Macon 1-31-14 by 11th Hour Macon

15days BEST BETS

Jan 31 - Feb 14, 2014

Pub Notes by brad evans - bradevans11@gmail.com

MAILING: P.O. BOX 14251, Macon, GA 31203 OFFICE PHONE: (478) 508-7096 ADVERTISING: meg@11thHourOnline.com

One of the first real Macon legends I ever met when I

down and take their photos. Most of the folks we’ve

moved here was Newton Collier. I’m pretty certain it

met have traveled the world playing music for a living,

was on a cab ride home. As a rule, if I’m riding alone,

and for them to sit with us for a while has been a real

I always try to get in the front seat of the cab, because

honor. I don’t think anyone could have captured them

getting in the back just seems weird. When I tried this

as well as Maryann, so working with her has been

with Newt in his cab, it was impossible. His seat was

awesome as well. We will be publishing a photo and

piled high with papers and photos of him with Sam

a story each issue until we run out of them, starting

and Dave and other soul music memorabilia. The

this issue. It was only natural that we start with Newt.

dash was also covered with it. He wanted me to ask

Some of our subjects will be guests of honor at this

about it, and I obliged. That question launched the

year’s Readers’ Choice Awards show Thursday,

first tour I ever took through Macon’s musical past.

March 20th at the Cox Capitol Theatre. We hope we

We rode all over town on my way home, and after that

see you all there.

I called Newt often, even when I didn’t need a ride,

Culture Calendar FRIDAY

1.31 RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS AT THE MACON COLISEUM ARENA January 31 - February 2. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents Super Circus HeroesSM, showcasing wonders from the marvelous to the magnificent, every day is extraordinary in this action-packed super circus, filled with superhuman athleticism, power and pageantry that will have Children Of All Ages discovering their own superhuman strength. Amazing elephants, horses, camels and more alongside astonishing acrobats, awe-inspiring aerialists and some over-the-top clowns that will have audiences in stitches… of laughter of course! Come join us in celebrating the bravery, courage and honor that lives inside all of us at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Super Circus Heroes: far from ordinary, beyond extraordinary! Tickets: Adults $22, $27 & $37, Child 2-12 $12. www.maconcentreplex.com MACON CIVIC CLUB PRESENTS “SOULSHINE” ANNUAL MUSICAL REVUE The Grand Opera House, January 29 - February 1, 2014. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $22 - $42. Tickets to the Saturday night performance include a preshow Gala. Buy tickets online via the link below or call (478) 301-5470, weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The mission of the Macon Civic Club is to provide charity work within our local community. For over fifty years, we have done this in part from the proceeds of our Annual D.S. Resch Musical Revue. Our aim is to provide a meaningful, enterDSPhotoGuy.com taining show each year featuring local business leaders, that is fun for the audience, fun for the members and raises as much money as possible for local charities. Learn more when you visit www.maconcivicclub.com.

just to hear some stories and be close to him. It wasSATURDAY

n’t long before I could genuinely call him my buddy,

2.01

and to this day, nothing could make me pass up a chance to have a drink with him and hear some tales. He is a genuine Soul Man and I’m proud to know him. A few months ago photographer Maryann

THE 11TH HOUR-MACON

Bates and I started meeting with some of

Now you can flip thru our entire issue online using your smart phone or iPad.

Macon’s older musicians to get their stories

IN MY HEAD... Ripped from the journal of a suspected serial killer

n the months before their deaths, relatives say Mildred and Jewel Cleveland had struggled living in the same house with Mildred's grown son, Jason Howard. Jobless and socially withdrawn, Howard was a disturbed man who had been committed to a mental institution for schizophrenia following his arrest for robbing a bank. Police think that after JASON HOWARD Arrested 4/13/2009 killing and burying the Clevelands, 4 Cts Felony Murder Jason Howard continued to live in the house. He paid bills, cared for the family pets, and even took a trip to the family's vacation home. With the aid of cadaver dogs, Liberty County police found the bodies of Jewel and Mildred Cleveland wrapped in tarps and buried in a barn on June 15, 2004. An autopsy later confirmed that both had been shot in the head and that Mildred had been beaten first. In his own words from a November 1994 note, Howard explained: Let it be known that I, Jason M. Howard, can be extremely paranoid, therefore as a fugitive I will not only be carrying firearms but explosives as well...I'm not dangerous until I am crossed or cornered, so stay away. Keep away and don't blame me for a dead tactical team. For the next several years, Howard would live in the woods in Macon Georgia, in a camp he constructed out of camouflage tarps and tents and everything else he could find. He was featured on America’s Most Wanted during those years, though he would elude arrest until 2009, when Macon Police found him breaking into a rental car. Some months later, a friend of the 11th Hour, and a cross country runner, came across Howard’s camp in the woods. In it three journals were found. What follows is a page of one of these journals, the first in a series of pages that look inside the head of a suspected killer.

04 JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

TY HERNDON IN CONCERT AT COX CAPITOL THEATRE With a new album climbing the country music charts, Grammy nominee Ty Herndon will be returning to Macon to promote his new record with special guests Anita Cochran and Colby Dee. Admission is $15-$25. Get advance tickets online, Coxcapitoltheatre.com

SUNDAY

2.02 NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE “CORIOLANUS” 3PM. Presented by Douglass Theatre. Shakespeare's searing tragedy of political manipulation and revenge. When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home too. $20 / $15 Seniors & Students

TUESDAY

2.04 BIG HEAD TODD & THE MONSTERS IN CONCERT AT COX CAPITOL THEATRE F e a t u r i n g Ronnie Baker Brooks and Hazel Miller. Funky, lilting, and melodic, the new collection Rocksteady is the latest chapter in a rock 'n' roll career that stretches back nearly 25 years. Founded in 1986 by Mohr, Squires, and Nevin, then University of Colorado students, Big Head Todd and The Monsters became one of the region's most popular acts through constant touring. After issuing two popular independent releases on their Big imprint, the band hooked up with Irving Azoff's Giant Records for the platinum album Sister Sweetly (1993). The Monsters issued four chart albums on Giant and Warner Bros. This event is minors under 21 with parent or legal guardian. Tickets $22-$40. www.CoxCapitolTheatre.com COMEDIAN PREACHER MOSS - END OF RACISM COMEDY - LECTURE TOUR Free 12pm and 8pm!! Presented by Middle Georgia State College, Macon campus. A writer for The Damon Wayans Show and Saturday Night Live, Preacher Moss is also a stand-up comedian whose commentary focuses on racism, multiculturalism and civil rights. “Delivering some of the most important things you’ll ever hear about diversity, he gives you the uncut truth, and, boy, is it funny the way he does it. He’s absolutely unforgettable!” Damon Wayans. Free & Open to the public

Allman Brothers Band Museum Presents Brothers & Sisters Jam at Crazy Bull The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House will host the annual Brothers and Sisters Jam on February 15 at The Crazy Bull in Macon, Georgia. The event will feature a LIVE and SILENT AUCTION as well as a concert to help raise money for The Big House Museum. Tables can be purchased for $300-$750.00 and individual tickets can be purchased for $50.00. Table sponsors will receive a VIP party and all ticket purchases receive a one- year membership to The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House. Bands performing at this year’s event are regional favorites Vic Stanley and Friends and Bo Henry Band. The evening will start with local musician Vic Stanley and Friends taking the stage. With Vic you know you will get a powerful acoustic set with original and familiar tunes in the mix. After the auction concludes, be prepared to show off your dancing skills. Bo Henry Band will take the stage to cap the evening off. Bo Henry Band is self-described as a soul, blues, S o u t h e rn rock and country mix. Formed in 1997, the band has been touring for more the 15 years. Despite changing a few members over the years, the core

group has stayed with the band. The live auction will begin at 9:15 pm with the silent auction concluding at 10:00 pm. Get your bidding paddles ready for an auction that will have unique, one of kind items. There will be rare, never before seen memorabilia from The Allman Brothers Band. We will have items from Wide Spread Panic, R.E.M. and other notables from the music industry. Want a signed guitar? We will be auctioning ones signed by Dickey Betts, Wide Spread Panic, Steve Earl just to name a few. Musical items not your thing, no worries; we will have plenty of items from local businesses. The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House is one of Macon’s favorite tourist destinations. The house, now a museum and venue space was once the place where members of The Allman Brothers Band, their families, friends and roadies lived, worked and played from 1970 to 1973. We are more than a museum, in partnership with local agencies that focus their energies on children in need; The Big House provides free hand drumming lessons. By sponsoring concerts, The Big House provides a historic venue for local entertainers to share their music with the

Culture Calendar

WILLIE NELSON IN CONCERT AT THE MACON CITY AUDITORIUM National treasure and legendary country star Willie Nelson will be performing in person at the Macon City Auditorium for one night only this February 4th. Don't miss this chance for an up close and personal musical event that you will never forget. Tickets $38 and up. Doors open at 6:30pm.

