with a challenging course will make the Canyon Crash a favorite year after year.

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

Saturday/21 5th Annual Shamrock Jog & Jam Run The Scott Law Benefit Run Rylander Park, Downtown Americus Contact Tracy Law (229) 924-9595 Saturday/28 Tour de Tifton/Ilse Boyette Memorial Charity Bike Ride 8 am Beginning at Tiftarea YMCA Hunt Park. Preregistration is $25 each or $40 for a family. The price goes up to $35/peron/$50/family after March 13.

There will be a 11 mile, 24 mile, 45 mile, 62 mile and 100 mile routes for all levels of riders. All participants will receive a tshirt, snacks/drinks and a post ride meal.

Saturday/28 The Tigger Run Dapady Ranch 137 Dapady Ranch Circle, Edison 1 mile fun run 8:30 am 5k and 10k 9:00 am Saturday/28 2nd Annual Ram Mud Run 8:00 am 480 Camp Osborn Road, Sylvester Please make plans to attend the first ever RAM Mud Run to benefit the Rams football team March 28th @ Camp Osborne in Worth Co. Sylvester, Ga.Message me for details and registration information. Going to be a great time for a good cause.

Event details and schedule LUNCH WILL BE SERVED TO PARTICIPANTS Saturday/28 Fire Ant 5K Run 8:00 am Ashburn, GA 31714 The annual 5K Fun Run will be at 8:00 A.M. Saturday of the festival. Check in begins at 7:30 A.M. Advance entry fees are $20.00 adult and $5.00 for students. Adult entry Saturday morning is $25.00.

Saturday/28 Red Shoe Run: 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run 8:00 am Benefitting The Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center, an organization that works to ensure the best

possible service to children alleging physical/sexual abuse and adults alleging sexual assault. T-shirts will be awarded to those who register before 3/13 (1 mile fun run is for boys and girls 12 and under. Entry fee is $10 with no refunds.)

Southwest Georgia Technical College 15689 US Highway 19 North, Thomasville Jackla Lawson 229-977-1639 jackla.treehouse@gmail.com Saturday/28 Walk a Mile in Her Shoes 9:30 am Join in this high heeled bonanza! Benefitting The Treehouse Children’s Advocacy Center, and working to stop rape, sexual assault, and gender violence.

Men- get your red high heels on in support of a great cause! T-shirts will be awarded to those who register by 3/13. $50 minimum sponsorship includes a shirt, shoes, and lunch. Awards will be given for the fastest mile, most money raised, and most spirited.

Check in begins at 9:30am, with the walk beginning at 10:30am. Shoes will be provided, but you may bring your own.

Southwest Georgia Technical College, 15689 US Highway 19 North, Thomasville Jackla Lawson 229-977-1639 jackla.treehouse@gmail.com

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BEAT

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Food

Enlightening Bites March 6, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Bring your lunch and enjoy this stimulating series of lectures on subjects of interest in your area. Free and open to the public; sponsored by Pebble Hill Plantation and the Thomas County Public Library. For more information, contact Pebble Hill Plantation at 229-226-3344.

March’s Topic: Bluebirds with Guest Speaker Claudia Mason.

Thomas County Public Library, Flipper Room, 201 North Madison Street, Thomasville, GA Contact: Pebble Hill Plantation (229) 226-3344 visit@thomasville.org Chili for Children March 13, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm The Tift County Commission on Children and Youth are partnering with Wendy’s and Tift Regional Medical Center.

Purchase a $5 ticket and enjoy Wendy’s chili, crackers, a drink, and brownie.

Dine in or carry out at Leroy Rogers Senior Center.

418 N Ridge Ave, Tifton (229) 388-1000 Lagunitas Brewing Company Tap Takeover March 13, 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Our Cheese Shop will be turning over all of our beer taps to one of our favorite California brewers, Lagunitas Brewery for a Tap Takeover weekend! They'll be brings some beer swag to raffle off, so come hang on Friday-Saturday, March 13th-14th!

Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop 123 South Broad Street, Thomasville, GA (229) 228-6704 visit@thomasville.org Whet Your Palette Occurs on the third Thursday of every month 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm Whet Your Palette features Artist Collective Members teaching a new

Experience Food and Fun in Southwest Georgia

technique each month. Bring your friends, your favorite beverage, and prepare for a memorable night out!

Reservations are a must, as seats are limited. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes before class starts for set-up. $25/per class includes supplies.

Studio 209, 209 Remington Avenue Contact: Thomasville Center for the Arts (229) 226-0588 visit@thomasville.org Taste of Thomasville Food Tour Occurs every Saturday 10:30 am to 1:30 pm Taste of Thomasville is a walking and tasting tour where you will enjoy a fun one of a kind, culinary experience while strolling through Thomasville. You will enjoy tasting award winning foods and learn what makes Thomasville’s history unique. Our tour is approximately 1.4 miles which will take 3 hours. It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but more suitable for children 13 and up. The tour will be given rain or shine. By the tour’s end you will have a satisfied appetite and genuine understanding of why Thomasville is “worth the trip”. Tours are scheduled every Friday & Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 pm. Tours are $40 pp (plus handling fee.) Visit www.TasteOfThomasvilleFoodTour.com for more information and to purchase tickets. Advance purchase required.

Various restaurants in downtown Debra Smith: 800-979-3370 dsmith@tasteofthomasvillefoodtour.com Taste of Thomasville: After Hours Occurs every Thursday at 5:30 pm Join us for a night tour of Downtown Thomasville! This tour will include 5 different stops to sample cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as snacks, from local restaurants. Tours are $50 for everything, or $40 if you choose not to drink.

Contact: Debra Smith dsmith@tasteofthomasville.com

with Erica Savage Wilson

Greetings! I am your food blogger Erica, and I invite you to the Southwest Georgia Beat’s food column, The Five Spoon Experience!

Join me as idreamcaviar presents food reviews of palpable measure that will translate into delicious outings for you to indulge many of our Southwest Georgia treasured eateries; this is your vehicle for your flavor endings delight. idreamcaviar is the heart of my universal elation of all that food produces - life, joy, relationships, unforgettable moments, memories and snapshots. The world is yours to travel on a plate using cutlery or your fingers…simple or luxe, idreamcaviar is your illustrious blog for delish dishes that I’m enlivened to present it to you.

There’s so much to discover, taste and enjoy, friend, and the SWGA Beat provides excellent informative content to include The Five Spoon Experience writings and ratings--stay connected to the Beat and bon appetit!

Albany Fish Company 1921 Dawson Rd, Albany, GA A lovely medley of fresh seafood, harmonious seasoning and mesmeric plating is the song of Gulf and Atlantic lovers courtesy of Albany Fish Company. Chef G and company has successfully carved a growing following with their fresh blue crab, shark, low country boils (a Gulf coast classic), shrimp and grits and an oyster po' boy that drives your mind to the pots and ports of New Orleans, Mobile and Gulfport. The menu and display of fresh catch build the anticipation for future seated dining in AFC. The atmosphere as patrons await filleted fresh grouper or amberjack is rich and radiates throughout. Lunch or dinner for two or

the skilled preparation of your select quality fresh fish is comparable to establishments that are unable to provide this distinction--not to mention the visible joy of Chef G’s father and mother as they greet and labor behind the counter is priceless! Unmistakable passion and delectable cuisine will continue to drive appetites to seafood bliss at Albany Fish Company; your wallet or palate will not forget or regret this experience!

AFC rating The 1800 Mexican Restaurant 329 W. Lamar St, Americus, GA Detailed décor and attentive staff are noteworthy highlights to the savory flavors at The 1800 Mexican restaurant. Anchored in downtown Americus, indoor seating is plentiful while offering a few intimate outdoor bistro tables. A meal named after it’s setting, The Downtown Americus boasts flavor and size. The fried flour tortilla can be served with beef, chicken or steak and is dressed with onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, cheese, lettuce tomatoes, guacamole and topped with sour cream - rice and beans are served as side dishes. If this is your lunch choice, you may be able to complete this hearty serving as dinner! The menu is brimming with variations of pleasing and classic Mexican dishes to your contentment.

