Macon1-6-14 by 11th Hour Macon

15days BEST BETS

January 3 - 17, 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

If you thought you saw my ugly mug in Macon

11th Hour Reader’s Choice Awards. We’ve added

Magazine over the last couple of issues, you weren’t

some great new categories this year, and The Awards

mistaken. During the past year or so, we’ve run a

show is going to be a great time as a sanctioned

couple of hunting columns in The 11th Hour, because

Cherry Blossom Festival event on Thursday, March 20

it gave me an excuse to hunt all over the Southeast

at the Cox Capitol Theatre. We are going to have

and write about it. While having lunch with James and

some very special guests from the Golden Era of

Jodi Palmer, owners of Macon Magazine, we all

Macon Music playing alongside some of our favorite

decided that the columns would look better on full-

bands from the past year. It should be a very loud,

color, glossy paper. In the Magazine on stands now,

crazy, and awesome time. You can go to 11thhouron-

I hunted ducks in Louisiana and came back to the

line.com to vote.

Downtown Grill to cook them with my friend and

And vote for Rabbi Larry Schlesinger in the

owner Richie Jones. In the coming issue, some

upcoming special election Jan 14. He has been a

friends and I hunt quail in Southwest Georgia, and

selfless leader in our community for a long time and

come home to some more great cooking by Richie. I

deserves your support!

think it’s a good addition to a great magazine so if you don’t already pick it up, make sure you do. The 11th Hour just had our largest issue in 12 years a few weeks ago, and we’re really looking forward to a great 2014. You’ve probably already

THE 11TH HOUR-MACON

noticed that it’s time to nominate your favorite

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

businesses, bands and people from 2013 for the

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 Jobless and socially withdrawn, Howard was a disturbed man who had been committed to a mental institution for schizophrenia following his arrest for robbing a bank.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 3 - 17, 2014

Culture Calendar FRIDAY

1.03 MACON’S FIRST FRIDAY CELEBRATION The streets of downtown Macon are alive with music, art, food, and fun every first Friday of the month. There are activities for everyone from children and families to students and adults. Downtown merchants keep their doors open later each first Friday with art exhibits, dinner specials, family events and more. Sip, shop and stroll tonight only you can carry your libations in a plastic cupfrom place to place. Don't miss Indie Pop Art, works by Ryan Neal at The SoChi Gallery on January's First Friday! 5 until 8 pm with free admission and open bar! Ryan's work has been featured on the HBO series "Enlightened"!

FRIDAY

1.10

CORKS & CANVAS Presented by The 567 Center for Renewal, Join artist, Jackie Raburn as she leads you to paint step by step a beautiful 11x 14 acrylic painting while you sip on your favorite beverage. All supplies are included in the price. BYOB. $25. 7 pm - 9:30 pm 533 Cherry St. KEVN KINNEY, CHUCK MEAD AND ANGIE APARO AT COX CAPITOL THEATRE Songwriters in the round, sharing stories and singing their songs,this is going to be a good show. Tickets $15 and up. www.coxcapitoltheatre.com

SUNDAY

1.12 GLOW IN THE PARK NIGHT WALK AT OCMULGEE NATIONAL MONUMENT 7:00pm 1 mile walk round trip. Stroll to the Earthlodge and Early Mississippian temple mounds, Immerse yourself in a wetlands environment by taking a walk on our boardwalk. Walk back in time through the wilderness of the Ocmulgee River floodplain. Free admission. OH BRIDES PRESENTS GEORGIA BRIDAL BASH 12 noon - 4pm at Macon Terminal Station. Southern vintage meets modern glam at this year’s 5th annual Bridal Bash. Meet central Georgia’s top wedding professionals. $10 advance, $15 cash at the door. You can meet some of Georgia top wedding professionals and enjoy a trendy fashion show. Talk to the wedding professionals’ face to face, sit in a limo, taste cake, and view photo albums. We wanted to do something really big and thanks to our sponsor LT Traval Connections we will be giving away a 5day 4 nights trip to Sugar Ridge Resort in Antiqua. Purchase your tickets at www.georgiabridalbash.com “WADJA” FILM SCREENING Presented by Macon Film Guild at Douglass Theatre Wadjda (Saudi Arabia, Drama, 98 minutes, rated PG for thematic elements, brief mild language and smoking) This first feature film shot entirely in Saudi Arabia is the story of a young girl living in a suburb of Riyadh determined to raise enough money to buy a bike in a society that sees bicycles as dangerous to a girl's virtue. WADJDA is the first feature film made by a female Saudi filmmaker. In a country where cinemas are banned and women cannot drive or vote, writer- director Haifaa Al Mansour has broken many barriers with her new film. “With impressive agility, “Wadjda” finds room to maneuver between harsh

High-Flying Tony Award Nominated “Bring It On: The Musical” makes its Midstate Premiere Bitingly relevant and sprinkled with sass, Bring It On: The Musical, inspired by the Bring It On film, takes you on a highflying journey through friendship, forgiveness and determination. Bring It On: The Musical tells the story of the challenges and unexpected bonds formed through the thrill of extreme competition. The new musical, which was nominated for a Tony Award in 2012, makes its midstate premiere at The Grand Opera House on Tuesday, Jan. 21 and Wednesday, Jan. 22. Tickets are $42 to $49. For tickets or more information call (478) 301-5470 or visit www.TheGrandMacon.com/BringItOn. The musical comedy made its Broadway debut on August 1, 2012 at the St. James Theatre, and plAward - w i nning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (In the Heights), music by Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning composer Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), lyrics by Broadway lyricist Amanda Green (High Fidelity) and music supervision by Tony and Grammy® Award winner Alex Lacamoire (In The Heights). The production is directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Andy Blankenbuehler (In the Heights). With a colorful crew of characters, an exciting fresh sound and explosive dance with aerial stunts, this all-new story is sure to be everything you hoped for and nothing like you expected. The Grand Opera House, a performing arts center of Mercer University, is Central Georgia’s premier historic theatre presenting professional Broadway tours, concerts, comedy, dance and variety shows as well as a full season of GrandKids arts education performances. The fully renovated 1,000-seat theatre is located at 651

TUESDAY

1.14 SIDNEY’S SALON 5:30pm. Sidney's Salon with Professor David Bridges Presented by Historic Macon Foundation at Sidney Lanier Cottage. Author and Professor David Bridges presents his new novel, The Broken Circle. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the hero, Bridges’ great, great uncle, Dr./Major James Breathed, chooses the Cause of the Confederacy over medicine. The Broken Circle tragically sets up James's inner conflict to save lives as a doctor versus destroy lives as a soldier. He re-channels his genius from medical to master warrior of death and destruction. Free for Historic Macon members, $5 for non-members and $3 for students. 935 High St

WEDNESDAY

1.15

DON WILLIAMS IN CONCERT AT THE GRAND OPERA HOUSE There are few American classics these days, but Don Williams is certainly one of them. With a warm hickory baritone that balances strength with a gentle concern, he draws his listener into the intimate world of an old friend, someone who cares deeply about you and the quality of your life … and who will always offer a hand when you need it. WDEN presents this legendary performer at Macon’s Grand Opera House for one incredible concert. Tickets are $45 to $55 dependent on seating. 478-301-5470

FRIDAY

1.17 THE BLACK LIPS IN CONCERT AT COX CAPITOL THEATRE Curtis Harding and SheHeHe opening.

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.

