The Mvskoke Project
Bringing the Story of the Muscogee People Home
Plant for YOUR FUTURE
From the Editor’s Desk
They say it takes a village, but in our case it’s a city. The efforts of the Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission to keep our city clean from neighborhoods to the riverbanks have not gone unnoticed with state-wide awards to recognize those efforts. Under new leadership the initiatives to keep our environment clean and spear-head recycling collaborations with local businesses keep the momentum communityfocused. Opportunities for citizens to be all hands-on deck with clean-up campaigns ensures that there’s a sense of pride in our hometown of Columbus.
The birthplace of the game of football (that’s soccer to you, my American friends) may have been in England, but it’s fast becoming a favorite of American sports audiences. Way before anyone was deciding which Premier League team they would adopt, two young team mates back in the 80’s formed a friendship that eventually, would produce Columbus United Football Club. Their inaugural season was amazing with the team bringing home their first trophy. Their second season will soon be upon us. Read how it all began and get ready to head to Kinnett Stadium to cheer on our home team.
The Mvskoke Project will bring home the Muscogee Creek Nation story to their original lands. It’s a story that has taken decades to emerge and that only the passing of time and a generation seeking answers have allowed it to be told. In April, for two weeks, The Springer Opera House will bring to the stage performances of the play which will be a celebration, a lesson in history and teach the audience about modern Muscogee culture. The hope is that for those who choose to watch the play they will take away a new perspective of the world and this land that we claim as home.
Your smile is a game-changer so making sure your teeth are in top health is essential. Our Smilemaker section has established and new doctors who have joined local practices. Read all about them and the services that they offer inside this issue.
Spring brings the opportunity to dance the night away at Columbus State University’s Spring Swing event. A fundraising event where locals form dance groups that showcase their dancing skills. This year’s theme is “Out of this World,” and we know it will be!
We’re proud to include the Columbus Water Works and Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley Reports to the Community in this issue. Both of these establishments serve this place we call home, and we are better off for all of the work that they do for our city and region.
As always, so many great things are happening here in the Chattahoochee Valley— enjoy the read!
Jodi Saunders Editor & Publisher
— Established 1992 —
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COLUMBUS AND THE VALLEY MAGAZINE is owned by Jodi and Gerald Saunders and is published monthly by Valley Life Ventures, LLC, dba COLUMBUS AND THE VALLEY MAGAZINE, P. O. Box 229, Columbus, GA 31902. The cover and contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of COLUMBUS AND THE VALLEY MAGAZINE. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, or other materials. They will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Editorial contributions and letters should be addressed to COLUMBUS AND THE VALLEY MAGAZINE, Post Office Box 229, Columbus, GA 31902. Copyright ©2025 by Valley Life Ventures, LLC trading as COLUMBUS AND THE VALLEY MAGAZINE. Postmaster: Please send address corrections to: Post Office Box 229, Columbus, GA 31902.
Profiles
CSU’s
Two
The
A
photo by Jake Rhodes
What's Happening?
ONGOING
Now-April 26
The Bo Bartlett Center current exhibit, Eye of the Blackbird Exhibition inspired by the Wallace Stevens poem, Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird, is dedicated to artists for whom looking is inseparable from thinking. Alongside this exhibition, Women of the Pacific Northwest will also be on display. This exhibition highlights female artists whose work is rooted in material exploration within the tradition of Northwest influences and how environment shapes visual vocabularies and concepts. ColumbusState.edu/bartlett-center
March 4-April 12
Earth Fire curated by Hannah Israel will be featured in the Illges Gallery. A reception will be held on March 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m. ColumbusState.edu/art
Weekends in March and April
Spring into new family memories when you discover the sights, sounds and flavors of the season at the Celebrate SPRING! Festival at Callaway Gardens. See the garden’s sprawling 2,500 acres will leap to life with live music, delicious food, beautiful blooms and more. CallawayGardens.com
March 15-May 17
The Do Good Fund will exhibit Howard Finster Man of Visions; Outsider Art from the Largeman Family Collection TheDoGoodFund.org
April through October
Each Saturday, three blocks along Broadway host over 100 local and regional vendors. Visitors can expect to find fresh and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts and delicious baked goods. Market Days is the perfect Saturday activity for family, friends and visitors. Don’t forget to bring your furry pals to get in on the fun. AlwaysUptown.com/market-days
MARCH
March 7
Toast of the Town brings World-class wines, fine foods, hand-crafted beers and Southern spirits all await you at the Grand Tasting. Come meet the chefs, vintners, distillers and brewmasters who will be on hand to share their toasts and tastes with you. ToastColumbus.com
March 7-23
The Springer Opera House presents Jesus Christ Superstar. Faith, fame and betrayal take center stage in one of the greatest stories ever told. This rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known story told entirely through song. SpringerOperaHouse.org
March 8 & 9
The Columbus Botanical Garden presents 2025’s Naturalists Symposium. This year’s event will focus on sustainable living and farming and gardening practices that improve soil health, water quality, biodiversity and support wildlife. ColumbusBotanicalGarden.org
March 10
The Joyce and Henry Schwob School of Music presents Schwob Philharmonic. Happening at 7:30 p.m. in Legacy Hall. ColumbusState.edu/music
March 12
East Alabama Chamber of Commerce will host their monthly Breakfast & Business, Local Business Resources, 7 a.m. at Troy University, 1510 Whitewater Avenue, Phenix City. Registration is required. EALCC.com
March 14
The Columbus River Dragons take on the Monroe Moccasins with a puck drop at 7:35 p.m.
ColumbusGa.gov/civiccenter-2
March 14
Visit Fort Moore for the first Shamrock Shuffle 5K Run at 6 p.m. in the I-BAR parking lot and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Dress up green, put your St. Patty’s hat on and run like a Leprechaun chasing a rainbow through scenic Fort Moore. Moore.ArmyMWR.com/calendar/event/ shamrock-shuffle-5k-fun-run/6717162/95246
March 15
Get your shamrocks, green clothes and pots of gold ready for the Almost St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl. This event is going to be more than just a wee bit o’ fun with green themed fun, contests, prizes and some malarkey.
DoTheCrawl.com/columbus/st-patrick
March 17
The Columbus Community Orchestra announces a “Celebration of Irish Music Concert” as a salute to Ireland’s musical heritage. The concert promises a unique blend of traditional Irish music, energetic rock and Irish spirit that will captivate audiences of all ages. St. Mark Church, 6795 Whitesville Road. 7 p.m. FREE. Call 706-575-5371 for more information.
March 19
Featuring a book by Tina Fey, Mean Girls tells the story of a naïve newbie who falls prey to a trio of lionized frenemies. RiverCenter.org
March 21-23
Visit the Columbus Public Library for the Friends of the Libraries Spring Book Sale. All books are priced at $2 or less. Happening from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Synovus meeting room, the sales will accept cash, check, debit and credit cards. cvl.libnet.info/event/12822984
March 22
Get ready for an unforgettable night of music at St. EOM‘s Pasaquan featuring Pylon Reenactment Society, Subsonics, The Token Hearts and W8ING4UFOS. ColumbusState.edu/pasaquan
March 22
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents Mostly Mozart. Pianist Esther Park joins the CSO on stage in the stunning Legacy Hall for a pristine evening featuring Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 12 and Symphony No. 29. The timeless elegance of Mozart is uniquely paired with Max Richter’s modern beauty On the Nature of Daylight, culminating in a delicate yet moving program. The delight continues in an extended intermission featuring champagne and Columbus’ sweetest treats. CSOGA.org
March 22
Midland Commons will host its first Spring Fling Market along with Street Food Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. MidlandCommons.com
March 22
The Columbus Convention and Trade Center will host the UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball. The Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically black colleges and universities.
UNCF.org/events/2025-uncf-columbusmayors-masked-ball-columbus-ga
March 26
The Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University presents MAMMA MIA!. For nearly 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show. GogueCenter.Auburn.edu/mamma-mia
March 27-30
Opelika Songwriters Festival is an intimate festival that attracts die-hard music lovers from around the Southeast. Over 30 singer songwriters travel from across the country to play over 80 shows in 7 venues throughout Historic Opelika, Alabama. AOTourism.com/event/opelika-songwritersfestival/604/
March 29
Visit old school/new school cars at the Spring Fest Car show. Whether you’re there to admire classic rides or the latest models, this is an opportunity to connect with fellow fans and create lasting memories with friends and family. ColumbusGa.gov/civic-center-2
March 29
Woodruff Park will transform into a food truck mecca with 30+ food vendors from the local and regional area for the Spring
Food Truck Festival. From turkey legs to seafood to street tacos, they’ve got it all with some of the yummiest vendors and an experience you won’t forget.