THURSDAY

2.06 TURQUOISE JEEP IN CONCERT AT COX CAPITOL THEATRE With Yip Deciever, Floco Torres, Kosha Dillz.. Turquoise Jeep Records is the definition of complete artistic freedom with no limitations. Their videos on Youtube accumulated millions of views and began their international notoriety. Since then they have been impacting the lives of people all over the world through their songs. General admission $12-$15. Get advance tickets online, Coxcapitoltheatre.com

FRIDAY

2.07 MUSEUM OF AVIATION TO HOLD “MURDER AT THE DEADWOOD SALOON” MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE The Museum of Aviation Foundation is inviting all Wild West fans to an interactive “Murder at the Deadwood Saloon” Mystery Dinner Theater on February 7 & 8 and again on February 14, 15 and 16. Hangar One will be made up as an old western saloon holding its First Annual Poker Tournament and celebration. Actors will sit at

tables with guests during a “fake poker tournament” as well as dinner. They will be in character the whole time and will act as if they know the guests. Guests can come in costume, if desired, as an old west saloon girl, cowboy, bandit, etc. At some point in the night after the dinner, there will be a murder. From there, the guests will begin compiling information that they have previously learned during the social hour as well as the dinner to find out “who done it.” Each table will act as a jury and must make a unanimous decision to assist the Marshal in his investigation. Tickets are $30.00 per person or $50.00 per couple and include dinner at 8:00 pm. A social hour will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. and actors will give clues to the mystery during this time. If guests cannot make the social hour, the clues will be repeated at dinner. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Museum of Aviation Gift Shop which is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or on line at ww.museumofaviation.org. For more information call 328-0704. FIRST FRIDAY JAZZ CELEBRATION AT LIBRARY BALLROOM Come listen to The World Famous Walnut Street Dixie, Racing & Marching Society Jazz Band on Friday, February 7, 8pm. Admission is only $5.00! Come dance the night away with us! 652 Mulberry Street.

SATURDAY

2.08 ART GARFUNKEL IN CONCERT Presented by The Grand Opera House. Blessed with what The New York Times described as a “beautiful countertenor,” singer Art Garfunkel has made an indelible mark on the music world as both a solo artist and half of the unrivaled Simon and Garfunkel. He has also enjoyed a successful film career, published a book of poetry and released 12 solo albums, the most recent being “Some Enchanted Evening” in 2007. Tickets start at $52. GrandMacon.com FISK JUBILEE SINGERS Presented by Douglass Theatre. For more than 100 years, members of this illustrious group have toured internationally. Now, they bring their repertoire of Negro Spirituals to the Douglass stage, making their Macon debut,

along with a special appearance by the AllDouglass Heritage Choir. Tickets $15-$25. Douglass Theatre, 355 MLK Jr. Blvd.

SUNDAY

2.09 STOOP DOWN JAM: A TRIBUTE TO CHICK WILLIS AT THE COX CAPITOL THEATRE G A Legacy Foundation and the Moonhanger Group Present The Stoop Down Jam: 2-4pm –VIP Brunch and panel discussion, 4pm – music til midnight. Live music line-up includes: Harvey Scales, Sammy Blue Band, the Georgia Music Revue, Mudcat, The Breezekings, Frankie Lee Robinson's Blues Mission, Willie Hill, Crossroads Band, SaNa Blue, Princess Riley, Rita Graham, Larry Griffith, Lil Joe Burton, Barry Darnell, Dr. Dixon, Brother Dave, Randy Skinner and Robert Lee Coleman. Tickets: $20 General admission to show starting at 4 pm. $30 Vip includes brunch, entrance to panel discussion and photo opp with the artists.Menu: Fried catfish buffet with grits, gravy, collard greens, black-eyed peas and cornbread. Proceeds from this event will go to needy children in the middle Georgia area who are interested in band and music and can not afford their own instruments. “THE BROKEN CIRCLE BREAKDOWN” Film Screening Presented by Macon Film Guild at Douglass Theatre. (Belgium, drama, 111 minutes, unrated) Elise and Didier fall in love at first sight. They bond over their shared enthusiasm for American music and culture, and dive headfirst into a sweeping romance - but when an unexpected tragedy hits their new family, everything they know and love is tested. 2pm, 4:30 and 7pm screening. Admission $5.

FRIDAY

2.14 VALENTINE’S DAY MUSIC FEST STARRING KEITH SWEAT AT MACON COLISEUM 2014 promises to be the best Valentine's Day ever...plan now to spend it with the super cool, super smooth Keith Sweat, Sir Charles, Lenny Williams, Case and Comedian Griff. You will fall in love with this show!

ONGOING arts

Free classes at PeachMac of Macon You have just purchased the coolest, newest, greatest device Apple has ever created. Learn how to maximize your iPad’s capabilities, learn all about your Mac, and explore iCloud. Free classes thru September. To register call 478.257.6310 or Visit PeachMac.com. Click on Workshops, scroll down and select the workshop you’d like to attend! Middle Georgia Art Association: Free and open to the public. Gallery open Tuesday - Friday, Noon - 5 p.m. Saturday, Noon - 3 p.m. 478.744.9557. MiddleGeorgiaArt.org. 2330 Ingleside. Macon Arts Gallery The Gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is always free. For more info call 478.743.6940. 486 First St. Quilts, Textiles & Fibers Presented by Museum of Arts and Sciences January 14 through May 18, 2014. Quilts, Textiles & Fibers is a threegallery exhibition contrasting the traditional art of quilt making with modern textiles and fiber arts. Dozens of traditional geometric quilts from the Museum’s Permanent and Education Collections and more will be on display. Also featured will be the free motion embroidery textile work of UGA Assistant Professor Jennifer Crenshaw, plus a large-scale contemporary installation by nationally recognized fiber artist Judy Bales and the folk art story-telling quilts of local favorite Wini McQueen. $10 for adults, $5 children 17 and under. 4182 Forsyth Road Open gallery exhibits at Contemporary Arts Exchange. Resident and guest artist exhibits every First Friday, 7 - 10 p.m. MySpace.com/CAEMacon. 2nd Floor, 590 Mulberry St.

ongoing

Rock & Roll Stroll - a 2 1/2 hour guided walk through the Intown Historic residential and business district, this tour includes stories about and stops at some of the crash pads, offices and venues where Macon's music icons lived, worked and played. Every Second Saturday of the Month at 10 am. Cost is $15 per person. Reservations required at rockcandytours@gmail.com or 478-955-5997.

farmer’s markets

Wesleyan Market every second Saturday 9am - 1pm. Held monthly, this fun community event features a variety of locally grown and produced items ranging from flowers and organic fruits and vegetables to baked goods. Music, fun & educational events also offered. Free and open to the public. Mulberry Market every Wednesday. 4:30-7pm. Find a variety of all things fresh and local, from honey to breads, seasonal vegetables to grass-fed beef.

museum hours

Museum of Arts & Sciences. Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. $5 - $10. Free for Bibb Co. residents the first Sunday of each month. 478-477-3232. 4182 Forsyth Rd. Tubman African American Museum Tuesday-Friday 9am – 5pm Sat – 11-5pm $8general admission $6 for seniors/students/military $4children Georgia Children’s Museum: Tuesday – Saturday 10:30 -5:30, $4 per person, 2 and under free. Free admission on Tuesdays from 10:30 -1:30 for City of Macon residents and First Fridays. The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House in Macon. This houseturned-museum was where members of the Allman Brothers Band, their roadies, friends and families lived between 1970 and 1973.Call for hours. 741.5551. 2321 Georgia Sports Hall of Fame TuesdaySaturday, 9am-5pm (admission $8 for