Mulberry St. in downtown Macon, Ga. The box office is open weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For a complete schedule of upcoming performances visit TheGrandMacon.com or call (478) 301-5470. With this performance we are introducing student rush tickets. Starting at 10 a.m. on Jan. 14 (and one week prior to each eligible show) students ages 18 & under and college students with valid I.D. may purchase any remaining tickets for only $20. You may purchase in person or by phone, weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. or online using the promo code “STUDENTRUSH” (in all caps). Student I.D.’s must be presented at the box office when you pick up tickets purchased by phone, (478) 301-5470, or online. For more information visit www.TheGrandMacon.com/rush.

Admission is $15.00 advance / $18.00 day of show. Atlanta’s Black Lips have become known for their wild rock and roll stage shows. This is this up and coming band’s first visit to Macon. It’s sure to be a talked about night. The band’s debut full length album, Black Lips!, was released on Bomp! Records in 2003. The band released their most recent album Arabia Mountain in 2011. It features production from Mark Ronson and Lockett Pundt. Get advance tickets online, Coxcapitoltheatre.com ICE SKATING CONTINUES AT THE MACON CENTREPLEX ARENA 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM - 11:00 PM Wiggle into your long-johns and lace up those skates, Middle Georgia! It's time to hit the ice! Doors open 30 minutes prior to each session. All listed admission prices include skates. Don’t skate? It’s fun to watch, too. Non-skating guests admitted free. Concessions available.Admission is $10 per person, includes skates! MATINEE PRICES (11 am - 1 pm and 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Sessions only): $8 per person! Thru Jan 26.

SATURDAY

1.18 THE MUSIC OF THE EAGLES PRESENTED BY MACON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA at Macon City Auditorium. A fan favorite, The Music of The Eagles comes to us from the same folks who brought The Music of Michael Jackson to town last winter. Rich vocal and orchestral harmonies allow for wonderful orchestration of those Classic Rock megahits from this amazing group. "Laid back and easy going" is a way to describe this show as hit after hit is presented with elaborate harmonies and gorgeous orchestration. Join conductor Larry Baird and the Macon Symphony Orchestra for an evening filled with fabulous music. Bring your dinner, drinks, and dancing shoes! Doors open at 6, so you'll have plenty of time to eat and mingle before the show begins. Balcony Seating $15 - available in advance and at the door beginning at 5pm before the performance. Show 7:30-10p.m. 478-3015300. Macon City Auditorium, 415 First Street “IN THE MOOD” AT THE GRAND OPERA HOUSE Much more than a concert, In the Mood presents a retro 1940s musical revue fea-

Wild Music: Sounds & Songs of Life Presented by Museum of Arts and Sciences thru September 8, - a remarkable exhibition that celebrates every note of every player in the symphony of life — is an interactive exhibit with rich experiences from three immersive environments — underwater, forest’s edge, and a city square. $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

Culture Calendar realism and a more hopeful kind of storytelling.” – New York Times. Showing 2pm, 4 and 7:30pm. $5 admission.

ONGOING

turing the In the Mood Singers and Dancers with the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra. The music and the arrangements are as authentic as it gets. This was a time that all America was listening and dancing to the same kind of music. In the 1940s, the combination of up-tempo big band instrumentals and intimate, romantic ballads set the mood for a future filled with promise, hope and prosperity. This was the time when the music moved the nation’s spirit! Get “In the Mood” at The Grand Opera House on Jan. 18, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets performances are $29 to $44.

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, beginning at Washington Park on Magnolia Street and finishing at the famous H&H Restaurant on Forsyth St, where tour guests can rest and replenish on their own with vittles by everybody's favorite "Mama" Louise Hudson. Every Second Saturday of the Month at 10 am. Cost is $15 per person, or $10/person for six or more in a group. Reservations required at rockcandytours@gmail.com or 478-955-5997.

GLOW IN THE PARK NIGHT WALK AT OCMULGEE NATIONAL MONUMENT 7:00pm 1 mile walk round trip. Stroll to the Earthlodge and Early Mississippian temple mounds, Immerse yourself in a wetlands environment by taking a walk on our boardwalk. Walk back in time through the wilderness of the Ocmulgee River floodplain on the River Trail. Free admission.

farmer’s markets

SATURDAY

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.

1.25 TUBMAN AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM PRESENT “ALL THAT JAZZ” 17th Annual All That Jazz Concert and Ball. This elegant event will be held at the Macon City Auditorium. Audience members on the lower level will enjoy cocktails and horderves beginning at 7 o’clock. The concert begins at 8 o’clock with the sounds by featured performer and Grammy nominee Najee.Tickets are $25 for the balcony ($20 for students) Floor seats $125 (includes dinner, dancing, after party). 743-8544

WEDNESDAY

1.29

MACON CIVIC CLUB MUSIC REVUE PRESENTS “SOULSHINE” at The Grand Opera House, January 29 – February 1, 2014. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $22 – $42. Buy tickets online via MaconCivicClub.com 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.

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.

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 www.tubmanmuseum.com 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 adults; $6 college students, & military;

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Saturday, January 18th - 3pm & 7pm

In the Mood - A 1940’s Big Band Music Review To the delight of Hepcats, Lindy Hoppers and lovers of Swing Jazz, the brassy, all-singing, all-dancing, all-American 1940s musical revue, In The Mood is coming to Macon in celebration of its 20th season. Hop aboard the "Chattanooga Choo Choo" and you'll soon be "In The Mood" to hear some great musicians "Sing, Sing, Sing." Much more than just a concert, In The Mood is a fully staged tribute to Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and the big band greats of the '40s. Complete with authentic costumes and choreography, In The Mood pays homage to America's greatest generation,

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

when people listened and boogied to up-tempo big band rhythms and danced to intimate ballads. Experience the swing, the rhythm and the jazzy, brassy, sentimental music of this pivotal time in America's history. In The Mood has a cast of nineteen on stage with the hypnotic String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra plus the six-member In the Mood Singers & Dancers with sizzling choreography, sassy costumes and over forty unforgettable hits – Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy (of Company B), Tuxedo Junction, Well Get It, Lili Marlene, On The Sunny Side of the Street and many more.