AlwayUptown.com
APRIL
April 1-30
ArtsFest celebrates Columbus, Georgia’s rich creative talent and many arts organizations striving to captivate and inspire diverse audiences of all ages every day. This month-long festival will encompass more than 60 events from 30+ organizations, include more than 100 local artists and feature a community-wide celebration on April 27 from 12 to 5 p.m. at Arts in the Park in Lakebottom Park. TheColumbusite.net/artsfest
April 3
RiverCenter welcomes Lorrie Morgan and Pam TIllis: Grits and Glamour Tour. Veteran recording artists and performers, they grace the country music format with style, flair, and undeniable talent that is captivating and timeless. RiverCenter.org
April 3-13
The Springer has commissioned awardwinning Muscogee (Creek) playwright Eri Nox to write an original play titled, The Mvskoke Project, about the astonishing people who thrived in this region for thousands of years. This is a story of the humor, traditions, struggles, quirks and aspirations of the people whose words we speak every day yet know little about. SpringerOperaHouse.org
Friday Nights in April
Bring out your chairs! Uptown’s Spring Friday Night Concert Series is back outdoors on Broadway where you’ll hear jazz, rock, reggae, gospel and more. Free and open to the public. AlwayUptown.com
April 5
Columbus Botanical Gardens hosts its plant sale. Perennials, annuals, veggies, herbs, seeds, food trucks and more! 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ColumbusBotanicalGarden.org
April 5
The 10th annual Uptown Columbus Strut the Hooch Parade will take place at 10 a.m. and start at The Springer and make its way down through Broadway. This is an event where folks of every age and description come together to celebrate their differences, talents, uniqueness and culture in a parade of pure joy. StrutTheHooch.com
April 9
East Alabama Chamber of Commerce will host their monthly Breakfast & Business, Government & Business Partnerships,
7 a.m. at Troy University, 1510 Whitewater Avenue, Phenix City. Registration required. EALCC.com
April 11
Join the Liberty Theatre as it celebrates its 100th anniversary with the Centennial Gala. This formal event will feature award recognitions, live performances and a tribute to the enduring impact of the Liberty Theatre on our community. universe.com/events/support-the-libertytheatre-centennial-celebration-tickets-BC4JXP
April 11
Join the CSO for their season finale, Beethoven & Liszt, as award-winning pianist Claire Huangci takes on the impressive Piano Concerto No. 1 by Franz Liszt. Also, the many moods of Beethoven are perfectly displayed in his stormy Coriolanus Overture paired with his energetic and almost dancing Symphony No. 7 CSOGA.org
April 11 & 12
The Columbus Cup at Waveshaper Island will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This freestyle kayak competition will select the Columbus Cup winners and award over $15,000 in cash prizes. Facebook.com/ICF.world.cup
April 11 & 12
Get the whole family out for the Chattahoochee Hot Air Balloon Festival in Phenix City! See incredible Hot Air Balloons, Monster Show Kites and even get a ride in an actual Hot Air Balloon. FreshTix.com/events/phenixballoons
April 15
The Columbus Clingstones play their first home game of their inaugural season against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at Synovus Park at 7:05 p.m. MILB.com/columbus-clingstones
April 18
Dear Evan Hansen follows a high school student who always feels like he’s on the outside looking in. Evan finally gets what so many of us are searching for—the chance to finally fit in. RiverCenter.org
April 18
Creep into the Springer’s haunted history and encounter the ghostly spirits of our legendary landmark. This behind-thescenes tour grants ghoulish entry to areas of the theatre rarely seen by the public. SpringerOperaHouse.org
April 21-22
The Piedmont Classic—Driven by MercedesBenz of Columbus at County Club of Columbus is a fun celebration of health and wellness in our community. The tennis and golf events benefit the John B. Amos Cancer Center and pickleball event benefits The Bill and Olivia Amos Children’s Hospital. PiedmontClassicCSG.org
April 25-27
Whether you’re looking to renovate, decorate or build, attending the Columbus Home Expo Show at the Trade Center provides the resources and connections you need to bring your vision to life. ColumbusHomeExpo.com
April 26
CSU presents their annual Spring Swing event benefiting their dance minor program. Enjoy a casual evening of dancing, food, drinks and music by The Grapevine Band. ColumbusState.edu/springswing2025
April 27
CSU’s The Joyce and Henry Schwob School of Music presents the Schwob Philharmonic Concert. The concert begins at 4 p.m. and will be held in Legacy Hall at Rivercenter for the Performing Arts. FREE. ColumbusState.edu/music
April 28
The Columbus Community Orchestra will perform a concert titled, Welcome Home: Vietnam at 50 at the National Infantry Museum. Call 706-575-5371 for more information. FREE.
April 28-30
The Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University presents HADESTOWN. Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show is a love story for today—and always. GogueCenter.Auburn.edu/hadestown
MAY
May 2 & 3
The Columbus, GA Chamber of Commerce will host their annual Partnership Golf Tournament at Maple Ridge Golf Course.
May 2 & 3
Uptown Columbus invites the community and visitors alike to experience RiverFest 2025, featuring two days of live music, food, kids zone and arts and crafts. The festival will be held along the banks of the Chattahoochee River in Woodruff Park. The fundraiser is priced $10 a day. Children 12 and under are admitted free. AlwaysUptown.com/riverfest
May 3
Playing for Good will host a Cinco de Mayo themed outdoor concert in support of NeighborWorks. Playing for Good is an organization who supports area nonprofits, like NeighborWorks Columbus, a nonprofit striving to promote and provide access to fit and affordable housing and build assets for financial independence for all citizens of low to moderate income. The Loft, Courtyard. Family-friendly event. Tickets are $25.00. Doors open at 5 p.m. TheLoft.com/playing-for-good
Keep
it up
Executive Director Lisa Thomas-Cutts leads Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission’s re-focused fight for a sustainable planet—one household at a time.
BY FRANK ETHERIDGE
It’s a tall order to lead the fight for a cleaner, healthier and more beautiful Columbus, Georgia (to say the least!), but that’s exactly the challenge Lisa Thomas-Cutts accepted when she stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission—a long-serving public/private organization which has proven to be an invaluable, regenerative community asset since its founding in 1986.
“I was tasked with rebuilding KCBC and making it current to what’s going on today with environmental issues and what we’re dealing with today,” she explains inside KCBC offices at the Citizen Services
Center in Midtown in February for an interview sandwiched between two of the agency’s biggest community events on its yearly calendar: cleanups along the Martin Luther King, Jr. Outdoor Learning Trail, which stretches from Macon Road to Bay Avenue, over MLK Day Weekend, and Arbor Day, when KCBC again co-hosted a tree-planting with partner Trees Columbus in Lakebottom Park that featured a family-friendly celebration in the Bandshell with face-paintings, free food and beverages, games and give-aways, plus seedlings to take and plant at home. “A lot of my background is in entertainment,” Thomas-Cutts says, detailing an
KCBC launched their Going Green Together Initiative in December 2024 at the Columbus Civic Center.
impressive career path that started with the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office before she would eventually spend 18 years as a manager at the Columbus Civic Center, a position held until taking the helm at KCBC in May 2022.
Thomas-Cutt’s impact was immediate and impressive. Recognizing the strong leadership and solid vision Thomas-Cutts brought to the role, the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation in February 2023 presented KCBC and Thomas-Cutts with its Governor’s Circle Award in recognition of her “outstanding performance with litter reduction, waste minimization, and community gathering.” In a statement congratulating Thomas-Cutts and team earning the award, Mayor Skip Henderson noted, “The City of Columbus understands you cannot have a vibrant community if you don’t keep the environment clean.”
Thomas-Cutts credits the success of KCBC’s multi-faceted approach toward a clean environment as stemming from its unique hybrid city-agency / 501c3 nonprofit.“I am always shuttling back and forth between my city side and my nonprofit side because there is so much
that we do,” she says. “I like to say we’re the fairy godmother of local environmental efforts—because we work with everybody.”
Thus, KCBC’s organizational structure explains why it is tasked with a dizzying array of ‘green’ initiatives, everything from overseeing the city’s curbside recycling program, bringing world-renowned
storyteller/entertainer Arthur Atsma’s “Magic of Recycling” program to area schools, MLK Day community cleanups, and Arbor Day tree plantings. KCBC works with Boy Scouts, Columbus State University, and churches on projects large and small, offering a ‘community clean-up kit’ with all basic beautification-work
Lisa Thomas-Cutts, with KCBC’s mascot, Reese the Recycling Rabbit.
KCBC was honored with the 2024 Governor’s Circle Award for excellence in community beautification, litter reduction, and environmental sustainability.
Recycling Dos
Aluminum cans (rinsed out), steel and tin cans (rinsed out), plastic containers, cardboard, paper (catalogs, junk mail, etc.)
Recycling Don’ts
Styrofoam, plastic bags, glass, food waste, hangers/rope/chains/cords, hazardous waste (batteries), textiles/clothes/shoes
needs such as gloves, trash bars, scoopers and pickers. Now in its 31st year, KCBC’s signature annual event, Help the Hooch, held every October consists of two days, with Friday featuring school groups from Muscogee, Harris, Russell and Lee counties working to clear trash from the Chattahoochee, and Saturday’s massive community effort, which in 2024 reaching back up to pre-COVID levels of 10,000 participating volunteers, celebrated with the first-ever Watershed Festival with family-fun and live entertainment on the 14th Street Bridge held as a ‘thank you’ to everyone involved. There are even plans in the works to potentially cultivate a public farm in the coming year.
The key to tackling such a daunting, widespread challenge as creating a clean
environment, Thomas-Cutts feels, is “to engage as many people as possible and get them on board by making small changes through smart choices.”
In addition to implementing this proven philosophy of ‘think locally, act globally’ that hinges on the idea that real change begins at home, Thomas-Cutts has also embarked on large-scale public initiatives. After participating in an effort to engage citizens and hear their concerns by riding around town in a Metra bus through various neighborhoods, KCBC and city officials saw first-hand the issue with illegal dumping. “A lot of these neighborhoods— really nice, beautiful neighborhoods— have places between them or that may be hidden, a cul-de-sac or dead-end street, where they start dumping. Not like regular
littering but piles of industrial waste, construction debris, hazardous materials, etc. We helped identify the problem and the city has now upped enforcement by placing cameras in those areas to catch illegal dumping. We’re really proud of that.”
Building upon the success of existing partnerships—such as the Christmas tree recycling program with the Chattahoochee River Conservancy to improve lake habitat and restoration of the urban canopy with Trees Columbus—KCBC in December launched its “Going Green Together” initiative to enlist area businesses as official partners in promoting recycling and sustainability practices as part of the overall effort to tackle environmental challenges. The Civic Center signed up as the first KCBC business partner.
“When I first came up with the official KCBC Business program, I figured the Civic Center would be a good place to start, as it’s the largest entertainment venue in the Chattahoochee Valley and with all its major events, obviously, does a lot of recycling,” Thomas-Cutts says.
“As an official KCBC Business, the Civic Center is setting an example for local businesses by embracing sustainable practices and supporting the goal of reducing environmental impact.”
With her strong background in entertainment and special events, Thomas-Cutts has created two additional new KCBC programs in her time thus far as Executive Director. In collaboration with the city’s public-access television station (CCG-TV), Thomas-Cutts and her team now have a regular show—available
KCBC launched the MLK-Serve-A-Thon in January by planting seven trees at Lakebottom Park in partnership with Trees Columbus.