11thHourOnline.com

Stoop Down Jam

tribute

CHICK WILLIS

by candice dyer

he primary rule for the accomplished rule-breaker remains: You have to know just how far to go when you are going “too far.” In his 1972 signature hit, “Stoop Down Baby,” Robert “Chick” Willis drew from his experience in a carnival, where he honed his own version of “The Dozens,” the AfricanAmerican tradition of swapping insults or “snaps,” egged on and escalated by a cheering, jeering audience. Ever the interactive showman and master of the double entendre, Willis, crowned in a cowboy hat, would dismount the stage and weave through the crowd in a juke-joint, commenting in bawdy rhymes on whoever caught his twinkling eyes: “Look at that woman with dimples in her jaws – I’ll bet she got holes in her drawers!” Then the catchy chorus: “Stoop down, baby, let your daddy see! You got something down there, baby, worrying the hell out of me!” In these improvised lyrics, he wielded the phrase “stoop down” loosely as both a verb and noun, for women and men (mostly women, but men took some razzing about erectile dysfunction) to refer to the nether vicinity that might delicately be called the “root chakra.” “Stoop downs” could “drag the ground,” get “kissed,” or in the case of a groupie named “Maybelline,” always “stay really clean.” The song was a crowd-pleaser and stem-winder, often lasting more than 20 minutes. To be singled out and zinged by Willis was an honor among night-owls around the world. “He was suggestive, stopping just short of cursing or saying the actual dirty word, but you knew exactly what he meant,” says Newton Collier, a Sam & Dave horn player who met Willis decades ago in Memphis. “It was all in good fun, and he always had a big smile on his face when he picked on you. He would tiptoe right up to the line, but he knew just when to pull back. Although, ‘Stoop Down’ was one of his cleaner songs.” Willis, who lived in Culloden and entertained frequently in Macon when he was not touring Europe and Japan, died at age 79 on Dec. 7 in Forsyth of lung cancer. He will be honored in salty style at the Stoop Down Jam on February 9 at The Cox Capital Theater. It starts at 2 p.m. with a catfish(!) brunch and a panel discussion of Willis’ legacy and the music industry by some soulful players, including R&B promoter Alan Walden; radio pioneer “Big” George Threatt; songwriter Stephanie Rae Hubert; Harvey Scales of “Disco Lady” fame; blues deejay Lee Henzel; and Collier, who is president of the nonprofit Georgia Legacy Foundation, which is sponsoring

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

the event. “That’s still a little early for most musicians,” says organizer and bluesman Sammy Blue, “but we thought we’d draw in a variety of people who are interested in different aspects of the business.” The music itself starts at 4 p.m. and lasts until midnight, with a lineup that includes Barry Darnell, Crossroads, the Breezekings, Georgia Music Revue, Mudcat, the Sammy Blue Band with Rita Graham, Princess Riley, and Harvey Scales. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $30 for the “VIP brunch.” “We wanted to honor Chick on his home turf and raise money for a cause that was important to him,” says Blue, referring to Music4Kids, a project the Georgia Legacy Foundation is launching this year. “Chick believed in youth outreach, teaching children to appreciate the heritage of the blues and helping the ones who can’t afford an instrument or lessons get what they need to develop their gifts.” Willis was born in Cabaniss, Georgia, and his family moved to Atlanta when he was six. After a stint in the Air Force, he worked as a valet and vocalist with his cousin, Chuck Willis, a successful Okeh artist who was known as the turban-wearing “King of the Stroll.” On a few occasions, when Chuck was ill, Chick would don that trademark accessory and pretend to be his more famous cousin – until Etta James threatened to snitch. Willis eventually taught himself guitar and did some showboating, playing it with his teeth, tongue, and feet. He also took up drums, harmonica, keyboard, and bass. Willis recorded his first single, “You’re Mine,” in 1956. W hen Chuck died a couple of years later, Chick relocated to Chicago and began working with slide legend Elmore James. He released several singles before “Stoop Down Baby,” which sold an estimated three million copies, even though its risque content kept it off the radio. “He was known for that humorous approach in some songs, but at the same time, he embodied the essence of the blues in its original form, not the modernized version,” says Charles Massingale, a harmonica player with Kingfish Blues Revival. “He harked back to Son House, singing about what life is like for the downtrodden and the underdog, with women leaving or cheating or kicking you out.” In the course of his journeyman career, Willis took the stage at the Old Royal Peacock in Atlanta, backing Jimmy Reed, Ray Charles, Same Cooke and Big Joe Turner; and played the Apollo with Little Richard and Jackie Wilson. CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

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JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

OP-ED BY BILL KNOWLES

{ SEEING RED }

Where Do We Go From Here?

The Ongoing Saga of The National GOP

Well here we are a few days removed from the State of the Union Address by President Obama which could be also labeled the 'Sixth Annual Pie In The Sky Pack of Empty Promises and Peachy Keen Rhetoric'. I have to give Obama one thing, he certainly knows how to play a room...or a country as the case may be.

Presidency, and now especially s the Obama lame-duck against Hillary, is to get away presidency draws nearer from the appeasement candidates and nearer to an end, of the past from the Rockefeller Republicans and Democrats alike wing of the party and get back to are jockeying for a run at his open the Conservative roots that kept office. As of today, there is no us in the White House for several question that only one front-runner terms. has appeared on either side, and that is former Secretary of State, n my opinion, there are severformer United States Senator, foral GOP tickets that can win mer First Lady and former against the Dems in 2016, but Goldwater Girl Hillary Clinton, they all have a couple of things in much to the dismay of not only all common. We must have not only of us on the GOP side, but to Vicea Conservative, but we must also President Biden and his supporters, appeal to either the Hispanic popthat mainly consist of his family as ulation and female voters while well as late night talk show hosts not alienating the base of the and comedy writers who would party. The best ticket in my opinhave job security at least for 4 years ion would be a ticket that includif Biden got elected. ed either the above mentioned We on the Republican side Marco Rubio, New Mexico don't have the luxury of a front runGovernor Susanna Martinez or ner, a standard bearer, nor anyone former Secretary of State else at this time that appears to Condoleezza Rice. (For the have the ability to win a national record, I know Martinez isn't the election against Anthony Weiner or most Conservative of the bunch, Marion Barry much less against the but what she lacks in very popular Lady Clinton. Conservatism, she makes up for For a brief moment all eyes with ability, charisma and a great in our party were fixated on track record as Governor.) Trenton, New Jersey where there Further, although I feel that he was hope the bombastic benefacwas an absolute train wreck of a tor of balderdash Governor Chris candidate in 2012, Texas Christie may be our Moses, but Governor Rick Perry is someone between cuddling up with who, if he could get some proper President Obama, criticizing training in debate, could be a canHouse Speaker John Boehner and didate who has the potential of now his possible role in Bridgegate, he is certainly not our GOP Ticket hopefuls: Governor Chris Christie, answer as he would be yet another Governor Susanna Martinez, Senator Marco Rubio, left of center Republican who can Condoleezza Rice & Governor Rick Perry win their own home state but not create a national coalition a la McCain and leading our party out of the Obama Romney. Romney, by the way, couldn't Wilderness. Perry not only looks like a President, but he has a huge list of accomcarry either of his home states. Among others in the GOP who are con- plishments that other candidates just don't sidering a run at the brass ring are Louisiana have as he is the longest serving Governor in Governor Bobby Jindal, former New York Texas history, a state that has thrived even Representative Peter King, former candi- throughout a horrible national economic coldates Representative Michelle Bachmann lapse. As a party, we have to regain the popuand former Senators Sam Brownback and Rick Santorum. Others include former larity of the Reagan Era, especially in the Governor Jeb Bush, Senators Marco Rubio, Midwest and in the South. Florida, Virginia, Rand Paul and Ted Cruz, a cast of hundreds Colorado, New Mexico, Ohio, Nevada and that nobody has ever heard of and even CBS Iowa all went for Obama in both 2008 and Sunday Morning Show commentator Ben 2012 but went for President Bush in both Stein. (Besides being the 'Bueller... 2000 and 2004, Those are the states the Bueller...Bueller" guy, Stein was an econo- Republican Party should be keying in as well mist and speechwriter for Presidents Nixon as doing everything that we can to hold on to and Ford.) With the exception of Rubio, Georgia and North Carolina, who went blue Jindal or Paul, I sincerely doubt that any of in 2008 but back to red in 2012. The only way to win these states back and thus the these could rally the forces either. So where does that leave the party? As country is with a Conservative candidate. I have written on numerous occasions in the But what do I know? I'm just an average past, the only way that the GOP can win the member of the Republican party.