IN THE MOOD celebrates America’s Greatest Generation through the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Harry James, Erskine Hawkins, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and other idols of the 1940s. IN THE MOOD takes a look at America’s Swing Era, the last time when everyone listened and danced to the same style of music. The show is more than a concert. Through medleys, it recreates defining moments from the 1940s from the happy-go-lucky era before WWII, to the start of the war when conscripts were going abroad to fight the war, to the glimmers of hope that the war would be won and loved ones be reunited. The famous LIFE MAGAZINE picture by Alfred Eisenstaedt of the Sailor Kissing the Nurse epitomized such a moment. Bud Forrest skillfully juxtaposes songs of the 1940s evoking powerful emotions even in people who were born decades after the WWII. Swing music ranged from mellow intimate ballads to up-tempo big band rhythms, where the waltz and fox trot competed with the wild, acrobatic jitterbug and jive, and when the boogie-woogie dominated the dance floors. Swing Music inspired America with a vision for the future filled with hope, promise and prosperity. The music moved the Nation’s spirit and helped to sustain the nation’s morale during World War II, the pivotal event of the 1940s. In the Mood recreates the rhythmic, jazzy, brassy, sentimental, romantic and patriotic music of this important time. Creator and producer Bud Forrest is a Juilliard trained pianist and conductor who served as accompanist for the Air Force chorus The Singing Sergeants. He compiled the

greatest music from the swing era into a revue about the big band era and the influence of this music during the WWII years. The second act is experienced as a moving tribute to those who fought the war. IN THE MOOD captures the feel of the 1940s in part because of the involvement of the late Vic Schoen as the show’s primary arranger. Mr. Schoen created the musical arrangements for the entire career of the legendary Andrews Sisters and was Music Director for both Universal and Paramount Pictures. He was one of the seminal creators of the swing-era sound which he imbued into IN THE MOOD. IN THE MOOD is constantly being revamped and updated. While there are a number of permanent Swing-Era songs in the show, many are rotated out and replaced with selections from the huge body of Swing-Era music. Bud Forrest greets the audience after every performance and is constantly taking suggestions from patrons of songs they’d like to hear in the show. Likewise, Mr. Forrest recently engaged stage director and highlyin-demand choreographer, Alex Sanchez, to set the show’s jitterbug dances and production numbers. Thus, In the Mood maintains a fresh, dynamic, ever-changing perspective on the culture of the Swing Era. Patrons who have seen the show two or three times are never disappointed as the production constantly evolves. Tickets: $44, $39, $34, $29. Ticket prices may change without notice. Individual tickets are available at the Box office at 651 Mulberry Street, or by calling the Box Office at 478 301 5470, M-F 10am-5pm. www.thegrandmacon.com

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JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

OP-ED

{ SEEING RED }

BY BILL KNOWLES

In Defense of State Rep Allen Peake Let me begin by saying that State Representative Allen Peake is a very good friend of mine. With that disclaimer out of the way I'm going to write a column to you in defense of him and to also refute that 'Conservative' Republicans are not attacking Allen Peake as some local media has reported. I feel that I'm about as Conservative as it gets. Was I happy that Peake publicly endorsed Miriam Paris against David Lucas and Bobby Gale? Not particularly. However, his endorsement may have been the reason Paris beat Lucas and Consolidation passed which is something far more reaching than one endorsement. The ends certainly justified the means.

urther, although there was a motion to censure Representative Peake at the last meeting of the Bibb County Republican Party Executive Committee meeting for 'daring' to endorse someone who didn't have an R next to their name in the most recent Mayors race in Macon, it was soundly beaten. (Another disclaimer, I was not able to make the meeting, but sincerely wish I had.) Oh yeah....it was a NON-PARTIA group called 'Georgia Gun Owners'....GGO has SAN election people. I publicly come out against Representative Peake as voted for Robert Reichert well as Senator Cecil Staton with an email blasting against Jack Ellis too. As for both as 'anti-gun', a tactic they also employed the primary, you may have against Governor Deal. noticed I was pretty low keyed. I stayed low key for a reason. It was NON-PARTISAN and I had er of two evils", therefore I should not have no obligation to anyone to share my views or supported Reichert, in their opinion. First of all, I am a strong believer in the my thoughts on it. Representative Peake has been a stead- 2nd Amendment, and the right for every fast and loyal friend to not only the con- American to bear arms. I have been, am, and stituents of his district but to the Republican always will defend that right, and my voting party but especially to the Bibb County GOP record proves that. I have in the past ques as well. He's supported us not only with his tioned the right of a valid property owner to votes in Atlanta but anytime we need anything exercise their right to not allow guns on from him whether it's financial or hors d'oeu- their private property, and I believe that is a vres for gatherings such as the Christmas debate worth having in an intellectual dis cussion. But I have supported the right to Party last weekend, Allen is there for us. Now comes a group called 'Georgia bear arms anywhere else a citizen chooses, Gun Owners'....GGO has publicly come out including church, and on a college campus. Second, I supported Robert Reichert for against Representative Peake as well as Senator Cecil Staton with an email blasting Mayor (especially in the runoff) because I both as 'anti-gun', a tactic they also felt very strongly that he was the right per employed against Governor Deal. (They son for the job, for our diverse community. I forgot to mention that Staton and Peake both don't agree with all his positions, as he does have received 92% ratings from the NRA n't agree with all mine. But his skill sets and and have never gotten below a B on their experience as current mayor made him former scale. As for Deal, he was endorsed clearly the best choice for the new govern by the NRA in 2010 in his bid for Governor ment, in my opinion. The attack on the Georgia Gun Owners and has scored an A rating as well a 91% on Facebook has gone viral, and has been pretty the most recent report card. In response, Peake sent this letter to the vicious, and readers of that site are only hear community: "I may be an idiot for doing ing the one side of the story told by citizens this, but I can't help myself (and many of my who are mad that I supported Reichert, and friends and family will tell you I act like an not another candidate. My ask is that if any of idiot most of the time anyway!). Today, I have you are so inclined, that you would comment been attacked on a Facebook group page at this page - it can be found by clicking on called Georgia Gun Owners as being soft on Georgia Gun Owners in the search feature on the second amendment and gun rights because Facebook - and let those that read this page I supported Robert Reichert for Mayor know what you think. It may not do any good, against Jack Ellis in the recent Macon-Bibb and may be a useless exercise, but I just can't elections. Their logic is that "Gun owners stand idly by and do nothing. should never have to choose between the less - CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE 11thHourOnline.com

OP-ED BY LARRY SCHLESINGER

{ CITY SCENE }

Macon City Council Ward 3, Post 1

EXTREMELY SIGNIFICANT HISTORIC TIMES I have long and wholeheartedly supported the effort to consolidate Macon and Bibb County for a variety of reasons. First and for six years, I lived under a consolidated citycounty government in Columbus not far away, so I know from my own personal experience that consolidation does, in fact, work to the significant benefit and betterment of a community to which even a daytrip there will attest.