The customer service is memorable as hot chips and salsa are light and crunchy yet plentiful while keeping your beverage replenished. The prices are excellent for families or for date night. A stroll after your meal through charming downtown Americus is invigorating both physically and conversationally.

The 1800 rating

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TIFTON

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

ALBANY

Casa Tapatia Mexican Restaurant 108 N Slappey Blvd Open Mon - Sat (229) 903-8802 Mellow Mushroom 2825 Nottingham Way (229) 888-4646 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

LEESBURG

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

TH OMASVILLE

Rick’s Oyster Bar and Grill 1328 West Jackson St (229) 233-8140 Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 1800 Smith Ave (229) 226-6265 Billiard Academy World Famous Chili Dogs 121 S Broad St (229) 226-9981 Scoop Deli and Ice Cream 115 W Jefferson St (229) 551-0012

KFC 13777 US HWY S (229) 228-0539

Golden Corral 2110 E 16th Ave (229) 271-8681

Sports Live Bar & Grill 15138 US HWY 19 S (229) 233-8330

King’s Grill BBQ 606 S 10th St (229) 513-0181

Savannah Moon Bakery & Cafe 109 N Broad St (229) 227-0081

Ken’s Barbeque 204 W 24th Ave (229) 273-8251

Boston Barbeque 110 S Main St Boston, GA (229) 498-7266

LongHorn Steakhouse 1110 N Saint Augustine Rd (229) 588-8225

Audrey’s Kuntry Kitchen 1530 GA HWY 93 S Cairo, GA Jonah’s Fish & Grits 109 E Jackson St (229) 226-0508 Rock Bottom Seafood & Grill 2115 Smith Ave (229) 236-5656

CORDELE

Cracker Barrel 1905 Central Ave (229) 271-0331 Carter’s Hamburger 1213 S 7th St (229) 273-5822 L-Bo’s Barbeque & Grill 1030 US HWY 280 W (229) 273-4311

VALDOSTA

Red Lobster 1179 N Saint Augustine Rd (229) 244-7587 Autry Bar-B-Que 1809 S Patterson St (229) 241-9449 Bubba Jax Crab Shack 1700 W Hill Ave (229) 469-4368 Smok’n Pig 4228 N Valdosta Rd (229) 245-8227 Buffalo Wild Wings 1553 Baytree Rd (229) 241-7246 Weezie Real Pit BBQ 736 E Hill Ave (229) 247-4110

BEAT Advice

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The call you’ve been waiting for…

Professional development consultants and practioners all agree that one of the top concerns people have when job searching is Wendy Wilson how to prepare for a job interview. If you are beginning or in the middle of a job search and you’ve haven’t considered the steps associated with preparing for a job interview, now is the time.

In my best Marshall Mather’s voice, aka, Eminem, “You only get one shot!” It is during this one shot moment that you must convince the potential employer why you are the best person for the job. The thought alone can be stressful and taxing. I can assure you, the key to easing the pressure is to create a Job Interview To- Do list followed by a thorough execution of each item you’ve listed.

Here is an example of steps you should include: 1. Research the organizationhistory, financial condition, reputation, service/product they offer 2. Further assess the role you are seeking and how it impacts the entire organization 3. If possible, research the professional background of the individual(s) you are scheduled to meet 4. Learn to properly pronounce the names of the individual(s) you are scheduled to meet 5. If your interview will be held via telephone or video

conference check equipment for reliability as well as identify a space that is quiet and free from distraction 6. If the interview requires travel to the organization’s physical site, determine the amount of travel time required in order to arrive 15-20 minutes prior to the interview 7. Wear interview attire based on the organization’s dress code/culture 8. Have a colleague or friend conduct a mock interview 9. In addition to your resume, bring reference contacts and portfolio- letters of recommendation, performance evaluations, certifications etc.