11thHourOnline.com

OP-ED BY LARRY SCHLESINGER

{ CITY SCENE }

Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 2

This Great Communal Venture The last of the Macon-Bibb County Commission runoffs is now over, the compliment of representatives seated around the Government Center horseshoe is complete, all commissioners have their committee assignments, and committee chairs and vice chairs are in place. It is now time to move ahead together.

ne of the questions that I was continually asked along the campaign trail was "What do you think is the first thing that the Mayor and the MaconBibb County commissioners need to do?" And my answer consistently was, and still is, "We need to come together as a team so that we can move things ahead quickly and efficiently like never before." That response was based on my six years as a member of the Macon City Council that, from the outside looking in, often appeared to be, and was as often characterized as, rather dysfunctional. But from my vantage on the inside looking out, I would assert that that governing body was never really dysfunctional, it was just plagued by interminable inefficiencies highlighted best, perhaps, by the excessive number of hoops that the majority of legislation had to pass through First, once crafted and submitted to Council, the approval of the Ordinances and Resolutions Committee was required to list it on the full Council's agenda under New Business. Second and if approved, the President of Council would refer the legislation to the appropriate committee where its members would consider the legislation approving or disapproving it. Third and if approved, the legislation was then sent back to the Ordinances and Resolutions Committee a second time for its approval to be formally considered under Old Business at the full council's next meeting (usually the next day).

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Fourth and if approved, the full Council would vote to approve or disapprove the legislation. Fifth and if approved, the Mayor would either sign the legislation into law, or express his disapproval by vetoing it. (If vetoed, there might even be a sixth step added to all this.) I strongly believe in a system of checks and balances, but each of these five (or possibly six) procedural steps often provided an opportunity for infighting and engagement that all to often was seized and promoted that only served to slow the efficiency of government and the forward progress that this community has long-needed and desperately deserves. I very publicly supported consolidation because it gave this community - first and foremost - the opportunity to change the way we govern ourselves. It is crystal clear to me that the new structures and procedures that are already in place are designed to efficiently streamline the Macon - Bibb County government's legislative process so that we as a community might move ahead to a greater extent than before. In order to do so effectively, the commission's elected representatives MUST now come together as a team, working together as never before in common purpose and objective. I continue to maintain that that is our initial and immediate goal as Mayor and Commission, and that that is the principal way we will weave vibrancy and credence into this great communal venture that has only just begun.

OP-ED BY KATIE POWERS

{ MAMA KARMA }

A North Macon Liberal

If the Republican party wants to improve its image among moderate women, perhaps it should rethink its position on some issues that effect women...

Mean Season Last week, during the Republican National Committee’s winter meeting in Washington, former Arkansas Governor and presidential candidate, Mike Huckabee, stated that, “our party stands for the recognition of the equality of women and the capacity of women.”

uring the same speech, Huckabee also referred to the requirement of the ACA that requires health insurance companies to offer contraceptive coverage with no co-pay in their plans (with some exceptions for religious reasons). He stated, “if the Democrats want to insult the women of America by making them believe that they are helpless without Uncle Sugar coming in and providing for them a prescription each month for birth control, because they cannot control their libido or their reproductive system without the help of the government, then so be it." So, for women, the government is “Uncle Sugar?” Is he kin to “sugar daddy?” Does Gov. Huckabee really equate a woman who expects to have healthcare coverage for contraception under her private health insurance plan with the stereotype of a woman who expects a “sugar daddy” to buy her whatever she wants?!! As for the portion of the comment about a woman controlling her libido - seriously? I wasn’t aware that a side effect of contraception was nymphomania. I don’t believe that it is the intent of Democrats to make women feel “helpless” by making contraception more affordable. Actually, for women, being able to control when, and if, they want to have children is highly empowering. Could that be the reason that some men seem to feel threatened by a woman having access to birth control? In addition, birth control pills are prescribed for women for a variety of health reasons, such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and heavy

menstrual bleeding. Many of the men who scream loudest about being outraged by the government stepping in to make it more affordable for women to obtain contraception are the same men who use Viagra. I am not aware of any medical reason for a doctor to prescribe Viagra other than for men who cannot, well, you know… Rush Limbaugh decided to use his bully pulpit to try and shame a female Georgetown Law student who testified before Congress last year about the need for contraceptive coverage by calling her a “prostitute” and a “slut.” If the GOP wants to improve its standing with moderate women, it should distance itself far from those who believe that a woman who uses birth control = a slut. Interestingly enough, Rush was stopped by U.S. Customs after returning from a trip with four other men to the Dominican Republic a few years ago and was found to have a bottle full of Viagra. I would be willing to bet his health insurance paid for it, too. Women actually have Viagra to thank for expanded health insurance coverage for contraception. After all, it was only after the introduction of the little blue miracle pill that many states included female contraception in mandates for private health insurance. Because Viagra was, of course, covered on private plans, despite having no claim for any other use other than E.D., it became an embarrassment for legislators not to cover contraception for women. I, personally, have a friend who, as a devout Catholic, has never used contracep-

tion. She and her husband have five beautiful children. She also, luckily, can afford to have five children. I respect her decision to not use the pill, however, for 99% of women, this is simply not practical. According to the Guttmacher Institute, 87% of American Catholics today use a contraceptive method other than natural family planning. I do not believe that any of my other friends or acquaintances that I have known over the course of my adult life would say that access to birth control has been anything but a blessing for them. If the Republican party wants to improve its image among moderate American women, perhaps it should rethink its position on some issues that effect women such as:

* addressing the fact that American women make only .77 cents for every dollar that American men make * the U.S. is 1 of only 5 out of 188 countries that does not guarantee paid maternity leave for women * addressing domestic violence - the #1 cause of injury to women in the U.S. and the #1 cause of death for pregnant women in the U.S. * sensible gun control legislation - banning internet gun sales, where no background checks are used and keeping guns out of the hands of the mentally ill * improving access to quality childcare in the U.S. * supporting an increase in the federal minimum wage to $10.10/hour since 2/3 of those who work in minimum wage jobs are women * addressing the fact that 42 million women in the U.S. currently live in poverty At the very least, Republican strategists, it would serve your party well to keep your spokesmen who refer to contraceptive-using women as sluts and prostitutes who cannot control their libidos off the national stage.

In the wake of his “Uncle Sugar” comments at the Republican National Committee Winter Meeting, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has taken the lead in a hypothetical 2016 Republican primary, according to a new poll. POLITICO.COM 11thHourOnline.com

TEN THINGS YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT Y.O.

NATIVE/NEW

• I love to go fishing. • I work on my own vehicles. • I can do some plumbing. • I clean up well. • I’m scared to get married and have children. • I cut my own grass. • I can tiller, plant and grow a garden. • I feel like I’ve had an extended childhood because I’m just a big ole kid. • I love country living, and my daddy-o taught me how to hunt and set coon traps. • I learned everything about being a southern belle from my mama. • I literally exercise the full meaning of being a woman. We’re wo plus man. They’re just man.

“

Right now, the drugs, self-hatred and violence that we inflict on each other is more dangerous than what has happened to us in the past.”

The Queen of Open Mic Yolanda Latimore, aka Y.O.

Yolanda Latimore, known around these parts at Y-O, was making things happen in Macon, Georgia long before it was cool. In 2003 she started a Poetry Open Mic, called Poetic Peace at the Jazzplex, which has seen hundreds of performers test out their skills in front of thousands of spectators over the years. After receiving a grant from the Knight Foundation, Latimore broadened the scope of her movement. “By way of the open mic, we network and partner on a variety of projects amongst ourselves and with others. The open mic sessions at different venues help us to perfect our skills and to create an artistic vibrancy. Our sets also help to enhance economic development and growth in a non-traditional type of way. Open mics are only one part of this movement. As artists, we share knowledge and resources. Moreover, we collaborate and visit all types of institutions with programs to help decrease the illiteracy rates which plague our town.” She says. Latimore grew up in Macon graduating from Northeast high school. She now owns Like Water Publicity, an advertising and booking agency. She places media buys all over the nation and assists individuals and businesses with marketing and publicity campaigns. One of her favorite civic duties is helping to restore Linwood Cemetery in the historic Pleasant Hill neighborhood. She’s also a member of the American Cancer Society leadership board, The Georgia Public Broadcasting Advisory Board, and the Tattnall Square Center for the Arts Advisory Committee. On Growing up in Macon; “We didn’t have to face a lot of issues that confront Macon’s youth nowadays. Crime and dropout rates amongst children were not as high as they are today. Although we had many odds against us, such as inequality of civil rights and racism, AfricanAmericans were still prospering as entrepreneurs and homeowners. Right now, the drugs, self-hatred and violence that we inflict on each other is more dangerous than what has happened to us in the past.”