ext, the unification of our local governments signals to large business entities that are looking for a site to expand or relocate that we are all on the same page here, and that we do, in fact, have our act together which will benefit their growth and development. But as one who was elected to, and served on, the Macon City Council, the primary reason that I supported consolidation is that it enables us as a community to make necessary and important changes in the way we govern ourselves. And so, when President James Timley's gavel fell for its final time that brought the December 17 Council meeting - and for all intents and purposes, the Council itself - to an end, it was for me a moment of sheer delight. It was so because as an elected councilmember, I had come to regard that body as somewhat dysfunctional since all too often, the politics of infighting and factionalism typified its proceedings, hindering the significant progress that our community craves. In my ears, the sound of that gavel's final fall signaled and heralded the very good news that Macon-Bibb County was now poised to move forward in ways that it could not before. The road to consolidation had been long and arduous, but even though at that very moment the actual transition between the governments was still some two weeks away, it seemed to me that it had just taken place. The actual December 31 transition ceremony two weeks later at Government Center (the new name for Macon City Hall)

was undeniably historic and absolutely propitious. The chamber was filled to overflowing with people like you and me who represented the great diversity that is now part and parcel of Macon-Bibb County. Moreover, the spirit of change and renewed optimism just filled the assembly and permeated all of the proceedings as Mayor Reichert and eight of the newly elected Commissioners were duly sworn-in, and then turned to the initial business of MaconBibb County Commission government. A few people and several members of the press in attendance there asked me if I was disappointed that I was unable to be sworn-in that morning as a result of Judge Boswell's call for a new District 2 election due to the maladroit voting irregularities that occurred. "My day will come," I replied, "but today, as one who very strongly and publicly advocated for the consolidation of the City of Macon and Bibb County, I am absolutely delighted to be here, and gratified to see that all of that time and effort that I and so many others expended in support has now come to fruition." So having experienced it all firsthand, I was not saddened when that final gavel fell, and I will never be nostalgic for the "good old days" of the Macon City Council. Instead, this is a highly anticipated time of change and the promise of a wonderful new beginning for us all. Make no mistake about it: right now and right here in Macon-Bibb County, you and I are living in, and experiencing, extremely significant historic times.

REP. PEAKE CONT. Many of you may not know that I have drawn an opponent in my reelection cam paign in 2014 for the Georgia State House. Some of the attacks may be coming because of the upcoming election. I refuse to engage in this type of politicking, and promise that I will only campaign on my strengths, and will not attack the character of my opponent. It will not happen. As always, it is a privilege and honor to have represented the good folks of Bibb and Monroe County during the last 7 years, and I fully understand I only serve at your pleas ure. My hope is that my record and accom plishments have served our citizens well, and that with the consolidation effort, we have turned a corner in moving our community

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

forward, instead of continuing a downward spiral. I appreciate so much your support and encouragement, and I am grateful to be your State Representative in the Georgia House." Well said Allen. Here's the bottom line....Peake has the right to endorse whoever in the hell he wants to whether or not we agree or disagree. As for the Georgia Gun Owners group, PolitiFact in the AJC did a check up on whether or not they were accurate about Governor Deal when they passed out a snide flier stating that the Governor Deal derailed some gun legislation earlier this year. They found the flier to be 'Mostly False'. Enough said....

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Words by

Brian Shreve Photos

Right: John Wilson and Brian Adams, Bottom: Canoeing Bond Swamp in Macon

Champions of the Ocmulgee With land purchase, Ocmulgee moves closer to National Park status

A canopy of hardwoods stare down upon heaped, mystifying swamp forests alive with whitetail deer, alligators and even the occasional bald eagle. Warblers, cuckoos and other songbirds lullaby it all, providing the perfect soundtrack to the sumptuous scene. A mighty, muddy river snakes through the thick of it like a monster artery, sustaining life as it has done for millenniums, just as it did for some of the continent's first inhabitants. Though debated, some historians believe Hernando De Soto himself may have performed Christian baptisms on the natives here on his way to "discovering" the Mississippi River back in the 16th century. No, it's not the Congo of Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness." It's the land of the Ocmulgee, right here in Macon, Ga. And that is why there are those not only fighting for its protection and enhancement, but for its due place in the national spotlight. With the purchase of 679 acres on November 23, an essential piece of the Ocmulgee Corridor has been secured, and an integral step in the push to expand the Ocmulgee National Monument and institute the state's first National Park and Preserve has been accomplished. The land, which connects Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge with the monument, was bought at auction by the Ocmulgee Land Trust for $815,000 in donations provided by the Peyton Anderson Foundation. The Community Foundation and Knight Foundation together have contributed $22,000 toward other areas of the effort. The Ocmulgee Land Trust, which is managed by NewTown Macon, will look to acquire additional property for the project when and if it becomes available. The pursuit to preserve these lands for NPP status is led by the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative, a nonprofit founded 18 months ago and led by Macon attorney and park advocate Brian Adams. The NPP would potentially include other federally and state managed lands such as Bond Swamp, Brown's Mount, Echeconnee Creek, Oaky Woods and the Ocmulgee Wildlife Management Area. Ultimately, the proposed NPP would encompass the entire river corridor extending from Macon to Hawkinsville, ranging anywhere from 25,000 to 55,000 acres. "This is one of many parcels that are so important throughout the corridor," said Adams. "Getting that linked up was very important, so when it came up for auction, we jumped on it real quick." The newly secured property is located in Southeast Bibb County off Bondsview Road and was previously owned by Steve Putnall. Adams, 35, said the land's price tag was hefty given the initiative's limited amount of funding, and that the Peyton Anderson Foundation's support and interest in the endeavor proved vital.

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

"I was not expecting it to happen the way it did, but it couldn't have happened any better," said Adams. Adams added that the foundation's commitment has also increased people's awareness of the effort, one he and his cohorts have been pushing for the past decade. "If we don't protect this, we'll have cookie-cutter neighborhoods or other developments on the river that destroy the archaeological sites and all that biodiversity," he said. "That's what people are starting to realize, and that's what motivates us to continue the work." Adding to the project's momentum, the ONM has been conducting its own boundary study, a crucial prerequisite needed for expansion; the current study aims to stretch the park's current 702 acres to approximately 3,000. Monument superintendent Jim David said the park hopes to have the results to Congress sometime in spring or early summer with a public briefing outlining the recommendations for the new boundary as early as February. David said that with his park's study and the November purchase, two "movements" are simultaneously taking place, both with the ultimate goal of expanding the park and obtaining NPP status. "The more land the better when it comes to gaining this designation," said David. "They [park service] prefer larger areas to be national parks than smaller ones." So what makes this land in particular so precious and worthy of an NPP status unprecedented anywhere east of the Mississippi? The natural wonders alone include an ecosystem that ONPPI member John Wilson said rivals that the Okefenokee Swamp. "If you're in Atlanta and want to visit the Okefenokee, you'd have to come through Macon," said Wilson. "And there's as much to see here and with more dimensions." Wilson, a former Bond Swamp resident and long-