KCBC partners with Trees Columbus to plant trees at Lakebottom Park to replenish the urban canopy.
for broadcast viewing as well as on CCG-TV’s YouTube channel – simply entitled KCBC News, a quality mesh of social-media poppy fun and in-depth coverage of important issues. “Video messaging is just so important today, this is something I felt was vital that we do,” she says.
Last fall, KCBC sold-out the second installment of what is planned to be the annual Mayor’s Golf Tournament, held at Bull Creek, one the finest municipal golf courses in the country. The widely successful fundraiser sold out both slots for players and sponsorships, bolstered by the game of golf’s popularity in Columbus as well as servers from Twin Peaks working the vent in the fabled role of ‘beercart girls.’
While the problem is complex, ThomasCutts’ motivation for working day in, day out for a cleaner, healthier community is simple. “We only have one planet—there is not a Planet B,” she explains, noting how she and her daughters have fully embraced the ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ approach to doing their family’s small part in the big picture. “And since we don’t have a Planet B, we all have to start making better choices. Climate
KCBC at a glance
Mission Statement
“To engage and educate individuals to take greater responsibility for enhancing beautification, protecting the environment, and eliminating litter and blight.”
Timeline
1986 KCBC was created by ordinance in December
1988 Became a certified affiliate program of Keep America Beautiful, Inc.
1999 Successfully petitioned city council to increase litter fines from $500 to $1,000
2002 Joined Trees Columbus, Inc. to strengthen the tree ordinance
2006 Coordinated the first city-wide Household Hazardous Waste and Electronic project
2007 Structured the I-185 Scenic Byway, whereby the GDOT designated thirty-nine miles of I-185 as a Scenic Byway
2011 Co-sponsored the first community-wide “grease and over-thecounter/prescription drug” with Columbus Water Works
2013 Held first shoes recycling project (Diverted 22,000 pair of shoes from the landfill)
2014 Held first annual “Teacher, Free Supplies Recycle Day” with Aflac
For more information on how to become an official “Going Green Together” Business Partner, visit www.columbusga.gov/KeepColsBeautiful or contact KCBC by phone at (706) 225-4008 or email kcbc1987@columbusga.org.
change is real. Sea-level rise is real. Having hurricanes hit Georgia in October shows us it’s real.
“And while we can’t stop [climate change],” Thomas-Cutts continues, “we can slow it down by making better choices. And everybody can be a part of it, by making small changes, like recycling—keeping stuff out of our landfill. And picking up after ourselves. There are just so many ill-effects of litter. We have little creeks and lakes all over Columbus, with a lot of them around parks. All that debris that we dump in those places, it ends up as piles of trash that float into our streams and then the river—our most valuable natural resource. We all just have to do more. The good news, I’ve learned in this position, is that people want to do more. People want to do better to help create a healthy, clean environment.”
It is on this personal level—extending out to home by home,
neighborhood by neighborhood—that KCBC issues its call to action for the community, stating bluntly to Columbusites online and in print a command that carries Smokey the Bear’s sage wisdom of individual responsibility: “Make a smart choice. Accept our challenge to be a good steward of our most valuable natural resources. It’s up to you to Keep Columbus Beautiful!”
It’s a practice, a philosophy, that Thomas-Cutts takes to heart— and brings home.
“We just really encourage people to start trying to make better choices,” she explains of KCBC’s formula for success in fostering a cleaner Columbus. “And to start by making small changes. It starts at home. The biggest change you can make right now is to start recycling at home. Or keeping your yard beautiful. Small changes really make a big difference.” C
KCBC annually hosts the Mayor’s Golf Tournament every fall at Bull Creek.
Eighth Annual Spring Swing Provides CSU Dance Scholarships
BY BRETT BUCKNER
It’s a dance party sure to be out of this world. That’s the theme for Columbus State’s Spring Swing, one of the main fundraisers for the university’s dance minor program. The eighth annual event will be held on Saturday, April 26 at the Frank G. Lumpkin, Jr. Center.
Four amateur teams from the community will compete for the Judges Choice Award, given to the team for the most entertaining performance of the evening, and the Community Award, given to the team that raises the most funds for the CSU Dance Minor Program. Each team performs a choreographed routine and is coached by a local dance professional.
Voting is now open for each team and can be cast through the Spring Swing website— columbusstate.edu/springswing2025— where $1 equals one vote.
All the funds raised by these votes will go towards tuition scholarships given to eight dance minor students. This includes five $1,000 scholarships, two $2,000 scholarships and one $3,000 scholarship to be awarded at Spring Swing.
The Spring Swing will feature music by “Georgia’s Premier Party Band,” The Grapevine Band. Betsy Leebern, a longtime activist for the Columbus arts, will be given the 2025 Lifetime Achievement award.
“As always, the CSU Spring Swing is a delightful fun-filled event for all ages 18 and over,” said Patty Taylor, chairperson for CSU’s Dance Minor Advisory Board. “When you add dining with superb food and beverages and dancing or listening to The Grapevine Band, everyone in attendance will be captivated by a very enchanting evening.”
By the fall of 2015, the CSU Dance Minor Advisory Board was formed. The board created two fundraisers—The
Broadway Ball, a black-tie event, and the Spring Swing.
The dance minor program was officially announced in February of 2016 in conjunction with the inaugural Spring Swing.
The CSU Dance Minor program consists of 15 credit hours of dance technique, dance history, dance composition, anatomy of dance and dance performance courses.
“The core mission of the dance program is to combine dual dedication to art and
When: Saturday, April 26 • 6:30-11PM
learning. Obtaining additional faculty specializing in diverse dance forms is a must,” Amy Mutarelli, director of dance/associate professor of dance at the university, said. “There are so many beautiful and unique dance forms, perspectives and voices. Representation and inclusiveness are core values for me as the director of this program. My personal hope is that CSU dance inspires the next generation of dancers, dance students, patrons and audience members.” C
Where: Frank G. Lumpkin, Jr. Center, CSU Main Campus
Tickets: $60 through April 11 • $70 starting April 12
Info: ColumbusState.edu/SpringSwing2025
Tickets include one meal and valet parking Ages 18+ only
Dr.
Dr. Awaz Yaseen
Associate
Dr. Christina
Associate
The Sundance Film Festival was held from January 23- February 2, but you didn’t need to travel to Park City, Utah to find signs of independent film-making that week. The art of cinema is alive and well right here in Columbus with short films and feature-length narratives in various stages of production.
On January 24, writer-director Andy Carpenter premiered his 25-minute (without credits) short film West of New Kansas at the theater for the National Infantry Museum. It’s a powerful parable about the eternal struggle between good and evil and the endless waves of human beings who repeat that conflict in an endless loop. It’s a period piece filmed at Historic Westville (which will open to the public later this year).
I first met Andy Carpenter at a meeting of the Rankin Screenwriters, a monthly get together and feedback session for local screenwriters. Andy along with his fellow Rankin writers Paul Rowe and Andrew Gray had amassed a huge roster of screenplay prizes and awards. When I asked them if they aspired to sit in the director’s chair and bring their own projects to life, only Andrew Gray aspired to getting behind the camera for a feature film one day. Now Paul and Andy have made their own films since I asked them that question.
I reminded Andy of that first encounter years ago, and he smiled when I called him a liar in front of the screening audience. The man with no aspirations to direct a film premiered his film on an IMAX screen. Cast members John Conway, Nick Dante Carta and Jade Malka and crew members Paul Rowe, Dan Quigley and Kenny Gray were in attendance for the Q & A that I
THE
led after the screening. We discussed the intricate almost Shakespearean dialogue the actors had to master, the scorching heat of shooting in Columbus in the summer and how to make prolonged dialogue scenes compelling.
A little over a week later, I hosted Paul Rowe (director), Andy Carpenter (co-screenwriter) and Rebecca Gossett (art director) for a screening of the rough cut of their new horror anthology film A Southern Horror. The film is comprised of three distinct story segments and a fourth story that ties the segments together (a wrap-around story). Its current runtime is 75 minutes. The film had no score, no sound effects and a very rough sound mix
for the dialogue. The creative team was assembled to discuss editing and pacing and to continue the endless search for any errors in the continuity from scene to scene. It was a fascinating fly-on-the-wall experience for me.
A Southern Horror recently received a much-needed injection of working capital when the production was given a $ 15,000 Local Filmmakers Grant from the Columbus Film Fund. “The grant money will go 100 percent to our post-production costs,” Paul told me in a recent interview. “We refer to it as finishing funds. Money for editing, polishing and getting the film ready for distribution.”
The team hopes to license the film to Shudder, a high-profile horror streaming service. “They offer curated horror and deliver it straight to the fan base,” Paul said. When I ask him about the need to turn a profit on an indie production, his answer is straight forward: “You need to get some return on your investment, or you’re not going to be able to make the next film. Making money on a film just means that you can bring another project to life.” C
Scott Phillips is a Columbus resident and serves as the President of the Southeastern Film Critics Association. His reviews and other work can be found at Forbes.com.
Scott Phillips, Andy Carpenter, Kenny Gray, Dan Quigley, Paul Rowe, Nick Dante Carta, John Conway and Jade Malka
SHARING THE STAGE
New Springer Production Celebrates the Muscogee Nation with an Entertaining History Lesson Told for Present-Day Understanding
BY FRANK ETHERIDGE
ucked into a quarter-page of the Playbill for February’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom at the Springer Opera House, a note—written in all-caps black text imposed over a faint map of the Chattahoochee Valley—began with the statement:
“We at the Springer Opera House wish to acknowledge with deep respect that the land upon which we are fortunate to make art is the ancestral home of the Muscogee (Creek) people who thrived in the Southeast for millenia. A shameful system of fraud, deceit and trickery was imposed upon the Muscogee people resulting in the theft of their homeland and their brutal removal.”
The message then provided a few details on “the crime against humanity” known as the “Trail of Tears” before directing readers to learn more at MuscogeeNation.com, to donate to the Muscogee Language Revitalization Project and then declared: “Others have walked these paths before us.”