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

PHOTOS BY ALLISON CLOWERS

Poetic Peace An open mic night for poets, singers, musicians, comedians, lyrical emcess and more. A fun and creative atmosphere at Midtown Key Club, 435 Third Street downtown Macon, every Wednesday Night. Sign up starts at 7 p.m. For more details, log onto our Facebook page – Poetic Peace Arts.

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4921 Riverside Dr, Macon, (478) 254-5802 16

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

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JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

DINING HOTSPOTS BLD: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BAR: Alcohol Served $: Entrees under $10 $$: $10-$20 $$$: Above $20

BAR FOOD / AMERICAN 20’s Pub Boasting freshly prepared sandwiches, salads and dinner specials in a well-lit tavern-like setting. LD • BAR • $ 3076 Riverside Dr. AP’s Hidden Hideaway Making homecooked meals like your mamma used tomake.Menu also features burgers, sandwiches, wings and more. LD • BAR $ 4274 Broadway. Open Tues-Fri 3pm - 2am. Sat and Sunday at noon.Waiter service and outdoor seating available. (478) 781-5656 Bearfoot Tavern Downtown Macon’s only sports tavern with loads of beers on tap, over 50 craft beers (the largest in middle ga!), great food and flat screen tvs at every booth. LD • BAR • $ 401 Cherry Street. Open Monday through Friday at 4:00 p.m and Saturday and Sunday at noon. Billy’s Clubhouse Come try Billy's new menu with our angus burgers, colossal sandwiches, great salads, appetizers and more. Lunch and dinner specials available as well as our late nite menu. "We upped our standards, Now up yours!" LD • $ • BAR 1580 Forest Hill Road, Macon. Mon-Sat 11a2p, Sun 12:30p - 12a. Buffalos Cafe on Zebulon You know this place has great wings, but they also feature a large selection of salads and sandwiches, large screen tvs to watch all your favorite games and a popular trivia night for the whole family. LD • BAR • $ 5990 Zebulon Rd. CJ’s Bar & Grill You can’t really call this bar food. Is it fried, yes, but it’s fresh and so, so good! Sloppy nachos, great burgers and chicken wraps. LD • BAR • $ 2910 Riverside Drive, 757-3262 Locos Grill & Pub Casual, kid-friendly, family dining.We’re talking great food, sports on the big screens and a full bar. Fantastic weekly specials and live music on the weekends. Delivery and catering also available. LD BAR • $ 2440 Riverside Drive. Nu-Way Weiners Open since 1916, this original store with its neon sign is one of America's oldest hot dog stands and they serve secret recipe chili sauce, famous hot dogs, hamburgers, and other sandwiches. BLD • $ 430 Cotton Avenue, 743.1368

cards. Prices from $5.99-$24.99. LD • BAR $-$$ 5797 Houston Road. Twang Southern Tastes & Sounds Newly opened in the former Shamrock, the space has been revamped with a larger patio dining area and evening live music. Enjoy their mac and cheese bites, fish tacos, fried shrimp, fresh salads, chicken and grits and chicken and waffles. Open for lunch and dinner with happy hour specials. LD • BAR $-$$, Payne City

Eating out with kids doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are local restaurants offering meal deals for kids. Now you can enjoy an affordable night of fami ly-friendly dining without breaking the bank.

MEXICAN

EVERYDAY

Margaritas Four locations serving Macon......Presidential Pkwy., Zebulon Rd., Bass Rd and Mercer Village....outdoor dining available at Bass and Mercer. 24 draft beers at Mercer Village location. LD • BAR • $ El Sombrero Witha brand new outside dining patio, this is the place to get some fresh, authentic mexican cuisine in downtown Macon. Mariachi bands on Wednesday and Thursday nights. LD • BAR • $ Located off Spring Street in the Baconsfield Shopping Center.

SEAFOOD Jim Shaw’s Casual dining with Macon’s best seafood, tuna tidbits, scallops, wild Georgia shrimp. Seperate bar area with smoking. D • BAR $-$$ 3040 Vineville

PIZZA / ITALIAN Ingleside Village Pizza IVP has the best pizza in town and the best beer selection. Keep it classy with the white pizza and a Stella Artois or, keep it real with a slice of the ultimate and a 24-oz. High Life. LD • BAR $ 2396 Ingleside Avenue, & downtown across from Mercer Univ. Mellow Mushroom In 1974, three college students in Atlanta opened the first of what has now grown to 100 restaurants. Each one locally-owned and operated, with their own distinct, funkified flavor. Gourmet pizza, original sandwiches and a large drink menu. Family friendly! LD • BAR • $-$$ 5425 Bowman Road, Macon.

LUNCH SPOTS

Adriana’s Quick & delicious cafeteria-style lunch, serving the most authentic Italian in town, including sandwiches, soup, salads, pasta, pizza. Mon-Thur 11-5, Fri-Sat 11-6pm. L • $ 359 Third Street

SPECIALTY

Texas Cattle Company Macon's original premier steak house and Banquet facility. Featuring Hand Cut, Choice Grain, Fed aged beef, Fresh Seafood, In House ground Steak Burgers, Banquet accomadations for groups of 5-50.TCC will buy your dinner on your birthday, simply bring in a valid ID on your birthday after 4:00 and your meal is on us. Open 7 days a week Lunch and Dinner. Accept all major credit

THURSDAY, FEB 13 Lunch Beat sessions feature a live DJ set with lunch and water. Get ready for an energizing business lunch Feb. 13, 12:00-1:00 pm, in the gallery at The 567. 533 Cherry Street. Free and open to the public. Let’s dance!

KIDS EAT FREE (OR NEARLY FREE) DINING GUIDE

Wild Wing Cafe Newly opened franchise at the Shoppes at River Crossing, fantastic wings in over 30 flavors, over 20 brews on tap, great salads and one of the few dining options in North Macon that offers live music on the weekends. LD • BAR $-$$, 477.WILD

Market City Café – Superb sandwiches, homemade soups, loaded salads, pizza and pastas. Unique breakfast menu including gourmet coffees and teas. Dinner now being served Fridays and Saturdays featuring seafood and steak specials. Full bar, excellent wine cellar. Full catering services on or off site. Open Tues-Thur, 7am-6pm; Friday and Saturday 7am-9pm. 502 Cherry St., Macon 257-6612 BLD • BAR • $-$$

The Rookery There isn’t a place downtown that has been serving us longer.Two time winner of Best Burger in Macon in the Readers Choice Awards. Sandwiches, fresh salads and house specialties. LD BAR $$$ 543 Cherry Street, 746-8658

Lunch Beat Macon

Greek Corner Deli Serving delicious lamb gyros, monster greek salads, subs and specialty sandwiches 7 days a week. One of the few restaurants downtown open on Sundays and the only late night eatery on Saturdays 12:30am til 3am! LD • $ 587 Cherry Street, 254.3059. Second location; Greek Corner Pizza also offers calzones, pizzas, greek fries and plenty of ready-made desserts. Forsyth Street. Roasted Cafe & Lounge Serving delicious specialty deli-style sandwiches like the Cali Club,The Greek Heat and Roasted Chicken. Also, delicious salads and grown-up PB&Js.Try their famous Date Shake or specialty coffees. 442 Second St.