time environmental activist, has been fighting for the Ocmulgee for decades, publishing the first plans for this endeavor some ten years ago. Wilson, 58, first made the news back in the '90s while defending a bald eagle's nest he discovered in Bond Swamp, one imperiled by the then-oncoming Fall Line Freeway; at that time, the nest was only one of four in the state. With that cause, Wilson organized an effort successful in having the freeway rerouted. Wilson said the corridor is also home to a black bear population of about 300, albeit one that is gravely threatened. According to Wilson, the state's only other significant black bear populations are located in the North Georgia mountains and the Okefenokee Swamp, though Middle Georgia's bears remain the only population unprotected federally. The corridor's large duck roosts alone are attractions worthy of guided tours, said Wilson, who once recorded more than 800 ducks with camera's installed at Bond's Swamp. With increased community support, including that of Newtown Macon and Mayor Robert Reichert, Wilson said his confidence in establishing the NPP has grown. "If we work together, it can be promoted better," he said. "If we don't, it's going to just keep getting timbered." According to David, the corridor's archaeological value in itself has the park service interested. With a documented human history spanning more than 15,000 years, David said the region, known as the birthplace of the Muscogee nation, has more to be discovered. "Very few places in this country have that documented continuum. That land has been used for literally thousands of years," he said. "It's hard to say what's hidden out there." David said Macon's location on the fall line between the Piedmont and Coastal Plain explains much of why

As for the bottom line, NPP advocates believe the economic impact this distinction would have on the community is acutely substantial, boosting tax revenues, jobs, and tourism while supporting cleaner environmental standards. The initiative's marketing material states that every dollar spent on national parks yields a $10 return to gateway communities.

the area is "very unique" both naturally and culturally. "The people in Macon are beginning to realize what a gem we have in this area," said David, "the resources we have that don't exist elsewhere." The initiative is also working to improve the Ocmulgee's image as a recreational treasure. Adams, along with his brother, owned and operated Macon's first and only canoe/kayak rental service on the river about five years ago, a venture that taught Adams just how regularly the river is ignored within the community. "It was amazing that there were a lot of people from Macon who had never touched the river," he said. "That inspired me to keep working on it. We have so much to offer here that needs to be more properly utilized." Adams said the National Park Service and local counties are currently working on a project called the Ocmulgee Water Trail, which would extend 54 miles and provide river goers with maps, hiking trails, boat landings and other access points. "If more people can use it, it can be taken care of for them, and they'll appreciate it," he said. "The paddling part of the recreation is already in the works." Though there would still be no hunting within the park's current boundaries, creating a preserve would allow hunting within a sizeable portion of the corridor. "There's a lot of very valuable hunting land throughout this corridor, and we never want to take that away," said Adams. "In fact, what this does is protect this hunting land for generations to come." As for the bottom line, NPP advocates believe the economic impact this distinction would have on the community is acutely substantial, boosting tax revenues, jobs, and tourism while supporting cleaner environmental standards. The initiative's marketing material states that every dollar spent on national parks yields a $10 return to gateway communities. "This would have big businesses looking at Macon," said Adams. "If you have a national park in your community, that is a huge factor." Another major incentive would be the benefits of having an NPP buffering Robins Air Force Base, particularly when it comes the BRAC process. "One thing they [BRAC] look at is the area around the base, and this would be their ideal use of the property," said Adams. "They would know it's protected, and that moves us up even higher on that analysis when they're looking at closing bases." Adams said much of the desired land is already publically owned, and what portions

“This would have big businesses looking at Macon,” said Adams. “If you have a national park in your community, that is a huge factor.”

of the corridor are private property will remain as such. "With turning into a national park and preserve, there will never be imminent domain," said Adams. "The federal government is never going to come in and say, 'We're taking your land.'" David said private property is often owned within the park service's management areas as what is known as in-holdings, which are written up a variety of ways. In the end, the ultimate reward can only become reality with help of the right political leaders, as well as community support. Adams said Sanford Bishop's office and other politicians have already expressed interest in the effort, and that others were beginning to realize the project's magnitude. "This is not a partisan issue, but it is a political issue and for this to happen, we need legislation," he said. "I think they realize it's going to be low-hanging fruit when they can champion this kind of effort." Wilson said that with the NPP distinction, the name alone would have an irrefutable impact. “You can advertise all you want, but if you put the national park name on it, you don't even have to advertise. It's the best branding you can have--the kind that puts Macon on the map and enhances the image of Macon.” According to David, 23 designated areas in Georgia are currently managed by the National Park Service, such as ONM-already the most popular tourist attraction in Middle Georgia. But having the state's first official national park is something entirely different. “To the visiting public, when they see these designated areas, it doesn't always click in their minds," said David. "When the general public sees a national park, the name itself gets people in." For now, Adams and his group hopes to ride the momentum and "keep making progress" toward legislation, especially given that more people--citizens and political leaders alike--are beginning to realize the need for change. "Macon is not always seen as a progressive town, but Macon is a progressive town," Adams emphatically explains. "And there are a lot of people here who see how important these issues are, that it's not just about us here now, but generations to come." 11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 3 - 17, 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 Fowl Play Downtown Macon’s only wing house specializing in dozens of flavors, bar food staples and some surprising specialties, including Sloppy Joe Nachos, amazing sandwiches (such as the fried shrimp po boy), entrees, salads, and more. Also open late Thur - Sat til 4am. LD • BAR • $ 580 Cherry St 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

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 cards. Prices from $5.99-$24.99. LD • BAR $-$$ 5797 Houston Road.

SPECIALTY

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

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 Street, downtown Macon.

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

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 • $

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

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.

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

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 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 • $-$$

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.

EVERYDAY

MEXICAN

Guiseppi’s Pizza With fresh baked pizza and exclusive wedgies, pasta dishes and salads, this pizza place has a little something for everyone. Happy hour Mon-Fri 4-7pm. LD • BAR • $-$$ Tom Hill Sr. Blvd.

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

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 firies and plenty of ready-made desserts. Forsyth Street.