10. Ask the interviewer(s) for their business card 11. Send the interviewer(s) a hand written thank you note 12. Lastly, be patient with yourself as you navigate the entire job search process.

Remember, “You only get one shot” to make a great and lasting impression. Take the necessary to time properly prepare for your next job interview. The preparation will eventually pay off…and hopefully in the form of a new job! For more professional development tips or if you are in need of a resume or portfolio contact us at 229-395-1975 or w2communicate@gmail or W2 Communications.net. W2 Communications is a public relations firm that offers professional development and training services. We specialize in résumé and employment portfolio design. Wendy Wilson is CEO of W2 Communications.

with Ed Everett

Tips to Improve Your Putting Golfers don’t spend enough time on the putting green practicing. If all your 3 putts were eliminated and you threw in 5 or more one putt greens just think how low you score would be. There are numerous ways to grip the putter with none of them probably wrong if can repeat your stroke. Your eyes need to be over the ball or slightly inside your putting line. The easiest way to check this is to take your stance as if you are ready to putt. Hold a ball on the bridge of your nose and let go.

The ball should either strike the ball that you are going to putt or slightly inside the ball toward your feet.

If this does not happen adjust the distance from the ball or adjust your posture.

A few other tips to better putting. Improve your distance control. Try putting from 40’ toward the edge of the green.

As a reference point place something on the green 15’ from the edge. Try to stop the first ball just pass this point.

Then try to putt each ball past the previous one without reaching the edge. As this gets easier shorten the distance between your marker and the edge of the green. You can do

this drill in reverse by trying to putt the first ball to the edge of the green and then making each ball shorter than the previous but all pass your marker.

Most golfers when putting poorly let their eyes follow the putter backward and forward.

This is a no no. try this from 10’.

Line your putt up and just before you start the stroke close our eyes and visualize the stroke. You will be surprised at how well you will putt. Another way to achieve the goal of no following the putter head is to line up the putt look at the cup and never look back at the ball.

Try these drills they will help.

PEOPLE

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SWGA

Tiftarea STAR Students

T-Rex Planet 2015

First Time Buyers will receive a Discount 6 months financing available Indulge yourself in the season’s finest fashions.

215 SOUTH MADISON STREET • ALBANY, GA 31701 WWW.ROSENBERTCLOTHIER.COM

229.439.7616 or 877.933.5273

CUSTOMERSERVICE@ROSENBERGCLOTHIER.COM

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ART

EVENT

Continued from page 4 Tuesday is a great opportunity for toddlers and parents to explore and create! Children will create works inspired by our collection of art or a short story read in class. For children 5 years and younger. Reservations required by 5pm the Monday before. Call 229-4398400 or email yjones@albanymuseum.com to reserve a seat for you and your toddler.

Free Admission.

Toddlersaurus Time 10:30 am – 11:30 am Monthly on 3rd Thursday until December 18, 2015 Thronateeska Heritage Center 100 West Roosevelt Avenue Free with Science Museum Admission Appropriate for ages 2-5; Write, Color, Draw and Explore in a new section of the science museum each month.

Alex La Pierre (229) 432.6955

Thomasville Writing Workshop with Jodi Helmer March 14, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm You’ll learn how to develop ideas for articles, the best way to break in to a publication, the basics of working with an editor and how to sell yourself as a writer. In-class exercises will have you on the way to seeing your name in print. The Bookshelf is excited to host this Writing Workshop with Jodi Helmer, author of Farm Fresh Georgia.

The Bookshelf, 126 South Broad Street Annie Jones (229) 228-7767 annie@bookshelfthomasville.com Digital Photography Intensive with Alan Ross March 14 & 15, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Limited to 9 students; $300/pp. Alan Ross is an internationally respected master in the art of black-and-white photography. He likes to photograph subjects ranging from architectural details to panoramic landscapes, though is probably best known for his photographs of the American West.