Dovetail Downtown Macon’s newest restaurant featuring farm to table cuisine and a fully stocked bar of premier bourbons measured by “the finger.” Southern crafted small plates and inspired entrees in a cozy, lodge-like atmosphere. Located above the Rookery, they do accept reservations. D • BAR • $$-$$$ 543 Cherry Street, 238.4693. Hours: 5:30-10 p.m.TuesdaysThursdays; 5:30-11 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays The Downtown Grill Slightly upscale dining serving specialties like Andouillecrusted rainbow trout, cranberry and goat cheese stuffed filets and desserts to die for. Also features an extensive wine list and it’s own humidor. Free valet parking. D • BAR • $$-$$$ 562 Mulberry Street, 742.5999 The Tic Toc Room Contemporary setting with a sophisticated menu, great wine selection. D • BAR • $$-$$$ 401Cherry Street, 743.4645 Brasserie Circa This American brasserie, Circa has spirited classic French and European influences. With its European neighborhood restaurant feel, Circa offers extensive preparations of seafood as well as a raw bar, large fresh salads and signature sandwiches. Our specialty grilled items include a filet, New York strip, and more. In keeping with our brasserie theme, our Sunday Brunch is truly unique. Tues-Sat. 11am-10pm, Sunday Brunch 11:00am-3pm. 4420 Forsyth Road

ETHNIC CUISINE Lemongrass... a thai bistro A modern take on traditional Thai cuisine with Asian Fusion twists...one of Macon’s best bars with a great wine selection, craft brews and signature handmade cocktails! Extensive vegan and gluten-free options! Daily Happy Hour with sushi specials! $-$$ • BAR • L-D Ginger Stir-Fry Located downtown, it’s Macon’s only build your own stir fry bar with over 500 combinations. Cool experience for the kids, not your average dining experience.You want it spicy, sweet, both? You be the judge, but don’t worry, there are recipe cards as well for the beginner. LD • BAR • $-$$ 496 Second Street. Ninja Japanese Steakhouse Newly opened in downtown Macon, enjoy their unique and delicious sushi options prepared by owner and 20-year chef, along side freshly prepared Japanese offerings. Open for lunch and dinner. Full bar available. Located in Mulberry Street Lane, across from Tokyo Alley. LD • BAR • $-$$

BREAKFAST J. Christopher’s Open 7am-2pm daily, and their signature breakfast dishes all day long. Strawberry waffles to eggs benedict, fresh salads to innovative sandwiches. BL • $ 220 Starcadia Circle, Macon, 476-0220

IHOP (Tom Hill Sr. Blvd. 254-7100 or Eisenhower 784-0800 ) – 12 and under eat free; one per adult – 4:00 – 9:00 pm S & S Cafeterias – 10 and under eat for 99¢ – purchase one adult meal and dine in; no limit on number of kid’s meals – all day Sunday Cici’s Pizza – Kids 3 and under eat free from the Cici’s Pizza buffet everyday!

MONDAYS Sticky Fingers - Recieve one free kids meal with the purchase of one adult meal $7.99 or higher. Valid Monday through Wednesday only. Bearfoot Tavern Kids meals half-price from 4-7pm Monday - Friday at Bearfoot Tavern. Barberitos- Kids eat free after 3pm with the purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only. One per adult, twelve and under

TUESDAYS Sticky Fingers - Recieve one free kids meal with the purchase of one adult meal $7.99 or higher. Valid Monday through Wednesday only. Bearfoot Tavern Kids meals half-price from 4-7pm Monday - Friday at Bearfoot Tavern. Moe’s Southwest Grill - One kid 12 and under eats free with the purchase of any adult entree. Locos Grill & Pub- Kids eat free on Tuesdays at Locos Grill & Pub. Purchase of an adult entree is required.

WEDNESDAYS Georgia Bob’s (257-6710) – 10 and under eat free; one per adult – and after 5pm Saturday Bearfoot Tavern Kids meals half-price from 4-7pm Monday - Friday at Bearfoot Tavern.

THURSDAYS Barberitos- Kids eat free after 3pm with the purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only. One per adult, twelve and under Bearfoot Tavern Kids meals half-price from 4-7pm Monday - Friday at Bearfoot Tavern. 11thHourOnline.com

SCENE BEST BETS THIS WEEK

Turquoise Jeep at the Capitol Theatre

Bootz & Katz, a band comprised of Mercer students, will be playing at Roasted on 2/7 with Andy Bruh + Lucidea.

This Week... The last weekend of the month should be an exciting one. Between concerts, art shows, and of course, the Super Bowl, a little snow and cold weather can't keep Maconites from having a good time. Though, if you do have any exciting snow day stories, send them to the paper at bradevans11@gmail.com and they just might get featured. Charleston-based jam act Dangermuffin makes their headlining debut at The Hummingbird on Friday the 31st. The band gained some notable traction in the area after making a co-headlining appearance at Deep Roots Festival in Milledgeville in 2012 alongside GIVERS. They'll be supported by WoolFolk, one of the many Macon bands nominated for awards in the upcoming 11th Hour Awards Show - scheduled for March 20th at the Cox Capitol Theatre. Music starts up at the Hummingbird around 10:30pm and the show carries a $5.00 cover charge. Up the street at the Crazy Bull, pop-country artist Lauren Ashley will be making her Macon debut as well. If you haven't made it to Downtown's newest bar & venue, stop in this weekend..and ride the bull! The Macon Civic Club will also be hosting their annual fundraiser event this weekend. Themed "Soulshine", the revue features members of the Civic Club performing Southern rock hits. For more than fifty years, the Club has done a music revue and donated proceeds to various charity causes around the community. Tickets are available from $22-$44 and all performances through Saturday begin at 7:30pm at The Grand Opera House. The Cox Capitol Theatre will be bringing back country star Ty Herndon on Saturday the 1st for a show with Anita Cochran & Colby Dee. Best known for his hit "What Mattered Most", the chart-topping artist will definitely have the Theatre packed out. On Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos will face off in Super Bowl 48 in East Rutherford, NJ. I can't say I'm excited for the half time show featuring Bruno Mars & Red Hot Chili Peppers, though the commercials should make up for whatever damage they do. The game begins at 6:30pm. Big Head Todd & the Monsters will be headlining the Capitol Theatre on Tuesday the 4th. Most well known for their platinum selling album, Sister Sweetly, the group has remained one of the most beloved rock acts on the touring circuit.

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

I'm incredibly excited for Macon Film Guild's screening of "The Broken Circle Breakdown" on Sunday the 9th. The Belgian film follows the story of a young couple who falls in love over their enthusiasm for American music and bluegrass culture, but are faced with a tragedy that could break their immense bond. Do yourself the favor of looking up the trailer to the movie and you'll see what makes this film so enchanting. Showtimes at the Douglass Theatre are 2:00pm, 4:30pm, and 7:00pm - tickets are $5.00 per person. A home cooked meal for Valentine's Day will definitely get you more brownie points than any fancy meal you can get at a restaurant. Take a trip by Robinson Home on First Street to pick up supplies or even take a cooking class to learn a few tips of the trade. It'll be worth it..

Ying Yang Twins at Element Saturday, February 1st

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SCENE SIDEMEN OF MACON

Sidemen Part 1 - by Brad Evans

Newton Collier When Newton Collier was 10 years old he was sitting at the piano with his teacher, Ms. Gladys Williams, standing behind him. Staring out the window, as kids taking piano lessons often do, he noticed a Rolls Royce drive up. Sammy Davis Jr. got out and came in, and a young man’s fascination with music had begun. It wasn’t long before Newt saddled up next to those in the famed Tindall Heights neighborhood of Macon that were into music. Ballard Hudson bandleader Robert Scott, along with Harold Smith, AKA Shang-A Lang, took Newt under their wing and started teaching him changes on the trumpet. By the time he was 12, he could play with anybody in the neighborhood. He’d sneak across the street from where he lived to listen to Johnny Jenkins and the Pinetoppers practice. Eventually, they invited him in to join them. It wasn’t long before Newt was playing along with bands like the Eldorado’s, The Flintstones, and the Bossa Nova Band, playing in places like Club 15, the Elks Lodge, and the VFW. Eventually he was approached by Leroy Lloyd and the Swingin' Dukes, an Augusta band who needed a full time horn player. Maceo Parker was his band director. Newt jumped at the chance, and it wasn’t long before his chops were getting noticed by Sam and Dave, a soul band on Phil Walden’s roster. Newt hit the road with the duo and they got national attention with hits like “Hold on , I’m Coming, and “Soul Man.” They started playing places like the Fillmore, The Apollo and the Ed Sullivan Show. He also played for the Queen of England.