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 Caliente’s Burrito Shop We’ve all had this style of big burrito by now, but Caliente’s does them the best. If you can handle it, get the MOAB… if not, there’s always the Thrilla From Tha Grilla, which is just right. LD • $ 6255 Zebulon Road

KIDS EAT FREE (OR NEARLY FREE) DINING GUIDE

The Tic Toc Room Contemporary setting with a sophisticated menu, great wine selection. D • BAR • $$-$$$ 401Cherry Street, 743.4645

ETHNIC CUISINE Taki Japanese Steakhouse Serving traditional hibachi with flair and fresh and creative sushi selections. Private bar area,The Blue Diamond Bar, features Happy Hour all week 4:30-6:30pm with specials such as 20% off sushi and $5 sake cocktails including Plum and Saki Sunrise. Thursday and Sundays enjoy $1 sushi specials. LD • BAR • $-$$ 6255 Zebulon Rd Ginger Stir-Fry Located downtown, it’s Macon’s only build your own stir fry bar with over 500 combinations. Cool experience for the kids, not your average dining experience.You want it spicy, sweet, both? You be the judge, but don’t worry, there are recipe cards as well for the beginner. LD • BAR • $-$$ 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

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. Twang Southern Tastes & Sound Every Monday & Tuesday - Little League night 4-9pm - free hot dog dinner for kids in uniform. 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. 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 Calientes Burrito Shop (471-8110) – 12 and under eat free; one per adult – after 6:00 pm Georgia Bob’s (257-6710) – 10 and under eat free; one per adult – and after 5pm Saturday

THURSDAYS Barberitos- Kids eat free after 3pm with the purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only. One per adult, twelve and under

SUNDAYS Bearfoot Tavern - Children Eat Free All Day Sunday with purchase of adult entree, child must order from Kid's Menu; Dine-In only; One per adult; ages 12 and under 11thHourOnline.com

OP-ED BY KATIE POWERS

{ CITY SCENE }

A North Macon Liberal

Looking Forward I have gone back and forth many times as I was trying to decide what to write about for my first column of 2014. My aim in writing this column is not to be divisive, though I know that there are many, many people who are going to disagree with my opinions. I don't mind the disagreement at all, as long as it is done in a civil and thoughtful manner. This column, to me, is a work in progress.

invite you to join me this year by both reading, and responding - if you feel called to do so - to my columns. I would love to have feedback as far as issues you would like to see covered, possible ideas for new and different columns. I think it would be great to bring light to good things that are happening in our community. There are many vibrant non-profits such as the Macon Volunteer Clinic, Daybreak, Loaves and Fishes, Macon Rescue Mission that are doing great work here. Both the Knight Foundation and Community Foundation of Central Georgia continue to bless Macon, with visionary support of projects such as the College Hill Corridor, Mercer's

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

Collaborative Center for Journalism, Connect 2 Compete, scholarship opportunities and many more. If you haven't been to the area surrounding the campus of Mercer University in the past couple of years, make a resolution to do so this year. I believe that Macon is on the springboard for amazing growth and revitalization, especially in the downtown area. It is an exciting time to be a Maconite! This isn't to say that we do not still have big challenges to face. The division of socioeconomic and racial groups is still wide. There continues to be mistrust on both sides of these groups towards one another. Macon-Bibb County's new consolidated

In 2014, let's resolve to focus on the positive things going on in Macon/Bibb, first and foremost. Let us also keep a watchful eye on those whom we elected to represent us.

government has taken office, with the exception of District 2, which will be decided in a special election re-match on January 14th between Larry Schlesinger and Henry Ficklin. I guess it was just too much to hope that the transition would be seamlessâ&#x20AC;Ś One other disturbing story that came to light recently was the abandonment of the River Park Macon Project, which would have been a boon to the city. Former Mercer President and civic leader, Kirby Godsey and a group of investors were forced to back out on plans to build a complex of retail, office, hotel, condominium and parking spaces on land adjacent to the river on Riverside Drive due to contaminated soil on the site resulting from a former coal gasification plant that existed on the land. Our current Mayor, Robert Reichert, who was then a private citizen practicing law, was hired by then-Mayor C. Jack Ellis (does this seem like a "Twilight Zone" episode to you?) to negotiate with Atlanta Gas Light and GA Power on a deal for potential use of the site. The deal that was agreed upon by Reichert and then-Mayor Ellis with the utility companies was that the land should not be used for any residential purposes, due to the contamination, but that if a group decided to buy the property with the intent of residential development, that the city would have to pay the companies

$250,000 each, yes, $500,000 tax dollars, to help out with the clean up cost. One estimate put the cost of cleaning up the land at $26 million. The city would have to pay the bulk of the costs on the rest of the land, on which the city's Central Services building and the Macon Transit Authority once sat. Is it just me, or does that seem like a one-sided deal to you, too? I suppose that is just the manner that GA Power uses in negotiation - we tell you what we are going to agree to and what other choice do you have? Just ask the folks who live close to Plant Scherer in Juliette, about that (but that's another story). Hopefully, this giant mess will be able to be undone. It's going to take a lot of money and bravado to do so. So, in 2014, let's resolve to focus on the positive things going on in Macon/Bibb, first and foremost. Let us also keep a watchful eye on those whom we elected to represent us. I challenge you to sit in on at least one local government meeting, whether it be a meeting of the Board of Education or of our new consolidated government. If you have a son or daughter, even better yet, take them with you. I plan to do so early in 2014 and will be writing about our experience. Good things are happening here, but we, as citizens, must be involved if we want Macon to be the place we all know it can be! Happy New Year!

11thHourOnline.com

SCENE

Folk/jam act DANGERMUFFIN makes a special appearance at a FREE SHOW the Hummingbird Stage & Taproom in Macon on January 31st with support from local group WoolFolk.

THE NEXT 2 WEEKS Not to miss events suggested by columnist sean pritchard

According to CNN, areas in the Southeast will be colder this week than parts of Alaska! For those of you who have experienced even the slightest uncommon weather patterns here in Macon, you know that Southerns tend to get a bit crazy when we experience anything other than warm and sunny (i.e. the incredibly long lines at gas stations this week, certain sections of the grocery store lacking any inventory at all, the vast exaggerations of how long the bad weather is going to last). The team at the Macon-Bibb Emergency Management Agency have put together list of helpful tips to ease the stress of inclement weather, which you can read by visiting cityofmacon.org. My #1 tip: Be smart. One thing that's important to remember when bad weather strikes is the amount of people living in the Macon-Bibb area (and beyond) that don't have the convenience of a warm bed, home, or vehicle, let alone any means to be comfortable other than the clothes they have on. Knock out some Winter cleaning and pay it forward by going through your closets and cupboards and pull out anything that might help someone less fortunate out, whether an old coat or some canned food and drop them by the Macon Rescue Mission, DayBreak, or any of the various programs that assist homeless or low income people in the area. A number of groups around town have already hosted various collections and it only takes a few minutes to contribute. I don't foresee lots of outside activities over the next week, but if you're looking to get out of the house and shake off the Winter blues, you can quickly have a full schedule. Lunch Beat, a concept combining high energy music and dancing with local food to reinvent your daily lunch routine, makes its debut at the 567 Center on Thursday the 9th at 12:00pm. The event, modeled after Lunch Beat Boston, will feature music from Shawty Slim, DJ for Grammy-nominated artist B.O.B., and food from Doughboy Pizza + Roly Poly of Macon. If you're tired of staring at the wall in your break room or having the same old lunch routine day in and day out, this sounds like an excellent way to break the cycle. Food available for only $5, but you're welcome to bring your own meal as well. Keep your blood flowing later that evening by heading to the Hummingbird Stage & Taproom for a free show