As it turns out, this simple, yet strong, statement stemmed from a piercing question posed to the Springer during the pandemic. The vulnerable institution’s response has bloomed into The Mvskoke Project, an original work commissioned to tell the story of the Muscogee people—in their words, in their voices—that takes the stage for a two-week run in April at the Springer.
The Mvskoke Project Creative Team
Opening the Conversation
“In late 2020, I wrote an email to the Springer about their diversity, equity and inclusion policies, asking if they, being on Muscogee land, had any Native representation,” The Mvskoke Project playwright Eri Nox recalls by phone from home on the unceded lands of the Cahuilla peoples near Los Angeles. “I got an email from Paul [Pierce, retired longtime producing artistic director at the Springer] about 30 minutes later. That opened up a conversation about representation and about a wide scope of things.”
An accomplished theater professional (two Fulbright Scholarships, original works performed internationally at avant garde venues), Nox explains the shutdowns due to COVID protocols allowed the theater-world a chance for selfreflection. A much-discussed document published in June 2020, We See You, White American Theatre, launched a crusade against what it termed “the racism and erasure pervasive in American theater.” The effort made considerable inroads toward reform (according to Playbill.com, hundreds of American theater groups
have taken action in direct response) thanks to a groundswell of letters penned by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) theater professionals such as Nox demanding inclusion of their perspectives. Then living in Brooklyn, where they spent years as executive director of Playmachine Theater Lab, Nox added a detour to a planned road trip to Miami to visit for the first time their ancestral homeland of the present-day Chattahoochee Valley. During their time in Columbus, Nox toured the
Springer and met with Pierce and leading local Native American historian, journalist Billy Winn. The seeds of The Mvskoke Project were sown.
Nox started work on a similar play while earning an MFA in graduate school that explored the lineage of their beloved Grandma Nelly. “I started out by just exploring her lineage, looking through old family papers and asking older members of my family about her,” Nox explains. “That’s when I started to learn more about William McIntosh.”
Their maternal sixth great-grandfather, McIntosh, also known as Tustunnuggee Hutkee (“White Warrior”), is a controversial figure in history. The son of Capt. William McIntosh, a Scotsman from Savannah, and Senoya, a Creek woman of the Wind Clan, he was raised among the Creeks but educated in Savannah. He rose to become a significant chief among the Lower Creeks who sided with Andrew Jackson in multiple wars waged against the Muscogee and Seminole and supported American efforts to “civilize” natives by adopting practices such as owning slaves. While some claim McIntosh’s intent was solely to
(L-R) Paul Pierce, Billy Winn and Eri Nox
avoid annihilation, his role in drafting and signing the Treaty of Indian Springs in 1825 led to his execution for treason by a contingent of Upper Creeks.
“I found out some terrible things while learning about him,” says Nox. “He had multiple wives, marrying women of prominence in Muscogee culture in order to assume power and land through marriage. I am a descendant of his third wife. He was part of the larger effort to—and this is a direct quote—’to breed the native out of natives.’ He was first cousins with Georgia Governor Troup, who was adamant the federal government remove natives so there could be a land lottery for white settlers.”
“I have a very complicated view of him,” Nox says of McIntosh. “I see being related to him as more of a burden than a point of pride, more of a warning than a validation.”
A New Discovery Hits Home
In a parallel journey of discovery tracing two cruelly contrasting trajectories, Paul Pierce had to come to terms with the actions of ancestors, too.
“In 2003, I became my family’s genealogist,” Pierce explained during an interview at the Springer, where he maintains an office in his post-retirement role of Senior Advisor. “I learned our people came down on the Old Federal Road into Georgia and ultimately came down to this quaint part of the country for the land lottery in 1827. One of my ancestors, Francis Marion Pierce, took a draw in the lottery and got a farm in Stewart County.”
On a trip retracing this lineage, Pierce and his Aunt Ellen visited Francis Marion Pierce’s grave in County Line Cemetery then drove into Lumpkin for lunch. There, they ran into longtime Stewart County Commission Mac Moye, who showed them a detailed map of the land lottery. The map was covered with squares representing
FIXINGABROKENPROMISE
The Treaty of Indian Springs in 1825 paid the Muscogee people $200,000 and granted them land in perpetuity along the Arkansas River in then-Indian Territory (now eastern Oklahoma) in exchange for their last remaining lands in Georgia. However, 200 years of system oppression eroded not only Muscogee culture but legal claim to this land as well. In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a slice of long-denied justice in returning 3.2 million acres to the Muscogee, representing half the nation’s total size, taken from them after the Civil War in the 1866 Reconstruction Treaty. In delivering the court’s opinion, Justice Neil Gorsich began with the statement, “On the far end of the Trail of Tears was a promise.”
Playwright and attorney Mary Kathryn Nagle recast the phrase’s power to serve as the title for her one-woman show detailing the life of her mother-in-law, Jean Hill Chauduri, who escaped the boarding school she was sent to attend by force as a child and endured decades of racism before emerging as a renowned advocate for Indigenous rights. Praised for its astonishing intensity and straight-forward storytelling, Nagle will perform On the Far End on the Springer’s McClure Theatre stage April 17-19.
Mary Kathryn Nagle performs in On the Far End
Muscogee chief William McIntosh
American Indian removal routes from the Southeast to Indian Territory (modern day Oklahoma).
lots received in the lottery as well as teepees representing a native family’s home. Asking what happened to the three families represented on the lot given to his ancestors, Pierce recalls Moye answered along the lines of, ‘There’s no way to know for certain but it’s probably not good.’”
Stunned and saddened to the point of soul-searching, Pierce would eventually reach a judgment: “I am not guilty of that crime against humanity but I am, at the very least, complicit in it, because I have benefited from the forced removal of these people.” Asking himself, “What can I do?” He decided to commission The Mvskoke Project, a play “to help tell the story of the people who lived here long before Europeans ever showed up here.”
In addition to their impressive credentials, Pierce says he was drawn to work with Nox on developing this play because “Eri is a very kind and idealistic person.” The Springer-commissioned work started to take shape in Summer 2023, when it hired a group of Muscogee stage artists to convene on the College of the Muscogee Nation campus in Okmulgee, the nation’s capital, in eastern Oklahoma.
After a week of sharing stories and ideas, a crew of seven performed staged readings for students and faculty.
“All of this process was led by Eri,” Pierce explains. “I was just an observer, a fly on the wall. The one thing I learned is, we white people know nothing of this history.”
The Springer-commissioned work is not a stern lecture, however. “This is not an experience where we’re inviting people to come to the theater and take their medicine,” Pierce says. “The personalities and the stories being shared in this play are incredibly memorable. There’s beauty and humor in it. It’s going to be entertaining.”
A representation of an ancient Muscogee village
A Homecoming for History
For Nox, creating the work on the College of the Muscogee Nation campus felt completely opposite of what they felt during their visit to Columbus.
“To see this big, beautiful modern university as a leading center of Muscogee culture, history and heritage was really fulfilling,” says Nox, pointing to the school’s agriculture department as exceptional, noting its program to propagate seeds of heirloom Muscogee strains of corn and squash.
Being in Columbus “felt very weird for me,” Nox says, a sentiment shared with other Muscogee they talked to about visiting the area. “I’m someone who’s been fortunate to be able to travel to many places,” they explain, “and normally when I go somewhere, I’m excited to see the buildings and history. When I came to Columbus, I was seeing what wasn’t there. Every building looked like a replacement for what could’ve been there had the Muscogee been able to thrive. I tried to imagine what would have been had the Muscogee not been forced from that place. So while it’s a thriving and beautiful
“I don’t expect people to walk away being able to recite our whole history, but I hope they walk away with an understanding of modern Muscogee culture.” -Eri Nox
city, visiting Columbus was a bittersweet experience, marked by some nagging sense of oppression.”
Nox recalls that Pierce told them when the creative process started for The Mvskoke Project that the Springer audience “will know nothing about us and, in many cases, think the Muscogee don’t exist anymore.”
Thus, Nox’s work is a celebration. They point with pride to having an all-Muscogee cast and crew that includes acclaimed award-winning Director Tara Moses as well as use of the Muscogee language and alphabet, which is currently experiencing a revival after two centuries of efforts by the state of Oklahoma to strip the nation of its heritage. (Hence, the spelling Mvskoke, as the V carries the UH sound in the alphabet.) “We’re celebrating our culture,
our language, which is alive and thriving,” Nox explains.
The play takes place in present-day Oklahoma and is centered around a family reunion. The history of the Muscogee Nation is told through a series of dreams in the play that allow for visits to the ancestral homelands.
“I don’t expect people to walk away being to recite our whole history,” Nox says, “but I hope they walk away with an understanding of modern Muscogee culture. And how we have a shared history that is not yet fully written. I really do believe in the power of theater to change hearts and minds. If just one person comes to the show and walks out seeing the world slightly different then I think we’ve been a huge success.” C
Sow It Grows
You “Can” Do It!
It’s a huge silvery thing, bigger than the biggest eye on the stove on which it sits. It looks like a Cold War artifact, this tank with its brushed aluminum. There’s a pressure dial sprouting from its heavy lid, which is lined with six bakelight knobs to cinch it down past the danger zone. When it’s filled with water, the whole thing emits an ominous gurgle and sometimes it rocks like a sugar-fueled kindergartner.
It’s our pressure canner. Most often we just call it the diving bell.
Its volume is 21 quarts, with what must be three-inch thick side walls and a weight of approximately 800 pounds. Never mind that its specs say it’s got 3/8-inch walls and weighs 24 pounds, I stand behind my own ciphering.
It sounds scary, and it is. It’s designed to hold enormous amounts of pressure and is the only safe way to can most vegetables, soups and meats, per the USDA. My advice to novice canners is twofold: don’t buy it, and don’t use it.
Instead focus on preserving things that can be canned using a big stock pot full of boiling water, otherwise known as waterbath canning. You can do a lot with that method, including preserving tomatoes, dill pickles and all sorts of fruit preserves including jams, jellies and marmalades. (You are growing fruit, right? If not, track down the Sow It Grows column in the January issue to learn why you’re a bad person.)