22 JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

“The craziest thing I remember was sitting on a plane in Czechoslovakia and seeing a bunch of tanks pull up to our plane. It was 1968, we were at war, and this was our welcoming party,” remembers Collier. Sam and Dave broke up in 1970 and Newt moved to Boston where he married and had a daughter. One night, while working for the famed Sugar Shack, Newt was driving down the road when someone pulled up beside him and shot him in the side of his face, shattering his jaw. He spent the next several months in the hospital, undergoing reconstructive surgery and though he was able to talk again, he would never be able to withstand the pressure required to play the trumpet. After working at MIT as an electronic technician and at Honeywell Computers Collier moved back to Macon in 1988 and opened Collier’s Records and Tapes. It closed in 1997 and Collier started working as a taxicab driver for Radio Cab. His cab was a museum of Macon Music History and riding with him was an education in Soul Music. He retired last year and still loves telling stories and listening to live music. Newt will be a special guest at the 11th Hour Readers’ Choice Awards on March 20th.

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24 JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

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JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Chick Willis continued from page 6

You can glimpse him in “Petey Wheatstraw, the Devil's Son-In-Law,” a blaxploitation flick, and as well as “The Buddy Holly Story.” His 1988 song, “I Want a Big, Fat Woman,” was nominated for a W.C. Handy award. In his down-time, Willis was married a few times and produced several children, ranging in age from 10 to 60. “He never made much money, but he was bona fide,” says Blue. Willis bounced around New York, California, South Carolina, and Mississippi before returning home in 1991 to Morgan County, where he helped establish a blues festival and became a beloved “local character.” A sign at the entrance to Culloden reads: “Welcome to the Home of Chick Willis.” For all his ribald stage antics, he often is remembered for his genteel manners. “I saw him play several times at the Culloden blues fests, and he was a true gentleman, hugging a bunch of folks before he got onstage,” recalls High Falls artist Joanne Dibble. “His wife at the time (Pam Bolton) was as cool as he was friendly. She took care of the money – long fingernails, fancy turban, slender, dignified, those claws shuffling bills like a Vegas dealer! It was a scene.” Adds Blue, “The first word that comes to my mind is ‘gracious.’ He was a punctual professional who never copped an attitude or got out of control. He used to say, ‘I’m just a lil’ ol’ bluesman,’ which, when I was younger, sounded demeaning and corny. But as I got older, I recognized it as true humility, and I admired that. You know how you can respect some artists but not actually like them as people? Chick was someone you could respect and like at the same time.” In Macon, Willis had played the City Auditorium during an era when white faces stood out, and later on he delighted fans at Adam’s Lounge, 550 Blues, Club Manhattan, and the Jazzplex. In recent years, he released a couple of well-received albums, including 2008’s "The Don Of The Blues,” with the song “Obama,” and “Hit & Run Blues,” which came out the following year. Along with music education for the young, Willis also valued authenticity, often bemoaning the lack of “feeling” in today’s “watered-down” music, as well as the widespread marketing of white rockers as blues artists with little or no hat-tip to the genre’s

Willis also valued authenticity, often bemoaning the lack of “feeling” in today’s “watered-down” music, as well as the widespread marketing of white rockers as blues artists with little or no hat-tip to the genre’s African-American roots. African-American roots. In an impassioned letter to the International Blues Competition in Memphis, which Blue praises as a “a literary manifesto of the black artist,” Willis wrote: “Now I don't want anybody to get the wrong idea and think I don't like white blues acts or white R&B acts, or country acts, because I love all music, and I respect all entertainers … I don't like some wet-behindthe-ears white boy telling me that I don't know something that I invented, because with me and thousands and thousands of black people creating a product that is being used to make billions of dollars, and with my fifty-something years of sleeping in my car after working hard in some club or dance hall or some fraternity party for an all-white college or white-only club because I couldn't get a room in the all-white hotel, I paid some dues to sing the Blues. I worked in all-white clubs that I couldn't go to the bar and get a drink or sit down to the table and eat: I had to eat in the kitchen. I have suffered way too much to see my music changed and twisted and renamed.” Adds Blue, “I’ve never met anybody more dedicated to the blues than Chick. He lived it. Men like Chick have lived many lifetimes in one life, and it made him tolerant and generous. He saw the world -- and the world saw him.” 11thHourOnline.com

FRI 1/31

THURS 2/6

THURS 2/13

DRINK SPECIALS/ SPECIAL EVENTS

d a rts BJs Downtown

The Skeeterz 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive

Turquoise Jeep w/ Yip Deceiver & Floco Torres Cox Capitol Theatre

DJ Fubu Billy’s Clubhouse

MONDAYS

THURSDAYS

Travis Tritt Cox Capitol Theatre

Happy hour til 9pm, jam & rehearse 7-10pm, 20’s Pub

Ladies Night: 25¢ drinks and open Poker Billys Clubhouse

B Keith Williams Locos Deli & Pub

$1 Wells, D a rty Tourney 7-9pm Billy’s Clubhouse

College Night - $5 Jager bombs, DJ The Crazy Bull

Ronnie Pickman Wild Wing Cafe

Everyday 4-7pm: $1 beers and $6 domestic pitchers $2 Beers All day Everyday, Locos

Ladie night featuring 1/2 price bottles of wine - Dovetail

FRI 2/14

$1 Wells all night, The Bird

$8 Bottomless Mugs at The Hummingbird

Hott with Harry Leggs 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive

$3.25 22oz Bud & Bud Lt Drafts • $13 Bud & Bud Lt Buckets • $2 House Vodkas Wild Wing Caf e

2-4-1 Jagerbombs, $3.50 craft beer Mellow Mushroom

Fresh Heat AP’s Hidden Hideaway Cranford Hollow Billy’s Clubhouse L au ren Ashley The Crazy Bull D an g e r m u ffin w/ Woolfolk The Hummingbird

B Keith Williams Locos Deli & Pub Josh Carson Wild Wing Cafe

FRI 2/7 B Keith Williams 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive

The Swayzies Roasted Cafe & Lounge

Jason Hobbs AP’s Hidden Hideaway

Matt Rogers Wild Wing Cafe

Phil Vau g h t Crazy Bull

SAT 2/1

Stereotype The Hummingbird

Tres Hombres AP’s Hidden Hideaway

Bootz & Katz Roasted Cafe & Lounge

Ty Herndon w/Anita Cochran & Colby Dee Cox Capitol Theatre

Loose Skrews Wild Wing Cafe

L arry Frick The Crazy Bull

SAT 2/8

The Stokes Billy’s Clubhouse

The Murphtones AP’s Hidden Hideaway

Sexual Side Effects The Hummingbird

Dirty Doves Backporch Lounge

Ying Yang Twins Club Element

Natalie Stovall Crazy Bull

Brothers & Sisters Jam ft. Bo Henry Band The Crazy Bull

Funk You & Skymatic Roasted Cafe & Lounge

Red Georgia Clay The Hummingbird

2 Finger Jester The Hummingbird

Matt Pippin Band Wild Wing Cafe

A2Z Ban d Wild Wing Cafe

The Skeeterz AP’s Hidden Hideaway Jared Ashley The Crazy Bull Atlas Road Crew The Hummingbird

25% off all appetizers, Happy Hour 3-6 and 9-Cl Macon Mellow

TUESDAYS

Big Daddy Wild Wing Cafe

Service Industry Night at The Rookery. $1 PBRs, $2 Wells, Half Price Drafts. For all - Half Price draft beers 10pm - 12am

SAT 2/15

Build your own martini night at Dovetail

Tres Hombres AP’s Hidden Hideaway Zoso Cox Capitol Theatre

3-4-1 Drinks every Tuesday The Hummingbird 2 for Tues- buy 8 wings and get 8 free! $2 domestic drafts 4p-CL Wild Wing

Taco Rita Nite- $2 tacos, $3 margaritas, $6 Mega-ritas, $4 Irish Bombs Wild Wing Everyday 4-7pm: $1 beers and $6 domestic pitchers $2 Beers All day Everyday, Locos

FRIDAYS $4 select premium liquor Mellow Mushroom Buy 1/Get 1 wells 8-until, Giveaways! A P ’s Hideaway Everyday, Miller Lite buckets just $12! Wild Wing

SATURDAYS

3-4-1 Wells, Pool League Billy’s Clubhouse

College students get 15% entire bill! Spirit Day at Locos

WEDNESDAYS

$10 Beer Buckets, 20’s Pub

Radio Cult Wild Wing Cafe

(4pm-Close) $2 domestic Pints, $4 Bombs and $4 Baby Guiness Shots Wild Wing

$4 select premium liquor Mellow Mushroom

SUN 2/2

SUN 2/9

THUR 2/20

Big Mike & Booty Papas APs Hidden Hideaway, 3-8pm

Game Day Specials: 2 for 1 bombs and $1 domesic drafts Billy’s Clubhouse

John Stanley Jam Session Backporch Lounge 4-7:30pm

Corey Smith The Crazy Bull

1/2 price whiskey flights every Wednesday at Dovetail

John Stanley Jam Session Backporch Lounge 4-7:30pm

$13 Miller Lt & Coors Lt Buckets Wild Wing Cafe

Super Bowl Part y 20’s Pub, s t a rts at 6pm!