22 JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

from Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band. The funk group has spent the last few years touring the country and released several albums to critical acclaim. On Friday the 10th, the Moonhanger Group hosts Kevin Kinney, Chuck Mead, and Angie Aparo for a night of Songwriters in the Round at the Cox Capitol Theatre. The show will be an intimate chance to hear the stories behind the songs that these artists have made known throughout their careers. Gregg Allman plays his second sold out show at the Grand Opera House on January 14th, while one of the last "true" country artists still on the road, Don Williams, will be making a very special stop at the Grand Opera House on Wednesday the 15th. During his 50+ year career, Williams has charted 17 #1 hits on Country charts including "I Wouldn't Want to Live If You Didn't Love Me", "Say It Again", and "I'm Just A Country Boy", received countless awards from the AMA/CMA's, and established himself as one of the great American performers of the past decades. Tickets for Don Williams and all Grand events are available by visiting thegrandmacon.com The weekend of the 17th and 18th should be a busy one at the Cox Capitol Theatre, as The Black Lips (17th) and of Montreal (18th) both make their long awaited debuts in Macon. Visit coxcapitoltheatre.com for information on getting tickets (you'll want to buy them in advance, trust me). The evening the of the 18th, the Macon Symphony Orchestra will be performing a concert featuring the music of The Eagles, one of the most beloved groups in rock and roll history. The event will be held at the City Auditorium and is definitely another one to buy in advance for. I'd like to close by commending the services of the newly-sworn in employees of Macon-Bibb for their work thus far and encourage them to continue to keep Macon-Bibb on the path to becoming a destination for tourists, commerce, and residents. I can't say that I agree with all the choices the local government has made in the recent past, but I'm confident the current leadership has the skills and resources to see the consolidation process through and secure the most professional and effective leaders for the next phase in our city's history. Good work and good luck!

11thHourOnline.com

24 JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

11thHourOnline.com

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

Alex Morrison on developing a

Master Plan

The Urban Development Authority announced last month that, thanks to the Knight Foundation and the Peyton Anderson Foundation, they are beginning the process of developing a full-scale strategy for urban renewal and development in downtown Macon. Heard it all before... let’s see if this plan can unite the cities efforts and focus on one common goal.

ALEX MORRISON photo by maryann bates

Downtown Macon has been on a pretty good climb. We’ve seen many new business come, and sadly some go. We’ve filled upper floors of old warehouses and department store buildings with residential lofts, being among the first in the state to do so. We’ve come a long way from what several remember as a dead area to something that is on the cusp of becoming the hub of central Georgia. Which is why it is time for a master plan for downtown Macon. The Urban Development Authority was proud to announce last month that, thanks to the Knight Foundation and the Peyton Anderson Foundation, we are beginning the process of developing a full-scale, omnibus strategy for the urban core of our community. This plan would unite the efforts of various agencies that work in the Urban core into one, collectively developed vision for the Urban core--something that has precipitated development in many of the budding cities in the Southeastern United States (think Asheville, Greenville, Birmingham).

In order for cities to break through the notion of having potential, which is something the above cities, like Macon, dealt with for decades, and into a state of pure kinetic energy they need to develop a solid identity and action strategy for how to get there. They have to focus on place, they have to engage residents, and they have to tell their story effectively. In other words, it needs a plan. We have seen homegrown success of such plans in Macon in the last few years with College Hill (which will be linked in the downtown Master plan), and other microcosmic plans in downtown developed by the Authority and NewTown have brought us to where we are today. Where all of those past plans stopped was at the point of capturing a global community ethos that all could embrace, thus stopping short of being able to permeate the public and private sectors. But coming together and capturing the community ethos is something that is very 2014 Macon-Bibb, isn’t it? With a new government, new leadership, and new partnerships, we know we can get there. We hope that you will join us in this adventure and share your thoughts with us throughout the planning process. - Alex Morrison is the Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb County Urban Development Authority. The UDA works with local and state government, com munity, local landholders and develop ment industry representatives to help deliver commercially viable developments that include diverse, affordable, sustain able housing, using best-practice urban design.

11thHourOnline.com

DRINK SPECIALS/ SPECIAL EVENTS

d a rts BJs Downtown

MONDAYS

THURSDAYS

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

Ladies Night: 25¢ drinks and open Poker Billys Clubhouse

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

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

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

$1 Wells all night, The Bird

$8 Bottomless Mugs at The Hummingbird

Of Montreal Cox Capitol Theatre

$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

The Ride The Crazy Bull

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

Big Daddy & Co. Billy’s Clubhouse

TUESDAYS

Kevn Kinney, Chuck Mead and Angie Ap aro Cox Capitol Theatre

The Black Lips Cox Capitol Theatre

Old Dominion The Crazy Bull

Michael Stacey The Crazy Bull

S aint Francis The Crazy Bull

Quincy Mumford & the Reason Why The Hummingbird

JGBCB The Hummingbird

Ashutto Mirra The Hummingbird

Big Daddy & Co. Wild Wing Cafe

Scott Little Band Wild Wing Cafe

SAT 1/11

SAT 1/4

The Murphtones AP’s Hidden Hideaway

L ance Daniel Band AP’s Hidden Hideaway

tba Billy’s Clubhouse

Rachel Timberlake The Crazy Bull

Jeff Allen Crazy Bull

Athens Band The Hummingbird

G areth Asher & the E arthlings The Hummingbird

FRI 1/3 M ama T 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive The Skeeterz AP’s Hidden Hideaway

Matt Pippin Band Wild Wing Cafe

SUN 1/5 John Stanley Jam Session Backporch Lounge 4-7:30pm

WED 1/8 DJ Helms The Hummingbird

THURS 1/9 D anielle Howle & the Firework Show Billy’s Clubhouse Velcro Pygmies The Crazy Bull Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Ban d The Hummingbird B Keith Williams Locos Deli & Pub D aniel Johnson Wild Wing Cafe

FRI 1/10 B Keith Williams 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive Tres Hombres AP’s Hidden Hideaway Night Idea & Fight Cloud Billy’s Clubhouse

JANUARY 3 - 17, 2014

K araoke w/The Captain Roasted Cafe & Lounge A2Z Ban d Wild Wing Cafe

SUN 1/12 Big Mike & Booty Papas APs Hidden Hideaway, 3-8pm John Stanley Jam Session Backporch Lounge 4-7:30pm