When it comes to canning, which should more appropriately be called “jarring” or “bottling” since you’re preserving your future food in glass, the don’ts are more important than the do’s.
• Don’t rely on my process. Turn instead to the National Center for Home Food Preservation for their guidelines. It’s a federal agency
headquartered up the street in Athens, working arm-in-arm with the USDA, and its recommendations are the gold standard, partly because they err on the side of being overcautious. Which is what you should do, too, unless you want to risk getting cozy with the side effects of botulism, which rhyme with “paralysis” and “death.” Find their canning guide at https://nchfp.uga.edu. Don’t waver from its recommendations.
• And, now that I’ve put the fear of the four horsemen in you—don’t be afraid. It’s not that hard.
Ignore the fact that Samin Nosrat, author of the famed cookbook Salt Fat Acid Heat, recently said “I will never can tomatoes again” on her recent “Home Cooking” podcast.
“I just have trauma response when somebody tells me they’re canning tomatoes,” she said. “When you’ve done it and dirtied your entire kitchen, and there’s somehow tomato splatter on the ceiling, finding tomato seeds in your ears for the next three weeks—(it’s) pure chaos.”
She’s got a million projects to try in her kitchen. You don’t. You’ve got fresh tomatoes and cucumbers on the way, and
by all things holy you are not going to let them go to waste. Plus, even when canned, your home-grown vegetables are going to blast away anything you can buy at the grocery.
So, onward, kitchen soldier.
Now’s the time to gather supplies, and you can often find Mason or Ball or other canning jars at second-hand shops. Check them for cracks and chips around the neck, but otherwise used is just as good as new. Same with the rings that hold the lids on; if they’re round and not rusted, they’re fine. But never reuse the thin metal lids, not even ones that you once bought new and look fine after you open a can you sealed them to. It’s possible to reuse them, but doing so makes it the most likely component to fail when canning (see “botulism” above), and they’re cheap enough that you should avoid the risk.
Right now you’re probably wondering why tomatoes, jellies and cucumber pickles are safe with just a water bath, when other vegetables aren’t. Even soups and chilis that are mostly tomato aren’t safe.
It comes down to the amount of acid that’s in the food you’re preserving. Enough acid kills the bacteria that causes botulism. Tomatoes have a very low pH, which is
to say, they’re very acidic, and even then you should add some lemon juice to the mix, per the NCFHP’s recipe, to ensure its pH is low enough. The fruit in jams and jellies is also very acidic. And pickles, while their pH is higher than the safe threshold on their own, you’re preserving them in a solution that’s largely vinegar, which is famously an acid. Remember making a small volcano in school with vinegar and baking soda? That’s a chemical reaction to combining a base—baking soda—with acid in the vinegar.
One last piece of advice: while you’re at it, consider making up a big batch of salsa and canning it. Sure you can make it from scratch using your canned tomatoes later. But if your kitchen is already less than tidy (ahem, Samin), do it now. And it will taste better when all the ingredients have a chance to mingle flavors.
But since you’re adding other, less acidic vegetables to the mix, be extremely careful about the recipes you use. The USDA has a safe recipe, but it’s both tart and bland to my taste. The one I like comes from pickling-spice guru company Mrs. Wages. Google “Mrs. Wages Blue Ribbon Salsa Recipe For Canning” and use it with confidence.
I’ve done careful pH calculations with their ingredients, and if you don’t deviate, it’s safe. I canned a huge batch of it last year, and I can attest that it’s delicious. C
Freelance writer Brad Barnes was a journalist for 17 years and a marketing expert for 9 years before he and his wife, Jenn, started Dew Point Farm in MidTown Columbus in 2019. You can email him at info@dewpoint.farm, and he’ll get back to you after he’s washed his hands.
SMILEMAKERS
Oral health is a window to your overall health, and problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body. That’s why it’s important to have regular dental checkups. From a self-esteem perspective, a beautiful smile builds confidence and helps you to be the best that you can be. The dental professionals on the following pages offer a myriad of services to ensure you have a healthy, confident smile. Read on to discover how they can help you.
On the Cutting Edge of Technology
With more than 40 years of combined specialty surgical experience, Dr. Lee Allen and Dr. Mark Zwickey have made West Georgia Oral and Facial Surgery the maxillofacial surgery and rejuvenation one-stop-shop. “Maxillofacial is a big word,” said Dr. Allen, “which means our dental training includes advanced oral and facial techniques that make us unique providers.”
To provide the best possible treatments for their patients means being constantly updated and informed about the technological changes within the industry and being willing to implement those changes within their practice.
“When it comes to technology and the dentistry profession, it is important for our practice to keep up with the latest trends and advances,” Dr. Zwickey said. “Advances in technology help to assist in proper patient care as well as more precise treatment methods, which in return can create a successful outcome and better recovery.”
West Georgia Oral and Facial Surgery is a licensed facility that can provide different types of anesthesia in its offices for every patient whether they want local or IV sedation.
“We cater to that, and can make their procedure seamless,” Dr. Allen said.
“As far as procedures themselves, we specialize in implants and have the 3-D treatment technology to perform single or multiple tooth replacement care for routine, or urgent cases in our office. We also specialize in cosmetic techniques like Botox and fillers,” Dr. Allen said.
Another aspect that sets them apart is a team approach. “We concentrate on surgery,” he said, “but work with a patient’s general dentist to do comprehensive planning using CONE Beam imagery software. Advances in bone grafting, plus implant placement innovations are exciting, too, and help improve the success rate long term.
“One of the things we pride ourselves on is that our staff excels at providing compassionate care and making a visit for an anxious patient as easy as possible,” Dr. Allen said. “We have highly trained long-term employees, who understand anxiety and emphasize that we are here to provide state-ofthe-art surgery in a compassionate environment.”
Dr. Allen completed training at Louisiana State Medical Center and moved to Columbus after practicing for 20
years in West Virginia. “Dr. Zwickey has been here over 15 years,” he said, “and patients appreciate that we live locally with our families.”
He concluded, “We find that a lot of people put off dental surgery due to apprehension, and in those cases, seeing their amazement when they wake up from sedation and their surgery is already done is very rewarding.”
Dentistry is a profession that is as challenging as it is rewarding. But for both Dr. Allen and Dr. Zwickey, it’s the patients who make the effort worthwhile.
“Dentistry can be a challenging profession,” Dr. Allen said. “Each patient has their own concerns and challenges that they bring to our practice. There is also the constant change in techniques and procedures that are constantly keeping us on our toes. We are constantly learning to make sure we are offering the utmost care to our patients.”
“Despite the challenges that come along with the dentistry industry, it is extremely rewarding to see how our care can change a person’s life and confidence,” added Dr. Zwickey. “Whether we help a patient with pain, help to restore their smile, or provide cosmetic procedures they desire, seeing a happy and satisfied patient makes every day worth any challenge that comes our way.”
For more information about the services that West Georgia Oral and Facial Surgery offers, call 706.596.1757 or visit WestGaOralSurgery.com. ADV.
DR. ALLEN DR.ZWICKEY
Welcoming Dr. Christina Cox: Expanding Our Commitment to Care
After purchasing Gentle Dentistry of Columbus in the Fall of 2018, Dr. Devon Paris has been driven by a singular purpose—to create a place where every patient feels at ease. The name of Dr. Paris’ practice is the very embodiment of that goal—Gentle Dentistry of Columbus. However, her vision doesn’t end with the name of her practice.
“I care so much about my patients that owning the practice outright was very important to me because I can ensure the customer service and family-like atmosphere stays—no one will feel like a number,” Dr. Paris said. As a result, she chose to invest in her patients and hometown. Since 2018, she has owned 100% of her practice—a rarity nowadays as private equity firms are increasingly buying up local dental offices. “We all truly want our patients to feel the same warmth and joy as visiting a cherished relative they see every so often but always look forward to. Also we hope for them to leave feeling heard, and with a smile on their face, having shared a laugh or two.”
“As we continue to cater to the community, grow, and evolve,” she said, “we recognize the importance of broadening our perspectives, enhancing our expertise, and ensuring that we are always available to see the needs of our patients.”
To that end, Gentle Dentistry of Columbus is welcoming Dr. Christina Cox as its new dental associate. Dr. Cox believes she shares the same vision for patient care as the rest of the team. “[It is] one of dental excellence and superior customer service and care,” she said. “My passion for quality dental care and almost 20 years of clinical experience allow me to continue providing the excellent care that has become the standard at Gentle Dentistry.”
Though she is new to the team, Dr. Cox is certainly not new to the profession. She has been practicing in the area for roughly 20 years, bringing all that knowledge to her new professional home. “Hiring such a talented and experienced associate is not just about expansion,” Dr. Paris said. “It is about enrichment,” she said. “A fresh perspective allows us to offer a provider with a new personality, innovative techniques and ensure that we stay at the forefront of modern dentistry. Dr. Christina Cox brings a wealth of experience, a passion for excellence and a dedication to patient care that aligns seamlessly with our philosophy.”
One of the most significant benefits of adding to its team is the ability to provide greater access and coverage. “Life is unpredictable, and dental emergencies do not always happen on schedule,” Dr. Paris said. “In fact, most often they happen when least expected.”
By increasing the number of providers, Gentle Dentistry ensures that patients receive timely care, whether for routine checkups or urgent concerns. “More hands mean more availability,” Dr. Paris said. “But it also means enhanced collaboration—sharing knowledge and refining best practices for the benefit of every patient who walks through our doors.”
Dr. Cox’s first job out of high school was at a dental office. Though she always wanted to be a doctor, she’d never considered dentistry. That was until she hired as a sterilization tech where
she dove into learning the instruments, what they were used for and how to set up for the various procedures. “After shadowing the dentist, I completely fell in love,” she said. “Being able to dramatically improve someone’s confidence, livelihood and overall health was where I found my passion. I adore helping people and forming lasting, meaningful relationships with my patients. I feel blessed to go to work each and every day.”