Josh Carson Wild Wing Cafe

$1 wells, $2 domestics all night for the ladies The Crazy Bull

SUNDAYS

Super Bowl Part y Bearfoot Tavern

Stoop Down Jam Cox Capitol Theatre

Half Price draft beers 10pm 12am at The Rookery

$10 beer buckets, 20’s Pub

TUES 2/4

WED 2/12

Ladies Night 7pm-CL: $2 House W i n e, $5 Martinis Macon Mellow

Big Head Todd & the Monsters ft. Ronnie Baker & Hazel Miller Cox Capitol Theatre

DJ Helms The Hummingbird

Everyday 4-7pm: $1 beers and $6 domestic pitchers $2 Beers All day Everyday, Locos

Matt Pippin Wild Wing Cafe

2-4-1 Drinks every Wednesday The Hummingbird

WED 2/5 DJ Helms The Hummingbird

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014

Ladies - 2 for 1 Everything, Gentlemen:Tie-One-On 2 for 1 when wearing a tie! Free pool and

12-3pm:1/2 price Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Mint Julep, Sangria or Mojito Mellow Mushroom $3.25 22oz Bud & Bud Lt Drafts, $13 Bud & Bud Lt Buckets $3 Bloody Marys Wild Wing Service Industry - $2 Wells & Domestics BJ’s Downtown 12:30-5: Bloody Mary Buffet Locos

Come Hear...

Big Head Todd & the Monsters @ The Capitol

DANCE PARTY / DJ

Macon’s newest dance club, Element open Wed-Sat! Live music and live DJ on the 1s and 2s at Midtown Key Club eve ry Thursday - Saturday night! DJ Dance Party eve ry Thursday night, Backporch Lounge

KARAOKE

Tuesdays at 9pm,Wed/Thursdays 8pm, Saturdays 8p, 20’s Pub Every Friday and Sunday 9pm - until at AP’s Hidden Hideaway Monday nights 8pm at Billy’s Wednesday nights from 10pm - 1am at Sticky Fingers Enjoy $2 dom. pints and house shots, $1 jello shots and Happy Hour prices all night! Saturday nights at Roasted Cafe & Lounge with the Captain! Wednesdays at 6pm, Fridays at 8pm Caliber Bar & Grill Thursdays 8pm, Sundays 8:30pm The Backporch Lounge

BAR BINGO

Every Tuesday night, come play with friends, great prizes! 7-9pm 20’s Pub Thursdays, Stone-Baked Bingo 7:30pm Mellow Mushroom

TRIVIA

Tuesdays, Grant’s Lounge Trivia every Thursday 7pm (compete for $200 cash!) Sticky Fingers Every Wednesday at 7:30 with Jason Hawk at M argaritas Mercer Village location All-Star Trivia every Monday 7-9pm, 20’s Pub

Travis Tritt @ The Capitol Theatre

FRIDAY 1/31

TUESDAY 2/4

DangerMuffin w/ Woolfolk @ The Hummingbird On

Big Head Todd & the Monsters @ Capitol Theatre

Dangermuffin’s 2010 release Moonscapes, the Folly Beach, S.C.-based trio sang about home. Even they couldn’t have expected the extent of that paradox — the album grew the band into a traveling national act, with songs on both SiriusXM’s Jam_On and Outlaw Country stations and slots at major festivals across the country. With their brand new follow up, Olly Oxen Free, Dangermuffin have returned home. No longer easily dubbed an Americana or roots-rock band, the group’s sound encompasses ska, calypso, and even Southern rock, often within the same song.

Since their formation in the mid-’80s, Big Head Todd & the Monsters have continued to evolve and explore, moving beyond their Colorado club circuit roots to become one of the most adventurous, respected and durable bands in America. Through constant touring and a zeal to travel down new musical avenues in the studio, BHTM (as their dedicated fans call them) have honed their collective stew of influences into a trademark hybrid sound that’s immediately recognizable.

SATURDAY 2/1 Tres Hombres @ AP’s A local group doing a variety of Cover songs from different generations these guys are great players and fine singers.

Ty Herndon @ Capitol Theatre w/Colby Dee Like many new country singers of the mid'90s, Ty Herndon fused neo-traditionalist country with a slick, rock-oriented sense of style and production. Like many of his contemporaries, his blend of genres proved commercially successful, as his first album became one of the biggest hits of 1995. Herndon was a little wilder, at least off the stage, than many of his peers, but his records had a down-to-earth sense of sentimentality that initially give him a broad fan base.

Larry Frick @ Crazy Bull Larry Frick is a singer, songwriter, and entertainer from Louisburg, North Carolina, who has a voice steeped in the rich traditions of country music - the traditions that weave stories and emotions into the very fabric of the songs he sings

Wednesdays at Roasted Caf e Tuesday Night Trivia (8pm) with Outspoken Entertainment., Wild Wing Caf e

THURSDAY 2/6 Turquoise Jeep w/Yip Deceiver & Floco Torres @ Capitol Turquoise Jeep Records is the definition of complete artistic freedom with no limitations. Their hilarious videos on you tube have accumulated millions of views and are responsible their international notoriety. Songs like Schmang it are both hilarious and make you want to dance. This is going to be a great, unique show for Macon.

FRIDAY 2/7 Phil Vaught @ Crazy Bull Vaught plays over 200 shows a year at major venues nationwide. Phil is a natural performer, whether he's performing his hit songs or covering well known classic and m o d e rn artists. Phil has the ability to let the music do the talking and feed off the response and energy of the audience.

SATURDAY 2/8 Red Georgia Clay @ The Bird Georgia Red Clay is a country rock band f o rmed in February of 2012. Starting slowly on the local scene, GRC has quickly become one of the most sought after and popular bands in the area.

Jared Ashley @ Crazy Bull

THURSDAY 2/13 Travis Tritt @ the Capitol The highly abbreviated Tritt timeline has the young Georgian incorporating lifelong influences in Southern Rock, blues and gospel into his country during a honky-tonk apprenticeship that led him to Wa rner Bros. His 1990 debut Country Club and its succession of hits put him in the vanguard of the genre's early '90s boom. At the same time, his conspicuous lack of a cowboy hat and musical aggressiveness set him apart. The next eight albums and scores of hit singles led him to amass more than 25 million in career album sales, two Grammys, three CMA Awards and a devoted fan base that filled venues coast-to-coast.

FRIDAY 2/14 Atlas Road Crew @ The Hummingbird Charleston’s Atlas Road Crew will make their second appearance in Macon, GA at Hummingbird Stage & Taproom on February 14th, 2014. The vintage rock band is poised for a big year in 2014 having already been selected for Wakarusa Music & Arts Festival in June. It nearly seems as if Atlas Road Crew has arrived from another decade as their old school sound oozes vintage 70s rock dripping with influences ranging from The Rolling Stones to The Band to the Allmans but with modern influences like Kings of Leon and The Black Keys.

Hott w/Harry Leggs @ 20’s A Great Cover band playing Rock and Roll from different generations of music you love, Hot with Harry Leggs, is a fine group that will have you up off your chair.

Jared Ashley @ Crazy Bull With his high-energy live shows and distinctive country rock sound, all the elements have come together to make Jared Ashley one of Nashville’s most promising rising artists.

Mellow Trivia, every Tuesday at 8:30, Mellow Mushroom Trivia with Tyler at Loco’s every Wednesday, 8:30pm! Every Wednesday at The Rookery, compete for $5,000 grand prize! 8pm Every Wednesday at The Bird, 7pm.

POKER

Nightly Poker 9p, BJ Billiards Sunday 7p, Billy’s Clubhouse Monday nights at Sticky Fingers! 7pm - No buy in! Cash prizes.

THEBLUEINDIAN.COM Georgia’s Indie Music Hub seanppritchard@gmail.com

Tues,Wed & Thurs 7pm - until at AP’s Hidden Hideaway

11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 14, 2014