He spent 5 years as master photographer Ansel Adam’s photographic assistant at Yosemite workshops and then Carmel, California. For over 38 years he has been the exclusive printer of the Yosemite Special Edition Negatives. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime photography intensive experience.

Continued from page 7 TCA Studio 209 209 West Remington Avenue Contact: Thomasville Center for the Arts (229) 226-0588 visit@thomasville.org Annie Get Your Gun March 20 & 21 beginning at 7:00 pm The Thomasville City Schools drama program is excited to present its spring musical, “Annie Get Your Gun.” This production will include students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Tickets may be purchased at the door, at Scholar’s Academy, or Jerger School beginning on 3/16.

Students $8/Adults $12.

MacIntyre Park School Auditorium 117 Glenwood Drive Tina Glass (229) 228-3397 visit@thomasville.org Forever Young Adult Book Club Join the Forever Young Adult book club every forth Monday of the month from 6-7 pm at The Bookshelf (all ages are welcome)!

The Bookshelf, 126 South Broad Street Annie Jones (229) 228-7767 annie@bookshelfthomasville.com

Valdosta Spring ‘15 Great Georgia Yard Sale March 28, 8:00 am Lowndes County Civic Center 2102 E Hills Ave Community-wide yard sale Concessions, music and a bounce house will keep the crowd until they are absolutely finished shopping!

First Friday Downtown Valdosta First Friday is an event singles can get together, business people can relax and couples can enjoy the charm of Downtown Valdosta.

Be sure to visit all of the downtown businesses, boutiques, galleries and restaurants for lively events and unique shopping!

Bainbridge

Rivertown Days March 12 (3 days) On the River, Boat Basin Park Great Entertainment and much more Contact Chamber of A Sportsman en plein air: C.D. Clarke Commerce Tuesdays-Saturdays Enjoy free concerts, kid’s rides 10:00am-5:00pm and Sundays, 12:00pmand activities, great food, lots of 5:00pm (first house tour begins at 10:30am, vendors, an ESPN covered last tour begins at 3:45pm) Bassmaster Elite Series Fishing The exhibition includes selected paintings by Tournament, and a Kansas City C.D. Clarke on display in the Elisabeth Society sanctioned BBQ cook-off, Ireland Poe Gallery, located on the upper Flames on the Flint. floor of the Main House at Pebble Hill (229) 246-4774 Plantation.

1251 US Highway 319 Flames on the Flint Barbeque Contact: (229) 226-2344 Cook-Off info@pebblehill.com March 12 (2 days)

Tifton The Baldwin Players’ present “The Whipping Man” March 5 - 7, 7:00 pm Georgia Museum of Agriculture and Historic Village

Bainbridge Boat Basin In conjunction with Bainbridge RiverTown Days, a KCBS sanctioned BBQ Cook Off. Teams will compete along the banks of the Flint River.

(229) 246-4774

Cordele Cindy Williams Book Signing March 7, 4 pm - 8 pm Country Inn Suite, Cordele Southwest Georgia native and author of “Love Saw It” will have a book signing.

Novel Nights Book Club Lake Blackshear Resort has a book club, Novel Nights, that will meet the third Tuesday of every month at Cordelia's Restaurant at 7pm. There is no cost to join.

Food and beverages are on your own.

Mommy & Me Mondays Looking for something to do with your little ones? Join us on Mondays for Mommy & Me activities. A different activity each Monday at 10am. Cost is $5.00 per parent (does not include the $5.00 parkpass fee). To ensure that activities are age appropriate for all, please reserve a spot by calling Amanda at (229) 2762372.

Americus Sumter County Humane Society - Casino Night March 7, 7 pm - 10 pm Rees Park Economic Development Center, 409 Elm Avenue Annual Casino Night and Silent Auction. Cash bar, heavy hor devours, raffle, door prizes, casino style fun. Proceeds benefit The Sumter County Humane Society.