Gentle Dentistry holds itself up to the highest standards, meaning every addition shares an unwavering commitment to patient well-being while having a gentle spirit. “[Dr. Cox] will uphold the level of personalized care that our patients have come to know and trust,” Dr. Paris said. “From the moment patients step into our practice, they will be met with the same warmth, expertise and attentiveness that have defined our approach for over thirty years in the community.”
With her “chair-side manner,” Dr. Cox intends to uphold the name and reputation of Gentle Dentistry. “I truly appreciate the fact that so many people have a fear of going to the dentist,” she said. “I’ll do everything within my power to make my patients comfortable and at ease. Procedures are never rushed, and I am happy to keep my patients informed of everything going on while they are in my chair.”
Dr. Paris, Dr. Yaseen, and the rest of the Gentle Dentistry team are excited for this new chapter, knowing that their patients will continue to receive the outstanding care they deserve. “With expanded perspectives, greater experience, and a deep-rooted dedication to service,” Dr. Paris said, “[Dr. Cox] is not just joining our team, she is becoming a part of our dental family.” ADV.
DR. COX
DR. PARIS
Confidence Starts with a Smile
Your smile is your first impression,” says Dr. Matthew Adams. “We want our patients to feel confident every time they smile.”
At Adams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, confidence, comfort and exceptional care aren’t just priorities—they’re promises. For over 40 years, this trusted Columbus practice has helped patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Their dedicated team understands the profound impact a confident smile can have and is committed to making every visit a seamless and stress-free experience.
“We recognize that some people feel uneasy about going to the dentist, but regular visits are essential to staying healthy,” Dr. Adams explains. “Our job is to ensure our patients receive the high-quality care they deserve.”
Why Choose Adams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry?
• Comprehensive Dental Care: From routine cleanings and preventive care to cosmetic procedures, crowns, implants and emergency services, they offer everything you need for a healthy smile.
• Expert Team: Led by Dr. Matthew Adams, Dr. Merle Schwartzentruber, and the newest addition, Dr. Ivan Warner, the practice provides expert care rooted in decades of experience.
• Advanced Technology: The team stays at the forefront of dental innovation, utilizing state-of-the-art technology for precise diagnostics and effective treatments.
• Patient-Centered Approach: Every visit is designed to be as comfortable as possible, with a warm and welcoming environment that helps alleviate anxiety.
• Commitment to Quality: The entire staff is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.
FMeet the Doctors
• Dr. Matthew Adams has been practicing dentistry for 22 years. He joined Adams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in 2001, working alongside his father, who has since retired.
• Dr. Leo Berard has been caring for patients in Columbus for 53 years, earning a reputation for his dedication, compassion, and commitment to the community’s well-being.
• Dr. Merle Schwartzentruber became part of the team after moving to Georgia in 2021, bringing a wealth of experience and a patient-first approach.
• Dr. Ivan Warner is the newest member of the practice, joining in 2025. With a passion for both general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Warner is excited to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. At Adams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, your smile is in expert hands. Schedule your appointment today and experience top-tier dental care in a comfortable, welcoming setting. ADV.
or 20 years, Dr. Jay Harris and his team at Jay Harris Orthodontics have provided premier orthodontic services to the Columbus area. During that time, they have made it their mission to ensure their patients receive the highest-quality care in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere by offering customized treatment plans with traditional braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners to patients of all ages.
Over those 20 years, Dr. Harris has witnessed the power that a healthy smile can bring. “The excitement and confidence that I get to see in people on a daily basis is my favorite part of my job,” Dr. Harris said. “Not much can compare to that first new smile.”
The secret to Harris’ success lies in the relationship he and his team maintain with their patients. “I think the personal touch of the entire office is what helps to separate us from others,” he said. “It’s a great honor to have multiple family members as patients and then the second generation.”
Building those relationships is a point of pride. “I’m particularly proud that our office tries to help all patients, children and adults,” he said. “From simple to complex treatments, surgery patients, special needs patients, [we are here] for all patients.”
But he doesn’t do it alone. “I’d like people to know how appreciative I am of the team that works with me every day,” he said, “and puts up with me and helps me help our patients smile.”
The team has been recognized as the Gold winner for the Columbus’ People’s Choice Awards for the past three years.
Dr. Harris was inspired to enter dentistry by the relationships he had with several dentists growing up. He began his studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology before attending dental school at the Medical College of Georgia.
It was there that he earned his post-graduate degree in orthodontics. He was also chosen to join the national dental honor society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon.
Dr. Harris and his wife, Brittany, have three children— Laine, Davis and Anna—each proving “how rewarding it is to invest in your child’s health and smile,” he said. ADV.
DR. ADAMS DR. BERARD DR. SCHWARTZ DR. WARNER
GOALACHIEVED
Columbus United Football Club Defies Odds in Inaugural Season and Looks to Establish a Legacy of Winning
To someone from the outside looking in, Columbus United F.C. might appear to be an overnight success—2,300 fans at the first home game, winning a prestigious US Open Cup bid, moving from the 40th seed to the final four and finishing off the season with a historic playoff run. But the success on and off the pitch was actually decades in the making.
It began 40 years ago on the rocky, red clay soccer fields of Bibb City. Long before you could find English Premier League games on American television or binge-worthy shows like Welcome to Wrexham making the nuances of soccer pervasive in American culture, John Dale Hester and Michael “Hitch” Hitchcock tormented opponents in and around Columbus as teammates for Columbus United Youth Soccer.
Little did they know that decades later, they would be here in their hometown, sitting in the stands of Kinnett Stadium with 2,298 local soccer fans, cheering on a team they built. This is something that even in their wildest dreams Hitchcock and Hester never had been able to imagine seeing in Columbus.
Forty years ago—around here, in the heart of the SEC—you’d be hard pressed to find someone who knew the first thing about soccer. Sporting passion was reserved for the likes of Braves and Bulldogs, Tigers and Tide, Hawks and Blue Devils, Vikings
BY ROBERT WADKINS
and Cougars. Names like Bryant, Dooley, Herschel and Bo were not simply acclaimed, they were revered. Few, if any, would know who Diego Mardona, George Best or Johan Cruyff were—let alone their athletic achievements. The attitude toward soccer in America, at the time, was ambivalence at best…and outright disdain at its worst. But, with the advent of cable TV, and the rise of the internet, the culture of soccer began to work its way into the American zeitgeist. Events like the U.S. women’s national team winning the inaugural Women’s World Cup in 1991, the U.S. hosting the 1994 World Cup in cities around the country and the 1999 U.S. women’s thrilling World Cup victory in front of 90,000 fans at the Rose Bowl had millions of Americans glued to their TV. Steadily the attitude towards soccer in America shifted.
Starting as most kids do, Hester and Hitchcock met on teams in Columbus Youth League Soccer. Both, of course, continued their playing careers into high school but found themselves staring at each other from opposite sides of the pitch—Hitchcock at Brookstone and Hester at Columbus High. Hester continued his playing career at Oglethorpe University under legendary coach Brett Teach, who was instrumental in shaping
Hester’s enthusiasm for soccer as a whole. Teach is a legend in collegiate soccer, having coached at Georgia State, Auburn University Montgomery, LaGrange College and Erskine College. He has coached teams to 268 victories and won eight Coach of the Year honors.
After impressive collegiate careers, they finally had to hang up their cleats and graduate. Both Hester and Hitchcock moved on with their adult lives and gradually lost touch with each other, focusing on their families and building careers. While Hester was moving up the corporate ladder at TSYS, Hitchcock was making his name in professional soccer. He held positions with the MLS D.C. United, Colorado Rapids, L.A. Galaxy and was the general manager of F.C. Dallas
before becoming a founding partner in Playbook Management International—a Texas-based sports management company.
Like many people during the pandemic, Hester was evaluating his priorities. He was a successful executive at TSYS and had accomplished what he wanted to do professionally. In 2022, after long discussion with his wife, he decided to retire. The very last day of Hester’s employment with TSYS, he got a call. It was Hitchcock, and he had one question: “How would you like to own a soccer team?”
After some initial reluctance, Hester came around to the idea of building a new soccer team in his hometown. Even with Hitchcock’s experience, all the things that need to be done for a team to go from an idea on paper to kick-off in a competitive match are daunting challenges at best. What does a new team need: a league, a name, fans, a place to practice, a place to host games, players, housing, food, equipment, staff, sponsors, transportation and…a coach.
They both got to work. Fortunately, this wasn’t Hitchcock’s first rodeo. He and his team from Playbook Management International handled things like equipment and negotiations with the league, while Hester was here in Columbus ginning up excitement for the team and building relationships in the community. He reached out to Hughston Clinic, and they jumped at the chance to be the front of shirt sponsor for the inaugural season. Hester knew that having community leaders who were invested in collaborating was essential to the club’s success—even before a ball was kicked, the team had to
The 2024 Columbus United F.C. team celebrated winning the South Region Championship.
John Dale Hester (back row, fifth from left) and Michael Hitchcock (back row, third from left) were teammates in Columbus Youth League Soccer.
have fan support to make this work. So they had invested leaders, they had a sponsor, they had an excited community, but they didn’t have a name…yet.
Bouncing ideas back and forth, the owners decided to give the community the choice. They would have the fans decide the name of the team. Proposed names included nods to the military community—Rangers F.C. and Cavalry F.C., nods to local landmarks—Chattahoochee F.C., and a tribute to the city as a whole—Columbus United F.C., the same name that Hitchcock and Hester had proudly worn decades before.
Over the course of six weeks, fans voted and the name “Columbus United F.C.” carried the day. It was important for the owners to have input from the community throughout the process. But it wasn’t just picking a name. Hitchcock and Hester both knew that there should be a pipeline for fans to tell them what kind of team they wanted to see and allowing them to participate in the naming process proved to be a great way to start.