WED 1/15 DJ Helms The Hummingbird

THURS 1/16 DJ Fubu Billy’s Clubhouse Boots & Cats The Hummingbird B Keith Williams Locos Deli & Pub Matt Rogers Wild Wing Cafe

FRI 1/17 Rocky Creek Band 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive Hott w/Harry Leggs AP’s Hidden Hideaway Five 40 Billy’s Clubhouse

Loose Skrews Wild Wing Cafe

SAT 1/18 tba AP’s Hidden Hideaway

Josh Graff B an d The Hummingbird NSP Ban d Wild Wing Cafe

THUR 1/23 Crescent Moon Dogs The Hummingbird

Service Industry Night at The Rookery. $1 PBRs, $2 Wells, Half Price Drafts. For all - Half Price draft beers 10pm - 12am Build your own martini night at Dovetail 3-4-1 Drinks every Tuesday The Hummingbird

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

B Keith Williams Locos Deli & Pub

2 for Tues- buy 8 wings and get 8 free! $2 domestic drafts 4p-CL Wild Wing

Keith & JP Wild Wing Cafe

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

B Keith Williams 20’s Pub, Riverside Drive

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

$4 select premium liquor Mellow Mushroom

Tres Hombres AP’s Hidden Hideaway

1/2 price whiskey flights every Wednesday at Dovetail

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

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

$13 Miller Lt & Coors Lt Buckets Wild Wing Cafe

Half Price draft beers 10pm 12am at The Rookery

SUNDAYS

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

$10 beer buckets, 20’s Pub

FRI 1/24

Failtrai n Billy’s Clubhouse Oyster Roast w/Lingo The Hummingbird Wartown Wild Wing Cafe

SAT 1/25 Lucero Cox Capitol Theatre

Everyday 4-7pm: $1 beers and $6 domestic pitchers $2 Beers All day Everyday, Locos 2-4-1 Drinks every Wednesday The Hummingbird Ladies - 2 for 1 Everything, Gentlemen:Tie-One-On 2 for 1 when wearing a tie! Free pool and

SATURDAYS

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...

Velcro Pygmies @ Crazy Bull

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, Sundays 6pm 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 Wednesdays at Roasted Caf e Tuesday Night Trivia (8pm) with Outspoken Entertainment., Wild Wing Caf e

THURSDAY 1/9 Velcro Pygmies @ Crazy Bull The Velcro Pygmies are everything that's right about rock n roll. Loud, fast, larger than life, and in your face. Big hair, big lights, big sound. They're a trip back to the days of Van Halen, Poison, Bon Jovi, and Def Leppard, wth a healthy dose of humor to make it complete. The band's most current offering is "American Muscle", a collection of 10 original arena rock anthems, is designed to blow the 6x9s right out of your Trans Am. Their relentless tour schedule keeps the band on the road for 200 show annually and spreads them from South Carolina to Texas.

Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band @ The Hummingbird

Of Montreal @ Cox Capitol Theatre Grammy nominations and the Country Music Association Award for Best Overseas Touring Act built an indelible bridge between authentic American Roots music and millions of fans worldwide. EMI recording artist Angie Aparo is the songwriting talent behind such big hits as Faith Hill’s “Cry”. A highly respected and accomplished singer and performer himself, For 2014, Angie has a new solo album and book in the works, a cartoon in development and is currently writing for McGraw’s next release. Don’t miss this Songwriter in the Round, intimate concert experience. Tickets $15-$35.

Quincy Mumford & the Reason Why @ The Hummingbird

Quincy Mumford @ The Hummingbird penned hits for George Strait and Martina McBride, Allen has crafted a compelling collection of tunes that reverberate with the ache of lost love and celebrate the simple joys of a life well lived.

FRIDAY 1/17 The Black Lips @ Cox Capitol Theatre Altanta garage-rockers the Black Lips storm the Capitol tonight. While the groups most recent album features a more traditional Southern-rock sound, it's probably a safe assumption that the group's live show will be anything but conventional.

Michael Stacey @ Crazy Bull

The Booty Band is a funkadelic 5-piece featuring smokin’ horns, a keytar slinging babe-a-licious brunette, and old school funk rhythms. The Asheville band's October 22nd release, Onward!, is chock full of booty-shaking thumping bass grooves. They've shared the stage with the likes of George Clinton's PFunk, New Mastersounds, DJ leSpam, Pimps of the Joytime, Galactic, Spoonfed Tribe, Monophonics and Jimkata!, and are regular favorites at festivals and venues across the country.

After 5 years, 400+ shows, and four award-winning albums, New Jersey-based 21 year-old singer/songwriter Quincy Mumford released his 5th album “Its Only Change” on July 30th, 2013. Its Only Change was recorded in Nashville, TN with producer Ken Coomer (Wilco, Uncle Tupelo) and features performances from Jerry Roe (K.D. Lang), David Labruyere (John Mayer) and Aubrey Freed (Black Crowes, Sheryl Crow). Producer Ken Coomer, states, “Quincy Mumford is a true artist that can bring raw 70?s style rock and funk highlighted with the voice of an old soul, it’s a perfect blend.”

Michael Stacey Band from Adel,Georgia is a high energy Country band that plays Party, Classic Rock, Southern Rock, Motown/Oldies and Variety songs. They’ve traveled the U.S. performing at various venues and sharing the stage with such popular acts as Brad Paisley, Wynonna, Neal McCoy, and Lonestar, just to name a few.

FRIDAY 1/10

SATURDAY 1/11

SATURDAY 1/18

Jeff Allen @ Crazy Bull

Of Montreal @ Cox Capitol Theatre Athens based, of Montreal,

Kevn Kinney, Chuck Mead & Angie Aparo @ Cox Capitol Theatre Kevn Kinney is an acclaimed American rock/alt-country/folk singer and songwriter most widely known as the founder and frontman of the Atlanta-based band Drivin N Cryin. Chuck Mead is the creative force behind the criticallyacclaimed alt-country outfit BR549 and the musical director for the Tony Award winning Broadway musical ‘Million Dollar Quartet.’ BR549’s seven albums, three

A Texas born artist with a riveting stage presence and an uncanny gift for penning heart-piercing lyrics, Allen has that rare ability to blur the lines between outlaw attitude and mainstream accessibility, which has earned him a legion of devoted fans and a deal with the legendary Sony/ATV Publishing. Working with producers Kenny Greenberg (The Mavericks, Allison Moorer) and Odie Blackmon, who has

Rocky Creek Band @ 20’s Pub This Dublin, GA band plays a wide range of country, classic country and rock and roll, an assortment of original music, and songs they just like to perform.

has been wowing crowds with their wild live shows since they first took the stage. Defining of Montreal is impossible. There are too many perspectives to consider, angles to explore, layers to uncover. Just when you think you have a concept of what kind of creature they are, they transform into something unexpected and new.

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 3 - 17, 2014