(229) 924-0268 Dogwood Antique Festival March 20-22 Fri & Sat, 10 am - 5 pm Sunday, 12 pm - 4 pm The show will take place at the Tearoom of the Leslie Civic Center 173 East Allen Street, Leslie, GA Admission $5 For more information, call the Town & Country Garden Club (229) 874-5725

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9th Annual Albany Marathon and Half marathon®

ALBANY — Area residents will notice several temporary road closings in the area Saturday, March 7th as, one of the top 10 qualifiers for the Boston Marathon, Albany Marathon and Half Marathon Powered by SNICKERS ®, welcomes almost 2000 participants to the area.

Course records were set in 2011 by Tesfaye Alemayehu, who trains in Antioch, California, shattering the 26.2 mile course and setting a race record in 2:17:09 and in 2008 Janet Cherobon from Lawrenceville, GA with a time of 2:37:26.

At press time 673 folks have signed up to run the marathon and 592 for the half marathon. To date, 1265 registrations have originated from 36 states outside of Georgia, Barbados, India, South Africa, Kazakhstan and Canada. Last year, we had 1462 registered runners.

Father and son team Kevin and Rich Enners will try to qualify for Boston at the Albany Marathon. This Atlanta, Georgia father and son duo is conquering Cerebral Palsy one marathon at a time. While Rich may look as if he is pushing Kevin on his bike at 7.5 minute mile pace, Kevin is certainly putting in the effort to pull his dad along while peddling. The duo has completed six half marathons and one full marathon, the Marine Corps Marathon in 2013. They are hoping to complete the Albany Marathon in 3 hours and 40 minutes, qualifying them for the Boston Marathon.

Elite runner Yolimar Pineda is joining the other 14 elite runners trying to break the course record and win the $12,000 in prize money split between male and female first thru third winners. Pineda competed in the marathon at the 2012 Summer Olympics placing 94th with a time of 2:45:16.

The MARATHON ® Energy and Protein Bars, formally known as SNICKERS® MARATHON® Energy Bar, has been in production since 2003 and is produced here in Albany. The idea of the marathon appealed to MARS’ belief that most active, healthy people benefit from the sustained energy and extra nutrients that the MARATHON® Energy and Protein Bars provide for people. Thrilled with the past eight events, MARS once again agreed to be the title sponsor. Many company associates participate by volunteering or running.

All marathon proceeds benefit the Willson Hospice House. Those proceeds are totalled at $175,000 to date.

In an effort to increase community support, residents are encouraged to show pride and spirit by setting up chairs and drinking coffee in their front yard. This is a fantastic time to bring out noisemakers and cheer on the runners. The support helps runners throughout the route. Tweet pictures to @albanymarathon, share on Instagram at albanygamarathon and Facebook tagging the Snickers Marathon Energy Bar Marathon page while rooting on the runners.

Marathon sponsors include: Mars Chocolate North America Phoebe Community Visions MillerCoors Pfizer Mauldin & Jenkins Proctor & Gamble Albany Vascular & Associates Wildside Running In-Kind Donations to date include: Albany Civic Center

Albany Herald Albany CVB Albany Parks & Recreation Albany Radio Club Albany Technical College Albany Therapeutic Massage Clinic Big Dog Running Breakaway Cycles Burger King City of Albany Cumulus Dougherty County Police Hilton Garden Inn Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful

MARATHON DETAILS Pre-Race Festivities, March 6, 2015 3-9 pm Runners Expo & Registration Packet Pick-Up (No Race Day Registration) Hilton Garden Inn 5-8 pm Pasta Dinner ($15 per ticket) at the Hilton Garden Inn •Chuck Knight, Executive Director of Albany Run/Walk will be speaking at 6pm.

•Kevin and Rich Enners, a Father Son duo conquering Cerebral Palsy one marathon at a time, will be speaking at 7pm.

March 7, 2015 Race Start/Times Crank and Wheel Chairs start at 6:45am The marathon and half marathon begin together at 7:00am Awards Ceremony at the Horace King Overlook behind the Bridge House Awards for both the Marathon and the Half Marathon will be begin at 9:00 AM and continue as winners cross the finish line. A photo opportunity will be provided at the MARS Chocolate Tent for award winners and all runners.