That community input and enthusiasm were evident at the brand reveal. Fans packed Scofflaw Brewery to see the unveiling of the team name and badge, and were one of the first to get their hands on some Columbus United F.C. merch. Things began to fall into place. The team would practice and host games at Kinnett Stadium, but Hester and Hitchcock were still pretty far from seeing their first match in Columbus—they needed to get players and hire a coach. They turned to an old friend and mentor, Hester’s influential coach from Oglethorpe. Teach agreed to take the helm. By this point, Teach was a legend in the sport. If there was one person to build a competitive team, train them and have
them ready to play in just a few months it was Brett Teach. At this level of soccer, there is usually a mix of amateur and professional players. The decision was made to feature all amateur college players. This would enable college players to play for Columbus United F.C. in the summer and not lose their NCAA eligibility.
Naturally, all coaches want good players, but for the inaugural season, it was important for the coaches and the owners to have well-rounded, community-minded, exceptional athletes
Columbus United F.C. players are escorted onto the pitch before a match with local youth soccer players.
to introduce this team to the region. They needed players the community could rally behind in the stands, but also young men who could represent the community well—they needed leaders on and off the pitch. Luckily, they were able to assemble the team they needed. After open tryouts, a roster of 30 was selected to bring Columbus United F.C. to their first match day.
Through all the pains, glitches and major and minor catastrophes, the season finally started. On May 11, 2024, Columbus United F.C. played their first competitive match ever, against the established National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) side Naples United F.C. It was a tough, but well played, match. In the end, the team fell short, losing 1-0—though they only allowed for a goal from their opponent in the first half. While the result was disappointing, they proved they could go toe to toe with a quality opponent. But equally as important, they proved that they could do all the things needed to get a team, staff and equipment 500 miles down the road to play and come back.
The team had faced the first big hurdle relatively unscathed. The next two matches were also on the road against New Orleans and Tallahassee. While Columbus United F.C. didn’t win these games, they didn’t lose them either. They tied both (something that’s almost unheard of in the football-loving south)—3-3 against New Orleans and 1-1 against Tallahassee. Not a bad showing for their entry into the world of professional soccer.
Finally, after three straight games on the road, Columbus United F.C. would get to host a game at home. The heavily anticipated home opener was a rematch with Naples United F.C. On June 1, 2024, 2,300 fans filled Kinnett Stadium and watched Columbus avenge their only loss of the season. They won the game 2-0.
The team continued to grow through that first season, finishing the regular season with an overall record of four wins, three ties and three losses. They had exceeded expectations. Their record meant that they qualified for the
COLUMBUS UNITED F.C. 2025 SCHEDULERED=HOME BLUE=AWAY
5/17 Tennessee SC 7:30PM (ET)
5/21 Birmingham Legion II 7:00PM (CT)
5/24 Dothan United SC 7:30PM (ET)
5/31 Athens FC 7:00PM (ET)
6/4 Apotheos FC 7:30PM (ET)
6/7 Birmingham Legion II 7:30PM (ET)
6/11 East Atlanta FC 7:30PM (ET)
6/14 Asheville City SC 7:30PM (ET)
6/18 Montgomery United FC 7:00PM (CT)
6/21 Tennessee SC 7:30PM (CT)
6/25 Southern Soccer Academy 7:30PM (ET)
6/28 Dothan United SC 7:30PM (CT)
7/5 Montgomery United FC 7:30PM (ET)
7/9 Apotheos FC 7:30PM (ET)
NPSL playoffs, albeit as the lowest seeded team.
In the playoffs, the higher seeded team gets to host the game with the benefit of home field advantage. Being the lowest seeded team, Columbus United F.C. would play all of their playoff games away from home. Few people outside the team expected an extended playoff run. Even people within the team would have been hard pressed to predict what happened next.
When asked what his team would do in the 1985 NCAA Basketball tournament, Jim Valvano said, “Survive and advance.” That’s exactly what Columbus United did. Winning on the road in Tallahassee, 3-2, with the final goal coming in the 89th minute
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• No surprises—just
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• Buyers get
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(regulation soccer matches are 90 minutes long). Three days later, the team won at Pensacola, 2-1, with another 89th minute winning goal. That set up a trip to Jacksonville, where the team would be playing for the conference championship, which they won comfortably, 3-1.
Their reward for that win was a trip to Hickory, North Carolina, where again, a late goal gave them the win, 3-2—the winning goal this time came in the 98th minute of overtime. The team was buzzing—now feeling like they could play with anyone, the team embraced the long trip out to Midland, Texas to face West Texas F.C. The cardiac kids didn’t disappoint. Another late goal saw the team win the South Region, 4-3—this time with the winning goal coming in the 101st minute of overtime. Five road wins in 18 days moved Columbus United F.C. from the lowest seeded team all the way up to the semi-final.
Sadly, the clock struck midnight for the Cinderella team when Columbus fell, 2-0, to Motown F.C. in Madison, New Jersey. Over 21 days, this team had traveled an incredible 6,145 miles. Whatever disappointment that ownership and the team felt in losing the semi-final is far outweighed by the enthusiasm for the bright future for Columbus United.
Columbus United is hoping to build off the momentum of last season. With new general manager Eleni Hitchcock at the helm, and Coach Teach returning for the 2025 season, the team are working to improve on its match day atmosphere. They want to create a place where everyone in the community, from the seasoned soccer fan to a novice to the game, can come together to support a team they are proud of right here in Columbus—United. C
Coach Teach celebrated winning the South Region Championship with his team.
How to Host A Wine Tasting Party CRUSH
What better way to have a party than to explore the world of wine and food pairings? The possibilities are endless. People love to taste and learn about wines and the foods that complement them. It is, however, different from planning other types of parties. There are a number of elements to consider. Here are some of the components you will need:
• A Theme
• 4 to 6 different wines
• Plenty of glasses
• Tasting mats and/or tasting notes
• Water
• Food pairings to go with each wine
• A sommelier, wine expert or wine geek
• A group of people who are interested in having a great time
A Theme
You will want to start planning this party by choosing a theme. There are so many possibilities. Here are some ideas: Country or Region: Italy, France, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Portugal or South Africa or the US are some obvious choices for countries. Regions could include
BY PAT DANIEL
Burgundy, Tuscany, Napa, Rioja in Spain, Willamette Valley in Oregon, Champagne, Bordeaux, the Cotes du Rhone, the Veneto in Italy or the Piedmont in Italy.
Grape varietal from different regions: pinot noir from Oregon, California and Burgundy; chardonnay from Napa, Burgundy and Australia; sauvignon blanc from New Zealand and Bordeaux; malbec from Argentina and France; and the classic
cabernet sauvignon from Napa, Bordeaux or Tuscany.
Another great possibility is to compare different types of white wines, (think chardonnay, pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc), or different types of red wines (think pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and merlot), or sparkling wines, for example Champagne, cava and prosecco.
Once you have a theme, chose five or six
wines from that theme to taste. Determining how much of each wine to buy is a little trickier. If you are tasting six wines, and you pour two-ounce tastings, each person will be served a total of 12 ounces, which is the equivalent of three, four-ounce glasses, or a half a bottle per person total. A bottle of wine contains 25 ounces. Multiply the number of guests by the number of ounces you will pour for each tasting and divide by 25 and round up to come up with the number of bottles of each wine you will need to purchase. If you are pouring two-
ounce tastings, you will need one bottle of wine for each 10-12 people tasting.
Glasses
You will need plenty of glasses! You do not have to have a specific type of glass for each wine you are tasting, nor do you need to have expensive glasses, but you will at least need a separate glass for red wine and white wine for each person. The glasses need to be clear so that you can see the color of the wine, and have stems so that your hands do not heat the wine.
Tasting mats and tasting notes
Tasting mats have circles showing where to place each glass. Guests can use these to write down the name of the wine, information about the wine, and tasting notes. These can be printed out off the internet using a google search. Alternately, you can provide a sheet for each person with some information on each wine with space for notes.
Water
Be sure to provide plenty of water for people to drink to stay hydrated, as well as to rinse glasses between tastings. You will also want to provide dump buckets for left over tasting and glass rinses.
Food Pairings
The food you serve needs to be an integral party of the event, not an after thought. It is important to be sure to serve enough food to balance the alcohol in the wines you are serving. You will need to decide if you are serving a seated meal, or smaller passed plates. A seated meal requires more planning and more help for plating the food, serving it and clearing the courses. If you opt for smaller, passed plates, you minimize the effort over a seated meal, and guests can grab plates or help themselves in a first-come-first-serve fashion.
Hire a sommelier, wine expert or wine geek
Unless you are very knowledgeable about the wines you are serving, or have a background in this area, you need a wine expert of some level. Hiring a wine person serves several purposes. To start, a wine expert will be able to help you chose the wines and the foods that complement the wines you are serving. This person will then be able to explain to your guests why these wines are special and interesting and why these food pairings bring out the best in each wine.
While you want your guests to learn something about the wines and their stories, remember that this is a party, not a wine class! Try to introduce a new wine every 15 to 20 minutes, with interesting stories about each wine and why it pairs well with the food.
Have a great party! Enjoy your guests and your time together. Wine is meant to be shared. C
Valley Scenes
Springer Opera House Breaks Ground on Outdoor Theatre
photos by Allie Kent
Columbus and the Valley will publish as many photos as quality and space permit. Black and white or color photos may be used. Please identify all subjects with a brief description of the event and the date. Mail them to: P.O. Box 229, Columbus, GA 31902. Email them to: ContactUs@ColumbusAndTheValley.com, Columbus and the Valley assumes no responsibility for care and return of photographs submitted.
Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission was honored with the 2024 Governor’s Circle Award for Excellence in community beautification, litt reduction and environmental sustainability.
The Springer Opera House broke ground on the Pierce Anderson Theatre in the Outdoors to be known as The PATIO. The new downtown beautification project will transform the parking lot beside the Springer Opera House into a beautiful park space and open-air stage to enhance the theatre going experience. The space is anticipated to be completed in Spring 2026.
GUSTO!
CSU’s Schwob School of Music held it’s annual GUSTO! fundraiser at The Bibb Mill Event Center on February 8th. Guests delighted in performances CSU by students throughout the evening.
photos by Jay Maurice
The Food Mill Executive Director Olivia Amos and Rob Scott from Community Reinvestment traveled to Capitol Hill to accept the Audrey Nelson Community Development Award from the National Community Development Association on behalf of The Food Mill’s Shared Kitchen.