All Marathon and Half Marathon finishers will win a 2015 Albany Marathon or Half Marathon Finisher Medal immediately upon crossing the finish line. Age Group Awards will be awarded to the top three in each age category for the Marathon and Half Marathon.

Marathon & Half Marathon Age Groups (Men & Women): Under 20, 21-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+ COURSE TIME LIMITS The course will remain open for 7 hours (7am to 2pm).

PARKING If driving, there will be parking available at the James H. Gray Civic Center near the start line.

“SARA’S PACERS” 3:15 GOAL FINISH TIME (7:27/Mile) Pacer Ricky

Oxford Construction OneSource Medical PeachSports Photography Publix Nantze Springs Reeves Construction WALB Water station sponsors to date include: Albany Board of Realtors Albany State University Albany Technical College Artesian Sertoma Club Darton State College MESA Club

Dougherty County First Baptist Church of Albany Junior League of Albany Kiwanis LCHS NJROTC MCLB Albany Naval Branch Health Clinic Albany Pfizer Phoebe Healthworks Providence Church WALB Westwood Church All proceeds benefit the Willson Hospice House.

3:25 GOAL FINISH TIME (7:49/Mile) Pacer Matt 3:35 GOAL FINISH TIME (8:12/Mile) Pacer Greg 3:40 GOAL FINISH TIME (8:23/Mile) Pacer Victor 3:45 GOAL FINISH TIME (8:35/Mile) Pacer Tripp 3:55 GOAL FINISH TIME (8:58/Mile) Pacer Terri 4:00 GOAL FINISH TIME (9:10/Mile) Pacer Jennifer 4:10 GOAL FINISH TIME (9:33/Mile) Pacer Wallace 4:20 GOAL FINISH TIME (9:55/Mile) Pacer Steven 4:30 GOAL FINISH TIME (10:18/Mile) Pacer Randy 4:45 GOAL FINISH TIME (10:53/Mile) Pacer Julie 5:00 GOAL FINISH TIME (11:26/Mile) Pacer Heather If you have any questions, please email Jim@MarathonPacing.com.

11th Annual Mardi Gras Street Festival ALBANY - Downtown Albany is celebrating a late Mardi Gras with a music festival on Saturday, March 7th at the 100 Block of Pine Avenue.

The festival kicks off at noon with the opening ceremony and grooves on until 8pm. The event will feature bands, vendors, attractions and crafters throughout the day. Cost of admission is 5 dollars per individual, children 10 and under are free. Free Admission tickets will be given to each participant and volunteer of the Marathon.

“Weekends in February and March are typically a bit slow for the local hospitality industry.

Combining the Albany Marathon and HalfMarathon with the Better Albany Group’s Mardi Gras celebration made for a perfect partnership”, says Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau Director, Rashelle Beasley.

Bands Schedule 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Rollin in the Hay 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Southern Arts Music Ensemble 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Bo Henry Band 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm Broken Glass 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm J Blues Band 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm Unbreakable BloodLine

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DOCO Driving School, Inc.

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ALBANY

Doublegate Country Club 3800 Old Dawson Rd 229-436-6501 River Point 801 River Pointe Dr 229-883-4885

DIRECTORY

Stonebridge Golf & Country Club 319 Osprey Ridge Ct 229-889-8270

AMERICUS Brickyard Plantation 1619 US Hwy 280 East 229-874-1234

BAINBRIDGE Bainbridge Country Club 312 Country Club Rd 229-246-1986

MOULTRIE Sunset Country Club 2730 South Main St 229-890-5555

Golf

THOMASVILLE Country Oaks Golf Course 6481 GA Hwy 122 229-225-4333 Glen Arven Country Club 1700 Old Monticello Rd 229-226-1780

TIFTON Golf Club of South Georgia 3922 US Hwy 41 N 229-386-4953

VALDOSTA Kinderlou 4005 Bear Lake Rd 229-219-2300 Stone Creek Golf Club Club 4300 Coleman Rd N 229-247-2527