2025 Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Awards
Brihanna Stout was named Junior Youth of the Year. She is a 5th grade member of East Columbus Boys & Girls Clubs. Genesis Tucker was named 2025 Youth of the Year. She is a senior at Hardaway High School and The Club Teen Center. She aspires to be a veterinarian in her future. Will White was inducted into the Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame. Will made an exceptional speech talking about the benefits the organization provides to this community. Will has been involved with The Boys and Girls Club for over four decades.
2025 Muscogee County Library Foundation Gala
photos by Margie Richardson
The 2025 Muscogee County Library Foundation Gala was held at the Columbus Public Library. Fiona Davis, author of The Stolen Queen was the honorary guest
Alice Wade, Nancy Burgin and Eleanore and Tyler Townsend
Library Director Alan Harkness, author Fiona Davis and Cindy and Spencer Garrard
Becca and Betsy Covington and Tracy and Amy Spencer
Executive Vice President Fred Maglione and Brihanna Stout
Executive Vice President Fred Maglione and Will White
Acting President Keith Pierce, and Genesis Tucker
“A Night in India”
photos by MTR Photography
Historic Columbus held it’s annual fundraiser at the Country Club of Columbus .
Madden and Sally Hatcher, John and Sara Starr, and Sara and Sam Dismuke
Collier and Erin Trotter, Allison Gardiner, and Catherine and Perrin Trotter
Chris and Blair Woodruff
Campbell and Michael Bleke with Suzy Edge and Melissa Thomas
The 2024 Debutantes at Cotillion on December 27 at the Country Club of Columbus were (L-R, Front Row), Callaway Laurie Champion, Sarah Katherine McKinstry, Isabel Diann Livingston, Ruth McKnight Wade, Elizabeth Patricia Norman, Mary Virginia Sluder and Frances Wheat Cottrell. (Second Row), Mary Frances Sessions, Helen Franklin Prince, Grace Elizabeth Farrar, Ann Simmons Raines, Anna Kathryn Helton, Abigail Lee Tillery, Mackenzie Laine Harris, Elliott Bradley Tommey, Kathryn Louise Brown, Lucy Elizabeth Jones, Anna Grayson Dykes and Spence Jennings Berard. Not pictured: Ella Kay Lane.
2024 Debutantes presented at Cotillion photos by SE Photography
Thank You, Peter Bowden!
Bo Bartlett Center Holds Opening for Two Art Exhibits
The Bo
held the
VisitColumbusGA President & CEO Peter Bowden retired at the end of December after 29 years—21 of them as President & CEO. Bowden oversaw multiple successful campaigns to bring visitors to Columbus over the years including over 2 million in 2024.
Peter with Christopher Kelley from Congressman Sanford Bishop’s office
Peter with David Allred from Stamp Ad Agency
Peter with Georgia Statewide Tourism Director, Jay Markwater
Bartlett Center
opening reception of the exhibit Women of the Pacific Northwest curated by Betsy Eby and Eye of the Blackbird curated by Craig Drennen They will be on display until April 26.
Area Attractions
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
Bo Bartlett Center
An experiential learning space and cultural hub for the visual arts whose mission is to explore creativity and learning within the context of the work and studio practice of artist and Columbus native Bo Bartlett. Free admission. 921 Front Ave., 706.504.8800, BoBartlettCenter.org
The Columbus Museum
Experience American art, regional history, tranquil gardens, and more. As a destination for people of all interests and ages, COMU has something for everyone—from the art enthusiast to the history buff, the nature lover to the leisure visitor—it’s free and it’s all in one space! Closed Monday. 1327 Wynnton Rd., 706.748.2562, ColumbusMuseum.com
Gallery on 10th
This artist cooperative features over 23 local and regional artists with over 1,000 pieces of original art on display, including the largest collection of Columbus’ Historic Landmark Art. 9 E. 10th St., 706.321.8948, GalleryOn10th.com
National Civil War Naval Museum
Experience the story of the U.S. and Confederate navies during the Civil War. This museum features two original Confederate warships recovered from the Chattahoochee River along with uniforms, weapons, models and art that tell the story of this little known aspect of the American Civil War. Admission: $9 adults, $8 seniors/military, $7 students. 706.327.9798, PortColumbus.org
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
Priceless artifacts and immersive experiences tell the history of the U.S. Army Infantry in this world-class museum located outside the gates of Fort Moore. Campus includes an authentic World War II Company Street, 3/4-scale replica Vietnam Wall, giant screen theater, simulator attractions and fullservice restaurant. Closed Monday. $5 per person donation requested. 706.685.5800, NationalInfantryMuseum.org
OUTDOORS
Columbus Botanical Garden
Located on 36 acres of green space in north Columbus, come enjoy four acres of developed gardens with a 10 year plan for new gardens to come. Admission: $10 adults, $5 ages 4-18. Closed Monday. 3603 Weems Rd., 706.327.8400, ColumbusBotanicalGarden.org
Dragonfly Trails
Grab your bike or just yourself to enjoy Columbus's network of off-road greenway trails for recreation, transportation & interaction. There are 34 miles of trail that include the RiverWalk, Fall Line Trace and a 1.4-mile connector. This is an ongoing project. facebook.com/dragonflytrails
Pine Mountain Trail
This 23-mile trail is located in FDR State Park in Harris County. PineMountainTrail.org
Providence Canyon
A popular state park seven miles west of Lumpkin on Ga. Highway 39. Known as the “Little Grand Canyon.” 229.838.6202, GaStateParks.org/ProvidenceCanyon
RushSouth Whitewater Park
Experience fun along the Chattahoochee River in Uptown Columbus/Phenix City. Fun includes crossing the Chattahoochee on the blue heron adventure zip line and ropes course, rafting in a kayak or guided raft on the world’s longest urban whitewater course, frisbee golf, fly fishing, paddleboard yoga, playground with splash pad and so much more for all ages. 706.321.4720, RushSouth.com
DISCOVER
Coca-Cola Space Science Center
Features Omnisphere Theater, WestRock Observatory, Challenger Learning Center and Space Shuttle Odyssey Exhibit. 701 Front Ave., 706.649.1470, CCSSC.org
Columbus Historic District
Walking tours available by appointment only. 1440 Second Ave., 706.322.0756, HistoricColumbus.com
Little White House
FDR’s retreat in Warm Springs, Ga. and the only home he ever owned. He died there in 1945. 706.655.5870, GaStateParks.org/ LittleWhiteHouse
THEATRES
Liberty Theatre & Cultural Events Center
Call for events and times. 813 Eighth Ave. 706.225.4915, ColumbusGa.gov/ LibertyTheatre
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
This state-of-the-art facility includes the 2,000-seat Bill Heard Theatre, the center’s main venue and home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. 900 Broadway, 706.256.3612, RiverCenter.org
Riverside Theatre at CSU
The Columbus State University Department of Theatre’s Riverside Theatre Complex houses three state-of-the-art performance spaces for over 75 public theatre performances each year. Corner of 10th St. and Bay Ave., 706.507.8444, ColumbusState.edu/theatre
Springer Opera House
The State Theatre of Georgia is one of America’s most vibrant professional theatre companies with a popular Mainstage Series and an innovative second space series called Studio II. For show dates, see calendar listings. 103 10th St., 706.327.3688, SpringerOperaHouse.org
Dining Guide
Big Mama Vietnam Kitchen
Big Mama’s is proud to serve you fresh, homemade food made with local ingredients that you are sure to love. Our specialty involves healthy cuisine with plenty of fresh vegetables and a variety of flavorful spices.
Tu-F 11AM-3PM, 5PM-9PM, Sa-Su 11AM-9PM
5300 Sidney Simons Blvd., Unit 14 BigMamaVietnamKitchen.com
Country’s Barbecue
Real Barbecue Slow Cooked Over Hickory and Oak. Casual dress, takeout, catering, kids’ menu. Su-Sa 11AM-10PM Mercury Dr., 706.563.7604 Broadway/14th St., 706.596.8910 Veterans Pkwy., 706.660.1415
Fountain City Coffee
If you’re in the mood for anything from drip coffee to an iced Libbarace, come to Fountain City Coffee to support some locally roasted excellence.
M-F 7AM-7PM, Sa-Su 8AM-7PM 1007 Broadway • 706.494.6659
Mellow Mushroom
The combination of a great menu, hand-tossed dough, fresh ingredients and friendly service makes the Mellow Mushroom a must when you have a taste for pizza. Bring your group for a family-friendly dinner or join your friends in our comfortable neighborhood bar.
M-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 11AM-9PM. 6100 Veterans Pkwy. • 706.322.4602
Ruth Ann’s Restaurant
A Columbus tradition for families, friends and great food. Ruth Ann’s offers authentic Southern style lunches, and breakfast is served all day.
W-Su 6:30AM-2PM • 940 Veterans Pkwy. • 706.221.2154. Place your next takeout order at ruthannsrestaurant.com.
Speakeasy
A local favorite serving great, homemade food and drinks in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
Su-Th 11AM-8 PM, F-Sa 11AM-9 PM 3123 Mercury Drive • 706.561.0411
Uptown Vietnam Cuisine
Uptown Vietnam Cuisine offers authentic, traditional Vietnamese dishes that are both delicious and healthy, featuring fresh ingredients and a variety of flavorful spices. Dine-in, carry-out and party trays are available, as well as a 10 percent military discount.
M-F 10:30AM-3PM & 5-9PM, Sa 11AM-9PM • Closed Sunday. 1250 Broadway • 706.576.9922
Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
Traditional Japanese cuisine with hibachi grill tops and fresh sushi. Come and try our flavorful and fresh ingredients. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM 1808 Manchester Expy 706.642.0888
Dine in or order online at wasabijapanesecolumbus.kwickmenu.com
To have your restaurant featured here, contact Becky Kenimer at 706.289.8338 or Margie Richardson at 706.575.7825.
